After Annie

Best known for his role on L.A. Law as Stuart Markowitz and his non-fiction, Tucker (Family Meals) draws from his professional experience for a creditable fiction debut. After the death of his wife from breast cancer, veteran TV actor Herbie Aaron turns to alcohol and hash to dampen his grief; reviving his old golf passion in Myrtle Beach, S.C., he spends more time boozing and doping than taking refresher courses from lesbian golf pro Billy Stiles. Meanwhile, his “protégé” Olive, starring in a regional theater production of Uncle Vanya, seeks out Herbie’s professional thespian advice and reassurances. A complicated relationship soon develops between the ambitious Olive and curmudgeonly Herbie (who first hit on Olive while visiting his dying wife). Herbie seems wary to commit though he freely discusses his problems with Billy on the links. The rich depiction of the inner workings of the acting profession adds an appealing dimension to the breezy narrative. Crusty widower Herbie’s off-putting attitude is mostly balanced by Olive (who perhaps demonstrates more talent than her mentor) and her earnest efforts to succeed on the stage. Agent: Jane Dystel, Dystel & Goderich Literary Management. (Mar.)