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THEO OF GOLDENAllen Levi

Literary fiction

THEO OF GOLDEN

by Allen Levi

400 pages · First published 2025

A stranger named Theo arrives in Golden one spring and quietly begins buying pencil portraits displayed in a local coffeehouse. He gives each portrait to the person it depicts, asking only to hear that person's story. As these small gifts bring him into the lives of his neighbors, private regrets and unexpected friendships come into view. Theo's own history of loss and his reasons for coming to Golden remain questions for the people who welcome him. This gentle literary novel suits readers who enjoy art, community, faith-inflected reflection, and kindness that changes ordinary days.

Paired for this story

Golden Apple Tonic + Honey Bee Collins

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At a glance

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Spice0 of 5
Suspense1 of 5
Creepy0 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Infrequent mild language; mild fighting and recollections of the Vietnam War and death. Grief and loss of a child; a brief, sorrowful recollection of an abortion. Wine drinking. Christian faith, church attendance, Scripture, and discussion of heaven appear, although an independent content guide does not classify it as Christian fiction.

Alcohol-Free Pour

Golden Apple Tonic

The golden apple and rosemary nod to the town and its spring setting, with a fresh, welcoming finish.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice. Add apple juice and lemon juice, top with tonic water, stir gently, and garnish with rosemary.
  2. Garnish: Rosemary sprig and thin apple slice.
  3. Glassware: Highball glass.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Honey Bee Collins

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

Honey and lemon echo Theo's warm, generous spirit, while the bubbles make this a bright springtime pour.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Shake gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup with ice. Strain over fresh ice and top with soda water.
  2. Garnish: Lemon wheel.
  3. Glassware: Collins glass.

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