Nearly Beloved: A Novel

by Kendra Broekhuis

In this captivating novel, a DNA test turns a woman’s world upside-down. Will searching for answers give her the peace she craves—or deepen the fractures in her life?

Dylan Turner works hard to keep her life predictable, though she would never call it that—she loves her routine, two guinea pigs, and minding her own business. But when her dad dies and the DNA test results in her inbox say he’s not her biological father, the life she’s so carefully built starts to unravel.

Craving answers and getting none from her mother, Dylan follows a sparse trail of clues across the country to where she grew up. It’s a journey full of unexpected encounters, including a friendly co-worker and another familiar face from her past—one she isn’t sure is a solace or an obstacle. As Dylan digs deeper into her family’s secrets, she can’t help but wonder, Is a comfortable lie better than the pain of knowing the truth?

Woven with emails, interviews, texts, and journal entries, Nearly Beloved is a heartfelt tale about looking for answers, even if they aren’t the ones you were expecting.

Genres: Fiction, Mystery, Contemporary, Audiobook, Clean Romance, Family Drama

Audible Audio

Published November 4, 2025

About the author

Kendra Broekhuis writes stories about life's heavy stuff with a dose of humor and a lot of love. For her day job, she stays home with her four kids and drives them from one place to another in her minivan. She and her family live in Milwaukee. To get her latest writing updates, subscribe to her newsletter at http://www.kendrabroekhuis.com/newsle....

Reviews

[Lydia Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a page turner. Broekhuis hooked me into her tale of a young woman's quest to discover her true biological identity. What an adventure we take through the pages of this book, from Illinois to Florida, from facts that drop, and revelations made. A bit of sweet romance, but there are two, and whom or will our girl end up with? Very emotional. Highly recommend.

[Leah Jolly · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an adoptee who has wrestled with many of the questions of identity & family that the protagonist (Dylan) does, I was instantly in love with this book.

Dylan’s fast-paced, unprecedented journey of uncovering the half-truths, lies, and a whole other side of her family is captivating and heartbreaking. The author clearly did her research on 1990s fertility treatments and non-paternity events, and portrays the complex emotions and relational dynamics that result from an NPE so well. I couldn’t recommend this book more. It’s an attention grabber from start to finish, but also tackles a complex subject with thoughtfulness and empathy.

(I was given an ARC from NetGalley and WaterBrook in exchange for an honest review.)

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an emotional coming of age family story about a young girl who discovers her dead father isn't her biological father and the rabbit hole that sends her down when her mother refuses to disclose the truth to her. Reading this book I learned that when someone learns a parent isn't biologically related to them it's called a non-paternity event (NPE) and in this story, Dylan Turner does her best to track down who her biological father is. Through a DNA site, family friends and old boyfriends, Dylan goes on a chase around the country, uncovering some secrets she wasn't prepared for but ultimately growing closer to her mother through their common trauma bond. Good on audio, this was an twisty drama that kept me interested from start to finish. Recommended for fans of other DNA NPE books like A million reasons why by Jessica Stawser.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Engaging! And what a perfect cover for the words inside.

This novel about discovery and getting comfortable with who we are. Dylan's world is turned upside down when she learns that her dad isn't her biological dad. Her mom isn't talking so Dylan turns to other sources for assistance.

The details about ancestry research and possibilities were fascinating. I loved Dylan's journey, James and the humor sprinkled throughout the novel. The texts and copies of emails were fun additions.

My gratitude to publisher Waterbrook for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Kaysha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed Nearly Beloved by Kendra Broekhuis. I stayed up too late wanting to keep reading and get more details into Dylan Turner’s search for her biological family. While a non-paternity event is an experience I have never walked through, my heart went out to Dylan as she was walking through the emotional turmoil of unexpected news, amidst grief, and reconnecting with people from her past life. This book was a page turner to the end, and I greatly enjoyed the gripping novel Broekhuis wrote.

I was given an ARC from NetGalley and WaterBrook in exchange for an honest review.

