I loved the book. It is very readable. The book starts with a background of the author's recent past, then takes us to the beginning her journey on the Pacific Crest Trail. During the hike, there are gentle flashbacks mirroring the author's past, her childhood, mother, siblings and marriage. The reader gains insight into the author's decision to hike the Pacific Crest Trail and her search to find herself again. A good read, well paced, with beautiful descriptions of the Pacific Crest Trail and very witty. A fascinating journey into the psyche of a young woman searching for redemption.

I loved the book. Although the topic can be grim, the author put so much research into the book that it seemed as if I was getting a bird's eye view of life in the south in the early 19th century. There was a lot of history too. The characters, both real and fictional, were portrayed so well that I felt as if I was there, in the book. A real page turner with warmth, tragedy, adventure, and grit. I recommend this book to everyone interested in history, women's issues, and slavery. I gained a greater understanding and appreciation of African-Americans' struggle for equality, and what it means to be African-American.