Janeology

by Karen Harrington

Jane Nelson has done the unthinkable: she has drowned her son, Simon. His twin, Sarah, survives, as does her husband, Tom. Found not guilty by reason of insanity, Jane is committed to a mental hospital. But it's not over.

The district attorney is now pursuing a case against Tom Nelson, claiming that he neglected his children and knowingly placed them in harm's way when he left his children alone with their mother.

What follows is the heart of the novel. Tom's savvy lawyer, Dave, has decided to prove that Jane's family had a history of violence and neglect of children. A history of which Tom was unaware. Through a relative with powers of "retrocognition," Tom and Dave will learn the fascinating and terrifying stories of Jane's family.

One part legal thriller, one part historical, Janeology is a compelling look at family and its influences. A quick, short, and interesting read.

6/23/08