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Towards the Within
Sometimes the further you distance yourself, the closer you are to the truth. What starts out as a simple trip around India soon becomes a psychological journey into the darkness of Sam's past. One he knows there's no running from. When Sam decides to give up his mundane life and travel to India he has no idea what he'll do when he gets there and it isn't long before his lack of preparation takes its toll. Vulnerable and alone, Sam is haunted by memories of his childhood and as he struggles to make sense of the pain he has suffered he follows a dangerous path that has devastating consequences. Towards the Within tells the story of Sam, a young man who embarks on a journey to India to escape his normal life in England. It could have been anywhere, but the mystique of Asia and India in particular attracted Sam who was looking for a new adventure. Along the way Sam meets many new people, some Indian residents of the country he is visiting as well as a number of fellow travelers. At times it can be hard to tell friends from foes, but Sam often has little choice but to put his trust in those around him and as a result embraces the friendship and even love he is shown. Throughout the trip Sam is confronted by memories of his childhood and for the first time he tackles past relationships in order to try and understand the anxiety and depression that has followed him into his adult life. As he comes to terms with his old life and looks forward to a new beginning, an unexpected enemy is revealed and Sam is left with a difficult choice to make.
- GenresFiction
Audible Audio
Published May 26, 2025
160 people are currently reading
1087 people want to read
About the author
Reece Willis
2 books35 followersReece's journey into literature began at an early age. His imagination was lost to the tales of Charles Dickens, the adventures of Mark Twain and nail-biting prose of HP Lovecraft. He was rarely seen without his head buried deep within the pages of a book. By the age of eleven he discovered Roald Dahl and CS Lewis's land of Narnia and commenced the long running series of Fighting Fantasy and Lone Wolf novels, whilst his late teens took him into the dark corridors of George Orwell, Franz Kafka, Clive Barker and Stephen King.
In the nineties he wrote copy for a world renowned holiday corporation and later went on to study travel journalism and photography with the British College of Journalism. At the end of 1999 he started an online travel guide documenting in-depth country profiles with the addition of latest health, safety and security information. By 2014 he sold the business to pursue the writing of Towards the Within.
Reece has travelled extensively throughout Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe and the Middle East. He currently resides in England where he is working on his third novel.
In the nineties he wrote copy for a world renowned holiday corporation and later went on to study travel journalism and photography with the British College of Journalism. At the end of 1999 he started an online travel guide documenting in-depth country profiles with the addition of latest health, safety and security information. By 2014 he sold the business to pursue the writing of Towards the Within.
Reece has travelled extensively throughout Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe and the Middle East. He currently resides in England where he is working on his third novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 5, 2018
Intriguing
This is the chronicle on a young man's journey through India and so much more. I couldn't put this down once I started reading it. The world's most breathtaking mountains and beautiful shrines surrounded by abject poverty and terribly crippled beggars. He eventually makes friends, both tourist and Indians, and masters the way to travel in different areas of the country, helping fellow tourist by the end of the book.
What adds another dimension to this book is that throughout it is peppered with the stories of the author and the people he meets.
This is an interesting book on many levels. The author witnesses the violence in Kashmir that has crippled the city. He is physically attacked and turned away because of his race in several locations. But it seems this rejection and physical violence that reawakens his inner demons and allows him to come to terms with them in a more manageable way.
This is the chronicle on a young man's journey through India and so much more. I couldn't put this down once I started reading it. The world's most breathtaking mountains and beautiful shrines surrounded by abject poverty and terribly crippled beggars. He eventually makes friends, both tourist and Indians, and masters the way to travel in different areas of the country, helping fellow tourist by the end of the book.
What adds another dimension to this book is that throughout it is peppered with the stories of the author and the people he meets.
This is an interesting book on many levels. The author witnesses the violence in Kashmir that has crippled the city. He is physically attacked and turned away because of his race in several locations. But it seems this rejection and physical violence that reawakens his inner demons and allows him to come to terms with them in a more manageable way.
September 23, 2018
Reece Willis captures India with a sensitivity and care she deserves. His very personal style kept me turning back to the book and I had finished it within a few days including some late night sessions.
Towards the Within reveals the inner work we are encouraged to do without coming across preachy or pushy. Reece lets the reader join the dots of his journey back to self. Stimulating feelings and thoughts to be attended to within the reader.
