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Lifemark
For eighteen years, she tried to believe she had made the right decision―for him.
But if she never saw him again, how could she ever be sure?
Melissa had clung to the thin thread of hope given by the adoption agency that someday her newborn son might want to connect with her. When his eighteenth birthday arrived, she called the agency to simply update her contact information, not expecting a response.
Susan and Jimmy Colton had raised their boy with openness about his adoption. After the heartbreaking loss of two infant sons that marked their early years of marriage, they promised themselves they would try not to hold too tightly to David or hold back any information he wanted about his birth. And so they waited on him.
David was hesitant to talk about the questions and curiosities about his birth story that often haunted him. But as he neared adulthood, his need to know the full story of his life became something he couldn’t shake. Until the call came to the Coltons from the adoption agency, and the first tentative bits of communication and connection set in motion a story that would change all their lives forever.
From the team that brought you the movies Courageous and War Room comes Lifemark , the novelization of the new film inspired by a true story of adoption, redemption, and hope.
But if she never saw him again, how could she ever be sure?
Melissa had clung to the thin thread of hope given by the adoption agency that someday her newborn son might want to connect with her. When his eighteenth birthday arrived, she called the agency to simply update her contact information, not expecting a response.
Susan and Jimmy Colton had raised their boy with openness about his adoption. After the heartbreaking loss of two infant sons that marked their early years of marriage, they promised themselves they would try not to hold too tightly to David or hold back any information he wanted about his birth. And so they waited on him.
David was hesitant to talk about the questions and curiosities about his birth story that often haunted him. But as he neared adulthood, his need to know the full story of his life became something he couldn’t shake. Until the call came to the Coltons from the adoption agency, and the first tentative bits of communication and connection set in motion a story that would change all their lives forever.
From the team that brought you the movies Courageous and War Room comes Lifemark , the novelization of the new film inspired by a true story of adoption, redemption, and hope.
416 pages, Paperback
Published August 2, 2022
24 people are currently reading
819 people want to read
About the author
Chris Fabry
211 books673 followersChris Fabry is an award-winning author and radio personality who hosts the daily program Chris Fabry Live on Moody Radio. He is also heard on Love Worth Finding, Building Relationships with Dr. Gary Chapman, and other radio programs. A 1982 graduate of the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism at Marshall University and native of West Virginia, Chris and his wife, Andrea, now live in Arizona and are the parents of nine children.
Chris' novels, which include Dogwood, June Bug, Almost Heaven, Not in the Heart, Borders of the Heart, Every Waking Moment, The Promise of Jesse Woods, Looking into You, Under a Cloudless Sky, and A Piece of the Moon, have won five Christy Awards, an ECPA Christian Book Award, and two Christianity Today Book Awards of Merit, but it's his lyrical prose and tales of redemption that keep readers returning for more.
Chris has also published more than 70 other books, ranging from nonfiction and film novelizations, including the Kendrick brothers' War Room and Overcomer, to novels for children and young adults. He coauthored the Left Behind: The Kids series with Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye, as well as the Red Rock Mysteries and The Wormling series with Jerry B. Jenkins. RPM is his latest series for kids and explores the exciting world of NASCAR.
Visit Chris' website at www.chrisfabry.com.
Chris' novels, which include Dogwood, June Bug, Almost Heaven, Not in the Heart, Borders of the Heart, Every Waking Moment, The Promise of Jesse Woods, Looking into You, Under a Cloudless Sky, and A Piece of the Moon, have won five Christy Awards, an ECPA Christian Book Award, and two Christianity Today Book Awards of Merit, but it's his lyrical prose and tales of redemption that keep readers returning for more.
Chris has also published more than 70 other books, ranging from nonfiction and film novelizations, including the Kendrick brothers' War Room and Overcomer, to novels for children and young adults. He coauthored the Left Behind: The Kids series with Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye, as well as the Red Rock Mysteries and The Wormling series with Jerry B. Jenkins. RPM is his latest series for kids and explores the exciting world of NASCAR.
Visit Chris' website at www.chrisfabry.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
August 8, 2022
Chris Fabry and the Kendrick Brothers, LLC team up again to bring another fantastic heartwarming story!
Melissa had a tough life after her parents divorced. She stayed with her dad, but after he remarried, he spent less time with her and more time with his stepchildren. Before long, she decided it was best to leave home behind and move in with her boyfriend, Bryan. What she never counted on was getting pregnant. After much turmoil, she decided it was best to put her baby up for adoption so that he could have a better life than she could give him, but she never forgets about him, thinking of him often.
Susan and Jimmy Colton have had heartbreak in earlier pregnancies and trying to adopt a child. On a whim, Jimmy decides to resubmit their application letter when they receive a call that a mother in Indianapolis has chosen their family to be the recipient of her baby. Both Jimmy and Susan have always been open with their son, David, about his adoption and have been supportive if he ever wanted to reach out to his biological parents.
David has always kept the topic of his adoption closed except for the people who are closest to him. When he gets a call from the legal team of the adoption agency that the birth mother has updated her contact information, he decides to make contact to appease his parents. He never expected the flood that would be released in the future!
As usual, the Kendrick Brothers idea mixed with Chris Fabry’s storytelling makes for a fantastic story! The plot is a pro-life story and the good that can come out of choosing adoption over abortion. It is predictable, but a story like this is intended to be, especially because of the bigger audience, but someone might find this book who is in this situation and be riveted to see what can happen when you look at a bigger picture. I love to read books before watching movies and this will be no exception. There will likely be a little bit of storyline removed for the movie, but only enough that it won’t be that noticeable. It was easy to relate to the characters and Melissa’s predicament was well written. I love the way this story comes full circle from beginning to end!
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
Melissa had a tough life after her parents divorced. She stayed with her dad, but after he remarried, he spent less time with her and more time with his stepchildren. Before long, she decided it was best to leave home behind and move in with her boyfriend, Bryan. What she never counted on was getting pregnant. After much turmoil, she decided it was best to put her baby up for adoption so that he could have a better life than she could give him, but she never forgets about him, thinking of him often.
Susan and Jimmy Colton have had heartbreak in earlier pregnancies and trying to adopt a child. On a whim, Jimmy decides to resubmit their application letter when they receive a call that a mother in Indianapolis has chosen their family to be the recipient of her baby. Both Jimmy and Susan have always been open with their son, David, about his adoption and have been supportive if he ever wanted to reach out to his biological parents.
David has always kept the topic of his adoption closed except for the people who are closest to him. When he gets a call from the legal team of the adoption agency that the birth mother has updated her contact information, he decides to make contact to appease his parents. He never expected the flood that would be released in the future!
As usual, the Kendrick Brothers idea mixed with Chris Fabry’s storytelling makes for a fantastic story! The plot is a pro-life story and the good that can come out of choosing adoption over abortion. It is predictable, but a story like this is intended to be, especially because of the bigger audience, but someone might find this book who is in this situation and be riveted to see what can happen when you look at a bigger picture. I love to read books before watching movies and this will be no exception. There will likely be a little bit of storyline removed for the movie, but only enough that it won’t be that noticeable. It was easy to relate to the characters and Melissa’s predicament was well written. I love the way this story comes full circle from beginning to end!
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
August 3, 2022
Chris Fabry’s Lifemark is a companion book to the newest Kendrick Brothers’ movie production of the same name. I am a fan of both Fabry and the Kendricks. At this writing I haven’t seen the movie, however based on this book I look forward to seeing it.
While it might be convenient to categorize this story as a pro-life and pro-adoption story, Fabry’s skilled storytelling brought out a compelling and inspirational story. Just a good story that happens to include these themes.
Unwanted and/or inconvenient pregnancies aren’t political—it’s about people. Life’s complexities and heartache and the exhausting emotional commitments to these “issues” were so beautifully depicted. I have to say it again: it’s about people. And Chris Fabry knows how to write the stories of people’s messy and complex lives.
I highly recommend this book for fans of Chris Fabry’s gritty yet wholesome and inspirational storytelling. Whatever your political position, I encourage readers to see the story behind the people facing difficult decisions, with an open heart.
I was given a free copy of #Lifemark from Tyndale House Publishers through #NetGalley for my honest review.
While it might be convenient to categorize this story as a pro-life and pro-adoption story, Fabry’s skilled storytelling brought out a compelling and inspirational story. Just a good story that happens to include these themes.
Unwanted and/or inconvenient pregnancies aren’t political—it’s about people. Life’s complexities and heartache and the exhausting emotional commitments to these “issues” were so beautifully depicted. I have to say it again: it’s about people. And Chris Fabry knows how to write the stories of people’s messy and complex lives.
I highly recommend this book for fans of Chris Fabry’s gritty yet wholesome and inspirational storytelling. Whatever your political position, I encourage readers to see the story behind the people facing difficult decisions, with an open heart.
I was given a free copy of #Lifemark from Tyndale House Publishers through #NetGalley for my honest review.
June 17, 2023
Great story.
August 17, 2025
this was beautiful.
November 5, 2024
To some this would be "A cheesy Christian book" but not to me....
It's based on a true story but parallels my own story.
God stopped by abortion as well as David's (In this book).
God redeems!
It's based on a true story but parallels my own story.
God stopped by abortion as well as David's (In this book).
God redeems!
March 13, 2023
If my life was a book, this would be it! Change a few minor details, and you have the story of my adoption and my life! I was blessed with the opportunity to meet my birth mom when I was in high school and remain in contact with her. This book took me back to my personal journey and was a very emotional read for me! Even if you can’t relate to David and his journey, this book is well worth the read and is a great “feel good” story of redemption and healing! I couldn’t put it down!
September 16, 2023
This book is basically the movie in printed form with a few added details.
The story of a young single mother who chooses life for her baby when she refuses an abortion. She later puts her son up for adoption so that the adoptive family can do for him what she wishes she could provide herself.
Mother and child eventually reunite and through their testimony, many people discover the value of life and the importance of family.
The story of a young single mother who chooses life for her baby when she refuses an abortion. She later puts her son up for adoption so that the adoptive family can do for him what she wishes she could provide herself.
Mother and child eventually reunite and through their testimony, many people discover the value of life and the importance of family.
November 4, 2024
4.75 stars. This book's central focus is Melissa Long. Melissa is a high school senior with a rough home life that leaves her scrounging for food and living with her boyfriend, Bryan. Her home life is about to become much more turbulent as she discovers she is pregnant. Bryan isn't very receptive to the news, but he knows they need to formulate a plan. Bryan seems keen on the idea of Melissa getting an abortion. Melissa isn't keen on the idea, but she doesn't know what else to do. We then meet Susan and Jimmy Colt who are grieving the back-to-back losses of two infant sons due to rare genetic disorders. Susan and Jimmy decide to inquire into the adoption process again. They have had a failed adoption before. On the day of her appointment, Melissa goes to the clinic but forgoes the procedure once there. Melissa's decision leaves Bryan gobsmacked and angry. Melissa calls an adoption agency to open a case for her unborn baby. The adoption agency happens to be the same one that Susan and Jimmy resubmitted their application to. Melissa and Bryan eventually pick Susan and Jimmy to be the parents of the baby. Later tragedy strikes for Melissa as her friend Kelly dies in a car accident. Bryan and Melissa get engaged. Melissa's pregnancy journey continues as she ponders how to let her baby go. Melissa goes into labor and delivers a healthy baby boy. Melissa struggles to sign the adoption papers but eventually does. Susan and Jimmy travel to Indiana to meet their adopted son.
Melissa and Bryan get married. Melissa corresponded with Susan and Jimmy during the first year of baby David's life. Melissa and Bryan's relationship becomes rocky and stays that way when Melissa gets pregnant again. When their daughter Courtney is two, Melissa and Bryan get divorced. Melissa's curiosity about David grows, but she shoves it deep within. Susan and Jimmy tell David the story of his adoption. Melissa finds Jesus and a good man named Sean. This situation helps her begin to heal from David's adoption. Years pass and when David is eighteen he has contact with his birth mom, Melissa. They agreed to meet face-to-face. David also meets his birth sister. The next day, David meets his birth father, Bryan, and Bryan's family. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to watch the movie.TW: Moderate- Abortion
Melissa and Bryan get married. Melissa corresponded with Susan and Jimmy during the first year of baby David's life. Melissa and Bryan's relationship becomes rocky and stays that way when Melissa gets pregnant again. When their daughter Courtney is two, Melissa and Bryan get divorced. Melissa's curiosity about David grows, but she shoves it deep within. Susan and Jimmy tell David the story of his adoption. Melissa finds Jesus and a good man named Sean. This situation helps her begin to heal from David's adoption. Years pass and when David is eighteen he has contact with his birth mom, Melissa. They agreed to meet face-to-face. David also meets his birth sister. The next day, David meets his birth father, Bryan, and Bryan's family. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to watch the movie.TW: Moderate- Abortion
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2024
This might be a really good book for anyone contemplating abortion, or if you know a person considering that as an option right now.
A moving story of a young couple living together finding out they’re pregnant and making a decision about it. He's all for ending the pregnancy, she's not. Their ultimate decision is an answer to prayer for a couple who had two losses in their life.
The book was quite good, but a bit unrealistic. The adoptive couple and the adopted kid were way too perfect. But perhaps I’m a bit cynical. I’m sure it’s quite enjoyable for many who enjoy sugary endings.
I’ll say one thing in this book's favor…the gospel is spelled out without reservation. Straight forward and completely biblical. Loved it.
This was the Audible version read by the author, so of course he did a great job.
A moving story of a young couple living together finding out they’re pregnant and making a decision about it. He's all for ending the pregnancy, she's not. Their ultimate decision is an answer to prayer for a couple who had two losses in their life.
The book was quite good, but a bit unrealistic. The adoptive couple and the adopted kid were way too perfect. But perhaps I’m a bit cynical. I’m sure it’s quite enjoyable for many who enjoy sugary endings.
I’ll say one thing in this book's favor…the gospel is spelled out without reservation. Straight forward and completely biblical. Loved it.
This was the Audible version read by the author, so of course he did a great job.
August 2, 2022
This is one of the best books I've read this year. It's a beautifully written story that is full of emotions, once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. It deals with abortion, adoption, family, hope, and second chances. This book is full of God's grace, mercy and forgiveness. I can't put into words how good this book was. I highly recommend this book. It deserves more than 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy from Tyndale House Publishers via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from Tyndale House Publishers via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 19, 2022
Story line was good, but there were things that were just super implausible, such as a first-grader saying things like, "Nice to meet you, fellow prisoner" (referring to school). I've worked with a lot of first graders, and the conversations in this chapter were just really hard to take seriously. And then when he's under anesthesia, he's singing and talking and all these things that happen AFTER surgery, not before. There were just a lot of little moments like this throughout that made it a harder read for me.
October 18, 2022
Loved this story
This book hit me hard as I am a birth mother of a baby girl I placed for adoption at 18 years old and I am also an adoptive mother of a son who is now 18 years old. I could feel so much of Melissa's fears, uncertainty and all the other emotions. I could also feel Susan's emotions about finally having a child. My daughter finally found me in May of this year and now my heart is whole again. If my son would want to find his birth mother someday, I will support him 100%! David, thank you for sharing your story.
This book hit me hard as I am a birth mother of a baby girl I placed for adoption at 18 years old and I am also an adoptive mother of a son who is now 18 years old. I could feel so much of Melissa's fears, uncertainty and all the other emotions. I could also feel Susan's emotions about finally having a child. My daughter finally found me in May of this year and now my heart is whole again. If my son would want to find his birth mother someday, I will support him 100%! David, thank you for sharing your story.
April 19, 2023
It was.....good.
The topic and process of adoption is near and dear to my heart as I have gained family members through adoption and deal with it frequently in my profession. I thought this book would be an easy slam dunk. But for such an emotionally heavy topic, I just couldn't feel myself emotionally invested in the story or the characters as much as I really wanted to. Not sure exactly what was missing for me, if it was the writing style or just where I am at internally.
I was able to read through it quickly and enjoyed it. Great message. I was just hoping for more somehow.
The topic and process of adoption is near and dear to my heart as I have gained family members through adoption and deal with it frequently in my profession. I thought this book would be an easy slam dunk. But for such an emotionally heavy topic, I just couldn't feel myself emotionally invested in the story or the characters as much as I really wanted to. Not sure exactly what was missing for me, if it was the writing style or just where I am at internally.
I was able to read through it quickly and enjoyed it. Great message. I was just hoping for more somehow.
July 30, 2023
I was so moved by this memoir tale of David, a young man whose life seems perfect except for a headache malady. The treatment for it is accompanied by a call from his natural mother. The book deals with the emotions of a man who has been adopted by loving parents and his birth mother's desire to know him and to relate her story about giving up David for adoption. This movie will move you to tears of joy and regret. Overall, this was a beautiful tale of closure and helaing.
February 19, 2023
The story is a beautiful portrayal of God’s redeeming love but the writing is severely lacking. Many parts of the story seem so random or abrupt and I’m sure this is where cinematography fills in the gaps I wish the author would have expounded on. I plan to watch the movie and feel it probably would have been left as a movie.
March 2, 2024
I had been wanting to read this book for a long time. There was a movie out about it but reading the book is so much better because it's so much more in depth. I was not disappointed. Great book and one I'm still talking about with my friends. Love this author and how he writes realistic fiction from a biblical perspective.
June 8, 2022
A pro-life story. Overall, a bit sad, but well written. And it does end well! It makes you appreciate adoptive parents, and mothers who choose to carry the baby and give it up for adoption!!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this advance e-copy!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this advance e-copy!
August 6, 2022
So good!
I won this book via Goodreads First Reads. Wow, what a fantastic feel-good book! Throughout the story, I could feel God's love and presence. This book has all the feels and does not disappoint.
I won this book via Goodreads First Reads. Wow, what a fantastic feel-good book! Throughout the story, I could feel God's love and presence. This book has all the feels and does not disappoint.
May 27, 2023
A young man about to embark into adulthood has debated the possibility of contacting his birth mother. His journey is a true life changer - for him, but also for all involved. So inspiring is this real-life story, but young David wishes to share his story with others.
June 10, 2023
This book is a journey of abortion, adoption, and the strength to move on. It covers a baby boy born to adulthood. It has both sets of parents and their feelings and the meeting of all of them at the end. It is so beautifully written, that you can't help but love this book.
August 10, 2022
Looking forward to watching the movie this fall!
September 2, 2022
Really,really good.
September 5, 2022
Going to see the movie this week. But wanted to read the book first. What a story of twist and turns. But in the end, chose life.
September 7, 2022
I try to read all of the books of the Kendrick Brothers films. This one was okay.
January 23, 2023
This book was really good. I enjoyed the different povs.
January 31, 2023
Tear jerker, amazing true story.
February 4, 2023
What a great book!!!! Love the movie also!!!
June 28, 2023
Read it for book club.
July 15, 2023
This was a great book! It definitely brought tears to my eyes. Such a great story about the importance of life!
October 7, 2023
Another good offering from the Kendrick Bros, but not as good as their other books…
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews