Be There When I Return: A Memoir of Epilepsy, Love, and Success

by Michael King

For fans of rags-to-riches stories, Be There When I Return is not just about overcoming epilepsy and finding success—it is also for those who are looking for a celebration of love in its purest form.

When thirty-one-year-old Michael starts to act out of character, it gets the attention of his roommate and a woman he has started dating. After denying anything is wrong with him, Michael finally decides to visit a neurologist. His life takes an unexpected turn when he receives a life-altering diagnosis of epilepsy. What follows is a five-year saga of navigating the unpredictable terrain of seizures and the relentless pursuit of control. During this time, he finds a lifeline in the unwavering support of a new love. This powerful bond fuels his resilience and determination to reclaim his life.

At thirty-seven, Michael takes a daring leap to undergo surgery, the first of its kind at the hospital. The procedure's success sparks a profound transformation in his life. Just nine months later, a chance encounter with an old friend opens the door to an unexpected career in Silicon Valley. Leaving behind his bartending job in LA, Michael dives headfirst into the tech recruiting world, where he builds a career against all odds.

Be There When I Return is a testament to courage, love, and the pursuit of dreams. It celebrates second chances and the triumph over life's greatest challenges. Michael's journey will inspire you to believe in the impossible and seize the moments that can change everything.

352 pages, Paperback

Published April 29, 2025

About the author

Michael King was born in San Francisco and raised in Daly City, California. He is an epilepsy survivor and the founder and CEO of King Recruiting. Michael is an avid sports fan. When he’s not placing marketers at top tech companies in Silicon Valley, you can find him chasing a little white ball on the golf course. Today, he lives in Sammamish, WA, with his wife and daughter.

Reviews

[Lee]

This was a really interesting story of a man with an atypical case of adult onset epilepsy. I wasn't too interested in the career building part of the story.

[Zara]

This is my dad's review of the book :)

“Went the distance, now I’m back on my feet, just a man and his will to survive.” Those lyrics from Survivor kept playing in my mind as I finished Be There When I Return by Michael King, a moving, deeply human memoir of epilepsy, love, and success.

Michael’s journey navigating the uncertainties and realities of epilepsy is shared with unflinching honesty; it gave me a perspective on living life with epilepsy that I didn’t have before. What struck me just as much was the unwavering presence of his wife, Donnita, throughout the story. Her love, strength and support are felt on every page, a quiet force that anchors the entire narrative. Michael's successes shine through: not just in the professional sense (though there's plenty of that too), but in reclaiming identity, building family, and finding joy after years of challenge.

I loved the little nuggets of Michael’s life that are peppered throughout - stories from school, baseball, and his struggling actor/bartender days. They make the memoir feel rich and textured, like a well-lived life unfolding in layers. What made the book tick for me is how immediately I could empathize with Michael. I found myself turning every page hoping he wouldn’t have another episode, just as he, Donnita, and their family must live each day, holding that same hope.

Michael, thank you for trusting the world with your story. I took the rare step of reading it all in a single day, something I haven’t done since high school. Wishing you and your family strength, love, and peace in whatever comes next.

[Reader]

Be There When I Return by Michael King is an extraordinary and deeply moving memoir that captures the reality of living with epilepsy and the life-changing journey through brain surgery with honesty, courage, and remarkable grace.

From the very first page, King pulls you in with raw vulnerability and authentic storytelling. He brings readers alongside him—not just through the medical aspects of epilepsy and surgery—but through the emotional highs and lows, the uncertainty, and the resilience it takes to keep moving forward. His ability to translate such a complex and deeply personal experience into something so accessible and engaging is truly impressive.

What makes this book especially meaningful to me is that I have an adult son living with epilepsy, so King’s story resonates on a very personal level. His experiences, fears, and triumphs mirror so many of the emotions families go through, and reading his journey brought both comfort and hope during a time when those things matter most.

What sets this book apart is its balance. It is informative without being overwhelming, heartfelt without being heavy, and inspiring without ever feeling unrealistic. King doesn’t gloss over the difficult moments; instead, he shares them openly, which makes his triumphs and growth even more powerful. His journey after surgery, in particular, is filled with hope, strength, and a renewed appreciation for life that stays with you long after you’ve finished reading.

I genuinely could not put this book down. It is beautifully written, incredibly insightful, and profoundly encouraging. Whether you are personally affected by epilepsy, supporting someone who is, or simply looking for a meaningful and inspiring story, this book is a must-read. Be There When I Return is more than a memoir—it’s a testament to perseverance, healing, and the incredible strength of the human spirit.

