The Perfect Marriage

This disquieting work of domestic suspense from Rose (Home Is Where the Bodies Are) centers on Sarah Morgan, a top-notch criminal attorney who lives in Washington, D.C., with her husband, Adam, a struggling writer. Jealous of his wife’s success, Adam seeks solace in his secret lover of 16 months, waitress Kelly Summers. After spending the night with Adam at his lake house, Kelly is found fatally stabbed in the bedroom the next morning. When an autopsy reveals that Kelly was two months pregnant with Adam’s child, he’s arrested for double homicide. If convicted, he faces the death penalty. Though the evidence against him is strong, Adam insists he’s innocent. Juggling conflicted feelings of love and betrayal, Sarah eventually agrees to defend Adam, and uncovers a shocking piece of evidence that could clear his name: three different sets of male DNA were found in Kelly’s body. While the swift pacing and effective red herrings will keep readers guessing, the flagrant lack of professionalism exhibited by the story’s key players will test some readers’ ability to suspend disbelief, and Rose doesn’t fully land the twisty conclusion. Still, those willing to go along for the ride will be glad they did. (Nov.)