456-1

A lovely book. The relationship between Mary and Tim is well done and believable. ( )

Successful in her career and having made a number of astute fiscal decisions that have landed her in financial comfort, Mary has reached her forties single but content. While some construction is being done on her neighbor's property, Mary observes one particular crew member whose beauty nearly takes her breath away. Though she learns that the young man, Tim, has a mental disability, Mary offers him additional work in her yard — partly to provide him and his family with extra income, but also (if she's being honest with herself) to keep him and his Adonis-like looks coming around regularly.

This book's flap description made me feel pretty uncomfortable, but I've enjoyed many of McCullough's other works so I gave it a chance. While I don't regret reading it, I don't feel that it's aged well. The plot has a rather cringey vibe to it, though the author delicately straddles the line between compassion and impropriety. Viewed in 2021 through a lens of greater sensitivity, much of the language, both medical and casual, are offensive. The abrupt and not necessarily hopeful ending left something to be desired. ( )

An easy read and a lovely tale ( )

Otimo. Uma excelente historia de amor. ( )