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The Child I Never Had
If you had to make an impossible choice to save your long-lost daughter, you would… wouldn’t you?
It’s a warm early summer’s evening when Mia’s doorbell rings. She opens the door to see a teenage girl standing in the shadow beyond the porch light—and in an instant she knows who it is. Daisy, the daughter she gave up as a baby. Daisy steps forward, as she says tearfully “I’m sorry I didn’t call first. But something happened. And I really needed… you.”
Seventeen years before, knowing she couldn’t possibly give her beautiful little girl Daisy the future she deserved, Mia made the hardest decision of her life—to give her up. And Suzanne seemed the perfect adoptive mother: calm, stable, and full of love for the daughter she’d always dreamed of having.
The two mothers promised to keep communication open, so Daisy could have Mia’s love and support along with Suzanne’s. But as the years passed, Mia moved away, and their visits happened less. Now Daisy is almost a stranger to Mia—angry, closed and broken—nothing like the tiny girl she once couldn’t bear to say goodbye to.
But now Daisy has arrived on Mia’s doorstep, and she says she has a terrible secret. One she can never tell Suzanne. And she believes the only person who can help her is Mia. Her birth mother.
Mia, however, has secrets of her own. Ones she is afraid to let Daisy or anyone else know. And while Suzanne desperately seeks a way to bring her child home, can Mia overcome her past to help the girl they both call their daughter in her darkest hour before it’s too late?
Totally gripping emotional women’s fiction from the author guaranteed to make readers cry. Kate Hewitt’s story will grab you by the heartstrings and never let you go. Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Diane Chamberlain and Jojo Moyes.
It’s a warm early summer’s evening when Mia’s doorbell rings. She opens the door to see a teenage girl standing in the shadow beyond the porch light—and in an instant she knows who it is. Daisy, the daughter she gave up as a baby. Daisy steps forward, as she says tearfully “I’m sorry I didn’t call first. But something happened. And I really needed… you.”
Seventeen years before, knowing she couldn’t possibly give her beautiful little girl Daisy the future she deserved, Mia made the hardest decision of her life—to give her up. And Suzanne seemed the perfect adoptive mother: calm, stable, and full of love for the daughter she’d always dreamed of having.
The two mothers promised to keep communication open, so Daisy could have Mia’s love and support along with Suzanne’s. But as the years passed, Mia moved away, and their visits happened less. Now Daisy is almost a stranger to Mia—angry, closed and broken—nothing like the tiny girl she once couldn’t bear to say goodbye to.
But now Daisy has arrived on Mia’s doorstep, and she says she has a terrible secret. One she can never tell Suzanne. And she believes the only person who can help her is Mia. Her birth mother.
Mia, however, has secrets of her own. Ones she is afraid to let Daisy or anyone else know. And while Suzanne desperately seeks a way to bring her child home, can Mia overcome her past to help the girl they both call their daughter in her darkest hour before it’s too late?
Totally gripping emotional women’s fiction from the author guaranteed to make readers cry. Kate Hewitt’s story will grab you by the heartstrings and never let you go. Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Diane Chamberlain and Jojo Moyes.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 10, 2022
1634 people are currently reading
629 people want to read
About the author
Kate Hewitt
876 books1,700 followersKate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of both historical and contemporary fiction. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
January 19, 2022
Another amazing emotional story by Kate Hewitt. I loved the way this novel explored the complicated factors involved in adoption on all sides, for birth parents, adoptive families, and for adoptees. Maya and Suzanne have tried to keep the lines of communication open for Daisy's sake over the years. This caused complicated feelings on all sides, from Maya, who gave up Daisy at twenty when she was in college and struggling with the decision, choosing an open adoption where she could still see her daughter, to Suzanne her adoptive mother, who desperately wanted what was best for Daisy and struggled with seeing the connection between Maya that was sometimes easier than their own. Even though everyone was trying to do what was best for Daisy, it was still hard, and I loved the way the novel showed that in such wonderful detail.
Maya married Tom and moved to North Carolina when Daisy was six, and had three more kids of her own, which further impacted Daisy, having her birth mom move away so there were fewer visits, and also three daughters who felt like replacements. When Daisy begins to struggle in her final year in high school after something happens in New york, she goes to stay with Maya and Tom in North Carolina, and begins to ask questions about her past. Secrets are revealed and I loved all the twists, both in Daisy’s story, and with another character’s I hadn’t anticipated! Kate Hewitt always writes the best plot twists. This was an amazing read and I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC copy of this book from Bookouture and NetGalley.
Maya married Tom and moved to North Carolina when Daisy was six, and had three more kids of her own, which further impacted Daisy, having her birth mom move away so there were fewer visits, and also three daughters who felt like replacements. When Daisy begins to struggle in her final year in high school after something happens in New york, she goes to stay with Maya and Tom in North Carolina, and begins to ask questions about her past. Secrets are revealed and I loved all the twists, both in Daisy’s story, and with another character’s I hadn’t anticipated! Kate Hewitt always writes the best plot twists. This was an amazing read and I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC copy of this book from Bookouture and NetGalley.
February 12, 2022
4.5★s
Suzanne and Mark wanted to adopt and when they met twenty-year-old Mia, pregnant, frightened and uncertain, they decided this was right. Suzanne was there with Mia when she gave birth to the little girl they called Daisy. Mia suggested an open adoption to Suzanne and Mark, which meant Mia would always be in Daisy’s life, even though her parents were Suzanne and Mark, and while Daisy was young, it worked well. But when Mia met, then married Tom and moved to North Carolina from New York, the visits were less, and Daisy started to withdraw from her mother.
When Daisy was seventeen and her parents’ excuses for her behaviour were – “she’s a teenager” – Suzanne could feel her heart breaking more each day. She and Mark had divorced two years prior, so it was just Suzanne and Daisy living in the apartment. But Daisy kept to herself, rarely talking and snapping at her mother when talking was necessary. But it was when Daisy told Suzanne that she was going to live with Mia and their family for her final year of school that events took a turn – maybe for the worst; maybe for the best…
The Child I Never Had is another exceptional read by Kate Hewitt, although it’s different to all I’ve read in the past, which were historical. This one is contemporary family drama and is emotional, poignant, heartbreaking, full of secrets and surprises. I was sympathetic with Mia and Suzanne, and also Daisy. Daisy was confused and hurt, hiding it under the aggression and anger she displayed regularly. An excellent read, The Child I Never Had is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Suzanne and Mark wanted to adopt and when they met twenty-year-old Mia, pregnant, frightened and uncertain, they decided this was right. Suzanne was there with Mia when she gave birth to the little girl they called Daisy. Mia suggested an open adoption to Suzanne and Mark, which meant Mia would always be in Daisy’s life, even though her parents were Suzanne and Mark, and while Daisy was young, it worked well. But when Mia met, then married Tom and moved to North Carolina from New York, the visits were less, and Daisy started to withdraw from her mother.
When Daisy was seventeen and her parents’ excuses for her behaviour were – “she’s a teenager” – Suzanne could feel her heart breaking more each day. She and Mark had divorced two years prior, so it was just Suzanne and Daisy living in the apartment. But Daisy kept to herself, rarely talking and snapping at her mother when talking was necessary. But it was when Daisy told Suzanne that she was going to live with Mia and their family for her final year of school that events took a turn – maybe for the worst; maybe for the best…
The Child I Never Had is another exceptional read by Kate Hewitt, although it’s different to all I’ve read in the past, which were historical. This one is contemporary family drama and is emotional, poignant, heartbreaking, full of secrets and surprises. I was sympathetic with Mia and Suzanne, and also Daisy. Daisy was confused and hurt, hiding it under the aggression and anger she displayed regularly. An excellent read, The Child I Never Had is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2022
This is a really comprehensive look at open adoption through the eyes of the child, Daisy, the adoptive mother, Suzanne, and the birth mother Mia. Different events in their lives are seen from the point of view of each of them. Suzanne holds nagging fear that her daughter will leave her. Mia feels guilt over not staying in touch with Daisy as much as she should. And Daisy is angry at everyone. When Daisy abruptly leaves and goes to find Mia, everything comes to a head.
The story is compelling and keeps you turning the page. The characters are well developed and interesting, and the plot is complex, with a surprise at the end. There were many flashbacks, which I felt were overdone. Other than that, this was a captivating read.
I received a free copy of this book from Bookouture via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
The story is compelling and keeps you turning the page. The characters are well developed and interesting, and the plot is complex, with a surprise at the end. There were many flashbacks, which I felt were overdone. Other than that, this was a captivating read.
I received a free copy of this book from Bookouture via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
February 16, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Child ai Never Had' by Kate Hewitt.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Kate Hewitt, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 10th February 2022.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have also read 'My Daughter's Mistake' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Jojo Moyes and Diane Chamberlain.' I am a fan of all three of these authors so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a HUGE fan of Kate Hewitt and if this is half as good as 'My Daughter's Mistake' it is bound to be an addictive 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, 33 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 North Caroline and New York USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are Suzanne, Mia and Daisy. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists 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. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! One thing I have got to say before getting into my review is clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!!
This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline.
This book is devastatingly heartbreaking and beautiful. It is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with heartbreak, family, love, loss, secrets, friendship, forgiveness and so much more. It is a mother's absolute worse nightmare whether you are looking through Suzanne or Mia's eyes. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with them and going through their pain and suffering. While you are reading this you are going through a journey of love and loss, heartbreak, secrets and forgiveness. It brings to light how every different person feel when it comes to an adoption, especially an open one. Kate has clearly done her research on adoptions and how open ones work and this shines through in this story. Well done Kate as there's nothing much worse that reading a novel filled with silly errors as the author hasn't done any research. The storyline is quite unique and I haven't read one like it before, it definitely gives you something to think about and shows you how much emotion and strength is involved from both the birth family and adoptive family. I was completely shocked by the twists which I was not expecting at all. It is getting harder and harder to surprise me so congratulations again Kate!!! You need to clear your schedules and get the tissues at the ready because you will not be able to put this book down and it had me in tears by the end and I do not cry easily!!!
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
The characters are strong, realistic and I became completely invested in both Suzanne and Mia, as well as Daisy. I felt each of their pain, anger, sorrow and joy. My heart broke for each of them who went through so much. Although it was mainly through Suzanne and Mia's eyes that the story unfolds there are so many other characters that I bonded with and who was affected by everything going on. My heart went out to Daisy who was clearly struggling with everything that was going on and the shocking secrets that were discovered which she was struggling with along with being at the tender age of seventeen. Although I did feel for her I also felt like screaming at her on many occasions and wish she would just understand what her mum was going through. I felt Mark and X was tough in occasions but I also felt for him as it can't be easy being a Dad in this situation. I've said X as I don't want to spoil the twist for future readers. I also felt for Ella, Avery and Sophie who had so much going on at such young ages and were caught in the middle. Onto Daisy and her family. It was beautiful to be able to watch the transformation in Daisy from wanting to lash out at anyone and everyone to the person she became at the end. I also really felt for Suzanne who went through so much with her own mum and then to have that bombshell dropped on her when she was going through so much anyway. Kate also clearly either did her research on or has been through what it was like to have family with Alzheimers and Dementia. My Nan suffered with this and "watching" Suzanne's mum I could definitely see my Nan in her so well done Kate for portraying such a horrible illness so perfectly. Although heartbreaking it was lovely to see how all characters had grown from beginning to end.
Congratulations Kate on an absolutely gorgeous, heartbreaking beautiful book!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this turned into a movie!!! This is why you are on my favourite author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, addictive and compelling devastatingly beautiful heartbreaking book!!!
Genres covered in this book include Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Coming-Of-Age Story and Domestic Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Jodi Picoult, Jojo Moyes, Debbie Macomber, Nicholas Sparks, Diane Chamberlain and anyone who loves a tear jerker.
390 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
#TheChildINeverHad #Bookouture #KateHewitt #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@KateHewitt @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'The Child ai Never Had' by Kate Hewitt.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Kate Hewitt, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 10th February 2022.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have also read 'My Daughter's Mistake' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Jojo Moyes and Diane Chamberlain.' I am a fan of all three of these authors so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a HUGE fan of Kate Hewitt and if this is half as good as 'My Daughter's Mistake' it is bound to be an addictive 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, 33 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 North Caroline and New York USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are Suzanne, Mia and Daisy. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists 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. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! One thing I have got to say before getting into my review is clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!!
This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline.
This book is devastatingly heartbreaking and beautiful. It is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with heartbreak, family, love, loss, secrets, friendship, forgiveness and so much more. It is a mother's absolute worse nightmare whether you are looking through Suzanne or Mia's eyes. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with them and going through their pain and suffering. While you are reading this you are going through a journey of love and loss, heartbreak, secrets and forgiveness. It brings to light how every different person feel when it comes to an adoption, especially an open one. Kate has clearly done her research on adoptions and how open ones work and this shines through in this story. Well done Kate as there's nothing much worse that reading a novel filled with silly errors as the author hasn't done any research. The storyline is quite unique and I haven't read one like it before, it definitely gives you something to think about and shows you how much emotion and strength is involved from both the birth family and adoptive family. I was completely shocked by the twists which I was not expecting at all. It is getting harder and harder to surprise me so congratulations again Kate!!! You need to clear your schedules and get the tissues at the ready because you will not be able to put this book down and it had me in tears by the end and I do not cry easily!!!
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
The characters are strong, realistic and I became completely invested in both Suzanne and Mia, as well as Daisy. I felt each of their pain, anger, sorrow and joy. My heart broke for each of them who went through so much. Although it was mainly through Suzanne and Mia's eyes that the story unfolds there are so many other characters that I bonded with and who was affected by everything going on. My heart went out to Daisy who was clearly struggling with everything that was going on and the shocking secrets that were discovered which she was struggling with along with being at the tender age of seventeen. Although I did feel for her I also felt like screaming at her on many occasions and wish she would just understand what her mum was going through. I felt Mark and X was tough in occasions but I also felt for him as it can't be easy being a Dad in this situation. I've said X as I don't want to spoil the twist for future readers. I also felt for Ella, Avery and Sophie who had so much going on at such young ages and were caught in the middle. Onto Daisy and her family. It was beautiful to be able to watch the transformation in Daisy from wanting to lash out at anyone and everyone to the person she became at the end. I also really felt for Suzanne who went through so much with her own mum and then to have that bombshell dropped on her when she was going through so much anyway. Kate also clearly either did her research on or has been through what it was like to have family with Alzheimers and Dementia. My Nan suffered with this and "watching" Suzanne's mum I could definitely see my Nan in her so well done Kate for portraying such a horrible illness so perfectly. Although heartbreaking it was lovely to see how all characters had grown from beginning to end.
Congratulations Kate on an absolutely gorgeous, heartbreaking beautiful book!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this turned into a movie!!! This is why you are on my favourite author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, addictive and compelling devastatingly beautiful heartbreaking book!!!
Genres covered in this book include Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Coming-Of-Age Story and Domestic Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Jodi Picoult, Jojo Moyes, Debbie Macomber, Nicholas Sparks, Diane Chamberlain and anyone who loves a tear jerker.
390 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
#TheChildINeverHad #Bookouture #KateHewitt #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@KateHewitt @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
December 27, 2021
**ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**
This is my first book by Kate Hewitt. I decided to read this book because I was intrigued by the whole open adoption concept and seeing how everything would turn out. Overall, I did enjoy this book and really liked seeing the story told from three different POVs (Biological mother: Mia, adoptive mother: Suzanne and adopted child: Daisy). I also appreciated the flashbacks, because it showed what all three characters went through, and how they dealt with the situation in the past. However, at a point the flashbacks started to bore me a bit. I wanted to get back to the present time to see how everything would unfold.
I was able to connect to the characters and was invested in seeing what would happen next. There was a twist that I didn't see coming and it added something extra to the story. However, the ending felt rushed and a lot of things needed to be resolved in a short amount of time. Instead of so many flashbacks I would've loved if the author focused more on the family dynamic that was in shambles because of a particular incident. But overall, I still liked the ending, I also enjoyed the author's writing style and I would definitely read her other books.
This is my first book by Kate Hewitt. I decided to read this book because I was intrigued by the whole open adoption concept and seeing how everything would turn out. Overall, I did enjoy this book and really liked seeing the story told from three different POVs (Biological mother: Mia, adoptive mother: Suzanne and adopted child: Daisy). I also appreciated the flashbacks, because it showed what all three characters went through, and how they dealt with the situation in the past. However, at a point the flashbacks started to bore me a bit. I wanted to get back to the present time to see how everything would unfold.
I was able to connect to the characters and was invested in seeing what would happen next. There was a twist that I didn't see coming and it added something extra to the story. However, the ending felt rushed and a lot of things needed to be resolved in a short amount of time. Instead of so many flashbacks I would've loved if the author focused more on the family dynamic that was in shambles because of a particular incident. But overall, I still liked the ending, I also enjoyed the author's writing style and I would definitely read her other books.
February 27, 2022
What was it all about
A book about family and adoption and secrets that all of us had.
Daisy was adopted by Suzanne gifted to her by Mia when she was a young girl, who couldn’t take care of her.
But life happened, and there were chasms between all of them. Until Daisy had a secret that only Mia could help her with, her birth mother, not her adopted mother.
How it made me feel
Extremely emotional as author Kate Hewitt’s books tended to make me.
I loved how the secrets were weaved in. They added excitement to the story which threatened to dissolve me in tears.
The characters pulled at my heart strings as life unfolded upon them.
The Good
The strength of the author’s writing kept all the characters emotive. The lives of all the characters were linked seamlessly.
Suzanne was the one who caught my eye as she felt to be the anchor that kept the book balanced between the other two women.
The twists in the story kept the pace fast where the subplots pulled me in.
The Bad
The ending felt slightly rushed as all parts needed to be tied together. But that wa just a minor thing.
The Conclusion
Emotions and secrets kept this book a rocking drama set in a social issue that had its own heart rending moments.
A book about family and adoption and secrets that all of us had.
Daisy was adopted by Suzanne gifted to her by Mia when she was a young girl, who couldn’t take care of her.
But life happened, and there were chasms between all of them. Until Daisy had a secret that only Mia could help her with, her birth mother, not her adopted mother.
How it made me feel
Extremely emotional as author Kate Hewitt’s books tended to make me.
I loved how the secrets were weaved in. They added excitement to the story which threatened to dissolve me in tears.
The characters pulled at my heart strings as life unfolded upon them.
The Good
The strength of the author’s writing kept all the characters emotive. The lives of all the characters were linked seamlessly.
Suzanne was the one who caught my eye as she felt to be the anchor that kept the book balanced between the other two women.
The twists in the story kept the pace fast where the subplots pulled me in.
The Bad
The ending felt slightly rushed as all parts needed to be tied together. But that wa just a minor thing.
The Conclusion
Emotions and secrets kept this book a rocking drama set in a social issue that had its own heart rending moments.
December 16, 2021
Hewitt penned a solid, meaty read. Three women, two are mothers, one is the daughter, form a complicated triangle. The relationships get even more complicated as both Daisy and Suzanne find out some secrets that should have been shared years before. I liked how Hewitt spent a lot of time with the mothers’ aspects and feelings. I really never grew to care for Daisy, although I had some sympathy for her. Any relationship has its issues, but when it’s family, it’s usually messy and involved. Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early read.
February 14, 2022
Kate Hewitt never seems to stop amazing me with her beautifully written emotional stories that have the ability to make you cry. The Child I never had is one such story. Here Hewitt takes on adoption and shows how it can affect both the adoptive parents, biological mother and child all in different ways and yet shows how each of their struggles are still similar.
Mia was only 20 years old when she gave her newborn daughter, Daisy up for adoption to Suzanne and her husband, Mark. This was to be an open adoption where Mia can still be a part of her daughter’s life, but with the best of intentions life slowly gets in the way. Mia, now with a new family of her own, doesn't really know where she fits into Daisy’s life given that their relationship isn’t what Mia first wanted all of those years ago. Suzanne is also having her own struggles with her adopted daughter, Daisy, who is now a moody teenager. Something happens in Daisy’s life that has her running back to Mia, but we don’t really get the full story right away. It is gradually revealed to us in twists and turns with the story bouncing back and forth through the present and the past. Can these two different families come together, connect and finally heal.
Hewitt’s writing really draws you in and her relatable characters make you feel engaged in their lives through sadness, joy and everything in between. I often found myself both happy and sad for Suzanne, Mia and Daisy, while hoping that they could all come together in the end.
If you love a book you can immerse yourself into - both the storyline and the characters, then you definitely do not want to miss The Child I Never Had. This is another 5 star read from Kate Hewitt.
Mia was only 20 years old when she gave her newborn daughter, Daisy up for adoption to Suzanne and her husband, Mark. This was to be an open adoption where Mia can still be a part of her daughter’s life, but with the best of intentions life slowly gets in the way. Mia, now with a new family of her own, doesn't really know where she fits into Daisy’s life given that their relationship isn’t what Mia first wanted all of those years ago. Suzanne is also having her own struggles with her adopted daughter, Daisy, who is now a moody teenager. Something happens in Daisy’s life that has her running back to Mia, but we don’t really get the full story right away. It is gradually revealed to us in twists and turns with the story bouncing back and forth through the present and the past. Can these two different families come together, connect and finally heal.
Hewitt’s writing really draws you in and her relatable characters make you feel engaged in their lives through sadness, joy and everything in between. I often found myself both happy and sad for Suzanne, Mia and Daisy, while hoping that they could all come together in the end.
If you love a book you can immerse yourself into - both the storyline and the characters, then you definitely do not want to miss The Child I Never Had. This is another 5 star read from Kate Hewitt.
July 25, 2022
𝑨𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒔
Mia was just nineteen when she fell pregnant. Knowing that she couldn't possibly raise a child, she chose to adopt her baby out to married couple Suzanne and Mark. Wanting to also be part of her child's life, the three agreed that an open adoption would be the best way to go.
For most of Daisy's early childhood, Mia was a regular visitor, despite competing with Suzanne numerous times. But when Mia met Tom, and started building a family, all contact started to fizzle out. Now, Daisy is a rebellious teen who doesn't get on well with her mother. So what prompts her to turn up unexpectedly on Mia's doorstep one evening, asking her to live there for a year?
This is no doubt a very heartfelt and at times, a tough read. Not only are we dealing with the situation of an open adoption, but also the consequences that it entails. These three women are all equally as affected, and similarly are also connected in more ways than you think.
The Child I Never Had is yet another powerful and brilliant read by Kate Hewitt. She certainly knows how to write contemporary family drama with heart!
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
Mia was just nineteen when she fell pregnant. Knowing that she couldn't possibly raise a child, she chose to adopt her baby out to married couple Suzanne and Mark. Wanting to also be part of her child's life, the three agreed that an open adoption would be the best way to go.
For most of Daisy's early childhood, Mia was a regular visitor, despite competing with Suzanne numerous times. But when Mia met Tom, and started building a family, all contact started to fizzle out. Now, Daisy is a rebellious teen who doesn't get on well with her mother. So what prompts her to turn up unexpectedly on Mia's doorstep one evening, asking her to live there for a year?
This is no doubt a very heartfelt and at times, a tough read. Not only are we dealing with the situation of an open adoption, but also the consequences that it entails. These three women are all equally as affected, and similarly are also connected in more ways than you think.
The Child I Never Had is yet another powerful and brilliant read by Kate Hewitt. She certainly knows how to write contemporary family drama with heart!
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
February 10, 2022
The Child I Never Had is a very emotional read: I found myself on the verge of tears a few times. The story explores adoption, and in particular open adoption, from 3 different points of view: the birth mother (Mia), the adopting mother (Suzanne) and the adoptee (Daisy), They all give a different perspective to the story and each of them brings a distinct nuance to it. Here the author makes a brilliant job of letting all their voices heard.
And even though the theme might seem quite specific, everyone with adolescent children can relate to the strained relationships between the characters in my opinion. Also, there are secrets and twists in the story that will make it difficult to stop reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
The Child I Never Had is a very emotional read: I found myself on the verge of tears a few times. The story explores adoption, and in particular open adoption, from 3 different points of view: the birth mother (Mia), the adopting mother (Suzanne) and the adoptee (Daisy), They all give a different perspective to the story and each of them brings a distinct nuance to it. Here the author makes a brilliant job of letting all their voices heard.
And even though the theme might seem quite specific, everyone with adolescent children can relate to the strained relationships between the characters in my opinion. Also, there are secrets and twists in the story that will make it difficult to stop reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
And even though the theme might seem quite specific, everyone with adolescent children can relate to the strained relationships between the characters in my opinion. Also, there are secrets and twists in the story that will make it difficult to stop reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
The Child I Never Had is a very emotional read: I found myself on the verge of tears a few times. The story explores adoption, and in particular open adoption, from 3 different points of view: the birth mother (Mia), the adopting mother (Suzanne) and the adoptee (Daisy), They all give a different perspective to the story and each of them brings a distinct nuance to it. Here the author makes a brilliant job of letting all their voices heard.
And even though the theme might seem quite specific, everyone with adolescent children can relate to the strained relationships between the characters in my opinion. Also, there are secrets and twists in the story that will make it difficult to stop reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2022
Obnoxious teenage adopted girl creates havoc with her two mums when she tries to play one against the other.
January 23, 2022
Published: February 10, 2022
Bookouture
Pages: 388
Genre: Psychological Literary Fiction
KKECReads Rating: 5/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Kate Hewitt is the bestselling author of many novels of both historical and contemporary fiction. She particularly enjoys writing contemporary issue-driven women's fiction, and her novels have been called 'unputdownable' and 'the most emotional book I have ever read' by readers.
An American ex-pat, she lives in a small market town in Wales with her husband and five young(ish) children, along with their two Golden Retrievers.
“What, I wonder, do I not know about?”
Mia made an impossible decision to give her baby up for adoption. She knows she can’t provide the life a child deserves right now, seeing as she is still in college and has nothing of her own. Suzanne has always wanted to be a mom, but sadly it wasn’t in the cards for her and Mark, which make the gift Mia gives them so precious. Suzanne, eager and desperate to be a mother, quickly agrees to Mia’s last-minute request they have an open adoption. These women did not realize just how much they would need or understand each other.
Whew. This was a very emotional novel, from page one. I loved the characters, the plot, and the obvious research that went into creating this story.
Mia was carefully crafted. I think her inner emotional journey was so striking and intense that her feelings were so genuinely described.
Suzanne was a strong, albeit, reserved character. But she stole my heart. My heart ached for her struggles and her journey of discovery. She was such a vivid and honest character.
Mark and Tom were decent partners, though they tend to take the backseat approach to most things. I did enjoy them as supporting characters.
Daisy was a complicated character. She was bold, bright, and sullen. I struggled to like her at times, but I also understood her emotional journey and why she felt the way she did.
The emotions in this book are so raw, and I appreciated that both sides of every situation were presented. It made the story feel more authentic and provided such a powerful punch to a situation that so many will never understand.
