The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni

I'm struggling a bit with this one. It has received many positive reviews and ratings online, and I was thrilled to be able to start reading it. The first part of the book was great... nice pace, well-written, interesting characters. But somewhere in the second half, it became more melodramatic and predictable with a heavy dose of religion thrown in.

This is the story of one man, Sam Hill, better known as Sam Hell to some of his friends. He was born with a condition that causes his eyes to be red. His parents are wonderful and loving, and support him throughout the book. However, he is bullied as a child because of his eyes. As the novel jumps from his youth to his adulthood, we follow Sam's ups and downs - and his lack of self-confidence. He doesn't feel he deserves the good things that happen to him, and he is not "good enough". 

Interesting. At times, humorous. But disappointed that I felt a bit manipulated at the end. - June

Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

I just love Ann Patchett. I'm sure I've already told the story about how I went to see her at a bookstore and wanted to ask her to come home and stay with me. She's just a delightful person. But she's also an author who consistently writes book I love to read. 

Tom Lake takes place in northern Michigan on a cherry farm during the pandemic. Lara tells her daughters the story of her time one summer at Tom Lake when she was in her 20's. She was performing Old Town, and she was in love with one of the other actors - who later went on to become very famous. 

The characters are simply wonderful as is the writing. Didn't want it to end.

Newest Favorites from BT

 The School for Good Mother's & Mouth to Mouth being the latest I loved.