Two Steps Forward: A Novel

Martin and Zoe are both recently single, middle-aged people who decide to walk to the Camino de Santiago starting in Cluny, France. Neither of them have particularly good reasons to walk hundreds of miles on an historical pilgrimage, but it seems like a good idea at the time. They don't know each other until just before they set out, but fate brings them together on the trail. And apart. And together. And apart. And together again. Each time they come together, the encourage each other forward with well-placed cliches, and then misunderstand each other just enough so that they separate again.

Martin's and Zoe's stories are somewhat less than compelling, unfortunately, and the cast of characters they meet along the way isn't much better. But the descriptions of the Camino were very well done, and almost made me feel like I was walking alongside them.

Quick easy holiday read. Having had walked the Camino before - the vibe, meandering, introspective nature of this book was nostalgic. It definitely makes you want to strap on the boots and get walking again. Although it may not have the same effect for people who haven’t had the chance yet. It’s an enjoyable enough novel but the real beauty is the Camino itself.