Before I Called You Mine by Nicole Deese {Review}

Before I Called You Mine by Nicole Deese

Paperback, 368 pages

Expected publication: March 31st 2020 by Bethany House Publishers
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given

    

Lauren Bailey may be a romantic at heart, but after a decade of matchmaking schemes gone wrong, there's only one match she's committed to now--the one that will make her a mother. Lauren is a dedicated first grade teacher in Idaho, and her love for children has led her to the path of international adoption. To satisfy her adoption agency's requirements, she gladly agreed to remain single for the foreseeable future; however, just as her long wait comes to an end, Lauren is blindsided by a complication she never saw coming: Joshua Avery.

Joshua may be a substitute teacher by day, but Lauren finds his passion for creating educational technology as fascinating as his antics in the classroom. Though she does her best to downplay the undeniable connection between them, his relentless pursuit of her heart puts her commitment to stay unattached to the test and causes her once-firm conviction to waver.

With an impossible decision looming, Lauren might very well find herself choosing between the two deepest desires of her heart . . . even if saying yes to one means letting go of the other.

My Review: 5 Stars

I used to think it might be fun to be a school teacher to little kids, but when I got older, I decided that I didn't have the patience or creativity for it, and after homeschooling my kids for a week+ through this coronavirus, I know for sure it's not for me. I applaud those who can teach and who love it, just as Lauren and Joshua do. 

Lauren is exactly the kind of teacher that every child dreams of having, just as she dreams of being a mother and of adopting a child from China. I loved the way this story shaped her character and allowed the reader to delve into her personal life. Of course, she's not perfect and her flaws endeared her even more to me. 

Joshua, on the other hand, is quirky, hilarious, and has no qualms about being his true self. The way these two mesh into a strong friendship with inklings of chemistry stole my heart, especially as they faced massive decisions and sacrifices.

I was completely captivated by this perfect cover and the emotionally charged story within. Well done, Ms. Deese!

Content: adoption; mild romance; moderate religion