It is an adventure and a journey, with love presenting itself throughout the book in her many forms, just like India, not one thing, not another.
I will be recommending this book to anyone considering India, or anyone looking to understand the gentle unpacking of our self that life invites.
As someone who loves and visits India, Reece brings back vivid memories, colors, smells and of course reveals India's heart in her people.
Towards the Within reveals the inner work we are encouraged to do without coming across preachy or pushy. Reece lets the reader join the dots of his journey back to self. Stimulating feelings and thoughts to be attended to within the reader.
It is an adventure and a journey, with love presenting itself throughout the book in her many forms, just like India, not one thing, not another.
I will be recommending this book to anyone considering India, or anyone looking to understand the gentle unpacking of our self that life invites.
As someone who loves and visits India, Reece brings back vivid memories, colors, smells and of course reveals India's heart in her people.
October 5, 2018
A man and his journey toward self discovery
This was an amazing book of a man on a journey of self discovery set in India. I could not put it down as the author took us on an adventure that unfolded the great wonders of this country. Along the way the main character, Sam, aided by new found friends and the kindness of the Indian people, slowly began to find his true self. The book is a captivating read with an ending that will surprise and amaze.
This was an amazing book of a man on a journey of self discovery set in India. I could not put it down as the author took us on an adventure that unfolded the great wonders of this country. Along the way the main character, Sam, aided by new found friends and the kindness of the Indian people, slowly began to find his true self. The book is a captivating read with an ending that will surprise and amaze.
February 19, 2019
I am still reading this book- I just love this book. It’s very spiritual and pleasing. Very descriptive as well. I’m just melting into it. Have also looked up some music which the author writes about...
April 30, 2019
This was the story of a young man visiting India, exploring this foreign country and finding himself in the process. It is beautifully written, and descriptions of monuments and scenery were lyrical, making one want to visit this country.I read this book in one day, enjoying every page.
May 24, 2019
Sam a young man searching for life’s answers travels to India on a spiritual journey.The beauty of India the mountains the shrines the people provide a lovely backdrop for his quest.A lyrically written magical novel.
Thanks to Goodreads for my free kindle copy.
Thanks to Goodreads for my free kindle copy.
February 11, 2020
I love India and from the blurb was looking forward to being thrown in to that beautiful country head first. I found instead the musings of a naive backpacker with what appeared to be paragraphs copied out of an old Lonely Planet describing the various sites and monuments. I ploughed through as part of my “reading challenge” but have to confess to being disappointed and at times slightly bored. Sorry
January 28, 2020
I loved this book. When unexpected rhings happen, and you find yourself.
April 8, 2020
One of the best books I've read in a long time! The author nailed what it's like to travel India independently. What was so good about this, was the back story weaved in and out of the protagonist's travels, leaving the reader hooked for the conclusion. The characters felt real and the writing was reflective and thought provoking.
September 18, 2018
I got through a little over half of this book. It is incredibly long, which would have been okay if there were more interesting things happening. For the most part, it felt like I was reading the diary of a very average guy, describing mundane events like eating breakfast, drinking soda, using the bathroom, day after day after day. For the other part, it felt like I was reading a travel catalog due to the unnatural exposition on the culture and landmarks.
I have to admit that the author does seem to have done his research (and likely traveled to India, based on his bio). And I did enjoy the first half well enough to keep reading, due to the tension between Sam (the protagonist) and his traveling companion, as well as the struggles he faces due to being a completely unprepared traveler. But all too quickly he seems to find his footing, and the setting becomes over-romanticized in that 'westerner travels to impoverished nation to find themselves and become enlightened' cliche. Speaking of romance, I really lost interest in this story during the romantic subplot. Sam sees a girl, thinks she's pretty, and all of a sudden they're heads over heels for each other. It was very dull and lifeless, and tedious to get through.
I also wish Sam had more interactions and/or developed friendships with people who weren't other tourists. There were some locals he got to know, but those were more service-based friendships. (ie. the hotel manager, rickshaw drivers, or wise old men waiting to give spiritual advice to foreigners). Not sure exactly what time period this is set in, but in big cities there should be Indian 20-something-year-olds who speak decent English. But again, I only read about half the book, so maybe Sam does later on in the book.
I was interested in this book mainly because of this part of the synopsis: "Sam is haunted by memories of his childhood and as he struggles to make sense of the pain he has suffered he follows a dangerous path that has devastating consequences." I'm sure the story will eventually get there, but there's just too much boring fluff to get through, so unfortunately I don't think I'll be finishing it.
