by Lionel Shriver

American children's book illustrator Irina McGovern enjoys a secure, settled life in London with her smart, loyal, disciplined partner, Lawrence—until the night she finds herself inexplicably drawn to kissing another man, a passionate, extravagant, top-ranked snooker player. Two competing alternate futures hinge on this single kiss, as Irina's decision—to surrender to temptation or to preserve her seemingly safe partnership with Lawrence—will have momentous consequences for her career, her friendships and familial relationships, and the texture of her daily life.

Member Reviews

 Interesting concept, sweet execution
by Rosemary on March 25, 2008

In this novel, you see how one choice can affect your life and how there are some things you can't change. This book is well written and the title character, Irina, is human--flawed, fun and realistic in her actions. Version one the chapters alternate has Irina kissing Ramsey while her husband is out of town. Version two has her not kissing him and staying with Lawrence. In many ways, the author is saying: There is no bad choice, but I can't help but prefer the version where she kisses, then marries Ramsey. It is a life with passion, understanding and loss, but the other Irina sometimes seems boring and blind to what goes on around her. Definitely recommended.

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