Skizzer

When Claire Trowling’s sister Becca vanishes from her home and leaves her husband a note telling him not to worry, Claire embarks on a search that takes her to old family sites in North Carolina and England. As she seeks her “skizzer” (childhood lingo for sister) and uncovers pieces of the Trowlings’ family heritage, including a famous pendant with sacred significance, Claire rediscovers her Christian faith and begins to understand long-cherished family secrets. This debut novel from Kiesling is a quick and engaging read, with well-described settings and a sweet romance. However, the writing suffers from abrupt transitions between and within scenes. Becca’s reason for her sub-rosa departure is never quite convincing, with too little backstory about Becca’s husband. Readers may finish the novel wondering what purpose was served by all of Becca’s melodrama. Still, this plot hole is outweighed by the novel’s strengths, which include an adventurous story, a compelling protagonist and thoughtful musings on the real meaning of sisterhood. (Jan.)