Ann Patchett Books

“Dutch House” was my gateway drug, and now I am a full-on Ann Patchett user.  She recently delighted me with “Tom Lake” and absolutely astonished me with “Bel Canto”.  Though written 22 years apart - Bel Canto was her 4th novel printed in 2001 - this author has obvious range and an ability to connect the reader to a plethora of characters and storylines.  “Tom Lake” brings us back to Covid-times with parents and adult children living under one roof.  Mom’s old romance from a summer long ago drives the theme, bringing up memories (and accusations) that affect the whole family.  “Bel Canto” tells the story of a hostage crisis at the mansion of a South American government official and what happens when the captors and captives spend months together in close quarters.  Interesting relationships develop.  Next on my Patchett list is “State of Wonder”.  Have you read it?