by Rachel Joyce

When Queenie Hennessy discovers that Harold Fry is walking the length of England to save her, and all she has to do is wait, she is shocked. Her note had explained she was dying. How can she wait?

A new volunteer at the hospice suggests that Queenie should write again; only this time she must tell Harold everything. In confessing to secrets she has hidden for twenty years, she will find atonement for the past. As the volunteer points out, 'Even though you've done your travelling, you're starting a new journey too.'

Queenie thought her first letter would be the end of the story. She was wrong. It was the beginning.

I was a huge fan of the companion novel to this book, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. While I would not say that you have to read Harold's story before Queenie's, I do think that it would be beneficial, and it would shed more light and understanding to this one. While I loved Queenie and her journey while she waits for Harold's concurrent journey, I loved the short snippets we got from the hospice home where Queenie is living. The day to day goings on were what I looked forward to, as much as Queenie's continuing story about her prior life with Harold. Rachel Joyce is a wonderful writer, these are not the only two books I have read from her, and I look forward to many more! The only thing I did not like about the book was the ending! Of course by reading Harold's novel, I knew part of it, but without giving out spoilers, I was intrigued, but at the same time kind of disappointed with Queenie's letters. It was an interesting twist, but left me wanting more closure.

I would absolutely recommend this book, but if you want the full experience, be sure to pick up a copy of Harold Fry's book to go with it. Thanks to the publisher who provided me an advance copy of this book (via NetGalley).