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Before I'm Gone
New York Times bestselling author Heidi McLaughlin tells a poignant story about living life to the fullest—and savoring the small moments along the way.
Palmer Sinclair has never needed anyone’s help. A successful loan officer, she’s all work and no play. But when splitting headaches and blurred vision begin to affect her job, she begrudgingly sees a doctor and receives a diagnosis that leaves her shaken to her core and with little time left. Facing an uncertain future, Palmer makes a bucket list, determined to do the things she’d only dreamed of before she goes.
Kent Wagner has dedicated his life to helping others. An army medic turned paramedic, he’s a regular at Palmer’s bank who makes his monthly car loan payments in person just to see her radiant smile. After responding to not one but two 911 calls involving Palmer, he learns about her bucket list. Touched by her circumstances—and needing a distraction from his own—Kent offers to take Palmer to the places on her list.
Neither is prepared for the emotional journey ahead…or how little time they have left together, but the friendship they find in that brief time might be the most lasting legacy of all.
Palmer Sinclair has never needed anyone’s help. A successful loan officer, she’s all work and no play. But when splitting headaches and blurred vision begin to affect her job, she begrudgingly sees a doctor and receives a diagnosis that leaves her shaken to her core and with little time left. Facing an uncertain future, Palmer makes a bucket list, determined to do the things she’d only dreamed of before she goes.
Kent Wagner has dedicated his life to helping others. An army medic turned paramedic, he’s a regular at Palmer’s bank who makes his monthly car loan payments in person just to see her radiant smile. After responding to not one but two 911 calls involving Palmer, he learns about her bucket list. Touched by her circumstances—and needing a distraction from his own—Kent offers to take Palmer to the places on her list.
Neither is prepared for the emotional journey ahead…or how little time they have left together, but the friendship they find in that brief time might be the most lasting legacy of all.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2023
1204 people are currently reading
7476 people want to read
About the author
Heidi McLaughlin
128 books7,438 followersHeidi McLaughlin is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of The Beaumont Series, The Boys of Summer, and The Archers.
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 471 reviews
December 3, 2023
”I know you’re sick, and some days will not be good, but I want to give you as many tomorrows as possible.”
My Thoughts- I love a book that will rip my heart out, throws it on the ground and stomps on it. All while I’m on my knees sobbing uncontrollably. This book only ripped my heart out…The premise of this book sounded very intriguing. But I felt like the execution fell a little flat and I wasn't fully able to get as deep as I would have like. I’m not sure if its because it was written in third person so I didn’t have a “connection” with the characters as much I would have liked. This was still a very good book and I did cry. I was just hoping to be an emotional puddle.
“My friends is dying, so we’re doing the ultimate bucket list tour of the US”
The Plot: Palmers is a young 37 year old has been dealt a rough hand growing up. At 5 years old she finds herself at the orphanage with no memory no identity. She grew up and out of the system. Palmer lived a very lonely life not making any friends because she was afraid that they wouldn’t last. She spent her days at working at the bank and going home. She had one customer that was a regular at the bank- Kent Wagner is a paramedic who had a crush on Miss Palmer. He went to pay his car note every month just to see Palmer smile.
Suddenly, her life comes to a screeching halt with a terminal diagnosis that she was not expecting. Palmer realizes she hasn’t lived a life she wanted. Palmer decides she does not want to go through treatment “Because being sick and dying at the same time doesn’t sound like the best way to go out”
She makes bucket list which you get to see in the book. Kent dealing with his own demons and life troubles finds out Palmer is dying and has a bucket list she want to complete before she passes. So he decides to help her fulfill her list…
“Palmer didn’t just want to go to Disney World. She wanted to sit in front of a roller coaster and feel the wind in her hair. She wanted to go an animal sanctuary and touch the animals. Everything on her list had a reason”
The characters were very well liked and developed. You will fall head over heals for Kent Wagner. His love for Palmer is something everyone dreams of.
The pace & writing. Again this book was written in 3rd person so I did feel disconnected in my opinion. I wish it had been told in alternating first person viewpoints instead.The pace dragged a little. When they stopped at a place the author over described the location rather than focusing on Palmer and Kent. I also think the ending was very rushed.
My thoughts continued- This is a story that makes you sit back and put your life into perspective. This story is so much more than just friendship and a bucket list. It’s love. It’s loss. It’s realizing that any of us can have our lives changed in the blink of an eye. Important lesson from this story- don’t put it off for tomorrow, because tomorrow may not come. I know we hear this saying all the time but you have this one life. Don’t take everything so seriously. Laugh with your friends/ family. Love hard and endlessly. Do whatever makes YOU happy. ❣️
It’s a good book and I do recommend it 💕
Quotes-
" But right now, we're living. Lets live like we've never lived before for the next however many months we have"
"She sensed he cared deeply about her and would do anything to make her last days worth living"
"There was something about him that exuded self confidence and kindheartedness."
" I Love the sound the water makes when it hits the rocks. It sounds like the ocean is angry but yet so calming. What a mix of emotions it can bring"
"you saved me, dont ever forget that. I never knew what it meant to love someone until I met you. You showed me what it was like to live and because of you, I lived my best life in a matter of days"
The Author dedicated this book to Lana Del Rey and Palmer's favorite singer was Miss LDR. so I felt like I needed my playlist to be mostly the Queen herself. ✨✨
Playlist-
🎶 Sad Forever- Lauren Spencer Smith
🎶 Never Felt So Alone- Labrinth
🎶 Beautiful people With Beautiful Problems-LDR
🎶 Ride- LDR
🎶 Stand By Me- Ben E King
🎶 Happiness Is A Butterfly- LDR
🎶 First Day Of My Life - Bright Eyes
🎶 Love Song- LDR
🎶 Look After You- The Fray
🎶 Take Me Home Country Road- LDR
🎶 Fade Into You- Malazy Star
🎶 Young & Beautiful- LDR
🎶 Iris- Goo Goo Dolls
🎶 Without You - LDR
🎶 High By The Beach- LDR
🎶 Tomorrow Never Came- LDR
🎶 The Grants- LDR
My Thoughts- I love a book that will rip my heart out, throws it on the ground and stomps on it. All while I’m on my knees sobbing uncontrollably. This book only ripped my heart out…The premise of this book sounded very intriguing. But I felt like the execution fell a little flat and I wasn't fully able to get as deep as I would have like. I’m not sure if its because it was written in third person so I didn’t have a “connection” with the characters as much I would have liked. This was still a very good book and I did cry. I was just hoping to be an emotional puddle.
“My friends is dying, so we’re doing the ultimate bucket list tour of the US”
The Plot: Palmers is a young 37 year old has been dealt a rough hand growing up. At 5 years old she finds herself at the orphanage with no memory no identity. She grew up and out of the system. Palmer lived a very lonely life not making any friends because she was afraid that they wouldn’t last. She spent her days at working at the bank and going home. She had one customer that was a regular at the bank- Kent Wagner is a paramedic who had a crush on Miss Palmer. He went to pay his car note every month just to see Palmer smile.
Suddenly, her life comes to a screeching halt with a terminal diagnosis that she was not expecting. Palmer realizes she hasn’t lived a life she wanted. Palmer decides she does not want to go through treatment “Because being sick and dying at the same time doesn’t sound like the best way to go out”
She makes bucket list which you get to see in the book. Kent dealing with his own demons and life troubles finds out Palmer is dying and has a bucket list she want to complete before she passes. So he decides to help her fulfill her list…
“Palmer didn’t just want to go to Disney World. She wanted to sit in front of a roller coaster and feel the wind in her hair. She wanted to go an animal sanctuary and touch the animals. Everything on her list had a reason”
The characters were very well liked and developed. You will fall head over heals for Kent Wagner. His love for Palmer is something everyone dreams of.
The pace & writing. Again this book was written in 3rd person so I did feel disconnected in my opinion. I wish it had been told in alternating first person viewpoints instead.The pace dragged a little. When they stopped at a place the author over described the location rather than focusing on Palmer and Kent. I also think the ending was very rushed.
My thoughts continued- This is a story that makes you sit back and put your life into perspective. This story is so much more than just friendship and a bucket list. It’s love. It’s loss. It’s realizing that any of us can have our lives changed in the blink of an eye. Important lesson from this story- don’t put it off for tomorrow, because tomorrow may not come. I know we hear this saying all the time but you have this one life. Don’t take everything so seriously. Laugh with your friends/ family. Love hard and endlessly. Do whatever makes YOU happy. ❣️
It’s a good book and I do recommend it 💕
Quotes-
" But right now, we're living. Lets live like we've never lived before for the next however many months we have"
"She sensed he cared deeply about her and would do anything to make her last days worth living"
"There was something about him that exuded self confidence and kindheartedness."
" I Love the sound the water makes when it hits the rocks. It sounds like the ocean is angry but yet so calming. What a mix of emotions it can bring"
"you saved me, dont ever forget that. I never knew what it meant to love someone until I met you. You showed me what it was like to live and because of you, I lived my best life in a matter of days"
The Author dedicated this book to Lana Del Rey and Palmer's favorite singer was Miss LDR. so I felt like I needed my playlist to be mostly the Queen herself. ✨✨
Playlist-
🎶 Sad Forever- Lauren Spencer Smith
🎶 Never Felt So Alone- Labrinth
🎶 Beautiful people With Beautiful Problems-LDR
🎶 Ride- LDR
🎶 Stand By Me- Ben E King
🎶 Happiness Is A Butterfly- LDR
🎶 First Day Of My Life - Bright Eyes
🎶 Love Song- LDR
🎶 Look After You- The Fray
🎶 Take Me Home Country Road- LDR
🎶 Fade Into You- Malazy Star
🎶 Young & Beautiful- LDR
🎶 Iris- Goo Goo Dolls
🎶 Without You - LDR
🎶 High By The Beach- LDR
🎶 Tomorrow Never Came- LDR
🎶 The Grants- LDR
December 5, 2023
Before I’m Gone was the first book that I have ever read by Heidi McLaughlin. It was both heartbreaking and incredibly inspiring. Before I’m Gone was a beautiful and believable love story between two of the most deserving people. All of my emotions were impacted beyond my expectations by this book. I cried a lot but I also smiled and even laughed at certain things that occurred. It was a book that I continue to think about even though I finished reading it.
Palmer Sinclair had chosen her own name when she aged out of the children’s home she grew up in since she was four years old. Her early years of her childhood were sad and lonely. From a very young age, Palmer realized that she had no one else to rely on but herself. She became very independent and capable. As she grew into womanhood, she secured the position of senior loan officer at a prestigious bank. Palmer was good at her job and everyone she worked with respected her and seemed to like her. She never allowed herself, though, to form any real friendships with the people she worked with. Palmer preferred her solitary life.
Recently Palmer began to experience headaches. She treated them by changing her diet. When that seemed to stop working, Palmer visited several doctors but nothing they gave her worked for long. Then one day while she was eating lunch in the bank’s employee lunchroom, Palmer suffered a slight stroke. One of her colleagues called for the paramedics to come. Kent, a customer at the bank, who Palmer had a secret crush on, was the paramedic that responded to the call along with his partner. They took Palmer to the hospital. The doctor who admitted Palmer decided to run several tests on Palmer. During that visit to the hospital, Palmer learned that she had an advanced form of cancer on her brain and only had about six months to live. She was told that treatment might extend her life a little but her cancer was not curable. It was too advanced. Palmer decided that she did not want to receive treatment. She did not want to live the last months of her life feeling sick from the treatments she received. When Palmer got home to her apartment, she sat down and started to write a bucket list for herself. It included all the places she wanted to see and all the things she wanted to do before the end of her life.
That night, Palmer experienced another debilitating episode. Again the handsome Kent and his partner responded to the call. While in Palmer’s apartment, Kent noticed Palmer’s bucket list on her desk. After reading it, Kent was determined to be the one to take Palmer on this journey and help her cross off as many things on her list as time allowed even though they barely knew each other. First Kent arranged to take several months off from his work as a paramedic. The hard part was going to be convincing Palmer to let him do this with her. Fortunately, Palmer finally agreed and their journey began. Over the course of their journey, Palmer started falling in love with Kent and Kent began falling in love with Palmer. It was beautiful and sad at the same time. They became each other’s best friends as well.
From the onset, I knew that this book was not going to have a happily ever after ending. I knew it was going to be sad and it was. It was also inspiring how Palmer persevered and never gave in until she had to. I loved the relationship that developed between Palmer and Kent. It was beautiful and so believable. Kent was the most attentive, caring, loving and supportive man towards Palmer. He was the perfect person for Palmer. This book taught me that everyone should try to enjoy every moment of their lives as if it might be their last. I felt so happy for Palmer that she was able to cross off a great many things from her bucket list and experience them with the person she grew to love. Before I’m Gone was about choices, living life to the fullest, experiencing true love, loss, grief, acceptance, coping and being able to move on with one’s life after losing a loved one. I loved everything about this book and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Montlake Publishers for allowing me to read Before I’m Gone by Heidi McLaughlin through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
Palmer Sinclair had chosen her own name when she aged out of the children’s home she grew up in since she was four years old. Her early years of her childhood were sad and lonely. From a very young age, Palmer realized that she had no one else to rely on but herself. She became very independent and capable. As she grew into womanhood, she secured the position of senior loan officer at a prestigious bank. Palmer was good at her job and everyone she worked with respected her and seemed to like her. She never allowed herself, though, to form any real friendships with the people she worked with. Palmer preferred her solitary life.
Recently Palmer began to experience headaches. She treated them by changing her diet. When that seemed to stop working, Palmer visited several doctors but nothing they gave her worked for long. Then one day while she was eating lunch in the bank’s employee lunchroom, Palmer suffered a slight stroke. One of her colleagues called for the paramedics to come. Kent, a customer at the bank, who Palmer had a secret crush on, was the paramedic that responded to the call along with his partner. They took Palmer to the hospital. The doctor who admitted Palmer decided to run several tests on Palmer. During that visit to the hospital, Palmer learned that she had an advanced form of cancer on her brain and only had about six months to live. She was told that treatment might extend her life a little but her cancer was not curable. It was too advanced. Palmer decided that she did not want to receive treatment. She did not want to live the last months of her life feeling sick from the treatments she received. When Palmer got home to her apartment, she sat down and started to write a bucket list for herself. It included all the places she wanted to see and all the things she wanted to do before the end of her life.
That night, Palmer experienced another debilitating episode. Again the handsome Kent and his partner responded to the call. While in Palmer’s apartment, Kent noticed Palmer’s bucket list on her desk. After reading it, Kent was determined to be the one to take Palmer on this journey and help her cross off as many things on her list as time allowed even though they barely knew each other. First Kent arranged to take several months off from his work as a paramedic. The hard part was going to be convincing Palmer to let him do this with her. Fortunately, Palmer finally agreed and their journey began. Over the course of their journey, Palmer started falling in love with Kent and Kent began falling in love with Palmer. It was beautiful and sad at the same time. They became each other’s best friends as well.
From the onset, I knew that this book was not going to have a happily ever after ending. I knew it was going to be sad and it was. It was also inspiring how Palmer persevered and never gave in until she had to. I loved the relationship that developed between Palmer and Kent. It was beautiful and so believable. Kent was the most attentive, caring, loving and supportive man towards Palmer. He was the perfect person for Palmer. This book taught me that everyone should try to enjoy every moment of their lives as if it might be their last. I felt so happy for Palmer that she was able to cross off a great many things from her bucket list and experience them with the person she grew to love. Before I’m Gone was about choices, living life to the fullest, experiencing true love, loss, grief, acceptance, coping and being able to move on with one’s life after losing a loved one. I loved everything about this book and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Montlake Publishers for allowing me to read Before I’m Gone by Heidi McLaughlin through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
November 7, 2023
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
BEFORE I’M GONE by Heidi McLaughlin is an emotional romance/women’s fiction that left me swinging between beautiful and heartfelt to devastated and ugly crying. This is a story that reminds everyone to live life to the fullest because you never know what tomorrow will bring. (When you sit down to read this make sure you have a full box of tissues close at hand.)
Palmer Sinclair has always taken care of herself, from aging out of the foster care system to working her way up the corporate ladder in a bank. She begins to have terrible migraines and blurred vision which she tries to take care of on her own until she falls at work. Taken to the hospital, she has a cat scan that reveals the worst possible outcome. Now, with a limited future, she makes a bucket list but feels hopeless to accomplish it on her own.
Kent Wagner was an Army medic who is now a paramedic with the local fire department and a regular at Palmer’s bank. He is the responder when Palmer falls at the bank and in her home. He discovers Palmer’s secret when he accidentally pockets Palmer’s bucket list. Kent is having personal problems of his own and decides helping Palmer with her bucket list will help keep him from focusing on his life.
The connection they find in their time and travels together is an emotional journey you will not be able to forget.
What a tear-jerker, and yet hauntingly beautiful story with characters that I will never forget. This is an emotional rollercoaster that feels so real and raw, but you do not want to get off the ride and there are moments of humor to occasionally give you a break from the tissues. Palmer is a heroine that you want to wrap in your arms and Kent was the perfect hero for her. How many of us continually put off what we want, our bucket list, until it is too late? Even if you do not do something on a bucket list, this friendship/love story reminds you to live every day to the fullest.
I highly recommend this emotional journey!
BEFORE I’M GONE by Heidi McLaughlin is an emotional romance/women’s fiction that left me swinging between beautiful and heartfelt to devastated and ugly crying. This is a story that reminds everyone to live life to the fullest because you never know what tomorrow will bring. (When you sit down to read this make sure you have a full box of tissues close at hand.)
Palmer Sinclair has always taken care of herself, from aging out of the foster care system to working her way up the corporate ladder in a bank. She begins to have terrible migraines and blurred vision which she tries to take care of on her own until she falls at work. Taken to the hospital, she has a cat scan that reveals the worst possible outcome. Now, with a limited future, she makes a bucket list but feels hopeless to accomplish it on her own.
Kent Wagner was an Army medic who is now a paramedic with the local fire department and a regular at Palmer’s bank. He is the responder when Palmer falls at the bank and in her home. He discovers Palmer’s secret when he accidentally pockets Palmer’s bucket list. Kent is having personal problems of his own and decides helping Palmer with her bucket list will help keep him from focusing on his life.
The connection they find in their time and travels together is an emotional journey you will not be able to forget.
What a tear-jerker, and yet hauntingly beautiful story with characters that I will never forget. This is an emotional rollercoaster that feels so real and raw, but you do not want to get off the ride and there are moments of humor to occasionally give you a break from the tissues. Palmer is a heroine that you want to wrap in your arms and Kent was the perfect hero for her. How many of us continually put off what we want, our bucket list, until it is too late? Even if you do not do something on a bucket list, this friendship/love story reminds you to live every day to the fullest.
I highly recommend this emotional journey!
November 20, 2023
This is a very sad story about illness and death. BUT I was expecting my heart to be ripped out the entire book and I just didn’t feel that emotionally connected to it.
I think that it was because it was told in the 3rd person. I think it makes it less sad when it says “Palmer knew she was dying” vs “I knew I was dying.” I kind of wish it had been told in alternating 1st person viewpoints instead.
Regardless, it was a great story with so much going on. Romance, travel, illness, death, family, adoption, kidnapping, unplanned pregnancy, etc… the list goes on. It was a great story.
The last 50 pages were very sad and may be hard to read if you have had a family member or spouse die.
Kent also was like the dream man of all dream men. He did not have to do any of the things he did for Palmer. He truly was like a guardian angel.
I think that it was because it was told in the 3rd person. I think it makes it less sad when it says “Palmer knew she was dying” vs “I knew I was dying.” I kind of wish it had been told in alternating 1st person viewpoints instead.
Regardless, it was a great story with so much going on. Romance, travel, illness, death, family, adoption, kidnapping, unplanned pregnancy, etc… the list goes on. It was a great story.
The last 50 pages were very sad and may be hard to read if you have had a family member or spouse die.
Kent also was like the dream man of all dream men. He did not have to do any of the things he did for Palmer. He truly was like a guardian angel.
November 6, 2023
I am not ok. And that's ok.
Damn, this book wrecked me with all the feels. Such a cathartic cry I hadn't realized I needed.
Full RTC once I'm able to pull myself together.
But I will say, this is my favorite book from Heidi so far and definitely a top 3 read of 2023.
Full RTC Below:
"Manifest your happiness."
That is the biggest thing I have taken away from this book. You create the happiness that you want in your life.
Before I'm Gone is Heidi McLaughlin's newest release and the title is exactly what you think. And please, have tissues at the ready.
"We can't dwell on the past. We have to look to the future and be the people we want to be."
As emotional as this book was to read, it was also absolutely beautiful and has you being more appreciative of everything. This book took me longer than normal to read because there were many times that I had to stop and sit with my feelings after reading certain parts. It put my heart in a chokehold and forced me take it all in.
Palmer's journey with Kent by her side was absolutely worth every single tear I shed. Heidi has written a heart-wrenching story that is very raw and very real. Readers will embrace Palmer and Kent with open arms and never want to let them go.
I haven't been this moved by a book in over five years. This book has left a huge imprint on my heart and soul; it will stay with me forever.
Damn, this book wrecked me with all the feels. Such a cathartic cry I hadn't realized I needed.
Full RTC once I'm able to pull myself together.
But I will say, this is my favorite book from Heidi so far and definitely a top 3 read of 2023.
Full RTC Below:
"Manifest your happiness."
That is the biggest thing I have taken away from this book. You create the happiness that you want in your life.
Before I'm Gone is Heidi McLaughlin's newest release and the title is exactly what you think. And please, have tissues at the ready.
"We can't dwell on the past. We have to look to the future and be the people we want to be."
As emotional as this book was to read, it was also absolutely beautiful and has you being more appreciative of everything. This book took me longer than normal to read because there were many times that I had to stop and sit with my feelings after reading certain parts. It put my heart in a chokehold and forced me take it all in.
Palmer's journey with Kent by her side was absolutely worth every single tear I shed. Heidi has written a heart-wrenching story that is very raw and very real. Readers will embrace Palmer and Kent with open arms and never want to let them go.
I haven't been this moved by a book in over five years. This book has left a huge imprint on my heart and soul; it will stay with me forever.
September 3, 2023
This book will haunt me until the day I die! I am still shaking and sobbing while writing this review down! BEFORE I’M GONE was a heartbreaking love story about living life to the fullest, and savoring the small moments along the way! Again, thank you so much to the author and AMAZON PUBLISHING for giving me an ARC! This book releases NOVEMBER 7, 2023 and I absolutely indeed promise that everyone will love this book! Just remember to have tissues prepared next to you! The story follows Palmer Sinclair having a stroke at her bank and a diagnosis saying she has six months left to live. Refusing medical attention, Palmer decides to make a bucket list to all the places she would like to see before she passes, until Kent Wagner decides to join her on the journey! Neither is prepared for a emotional journey or how little time is left, they create a friendship and bond in the brief time they have, making it the most lasting legacy of all! A beautiful and emotional book that you must read when it hits shelves soon!
October 22, 2024
They’re so ‘summertime sadness’ coded oh my god im gonna cry, I love Palmer and Kent so much and their story breaks my heart and changed my perspective of life.
“She finally had someone”💔💔💔💔stop
“She finally had someone”💔💔💔💔stop
November 16, 2023
There are those rare times when a book comes along and shakes you to your core, forcing you to re-evaluate life, loss, grief and moving forward. For me, this is one.
Plenty of gut-punches and emotionally filled narratives that capture the raw emotions felt between these characters. It’s very difficult not to shed more than a few tears for both Palmer and Kent. On the other hand, there’s a peacefulness that comes from the joy and appreciation for those shared moments filled with a deep and undying love between them.
A story that doesn’t hide the fact that it won’t end as we would hope. Even so, the relationship between this wonderful couple was beautiful and one to be remembered long after the final words are read. I don’t regret one second of the time spent reading this well-presented book.
November 10, 2023
— 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 —
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Before I’m Gone
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): Heidi McLaughlin
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 3/5
”I know you’re sick, and some days will not be good, but I want to give you as many tomorrows as possible.”
Before I’m Gone is an emotionally devastating love story between a patient and a paramedic. Palmer is given six months to live after collapsing at work and being taken to hospital by medic, Kent. Kent is potentially about to become a new father after finding out his girlfriend is married and needs to escape for a while. Palmer and Kent gravitate towards each other and try to fit in as much bucket-listed adventure as possible during their road trip.
I found this extremely heavy hearted. Palmer’s situation overshadows much of the novel and I felt she had one of the saddest lives in the entire world. There was nothing to offset this sadness, her humour was quite dry, Kent’s was little better, and their romance was too bittersweet to provide any real lightness to the story.
Before I’m Gone also helps highlight ethical issues, Kent got personally involved with somebody he was professionally involved with, although his paramedic status does allow him to be removed from most of Palmer’s medical journey, even if he personally chooses to see it through with her. Not only that, it also raises the ever evolving subject of dignity in dying which I enjoyed because I am a believer in honoring an individuals wishes if (of course) they are in their right mind.
Lastly—and I think I’m definitely in the minority on this perception—I thought that the delivery of the prose was pretty flat. I didn’t get emotionally invested until around the 80% mark and I felt mostly bored throughout the first 80%. Regardless of this, I cannot deny that I completely ugly cried at the end of this book.
—Kayleigh🤍
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𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Before I’m Gone
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): Heidi McLaughlin
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 3/5
”I know you’re sick, and some days will not be good, but I want to give you as many tomorrows as possible.”
Before I’m Gone is an emotionally devastating love story between a patient and a paramedic. Palmer is given six months to live after collapsing at work and being taken to hospital by medic, Kent. Kent is potentially about to become a new father after finding out his girlfriend is married and needs to escape for a while. Palmer and Kent gravitate towards each other and try to fit in as much bucket-listed adventure as possible during their road trip.
I found this extremely heavy hearted. Palmer’s situation overshadows much of the novel and I felt she had one of the saddest lives in the entire world. There was nothing to offset this sadness, her humour was quite dry, Kent’s was little better, and their romance was too bittersweet to provide any real lightness to the story.
Before I’m Gone also helps highlight ethical issues, Kent got personally involved with somebody he was professionally involved with, although his paramedic status does allow him to be removed from most of Palmer’s medical journey, even if he personally chooses to see it through with her. Not only that, it also raises the ever evolving subject of dignity in dying which I enjoyed because I am a believer in honoring an individuals wishes if (of course) they are in their right mind.
Lastly—and I think I’m definitely in the minority on this perception—I thought that the delivery of the prose was pretty flat. I didn’t get emotionally invested until around the 80% mark and I felt mostly bored throughout the first 80%. Regardless of this, I cannot deny that I completely ugly cried at the end of this book.
—Kayleigh🤍
♡Booksta
♡Threads
July 4, 2023
I’m still wiping away tears…
I’ll be honest, when I started this book, and for about the first 5 to 10 chapters, I was really considering DNFing this one. I really struggled to get into the prose and there was a lot of cognitive dissonance in some of the writing that left me feeling detached from the narration.
That being said, I’m SO glad I kept reading!! Somewhere along the way between Boston, DC, Lana Del Rey’s voice in the back of my mind, and Courtney’s house, I fell in love with Palmer and Kent’s story. These characters will live in my mind long after I put this book down.
Palmer’s grief and struggles coming to terms with her diagnosis left an ache in my gut for most of this story. Her resilience and insistence on pushing through the worst of it had me rooting for her despite knowing how her story would end.
Let’s talk about Kent. While I think his own journey of his struggles with Maeve wasn’t as well explored as it could have been, I adore this man beyond belief. He is the reason I sobbed for a good 15 minutes when nearing the end of this book. The love, commitment, patience, selflessness, and adoration this man displayed for Palmer is something most of us can only dream to be on the receiving end of one day. May we all find our Kent before we are given 6 months to live.
When I started reading this book, I was expecting to give it a 2 star review. It slowly made its way up all the way to a 4 (4.5 if Goodreads allowed it) and I’m so glad I stuck with this one to the end. If you’re up for a gut wrenching romance that will leave you sobbing, give this one a shot.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake publishing for providing me a digital advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion
I’ll be honest, when I started this book, and for about the first 5 to 10 chapters, I was really considering DNFing this one. I really struggled to get into the prose and there was a lot of cognitive dissonance in some of the writing that left me feeling detached from the narration.
That being said, I’m SO glad I kept reading!! Somewhere along the way between Boston, DC, Lana Del Rey’s voice in the back of my mind, and Courtney’s house, I fell in love with Palmer and Kent’s story. These characters will live in my mind long after I put this book down.
Palmer’s grief and struggles coming to terms with her diagnosis left an ache in my gut for most of this story. Her resilience and insistence on pushing through the worst of it had me rooting for her despite knowing how her story would end.
Let’s talk about Kent. While I think his own journey of his struggles with Maeve wasn’t as well explored as it could have been, I adore this man beyond belief. He is the reason I sobbed for a good 15 minutes when nearing the end of this book. The love, commitment, patience, selflessness, and adoration this man displayed for Palmer is something most of us can only dream to be on the receiving end of one day. May we all find our Kent before we are given 6 months to live.
When I started reading this book, I was expecting to give it a 2 star review. It slowly made its way up all the way to a 4 (4.5 if Goodreads allowed it) and I’m so glad I stuck with this one to the end. If you’re up for a gut wrenching romance that will leave you sobbing, give this one a shot.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake publishing for providing me a digital advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion
June 17, 2023
I begun this book today and read it within a matter of hours. I couldn't put my kindle down. This book is honestly amazing but heartbreaking all at the same time. Heidi Mclaughlin has created a book that is a serious emotional rollercoaster. I couldn't help but giggle along with Kent and Palmer as they made their journey and have my heart break more and more near the end for them both. Especially Kent. He is the perfect man and I would give anything for a person to look at me the way he looks at Palmer. I very rarely get so emotionally attached to a character that I cry but this book made me ugly cry at the end. Get your tissues out and at the ready for when you read this book. Even though it was a rollercoaster ride of emotions it is well worth the read and I'm so happy that I was able to read the arc because my life is definitely much better for reading it. Palmer is an inspiration hands down. I can see this being a movie some day already.
January 3, 2025
One has a lot of time to read when driving 1000 miles to Colorado so I was able to make my way through this one pretty quickly - especially when parts were skimmed.
Many will really love this one - Palmer is diagnosed with a tumor and given no more than 6 months to live. She’s had a crap life and makes a bucket list of things she wants to do and see. Insert Kent. He barely knows her and decides to take her on a trek across the US to complete her bucket list.
I love the premise but found the execution lacking. I didn’t find Kent and Palmer’s chemistry or relationship believable and found the writing to be a little bit juvenile. Truth be told, I didn’t care about either one. I wanted more emotion and substance but got neither.
I hate to diss on a book with this subject matter but it was a miss for me. Thanks to Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Many will really love this one - Palmer is diagnosed with a tumor and given no more than 6 months to live. She’s had a crap life and makes a bucket list of things she wants to do and see. Insert Kent. He barely knows her and decides to take her on a trek across the US to complete her bucket list.
I love the premise but found the execution lacking. I didn’t find Kent and Palmer’s chemistry or relationship believable and found the writing to be a little bit juvenile. Truth be told, I didn’t care about either one. I wanted more emotion and substance but got neither.
I hate to diss on a book with this subject matter but it was a miss for me. Thanks to Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2023
It is hard to write a review when you are still crying from the book but I had to get my thoughts down on paper.
BEFORE IM GONE is a story from the get go that the reader knows is going to be emotional from the get go, something about Palmer strikes you from page one. But the twist of her illness is something that resonates so strongly through the pages. From the story of her childhood to the way Kent showed her life in a few short weeks and the love her gave her was so real, raw, and amazing.
Heidi McLaughlin is my favorite romance author. I love reading her for her steamy scenes but also for the world she creates and how I leave every book with a new love, renewed hope in finding a love, and every female character I see as a friend. None was more apparent than in this book. I loved Palmer from page one and Kent- umm- marry me please!
This is a story that touched my heart. I can only hope we see Kent again and he keeps his promise to Palmer to always live for tomorrow.
Breathtaking, brillantly written and a book that is in my top 5 of all time. I’ll never forget it
If you want to know more about palmer’s sickness please check out THE DARREN DAULTON FOUNDATION. Not affiliated with the book but does so good for the research and look for a cure.
BEFORE IM GONE is a story from the get go that the reader knows is going to be emotional from the get go, something about Palmer strikes you from page one. But the twist of her illness is something that resonates so strongly through the pages. From the story of her childhood to the way Kent showed her life in a few short weeks and the love her gave her was so real, raw, and amazing.
Heidi McLaughlin is my favorite romance author. I love reading her for her steamy scenes but also for the world she creates and how I leave every book with a new love, renewed hope in finding a love, and every female character I see as a friend. None was more apparent than in this book. I loved Palmer from page one and Kent- umm- marry me please!
This is a story that touched my heart. I can only hope we see Kent again and he keeps his promise to Palmer to always live for tomorrow.
Breathtaking, brillantly written and a book that is in my top 5 of all time. I’ll never forget it
If you want to know more about palmer’s sickness please check out THE DARREN DAULTON FOUNDATION. Not affiliated with the book but does so good for the research and look for a cure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2024
This book had really awesome reviews, so I was excited to start it. I’ve also heard great things from other folks about how good this author is. I hate to say that my expectations were not met and the book fell short.
I could not get into the plot, the characters were rather dry and one dimensional, and I just didn’t like the writing, storytelling, or plot.
I think I’ll give this author another chance.
I read from March 7 to March 24th; started reading again at April 8th and finished on April 10th. Got 61% and simply couldn’t finish it; couldn’t get into it. Layer completed it because I felt like I owed it to myself to finish.
I could not get into the plot, the characters were rather dry and one dimensional, and I just didn’t like the writing, storytelling, or plot.
I think I’ll give this author another chance.
I read from March 7 to March 24th; started reading again at April 8th and finished on April 10th. Got 61% and simply couldn’t finish it; couldn’t get into it. Layer completed it because I felt like I owed it to myself to finish.
November 7, 2023
Palmer is strong, independent and had no idea that the life she had built was about to come crashing down. When what she believed wasn’t a real problem turns into devasting news about her health and future she is determined to spend the rest of her time living without regrets. What she didn’t expect was that it would include Kent and the journey they would take.
Kent is a paramedic who was also a client of Palmer’s. He is there to offer medical support when she needs someone the most and when he finds out her situation and her plan he wants to be by her side every step of the way regardless of what the outcome will be.
This is a heartbreaking and inspiring story about how there are no guarantees when it comes to love and life and each day, and every memory is a gift. Their journey is emotional, compelling and one you won’t soon forget.
Kent is a paramedic who was also a client of Palmer’s. He is there to offer medical support when she needs someone the most and when he finds out her situation and her plan he wants to be by her side every step of the way regardless of what the outcome will be.
This is a heartbreaking and inspiring story about how there are no guarantees when it comes to love and life and each day, and every memory is a gift. Their journey is emotional, compelling and one you won’t soon forget.
December 9, 2023
This story was so sad and beautiful at the same time, the author really knows how to pull at your heart strings and remind you what is really important in our short life. The characters were relatable and kept me hooked the whole time. Grab this book and some tissues because you will need it!
Palmer has never needed anyone's help; successful loan officer but she is all work and no play. But when she becomes sick her future is looking blurred. Why did she think she could wait to really live her life. With time on her side now she makes a bucket list, enter Kent. Kent has dedicated his life to helping others, a paramedic and regular at Palmers bank. He learns about her bucket list, touched by it and need a distraction himself he decides to help her. with the list. Neither are prepared for the emotional toll ahead. What little time they have, but the friendship they find is what they both never thought they needed, might just be the heal both their hearts.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for copy of this book for my honest review.
Palmer has never needed anyone's help; successful loan officer but she is all work and no play. But when she becomes sick her future is looking blurred. Why did she think she could wait to really live her life. With time on her side now she makes a bucket list, enter Kent. Kent has dedicated his life to helping others, a paramedic and regular at Palmers bank. He learns about her bucket list, touched by it and need a distraction himself he decides to help her. with the list. Neither are prepared for the emotional toll ahead. What little time they have, but the friendship they find is what they both never thought they needed, might just be the heal both their hearts.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for copy of this book for my honest review.
January 4, 2026
It has been awhile since I’ve read a book that absolutely broke my heart and also pieced it together. I cried so hard that I couldn’t see at the end. I wanted so badly for a different ending, but thankfully this author didn’t do that. When Palmer asked Kent when I get to heaven do you think my mom will be waiting absolutely broke me! I feel you Palmer! With all this being said, read the book! It’s so good for your soul
May 4, 2025
My heart is shattered for Palmer and Kent! This book hits so close to home right now…
I knew going in that this one was going to hurt but I didn’t know quite how much my heartstrings would be plucked with every check mark they made on Palmer’s bucket list. 💔
I knew going in that this one was going to hurt but I didn’t know quite how much my heartstrings would be plucked with every check mark they made on Palmer’s bucket list. 💔
March 25, 2025
Great book SAD and worth it. The next time I feel a headache coming I will get scared just a little bit. I would like to think that there are many men out there like Kent, but I know there are not. Palmer's life was undesirable, sad and boring until she got sick. When she realized that her time was limited she had to live 30 years of life to the fullest.
July 9, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐,5
commovente
commovente
November 10, 2023
A devastating story about living life to the fullest, finding love when you don't expect it and the unfairness of life.
When there's a 'right person, not enough time' trope, it's bound to rip your heart out and tear it to shreds. This story is extremely sad from the very start and it took me a few days to read it because I kept avoiding it for my own sake. I would advise you to check the trigger warnings because this is not an easy read.
Although the story is hard to swallow, the writing is engaging and easy-to-read. I loved both main characters, and how their struggles and desires were portrayed. Their journey is bittersweet but so heartwarming. The only aspect I was kind of unsure about was how quickly they became comfortable with each other, but then, if it's the right person, you just know and let go, right? I loved seeing their bucket list grow and things being crossed off, and I liked Palmer's attitude, no matter how utterly sad her story is.
I would love to read more from this author and would highly recommend this one, but only if you're comfortable with the topic.
A huge thank you to NetGalley, Montlake and the author for sending me an ARC of this book!
When there's a 'right person, not enough time' trope, it's bound to rip your heart out and tear it to shreds. This story is extremely sad from the very start and it took me a few days to read it because I kept avoiding it for my own sake. I would advise you to check the trigger warnings because this is not an easy read.
Although the story is hard to swallow, the writing is engaging and easy-to-read. I loved both main characters, and how their struggles and desires were portrayed. Their journey is bittersweet but so heartwarming. The only aspect I was kind of unsure about was how quickly they became comfortable with each other, but then, if it's the right person, you just know and let go, right? I loved seeing their bucket list grow and things being crossed off, and I liked Palmer's attitude, no matter how utterly sad her story is.
I would love to read more from this author and would highly recommend this one, but only if you're comfortable with the topic.
A huge thank you to NetGalley, Montlake and the author for sending me an ARC of this book!
November 30, 2023
Emotional, pensive, and profoundly moving!
Before I’m Gone is a beautifully written, poignant novel that takes you into the life of the young, thirty-seven-year-old Palmer Sinclair who, with the help of a new friend, Kent Wagner, spends her last weeks of life reaping as much joy and pleasure out of each day, savouring all the little things, creating memories, doing the things in life that she’s always wanted to do, and falling in love for the first time.
The prose is eloquent and insightful. The characters are strong, compassionate, and endearing. And the plot is a heart-wrenching, absorbing tale of life, love, friendship, kindness, honesty, acceptance, generosity, romance, humour, introspection, and loss.
Overall, Before I’m Gone is a reflective, touching, bittersweet tearjerker by McLaughlin that does a remarkable job of reminding us of what’s truly important in life and highlighting the sheer power of love.
Thank you to Firefly Distributed Lines for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Before I’m Gone is a beautifully written, poignant novel that takes you into the life of the young, thirty-seven-year-old Palmer Sinclair who, with the help of a new friend, Kent Wagner, spends her last weeks of life reaping as much joy and pleasure out of each day, savouring all the little things, creating memories, doing the things in life that she’s always wanted to do, and falling in love for the first time.
The prose is eloquent and insightful. The characters are strong, compassionate, and endearing. And the plot is a heart-wrenching, absorbing tale of life, love, friendship, kindness, honesty, acceptance, generosity, romance, humour, introspection, and loss.
Overall, Before I’m Gone is a reflective, touching, bittersweet tearjerker by McLaughlin that does a remarkable job of reminding us of what’s truly important in life and highlighting the sheer power of love.
Thank you to Firefly Distributed Lines for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2025
Cute, romantic story... But kinda slow
November 11, 2023
5* plus
This has to be one of the most emotional stories I’ve read in a long time.
This book is Palmers story where she has been dealt a rough hand growing up in the system, to then being dealt with a terminal illness.
Kent has just had the shock of his life turning up to roadside accident to then have his world turn upside down.
This is a story that makes you sit back and put your life into perspective, a truly amazing story. However, not a read on the beach, public transport as you will need tissues.
First book I’ve read by this author but loved it.
This has to be one of the most emotional stories I’ve read in a long time.
This book is Palmers story where she has been dealt a rough hand growing up in the system, to then being dealt with a terminal illness.
Kent has just had the shock of his life turning up to roadside accident to then have his world turn upside down.
This is a story that makes you sit back and put your life into perspective, a truly amazing story. However, not a read on the beach, public transport as you will need tissues.
First book I’ve read by this author but loved it.
January 20, 2024
Wow what an excellent read. This book had me from beginning to end. Not a single min of any chapter dragging. I definitely recommend.
May 12, 2024
4.5… cried through the whole thing
September 25, 2024
Whew, emotional. This was such a good story, although the writing was a little… basic? I really enjoyed it though.
September 13, 2023
4.25/5 stars!!!
Thank you for the ARC!!!
This book was...wow. I have no words honestly. It's one of those books that you know whats going to happen, your heart knows whats going to happen, but there is a slight hope that slowly dwindles the more you read that everything will work out. I loved this whole heartedly. This book really puts emphasis on the live your life to the fullest quote, and had me truly rethinking everything I put off until tomorrow or will do 'later'. Later is not promised AT ALL. Kent and Palmer really have my heart. This is one of those reads you think about for a REALLY long time after, and start considering all your life choices.
A little mini synopsis:
Palmer was simply going to work and going home each day, with not much thought about having friends, traveling, or just living in general. Suddenly, her life came to a screeching halt with a diagnosis that she was not expecting. She now had so many things she wanted to accomplish after realizing she barely had done anything with her 37 years of life, and ws given only 6 months. Kent was a paramedic who met Palmer and decided to take her to see everything she wanted to do before she was gone. However, life is bittersweet.
