Louis B. Jones Books

Struggling with personal and professional crises, Mark Perdue faces the weight of his failures as a once-prominent physicist. Feeling isolated at UC Berkeley and burdened by his wife's grief after a recent abortion, he grapples with his declining mental health due to chronic Lyme disease. As he experiences chest pains, the thought of a heart attack emerges as a potential escape from his overwhelming troubles, highlighting his desperation and the profound emotional and intellectual turmoil he endures.

The story explores the unlikely friendship between Mark, a talented physicist grappling with his unexpected success, and Roger, a struggling pizza franchise owner facing financial and personal turmoil. Despite their contrasting lives, they find common ground in their adjoining yards, highlighting themes of luck, resilience, and the complexities of human connection amidst life's challenges. Their relationship evolves as they navigate their individual struggles, offering insights into friendship and the pursuit of happiness.

Exploring themes of legacy and family dynamics, the story follows Baelthon, a young narrator tasked with clearing out the estate of the late poet James Farmican. As he sorts through the remnants of the past, he uncovers a tangled web of family mysteries, including the peculiar disappearance of Farmican's ashes and an unfinished novel that hints at deeper truths. Amidst the chaos, Baelthon encounters dark humor and the struggles of Farmican's son, who seeks redemption through an opera project. The narrative weaves through the family's complex history and their move to the Nevada desert.

Exploring themes of faith, identity, and human connection, the story centers on John Gegenuber, a former priest turned real estate agent, who embarks on a romantic weekend with Thalia, a fellow surgery survivor. Their getaway takes an unexpected turn when a young pregnant woman goes into premature labor, forcing John and Thalia to rely on their instincts and common sense. The novel delves into the complexities of relationships and the transformative power of unexpected challenges.