In “Don’t Call Me Brave,” Miranda Rijks delivers a poignant and emotionally charged narrative that delves deep into the trials and tribulations of a family grappling with a devastating cancer diagnosis. Categorised under romance sagas, this novel transcends typical genre boundaries to offer a rich, multifaceted exploration of love, fear, and resilience.

Gemma Reece’s orderly existence is shattered when she is diagnosed with sarcoma. Thrust into a whirlwind of hospital visits and gruelling chemotherapy sessions, Gemma finds herself on a harrowing emotional rollercoaster. As she navigates this challenging journey, she is also compelled to face a haunting tragedy from her past. Despite her struggles, Gemma adamantly rejects the label of ‘brave’, seeking instead to be recognised for her complexity and humanity.

Meanwhile, her husband Tom, a pilot, is battling his own demons. Terrified for his wife and paralysed by a deep-seated fear of hospitals, Tom turns to alcohol and his job as means of escape. However, his frequent absences and internal turmoil threaten to tear their family apart. As Tom flies further from his problems, the question looms: is he fleeing from his wife’s illness or from his own unresolved issues?

As their marriage frays at the seams precisely when mutual support is most crucial, both Gemma and Tom are forced to confront their pasts and fears. Rijks masterfully portrays their journey, exploring whether their relationship can withstand the strain and emerge stronger. The novel poses a profound question: can life after cancer hold more promise and fulfilment than the life they knew before?

“Don’t Call Me Brave” is a compelling read, blending heartache and humour to offer a vivid portrait of a family in crisis. Miranda Rijks’ deft storytelling and deeply human characters make this a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of love and resilience in the face of life’s toughest challenges.