Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
33(33%)
4 stars
37(37%)
3 stars
30(30%)
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100 reviews
July 15,2025
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I have never delved into the works of James Patterson before, and this particular one is a collaboration. Surprisingly, I found myself thoroughly enjoying this book, despite my complete lack of knowledge about golf.

What struck me was the guileless voice of the protagonist, a man who is willing to stake everything on one single passion in an attempt to regain his life. He is fully aware that his actions might seem foolish, yet he proceeds anyway.

The turns of phrases and the lively chatter/banter throughout the book added an extra layer of charm. It was a refreshing change of pace from the typical books I usually read.

Bottom line: I couldn't help but smile as I turned the pages of this engaging story. It proved to be a pleasant surprise and left me eager to explore more of James Patterson's collaborations in the future.
July 15,2025
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This book is, without a doubt, a feel-good book that is cleverly disguised within the guise of a book about golfing.

You don't have to be an aficionado of golf to thoroughly enjoy this wonderful literary work.

From the very first chapter, it is nearly impossible not to empathize with Travis. He finds himself trapped in a rut in his life, feeling completely lost and adrift. When it comes to matters of happiness, marriage, and work, everything seems to come crashing down around him.

Patterson and Jonge, through their distinct writing styles, manage to do more than just make us root for Travis's success. They also succeed in making us experience a sense of jubilation when he finally achieves it. Their words have the power to draw us in, making us feel as if we are right there with Travis, sharing in his journey.

This book is a testament to the authors' ability to create engaging and relatable characters, and it is sure to leave readers with a warm and fuzzy feeling long after they have turned the last page.
July 15,2025
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Travis McKinley, a 50-year-old man, has despised his job in advertising for the past 23 years. When his much younger boss informs him that the company is letting him go, Travis is surprisingly not as distraught as he thinks he should be. Instead, he views this as a golden opportunity to pursue his dream of becoming a professional golfer on the US Seniors Tour.

However, his wife Sarah has a completely different perspective. She quickly mentions divorce as her own golden opportunity. Travis loves his wife and three children, but after a near-religious experience on the local golf course on Christmas morning, he pays $3,000 to train for the tour and win one of the coveted 8 open slots to play alongside golf legends like Lee Trevino and Jack Nicklaus. He manages to secure his spot and soon starts winning tournaments.

Back home in Winnetka, Illinois, life goes on without Travis, and there seems to be no noticeable difference. The question remains: Has he achieved his life's dream at the cost of his family?

I am definitely not a fan of this book. It is just a little too sweet and sentimental for my taste. Additionally, I know nothing about golf except for the miniature or Wii versions. Therefore, all the technical golfing jargon in the book meant absolutely nothing to me.

July 15,2025
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This is the first book in a three-book series that focuses on a golfer named Travis McKinley. I really liked it.

It offers an engaging story that keeps the reader hooked from start to finish. The character of Travis McKinley is well-developed, and his journey as a golfer is both inspiring and entertaining.

There are two more books in this series, namely Miracle at Augusta and Miracle at St. Andrews. I'm really looking forward to reading them and seeing how Travis's story continues to unfold.

I must say that I love James Patterson's writing. His ability to create interesting characters and exciting plots is truly remarkable.

Overall, this first book has set a high standard for the rest of the series, and I can't wait to see what's in store for Travis McKinley in the upcoming installments.
July 15,2025
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If you don't play golf, it will be really boring.

However, even if you do play golf, as I do, you may still find no point to the book.

Golf is a sport that requires skill, patience, and concentration. It can be a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

But sometimes, even the most dedicated golfers may not be able to find value in a particular book about the sport.

This could be because the book is too technical, too focused on theory, or simply not written in an engaging way.

In my case, I found that the book I was reading failed to capture my interest and left me feeling unfulfilled.

It didn't offer any new insights or practical tips that I could apply to my own game.

As a result, I would not recommend this book to other golfers.

There are many other great resources available for those who want to improve their golf skills or learn more about the sport.

It's important to do your research and find the ones that are right for you.

July 15,2025
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Dear Reader,


I'm Travis McKinley. I want to share with you my rather interesting journey. You know, my job, marriage, and even my kids seem to be disconnected from me. It's a strange feeling.


One day, I decided to play a round of golf. And somehow, I got myself "in the zone." To my surprise, I advanced to the PGA Senior Open at Pebble Beach and even made it to the final round.


