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Maybe Baby

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** 2014 Readers' Favorite Book Award Bronze Medal Winner in Fiction-Drama Category ** Imagine finding out you could never have a baby with the man you love... Expat American Laney Halliwell finds out the hard way when Niklas tells her he had a vasectomy before they met and isn't interested in reversing it. Why should he? They've got his kids from his first marriage and an enviable life in Stockholm. What if you fell in love in the most unexpected way...? But Laney wants more. So when a friend suggests she look into an alternative sperm bank in Copenhagen to find a potential father for her baby, things don't go exactly as planned. Especially when Laney meets Mads and finds herself falling in love.

310 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 20, 2014

13 people are currently reading
677 people want to read

About the author

Kim Golden

23 books268 followers
I grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and spent most of my summers in Smithfield, Virginia.

I first realized I wanted to be a writer while attending the George Washington Carver High School for Engineering & Science – yes, there was a time when I wanted to be an architect, at least I thought I did. Then, one day, I couldn't take the boredom of another chemistry class and decided to write a novel. It was passed around to all of my classmates, who loved it. I did this several times and realized I had zero talent in math, science, or architecture. I was much better at writing, so I focused on that when I went to university.

In 1995, I chucked living in the US for the good life in Sweden with my Swedish husband.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Profile Image for Nia Forrester.
Author 67 books956 followers
August 6, 2015
When I read Kim Golden's book 'Maybe Baby', all I could keep thinking was, 'yes, yes, yes!' This book delighted me on so many levels I can't even begin to tell you.

But I'm going to try.

The novel opens with Laney and Niklas returning from a trip to NYC to their home in Sweden. The trip has been a success, but as they return, Laney is melancholy because she senses that it was just a brief respite from the slow death of her five-year relationship with Niklas. Perhaps out of a desire to add permanence to their union that is not a marriage, Laney announces that she wants to have a baby. And Niklas tells her why this is unlikely to happen for them--at least in the traditional way. His casual sharing of the news that he's had a vasectomy (a fact Laney is quite sure he never shared before) is the first clue we get that Niklas is somewhat self-involved. So much so, that he doesn't quite grasp what the big deal is when the news makes Laney somewhat upset.

As the story progresses we learn of the many ways that Laney has been absorbed into Niklas' world. She helps raise his teenage children (one of whom hates her), dines with his ex-wife whom she dislikes, and in most respects has adopted his way of life. This wholesale abandonment of who she is and what she wants is mirrored in her American expat status. Just as she is the perpetual foreigner in Sweden, she is the perpetual visitor in Niklas' life. But still, she cannot walk away because it is in some ways a very cushy life as well.

Though she realizes that it will force a conflict that she may not be prepared to have, Laney visits a sperm bank, hoping to persuade Niklas, once she's done some investigation, that this is one way for them to start a family together. While there, at a mixer for donors, she meets Mads and their attraction is immediate and electric.

Much of the book walks us through Laney's conflict over whether to end something familiar and predictable if not comfortable, and begin something uncertain with Mads. He is as strongly drawn to her as she is to him and for a time will entertain her indecision, but not forever.

Here's what I LOVED about this book:
1. The sense of place. I felt like I was in Scandinavia.
2. The author's use of all senses -- almost every scene references sight, sound, taste, smell, hearing. Every place is three-dimensional.
3. The characters were all real people -- flawed, and maddening, irritating, endearing. There were no villains. Niklas in his selfishness had qualities that made it understandable that Laney loved him. Laney, though in a difficult situation made choices that made me curse her name on occasion. No one was perfect, not even the irresistible Mads, who begins a relationship he knows is on some level, wrong.
4. The use of clever quips in the prose that tell you who the characters are, without TELLING you who the characters are. The author doesn't tell us Laney is sometimes funny, she just has funny inner monologue which bears hints of the person she is when not under the stress of considering ending a relationship.
5. This isn't sentimental 'love story' stuff-- it's real women's fiction that happens to include elements of love lost, and love found.
6. The author's voice is so strong and so recognizable that even after one book, I feel like I would be able to recognize her prose.
7.Though the relationship is interracial, the story is NOT racialized, thank God. It's a 'who the hell cares?' approach to romance between characters of different races rather than that weird fetish fiction out there that glorifies and belabors racial differences in a way that I personally find a little creepy.

Okay, that's all I got but only because this review is getting too long. I would strongly urge you to read this book. I think it will begin a long relationship for you with an amazing new author. It certainly has done that for me, as I've now purchased everything Kim Golden has published thus far.
Nia Forrester


Profile Image for Tamara Philip.
Author 9 books65 followers
August 5, 2016
Messy. Absolutely messy. Maybe Baby is very well written! and once I got started I didn't want to put it down. I felt like I was right in Stockholm and Copenhagen along with the characters. The author's vivid descriptions were wonderful and the writing style flowed and flowered beautifully.

I found the main character Laney to be complicated. I didn't relate to her much because I found her bratty and self absorbed. I didn't like Niklas either because he sounded arrogant just like his daughter Siri so I understood the reason why their relationship was skating on thin ice. However, Laney's plans and reasoning for wanting a baby out of the blue by any means necessary was so self involved that I would have reacted exactly like Niklas. She showed no care about children before literally demanding one of her own. and even after Niklas gave her a perfectly valid reason as to why he didn't want to be a father again, she just kept on with her plans STRAIGHT AWAY. I mean she could have given him some time to come around before planning on doing a complete deal breaker. With or without Mads, she was ending her own relationship because she wanted what she wanted.

I liked Mads just fine but their love affair was too rushed for me to truly believe in it. Although I couldn't fault the very well written feelings of WANT that Laney had for him. I didn't approve of her lack of self control but it was still really believable when I was reading it.

Then again that's the mark of a great writer, that they could make you feel REAL feelings about an imaginary character, good or bad. and I learned more than I ever wanted about sperm donation, false or otherwise.

I feel like perhaps my feelings about adultery has overshadowed my enjoyment of the book but it was still a great read.
Profile Image for Twyla Turner.
Author 36 books576 followers
August 12, 2015
This story was superbly written! I know some people may not be fond of stories about infidelity, but the world is full of it. I felt it was very real. I loved how the author didn't rush into making the reader hate Niklas to justify why Laney cheated on him. It was very gradual the way we learned how the love just wasn't there. In many ways, I wanted to punch Niklas in the face for being such a jerk, but at the same time, I felt bad for him. I wished that she would've delved a little bit deeper into Mads' character, but I'm assuming that since there are two more books, we'll get to learn more about him. And I can't wait! Though, what I did get from him, is that he is ahhhhhmazing! So sweet and loving. All in all, I loved this story. Kim Golden illustrated the complexities of adultery and the ending of a relationship perfectly. Love and it's ending, isn't a one-dimensional thing and she wrote it beautifully.
Profile Image for Deloris.
970 reviews42 followers
April 27, 2014
Just when you think you have your life figured out it throws you a curve , Laney knew what she wanted but when she met Mads it changed everything. I liked her and Mads story and I look forward to the continuation of their love story. One of the things that I enjoy about this story is the author really takes you to Sweden I felt she made the place where the story took place as important as the characters. Laney and Mads story is unique and refreshing we don't have to be perfect to fall in love. Love comes when it comes and what they do to keep it makes a wonderful story. I look forwad to book two.
Profile Image for Urenna Sander.
Author 1 book27 followers
October 26, 2014
At 33-years-old, Laney Hallowell wants a baby with her Swedish partner of five years, Niklas. Niklas refuses to have a child with Laney. He rejects reversal of his vasectomy, a procedure he had not shared with her.
Laney suggests adoption. Again, he refuses, giving several reasons to dissuade her. His two teenage children from a previous marriage live with them. He believes although her role as stepmother is not formally recognized, she is their ‘mother.’
Niklas, a psychotherapist, has close ties with his former wife. He is indulgent with his children and shows no concern, ignoring their bad behavior. He particularly shows unconcern for his 18-year-old daughter’s conduct in their home and disrespect toward Laney.
Disappointed with Niklas’s decision, Laney decides to explore a fertility clinic without discussing it with him. Although business travel takes her to Demark for the Swedish firm she works for, she decides to seek the assistance of a sperm bank there recommended by her cousin.
In Denmark, Laney meets Mads, a skilled, imaginative Danish carpenter. Mads is a steadfast and sensitive man.
I do not want to give the story away, but Mads and Laney are immediately drawn to each other and become entangled in a passionate relationship. Later, thorny legal issues emerge.
What I liked about this book was it revealed the desperation of fertile and infertile women who want to have a child by their willing and unwilling partners or husbands.
I like that it revealed Laney’s childhood history with her parents. It gave you some aspect of her previous failed relationships with suitors. Maybe in the past, she didn’t elicit satisfying relationships with men prior to Niklas because of her father’s unloving and exceptionally critical behavior.
Maybe this is why she remained in a faithful, loyal and reliable, five year relationship with Niklas. She felt safe with him, although he was not always faithful or loyal. They shared an opulent apartment in Sweden, took trips to his family’s summer home and traveled extensively.
But Niklas had perfectionistic standards for his surroundings and his expectation of Laney. This should have shown in his childrearing, not with Laney.
Only when the relationship had gone sour and Laney began a web of lies did Niklas change his mind about adoption.
I like the author's writing style. And I like that the author was able to show you a description of her Scandinavian surroundings.
I liked that Laney is portrayed as smart, amiable, and capable, has a successful career, and speaks more than one language.
Yet, I liked that the book appealed to me in an emotional way. It revealed Laney’s other side. The side everyone is not privy to exposed in some instances Laney’s lack of self-assurance, and ambivalence, showing fluctuation between her feelings for both men.
I liked that the book was more believable concerning Laney’s personality. She is complicated and unpredictable and up to the conclusion, you are unsure of the outcome and Laney’s decision toward Niklas and Mads.
Profile Image for Bookphenomena (Micky) .
2,932 reviews544 followers
April 28, 2020
This book engaged me from the first page and was a different take on other thirty-something women wanting a baby narratives. The storyline went a completely different direction than what I expected; it was fresh and unpredictable. The book centres on Laney, a black, American woman in Sweden. Laney was likable as a character, but I felt she was disempowered in her relationship with Niklas. Even though Laney and Niklas had been together five years, Laney didn't seem to have much say in daily life operations. This was a contrast with her busy work life where she seemed in control. Niklas was a character I just couldn't like. He seemed a little devious and lacked investment in the relationship. Niklas' relationship with his ex made me irritated beyond belief.

There's another man in this story. Mads is a Dane and the description of him was immediately enticing but as I got to know him, it was his personality and interactions that made him ultimately attractive. Laney in Mads' company was a woman freed and her personality shone through.

The book had a number of elements that worked for me, it was unpredictable, slightly forbidden, a little angsty but with plenty of hope. The relationships had great heat but it didn't feel like the key focus of this book and I felt the balance of this was just right as the story line was meaty and real.

This book was set between Sweden and Denmark and I enjoyed the setting. My mother is Scandanavian, so I could picture visually some aspects of the story but I think any reader would engage with the setting. It was a nice change from the US or the UK.

I'm looking forward to reading the next books in the series and I have found a new author I like.

The author provided a copy of this book in return for an honest review.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
Profile Image for --karen Green-berry.
558 reviews14 followers
May 20, 2014
A great read - BRAB Online Book Club

This is my first book by this author but it definitely won't be the last. I absolutely love her writing style and her way of drawing you into these characters and make you have strong feelings for each character.

Laney's search for love took some unusual paths which reflected her longing for affection that was absent in her childhood. When she met Niklaus, she thought she had a workable relationship after 5 years. When she decided she wanted to have a child, she was stunned that Niklaus couldn't or didn't want to grant her wish.

By pursuing her personal happiness, she met Mads and the instant and intense chemistry that leads to a beautiful love story. I am anxiously awaiting the continuation of their story.
Profile Image for Anino .
1,069 reviews71 followers
May 16, 2014
Having just finished this incredible read, all I can say is that this is the first 5-star IRR/Multicultural Romance that I've had the pleasure of reading in a very looooongggg time. Period.

Not only was the writing superb, but the world building was absolutely incredible.

Ms. Golden is to be commended for having produced such an awesome piece of captivating fiction, because not too many writers in her genre have the goods.

I'm looking forward to seeing what she does next, because to me, this chica has raised the bar for writers of IRR/Multicultural Romance fiction.

Giving this one: 5 humongous stars....
Profile Image for Darcy.
14.4k reviews543 followers
January 19, 2021
This one was a train wreck, yet I couldn't stop reading it. At the start I liked Laney and understood why she was so angry at Niklas. It really seemed like he had been stringing her along for 5 years and nothing was his fault, not his sleeping with his ex-wife, not the way his kids acted when they were at their home, not the way he left out important info that affected their relationship. It seemed like when there was a compromise to be made it was Laney that had to bend.

I started to get mixed feelings when Laney went to Copenhagen and to the sperm bank, exploring things knowing full well Niklas didn't want any more kids. Then there was the whole meeting Mads and sleeping with him. I don't care for cheating and it really made me think less of her. I kept reading because I wanted to see what Laney did in the aftermath. From there things got worse, she kept talking to Mads, while still continuing her relationship with Niklas. It was only towards the end that Laney actually had to pick. While I'm glad that she picked Mads, I do wonder how a relationship works when it was started in circumstances like this. I know there are more books after this, but I don't care to read them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Leah Wheeler.
37 reviews5 followers
July 5, 2015
SOLID 4.5 STARS

TO READ, OR NOT TO READ...
If you don't like stories that involve any infidelity, then keep on trucking. This book isn't for you.
However, if you enjoy stories that are well written, honest and intelligent, then this one could do the job.

THE RUNDOWN
Leading lady Laney Halliwell is a thirty-something expatriate living in Stockholm. She is in a long-term relationship with Niklas, a Swedish national and veritable hunk. (Attempting to avoid spoilers) Among the problems that face a lot of real couples, ie spoiled, resentful stepchildren, baby-mama drama and even an incident of cheating with said baby mama, these two are still in love and mostly happy with their lives.

During a visit back in the states, our protagonist has an indefinable epiphany that has her biological clock marching double-time. With Niklas being unable/unwilling to start a second family with her, Laney seeks out alternatives.

Enter Mads... ah, Mads....

description

(give me an hour to daydream...I Have a very vivid I-MADS-INATION)

***No Spoilers***

MY TWO CENTS

My favorite part of this book would have to be Golden's candid introspection of Laney that felt both authentic and relatable. The more I read, the more I came to believe that even if you have never been in this kind of a situation, Laney is written in such a way that nearly anyone can empathize with her plight. I don't really have a part of the book that I didn't like... it was pretty good from start to finish.

Again with the NO SPOILER oath (I'm reminding myself, not you), I'll just say that the way the story finished also felt very real.

I would give it a solid 4.5 stars and am definitely going to check out Kim Golden's other books!
Profile Image for Xio Axelrod.
Author 27 books1,190 followers
March 21, 2014
*I received a free, advanced copy of this e-book from the author in exchange for my honest review.*

Maybe Baby is the type of book that invites insomnia. I started reading it right before bed and knew within a few pages that I'd made a big mistake. No sleep for me until I'd absorbed all of Laney's story and learned her fate.

Kim Golden's writing has a fantastic way of worming into your subconscious, making you feel like you're reading about the life of a close friend. Laney's confusion is all-too-human. It's easy to relate to her willingness to compromise who she is in order to live the life she thinks she wants. Sometimes, the devil you know is safer. But it's rarely right.

Infidelity is a fact of life that we, as readers, often shy away from. There's nothing wrong with wanting your heroine's life to read like a fantasy, but what I love about Maybe Baby, and more importantly about Kim's writing, is that it is utterly real. Sometimes love comes at a price.

Laney's situation with Nik is intolerable, and yet she endures it. She's good at convincing herself that her loneliness and misery is in her mind. It's what we do when we're afraid to look for something else, even when that something is standing in front of us. When she meets Mads, she questions if what fuels her attraction to him is simply a by-product of Nik's neglect or something considerably more.

I loved this book. I read it in four hours, racing towards the end because I couldn't wait to find out which one would win: Laney's head or Laney's heart. In the end, they're one in the same and that's the beauty of it. Maybe Baby is not a fairy tale, it's a story about life - with all of its magic and its complications - wonderfully told.
Profile Image for Keep Calm Novel On.
469 reviews72 followers
July 7, 2015
I received a copy of the ePub from the Goodreads group Shut Up & Read--Read It & Reap in exchange for an honest review.

Laney’s life in Stockholm is comfortable but is it everything she needs and wants? She and her partner Niklas have been together for five year and Laney is ready for the next step—a baby. Niklas has two adult children from his marriage. He does not appear to be enthusiastic about another child is his settled life.

This original read is multi-layered. Laney’s history prior to leaving America is explored and sheds light on how her past has shaped her relationships.
The author has revelled Laney’s feelings with such honesty. As Laney struggles with her decisions the reader will sympathize and feel for her.

When she meets Mads in Copenhagen she begins to question her own happiness. Will her heart lead her back to Niklas or will she explore the possibility of a new beginning with Mads? Will her life unravel as secrets are discovered?

Kim Golden’s novel Maybe Baby is character driven. This well written page-turner will not disappoint. Laney’s journey is far from over.
Profile Image for Imani.
87 reviews7 followers
July 20, 2015
Maybe Baby is the story of a woman who has reached place in her life where she needs a change. Laney and her five-year boyfriend Nicklas have arrived at a stalemate. Things aren't quite right between the two, but Laney decides she wants to have his baby. Nicolas, the father of two teens, isn't thrilled with the idea. He's put off by any of Laney's attempts to proceed with plans to have a child. Laney decides that she might be able to sway him if she has more facts on the options available to them. She secretly arranges a meeting with a donor clinic. She goes looking for answers and finds so much more. Laney is forced to take a closer look at her life with Nicolas, and she has to make some tough decisions.

Maybe Baby is an interesting read. It speaks to women who are in a similar stage of life. The book isn't just about a woman's biological clock ticking; it is about finding out who she is and what she wants and needs in life. I couldn't wait to see how Laney dealt with her dilemma.
Profile Image for Adrienne D'Nelle Ruvalcaba.
Author 14 books57 followers
November 5, 2014
I loved the clear and descriptive writing style in this book. While the plot was something I had a little trouble getting into, I enjoyed the vivid settings in the story. The author described the characters and places in a way that made them seem both real and idyllic at the same time. Laney was a smoker, she was unfaithful, and she was flawed in just as many ways real women are flawed. Yet, the author established her character with such care, it was impossible not to like her.

I probably wasn't as crazy about Mads as I should have been. Maybe if I read it again, I'll like him better the second time through. For some reason, I preferred Niklas... I know, I should be ashamed. I'm not entirely sure why the aloof guy who clearly doesn't deserve her is my preference, but I think it has something to do with the amount of internal conflicts with Niklas. The tension with Niklas and Laney's relationship was more engaging and complex than the tension with Laney and Mads's relationship. Either way, I enjoyed the book. Kim Golden has a new fan!
59 reviews1 follower
July 16, 2017
Brave writer

Golden goes for modern / contemporary / realistic questions. The artificial angst has been wiped away for real questions about relationships, life choices, and what is love. She takes on difficult topics without going all Picault maudlin. This is my first book from this writer and she's a crack buy. I love how she doesn't blink at human problems.

Her prose is clean and she has profound moments worth underlining. Smart read.
Profile Image for The Literary Puff.
211 reviews9 followers
May 1, 2015
I stumbled across Kim Golden's 'Maybe Baby' by complete surprise. A mutual love of a certain Dane got us chatting and chatting lead to Kim telling me she was an author. I couldn't wait to dive into this book and found myself sucked in from the very first page.

I'll be honest, I did feel a little uncomfrotable with some parts, I think that is just a natural feeling to some of the themes that run through this book. However, it did not distract from the brilliant writing and the unique storyline. I liked Laney and I fell for Mads and found myself thinking of him even when I wasn't reading which just proves the story and the characters got under my skin which I love.

I'm really looking forward to reading more from Laney and Mads and seeing where their story goes. A really unique read, I'm glad I found it!
Profile Image for Catherine  Wright (Cat's Guilty Pleasure).
2,903 reviews1 follower
July 20, 2015
I was given a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed Maybe Baby. Laney was strong throughout the story. The author did an amazing job with descriptions her descriptions, you could really imagine what you were reading about. I stayed intrigued throughout Laney's journey, and I must admit I didn't agree with some of her choices.But I did understand why she made them. Great story. Looking forward to reading more by Kim Golden.

Review done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our fansite at http://www.facebook.com/nerdgirl.ng
Profile Image for Jacinta Howard.
Author 21 books504 followers
March 17, 2015
I read the Kindle sample of this book a while ago and kept meaning to purchase it because I could tell immediately that Golden was talented. Glad I finally read this story. I really enjoyed Maybe Baby. Laney's voice was strong and relatable throughout the story. Also, the author did an excellent job with descriptions and just general world-building. I stayed invested in Laney's often bumpy journey and even when I didn't agree with some of her choices, I understood why she made them-- which is the mark of a good writer for me. Great story. Looking forward to reading more by Kim Golden.
8 reviews
November 5, 2015
I love this book!

Realistic, Engaging, Dramatic, and don't forget Messy! Oh, I could scratch your eyes out because of the ending, but in truth I loved this book. I can't wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for April Duffy.
4 reviews23 followers
April 25, 2014
There are a lot of self-published, first-person romance and erotica novels today for readers willing to give them a try. There are few however that will keep you from wanting to drop-kick the main character in the face after ten chapters. With Maybe Baby, author Kim Golden keeps the reader non-violent with dynamic and believable characterization, and calculated restraint.

Golden’s main character, Laney Halliwell is not only humble and complex, but being an American living in Stockholm, Sweden (as is Golden), she gives reader a unique perspective with which to take in the setting and behaviors of the other characters. The story also takes Laney to Copenhagen where she visits a sperm bank and meets Mads, the man that makes her contemplate leaving her five-year lover Niklas and his two teenage children, whom she doesn’t have the best relationship with. Add to this that both of her romantic relationships are interracial, and you have a deliciously fresh cultural flavor palate that would spice up any romance story already told on either side of the Atlantic. Gorgeous, flawed, unique, and funny you can’t help but love Golden’s characters, especially Laney.

But while some authors give us too much description, Golden at times reins Laney in a little too tightly and leaves the reader wanting more. References to Swedish authors and locations are sometimes made with little or no description, and for the English only reader that is unfamiliar with Stockholm or Copenhagen it is at times impossible to know if it is a street or place being travelled past by the main character. While this is the Google age, it is a shame that many readers will have to stop reading to figure out where the characters are taking them as Golden’s prose deserve the reader’s full attention.

But Golden’s economy with language is also a treat for readers looking for a page-turning read to tear through – about a third of the way into the book the author, while keeping the action going, tells us that a character goes on a analogous rant without transcribing it for example. Maybe Baby's story, which does have a tendency to be somewhat plot-driven especially near the end, may have been predictable in another authors hands but thankfully Golden’s skill comes to the rescue once again and there are some genuine surprises waiting for the reader as well as some beautiful and emotional love scenes.

Maybe Baby isn’t likely going to make the reader want to run out and get pregnant, but it will sure leave her hot and titillated enough to practice.

Disclosure: The author, Kim Golden, was kind enough to provide Read Owl with a free copy of the book in exchange for this honest review.
754 reviews12 followers
October 11, 2014
***Review for Chick Lit Central www.chicklitcentral.com***

I enjoy a book where two people find one another and fall in love. The stranger the situation, the more interesting the outcome. Let me tell you, this novel offers up the most unique story line, ever. Hands down.

Laney is an expat living with her boyfriend Niklas, in Stockholm. It’s been five years, and her biological clock is ticking. True, she’s never wanted children of her own before (Niklas has two of his own with a psycho of an ex-wife) but never expected that Niklas wouldn’t want any more, or more importantly, can’t have anymore due to a vasectomy. The situation feels dire, but Laney looks into a progressive sperm bank without Niklas knowing in order to solve the problem for them. She figures she can research first then pursue it if it feels right. The last thing she ever counted on was meeting a man named Mads, the most sought after sperm donor there. She also never counted on feeling an instant connection with him, or falling in love.

Maybe Baby takes the rules or what we know of them, and throws them right out the window. Laney knows she’s invested a lot of time into Niklas, and knows what society would say to be the right thing for her to do, but in matters of the heart, choices are never that cut and dried. Another level to this is the settling into a life vs. actually living one. I got the impression that Laney wants to stay with Niklas because he’s what she knows. There’s comfort and security in their relationship, while her new-found fascination with Mads is exciting and different. Does she risk a sure thing that has been lackluster for years, or does she pursue something that might not work out and cause a lot of damage in the end?

I loved the writing style (real and, at times, very graphic) and appreciated the flow of the story. I was able to delve into the characters easily. Kim Golden did a fantastic job, and I look forward to reading some of her other work, including a future novel with the continuation of Laney's story.
Profile Image for Cheryl .
261 reviews26 followers
April 5, 2015
In Maybe Baby by Kim Golden, Laney Halliwell wants a baby and decides to tell her boyfriend of five years, Niklas, that she would like to start trying. To her surprise, he informs her that he had a vasectomy years ago after having two kids with his ex-wife. She asks him to reverse it, and he says no. She can’t seem to let the idea go of her becoming a mother, and being stepmom to Niklas’ irritating teenage kids doesn’t count in her mind. So, taking the advice of her friend, she visits an unconventional sperm bank. It never crossed her mind that she would meet someone like Mads and begin falling in love. Suddenly, Laney is torn between two men. Will she stay with Niklas and realize that he has been the love of her life all along? Or will she take a chance with Mads and see if this instant attraction and chemistry between them can be something more?

Kim Golden is an amazing writer and storyteller. She made these characters so completely real; I was so immersed in Laney’s life and I cared so much about what happens to her that I am pretty much devastated that the book has come to an end. Her thoughts and feelings were so genuine. And as with all love triangles, you will most likely pick a side. I am not going to give anything away, but I will say that this story is about following your heart; the tough part is figuring out what your heart wants. I whole-heartedly enjoyed this book, and I definitely recommend it to any fans of romance or women’s fiction. Maybe Baby had it all. It had realistic characters who had realistic actions and behavior, a unique and entertaining plot that will keep readers hooked from the first page, and romance that will make your heart flutter and put a smile on your face, making this fantastic book a must-read. I am beyond ecstatic that I found this author. I cannot wait to read more of her stories.

Reviewed by ME for Readers' Favorite
Profile Image for Brynette Turner.
Author 19 books56 followers
June 1, 2015
Let me start by saying that this book was (pleasantly) nothing like I expected. Although I received it free in exchange for a review, it's worth buying and I'll definitely purchase the sequel. In Maybe Baby, every time I thought I knew where the story was going, it surprised me and I loved that.

The main character, Laney, and her long-time boyfriend, Niklas, were very complex and the issue she faced -- suddenly realizing that she wanted a child of her own even when she didn't like her step-children -- seemed realistic to me. What bothered me was that she wanted a baby with Niklas. He was jerk, but I won't spoil it by giving all of the reasons I really didn't like him. What's important is that Ms. Golden did an excellent job of drawing his character.

As for Laney, it was easy to feel her insecurities, frustrations, and conflicting priorities. Changing directions was a struggle that she wasn't sure she wanted to make even though it was exactly what she needed. Mads was an interesting character because his certainty and patience was a quiet strength for Laney when she was indecisive. He understood her struggle. The heat between Mads and Laney was instant and strong and really carried her into becoming a better person. That seems a contradiction when thinking about the choices she made, but in the end, she did what was necessary and acknowledged her flaws.

This is a believable story about the complex struggles when long term habits that aren't leading to happiness suddenly clash with an unexpected force driving a person toward the unknown. Will happiness be waiting on the other side of those tough choices? There's only one way to know: read the book. You won't be able to put it down.

Thanks Kim Golden for writing such a wonderful story.
146 reviews9 followers
July 31, 2020
This book is proof that good writing can create a great diversion from the monotony of miserable COVID news, ugly political ads, and the general world malaise, AND invite to you find yourself walking and/or riding your bike through the streets of Stockholm and Copenhagen described so clearly you feel your feet striking the pavement, you smell the sea air, you taste the special coffee.

The love stories in this book, and there are a few, have been lived by many. Laney, our heroine, holds her head high as she struggles with a clueless long time sweetheart who has an ever-present- never- to -go -away ex-wife (I mean she has "family" dinners with everyone including Laney present), and she struggles to engage in even the smallest conversation with "the kids" while working to keep from strangling their rude little necks. We who have hung on to relationships that wring the life out of us because they are comfortable and ever promising will consider perhaps Laney and Niklas should regroup and press on building a life together ...and we who have found or want to find a true beloved will fall in love with Mads, hoping that Laney chucks it all for him.

None of it is easy, and as in real life, long hours at work, fixing dinner, grabbing coffee and acknowledging other friendships, pull Laney in all directions. You find yourself grumbling with her, wanting to slap the bitches in the room, crying along with her, and shaking your head at the two men circling around her.

BUY THIS BOOK, AND ENJOY!!!
Profile Image for ReadAlongWithSue ★⋆. ࿐࿔catching up.
2,893 reviews433 followers
September 8, 2014
I loved the cover. I loved the style of writing. I can see this author KIm Golden going a long way in MHO.

I read this in one sitting this afternoon. I had to read it from beginning to end and it just flowed so easily along. Nothing too hard to think about in this book, not too draining which made it a nice pleasant read.

Life isn't always straight forward, we sometimes think we are doing the right things, we just get into the habit of our lives, our relationships, its the easy option.

However, sometimes life just goes off the scale, and this happened in just one sentence "I want a baby".

If I had one personal complaint, that would be the hurried feel I had between the relationship she developed with Mad, I mean, he'd not taken anyone to see his Grandmother since his divorce years ago and here she is.....standing there who has only "known" Mad [in bed] for what? two sessions? I just felt the interaction was a little too fast over such a short time.

Apart from this, I really loved the book. I would recommend it if looking for a nice soft read with complications within its pages but easy on the read.
Profile Image for Angie Martin.
Author 54 books550 followers
March 19, 2014
**I received a free advanced reading copy of this ebook from the author in exchanged for my fair and honest review.**

“Maybe Baby” by Kim Golden is an incredible book of one woman facing a fork in the road of her life. Told from a first person perspective, the book is incredibly well-written with characters that are full of depth. Main character Laney’s number one priority has suddenly become to have a child, yet her long-time partner isn’t so sure. In her quest to achieve her desire, she finds herself at a crossroads and isn’t sure which way to go.

The rich storytelling is woven in a beautiful manner with first person narrative, and the reader can really feel the pain of Laney while she is struggling to discover herself and what really matters in life. The story stayed with me long after I had stopped reading. The author knows how to make an impact with readers and connect them to the characters in a delightful way that allows them to watch the story unfold as if they are witnessing events firsthand. A great book that is highly recommended!
Profile Image for Sussilindebjerg.
11 reviews
May 18, 2014
I read this book in two days. It was over too fast! I just couldn't put it down again. I just loved the fact that Kim Golden wrote a modern love story that hit close to home and had all the difficult situations and tough decisions. It's NOT an easy subject. The whole finding your way in life, deciding to act on your feelings and the tough decisions that go with it was well written.

The main character finds herself in a relationship where she thought she was content, but finding out she wants a baby after all. With a boyfriend with two teenagers from a previous marriage and a vasectomy, she goes looking for a donor.

The main story takes place in my home town of copenhagen and it is so wonderful to see that the author has taken her time doing research about the city and it really shows.

I can't wait to read more stories from Kim Golden. I just love to read about the relationships and problems facing interacial couples.

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ 5 hearts
Profile Image for Lily Java.
Author 7 books39 followers
September 27, 2015
A refreshing read, I so enjoyed Maybe Baby. I love books that not only take me to places I've never physically been to but also make me feel as if I had. I also love books that are not typical and Maybe Baby is a romantic story but not at all a typical romance. Laney's and Mad's journey with each other answers both my book cravings in abundance. The story is about an expat American woman living in Europe in a sad, unhealthy, and broken relationship. This situation becomes the trigger for two imperfect people to be drawn to each other despite their better instincts or perhaps because of them. I highly recommend Maybe Baby for all the reasons above and one more significant reason beside that: it is a beautifully written story. The unconventionality is only a side note that succeeds in making the romance all the more sweet and realistic.
Profile Image for Elle1986.
456 reviews31 followers
February 9, 2016
I didn't hate it... and I just didn't love it. I am not quite sure why it didn't click for me.

The whole cheating thing didn't bother me, I think it was because from the beginning I didn't really think Nik was that deep in their relationship. They seemed more like good friends than actual lovers. I mean I understood their connection... but still it seemed like really good friends with benefits that lived together.

I think the whole sperm donor thing threw me. I think if they would have just met and things clicked and then she found out about his "donations" that would have been different. But meeting at a mingle for potential jeez... weird.

Now I would like to see how she handles all that she has asked for.. I am going to skip book 2.. I get that is mags novella... yeah I am good on that. I am going to check out book three.

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