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A Last Kiss for Mummy: A Teenage Mum, a Tiny Infant, a Desperate Decision
Bestselling author and foster carer Casey Watson tells the heartbreaking true story of a teenage mother and baby in need of a safe and loving home. At fourteen, Emma is just a child herself – and one who’s never been properly mothered. She has been in foster care several times already and when she discovered she was pregnant, and refused to have an abortion, her mother threw her out of the house. Casey and her family instantly form a strong bond with Emma’s baby Roman, but dealing with Emma’s behaviour and constant lack of responsibility is a far tougher challenge. And before long Casey finds she’s doing something she never thought she would – covering up for Emma’s shortcomings as she allows her personal involvement to colour her judgement. But the more Casey gets to know Emma the more she’s convinced that with the right help and guidance this lonely and unsupported girl can become a good mother to her gorgeous little boy. That’s what makes it even harder when Casey and her family have to make a stark to hold on to Emma or look after Roman; to help a teenage girl desperate to turn her life around, or offer an innocent baby a safe home and much-needed good start in life.
304 pages, Paperback
First published October 24, 2013
234 people are currently reading
965 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 22, 2022
I got this in a charity shop because I find these memoirs quite interesting usually but this one was quite distasteful in my opinion and even though the author tries to excuse it because she’s ‘from a council estate’ herself , it still comes across as quite an unforgiving account of something which is obviously neither simple nor going to be resolved by judgement…..
Want to read
October 5, 2018What an amazing and inspirational book of a 14 year old Mum overcoming life's difficulties.
September 26, 2020
Poor account of parent a an nd child foster care by someonewho seems vi j jugemental.
June 11, 2020
Foster carer Casey Watson and husband Mike take on another complicated placement. Never having had a mother and baby before and without specialist training, Casey accepts a 14 year old mother, Emma, and her 3 week old son, Roman. Emma's background is appalling. She has been in and out of care for years as her mother has alcohol and drug dependency compounded by depression. Deprived of a normal childhood, Emma is thrown out of her house by her mother when she discovers she is pregnant. To make matters worse, Roman's 19 year old father, Tarim, is in prison for drug dealing.
Casey knows the baby will be a physical challenge but is not expecting the multiple problems that lead to severe complications from mother Emma who has a child-like vulnerability despite being in an adult environment. Both need mothering. Emma is rebellious with attitude and behavioural swings. Casey realises that if Emma cannot demonstrate her ability to look after Roman he will be taken from her by the social workers or 'kiddy snatchers out to spy on her', as resentful Emma describes them and in even more colourful terms.
Casey is well-supported by her own family but has her work cut out with the roller-coaster antics of Emma who puts her and Ronan's future in jeopardy. Casey never gives up hope nor concedes defeat even under severe duress. She has to make heart-rending decisions on a personal level to try and stabilise the difficulties she faces. The story is one of intense emotion and heart-breaking events that will affect the reader along with the suspense of the outcome described in graphic detail,
Casey Watson again demonstrates the tremendous effort both emotional and physical, to provide the support and devotion to the severely disturbed children she takes responsibility for. All foster parents deserve the highest praise. This is another exceptionally written true story by the author. Highly recommended.
Casey knows the baby will be a physical challenge but is not expecting the multiple problems that lead to severe complications from mother Emma who has a child-like vulnerability despite being in an adult environment. Both need mothering. Emma is rebellious with attitude and behavioural swings. Casey realises that if Emma cannot demonstrate her ability to look after Roman he will be taken from her by the social workers or 'kiddy snatchers out to spy on her', as resentful Emma describes them and in even more colourful terms.
Casey is well-supported by her own family but has her work cut out with the roller-coaster antics of Emma who puts her and Ronan's future in jeopardy. Casey never gives up hope nor concedes defeat even under severe duress. She has to make heart-rending decisions on a personal level to try and stabilise the difficulties she faces. The story is one of intense emotion and heart-breaking events that will affect the reader along with the suspense of the outcome described in graphic detail,
Casey Watson again demonstrates the tremendous effort both emotional and physical, to provide the support and devotion to the severely disturbed children she takes responsibility for. All foster parents deserve the highest praise. This is another exceptionally written true story by the author. Highly recommended.
October 23, 2017
This is the 3rd and earliest book I have read by this author. The other two were emotionally brilliant and this is no exception.
This has some genuinely heartbreaking moments and passages. It also contains some very dark humour that you might read twice to check. It plays out better than most fiction too.
I would recommend this or any of Casey's books to anyone. They are a pleasure to read and cry over.
This has some genuinely heartbreaking moments and passages. It also contains some very dark humour that you might read twice to check. It plays out better than most fiction too.
I would recommend this or any of Casey's books to anyone. They are a pleasure to read and cry over.
June 28, 2020
This book was a joy to read and follow. It was a very dramatic book. So captivating to see the wonderful work that Casey and her husband do. It was a fast pase ever changing book. A book at times I never wanted to put down. Although I would often lose your place in the story which lead to some bits not making sense.
January 11, 2025
I wasn’t expecting to love this book the way i did. Being pregnant myself, this book really made me go through the emotions from anger, disappointment, sadness, relief and happiness. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and what a story! To think that it’s based on a true story as well. Warmed my heart, and definitely reminded me why i love reading so much.
July 1, 2018
Really enjoyed the ups and downs of this book .....
A very brave girl who endured a lot in her short life.
Showed that with the right attitude and support anything is possible.
Congrats on a well written and compassionate tale.
A very brave girl who endured a lot in her short life.
Showed that with the right attitude and support anything is possible.
Congrats on a well written and compassionate tale.
December 4, 2019
A story of hope
I only wish I could of given this more stars. This is the first book I've read by this author and I'm glad I gave it a try. There were such sad moments but in the end things got better.
I only wish I could of given this more stars. This is the first book I've read by this author and I'm glad I gave it a try. There were such sad moments but in the end things got better.
January 15, 2020
Very well written heartbreaking story of a young girl, itadee cry in places but there were parts that made me smile, I could really connect with yhe book by the Casey wrote it and found myself having the same thoughts and feelings as her throughout many parts of tje book.
August 30, 2020
I was on tenterhooks all the way through pleading with Emma to bin Tarim and concentrate on been the best mother she can be and she did come through in the end an amazing read had me close to tears I’m parts would highly recommend!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2022
fantastic read
A story of a young mum battling her own childhood difficulties whilst also trying to care for her baby. Emotional, frustrating and loving in equal measure, this story ends as we hope they all will.
A story of a young mum battling her own childhood difficulties whilst also trying to care for her baby. Emotional, frustrating and loving in equal measure, this story ends as we hope they all will.
April 20, 2023
Un beau témoignage très émouvant comme tous les livres de cette auteure qui nous rappelle qu'il y à des personnes qui naissent avec moins de chances que d'autres et qu'il y a toujours de l'espoir dans la vie
February 25, 2018
Heart breaking to read but just can’t put it down
October 19, 2018
A sweet story. Casey went overboard on giving the benefit of the doubt and I got annoyed at her little white lies. Otherwise, it was good.
January 23, 2019
Wonderful story, do happy I picked this little gem up.
May 30, 2019
Absolutely amazing gripped from start to finish this was my first Casey Watson book that I read and I love her style of writhing I was so pleased for Emma in the end xxxx
October 16, 2019
A sad story but with hopefully a happy outcome
November 13, 2019
Very good
September 28, 2020
Casey and Mike are just wonderful, loved this book
November 24, 2020
It was such as good book and keep you guess petty much to the at what was going to happen to this little family so glad about what happen in the end
January 3, 2021
A heart touching true narrative of how a young and disturbed 14 year old mom overcomes her hurdles in life
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2021
Good book
February 22, 2022
Heartfelt
Wonderful read, such highs and lows. Very well written. You can feel the empathy Casey gives to her young placement.
Wonderful read, such highs and lows. Very well written. You can feel the empathy Casey gives to her young placement.
March 12, 2022
A happy ending! Love to see it.
August 20, 2022
Didn’t really get into this book until half way through. Good story.
October 25, 2022
This is a beautiful story of love, loss, hope, mercy, and the power of people working together to help a 14 year old girl learn to become a mom after she gives birth to a sweet baby boy.
March 25, 2024
Reading books like this reminds me why in my role as an ECE (Early Childhood Educator) it is so important I refrain from judgement on the parents/families I work with and focus on building relationships to help support the child(ren).
That being said, I was disappointed in Casey’s actions in this story. I have read many of her books and usually find her to be intelligent and able to predict future needs.
***SPOILERS***
Casey and Mike allowed Emma to spend time with Taz without any adult supervision, even after it becomes clear Emma is consuming alcohol at 14/15 with her 19/20 year old partner. Despite already having a child with him; no one speaks to Emma about birth control, even after Emma blatantly states that the two of them plan to continue to have more children.
Yet, Casey is shocked, shocked! To discover that Emma is pregnant once again. Very disappointing Casey, you clearly were too emotionally involved to think clearly.
Merged review:
Reading books like this reminds me why in my role as an ECE (Early Childhood Educator) it is so important I refrain from judgement on the parents/families I work with and focus on building relationships to help support the child(ren).
