“[Russo’s] first novel in ten years hits the ball out of the park. . . . You’ll lap up this gripping, wise, and wonderful summer treat.” —The Boston Globe“A cascade of charm. . . . Russo is an undeniably endearing writer, and chances are this story will draw you back to the most consequential moments in your own life.”—The Washington PostOne beautiful September day, three men in their late … September day, three men in their late sixties convene on Martha’s Vineyard, friends ever since meeting in college in the sixties. They couldn’t have been more different then, or even today—Lincoln’s a commercial real estate broker, Teddy a tiny-press publisher, and Mickey is a musician beyond his rockin’ age. But each man holds his own secrets, in addition to the monumental mystery that none of them has ever stopped puzzling over since a Memorial Day weekend right here on the Vineyard in 1971. Now, forty-five years later, three lives and that of a significant other are put on displaywhile the distant past confounds the present ina relentless squall of surprise and discovery. Shot through with Russo’s trademark comedy and humanity, Chances Are . . . introduces a new level of suspense and menace that will quicken the reader’s heartbeat throughout this absorbing saga.
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I love Mr. Russo’s books. Nobody’s Fool is one of my favorites (along with the movie starring Paul Newman). Straight Man is great.
I have mixed feelings on this book. I felt there was a lot of “telling” rather than showing. We get immersed in page after page of characters musings on their lives and what could have been, mixed in with a quasi-sort-of mystery.
First, I think the mystery was forced. When you end a chapter with everyone in the scene gasping at what’s in a picture, it feels a bit contrived, given we’ve just been given their life histories. I’m not sure it was needed.
The three main characters are intriguing, but again, hiding aspects of their life felt a bit forced. Russo has always engaged readers with characters we can empathize with, not with plot twists.
The book tried to tackle a key question those of us who have seen some decades ask: could it have been different? And if it had, would it have been better?
Since there’s no answer to that question, the novel is more of an overview of their lives as they come together for a reunion on an island where many years earlier key events happen.
One interesting aspect, and a strong point, is that he does show you really don’t know who someone is just by a few things.
Overall, I’m putting it aside for another reading in several months because I feel like the problem is more with me as a reader.
A fabulous suspense novel revolving around three wounded men who’ve never been able to get over the twin traumas of Vietnam and the girl they all loved going missing. A page-turner from beginning to end.
Such a real portrayal of the impact of the Vietnam era on college campuses interwoven with a complicated personal tragedy.
Perhaps not his best but always entertaining.
Well written. Wonderful characters. About life time and choices.
There is always something to love about a Russo book. I usually write down some quotes. In this one I especially appreciated insight into men’s thoughts and the unpredictable plot. It was completely engrossing.
A book equally interesting and frustrating. There are a few too many times the readers disbelief must be suspended to be able to buy into the plots.
Russo’s characters are always so real, and his stories so good, in a low-key way. They’re like sitting down with a good friend for a long visit. Chances Are is no exception, although there’s a bit of a mystery involved that’s not typical. Quite a good read.
Interesting characters, well written and satisfying plot
/great book–Great writer
I had mistaken this author for another and expected a story with more substance. That isn’t what I found. I don’t understand why the mystery of the disappearance of their mutual friend when one of them knew the answer all along.
Well written, intricate yet consuming. Once you’re in, you’re in for the count. Just don’t read too quickly or it’ll be over. Even though I had expected a more clever ending, the writing style made it all worth while.
I mostly enjoyed the description of the terrain in this book. The characters didn’t grab my attention although they were OK. The outcome of the story seem unlikely and implausible given that the romantic relationship wasn’t developed throughout the story.
I have been a fan of richard russo since reading nobodys fool and have rad almost all of this other books. this one, which is the first in 10 years, is proof that he hasn’t lost his touch. the story is great the characters wonderful and believable and it is overall a very satisfying read. i was sorry when it ended and i hope he is out there writing another one.
I love Russo but this was not one of his best. Slow moving, confusing at times, did not hold my interest.
He writes with such clarity, yet so cleverly worded
Another great Russo book.
Not easy to read
Loved this book! Actually have loved all of his ( that I’ve read) but this one I especially loved!
Enjoyable read from a reliable author.