The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce

Who would think that taking a 500-mile walk would bring all one's emotions to a head and invite self-reflection as well as regret?

Harold Fry never knew that a letter from an old friend would elicit so many emotions, and he never would have thought he would do what he was doing or how he was doing the 500-mile walk to his friend Queenie who was dying of cancer.

As you are reading about Harold's walking and his promise, you are probably asking yourself this question as I did: Why in the world is he continuing on this journey when it is becoming impossible to walk and to fulfill his promise.  I would have accepted any ride that was offered. :) Harold did meet a number of interesting people, though, and his wife who was left at home was making friendships and regretting that she and Harold had never had a deep relationship. 

The adjective, MARVELOUS, on the ARC's book cover undeniably describes this book.  Additional adjectives such as SPECTACULAR and SPLENDID would also be revealing terms. The author made this mundane topic of a 500-mile walk to see a friend not mundane at all.  Ms. Joyce had beautiful descriptions of landscapes, feelings, conversations, and thoughts about friendship and family.  She drew you right into the book from page one.  

You will find that this read is very profound and thought-provoking. Nothing but praise for this remarkable book....the characters and the storyline are exceptional.   

The book is also a tribute to the decency of the human race for their concern and their support of a cause a fellow human being believed in.  This book is also an inspiring emotional ride...have tissues handy and be prepared to be thinking about your own life....the regrets as well as the pleasures.  5/5

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.