[Kristy Hendriksma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it. The premise was very interesting and not something I ever thought about before. I loved the mystery that was in the story and how the main character found there was more to life and live than being a scared introvert.

[Jennie Droog · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was so fun to get an advanced copy of Kendra’s newest book! I so enjoyed the aspect of not knowing where the story would go, and waiting to find out how each new character played a role in Dylan’s life. I was hoping for a bit of a “bigger” twist but wasn’t disappointed by the way it wrapped up.

[Taryn Hutchison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nearly Beloved had me at the first page and didn’t let go until the last one. I was captivated by Dylan Turner’s search for clues about her life and relationships, and the many surprising plot twists along the way kept me reading one more chapter (staying up much too late). Broekhuis masterfully writes about what could be a depressing topic in a way that sometimes made me laugh out loud and always made me fall in love with the authentic, deeply-nuanced characters. I came to care about Dylan so much that it was hard to say goodbye when the novel ended. A must-read!

[Theona · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the day of her father’s funeral, Dylan Turner’s past and present explode into uncertainty when a DNA test result reveals that she is not her father’s biological daughter. All she has ever known about her parents is thrown into question and confusion. Now the question, “who am I?” seems to shout at her constantly.

At 30, Dylan is questioning herself as a daughter, friend, colleague, and even as a neighbor. She has barricaded her life and emotions with comfortable, but insular, routines and in seeking answers to her past, she must push beyond that comfort zone.

In this era where it is common to take DNA tests, surprising results have become less unlikely; however disturbing they can still be. Kendra explores the emotions of the seeker, the expectations of those being sought, and the residual effects on those caught in the middle of deceptions.

This is not your ordinary “feel good, everything will turn out well in the end book.” Twists and turns, but especially plot and character development, pull this novel together into a page turner—I truly had a hard time putting it down.

I was given an ARC from NetGalley and Water Brook in exchange for an honest review.

[Jena Ver Steeg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Nearly Beloved- put it on your TBR! This one started out a bit slow for me, but I soon grew to know and love Dylan as she navigated the challenge of losing her father and finding out details of her past. A story of personal growth and discovery, learning to see through what she had believed as truth her whole life, and rebuilding relationships, sprinkled with some humor to balance it all out! I was given an ARC from NetGalley and WaterBrook in exchange for an honest review.

[Ashlea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would happily recommend it to others. The story weaves together drama, mystery, romance, and humor as it follows a strong female lead on a journey of wrestling, searching, and perseverance. I especially loved how the characters were so well-developed and authentic, each with backstories that made them feel real and essential to the plot. I was given an ARC from NetGalley and WaterBrook in exchange for an honest review. 4.5 stars!

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Nearly Beloved” by Kendra Broekhuis is a heartfelt story about loss, welcomed love, a little mystery and finding connection in unexpected places. As the use of DNA tests becomes more and more common, I would definitely recommend this book to others as it’s relevant and thought-provoking. I found the characters stuck with me long after I finished the last page!

I was given an ARC from NetGalley and WaterBrook in exchange for an honest review.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kendra Broekhuis’s latest is a page-turner of a family drama that you won’t want to miss. Still reeling from the death of her beloved father, Dylan receives results from a DNA test that make her question everything she thought she knew. As she searches for answers, she crosses paths with someone from her past. At first, she wants to hold him at arm’s length, but could he be part of helping her rediscover her identity? I found the story to be deeply emotional, compelling, and ultimately hopeful.
Thank you to WaterBrook and Netgalley for the advanced review copy. All opinions are my own.