This was a beautiful, heart-wrenching, at times overwhelming novel about truth, forgiveness, and family. Beautifully written, respectfully presented, and uttering captivating.
Bookouture
Pages: 388
Genre: Psychological Literary Fiction
KKECReads Rating: 5/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Kate Hewitt is the bestselling author of many novels of both historical and contemporary fiction. She particularly enjoys writing contemporary issue-driven women's fiction, and her novels have been called 'unputdownable' and 'the most emotional book I have ever read' by readers.
An American ex-pat, she lives in a small market town in Wales with her husband and five young(ish) children, along with their two Golden Retrievers.
“What, I wonder, do I not know about?”
Mia made an impossible decision to give her baby up for adoption. She knows she can’t provide the life a child deserves right now, seeing as she is still in college and has nothing of her own. Suzanne has always wanted to be a mom, but sadly it wasn’t in the cards for her and Mark, which make the gift Mia gives them so precious. Suzanne, eager and desperate to be a mother, quickly agrees to Mia’s last-minute request they have an open adoption. These women did not realize just how much they would need or understand each other.
Whew. This was a very emotional novel, from page one. I loved the characters, the plot, and the obvious research that went into creating this story.
Mia was carefully crafted. I think her inner emotional journey was so striking and intense that her feelings were so genuinely described.
Suzanne was a strong, albeit, reserved character. But she stole my heart. My heart ached for her struggles and her journey of discovery. She was such a vivid and honest character.
Mark and Tom were decent partners, though they tend to take the backseat approach to most things. I did enjoy them as supporting characters.
Daisy was a complicated character. She was bold, bright, and sullen. I struggled to like her at times, but I also understood her emotional journey and why she felt the way she did.
The emotions in this book are so raw, and I appreciated that both sides of every situation were presented. It made the story feel more authentic and provided such a powerful punch to a situation that so many will never understand.
This was a beautiful, heart-wrenching, at times overwhelming novel about truth, forgiveness, and family. Beautifully written, respectfully presented, and uttering captivating.
February 3, 2022
The Adoption
Raising a daughter is never an easy job, but in an open adoption it is much more difficult. Two different mother's both vying for the attention of one beautiful girl called Daisy.
Mia knew she could not keep the child she carried, adoption was the only option for a young girl in her second year of university. She picked Suzanne from a list of those wishing to adopt a child. It was good in the open adoption where Mia still had visits with Daisy. Then it became harder, a competition between the two women for the child's affection. Mia tried to distance herself from Daisy but she couldn't stay away, even though she was hiding a secret that both her adopted daughter and her new husband and family did not know. A secret she could not find a way to tell them.
Suzanne worries that she will lose Daisy to Mia, especially since her divorce from Mark. Then the teenage years come and Suzanne is having a hard time communicating with Daisy. With the pink hair and the piercing, she tries to understand but they become farther apart. Then an event happens and Daisy goes running to Mia.
This is a story of two women striving to work together for the love of a child. It is a story of adoption and the challenges that come from it. Secrets long held and finally to the surface and such hurt which can only be overcome with love and understanding.
A story of Mark and Suzanne and Tom and Mia. Two families, each with their own challenges, both loving one young girl and neither quite knowing how to communicate this love to her and how to work with each other to make it happen. Can they deal with their lives and also with Daisy and will there ever be a time when they can all be friends?
Somehow they all need to face their insecurities and come to terms with the past and the present and find a way to show Daisy just how much they all love her and care for her.
This is a heartwarming story of love , secrets, and the hard choices in life. How each must deal with life in their own way and find a way to help each other to do the same.
I enjoyed reading this story and I do recommend it.
Thanks to Kate Hewitt for writing a great story, to Bookouture for publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
Raising a daughter is never an easy job, but in an open adoption it is much more difficult. Two different mother's both vying for the attention of one beautiful girl called Daisy.
Mia knew she could not keep the child she carried, adoption was the only option for a young girl in her second year of university. She picked Suzanne from a list of those wishing to adopt a child. It was good in the open adoption where Mia still had visits with Daisy. Then it became harder, a competition between the two women for the child's affection. Mia tried to distance herself from Daisy but she couldn't stay away, even though she was hiding a secret that both her adopted daughter and her new husband and family did not know. A secret she could not find a way to tell them.
Suzanne worries that she will lose Daisy to Mia, especially since her divorce from Mark. Then the teenage years come and Suzanne is having a hard time communicating with Daisy. With the pink hair and the piercing, she tries to understand but they become farther apart. Then an event happens and Daisy goes running to Mia.
This is a story of two women striving to work together for the love of a child. It is a story of adoption and the challenges that come from it. Secrets long held and finally to the surface and such hurt which can only be overcome with love and understanding.
A story of Mark and Suzanne and Tom and Mia. Two families, each with their own challenges, both loving one young girl and neither quite knowing how to communicate this love to her and how to work with each other to make it happen. Can they deal with their lives and also with Daisy and will there ever be a time when they can all be friends?
Somehow they all need to face their insecurities and come to terms with the past and the present and find a way to show Daisy just how much they all love her and care for her.
This is a heartwarming story of love , secrets, and the hard choices in life. How each must deal with life in their own way and find a way to help each other to do the same.
I enjoyed reading this story and I do recommend it.
Thanks to Kate Hewitt for writing a great story, to Bookouture for publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me.
December 31, 2021
An emotional read about three woman’s journeys through motherhood, adoption and its long term repercussions and the emotional toll it takes!
Long held secrets are revealed with surprising outcomes, the old adage of the truth will out certainly makes sense here!
Told in past and present which I felt complicated things rather than enhanced them!
Suzanne, daisy and Mia all add a great dimension to the read but for me quiet unobtrusive Tom is the real hero!
A heartfelt, poignant emotional read.
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
Long held secrets are revealed with surprising outcomes, the old adage of the truth will out certainly makes sense here!
Told in past and present which I felt complicated things rather than enhanced them!
Suzanne, daisy and Mia all add a great dimension to the read but for me quiet unobtrusive Tom is the real hero!
A heartfelt, poignant emotional read.
Thank you netgalley for this early read.
December 22, 2021
30% was all I could stomach of this whiney sobfest. There were some important issues introduced, but overwhelmed by all the whining and second guessing.
Also the cover is misleading. The adopted child is 16 with pink hair, tattoos and a belly ring.
Also the cover is misleading. The adopted child is 16 with pink hair, tattoos and a belly ring.
May 15, 2022
4 stars
This is the second Kate Hewitt book that I've read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I love these family saga style books. I'll definitely read more by this author.
This is the second Kate Hewitt book that I've read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I love these family saga style books. I'll definitely read more by this author.
September 26, 2023
I wish we saw more of the relationship they have now after everything went down
February 6, 2024
Absolutely beautiful book!
August 6, 2025
I’ve found a few of this author’s novels on Kindle Unlimited, and I started reading them as I continue relaxing and sunbathing as my summer vacation comes to an end … That’s what these stories are for, I told myself. But: this writer is sort of annoying - and I couldn’t figure out why, until I got to the end of this book. Then I realized: ALL of her female characters are really, really annoying. Not unlikable per se, not unpleasant: just … annoying. You keep wanting to shake them. And thus simply doesn’t make for a great reading experience!
March 3, 2022
Good viewpoints on adoption. Rather slow for me at the start. Some unexpected twists move the story along and communication is powerful.
April 1, 2023
Family relationships, a look at adoption.
April 25, 2022
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Kate Hewitt’s The Child I Never Had is a complex, compelling and thought-provoking domestic drama that is absolutely heart-breaking.
When Mia opened her front door and found a teenage girl standing on her doorstep, she immediately knew that she was looking at the child she had given up for adoption almost eighteen years ago. Daisy has tracked her down and come to her in desperate need of her help because something terrible has happened and her daughter has nobody else she can turn to. Mia cannot help but be shocked by this. When Daisy was born, she had thought that Suzanne would be the perfect adoptive mother for her baby. Kind, caring and capable of giving her child so much love, Suzanne seemed to tick all the right boxes. The two of them had promised to keep in touch and to remain in each other’s lives, but that was a promise that could never be fulfilled. Yet, Daisy has tracked her down and Mia vows to do whatever she can for her daughter.
Daisy is angry, reserved and broken. She also has a terrible secret which she daren’t reveal to anyone – not even to the woman who had brought her up. Could Mia help her when she needs her the most? Will she be able to build a relationship with her biological mother? Or will her secret end up putting paid to any possible hope the two of them have of being in one another’s lives?
Mia has her own demons to contend with. She has many a skeleton in her closet and she intends to keep her cards very close to her chest. Suzanne and Daisy cannot possibly find out what she is hiding. But with the stakes having never been higher and with her daughter desperate for her help, will Mia manage to overcome her past and work with Suzanne to be there for the girl they both call daughter? Or is it already far too late?
Kate Hewitt’s books should come with a warning: only read if you’ve plenty of boxes of tissues in the house because tears will be shed and heart-strings will be severed. The Child I Never Had is an intensely emotional tale that explores a mother’s love, the lengths parents go to for their children and the power of forgiveness. As always with a Kate Hewitt book, the writing is superb and the drama is subtle and affecting, leaving readers completely and utterly mesmerized from beginning to end.
A fantastic read from a hugely talented writer, The Child I Never Had is another brilliant novel by Kate Hewitt.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Kate Hewitt’s The Child I Never Had is a complex, compelling and thought-provoking domestic drama that is absolutely heart-breaking.
When Mia opened her front door and found a teenage girl standing on her doorstep, she immediately knew that she was looking at the child she had given up for adoption almost eighteen years ago. Daisy has tracked her down and come to her in desperate need of her help because something terrible has happened and her daughter has nobody else she can turn to. Mia cannot help but be shocked by this. When Daisy was born, she had thought that Suzanne would be the perfect adoptive mother for her baby. Kind, caring and capable of giving her child so much love, Suzanne seemed to tick all the right boxes. The two of them had promised to keep in touch and to remain in each other’s lives, but that was a promise that could never be fulfilled. Yet, Daisy has tracked her down and Mia vows to do whatever she can for her daughter.
Daisy is angry, reserved and broken. She also has a terrible secret which she daren’t reveal to anyone – not even to the woman who had brought her up. Could Mia help her when she needs her the most? Will she be able to build a relationship with her biological mother? Or will her secret end up putting paid to any possible hope the two of them have of being in one another’s lives?
Mia has her own demons to contend with. She has many a skeleton in her closet and she intends to keep her cards very close to her chest. Suzanne and Daisy cannot possibly find out what she is hiding. But with the stakes having never been higher and with her daughter desperate for her help, will Mia manage to overcome her past and work with Suzanne to be there for the girl they both call daughter? Or is it already far too late?
