Think a Renaissance Man is a thing of the past? Think again. Better yet, listen to the day-to-day adventures of John LaCasse, whose 25-year career as a Seattle yacht broker brought him into deals with business magnates, political figures, actors, royalty, even an organized crime boss—names the listener will recognize. Real-life happenings that turned this mountain boy from Montana into a wizard of wealth, penthouse living, Sports Car-driving, Harley-trekking, drinking and smoking to excess. Then one day wondering, what for? Why am I living this life of fast and furious?

This is no typical memoir. It’s the story of how one man shows that living life to the fullest, ricocheting from one daring deed to another—usually in reaction-mode—can bring a sweeping range of emotions—bravado, enlightenment, sorrow—that will be felt unequivocally by his listeners. Fans of Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat Pray Love will see a similar approach to life—only from a male perspective. Not just breathing air, breathing life.

Going back to school in middle age, LaCasse was kicked out of three universities. No Stop Sign here. He embraced transcendental studies, leading to an MBA and a PhD. Then, a personal trinity of women shed new understanding of science and spirituality.

While frequenting his favorite bookstore, Shakespeare and Company, in Paris, LaCasse’s stream of consciousness thrusts him suddenly into the presence of a 13th-century theologian. Both now in the 21st century, their conversation over coffee plummets—well, propels—John from deals and danger, into a new destiny.