[MICHAEL D BERGER]

Just finished Be There When I Return, Michael King’s memoir tracing his path from pitching on the baseball diamond to building a successful career as an executive recruiter.

I’ve known Michael only from afar. We first exchanged LinkedIn messages back in 2016 when he congratulated me on a new role I landed with, “Congrats on the new job! I’ll get you your next role.”

The book is a story of resilience, love, and support—and of stumbling into what becomes the perfect career almost by accident.

A major part of the memoir details Michael’s challenges after being diagnosed with Epilepsy. I had no idea how disruptive the illness can be beyond the seizures themselves. His account of how it impacted his ability to attend events, maintain a job, or even drive was eye-opening.

His girlfriend—later his wife—was an incredible source of support. Alongside her, his medical team, and plenty of grit, he was able to treat his illness and rebuild his life.

It was also fascinating to learn how he more or less happened upon a career in executive recruiting. It seems tailor-made for his personality, authenticity, persistence, and perseverance. But by the end of the book, it felt less like he found the perfect career and more like the qualities he already possessed would have led him to success in whatever path he chose.

Always great to discover the person behind the person you’ve known from a distance. I recommend giving it a read, whether you know Michael or not. Great story either way.

[Greg Browning]

It is with admiration and heartfelt enthusiasm that I recommend Be There When I Return, a poignant and inspiring memoir by Michael King. This remarkable work chronicles not only the physical and emotional toll of living with epilepsy but also the unwavering love and strength that carried him through—ultimately painting a portrait of profound success, resilience, and humanity.
As someone who had the privilege of reading Michael’s story, I was deeply moved by the raw honesty with which he shared his personal journey. His vivid recounting of life’s trials, from unpredictable seizures to quiet victories, offers readers a rare window into the realities of living with a complex condition. The empathy and insight woven into each page stay with you long after you’ve closed the book.

Equally captivating are Michael’s early bartending days—full of color, camaraderie, and grit. Through those chapters, I felt as though I had stepped into the energy and rhythm of the barroom, seeing firsthand how Michael’s charm and work ethic shaped him into the person he is today. These scenes offer levity and a sense of grounding, showing that success is often forged in everyday places by extraordinary people.

Michael King’s memoir is not just a personal narrative—it’s a gift to others navigating adversity. I highly recommend Be There When I Return to anyone seeking perspective, inspiration, or a beautifully told story about the triumph of the human spirit.

Sincerely,

Greg Browning

[Michelle Tuite]

Reading 2025
Book 113: Be There When I Return: A Memoir of Epilepsy, Love, and Success by Michael King

I have been reading various books where the main character or the memoir is about a person living with Epilepsy. This book was released on April 29, I preordered it.

Synopsis: For fans of rags-to-riches stories, Be There When I Return is not just about overcoming epilepsy and finding success—it is also for those who are looking for a celebration of love in its purest form.

Review: Lots of life-changing events happen when Michael starts having seizures in his 20s. He loses jobs and friends. His strange behavior goes on for a while before he has a seizure while driving and has a serious accident. That is when he realize Epilepsy could kill him. I enjoyed the first half of the book, but once King starts detailing his new career, after brain surgery stops his seizures, I lost interest. The ins and outs of recruiting were not what I picked up the book to read about in that much detail. My rating 3.5⭐️.

[Alexandra Fell]

"Be There When I Return" is an extraordinary and deeply moving memoir, remarkably easy to read and written with striking clarity, warmth, and honesty. This isn't just a story about overcoming epilepsy; it's a powerful narrative on love, grit, and the transformative power of human connection. Michael's courage in sharing his truth openly makes a profound impact.

The book traces his remarkable path from a devastating diagnosis to finding not only professional success in Silicon Valley but also purpose, deep resilience, and enduring love. It's a true rags-to-riches story in spirit, highlighting how love and support were crucial anchors in his rebuilding process.

This memoir powerfully reminds us that our greatest successes often emerge from our toughest challenges, and that the right people often appear in our lives exactly when we need them. For anyone seeking inspiration or a testament to what's possible, "Be There When I Return" is a must-read that will resonate deeply and leave you feeling truly inspired.

[Isabel R]

This memoir is about Michael King’s life story of overcoming epilepsy through medical breakthrough, finding true love along the way and successfully building a career doing something he was passionate about. I appreciate his honesty in sharing the self-doubt at each point of his life when it’s time to decide against all odds and at the end finding the courage to do the “scary” things and come out winning. Michael was blessed to be surrounded by close friends and family who accompanied him through all turbulence in his life journey, and it was evident how much he valued them. Quoting Michael King: “There is no such thing as a straight path in our lives. Moving through this world can be chaotic, harsh, and unpredictable. But when we open our hearts and eyes to new opportunities and challenges, we will always end up exactly where we should be.” His story is relatable to anyone who has gone, or is going through adversity and other kinds of life challenges, be it health, relationships, career and more. I recommend this book.

[Tim Johnson]

Eye Opening

One of my classmates had epilepsy when I was growing up but I never had any idea what it was like from her side of things. Michael is more than brave to let us into the workings, frustrations, and fears of living with epilepsy. Like cancer, joining the Big E Club is a lifetime membership. Even with the absence of seizures, leaving the drugs behind, and successful surgery, the specter of "what if it comes back?" is always there. To press forward and make a great life anyways is a testament to fortitude, having the right characteristics, his wife's phenomenal patience and support, and some plain old dumbass luck.

While everyone's journey through life-altering diagnoses is going to be different, 'Be There When I Return' is an excellent read. Everyone is struggling with something you don't know about so patience, kindness, and support -as Michael documents in his book - is so much more beneficial to everyone than distance, ridicule, or preconceptions.

It's a fast read and you'll be better for taking the time.

[Kelvin Y.]

This is one of the most inspiring and emotionally resonant memoirs I’ve read in a long time. It’s incredibly easy to read—written with clarity, warmth, and honesty—and I flew through it in just a couple of sittings.

This isn’t just a story about epilepsy or overcoming adversity (though those parts are powerful). It’s a story about love, unexpected turns, and how the people who show up in your life can change everything. If you believe that people meet for a reason—that fate has a hand in who we love and who helps us heal—this book will speak to your heart.

Michael’s journey from a devastating diagnosis to recovery and professional success is a true rags-to-riches story. But what makes it unforgettable is how love and support become the anchor that helps him rebuild. For anyone who’s ever believed that life puts the right people in your path when you need them most, this book is a must-read.

[Jarie Bolander]

As someone who also writes memoir, I’m always looking for stories that strike the right balance between vulnerability and craft—Be There When I Return does just that. Michael King shares his journey with epilepsy, yes, but more than that, he offers a deeply human story about perseverance, love, and reclaiming your life after everything changes.

What stood out most to me wasn’t just the medical journey—it was the emotional honesty. The way Michael writes about his relationship with his wife, Donnita, is especially moving. Their bond is the kind of quiet, steady love that anchors you through the hardest chapters. It reminded me that some of the most profound acts of resilience happen in the everyday moments: showing up, staying close, holding on.

This isn’t a story that shouts—it resonates. If you're interested in memoirs that deal with identity, chronic illness, partnership, and personal growth without veering into cliché or melodrama, this is absolutely worth reading.

[Stephen]

From the very first chapter, Michael pulled me in with how honest and easy-to-read (or listen!) it is. Michael writes about living with epilepsy and facing brain surgery in such a warm, open, and down-to-earth way. What really sticks with you, though, are the lessons about love and empathy. Michael shows that it wasn’t just the medical care that got him through—it was the people around him. His partner who never left his side, the doctor who truly listened, the friends and community who made sure he never felt alone. He reminds us that strength comes from connection, not isolation. This book isn’t just interesting and well-written, it’s genuinely moving. It makes you think about what it means to overcome challenges with the help of others. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys heartfelt, inspiring stories that show just how powerful love and empathy can be. Oh, and consider the audio book if you appreciate books read by the author.

[Jean Elkaim]

This book came highly recommended to me, and I’m so glad I picked it up. I brought it on a 10+ hour flight and ended up reading it almost nonstop. It’s one of those rare books that completely pulls you in.

What really stood out is how personal the story feels. The author, Michael King, grew up in an area familiar to me, and even though I didn’t grow up there myself, it was fascinating to get a glimpse into what life was like in that environment back then. It adds a layer of authenticity that makes the story even more engaging.

Beyond that, the book is truly inspirational. It beautifully weaves together the author’s journey through a life-threatening condition, epilepsy, with a powerful and heartfelt love story. The resilience, vulnerability, and determination throughout the memoir really stayed with me.

If you’re looking for a story that is both moving and motivating, this is absolutely worth the read.

[Patchen Noelke]

“Be There When I Return” isn’t a glossy, air‑brushed redemption tale; it’s blood under the fingernails and gravel in the mouth. What hit me hardest was how he keeps moving when most of us would lie down: nights that smell like disinfectant and stale coffee, mornings where hope feels heavier than pain, yet he still laces up his boots and pushes forward.

King’s prose is plainspoken and sharp. Each chapter strips away another layer until the transformation is undeniable: a battered man finding the steel in his spine and the clarity in his soul.

If you want a story that doesn’t just inspire but kicks you in the ribs and dares you to get up, add this to your to-be-read stack now. King shows that perseverance fused with ferocious love can grind mountains to dust and then build something stronger.

[Andrew Boe]

Michael King tells his story in a compelling and easy to read style that makes the reader feel connected from the start. From his early days on the Peninsula and San Francisco to his chasing his dream in Los Angeles (by way of Saint Mary's College), Michael weaves his way through good times and bad.

He opens up about the ordeal of being diagnosed with and treating Epilepsy. Life throws challenges at each of us, but I cannot imagine what its like to face Epilepsy and the courage it took to pursue treatment.

Along the way he paints a great picture of Los Angeles, chasing dreams, taking chances and winning the golden ticket.

There are at lest two stories here, plus a romance that anyone would connect with. After reading this, I feel like I know him and can relate to his challenges and victories.

[Sal Vilardo]

I didn’t realize that I needed to read this book but I’m so glad that I did. After connecting with Michael (on LinkedIn of all places - that’s important to note and you’ll understand why when you read the book), I purchased a copy and wasn’t sure exactly how it would connect with my life and experience. Surprisingly, it connected on quite a few points and the chapters were perfectly bite-sized to pick up and put down, getting a few mins to read here and there throughout the day and week.

As a parent with medically complex children, I started waiting for the other shoe to drop - anticipating it, even. I am looking forward to not only re-reading this book but also sharing it with others.

Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of this book. If you go to his site, he even has personalized autographed copies which is what I got. It is definitely worth it.

[Andrew Spoeth]

Michael has lived a remarkable life, full of unexpected turns and experiences that need to be shared. It would’ve been a shame if he hadn’t captured them in this book. His honesty is refreshing, he doesn’t hide behind pretense, and that makes his journey surprisingly relatable, even if you haven’t brushed shoulders with Hollywood, worked in Silicon Valley, or battled something as life-altering as epilepsy.

The chapters flow easily, and you find yourself reading “just one more.” You’re drawn in by the events themselves, but even more by the love, friendship, and resilience woven through them. By the end, you’re left not just with memorable moments, but with insights you can actually use: reminders about courage, connection, and what really matters.

[Veronica Garcia]

Be There When I Return is such a raw and honest look at what it means to live with epilepsy. I really appreciated how openly he shares his journey and everything that can come with this diagnosis. He also shows how seizures can take many different forms, which is so important because epilepsy doesn’t look the same for everyone.

There’s a great balance between his epilepsy journey and his success story. He doesn’t shy away from the difficult parts, but he also shares everything he has accomplished without letting epilepsy get in the way. As someone who is part of the epilepsy community, I found so much of his story relatable. It felt genuine and hopeful, while still being honest about the realities of living with epilepsy.

[Lisa Sharapata]

Be There When I Return is a powerful read. This book isn’t just a memoir about epilepsy—it’s a story of grit, vulnerability, and triumph.

Michael's willingness to share his truth so openly is nothing short of courageous, and the impact will reach far beyond the page. He takes us on his remarkable journey from a life-changing diagnosis to navigating the high-stakes world of Silicon Valley, where he not only found success—but also love, purpose, and deep resilience.

It’s a reminder that the greatest successes often rise from our toughest challenges.

If you’ve ever faced a setback, questioned your path, or needed a reminder of what’s possible—you need to read this.

[Steve Bach]

Michael's memoir is very relatable and uplifting. As his mother reminds us: good things happen to good people. The hopes and health that young adults take with them to their first apartment and first job are met with many challenges. In Michael's case, the challenges are much deeper than most of us will ever have to face. But his journey will still seem familiar to you. The love, support and medical care from those who support him when he needs it most help him find the strength and optimism he needs. Through his journey we are reminded that with hope, love and some luck, there is always a path forward.

[Dave Yarnold]

Extraordinary. Courageous. A terrific read as well. Imagine someone you’ve known for much of your life. Tall, good looking guy. Great athlete, successful businessperson. Someone you went to school with when you were young. You get reacquainted with him mid-career. He’s doing really really well. Seems like someone who’s had it made his entire life. We all know people like that. Intellectually, we know all is never as it seems. But rarely does someone share the gritty details of an unusually grueling journey the way Michael King does here. Read this memoir and you’ll be inspired, as I was. Well done, Mr. King.

