Looking for Jane: A Novel

It is a phenomenal and enrapturing story.I love historical fiction, especially when the author does their research. This book was great, as the narrative follows personal experiences through historical events as they unfolded. I also love the back-and-forth timeline and perspectives of how the impacts of history reverberate through the years, decades, and generations, and the notion of generational trauma is easily witnessed via the experience of this book. It was well done and gives the reader a well-rounded, multi-view perspective.

So for the first half of this book, I just wanted to stop reading it. I couldn’t get into it and the characters were so confusing, trying to remember who was who. Sometimes I do stop at that point, giving up and going to the next book on my list. But I kept going and I’m actually glad I did. It does all come together by the end and it was a gratifying ending. I’m pretty sure of its accuracy during those days of women not being allowed to make decisions about their own bodies with networks of abortionists around. Ugh.

I read this on advice from my mom and I am so happy I did. What a story! It's been a while since I've read a book that I didn't want to put down. This one is a must read!! you won't be sorry

Heather Marshall has turned a timely political discourse into a journey of courage and love. Her stories of three women’s lives illustrate that abortion, pregnancy, miscarriage, infertility, adoption, and motherhood are intertwined. None is the enemy or opposite of the other. The same women experience them at different times in their lives. As I write this review in November of 2023, the tragic Dobbs decision has resulted in an America where abortion care is all but illegal in half the states. Now more than ever, women and anyone who can get pregnant, need to come together with love and compassion. We will get through this terrible time, the half-century wet-dream of Republican men. There will be many people harmed in the interim. We must stay true to our values. Women have always been the gatekeepers of life. It is not just our right, it is our responsibility to decide when to bring new life into the world through our bodies. Thank you, Heather Marshall.

Whether because of Georia Tann or all the homes for wayward girls between CA and US, much of our countries' dark histories have been swept under the rug for most. As controversial as this book is, it is also a real eye opener to motherhood and reproductive rights, especially in Canada between 1960 and 2017. I felt it was a riveting page-turner, but it definitely isn't a read for all.

What a great story covering the reproductive rights of women and the Jane movement in Canada. I wanted to know more, especially about Evelyn's daughter and whether Nancy is able, with her mother's help, to piece together that storyline and whether together they can find the child who Sister Agatha had said died, and tell the woman about her mother.With abortion once again outlawed in the U.S., it is great to hear the story of the 60s and 70s and hope that a Jane network can start anew (with a different name, of course).A must read for women of every age and the men who truly support them in their right to control their own bodies.

Book was a little drawn out

I wasn’t expecting the turn at the end. But it was so well written and I couldn’t put it down. It is a definite read!

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

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

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

An excellent novel that not only explores women’s rights but also the legacy or generational trauma caused by forced adoptions to all parties. This novel exposes the heartache caused by the prevailing laws of the 1950s, 60s & 70s.

What a great story. Heather Marshall’s novel had me engaged from the first page and never let me go.The author states best what the book is about: “… about motherhood. About wanting to be a mother and not wanting to be a mother, and all the grey areas in between.”Her research into the post-war homes for unwed mothers is impeccable. This is a novel that can be relatable to any woman, mother or non-mother. Not only was Marshall able to keep the story moving right along but she adeptly inserted a couple twists that I’m sure most would not have seen coming. I appreciate a well-executed twist.Fortunately this was chosen by one of our book club members so I can hardly wait to discuss the book and its topics at our next meeting. There will be a great deal to exchange views on. Definitely recommended.