"El Camino de Santiago provides" in a fascinating 500-mile journey; finding connection even decades apart
I first heard of El Camino in a Hallmark movie of all places, even though I actually spent a month living in Spain during the summer of 2019. I was immediately intrigued! And let's just say it is now a bucket list item for this midwestern girl.
So, when I picked up this novel, Call of the Camino by Suzanne Redfearn, I was immediately drawn in by the title. What I didn't expect was that it would become my first 5-star read of 2026!
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Book Details
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Summary of Call of the Camino
Inspired by the author's own journey on El Camino, this fictional story follows Reina Watkins, a copy editor who snaps up the chance to embark on the same profound pilgrimage her now deceased father had once taken.
The opportunity was a bit of luck, and a bit of revenge on her coworker Matt when he could not find his passport before departure. But Matt, a copywriter, is more resourceful and the two find themselves challenging one another to receive the byline on the final piece for their company's travel magazine.
The present is accompanied by glimpses of the past. In 1997 Isabelle Vidal, a teenager, finds herself fleeing for her life after her father accused of being connected with a tragic accident killing the sons of a rival family. She finds herself on El Camino fighting for her future. Strong and independent she doesn't accept help easily, but Isabelle soon finds the Camino provides.
Traveling the same path, these women's journeys are woven together, even decades apart. Their lives completely transformed.
Redfern entices readers in this journey
Following the main female character's intertwined stories you can easily visualize the changing settings and emotions along El Camino. The author captures your imagination in her world building. When Isabelle faces danger you sense her heart racing. On Reina's first day walking El Camino you picture the rough terrain and understand the out of breath, feet in raging pain feeling she is experiencing. And while each has their own reasons for making this walk, Redfern captures the uniting experience and deep meaning that those who take El Camino share in a way that is honest and true to its roots.
What makes the story even more enjoyable is that the secondary characters also have depth that is revealed to us and growth as the story progresses. Reina's father for example is walking El Camino with Isabelle, and along the way he finds purpose and passion. Redfern also dives deeper into the relationship between Reina and Matt, revealing misconceptions and expanding their bond.
An overall great pick for those who enjoy strong personal growth and subtle romance
Yes, this book does include a bit of romance as well with connections between many characters throughout the book. But it also features finding love for oneself and of course, the journey of El Camino.
Call of the Camino reads easy with a lot of depth.
I'm glad I got to pick up this book, and give it the honor of my first 5-star rating of 2026.
