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Someone Else's Child
The first time I saw you, I knew you were meant to be ours. I took you in my arms, your little hands in tight fists, and I knew I was going to do everything in my power to be the mother you needed and deserved…
When Catriona loses her baby girl at birth, it shatters her. But like a light in the darkness, Catriona is given the chance to adopt beautiful baby April, and now she cannot imagine life without her.
The family’s picture-perfect home is filled every day with April’s warm giggles and joyful games. But when her daughter is just eight years old, Catriona gets the call that she has been silently dreading. April’s birth mother, Lauren, would like to meet her.
Lauren breezes into their home and April just sparkles around her. Their matching turquoise eyes and chestnut hair feels like a knife to Catriona’s heart. Lauren appears to have her life back on track, with a good job and a new house in an upscale neighbourhood. Pushing to spend more and more time with April, one day Lauren says the unthinkable: April belongs with me.
Who can truly give the little girl the love and family she deserves? Catriona is sure Lauren is keeping secrets. Catriona only wants what is best for her darling daughter, but does that really mean she has to let her go forever?
A totally unforgettable, emotional, and beautiful novel that will break your heart into a million pieces and put it back together again. Powerful and ultimately uplifting, fans of Kate Hewitt, Jodi Picoult and Diane Chamberlain will be captivated.
When Catriona loses her baby girl at birth, it shatters her. But like a light in the darkness, Catriona is given the chance to adopt beautiful baby April, and now she cannot imagine life without her.
The family’s picture-perfect home is filled every day with April’s warm giggles and joyful games. But when her daughter is just eight years old, Catriona gets the call that she has been silently dreading. April’s birth mother, Lauren, would like to meet her.
Lauren breezes into their home and April just sparkles around her. Their matching turquoise eyes and chestnut hair feels like a knife to Catriona’s heart. Lauren appears to have her life back on track, with a good job and a new house in an upscale neighbourhood. Pushing to spend more and more time with April, one day Lauren says the unthinkable: April belongs with me.
Who can truly give the little girl the love and family she deserves? Catriona is sure Lauren is keeping secrets. Catriona only wants what is best for her darling daughter, but does that really mean she has to let her go forever?
A totally unforgettable, emotional, and beautiful novel that will break your heart into a million pieces and put it back together again. Powerful and ultimately uplifting, fans of Kate Hewitt, Jodi Picoult and Diane Chamberlain will be captivated.
- GenresFiction
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 21, 2022
1223 people are currently reading
381 people want to read
About the author
Alison Ragsdale
16 books452 followersAlison's Amazon best sellers include: TUESDAY'S SOCKS, THE FATHER-DAUGHTER CLUB, FINDING HEATHER, A LIFE UNEXPECTED, THE ART OF REMEMBERING, DIGNITY AND GRACE, HER LAST CHANCE, SOMEONE ELSE'S CHILD, THE CHILD BETWEEN US, AN IMPOSSIBLE CHOICE, and MY HUSBAND'S CHILD.
Originally from Edinburgh, Alison now lives in the US with her husband and dogs. Educated in England, she holds an MBA from Leicester University.
For more information: www.alisonragsdale.com.
Originally from Edinburgh, Alison now lives in the US with her husband and dogs. Educated in England, she holds an MBA from Leicester University.
For more information: www.alisonragsdale.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
January 28, 2022
In a Nutshell: I had expected to love this book and rate it 5 stars because of the initial 20-25%. But it became somewhat repetitive after that and I couldn’t agree with some of the decisions taken by the main protagonist. I would have loved the book much more if I had found her sensible.
Story:
Where the book worked for me:
❤ The story is set in a small Scottish town and it makes wonderful use of the location. The setting adds beautifully to the atmosphere and the emotions of the narrative.
❤ I loved the basic idea of the plot. How would you react if you think that the birth mother of your adopted child is connecting better with her? It’s a tough situation to be in, and I could understand Catriona’s dilemma.
❤ The secondary characters – Catriona’s parents, her new neighbours, the local fisherman Mungo and the children in the story (Hope, April, and Graham – their neighbour’s grandson) – are very well-sketched and quite memorable. Even Catriona’s husband Duncan is shown not as perfect but as human. I could empathise more with him than with Catriona.
❤ Some of the family scenes are really touching and very emotional.
Where the book could have worked better for me:
💔 Main problem: I didn’t like Catriona, though I felt tremendously sorry for her. I just didn’t understand her decisions. How could she not believe her husband of seventeen years but trust a new acquaintance right from the first meeting? She seemed very biased and overly naïve. She ignores the red flags in everyone’s behaviour except Duncan’s. Emotional upheaval might explain away some of her decisions but not all of them. I felt very irritated with her.
💔 The book held me hooked till about 25% into it. It was captivating to the point that I just didn’t feel like keeping it aside. However, after this mark, the situations became quite repetitive. There was a slight spurt of novelty when Lauren comes into the story but again, her track also ends up going round the same circles again and again.
💔 The GR blurb spans more than 70% of the story. To give you a clue of how long the story takes to move ahead, just see my story blurb. My first paragraph is from the prologue. The first tragedy hits quite early in the book and the aftermath lasts until the midway mark. Lauren’s request for a meeting comes only after the 45-50% point. So the blurb doesn’t work as a promo but more like a summary without the ending revealed. Plus, the story doesn’t move fast enough in the early chapters to have a better blurb.
💔 I didn’t pick this up when I was in a positive mind-space and I feel that also affected my reading experience. It is very strong on grief. So if you are feeling low for any reason, it is not a good idea to pick this up at that time.
As you can see from the GR rating, most readers have loved this book. So please go through the other reviews before you make up your mind. Mine is somewhat of an outlier opinion. I did like the book but my timing with it didn’t work out, and my annoyance with Catriona’s behaviour didn’t help matters.
3.25 stars from me.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC of “Someone Else's Child”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Story:
Catriona gives birth to twin girls – Faith and Hope - but loses one of them soon after birth. In the aftermath of grief, she is given a chance to adopt a baby girl April born around the same time as her daughters. April’s arrival in her life helps somewhat to make their family seem complete.
Eight years later, tragedy strikes again, and then once more. There is one heart-breaking loss, and there is one unexpected arrival – a letter from April’s birth mother Lauren, asking to meet her little girl.
How will April react to the tragedy and to this new person? Will Lauren’s arrival break Catriona’s family even further?
The story is written in a third person narration mainly from Catriona’s perspective.
Where the book worked for me:
❤ The story is set in a small Scottish town and it makes wonderful use of the location. The setting adds beautifully to the atmosphere and the emotions of the narrative.