[Kgianuario]

I was awestruck by the author's journey. I kept thinking about how I'd handle getting that diagnosis. At that age, how would I think about my future knowing seizures could be a part of my life? How could I chase after a career, relationships, a family? Heck, how could I get through a day with all that uncertainty? Would I just give up?

Michael King's story is all about perseverance: getting a life-changing diagnosis, finding life-saving treatment, and bravely going through surgery. But more than that, it's about finding the love of his life and then making a future in a tough and competitive field.
Told in a warm and heartfelt voice, I just couldn't put this book down.

[Matthew Spaur]

Figuring out our place in the world takes most of us years, decades, a whole life even. The task gets harder when you develop a dangerous disease out of nowhere, one that makes you unknowingly and unconsciously act weird at random moments.

"Be There When I Return" is Michael King's memoir of finding his place in the world in spite of--or maybe a little because of--his rare form of epilepsy. At turns funny, sad, scary, and touching, his story shows that we can all find a place of our own, even if it wasn't the one we expected.

If you're wondering how you life might turn out, or how to make sense of your own medical mystery, check out "Be There When I Return."

[Ryan Radcliff]

I really enjoyed this! The epilepsy parts were genuinely eye opening. Michael doesn't shy away from the uncertainty of living with seizures or the weight of deciding to undergo surgery, and reading about that stretch gave me a real understanding of what it takes to navigate something like this. Creates so much empathy and gratitude.

I also loved the career parts. His leap into the world of Silicon Valley recruiting after surgery was such a satisfying turn, and it's inspiring to watch someone rebuild and thrive after everything he'd been through.

Add in the love story running through it and you get a memoir that's hard to put down. Highly recommend!

[C. Sean Rollings]

I've known Michael for almost 20 years - but I clearly didn't KNOW Michael. Now I feel like I grew up with him! I loved this book. It is so well written. The story is so compelling that it is literally a page turner. I learned so much about epilepsy and I have so much more knowledge to have care and empathy for those with it. I'm thankful that Michael was in the right time of medicine that he could be an early candidate for surgery - and it was successful.

Whether you know Michael, or just want a great read with a hero who you'll bond with, please enjoy this book.

[Danielle Ryan]

As a mother of a child with epilepsy, it’s often hard to truly understand this disorder, I’ve never experienced a seizure myself, and yet I’ve watched it steal so much from my son. Meeting Michael and reading his story about finding his way out of the darkness gave me something I desperately needed: hope. His journey shines a light on what’s possible and gives me strength as we face my son’s upcoming brain surgery. This disorder has pushed me to the sidelines, feeling powerless as I watch it affect my child’s life. Michael’s words remind me that healing and light can still find their way in.

[Bryan T]

I really enjoyed this book. It showed how a person's life can change suddenly... and it shows how it can take a long time for someone to accept the change.

I also liked how this book showed that life can suddenly change for the better. In Michael's case, he found love and a career. His career path was especially unexpected since he didn't have experience as a recruiter, and he didn't have much experience with technology. For those wanting to learn more about how companies are built, this book gives important background.

[James]

Devoured this Story Well Worth Savoring; You Will Too!

Michael's is a story worth savoring even though I devoured it in just a day yesterday. Anyone whose life has been touched by epilepsy, be it their own condition or someone they hold dear, should read this page-turner. My copy will soon be shared with another who can benefit from the read but rest assured I will be contacting Michael directly for a signed copy. Thank you again Michael for sharing your incredibly moving and valuable story. Bravo sir!

[Mark]

An Unexpectedly Moving and Inspiring Ride!
I wasn't entirely sure what to expect when I picked up this book, but I found myself thoroughly enjoying it from start to finish. Michael beautifully captures an incredible life adventure, seamlessly weaving together the challenges of living with epilepsy, his vibrant career, and his many personal relationships. At the heart of the story is the deeply moving depiction of his bond with his wife and family. It is an incredible, fast-paced ride that ultimately comes full circle, highlighting a lifelong passion for helping others. Highly recommended!

[Tim]

Reviewed in the United States on May 16, 2025
One of the most beautiful and compelling stories I’ve read in a very long time. Michael’s bravery to take a leap of faith for his epilepsy is unmatched and so important for all to experience and explore. It is also a great love story with his wife Donitta and their commitment to each through thick and thin. I couldn’t put it down and a page burner. Congrats Michael and so proud of all your accomplishments