An Honest Woman

The focus of this novel portraying the vicissitudes of contemporary marriage is Alison, whose architect husband Philip's ambition extends even to their ultramodern ""ice palace'' home (everything, including the dog, is white). They've bumped along for 17 years despite his occasional affairs, until Alison opens an antiques business and demonstrates anti-nuke convictionsboth of which draw her away from Philip and toward Welshman Gareth Williams. Frankie, Alison's business partner, provides comic relief via her adventures on the singles scene. A darker tale involves Alison's neighbor John, a family therapist who absconds with a younger woman, leaving his wife in need of more therapy than he can provide. Christie (First Act writes with lively warmth and credibility; the novel is both absorbing and insightful. (April 7)