Best Intentions

Busy mother of three Marti Trailor is excited to revitalize her stalled career as a hospital social worker by becoming a counselor of expectant mothers at the same hospital where her successful ob-gyn husband, Elliot, practices. Elliot is less than thrilled with his wife’s new opportunity, particularly after Marti is assigned to Tonya Maines. When Tonya’s delivery goes horribly wrong and her infant child dies, Marti is arrested for murder, although she has no idea what she did wrong. Something doesn’t appear right to her, or Elliot, both of whom believe someone set Marti up. However, with her suspicions falling on deaf ears, it will be up to Marti to prove her innocence. Can she figure out who has a secret agenda against her, and why? At times, the story line is confusing to follow, and certain plot points tie up a bit too suddenly and neatly. But Marti is a strong character whose voice carries the book, and readers will find Elliot enjoyably unlikable. While superfluous detail occasionally detracts from the story, Raskin’s second novel (after Close) is a well-detailed legal drama held together by engrossing depictions of relationship strife, both personal and professional. (Aug.)