I do have to give the disclaimer that Darren is a friend of mine, which I know at times takes a way some of the credibility of a review. It shouldn't. We became friends through our writing, and we were attracted to each other because we basically liked each others work. We are more critical of each other because we can be, and therefore, my opinion should have more weight, not less. Believe me, if this book was crap, I would tell him, and wouldn't be saying anything to the world about it.
So, here's my 'official' Amazon/Goodreads/BN review, and as I said, I know, a first grader could have done better. But I don't want to give anything away in this book. It is a treasure, and everyone should read it. Everyone.
Haunted by the unexplained death of his son and consumed by a painful, debilitating health condition, Finn has lost faith in this world. He sets off on a journey to hike the Appalachian Trail and hopes, in the process, he will be able to find some answers or at least some peace. The farther he goes on his literal journey, the more he disconnects from his life and the woman who loves him. Finding yourself may seem like a good idea, but as Finn realizes, sometimes, when you search for something, you just might find it---and it isn't always what you expected or hoped for.
This book is brilliantly written, delves into some very serious subject matter, and gives you a protagonist who is so deep and complex that you will think about him long after putting it down. Darren Leo will make you laugh, and will make you bawl like a baby.
I loved this book so much, I bought two extra copies for gifts. It will forever remain on my top ten list of favorites.
Enjoy!
Buy The Trees Beneath Us on Amazon
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Goodreads
Visit Darren's website
