What sets this novel apart from others in this genre is the spiritual nature of Emily's quest. Her faith is both challenged and enriched as she explores new friendships with a free-spirited neighbor and friend, Frances, who accompanies her to Nepal to trek through the Himalayas. On this trek she meets a young Buddhist Sherpa and Roman Catholic priest floundering in his priesthood and finally an enigmatic man who has just spent the past year in a Buddhist monastery. Emily's journey with the help of her new friends leads her to find new ways to get on with her life.