Initially I passed on this book because the description called it a love story. But it’s much more than that. A little bit Prince of Tides, a little bit Forrest Gump, a bit of Rambo even, all woven into a wholly original tale. Merritt continues the tradition of great Southern storytellers. He deftly develops his characters through their words and actions. Really, one of the best tales I’ve read in some time. This one deserves to be made into a movie. I’m going to read all the Merritt I can get my hands on.