What a phenomenal gem! While I wish I had not read the editor's note at the beginning, because it gave away the suspense of the wonderful writing at the start of the book, this was one of my favorite books of the last few years. With an unusual story, phenomenal themes that make you think throughout the book, and a great ending, I just wish there was more to read by Westerbeke. Taking you from the streets of Paris through a crazy journey through the world, the messages intertwined throughout are deep and meaningful.

An enchanting debut, brimming with marvels! We embark on a captivating journey with the odyssey of Aubry Tourvel, the protagonist who stumbles upon a mystical puzzle ball. While her siblings toss their treasured possessions into a well, aiming to snag wishes, Aubry detours. Opting to safeguard her newfound gem, she sets in motion a sequence of events. Mere days later, a chilling scene unfolds – Aubry's life begins to ebb away right at the heart of the family dining tableau. Swift medical intervention stems the crimson tide, yet the wake-up call sets her on an escapade beyond the city's edge. Aubry then realizes that movement alone keeps her alive and must keep moving and traveling to survive.

The narrative, bedecked with fantastical hues, is a symphony of self-discovery stretching across the tapestry of an entire lifetime. Amidst sweeping panoramas and ceaseless exploits, the story weaves an unquenchable thirst for exploration that snared my attention like quicksand. Though bittersweet in moments, it is an uplifting saga of solitude and the ache for belonging, all adorned in eloquent prose. The tale evokes emotion, crafting a poignant narrative that entranced me from the very outset. The author's imagination spun into Aubrey's exploits, and their finesse breathing life into an extraordinary premise is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Summing it up, this literary gem is a masterpiece of penmanship, and the premise, oh, how I adored it! Wholeheartedly, I absolutely 1000% recommend this book!

Thank you to NetGalley and Avid Reader Press for the ARC!

"A Short Walk Through a Wide World" by Douglas Westerbeke is a captivating and imaginative debut that weaves together elements of fantasy, adventure, and a touch of magical realism. With its richly detailed world, engaging protagonist, and thought-provoking themes, this novel offers a unique and memorable reading experience.

The story follows Aubry Tourvel, a young woman cursed with a condition that forces her to keep moving in order to stay alive. From the very beginning, the novel draws readers in with its intriguing premise—Aubry's inability to stay in one place for too long creates a sense of urgency and constant motion that permeates the narrative.

Westerbeke's writing is both evocative and vivid, painting a lush and diverse landscape for Aubry's journey. The author's descriptions of various settings, from the Calashino Sand Sea to the Himalayas, are so immersive that they transport readers to these distant places, creating a sense of wonder and adventure.

The character of Aubry Tourvel is complex and well-developed. Her determination to survive and her yearning for connection make her a relatable and sympathetic protagonist. As she travels across the globe, readers witness her growth, resilience, and evolving understanding of herself and the world around her. Aubry's quest to find a place she can call home is both inspiring and heartwarming.

The novel also delves into themes of identity, the search for meaning, and the profound impact of human connections. As Aubry encounters various people and cultures, she learns about the diverse ways people find purpose and happiness, and how those values shape their lives.

The blend of magical realism and fantasy elements adds depth to the story, allowing readers to question the boundaries of reality and the possibilities of the unknown. The concept of a curse tied to movement is a unique twist that keeps the narrative engaging and unpredictable.

"A Short Walk Through a Wide World" is a testament to the power of exploration, self-discovery, and the importance of cherishing the journey itself. With its lyrical prose, captivating protagonist, and imaginative world-building, Douglas Westerbeke's debut novel offers a thought-provoking and enchanting reading experience that will stay with readers long after they've turned the final page.

Breathtaking, warm, and quite bloodied. This is one of those books that catches in your throat - and I, for one, am glad.