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Journey
Paul is a top business executive hoping to be the next CEO of Ascendant―a New York-based tech giant. He neglects everything―his family and himself―in the race to the top. His fast-paced life is interrupted when he travels to Glastonbury, England, to visit friends in a village rich in history and mysticism.
Glastonbury represents a complete counterpoint to Paul’s elite corporate day job. It compares to an amusement park, with shops and venues catering to spiritual seekers ranging from would-be witches, goddesses and druids, and burned-out hippies. Like many seekers before him, he is attracted to the energy of a nearby hill―Tor―said to be the mythical Isle of Avalon. Paul meets a beautiful soul reader, Christine, who reads his soul and plants the seeds that turn his life upside down.
When he returns to New York, his wife, Mary, is skeptical. Is Paul having a spiritual awakening or is he falling in love with an attractive charlatan? His journey both scares and intrigues her as she watches him struggle to navigate between the business and spiritual worlds. A series of synchronistic events draws Paul closer to Glastonbury and Christine, compelling him and a reluctant Mary to return, unaware that their lives will never be the same.
Glastonbury represents a complete counterpoint to Paul’s elite corporate day job. It compares to an amusement park, with shops and venues catering to spiritual seekers ranging from would-be witches, goddesses and druids, and burned-out hippies. Like many seekers before him, he is attracted to the energy of a nearby hill―Tor―said to be the mythical Isle of Avalon. Paul meets a beautiful soul reader, Christine, who reads his soul and plants the seeds that turn his life upside down.
When he returns to New York, his wife, Mary, is skeptical. Is Paul having a spiritual awakening or is he falling in love with an attractive charlatan? His journey both scares and intrigues her as she watches him struggle to navigate between the business and spiritual worlds. A series of synchronistic events draws Paul closer to Glastonbury and Christine, compelling him and a reluctant Mary to return, unaware that their lives will never be the same.
- GenresFiction
312 pages, Hardcover
First published March 3, 2020
148 people are currently reading
2073 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Zimmerman
12 books48 followersAndrew Zimmerman has held senior executive roles at leading technology companies such as Accenture, idealab and PwC. He currently is president of one of the leading design and innovation companies in the world. Journey, inspired by Andy’s personal experience, is an exploration of how to be spiritually authentic and a success in the material world. He currently resides in New York City. This is his first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 13, 2020
Paul works for Ascendant, a tech giant, and he is on a mission to be the next CEO. Nothing is as important in his life than this goal.
In the middle of his “race,” he travels to Glastonbury, England, with its mysticism and history. While there, he has his soul read, and this changes everything for Paul spiritually.
When he returns home, he has a hard time striking the balance between his awakening and his job goals. Some things happen, leading Paul to return to Glastonbury with his wife in tow.
This book is a journey in every sense. Is it possible to find the perfect balance of spiritual, personal, and work satisfaction all at once? Journey felt like a male’s take on Eat Pray Love, and I enjoyed the trip!
I received a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
In the middle of his “race,” he travels to Glastonbury, England, with its mysticism and history. While there, he has his soul read, and this changes everything for Paul spiritually.
When he returns home, he has a hard time striking the balance between his awakening and his job goals. Some things happen, leading Paul to return to Glastonbury with his wife in tow.
This book is a journey in every sense. Is it possible to find the perfect balance of spiritual, personal, and work satisfaction all at once? Journey felt like a male’s take on Eat Pray Love, and I enjoyed the trip!
I received a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
March 20, 2020
What a tremendously thought-provoking read!
I’m honored to participate on the blog tour for this book, and thank Get Red PR, Radius Book Group, and Andy Zimmerman for advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review!
Paul is driven, a workaholic, on a path to become the CEO of an immense technology company. You’ve seen his type before—always on conference calls or emails, barely listening to a word anyone around him says, neglecting his needy wife and teenage son.
When talking with some friends visiting from the English town of Glastonbury—a mystical mecca of sorts—he learns of a woman working as a soul reader. According to Paul’s friend, this woman’s work has greatly affected others’ lives. Although he usually has disdain for the spiritual "woo woo" world, he is intrigued by the idea of having his soul read.
His encounter with Cynthia, the soul reader, changes him. He starts to recognize the value of slowing down, nurturing his soul, appreciating his wife and children more. But he doesn’t do it at the expense of his job—he just tries to shift his priorities as much as possible in the midst of the pressure.
As his awakening of sorts continues he makes some fascinating discoveries about himself and his life, and his wife both enjoys and feels threatened by his new path.
Can you achieve spiritual satisfaction simultaneously with happiness in your personal and professional life? Does making yourself vulnerable always signify weakness?
I’m not much into the spiritual world but I found this to be a quick, thought-provoking read which definitely has me re-evaluating my priorities a bit.
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2019 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2019.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
I’m honored to participate on the blog tour for this book, and thank Get Red PR, Radius Book Group, and Andy Zimmerman for advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review!
Paul is driven, a workaholic, on a path to become the CEO of an immense technology company. You’ve seen his type before—always on conference calls or emails, barely listening to a word anyone around him says, neglecting his needy wife and teenage son.
When talking with some friends visiting from the English town of Glastonbury—a mystical mecca of sorts—he learns of a woman working as a soul reader. According to Paul’s friend, this woman’s work has greatly affected others’ lives. Although he usually has disdain for the spiritual "woo woo" world, he is intrigued by the idea of having his soul read.
His encounter with Cynthia, the soul reader, changes him. He starts to recognize the value of slowing down, nurturing his soul, appreciating his wife and children more. But he doesn’t do it at the expense of his job—he just tries to shift his priorities as much as possible in the midst of the pressure.
As his awakening of sorts continues he makes some fascinating discoveries about himself and his life, and his wife both enjoys and feels threatened by his new path.
Can you achieve spiritual satisfaction simultaneously with happiness in your personal and professional life? Does making yourself vulnerable always signify weakness?
I’m not much into the spiritual world but I found this to be a quick, thought-provoking read which definitely has me re-evaluating my priorities a bit.
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2019 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2019.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
August 27, 2021
I’ve had this NetGalley read for a very long time… so I’ve put off reading it for a very long time.
Not much to say, overworked business man has a midlife crisis where he actually attempts to become a better person. His wife DOES NOT agree with this new path. The only surprise I found was the ending. Instead of him choosing a brave new “journey”, he abruptly goes back to boring.
Not much to say, overworked business man has a midlife crisis where he actually attempts to become a better person. His wife DOES NOT agree with this new path. The only surprise I found was the ending. Instead of him choosing a brave new “journey”, he abruptly goes back to boring.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2020
In Journey, Paul is a workaholic for a tech giant who neglects his family as he is so caught up in climbing the corporate ladder. He finds himself in Glastonbury to meet up with some friends and starts on a spiritual journey with the help of a soul reader.
I’ve always had an attraction to Avalon and the Tor (I’ve read The Mists of Avalon so many times, my original copy fell apart). If nothing else, I know that one day I will be visiting Glastonbury to see this magical place of Avalon for myself.
I experienced something similar years ago which also led me on a spiritual journey to find peace within myself. Reading this book reminded me of everything I had learned back then and that maybe I need to stop and smell the roses more often.
I really enjoyed this story and especially the location descriptions of Glastonbury.
*Thank you so much to author Andrew Zimmerman for the gifted book and journal, and also to GetRedPR and Radius Book Group for the finished copy!*
I’ve always had an attraction to Avalon and the Tor (I’ve read The Mists of Avalon so many times, my original copy fell apart). If nothing else, I know that one day I will be visiting Glastonbury to see this magical place of Avalon for myself.
I experienced something similar years ago which also led me on a spiritual journey to find peace within myself. Reading this book reminded me of everything I had learned back then and that maybe I need to stop and smell the roses more often.
I really enjoyed this story and especially the location descriptions of Glastonbury.
*Thank you so much to author Andrew Zimmerman for the gifted book and journal, and also to GetRedPR and Radius Book Group for the finished copy!*
March 3, 2020
This is a story about Paul who has dedicated his whole life in his work with Ascendant, the world’s largest tech giant. His goal to climb the corporate ladder is at the cost of his own family which includes his wife Mary, and son Simon. A travel to Glastonbury England and meeting with a soul reader changes his life.
This book is a great journey as we follow Paul and his whirlwind life as he ascends through his life professionally. A meeting with the beautiful and mystic Christine, in the setting of the beautiful Glastonbury countryside, well known mystical past that attracts druids, fairies and goddesses, and now Paul. What a beautiful story and journey Paul makes to reach his mythical Isle of Avalon. Really enjoyed this one!
This book is a great journey as we follow Paul and his whirlwind life as he ascends through his life professionally. A meeting with the beautiful and mystic Christine, in the setting of the beautiful Glastonbury countryside, well known mystical past that attracts druids, fairies and goddesses, and now Paul. What a beautiful story and journey Paul makes to reach his mythical Isle of Avalon. Really enjoyed this one!
November 24, 2020
It just does not ring true!
I love self help books, self actualization books, etc., I believe in working an entire life to achieve a more peaceful and meaningful existence. But I do not believe that happens because you went to see someone who is suppose to have special powers and walk around sacred grounds or whatever. It happens over many years and probably a lifetime. I don't believe that a married man who just had sex with some woman on a business trip that he doesn't even know and then a few days later - aw....enlightened. Stop.
Netgalley did give me this book for an honest review.
I love self help books, self actualization books, etc., I believe in working an entire life to achieve a more peaceful and meaningful existence. But I do not believe that happens because you went to see someone who is suppose to have special powers and walk around sacred grounds or whatever. It happens over many years and probably a lifetime. I don't believe that a married man who just had sex with some woman on a business trip that he doesn't even know and then a few days later - aw....enlightened. Stop.
Netgalley did give me this book for an honest review.
March 3, 2020
I received this free book from the publisher for honest review.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is the first time reading from this author.
I really could say that this was great one. I love everything about this book. The words was just like yes give me more. I love the cover even more. Like OMG!
What a great read! This had me hooked from the beginning. The sitting, theme, and the Characters had me pulled so in. Everything was well put together and it was just perfect. This novel did just that to me.
Highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. Its so good!
Can't wait for next book.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is the first time reading from this author.
I really could say that this was great one. I love everything about this book. The words was just like yes give me more. I love the cover even more. Like OMG!
What a great read! This had me hooked from the beginning. The sitting, theme, and the Characters had me pulled so in. Everything was well put together and it was just perfect. This novel did just that to me.
Highly recommend everybody get this book and read it. Its so good!
Can't wait for next book.
June 9, 2022
Journey by Andrew Zimmerman. ©2020. Kindle edition. Print length: 311 pages. 5 Stars.
I first encountered this book on NetGalley. Having been to Glastonbury, I could relate to the deep experience of Chalice Well, the red and white springs, The Tor…. Embedded in the flow of magic among deeply atmospheric settings, this is a moving study of the esoteric immersion of a businessman undergoing intense spiritual rebirth in a short time. This leaves the reader with a few doubts about his choices in light of his new-found sacred experience—that at once dissipate in the wake of the vibrant afterglow that will have you believing that you have experienced those waters, too. Highly recommend.
