The Year We Seized The Day
The utterly compelling and inspirational account of two very different writers journeying side-by-side along the great Camino de Santiago de Compostela, the legendary medieval pilgrimage across Spain.
After meeting briefly at a writers festival, 27 year old Elizabeth Best pairs up with legendary historical fiction writer, Colin Bowles in a last minute undertaking to complete a shared goal. The two, barely acquainted, seize the day and, on a whim, drop everything to retrace one of the oldest pilgrimage routes in the Western world, through the heart of Spain to Santiago de Compostela. It was meant to be an exciting adventure, but under-prepared and carrying way too much baggage, in every sense, the two soon discover the hidden magic of the Camino. Bound by a promise and fuelled by local vino, what starts out as a physical challenge—500 miles, give or take—quickly becomes an epic tale of tragedy, triumph, and fierce loyalty as a casual walk through mystic lands gives rise to their far greater personal journeys. Set amidst the olive groves, rolling hills, castles, and cathedrals of northern Spain and featuring a supporting cast of eccentrics—from mad monks to angry nuns, Lycra-clad cyclists, international soul seekers, and boisterous boy scouts, this is an inspiring, moving, and blackly funny account of two hapless pilgrims on an extraordinary journey to the end of the earth and beyond.
"Their quest for redemption begins as a mere physical challenge, surprising them both with its spiritual and emotional depth by the end" -Intrepid Travel
"This beautifully written, haunting memoir will leave a lasting impression.”
-Otago Daily Times
"This beautifully written, haunting memoir will leave a lasting impression.”
-Otago Daily Times
