Balducci's The Winner was very predictable but was so entertaining I read it in just one sunny day over this weekend. I can just see this as a blockbuster movie starring Bridget Fonda as LuAnn, the trailer-trash turned sophisticated, savvy globe-trotter who performs like Wonder Woman when cornered by the bad guys. Some of her dialogue feels more male than female, but the over-all effect of the story is truly engrossing. Cliches?, yes. But a fast, FUN read. The happy ending feels guaranteed even during flying knives and bullets - but the last page holds a surprise "slip of paper" that will make you cheer.