I first encountered this book on NetGalley. Having been to Glastonbury, I could relate to the deep experience of Chalice Well, the red and white springs, The Tor…. Embedded in the flow of magic among deeply atmospheric settings, this is a moving study of the esoteric immersion of a businessman undergoing intense spiritual rebirth in a short time. This leaves the reader with a few doubts about his choices in light of his new-found sacred experience—that at once dissipate in the wake of the vibrant afterglow that will have you believing that you have experienced those waters, too. Highly recommend.
September 27, 2020
Right now I can safely say I am accustomed to the "RAVEN PERCHED ON MY HEAD" while i write this review. if you enter my room be ready to be inundated with wafts of sage and incense and flickering candles and some spiritual tunes playing on my free SPOTIFY account with its relentless ads. (sorry about that :( )
I AM ALL ABOUT THE AMBIENCE!
First things first, what gorgeous book cover and an intriguing blurb.
Thankfully, the BEAUTY WAS PAGE DEEP, cover to cover. This book is like vicariously embarking on a journey to the world of Mysticism, Magical Realism and Fantasy along the lines of spirituality.
The locale in this book is "GLASTONBURY", from afar its just a small quaint town with quirky people, where "BEING NORMAL IS AN EXCEPTION", like normal is the quirky there. But its also mystical place for its rich history of spiritual pilgrimage, its magical healing energies and sacred sites, its adorable worship of sacred feminine and for it being the HEART CHAKRA of the world. It has DRUIDS, FAIRIES, PAGANS, WITCHES, quite a motley crowd.
In this book, our protagonist a contemporary middle aged man Paul who gets tired of his stressful and high profile job at a tech company happens to visit this town. He seems to be in a midlife crisis and is questioning things when he gets proffered to do a "SOUL READING" by his old friends Jeanne and Eric who stay in Glastonbury. The soul reader is an attractive 30 something enigmatic woman, Christine. When Paul's wife sees her photograph on the website she is startled and claims she is a "dead ringer for Paul's ex girlfriend". Paul's wife is skeptical about the entire soul reading episodes and believes that CHRISTINE is some kind of vicious sorceress trying to woo her husband and hoodwink them for making money. Paul on the other end is undergoing major transformations and falling in love with GLASTONBURY in an indescribable way.
I LOVED THE BOOK, its a book unlike another, very different very satisfying !
It made me want to urgently travel to GLASTONBURY as if my whole life depended on it, I mean who knows?
Its a place synonymous with HEALING AND ALL THINGS PEACEFUL with its mystical History, TOR, ISLE OF AVALON (apparently entrance to the land of the fairies),
CHALICE WELL, all that FEMININE ENERGY sounds sensual and magnetic. Also, it is home to the entertaining MUSIC FESTIVAL that takes place and those QUIRKY CAFEs (Blue Note, PSYCHIC PIGLET) AND BOOKSTORES (with weird book titles).
Pick this book up and thank me later!
I AM ALL ABOUT THE AMBIENCE!
First things first, what gorgeous book cover and an intriguing blurb.
Thankfully, the BEAUTY WAS PAGE DEEP, cover to cover. This book is like vicariously embarking on a journey to the world of Mysticism, Magical Realism and Fantasy along the lines of spirituality.
The locale in this book is "GLASTONBURY", from afar its just a small quaint town with quirky people, where "BEING NORMAL IS AN EXCEPTION", like normal is the quirky there. But its also mystical place for its rich history of spiritual pilgrimage, its magical healing energies and sacred sites, its adorable worship of sacred feminine and for it being the HEART CHAKRA of the world. It has DRUIDS, FAIRIES, PAGANS, WITCHES, quite a motley crowd.
In this book, our protagonist a contemporary middle aged man Paul who gets tired of his stressful and high profile job at a tech company happens to visit this town. He seems to be in a midlife crisis and is questioning things when he gets proffered to do a "SOUL READING" by his old friends Jeanne and Eric who stay in Glastonbury. The soul reader is an attractive 30 something enigmatic woman, Christine. When Paul's wife sees her photograph on the website she is startled and claims she is a "dead ringer for Paul's ex girlfriend". Paul's wife is skeptical about the entire soul reading episodes and believes that CHRISTINE is some kind of vicious sorceress trying to woo her husband and hoodwink them for making money. Paul on the other end is undergoing major transformations and falling in love with GLASTONBURY in an indescribable way.
I LOVED THE BOOK, its a book unlike another, very different very satisfying !
It made me want to urgently travel to GLASTONBURY as if my whole life depended on it, I mean who knows?
Its a place synonymous with HEALING AND ALL THINGS PEACEFUL with its mystical History, TOR, ISLE OF AVALON (apparently entrance to the land of the fairies),
CHALICE WELL, all that FEMININE ENERGY sounds sensual and magnetic. Also, it is home to the entertaining MUSIC FESTIVAL that takes place and those QUIRKY CAFEs (Blue Note, PSYCHIC PIGLET) AND BOOKSTORES (with weird book titles).
Pick this book up and thank me later!
May 22, 2022
As the title states, this is a journey, a spiritual awakening, if you will. Paul is a businessman who works for a top tech company. Paul's goal to climb the corporate ladder has made him stressed and distant from family.
When he travels to Europe for business, he decides to stop by friends in Glastonbury, England. His friends own a small BnB, and they tell him about the mystics, witches, and even soul readers that reside in the small village nearby.
During Paul's visit, he has a soul reading done, and he feels changed and energized. Paul's life begins to change at work, at home, and in his heart.
𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 is fictional, but in reading notes from the author, it is essentially his personal self-discovery pilgrimage. If you enjoy exploring spirituality and its many facets, then you'll enjoy walking along with Paul and seeing the transformation in his life.
Thank you @getredprbooks for this gifted copy.
When he travels to Europe for business, he decides to stop by friends in Glastonbury, England. His friends own a small BnB, and they tell him about the mystics, witches, and even soul readers that reside in the small village nearby.
During Paul's visit, he has a soul reading done, and he feels changed and energized. Paul's life begins to change at work, at home, and in his heart.
𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 is fictional, but in reading notes from the author, it is essentially his personal self-discovery pilgrimage. If you enjoy exploring spirituality and its many facets, then you'll enjoy walking along with Paul and seeing the transformation in his life.
Thank you @getredprbooks for this gifted copy.
April 3, 2020
Gee, sorry but I just couldn't get into this story. The characters were vanilla, pace too slow, and the story not compelling enough for me. No tension. No mystery going on to hold me. When I start skimming then I know I'm losing the story. Best wishes to the author, though. I received this book via Net Galley for review purposes. Paula Cappa is an avid book reviewer and an award-winning supernatural mystery author.
May 25, 2022
Paul is in a prominent position at a tech company, hoping for a promotion soon. When he travels to a town in England that is rich in “soul seekers”, it turns everything he knows upside down. He questions what he wants and his wife back home has trouble understanding.
This was definitely a unique story outside of my usual genre. But I have been trying to branch out in between my usual thrillers and historical fiction 😆 What I thought was interesting is that I could relate to Paul in someways (searching for something else besides the hustle and bustle of life), and then on the other hand, I couldn’t relate to him (some of the methods he explores). Even if I can’t always relate, I enjoy a book that makes me think outside the box. This was a thought-provoking read and I’m glad I gave it a chance.
Thank you to getRedPR for the gifted copy!
This review will be shared to my Instagram blog books_by_the_bottle shortly 😊
This was definitely a unique story outside of my usual genre. But I have been trying to branch out in between my usual thrillers and historical fiction 😆 What I thought was interesting is that I could relate to Paul in someways (searching for something else besides the hustle and bustle of life), and then on the other hand, I couldn’t relate to him (some of the methods he explores). Even if I can’t always relate, I enjoy a book that makes me think outside the box. This was a thought-provoking read and I’m glad I gave it a chance.
Thank you to getRedPR for the gifted copy!
This review will be shared to my Instagram blog books_by_the_bottle shortly 😊
December 5, 2020
Some time ago, I thought I should review books only if I could leave a 4- or 5-star rating. After some thought, I decided that Goodreads readers would know that my reviews were my opinion and not necessarily theirs.
If a book has only top reviews, I begin to doubt the reviews.
First, props to anyone who writes a book in a writing class, manages to find a publisher, and then gets on the Kindle give-away from Amazon Prime. Good marketing.
But the writing really sounds like writing class. Here are three sentences as an example:
"Bu when she noticed Paul across the room, picking him out among all the faces hidden in the haze of cigarette smoke, her look had a feeling of destiny. The light from her eyes washed across the room like the waves on the beach. As the waves pulled back, he was drawn to her, their eyes fixed on each other."
This is not a romance novel. This is a spiritual discovery novel. The writing is strained, the characters left undeveloped and the spiritual change happens mixed with lust, infidelity, and extraneous incidents. We never find out why Edward hates dogs, what happened to the woman Paul had sex with,
(probably just to emphasize the temporary nature of that affair), or why all those ravens kept being important without an explanation.
The author stresses that the book is fiction, but like most first novels, it clearly uses incidents from his life which have been altered. It suffers from that.
If you are looking for spiritual guidance, what a soul healer does, how a soul reading works, you will find some bare bones information.
If you are looking for a spiritual novel, I can't recommend this.
But again, the book got to where it is because a lot of people did like it. You are reading the opinion of one person. Feel free to form your own.
If a book has only top reviews, I begin to doubt the reviews.
First, props to anyone who writes a book in a writing class, manages to find a publisher, and then gets on the Kindle give-away from Amazon Prime. Good marketing.
But the writing really sounds like writing class. Here are three sentences as an example:
"Bu when she noticed Paul across the room, picking him out among all the faces hidden in the haze of cigarette smoke, her look had a feeling of destiny. The light from her eyes washed across the room like the waves on the beach. As the waves pulled back, he was drawn to her, their eyes fixed on each other."
This is not a romance novel. This is a spiritual discovery novel. The writing is strained, the characters left undeveloped and the spiritual change happens mixed with lust, infidelity, and extraneous incidents. We never find out why Edward hates dogs, what happened to the woman Paul had sex with,
(probably just to emphasize the temporary nature of that affair), or why all those ravens kept being important without an explanation.
The author stresses that the book is fiction, but like most first novels, it clearly uses incidents from his life which have been altered. It suffers from that.
If you are looking for spiritual guidance, what a soul healer does, how a soul reading works, you will find some bare bones information.
If you are looking for a spiritual novel, I can't recommend this.
But again, the book got to where it is because a lot of people did like it. You are reading the opinion of one person. Feel free to form your own.
March 9, 2020
Andrew Zimmerman, author of "Journey" has written a unique, compelling, and intriguing novel. The Genres for this novel are Fiction, Mysticism, and Magic Realism. The timeline for this story is set in the present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events. The story is mostly set in New York and Glastonbury. The author describes the characters as complex and complicated.
Paul is a top executive hoping to be the CEO of a large New York company. Paul has an ambitious and insecure wife, Mary, and a young mature son. There is competition in Paul's company and Paul is traveling or on the phone. He doesn't have much time for his family.
After having dinner with friends, Paul is in Glastonbury, which is known for its quaint shops and quirky people. There are artists, witches, and spiritual seekers. Paul visits an attractive soul reader. who seems to give him insight into himself. Paul changes and seems to appreciate his family and nature and the world around him.
Mary thinks that this soul seeker is a charlatan, and doesn't trust her with her husband. Mary is confused when she notices that in Paul's journey of self-discovery, there are both good and different things that she sees, Paul convinces Mary to visit the soul reader with him. Things might never be the same. I would recommend this unique and challenging novel for those readers who appreciate a thought-provoking story.
Paul is a top executive hoping to be the CEO of a large New York company. Paul has an ambitious and insecure wife, Mary, and a young mature son. There is competition in Paul's company and Paul is traveling or on the phone. He doesn't have much time for his family.
After having dinner with friends, Paul is in Glastonbury, which is known for its quaint shops and quirky people. There are artists, witches, and spiritual seekers. Paul visits an attractive soul reader. who seems to give him insight into himself. Paul changes and seems to appreciate his family and nature and the world around him.
Mary thinks that this soul seeker is a charlatan, and doesn't trust her with her husband. Mary is confused when she notices that in Paul's journey of self-discovery, there are both good and different things that she sees, Paul convinces Mary to visit the soul reader with him. Things might never be the same. I would recommend this unique and challenging novel for those readers who appreciate a thought-provoking story.
April 20, 2020
l am of two minds about this book. Perhaps that is because this is not one book but two, combined. The first is Paul's world, he is a businessman in a high position for a consulting company tied to high tech. (And the author is obviously experienced here.) The other is an inner world of the spirit tied to goddesses, crystals, meditation, and other "Woo-Woo" stuff often found in fantasy novels.
Zimmerman can write, which makes this novel a fast read, but its dichotomy leaves you a little shell-shocked. Paul's introduction to his inner self through an experience with a soul reader from Glastonbury is such a contrast with the businessman that it's almost schizophrenic. How does this successful master of the universe so easily adapt to the self-searcher and acolyte of Christine, the soul reader? I can't answer that and that's what makes this such a difficult book to review and categorize..
The chapter dealing with a product to simulate sex via a sex-toy on the internet is almost interesting enough (and funny enough) to rate an extra star. However, the ending is unexpected and unsatisfying enough to drop one. Read it anyway and decide for yourself. You won't have wasted your time.
Zimmerman can write, which makes this novel a fast read, but its dichotomy leaves you a little shell-shocked. Paul's introduction to his inner self through an experience with a soul reader from Glastonbury is such a contrast with the businessman that it's almost schizophrenic. How does this successful master of the universe so easily adapt to the self-searcher and acolyte of Christine, the soul reader? I can't answer that and that's what makes this such a difficult book to review and categorize..
The chapter dealing with a product to simulate sex via a sex-toy on the internet is almost interesting enough (and funny enough) to rate an extra star. However, the ending is unexpected and unsatisfying enough to drop one. Read it anyway and decide for yourself. You won't have wasted your time.
March 22, 2021
Despite the profoundly compelling story--a real page-turner--I found the racism of "exotic" to describe every Asian or Latinx woman, and the denigration of witches promoting the old stereotypes of "bad witches who do harm" when the only two rules of witchcraft are, "Harm none" and "What you do returns threefold to you" to be offensive as a witch of 39 years who has yet to meet the stereotypical controlling dark witch.
Further add disliking the characters from the alcoholic, Edward, to the conniving and suspicious Mary, to even the protagonist, Paul, a workaholic, plus the Christianizing of the soul reader, Caroline, and again, I was deeply displeased. Simon was a sweet character with the familiar teen withdrawal.
Yet, I had to know the outcome and quickly finished the book. That says something extremely positive about the skill of the author, Andrew Zimmerman, that unlikable characters, racism and stereotypes in a book still captured my interest.
If Andrew Zimmerman got to know some Latinx and Asian women, then some witches, and some non-New York businessmen determined to make a killing above all else, he has the skill to write inspiring and fascinating books.
Further add disliking the characters from the alcoholic, Edward, to the conniving and suspicious Mary, to even the protagonist, Paul, a workaholic, plus the Christianizing of the soul reader, Caroline, and again, I was deeply displeased. Simon was a sweet character with the familiar teen withdrawal.
Yet, I had to know the outcome and quickly finished the book. That says something extremely positive about the skill of the author, Andrew Zimmerman, that unlikable characters, racism and stereotypes in a book still captured my interest.
If Andrew Zimmerman got to know some Latinx and Asian women, then some witches, and some non-New York businessmen determined to make a killing above all else, he has the skill to write inspiring and fascinating books.
October 22, 2020
Paul has the stereotypical life of a career-driven man in a highly stressful corporate job. With little time to spend with his family, it’s left a wedge between them. He’s at a point in his life where he lacks direction and needs to figure out where he needs to navigate his focus. On a trip to a soul reader, he finds himself completely shook by the revelations he’s feeling afterward. He knows his life has to change and makes a vow to do better and to do better by his family. His wife has concerns about what this soul reader truly is up to and how she may be playing him. With her discontent with her marriage, it bites into her own insecurities when she sees the obvious attraction between the two. When things get a little too close, she steps in and things are never the same. I found this book to be intriguing and well developed. The sincerity of Paul's journey is amazing! I loved it, and it’s a fabulous book that chronicles a spiritual journey for a man who has lost his way.
March 4, 2020
Have you ever taken a memorable trip? So far my two favorite trips have been to Turks and Caicos and Italy, two places I want to return to! In Journey, we meet Paul, a top business executive who has basically neglected every aspect of his life in his climb up the corporate ladder. All of that changes when Paul takes a trip and meets Christine, a soul reader. She opens up a new side of Paul that is the opposite of everything he has come to know. She forces him out of his comfort zone. I think this book was one that many of us can relate to, trip or not. Sometimes we lose ourselves in the daily grind of working, kids, responsibilitie, and life in general! Journey was reminiscent of Eat, Pray, Love, except a male version. If you like books about travel and rediscovering yourself, I would recommend this one. It published yesterday, so it is officially out in the world!
March 6, 2020
In this uplifting story of renewal and discovery we find Paul, so focused on climbing the corporate ladder he neglects not only his family but himself as well. While on a trip visiting friends in Glastonbury he's introduced to Christine who's about to change his life as he knows it with just one soul reading. With wonderful prose and fluid writing I felt a bit of the renewal myself as I followed Paul on his journey. While I might not have picked this one up, I'm honored to be included on this tour that introduced me to such a wonderful story that was inspired by real events. I highly recommend this one to those of you who are tired of the daily grind who need to sit back and just breathe for a while.
April 13, 2020
I wanted to like the idea of this novel, but I really disliked both Paul and his wife, Mary. They were both so selfish and frustrated with each other, it was disconcerting to read. The spritiual journey that Paul undertakes was interesting but it wasn't really enough to transform the story.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an ARC through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an ARC through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2020
Excellent!!!
April 8, 2020
Paul's story is not a new one. A CEO wrapped up in his job, and totally disengaged from his family. When Paul has a reading done by a "soul reader" in Glastonbury, his life changes. Although the changes are for he better, his wife is extremely suspicious and skeptical, causing an awkward rift between them when the topic arises. Christine enlightens Paul on what his soul wants and needs, the reading makes him become more aware of himself, his surroundings, and the needs of others. He notices odd things around him that cannot just be coincidence, and learns about synchronicity. The story concludes with both Paul and his wife needing to make some major decisions, and the journey they take to find the answers they need.
I was so intrigued by the premise of this book. Then when I read that although it is fictional, it is based on real experiences of the author, it made me bonkers. Ok, WHAT parts are real and WHAT is fiction? Andy Zimmerman, I NEED to know! This story is crazy good and I want so badly to know what really happened. What WAS your experience? That is what makes writing this review so hard for me, its like critiquing a memoir. Who am I to critique someone's experiences? Because now all I am trying to do is figure out what could possibly have really happened as opposed to what is fiction. So the only way I can do this is to pretend the entire story is fiction, and go from there.
There is a supernatural, mystic, fantasy type theme to this book, but the author's writing makes it all so believable, that I truly did not know what was true and real, and what was not. I became so captivated by this entire story that I found myself researching soul readers and their skills. If you are a strong believer in the spiritual world, like myself, you will find this book to be very powerful and enlightening. If you are not a believer, then I guarantee that you will find the mystical, fantasy, and mythical aspects so interesting, that you will end up researching some of it yourself (again, just like me), if not just for curiosity sake. This is a wonderful tale of rediscovery, growth, and is an extremely inspirational read. I appreciate the main characters journey and the truths about needing guidance in life at any age.
No matter what you believe in, this was certainly an illuminating tale that is extremely uplifting. This is one I would certainly recommend, and even now I still don't feel like I've fully explained what I read or how it made me feel. I CAN tell you that I loved it, it changed me, and it was something I really needed to read. Frankly, I think it's something we all need to read right now.
I just would like to thank Andrew Zimmerman, Suzanne Leopold of Suzy Approved Book Tours and (#partner) and Radius Book Group for the copy of this book for my unbiased and honest opinion for review.
**On a side note, the author has some beautiful photos of Glastonbury and some of the unique places mentioned in the book on his instagram page. Take a look, the link is below in author contacts.
I was so intrigued by the premise of this book. Then when I read that although it is fictional, it is based on real experiences of the author, it made me bonkers. Ok, WHAT parts are real and WHAT is fiction? Andy Zimmerman, I NEED to know! This story is crazy good and I want so badly to know what really happened. What WAS your experience? That is what makes writing this review so hard for me, its like critiquing a memoir. Who am I to critique someone's experiences? Because now all I am trying to do is figure out what could possibly have really happened as opposed to what is fiction. So the only way I can do this is to pretend the entire story is fiction, and go from there.
There is a supernatural, mystic, fantasy type theme to this book, but the author's writing makes it all so believable, that I truly did not know what was true and real, and what was not. I became so captivated by this entire story that I found myself researching soul readers and their skills. If you are a strong believer in the spiritual world, like myself, you will find this book to be very powerful and enlightening. If you are not a believer, then I guarantee that you will find the mystical, fantasy, and mythical aspects so interesting, that you will end up researching some of it yourself (again, just like me), if not just for curiosity sake. This is a wonderful tale of rediscovery, growth, and is an extremely inspirational read. I appreciate the main characters journey and the truths about needing guidance in life at any age.
No matter what you believe in, this was certainly an illuminating tale that is extremely uplifting. This is one I would certainly recommend, and even now I still don't feel like I've fully explained what I read or how it made me feel. I CAN tell you that I loved it, it changed me, and it was something I really needed to read. Frankly, I think it's something we all need to read right now.
I just would like to thank Andrew Zimmerman, Suzanne Leopold of Suzy Approved Book Tours and (#partner) and Radius Book Group for the copy of this book for my unbiased and honest opinion for review.
**On a side note, the author has some beautiful photos of Glastonbury and some of the unique places mentioned in the book on his instagram page. Take a look, the link is below in author contacts.
November 2, 2020
Although extremely successful in his position with a technology company, Paul was vaguely dissatisfied with his life. His marriage seemed solid, though he and Mary were still having some trust issues after his recent affair, and their teenaged son, Simon, seemed absorbed by school, wondering where life would take him after graduation. Meeting up with friends at a summer party gave Paul the idea to travel to Glastonbury and stay at their bed-and-breakfast, and schedule a soul reading with their friend Christine, who had great insight into people’s inner thoughts and feelings. After the reading, Paul’s spirituality was awakened, and he began the task of looking inward, coming to terms with the errors of his past and forging ahead towards a deeper understanding of life.
