Blood Doesn't Tell

Amateur sleuth Margaret Binton, a sprightly septuagenarian with a zest for life, returns in a poignant story reflecting today's headlines. During one of her stints as a volunteer at a Manhattan hospital, Margaret accidentally discovers a room inhabited by ``boarder babies,'' children waiting to be placed in foster homes. One of the tots, 15-month-old Eric Williams, captures her heart, and Margaret, a childless widow, decides to become a foster mother. Concerned about Eric's impending adoption, Margaret turns to reporter Peter Ryker to learn about the social services system. When Eric's prospective father, diamond mogul Victor Lazarre, offers her $3000 compensation for the boy, the sagacious Margaret suspects that the head of the adoption agency, Helen Regency, is taking kickbacks. She refuses to relinquish Eric and begins investigating Lazarre and Regency. Her snooping reveals a baby-selling ring and leads to murder. While the bureaucracy works faster in this case than in real life, the well-spun mystery remains a sad commentary on the plight of displaced children and those who capitalize on these innocent victims. Barth's lovable Margaret, here in her sixth outing, should be declared senior citizen of the year. Detective Book Club and Troll Book Club selections. (Apr.)