What do you think?
Rate this book
Before It Stains
Falling in love is easy. Staying in love is work.
Stephanie Austin has it all – a loving wife of 17 years, a handsome teenage son, a comfortable home in the suburbs, professional success, and a bright future. At forty, Stephanie’s life is all she’d ever dreamed of, but like the old blues song says, “What a difference a day makes.”
Betrayal by the woman she loves, thought she knew, and always trusted, cuts deep. Forgiveness is a simple word, but is it possible?
This is a story about love and family, with all the joys and pains of a lifetime commitment. When Stephanie’s perfect world starts spiraling out of control, the fate of her family rests in her hands. With the help of her mother, friends, an old flame, and a healthy dose of humor, Stephanie must decide if she can put aside the hurt and figure out how to clean up the mess, before it stains their lives forever.
Stephanie Austin has it all – a loving wife of 17 years, a handsome teenage son, a comfortable home in the suburbs, professional success, and a bright future. At forty, Stephanie’s life is all she’d ever dreamed of, but like the old blues song says, “What a difference a day makes.”
Betrayal by the woman she loves, thought she knew, and always trusted, cuts deep. Forgiveness is a simple word, but is it possible?
This is a story about love and family, with all the joys and pains of a lifetime commitment. When Stephanie’s perfect world starts spiraling out of control, the fate of her family rests in her hands. With the help of her mother, friends, an old flame, and a healthy dose of humor, Stephanie must decide if she can put aside the hurt and figure out how to clean up the mess, before it stains their lives forever.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2011
15 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
About the author
R.E. Bradshaw
26 books240 followersHow did a girl from the Outer Banks of North Carolina end up writing contemporary women's fiction in Oklahoma? Well, there has to be a woman involved. Bradshaw began her writing career in 2010, after leaving Theatre and teaching. Since then, her novels ranging from the popular romance, Waking Up Gray, to the Lambda Literary Award Finalists, thriller Rainey Nights and mystery Molly: House on Fire, have remained among Amazon’s bestsellers in lesbian fiction. All of Bradshaw’s books, thus far, are set in her beloved home state of North Carolina. She was transplanted from the coast to the Heartland by the love of her life, an Oklahoma girl, with whom she celebrate twenty-five years in June 2013. They have a son, Jon, and share their home with two dogs and two cats.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 27, 2019
It took me reading twice to finally give it a rating and review. I was hesitant to read this book because I don't like reading about cheating in general, but the rating of a few readers I follow gave it good words. I hated the movie "the kids are alright", I feared I was getting the same deal here. But I'm glad I did read it, twice.
I couldn't rate it the first time round because I was emotionally spent on the topic. I tried to be more objective the second time round and I did feel this was a very well written book considering my views on the topic.
I think the author handled to situation quite well. The characters dealt within means and reasons, it wasn't fluffy or overly dramatic, it didn't make cheating ok to forgive just because you've invested 17 years into a relationship and you have a child together. I felt there was more redemption in the forgiveness because the book unraveled the cause of why the cheating happened, we learn what made them love each other for so long but also the weakness we humans are prone to: the insecurities that gets tied into any relationship.
Perhaps what I enjoyed most was the fact Steph had a go at revenge rampage whilst she decided on what she wanted to do with Mo. Molly Kincaid putting Mo in her place was awesome and badass! There was enough great humour to ease the tensions.
I don't like cheating in any circumstances, I do understand in this case Mo was manipulated... But to quote Steph: "You put yourself in an inappropriate situation, something bad happened, and you’re surprised?"
I definitely recommend this one, even if you share my hate for infidelity, don't shy away from this one. You'll be surprised how much you'll enjoy it.
I couldn't rate it the first time round because I was emotionally spent on the topic. I tried to be more objective the second time round and I did feel this was a very well written book considering my views on the topic.
I think the author handled to situation quite well. The characters dealt within means and reasons, it wasn't fluffy or overly dramatic, it didn't make cheating ok to forgive just because you've invested 17 years into a relationship and you have a child together. I felt there was more redemption in the forgiveness because the book unraveled the cause of why the cheating happened, we learn what made them love each other for so long but also the weakness we humans are prone to: the insecurities that gets tied into any relationship.
Perhaps what I enjoyed most was the fact Steph had a go at revenge rampage whilst she decided on what she wanted to do with Mo. Molly Kincaid putting Mo in her place was awesome and badass! There was enough great humour to ease the tensions.
I don't like cheating in any circumstances, I do understand in this case Mo was manipulated... But to quote Steph: "You put yourself in an inappropriate situation, something bad happened, and you’re surprised?"
I definitely recommend this one, even if you share my hate for infidelity, don't shy away from this one. You'll be surprised how much you'll enjoy it.
December 4, 2017
At the end of all these romance novels I've been reading is the happily ever after and that's the whole point of reading them. Stephanie and Mo are 17 years into their happily ever after when Steph discovers she's been betrayed. Probably one of the biggest fears in a relationship is the fear of being cheated on, up there with death and being caught cheating. I wouldn't have thought this was a particularly good story line for the romance genre but Bradshaw has managed to make it work.
Told mostly from Stephanie's point of view, this is a heart-wrenching journey of self-discovery made more complicated by a 15-year-old son in the mix. The story is surprisingly engaging and not without humour. A good cast of characters and tight writing makes Before It Stains well worth reading.
Told mostly from Stephanie's point of view, this is a heart-wrenching journey of self-discovery made more complicated by a 15-year-old son in the mix. The story is surprisingly engaging and not without humour. A good cast of characters and tight writing makes Before It Stains well worth reading.
March 5, 2012
When it comes to infidelity I always thought it's a black and white issue: you can maybe (maybe!) forgive, but you can never, never forget. It's grounds for the end of a relationship, no matter how many years and how much love has been invested.
But R.E. Bradshaw's _Before It Stains_ is so well-written and so compelling (with fully fleshed out characters you grow to care for) that Stephanie and Mo's story made me wonder if it might be possible to sew it all back together once the seams rip apart.
Though certainly not ground-breaking (infidelity has long been the topic of many a novel and some parts remind me of the first season of The L Word when Bette cheated on Tina and they worked on rebuilding their relationship) _Before It Stains_ is so earnest and touching that you can't help but root for Stephanie and Mo to get back together. It's not every writer that can make you do this!:)
But R.E. Bradshaw's _Before It Stains_ is so well-written and so compelling (with fully fleshed out characters you grow to care for) that Stephanie and Mo's story made me wonder if it might be possible to sew it all back together once the seams rip apart.
Though certainly not ground-breaking (infidelity has long been the topic of many a novel and some parts remind me of the first season of The L Word when Bette cheated on Tina and they worked on rebuilding their relationship) _Before It Stains_ is so earnest and touching that you can't help but root for Stephanie and Mo to get back together. It's not every writer that can make you do this!:)
July 17, 2016
I don't need to say more than that this book is amazing. The characters, the plot, the emotions, the ending... everything is just perfect. Ms. Bradshaw is a very talented writer and I'm very fond of her books.
July 4, 2020
I don't usually touch infidelity storylines.i feel uncomfortable reading those so I never give them a chance unless thy r highly rated.
After reading life in death by ullrich(arguably my favourite romance/drama book).I thought of giving this a try as it had very good reviews.
So after reading in one sit I felt it's okie with least interesting characters.
Let's start with the Main Charcter Stephanie,probably in books like this,u should feel bad abut the charater but I felt nothing for her.maybe because she was more on how to get revenge on her wife.which I liked tbh.
Now coming to other main character mo or should I say supporting character as she's mainly MIA in book.i felt like Stephanie's best friend had more screentime than Mo.she's the least interesting character of the cast.
Supporting cast r almost forgettable except for maybe Stephanie's ex molly.i for one felt bad for her more than than Stephanie.the best friend character forgot his name is total turn off for me.i never really like him n didn't understand his role or Intention in the book.
The thing I liked abut this book is the main characters r not saints.irony is that Stephanie cheated on her ex.mo actually went after girl who is already in relation.ths r the characters who readers probably hate in any other books.
I actually liked the premises thou revenge on ur wife for cheating.i kinda wished we got a Mo's pov so we know how she felt n how it affected her.
It's a solid 4.0
After reading life in death by ullrich(arguably my favourite romance/drama book).I thought of giving this a try as it had very good reviews.
So after reading in one sit I felt it's okie with least interesting characters.
Let's start with the Main Charcter Stephanie,probably in books like this,u should feel bad abut the charater but I felt nothing for her.maybe because she was more on how to get revenge on her wife.which I liked tbh.
Now coming to other main character mo or should I say supporting character as she's mainly MIA in book.i felt like Stephanie's best friend had more screentime than Mo.she's the least interesting character of the cast.
Supporting cast r almost forgettable except for maybe Stephanie's ex molly.i for one felt bad for her more than than Stephanie.the best friend character forgot his name is total turn off for me.i never really like him n didn't understand his role or Intention in the book.
The thing I liked abut this book is the main characters r not saints.irony is that Stephanie cheated on her ex.mo actually went after girl who is already in relation.ths r the characters who readers probably hate in any other books.
I actually liked the premises thou revenge on ur wife for cheating.i kinda wished we got a Mo's pov so we know how she felt n how it affected her.
It's a solid 4.0
February 10, 2016
First I have to say, R. E. Bradshaw has so many awesome books which I love, this was not one of them. I didn't like Stephanie (she was a hysterical unforgiving brat that wanted to who is run by vengeance and her own little vendetta instead of talking it out or at least listen to what Mo has to say), Mo was mostly MIA . Too much artificial drama for my taste. What did I like? Molly Kincaid, you go girl ;)
January 27, 2014
Before It Stains R. E. Bradshaw
Stephanie has it all, great relationship, successful company, wonderful home and a son to be proud of. So when the first inklings of betrayal appear she is completely blindsided and incredulous. But when proof is put in front of her all hell breaks loose, chairs through windows, blood on the walls and her life in tatters.
An emotional journey. In a small mom and pop community where everyone watches every move and gossip rules the airwaves, can Stephanie find the strength, and the will, to work her way through the pain.
-------------------
This is an interesting book. It departs from the standard girl meets girl, overcome the impediment and live happily ever after. For once we see the exploration of a long-term relationship, how we forget what is important, take each other for granted, let kids and jobs and ambitions overpower the central relationship in our lives.
On the one hand the story is hugely recognizable - we have all had our hearts broken one way or another, but on the other it is a challenge. Looking back did you fight for your previous relationships? Could you have forgiven infidelity?
I loved the interaction of Stephanie with the local Moms and Pops at the ball games, her relationship with Randy, finding out that she was Molly Kincaid’s’ first real love. Her relationship with her mother is excellent, clever and deep while written with the lightest of touches. Watching her internal struggles was intriguing, and it really made me wonder how well I would do in similar circumstances.
As always Decky's characters are well rounded, real people we can relate to and empathise with. We sympathise with Stephanie and feel anger towards Mo, but as the story progresses I doubt even the staunchest 'anti-cheating' heart among us hasn't softened to her anguish and regret. This is an emotional plot, not an action filled one, but even so she manages to add suspense and anticipation of the small actions and bigger emotions. But most of all is the loving humour that surrounds the characters, well drawn and amusingly filled out.
The denouement is classic. You just want to shout "GO GIRL" as the "new improved" Stephanie takes on the world.
Stephanie has it all, great relationship, successful company, wonderful home and a son to be proud of. So when the first inklings of betrayal appear she is completely blindsided and incredulous. But when proof is put in front of her all hell breaks loose, chairs through windows, blood on the walls and her life in tatters.
An emotional journey. In a small mom and pop community where everyone watches every move and gossip rules the airwaves, can Stephanie find the strength, and the will, to work her way through the pain.
-------------------
This is an interesting book. It departs from the standard girl meets girl, overcome the impediment and live happily ever after. For once we see the exploration of a long-term relationship, how we forget what is important, take each other for granted, let kids and jobs and ambitions overpower the central relationship in our lives.
On the one hand the story is hugely recognizable - we have all had our hearts broken one way or another, but on the other it is a challenge. Looking back did you fight for your previous relationships? Could you have forgiven infidelity?
I loved the interaction of Stephanie with the local Moms and Pops at the ball games, her relationship with Randy, finding out that she was Molly Kincaid’s’ first real love. Her relationship with her mother is excellent, clever and deep while written with the lightest of touches. Watching her internal struggles was intriguing, and it really made me wonder how well I would do in similar circumstances.
As always Decky's characters are well rounded, real people we can relate to and empathise with. We sympathise with Stephanie and feel anger towards Mo, but as the story progresses I doubt even the staunchest 'anti-cheating' heart among us hasn't softened to her anguish and regret. This is an emotional plot, not an action filled one, but even so she manages to add suspense and anticipation of the small actions and bigger emotions. But most of all is the loving humour that surrounds the characters, well drawn and amusingly filled out.
The denouement is classic. You just want to shout "GO GIRL" as the "new improved" Stephanie takes on the world.
June 28, 2012
It takes two to make, or break a relationship
A moment of weakness threatens to destroy their family.
Can they survive the infidelity or is their relationship irrevocably damaged ?
Through Steph’s point of view we feel her pain, her doubt and experience the support she receives from her friends.
I loved the emotional roller coaster, Randy’s one liners, the good advice from Steph’s mum and put downs from Molly.
I recommend this book with a big box of tissues and bottle of your favourite wine.
A moment of weakness threatens to destroy their family.
Can they survive the infidelity or is their relationship irrevocably damaged ?
Through Steph’s point of view we feel her pain, her doubt and experience the support she receives from her friends.
I loved the emotional roller coaster, Randy’s one liners, the good advice from Steph’s mum and put downs from Molly.
I recommend this book with a big box of tissues and bottle of your favourite wine.
January 2, 2012
Majorly intense book. Loved it. I will definitely re-read this one. Makes you take stock in your relationship and what you think is important. Makes you feel things you have never felt before. Wow. Another superb book.
December 25, 2011
Wow! am I behind! I finished this book and Sweet Carolina Girls a few days ago and am onto my next books. So sorry to not review this sooner. More sorry to me than you. Because NOW I have to think back to this book and my experiences with it. I blame: Christmas, Snow, sewing projects, crocheting projects, etc., etc.
Luckily this book had some memorable moments for me. I can remember ordering it so long ago (a year?) because I have read other books by 'Decky' (R.E. Bradshaw, author). They were mystery/thrillers that just happened to have lesbian main characters. So look at the cover. Before It Stains? Yep, I thought it was about blood on one's hands, even though the picture shows wine with the wine glass. I don't like murder mysteries or thrillers because I read these books at bedtime. Well. lucky me! This wasn't one of those!
Instead, this is about what can go wrong in any relationship. In this case, the main characters are lesbian. But this scenario would go with any romantic relationship. It is a cautionary tale to keep us all loving and forgiving of those we love. I don't think that counts as a spoiler. I think it helps others who might not have read books about lesbians or gays to be open to expanding their reading horizons.
I love how Decky writes, regardless of who she writes about or the genre the book is in. Her characters are real people in real places, at least, they feel that way. It takes a talent to pull that off. Ms. Bradshaw is that talented!
Luckily this book had some memorable moments for me. I can remember ordering it so long ago (a year?) because I have read other books by 'Decky' (R.E. Bradshaw, author). They were mystery/thrillers that just happened to have lesbian main characters. So look at the cover. Before It Stains? Yep, I thought it was about blood on one's hands, even though the picture shows wine with the wine glass. I don't like murder mysteries or thrillers because I read these books at bedtime. Well. lucky me! This wasn't one of those!
Instead, this is about what can go wrong in any relationship. In this case, the main characters are lesbian. But this scenario would go with any romantic relationship. It is a cautionary tale to keep us all loving and forgiving of those we love. I don't think that counts as a spoiler. I think it helps others who might not have read books about lesbians or gays to be open to expanding their reading horizons.
I love how Decky writes, regardless of who she writes about or the genre the book is in. Her characters are real people in real places, at least, they feel that way. It takes a talent to pull that off. Ms. Bradshaw is that talented!
September 3, 2014
This book was a winner for me - couldn't put it down. As others have said it was great to read about a couple in a long term relationship rather than the constant thrill of the chase of romance novels. It's such a realistic storyline. The reactions seem authentic and all the characters plausible (even though there are a few stereotypical characters on the fringes). I really admired the process the main character Stephanie goes through - all the emotions, all the reactions and questions. It is equal parts heartbreaking and humorous. It's an insight into being a family and also being a couple how your considerations need to be more measured when children are involved. That being said the end feels like the right outcome for this family. It's definitely worth a read and perhaps a reflection if you ever find yourself in this situation! Looking forward to reading some of her other novels.
May 1, 2021
Well I dont hate the book in general but ..why was all the people pushing the victim back with cheater....and her friend even outright said it was her fault...she wears old people like clothes that is shallow.. man ! What kind of mother teaches her daughter to go back to a cheater even she knows same pain and why were people so hell bent on forcing her life back ....I got feeling like she cajoled into taking her life back ......I previously rated it 1 star but now after reading molly :house on fire I revisited the page ....I know mo was not right but now I know molly would hav not been purely happy with steph although she cheated on her...but she got karma ....I though mo got raw deal in all this but she got her match in this book molly could have no been right for her or vice versa
February 22, 2017
Great
Well what a story. A lesson for all of us who are lucky enough to find that elusive one. It was a different approach usually in this kind of the fiction there is the stereotype reaction a bit like the u shall joke that says we :) ave to move fast or we loose. This story took its time letting us get to know both sides it was a bumpy ride for everyone it was great taking sides them having to think again. The other characters were a great background it was great to meet Molly again love when she pops up more than well deserved five stars thank you for a great read I always look forward to your book
Well what a story. A lesson for all of us who are lucky enough to find that elusive one. It was a different approach usually in this kind of the fiction there is the stereotype reaction a bit like the u shall joke that says we :) ave to move fast or we loose. This story took its time letting us get to know both sides it was a bumpy ride for everyone it was great taking sides them having to think again. The other characters were a great background it was great to meet Molly again love when she pops up more than well deserved five stars thank you for a great read I always look forward to your book
May 28, 2012
Great to see a lesbian romance with a fully formed family, kid, house in the suburbs, the whole thing. Easier to relate to than the more glam lives portrayed in many novels. Compelling characters, fast-paced storyline. An enjoyable read.
January 23, 2012
Really good read. Bradshaw did an exceptional job using words to convey the pain one feels when someone betrays you. Broken hearts do heal.
February 11, 2012
Ok I don't even know were to start with this book. By the time I was finished even I was inlove with Mo. Excellent book!
June 27, 2015
It was wonderful to read a story about a mature couple with a son. I like that the couple has to deal with issues and the issues were dealt with.
September 8, 2012
This book hit home ... besides the happy ending.
July 5, 2015
Woah. What a good story! At the end of the day I fell in love with Steph and Mo all over again.
April 9, 2017
Here, Bradshaw substitutes angst for serial killers. Before it Stains is still a solid read, but her Bell & Molly books do it better.
December 17, 2016
There is an authenticity of how relationships work in Bradshaw's writing. I appreciate that immensely.
February 10, 2017
Great story!
This is one of the best lesbian novels, I have read. It's about a real relationship & the extent of love & commitment. Thanks, R.E. for this!
This is one of the best lesbian novels, I have read. It's about a real relationship & the extent of love & commitment. Thanks, R.E. for this!
November 8, 2022
I don't know why this book has no reviews because it's amazing. I've had it in my want to read list for awhile because the infidelity mentioned in the blurb almost turned me off. But I'm so glad I read it. I love books with established couples and seeing then navigate difficult situations, and this situation was difficult. But the love shown to both MC's by friends, family and others was do deeply touching and realistic.
Don't pass this book by.
Don't pass this book by.
October 7, 2019
Love is hard
I finally got around to.reading this book. My favorite character Molly Kincaid was in the mix along with Handsome Randy. Infidelity can destroy or strengthen so I'm glad Stephanie and No will strengthen their marriage.
I finally got around to.reading this book. My favorite character Molly Kincaid was in the mix along with Handsome Randy. Infidelity can destroy or strengthen so I'm glad Stephanie and No will strengthen their marriage.
May 27, 2020
I'm a big fan of R E Bradshaw especially the Rainey series and she didn't disappoint with this book either.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews