Without Explanation

by Rod Jasmer

It was going to be the trip of a lifetime. An enchanting trek through the Guatemalan jungle, viewing the mystical Mayan Ruins, a breath-stealing sunset from atop an ancient temple, a magical entourage of a million fireflies. Then suddenly our wonderful adventure became a nightmare. What followed was a roller coaster of hope and despair that would span the longest days of my life. As we frantically fought for my wife’s life, we found ourselves far from the necessities we took for granted at home. Amid the heartbreaking twists and turns, though, were encounters with brave and selfless people who made a lasting impression during a horrific time. Without Explanation is a true story. It’s a story of anticipated adventure and remarkable courage, of heartache and disbelief, and of hope and fear. And at its very core, it’s at once a life-altering tragedy and a story of love and devotion.

312 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 21, 2017

About the author

Rod Jasmer grew up on one of the 10,000 lakes in Minnesota, where he remained to complete high school and his undergraduate degree. He eventually moved to Idaho to continue his study of geology. It was there that he met his future wife, Valerie. In late 1987 they married, he received his graduate degree, and within a few months they packed almost all of their combined possessions into six suitcases and moved to Australia on permanent resident visas. They travelled extensively during their time Down Under, including an extended five-month overland trek throughout Southeast Asia. Upon their return to America, they started a family, and their three children were born over the succeeding five years.

Jasmer’s professional career includes purchasing and starting a number of companies, and he currently works as an environmental and business consultant to Union Pacific Railroad and other national clients. After the death of his wife in 2004, travel and adventure continued to be a pastime for this single dad. Jasmer spends as much time as possible outdoors, doing most any activity the four seasons allow. He splits his time between living in Linwood, Minnesota, and Park City, Utah.

Reviews

[Carole Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

heartbreaking story

This was a riveting story that I couldn’t put down. There were so many roadblocks & conflicting information they had to deal with that would be so frustrating for anyone. I’m glad the friends were there to help the author with all the decisions & stances he had to make. I kept feeling the people they were dealing with had nefarious intentions.

This story is so heartbreaking. I couldn’t imagine having to deal with all the obstacles & conflicting information thrown at the author during this time. Having this happen while in a 3rd world country exaggerates the difficulties the author experienced.

I wonder if the difficulties he experienced are common while having to deal with a death in a foreign country. I’m sure many of us that travel to foreign countries will think of this story & want to research what we would have to deal with if someone in our group were to pass during the trip.

The part where the camera lenses & sight were adjuster made me wonder if some poison was added that transferred to her bloodstream when she had to readjust the camera & contributed to her death.

[Dollie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A husband's very compelling account of the tragic and inexplicable death of his young wife on an exotic vacation in a remote and tropical part of the world. This location lacked basic emergency services and the language barriers compounded to create an unfolding nightmare for this husband and the couple accompanying them.

[Kris Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cried deep from my soul as I read your story. I appreciate you sharing.

[Susan Galazen · Rating 5 out of 5]

After just a few chapters I began to relate to Rod, Val, Jenn and Jeff and their adventure became my own. The courage and strength that was shown in the face of unexpected illness and turmoil was inspirational. The vivid descriptions helped me to understand how differently a catastrophe would be handled in Guatemala. I soon began to feel emotionally invested and my heart would beat quickly as I turned each page with anticipation. I am aware that the author wishes this story had a different ending but is such a tribute to the loved one he lost. I would highly recommend this book!

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy.

Some the situations i could not believe are true. I felt like the author really put in a lot of detail in a way that made me think it might not have went that exact same way. Then again it is a story and only really one point of view. So could there have been more to it? Was something else present? This book is good enough that you can think a little deeper.

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was easy to read yet difficult from the emotional perspective. It was well written, simple to follow sequentially, and certainly grasped my attention to the point that I could not put it down...I HAD to know what was around the corner in this wild, vulnerable, heart-wrenching adventure!

I commend Rod for sharing his personal trial and for hoping that some of his experience in loss might help others.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is very hard to give a rating to this book since it is a life tragedy. This isn't fiction where the author weaves a tale of loss that tugs your heart strings. This is real. We all have some sort of life tragedies or know of someone who does and this book will bring those memories back. We read this book because the author is from our area and we know some of his family and friends.