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One Step Closer: How a Life-Altering Accident Led Me to Everything I Almost Missed
It only takes a second to change your life.
At age twenty-one, Ryan Atkins had everything going for him: a full-ride scholarship in a prestigious business program, a well-paying internship, an opportunity to pitch a business plan to venture capitalists in New York City. He was living his dreams and preparing for a future of success.
But the day before leaving for New York, Ryan was in a life-altering car accident that robbed him of the use of his arms and legs. Paralyzed from the shoulders down, he found himself struggling to grasp just how fundamentally his life had changed.
In this unflinchingly honest account, Ryan takes you along his journey of coming to terms with his physical limitations, redefining success, falling in love, believing for a healing that seemed all but inevitable, and ultimately learning to trust the purpose in suffering.
If you have ever watched your dreams crumble before your eyes, endured prolonged pain and disappointment in your life, or wondered if there is more to life than what you are living…
Ryan’s story may be just what you need to discover what matters most—in this life and the next.
At age twenty-one, Ryan Atkins had everything going for him: a full-ride scholarship in a prestigious business program, a well-paying internship, an opportunity to pitch a business plan to venture capitalists in New York City. He was living his dreams and preparing for a future of success.
But the day before leaving for New York, Ryan was in a life-altering car accident that robbed him of the use of his arms and legs. Paralyzed from the shoulders down, he found himself struggling to grasp just how fundamentally his life had changed.
In this unflinchingly honest account, Ryan takes you along his journey of coming to terms with his physical limitations, redefining success, falling in love, believing for a healing that seemed all but inevitable, and ultimately learning to trust the purpose in suffering.
If you have ever watched your dreams crumble before your eyes, endured prolonged pain and disappointment in your life, or wondered if there is more to life than what you are living…
Ryan’s story may be just what you need to discover what matters most—in this life and the next.
- GenresBiography Memoir
271 pages, Paperback
Published October 13, 2020
58 people are currently reading
306 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 27, 2020
This has been the most inspirational book I've read in years. This isn't a story of tragedy and sadness. Instead it's a truth of overcoming the life you had planned and striving forward into what God has planned. One Step Closer shows readers how you can either choose to lie in self pity or you can move forward in faithfulness.
November 19, 2020
I found myself turning through each page and chapter wanting more! Ryan's journey captured in his book is one that can help each one of us reflect on our true purpose in life. It helped me to think about where I stand on my own spirituality, my relationships, my family and what I am truly living for.
Thank you, Ryan, for sharing your story with all of us!
Thank you, Ryan, for sharing your story with all of us!
November 18, 2020
What a compelling story! I often struggle to read non-fiction, but this book kept me hooked from the beginning. Not only did I want to read on, I found myself learning about expectations, perseverance, and finding hope even in the darkest of places. Ryan's story is a must read!
February 4, 2026
Attempting an ordinary lane change on the highway results in an extraordinary life change for Ryan Atkins. This book is the true-life account of events before and after that day. Ryan’s writing kept my total interest causing me to read this book very quickly. Even though it was a fast read, there is much that I will continue to remember and ponder for a long time.
This book is powerfully honest. I love the way Ryan explores the hard questions of life and doesn’t sugarcoat anything to make it prettier.
This book is about unexpected tragedy, struggle, sadness, and heartache. But it’s also about a wide range of life lessons, courage, purpose, trust, hope, and love.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
This book is powerfully honest. I love the way Ryan explores the hard questions of life and doesn’t sugarcoat anything to make it prettier.
This book is about unexpected tragedy, struggle, sadness, and heartache. But it’s also about a wide range of life lessons, courage, purpose, trust, hope, and love.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
November 6, 2020
This is a book that I couldn't put down. Author Ryan S. Atkins shares his personal journey from a busy college life to a life-altering accident. His honesty and transparency are truly inspirational. I learned lessons for my own life by reading Ryan's story. What we think is important in day to day moments can change in an instant. How we deal with that change can affect everyone. God has a plan for each of us. Our trust and comfort is found in Him. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
July 24, 2021
Name of the Book- One Step Closer
Author- Ryan S Atkins
Ratings: 4.5/5
It only takes a second to change your life.
