Release Date: January 5, 2021

Charlie Botkin is having a tough time adjusting to ninth grade at an elite prep school.  His transition is awkward because he is on scholarship and from a working-class family. All that changes when Archer is assigned as his big brother. Charlie is drawn to Archer’s charm and kindness and also gets access to his privileged background. Charlie finds himself spending time in the upscale town of Belle Meade, Tennessee where he indulges in private parties, country clubs, and luxury vacations.

Charlie’s mother is still prominent in his life. She ran away to Nashville when she was a pregnant teenager. She found work as a cocktail waitress and was the catalyst for him to apply for a scholarship to a private school. Later in life, Charlie learns of the tragic death of Archer who was running for the US Senate. This event uncovers secrets from the past including the details of his scholarship. 

The Fortunate Ones by Ed Tarkington is about lifelong friendships. The book explores how people change and relationships evolve. I enjoyed this book and all the wonderful characters.