Last year, I had the pleasure of reviewing Jill Cox’s debut novel, The Bridge. I fell in love with the story and its characters, making it one of my favorite books of the year. I’ve been eagerly awaiting the continuation of Meredith and Pete’s journey, and it’s finally here with The Long Walk, released on October 16.
The Long Walk Synopsis
After returning from Paris, Meredith Sullivan sets three new goals for herself: spend the summer with her new boyfriend, convince her brother to break up with his girlfriend, and start her senior year at Highgate College with confidence. However, an unexpected tragedy takes the Sullivans back to their Irish roots, and Meredith begins to wonder if a childhood dream might be her true destiny. From Ireland to Oregon, Paris to Shanghai, Meredith’s future unfolds in unexpected ways, proving that sometimes the journey is more important than the destination.
The Long Walk Review
With a gripping opening line declaring “fairy tales are lies,” The Long Walk quickly diverges from The Bridge’s lighter tone. There’s a shocking twist early on that profoundly affects Meredith, Pete, and everyone around them. If The Bridge is like a sweet crème brulee, The Long Walk is more akin to a rich, complex chocolate torte.
Where The Bridge felt like a typical YA novel, The Long Walk explores more mature and realistic experiences as Pete and Meredith transition to adulthood. Just as they seem to be settling into their happily ever after, a tragic event tests their burgeoning relationship, leading to their separation. At this point, I found myself frustrated and tempted to throw the book in dismay.
However, the author’s choices add meaningful depth to the characters and the plot. Pete’s unresolved grief from The Bridge resurfaces, impacting his ability to lead a healthy life. Instead of confronting his grief, Pete retreats emotionally and physically, leading to poor decisions that affect his relationship with Meredith. His frequent absences in the narrative, seen through Meredith’s perspective, left me feeling both sympathy and frustration towards him.
Despite missing the lighthearted interactions between Pete and Meredith, I enjoyed watching Meredith’s character grow. The Long Walk continues their love story but evolves into a tale of self-discovery amidst loss and grief. Stripped of her relationships, dreams, and home, Meredith embarks on a journey of pain and suffering that ultimately leads to personal gain and self-discovery.
Meredith’s growth is aided by her parents, her old friend Dan, and the charming Irish author Jack Kelly. Jack’s thoughtful, generous, and attractive presence creates a love triangle that had me torn between him and Pete. I won’t spoil who Meredith ends up with, but this love triangle adds an interesting dynamic to the story.
While there are major differences between The Bridge and The Long Walk in tone and setting, revisiting familiar characters and places was a delight. Though the book offers only brief updates on most of Meredith’s friends, I loved Dan Thomas’s role in this sequel. I missed the enchanting Paris setting but found Ireland equally captivating through the author’s vivid descriptions. The title The Long Walk carries significant meaning, much like The Bridge did.
Conclusion
The Long Walk surprised me with its depth, emotional weight, and satisfying conclusion. Meredith’s journey is beautifully told, despite the pain and suffering she endures. I loved this book as much as the first, but for different reasons. It’s a powerful reminder that life is about all the little moments along the way.
“Don’t get stuck back at the beginning. And while you’re at it, stop chasing that perfect ending, too. The middle is filled with a billion magical days.”
Adaptation Recommendation
With its gorgeous settings, I’d love to see The Long Walk adapted to the big screen or as a Netflix original film. A proper adaptation would need to incorporate many elements from The Bridge to capture the emotional depth of The Long Walk.
Content Note
This is a clean read, though it deals with themes of death and grief, which may not be suitable for young children.
