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The Odds: A Love Story by Stewart O'Nan - 4* - My Review

In this story, we follow fifty-somethings Art and Marion on a second honeymoon that spans Valentine’s Day, a last chance to save their rocky marriage. Set just after the financial crisis, they have lost their jobs, accumulated debt, and will likely have to file bankruptcy. They set off on an excursion from their home in Ohio on a bus destined for Niagara Falls. They stay on the Canada side at a Casino-Hotel. Art is hoping to win enough money to offset their debts, though they are both novices at gambling. He has read of a “system” he plans to use at the roulette table. In an extravagance they cannot afford, they get the bridal suite. Art hopes the trip can save their marriage, but Marion is not sure it is possible.

Each chapter begins with a probability that provides the odds of a certain event occurring. I enjoyed these little tidbits. The two main characters are deeply drawn, and the reader gets a good idea of what each one thinks the trip will accomplish. The author provides scenes of the two interacting, as well as insight into their individual thoughts. I felt like I was right there with them, accompanying them on their trip. It is the story of a marriage at a crossroads. I enjoyed this book. It is more understated than dynamic, but the people seem very real.