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Tailwinds Past Florence
A couple’s unforgettable journey around the world � and a soul’s journey across time.
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Lonely and tired of coming second to workaholic Edward’s job, Kara has just about given up on their marriage. But on the day she plans to ask for a divorce, Edward is fired. Loathe to confess the truth to Kara, he instead promises her the one thing she’s always dreamed of: an around-the-world bicycle tour, just the two of them.
Ìý
Soon they're pedaling across America, headed for Europe and beyond, but the truth about Edward's job isn’t the only thing he's hiding from Kara. And with each mile, his deception mounts, setting in motion a series of events that shatter the bonds of time.
Across the world, Kara’s soul mate from another era awaits—Alessio, a nineteenth century art dealer. What should be the adventure of a lifetime, bringing Edward and Kara closer, turns into a fight for survival, as Alessio will stop at nothing to reclaim the woman he thinks belongs with him. Now it’s up to Edward to rewrite the past to save his marriage � and the woman he loves.
Ìý
Tailwinds Past Florence is an “enchanting, whirlwind tale� of action, romance, and travel—around the world and through time—that lingers in the reader’s mind long after the last page is turned.
Ìý
Lonely and tired of coming second to workaholic Edward’s job, Kara has just about given up on their marriage. But on the day she plans to ask for a divorce, Edward is fired. Loathe to confess the truth to Kara, he instead promises her the one thing she’s always dreamed of: an around-the-world bicycle tour, just the two of them.
Ìý
Soon they're pedaling across America, headed for Europe and beyond, but the truth about Edward's job isn’t the only thing he's hiding from Kara. And with each mile, his deception mounts, setting in motion a series of events that shatter the bonds of time.
Across the world, Kara’s soul mate from another era awaits—Alessio, a nineteenth century art dealer. What should be the adventure of a lifetime, bringing Edward and Kara closer, turns into a fight for survival, as Alessio will stop at nothing to reclaim the woman he thinks belongs with him. Now it’s up to Edward to rewrite the past to save his marriage � and the woman he loves.
Ìý
Tailwinds Past Florence is an “enchanting, whirlwind tale� of action, romance, and travel—around the world and through time—that lingers in the reader’s mind long after the last page is turned.
340 pages, Paperback
First published January 22, 2019
32 people are currently reading
3,094 people want to read
About the author
Doug Walsh
93Ìýbooks255ÌýfollowersDoug Walsh is an award-winning author whose books have earned consistent praise from Kirkus Reviews, Writer’s Digest judges, and readers around the world. Through his stories, Walsh combines his passion for adventure travel with a fascination for discovering how romantic relationships respond to the improbable.
Though now dedicated to fiction, Walsh’s writing career began in 2000, in the world of video game strategy guides. Or, as he likes to call them, travel guides to fictitious places. Shortly after a horrific bicycle crash brought his triathlon season to an end, Walsh signed a contract with former Penguin imprint BradyGames. Over the ensuing fifteen years, Walsh proved himself as one of the most prolific authors in the space, with over one hundred official guidebooks to his credit. His Amazon Bestselling memoir, The Walkthrough: Insider Tales from a Life in Strategy Guides, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the secretive multi-billion dollar industry.
Originally from New Jersey, Walsh moved to the mountains of the Pacific Northwest in 2002, several years after marrying his college sweetheart. He’s since traveled to over 30 countries and nearly all 50 states, acquiring the inspiration and richness he imparts on his novels. As comfortable in the wilds as in the lodge, Walsh set down his game controller in 2014 and, together with his wife, embarked on a multi-year around-the-world bicycle tour. Their journey became the inspiration behind his debut novel, the time travel romance Tailwinds Past Florence, of which Kirkus Reviews credited him for “imbuing his romance with as much action as any game he’s ever peeled back the secrets of.�
Walsh’s readers rave about the transportive nature of his stories, and the characters that they love to laugh and cry alongside. Walsh’s upcoming novel, Shadows of Kalalau, is a coming-of-age romantic thriller set in a majestic, untouched corner of Hawaii.
Learn more by joining the Doug Walsh Readers List and receive twice-monthly updates and special offers, as well as the exclusive “Annotated Guide to Tailwinds Past Florence� as a thank you.
Though now dedicated to fiction, Walsh’s writing career began in 2000, in the world of video game strategy guides. Or, as he likes to call them, travel guides to fictitious places. Shortly after a horrific bicycle crash brought his triathlon season to an end, Walsh signed a contract with former Penguin imprint BradyGames. Over the ensuing fifteen years, Walsh proved himself as one of the most prolific authors in the space, with over one hundred official guidebooks to his credit. His Amazon Bestselling memoir, The Walkthrough: Insider Tales from a Life in Strategy Guides, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the secretive multi-billion dollar industry.
Originally from New Jersey, Walsh moved to the mountains of the Pacific Northwest in 2002, several years after marrying his college sweetheart. He’s since traveled to over 30 countries and nearly all 50 states, acquiring the inspiration and richness he imparts on his novels. As comfortable in the wilds as in the lodge, Walsh set down his game controller in 2014 and, together with his wife, embarked on a multi-year around-the-world bicycle tour. Their journey became the inspiration behind his debut novel, the time travel romance Tailwinds Past Florence, of which Kirkus Reviews credited him for “imbuing his romance with as much action as any game he’s ever peeled back the secrets of.�
Walsh’s readers rave about the transportive nature of his stories, and the characters that they love to laugh and cry alongside. Walsh’s upcoming novel, Shadows of Kalalau, is a coming-of-age romantic thriller set in a majestic, untouched corner of Hawaii.
