Paved With Good Intentions by Eleanor Roth

About the book

Trying to conceal a shameful family secret, Dave Weiss, a Harvard student, inadvertently becomes involved with Lou Khouri, a pawnbroker and pedophile. Twelve year-old Thad, who has been abused by Khouri, witnesses the fight that ensues when Dave rebuke’s the pawnbroker’s advances. Khouri has a weak heart, collapses, and goes into a coma. Unaware of the man's condition, Dave leaves. When Thad calls 911 and begins his series of lies, Dave’s resulting eight-to-ten year prison sentence disrupts his education.

His fiancée, Cheryl, tries to remain loyal. But Gerald, Dave’s best friend, has long been a rival for her affections. With Dave’s expected long-term imprisonment, Gerald resumes his pursuit.

Dave develops relationships with inmates and guards who seek his help. In return, he gains insights and street smarts.

Dave’s new understanding enables him to recognize that those who are abused often remain loyal to their abusers. This knowledge enables him to confront Thad and force the truth from the boy. After serving two years of his sentence, Dave is released, resumes his education, and returns to a loving Cheryl.

About the author

Eleanor Roth is a graduate of the State University of New York at Albany. The author of Rainbow Dust, a previous novel, numerous articles and short stories, she is married and has three children. She and her husband live near Cape Cod.