"I feel as though I'm failing to catch something precious." This is a line taken out of context from the stunning debut 'Elizabeth Is Missing'. Ultimately this is how I feel, that the few words I can say will fail to catch its essence.

Told in alternating time frames beginning in the 40's, it is the story of an elderly woman suffering many losses including friends, family, youth and memory. Described as both psychological and mystery fiction it is that but so much more. I found it touching and well plotted. As a woman over sixty it portrays possibilities of aging that are hard to contemplate and read.

Ms. Healey is twenty-nine and should be on the 20 under 40 to watch list. She's a very accomplished writer telling this story poignantly and with wisdom gleaned I know not where (well actually the dedication may provide a clue). It is a story that is easy to spoil so you must read it and interpret it yourself. A very satisfying read for me.