An honest and humorous book about a girl who had a dream (an insane dream but a dream nonetheless) and managed to achieve it with little planning, not much forward planning and a lot of love, help and generosity from people. I found it very difficult to put the book down, I found the honesty, the humour and the descriptive writing grabbed me from beginning to end. The tears, the encountering of cattle and sheep, the nearly used tent and the endless flow of generous people along the way brought Elise’s journey to life. Read it and be encouraged; read it, laugh & cry with Elise, read it and believe that you can achieve the seemingly impossible.

With only a mild interest in running I wasn't sure if this book would be for me. However, I found it a challenge to put this down. Elise's honesty, humour and relatability shine through making this not so much a running journal but almost a coming of age drama played out in muddy fields amongst the best if Bristish company. I came away feeling that Elise could quite honestly be someone I've known for years, both down to earth and down right crazy all at the same time. A fantastic read

Really enjoyed reading this. It was like I was just sat with Elise with a brew listening to her tell her stories of that big adventure.

This book is not just for runners! It's for people who are unsure, been through heart breaks, felt like a failure or doubted themselves. It is a hugely relatable read, especially for women. Elise is not suggesting everyone needs to go on an adventure to "cure" your doubts and worries but there is something very reassuring in reading such an honest account of Elise's own struggles. Even though Elise actually did run 5000 miles, it is also a metaphor for life and it made me think about my own choices and how to put one foot in front of the other. It's not just serious moments, the story is scattered with hilarious anecdotes that made me laugh out loud. I love reading about all the kindness out there that Elise experienced and also taking a moment to appreciate how beautiful Great Britain is. It hasn't helped my craving to go to the sea. I would recommend reading this with a glass of wine and settling into what will feel like a DMC with your best friend.

I really enjoyed this book! Downing has a very honest and direct way of explaining her incredible adventure that makes you feel as though you’re sat discussing it with an old friend.