Before I Called You Mine
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4.6 • 24 Ratings
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- $9.99
Publisher Description
Lauren Bailey may be a romantic at heart, but after a decade of matchmaking schemes gone wrong, there's only one match she's committed to now--the one that will make her a mother. Lauren is a dedicated first-grade teacher in Idaho, and her love for children has led her to the path of international adoption. To satisfy her adoption agency's requirements, she gladly agreed to remain single for the foreseeable future; however, just as her long wait comes to an end, Lauren is blindsided by a complication she never saw coming: Joshua Avery.
Joshua may be a substitute teacher by day, but Lauren finds his passion for creating educational technology as fascinating as his antics in the classroom. Though she does her best to downplay the undeniable connection between them, his relentless pursuit of her heart puts her commitment to stay unattached to the test and causes her once-firm conviction to waver.
With an impossible decision looming, Lauren might very well find herself choosing between the two deepest desires of her heart . . . even if saying yes to one means letting go of the other.
Customer Reviews
Very sweet book
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I think it does take a little while for it to pick up steam and I feel Joshua is a little idealistic as the leading man. But the conflicts Lauren has to deal with were compelling.
Where the story really shines though is the last few chapters. You can tell the author has personal experience with how harrowing but potentially rewarding it is to become an orphan’s parent. And if she hadn’t already planned it, I would love for her to write a continuation that further explores Lauren’s new life as a mom. Maybe even flesh out Joshua more as well. Explore his flaws, his fears, and his faith.
Overall, would recommend.
Amazing writing, wonderful story.
This book was refreshing, inspiring, and so so sweet. It warmed my heart in every way. I laughed and smiled and cried and I loved it. Fantastic writing and great storytelling, would definitely read this again.
God places the lonely in families...Psalm 68:6
An invisible red thread connects those destined to meet, regardless of time, place, or circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle, but it will never break. Ancient Chinese Proverb
As this was my introduction to this author, I can only say I will be watching for more incredible stories! The story begins with Lauren, a wonderful first grade teacher, the kind you would wish your child would have. At 30 something, with no romance in sight, she has decided to concentrate on the international adoption she has been working on. Enter a substitute teacher in the other first grade classroom and her organized world is turned upside down.
There were so many wonderful things about this book, you simply have to read it for yourself. I found myself laughing, wiping tears, yelling at individuals and absolutely loving the whole thing. From disappointments to meeting an unexpected role model, the author weaves this cast of characters right into your heart. Every good story deserves a fabulous ending and you won’t want to miss that thread that never breaks.
I was privileged to read an ARC through Bethany House Publishers, Baker Publishing Group and NetGalley. The impressions and comments are my own and were in no way solicited.