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Before I'm Gone: A heartwarming story of faith family and second chances
A heart-stirring story of faith, family, and second chances.
Sixty-eight-year-old Ellie Cunningham never imagined she'd be raising children again—especially not the three young kids of her adult son Gabe, a struggling single father with PTSD and ADHD. But when life unravels, Ellie opens her rural Arizona home, expecting chaos—and finding unexpected joy.
Then one grandchild’s mother brings accusations, hidden truths, and a custody battle that threatens the fragile family Ellie has worked so hard to guide toward independence.
To keep them together, Ellie must confront the heartbreak of her past, lean into her quiet personal faith, and summon a strength she thought was long gone. What begins as a temporary refuge becomes a test of resilience, love, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.
Before I’m Gone is a powerful inspirational women’s fiction novel about letting go, holding on, and finding grace in life’s most unexpected chapters.
Sixty-eight-year-old Ellie Cunningham never imagined she'd be raising children again—especially not the three young kids of her adult son Gabe, a struggling single father with PTSD and ADHD. But when life unravels, Ellie opens her rural Arizona home, expecting chaos—and finding unexpected joy.
Then one grandchild’s mother brings accusations, hidden truths, and a custody battle that threatens the fragile family Ellie has worked so hard to guide toward independence.
To keep them together, Ellie must confront the heartbreak of her past, lean into her quiet personal faith, and summon a strength she thought was long gone. What begins as a temporary refuge becomes a test of resilience, love, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.
Before I’m Gone is a powerful inspirational women’s fiction novel about letting go, holding on, and finding grace in life’s most unexpected chapters.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 19, 2025
3 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Karen Randau
39 books364 followersA native of the southwestern U.S., Karen Randau is a bestselling and award-winning author of inspirational mysteries and thrillers.
Karen has been writing and telling stories since elementary school. She holds a degree in journalism/public relations from The University of Texas at Austin and enjoyed a long career in marketing communications.
In her work with an international non-profit, she traveled to numerous developing countries, witnessing famines, violence, and hopeful people working to overcome abject poverty.
She loves fast-paced mysteries and thrillers, especially those with intricate plots, lots of action, and rollercoaster-like twists and turns.
Karen has been writing and telling stories since elementary school. She holds a degree in journalism/public relations from The University of Texas at Austin and enjoyed a long career in marketing communications.
In her work with an international non-profit, she traveled to numerous developing countries, witnessing famines, violence, and hopeful people working to overcome abject poverty.
She loves fast-paced mysteries and thrillers, especially those with intricate plots, lots of action, and rollercoaster-like twists and turns.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 21, 2025
The author tells us this is a story of family and heroes. Ellie is the matriarch of this family. She's trying to pass on knowledge and how to live one's life to those who follow her in the family, hence "Before I'm Gone". It's not your average family. "This, Ellie thought, was a family forged not just by blood, but by fire. They were bound by more loss than luck, by endurance and stubborn love." We come into their story after several major events. It wasn't what she had planned. "This life was harder. Messier. Lonelier. But it was hers. And in that moment, she chose to embrace it."
Ellie's not the only hero. There is Holly "stitching Ellie’s life back together thread by thread". They live by their word "a promise forged in bone and blood." Each member is a hero in their own way. From little Sadie with her joy for life and her love for everyone to Gabe who struggles with his PTSD demons. Even Dave who is just the neighbor, only not just, but a critical member of the family. And the joy and love that just surges forth from all the kids. The author describes the people and events so well you will know that you are there with them in their little farm house.
Even the sky reflects the changes in the family "a bruise-colored sky and leaving the yard in a bone-cold haze". But "They were still here. Still standing." When the events of their life took a swing, so did the weather "Arizona monsoon marked the end of summer. And tonight, it promised a storm that would rattle the windows, drum against the roof, and fill the house with a claustrophobic stillness, every room crowded with the things no one dared speak aloud."
Then things would ease and the "Wind stirred the trees, rattling wet leaves."
This was a family that fought the good fight for the family. "This, Ellie thought, was a family forged not just by blood, but by fire. They were bound by more loss than luck, by endurance and stubborn love." They restored the house to fit the family. The had a small farm and "the land carried their story. Bruised. Sagging, but still standing."
This is truly a story of love. If you want to read about a family that pulls together, lives together, struggles together, but always loves each other and looks out for each other, this story is for you. If you don't mind those happy tears. those tears of love, read and you will shed tears for them also. Certainly this is one thoroughly enjoyable read.
Ellie's not the only hero. There is Holly "stitching Ellie’s life back together thread by thread". They live by their word "a promise forged in bone and blood." Each member is a hero in their own way. From little Sadie with her joy for life and her love for everyone to Gabe who struggles with his PTSD demons. Even Dave who is just the neighbor, only not just, but a critical member of the family. And the joy and love that just surges forth from all the kids. The author describes the people and events so well you will know that you are there with them in their little farm house.
Even the sky reflects the changes in the family "a bruise-colored sky and leaving the yard in a bone-cold haze". But "They were still here. Still standing." When the events of their life took a swing, so did the weather "Arizona monsoon marked the end of summer. And tonight, it promised a storm that would rattle the windows, drum against the roof, and fill the house with a claustrophobic stillness, every room crowded with the things no one dared speak aloud."
Then things would ease and the "Wind stirred the trees, rattling wet leaves."
This was a family that fought the good fight for the family. "This, Ellie thought, was a family forged not just by blood, but by fire. They were bound by more loss than luck, by endurance and stubborn love." They restored the house to fit the family. The had a small farm and "the land carried their story. Bruised. Sagging, but still standing."
This is truly a story of love. If you want to read about a family that pulls together, lives together, struggles together, but always loves each other and looks out for each other, this story is for you. If you don't mind those happy tears. those tears of love, read and you will shed tears for them also. Certainly this is one thoroughly enjoyable read.
August 28, 2025
Karen Randau has written a truly moving story in Before I’m Gone. From the very first page, you feel the weight of Ellie Cunningham’s unexpected journey as a grandmother raising her son’s three children. The situation is tough—her son Gabe is struggling with PTSD and ADHD, and the children need stability—but what shines through is Ellie’s quiet courage and the way love makes her stronger than she ever thought possible.
What I loved most about this book is how real the characters feel. Ellie isn’t some perfect saint—she doubts herself, she worries, and she has moments of fear. Yet through it all, she shows resilience and tenderness, reminding us that even in our sixties and seventies, life can hand us new responsibilities and second chances. Gabe’s struggles are handled with honesty and compassion, making his role as both father and son complex and heart-tugging.
The story also does a wonderful job of balancing heavy themes with moments of warmth and hope. Just when you think the challenges might be too much—like the shocking custody battle—you see how faith and family can anchor people during the hardest storms. The children bring both chaos and laughter, and it’s these small moments that make the novel feel so genuine and heartwarming.
In the end, Before I’m Gone is not just about raising kids or facing struggles late in life—it’s about legacy, love, and finding strength when you least expect it. Karen Randau has crafted a story that will inspire readers to reflect on their own families, their faith, and the power of second chances. It’s a book that leaves you with both tears and hope, making it a beautiful read for anyone who enjoys heartfelt, inspirational fiction.
What I loved most about this book is how real the characters feel. Ellie isn’t some perfect saint—she doubts herself, she worries, and she has moments of fear. Yet through it all, she shows resilience and tenderness, reminding us that even in our sixties and seventies, life can hand us new responsibilities and second chances. Gabe’s struggles are handled with honesty and compassion, making his role as both father and son complex and heart-tugging.
The story also does a wonderful job of balancing heavy themes with moments of warmth and hope. Just when you think the challenges might be too much—like the shocking custody battle—you see how faith and family can anchor people during the hardest storms. The children bring both chaos and laughter, and it’s these small moments that make the novel feel so genuine and heartwarming.
In the end, Before I’m Gone is not just about raising kids or facing struggles late in life—it’s about legacy, love, and finding strength when you least expect it. Karen Randau has crafted a story that will inspire readers to reflect on their own families, their faith, and the power of second chances. It’s a book that leaves you with both tears and hope, making it a beautiful read for anyone who enjoys heartfelt, inspirational fiction.
August 7, 2025
I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This story begins with Ellie, a retired teacher, whose husband Paul died 3 years earlier at the lakeside thinking about how plans change quickly. Dhe and her husband had moved from Phoenix to a small house believing they would be spending a great deal of time traveling. With Paul's death, her son Gabe, injured in the war, her grandson Caleb who moved in after his mother went to prison, Ava and Lily her granddaughters who moved in after Grace their mother died and finally Sadie, another granddaughter who stayed with her father Gabe every other weekend. With this arrangement, the house was too small. Feeling down, she meets Holly, a Forest Ranger, who talks with her and eventually brings to her uncle's property which is for sale. Ellie now begins thinking about the possibility of moving but wants concurrence from the rest of her family. In the end they all agree and move in.
The story the relates the ups and downs which now become part of their new life. Holly becomes quite attached to the family and is welcomed. Discover what Rachel, Sadie's mother and Gabe's ex, throws that causes an uproar.
The story has heart and is definitely worth the read. You won't be disappointed!
This story begins with Ellie, a retired teacher, whose husband Paul died 3 years earlier at the lakeside thinking about how plans change quickly. Dhe and her husband had moved from Phoenix to a small house believing they would be spending a great deal of time traveling. With Paul's death, her son Gabe, injured in the war, her grandson Caleb who moved in after his mother went to prison, Ava and Lily her granddaughters who moved in after Grace their mother died and finally Sadie, another granddaughter who stayed with her father Gabe every other weekend. With this arrangement, the house was too small. Feeling down, she meets Holly, a Forest Ranger, who talks with her and eventually brings to her uncle's property which is for sale. Ellie now begins thinking about the possibility of moving but wants concurrence from the rest of her family. In the end they all agree and move in.
The story the relates the ups and downs which now become part of their new life. Holly becomes quite attached to the family and is welcomed. Discover what Rachel, Sadie's mother and Gabe's ex, throws that causes an uproar.
The story has heart and is definitely worth the read. You won't be disappointed!
August 1, 2025
After reading so many mystery and whodunnit books, this one was a breath of fresh air. It’s a story that feels real. The characters are slightly flawed, but they are loved by one another. Family, not necessarily by blood, but by love, kindness, and care. The characters don’t have much in the way of material goods, so they are able to enjoy the simpler things in life. It felt like being back at grandma’s house.
I received an advance copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
I received an advance copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
September 16, 2025
I need to start by saying this is not a Christian fiction novel, even though it may be classified that way. There are just a handful of references to anything about prayer or faith, and the name of Jesus is only used as a curse word. The characters go through some horrific things, and they never look to God or Jesus for help. It broke my heart, really, because I think there would have been such beauty in accepting the help and healing that comes from on high. Other than a couple instances of using the Lord’s name in vain, this is a clean book. We know of intimate relationships outside of marriage, but it’s not described at all.
That being said, this is a beautiful and painful book. A family works through many deep, gut-wrenching difficulties and finds the way through together. When there is the temptation to run away, they dig deeper. There is family that you’re born into and family that you choose. There is one character who is very much like someone in my own life, and that was hard to read, but it was worth it. It’s a book that doesn’t shy away from the difficult and painful, but it is handled very well. A thread of hope is woven throughout.
As a woman over a certain age with grown children and growing grandchildren, I related most to Ellie. She struggles to find the fine line between providing needed help but also allowing others to struggle a bit and find their way up. It’s a difficult path that takes some time and mistakes to learn. I appreciated that the author did such a great job of exploring that. Along with hope, the author brings out themes of trying to understand others and forgive. Good stuff.
Trigger warning if you are sensitive to things like mental illness, PTSD, child endangerment, and gun violence (though the violence is handled very well, not at all lurid). As I said, one of the characters reminded me of someone in my life, and not in a good way, but the author has a deft touch with all these subjects.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
That being said, this is a beautiful and painful book. A family works through many deep, gut-wrenching difficulties and finds the way through together. When there is the temptation to run away, they dig deeper. There is family that you’re born into and family that you choose. There is one character who is very much like someone in my own life, and that was hard to read, but it was worth it. It’s a book that doesn’t shy away from the difficult and painful, but it is handled very well. A thread of hope is woven throughout.
As a woman over a certain age with grown children and growing grandchildren, I related most to Ellie. She struggles to find the fine line between providing needed help but also allowing others to struggle a bit and find their way up. It’s a difficult path that takes some time and mistakes to learn. I appreciated that the author did such a great job of exploring that. Along with hope, the author brings out themes of trying to understand others and forgive. Good stuff.
Trigger warning if you are sensitive to things like mental illness, PTSD, child endangerment, and gun violence (though the violence is handled very well, not at all lurid). As I said, one of the characters reminded me of someone in my life, and not in a good way, but the author has a deft touch with all these subjects.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 21, 2025
Rewarding Story of Challenges Making a Family Stronger
Before I’m Gone dramatizes the struggle of a family to create a safe and healthy home environment. Death, mental illness, and a child custody fight challenge Ellie Cunningham: sixty-eight, recently widowed, she must nurture and toughen up her family. For her son and his four children, she supplies a home, a rural property that pulls the family together as they garden, raise chickens, and build a barn. These chores keep the family busy, but tension arises because the son, Gabe, suffers from post traumatic stress (aftermath of military service) and lifelong attention deficit disorder. Randau realistically portrays the agonizing efforts Gabe makes to maintain stability.
A major disruption ramps up the tension, a custody fight: Rachel, the mother of Gabe’s youngest child, turns nasty to cut off his relationship with his daughter. Randau increases the conflict, and both Ellie and Gabe hit low points when feel they’ll lose their beloved child. However, the family pulls together to document their case for court; Randau describes the legal battle convincingly—the reader will feel they’re in the courtroom fighting for the child.
The characters, except for Rachel, charm the story with their sense of duty lightened by a sense of fun. Ellie balances her desire to support Gabe but not enable him. Gabe works hard on his lifelong issues to care for his family. The kids strive to make the mini-farm work at the same time being aware of the high stakes of the custody fight. The reader will cheer, when faced with a life and death conflict at the end, the family holds strong.
Before I’m Gone dramatizes the struggle of a family to create a safe and healthy home environment. Death, mental illness, and a child custody fight challenge Ellie Cunningham: sixty-eight, recently widowed, she must nurture and toughen up her family. For her son and his four children, she supplies a home, a rural property that pulls the family together as they garden, raise chickens, and build a barn. These chores keep the family busy, but tension arises because the son, Gabe, suffers from post traumatic stress (aftermath of military service) and lifelong attention deficit disorder. Randau realistically portrays the agonizing efforts Gabe makes to maintain stability.
A major disruption ramps up the tension, a custody fight: Rachel, the mother of Gabe’s youngest child, turns nasty to cut off his relationship with his daughter. Randau increases the conflict, and both Ellie and Gabe hit low points when feel they’ll lose their beloved child. However, the family pulls together to document their case for court; Randau describes the legal battle convincingly—the reader will feel they’re in the courtroom fighting for the child.
The characters, except for Rachel, charm the story with their sense of duty lightened by a sense of fun. Ellie balances her desire to support Gabe but not enable him. Gabe works hard on his lifelong issues to care for his family. The kids strive to make the mini-farm work at the same time being aware of the high stakes of the custody fight. The reader will cheer, when faced with a life and death conflict at the end, the family holds strong.
September 21, 2025
Before I’m Gone is a tender, quietly powerful story about second chances and the enduring pull of family. Sixty-eight-year-old Ellie Cunningham never expected to start parenting all over again, yet when her son’s struggles bring three young grandchildren to her Arizona home, she steps into the role with equal parts trepidation and love.
What I Loved
The heart of this novel is Ellie herself. She is neither saintly nor hardened; she is simply real. Her quiet faith and unglamorous strength make every choice believable. The way she balances her own history of heartbreak with the needs of children who are hurting feels both hopeful and honest.
The Arizona setting adds a warm, grounded backdrop—sun-washed landscapes that echo Ellie’s resilience. And the themes of PTSD, ADHD, and the complexities of custody disputes are handled with care, showing the messiness of modern family life without losing compassion.
The story moves at an unhurried pace, which suits the subject but may feel slow if you are expecting high drama. Yet the steady rhythm gives room to savor each small victory and quiet moment of grace.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What I Loved
The heart of this novel is Ellie herself. She is neither saintly nor hardened; she is simply real. Her quiet faith and unglamorous strength make every choice believable. The way she balances her own history of heartbreak with the needs of children who are hurting feels both hopeful and honest.
The Arizona setting adds a warm, grounded backdrop—sun-washed landscapes that echo Ellie’s resilience. And the themes of PTSD, ADHD, and the complexities of custody disputes are handled with care, showing the messiness of modern family life without losing compassion.
The story moves at an unhurried pace, which suits the subject but may feel slow if you are expecting high drama. Yet the steady rhythm gives room to savor each small victory and quiet moment of grace.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 12, 2025
This is a wonderful story that mirrors what so many people are going through today. More and more people are finding themselves in their later years either raising or helping raise their grandchildren. I found this book believable as I know people in very similar situations. Ellie found herself widowed and before even having time to adjust to that status needing to help her son who came back from serving his country with problems dealing with life. She was trying to help him become able to hold down a job and be responsible for himself and his son. Then another shoe dropped and her son's ex passed away leaving him and his Mom to care for his two daughters. Ellie now had to find a way to house the whole family and find a way for them to have an income that would continue after she was gone. With the help of a new friend and their new community they learned they did not have to face things alone.
The story was well written. The characters were well developed. The descriptions were clear. I really enjoyed the story.
I received an ARC. My thoughts are freely shared.
The story was well written. The characters were well developed. The descriptions were clear. I really enjoyed the story.
I received an ARC. My thoughts are freely shared.
October 20, 2025
One of the best books I have read!
Reading a novel of this length in less than two days is an indication of its spell-binding storyline. The author has created unforgettable characters in both young and old role-players and her setting makes a rural way of life both challenging and appealing. The writing style flows easily, with descriptive text which enables the reader to become an integral part of the narrative.
The story revolves around 60-something Ellie, still reeling from her husband’s sudden death and, thus more aware that she needs to prepare her PTSD son for independent life, further complicated by his responsibilities to his four children. Little Sadie, only allowed to visit intermittently, holds a special place in the hearts of her family and a few close friends, and her circumstances become the focal point in the novel.
Ms Randau is a new-to-me author, and I look forward to reading more of her books. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reading a novel of this length in less than two days is an indication of its spell-binding storyline. The author has created unforgettable characters in both young and old role-players and her setting makes a rural way of life both challenging and appealing. The writing style flows easily, with descriptive text which enables the reader to become an integral part of the narrative.
The story revolves around 60-something Ellie, still reeling from her husband’s sudden death and, thus more aware that she needs to prepare her PTSD son for independent life, further complicated by his responsibilities to his four children. Little Sadie, only allowed to visit intermittently, holds a special place in the hearts of her family and a few close friends, and her circumstances become the focal point in the novel.
Ms Randau is a new-to-me author, and I look forward to reading more of her books. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 22, 2025
I'm so glad to see the words "Book 1" on Goodreads, added to the title! This book is so REAL. It's what REAL people think about and experience, and it's about genuine relationships. There's joy and heartbreak here. Mother/grandmother Ellie captures perfectly the stresses of raising grandchildren while continuing to parent a struggling adult child. While Ellie is awesome, in the end, I could not pick just one hero for this book; part of its charm is how heroes emerge from the unlikeliest places, forged by tragedy but re-forged by hope. My main concern over the years with this type of fiction has been lazy writing. But this was so good, I highlighted and pinned a couple of the phrases for their beauty and truth. Can't wait for Book 2!
August 7, 2025
In no way, shape, or form, was this an easy read. I can't remember the last time I read a book so emotionally charged that I needed to actually put it down and take a break.
What enfolds within this pages are scenes so easily perceived as happening in reality. So many soldiers come home 'broken' from wars not of their choosing. They can't just 'switch off' and/or 'forget' the horrors they have witnessed and/or the things they were forced to do.
This is the story of a family who sticks together and faces each new challenge and roadblock head on.
What enfolds within this pages are scenes so easily perceived as happening in reality. So many soldiers come home 'broken' from wars not of their choosing. They can't just 'switch off' and/or 'forget' the horrors they have witnessed and/or the things they were forced to do.
This is the story of a family who sticks together and faces each new challenge and roadblock head on.
December 11, 2025
This book was a little slower read for me than most. It was so sad and frustrating in the beginning I wasn't sure I wanted to finish it, but once the story got more interesting I enjoyed it and I'm glad I finished reading it.
This book is all about life's heartaches but also shares how people can persevere through the hard times and come out victorious when they don't give up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The opinions and comments are entirely my own.
This book is all about life's heartaches but also shares how people can persevere through the hard times and come out victorious when they don't give up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The opinions and comments are entirely my own.
September 4, 2025
Deeply moving and beautifully written.
This story touched my heart in so many ways. Ellie is such a strong, relatable character flawed, but full of love. The way she steps into raising her grandchildren, while facing her own past and faith journey, felt raw and real. I couldn’t stop turning the pages, and I cried more than once. Perfect for anyone who loves stories about resilience, family, and grace.
This story touched my heart in so many ways. Ellie is such a strong, relatable character flawed, but full of love. The way she steps into raising her grandchildren, while facing her own past and faith journey, felt raw and real. I couldn’t stop turning the pages, and I cried more than once. Perfect for anyone who loves stories about resilience, family, and grace.
September 4, 2025
Before I'm Gone is Book 1 in the Family & Heroes Collection by Karen Randau. I felt that this book was so emotional. The author wrote the characters perfectly. At 68 Ellie is not expecting to raise grandchildren. Ellie is working at building a family when wham! the mother wants custody and a battle ensues. I think your emotions will be involved in this story. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
December 12, 2025
What an amazing emotional roller coaster of a story. Very well written down to the very last sensory detail of each scene and each human connection. It took me a bit to place an age on the main character, but once I did, the story grabbed me making me feel more. and more invested the more pages I read. I received an ARC copy of this book for free and am voluntarily leaving a review. Looking forward to exploring more by this author.
August 25, 2025
She is about to help her adult son looking after her grandchildren and she loves it. Then another grandmother comes along to spoil it all and she needs to look backwards to see if she can sort it out for a better future. See how she deals with it all
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a powerful read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a powerful read
September 11, 2025
Contemporary fiction is not normally my genre but this book held me captive from the first chapter! The main character, Elle, a widow shouldering the responsibility of making sure her family could survive without her, was so relatable. The book was very thought provoking and I didn’t want to put it down!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 11, 2025
This book was inspiring! We don’t have life without troubles, a reminder to handle the situation at hand the best you can. Also, the story goes on to show how all relationships count on other family members, coworkers and the community. Thank for allowing me to read this book for my honest opinion.
July 29, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Not my usual genre, but I couldn't put it down, it was very emotional at times. Keep your tissues handy for the ending.
August 30, 2025
It was an interesting book very nice and enjoyable to read. I was given an arc and I choose to give a honest review.
August 6, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this book. A surprise at the end . I can’t wait to read the next one
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews