The Protege - Mark Williams - Bog

A bartender, Charlie Grifter, is taught the 'tricks of the trade' by a pool tournament champion, Big Milwaukee, shortly before his demise. Eventually, this protégé becomes involved in tournament play, as well as the convivial and corrupt aspects surrounding it. Bets, the Mafia, drugs and a woman, all blockade the road he must take to win the Tournament Championship.