Is there any better feeling than picking up a book at random and having it turn out to be a GREAT read? Well sure, falling in love and a Ben and Jerry’s chocolate shake, but other than that, not much. I picked up “The Cure for Modern Life” by Lisa Tucker on a fluke, it reminded me of the book on the pseudo-Amish that I just enjoyed.Tucker’s book had NOTHING to do with the Amish, but it was still a fantastic read and I’m thrilled to have discovered a new author that I like.

“The Cure” features three different protagonists: Matthew, a high powered pharaceutical exec; Danny, a young kid living on the streets and trying to raise his sister and his heroin addicted Mom; and Amelia, an ethicist who used to be in love with Matthew but has moved on to his best friend Ben.

Their complicated lives quickly intertwine and get interesting. Just as a character is starting to drive you nuts, the point of view switches to another and you’re getting another piece of the puzzle.

While there is a touch of romance, there’s not enough to keep men from enjoying this book. And while it ends up being a touching story, it’s not sappy like ‘The Notebook”.

This would be a great plane read or also appeal to beach loungers everywhere.