A Hole in the Universe

Book excerpt: A man returns to his hometown after twenty-five years in prison, in this “richly atmospheric” novel by the acclaimed author of Songs in Ordinary Time (The Washington Post). After decades in prison for a senseless juvenile murder, Gordon Loomis returns home to find his old neighborhood blighted by drugs and poverty. Desperate for work, he takes a job at the same rundown market where he once stocked shelves as a teenager. But while Gordon’s situation seems bleak, he is not without support. His brother Dennis, a successful oral surgeon, tries to work past his own fears and failings to help Gordon move on from his past. And the flamboyant Delores Dufault yearns to be part of Gordon’s new life—even if he’s as terrified of relationships as he is of going back to jail. Meanwhile, Gordon’s inherent decency draws the attention of a hungry child whose survival threatens the fragile balance that is Gordon’s freedom. Gordon can never forgive himself for that deadly home intrusion twenty-five years ago. Because of him, a pregnant young woman is gone forever. But in spite of his numbness and pain, Gordon will continue to be pursued by those who care for him, need him, and love him.