The cactus

"The Cactus" by Sarah Haywood is a contemporary novel that centers around Susan Green, a woman in her late thirties who leads a controlled and structured life. Susan is emotionally distant, highly independent, and tends to avoid confrontation or anything that could disrupt her orderly world. However, her life begins to unravel after two major events: the sudden death of her mother and the unexpected discovery that she is pregnant.

As Susan grapples with these life-altering changes, she is forced to confront the complexities of her relationships, her fears, and her long-held emotional barriers. Through her journey, she navigates the challenges of family secrets, loss, and the pressure of impending motherhood, all while trying to hold on to her tightly controlled existence.

The title of the book, "The Cactus," is symbolic of Susan herself — prickly on the outside but with much more depth beneath the surface. Throughout the novel, Susan learns to soften her exterior and embrace vulnerability, discovering the importance of human connection, forgiveness, and the ability to embrace life's uncertainties.