FICTION

Trophy Son

St. Martin's. May 2017. 288p. ISBN 9781250114808. $25.99; ebk. ISBN 9781250114815. F
COPY ISBN
Brunt's latest novel (The Means; Ghosts of Manhattan) focuses on our U.S. sports-obsessed lifestyle, in this case, the professional tennis tour during which players' bodies begin to deteriorate at age 18. Anton Stratis is such a player, initially an eight-year-old child phenomenon who sacrifices two decades to gain a top world ranking. Ignoring the strain of five-hour training sessions in 90-degree heat, Anton's alpha-dog father mercilessly molds him into a successful player. "I ate, slept, played tennis and rested for more tennis." Anton's first-person narrative carries the story as he grows weary of his tennis-dominated adolescence. Brunt reveals the sport's cruel expectations in his protagonist's struggles with performance-enhancing drugs, media pressure, and seeking psychiatric help. Hovering on the edges of Anton's isolated life is gorgeous actress Ana, a possible soul mate who also endures unrealistic expectations.
VERDICT Brunt's writing hints of a YA coming-of age tale, with Anton battling to find his true self. However, several bedroom romps may be too intense for school library collections. Still, sports fiction fans will enjoy.
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.


RELATED 

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?