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An amalgamation of intertwining plots and time jumps, this novel follows Marlon—an unfortunately hopeful yet perpetually in denial man in "finance"—and the protagonist, a personal investment counselor and "maker of dreams." Marlon and his wife have purchased a home far beyond their means and are falling behind in paying the mortgage. Within the span of one earthshattering day (both figuratively and literally, as California reels from devastating earthquakes), Marlon finds both his home and his marriage on the line. In swoops the protagonist, who promises Marlon a windfall if he invests $50,000 he does not have in a get-rich-quick scheme. As Marlon calls in favors, or rather begs from those left in his life who will pick up the phone, he races against time to save his home and family in the final hour.
This work delves deep into all aspects of human nature while remaining light and witty on the surface. The story of an individual hurtling toward the brink of losing everything just to be sucked into a get-rich-quick scheme is not new. However, this novel's shockingly on-point and at times cutting look at the human psyche, coupled with hilarious anecdotes, truly make this work stand out. Marlon's and the protagonist's narratives are peppered with sidebars about elephants, nuclear attacks, Geiger counters, and even an inside look into the film industry. Although readers may be thrown off, at first, by the seemingly disjointed storyline, the pacing whisks them irresistibly along through the tale. The author's observations are sharp, smart, and at times unsettling. Although this novel can easily be finished in one sitting, it will take much longer than that for the story to settle and for readers to decipher fact from fiction. Truly, this is a marvel of a tale.