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Fierce Love: One Woman's Remarkable Journey to Adopt her Daughter from Guatemala
An Adoption Miracle....After two years of failed infertility treatments, Kim and her husband began the process of adopting a little girl from Guatemala, certain that adoption would be the “easy way” to build their family. In Fierce Love, you will follow Kim Gjerde on her three-year journey to adopt a precious child from Guatemala. After eighteen months of lies and deception from their adoption agency, Kim left her comfortable middle-class life in the United States and moved to one of the most gang-ridden neighborhoods in Guatemala to fight for her daughter. There, she experienced a political and spiritual firestorm that threatened her resolve as she risked her financial security, her child, and even her life. As she finally reached the limits of her strength and resources, her only option was to believe in God’s promise, trusting that He alone is the mover of mountains. In this remarkable story of endurance, you will discover the depths of corruption and callousness but also the miracles of a loving God whose hand is on Kim every step of the way.
- GenresMemoir
170 pages, Paperback
Published October 22, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 5, 2021
Story of the adoption of a Guatamalen baby.
For anyone contemplating adoption abroad this book will be an eye-opener, as it relates the trauma that can affect those going through the long, daunting process. Kim Gjerde tells her incredible tale of the people making money out of those who are desperate to take their baby home. From lies to false documents, people cheating on them and extortion -all is here, yet because of the determination of Kim she achieved her aim but at great cost and angst. Kim found it hard to believe that those supposedly working for her could be working against her. She found courage where she did not know she had it and strove to find her way through the enormous difficulties. The book provokes anger, sadness and empathy.
For anyone contemplating adoption abroad this book will be an eye-opener, as it relates the trauma that can affect those going through the long, daunting process. Kim Gjerde tells her incredible tale of the people making money out of those who are desperate to take their baby home. From lies to false documents, people cheating on them and extortion -all is here, yet because of the determination of Kim she achieved her aim but at great cost and angst. Kim found it hard to believe that those supposedly working for her could be working against her. She found courage where she did not know she had it and strove to find her way through the enormous difficulties. The book provokes anger, sadness and empathy.
November 4, 2019
Although I am a bit biased to this story, (as I have been privileged to be a part of the journey), I cannot say enough good words about this book! Kim has vividly captured the many highs and lows of their adoption adventure with impressively brutal honesty. Her imagery is particularly catchy and dramatic, causing my emotions to range from tears to laughter. This is a beautiful and powerful story of faith, hope and love, and most importantly, I LOVE the ending.
April 6, 2020
Seeing an International Adoption Through
Fierce love is written on two levels. It is the story of a family’s desire to have a family, and also a faith journey. Perhaps it is only a single story, but it is clear that the writer is a Christian struggling to keep God as her guide.
The story opens up with Kim and her husband, who is from Norway, at the end of a two-year journey of trying to become pregnant through artificial insemination. When that fails, they turn to adoption—from Guatemala.
Their story is riveting, as they encounter several problems with the agency they chose, coupled with bureaucratic problems. The process seems hopeless.
What I liked most about this story is Kim’s honest emotions as she tries to get through this international adoption maze. We see the situation mostly through her point of view and how she struggles. Occasionally, she shows us her husband’s response. Parallel to the intense struggle she goes through are her realizations of how God acts on her behalf, provides financially, and closes doors to disaster.
I found the author so relatable, the international element fascinating as I am drawn to travel and culture, and the examples of how God opened doors, faith-building. It’s a wonderful story of the fierce love of parenting – both human and divine examples. I highly recommend this book.
Fierce love is written on two levels. It is the story of a family’s desire to have a family, and also a faith journey. Perhaps it is only a single story, but it is clear that the writer is a Christian struggling to keep God as her guide.
The story opens up with Kim and her husband, who is from Norway, at the end of a two-year journey of trying to become pregnant through artificial insemination. When that fails, they turn to adoption—from Guatemala.
Their story is riveting, as they encounter several problems with the agency they chose, coupled with bureaucratic problems. The process seems hopeless.
What I liked most about this story is Kim’s honest emotions as she tries to get through this international adoption maze. We see the situation mostly through her point of view and how she struggles. Occasionally, she shows us her husband’s response. Parallel to the intense struggle she goes through are her realizations of how God acts on her behalf, provides financially, and closes doors to disaster.
I found the author so relatable, the international element fascinating as I am drawn to travel and culture, and the examples of how God opened doors, faith-building. It’s a wonderful story of the fierce love of parenting – both human and divine examples. I highly recommend this book.
September 9, 2021
I gave up and quit reading at 60% read. First, I saw nothing Christian about it other than occasional mentions of asking for prayer. All I kept thinking while reading was that it must be nice to be able to toss out $20,000, here, $10,000 there, while flying back and forth to foreign countries innumerable times. The adoption company was obviously phony. I just couldn't get into it. Besides, it's just totally outside my experience to know anyone who has the kind of money that was thrown around by these people. I know that adoption costs a lot, but knowing that just makes me angry that people would use children to make money.
December 9, 2019
What should have taken months, dragged into almost 3 years of unknowns for the author and her husband as they navigated through the ups and downs of the adoption process. After many attempts to have their own child to no avail, they decided on adoption. Guatemala became their country of choice.
This was a very emotional story as the frustrations of having to leave the child you are falling in love with, over and over again, to a system which seemed broken and to an agency that was a little bit questionable.
Luckily the author was able to live down there during some of this time, fostering her daughter to be, and finding people that were able to help her through this seemingly endless process.
The author was very open about her feelings and frustrations, and descriptive of what she was going through, and of the people she was dealing with in good times and bad, which had me feel like I was down there going through this with her.
The authors writing was captivating and I felt I wanted to keep reading to see what would happen next.
Having grown up in Guatemala, I heard many rumors about adoptions, which often sounded crazy, but these stories or actions were making it harder for people to be able to adopt from Guatemala.
This was a very emotional story as the frustrations of having to leave the child you are falling in love with, over and over again, to a system which seemed broken and to an agency that was a little bit questionable.
Luckily the author was able to live down there during some of this time, fostering her daughter to be, and finding people that were able to help her through this seemingly endless process.
The author was very open about her feelings and frustrations, and descriptive of what she was going through, and of the people she was dealing with in good times and bad, which had me feel like I was down there going through this with her.
The authors writing was captivating and I felt I wanted to keep reading to see what would happen next.
Having grown up in Guatemala, I heard many rumors about adoptions, which often sounded crazy, but these stories or actions were making it harder for people to be able to adopt from Guatemala.
May 19, 2020
An amazing journey
As a fellow adoptive mom of Guatemalan born children, I am especially appreciative of the story told. While we had few issues with our adoptions, we have friends who experienced major challenges and ended up fostering in Guatemala as well. It was not an easy road to travel, but one well worth it in the end. The book itself was well written and had a good flow to it. In fact, it was so easy to read that I finished most of it in one night. I want to thank the author for sharing her story. Adoptions in Guatemala were complicated and many took on a life of their own. While some people see the corruption and think that is all there is to say about the adoptions, this story shows the many people and hearts involved in the process. Yes, children were taken from their birth parents in some instances, but for the most part the adoptions were above board and were the desire of the birth mom, for whatever reason. Guatemala is a beautiful country with many beautiful people and while the author necessarily showed the darker side of some people, I think she also gave us special glimpses into the brighter side of life there.
As a fellow adoptive mom of Guatemalan born children, I am especially appreciative of the story told. While we had few issues with our adoptions, we have friends who experienced major challenges and ended up fostering in Guatemala as well. It was not an easy road to travel, but one well worth it in the end. The book itself was well written and had a good flow to it. In fact, it was so easy to read that I finished most of it in one night. I want to thank the author for sharing her story. Adoptions in Guatemala were complicated and many took on a life of their own. While some people see the corruption and think that is all there is to say about the adoptions, this story shows the many people and hearts involved in the process. Yes, children were taken from their birth parents in some instances, but for the most part the adoptions were above board and were the desire of the birth mom, for whatever reason. Guatemala is a beautiful country with many beautiful people and while the author necessarily showed the darker side of some people, I think she also gave us special glimpses into the brighter side of life there.
December 5, 2019
A heartwarming story full of ups and downs, Kim Gjerde chronicles her two-year Guatemalan adoption experience. The author and her husband shed light on international adoption and the frustrations that go along with it. A story of faith, longing, and perseverance, Fierce Love will capture the hearts of readers. An enjoyable story for those who hope to adopt or who have already done so.
October 19, 2019
A heartfelt story that I can’t wait to read again and again!! Determination, faith, courage and love - makes my heart smile. Such a wonderful, inspiring story that made me cry, laugh and hold my kids close. Thank you for sharing your journey with the world.
October 19, 2019
I wrote this story for my daughter. I wanted her to know how fiercely she is loved by God and us! I poured my heart and soul into this book and I do love it. I hope you will enjoy it too!
March 19, 2023
An inspiring story of a mother's love
I had the pleasure of meeting Kim and Olav yesterday at a concert at a shared table. Over the music, we tried to chat a bit and they were both open friendly, happy people. You would never guess at their struggle. I am an avid reader and as I bragged about my reading streak of more than two years, Kim mentioned that she wrote a book. Having enjoyed the St. Pat's libations, I told her that I'd read it and I did, the next day. It was beautiful. Not my normal genre in any way, I was captivated by her story, her strength, her perseverance, and her grace thought a situation that continued to test the mother in her. Her writing style and her ability to share such a personal, often heart-rending story of the love a mother has and the lengths she will go to for her baby is inspiring. Lily is a lucky girl to have you both. Thanks for the photos at end--I needed them!
I had the pleasure of meeting Kim and Olav yesterday at a concert at a shared table. Over the music, we tried to chat a bit and they were both open friendly, happy people. You would never guess at their struggle. I am an avid reader and as I bragged about my reading streak of more than two years, Kim mentioned that she wrote a book. Having enjoyed the St. Pat's libations, I told her that I'd read it and I did, the next day. It was beautiful. Not my normal genre in any way, I was captivated by her story, her strength, her perseverance, and her grace thought a situation that continued to test the mother in her. Her writing style and her ability to share such a personal, often heart-rending story of the love a mother has and the lengths she will go to for her baby is inspiring. Lily is a lucky girl to have you both. Thanks for the photos at end--I needed them!
August 15, 2020
I read this book in one sitting! You will not want to put it down, either! I felt as if I was right there with Kim and Olav as they went through this tumultuous journey to adopt this beautiful baby from Guatemala! They went through hope, fear, faith and more. Definitely a must read. Im so glad Kim decided to share her journey with us readers.
July 29, 2021
I had a hard time putting down this book! This adoption story was gripping and riveting: The obstacles (lying, corruption, physical danger and financial & employment crises) that the Gjerdes faced to bring their daughter home were unfathomable. The book’s well-written and truly inspirational! A must-read!
November 27, 2022
Recommended
This was a gripping account of a family's experience with an overseas adoption. The author shared about her emotional and spiritual journey during a challenging path to adoption. In addition to being an interesting book, my faith in God was reinforced. I recommend this book.
This was a gripping account of a family's experience with an overseas adoption. The author shared about her emotional and spiritual journey during a challenging path to adoption. In addition to being an interesting book, my faith in God was reinforced. I recommend this book.
November 10, 2019
I have recently returned to following Jesus. This story shows how wonderful is our God. I have known the author since she was a small child and knew that she had some struggles with adopting Lily, but I didn’t know the extent of what she went through and how God blessed her through it all
September 13, 2025
Absolutely beautiful and inspiring true story.
June 6, 2020
What a determined couple. I have so much admiration for them in this traumatic account describing the struggle to adopt a child from Guatemala.
The adoption process for Kim and her husband was long, hard and painful as they frequently found out. They struggled through every bureaucratic hurdle imaginable. Kim's faith in God helped her through these extremely difficult times and gave her immense hope that one day little Lily would be part of their family.
A well written but truly heartbreaking story. A well deserved 5 stars.
I would recommend this book to everyone but in particular to anyone thinking of adopting a child from another country.
The adoption process for Kim and her husband was long, hard and painful as they frequently found out. They struggled through every bureaucratic hurdle imaginable. Kim's faith in God helped her through these extremely difficult times and gave her immense hope that one day little Lily would be part of their family.
A well written but truly heartbreaking story. A well deserved 5 stars.
I would recommend this book to everyone but in particular to anyone thinking of adopting a child from another country.
March 3, 2020
Extremely moving and inspiring how much one family can take on and the hardships they can survive. Not only did this show fierce love but the fiercest of determination and strength. It is a truly remarkable tale which is well written and captivating.
February 27, 2020
This is an honest account of what it took to get through a challenging and sometimes dangerous life event. It reads like a suspense novel but is a vulnerable true tale. Well written and enlightening.
December 2, 2019
A fast moving, captivating, and emotional memoir. Wonderful.
I have read quite a few fostering and adoption memoirs, so this was a book that really interested me when I saw it would be coming out. It was an amazing read.
Kim and her husband Olav had already had many failed infertility treatment cycles, and the hope, desperation, and sadness they brought; so they came to the decision to adopt. This was a wonderful memoir, and beautifully told. Through the pages, Kim opens her heart. She tells of the adoption process; what they would have to do to adopt a child under two from Guatemala, and the expected time scale. Would there be hurdles? Would it take longer than they expected?
They first went out to Guatemala to meet Lily when she was just four months old. It would be a very long road ahead, with many struggles and delays, highs and heartache, before they finally brought her home. Who was lying? Who was legit? Kim tells of the twists and turns in their adoption process before Lily was finally their daughter. Kim has poured her heart into this book and she and Olav did everything they could to get Lily. They sacrificed everything-and nearly lost everything, to get their little daughter. What a story.
I have read quite a few fostering and adoption memoirs, so this was a book that really interested me when I saw it would be coming out. It was an amazing read.
Kim and her husband Olav had already had many failed infertility treatment cycles, and the hope, desperation, and sadness they brought; so they came to the decision to adopt. This was a wonderful memoir, and beautifully told. Through the pages, Kim opens her heart. She tells of the adoption process; what they would have to do to adopt a child under two from Guatemala, and the expected time scale. Would there be hurdles? Would it take longer than they expected?
They first went out to Guatemala to meet Lily when she was just four months old. It would be a very long road ahead, with many struggles and delays, highs and heartache, before they finally brought her home. Who was lying? Who was legit? Kim tells of the twists and turns in their adoption process before Lily was finally their daughter. Kim has poured her heart into this book and she and Olav did everything they could to get Lily. They sacrificed everything-and nearly lost everything, to get their little daughter. What a story.
December 30, 2019
What she thinks will be a six to nine month process to adopt her daughter from Guatemala turns into a multi year spiritual, emotional and physically taxing battle for Kim Gjerde. Written in a style that quickly pulls you in and is easy to follow, Kim keeps you turning the pages as your mouth drops open from shock and disbelief and the tears roll down your face. As I held my breath, shook my head, astonished and choked back the lump rising in my throat, I felt for Kim and what she and her family endured on that intense adoption process roller coaster. Kim's truly remarkable journey as the subtitle hints clearly highlights that God is in control and that he loves us. I am so glad Kim wrote her story. It reminds me as a teacher/librarian that each and every one of my students has an amazing story of how they ended up in my school, in my library. It reminds me as a Christian that God loves all of his children and Jesus is the author and perfecter of our faith. It was a pleasure to read!
October 26, 2019
If you like kids, and think adoption is a grand idea, and if you need a shot of encouragement and perseverance, then this is the book for you. I really enjoyed the author's transparency and honesty, and even though it is apparent she accomplished her goal of making Lily part of her forever family, the book is still full of anxious moments and seemingly impossible challenges, and that makes for a really good read. Top that off with a really good dose of faith based miracles, and you have in this book a really positive, lovely chronicle of fierce love!
November 5, 2019
A fast- paced, fascinating story of the long, frustrating journey of Kim to bring her daughter home. As someone who experienced a Guatemalan adoption at the same time, and whose adoption also took longer than the 6-9 month timeline, I found myself reflected in a lot of her descriptions- including the frustrations of sitting at the embassy and having the oldest child in the room and the sadness of leaving your child yet again and heading back to the US. Great job, Kim!
October 21, 2019
Kim does a great job taking you into roller-coaster of emotions as she goes from elation to despair on her two-year-long journey to adopt her daughter from Guatemala. The details she offers provide insight into the world of international adoption and her strong faith is an inspiration. This reads like a detective novel and mystery and memoir all rolled up into one. It's an amazing story!
November 12, 2019
As a fellow Guatadopt mom, I was eager to read this story. And I was not disappointed! I felt so many emotions as I read it. Though our adoption story was different (in ways), there were also many common threads. I loved reading about how Kim held into her faith throughout the whole process. It is an incredible story of love and dedication!
December 13, 2019
Her deep love and commitment ooze out of every page!
December 31, 2019
Such a good book! I can’t believe everything Kim and her husband had to go through to adopt their daughter. Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews