Publication Date: April 1, 2025
From New York Times bestselling author Sarah Jio comes an escapist novel following a young woman stuck in a “time loop” of one-day relationships with romantic partners from her past.
What if you could have a second chance to say “yes” to the one who got away?
Lena Westbrook, a perfectionist and workaholic, has carefully planned and orchestrated every detail of her life. So when her boyfriend of two years breaks up with her on the night she expects him to propose, she’s heartbroken and confused. Lena flees to her beloved aunt’s home on Seattle’s picturesque Bainbridge Island to lick her wounds but when she awakens the next morning, she is shocked to find herself in Paris—in bed with a handsome French man who seems to think that Lena is his wife.
From the elegant neighborhoods of Paris to the charming landscape of Kinsale, Ireland, to the sparkling skyline of New York City, and many other unexpected destinations in between, each time Lena awakens, she finds herself somewhere else with someone else. In each experience, she’s given a glimpse of what life might have looked like had she chosen the “road not taken.” And as she becomes more clear-sighted about her past decisions, Lena begins to wonder, were any of these former romantic encounters actually…significant?
Enchanting and surprising, Insignificant Others is a lively, heartfelt novel that explores the relatable and resonant “what ifs” of life, but most especially, love.
Imagine waking up one morning to a life showcasing different choices. For Lena, that’s a dozen alternative lives filled with different places, careers, and men.
Author Sarah Jio serves up a first-person narrative with Insignificant Others. Each day brings a new set of experiences for Lena, built around a man from her past.
Having this window into what could have been serves as a catalyst for Lena to realize what she really wants in life. The concept of choice plays a significant role, with some of them turning out well while others fall flat.
While getting a “do over” isn’t permanent, Lena leverages the alternate realities for a more enjoyable future where she can enjoy each moment.
Insignificant Others is perfect for anyone who has wondered what life would be like with different choices.
Sarah Jio is the New York Times bestselling author of eleven novels and a journalist who has contributed to the New York Times, Glamour, O, The Oprah Magazine, Glamour, Real Simple, and Marie Claire, among others. She has also appeared as a commentator on NPR’s Morning Edition. Her novels are translated into more than 25 languages. Sarah lives in Seattle with her husband, three sons, three stepchildren, and two puppies.
