The Perfect Marriage

June 1, 2013

Though Derrek and Denise Shaw appear to have the perfect marriage, they are using Vicodin and cocaine, neglecting their religion and ideals, and refusing to deal with their childhood demons. When Derrek develops a gambling habit, it looks like the Shaws will lose everything. Then their beloved teenage daughter's overdose finally shocks them into action and forces them to get their lives back on track. The story is predictable, and the characters neither interesting nor likable. Shay Moore is a talented reader who adapts her voice to convey the genders, personalities, and moods of these individuals, but even her appealing voice and consistent pacing cannot save this story. VERDICT Buy only where fans of Roby demand this. ["Roby, a skilled storyteller, once again weaves together a compelling plot by placing ordinary, sympathetic characters in difficult situations. Roby's many fans and readers who enjoy African American pop fiction will want this one," read the review of the Grand Central hc, LJ Xpress Reviews, 12/7/12.--Ed.]--Juleigh Muirhead Clark, John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Lib., Williamsburg, VA

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