The only reason I gave this a 4.25 and not a 5 is because there are a few things I would change, and thats not being descriptive enough about the time frame. I'm not sure if that was on purpose or what, but I felt lost constantly with how long it had been in the book, and by the end I honestly thought it had only been like two weeks or something, come to find out their trips were over like a course of 2-3 months or something (I could legit still be wrong which is why I am saying there needs to be some sort of week mentioned, month mentioned, day count...or something. ) I also wish we got more of Kent and Palmer in general, and although we are following them through their journey 95% of the book, it just felt like we were describing the places they were going a little TOO much. I wanted to know what Kent was thinking all the time and what Palmer was feeling more. It just felt a little too descriptive on the world around them and not about them if that makes sense.
Overall, I loved this book. It was heart wrenching, sad, and just overall a book that really makes you think about life and how we should be living, not waiting to live.
Thank you for the ARC!!!
This book was...wow. I have no words honestly. It's one of those books that you know whats going to happen, your heart knows whats going to happen, but there is a slight hope that slowly dwindles the more you read that everything will work out. I loved this whole heartedly. This book really puts emphasis on the live your life to the fullest quote, and had me truly rethinking everything I put off until tomorrow or will do 'later'. Later is not promised AT ALL. Kent and Palmer really have my heart. This is one of those reads you think about for a REALLY long time after, and start considering all your life choices.
A little mini synopsis:
Palmer was simply going to work and going home each day, with not much thought about having friends, traveling, or just living in general. Suddenly, her life came to a screeching halt with a diagnosis that she was not expecting. She now had so many things she wanted to accomplish after realizing she barely had done anything with her 37 years of life, and ws given only 6 months. Kent was a paramedic who met Palmer and decided to take her to see everything she wanted to do before she was gone. However, life is bittersweet.
The only reason I gave this a 4.25 and not a 5 is because there are a few things I would change, and thats not being descriptive enough about the time frame. I'm not sure if that was on purpose or what, but I felt lost constantly with how long it had been in the book, and by the end I honestly thought it had only been like two weeks or something, come to find out their trips were over like a course of 2-3 months or something (I could legit still be wrong which is why I am saying there needs to be some sort of week mentioned, month mentioned, day count...or something. ) I also wish we got more of Kent and Palmer in general, and although we are following them through their journey 95% of the book, it just felt like we were describing the places they were going a little TOO much. I wanted to know what Kent was thinking all the time and what Palmer was feeling more. It just felt a little too descriptive on the world around them and not about them if that makes sense.
Overall, I loved this book. It was heart wrenching, sad, and just overall a book that really makes you think about life and how we should be living, not waiting to live.
December 19, 2023
I’ve read over a dozen Heidi McLaughlin books. And I think this one may just be her best one yet - it’s definitely my favorite of hers. To start with, you need to know this isn’t a romance where you get a happy ever after. But it IS a beautiful, heartwarming, heartbreaking LOVE story.
Abandoned at an orphanage when she was five, Palmer Sinclair has lived her whole life solitary, without family or close friends. When debilitating headaches turn out to be more than just migraines, she writes a bucket list of things she wants to see before her terminal illness ends her life.
Paramedic Kent Wagner has been a casual acquaintance of Palmer’s for years - he drops off his car loan payment every month in person at the bank where she’s a loan officer. When his ambulance gets called to attend to Palmer’s medical emergencies not once but twice, Kent learns of her diagnosis. And when his own world falls apart, he decides to help Palmer complete her list. After all, who better than a paramedic to accompany a person with a terminal illness as she travels around the country?
As someone who wants to see all the things in all the places, I’m inclined to enjoy stories about people going from place to place to experience the world. And I thoroughly enjoyed Kent and Palmer’s journey - even as they had to make adjustments as Palmer’s health declined. But what made me love this story so much is how Palmer and Kent perfectly met the needs the other had. It was as if two random puzzle pieces had been wandering around, at loose ends, until the trip helped them discover who they fit with.
But as I said, this story does not have a happy ending for our hero and heroine. Have the Kleenex ready because there’s nothing sadder than two people who belong together and made each other immeasurably happy, being torn apart by death. Especially after such a short time together.
Despite not getting the ending I wanted for Palmer and Kent, I absolutely adored the ending for Kent. It was the perfect amount of sweetness and hope I desperately needed to lift my aching heart after the heartbreaking end to Kent and Palmer's travels.
There haven’t been too many books recently that have touched me so deeply. This one is gonna stay with me for a long while.
* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Abandoned at an orphanage when she was five, Palmer Sinclair has lived her whole life solitary, without family or close friends. When debilitating headaches turn out to be more than just migraines, she writes a bucket list of things she wants to see before her terminal illness ends her life.
Paramedic Kent Wagner has been a casual acquaintance of Palmer’s for years - he drops off his car loan payment every month in person at the bank where she’s a loan officer. When his ambulance gets called to attend to Palmer’s medical emergencies not once but twice, Kent learns of her diagnosis. And when his own world falls apart, he decides to help Palmer complete her list. After all, who better than a paramedic to accompany a person with a terminal illness as she travels around the country?
As someone who wants to see all the things in all the places, I’m inclined to enjoy stories about people going from place to place to experience the world. And I thoroughly enjoyed Kent and Palmer’s journey - even as they had to make adjustments as Palmer’s health declined. But what made me love this story so much is how Palmer and Kent perfectly met the needs the other had. It was as if two random puzzle pieces had been wandering around, at loose ends, until the trip helped them discover who they fit with.
But as I said, this story does not have a happy ending for our hero and heroine. Have the Kleenex ready because there’s nothing sadder than two people who belong together and made each other immeasurably happy, being torn apart by death. Especially after such a short time together.
Despite not getting the ending I wanted for Palmer and Kent, I absolutely adored the ending for Kent. It was the perfect amount of sweetness and hope I desperately needed to lift my aching heart after the heartbreaking end to Kent and Palmer's travels.
There haven’t been too many books recently that have touched me so deeply. This one is gonna stay with me for a long while.
* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
July 8, 2023
I received a free copy of, Before I'm Gone, by Heidi McLaughlin, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Palmer is really sick, and gets a life threatening diagnosis, she decides to start a bucket list of things she wants to do before she dies. I enjoyed Palmer and her bucket list, but I did not care for Kent.
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