The reviewer praises David Nicholls' novel for its unique blend of comedy, tragedy, and life-changing experiences, focusing on the complex relationship between two older adults, Marnie and Michael, who embark on a challenging coast-to-coast walking tour in England. The story is noted for its wit, candor, and literary references, leaving the relationship unresolved but satisfying.
David Nicholls' novel 'You Are Here' is a standout love story that avoids the predictable beginnings and neatly tied-up endings typical of romance novels. Instead, it offers a true-to-life narrative with elements of comedy, tragedy, and profound personal revelations. The story follows Marnie and Michael, two older adults who have experienced various joys and sorrows in their relationships and are cautious about forming new connections. They embark on a challenging coast-to-coast walking tour in England, which serves as a metaphor for changing one's perspective on life. The journey is filled with physical obstacles, unpredictable weather, and moments of wit, candor, and literary references. Despite the challenges, their perambulations lead to unexpected geographical locations and personal revelations. The novel leaves their relationship unresolved, which the reviewer finds satisfying and sufficient.
Quick quotes
True-to-life love stories are a challenge to write because, as anyone who has been in a relationship knows, real life experiences have no predictable beginnings with neatly tied up endings.
Their perambulations have taken Marnie and Michael to unexpected geographical locations and personal revelations.
In this mesmerizing, lovely novel David Nicholls has taken us on an adventure with two complex characters, who might have found true love.