Like it's companion volume "America from the Road" this is not the kind of book to read cover to cover. But a really nifty reference to consult when trip planning. Helped with our recent foray, and will be consulted again I'm certain. ( )

Off the Beaten Path by Katrina Strauss is a 129-page contemporary novella that will especially appeal to those who love the theme of opposites attract. Both characters are strong-willed young men in their early twenties.

Travis, a star athlete and the son of a wealthy lawyer, is straightforward, cheerful, and hedonistic. Kyle, an environmental activist and yoga practitioner, is principled, reserved, and ascetic.

When these two get forced together under believable circumstances, they have enough self-awareness to recognize their mutual attraction even while their opposing viewpoints strike sparks. When they give in to their attraction, their sex scenes are spectacularly hot and detailed.

The story starts on campus right before summer break when Travis gets caught drunkenly spray-painting graffiti on the fraternity house of Omega Beta Pi, a coed group of gay environmental activists. As his penance, he gets sent with them on a working vacation. They are to spend several days camping out and helping park rangers repair hiking trails.

Since Travis is gay, two of his three work-mates accept him immediately. Mac is an extroverted lesbian and Brandon is a sensitive kid with a troubled past. However, Kyle comes off as a self-righteous tree-hugger. Of course, the other two make Kyle and Travis share a tent. Soon Kyle and Travis begin what they claim will be a casual sex-buddy relationship.

But as they start falling in love, they must find the courage to build towards a future together despite their differences.

This is a well-written, sexy, and often funny story from an author who’s becoming one of my favorites.

Val for AReCafe ( )

Summary: A guide to destinations that are off the beaten path and main routes of our country.

http://blogcritics.org/books/article/book-review-off-the-beaten-path/ ( )

I really enjoyed this book and will find it an invaluable resource as I plan both extended family vacations and budget friendly family day trips. This summer we plan on using Off The Beaten Path as a guidebook for our ongoing Explore Minnesota family vacation; we're going to explore those off beat places that are close to home but we've missed or never knew existed. ( )