In debut novelist Rachel Lyon's "Self Portrait with Boy," a just-out-of-art-school photographer Lu Rile snaps a self-portrait next to a window — that by chance happens to capture a young boy falling to his death from the top of the building.

From that dark but intriguing scene comes a complex story about choices — not the least of which is what internal and external bargains an ambitious, would-be artist might negotiate for fame and success. Lyon's lyrical descriptions and multi-dimensional characterizations ratchet up the atmosphere and tension significantly.

Sponsored by Bank Square Books, the author appears Tuesday in New London's Lyman Allyn Art Museum — and the choice of venue is appropriate. She'll discuss the issue of ethics in art — and of course willl answer questions and sign copies of "Self Portrait with Boy."

Rachel Lyon, 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Lyman Allyn Art Museum, 625 Williams St., New London; free, books available for purchase; (860) 536-3795.