Sarah's Choice

by Rebecca St James and Nancy N. Rue

[Leah]

When I saw a novel called Sarah’s Choice on Netgalley, I was intrigued! I thought it sounded like a fascinating novel and I liked the idea of the whole three different scenario parts – and I wondered how the authors Rebecca and Nancy would make it work. It sort of reminded me of If You’re Not The One by Jemma Forte where you could see an alternate universe (or alternate life, if you will). I downloaded it to my kindle and was quite excited to read it, although I did have a bit of a moment when I spotted some religious bits at the front. I started it anyway, hoping I had mis seen.

Sarah’s Choice was an interesting novel. I wanted to really really like it, as the narrative voice was strong and I liked Sarah as a character – she was forthright from the start and I could understand her confusion and hesitation when she finds out she’s pregnant and realises it will mess with her promotion plans. I could tell the decision over whether to keep her baby or not was a tough one and for the most part, I enjoyed her journey, but there was a bit but for me. A big red flag.

See, I’m not religious in the slightest. I don’t know how I feel about god, it isn’t something I think about, it isn’t something I generally believe in, although I am able to accept that people do believe in and talk to god and that is cool – for them. It’s their prerogative, but it’s not something I want to read about. And, sadly, despite not knowing better, Sarah’s Choice is filled with religion. It’s wasn’t overly religious, and it wasn’t so bad I stopped reading, it just wasn’t my cup of tea and if I had known before hand I’ll hold my hands up and say I wouldn’t have read the book. Because it just isn’t for me, it’s that simple.

But, I did enjoy the novel. Yes, I found Sarah’s mother Agnes rather overbearing with her over reliance on god, and I did wish religion didn’t have to come into a matter about whether or not to keep a baby, but I can appreciate that that’s how it was for Sarah and her family. I’m not swayed or anything, but I enjoyed the book for what it’s worth. The ending was a tad much for me – because I’m not a believer really, but apart from that it wasn’t so bad. The writing was great, and I very much enjoyed Sarah’s friendship with the lovely Audrey. It was definitely an interesting read, but do be aware that religion is featured if it’s not your thing – although, it isn’t my thing and I actually liked the novel, so who knows? It’s good to know I can appreciate a novel that I wouldn’t normally consider, period.