Learn more by joining the Doug Walsh Readers List and receive twice-monthly updates and special offers, as well as the exclusive “Annotated Guide to Tailwinds Past Florence� as a thank you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
April 24, 2020
was a refreshing read, and it wouldn't be one I would usually have picked up, but I received a free copy of this from Doug Walsh, so how could I resist?
I'll start with the positive aspects. I thought the writing was fantastic. Walsh is a terrific writer, and I enjoyed his writing style. I felt invested in the majority of the characters, and each one was interesting in their own way.
I loved the idea behind the plot, and it was something different for me to try, and the travelling to different cities was grand. Unfortunately, I didn't appreciate the somewhat constant arguing between Edward and Kara, which was slightly depressing, to say the least, but, I was still able to see past this and appreciate the book. Thank you Doug Walsh for the copy of your book!
I'll start with the positive aspects. I thought the writing was fantastic. Walsh is a terrific writer, and I enjoyed his writing style. I felt invested in the majority of the characters, and each one was interesting in their own way.
I loved the idea behind the plot, and it was something different for me to try, and the travelling to different cities was grand. Unfortunately, I didn't appreciate the somewhat constant arguing between Edward and Kara, which was slightly depressing, to say the least, but, I was still able to see past this and appreciate the book. Thank you Doug Walsh for the copy of your book!
December 12, 2018
I received an advance copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I loved reading this book about a couple on a bicycle tour around the world to save a failing marriage. The detail that went into this book about bike touring and the places the couple visits on their adventures is stunning and sparked wanderlust in me. The idea of soul mates returning from another era also casts a delicious twist to the novel and makes the story full of suspense. This thought provoking book challenges the reader to examine what matters most in life. Beautifully written, I’d highly recommend reading this book.
June 18, 2019
Not your typical bike touring event!!
February 2, 2019
This is one of those adventurous stories driven by a touch of the paranormal, but readers don’t know this right away. A woman is at her wit’s end, tired of the long hours her husband works, and the neglect. She’s preparing to ask him for a divorce, until he comes home from work one day and suggests something amazing: that they follow one of her dreams and bicycle around the world.
Edward lost his job, but keeps this little secret and his motivation for his suggestion to travel from Kara. He and his wife sell their stuff and head out for their challenging adventure. It’s quite a change for the man with the MBA and the great-paying job.
They face real dangers on the road: hunger, bad weather, even bears. Their marriage is sure to be tested. They have to get creative to survive, but this could prove to be fun—it all depended on perspective.
There’s also a mystery underlying the first part of their road trip. Whathad Edward done to get fired? During their exciting travels, beautiful scenery is described, and the couple has run-ins with interesting local people. They have some close calls, and though the journey is sensational, threats lurks everywhere, creating a sense of suspense.
The hardships test their marriage, and readers see how the couple interacts during these trying times. Kara, unbeknown to Edward, wants to save their marriage. He has no idea it’s in trouble. Kara hopes going from almost no time together to being together every moment will bring them closer together, but Edward would rather be working. Secrets and buried feelings come out. Can they survive this? We they change? Will they separate or grow closer? We witness their internal struggles.
Edward makes a great sacrifice for Kara, but then something changes—an offer to good to be true is made—and he accepts a challenging contest. Kara knows something is wrong by his sudden strange behavior, but he lies to her. Will he lose her over an important decision, a huge secret? The pressure is on. Ironically, as he keeps the truth from her, they grow closer for what they experience together on the road. But then, his guilt starts eating him up, and they have troubles.
There is a parallel character, Alessio, who is from the 19thcentury and wakes up in the 21st. His discovery of modern items is fascinating. He seems innocent enough…at first.
What will become of him when he ventures out of the apartment? When he does, his reactions to what he sees is often humorous. Another man from the past finds Alessio. They have some interesting conversations and come to some fascinating, profound conclusions.
Edward and Kara meet an interesting French-Canadian in Canada. He seems to be from the past, having grown younger, like Alessio in Italy, and searching for his girlfriend. Kara is drawn to him without knowing why. The stranger has a weird glow about him like a stranger that Alessio met. A pattern seems to be immerging of reincarnation. How fascinating to run into time-traveling people you knew in a past life. When they meet up, remarkable things happen.
Some of these returning people are kind and understanding. Others are not. The tension increases to a boiling point. Seeing if Kara and Edward will survive running into troubled past versions of themselves is exciting to see, and if they survive, will they work out the differences that have been plaguing their souls for centuries?
This is a great book with a fresh take on relationship struggles. At the same time, it’s a travel adventure with paranormal elements, a page turner, whose tension just keeps rising to an exciting end.
Edward lost his job, but keeps this little secret and his motivation for his suggestion to travel from Kara. He and his wife sell their stuff and head out for their challenging adventure. It’s quite a change for the man with the MBA and the great-paying job.
They face real dangers on the road: hunger, bad weather, even bears. Their marriage is sure to be tested. They have to get creative to survive, but this could prove to be fun—it all depended on perspective.
There’s also a mystery underlying the first part of their road trip. Whathad Edward done to get fired? During their exciting travels, beautiful scenery is described, and the couple has run-ins with interesting local people. They have some close calls, and though the journey is sensational, threats lurks everywhere, creating a sense of suspense.
The hardships test their marriage, and readers see how the couple interacts during these trying times. Kara, unbeknown to Edward, wants to save their marriage. He has no idea it’s in trouble. Kara hopes going from almost no time together to being together every moment will bring them closer together, but Edward would rather be working. Secrets and buried feelings come out. Can they survive this? We they change? Will they separate or grow closer? We witness their internal struggles.
