“Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett has a cover that feels like it’s trying way too hard to whisper sweet nothings in your ear while simultaneously boring you to sleep with its pastoral, daisies-in-a-field aesthetic. Yes, it’s peaceful, yes, it’s calming, but come on, where’s the pizzazz? Where’s the edge? It’s like a guided meditation that forgets to actually guide you anywhere. If I wanted a nap, I’d take one, thank you very much. The Reese’s Book Club sticker? It’s like the universe’s way of saying, “We’re fancy, but not too fancy.” Ugh. If I see one more daisy, I might just start plucking petals and muttering, “She loves me not.”

Rating: ★★☆☆☆ Summary: A cover that soothes you into a stupor, trying to be peaceful but ending up rather dull.

Reviewed by: Dr. Harmony Weaver