[Danielle Turko · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for a review
Ever since she was 8 years old, Dylan's family moved year or so for her dads job. He always said it was because he outgrew his job, but Dylan was tired of the constant change so as soon as she was able she picked a town and a job and stayed. 12 years later she's in a routine of work, run, reality tv, and on Thursday nights she gets a burger and fries with a chocolate shake at Five Guys. It's safe and familiar which is what she craved most of her life. On her 30 birthday though she found her routine disrupted, rushing to her dad's hospital bed before he dies from the cancer he battled for a while. On the day of his funeral, she receives the results of her KindreDna tests and discovers her dad isn't her biological father. When her mom refuses to tell her the truth, Dylan decides to fly to Jacksonville, the last place she remembered feeling accepted and where dad has left clues for. While there she learns things about her parents she never dreamt possible, and begins to wonder if a safe routine is really all its cracked up to be.
I read another book by this author and I liked this one better. The story was engaging and kept you engaged, although sometimes the articles pulled you from the story. The other story I read by this author was good but went over my head, while this one was much easier for me to understand so I am glad that gave her a second chance

[Laura DeNooyer-Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

We speak of red flags as warnings and green flags as going full steam ahead, but in Nearly Beloved, some characters describe others as “beige flags”—basically boring. This book is anything but beige! (4.5 stars)

Beginning with Dylan, the female protagonist, the characters in this novel are well drawn, unique in their own right. Dylan’s struggles in finding her place in the world haven’t been easy, and it’s about to get harder. She’d been content with her routine, stable life (considered dull by certain others) after years of moving from city to city as a child.

Broekhuis captures the heart of painful and/or awkward relationships, especially the family dynamics caused by the revelation of her DNA test results. It’s shocking enough to discover her father wasn’t her biological father. It’s quite another to come to terms with her mother’s silence on the subject over the decades.

I love Broekhuis’s fresh writing and imagery. It pulled me into Dylan’s anxiety, frustrations, and heartaches—once I finally got used to “Dylan” as a female name. :)

The last half of the book grew in tension and intrigue with its surprises and setbacks, much of it unpredictable. What Dylan learns about her parents’ roles and their past threatens to undo her. Fortunately, she’s not alone in her search and discoveries. I particularly liked James/Captain Jim, a decent, reliable guy who definitely enjoys puns along with his role at Trader Joe's.

Initially, the banter between Dylan and a particular guy friend felt like a retreat to high school days rather than conversation between thirty-year-olds—maybe a case of arrested development due to unresolved issues between them. But considering Dylan’s insecurities, broken trust, and angst in longing for answers, it made sense.

I received an advance copy from the publisher, but all opinions are my own. 

[Parkland Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars
Completed: Nov. 5/25
Format: Net Galley e-ARC

Challenge Prompt: BR Holiday Bingo — “travelling home” — the FMC goes back to her childhood city to discover who her birth father is after finding out her recently deceased Dad was not.

Book #145 of 2025: This is an intriguing book. I had all sorts of things going through my head about the main character, Dylan, a 30 year-old, single young woman. Her late father as well. I was even starting to wonder if this novel had an ‘unreliable narrator.’ I didn’t like the man she grew up believing was her dad. At times, I didn’t like Dylan much either, if I’m being honest. However, it was essential to the story and her huge growth arc.

I did relate to Dylan on a couple of things. One that I can share is that our family moved a lot between my grades 1 & 4 years. I understood how that affected her.

This certainly is a unique read that is partly epistolary. I appreciated that. I did feel it stalled out a bit just after the mid-way point, but then it picked up again. I liked the ending except for the last email. I didn’t feel it contributed to the story except to bring up something she had a difficult time with. I would have it end with the news article.

My favourite part of the novel was the page with her four questions, “re-reprised.” That was a brilliant way to sum up her experiences so succinctly. My second favourite was the subtle drop of the name.

This novel emphasizes how things can affect us as a child, the truth and ugliness of greed and power, who truly counts as family, and how we can sometimes get in our own way.


*** My thanks to WaterBrook and Net Galley for an advanced digital copy. My review is voluntary, honest, and in my own words.

[Megan Goodacre · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

Nearly Beloved is a compelling and emotionally rich novel, exploring the complexities of identity, family secrets, and the courage of seeking truth. This book had me invested from page 1 all the way to the end; I genuinely looked forward to reading it every day.
This book follows Dylan Turner after the death of her 'father', Darren Turner, and her journey searching for the truth about her family and her identity.

The intertwining of Dylan’s journey with the past and present creates an engaging and captivating storyline and deepens her character and our understanding of what she has endured throughout her life from childhood to adulthood. The depth of this story is supported by the emotional yet thoughtful journey Dylan embarks on in finding herself and the emotions she feels throughout. She is faced with coming to terms with honesty and acceptance and, ultimately, the question of what is family and what makes her who she is.

This book explores and captures the pain and also possibilities of the truth and questioning your existence, something that really resonated with me as a reader – what does it mean to belong? both in your own skin but also in wider society. What does it mean to exist and function simultaneously with everyone and everything else? This book really puts into perspective that we humans are just beings on this vast planet and must grow to accept ourselves and our place in this world.

[Rachel Knapp · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Heart-Grabbing Story of Identity and Family Secrets

Two things compelled me to read this book. First, I was blown away by the author’s debut novel, Between You and Us. Second, the subject matter: a DNA test taken for fun that ends up imploding a young woman’s understanding of her life.

I could relate. A 23-and-Me test changed my life—I discovered two half-sisters, and our reunion has been an incredible gift.

But this story has a very different outcome. On the day of her father’s funeral, Dylan opens her long-awaited DNA results and discovers that the man she adored was not her biological father. The timing and the shock send her world spinning. With her mother unwilling to talk, Dylan heads back to her childhood city to search for answers—and the mystery she uncovers is more layered than she imagined.

There’s also a slow-burn romance threaded through the heartache, which adds warmth without overshadowing the emotional journey.

One of my favorite things about Broekhuis’s writing is how real it feels—honest and full of humanity. The characters don’t feel contrived, and the emotions are authentic without being overwhelming. She addresses tough topics with compassion and depth, and with the right touch of humor.

Did I mention I finished this novel in less than 24 hours? The suspense keeps you turning those pages.

I highly recommend this novel for readers who enjoy heartfelt contemporary fiction with hope at the center.

[Priscilla Bettis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thirty-year-old Dylan finds out her dad isn’t her biological father. The story follows Dylan as she seeks her biological father and tries to figure out how her Dad came to be the dad she knows.

The story was interesting to me, and I enjoyed the supporting characters. James is a sweetheart, Hendrix is intriguing, Aunt Lou is wise, and what we learn of Dylan’s mom and dad is eye-opening.

But I didn’t really enjoy Dylan’s character. She’s overly dramatic. (She labels herself a “victim” and says that “everything she’d thought was true about herself” is a lie. EVERYthing? Her job at the grocery store, the fact that she loves guinea pigs?) She’s also me-centered. (She asks several times if “everyone knows but me?”) In those respects, Dylan is more like a still-maturing YA character than a thirty-year-old woman living on her own and earning a living. And since YA fiction isn’t my go-to category, perhaps that’s why I didn’t connect with Dylan. Other readers may find her to be wonderful and love cheering her on.

The reveals in the second half of the book are nice payoffs that make the story more meaningful, especially with respect to her dad’s behavior (I’m being vague so as not to reveal spoilers), and they brought a more serious tone to the book.

Overall, not a perfect read for me, but still good.

[Karen Britton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nearly Beloved by Kendra Broekhuis
Dylan Turner has just lost her father. And then the results of her DNA test come in, with some surprises. Her life is turned upside down, her mother isn’t answering her questions and so she takes off to find answers on her own.
The author has tapped into a vein that many about-to-be-thirty readers will identify with. Her main character works at Trader Joe’s, lives alone with 2 guinea pigs, is distanced from her mother, and spends much of her time on her phone googling to find the answers to her life’s dilemmas. Throw in her recent foray into the world of DNA, and you have a very trendy novel.
Her “Captain” is a lovable guy who may or may not find Dylan attractive. He is also kind and attractive and supports her as she delves into her past.
In addition, I found the description of Dylan’s father fascinating, especially as Dylan parses out the truth about him and his narcissism.
The plot contains some twists which surprise the reader. I was torn between wanting to finish the book and NOT wanting to finish the book so I could prolong the time with Dylan.
This book was unusual but was a story that many young adult readers will resonate with. I am grateful to the publisher for this arc, in return for this, my honest review.

[Brenda Lobbezoo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dylan Turner has been told that DNA never lies, but teasing her with the truth may be worse.

Minutes before her father’s funeral Dylan receives the results of the genealogy test he had them do “just for fun” months earlier. She has DNA in common with one other person, and it’s not Darren Turner, the man that for the last thirty years she thought was her father. What does that mean, and why won’t anyone tell her?

Dylan loves her routine. She’s like her beloved guinea pigs, suspicious of change after a childhood of moving every eighteen months to wherever her father’s career took them. For the last twelve years Dylan has lived in the same apartment in the same town, working the same job organizing shelves at Trader Joes.

But suddenly, guided by the confusing DNA results and a secret birthday card message from her father, Dylan finds herself doing things totally out of character. Like reserving a flight to Jacksonville, and sharing more about herself than she means to with her supervisor, Captain Jim.

In Nearly Beloved, Kendra Broekhuis explores family and identity against the backdrop of a non-paternity event. Reading her reveal of Dylan’s search for answers is like enjoying a multi-course meal served one delicious dish at a time.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

With the influx of DNA kits and ancestry discoveries there have been an increase in fiction focusing on these issues. Kendra Broekuis in Nearly Beloved, has taken a fresh look at this topic. Dylan, the main character, is refreshing. She is authentic and realistic for her age group. She works at a Trader Joes. Her father, whom she adored, has died. Shocking to her, life as she knew it has fallen apart with the results of the DNA test. Dylan’s journey to find her biological father is down to earth, adventurous, and heartfelt. It is not cliche in the least, which is what I loved most about the book. Another plus, I was able to picture myself in Dylan’s place and feel what she might be feeling, even though I am well beyond Dylan in years. Her two guy friends added interest and fun to the story. It was wonderful to see relationships come full circle in an honest way. This book is cleverly written. Take the time to read Nearly Beloved! It will be worth your while.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. This review is my honest opinion.

[Courtney Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

What would you do if a DNA test revealed your dad isn’t really your dad? On the day of her father’s funeral, Dylan Turner’s world completely unravels, forcing her to question everything she thought she knew about her life and family. Her search for the truth leads her across the country—from quiet hometown streets to the Florida coast—on an emotional journey filled with heartbreak, hope, and hard-won healing.

Told through journal entries, emails, and interviews, Nearly Beloved is such a unique and immersive read. The format made Dylan’s story feel deeply personal, like I was right there uncovering every hidden truth beside her. Once I settled in, I could not put it down—I binge-read it in a single day!

This story is more contemporary fiction than romance (though there’s a sweet, subtle thread of it woven in), but it’s packed with emotion, faith, and questions about identity, truth, and belonging.
Broekhuis does an incredible job showing the ripple effects of grief and family secrets with empathy and honesty. It’s beautifully written, heartfelt, and quietly powerful—one of those books that stays with you long after the last page.

Thank you to @netgalley and @waterbrookmultnomah for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. I couldn’t recommend this one more!

[Barbara M. Britton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broekhuis takes a DNA test gone wrong and adds a huge dose of conflict, mystery, and some budding romance. The witty dialogue had me smiling throughout the story. I will never shop at TJ's the same again.

Dylan is stunned to find out that her father isn't related to her. To make matters worse, he dies. Dylan's journey to find out about her heritage unearths an old flame, and secrets about her parents' relationship.

Will Dylan's trip to her old stomping ground interfere with her job and the attraction she has to her boss? Broekhuis crafts realistic tension between Dylan and her mother. Mom isn't coming clean right away about the past. I won't spoil the surprises, but the mystery unravels into modern day issues.

I enjoyed the different formatting. The story kept me engaged and I wanted to get back to the exciting threads.

This story will stay with you long after you close the book.

I received an advance copy from the publisher, but all opinions are my own. An exceptional book by Broekhuis.

[Kory · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nearly Beloved by Kendra Broekhuis is a compelling and emotionally rich novel that explores the complexities of identity, family secrets, and the courage it takes to seek the truth. Dylan’s desire for stability and routine makes the sudden upheaval caused by her dad’s death and the shocking DNA results all the more impactful. I appreciated how Broekhuis weaves Dylan’s journey across the country with unexpected encounters and hints of the past, creating a storyline that is both engaging and introspective. The characters Dylan meets along the way feel genuine, adding depth and nuance to her quest. While some plot twists are predictable, the emotional depth and the thoughtful questions the story raises about honesty, acceptance, and the nature of family make it a memorable read. Nearly Beloved is a beautifully written exploration of the pain and possibilities that come with uncovering difficult truths, and it ultimately leaves you pondering what it means to truly belong.

[Chris Jager · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not sure what I expected when I started Nearly Beloved by Kendra Broekhuis, but what I got was so much more.

I think I thought I was going to get was a young woman struggling to find out who she is after finding out that her dad is not her biological father. Oh, you get that, but there is so much more to this story. It is about being able to open up to others, to let them in even at the risk of being hurt.

Dylan finds out through a DNA test, that she is not her father's daughter. She finds this out on the day of her funeral. As she spirals out of control, she must find her way while people she thought loved her won't give her the answers she craves.

Sometime families are tough, and it is hard to find the answers you want. But Kendra Broekhuis weaves a story that takes the reader on an emotional journey, one that at times leaves you a little breathless.

This is the second story by Broekhuis that I have read, and I am already eager for more.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this read, a story of a young woman finding herself. At 30 you would think she would know, but her Dad had her take a DNA test just before he passed, and thus the adventure for her identity begins.
What an adventure we take through the pages of this book, from Illinois to Florida, from facts that drop, and revelations made. A bit of sweet romance, but there are two, and whom or will our girl end up with?
This is such an emotional read, almost to the point of feeling like no one really wanted her. New relatives are found, but will there be a connection?
There is closure here, near the end of the book, and I loved the ending!
Will be looking for more by this author!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Waterbrook, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Serena Menken · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! Dylan is a 30 year old woman who has just lost her father while finding out that he actually wasn't her biological father. At the same time, her mother refuses to reveal the backstory, so Dylan goes on her own detective hunt to search for clues to her identity and heritage. Along the way, she encounters a former love interest and considers a new one.

This book was engaging, to the point that I struggled to put it down towards the end, even though I had other obligations! The author developed characters well, integrated thoughtful plot twists, and tackled complex topics with grace and wisdom. I appreciated that the characters were both likeable and flawed, which made them human. I also learned a lot about topics that I didn't know much about before. Highly recommend!

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a story! Every time I thought I had it figured out, a new chapter revealed another layer. The characters were lovable and quirky, with just the right amount of realistic awkwardness and relatable anxiety. Even the “villains” of the story had depth and layers.

This book beautifully captures the complexities of life - friendships, relationships, the desire to belong, the fear of being alone, and the often uncomfortable growing pains of adulthood. And it does all of that while being a really good and engaging story. I felt like I was being gently tricked into learning something about myself while enjoying the unfolding romance, humor, and mystery.

Then there are just little details that made me giggle to myself. Just some fun touches that add an extra bit of personality to the book. Well done.

[Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a book. I just couldn’t put it down (sorry about the cliché – which I suspect Kendra Broekhuis would never use – but it’s true). It’s the kind of book that draws you in immediately, and you feel the sense of loss when it finishes.

This book deals with some heavy issues – narcissism and a ‘non paternity event’. It’s such a thoughtful and subtle book, which never sinks into triteness or twee-ness. The characters are so real, and the heroine – Dylan – is endearing. The author dots the novel with emails, texts, articles and messages from a DNA website – all with a lightness of hand that is both humorous and sensitive.

My next task is to hunt down the other two books by Kendra Broekhuis. I highly recommend this book.