There could be many 'gone missing' real stories. One common type is about people who go missing in the wilderness. For example, hikers might get lost due to bad weather, taking a wrong turn, or equipment failure. Search and rescue teams then have to work hard to find them. Sometimes they are found alive, but unfortunately, other times they are not.
The location is also crucial. If it's a rural area, the search might cover a large expanse of forest or fields. In an urban area, there could be many hiding places or places where a person could be held against their will. And if it's near water, like a river or a lake, the waterways need to be searched as well.
Well, it could be about a group of adventurers trying to find the missing dragon weapons. Maybe there are different factions competing to get their hands on them first for various reasons, like power or to prevent others from using them for evil.
They often have a strong sense of place. In 'Gone Missing', the small - town setting plays a big role, and other similar books also focus on a specific location that has its own secrets and history.
There could be a brave young warrior as one of the main characters. He is strong and skilled in combat, eager to prove himself by finding the missing weapons.
He could also become more cautious. Having gone through such an ordeal, he may be more aware of potential dangers in the future. For instance, he might not wander off alone so easily anymore. Also, he may have a stronger bond with his family as they have all been through this difficult time together. During his time away, he may have realized how important his family is to him, and his family may be more protective of him now. This new - found closeness can have a positive impact on his emotional development.
He might have got lost while exploring an unfamiliar area and finally found his way back. For example, he could have been chasing a cute animal into the woods and then used some basic survival skills to get out.
One book that might be similar is 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It has a strong female protagonist dealing with complex criminal cases, much like Kate Burkholder in 'Gone Missing'.