Book Review: The Best Worst Thing by Sara McClung
I’ll admit it: The title The Best Worst Thing immediately piqued my curiosity. It hinted at complexity and emotion, something I always look for in a good read. Written by debut author Sara McClung, this novel dives deep into the messy landscapes of love, betrayal, and the harsh realities of infertility. Having just turned the last page, I found myself wrestling with a blend of emotions—part admiration, part frustration—but ultimately, the experience was truly unforgettable.
Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, we meet Nicole, who’s been embroiled in a painful battle with infertility alongside her “finance bro” husband, Gabe. Just as she faces her final chance of hope—a last attempt to use her embryo through a gestational carrier—her world crumbles as she discovers Gabe’s infidelity. Enter Logan, her charming, "golden retriever" ex-coworker, who sweeps in at a tumultuous time. The two share an undeniable chemistry, their banter electric and filled with palpable warmth—a highlight that had me grinning from ear to ear.
Now, I have to give credit where it’s due: McClung excels at weaving banter that not only entertains but also lends depth to the characters’ relationships. Their witty exchanges had me grinning and involuntarily engaging with their every step—it’s no wonder I found myself truly rooting for Nicole and Logan. However, as clumsy as some moments may be, the pacing and timeline of their budding romance occasionally left me bewildered. Nicole and Logan reconnect almost immediately after her world implodes, which made it tough to buy into the authenticity of their budding relationship. There’s a fine line between a whirlwind reconnection and a rushed plot, and I felt that balance tipped a little too far toward the latter.
McClung’s writing is compelling, especially in exploring the intricacies of infertility, tackling a topic often shrouded in silence. Her poignant portrayal of Nicole’s struggles—a mix of hope, heartache, and the quest for self-acceptance—resonated deeply. It’s evident that the author invested considerable thought into life’s challenges regarding motherhood, even down to the microcosm of a flawed yet relatable main character.
Yet, I grappled with the third-act conflict; it felt contrived in its execution, as it introduced internal dilemmas for Nicole that seemed to come out of nowhere, leading her to question her feelings for Logan and her capacity to be both a mother and a partner. While I appreciated her complexity, I wished for more resolution on these points instead of a series of declarative decisions that fell flat.
On a lighter note, I couldn’t help but laugh (and sigh) about Nicole’s dog that appeared to serve only as a narrative device rather than a genuine presence in her life. As a dog lover myself, I felt a bit cheated; where’s the love for the pup? Realistically, who was looking after the dog amid all this drama?
Overall, I gave The Best Worst Thing a rating of 3.75 stars—there’s a lot to love, especially if you appreciate witty banter, complex relationship dynamics, and portrayals of modern motherhood full of nuance. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a "right person, wrong time" storyline mixed with a sprinkle of humor.
So, if you’re curious about the themes therein, take a leap! Sara McClung’s debut offers an engrossing experience, tackling hard truths intertwined with humor and heart. You may just find yourself charmed, even amid the chaos.
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