FFB THURSDAY's CHILDREN

This is the fourth or fifth book in a series about a female psychologist, written by a husband and wife. It would have been much better to begin at the beginning because French refers to the earlier books and characters way too much for this reader. 

Dr. Frieda Klein, is drawn back into her past in working class Braxton when a former schoolmate comes to her with worries about her child. The girl claims to have been raped by a man who came to her bedroom at night.
Rather than feeling grateful for Klein's help, the schoolmate feels Klein has made matters worse. Especially when the girl hangs herself. Klein's interest in the case is personal and professional.
 
Frieda has many painful memories about growing up in Braxton. She also has a poor relationship with her mother, a very difficult woman who is dying. 

This was a complex and well-written book and I liked Klein and her assortment of friends. She is an enigmatic character in many respects and there are things that are never explained. I guess that will be the job of the next book in the series.