This is the delicious debut novel of a former attorney, judge, and musician from Georgia, U.S.A. From Portugal, obviously very wealthy, with connections around the world, it is unclear why Theo decides to spend a year in the mythical Golden when he is 87, in 2019, until late in the book. He is a total mystery, known only by his first name, an alias, buying up portraits by a local artist hung in a coffee shop, then bestowing them on the people portrayed. His is a connoisseur of fine art, concert music, and nature, seemingly able to detect all kinds of emotions in the eyes of the portraits and everywhere in nature. There is an ephemeral spirituality throughout but with emphasis on the beauty of this life rather than any next one.
I had him pegged as an ex-mob member turned religious fanatic, for much of the book, but could not be more wrong, as revealed in the ending. He seems to be too good to be true.
The character development and scenery of the locals is superb with many very colourful but realistic people and scenes. There is little violence, except for one character’s unparalleled description of his experiences in the Vietnam War , and no foul language nor graphic sex.
The writing is lyrical and engaging, reminding me of Amor Towe’s A Gentleman in Moscow, and it just as good as that one.
4.8/5
Thanks, Carolyn and Vera.
The Passionate Reader 