Suzanne Berne's second novel, A Perfect Arrangement, is quite worthy of your time. Imagine a perfect life: A beautiful colonial house on Massachusetts's North Shore, two beautiful children, a loving marriage, a double income, and a golden retriever. Who could ask for anything more? The only thing missing from Howard and Mirella Cook-Goldman's lives is reliable childcare.

Randi Gill, a seemingly qualified nanny, applies for a job at the Cook-Goldman house. Her references are perfect, her actions are perfect, and the children instantly bond to her bubbly personality. She cooks, cleans, does laundry, gardens, and simply adores the children. The reader's first response is, "What's wrong with her?" But since the Cook-Goldmans are such busy people (he is an architect, she is a lawyer), they cannot see through Randi's facade. But does she have one?

Upon closer inspection, maybe life isn't so wonderful for Howard and Mirella. Their daughter, Pearl, is temperamental; while the son, Jacob, is developmentally slow. And the secrets run deep in this family. Howard is shocked when his former lover comes into town to pay him a visit. Mirella, on the other hand, just happens to be pregnant with twins, which Howard would be opposed to if he only knew. And they wonder what's happening to their marriage?

Needless to say, the powerful, competent characters of Mirella and Howard aren't real concerned about their children, just as long as they are taken care of. This gives Randi an ideal living situation since it is obvious from the beginning that she has something to hide. Who doesn't in this novel?

How does it all end? That is the real question. Perfection is a tough act to maintain.

If you are looking for a suspenseful thriller to read on your day off or at the pool, pick up a copy today. Not only will the eerie plot keep you wanting more, the writing is poetic and will draw you into the story. A must read!