I have to admit that the author does seem to have done his research (and likely traveled to India, based on his bio). And I did enjoy the first half well enough to keep reading, due to the tension between Sam (the protagonist) and his traveling companion, as well as the struggles he faces due to being a completely unprepared traveler. But all too quickly he seems to find his footing, and the setting becomes over-romanticized in that 'westerner travels to impoverished nation to find themselves and become enlightened' cliche. Speaking of romance, I really lost interest in this story during the romantic subplot. Sam sees a girl, thinks she's pretty, and all of a sudden they're heads over heels for each other. It was very dull and lifeless, and tedious to get through.
I also wish Sam had more interactions and/or developed friendships with people who weren't other tourists. There were some locals he got to know, but those were more service-based friendships. (ie. the hotel manager, rickshaw drivers, or wise old men waiting to give spiritual advice to foreigners). Not sure exactly what time period this is set in, but in big cities there should be Indian 20-something-year-olds who speak decent English. But again, I only read about half the book, so maybe Sam does later on in the book.
I was interested in this book mainly because of this part of the synopsis: "Sam is haunted by memories of his childhood and as he struggles to make sense of the pain he has suffered he follows a dangerous path that has devastating consequences." I'm sure the story will eventually get there, but there's just too much boring fluff to get through, so unfortunately I don't think I'll be finishing it.
September 15, 2018
I won this book from a goodreads giveaway.
For me this book just didn’t hook me in like other books from new authors. To me the majority of the book is like a written guide through India following Sam who continuously gets sick through 30% of the book. There were a multitude of characters to try and keep track of and I find it a little crazy that he travels to India with a friend and they just abandon each other and you never hear of the other one again. Towards the end you get a full look at Sam’s past that is discussed in the synopsis of the book (there were very small hints throughout the book) which again seems a little crazy. To have your father and grandfather physically abuse you and your mother psychologically abuse you throughout your entire life and only a trip through India meeting a bunch of strangers makes it very clear? And then instead of going home he calls a woman he met there and knew for a few days and plans to go to her in another part of England? I just don’t know. This book just wasn’t for me.
For me this book just didn’t hook me in like other books from new authors. To me the majority of the book is like a written guide through India following Sam who continuously gets sick through 30% of the book. There were a multitude of characters to try and keep track of and I find it a little crazy that he travels to India with a friend and they just abandon each other and you never hear of the other one again. Towards the end you get a full look at Sam’s past that is discussed in the synopsis of the book (there were very small hints throughout the book) which again seems a little crazy. To have your father and grandfather physically abuse you and your mother psychologically abuse you throughout your entire life and only a trip through India meeting a bunch of strangers makes it very clear? And then instead of going home he calls a woman he met there and knew for a few days and plans to go to her in another part of England? I just don’t know. This book just wasn’t for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2021
I travelled with Mr Sam!
Sam embarks on a journey through India to find himself so to speak, but he doesn't know it as he began his tour of several regions round the country.
Alongside the places he travels to, visits and stays at he will meet several travellers which will help Sam to question the real reasons of his trip to India. Sam is very loyal and genuine with his new travellers friends from all over the world but at the same time built friendly relationships with the locals too.
I really liked Sam and was moved by his story and beautiful !manners and character.
THE author takes you on a unforgettable journey and must be very familiar with the country, his people, culture, history and traditions.
I strongly recommend the book as you will embark on a trip you're not about to forget....
Sam embarks on a journey through India to find himself so to speak, but he doesn't know it as he began his tour of several regions round the country.
Alongside the places he travels to, visits and stays at he will meet several travellers which will help Sam to question the real reasons of his trip to India. Sam is very loyal and genuine with his new travellers friends from all over the world but at the same time built friendly relationships with the locals too.
I really liked Sam and was moved by his story and beautiful !manners and character.
THE author takes you on a unforgettable journey and must be very familiar with the country, his people, culture, history and traditions.
I strongly recommend the book as you will embark on a trip you're not about to forget....
September 4, 2019
I came across this book purely by accident and found it really easy to read. There is a lot going on from the start which I liked and I felt like the pace was good throughout. The book itself reflects the often unpredictable nature of travelling, I had no idea what was going to happen next and I thought this was really refreshing. One of my favourite elements was the characters, there are quite a few but I warmed to them all very quickly including of course, Sam. He is by no means the perfect traveller, but that's what makes him 'real'.