Edward makes a great sacrifice for Kara, but then something changes—an offer to good to be true is made—and he accepts a challenging contest. Kara knows something is wrong by his sudden strange behavior, but he lies to her. Will he lose her over an important decision, a huge secret? The pressure is on. Ironically, as he keeps the truth from her, they grow closer for what they experience together on the road. But then, his guilt starts eating him up, and they have troubles.
There is a parallel character, Alessio, who is from the 19thcentury and wakes up in the 21st. His discovery of modern items is fascinating. He seems innocent enough…at first.
What will become of him when he ventures out of the apartment? When he does, his reactions to what he sees is often humorous. Another man from the past finds Alessio. They have some interesting conversations and come to some fascinating, profound conclusions.
Edward and Kara meet an interesting French-Canadian in Canada. He seems to be from the past, having grown younger, like Alessio in Italy, and searching for his girlfriend. Kara is drawn to him without knowing why. The stranger has a weird glow about him like a stranger that Alessio met. A pattern seems to be immerging of reincarnation. How fascinating to run into time-traveling people you knew in a past life. When they meet up, remarkable things happen.
Some of these returning people are kind and understanding. Others are not. The tension increases to a boiling point. Seeing if Kara and Edward will survive running into troubled past versions of themselves is exciting to see, and if they survive, will they work out the differences that have been plaguing their souls for centuries?
This is a great book with a fresh take on relationship struggles. At the same time, it’s a travel adventure with paranormal elements, a page turner, whose tension just keeps rising to an exciting end.
January 11, 2019
I enjoyed Tailwinds for a number of reasons. First, it took me on a cycling journey. As an avid rider, I was hoping for authentic writing about cycling. Doug Walsh nailed that. Then, I was looking for a compelling story, characters I could relate to on some level. Walsh provide that, too. So far, so good. Walsh also provides different perspectives in the story, from that of the hero to that of his wife, and then, the “villain.� That is, if you want to call the villain, the villain. What’s interesting is that not only do I “get� the husband and wife (some great conflict on and off the page between the two), but I get the villain. There are a couple of scenes that I did want Walsh to do more digging, let me spend more time in a scene. There were also a few times I got annoyed with a character, which may have been the intention of Walsh. Not sure. I do recommend reading this if you: 1. Want to be an armchair traveler; 2. Want to get to know some interesting characters; 3. Want to experience a story that’s different than most. I had received this as an advanced copy � so glad it got into my hands.
June 20, 2019
I hate to use the cliché "couldn't put it down" but that was the case. The novel's fast pace, changing locales on a cross country bike trip, combined with an engrossing love story and time-travel mystery captured my interest from cover to cover. The author mixes a number of genres together in a unique way that should appeal to a broad spectrum of readers.
March 5, 2019
I won this book through a Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ giveaway. A big thank you to the author, Doug Walsh.
“Tailwinds Past Florence� is unlike anything I have read before. It is fiction and non-fiction; part romance, part adventure, part fantasy, part suspense and part travel guide.
Edward and Kara are believable and likeable characters. Although, I found myself wanting to give Edward a shake a few times for his stupidity. He did finally wake up and make amends in the end.
The gradual introduction of Alessio, an old soul brought to present day against his will, made me wonder where this story was headed. The purpose of this character started to make sense with the introduction of another lost soul, Hiromasa. To Alessio, Hiromasa was like his Jiminy Cricket; a guide in the new time. Hiromasa was able to adjust to the present time while Alessio could not.
I must say that I quite enjoyed going along for the ride across North America and then into England and Europe. The descriptions of their surroundings brought their vision to my mind’s eye, vividly.
This novel is not just for the value of entertainment. It leaves the reader with the feeling that it is not the destination that is important but the journey to the destination. This may be an old cliche but in this case, very true.
Overall, I would recommend this book to any reader just because it offers so much and would spark any interest. What will Doug Walsh come up with next?
“Tailwinds Past Florence� is unlike anything I have read before. It is fiction and non-fiction; part romance, part adventure, part fantasy, part suspense and part travel guide.
Edward and Kara are believable and likeable characters. Although, I found myself wanting to give Edward a shake a few times for his stupidity. He did finally wake up and make amends in the end.
The gradual introduction of Alessio, an old soul brought to present day against his will, made me wonder where this story was headed. The purpose of this character started to make sense with the introduction of another lost soul, Hiromasa. To Alessio, Hiromasa was like his Jiminy Cricket; a guide in the new time. Hiromasa was able to adjust to the present time while Alessio could not.
I must say that I quite enjoyed going along for the ride across North America and then into England and Europe. The descriptions of their surroundings brought their vision to my mind’s eye, vividly.
This novel is not just for the value of entertainment. It leaves the reader with the feeling that it is not the destination that is important but the journey to the destination. This may be an old cliche but in this case, very true.
Overall, I would recommend this book to any reader just because it offers so much and would spark any interest. What will Doug Walsh come up with next?
September 23, 2020
Edward and Kara's marriage is in trouble. They are just existing. Suddenly circumstances give Edward the chance to make his wife happy. Will an around the world bike trip let them save their marriage? Maybe not- after all it's built on lies. Edward is difficult to like. He won't tell Kara the truth and forces his agenda on her. Kara is to trusting. I wanted her to wake up and stand her ground. I was pulled into their lives. I needed to know how it would end. The time travel element was perfectly inserted. It was a surprise and certainly added drama to this story. Tailwinds Past Florence was an interesting book. It's not my usual choice of reading, but I couldn't put it down. Doug Walsh has an easy to read writing style that I enjoyed.
