Sarah Haywood
Sarah Haywood is a British author renowned for her intelligent and witty storytelling. Born in Birmingham, she originally pursued a legal career, earning her law degree from the University of Kent and working as a lawyer before following her passion for writing. Haywood's transition from law to literature brought her much acclaim with the publication of her debut novel, 'The Cactus'. Released in 2018, this novel was a Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick and became an instant bestseller, celebrated for its sharp humor and heartfelt exploration of themes like familial relationships and self-discovery. The intricate and relatable portrayal of Susan Green, the protagonist, captivated readers worldwide. Sarah's writing has been praised for its clever narrative style and its ability to weave in psychological insights with comedic elements. As a fresh voice in contemporary literature, Haywood continues to influence the genre, crafting stories that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth.
In 'The Cactus' by Sarah Haywood, readers are introduced to Susan Green, a rigid, self-sufficient woman content in her meticulous and predictable routine. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when her mother dies, leaving a perplexing legal dilemma regarding her inheritance. As Susan navigates these challenges, she must confront long-buried family secrets and the emotional walls she's built around her heart—a journey mirrored by her unexpected pregnancy in her mid-forties. Haywood skillfully employs the titular cactus as a metaphor for Susan's prickly demeanor, gradually unraveling the protagonist’s complexities with heartwarming and humorous undertones, revealing themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of unexpected relationships.