Lies, Lies, Lies

In this engrossing novel from British author Parks (I Invited Her In), a multitude of lies swirls around the supposedly happy marriage of Daisy, a London primary school teacher, and Simon Barnes, an interior designer. Six years earlier, their family seemed to be complete with the birth of a daughter after a decade of trying to conceive and endless rounds of IVF failures. But Simon, who drinks to excess and “holds no truck with contentment,” demands they try for a second child, no matter the financial or emotional cost, especially for Daisy. Simon’s alcoholism spirals out of control, exacerbated when he learns it may be impossible for them to conceive. Soon, Simon is missing family events, staying out all night, and taking his anger out on Daisy. Then, Simon’s behavior at their best friends’ party results in a near fatal car accident. Much worse follows as a former friend of Daisy with a propensity for violence comes back into her life and drives Simon to murder. Simon’s rage and Daisy’s inability to control her life add to the story’s believability. Despite neither spouse being easy to sympathize with, readers will find this sobering tale of how alcoholism affects family and friends hard to put down. Agent: Jonny Geller, Curtis Brown. (Aug.)