The Great Read: Life on TikTok Gave Him the Illusion of Love and a Sad, Brutal End

Sam Nordquist was an ebullient trans man who longed for love and fame. He flew halfway across the country to be with a woman he fell for online, certain he was fulfilling both dreams.

May 22, 2025, 2:01 p.m. Eastern time On weekdays and Sundays, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go. New York State Police, via Associated Press Life on TikTok Gave Him the Illusion of Love and a Sad, Brutal End Sam Nordquist was an ebullient trans man who longed for love and fame. He flew halfway across the country to be with a woman he fell for online, certain he was fulfilling both dreams. Open now If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here. Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this email because you signed up for top stories or great reads from The New York Times. To stop receiving The Great Read, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018