There are those who have drug flashbacks, even years after they've been using. Shaper has escaped those, thanks to his moderation. But into his relatively Spartan life now comes a flashback of another kind -- a nineteen-year-old daughter whose existence he never suspected. Her mother was an overnight acquaintance whom with some effort he manages, barely, to recall. The daughter's name is Amanda, and her phone call turns Shaper's drab-gray existence into dazzling Technicolor.

Amanda arrives trailing a motley band of associates: a con man who explains his activities as part of his gypsy heritage, except that he may not have one; his blatantly seductive daughter; Amanda's boyfriend, D'Wayne, a streetsmart and (usually) genial black giant. The con man owns what he has named The Yerba Buena Foundation, dedicated to helping businessmen relieve stress; his daughter -- well, she runs the place. D'Wayne is the security man. Others turn up, segueing from various areas of Shaper's life. Amanda, part typical teenager, part young receptacle of ancient wisdom, is currently employed as a "therapist" at the Foundation.

Shaper plunges into this personal mosh pit like a repentant sinner at a river baptism. The shock of his plunge awakens him to the realization that there's more in heaven and earth than were dreamt of in his philosophy.

Herbert Gold has been blessing readers with his contemplation of the human condition for many years. In this novel his lovely humor and deep understanding...