Sophie Kinsella's got the knack. Her latest novel has a delightfully executed sense of humor and a mastery of character idiosyncrasies.

Enter Lara, a bold, contemporary "That Girl." She's a woman with her sights on success who is quickly learning the less-than-encouraging realities of romance.

Little does she know that her kindred "spirit," Aunt Sadie, her deceased relative straight from the Roaring '20s, is in search of a piece of missing jewelry.

Sadie remains Lara's unearthly sidekick, reveling in commentary -- welcome or not -- on Lara's lifestyle.

Fun and fast-paced, Kinsella's novel captures a Tracey Ullman-like tone: knowing, sensitive, with a healthy dollop of comedy.

Lara, who believes her world lexicon is complete and accurate, is at first indignant to Sadie's recriminations. Gradually Lara, who has recently been dumped by the perfect man and whose company is about to dive, begins a poignant rapport with the unearthly aunt.

Spunky Aunt Sadie may have passed to the other side, but she offers a plethora of advice to young Lara. Sadie becomes a paraclete of sorts, desperately bridging the netherworld to connect with Lara.

The novel underscores the emotional turmoil of unfinished business and the nebulous world of what happens after death.

Kinsella's gripping work succeeds because of her ability to strike deep into the base pangs of human worry, frustration and imagination. She leads us over bridges to the other side, but without any predictable kitsch and formula. We are allowed to experience the authenticity and yet other-worldly relationship of Lara and Sadie in a way that strengthens them and us.