Shadows, Shells, and Spain

Meyer’s redemptive tale combines elements of travelogue, epistolary novel, romance, and mystery, and follows Canadian Jamie Draper in Mallorca, Spain, as he searches for his wife, Pam, who left him months before. A letter reveals that she left to walk Spain’s medieval pilgrim trail, the Camino de Santiago, and that Jamie must too, if he wants to find more letters that she’s left him along the trail. Readers are treated to Jamie’s preparations in Pamplona, his observations of scenery and thoughts on chores of the trail, like finding food and lodging. He also shares asides on the figures, events, and folklore attached to historic sites, from assorted kings to miracle chickens. Jamie is stunned to learn that Pam left not just because of their lackluster marriage but also because she was diagnosed with cancer and wanted to face it alone. Brie Bletcher, a Londoner walking the trail to leave behind her life with her abusive ex-husband, proves to be a great support to Jamie. Ultimately, her friendship, Jamie’s own reflections, and the miles of the Camino provide a way forward. Meyer has successfully melded ruminations on one of Europe’s most famous pilgrimages with a tender story of loss and healing, creating a lovely tale. [em](BookLife) [/em]