Imposter

At the start of Godfrey’s uneven debut, a psychological thriller, Chicago pediatrician Lilian Donaldson and her sister, Rosie, a graphic designer, agree to meet three years after they fell out in the aftermath of their parents’ accidental death from carbon monoxide poisoning. Lilian, who remains shaken by a missed diagnosis that contributed to a patient’s death from cancer, is eager to mend fences. En route to dinner in Rosie’s car, Rosie says she has “a matter of life and death” to share, but before she can do so, their vehicle is struck by another car. Lilian regains consciousness in a hospital, only to learn Rosie’s in grave condition with a brain injury. Lilian’s fears increase when she finds out the collision may have been intentional—and she surprises a stranger at her sister’s bedside who looks like the driver she saw before their car was hit. The momentum slows after the gripping setup, and Lilian’s search for the truth follows a predictable course toward a final reveal that comes as something of a letdown. Godfrey, a physician specializing in rehabilitation, displays enough talent, though, to suggest she can do better next time. Agent: Amy Berkower, Writers House. (Sept.)