The Farm by Joanne Ramos

☆☆☆☆
ebook Edition, 336 pages
Expected publication: May 7th 2019 by Random House
About the Book:
Nestled in the Hudson Valley is a sumptuous retreat boasting every amenity: organic meals, private fitness trainers, daily massages--and all of it for free. In fact, you get paid big money--more than you've ever dreamed of--to spend a few seasons in this luxurious locale. The catch? For nine months, you belong to the Farm. You cannot leave the grounds; your every move is monitored. Your former life will seem a world away as you dedicate yourself to the all-consuming task of producing the perfect baby for your überwealthy clients. Jane, an immigrant from the Philippines and a struggling single mother, is thrilled to make it through the highly competitive Host selection process at the Farm. But now pregnant, fragile, consumed with worry for her own young daughter's well-being, Jane grows desperate to reconnect with her life outside. Yet she cannot leave the Farm or she will lose the life-changing fee she'll receive on delivery--or worse. Heartbreaking, suspenseful, provocative, The Farm pushes our thinking on motherhood, money, and merit to the extremes, and raises crucial questions about the trade-offs women will make to fortify their futures and the futures of those they love.

The concept was SO interesting - kudos to the author for that. I had high hopes for this novel and I wasn't disappointed. The author’s writing style was wonderful and really pulled me in. The dialogue was easy to follow and the subject matter was interesting and very serious. Women deal with body image and infertility issues all the time.

The Farm is a brilliant novel, working on multiple levels, personally, politically, and everything in between. Joanne Ramos is one of those original writers whose sharp wit, insight and artistry is boiled down to such amazing lines that I was riveted throughout. How often do we get to read about women who are lively, nuanced, relatable and tough?

There is much to like and talk about in this thought-provoking novel, but quite a few cringe-worthy moments too. As a woman, I was terrified, I was angry, and I was caught up in this story like a deer in the headlights. I absolutely cannot fathom being in any of their shoes. But what if? I could babble on about this book for hours, but I’d spoil the whole thing for you. I know this won’t be a book for everyone, and it’s not an easy read, but if you’re even the slightest bit intrigued by the synopsis, I say go for it.

A gorgeous, compelling read---highly recommend!

Thank you NetGalley, Random House and Joanne Ramos for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an impartial review; all opinions are my own.

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