The Book Show #1227 - Stewart O'Nan

By Joe Donahue

Albany, NY – Stewart O'Nan's thirteenth novel, The Odds, is another original, bittersweet snapshot, like his celebrated "Last Night at the Lobster." Valentine's weekend, Art and Marion Fowler flee their Cleveland suburb for Niagara Falls, desperate to recoup their losses. Jobless, with their home approaching foreclosure and their marriage on the brink of collapse, Art and Marion liquidate their savings account and book a bridal suite at the Falls' ritziest casino for a second honeymoon.

While they sight see like tourists during the day, at night they risk it all at the roulette wheel to fix their finances and save their marriage. The book is a tender yet honest exploration of faith, forgiveness and last chances.