In "Rachel's Holiday" by Marian Keyes, the protagonist reflects on her relationship with Luke, expressing that their journey together is far from easy. Instead of a smooth progression, their love story struggles painfully, akin to breaking in uncomfortable new boots. This metaphor highlights the difficulties and discomforts that often accompany deep emotional connections.

Rachel describes their love as a series of struggles, characterized by blisters and raw wounds, symbolizing the challenges they face as a couple. The vivid imagery conveys the idea that true love can involve significant hardships and that the path to happiness is often marked by trials and tribulations.