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The Choice
One young woman. Two very different roads. The choice will change everything.
Even as a pregnant, unwed teen in 1974, Sandy Lincoln wanted to do the right thing. But when an ageless woman approached her in a convenience store with a mysterious prophecy and a warning, doing the right thing became even more unclear. She made the best choice she could . . . and has lived with the consequences.
More than thirty years later, a pregnant teen has come into her life, and Sandy's long-ago decision has come back to haunt her. The stakes rise quickly, leaving Sandy with split seconds to choose once more. But will her choice decision bring life . . . or death?
"The Choice shows the struggles of unplanned pregnancy and the courageous act of adoption in a way that I haven't read before . . ." --Abby Brannam-Johnson, former Planned Parenthood Director and author of Unplanned
"Whitlow captures the struggle of many women trapped in the battle over abortion in a truly sympathetic and affecting way." --Booklist
Even as a pregnant, unwed teen in 1974, Sandy Lincoln wanted to do the right thing. But when an ageless woman approached her in a convenience store with a mysterious prophecy and a warning, doing the right thing became even more unclear. She made the best choice she could . . . and has lived with the consequences.
More than thirty years later, a pregnant teen has come into her life, and Sandy's long-ago decision has come back to haunt her. The stakes rise quickly, leaving Sandy with split seconds to choose once more. But will her choice decision bring life . . . or death?
"The Choice shows the struggles of unplanned pregnancy and the courageous act of adoption in a way that I haven't read before . . ." --Abby Brannam-Johnson, former Planned Parenthood Director and author of Unplanned
"Whitlow captures the struggle of many women trapped in the battle over abortion in a truly sympathetic and affecting way." --Booklist
432 pages, Paperback
First published August 7, 2012
117 people are currently reading
1283 people want to read
About the author
Robert Whitlow
50 books969 followersRobert Whitlow is the best-selling author of legal novels set in the South and winner of the prestigious Christy Award for Contemporary Fiction. A Furman University graduate, Whitlow received his J.D. with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law where he served on the staff of the Georgia Law Review. A practicing attorney, Whitlow and his wife, Kathy, have four children. They make their home in North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 250 reviews
October 3, 2017
Outstanding book! I really loved reading this. Sandy Lincoln a young unwed teenager in 1974 had to make a choice when she finds out she's pregnant by a young high school football player. Either abortion or adoption. I think she made the right choice.
August 1, 2025
This was excellent! I couldn’t keep a handle on my emotions for about half the book! I wasn’t at all expecting that. The story focuses on a young teen, Sandy, who faces unwanted pregnancy. The book follows her through facing the decision over what to do, and then picks up again years later. One of the things that I really loved about this book is that the author has a way of incorporating scenes that give the perspective of other characters that made me feel like I was sitting there watching this scene play out like a movie. The characters were so well developed and each little detail in a scene was so well suited to building the dynamics between characters. There was a strong faith based element and I really felt like there was just such a tenderness and sweetness to this story, I just really loved it. As some of my reviews on other books reflect, I dislike books that have scenes that seem unlikely or written in a way that makes the story seem far fetched. Although a couple threads in this book would be a pretty unlikely, they were so well written and developed, they just worked. I’m really looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
November 7, 2018
What an inspiring story!
May 15, 2013
It is autumn of 1974 in a well-off Georgian small town and the bright, beautiful, kind, naive head cheerleader gets pregnant by the popular, good-looking, manipulative captain of the football team. When she refuses the newly legal option of abortion, the football player and his parents become hostile. But, by the support of her loving family, the genuinely good young woman embraces the numerous sacrifices and elects to bring her twin baby sons to life and prayerfully place them in the best adoptive homes. Thirty-three years later, now the most popular teacher in her old high school and the beloved coach of its cheerleading squad, this same woman is given the opportunity to support another high school girl make the same choice for life and love. This was a painfully predictable and poorly written book. The cardboard characters had less vitality than paper dolls. The dialogue was flatter and less interesting than the proverbial white lines on the road. The writing was sub-sophomoric. Every character who favored abortion as a viable option were selfish, disingenuous and hypocritical while all who fought for the life of the unborn child were selfless, joy-filled and caring. The Hispanic characters were all poor, uneducated and in need of rescue by the universally educated, sophisticated white characters. Can we say “stereotype” boys and girls? When I began the novel, I assumed that the choice of the title referred to the protagonist’s decision about her pregnancy. I soon realized that the choice was that of the reader, whether to read only the first line of each page or the first paragraph of each chapter. To read any more would be to risk a coma from boredom.
August 11, 2012
One choice can change lives.
This is the first book I have ever read by Mr. Whitlow and I really enjoyed how he did a great job of not forgetting those little details in life, yet not making them too obvious with overlong descriptions, which for me made this book feel more realistic.
I liked how this book dealt with the choices we make and how sometimes what some people would call an everyday choice can change lives and make a difference.
Being adopted myself, I liked how this book dealt with the topic. And it really is an amazing thing, and the women who choose life are heroes who selflessly put their children first.
I liked the character of Jeremy because I felt that I could relate to him in that he was content in his life and he didn't stress about finding his birth family the way some people do. I really admired Sandy for her strength and courage not only in the choices she made when she was a teenager, but for how she championed a young woman in a tough situation.
Overall, this was a tale well written and I liked the steady pace that it had that made it engaging, but not the kind of story that gives you whiplash. I enjoyed reading this tale about life and love and how God can turn a bad situation for good if we just let Him. I loved the way so many things came together throughout the book. This is a book I would recommend to people who like books that deal with issues and run emotionally deep.
I received this book through Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
This is the first book I have ever read by Mr. Whitlow and I really enjoyed how he did a great job of not forgetting those little details in life, yet not making them too obvious with overlong descriptions, which for me made this book feel more realistic.
I liked how this book dealt with the choices we make and how sometimes what some people would call an everyday choice can change lives and make a difference.
Being adopted myself, I liked how this book dealt with the topic. And it really is an amazing thing, and the women who choose life are heroes who selflessly put their children first.
I liked the character of Jeremy because I felt that I could relate to him in that he was content in his life and he didn't stress about finding his birth family the way some people do. I really admired Sandy for her strength and courage not only in the choices she made when she was a teenager, but for how she championed a young woman in a tough situation.
Overall, this was a tale well written and I liked the steady pace that it had that made it engaging, but not the kind of story that gives you whiplash. I enjoyed reading this tale about life and love and how God can turn a bad situation for good if we just let Him. I loved the way so many things came together throughout the book. This is a book I would recommend to people who like books that deal with issues and run emotionally deep.
I received this book through Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
July 31, 2012
Robert Whitlow is one of my favorite writers. He has hit a homerun with this wonderful . This book is about being pro-choice, that is choosing life over death. If you are pro-life you will love this book. Whitlow does such a great job weaving the story. WARNING: you will need a tissue or two. I will not tip you off on the story but do want to leave you with a few quotes from the book:
Sometimes love doesn't get what it wants; it has to do what is best. p. 58
. . . adversity is the crucible for character formation. p. 59
Never forget the blackest darkness must retreat before the light of the smallest candle. p. 114
Then in the "A Note from the author" section Whitlow writes:
My ultimate hope is that readers of this story, regardless of age or gender, will be encouraged to make unselfish, sacrificial choices. Laying down our lives for others, in big and small ways, is at the heart of Christian living. Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends" (John 15:13 NIV). Wouldn't more of that be a good thing? p. 415
I would recommend this book to everyone!
Sometimes love doesn't get what it wants; it has to do what is best. p. 58
. . . adversity is the crucible for character formation. p. 59
Never forget the blackest darkness must retreat before the light of the smallest candle. p. 114
Then in the "A Note from the author" section Whitlow writes:
My ultimate hope is that readers of this story, regardless of age or gender, will be encouraged to make unselfish, sacrificial choices. Laying down our lives for others, in big and small ways, is at the heart of Christian living. Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends" (John 15:13 NIV). Wouldn't more of that be a good thing? p. 415
I would recommend this book to everyone!
February 7, 2013
I am all for a nice, melodramatic, life-changing, makes you think sort of book. When I first picked this book up, that was my expectation. However, I was saddened, especially by the second half of the book by the number of times I was hit over the head with a pro-life Christian agenda. Everything works out perfectly for the can-do-no-wrong teen mother turned high school teacher. It was sickening and toward the end, I was flipping pages so I could just finish the thing. Also, the stereotypes were over the top and ridiculous. The way this author portrayed Hispanics was almost rude and I wasn't a huge fan about how this high school seemed to fulfill every stereotype ever. There wasn't much to this story, nor is it something that changed my life.
August 9, 2012
Whitlow has done it again, this man continues to write some of the best novels I've read. The storyline is intriguing, the characters are fantastic. I especially liked that the main character, Sandy, was such a mature 18 yr old. This is a wonderful story of a mother's love and sacrifices for her children. A story about teen pregnancy, abortion, adoption. Beautifully written. I give it 5 out of 5 stars!
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher & Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher & Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2014
This was the first audiobook I've ever "read", and I feel like there is potential that I would have given it 5 stars if I had actually read it as opposed to listening to it. Nevertheless, it was a beautifully crafted story about not only making a choice, but the right choice. While it has a TOUCH of improbability, it is still a tale of what being a mother is all about, and the value of human life. Loved it!
July 8, 2015
I caught up with Robert Whitlow and his wife last year at the ICRS conference. He was passionate when he spoke of the book he just finished writing, The Choice. The subject matter was near and dear to his heart. Robert had longed to write a book that honored moms for all they sacrificed to be the bringers of life. I think he achieved his goal in The Choice.
There are a couple of things I look forward to when I read a Robert Whitlow book. One, I enjoy the legal aspect. He brings the reader into the courtroom and shows them the evidence and lets them be in the jury box. The other things I enjoy are his characters and how I instantly feel for them and their situation. Roberts’s sharp wit and sensitivity of the subject matter bring a winning combination for a book. This book is broken into three parts.
Part One introduces the reader to Sandy Lincoln whose a cheerleader in trouble, living in Ruthland, GA in 1974. Her boyfriend wants to marry her, but he’s not ready to be a father. It’s Sandy’s senior year and she has some hard decisions to make. “The Supreme Court ruled that an unborn baby has no protection during the first trimester of the pregnancy. They’ve ruled it doesn’t become a person until its old enough to survive outside the mother’s body. That’s illogical,” Sandy yells to her friend., “If all the grocery stores in Atlanta closed, most of the people in the city would starve before they learned how to grow their own food. Does that mean we’re not people because we’re not as self-sufficient as my parents were on the farm?”
Sandy searches her heart and that of God as what decision to make. She knows it won’t be easy whatever the outcome.
Part Two fast forwards to 2008 – California – Dustin, attorney at law who works at the law firm of Jenkins and Lyons, P.C. moves to GA to handle Dexadopamine cases. Dustin and Sandy’s lives collide in an unexpected way. Sandy Lincoln has been an AP English teacher for a while now! She meets Maria and wants to help her adjust to the English culture and language. Sandy soon learns Maria is in trouble, her father is furious and she doesn’t know where to turn or what to do.
Part Three is The Choice. How far will Sandy go to help Maria decide what is best for her and the baby? What will Maria do? Will Sandy stay committed to be an advocate for Maria when her job is threatened? How far is too far for a school and/or a teacher, guidance counselor to go in getting involved with a student and their life’s choices? Do they have the students’ best interest at heart or do they have their own agenda at stake?
Sandy’s attorney says to her in preparation for the road ahead, “this case goes way beyond a fight over who gets to talk to Maria, when a women’s group like this gets involved in litigation, it’s often because the leaders of the group want to obtain a legal precedent that can be used to advance their goals in other situations, locally, and nationally.”
Sandy was in over her head, this was quickly getting complicated, and she needed God to intercede. Maria was confused, hurt and didn’t speak or understand the English langue well. Could Sandy help Maria make the right Choice given all her options?
This was definitely an eye opener for me on how special interest groups can and do take advantage of people and their situations to advance their cause. There’s a tender love story written into the mix and some surprises along the way I liked. I really enjoyed this book and I’m thankful for the review copy!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
There are a couple of things I look forward to when I read a Robert Whitlow book. One, I enjoy the legal aspect. He brings the reader into the courtroom and shows them the evidence and lets them be in the jury box. The other things I enjoy are his characters and how I instantly feel for them and their situation. Roberts’s sharp wit and sensitivity of the subject matter bring a winning combination for a book. This book is broken into three parts.
Part One introduces the reader to Sandy Lincoln whose a cheerleader in trouble, living in Ruthland, GA in 1974. Her boyfriend wants to marry her, but he’s not ready to be a father. It’s Sandy’s senior year and she has some hard decisions to make. “The Supreme Court ruled that an unborn baby has no protection during the first trimester of the pregnancy. They’ve ruled it doesn’t become a person until its old enough to survive outside the mother’s body. That’s illogical,” Sandy yells to her friend., “If all the grocery stores in Atlanta closed, most of the people in the city would starve before they learned how to grow their own food. Does that mean we’re not people because we’re not as self-sufficient as my parents were on the farm?”
Sandy searches her heart and that of God as what decision to make. She knows it won’t be easy whatever the outcome.
Part Two fast forwards to 2008 – California – Dustin, attorney at law who works at the law firm of Jenkins and Lyons, P.C. moves to GA to handle Dexadopamine cases. Dustin and Sandy’s lives collide in an unexpected way. Sandy Lincoln has been an AP English teacher for a while now! She meets Maria and wants to help her adjust to the English culture and language. Sandy soon learns Maria is in trouble, her father is furious and she doesn’t know where to turn or what to do.
Part Three is The Choice. How far will Sandy go to help Maria decide what is best for her and the baby? What will Maria do? Will Sandy stay committed to be an advocate for Maria when her job is threatened? How far is too far for a school and/or a teacher, guidance counselor to go in getting involved with a student and their life’s choices? Do they have the students’ best interest at heart or do they have their own agenda at stake?
Sandy’s attorney says to her in preparation for the road ahead, “this case goes way beyond a fight over who gets to talk to Maria, when a women’s group like this gets involved in litigation, it’s often because the leaders of the group want to obtain a legal precedent that can be used to advance their goals in other situations, locally, and nationally.”
Sandy was in over her head, this was quickly getting complicated, and she needed God to intercede. Maria was confused, hurt and didn’t speak or understand the English langue well. Could Sandy help Maria make the right Choice given all her options?
This was definitely an eye opener for me on how special interest groups can and do take advantage of people and their situations to advance their cause. There’s a tender love story written into the mix and some surprises along the way I liked. I really enjoyed this book and I’m thankful for the review copy!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
May 29, 2022
A very interesting read. I think I liked the second part of the book better than the first, but the first definitely set the stage for the second. I understand that the author is also a lawyer, and his knowledge of the legal system shines through in his work.
I liked Sandy, and though I didn't always resonate with the way she did things, I did understand the reasoning behind her choices. It was also interesting to try and put together the pieces of the mysterious 'prophecy' she'd been given in 1974.
The Christmas Eve church service scene from the 1974 timeline made me cry happy tears, and I appreciated that Sandy and others around her were trying to do what they felt God had called them to do.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
I liked Sandy, and though I didn't always resonate with the way she did things, I did understand the reasoning behind her choices. It was also interesting to try and put together the pieces of the mysterious 'prophecy' she'd been given in 1974.
The Christmas Eve church service scene from the 1974 timeline made me cry happy tears, and I appreciated that Sandy and others around her were trying to do what they felt God had called them to do.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
March 12, 2017
Very enjoyable, yet detailed.
September 5, 2024
Solid 4.5 ⭐️! Difficult to put down! Part 1 has such insight into pregnant teen considering her options, and the heartaches she experiences. Part 2 is reason for .5 - though I now understand why it was written that way. It strains credulity, but totally supports the author’s perspective.
August 1, 2023
I really enjoyed The Choice! The author did a very good job of creating characters who you could relate to, sympathize with and care about. This book was an interesting mix between contemporary and mystery, and it kept me intrigued! Teen pregnancy is a obviously hard circumstance for a high school girl to go through, and Whitlow did fabulous at portraying all the different emotions, angles and arguments.
I wasn't sure how I felt about the "prophecy" and "supernatural" aspect of it, but it didn't concern me too much, and the suspense of it all pulled me in!
I didn't feel like the faith element was overly strong, but it was there.
Overall, this was a beautiful story, with a fun element of mystery woven in, and a strong theme of pro-life and adoption. If you are looking for a solid, inspiring read - this is the one
"The blackest darkness must retreat before the light of the smallest candle." Robert Whitlow
I wasn't sure how I felt about the "prophecy" and "supernatural" aspect of it, but it didn't concern me too much, and the suspense of it all pulled me in!
I didn't feel like the faith element was overly strong, but it was there.
Overall, this was a beautiful story, with a fun element of mystery woven in, and a strong theme of pro-life and adoption. If you are looking for a solid, inspiring read - this is the one
"The blackest darkness must retreat before the light of the smallest candle." Robert Whitlow
August 21, 2012
I have long been a fan of this author right here. Robert Whitlow has written some really great books and this new one, The Choice, was one of my favorites.
Robert Whitlow knows how to write a good book. I mean one that gets you interested and then keeps your interest the whole way through. Have you ever read a book that you just couldn't finish? I know I sure have! Been several that I couldn't get into:) But that is not the case for this book. The Choice covers a very delicate subject or should I say, several touchy subjects. But Mr Whitlow pulls it all off with great finesse! I do have to tell you, you better have tissues handy!!
The book is separated into two parts. One is when Sandy is a young teen and the second part is when she is older. Sandy is the young, scared teenager who finds out that she is pregnant from a high school boy. I really liked how Robert Whitlow handled this. He could have been in detail about what happened and he also could have just had her parents brush everything off and just say that is what happens. Sure they care for her but at the same time, there are consequences. Her mother is very direct about this and how Sandy's life is going to change. At an early part in this section, Sandy is approached at a gas station by an older woman who tells her a very strange thing. I don't want to give anything away about the story so I will leave you guessing about what she says. But believe me, I was wondering what was going on.
The second part delves into the life of Sandy as she is in her later years. She gave birth and then put both children up for adoption. She chose to never find them unless they wanted to as well. Then guess what happens? A young teenager in her class at school finds out she is pregnant. And very scared. What would any good teacher do? She offers to help this Mexican teen and then gets into a whole lot of trouble. Everything spirals out of control at this point and I found myself cheering Sandy on.
This is a great book you will enjoy. Many tearful parts, some very thought-provoking areas and a lot of good discussion points. I put this book on my keeper shelf and then passed it on for others in my family to read. If you enjoy a good book with a lot to it, this is a book you will want to pick up. Excellent novel Mr Whitlow!!
According to FTC Policy, I received a copy of this book for my review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation. All thoughts are 100% mine.
Robert Whitlow knows how to write a good book. I mean one that gets you interested and then keeps your interest the whole way through. Have you ever read a book that you just couldn't finish? I know I sure have! Been several that I couldn't get into:) But that is not the case for this book. The Choice covers a very delicate subject or should I say, several touchy subjects. But Mr Whitlow pulls it all off with great finesse! I do have to tell you, you better have tissues handy!!
The book is separated into two parts. One is when Sandy is a young teen and the second part is when she is older. Sandy is the young, scared teenager who finds out that she is pregnant from a high school boy. I really liked how Robert Whitlow handled this. He could have been in detail about what happened and he also could have just had her parents brush everything off and just say that is what happens. Sure they care for her but at the same time, there are consequences. Her mother is very direct about this and how Sandy's life is going to change. At an early part in this section, Sandy is approached at a gas station by an older woman who tells her a very strange thing. I don't want to give anything away about the story so I will leave you guessing about what she says. But believe me, I was wondering what was going on.
The second part delves into the life of Sandy as she is in her later years. She gave birth and then put both children up for adoption. She chose to never find them unless they wanted to as well. Then guess what happens? A young teenager in her class at school finds out she is pregnant. And very scared. What would any good teacher do? She offers to help this Mexican teen and then gets into a whole lot of trouble. Everything spirals out of control at this point and I found myself cheering Sandy on.
This is a great book you will enjoy. Many tearful parts, some very thought-provoking areas and a lot of good discussion points. I put this book on my keeper shelf and then passed it on for others in my family to read. If you enjoy a good book with a lot to it, this is a book you will want to pick up. Excellent novel Mr Whitlow!!
According to FTC Policy, I received a copy of this book for my review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation. All thoughts are 100% mine.
August 25, 2012
If you are like me you have your favorite authors in different genres. For a great southern legal drama I tend to gravitate to Robert Whitlow. His novels have an authenticity in them that seems to lack in others. Mr. Whitlow’s novels probably ring true because he is active in the areas that he writes about.
The Choice is the latest work from Mr. Whitlow. This story is an emotionally charged tale that starts in 1974 just following the passing of Roe v. Wade. For anyone that grew up in this time frame and especially anyone that has dealt with an unplanned pregnancy be prepared to have your feelings turned inside out.
The title is so appropriate. Throughout the two sections of the book we are led to see exactly how far reaching our choices are. The first section covers a nine month period in 1974. The second section jumps forward to 2008. With this jump in the story you get to experience the lasting effects of a choice made thirty plus years before. The repercussions are far reaching. They not only affect the one making the choice, but those that the choice was made for and everyone surrounding the decision.
I can already tell that this story is going to linger in my thoughts for some time to come. If you enjoy gritty real life dramas that make you contemplate not only what you believe but why you believe it, then The Choice is for you.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
The Choice is the latest work from Mr. Whitlow. This story is an emotionally charged tale that starts in 1974 just following the passing of Roe v. Wade. For anyone that grew up in this time frame and especially anyone that has dealt with an unplanned pregnancy be prepared to have your feelings turned inside out.
The title is so appropriate. Throughout the two sections of the book we are led to see exactly how far reaching our choices are. The first section covers a nine month period in 1974. The second section jumps forward to 2008. With this jump in the story you get to experience the lasting effects of a choice made thirty plus years before. The repercussions are far reaching. They not only affect the one making the choice, but those that the choice was made for and everyone surrounding the decision.
I can already tell that this story is going to linger in my thoughts for some time to come. If you enjoy gritty real life dramas that make you contemplate not only what you believe but why you believe it, then The Choice is for you.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
July 31, 2012
Every time we make a choice, it impacts not only us but those around us and even some we never meet. An unwanted pregnancy is no exception. Seventeen year old Sandy is blindsided by her unwanted and unexpected pregnancy. Popular cheerleader and girlfriend to a star football player, Sandy has everything to lose. With the newly passed Roe vs. Wade, Sandy’s boyfriend promises her a life of love if she’ll just abort the baby. Her parents want her to leave town to give the baby up for adoption. Sandy’s decision will impact many lives. Will she be able to live with the results?
Split into two sections: Sandy’s life at age 17 when she makes the choice and 30 plus years later as she sees the results of her actions, this novel may be my favorite by Robert Whitlow. It’s hard to talk about the book without giving away the plot too much, but I will say that readers will love Sandy. She’s the typical teen who cares about boys and friends, and watching her grow into a caring woman who puts others before herself makes her one of the best characters I’ve read in a while.
Whitlow does a great job capturing the emotion of a unexpected pregnancy, and this is a tale that will capture reader’s hearts and leave them thinking about life and its choices long after they close the book.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Split into two sections: Sandy’s life at age 17 when she makes the choice and 30 plus years later as she sees the results of her actions, this novel may be my favorite by Robert Whitlow. It’s hard to talk about the book without giving away the plot too much, but I will say that readers will love Sandy. She’s the typical teen who cares about boys and friends, and watching her grow into a caring woman who puts others before herself makes her one of the best characters I’ve read in a while.
Whitlow does a great job capturing the emotion of a unexpected pregnancy, and this is a tale that will capture reader’s hearts and leave them thinking about life and its choices long after they close the book.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 9, 2024
Loved the pro-life message but the story itself just fell a little flat for me. I was fully invested in Part One then Part Two completely lost me with what felt like too many angles being pursued at once.
October 26, 2016
3.5 stars
March 7, 2019
This one was awful. A contrived yet predictable plot with flat and stereotyped characters all wrapped up in a very preachy sermon about the evils of abortion and pro choice advocates.
May 22, 2019
Totally unrealistic and far-fetched.
March 24, 2021
This book starts of intriguing. Half way into the book it gets predictable and far fetched. Very disappointing it didn’t end as good as it started.
August 10, 2015
Fabulous book! The first I have read by this author and now will be looking for more by him.
September 27, 2018
I discovered this author's books a few weeks ago I love the way he tells a believable story that has God involved in it. Christian authors who cause the reader to think about what they're reading are always a great find in my book anyways.
The choice is about 2 different teenage girls who find themselves in the same predicament but 33 years apart. The choice of whether to abort, give up for adoption or keep the baby they're carrying. The first part of the book is about Sandy and the choices she made which led to her final decision about her pregnancy. Though Sandy's family wasn't thrilled to learn she was pregnant they did all they could to support her and her choice.
Thirty three years later Sandy is faced with a young student who is pregnant unlike Sandy it wasn't a choice the student made that wound her up in this situation. Maria can speak English but doesn't always understand it as well as her native tongue of Spanish. She turns to Sandy for guidance because unlike the young Sandy, Maria does not have much family support. Sandy stands by Maria even when it gets her in trouble with school administration and puts her at odds with the guidance counselor who is determine to lead Maria down the road to abortion.
I was very captivated by this book as I could see parts of myself in both teenage girls. Like Sandy I did have family support and it was my choice that put me in the situation. I must say I made the same choice Maria did in the end. You'll have to read the book to know what we both chose :)
In places the book was predictable, in other places I didn't see what happen coming. I'd recommend this book to anyone whether you've faced this choice or not, especially if not as you might gain a bit of understanding. Choices are not always easy but we all make them.
The choice is about 2 different teenage girls who find themselves in the same predicament but 33 years apart. The choice of whether to abort, give up for adoption or keep the baby they're carrying. The first part of the book is about Sandy and the choices she made which led to her final decision about her pregnancy. Though Sandy's family wasn't thrilled to learn she was pregnant they did all they could to support her and her choice.
Thirty three years later Sandy is faced with a young student who is pregnant unlike Sandy it wasn't a choice the student made that wound her up in this situation. Maria can speak English but doesn't always understand it as well as her native tongue of Spanish. She turns to Sandy for guidance because unlike the young Sandy, Maria does not have much family support. Sandy stands by Maria even when it gets her in trouble with school administration and puts her at odds with the guidance counselor who is determine to lead Maria down the road to abortion.
I was very captivated by this book as I could see parts of myself in both teenage girls. Like Sandy I did have family support and it was my choice that put me in the situation. I must say I made the same choice Maria did in the end. You'll have to read the book to know what we both chose :)
In places the book was predictable, in other places I didn't see what happen coming. I'd recommend this book to anyone whether you've faced this choice or not, especially if not as you might gain a bit of understanding. Choices are not always easy but we all make them.
May 22, 2019
This is my second Robert Whitlow book, the first being "Life Support". In The Choice, he gave us another page turner about choices and how it affect our lives and our future.
The year was 1974 in Rutland, Georgia, Sandy was a normal teenager with a perfect life and a great boyfriend. A decision to be intimate got her pregnant. The boyfriend Brad and family wants Sandy to get an abortion, so they could get on with their lives.
Sandy made the choice of completing school and the pregnancy in Atlanta with her aunt and giving the babies (twins) up for adoption. On her way to Atlanta she met an old woman who gave her a prophecy and a warning.
Thirty years later, she is a teacher in the same high school in Rutland, Georgia. A pregnant student came to her for help. How is she going to advise the student?
Pro-life, pro-choice, also a topic for this coming election. Does the government have to give away free birth controls and abortions to prevent unwanted pregnancies? Whatever decision a person decides in life is a choice one has to live with her whole life. This book shows us how much an unwed pregnant teenager has to face decades ago and at present time. How God is always there for and with us. The last part of the book are questions for study group.
I got this book from booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.
The year was 1974 in Rutland, Georgia, Sandy was a normal teenager with a perfect life and a great boyfriend. A decision to be intimate got her pregnant. The boyfriend Brad and family wants Sandy to get an abortion, so they could get on with their lives.
Sandy made the choice of completing school and the pregnancy in Atlanta with her aunt and giving the babies (twins) up for adoption. On her way to Atlanta she met an old woman who gave her a prophecy and a warning.
Thirty years later, she is a teacher in the same high school in Rutland, Georgia. A pregnant student came to her for help. How is she going to advise the student?
Pro-life, pro-choice, also a topic for this coming election. Does the government have to give away free birth controls and abortions to prevent unwanted pregnancies? Whatever decision a person decides in life is a choice one has to live with her whole life. This book shows us how much an unwed pregnant teenager has to face decades ago and at present time. How God is always there for and with us. The last part of the book are questions for study group.
I got this book from booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2020
I read this book many years ago, but didn't remember it when I picked it up recently. I'm so glad I noticed it and read it again. This book makes you think about all the choices we have in our lives and especially the choices that mothers have.
I connected with this book having been a young, unwed mother myself and having lightly considered an abortion as the answer to my unplanned pregnancy. Thankfully God intervened and I chose to have my daughter.
I liked the way the author brought Mary being unwed and pregnant with Jesus into the story and comparing the way Sandy felt in church to her. The Christian references weren't overwhelming, but they were definitely there.
I would love if Mr Whitlow wrote a follow up to this book, but if not, it ended with enough questions answered that it didn't leave me hanging.
I connected with this book having been a young, unwed mother myself and having lightly considered an abortion as the answer to my unplanned pregnancy. Thankfully God intervened and I chose to have my daughter.
I liked the way the author brought Mary being unwed and pregnant with Jesus into the story and comparing the way Sandy felt in church to her. The Christian references weren't overwhelming, but they were definitely there.
I would love if Mr Whitlow wrote a follow up to this book, but if not, it ended with enough questions answered that it didn't leave me hanging.
March 7, 2021
My first book by this author. I thought it was well written. A diverse group of characters some whom I liked and others I wanted to tell,them what I thought of their nosiness and interference. That is why I liked it. It drew me in and I wanted to be part of the plot. Sandy seems to have good intentions and makes some wise choices, but she simultaneously makes bad choices and also tries to exert her personal views on an impressionable teenage pregnant girl in her school. But that is life. We make good choices and we make bad choices and unfortunately we are not the only ones who must deal with the results. Whitlow did an excellent job of giving us something to think about while writing an interesting attention getting book.
January 6, 2024
I am a huge Robert Whitlow fan. I think he is one of the best storytellers of our generation. This book is a little different than the other books of his that I have read but it is still an awesome story. Sandy is the main heroine of the book. She is a school teacher. I have known a couple of women in my life that she reminded me of. The women I have known did not go through the same experiences that Sandy did but they were strong women nonetheless. This is an excellent book to read on a cold winter’s day. It will certainly warm your heart. I will recommend the book, the author to anyone who will listen.
July 26, 2025
Really enjoyed this book. It would likely anger pro choice people because it makes the point that the pro choice movement is less about insuring that women have all of the information they need to make informed choices than it is about performing abortions. Both young girls in this book struggle to decide what is right for them. It made me sad to think that the portrayal of the high school counselor doing her best to persuade the one girl to abort is most likely the scenario that would play out in most schools today. I thought the ending, although highly unlikely, to be very heartwarming.
July 16, 2018
This was my first time reading a book by Robert Whitlow, and although the story drew me in right away, it took me a few chapters to get used to the author's writing style. Sentences were short and matter-of-fact. Instead of showing the reader what the characters were feeling, the author chose to tell the reader what the character was feeling. I always thought this was a no no in fiction writing, so it kind of bugged me. The story itself, was interesting, entertaining and at times fast paced. I'll give this author a second chance.
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