At age twenty-one, Ryan Atkins had everything going for him: a full-ride scholarship in a prestigious business program, a well-paying internship, an opportunity to pitch a business plan to venture capitalists in New York City. He was living his dreams and preparing for a future of success. But the day before leaving for New York, Ryan was in a life-altering car accident that robbed him of the use of his arms and legs. Paralyzed from the shoulders down, he found himself struggling to grasp just how fundamentally his life had changed.
Through this book, Ryan will take you along his journey of coming to terms with his physical limitations, redefining success, falling in love, believing for a healing that seemed all but inevitable, and ultimately learning to trust the purpose in suffering.
The last four chapters will definitely change your life and you will learn a lot of lessons.
One of the biggest lesson that one can learn after reading this book is-
Stay inspired to keep believing for miracles no matter the odds and that “hope" is possible no matter what circumstances you face.
This book will challenge you to assess your life and truly consider what’s important.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. I loved it soooo much that I gifted this book to two of my friends too.
Make sure you grab this amazing and unique book from @amazondotin ☺️
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THE BOOK-
❤️ I appreciate the author’s honesty and vulnerability in sharing his journey following his life changing car accident.
❤️ Through this book, the author not only tells about his unexpected journey through this life, but also finds a way to encourage and challenge the reader along the way.
❤️It challenged me to revisit some of the hardships in my own life and to see them transformed.
Be ready to be inspired!
Author- Ryan S Atkins
Ratings: 4.5/5
It only takes a second to change your life.
At age twenty-one, Ryan Atkins had everything going for him: a full-ride scholarship in a prestigious business program, a well-paying internship, an opportunity to pitch a business plan to venture capitalists in New York City. He was living his dreams and preparing for a future of success. But the day before leaving for New York, Ryan was in a life-altering car accident that robbed him of the use of his arms and legs. Paralyzed from the shoulders down, he found himself struggling to grasp just how fundamentally his life had changed.
Through this book, Ryan will take you along his journey of coming to terms with his physical limitations, redefining success, falling in love, believing for a healing that seemed all but inevitable, and ultimately learning to trust the purpose in suffering.
The last four chapters will definitely change your life and you will learn a lot of lessons.
One of the biggest lesson that one can learn after reading this book is-
Stay inspired to keep believing for miracles no matter the odds and that “hope" is possible no matter what circumstances you face.
This book will challenge you to assess your life and truly consider what’s important.
I highly recommend this book to everyone. I loved it soooo much that I gifted this book to two of my friends too.
Make sure you grab this amazing and unique book from @amazondotin ☺️
WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THE BOOK-
❤️ I appreciate the author’s honesty and vulnerability in sharing his journey following his life changing car accident.
❤️ Through this book, the author not only tells about his unexpected journey through this life, but also finds a way to encourage and challenge the reader along the way.
❤️It challenged me to revisit some of the hardships in my own life and to see them transformed.
Be ready to be inspired!
July 21, 2021
Ryan Atkins was on the path to graduate from the University of Cincinnati when a 2009 car accident left him paralyzed below the neck. This memoir gives the reader a glimpse into Ryan's life over the years since the accident. Mr. Atkins hoped and prayed for physical healing and regaining his ability to walk, but this was not to be. However, he gained insight and purpose for his life through his faith in Jesus Christ and the support of his friends and family.
I liked this book very much. I read it over a period of two days and found it difficult to put down. Ryan is a real overcomer. He had many difficult experiences in his treatment and recovery, but he never gave up.
I love the way this accident brought a young lady who was Ryan's second-grade classmate back into his life. Their relationship grew over time and she played a vital role in Ryan's life.
Mr. Atkins is an avid reader and believes the following words of Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl helped him move forward in his life; "If you find a why, then you can bear any how."
If you find your purpose, then you can overcome any challenge that life throws at you.
This book made me smile. I am so happy for the many successes in this young man's life.
