"The Gambler" by Katherine Thurston is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of a glamorous casino. The story follows the life of a wealthy businessman who becomes obsessed with gambling and risks everything in pursuit of wealth and excitement.

Thurston's writing is both captivating and insightful, offering a nuanced exploration of human nature and the dark side of temptation. The characters are complex and flawed, making them relatable and compelling to follow as they navigate their own moral dilemmas.

The pacing of the novel is fast-paced and suspenseful, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. Thurston's vivid descriptions of the casino atmosphere and the high-stakes games add depth and realism to the story, creating a vivid and immersive reading experience.

Overall, "The Gambler" is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that will appeal to fans of psychological thrillers and character-driven dramas. Thurston has crafted a compelling narrative that will leave readers reflecting on the dangers of addiction, the power of redemption, and the complexities of human relationships.

Book Description:
Clodagh, 18 years old, is the eldest daughter of Dennis Asshlin, an Irish gentleman who lives in an area of Ireland called Orristown. Dennis is passionate, proud and indebted to no one. But, Dennis has an obsession with gambling that is leading the family to ruin. When tragedy strikes, Clodagh finds herself in a situation where she must defend the family honor because “no Asshlin is ever obliged to anyone”. She marries a man she does not love who is many times her age and is thrust from adolescence to adulthood literally overnight. Clodagh travels to Europe and mingles with people of society and fashion which through her immaturity, she believes is her right. She finds instead uncertainty, despondency, and deceit. Her emotions are constantly in battle with reality as she discovers her society acquaintances are not the “friends” she believes them to be. During her visit to Europe, Clodagh discovers that she too is burdened with the Asshlin curse for gambling which eventually leads to more heartbreak. A chance encounter seems to change her life and she returns to Ireland, only once again to be thwarted by the Asshlin curse. A surprise and tense ending is in store for the listener. (Introduction by Tom Weiss)