Synopsis (taken from Amazon)
Ahh—here I am—on my dream backpacking trip overlanding from Russia—through Eastern Europe—to Istanbul with my travel partner, Khadejah. Bring on the sunny days of exotic sightseeing, tasty new food, interesting people, and places I can get lost in to soothe my tattered heart.
But …
It rains most days.
Don’t even get me started on the food.
The locals are low on smiles.
And I’m drowning in grief.
Then the sun finally comes out. With the help of my friends, George Michael’s music, and laughter we tackle culture shock, wild interactions, changing plans, and uncover gems I never thought I would see with my own eyes.
But the leers, catcalls, and gropes are never-ending. Regardless we persevere … until a vicious and humiliating encounter causes me to question if life on the road will save me or break me.
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About the series: Grab your backpack and get ready for an adventure in the ’90s when the Internet was scarce but laughs weren’t. Life Strikes Back is Book Two in the five-part Back in a Year series, a true story of a young woman traveling around the world. Each book can be read independently, but it’s more fun to take the full trip.
Review
Candace Macphie’s Life Strikes Back is a compelling continuation of her raw, real-life journey through the trials and triumphs of backpacking through Europe. Picking up where the first book left off, Macphie dives deeper—not just into new places, but into her own resilience, grief, and growth.
While travel often brings wonder and excitement, Macphie does not shy away from the darker moments. During a time when anyone would think they are safe, she experiences a traumatic ‘incident’ (it is much more than an incident, but I don’t want to give any spoilers). The way she gathers herself and continues as if nothing had happened is a heartbreaking yet necessary inclusion that highlights the stark differences in how men and women experience the world.
There’s light in the friendships Macphie forms along the way—connections that become lifelines in her grieving process and testaments to the healing power of shared experience. Her writing captures not just the scenery of her travels, but the soul of human connection.
Life Strikes Back is the perfect title for this adventure she shares with a new best friend, unhindered by the trouble of a certain someone. Although someone is mentioned, and I am sure they make a comeback, it was nice to see Candace enjoying life.
If you enjoy a great adventure with laughs and twists, this is the book for you.
Get the book here (affiliate link – thank you for the support)