Christine’s reading set Paul on his spiritual path, and as he embraced his new knowledge, Mary resented his awakening and was very clear about her unhappiness. Paul’s status at work grew, as he became more in tune with himself and others, and even Simon was on board with Paul’s transformation.
Journey is a fictionalized account of the author’s personal spiritual awakening, and I was captivated by the descriptions of the soul reading and his subsequent contacts with Christine. I appreciated the dichotomy between Paul’s work and family life and his spiritual travels, and the efforts to keep them separate, though the changes in him were fairly obvious to others. I enjoyed Andrew Zimmerman’s Journey and am envious of his time in Glastonbury, wishing I could have a similar experience.
My thanks to NetGalley and to the publisher and author for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
Christine’s reading set Paul on his spiritual path, and as he embraced his new knowledge, Mary resented his awakening and was very clear about her unhappiness. Paul’s status at work grew, as he became more in tune with himself and others, and even Simon was on board with Paul’s transformation.
Journey is a fictionalized account of the author’s personal spiritual awakening, and I was captivated by the descriptions of the soul reading and his subsequent contacts with Christine. I appreciated the dichotomy between Paul’s work and family life and his spiritual travels, and the efforts to keep them separate, though the changes in him were fairly obvious to others. I enjoyed Andrew Zimmerman’s Journey and am envious of his time in Glastonbury, wishing I could have a similar experience.
My thanks to NetGalley and to the publisher and author for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2020
This book had me at "Glastonbury," which is known in esoteric circles as the heart chakra of the world. It is also located on a ley line in one of the most energy-connected places on earth, which makes it an attraction to spiritual seekers. Any person who is attuned to the energy vibration of a sacred space will feel the pull – a sort of awe-inspiring, holy-ground sensation. Acting as tuning forks, they will resonate with the thrumming frequency and feel nudged to become more 'wholelistic' [my word] – not unlike that experienced by the the protagonist, Paul. He is additionally drawn to make repeated return visits to Glastonbury to receive its life-changing message.
Anyone who resists the energy of sacred sites, whether through disbelief, denial, or the like – such as Mary, Paul's wife – an intermediate vessel, usually another person (in this case, Paul), will serve as a step-down convertor for the intense energy. A change-for-the-better exhibited by the 'conduit' will be the manifest proof of the greater power, of which the one resisting may finally be convinced.
I felt that this book was written for seekers and questioners alike, for those who feel a disquieting in their spirit and for those merrily coasting along. To me, there were some indiscretions by the characters which were not satisfactorily addressed in the book – and those loose ends bothered me a little, but conversely, I am reminded that in the grand scheme of things, we should not lose sight of the forest for the trees. The transformative message in this book is universal, and those who have ears will hear, for when the student is ready, the teacher will appear.
* Read for the '2020 PopSugar Reading Challenge' task: A book with a bird on the cover
Anyone who resists the energy of sacred sites, whether through disbelief, denial, or the like – such as Mary, Paul's wife – an intermediate vessel, usually another person (in this case, Paul), will serve as a step-down convertor for the intense energy. A change-for-the-better exhibited by the 'conduit' will be the manifest proof of the greater power, of which the one resisting may finally be convinced.
I felt that this book was written for seekers and questioners alike, for those who feel a disquieting in their spirit and for those merrily coasting along. To me, there were some indiscretions by the characters which were not satisfactorily addressed in the book – and those loose ends bothered me a little, but conversely, I am reminded that in the grand scheme of things, we should not lose sight of the forest for the trees. The transformative message in this book is universal, and those who have ears will hear, for when the student is ready, the teacher will appear.
* Read for the '2020 PopSugar Reading Challenge' task: A book with a bird on the cover
October 16, 2020
Paul is a top business executive, working extremely hard to hopefully one day take over the business. On his way to the top, he forgets about those that should matter most to him: his family. On a business trip, he stops in Glastonbury to meet with his friends and they tell him about a well-known soul reader. Paul, with the help of Christine, the soul reader, begins his journey to find out who he really is. And, once he does, will his family like the new him?
Inspired by the author's life, Journey was an interesting novel about finding oneself. I often enjoy when a book gives me controversial characters, and I felt that way with the character, Paul. I found him to be utterly unlikable (sorry to the author - I don't know how much is fact or fiction!), and that dislike compelled me to see how, and if, he would change. I think Paul has some more growing to do, and I'm hoping to see specific changes in the next installment. One thing I feel I should mention was that I did not like the portrayal of Paul's wife, Mary. I'm not sure what the intent was with her, but her depiction was awful. I actually cringed when she would speak to her husband and, later, to Christine. Was this to give insight into their relationship? Is she meant to be a nag? I'm hoping that the rest of the series will help answer my questions. Overall, this was an interesting glimpse into the world of soul reading, something I'd be interested in trying.
Inspired by the author's life, Journey was an interesting novel about finding oneself. I often enjoy when a book gives me controversial characters, and I felt that way with the character, Paul. I found him to be utterly unlikable (sorry to the author - I don't know how much is fact or fiction!), and that dislike compelled me to see how, and if, he would change. I think Paul has some more growing to do, and I'm hoping to see specific changes in the next installment. One thing I feel I should mention was that I did not like the portrayal of Paul's wife, Mary. I'm not sure what the intent was with her, but her depiction was awful. I actually cringed when she would speak to her husband and, later, to Christine. Was this to give insight into their relationship? Is she meant to be a nag? I'm hoping that the rest of the series will help answer my questions. Overall, this was an interesting glimpse into the world of soul reading, something I'd be interested in trying.
