The Winner by Teddy Wayne is one of the best tennis-themed “Beach read” books that I have read to date. Set in an idyllic, sun-soaked enclave of Cutters Neck near Cape Cod, this novel follows Conor O’Toole, a financially strained recent law school graduate who was hired as a tennis instructor for the summer as he studies for the bar examination. As Conor navigates a luxurious yet morally complex society, the reader is treated to a narrative that’s as engrossing as it is entertaining.
Tennis themes are intricately interwoven throughout the story. For example, Conor relates his reaction to a sudden event by comparing it to the emotional relief of winning a tough 15-stroke rally after his opponent suddenly makes an unforced error. Tennis is deftly integrated with the storyline in a way that is unobtrusive yet will resonate deeply with readers who have played the sport.
The Winner is set during the first summer of the Covid pandemic and thus is firmly anchored to that extraordinary moment. It captures a snapshot of how people were coping with life and uncertainty during those trying times. Unfortunately, this aspect of the story may evoke a wide spectrum of emotions in some, as the pandemic has become a divisive political topic.
The storyline in this book also smartly analyzes social and economic stratification in this fictional enclave, which reflects more broadly across society. The interactions and attitudes of the characters from different socio-economic backgrounds subtly explore how positions within this hierarchy profoundly shape opportunities. It exposes the stark contrasts between the affluent and the less privileged, highlighting the systemic barriers perpetuating inequality.
While The Winner is a psychological thriller with an engaging storyline, it also illuminates the complexities of social mobility, the often invisible yet pervasive forces of privilege, and the relentless struggle of those trying to transcend their circumstances. It is also a thought-provoking commentary on contemporary society’s enduring impact of social and economic divisions.
The Winner: A Novel (<- Sponsored Link)
Readers should be aware that “The Winner” contains fairly sexually explicit content integral to the narrative and character development. This aspect of the book is not gratuitous but rather enriches the story, providing a deeper understanding of the characters’ motivations and vulnerabilities. However, some may find such content uncomfortable or inappropriate. I probably wouldn’t recommend this book to a person younger than 13.
The sharp prose and captivating plot make The Winner the perfect companion for purely recreational reading. It is a highly engaging and thought-provoking experience that will leave a lasting impression on nuanced human connections and the social structures that shape our lives. I highly recommend this novel as a memorable reading experience.
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Thanks for the recommendation! Will add to my reading list.