❤ I loved the basic idea of the plot. How would you react if you think that the birth mother of your adopted child is connecting better with her? It’s a tough situation to be in, and I could understand Catriona’s dilemma.
❤ The secondary characters – Catriona’s parents, her new neighbours, the local fisherman Mungo and the children in the story (Hope, April, and Graham – their neighbour’s grandson) – are very well-sketched and quite memorable. Even Catriona’s husband Duncan is shown not as perfect but as human. I could empathise more with him than with Catriona.
❤ Some of the family scenes are really touching and very emotional.
Where the book could have worked better for me:
💔 Main problem: I didn’t like Catriona, though I felt tremendously sorry for her. I just didn’t understand her decisions. How could she not believe her husband of seventeen years but trust a new acquaintance right from the first meeting? She seemed very biased and overly naïve. She ignores the red flags in everyone’s behaviour except Duncan’s. Emotional upheaval might explain away some of her decisions but not all of them. I felt very irritated with her.
💔 The book held me hooked till about 25% into it. It was captivating to the point that I just didn’t feel like keeping it aside. However, after this mark, the situations became quite repetitive. There was a slight spurt of novelty when Lauren comes into the story but again, her track also ends up going round the same circles again and again.
💔 The GR blurb spans more than 70% of the story. To give you a clue of how long the story takes to move ahead, just see my story blurb. My first paragraph is from the prologue. The first tragedy hits quite early in the book and the aftermath lasts until the midway mark. Lauren’s request for a meeting comes only after the 45-50% point. So the blurb doesn’t work as a promo but more like a summary without the ending revealed. Plus, the story doesn’t move fast enough in the early chapters to have a better blurb.
💔 I didn’t pick this up when I was in a positive mind-space and I feel that also affected my reading experience. It is very strong on grief. So if you are feeling low for any reason, it is not a good idea to pick this up at that time.
As you can see from the GR rating, most readers have loved this book. So please go through the other reviews before you make up your mind. Mine is somewhat of an outlier opinion. I did like the book but my timing with it didn’t work out, and my annoyance with Catriona’s behaviour didn’t help matters.
3.25 stars from me.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC of “Someone Else's Child”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
December 8, 2021
This amazing, emotional and sometimes very intense story drew me in from the first chapter. The author does a wonderful job of describing all the characters and their thoughts and actions. The scenery descriptions make me want to visit the area. The book is such a page turner I had a hard time putting it down to eat and sleep. Is a mother’s love enough to help her daughter and their family get through the trauma of a devastating loss? Read the book to find out, and be sure to keep tissues close by.
January 19, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Someone Else's Child' by Alison Ragsdale.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Alison Ragsdale, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 21st January 2022.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have previously read the first book in the series called 'Her Last Chance' which I highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'Powerful and ultimately uplifting, fans of Kate Hewitt, Jodi Picoult and Diane Chamberlain will be captivated. ' I am a huge fan of Kate, Jodi and Diane so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Alison and if this is half as good as 'Her Last Chance' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 34 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Plockton, Scotland. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in third and person perspective and the main protagonist is Catriona. The benefits of third person perspective with are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'Someone Else's Child' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Alison discusses/includes loss of a child.
Well ladies and gents if you are looking for a tear jerker you have come to the right place!!! This book has been beautifully written and it completely drew me in with its vivid descriptions. The storyline and synopsis worked perfect for this book.
The storyline is stunningly devastating and it had me on the edge of my seat throughout. It is such a powerful storyline that will stay with me for a long time. It was filled with love, heartbreak, family and loss and I was completely absorbed throughout. If you have ever read 'P. S I love you', 'Me before you' or 'My Sisters keeper' and enjoyed them then this book is definitely for you!! I love the fact that Alison focused on mutism plus open adoption procedures and the fact that she most definitely did her research shines through!!! It is great that she is bringing such awareness while weaving it into such a beautiful storyline, that takes talent. It is filled with a mother's love for her children and what she would do for them. An absolute roller coaster ride of emotions, make sure you have the tissues ready because you will need them!!!
The characters were well defined, realistic and strong. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain and suffering that Catriona was going through, especially as a Mum myself, such a strong and passionate woman. However it wasn't just Catriona that was strong but also April who had all that to go through whilst being just a child. I also felt sorry for Duncan at times yet at others I easily could have throttled him!! I do think it is hard to see things from a dad's perspective at times and realise how much they are going through when we are going through so much already, although he didn't help himself to be fair!! Catriona, April and Duncan were an almost perfect family unit and to watch them go through all that was absolutely heart wrenching. I could not stand Lauren and I definitely wouldn't have given her the benefit as Catriona did on many occasions. I won't say more than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers. However where there was dark the light shone through and I was very glad of Peg and Catriona's friendship and the support Peg gave while Catriona was going through a hell that no mother should.
This book absolutely grabbed my heart and mind and didn't let go while bringing tears to my eyes and I do not cry easily unless it comes to animals. So do make sure you have tissues at the ready!!
Although this book brought me to tears I also think that it ended perfectly and would absolutely love to see this made into a film!!! Alison this is why your my go to author for a tear jerker!!
Congratulations Alison on yet another gorgeous success and here's to your next one 🥂!!
Overall a devastatingly, heartbreaking and yet beautiful story that will leave you in tears.
Genres covered in this novel include Romance Novel, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Fiction and Domestic Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans Kate Hewitt, Jodi Picoult, Debbie Maccomber, Nicholas Sparks and Diane Chamberlain.
322 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#SomeoneElsesChild #Bookouture #AlisonRagsdale #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@AlisonRagsdale @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'Someone Else's Child' by Alison Ragsdale.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Alison Ragsdale, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 21st January 2022.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have previously read the first book in the series called 'Her Last Chance' which I highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'Powerful and ultimately uplifting, fans of Kate Hewitt, Jodi Picoult and Diane Chamberlain will be captivated. ' I am a huge fan of Kate, Jodi and Diane so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Alison and if this is half as good as 'Her Last Chance' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 34 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Plockton, Scotland. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in third and person perspective and the main protagonist is Catriona. The benefits of third person perspective with are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'Someone Else's Child' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Alison discusses/includes loss of a child.
Well ladies and gents if you are looking for a tear jerker you have come to the right place!!! This book has been beautifully written and it completely drew me in with its vivid descriptions. The storyline and synopsis worked perfect for this book.
The storyline is stunningly devastating and it had me on the edge of my seat throughout. It is such a powerful storyline that will stay with me for a long time. It was filled with love, heartbreak, family and loss and I was completely absorbed throughout. If you have ever read 'P. S I love you', 'Me before you' or 'My Sisters keeper' and enjoyed them then this book is definitely for you!! I love the fact that Alison focused on mutism plus open adoption procedures and the fact that she most definitely did her research shines through!!! It is great that she is bringing such awareness while weaving it into such a beautiful storyline, that takes talent. It is filled with a mother's love for her children and what she would do for them. An absolute roller coaster ride of emotions, make sure you have the tissues ready because you will need them!!!
The characters were well defined, realistic and strong. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain and suffering that Catriona was going through, especially as a Mum myself, such a strong and passionate woman. However it wasn't just Catriona that was strong but also April who had all that to go through whilst being just a child. I also felt sorry for Duncan at times yet at others I easily could have throttled him!! I do think it is hard to see things from a dad's perspective at times and realise how much they are going through when we are going through so much already, although he didn't help himself to be fair!! Catriona, April and Duncan were an almost perfect family unit and to watch them go through all that was absolutely heart wrenching. I could not stand Lauren and I definitely wouldn't have given her the benefit as Catriona did on many occasions. I won't say more than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers. However where there was dark the light shone through and I was very glad of Peg and Catriona's friendship and the support Peg gave while Catriona was going through a hell that no mother should.
This book absolutely grabbed my heart and mind and didn't let go while bringing tears to my eyes and I do not cry easily unless it comes to animals. So do make sure you have tissues at the ready!!
Although this book brought me to tears I also think that it ended perfectly and would absolutely love to see this made into a film!!! Alison this is why your my go to author for a tear jerker!!
Congratulations Alison on yet another gorgeous success and here's to your next one 🥂!!
Overall a devastatingly, heartbreaking and yet beautiful story that will leave you in tears.
Genres covered in this novel include Romance Novel, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Fiction and Domestic Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans Kate Hewitt, Jodi Picoult, Debbie Maccomber, Nicholas Sparks and Diane Chamberlain.
322 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#SomeoneElsesChild #Bookouture #AlisonRagsdale #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@AlisonRagsdale @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
January 3, 2022
I was really disappointed in this book, reading the synopsis I thought it was about a birth mother wanting to know the child she put up for adoption but the first half of the book was about the adoptive mothers life falling apart long before the birth mother came on the scene.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2022
This book was absolutely heartbreaking! As a mother of two, it really hit me hard reading this beautifully written story - it truly tugs at the heartstrings as the characters deal with loss, anger, love and reconciliation. Be prepared to reach for the tissues with this one, and to have your heart well and truly broken.
December 13, 2021
A family is in crisis. Two little girls are the best of friends and sisters. Until tragedy intervenes and the family is torn apart. Will Catriona end up losing all of her children when April”s birth mother re-emerges? I wasn’t sure which way the story was going to go until 3/4 of the way through. I liked the ending. It’s a solid story with fragments that get mended into a new family base. Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the early read.
January 21, 2022
Alison Ragsdale has written another “box of tissues”, heartwarming, heart aching novel, with characters and a story that will live long in my heart. I was so caught up in this book that I could barely put it down. Catriona wove her way into my heart from the very first page—her love, her gentleness, and her devotion evident in her actions and words. All I wanted was for her to be happy and healed and whole. This family is torn apart by the cruelest of fates, but their love for each other, even in their grief and anger, is palpable—each touch, each glance, each uttered word, speaks to the depth of their emotions. This is a love story on many levels; the love between a husband and wife, the love between sisters, and above all else, the love of a mother for her child. I was blown away by the depth of emotion portrayed by these characters and their stories.
December 30, 2021
Due to a difficult delivery, Catriona sadly lost one of her baby girls at birth. However, she was given the opportunity to adopt a baby girl named April and had the wonderful blessing of raising twins despite her devastating loss. Her life is complete, but as any mother would, she grieves her previous loss. April and Hope get along remarkably well and their family of four is truly blessed. However, they face another devastating loss and her family is shattered. Then April's birth mother wants to meet April. Catriona does not know how much more she can handle.
How will her family cope with their losses and the fact that April will be meeting her birth mother? Will Catriona lose everything, especially as the family is grieving so much? The sadness was palpable in this story, a story of a mother's love.
As a mother myself, I really felt for Catriona. No, I never experienced any of the things she did, but just the sheer intensity of her love for her children is what made me truly connect with her. She wanted the best for her family, even if it meant great sacrifice.
Alison Ragsdale has written another compelling read that was full of heartbreak. One thing this book did was to show the range of the stages of grief all while the gentle thread of hope shone through keeping me riveted from the very beginning. Impossible to put down and one that I will remember for years to come.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
How will her family cope with their losses and the fact that April will be meeting her birth mother? Will Catriona lose everything, especially as the family is grieving so much? The sadness was palpable in this story, a story of a mother's love.
As a mother myself, I really felt for Catriona. No, I never experienced any of the things she did, but just the sheer intensity of her love for her children is what made me truly connect with her. She wanted the best for her family, even if it meant great sacrifice.
Alison Ragsdale has written another compelling read that was full of heartbreak. One thing this book did was to show the range of the stages of grief all while the gentle thread of hope shone through keeping me riveted from the very beginning. Impossible to put down and one that I will remember for years to come.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
January 2, 2022
This story will keep you reading as, Catriona and Duncan, find themselves struggling through another loss. They made it through the loss of one daughter shortly after birth, but losing another one is taking its toll on them. As they are grieving the loss of Hope, April's biological mother contacts them and wants to see April.
We find out what they each go through, the doubts, the grief, how each one deals with it, whether this will be what tears them apart or has them come together. It is a difficult book to read, with such losses, but it is also a book that will help you understand what they go through when it happens.
I received an ARC from Bookouture through NetGalley.
We find out what they each go through, the doubts, the grief, how each one deals with it, whether this will be what tears them apart or has them come together. It is a difficult book to read, with such losses, but it is also a book that will help you understand what they go through when it happens.
I received an ARC from Bookouture through NetGalley.
January 3, 2022
Wow Alison has done it again with this brilliant book, one of my favourite authors that kept me involved in the story line from the very first page.
All the characters were so descriptive I felt as though I knew them all personally and I just wasn't sure how this book was going to end.
I can definitely recommend this book, well done Alison 5+ stars from me and I look forward to your next book.
All the characters were so descriptive I felt as though I knew them all personally and I just wasn't sure how this book was going to end.
I can definitely recommend this book, well done Alison 5+ stars from me and I look forward to your next book.
December 14, 2021
Alison Ragsdale has a way of immersing a reader from the very first page of her books.
This story was no exception!
I could not stop reading this!
I met a beautiful household who has a horrible, tragic loss.
