@PattyKoed , hi.
I started from Le Puy-en-Velay early April this year. On reflection I think I was too early. Too much mud and slush etc. But only two days for wetweather gear. But you need to go when you need to.
Guides: three come to mind.
Miam Miam Dodo. Too much detail in general. Good for accommodation.
GR 65 from FFR, in three volumes. Again a lot of detail.
Together a lot of weight. For my personal use only I scanned these (as PDF) and stored on my tablet.
The guide I used day to day was from Michelin.
And if you have an Android tablet I suggest mapping service OsmAnd+ and turn on walking routes. A God send when you think you are lost.
Take care with your training. Please include many long distance walks with all you equipment on your back etc. Build up your stamina - as many hours as you can before stopping. And as much hill as you can fit in, say 600 metres of elevation in two hours. These, of course, are not mutually exclusive.
Kia kaha ( be brave be strong)