Silent Truths

An overwhelming page count and a sluggish pace flaw this otherwise engrossing novel of love and lies. High-profile government official Colin Ashby lives in London with his devoted wife, Beth, and pays court to a series of mistresses. When Colin is arrested in the murder of his latest lover, Beth is heartbroken, but she stands by Colin's claim of innocence. Laurie Forbes, an aspiring journalist, is also certain there's a coverup going on. After being warned off the story several times, Laurie seeks the help of her nemesis: handsome fellow journalist Elliot Russell. While Laurie tries to uncover the truth, Beth hides from it by adopting an entirely new life as writer Ava Montgomery. Laurie's character development alone could have made a great novel, but too many stories and too much information wreck the page-turning potential of this involved romantic mystery. (Dec.)