Frozen Music

A gifted British author, King (Act of Darkness) adds a deeply moving drama to the publisher's short-novel series. Impressive evocations of India, past and present, and compassionate awareness of human relationships pull readers into events related by Rupert Reynolds. With his frail, elderly father Philip and new, young stepmother, Kirsti, Rupert goes to the town in India that was home until the death of Philip's first wife, Irene. Twenty years after her death, the pilgrimage to Irene's grave awakens Rupert's memories of the mother he lost when he was eight and of doctor Jack MacKenzie, who was the understanding friend his remote father was not. As an adult, Rupert secretly considers Philip weak, a man who has accomplished nothing. Guilt over his unfilial contempt is magnified by Rupert's desire for Kirsti and her unwilled but helpless response. The painful situation is resolved in a surprising, unforgettable event that gives Rupert a true perspective of his father, a strong man concealed behind a reserved persona. (February)