Karen Kendall, A Perfect Marriage

A Perfect Marriage

Karen Kendall

Harlequin Mediterranean Nights, Dec 2007, $5.50

ISBN: 9780373389667

As the public relations director Katherine Stamos is well aware of the fun of cruising the Mediterranean on the Alexandra's Dream although she has not done so. She decides a cruise is perfect to bring a positive uplift to her boring marriage of twenty years. She persuades her workaholic spouse Charles to get away with her on the luxury ship.

However, in spite of the delightful setting and Katherine's efforts, Charles cannot leave his work behind. He spends much of the time on his projects. Disappointed, Katherine turns elsewhere on the ship for entertainment and begins to consider leaving Charles though she loves him. Charles is totally shocked that Katherine is considering a divorce as he never saw it coming because he was to busy with his work.

A PERFECT MARRIAGE is an interesting look at marital relationship that after two decades has become stale and stuck in a rut. Whereas Katherine sees a dying marriage, Charles remains ignorant until he may be too late. Filled with angst, Karen Kendall provides a deep drama that is quite good when it homes in on the lead couple, but loses some sailing speed with other ship board sidebars.

Harriet Klausner