After his first fly-fishing trip of the season along his favorite section of the Sage River, Ryan and his best friend’s sister, stumble along in the late-evening’s low light toward their vehicle. Along the path, they encounter a trio of unruly men, and in an ensuing encounter, Ryan fights to defend her honor and ends up unconscious in the river as it carries him away. He’s discovered by an individual who does not want to be discovered, and circumstances force the two to embark on a life-altering relationship.

Through the summer Ryan searches for his father, for clear direction, and for willing trout. With exception of the trout, it’s not what he searches for that provides him with clarity but what he accidently discovers that helps him better understand his path through life.

Last Summer on the Sage is a coming-of-age novel written for anyone who’s ever lived the euphoria of young love or wondered what’s around the next bend. The words will connect with those who ponder the purpose of a dead end or doubt whether there’s meaning in hurt. Ryan’s story reveals that in a life full of consequential questions, there’s deep importance in taking the time to do something as seemingly inconsequential as casting flies to trout.