January 6, 2019
Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ Kindle Copy Win
A bike tour which is not what it seems.
Husband agrees to go on this tour with his wife when he loses his high profile job and is afraid to tell her the truth. Wife is tired of her marriage and is ready for a divorce. They will find them in crosswinds of their life as they seek the truth about themselves and their lives.
A journey that the past and future will eventually collide.
A bike tour which is not what it seems.
Husband agrees to go on this tour with his wife when he loses his high profile job and is afraid to tell her the truth. Wife is tired of her marriage and is ready for a divorce. They will find them in crosswinds of their life as they seek the truth about themselves and their lives.
A journey that the past and future will eventually collide.
December 28, 2019
I received this book in a Good Reads giveaway and finally found time to read it. I am giving this book a 5 star rating . Failing marriage, loss of job to a around the world bike trip with some unexpected turns and adventure. Secrets, lies and a contest. Connected soulmates with an unusual ending. This has been one of the best books I have read in a long while. Very thought provoking
January 19, 2019
I really enjoyed this book! It has travel and magic along with an emotional relationship teetering on the balance.
October 4, 2019
So well written! A true literal and figurative journey, woven with wonderfully articulated descriptions. A true good read as it was hard to not want to squeeze in one more chapter.
January 18, 2021
A tale of love rekindled with an unusual twist.
December 3, 2018
Interesting and sweet
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I haven't had great luck with giveaways lately. This one surprised me though. It was a fun and sweet read, with an interesting twist. I really enjoyed it!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I haven't had great luck with giveaways lately. This one surprised me though. It was a fun and sweet read, with an interesting twist. I really enjoyed it!
January 6, 2022
Doug Walsh please very interesting tale that combines past and present. The time travel piece was not expected but I enjoyed the blend of realism with magic. There was just enough conflict, danger and adventure to keep me engaged. Wonderful story.
January 20, 2019
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In Tailwinds, Edward gets the boot from his VC job, but rather than owning up, conveniently surprises his wife, Kara, by becoming suddenly agreeable with the round-the-world bicycling trip she's been pleading for. She's elated. Or is she? For Kara harbors a secret of her own.
In a flash, their journey begins on this troubled ground, but encounters further troubles arising in the present, as well as from a place - and a time - neither could've imagined.
It was really fun reading this book, chapter-by-chapter following their journey on bike-back across no-so familiar terrain, wondering if their marriage could survive the secrets they keep, the lure of temptation, and the curse of centuries.
Have to say I really enjoyed reading Tailwinds, and highly recommend it.
In Tailwinds, Edward gets the boot from his VC job, but rather than owning up, conveniently surprises his wife, Kara, by becoming suddenly agreeable with the round-the-world bicycling trip she's been pleading for. She's elated. Or is she? For Kara harbors a secret of her own.
In a flash, their journey begins on this troubled ground, but encounters further troubles arising in the present, as well as from a place - and a time - neither could've imagined.
It was really fun reading this book, chapter-by-chapter following their journey on bike-back across no-so familiar terrain, wondering if their marriage could survive the secrets they keep, the lure of temptation, and the curse of centuries.
Have to say I really enjoyed reading Tailwinds, and highly recommend it.
January 17, 2019
Tailwinds Past Florence is a contemporary love story mixed with travel, adventure, and a touch of fantasy. With their marriage on the rocks, Edward and Kara decide to embark on a bicycle trip around the globe. Throughout the journey, the couple face obstacles that make them question not only the path, but their love.
Doug Walsh’s descriptions are rich in detail, so the reader feels like they are transported along with the characters. The emotional ride is just as enjoyable, although at times I wanted to throttle Edward � just a bit.
One of the interesting things about this story is that the reader gets both points of view � from Edward and Kara. I was mostly #teamKara but by the end, was rooting for Edward too. No spoilers but it’s easy to care for them both.
I was given an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Doug Walsh’s descriptions are rich in detail, so the reader feels like they are transported along with the characters. The emotional ride is just as enjoyable, although at times I wanted to throttle Edward � just a bit.
One of the interesting things about this story is that the reader gets both points of view � from Edward and Kara. I was mostly #teamKara but by the end, was rooting for Edward too. No spoilers but it’s easy to care for them both.
I was given an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2019
Tailwinds Past Florence enlists world travel, romance, mystery, and magic as unexpected partners to yield a cohesive, compelling, and wholly satisfying tale. Fans of any of these genres will find plenty to enjoy, and it's very easy to identify with Doug Walsh's expertly rendered protagonists and supporting characters. As I read, I grew to know and empathize with Edward and Kara, the novel's central couple. Each of their motives, fears, actions, and personalities were fully realized, smart, and relatable, and I felt I was there experiencing their adventure with them.
Without spoiling the plot, the story's supernatural mystery provides an appealing element of suspense. This intriguing thread of the paranormal, combined with Edward and Kara's immersive globe-trotting journey, provides irresistible motivation to keep turning pages as quickly as the travelers' miles unwind. The pacing is spot-on, inviting the reader to inhabit the story's world and forget other distractions in order to find out what happens next.
In the end, Tailwinds Past Florence rewarded me with equal parts pure escape, discovery, and adventure, as well as a welcome reminder to value what's important in life. If this novel's description or my review stirs your interest even in the slightest, I'm confident you'll enjoy Doug Walsh's story, characters, and world immensely.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Without spoiling the plot, the story's supernatural mystery provides an appealing element of suspense. This intriguing thread of the paranormal, combined with Edward and Kara's immersive globe-trotting journey, provides irresistible motivation to keep turning pages as quickly as the travelers' miles unwind. The pacing is spot-on, inviting the reader to inhabit the story's world and forget other distractions in order to find out what happens next.