April 23, 2020
Interesting and compelling. Paul is nearing the top of his game at work, but the price he is paying is at home, with his marriage and his son. The wife of a friend suggests a spiritual journey to him, and Paul is intrigued enough to give it a try. This sets him off on a path that may be guided by his spirit, but Paul is uncertain at first if what he is doing is right. What will it cost him, yet the direction he was headed seemed certain to have a heavy cost as well, so he asks himself which way is a better course?
This is an intriguing subject, and an interesting, easy to read book. I came to know the character of Paul and his son fairly well, but I was uncertain of the direction of the female characters - they were a bit underdeveloped to my taste. That said, Paul, at first was a bit cold and calculating and as his character grew he became much more endearing. Since the book was about his journey, it made sense not to get to know the other characters as well.
In our modern world there is a bit of redemption in reading this book. It was unique and thought provoking, and I am glad to have been given an opportunity to read it.
This is an intriguing subject, and an interesting, easy to read book. I came to know the character of Paul and his son fairly well, but I was uncertain of the direction of the female characters - they were a bit underdeveloped to my taste. That said, Paul, at first was a bit cold and calculating and as his character grew he became much more endearing. Since the book was about his journey, it made sense not to get to know the other characters as well.
In our modern world there is a bit of redemption in reading this book. It was unique and thought provoking, and I am glad to have been given an opportunity to read it.
June 5, 2020
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I grabbed this book because I was intrigued by the idea of a soul reader. I am drawn to the idea of worlds we can't see or explain. This book had that, but the journey Paul took didn't seem believable. People definitely take different paths to self discovery, but Paul's didn't ring true at all. It happened so quickly and he seemed to be two different people all the time. The end was abrupt and not where I thought the story was heading.
Both Mary and Paul have affairs and keep huge secrets from each other. They don't seem to agree on most things. Paul seems to fall for any female who looks at him, except his own wife. This whole story came from a very privileged space. The writing was engaging, but also very indulgent. Jumping from Paul to stories of King Arthur. Sometimes it felt as though the author was trying to say Paul was King Arthur returning to Avalon.
The best part of this book was it made me want to read more about Glastonbury.
Both Mary and Paul have affairs and keep huge secrets from each other. They don't seem to agree on most things. Paul seems to fall for any female who looks at him, except his own wife. This whole story came from a very privileged space. The writing was engaging, but also very indulgent. Jumping from Paul to stories of King Arthur. Sometimes it felt as though the author was trying to say Paul was King Arthur returning to Avalon.
The best part of this book was it made me want to read more about Glastonbury.
December 20, 2020
I did not expect to like this one as much as I did. I can happily say that I'm giving it four stars.
Paul lives in NYC with his wife Mary and his son Simon. He works for tech giant Ascendant is on a mission to eventually become CEO. After hearing about the small English village of Glastonbury, England from his friend Edward, Paul travels there and his life will never be the same.
Once he meets soul reader Christine and participates in rituals, he starts a journey on looking into himself and he'll bring his family with him.
Journey, in my opinion could be described as a fictional, male version of Eat, Pray, Love , which just happens to be one of my favorite non-fiction reads. Journey is a very thought provoking read and shows us that it is possible to find balance in every part of your life (spiritual, personal, and work).
If you're looking for a book to surprise you and like reading novels involving a character going on a personal journey to "find himself", I highly recommend Journey by Andrew Zimmerman.
Paul lives in NYC with his wife Mary and his son Simon. He works for tech giant Ascendant is on a mission to eventually become CEO. After hearing about the small English village of Glastonbury, England from his friend Edward, Paul travels there and his life will never be the same.
Once he meets soul reader Christine and participates in rituals, he starts a journey on looking into himself and he'll bring his family with him.
Journey, in my opinion could be described as a fictional, male version of Eat, Pray, Love , which just happens to be one of my favorite non-fiction reads. Journey is a very thought provoking read and shows us that it is possible to find balance in every part of your life (spiritual, personal, and work).
If you're looking for a book to surprise you and like reading novels involving a character going on a personal journey to "find himself", I highly recommend Journey by Andrew Zimmerman.
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April 21, 2020I read Journey by Andrew Zimmerman because I am fascinated by spiritual awakenings, alternative healing, yoga, mysticism, druids, and even fairy's. I read this book in two days which is quick for me so it clearly held my attention. I found Paul's journey very interesting and the idea of a soul reader intriguing. However, something is missing for me in this book. I felt the writing was a that of a first time author (which he is) and the words were just as they came to his mind. Kind of like I write, but I am not trying to sell a book. It is interesting that this spiritual awaking is from a man's point of view and the wife was skeptical.
Give this book a shot! It may not have been for me but it was truly interesting and if I give this some more thought I may change my review in a few days.
I did receive this book as an advanced readers copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
Give this book a shot! It may not have been for me but it was truly interesting and if I give this some more thought I may change my review in a few days.
I did receive this book as an advanced readers copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
April 29, 2020
I enjoyed this book. Very creative story and outside the standard and usual. I would not have been able to classify the genre so I'm borrowing someone else's words: Fiction, Mysticism, and Magic Realism. How I made the purchase from Amazon was the promo that said something like "Eckhart Tolle meets The Alchemist" - can't remember exactly. That sparked my interest. Although my "real life" venture into mysticism, etc. is mostly behind me I feel the topic is very well handled in this story. The "woo woo" is respectfully covered and never gets out of hand. An impressive debut.
More from the internet: About the Author - he currently is president of one of the leading design and innovation companies in the world. Journey, inspired by Andy's personal experience, is an exploration of how to be spiritually authentic and a success in the material world. He currently resides in New York City. This is his first novel.
More from the internet: About the Author - he currently is president of one of the leading design and innovation companies in the world. Journey, inspired by Andy's personal experience, is an exploration of how to be spiritually authentic and a success in the material world. He currently resides in New York City. This is his first novel.
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