FRAGMENTS OF THE LOST

Sorting through memories becomes sifting through secrets.

Technically, white teens Jessa and Caleb had broken up before the flash flood that claimed Caleb’s life (presumably, since only his car was recovered afterward). But when Caleb’s mother insists that Jessa pack up his bedroom to spare her the additional grief, the teen feels obligated, especially when everyone seems to blame her for Caleb’s seemingly preventable accident. What should be a straightforward if emotionally painful charge raises questions about Caleb’s death—and trust fund—instead. Spanning only a few days, the methodical mystery unfolds in short chapters that center on an item belonging to Caleb. For Jessa, each item triggers memories from their relationship, with fondness often turning to discrepancies, gaps in Caleb’s whereabouts, and revelations about Caleb’s less-than-ideal home. Jessa tries to piece together clues from these remaining belongings, but her task takes on urgency when she realizes someone else may be doing the exact same thing. Although another Gone Girl read-alike (albeit with a predictable outcome), the story remains solid and evenly paced throughout.

Primarily for thriller fans who can’t get enough of the genre.