Consent by Annabel Lyon: Book Review

Consent is one of the most thought-provoking books I have read in quite some time. Its discussion of family relationships, responsibility and the repercussions of the choices made make this book quite unforgettable.

The story surrounds two sets of sisters. Sara is a medical ethicist who is three years older than her intellectually disabled sister, Mattie. Once Sara was able to leave home, she chooses to distance herself from her family, setting upon a journey of self discovery. Upon the death of the her last remaining parent, Sara is left with the responsibility of Mattie’s care. Before she has even sorted out her mother’s funeral, Mattie has married Robert, the handyman that her mother used to employ. Although Mattie appears to be happy, Sara has the marriage annulled and has Robert removed from the home.

Saskia and Jenny are twin sisters but far from living identical lives. Saskia is an academic, working on a Master’s degree. Jenny loves fashion and design, is impulsive and adventurous. When Jenny is involved in a life-altering motor vehicle accident, Saskia drops everything to be there for her twin.

Without giving anything away, these two families lives intersect in a surprising way. The book is beautifully written and poignant. There are intense narratives regarding mental illness which the author describes with both respect and clarity. The characters are well-developed and interesting and I found myself wanting to read more.

On a personal note, I loved that this book was set in my hometown of Vancouver. Having the knowledge of the neighbourhoods discussed, made the book more real to me. I’d recommend this book to book clubs and those that appreciate fiction about family relationships.

Thanks to Netgalley and Penguin Random House Canada for the ARC of this book in exchange for the honest review provided here. Consent publishes on September 29.

My rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5.