Sherman L Smith

Sausalito Night Music Sherman L Smith

The sound of Michael O'Dea's tenor saxophone echoed across the night skies and hills above Sausalito, California. For those who heard, it was haunting, mysterious, and heart-rendering, his soul seemingly speaking to the world. From his solitary perch on the roof of the Bayview Boarding House Michael's eyes were set on San Francisco where he had once been part of the music scene. Micheal knew how people saw him because he was remarkably ugly - his appearance enough to cause the Devil to scurry home for more appealing company. Michael never thought that he would be kissed by a woman; let alone, marry a woman as beautiful as Mollie. That she loves him challenged his manhood, making his loneliness even harder to bare. There are those in the boarding house who do not welcome him because he is ugly; a freak. It is the ugly side of their discontent that helps Michael overcome his own anguish, finding the courage to stand up for what is right, for Mollie, and to help new friends rise above their own. A Catholic priest who has lost his faith. The boarding house manager, who had been pushed down the stairs, now trapped in a wheelchair. A fisherman and refugee from Equator wanted for a crime he did not commit. A grizzly bear sized thug who struggles to keep his boss, an addict who suffers from PTSD, from his murderous rages. A middle aged woman who takes pride in making everyone her enemy. A superstitious elderly woman who fights against the ravages of age with unwavering spirit. A musically gifted transgender savant. A timid salesman, who partners with a charismatic conman, who rob the thieves, as they rob the luxurious Del Monte Lodge at Pebble Beach. The Bayview House sold, eviction notices given, the conman uses the ill-gotten money to buy a larger hotel and nightclub where Michael's music is no longer a lonely serenade.