Making Hearts

by Jack Getze

Interrupting the Soria family’s holiday feast, childish teenager Emily requires the hospital emergency room for an apparent attack of appendicitis. But a blunt nurse explains the truth: Emily is giving birth. The seventeen-year-old has tricked her mind and body into believing she isn’t pregnant, when the baby is full term and already being born.

A life-affirming, feel-good story of love, family and the special way new babies can inspire, Making Hearts introduces a character readers will strongly care about and root for. Noelle wins the hearts of all with her loving enthusiasm for life, her wit, and by personally defeating the villain’s lowdown scheme in an astonishing climax readers will never forget.

Genres: Fiction, Contemporary, Novels, Drama, Book Club, Romance, Epic

148 pages, Paperback

First published December 5, 2020

About the author

Former newsman Jack Getze's screwball mysteries -- BIG NUMBERS, BIG MONEY, BIG MOJO, and BIG SHOES -- were published by Down and Out Books, as was a thriller, THE BLACK KACHINA, and a new family suspense novel, MAKING HEARTS. His short stories have appeared online at A Twist of Noir, Beat to a Pulp, The Big Adios, and several anthologies.
Series:
* Austin Carr Mystery

Reviews

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good with no well the newborn baby narrating she proceeds to tell us about her mom and dad or selfish mom and Emma and all the dysfunctional happenings in the Sara family. I absolutely love this book be worn though they talk of addiction and a lot of dysfunction, but it is so sweet and so good and I loved it I couldn’t stop reading it and read it from the first page to the last page it was so good and I hope to read more from this author he seems to be quite awesome!

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Nothing’s the matter, I don’t believe. But there are two heartbeats’ – Holiday surprise!

Author Jack Getze has enjoyed a successful career as a Los Angles Times and Washington Post reporter, and now continues to gain honors and awards for his short stories and books. His publications to date include the AUSTIN CARR MYSTERIES – BIG NUMBERS, BIG MONEY, BIG SHOES, BIG MOJO, and BIG SHOES – THE BLACK KACHINA, anthologies LAST WORD, DOWN OUT AND DEAD and SPINETINGLER MGAZINE FALL 1917, and now MAKING HEARTS. He is an active member of Mystery Writers of North America’s New York Chapter.

Just as Jack Getze has captured a committed audience for his unique humor-infused mysteries, now he turns to a completely new manner of weaving stories by writing a holiday family tale that dares to make the central protagonist a fetus-becoming-infant! As off the edge as that may sound to some, the way in which Jack uses this concept allows for special insight s into family dynamics and youthful expectations – and denials.

The modus operandi with which the protagonist is introduced sparks imagination – and interest. ‘Everyone at the dinner party laughed and teased one another like happy people do, and I listened keenly, if indirectly, delighted by the celebration and the extended family’s vocal, almost-musical contentment. Raucous bark or quiet giggle, each individual echoed the holiday gathering’s warmth and friendship, and those carefree sounds invaded my spirit like the beating of live drums or sunshine after rain. I desperately wanted to be a part of Emily’s family. Desperately, because a heartbreaking, physical connection to these people enveloped me more completely with every passing second. Heartbreaking, because I quickly understood Emily wanted no such thing. The night of my impolite awakening was Christmas Eve…’ and it becomes apparent that the protagonist is in utero, approaching parturition!

The plot overview aids in appreciating the story as it unfolds; ‘Interrupting the Soria family’s Christmas Eve feast, childish teenager Emily requires the hospital emergency room for an apparent attack of appendicitis. But a blunt nurse explains the truth: Emily is giving birth. The seventeen-year-old has tricked her mind and body into believing she isn’t pregnant, when—in a rare but not unheard-of occurrence—the baby is full term and already being born.’

Clever, wholly believable, and written with great style, this little novel will likely become a staple for holiday enjoyment and for conception discussions with family. This is a book that deserves repeated readings. Highly recommended.

[Julie Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Making Hearts by Jack Getze
This story starts out with a couple and their teen kids having a holiday party with others at their house.
Teen girl starts having stomach pains and is rushed to the hospital where it's determined she is giving birth.
The parents Papi and Mama and their kids Emily and Philip and the new granddaughter Noel.
Emily is overweight and had weird cycles but didn't really know she was pregnant but she had unprotected sex.
She would rather go to dances and smoke pot then tend to the baby.
Story is from the granddaughter's point of view. Never thought of how they were feeling at dismal times.
When the frailly, 3 out of the 4 test positive for pot the agency steps in to have the child removed. Mama slips and breaks her arm and wants to raise Noel by herself if need be.
Court hearings and words adults have used in front of the granddaughter has brought tears to my eyes.
Circumstances take a deadly turn....
On top of that a girl at school is trying to get Emily in more trouble than ever.... Last hope could be with the boyfriend.
Hope they can 'wake' up and get on with coming together as a family. A new baby should be a joy to all.
Real life situations and so downQ to earth, daily things that happen...
Reason I like this story is because there are many different ages of people and we get to hear from all of them, from their perspectives.
Have personally gone through most of the above myself and had a good outcome.
About the author ends this book along with a listing of other works..
Received this review copy from the publisher and this is my honest opinion.

[Pegboard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Making Hearts by Jack Getze entertains the thoughts of an infant whose fate hangs on a thread of hope and determination, though her mother doesn’t want her. Either through self-denial or ignorance, Emily Soria has a cryptic pregnancy that isn’t discovered until Christmas Eve when she is in labor. Noelle is an intelligent infant that understands more of what is going on around her than what adults would give her credit. Just when her future reaches a critical peak, Noelle actively takes down the foe who intended a life without Noelle in it.

It is believed that babies understand more than we give them credit. Jack Getze explores that idea in Making Hearts. Noelle actively determines her future with her sweet spirit, while keeping her attention on the one person who wishes her gone. This book covers the drama of teenage motherhood, the influence of the wrong friend, and what genuine love can accomplish. You will cheer for the infant who understands she isn’t wanted by her mother, but her determination is commendable. I enjoyed the humor and imagination of the author.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This story was a wild ride. It started off so sweet, a happy family holiday celebration, that quickly took a turn. I love that Emily’s child is the narrator, a unique perspective. Although the narrator is unique the story is both believable and emotional. No family is perfect, and the situations the members of the Saria family find themselves in are ones you could easily see on a TLC reality show or Lifetime movie. I became so wrapped up reading this story that I quickly lost track of time. A beautiful, wonderful, read that will tug on your heart strings and fill you with joy.

[Grymm Gevierre · Rating 4 out of 5]

This quick read but an interesting one. It was hard for me to wrap my head around the fact that Emily didn’t know she was pregnant. It was written well enough that it was a believable story, it felt honest, but it’s just amazing how the human mind rationalizes against things. What was odd, for me, was some of the writing style. It was good, but I felt like the “narrator” in the story knew way more than they should and seemed more omniscient than this particular narrator would have been. Seeing as I’ve not personally read any book with this style of POV and writing, maybe it’s just me, but it put me off a bit.

The story starts right in the problem, and because of this unique and unusual POV we were able to get clever snippets of the story that would have otherwise been lost in any other first-person novel. The story tied up neatly, as well, closing the book on some pretty well-thought-out characters that could have very well been my Italian neighbors as realistic as they were.

I will say that even if the book puts you off in the beginning, give it a chance. It’s a neat story and has a unique voice in it that really makes this book stand out in the genre.

[Enriqueta Duque · Rating 4 out of 5]

A terrific book.

[Homer Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the feel-good novel I really needed when stuck inside isolating during the pandemic. It's so full of heart, joy, and love. It is life-affirming and beautiful. There may be some difficult themes, such as teen pregnancy, drug use, and family drama, but they are handled sensitively, by a writer that has really produced something remarkable with 'Making Hearts'

Narrated by Noelle - an unwanted child from and teenage mother - 'Making Hearts' by Jack Getze is the story of a child in the Soria family. Although unable the walk or speak, Noelle is full of love and determination to be seen by the person who doesn't want her there, her mother. Each member of the Soria family is relatable, as we see their flaws and struggles through Noelle's eyes, as they respond to such an unexpected change. I found 'Making Hearts' really compelling and I completely fell in love with Noelle, a unique protagonist, who stole my heart.

[Lauren Mckay · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this in a goodreads giveaway. It was written from a very different perspective which I actually liked. At first, I thought it was odd but as I read further, it made you actually think a little more about perspectives and how people change. The entire book definitely kept me on my toes as to what was going to happen next. I’d recommend this quick read!

[Yolanda Primrose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good story.

[Alexander Blumenstock · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books for picky readers!

[Emerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story had me immediately hooked through the engaging writing and the unique voice of the narrator. The story is told from the perspective of the newest baby in the Soria family. The story begins the night of her birth when her mother Emily goes into labor despite not knowing she was pregnant. The story is full of emotion and conflict as the family comes to terms with this change in their lives and the way that baby Noelle latches onto their hearts. There is a raw reality to this story as we see the different characters struggling through the perceptive gaze of Noelle. Each of the characters in the book are flawed people doing the best they can with their circumstances. From beginning to end this story will capture your attention. I found this to be a very unique read. I would highly recommend this book.

[Mari · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy from Mr. Getze. He has a clever way of telling the story of how a surprise baby grows love and togetherness in the Soria family. Baby Noelle didn’t think she’d ever get the love she sought. Emily didn’t know what or how to act with her new little girl. Her family, especially her Mama loved Noelle right away. But with some drug use within her family, and a “best” friend so jealous and trying to sabotage little Noelle, it created so much trouble for the Soria’s. And then there’s the same boyfriend they both liked...

[Sam Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Making Hearts is feel-good story of love and the bond between families. The story is a little different in that it is told from the perspective of a child, a character that I couldn’t help but fall in love with. This is a very easy to read adventure that I couldn't put down, and it’s quite a quick read too so I got from start to finish in one sitting. A perfect family read, 5 stars from me.

[Jennifer Strouth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this heartwarming book about family that gets an unexpected surprise, overcoming obstacles, and growing to love each other. Told in a unique point of view, from the baby herself. Was rooting for Baby Noelle the whole way!

Received free copy from the author.

[Jeffrey Feistner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highly recommend!

[Modesta Bachand · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clever and unpredictable writing.

[Luis Humberto Molinar Márquez · Rating 5 out of 5]

[English review + Reseña en español]

Making Hearts by Jack Getze
Down & Out Books, 2020
148 pages
Fiction: Family Drama

Noelle is a baby that even before she was born she already knew for a fact that she was not expected or desired. She has seen too many movies and read too many books through the eyes of her mother, Emily, and has a very vivid imagination, as well as an accurate self-awareness and a hunch that she is at great risk when a certain person close to her mother is nearby. They both live with their parents (Mama and Papi) and Phillip, Emily's brother. Emily does not want to be a mother and someone has to take care of Noelle, so Mama offers to replace her, but when the State finds out about the situation, it sends a social worker to put order and that is when the family's life begins to stumble.

In this novel, mystery writer Jack Getze places in the midst of the whirlwind a person so young that she is still unable to speak, walk or fend for herself, but who is fully aware of her place (or lack thereof) in the Soria family. Her mother, immature and ill advised by her supposed friend, only wants to live life and "make hearts" in her notebooks for the boy she loves. Her grandmother wishes only the best for her and that Emily learns to love her child. The law protects the rights of the minor and will not allow her to be endangered.

The story unfolds at a very good pace, allowing the points of view of both young and old to be known, as well as the voices of the heart, reason and civil law. The language is very well cared for, the narrative gives the characters the precise dimension according to their age and personality and the plot is interesting enough for one to read the book straight from the beginning to the end in a day.

I recommend this book if you like family dramas written with humor and if you are interested in reading a good story about a newborn whose mother never even thought about the possibility of having become pregnant.

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Making Hearts de Jack Getze
Down & Out Books, 2020
148 páginas
Ficción: Drama familiar

Noelle es una bebé que aún antes de nacer ya sabía a ciencia cierta que no era esperada ni deseada. Ella ha visto demasiadas películas y leído demasiados libros a través de los ojos de su madre, Emily, y tiene una imaginación muy vívida, además de una conciencia precisa de sí misma y la corazonada de que corre un gran riesgo cuando cierta persona cercana a su madre está cerca. Ambas viven con sus padres (Mama y Papi) y Phillip, hermano de Emily. Emily no desea ser madre y alguien debe hacerse cargo de Noelle, así que Mama se ofrece a sustituirla, pero cuando el Estado se entera de la situación, envía a una encargada a poner orden y es entonces cuando la vida de la familia comienza a dar tumbos.

En esta novela, el escritor de misterio Jack Getze coloca en medio del torbellino a una persona tan joven que aún es incapaz de hablar, caminar o valerse por sí misma, pero que es totalmente consciente de su lugar (o su falta de él) en la familia Soria. Su madre, inmadura y mal aconsejada por su supuesta amiga, solo quiere vivir la vida y “hacer corazones” en sus cuadernos por el chico a quien ama. Su abuela solo desea lo mejor para ella y que Emily aprenda a amarla. La ley vela por los derechos de la menor y no permitirá que sea puesta en peligro.

La historia se desarrolla con muy buen ritmo, permitiendo que se conozcan los puntos de vista tanto de los jóvenes como de los adultos, así como las voces del corazón, de la razón y de la ley civil. El lenguaje está muy bien cuidado, la narrativa da a los personajes la dimensión precisa según su edad y personalidad y la trama es lo suficientemente interesante para que uno lea el libro de corrido.

Te recomiendo este libro si te gustan los dramas de familia escritos con humor y si estás interesado en leer una buena historia acerca de una recién nacida cuya madre jamás pensó siquiera en la posibilidad de haber quedado embarazada.

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Making Hearts is a story told from the point of view of a baby. It is a unique story, allowing us to hear the thoughts of a child born to a teenage mother, and the baby’s emotions about those in her family, or close to her family. The baby has an astute sense of who loves her and who doesn’t.
The story also talks about the love of families and how that lives can change, and hopefully grow.
I really liked getting the perspective of the baby, the mother, the grandmother, and the grandfather as the story unfolded. I think we often wonder what a child is thinking or how they perceive the people around them, so it was delightful to read a story from the child’s point of view.
I was also interested to see how family court operates, and the things they consider when determining what is best for a child. The case worker wasn’t the most sympathetic person in the world. Also neither I nor the baby was a fan of Demyan, Emily’s supposed friend!

[Jolie Petrusky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book for readers who want something different.

[Sherman Marana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unforgettable storyline. So well written

[Lorna Alcalde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnificent plot.

[Kathy · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to like this but could not adjust to the narrator being a fetus. There were also lengthy descriptions that did not add to the book - rambling descriptions of clothing and rooms which also seemed odd given the narrator's perspective. I liked the concept of the book and its "heart" but this one was not for me.

[Shandra Locken · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was entertaining but I really did not like how adoption was depicted in the beginning as “throwing a baby away.” I found this a bit offensive. Most parents who give their children up for adoption do so to give them a chance at a better life than they themselves could give them.

[Bobbie Mizenko · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful plot. I highly recommend it.

[Donna Kremer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A box of complimentary Making Hearts arrived on my girlfriend’s front stoop and I’m glad it did! I thought the writing was good! Funny even. I kept envisioning an aspiring writer trying to be talented and I believe he pulled it off. The baby protagonist’s POV made me laugh. “...nine of the eleven babies in the tank had fallen in line, crying together in a gigantic wail, punishing their lungs, me and my new baby boy friend leading the acoustical attack.”

[Zora Wittmer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Five star story!

[Luna Knife · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful book.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book by Jack Getze had one of the most amazing and unique storytelling viewpoints I have read yet. The look and feelings of the world from the eyes of an infant. And, not just any infant, but an unwanted daughter from a 17-year old unmarried girl. Correct, a bastard child. But oh what an amazing story Getze presents for the reader to enjoy as the baby struggles with its feelings about its mother, grandmother, and others around it. The author shows the heartbreak of potentially putting a child up for adoption or losing it through the child protective services when unreliable information is provided to them about the baby Noelle's family. Throughout, the story talks about all the various ways the feelings of the heart can change from extreme happiness to extreme heartbreak. One underlying theme prevails though, you never know where or when love will show up and in what form, but never give up on it. The characters seemed very realistic in their presentation. The young being self-involved, devious and immature; the adults split between loving and not loving the baby. This is a voluntary review of this book.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

After I read a few pages of MAKING HEARTS, I was reminded of Ian McEwan‘s NUTSHELL. Both stories are narrated by an unborn child who is aware of what is going on around her/him and her/his mother. But MAKING HEARTS‘ baby is soon born and continues narrating the story from the perspective of a newborn. As in NUTSHELL, MAKING HEARTS' baby, Noelle, makes judgments and knows more than is possible. But Noelle does insist that babies are more aware than adults realize. And I suppose that is possible.

After Noelle is born, she is so intent on making her mother’s family love her that she smiles at them even before she is a day old. Although her 17-year-old unwed mother is not so easily won over, HER mother, Mama, is.

Then a custody battle ensues. And we see all from the perspective of a helpless baby who turns out to be not so helpless.

I received a copy of MAKING HEARTS From the author.