Kerry Lonsdale's Side Trip is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the serendipitous nature of life. This novel takes readers on an emotional journey along the iconic Route 66, where the physical road trip mirrors the internal journeys of its protagonists, Joy Evers and Dylan Westfield. Lonsdale crafts a narrative that is as much about the destinations as it is about the transformative experiences along the way.

The premise of Side Trip is both simple and compelling. Joy Evers, driven by the desire to honor her deceased sister's bucket list, embarks on a cross-country road trip. Her journey is not just a physical one but also a deeply personal quest for closure and understanding. The introduction of Dylan Westfield, a singer-songwriter with a penchant for spontaneity and a disdain for conventional love, adds an intriguing dynamic to the story. Their chance meeting at a diner sets the stage for a narrative that is rich in emotional depth and complexity.

One of the novel's most striking features is its exploration of contrasting personalities. Joy and Dylan are, on the surface, polar opposites. Joy is energetic, organized, and a firm believer in love at first sight. Dylan, on the other hand, is moody, spontaneous, and views love as a complicated mess. This dichotomy is not just a plot device but a profound commentary on how opposites can attract and complement each other. Lonsdale skillfully uses their differences to explore themes of vulnerability, trust, and the transformative power of love.

The rules they set for their journey—no exchanging of last names, what happens on the road stays on the road, and mutual agreement on side trips—serve as a metaphor for the boundaries we set in relationships. These rules, while initially seeming like a way to protect themselves, ultimately challenge Joy and Dylan to confront their fears and desires. The novel delves into the "what-ifs" of life, posing questions about the paths not taken and the impact of seemingly inconsequential decisions.

Lonsdale's narrative style is both engaging and evocative. Her descriptions of the American landscape are vivid, capturing the essence of the road trip experience. The journey along Route 66 is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the story, symbolizing the unpredictability and beauty of life. The road becomes a character in its own right, shaping the narrative and influencing the characters' development.

The character development in Side Trip is nuanced and realistic. Joy's journey is one of self-discovery and healing. Her determination to complete her sister's bucket list is a testament to her resilience and love. As the story unfolds, Joy's character evolves, shedding her initial rigidity and embracing the unpredictability of life. Dylan's character arc is equally compelling. His initial reluctance to embrace love is gradually replaced by a willingness to take risks and open his heart. Lonsdale's portrayal of their evolving relationship is both tender and authentic, capturing the complexities of love and the courage it requires.

The novel's exploration of themes such as grief, love, and the passage of time is both profound and relatable. Lonsdale delves into the impact of loss and the ways in which it shapes our lives. Joy's journey is a testament to the enduring nature of love and the importance of honoring those we have lost. The novel also explores the idea of second chances and the possibility of rewriting our stories. This theme is particularly resonant in today's fast-paced world, where the pressure to conform often overshadows the pursuit of personal happiness.

In comparison to other road trip narratives, such as John Green's Papertowns or Morgan Matson's Amy & Roger's Epic Detour, Side Trip stands out for its emotional depth and mature exploration of relationships. While Green and Matson focus on the coming-of-age aspects of road trips, Lonsdale delves into the complexities of adult relationships and the impact of past experiences on our present choices. Her characters are flawed and relatable, making their journey all the more compelling.

Overall, Side Trip is a beautifully crafted novel that resonates with readers on multiple levels. Lonsdale's ability to weave together themes of love, loss, and self-discovery is both impressive and moving. The novel's exploration of the "what-ifs" of life is a reminder of the importance of embracing the present and taking risks. For readers seeking a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, Side Trip is a journey worth taking.