You can feel that their emotions are raw with guilt, hurt, anger, hate,heartbreak and fear.
How can any family survive a crisis of this magnitude and still move forward?
Sit for a bit, and begin this book.
You will truly love these characters! I know I did and will be thinking of them for a long time!
Thank you to #Bookuture and #NetGalley for this ARC, I have provided an honest review.
This story was no exception!
I could not stop reading this!
I met a beautiful household who has a horrible, tragic loss.
You can feel that their emotions are raw with guilt, hurt, anger, hate,heartbreak and fear.
How can any family survive a crisis of this magnitude and still move forward?
Sit for a bit, and begin this book.
You will truly love these characters! I know I did and will be thinking of them for a long time!
Thank you to #Bookuture and #NetGalley for this ARC, I have provided an honest review.
January 14, 2022
Alison Ragsdale is an amazing storyteller! Her ability to capture a reader into the pages of her books is a gift. She submerges them so deeply into the characters and settings in her stories that it's impossible to to pull out of them. And there's not any reason to. In this story, Someone Else's Child, I felt a connection to Catriona, Duncan, Hope and April instantly. Their relationship as a family was one of pure love and devotion to each other. This family faces devastating losses and turmoil as a result of an unbelievable event. Because of that, as the storyline plays out, Ms. Ragsdale had my heart and emotions shredded. She tapped into my heart and swept me into one of the most gutwrenching stories I've read in a long time. My emotions went all over the spectrum as Catriona faces so much with the devastating events in her family. Throughout the pages my heart was shattered to pieces but Ms. Ragsdale tenderly brings her characters through in ways I didn't expect. April is such a sweet child but her ability to cope with what's happened has her struggling. Until... in steps Lauren and brings a whole new set of uncertainty for the family. This book has everything written in it that will take the reader on a journey they will think about for a long time. At lease for me it has.
Have I said that this story is emotional? YES! But it's so much more than that. It's a walk in Catriona's life through descriptively written passages that put me right there with her. There's no doubt my mother's heart cried with hers but I also experienced a story full of determination, sacrifice, love and so much more. This book is so wonderful and I felt the heart Ms. Ragsdale wrote it from. It touched my heart deeply.
Alison Ragsdale's stories are so deeply emotional and written with such intricate attention to details. The story is never rushed but every word is built upon the ones before to create a passionately moving story between the covers of the book. I have read other books by Ms. Ragsdale and each one has touched me in ways I never knew a book would. Someone Else's Child is no exception. I have just finished this one and my emotions are raw and exposed in a most Alison Ragsdale way. She has the ability to trancend words on a page and craft a story that I become completely immersed in. This is how a master storyteller does it.
I love Ms. Ragsdale's books and I always know I'm going to have an "experience" when I read her works. I want to sincerely thank Ms. Ragsdale for the honor and privilege of reading the emotional journey I took in this fantastic book. It truly touched my heart. All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.
Have I said that this story is emotional? YES! But it's so much more than that. It's a walk in Catriona's life through descriptively written passages that put me right there with her. There's no doubt my mother's heart cried with hers but I also experienced a story full of determination, sacrifice, love and so much more. This book is so wonderful and I felt the heart Ms. Ragsdale wrote it from. It touched my heart deeply.
Alison Ragsdale's stories are so deeply emotional and written with such intricate attention to details. The story is never rushed but every word is built upon the ones before to create a passionately moving story between the covers of the book. I have read other books by Ms. Ragsdale and each one has touched me in ways I never knew a book would. Someone Else's Child is no exception. I have just finished this one and my emotions are raw and exposed in a most Alison Ragsdale way. She has the ability to trancend words on a page and craft a story that I become completely immersed in. This is how a master storyteller does it.
I love Ms. Ragsdale's books and I always know I'm going to have an "experience" when I read her works. I want to sincerely thank Ms. Ragsdale for the honor and privilege of reading the emotional journey I took in this fantastic book. It truly touched my heart. All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.
January 16, 2022
Life has delt a lousy hand to Catriona and Duncan. How many losses can a couple take without being totally crushed? And when Catriona’s guilt-ridden husband takes a break from the marriage, how does Catriona find the strength to give her daughter the nurturing the young girl so desperately needs? Judging from the previous reviews I’ve read, how the couple navigates their grief is an inspiration to all of us lucky enough to have immersed ourselves into the couple’s story.
Another aspect of the book that particularly moved me circled around the power and, most certainly, magic of female friendship. When the quirky, “fey” Peg shows up on Catriona’s doorstep, a ray of sunshine and hope spills into the sad home. Would we all be so blessed to have such a nurturing neighbor and friend.
Thanks to Net Galley and Alison Ragsdale for gifting me the ARC of SOMEONE ELSE’S CHILD. Please add my 5-Star review to the pile. I’ve read all of Alison Ragsdale books, which are as endearing and inviting as a hot cuppa and scone in a wintry day. Pull up a chair, light a fire, and lose yourself in the beauty of the Scottish landscape.
Another aspect of the book that particularly moved me circled around the power and, most certainly, magic of female friendship. When the quirky, “fey” Peg shows up on Catriona’s doorstep, a ray of sunshine and hope spills into the sad home. Would we all be so blessed to have such a nurturing neighbor and friend.
Thanks to Net Galley and Alison Ragsdale for gifting me the ARC of SOMEONE ELSE’S CHILD. Please add my 5-Star review to the pile. I’ve read all of Alison Ragsdale books, which are as endearing and inviting as a hot cuppa and scone in a wintry day. Pull up a chair, light a fire, and lose yourself in the beauty of the Scottish landscape.
December 20, 2021
Someone Else's Child ~ Alison Ragsdale, Author
ARC (January 21, 2022)
It was with great pleasure to once more be blessed with a story created by author, Alison Ragsdale.
Her ability to once again capture me through her most tender, delicate and most beautiful of descriptions to the rawness, the sting and realness of being deflated by tragedy, has continued to surprise, amaze, and entertain me.
The author, as with her previous stories, has allowed me to experience all of the soul-stirring elements created as if living it personally, chapter by chapter.
From the very first sentence, and on to the emotional journey that led me to the very last, Someone Else's Child is a shining, meaningful narrative that will fill the heart, yet shatter it to the point you feel you may never recover from it. But, as Ms. Ragsdale does, and does so well, she leads you on the winding path of life situations both sentimental and stormy that leave you with a tear in your eye, yet with a smile on your heart.
Through the lives of these most precious, flawed, and irresistible characters, I found with each turn of the page, a moving experience that always brought me back as to how love, faith, and hope always win.
If you find yourself chasing stories to find just the right one for you this season~ this belongs on the top of your wish-list.
Someone Else's Child is a wonderfully crafted tapestry of life's delightful, its bitter~ and as with the threads that although can become frayed~even broken, they can also be mended...
I would like to thank the author for my advanced copy of this heart-rending yet beautiful story that allows me the pleasure of highly recommending it to readers who will, in my opinion, most certainly be moved by it.
5 Stars
#SomeoneElsesChild
#AlisonRagsdale
#Bookouture
Wild Sage Book Blog
ARC (January 21, 2022)
It was with great pleasure to once more be blessed with a story created by author, Alison Ragsdale.
Her ability to once again capture me through her most tender, delicate and most beautiful of descriptions to the rawness, the sting and realness of being deflated by tragedy, has continued to surprise, amaze, and entertain me.
The author, as with her previous stories, has allowed me to experience all of the soul-stirring elements created as if living it personally, chapter by chapter.
From the very first sentence, and on to the emotional journey that led me to the very last, Someone Else's Child is a shining, meaningful narrative that will fill the heart, yet shatter it to the point you feel you may never recover from it. But, as Ms. Ragsdale does, and does so well, she leads you on the winding path of life situations both sentimental and stormy that leave you with a tear in your eye, yet with a smile on your heart.
Through the lives of these most precious, flawed, and irresistible characters, I found with each turn of the page, a moving experience that always brought me back as to how love, faith, and hope always win.
If you find yourself chasing stories to find just the right one for you this season~ this belongs on the top of your wish-list.
Someone Else's Child is a wonderfully crafted tapestry of life's delightful, its bitter~ and as with the threads that although can become frayed~even broken, they can also be mended...
I would like to thank the author for my advanced copy of this heart-rending yet beautiful story that allows me the pleasure of highly recommending it to readers who will, in my opinion, most certainly be moved by it.
5 Stars
#SomeoneElsesChild
#AlisonRagsdale
#Bookouture
Wild Sage Book Blog
January 11, 2022
Alison Ragsdale always reaches deep into your soul with her truly emotional novels and this one is no exception.
From the very beginning, I was drawn into this poignant and touching novel. I fell in love with the characters and felt like I knew them. Throughout there were some happy and then some truly heart-wrenching scenarios as well.
I would highly recommend this novel but be sure that you have tissues close by.
I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for fair and honest review.
From the very beginning, I was drawn into this poignant and touching novel. I fell in love with the characters and felt like I knew them. Throughout there were some happy and then some truly heart-wrenching scenarios as well.
I would highly recommend this novel but be sure that you have tissues close by.
I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for fair and honest review.
January 20, 2022
First, I want to thank Alison Ragsdale, Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
Oh WOW!! Someone’s Else’s Child was a beautifully written book by Alison Ragdale that completely pulled hard on my heartstrings! It is a story where even if you are not a mother you can emphasize what the characters are going through. Being a proud Auntie I wanted to FaceTime my nieces and tell them how much I loved them. This is one book that will stick with you long after you are finished with the book. Therefore I highly suggest you add it to your tbr list. It is definitely a 5 star recommendation from me.
The cover for Someone Else’s Child was absolutely beautiful! Great job to the graphic artists who designed this one.
Straight from the prologue Alison had me tearing up. Oh I failed to mention you may need some tissues for this book. Well..at least I did. My heart was breaking!! What a way to start out a book on that note! I knew right from the first page that I was hooked and was going to love it. My instinct was right on the money!
Alison focuses and addresses some very important issues in this book such as child loss, greif, adoption and being mute. However, the main focus is the bonding that a daughter has with its mother.
There were many deeply powerful scenes and one in particular that rocked me to the core. This scene I was totally thrown off guard with as I had not seen it coming at all! I was literally on the edge of my comfy chair biting my nails (and I never bite my nails) reading this horrific event unfolding in front of me. I was numb and wanted to rush into the book and hold everyone that was there!
I am always interested to learn how the author came up with the inspiration for their books. Alison shares how this idea came to be in the end of the book.
Alison stepped outside of the box when choosing her main character's name. I had never heard or read about Catrionia. It is a very pretty name.
Oh WOW!! Someone’s Else’s Child was a beautifully written book by Alison Ragdale that completely pulled hard on my heartstrings! It is a story where even if you are not a mother you can emphasize what the characters are going through. Being a proud Auntie I wanted to FaceTime my nieces and tell them how much I loved them. This is one book that will stick with you long after you are finished with the book. Therefore I highly suggest you add it to your tbr list. It is definitely a 5 star recommendation from me.
The cover for Someone Else’s Child was absolutely beautiful! Great job to the graphic artists who designed this one.
Straight from the prologue Alison had me tearing up. Oh I failed to mention you may need some tissues for this book. Well..at least I did. My heart was breaking!! What a way to start out a book on that note! I knew right from the first page that I was hooked and was going to love it. My instinct was right on the money!
Alison focuses and addresses some very important issues in this book such as child loss, greif, adoption and being mute. However, the main focus is the bonding that a daughter has with its mother.
There were many deeply powerful scenes and one in particular that rocked me to the core. This scene I was totally thrown off guard with as I had not seen it coming at all! I was literally on the edge of my comfy chair biting my nails (and I never bite my nails) reading this horrific event unfolding in front of me. I was numb and wanted to rush into the book and hold everyone that was there!
I am always interested to learn how the author came up with the inspiration for their books. Alison shares how this idea came to be in the end of the book.
Alison stepped outside of the box when choosing her main character's name. I had never heard or read about Catrionia. It is a very pretty name.
January 21, 2022
Alison has done it again! Someone Else’s Child by Alison Ragsdale is another excellent heart-tugging story full of hope, resilience, and love. As a parent myself, I understood the unimaginable grief experienced throughout this story. Alison kept true to her writing nature by bringing forth characters you will undoubtably fall in love with. The setting of this story sounds gorgeous too! I took my time reading simply because I was enjoying the way Alison described the luscious landscapes as well as the ever changing weather conditions. Not only was I captivated by the beauty envisioned, I also felt as though I was there. I thoroughly enjoyed Someone Else’s Child by Alison Ragsdale and therefore I highly recommend it.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book in return for my unbiased and honest review.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book in return for my unbiased and honest review.
January 22, 2022
I'd like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a pretty emotional read about loss and forgiveness.
Catriona loses one of her twin babies during birth and is given a second chance when the opportunity to adopt another baby comes her way. Skip 9 years later and Catriona is again faced with the loss of her other biological daughter and blaming her husband they separate. At this worst possible time, her daughter April, refusing to talk to her through selective mute ism and her marriage is on the rocks, April's birth mother decides she wants to see April. Catriona, thinking that Lauren (the birth mom) is the ideal parent contemplates returning April to her.
This book is heartbreaking. You just don't know how much one person can take. I really didn't know until the end what decisions Catriona would take. If she would divorce or stay married, if she would give April up or fight to keep her. I felt like I was on a roller coaster the whole way.
This was a pretty emotional read about loss and forgiveness.
Catriona loses one of her twin babies during birth and is given a second chance when the opportunity to adopt another baby comes her way. Skip 9 years later and Catriona is again faced with the loss of her other biological daughter and blaming her husband they separate. At this worst possible time, her daughter April, refusing to talk to her through selective mute ism and her marriage is on the rocks, April's birth mother decides she wants to see April. Catriona, thinking that Lauren (the birth mom) is the ideal parent contemplates returning April to her.
This book is heartbreaking. You just don't know how much one person can take. I really didn't know until the end what decisions Catriona would take. If she would divorce or stay married, if she would give April up or fight to keep her. I felt like I was on a roller coaster the whole way.
January 20, 2022
WOW! Alison Ragsdale, the author of “Someone Else’s Child” has written an intense, memorable, poignant, heartbreaking, and thought-provoking novel. I love the way that Alison Ragsdale vividly describes the landscape and the emotional feelings of the characters. The author is a master at writing stories that tug at one’s heartstrings, and stay with one to reflect on. The genres for this novel are Fiction, Domestic Fiction, and Family Fiction. The author describes her characters as complex and complicated. The characters are also flawed and dysfunctional. The author discusses the importance of family, friends, emotional support, love, and hope. Also discussed are second chances and the ability to forgive.
Catriona and her husband have an opportunity to adopt a beautiful little girl to complete their family. After a tragic accident, Catriona, her husband, and their adopted daughter are trying to cope with loss. Lauren the adopted daughter’s birth mom wants the opportunity to meet with her daughter. What else is on Lauren’s agenda? There are secrets, betrayals, and unimaginable hurt. I highly recommend this thought-provoking story to other readers. Be sure to have Kleenex on hand.
Catriona and her husband have an opportunity to adopt a beautiful little girl to complete their family. After a tragic accident, Catriona, her husband, and their adopted daughter are trying to cope with loss. Lauren the adopted daughter’s birth mom wants the opportunity to meet with her daughter. What else is on Lauren’s agenda? There are secrets, betrayals, and unimaginable hurt. I highly recommend this thought-provoking story to other readers. Be sure to have Kleenex on hand.
February 6, 2022
Reading about children always gets to me. In this Alison Ragsdale book we find ourselves reading about - she has twin girls but one dies....but Hope has a sister, April, adopted. But thats not the story. We find a tragedy again happens to the family which affects everyone in different ways. Grieving is a personal thing and while one person with stop talking, another will hold it all in. But what happens when on top of all this grieving, April's birth mother shows up!
As usual Alison Ragsdale has us thinking this story through. What would you do if you were in this situation? Yet again another amazing story by an amazing author.
#fourstars
As usual Alison Ragsdale has us thinking this story through. What would you do if you were in this situation? Yet again another amazing story by an amazing author.
#fourstars
January 11, 2022
Alison Ragsdale is a very good writer and an exceptional story teller.
I was very intrigued by the premise and highly captivated by the first part of the book. Then I'm afraid a struggled a bit with it: I felt like too many bad things were happening to this family, and it was really hard for me to read about them. Maybe I just wasn't in the right state of mind to enjoy it completely,
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was very intrigued by the premise and highly captivated by the first part of the book. Then I'm afraid a struggled a bit with it: I felt like too many bad things were happening to this family, and it was really hard for me to read about them. Maybe I just wasn't in the right state of mind to enjoy it completely,
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 8, 2022
Published: January 21, 2022
Bookouture
Pages: 322
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense
KKECReads Rating: 4/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Alison Ragsdale is a former marketing executive, originally from Edinburgh; Alison now lives near Washington D.C. with her husband and dogs. She was educated in England and holds an MBA from Leicester University.
“He had let this happen.”
Catriona is a devoted mother to two daughters, one by birth and one through adoption. She thinks her life is as close to perfect as possible. Until an unexpected tragedy nearly rips her family apart. Now, secrets from the past threaten the fragile future, and all that hangs in the balance.
This was an extremely emotional novel. The premise is tragic, but the process is beautiful. The characters were realistic, and their grief was palpable.
Catriona was a loving mother. She involved herself in every aspect of her daughter's life, and she thrived in the chaos of motherhood.
Duncan is a good dad and a hardworking man. He didn’t spend as much time with his family, thinking there would always be tomorrow, and quickly learning not to postpone what could be done right now.
Hope was vibrant and full of life. She was the older sister, full of sass and an adventurous spirit.
April is every bit the baby of the family. She looks up to her big sister and follows her without question. She is also more perceptive than anyone could have realized.
There is so much tragedy, grief, heartbreak, and ultimately healing and redemption in this novel. Not my typical genre choice. This was an emotional journey from start to finish.
When children experience loss, their emotions process in ways that could seem nearly impossible to understand as an adult, and April’s grief was brutally silent.
Catriona was beautifully written as a grieving mother, who still had to wake up and parent. She had to attempt to process her own hurt, with the pain inside her child.
Between processing feelings, and trying to find a way to keep move forward, the balance is precarious. But the emotions, the forgiveness, and the growth is real.
This was a truly beautiful story from start to finish. The novel started with hope, and it ended with hope. Despite the journey, hope was found.
Bookouture
Pages: 322
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Suspense
KKECReads Rating: 4/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Alison Ragsdale is a former marketing executive, originally from Edinburgh; Alison now lives near Washington D.C. with her husband and dogs. She was educated in England and holds an MBA from Leicester University.
“He had let this happen.”
Catriona is a devoted mother to two daughters, one by birth and one through adoption. She thinks her life is as close to perfect as possible. Until an unexpected tragedy nearly rips her family apart. Now, secrets from the past threaten the fragile future, and all that hangs in the balance.
This was an extremely emotional novel. The premise is tragic, but the process is beautiful. The characters were realistic, and their grief was palpable.
Catriona was a loving mother. She involved herself in every aspect of her daughter's life, and she thrived in the chaos of motherhood.
Duncan is a good dad and a hardworking man. He didn’t spend as much time with his family, thinking there would always be tomorrow, and quickly learning not to postpone what could be done right now.
Hope was vibrant and full of life. She was the older sister, full of sass and an adventurous spirit.
April is every bit the baby of the family. She looks up to her big sister and follows her without question. She is also more perceptive than anyone could have realized.
There is so much tragedy, grief, heartbreak, and ultimately healing and redemption in this novel. Not my typical genre choice. This was an emotional journey from start to finish.
When children experience loss, their emotions process in ways that could seem nearly impossible to understand as an adult, and April’s grief was brutally silent.
Catriona was beautifully written as a grieving mother, who still had to wake up and parent. She had to attempt to process her own hurt, with the pain inside her child.
Between processing feelings, and trying to find a way to keep move forward, the balance is precarious. But the emotions, the forgiveness, and the growth is real.
This was a truly beautiful story from start to finish. The novel started with hope, and it ended with hope. Despite the journey, hope was found.
January 9, 2022
Devastated at the lost one of her twin daughters at birth, Catriona can't resist the opportunity to adopt a beautiful baby girl, only two days younger than her survivor twin Hope. Nine years later, April finds that she is not Catriona and her husband Duncan's biological child, goes into shock, and she refuses to speak. Just when April's birth mother- Lauren, contacts the adoption agency saying that she would like to meet her daughter. And Catriona's heart shatters bit by bit, as she sees her carefully built family break.
Quite slow at first, this book is a mixture of emotion, family, and love. A readers heart would go out for the bond between Cat and April. For most of the story, we see Cat's heartbreak as she looses everything she wanted so badly, her motherly affection doesn't cease to touch your heart. I really can't put my feelings into words, at this point, but I can say that Cat is a wonderful character, so kudos to the author.! I am not a crier, but, I am sure that if I was, I would cry more than once. The story is one of tragedy, grief, and pain, but Ragsdale has completely balanced out all the tragic scenes, giving you many bits where you can smile. The ending, in my eyes, was perfect, showing a bright future, full of forgiveness, acceptance, remembrance, and underlying sorrow of the past. Definitely read this. I received an e-ARC of this book through NetGalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review.
Quite slow at first, this book is a mixture of emotion, family, and love. A readers heart would go out for the bond between Cat and April. For most of the story, we see Cat's heartbreak as she looses everything she wanted so badly, her motherly affection doesn't cease to touch your heart. I really can't put my feelings into words, at this point, but I can say that Cat is a wonderful character, so kudos to the author.! I am not a crier, but, I am sure that if I was, I would cry more than once. The story is one of tragedy, grief, and pain, but Ragsdale has completely balanced out all the tragic scenes, giving you many bits where you can smile. The ending, in my eyes, was perfect, showing a bright future, full of forgiveness, acceptance, remembrance, and underlying sorrow of the past. Definitely read this. I received an e-ARC of this book through NetGalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2021
Someone Else’s Child by Alison Ragsdale
“How many times in one life can your heart break? Someone Else’s Child, while heartbreaking and emotional, is perfect for when you need a book to pull you in right away. Expect some tears, scary moments, and cheering for the tiny victories. 5 stars, very highly recommended.”-Books and Pens on Green Gables
As Catriona and Duncan are still struggling with grief over the death of their baby, Faith, at birth, they get a phone call they didn’t expect and their family became complete when they saw a photo of baby April. They knew she was meant to be their daughter, and she was beautiful and perfect and so loved.
Catriona loved being a mom. Hearing laughter and playing and keeping an eye out the window brought her such joy. April’s sweet little voice and laugh brought a light to their little family.
One day, the worst possible thing happened. The devastation of it caused April to withdraw from Catriona. This hurt was so much to bear, but April’s grief and pain were the priority, not Catriona or Duncan’s feelings.
As they tried everything to help their sweet April, the worst possible letter came in the mail. Her birth mother wants to see her.
Lauren appeared, and Catriona saw how strongly April resembled her birth mother. Soon, April was holding Lauren’s hand, scooting her chair closer to Lauren at the table, and playing with her younger half-brother, all while she pulled farther away from Cat and Duncan.
Then, Lauren says what they feared. April should be with her.
“How many times in one life can your heart break? Someone Else’s Child, while heartbreaking and emotional, is perfect for when you need a book to pull you in right away. Expect some tears, scary moments, and cheering for the tiny victories. 5 stars, very highly recommended.”-Books and Pens on Green Gables
As Catriona and Duncan are still struggling with grief over the death of their baby, Faith, at birth, they get a phone call they didn’t expect and their family became complete when they saw a photo of baby April. They knew she was meant to be their daughter, and she was beautiful and perfect and so loved.
Catriona loved being a mom. Hearing laughter and playing and keeping an eye out the window brought her such joy. April’s sweet little voice and laugh brought a light to their little family.
One day, the worst possible thing happened. The devastation of it caused April to withdraw from Catriona. This hurt was so much to bear, but April’s grief and pain were the priority, not Catriona or Duncan’s feelings.
As they tried everything to help their sweet April, the worst possible letter came in the mail. Her birth mother wants to see her.
Lauren appeared, and Catriona saw how strongly April resembled her birth mother. Soon, April was holding Lauren’s hand, scooting her chair closer to Lauren at the table, and playing with her younger half-brother, all while she pulled farther away from Cat and Duncan.
Then, Lauren says what they feared. April should be with her.
March 26, 2022
A Lovely Must Turn the Page Novel
I loved the depth of understanding about adoption in this novel! I have.wo beautiful loving daughter adopted from Korea and I could relate so strongly to the author’s description of the relationship between daughters and adoptive mother and adoptive father! The strong love and acceptance of everyone involved was right on. My daughters are so totally loved and cherished by us. I could only imagine how difficult it would be to lose a precious daughter in the accident described. It was gratifying to see the deep steadfast love between the surviving daughter and adopted parents survive so many obstacles! How can one describe the one feels for their child? This author did an excellent job of immersing the family in the love and caring of birth parent, adoptive parents, adoptive siblings and birth siblings in a beautiful tapestry of true love and acceptance! A strong novel about adoption and the love that truly binds us together forever!
I loved the depth of understanding about adoption in this novel! I have.wo beautiful loving daughter adopted from Korea and I could relate so strongly to the author’s description of the relationship between daughters and adoptive mother and adoptive father! The strong love and acceptance of everyone involved was right on. My daughters are so totally loved and cherished by us. I could only imagine how difficult it would be to lose a precious daughter in the accident described. It was gratifying to see the deep steadfast love between the surviving daughter and adopted parents survive so many obstacles! How can one describe the one feels for their child? This author did an excellent job of immersing the family in the love and caring of birth parent, adoptive parents, adoptive siblings and birth siblings in a beautiful tapestry of true love and acceptance! A strong novel about adoption and the love that truly binds us together forever!
August 28, 2022
This was a read that gripped me from the start and was a page turner for me.
The story is set in a picturesque Scotland with the natural beauty of the countryside and the loch running alongside the cottage. Catriona and Duncan live there happily with their two children Hope and April. This is an everyday family that deals with the day to day challenges that family life brings. Tragedy then happens that threatens to destroy and tear everyone apart.
Cat frustrated me at times when she ignored her husband, Duncan’s opinions, and feelings. I wondered whether this is Ragsdale encouraging us to consider how a person’s life experiences can affect them and how the grief can affect their judgement. On top of this Cat is struggling with April’s own grief, trying to desperately break through to her as she begins to shut Duncan and Cat out.
I really enjoyed reading this book and would like to read more of her books. Many thanks to Alison Ragsdale, her publishers and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
The story is set in a picturesque Scotland with the natural beauty of the countryside and the loch running alongside the cottage. Catriona and Duncan live there happily with their two children Hope and April. This is an everyday family that deals with the day to day challenges that family life brings. Tragedy then happens that threatens to destroy and tear everyone apart.
Cat frustrated me at times when she ignored her husband, Duncan’s opinions, and feelings. I wondered whether this is Ragsdale encouraging us to consider how a person’s life experiences can affect them and how the grief can affect their judgement. On top of this Cat is struggling with April’s own grief, trying to desperately break through to her as she begins to shut Duncan and Cat out.
I really enjoyed reading this book and would like to read more of her books. Many thanks to Alison Ragsdale, her publishers and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 22, 2022
Alison Ragsdale always tells a story that will tug at your heartstrings. Make you weep. Make you keep turning the pages. Her books have such feelings. My emotions were all over the place with this one. Mainly weeping for a mother and child. Even for the dad, though I was very angry at him for a while.
When Catriona and Duncan lose a baby right after it's birth their lives take a sharp turn. They had twin girls and lost one. But there was another baby girl that needed a home. A baby girl who they needed also. Even if they didn't realize how much at the time. There was only a couple of days difference between these baby girl's birth. Hope was the biological baby who was suppose to have a twin sister coming home with her. April was a baby who they adopted. Little did they know how much this little one would mean to them. Little did they know the pain their lives were going to feel. A pain that is beyond words.
This story made me weep. It went through many tissues reading this one and loved every single minute of it. It brought feelings out that I wasn't expecting. Made me feel the pain that Cat felt. The silence she experienced from her daughter. The loneliness she felt from her husband, Duncan. Then the fear she felt from Lauren. Cat goes through so much after a devastating loss. She pushes her husband away and in many ways I understood why. I was angry at him too for a while. I felt like he ran. Deserted his wife and child. His grieving didn't seem to resonate with me. Until it did.
This is a very touching story of love and loss. Of a family almost destroyed. Of such pain that you wonder if they will make it through. Will they come out the other side together. Stronger. Or will they be alone to grieve separately. What will become of this family. Tragedy strikes and people change. But they can heal. Can't they?
Thank you to #NetGalley, #AlisonRagsdale, #Bookouture for this ARC. This is my own true feelings about this book.
5/5 stars and a very high recommendation. Just please make sure you have lots of tissues as it is typical Alison Ragsdale tearjerker reading. With just enough love to keep you sane.
When Catriona and Duncan lose a baby right after it's birth their lives take a sharp turn. They had twin girls and lost one. But there was another baby girl that needed a home. A baby girl who they needed also. Even if they didn't realize how much at the time. There was only a couple of days difference between these baby girl's birth. Hope was the biological baby who was suppose to have a twin sister coming home with her. April was a baby who they adopted. Little did they know how much this little one would mean to them. Little did they know the pain their lives were going to feel. A pain that is beyond words.
This story made me weep. It went through many tissues reading this one and loved every single minute of it. It brought feelings out that I wasn't expecting. Made me feel the pain that Cat felt. The silence she experienced from her daughter. The loneliness she felt from her husband, Duncan. Then the fear she felt from Lauren. Cat goes through so much after a devastating loss. She pushes her husband away and in many ways I understood why. I was angry at him too for a while. I felt like he ran. Deserted his wife and child. His grieving didn't seem to resonate with me. Until it did.
This is a very touching story of love and loss. Of a family almost destroyed. Of such pain that you wonder if they will make it through. Will they come out the other side together. Stronger. Or will they be alone to grieve separately. What will become of this family. Tragedy strikes and people change. But they can heal. Can't they?
Thank you to #NetGalley, #AlisonRagsdale, #Bookouture for this ARC. This is my own true feelings about this book.
5/5 stars and a very high recommendation. Just please make sure you have lots of tissues as it is typical Alison Ragsdale tearjerker reading. With just enough love to keep you sane.
December 23, 2021
Wow, wow, wow. I've been a fan of this author for a couple of years now. She deftly writes stories about the relationships between mothers and daughters, bringing us all of the emotion and nuance that particular connection entails. This one is written from the point of view of Catriona, the mom, as she and her family go through unthinkable things that threaten to tear the whole family apart. Most of Alison Ragsdale's novels are set in Scotland, and this one is no exception. It is so easy, as you read through the descriptions of the countryside, to envision the beauty of the landscape. You feel the depth of the friendships between neighbors and friends. Make no mistake. There are tears. This is your official tissue alert. But there are triumphs and laughter too. (When Arthur is introduced, you will love him as much as the characters do.) I read this book quickly because I didn't want to put it down. When I wasn't reading, I was thinking about it which is a compliment to how well-written it is. Do yourself a favor and take a chance on this one. You won't be sorry. Thank you to Alison Ragsdale and #NetGalley for my early copy. I'm beyond excited for it's release on January 21, 2022.
December 22, 2021
When I start a book by Alison Ragsdale I know that I am going to be pulled into the story from the first page, not going to want to put it down.
An emotional journey as Catriona, Duncan and April go through loss and grief. Can they find their way back as a family?
The scenery descriptions of Scotland make me want to go visit and experience the beauty myself.
Tragic loss, anger, hurt, very raw emotions, intense.
A beautifully written mother/daughter story that breaks your heart as you fall in love with the family and characters.
Keep the tissues close as you will have tears as you read.
Thank you Alison Ragsdale, NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me the opportunity to read this book.
An emotional journey as Catriona, Duncan and April go through loss and grief. Can they find their way back as a family?
The scenery descriptions of Scotland make me want to go visit and experience the beauty myself.
Tragic loss, anger, hurt, very raw emotions, intense.
A beautifully written mother/daughter story that breaks your heart as you fall in love with the family and characters.
Keep the tissues close as you will have tears as you read.
Thank you Alison Ragsdale, NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me the opportunity to read this book.
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