Par for the Course

Light romance and an amusing golf theme keep Blackston's latest inspirational lad lit novel percolating. Protagonist Chris Hackett is the likable owner of Hackett's Golf Learning Center in Charleston, S.C., but his prowess on the golf course hasn't translated to his social life, ""a series of relational double bogeys."" When 30-something golf student Molly Cusack suggests combining golf and politics in a way that will ensure more business, he's hooked. Customers line up to practice their golf swings and ""whack a liberal"" or ""whack a conservative,"" while business skyrockets. Soon, Chris wonders about the integrity of hiring out his range for ""faux political vindication."" Disaster isn't far behind. What's amusing about Blackston's first-person novel is Chris's urgent desire for matrimony and kids-a refreshing swap from the usual chick-lit and lad-lit fare. A plotline about a feminist never goes anywhere, and faith notes are barely evident (Chris asks Molly to pray about their relationship without much context). Although the humor can become cheesy, there are plenty of laugh-aloud moments, including those provided by a farcical reading group guide. Better than his previous, A Pagan's Nightmare, this is an enjoyable read.