Lump by Nathan Whitlock (Dundurn Press, Rare Machines)

A diagnosis can turn life upside down for an entire family.

When Cat learns on the same day that the lump in her breast is malignant and that she is pregnant, given that she has two small children and a husband she cannot rely on, she panics. What to do—fight or flee?

She makes the decision to leave her family behind and concentrate solely on herself and her well-being. All this shakes the foundations of her family, which are already on shaky ground.

I experienced a wide range of emotions while reading the book, including rage, despair, anxiety, perplexity, and delight.

There are a lot of characters in the book; I missed a bit more interaction with Cat since everything starts and ends with her. I don't think I had enough chances to get to know Cat, her true self, and her thoughts.

The whole novel is mostly based on strong women; the men are described as incompetent, and even the dog is old and weak.

Overall, it is a good novel, albeit quite heavy and dark, that I recommend to anyone who enjoys delving deep into their soul and contemplating life. 

4/5