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By Catherine Ryan Hyde 

ISBN: 9781477820018

Publisher: Lake Union Publishing

Publication Date: July 22, 2014 

Format:  e-book

My Rating:  5 Stars

Take Me With You was totally Amazing!! This is one of those rare books you will want to Pre-Order. 

From the first page, this heartwarming story, grabs you and pulls you in, with a strong hold until the ending, and thereafter in your thoughts. My only issue was having to stop and finish work – and this is the type of book, you want to savor every word, as it will transform your life, as you cry and laugh with characters you learn to love and care for. 

My favorite part was learning to “Just BE.” We all are guilty of rushing to arrive at our destination and do not enjoy the journey, and the experience of the present time. 

This engaging story begins with a guy named August (a former alcoholic) divorced, school teacher, still grieving his teenage son Philip who died in a car accident. Now he is taking his motorhome, alone for the summer to visit the national parks, hike, and scatter his son’s ashes for his final goodbye. 

However, fate steps in when he has problems with his RV and calls a towing company (man named Wes, also an alcoholic raising two small boys). Little does August know, while he is awaiting the repair of his RV, in order to get back on the road, this connection with this man and these two small boys, will change the course of his life forever, as well as the lives and destiny of these two small boys (Seth and Henry). 

An unexpected twist of fate lands August with two extra passengers for his journey, two half-orphans with nowhere else to go. This poignant novel reaches to the heart and soul with love, redemption, trust, transformation, and rediscovery, as the impact of this profound relationship will forever bond and shape the lives of two boys and a man, which nothing can break.

There are so many takeaways from this book, as would be ideal for book clubs or discussions. If you are a hiker, camper, or a nature lover you can appreciate this well researched book. If you are an alcoholic, a friend, parent, or family member involved, this book will give you much insight into the importance of support and mentors. 

I was blown away by this newfound author, Catherine Ryan Hyde, with her incredible attention to detail with places, moods, facial expressions, and rich character development. After I finished the book, discovered she actually hikes, kayaks, and visits national parks, as well as doing her research for Take Me With You, in her own 22’ motorhome. Wow, this made the book even more special, as her passion for nature is reflective throughout the book. (could see a sequel to followup with characters Seth and Henry, as there are too good to end).  

As an avid hiker and cycler, have traveled most of the places in the book and can definitely appreciate the beauty of mountain areas and waterfalls (even though I have never taken up rock climbing). I have even stayed at a few of the campground cabins centered on a bike trail, which is quite relaxing—ah, this book was so for me. (I wanted to adopt these boys) and take a road trip. 

I highly recommend Take Me With You, as an inspiring, compelling, and heartfelt story which will change your life. Catherine Ryan Hyde has been added to my favorite author list, and looking forward to reading more of her work! 

A special thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for introducing me to such a talented author, and providing an ARC in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.