FYI ~ I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I liked this book very much. I read it over a period of two days and found it difficult to put down. Ryan is a real overcomer. He had many difficult experiences in his treatment and recovery, but he never gave up.
I love the way this accident brought a young lady who was Ryan's second-grade classmate back into his life. Their relationship grew over time and she played a vital role in Ryan's life.
Mr. Atkins is an avid reader and believes the following words of Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl helped him move forward in his life; "If you find a why, then you can bear any how."
If you find your purpose, then you can overcome any challenge that life throws at you.
This book made me smile. I am so happy for the many successes in this young man's life.
FYI ~ I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2021
I received this as an ARC courtesy of NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I was sceptical initially: I feared this would be a story of "if you have enough faith, God will heal you".
I was pleasantly surprised.
Ryan has quadriplegia as a result of a car accident and this memoir follows his journey over the following decade. It details his physical progress but more importantly his mental recovery and spiritual formation over these years.
I believe it's so important to be vulnerable and genuine when it comes to the Christian faith and healing. It's a complex issue that none of us truly understand and I feely that Ryan details the tensions involved honestly and emotionally whilst remaining rooted in biblical truth. I particularly liked that the biblical references were embedded so smoothly within the text.
Would really recommend this as a read for anyone living with a chronic injury or illness and those who pray for them.
I was sceptical initially: I feared this would be a story of "if you have enough faith, God will heal you".
I was pleasantly surprised.
Ryan has quadriplegia as a result of a car accident and this memoir follows his journey over the following decade. It details his physical progress but more importantly his mental recovery and spiritual formation over these years.
I believe it's so important to be vulnerable and genuine when it comes to the Christian faith and healing. It's a complex issue that none of us truly understand and I feely that Ryan details the tensions involved honestly and emotionally whilst remaining rooted in biblical truth. I particularly liked that the biblical references were embedded so smoothly within the text.
Would really recommend this as a read for anyone living with a chronic injury or illness and those who pray for them.
February 1, 2021
Ryan Atkins' book immediately becomes very personal, regardless of your own individual circumstances. We all face adversity, and Ryan's journey can help everyone learn how to live beyond that adversity. The Companion Guide is a wonderful tool to help you individually or with group workshops or book club discussions. His book is a story of faith and perseverance as well as a "love story". After Ryan's car accident, he describes re-connecting with Stephanie, his second grade crush and eventually his wife. This book will touch your heart and challenge you to focus on "lasting hope in the wake of profound disappointment". If you are looking for a book about real life, then this book is as real as it gets. Ryan tells his story with a compelling sense of honesty and sincerity. You can connect with Ryan at RyanSAtkins.com and be sure to follow his blog!
January 19, 2021
One Step Closer is a cleverly written, page-turning account of resilience and vulnerability. Ryan’s story gives us a view into the unimaginable: what it would be like if your life was turned upside down (literally). This book will leave you with the inspiration to make it through your toughest struggles and those of your loved ones. For anyone in the medical profession or anyone in a caring/supportive role, Ryan’s perspective can teach us what patients or friends need most when they have been robbed of their physical abilities. I encourage you to give this book a try and share Ryan’s journey. It will help you appreciate the little things, like breathing without thinking, and understand a sliver of what it’s like to endure one of life’s greatest challenges.
April 27, 2021
Wow... this book was so good! From the moment I opened it until I finished I was on the journey. Both heartbreaking and inspiring, our goals and paths can change overnight.
I enjoyed reading Ryan’s story from being a successful college student to suddenly being faced with a spinal cord injury that meant paralysis from his neck down. I can’t even imagine what this is like. I didn’t enjoy it from the perspective that it was an “easy read”, but because there was so much truth and vulnerability in the way it was written and it just reminds me we are all on our own “journeys” but as Christians we all have one ultimate goal: to bring glory to God.
All views are my own. I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for my own opinion.
I enjoyed reading Ryan’s story from being a successful college student to suddenly being faced with a spinal cord injury that meant paralysis from his neck down. I can’t even imagine what this is like. I didn’t enjoy it from the perspective that it was an “easy read”, but because there was so much truth and vulnerability in the way it was written and it just reminds me we are all on our own “journeys” but as Christians we all have one ultimate goal: to bring glory to God.
All views are my own. I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for my own opinion.
November 18, 2020
I posted Ryan Atkins' book on my FaceBook page because I believe everyone struggles, at some point, with the question of the purpose of their life. Ryan openly and courageously shares the journey from his life-altering accident, which left him paralyzed from the neck down, through not only the physical, but the mental, emotional and spiritual challenges, to finding more in life than gaining money, status or other comparisons-with-others this world so often dangles before us as the "prize" to pursue. This book offers you a whole new bittersweet lens through which to see what is truly important in life and serves as an inspiration to those of us searching for meaning.
November 25, 2020
Inspirational
Ryan shares his day to day life after the accident as well has his "big thoughts from the heart." He had some strong convictions he let go of and was determined to bravely face what happened and was happening before during and after that fateful day. Ryan is honest to a point that will make you reflect on your own authenticity and One Step Closer will inspire you to move forward, to look at your beliefs and sift out what is REAL and then be courageous and GO FOR IT! I encourage all to read this book, there is something for everyone: grit, heart wrench, romance, laughter, hope. What have you got to loose?!
Ryan shares his day to day life after the accident as well has his "big thoughts from the heart." He had some strong convictions he let go of and was determined to bravely face what happened and was happening before during and after that fateful day. Ryan is honest to a point that will make you reflect on your own authenticity and One Step Closer will inspire you to move forward, to look at your beliefs and sift out what is REAL and then be courageous and GO FOR IT! I encourage all to read this book, there is something for everyone: grit, heart wrench, romance, laughter, hope. What have you got to loose?!
Read
December 5, 2020I'm sure that we can all relate to feeling as though things didn't go quite the way we thought that they would go, in the grand plan that we carefully designed for our lives🙏❤!! This book, One Step Closer, is so encouraging because the author really shares some of his most painful and challenging moments in life. From this book, I felt encouraged to understand the importance of having an eternal perspective to inform my response when faced with hurtful life circumstances that certainly were not in the plan for my ideal life.
April 4, 2021
Ryan tells his story with honesty and vulnerability. He also writes very well and the story flows smoothly and will make itself hard to put down. I found Ryans story relatable to all of us , while though not everyone suffer from paralysis, Ryans will to never give up on himself and to continue to push through the lows and find our purpose is something we can all learn from. I admire Ryan and his willpower. I think anyone can benefit from reading this book and can't encourage you to do so enough.
November 26, 2020
Are you facing an unexpected circumstance.. things not turning out in your as you had planned? If so, this book is a must read! Ryan shares his incredible journey on a path he never dreamed he would be on after a serious car accident changed the entire forecast of his life. Step by step, he walks us through the pain and heartache of his journey but also shows how faith, love, grit, and determination can reshape life with new and unexpected possibilities! What an encouragement to all!!
November 29, 2020
There was so much I took away from this book. Ryan's open, often brutally honest account of his experience makes his story so relatable. Regardless what kind of struggle someone may be going through, I imagine many, like me, will recognize the rollercoaster of dreams, insecurities, hopes and disappointments the author describes. The clarity and perspective reflected by the end of the book was truly inspiring and left me with a renewed sense of hope and trust in God's purpose for my own life!
December 4, 2020
This story is one of courage and faith in the face of life changing circumstances. When a car accident leaves Ryan paralyzed, it upended his life. Honest in his struggle to find purpose despite his circumstance, you will be extremely moved and inspired by his story. You will be encouraged by his story to find joy and purpose in your own life. I highly recommend for everyone to read, but especially for folks who are struggling to find their place or calling.
February 2, 2021
Ryan’s story is one we can all learn from and be inspired by. His willingness to share his challenges and fears gives insight into the amazing faith journey God has led him on during this phase of his life. It is also an amazing love story showing God’s plan to bring Ryan and Stephanie together. I have enjoyed the privilege of knowing this man since he began kindergarten, but through his book he is the one who taught me about life, love and faith. Thank you Ryan.
May 21, 2021
Modern day Paul
I was on the edge of my seat. Couldn't put the book down. Inspirational. Modern day Job/Paul. So well written. I'm so proud of Ryan, for the way he has handled disappointments even as a child. I found myself beaming like a proud momma. This man is a warrior. A true man of God. This is the wisdom and insight our young men need to see and be lead by. Ryan I hope you continue to teach young men how to be real men of God.
I was on the edge of my seat. Couldn't put the book down. Inspirational. Modern day Job/Paul. So well written. I'm so proud of Ryan, for the way he has handled disappointments even as a child. I found myself beaming like a proud momma. This man is a warrior. A true man of God. This is the wisdom and insight our young men need to see and be lead by. Ryan I hope you continue to teach young men how to be real men of God.
January 13, 2022
As a fellow quadriplegic, I was interested to hear Ryan's story and see how he has fared compared to my own journey. His book does not disappoint! He leads you not only through his physical story but also his spiritual one. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and gladly recommend it to anyone who is struggling with the question of how to deal with faith and God's promises amidst pain, disability, and healing.
November 19, 2020
Ryan's rawness throughout his journey is easily relatable with anyone who has either experienced the same, or similar, trauma. The visuals, even things we take for granted like sitting in an airplane seat, gives the reader that element of reality for quadriplegias... In the midst of his story, he seemed to maintain the fighter spirit of "this is not how my story ends".
May 10, 2021
Very inspiring
I was amazed at Ryan’s story. He went through so many experiences. He knew that God works all things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Our, and Ryan’s, definition of good are not always the same as God’s definition but it is always for our good.
Ryan’s honesty is refreshing and encouraging.
I totally recommend this book.
I was amazed at Ryan’s story. He went through so many experiences. He knew that God works all things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Our, and Ryan’s, definition of good are not always the same as God’s definition but it is always for our good.
Ryan’s honesty is refreshing and encouraging.
I totally recommend this book.
April 29, 2022
Great book and a fast read. I appreciated how honest Ryan was about the details of everything and his feelings. I was expecting more of a spiritual guide with bits of his story but it was the opposite, with his story being the main content with bits of how his spirituality developed mixed in, which I liked better! I knew Ryan in college so I felt a more personal connection to his story and felt empathy, like sad when Ryan was emotionally hurt by other college friends or happy when he decided to propose to Stephanie, for example. I think that anyone could relate to Ryan though since he is so open and honest in this book.
March 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One Step Closer offers an intimate look into the life of an extraordinary individual, capturing both their triumphs and struggles. Through compelling storytelling and detailed insights, it brings their story to life and leaves a lasting impression on readers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One Step Closer offers an intimate look into the life of an extraordinary individual, capturing both their triumphs and struggles. Through compelling storytelling and detailed insights, it brings their story to life and leaves a lasting impression on readers.
Read
November 27, 2020This real-life account reaches the heart and the soul. It provides encouragement and inspiration. Truly, Ryan's story is worth reading. I definitely recommend reading this story about making it through the tough times.
December 4, 2020
This book was such a good and easy read! I found myself rooting for the author as he told his story and became so vulnerable in doing so. His perspective has really opened my eyes to focusing on what really matters in my life. Highly recommend!
December 6, 2020
Really enjoyed this honest, vulnerable look at a life-changing event. After recently reading Frankl’s “Man’s Search for Meaning”, this story struck me as a modern adaptation or interpretation of Frankl’s work. Inspirational!
December 8, 2020
There were many moments in this book that are deeply honest and relatable: self doubt, performance anxiety, struggling with faith, searching for meaning and purpose. Ryan, thank you for sharing your story.
January 7, 2021
Such an inspiring story, and kept me wanting me to read more and more. This book was an eye opening spiritually. We get so focused on our goals with God, but yet somehow we can get a little sidetrack from our daily life. Must read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews