Francis Sill Wickware

Written in the 1940s, this is a book of suspense and tension.

Dr. John Rawley, trained in psychiatry, moves to the small town of Fairbridge to take over the general practice of the retiring doctor.

Charles Wilson, wealthiest resident and married to Serena, seems to have some emotional and mental problems. He met his wife during his stay at a solarium for mental diseases. He is possive of her and suspicious of everyone, yet he is the most public spirited person in the town.

Serena Wilson and Rawley have their work fields in common and strike up a casual friendship. The gossips in town and Serena’s husband believe otherwise. These elements are causing Charles to slip back in his progress of getting better. His Jeckyll/Hyde personality becomes more frequent.

When Charles is found dead from poisoning, Serena is the prime suspect and finds herself on trial. Rawley thinks otherwise and has also developed a strong attraction to her. He is determined to prove she didn’t do it. Serena goes on trial for the murder.

The story is told by Dr. Rawley as a review, while waiting for the jury to return a verdict. He is still looking for the one thing that can prove her innocence.

Well written with detail and high tension that flows throughout the book.… (more)