LOOKING FOR JANE

“When you’re young, you get to look at time through the reduction end of the telescope. The wrong end, the generous end that makes everything appear so far away, that gives the impression that there are light-years of space between you and those magically distant objects. And then, without warning, time turns it around on you, and suddenly you’re looking through the correct end, the end you were always supposed to be looking through, if you were paying attention. The end where everything is magnified and perilously close. The end that zooms in without mercy and forces you to see the detail you should have been focusing on all along.”In 2017, a mysterious letter takes Angela to the 1970s and 80s, when a group of daring women operated an underground abortion network known only by its whispered code name: Jane.Dr. Evelyn Taylor-forced to give her baby up for adoption as a teenager– joined the Jane Network to help other women where she crosses paths with Nancy, who becomes a volunteer.Over the years, Evelyn, Nancy, and Angela's lives intertwine to reveal the devastating consequences that come from a lack of choice.This is an invaluable piece of writing, extremely relative to the times we live in when decades of hard work for women’s rights is being erased before our eyes. A riveting story that merges history with the present, this is a book that needs to be read by women of every generation.This ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton.For complete review, visit aquamarineflavours.wordpress.com

The book was an easy read interesting enough to keep one hooked n simple enough to not rush through it.

What I Like:The plot presents the true stories of countless women who were forced into homes for unwed mothers and had to give up their babies for adoption.The book combines the Canadian version of Magdalene laundries and the lack of a woman’s choice to decide whether or not she wants to keep her pregnancy. It also deals with the trauma of infertility and recurring miscarriages (presenting them as two sides of the same coin).Many real-life events are woven into the story. Dr. Henry Morgentaler also makes an appearance in the book. As someone with limited knowledge of Canada’s history, I could learn a little more about the country’s past.The sections dealing with the Jane Network and the House of Unwed Mothers are very well-done. These are the strong points of the book. There are itsy-bitsy pieces of sharp, dark humor that add to the narration.What Could Have Been Better for Me:The book is more like a collection of events than a proper story. While it has an intricate and complex plot, there are many loose ends and plot holes. The book relies on the emotional impact theme to carry off the plot, which doesn’t always work.The characters are distinct but don’t have a proper arc. We know who they are, and that pretty much sums them up. While it is easy to connect to themes, it is hard to connect to the characters (feels like watching them on the screen).The ‘twist’ or revelation is predictable, and I guessed it halfway through. The ending, though perfect for the title, leaves many unanswered questions. That’s not something I like after reading 400 pages.To summarize, Looking for Jane is a poignant debut novel about women’s rights over their bodies. The book is a debut novel and it shows in narration and execution. But read it for the themes- the past, present, and future.Thank you, NetGalley and Atria Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

This book was recommended by a neighbor, we were discussing women's issues. The author did a great job telling the stories of these women. It was so interesting to follow the characters and see the outcomes of their lives. This is such a well written book, very engaging.

Well written, beautifully crafted with a balanced storyline. This should be mandatory reading in schools so people understand this dark history for women.

Book arrived on time and in perfect condition. The story is very moving and although it's based in Canada, it was very relatable from an Irish standpoint. Definitely recommend

I found it difficult to put this down. The historical information was excellent and, aside from a few minor bits, it was really well written. This book definitely makes one think. The characters felt completely real to me. For the most part, the plot was believable. I loved the stabbing - I’ll leave it at that so no real spoiler. If this story doesn’t make you sad and angry, not much will. But there’s also love and hope, sisterhood and victories. This is close to a five star!

A good read with valuable insight in the past regarding women's health and access to abortion. Would reccomend reading.