October 12, 2018
I read this book by chance, I felt like a change from my usual choice. A lover of cryptic crosswords, I was intrigued by the title which could have a number of meanings. Once started I was hooked & thoroughly enjoyed travelling with Sam in India, sharing his highs & lows & sometimes downright dangerous experiences. It gradually became evident why he had undertaken his journey & his past returned at times to torment him, which I found rather emotional. It was a good, easy read, with imaginable descriptions of this fascinating country & it's people & I was sorry when it came to the end.
May 23, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. The descriptions of the sights of India both beautiful and tragic were vivid. This was not only a physical journey but as the title implies a spiritual journey as Sam faces and comes to terms with his inner demons helped by the people he meets along the way. I was sorry this book ended I wanted to see where Sam went next and I look forward to reading more from this author.
September 17, 2018
Goodreads Kindle Copy Win
This is a story of a young British guy who finds himself unexpected on a journey through India. He has no set plan on how to get there nor what he will do there. It is his journey there as he learns about life and himself in another culture.
It is an interesting trip of sorts.
This is a story of a young British guy who finds himself unexpected on a journey through India. He has no set plan on how to get there nor what he will do there. It is his journey there as he learns about life and himself in another culture.
It is an interesting trip of sorts.
July 8, 2019
I got this book in a Goodread giveaway. Book is very long but takes you on a very descriptive journey in India. You go along with the main character as he experiences growth personally along the way. It was a worthy read.
July 21, 2020
39 years ago I got off a plane in Deli and found my way to my accommodation. The first two pages of the book took me right back there, the description of the noise, confusion and smell !
I loved traveling with Sam and for anyone who has not been to India the people truly are very friendly and the poverty and disabilities very real .
A great read.
I loved traveling with Sam and for anyone who has not been to India the people truly are very friendly and the poverty and disabilities very real .
A great read.
May 9, 2020
I have been transported through India with Sam's story the description of the places brilliant.will be looking out for more books by this author.really enjoyed
September 1, 2021
One of the best books about travelling India I have read. It really captures the sights, the smells the emotions and the beauty of that incredible country. I couldn't put the book down; first class.
April 12, 2022
Loved this book
April 7, 2023
Loved the aspheric writing, really felt like I was in India
Found the jumping back in the past slightly confusing.
Interesting ending
Found the jumping back in the past slightly confusing.
Interesting ending
February 13, 2024
Loved this. Set in India and got a real desire to go back. Liked the characters and the pace.
Read
October 23, 2024excellent read
Absolutely brilliant book. Found it hard to put down. Felt like I was I’m the journey with Sam. Highly recommend
Absolutely brilliant book. Found it hard to put down. Felt like I was I’m the journey with Sam. Highly recommend
October 12, 2025
This was mesmerising, captivating, truly joyful.
Read
February 12, 2020I found this book a bit dull. It reads like a travel journal, a list of places visited, cafes frequented and food eaten. Ok for a young pack packer or if you haven’t travelled to India but otherwise, I’d forget it. The revaluation at the end feels a bit too rushed. Sorry Reece Willis but it’s a thumbs down from me.
May 23, 2023
Absolutely brilliant read, just my type of book.
March 3, 2023
An easy read about life affirming travel - if you have ever been to India you will love this book, captures every memory of this overwhelming country perfectly
September 19, 2018
I won the kindle edition of this book in a Goodreads giveaway and cannot wait to read it!
September 22, 2019
363 pages....not 573
very good story....such vivid words describing scenery.....kind of felt like you were there....hot, hot
some things didn't make sense.....money seemed to be everlasting till near the end......I didn't know he was a photographer....nor a masseuse... nor real guitar player although he dragged it with him everywhere.....so many problems with his belongings yet ended up with two pens to give away.....
but still a great story....his childhood was also unbelievable.....
oh well, literary liscense!!!
very good story....such vivid words describing scenery.....kind of felt like you were there....hot, hot
some things didn't make sense.....money seemed to be everlasting till near the end......I didn't know he was a photographer....nor a masseuse... nor real guitar player although he dragged it with him everywhere.....so many problems with his belongings yet ended up with two pens to give away.....
but still a great story....his childhood was also unbelievable.....
oh well, literary liscense!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews