Missing Mabel

Nancy Mehl
Barbour Publishing (2010)
ISBN 9781602603981
Reviewed by Leslie Granier for Reader Views (10/10)

Hilde Higgins is a quirky young lady who has a fear of clowns and an obsession with the canned lunch meat SPAM.  She also has an unusual job.  She acts a hairstylist for dead people before they are placed in the casket for viewing by the families.  One day while at the funeral home Hilde is convinced that a body she had seen a few days prior had been retagged with another person’s name.  When Hilde tells the director of the possible mix-up, she is not believed.  Although Mabel Winnemaker’s family has opted for a closed casket funeral, Hilde vows to clear up the situation by going to the family and telling them her suspicions.  From there, events spin out of control, leaving Hilde more confused than ever as to what is really going on at that funeral home.

Much of this story revolves around the relationships Hilde has with others.  No one seems to be completely honest with her.  Her mother is a neurosurgeon who looks down on Hilde’s career choice.  Although their relationship has always been strained, Hilde is not sure why.  The scene when they finally discuss the reason is touching and emotional.  Hilde develops a friendship with Gabe, an elderly antique store owner who is definitely hiding something about his past.  The reappearance of Adam Sawyer, Hilde’s childhood friend, leads to romance but Adam also keeps some things hidden from her.

The author utilizes various methods to tell this story.  There are many funny situations, but the overall tone is serious.  Hilde is very religious and relies on God’s guidance to help her do what is right.  The element of mystery is also present as Hilde tries to find out what happened to Mabel.  I was disappointed that Gabe’s story was not more fully developed.  The reader is drawn into his background but the details of his secret are never supplied.

“Missing Mabel” is targeted toward an adult female audience (probably about ages 21-40).  Hilde is a fun heroine who sets a fine example for people.  She embodies the spirit of being yourself and following your passions in order to achieve happiness.

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