"The Reckless Moment" is a novel by Elizabeth Sanxay Holding, published in 1943. The story revolves around a suburban mother, Margaret, who becomes entangled in a web of crime when she accidentally kills a man who threatens her family. As she navigates the consequences of her actions, she faces moral dilemmas and the fear of losing her loved ones. The narrative explores themes of desperation, sacrifice, and the lengths a parent will go to protect their children. The tension escalates as Margaret tries to cover up the incident while dealing with the arrival of a mysterious stranger, leading to unexpected twists and turns.