Then, a miracle happened. Now, let me tell you, I don't really golf much. Travis talked about those people who are just terrible to eat with, attacking their food with naked fear. It's the same with some golfers. Some are okay to play with, but others, not so much. I had the misfortune of experiencing the latter. This guy was just crazy in love with the game and it drove me insane. That's one of the reasons I don't golf often. I even attribute some of my road rage to that manic professional golfer who made me chase his golf balls instead of slowing him down.


Still, despite all that, I really loved this story. A guy going through a mid-life crisis like me deserves some wins. The only thing I didn't like was the dozen or so swear words. But you know what? Miracles do happen, and in my case, it happened on the golf course.

July 15,2025
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This is an amazing book!

It delves deep into the journey of self-discovery as it pertains to the people we hold dear.

While reading, I couldn't help but constantly think about my boys.

I wondered how they perceive me and what kind of image I truly want them to have of me.

The story was so engaging that when it came to an end, I felt a sense of sadness.

It was as if I had become so invested in the characters and their experiences that I wasn't ready to let go.

This book has truly made me reflect on my relationships and how important it is to be true to oneself while also being there for those we love.

It's a must-read for anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking and heartwarming story.
July 15,2025
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Travis is an advertising copywriter who truly detests both his job and his life. However, there is one thing that he loves passionately - golf.

After spending 23 long years in a job that brought him no joy, he is finally let go. But instead of wallowing in self-pity, Travis makes a bold decision. He decides to try out for the PGA Senior Tour, and against all odds, he makes it.

This story chronicles his first year on the tour, revealing all the trials and tribulations that come with life on the road and competing against the best players in the world. It's a tale of determination, perseverance, and the pursuit of a dream.

Definitely recommended for anyone who loves a good underdog story or is interested in the world of professional golf.
July 15,2025
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This is a very quick read and it's a nice story.

I am not a golf fan at all. In fact, other than hitting a bucket of golf balls at the combined putt-putt course on rare occasions, my knowledge of golf is extremely limited.

However, I was still able to follow the story and even enjoy it! So, as I said before, you don't have to be a golf fan to appreciate this tale.

I also had some misled thoughts of my own. At first, I thought the "miracle" was some kind of special power or supernatural intervention. Maybe reading Patterson's Bird Children books influenced my thinking in that regard.

But in reality, this is just a good story about a "talent", believing in oneself, and having the perseverance to keep going. It shows that even without extraordinary powers, with hard work and self-belief, one can achieve great things.

Overall, it's a simple yet engaging story that can touch the hearts of readers regardless of their interest in golf.

July 15,2025
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A Sentimental Golf-as-Salvation Novella

A sentimental, golf-as-salvation novella. It presents an interesting premise. OK, it is understandable that finding and embracing what one is really good at can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose. However, it is truly beyond me how one can regain their family by going on tour for six months. The idea of leaving home and being away for such an extended period in the pursuit of a golf career seems counterintuitive when it comes to mending family relationships. One would think that being absent for so long would only create more distance and perhaps even cause further damage. But in this novella, it is presented as a means of salvation for the protagonist's family. It makes one wonder what kind of events and revelations occur during that six-month tour that could potentially lead to the restoration of the family. It's a fascinating concept that leaves the reader eager to find out more.

July 15,2025
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What a truly delightful, deeply heartfelt and highly inspirational story this is!

I found myself completely engrossed in the characters, who were brought to life in such a vivid and engaging way.

The addition of all the golf speak and the mention of the big names in golf only added to the authenticity and charm of the narrative.

My father had a great passion for golf, and I have many fond memories of growing up and watching the major opens with him, cheering on legends like Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino and Raymond Floyd.

This book is truly a gem, and I have no doubt that it is one that my father would have absolutely adored.

It not only captured the essence of the sport but also the emotions and experiences that come with it.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who has a love for golf or simply enjoys a good story.
July 15,2025
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I didn't like the book from the very beginning.

The story seemed dull and uninteresting, lacking any real excitement or engaging plot twists.

I tried to push through, hoping that it would get better as I continued reading, but unfortunately, that was not the case.

The characters were also rather one-dimensional, and I found it difficult to connect with them on any level.

As a result, I didn't finish the book.

I simply lost interest and decided to move on to something else that might be more enjoyable.

It's always disappointing when you start a book with high hopes and it fails to live up to your expectations.

However, I guess that's just the nature of reading - you win some, you lose some.

Maybe the next book I pick up will be a real gem and make up for this less than satisfactory experience.
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