The Wildwater Walking Club: Back on Track

by Claire Cook

For Noreen, Tess, and Rosie, walking the beach together every day has been everything. But after all those steps forward, The Wildwater Walking Club is doing some serious backsliding.

Now they’re dodging each other in the neighborhood, and Noreen is spending time working on pints of Ben & Jerry’s instead of her romance with Rick, the also-lost boyfriend she met at career counseling.

A new adventure might be just what they need. Their destination: Provence, the ultimate lavender trip. It turns into the trip of a lifetime, filled with Van Gogh and vineyards, wine and chocolate, plus lavender and more lavender.

Join Noreen, Rosie and Tess as they get back on track!

Genres: Fiction, Audiobook

350 pages, Paperback

Published January 27, 2017

About the author

CLAIRE COOK wrote her first book in her minivan at 45. At 50, she walked the red carpet at the Hollywood premiere of the adaptation of her novel Must Love Dogs, starring Diane Lane and John Cusack, which is now an 8-book series. Claire is the New York Times, USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling author of 25 books for 40-to-forever women, including her latest series, Bonus Time.

If you have a buried dream, take it from Claire, It's Never Too Late to Shine On!

Stay in the loop for new releases, giveaways, inspiration and insider extras at ClaireCook.com.

Read excerpts at ClaireCook.com/books/

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Reviews

[Stephanie B · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I pick up a Claire Cook book, I know exactly what I’m getting myself into. I know that I’m going to laugh, I know that I’m going to spend time with some quirky, relatable characters, and I know that I’m going to come away feeling totally inspired. These are the things Claire does best, and they are all front and center in her newest book, Wildwater Walking Club: Back on Track.

A follow-up to the warm and witty Wildwater Walking Club, Back on Track reunites us with neighbors Noreen, Tess, and Rosie and invites us along on the next leg of their step-counting adventure. There’s only one problem—a year after the unlikely friends started their walking (and talking) group, they’re in serious danger of disbanding. They’re avoiding each other in the supermarket, ducking behind hedges in their yards, and ringleader Noreen—when she isn’t stressing about her buyout package running out or wondering what’s going on with her struggling relationship—has made two new best friends: Ben and Jerry. Rather than throwing in the Fitbits (or throwing the Fitbits in the dryer to get in a bit more activity), the ladies rally and plan a lavender lover’s trip of a lifetime—a French river cruise in Provence. In the land of van Gogh, bouillabaisse, and lavender fields forever, the ladies of the Wildwater Walking Club take another lap in the track of self-discovery, navigating the journey of who they are, what they want, and how many steps it will take to get there.

Reinvention is the running theme of Claire Cook’s books, and it’s the very thing that makes her characters so appealing. Whether it’s Rosie’s mixed emotions about taking over her family lavender farm, Noreen’s self-doubt about becoming a health coach, or Tess’s attempts at mastering the perfect topknot, the women of the Wildwater Walking Club remind us that every fork in the road can lead to a new, unexpected track, and they show us—as Claire Cook always says—that it’s never too late to shine on. From cover to cover, this novel is packed with humor, heart, and the spirit of friendship, and it left me feeling inspired and motivated for my own next chapter.

As an added bonus? You’ll even find recipes scattered throughout, for everything from lavender-infused dishes to moisturizer. How fun is that?

The Wildwater Walking Club: Back on Track is a friendship-filled delight and may be just the pick-me-up you need to get through those pesky winter blues. While the novel does stand on its own, I definitely recommend reading the first book as well, so you can follow Rosie, Noreen, and Tess every sneaker-clad step of the way. So put down your Fitbit and climb aboard on Claire Cook’s wonderful new adventure. You’ll be smelling lavender and dreaming of Provence before you know it.

Full review available at https://bookperfume.com/2017/01/31/ge...

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claire Cook has an honest understanding of people who are trying to figure out what to do with their lives and through her storytelling can make you see the humor in the humbling and often embarrassing circumstances we all experience when everything in life seems to be against you. She creates genuine characters that make you feel like they are your friends by the end of the book. The Wildwater Walking Club: Back on Track is the second book of the series and continues the friendship and walking club of Noreen, Tess and Rosie as they travel to France as a reward they have created for themselves for their commitment to walking every day. They experience all the luxuries of France: wine, food, culture and especially their love of all things lavender. They are always up for a fun time and totally accept themselves for being outlandish and quirky. The closeness of their friendship is revealed as they deal with the realities of life: family, love, careers, and they always return to walking and friendship to help them get through the hard times. The Wildwater Walking Club books are so fun and funny (like all of Claire’s books), I usually drop everything and make time to read them!

[Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading Claire's books for years and one thing just dawned on me. Claire Cook really has a knack for making what would seem everyday women into heroines of their own story. She is able to make the feminine aspect an extremely strong and powerful figure. From any of the Wildwater Walking Club crew to the seatmate from Texas with her flask. They all are very different, yet are powerful and strong in their own right, breaking barriers and glass ceilings. Proving that women can be and do anything they want. What an incredible gift it is to be able to wear fish earrings if we want. Or go back to school to learn a new trade, or travel the world with friends just because. Fantastic book Claire! And a great reminder that we truly can do anything if we don't hold ourselves back!

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the many things I love about Claire Cook’s stories is how, with her trademark humor and heart, she peels back multiple layers and exposes the fears, hopes, setbacks, and triumphs of her characters. I packed my bags and joined the adventures of Noreen, Tess, and Rosie as they traveled to Provence. Fragrant lavender fields, rich chocolate, and van Gogh’s artwork came to life, and friendships, stagnant romantic relationships, and quirky family ties are examined in ways that not only made me laugh, but also made me think.

Spritz some lavender water on your sheets, curl up with this fun story, and enjoy!

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Living your life in Beta

Claire Cook has brought back the ladies of The Wildwater Walking Club Back on Track: Book 2. Yeah! I’ve missed these ladies. This book is full of life lessons on how to keep striving to be our authentic selves while being present in the now.
The ladies travel to Provence to see the lavender fields. They find much more than those fields on their trip. Claire introduces us to lavender recipes and lots more intriguing subjects. Tussie-mussie anyone?
Each chapter beings with how many steps Noreen has walked for the day. We see only 198 for chapter 1. As we see in the last chapter, she is walking her goal of 10,000 steps. She has come to realize that we just have to get up every day and keep walking towards our goals. Yes we’ll have obstacles but the point is to keep getting up and to keep walking. Claire included a great quote. “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.”—Vincent van Gogh
They way Claire weaved in the incident in Nice, France on Bastille Day into this story brought me to tears a second time. I’ve always been a fan of Vincent van Gogh’s work, but I am even more interested now in learning about him as a person. I also thought the subject of bullying was apropos for the times we are experiencing now. Death, a subject people usually avoid, was also discussed. Tess states: “And I guess you could even look at it that the people who are lucky enough to still be alive are even obligated to actually live their lives instead of wasting them.” Each day is a gift! And as Claire tells in all of her works “Shine On!”
We are reminded of the importance of our friendships with our girlfriends. Our girlfriends will help keep us walking when the going gets tough. I am looking forward to Book 3. Claire please continue to write about these ladies. Thank you for reminding us to keep getting up and to keep walking!

[jeni b · Rating 4 out of 5]

Claire Cook's THE WILDWATER WALKING CLUB: BACK ON TRACK is an uplifting and witty novel that is perfect for summer reading. Genuine friendships with a commitment to be better and to do better. For me, a highlight is Noreen’s journey of becoming a health coach. The SMART goal setting, tapping, the fixed mindset vs. the growth mindset, and of course seeking the positive; all applicable to anyone, especially myself. Despite the fact this delightful sequel easily stands on its own, I highly recommend reading the first one so you can trace every step of this trio of friends. ~jeni b~

[Linda Smatzny · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three friends who had formed a walking club need to get back to walking and supporting each other. This time they take a river cruise in Provence when lavender is blooming. They act silly but don't care because they are having a good time. The book was an easy read.

[Nancy Carty Lepri · Rating 5 out of 5]

A year-and-a-half ago Noreen lost her job and her boyfriend, and she started walking with her neighbors, Tess and Rosie. With only six months compensation left from her employment buyout, Noreen realizes the need to acquire new skills and decide what to do for her future.

Frustrated because her relationship with Rick, a guy she met in career counseling, is fizzling, she signs up for a course at a local college. She plans to become certified as a health coach, though the temptation of Ben & Jerry's ice cream and trying to devise a new flavor using her marketing expertise almost thwarts her new vocation.

Luckily Rosie and Tess lend support while they prepare for their much-awaited vacation to Provence. Though not in her budget, Noreen earlier finalized her reservations for the river cruise, and she doesn't want to disappoint her friends by canceling. Rosie, a lavender farmer, hopes this trip will offer additional suggestions to expand her business for the area they're visiting is famous for the propagation of this crop.

Little do the three expect the experiences that await them. They arrive at the ship after a long flight, exhausted but exhilarated. The ten-thousand-step-walk a day will continue as they travel the coast of France's waterways. The French countryside is vividly detailed and the camaraderie the women share is uplifting.

Ms. Cook's New England roots and vernacular are prominent throughout this delightful, heartwarming second novel in The Wildwater Walking Club series. Nothing is impossible with close friends, determination, and a sense of humor, a factor in most of the author's books. Incorporated at the conclusion of the chapters are several recipes and ideas for using the soothing lavender herb which is sure to whet one's appetite.

[Sharon Duran · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was awesome to catch up with Noreen, Rosie and Tess and their lavender filled lives. I found Claire Cook's latest to be and easy and thoroughly enjoyable read. Back on Track included dealings with quirky parents, life coaching, Noreen's on again/ off again romance ( which I was constantly second guessing) and a mystery on their river cruise in France. The details and descriptions of the sights and sounds of this river cruise made me feel like I was there and part of the club. Throw in a few recipes and it's the perfect cozy read to warm you in winter or save for the beach. I absolutely loved it!

[Raelene Best · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noreen’s life has completely veered off track in this wonderfully engaging sequel to “The Wildwater Water Club.” She’s dodging her friends, Tess and Rosie, and cheating on her Fitbit. Her boyfriend Rick is more interested in playing Pokémon Go than being with her and she only has six months of benefits left from her former company’s buyout. Soon Tess and Rosie force a small intervention and Noreen, Tess, and Rosie reconnect over rotating pints of Ben and Jerry’s. They recommit to getting their lives back on track. Noreen decides to work on becoming a heath coach and the women resolve to follow through with their planned trip to France. Before long, this trio of friends are walking through ancient streets and even give a try at painting like Van Gogh. They sing out loud and wear hats and twisty necklaces of questionable taste, but they never stop being committed to improving themselves as they enjoy great food, wine, chocolate, and friendship. There’s also a visit to a lavender field or two.
Claire Cook has created another winner with “The Wildwater Walking Club: Back on Track,” Don’t miss out on this tale of three friends who may not have it all figured out, but never give up trying.

[Vicky · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wildwater Walking Club: Back On Track reintroduces Noreen, Rosie, and Tess and their excursions on their home turf as well as overseas. Noreen is still trying to figure out what to do with her life after being laid off from her corporate job. As the main character, we get to see different sides of Noreen and look at life through her eyes. The characters are quirky, charming, and inspiring throughout the novel. Ms. Cook weaves a wonderful story of these three women’s lives, and how they work through their daily trials and tribulations. The author does not fail to keep the reader’s attention as she provides the experiences of these women in great detail. Kudos to Ms. Cook for another successful novel!

[Sheilah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noreen, Rosie and Tess are back with a new adventure! Their lives are in a state of flux, but they're still walking, talking and planning a new vacation – but not without a bit of drama! The ladies are planning a river cruise in Provence, but first Noreen must deal with her boyfriend Rick's inattentiveness, her prep classes to become a health coach, and the romantic shenanigans of her mother and Rosie's father. Get ready for the walk of a lifetime as the women of the Wildwater Walking Club take you on a hilarious and thought-provoking trek through the lavender fields of France, and introduce you to Tess's former roommate, Joy, who doesn't quite live up to her name! There's even a special appearance by Rod Stewart and The Supremes!

I greatly enjoyed reading The Wildwater Walking Club: Back on Track. The story was motivational, funny, informative and absolutely delightful! Claire Cook certainly knows how to encourage, empower and entertain her readers!

[Kathie Cook]

Claire Cook’s, The Wildwater Walking Club: Back on Track, is absolutely delightful. I read book one in 2010 and not only fell in love with her writing, I fell in love with Sequim. (The town in Washington that Noreen, Tess and Rosie visit for the Summer Lavender Festival.) It was this book that introduced me to Sequim, where I now live and have three lavender farms within two miles of my house.