In the end, Tailwinds Past Florence rewarded me with equal parts pure escape, discovery, and adventure, as well as a welcome reminder to value what's important in life. If this novel's description or my review stirs your interest even in the slightest, I'm confident you'll enjoy Doug Walsh's story, characters, and world immensely.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2019
**I was offered an advance copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review**
Right from the start you feel the tension of a marriage on the rocks and the desperation of two soulmates who attempt to salvage what's left by taking a sudden bike trip around the world. At no point can the reader be sure that Edward & Kara will ultimately succeed in their efforts to recover their relationship, but I found myself invested from start to finish in seeing where their journey would lead them.
The travel setting offers a superb backdrop to an emotional tale without making the average reader feel out of touch. While most may dream of taking a bike trip around the world, few may feel that the opportunity is within their means. The author gives an amazing sense of possibility by tapping into the gritty details of his own experience, and the reality of what is involved by taking such a trip.
Overall, I feel that Tailwinds Past Florence is a book that would appeal to most, regardless of their home genre. It is a book that is easy to relate to thanks to the rich characterization, while also sharing the journey of a lifetime.
Right from the start you feel the tension of a marriage on the rocks and the desperation of two soulmates who attempt to salvage what's left by taking a sudden bike trip around the world. At no point can the reader be sure that Edward & Kara will ultimately succeed in their efforts to recover their relationship, but I found myself invested from start to finish in seeing where their journey would lead them.
The travel setting offers a superb backdrop to an emotional tale without making the average reader feel out of touch. While most may dream of taking a bike trip around the world, few may feel that the opportunity is within their means. The author gives an amazing sense of possibility by tapping into the gritty details of his own experience, and the reality of what is involved by taking such a trip.
Overall, I feel that Tailwinds Past Florence is a book that would appeal to most, regardless of their home genre. It is a book that is easy to relate to thanks to the rich characterization, while also sharing the journey of a lifetime.
January 10, 2019
I received a giveaway for an honest review.
Tailwinds Past Florence is a contemporary love story, with a twist. Kara and Edward are stuck in a relational rut. With Kara thinking about divorce, and Edward stressing over his career it doesn't look good for these two. Will a global bicycle adventure save their marriage? What happens when the unexpected occurs?
I really enjoyed Tailwinds Past Florence, not only for the main characters emotional journey, but also for how well the author describes the scenery and what its like to be on a bicycle tour across the world. I don't want to give away the cool magical twist that also intervenes...but I will say I was on the edge of my seat to the end, not sure what would happen next. A beautifully written and engaging story, I highly recommend picking this book up! Enjoy!
Tailwinds Past Florence is a contemporary love story, with a twist. Kara and Edward are stuck in a relational rut. With Kara thinking about divorce, and Edward stressing over his career it doesn't look good for these two. Will a global bicycle adventure save their marriage? What happens when the unexpected occurs?
I really enjoyed Tailwinds Past Florence, not only for the main characters emotional journey, but also for how well the author describes the scenery and what its like to be on a bicycle tour across the world. I don't want to give away the cool magical twist that also intervenes...but I will say I was on the edge of my seat to the end, not sure what would happen next. A beautifully written and engaging story, I highly recommend picking this book up! Enjoy!
October 2, 2019
I received an advanced copy through Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ and am happy to post an honest review.
This story of a couple endeavoring an around-the-world cycling trip is a fun, adventurous tale of a rocky, but loving, relationship. Problems become evident with them as they progress, and divides between them only seem to grow on a trip meant to reunite.
The writing is thoughtful and creative, pleasant to read. The story moved at a comfortable pace, and was at times, gripping.
There is a thread of supernatural in the book that creates some small mystery, but does not come forefront until late in the story. This addition to the main story seems somewhat strange and disjointed initially, but ties in more strongly later to bring about a necessary change in the couple.
This book is a lovely summer adventure read!
This story of a couple endeavoring an around-the-world cycling trip is a fun, adventurous tale of a rocky, but loving, relationship. Problems become evident with them as they progress, and divides between them only seem to grow on a trip meant to reunite.
The writing is thoughtful and creative, pleasant to read. The story moved at a comfortable pace, and was at times, gripping.
There is a thread of supernatural in the book that creates some small mystery, but does not come forefront until late in the story. This addition to the main story seems somewhat strange and disjointed initially, but ties in more strongly later to bring about a necessary change in the couple.
This book is a lovely summer adventure read!
September 2, 2019
Unexpectedly good read--unexpectedly because of my own cynicism about local indie authors and their all-too-often sloppy novels--this was polished, taut, well-paced, well-written with nary a typo that sprang out!--and an engrossing story above all. Unsure what to expect from "bike touring around the world couple meets time travelers" I found this a moving and realistic couples' story, a tense problem novel with engaging time-travel threads, and a life-choices plot that was relatable. Characters so alive I felt I could just start talking to them, scenes along the road colorful and sharply descriptive--these made the book so good. How people communicate the important things (or don't communicate them) was so true to life--I want to go find other things Walsh has written.
February 18, 2019
I read and review books that fall into one of the following categories � favorite authors, recommended authors (by friends or family), books sent to me by publishers/authors to review and/or books by members of organizations to which I belong. TAILWINDS PAST FLORENCE falls into the last category. Author DOUG WALSH is a fellow member of a writers association in which I am a member and for which I write reviews.
