A FAMILY CONCERN

A story encumbered with multiple diversions that do nothing to wind the mainspring of the plot presents a special challenge for the skillful Jacqueline Tong: too many characters to bring to life to too little purpose. Journalist-sleuth Rona Parish's parents are newly separated, a situation that causes much drama within the family. Rona's husband is being sexually stalked (maybe) by a student in his art class, while in the center ring, Rona gets involved with the families who own the best hotel and the best jewelry store in town, who are roiled by a daughter's nightmares and an old family trauma. I'm skipping a lot. Jacqueline Tong tries valiantly, with charm and skill, to make these dozens distinct. She doesn't succeed, but I doubt it's her fault. B.G. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 07]