Small Town Odds: A Novel

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Summary: Small Town Odds
Review: Headley's book provides a humorous, insightful look at one time high school football and academic star (Eric Mercer) struggling to make his way in a life that shouldn't be. His plans to leave his small WV town for college and opportunity elsewhere (along with his high school sweetheart) are shattered after an indiscretion with the local beauty leaves him sans sweetheart, and with a daughter that he loves, but wishes had never been born. We follow Eric, now in his mid twenties, as he struggles to be a father to his daughter, and find his way in life - while haunted by the memories of his past and the thoughts of what should have been his future. The author deftly toggles between the present and the past to show how Eric landed where we find him now. This poignant story of different kinds of love, and lust, will ring true with the reader who can relate to seeing things evolve when life doesn't go according to plan. And who can't?

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Summary: Can't put it down
Review: I read Small Town Odds while at the beach on vacation, unfortunately while setting in a chair in the sun. I was so engrossed in the story that I ended up burning myself, staying out far too long. I just could not put the book down. It is a story that flows easily from one chapter to the next, always engaging, and filled with the charm of the small town in which it is set. The characters are rich, not just sketches, but well developed with a humor that makes you want to meet them in person. Fantastic job! Worth the tan.

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Summary: Once is Not Enough
Review: I read this story in it's rough draft version and found it enjoyable but confusing.After purchasing the book and reading it again, I am delighted.It is a "lite" read that will make you laugh,cry,and think.You may even want to move to a small town and amuse yourself with odd jobs,centerfold beauties,and the ritual of small town funerals.

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Summary: Writing worth the reading
Review: This is an engrossing story of the plight of a young man in a small town coming to terms with the way his life has unfolded. Dreams are dashed and hope is found in unexpected circumstances. I got into the story so much, I almost missed my train stop, which would have been bad, but it made my one and a half hour commute seem much shorter, which is good. I look forward to more titles by the talented Mr. Headley.

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Summary: Sad But True
Review: This is one of those books you just can't put down. I was taken back to my small hometown and loved the images that the book brought to life. This all too often fact is that those high school heroes have a difficult time transitioning into "real life", what ever that is. Look out Pat Conroy, Jason Headley has left his mark and I'm anxiously awaiting ro learn more of "Eric's" life with Tess.