by rtbookreviews

This is James Ross’ first foray into the literary world, and he can proudly commend himself for creating a well-structured and executed story. I appreciate my heroes being heroic and my villains villainous, and Ross delivers on both fronts.

As a book reviewer, I likely approach reading differently from most people. I pick up a book, examine the number of pages, typeface, and font size. Based on my reading criteria, Lifetime Loser seemed like a two, or at most, a three-day read. However, I was mistaken—it took me over a week to finish the book. The storylines are intricate and the character development is thoughtfully and skillfully crafted. I realized I was in trouble when, after my first day of reading, I had barely covered the first 50 pages. Taking a moment to reflect on this surprising fact, I concluded that it wasn’t a decline in my reading abilities, but rather the abundance of well-written detail that required time to process and absorb.

So, what is the book about?

Our protagonist is J. W. Schroeder (aka J Dub), whom we meet as a young man with a talent for golf, having learned all he could from his father about this gentleman’s game. J Dub has an opportunity to make it big as a PGA player, but a brief lapse in concentration snatches victory away, and he loses his chance. With a pregnant wife to support, what’s next for this young man? Giving golf lessons at a local driving range?

J Dub’s savior appears in the form of Lewford E. Zerrmann, a “land man” who has purchased a somewhat rundown golf course. Lew needs someone with golf expertise to manage it for him, and even better, he’s willing to offer a partnership. J Dub will own 20% of the business and have the first option to buy should he wish to become the sole owner.

Fifteen years pass, and J Dub realizes that his partner is far from a gentleman. Lew lacks people skills and seems determined to drive customers away. Although the golf course is popular and profitable, there never seems to be any money left in the bank after expenses are paid.

As tensions rise between the partners, J Dub starts looking around and talking to people. What he hears and sees paints a troubling picture. He must make a choice: walk away from 15 years of hard work or stay and fight?

This is a fantastic book, encompassing murder, scams, forgery, tax evasion—almost everything one could want in a compelling read. Lew possesses the social skills of a rattlesnake, while the naive J Dub plods along at his own pace. In a David vs. Goliath battle, who will emerge victorious?

I won’t reveal the intricacies of the story or spoil the ending, but I will tantalize you with the fact that the conclusion is quite surprising.

Manuel Marino

Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME