The Choice by Nicholas Sparks is a very quick, cozy sort of a read, a gentle, romantic ride.

Gabby is a lovably neurotic assistant in a pediatric office, while Travis couldn’t be more down-to-earth - aside from his love of slightly dangerous sporting and traveling the world with no pre-planning at all. The two are neighbors, and it is their love of their dogs that initially sparks a fiery meeting. Typical, comfortable all-American activities are detailed through their first weekend of acquaintance, such as boating, biking and grilling burgers on the beach with friends.

It is written introspectively, from both points of view, illustrating the inner workings of both the man and the woman. The continual back and forth between her thoughts and his is interesting. Sympathies end up being split between the two; wry smiles and vicarious embarrassment are felt for each of them in turn. Set in picturesque small town North Carolina, Boy meets Girl; Boy woos Girl away from current boring Boy; Challenges threaten.

The Choice is neither phenomenally good nor tediously bad, but simply a comfortable way to pass a lazy afternoon. It doesn’t overtax but lulls the reader through the tale. This particular romance is vaguely reminiscent of every romance novel ever penned, especially the early Danielle Steel books.

The description is nice, as is the array of somewhat canned and predictable characters. This is a nice story that will leave the reader feeling warm of heart, but it won’t change your life. There is something to be said for the occasional quick, happy read, though. So while this Nicholas Sparks book isn’t the best story ever, it is probably worth a few hours of time if it falls into your hands.