Debbie Harpham
ABOUT:
Lisa Genova meets 23andMe in this exploration of the genetic and emotional ties that bind, as debut author Julie Clark delivers a compelling read about a young boy desperate to find his place in this world, a mother coming to terms with her own past, and the healing power of forgiveness.
The powerful forces of science and family collide when geneticist Paige Robson finds her world in upheaval: Her eight-year-old son Miles is struggling to fit in at his new school and begins asking questions about his biological father that Paige can’t answer—until fate thrusts the anonymous donor she used into their lives.
Paige’s carefully constructed life begins to unravel as the truth of Miles’s paternity threatens to destroy everything she has grown to cherish. As Paige slowly opens herself up—by befriending an eccentric mother, confronting her own deeply buried vulnerabilities, and trying to make sense of her absent father’s unexpected return—she realizes breakthroughs aren’t only for the lab. But when tragedy strikes, Paige must face the consequences of sharing a secret only she knows.
With grace and humor, Julie Clark shows that while the science is fascinating, solving these intimate mysteries of who we are and where we come from unleashes emotions more complex than the strands of DNA that shape us.
Available for purchase here.
PRAISE:
“An absolutely dazzling, profound ruby of a novel.” — Caroline Leavitt, New York Times bestselling author ofPictures of You
“The Ones We Choose is a wonderfully crafted blend of science and soul … the perfect addition to your summer reading list.” — KMartin, Goodreads Book Review
“This was such a wonderful, heartfelt read! I loved the science and genetics subplot. It was fascinating! But more than that, I really connected with Paige. She was a sympathetic, developed character that I couldn’t help but root for. Her love for her son, her fears, the walls she put up to protect herself–they made her a compelling character for me. The story, too, was equally compelling. Julie Clark weaves a heart-felt story of family, motherhood, and breaking past childhood trauma with precision. The story never lags. The in-between chapters of science, which complement the story, were intriguing. It’s one of those stories that I’ll read over and over again.” — Alexander P, Goodreads Book Review
AUTHOR VISITS:
Julie is available to meet with book clubs (virtual and in-person) via NovelNetwork. View Julie’s calendar and schedule your visit here.