That being said, I was disappointed in Casey’s actions in this story. I have read many of her books and usually find her to be intelligent and able to predict future needs.
***SPOILERS***
Casey and Mike allowed Emma to spend time with Taz without any adult supervision, even after it becomes clear Emma is consuming alcohol at 14/15 with her 19/20 year old partner. Despite already having a child with him; no one speaks to Emma about birth control, even after Emma blatantly states that the two of them plan to continue to have more children.
Yet, Casey is shocked, shocked! To discover that Emma is pregnant once again. Very disappointing Casey, you clearly were too emotionally involved to think clearly.
Merged review:
Reading books like this reminds me why in my role as an ECE (Early Childhood Educator) it is so important I refrain from judgement on the parents/families I work with and focus on building relationships to help support the child(ren).
That being said, I was disappointed in Casey’s actions in this story. I have read many of her books and usually find her to be intelligent and able to predict future needs.
***SPOILERS***
Casey and Mike allowed Emma to spend time with Taz without any adult supervision, even after it becomes clear Emma is consuming alcohol at 14/15 with her 19/20 year old partner. Despite already having a child with him; no one speaks to Emma about birth control, even after Emma blatantly states that the two of them plan to continue to have more children.
Yet, Casey is shocked, shocked! To discover that Emma is pregnant once again. Very disappointing Casey, you clearly were too emotionally involved to think clearly.
That being said, I was disappointed in Casey’s actions in this story. I have read many of her books and usually find her to be intelligent and able to predict future needs.
***SPOILERS***
Casey and Mike allowed Emma to spend time with Taz without any adult supervision, even after it becomes clear Emma is consuming alcohol at 14/15 with her 19/20 year old partner. Despite already having a child with him; no one speaks to Emma about birth control, even after Emma blatantly states that the two of them plan to continue to have more children.
Yet, Casey is shocked, shocked! To discover that Emma is pregnant once again. Very disappointing Casey, you clearly were too emotionally involved to think clearly.
Merged review:
Reading books like this reminds me why in my role as an ECE (Early Childhood Educator) it is so important I refrain from judgement on the parents/families I work with and focus on building relationships to help support the child(ren).
That being said, I was disappointed in Casey’s actions in this story. I have read many of her books and usually find her to be intelligent and able to predict future needs.
***SPOILERS***
Casey and Mike allowed Emma to spend time with Taz without any adult supervision, even after it becomes clear Emma is consuming alcohol at 14/15 with her 19/20 year old partner. Despite already having a child with him; no one speaks to Emma about birth control, even after Emma blatantly states that the two of them plan to continue to have more children.
Yet, Casey is shocked, shocked! To discover that Emma is pregnant once again. Very disappointing Casey, you clearly were too emotionally involved to think clearly.
Merged review:
Reading books like this reminds me why in my role as an ECE (Early Childhood Educator) it is so important I refrain from judgement on the parents/families I work with and focus on building relationships to help support the child(ren).
That being said, I was disappointed in Casey’s actions in this story. I have read many of her books and usually find her to be intelligent and able to predict future needs.
***SPOILERS***
Casey and Mike allowed Emma to spend time with Taz without any adult supervision, even after it becomes clear Emma is consuming alcohol at 14/15 with her 19/20 year old partner. Despite already having a child with him; no one speaks to Emma about birth control, even after Emma blatantly states that the two of them plan to continue to have more children.
Yet, Casey is shocked, shocked! To discover that Emma is pregnant once again. Very disappointing Casey, you clearly were too emotionally involved to think clearly.
January 4, 2014
I am really into these books lately, the true stories of the tragedies that people face. It seems strange but I have so many of these depressing books lying around that it is starting to border on obsession! My husband finds it bizarre, and I don't really blame him. Why I want to read these, I don't know. They certainly aren't light-hearted readings. Be that as it may, it is interesting to me to see how people cope in different circumstances, and how foster carers do their jobs and try to make the best out of situations not only for themselves and their own family, but for the foster child in question. This one was hard to get through because I just felt like virtually smacking the girl because she seemed so immature and helpless...but then I remembered she was a teenager, only 14 at the beginning, with a baby. I guess you can't expect too much in those cases, so after I got past the initial anger toward the immaturity, I realized how sad a story it was for that poor girl and her child. I was surprised that there is actually a happy ending. I am a bit cynical, and I tend to notice that the endings in these types of books are less than ideal, or you are not aware of what exactly happens after they leave the foster care. I am glad that this one turned out to be one of the better endings, and I hope everyone in question is living a nice life. I just wish there were ways to prevent these circumstances from happening in the first place.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews