Walking Alone

by Catherine Finch

Set in the Ribble Valley and Northern Spain, Walking Alone follows David and Helen Richards as revelations from the recent past threaten their thirty-year marriage. Helen knew about the affair, had even met the other woman, made a kind of truce. When David told her of his regret, declared that he would never be unfaithful again, she tried to move on, after all, a few clandestine meetings and a bit of affection hadn't amounted to much. Her husband offered little detail, so she accepted his argument that things with Karen were finished, no need to pick over the bones. But these things are never simple and David discovers that whatever his motives, not being completely honest with his wife was a huge miscalculation. As things fall apart, the Camino de Santiago beckons. Escapism? Possibly. Reflection? Certainly. Atonement? Well, it would help if he understood the true meaning of the word. Pilgrims set out for different reasons and should be ready for the unexpected. As the Way unfolds beneath his feet, David realises that he is no exception.

305 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 8, 2020

Reviews

[Mandy Jameson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written like her previous two books, Catherine Finch evokes with success the confusion and hurt involved in trying to resolve difficulties within a long marriage.

What sets this novel apart is the setting, in its second half, of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route from the French Pyrenees to North West Spain. The scenery and spirit of the trail were so convincingly described that I felt I was walking it along with the characters.

Recommended for anyone who enjoys reading about the intricacies of relationships and/or is tempted by that amazing sounding route.

[Kathy Nunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read 'Walking Apart', also by Catherine Finch, I was keen to read the sequel 'Walking Alone'. The book is thoughtfully written and explores the complex relationship of a couple who face a major challenge in their lives. The two main characters, Helen and David, draw the reader in as they grapple with issues of trust and what it means to love. For anyone who has walked or wanted to walk the Camino de Santiago this book is a must. The reader can immerse themselves in the highs and lows of a spectacular journey through Spain.

[Ivy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Quiet, Painful Walk Toward Truth
This felt real in the way only honest stories do. Walking Alone isn’t about explosive drama, it’s about the slow unraveling that comes from half-truths, regret, and the things couples choose not to say out loud. David’s journey on the Camino mirrors the emotional distance in his marriage, and I found myself reflecting right along with him. Thoughtful, understated, and quietly powerful, this is a story about accountability, marriage, and what it really means to seek forgiveness.