Waaaay back when I started in the library biz (mid 70s), there was a book by Shirley Radl titled MOTHER'S DAY IS OVER that caused quite a stir among patrons and staff (it was based on the Ann Landers survey that resulted in 70% saying they wouldn't have kids again). I read it and while I won't say it influenced my final decision 8 years later, it did make me realize just what was involved with raising a kid and I seemed to know even then that I didn't have a maternal bone in my body. Flash forward 40 years later and I'm childfree and have never had a moment's regret.

However. I can't imagine how tough my choice would had been if my partner had not embraced the same decision, and how hard it would be on a marriage if one side wanted children and the other was steadfast in the idea of not having any. And that's the topic Page addresses in her novel about a couple who together decided not to have children but years later one side said their mind was changed. What happens then? How does a marriage survive, and does one capitulate (with resentment) to the other's decision?

The author has tackled a tough question and has done an excellent job of addressing all of the concerns, emotions, and much soul-searching thoughts that go into this kind of issue complete with a satisfying ending. This is a great book for anyone who wants a well-developed novel with a lot of heart-wrenching decisions.

Thanks to the publisher for the advance digital reading copy.