The Post-Birthday World by Lionel Shriver

One of the best books I have read recently was The Post-Birthday World by Lionel Shriver. The story takes place in parallel universes which I found quite intriguing. The main character, Irina, works in London as an illustrator of children's books. Her partner, Lawrence (laid back, hippie type) is good friends with a famous snooker player named Ramsey (George Clooney "all the ladies love me" type). An unusual combination. Every year Irina and Lawrence take Ramsey out for his birthday. Something Irina does not necessarily enjoy. One year, right after Ramsey's divorce from Irina's co-worker Lawrence cannot make it to the dinner and asks Irina to take Ramsey out on her own. This is where the story gets good.Irina finds herself strangely attracted to Ramsey. The man she thought was a pig, is now striking her fancy. Does she betray her long-time partner, sweet, caring Lawrence? Or does she fall for the dashing lifestyle of Ramsey? She gets to do both. That is because the author leads the reader on a two part narrative. One chapter she is in the domestic bliss of television, popcorn and home cooked meals. And in the next chapter she traveling the world, eating in the best restaurants and on the arm of one of London's most famous men.This is a book that keeps you guessing until the end. Will she or won't she? Who is Mr. Right? I really enjoyed the parallel stories, kind of like the movie Sliding Doors .The Post-Birthday World won Best Book of the Year 2008 from both Time and Entertainment Weekly. Lionel Shriver has quickly become one of my favorite authors.  I really enjoyed this book. I also learned a lot about the game of snooker.