The Odds
Hardcover, 192 pages Penguin Group 1/19/2012
THE ODDS is a gem of a little novel that takes place mostly on the Canadian side of Niagra Falls.
One of the things I love most about O’Nan’s writing is his voice. You will read this book in his voice. And he is writing as a woman. In his last book the protagonist was also a woman. I don’t know how he does it, but it works.
Art and Marion Fowler thought they’d done everything right. They were upstanding people in their community. They worked hard all their lives. That is, up and until Marion lost her job. And then the company Art worked for most of his life, just let him go. Marion and Art did nothing untoward. They were simply victims of the state of affairs of our dear country. So, after going through all of their savings, and then plowing through their retirement funds, at the brink of losing their home, they have come to a most unconventional decision. And this is where this story gains momentum.
This novel is small in size, but large in life lessons, learned. O’nan is the master of concise. Marion isn’t even sure she still loves Art when the story begins. They’ve been married so long, and been though so much together. It’s hard to know what to call the feelings she has for Art anymore. And Art, well, he’s just plugging along, trying to keep his head above water, but he thinks he’s figured out a way to save their lives and possibly their future.
Niagra Falls
The setting is Niagra Falls. The time of year is winter. The crystalline scenes and sounds of the Falls leap off the pages, giving you a keen sense of place. I’ve visited the Falls a couple of times. They are lovely and encompassing. To build a story like this, with them as a backdrop, is pretty special.
O’Nan keeps the suspense mounting as he gallops through the final chapters. I found myself flying through the story anxious to find out the outcome. And he didn’t disappoint.
I read an advance e-edtion of THE ODDS on my Nook through Netgalley. Thanks guys!