My taste in fiction runs to action adventure, spy thrillers, mysteries, historical dramas, etc. TAILWINDS PAST FLORENCE really does not fit my profile. I was hoping to be able to give it four or five stars but I cannot. I wish I had been able to talk to the author before he published the book. I have some suggestions as to how it could reach the four or five star level.
The book is about Edward and Kara, a twenties something couple living in Seattle. Edward is a rising star in the world of Venture Capital. As such, he works extremely long hours including weekends. He loves Kara very much and wants to provide for her the best possible life. Edward likes making money as much as he loves his wife.
Kara is an artist and works in graphic design. Her dream is to quit work and bicycle around the world with Edward. She wants to visit places as diverse as Cape Cod in Massachusetts and the museums featuring Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso in Spain. Coming home from work one afternoon, Kara notices Edward’s car is parked on the street near their apartment. It is loaded with several boxes.
Her husband is indeed home hours before usual because he has been fired for staging a temper tantrum in front of his boss. Edward does not know how to tell Kara this so decides to tell her a lie, that he quit his job so that they can do her dream trip. When Kara enters the apartment, she has in her hand divorce papers that she puts aside when told about the trip.
They decide to sell almost everything to finance their trip. The couple leaves Seattle in late February to head east over the Cascade and Rocky Mountains, across the “frozen tundra� of the northern Great Plains of the western United States and through east/central Canada bordering the Great Lakes. While they are doing this, the author interjects into the story, 4 men who are out of their time and place in history. Three of them have one thing in common, a lost “love of their life�.
On the journey, Edward adds one more secret to his life and Kara reveals one secret from her recent past. Their adventure becomes a series of “soap opera� scenes of whining (yes, whining) and dining. It all comes together once Kara and Edward reach Florence, Italy. They bypass Scotland (an Edward favorite) and Spain (much to Kara’s dismay).
I found the best parts of the story revolved about Alessio (an art dealer from Malta in the 1840s) and Hiromasa (an Ambassador to the Vatican from Japan in the 17th Century) and how they coped with the 21st Century in Florence.
At times, the writing is terrific but the constant bickering of Edward and Kara got tiresome. There were opportunities to discuss the sights and sites they visited in more detail without leaving behind the romantic elements. The author does spend time exploring Florence which is fun.
The concept gets 5 stars, the execution gets 2 stars, and overall the book gets 3 stars.
My taste in fiction runs to action adventure, spy thrillers, mysteries, historical dramas, etc. TAILWINDS PAST FLORENCE really does not fit my profile. I was hoping to be able to give it four or five stars but I cannot. I wish I had been able to talk to the author before he published the book. I have some suggestions as to how it could reach the four or five star level.
The book is about Edward and Kara, a twenties something couple living in Seattle. Edward is a rising star in the world of Venture Capital. As such, he works extremely long hours including weekends. He loves Kara very much and wants to provide for her the best possible life. Edward likes making money as much as he loves his wife.
Kara is an artist and works in graphic design. Her dream is to quit work and bicycle around the world with Edward. She wants to visit places as diverse as Cape Cod in Massachusetts and the museums featuring Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso in Spain. Coming home from work one afternoon, Kara notices Edward’s car is parked on the street near their apartment. It is loaded with several boxes.
Her husband is indeed home hours before usual because he has been fired for staging a temper tantrum in front of his boss. Edward does not know how to tell Kara this so decides to tell her a lie, that he quit his job so that they can do her dream trip. When Kara enters the apartment, she has in her hand divorce papers that she puts aside when told about the trip.
They decide to sell almost everything to finance their trip. The couple leaves Seattle in late February to head east over the Cascade and Rocky Mountains, across the “frozen tundra� of the northern Great Plains of the western United States and through east/central Canada bordering the Great Lakes. While they are doing this, the author interjects into the story, 4 men who are out of their time and place in history. Three of them have one thing in common, a lost “love of their life�.
On the journey, Edward adds one more secret to his life and Kara reveals one secret from her recent past. Their adventure becomes a series of “soap opera� scenes of whining (yes, whining) and dining. It all comes together once Kara and Edward reach Florence, Italy. They bypass Scotland (an Edward favorite) and Spain (much to Kara’s dismay).
I found the best parts of the story revolved about Alessio (an art dealer from Malta in the 1840s) and Hiromasa (an Ambassador to the Vatican from Japan in the 17th Century) and how they coped with the 21st Century in Florence.
At times, the writing is terrific but the constant bickering of Edward and Kara got tiresome. There were opportunities to discuss the sights and sites they visited in more detail without leaving behind the romantic elements. The author does spend time exploring Florence which is fun.
The concept gets 5 stars, the execution gets 2 stars, and overall the book gets 3 stars.
February 17, 2020
"It was the nature of cycling to have your emotions dictate the pace."
Kara had always wanted to travel the world by bicycle but Edward is too caught up in his work to take several years out of his career for this shared dream vacation. The day Edward loses his job is the day he will commit to cycling around the world with Kara, and not tell her why he changed his mind about the adventure of a lifetime. Little by little she will suspect something is going on with Edward as they race around the world together. Not only is Edward keeping secrets, but they keep discovering other mysterious travelers along their route.
Is it really possible to cycle around the world? What happens if you start too early in the season and are stuck cycling in the snow, mere inches from trucks and cars on the road? I was immediately hooked on the premise of this story and quickly dove into the plot of the book and the tension between Edward and Kara that was present all along. From the very beginning of the story, where Edward kept his first secret from Kara, I could tell that the tension was going to increase until all the secrets unfurled. And yet, the cute things that they did together and their easygoing nature made me root for their marriage from the get-go. What was going to happen to keep them together or to finally push them apart as a couple?
Meanwhile - they encounter various difficulties along their route, not to mention the fact that Edward keeps pushing them past their original pace, racing to a finish line only he can see. I wanted to yell at him to just come clean! He knew all along what Kara valued and yet he obstinately kept justifying his actions by telling himself that he wanted to provide for her, blindly ignoring the fact that that's not what Kara wanted. And Kara wouldn't talk to Edward about her misgivings, only expressing her anger when Edward blatantly changed something about their route. It's easy to blame them both for lack of communication because it's not always easy to talk with those you love.
At first I didn't care to switch plots and characters from the young cycling couple to Alessio but soon realized the importance of Alessio and appreciated his perspective. He was at times both funny and rude! It was quite hilarious to read some of his scenes.
I thoroughly enjoyed the descriptions of the difficulties of cycling and traveling along lesser used paths and through smaller towns. The author was very adept at providing all sorts of tension, from the couple's relationship, to the setting, to the addition of the mysterious men that kept appearing along their route.
Kara had always wanted to travel the world by bicycle but Edward is too caught up in his work to take several years out of his career for this shared dream vacation. The day Edward loses his job is the day he will commit to cycling around the world with Kara, and not tell her why he changed his mind about the adventure of a lifetime. Little by little she will suspect something is going on with Edward as they race around the world together. Not only is Edward keeping secrets, but they keep discovering other mysterious travelers along their route.
Is it really possible to cycle around the world? What happens if you start too early in the season and are stuck cycling in the snow, mere inches from trucks and cars on the road? I was immediately hooked on the premise of this story and quickly dove into the plot of the book and the tension between Edward and Kara that was present all along. From the very beginning of the story, where Edward kept his first secret from Kara, I could tell that the tension was going to increase until all the secrets unfurled. And yet, the cute things that they did together and their easygoing nature made me root for their marriage from the get-go. What was going to happen to keep them together or to finally push them apart as a couple?
Meanwhile - they encounter various difficulties along their route, not to mention the fact that Edward keeps pushing them past their original pace, racing to a finish line only he can see. I wanted to yell at him to just come clean! He knew all along what Kara valued and yet he obstinately kept justifying his actions by telling himself that he wanted to provide for her, blindly ignoring the fact that that's not what Kara wanted. And Kara wouldn't talk to Edward about her misgivings, only expressing her anger when Edward blatantly changed something about their route. It's easy to blame them both for lack of communication because it's not always easy to talk with those you love.
At first I didn't care to switch plots and characters from the young cycling couple to Alessio but soon realized the importance of Alessio and appreciated his perspective. He was at times both funny and rude! It was quite hilarious to read some of his scenes.
I thoroughly enjoyed the descriptions of the difficulties of cycling and traveling along lesser used paths and through smaller towns. The author was very adept at providing all sorts of tension, from the couple's relationship, to the setting, to the addition of the mysterious men that kept appearing along their route.
August 26, 2019
Join ambitious couple Edward and Kara as they pop the kickstands on their bikes and launch an exciting worldwide bike trip. They’re putting their lives on hold for a couple of years while they see new sights and challenge themselves to live their dream. What a courageous and incredible experience. But, as they launch their trip at Puget Sound’s Alki Beach, they have no idea what is ahead of them. Living a dream is not always everything you dreamed it to be.
Tailwinds Past Florence is a road trip with a spark of romance and a fantastical twist. It’s a passionate story and this author not only knows his impulsive characters well, but also the facts about biking, and he excels at describing the various settings in a number of different countries. You’ll feel like you’ve been on tour as well, but without breaking a sweat. There’s an underlying push from destiny that sends this spinning couple to steer their way to Florence, Italy. There surprises lie in wait that will test this couple up to the breaking point. Can they endure?
The fictional characters in this book feel very real and are of great interest. The author tells this story from several characters� points of view, so that you really get to know them and understand how they view the world. It’s amazing to watch characters react to events and see how they each misunderstand each other so often and so easily. How will they discover the truth between them before they make some important life choices based on mistaken information?
It is fun, and sometimes terrifying, to read about the biking, as the miles add up. Moments of humor are delightful. And of course it’s in Italy, what a perfect setting, that they encounter the magic of fate. Edward and Kara now have to face the ultimate questions of what is love and what is a beautiful life. When history and fate stare them down, can they risk it all for each other, for their dream together? Or will the fantastical figure obstructing their path defeat them?
Doug Walsh authored this book after being inspired by the around the world bike trip he took with his wife, from Seattle to Singapore with no planes. They traveled for nearly two years by bike and ship. This is not the travel memoir he expected to write; instead it became the fictional novel he’d dreamed of writing his entire life. Visit the author’s website at dougwalsh.com and hear more from the author himself on YouTube podcast episode with co-hosts Wendy Kendall and Carl Lee � A Novel Talk with Doug Walsh
Tailwinds Past Florence is a road trip with a spark of romance and a fantastical twist. It’s a passionate story and this author not only knows his impulsive characters well, but also the facts about biking, and he excels at describing the various settings in a number of different countries. You’ll feel like you’ve been on tour as well, but without breaking a sweat. There’s an underlying push from destiny that sends this spinning couple to steer their way to Florence, Italy. There surprises lie in wait that will test this couple up to the breaking point. Can they endure?
The fictional characters in this book feel very real and are of great interest. The author tells this story from several characters� points of view, so that you really get to know them and understand how they view the world. It’s amazing to watch characters react to events and see how they each misunderstand each other so often and so easily. How will they discover the truth between them before they make some important life choices based on mistaken information?
It is fun, and sometimes terrifying, to read about the biking, as the miles add up. Moments of humor are delightful. And of course it’s in Italy, what a perfect setting, that they encounter the magic of fate. Edward and Kara now have to face the ultimate questions of what is love and what is a beautiful life. When history and fate stare them down, can they risk it all for each other, for their dream together? Or will the fantastical figure obstructing their path defeat them?
Doug Walsh authored this book after being inspired by the around the world bike trip he took with his wife, from Seattle to Singapore with no planes. They traveled for nearly two years by bike and ship. This is not the travel memoir he expected to write; instead it became the fictional novel he’d dreamed of writing his entire life. Visit the author’s website at dougwalsh.com and hear more from the author himself on YouTube podcast episode with co-hosts Wendy Kendall and Carl Lee � A Novel Talk with Doug Walsh
February 7, 2019
I received Tailwinds Past Florence as part of a Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ giveaway.
Fired in spectacular fashion from his venture capital job in Seattle, Edward offers his wife Kara her dream--to spend an extended period of time biking around the world. What he doesn't offer, however, is the fact that he was fired and likely blacklisted from his industry. As the pair bike across the United States and Europe, both have to face the realities of their troubled marriage and threats from without and within.
My dislike of the book stems from two points. First, Edward. Straight up, this guy sucks. He spends 85% of the book lying to his wife in one way or another about his livelihood to his wife. It's clear that he was an absentee husband in all ways prior to the beginning of the book, and I don't blame Kara for considering divorce. Even her cheating seems far more forgivable when compared to Edward's faults. Secondly, the B plot involving Alessio was bizarre and completely unnecessary. It was a flimsy excuse to throw them together in dramatic fashion at the end and attempt to make Edward some sort of hero (I didn't buy it). Not at all for me.
Fired in spectacular fashion from his venture capital job in Seattle, Edward offers his wife Kara her dream--to spend an extended period of time biking around the world. What he doesn't offer, however, is the fact that he was fired and likely blacklisted from his industry. As the pair bike across the United States and Europe, both have to face the realities of their troubled marriage and threats from without and within.
My dislike of the book stems from two points. First, Edward. Straight up, this guy sucks. He spends 85% of the book lying to his wife in one way or another about his livelihood to his wife. It's clear that he was an absentee husband in all ways prior to the beginning of the book, and I don't blame Kara for considering divorce. Even her cheating seems far more forgivable when compared to Edward's faults. Secondly, the B plot involving Alessio was bizarre and completely unnecessary. It was a flimsy excuse to throw them together in dramatic fashion at the end and attempt to make Edward some sort of hero (I didn't buy it). Not at all for me.
March 25, 2019
Edward surprises Kara with the bicycling-around-the-world trip she’s been planning for years, failing to inform her that it’s a flight response from being let go from his position and blacklisted in the financial sector. On the US leg of the tour, Edward is offered a job by a host, who insists on an earlier starting time than Kara’s expected two years, forcing Edward to speed up their trip without explanation. In alternate chapters, Italian Alessio and Japanese Hirosama have traveled to the present from earlier centuries and are connected to Kara, as are the Native American and French-Canadian Edward and Kara came across in the American Midwest. Alessio works for Hirosama in Florence as Edward rushes Kara through Europe. In Florence, things reach a breaking point when Kara’s life is endangered and Edward must make a life-changing decision. Walsh portrays well a marriage unraveling from Edward’s hidden agenda, and the confusion wrought by a supernatural experience. While the paranormal aspect brings intriguing elements, it’s superfluous, as Edward’s subterfuge provides a sufficient story arc, and those elements are not explored. However, they could make for an interesting series, with sequels going deeper into the stories of Allessio, Hirosama, the French-Canadian, and the Native American. Dear reader could then find out what happened to the Native American, who was but a footnote in this tale. I received a digital copy of this fascinating story by the publisher Snoke Valley Books through a Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ giveaway.
March 26, 2019
I opened this book expecting a travelogue disguised as a novel. It is so much more. Doug is a clever plot-weaver and a gifted storyteller. He courageously tackles the wide spectrum of issues that make the difference in sustaining a relationship and keeps the reader on seat's edge throughout. I was unexpectedly surprised and moved, page after page, by Doug's fearlessness in working through adult subjects in an adventure/fantasy setting. Doug's handling of these complicated topics will resonate with thoughtful devotees of any genre. I recommend this amazing and ambitious book without reservation.
December 15, 2019
Edward works too much; until he loses his job. His wife, Kara, a free spirited artist, is lonely and frustrated and ready to divorce Edward. When he loses his job, Edward hides the fact by telling Kara that he wants to bicycle across the world, a trip Kara has long dreamed about. The truths that Edward and Kara hide from each other eventually are revealed, as well as some strange things that happen around them.
The secondary plot is a little strange, and the ending is a bit hard to explain/fathom. The writing is superb, and the relations between the main characters is well developed. I would definitely recommend this book and this author.
The secondary plot is a little strange, and the ending is a bit hard to explain/fathom. The writing is superb, and the relations between the main characters is well developed. I would definitely recommend this book and this author.
September 12, 2020
This book was... strange. It almost felt like two different books - definitely two different stories. One follows a couple with a struggling marriage as they embark on an around the world bike trip. The other involves a few different men who are apparently traveling through time, but not under their own control. The author does connect the stories at the end, but I still didn't really understand it. I would have been better off with this book if it was only the story of the couple. I thought of DNFing a few times, but even though I didn't really like or care about the characters, I did want to know what happened at the end. I was hoping for more of an explanation.
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