Wish you were here

More about the book

Diana O’Toole has a clear life plan: marry by thirty, have kids by thirty-five, and advance in her career at Sotheby’s. With a potential promotion on the horizon, she anticipates a proposal from her boyfriend, Finn, during their romantic getaway to the Galápagos, just before her thirtieth birthday. However, a virus has emerged, and on the eve of their trip, Finn must stay behind to help at the hospital, urging Diana to go alone to avoid wasting their nonrefundable vacation. Once in the Galápagos, Diana's dream vacation quickly unravels. Her luggage is lost, Wi-Fi is scarce, and their hotel is closed due to the pandemic, leaving her stranded on the island. Isolated and out of her comfort zone, she begins to connect with a local family, particularly a teenager who confides in her despite his father's distrust of outsiders. Amidst the backdrop of the Galápagos Islands, where Darwin developed his theory of evolution, Diana reflects on her relationships and life choices. This unexpected journey forces her to confront who she is and who she might become, leaving her to wonder if she will return home transformed.