The Day after Death

Miller (The Fool's Journey) explores the dynamics of triangular relationships, frequently unbalanced and stressful on those involved, in this ambitious novel in which Harold Pinter's play Betrayal is both template and catalyst. Amanda Ferguson, a financial planner based in Austin, Tex., who first trained as a stage director, sees a therapist, with whom she discusses her two siblings: her twin, Duncan, who died in a skating accident in rural North Dakota when he was 12, and older brother Adrian, from she became estranged after the accident. When Amanda meets actress Teresa Baron, who invites her to a performance of Betrayal, Amanda recalls the play from when she majored in theater in St. Cloud, Minn., and met faculty director Sarah Moore and professor Marta Conway, whose lives still affect hers years later. A turbulent affair with Sarah, a shocking meeting with Adrian, Sarah's suicide, and Marta's disappearance leave Amanda searching for answers. Miller's provocative reworking of Pinter's theme will keep readers turning the pages. (Mar.)