Back on Track is a hoot. I laughed out loud when I read, “The plaid umbrella stood alone like the cheese at the end of The Farmer in the Dell”. And I wanted to cry with Noreen when I read, “If I lived to be a million, I’d never forget the night Cognac became the taste of heartbreak and regret”. Claire is a master at weaving together light and fun passages while having heart touching moments with life lessons. I love these three gals and wish I could go walking with them.

Both books are a must read. Enjoy!

[Joan Lang · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for the perfect "beach read" in mid winter, this is a gift to you . As a follow up to Wildwater Walking Club, Cook reintroduces us to neighbors and friends, Noreen, Tess and Rosie.
All three need to do some serious catching up - with walking and with life.
They had a trip planned - a river cruise through Provence - and after some back and forth, they decided since it was paid for, go for it. Slight wrinkle- Tess had put a shoutout to Facebook since she needed a room mate. Her response was from a high school classmate, whom she didn't recall, but was game to try. Her name - "Joy" (joy?) - so you know there's a story there.
I loved sharing their trip! Cook brings the sights , scents, and atmosphere so to life, I was THERE!
Did all four ladies mesh as easily as the beauty of the country ? Not really. Cook masterfully tells a story with insight and humor .
For me, all these steps - forward and back - became a metaphor for life . Bravo, Claire!

[Pamela Kramer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Like all of Claire Cook's books, the main character(s) are females of a "certain" age -- not too young and not too old -- just right for most readers to feel connected to. This book is certainly a stand-alone novel, but it includes the ladies from the first "Wildwater Walking Club" book. Those picking this up without having read the first one will not feel left out -- although they may just want to go back and read the first one after they finish!

Read the complete review at: PamelaKramer.com

[Kathi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I normally love Claire Cook' s stories, nothing beats Must Love Dogs. But this book was so corny and sappy. Maybe I am not old enough to relate to these women, though I did enjoy book 1! Enough about getting lavender into every conversation. The singing and dressing alike, though I can see it in some older women, I don't think these women are old enough for such ridiculousness. The parents and their relationship, brought up too many time unnecessarily. It was as if there was all of this extra conversation just to fill pages. I think I am done with The Wildwater Walking Club. Hopefully, 's. Cook can write about something else next time!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I love about Claire Cook's writing is how she manages to reach right in to the heart and soul of her characters. So many of the struggles that Noreen was facing resonated with me, particularly the mindfulness work (part of my own journey right now). Not only do we really see inside her characters, but we do so with such great humor and warmth. Within pages of the book, I was completely reconnected to the characters.

Now I can't wait to find out where they walk next! :)

[Anita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked the first book better, but still a good read.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoy The wildwater walking club: Back on Track, I read the first book and enjoyed it, so I am glad I found this one. The women in the story are so very interesting and they remind me of myself in trying to keep up our image of one self, there trip going to France, we was interesting and the lavender farms and chocolate. If you enjoy great women stories, you need to read this one and book 1.

[BeverlyB · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Sequel to The Wildwater Walking Club. The girls did a bit of backsliding but managed to get them selves back on track, taking turns kicking each other's butts. This time they took a lavender trip to France. Light and fluffy! A quick read.

[Christine Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great follow up to the first book. These characters, Noreen, Rosie, and Tess are very interesting, fun, and multi dimensional. As you follow the girls through their daily walk, you learn about their challenges with life.

[Cathy · Rating 2 out of 5]

The women of the Wildwater Walking Club are back in action, this time aboard a river cruise in France. Sadly, this book just didn't have the same je ne sais quoi as most of Cook's novels do. Just ok, but with some very pleasant France travelogue content.

[Cathy · Rating 2 out of 5]

The women of the Wildwater Walking Club are back in action, this time aboard a river cruise in France. Sadly, this book just didn't have the same je ne sais quoi as most of Cook's novels do. Just ok, but with some very pleasant France travelogue content.

[Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series. These books are a lot of fun. These books make me feel like I'm having out with these women... and I don't leave the house. This book was great with the women traveling to France together. Lot of fun and laughs and good times. Bring on book 3, and I ordered book 4.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved every minute of this book. Noreen, Rosie, and Tess are definitely ladies that I would hang out with. I'd certainly like to go on a cruise with them.

Great book!

[Sabre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review on my blog

Rooted Wanderer

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun easy read for summer.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this as much as the first book!! Once again, it makes me want to start walking!!

[Michelle O'Connell · Rating 2 out of 5]

liked it even less than the first book. Tess was super annoying and Joy seemed to have been just thrown in there

[Sally Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute book