The Dilemma

by B A Paris

The Dilemma is the first book I’ve read by B A Paris but I hope it won’t be the last.

Livia is turning 40 and had promised herself a lavish party to celebrate. She has pretty much been planning it for 20 years and really wants it to be everything she dreamed it would be. She has her reasons.

Her husband, Adam, is more than happy to allow Livia the party of her dreams and has even arranged for an extra special surprise for her.

However, before the party begins, he suspects something which will devastate Livia if true and he battles with himself over whether to tell her before the party or not, especially as he hopes he’s wrong and all will be fine.

Livia has been keeping her own secret from Adam. Worried that her party would be ruined if she told him beforehand.

They are both avoiding the truth. Both not wanting to spoil the party for the other.

I could kind of understand both of their reasoning, although I did want to bang their heads together at times. I did really feel for Adam. I can’t even begin to imagine how I would deal with the same situation. It did make me question what I would do, and I honestly don’t know. Livia’s initial reaction was understandable, and my heart broke for her.

This is a compelling, emotional read. One I will happily recommend.

** I purchased the Kindle edition of The Dilemma on the 2^{nd of} September 2024 so I could join in with this month’s buddy read along with my Bookstagram friends. Good choice, Lucie! **

It’s Livia’s 40th birthday and she’s having the party of a lifetime to make up for the wedding she never had. Everyone she loves will be there except her daughter Marnie, who’s studying abroad. But although Livia loves Marnie, she’s secretly glad she won’t be at the party. She needs to tell Adam something about their daughter but she’s waiting until the party is over so they can have this last happy time together.

Adam wants everything to be perfect for Livia so he’s secretly arranged for Marnie to come home and surprise her on her birthday. During the day, he hears some terrible news. He needs to tell Livia, because how can the party go on? But she’s so happy, so excited – and the guests are about to arrive.

The Dilemma – how far would you go to give someone you love a last few hours of happiness?