The back cover pulled me in, the front cover is gorgeous, the author's note, the letter from Anne-Marie - it all fits together and is absolutely engaging. You built the tension and carried the 'relationship sabbatical ' thread (and me along with it) with skill and grace.

The historical notes, self-reflection, philosophical questioning, and descriptions of the landscape were woven in expertly - never too much, never preachy or long-winded. Depictions of the people you met and your relationships were spare but completely satisfying.

The topic is dear to my heart - I'm a yoga teacher and a student of Buddhism (with a great deal to learn!). Your story soothed me. It reminded me of the message in the movie, Contact, based on the Carl Sagan novel: We are not alone, we are loved, we are all connected.

After reading your book, I was able to help a writer friend who was stuck on her work-in-progress. She was having trouble finding her focus (although she has taught many wonderful workshops on that very thing). Her story, like yours, wasn't so much about the destination – in her case, her work as an activist – as her transformation over the course of the journey. She is well on her way with the book now.

Finally, I hope you don't mind that I've fashioned a closing for my yoga classes based on your description of the sculpture of the pilgrims on page 70: Stand tall, stay grounded in your faith and connected to your light.

I'm sure your book will do well. If I may be so bold, may I suggest a sequel? I'm really eager to know if you went to India, twice, or at all, and what happened there. And, of course, what happened between you and Ann-Marie.

This is an unusually long email for me, but I wanted to express my gratitude and enthusiasm for this delightful, important book that the world so needs right now.

I hope you will consider reading from your book at WordsFall in St Andrews in November, or at WordSpring in Moncton at the end of May 2019. Perhaps you would even want to give a workshop or a talk.

Meanwhile, best wishes for the success of your first book and, again, thank you!"

Cathy

Cathy Fynn, Executive Director

Writers' Federation of New Brunswick

In Becoming Love, Robert captivated me as he weaved together several stories of love. First, it is a story about deepening self-love and self-acceptance. This inner journey is beautifully reflected in his El Camino pilgrimage, where for hundreds of years, people of faith have walked 'The Way' seeking a deeper connection with God. In background of all of this, is the love story about Robert and his lover, Anne-Marie, who are separated for one year in a 'relationship sabbatical' where they each explore matters of the heart.

I have not personally walked the El Camino Trail, but this book definitely put it on my adventure list! The book enchanted me with the rich history of the area, the friendships that are inevitably formed with fellow pilgrims and the synchronistic experiences that are likely to await anyone as they seek love on 'The Way'.

Thanks for the great read and inspirational journal, Robert!

Richard

January 8, 2019

Just finished reading “Becoming Love" and thought I’d write a note of congratulations. It took me quite a while to finish it, not because it was a hard read but rather because I savored each day of your journey and all of the tidbits of information and adventure of your experience and thoughts. You certainly write a deep account and it deserved a deep read. I enjoyed every page. Everyone should travel with your lens. I can see how your book will be inspiring and helpful to those needing those words and thoughts. I hope it reaches as many as possible and make a difference in many lives – even a difference in our society. Can’t wait to read your next book on India – chapter two? L Thomas