NEW RELEASE
Dear Thing - Julie Cohen (2013)
Claire is shattered when her latest IVF treatment fails and tells husband Ben that she has given up hope of ever having a child. But then Ben's friend, Romily, a single mother, offers to be their surrogate. At first Claire is worried that anyone could selflessly give up a baby she has carried but Romily reassures them that she doesn't want another child. And she would love to repay them for all the support they have given her and daughter Posie over the years. But there is one thing that Romily hasn't told them - she's been in love with Ben for years. This is a beautifully told and compelling story which leaves readers wondering how the issue will be resolved. Cohen has given great depth to the characters and her handling of such an emotional subject takes her writing to a whole new level.
Dear Thing, by Julie Cohen, is about a couple having trouble starting a family. The summary says: "Claire and Ben are the perfect couple. But behind the glossy facade, they've been desperately trying - and failing - to have a baby for years. Now, the stress and feelings of loss are taking their toll on their marriage. Claire's ready to give up hope and get on with her life, but Ben is not. And then Ben's best friend, Romily, offers to conceive via artificial insemination and carry the baby for them. Romily acts in good faith, believing it will be easy to be a surrogate. She's already a single mother, and has no desire for any more children. Except that being pregnant with Ben's child stirs up all sorts of emotions in her, including one she's kept hidden for a very long time: Ben's the only man she's ever loved. Two mothers - and one baby who belongs to both of them, and which only one of them can keep." Dear Thing is out in April.