Kate Hewitt’s books should come with a warning: only read if you’ve plenty of boxes of tissues in the house because tears will be shed and heart-strings will be severed. The Child I Never Had is an intensely emotional tale that explores a mother’s love, the lengths parents go to for their children and the power of forgiveness. As always with a Kate Hewitt book, the writing is superb and the drama is subtle and affecting, leaving readers completely and utterly mesmerized from beginning to end.
A fantastic read from a hugely talented writer, The Child I Never Had is another brilliant novel by Kate Hewitt.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 16, 2022
Suzanne and Mark were not able to have a child of their own, so decided to adopt. They are selected by twenty-year-old Mia, to adopt her child. Suzanne was there when Mia gave birth to a little girl they called Daisy. Mia suggested an open adoption to Suzanne and Mark, which meant Mia would always be in Daisy’s life, even though her legal parents were Suzanne and Mark. When Daisy was young they saw each other often, but when Mia married and moved to North Carolina, those visits were less and less. Not only did she no longer see MIa, but her relationship with her mother, Suzanne is also falling apart. Something happens when Daisy turns seventeen and she tells her mom she wants to go live with Mia and her family for her senior high school year. Mia is not sure if she wants Daisy to stay as she has secrets of her own.
The Child I Never Had is told from three different POVs: Mia,Suzanne, and Daisy. It is also told in two timelines, the present and flashbacks from 2004 when Daisy was born and up until her 16th birthday. We get to know these three women and see their relationships. I felt bad for Mia and Suzanne trying to share a daughter. Daisy had a lot of issues. She was hurt, confused and felt that no one really cared for her and used aggression, anger and attitude to cover for feelings. It was interesting to see how adoption can affect both the child and the parent. Of course secrets always come out eventually and their are repercussions along the way. Kate Hewitt has penned a contemporary family drama that is emotional, poignant, heartbreaking, full of secrets and surprises. If you enjoy family stories, then I recommend this one to you. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
The Child I Never Had is told from three different POVs: Mia,Suzanne, and Daisy. It is also told in two timelines, the present and flashbacks from 2004 when Daisy was born and up until her 16th birthday. We get to know these three women and see their relationships. I felt bad for Mia and Suzanne trying to share a daughter. Daisy had a lot of issues. She was hurt, confused and felt that no one really cared for her and used aggression, anger and attitude to cover for feelings. It was interesting to see how adoption can affect both the child and the parent. Of course secrets always come out eventually and their are repercussions along the way. Kate Hewitt has penned a contemporary family drama that is emotional, poignant, heartbreaking, full of secrets and surprises. If you enjoy family stories, then I recommend this one to you. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
February 18, 2022
The Child I Never Had is a heartbreaking story, but is also filled with lies and secrets. In the beginning, you're left wondering what happened to Daisy to make her want to desperately leave her adopted mother/family in New York, to be with her biological mother in North Carolina, whom she hasn't seen in years (other than the seldom phone calls, video chats and greeting cards). You wonder if Daisy was sexually abused or pregnant.
The biggest thing I had a problem with was how Suzanne doesn't seem caring or even parental. Sure, she was concerned that Daisy left and was wondering why, but she didn't do anything! She's her mother- she could've put her foot down and said no to Daisy wanting to see and live with Mia, she could've chased after her, she could've called or text her and not worry or care how Daisy would react. She could've done a lot of things to show that she was being a parent, but she just dropped the ball for me.
As a mother, I could understand why Mia chose to have the adoption as an open adoption. She was young and knew she couldn't give Daisy a good life, but she still wanted to be a part of her life. It would be hard letting go, so I get that she had to do it. I think her visits to Daisy and Suzanne were reasonable in the beginning, even as she decreased the amount of time she saw her. She should have shared with Suzanne why she had to let go though.
The secrets Suzanne uncovered explained things about her. I guess you could say it was shocking. I believe Mia's secrets were more shocking, but also somewhat impossible. I think this story lacked in some areas, however, I think other people would enjoy this emotional read.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for an advanced ebook copy in exchange for my honest review.
The biggest thing I had a problem with was how Suzanne doesn't seem caring or even parental. Sure, she was concerned that Daisy left and was wondering why, but she didn't do anything! She's her mother- she could've put her foot down and said no to Daisy wanting to see and live with Mia, she could've chased after her, she could've called or text her and not worry or care how Daisy would react. She could've done a lot of things to show that she was being a parent, but she just dropped the ball for me.
As a mother, I could understand why Mia chose to have the adoption as an open adoption. She was young and knew she couldn't give Daisy a good life, but she still wanted to be a part of her life. It would be hard letting go, so I get that she had to do it. I think her visits to Daisy and Suzanne were reasonable in the beginning, even as she decreased the amount of time she saw her. She should have shared with Suzanne why she had to let go though.
The secrets Suzanne uncovered explained things about her. I guess you could say it was shocking. I believe Mia's secrets were more shocking, but also somewhat impossible. I think this story lacked in some areas, however, I think other people would enjoy this emotional read.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for an advanced ebook copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 26, 2022
This book was just amazing. I was a little concerned when I read the description that it would be a little bit of a slow read but it started off really fast and pulled the reader in right away. I couldn't put this book down every part was just better than the last. The book is all about a young girl (Daisy) who tells her adoptive mother (Suzanne) suddenly that she wants to go and live with her birth mother (Mia). This comes out of the blue and is a bit of a shock to both mothers since everything seemed to be going so well the way they had it already. When instead of talking about it Daisy boards a plane and takes off to Mia's house with no discussion with either women it leaves Suzanne shocked and hurt. She is happy that her daughter is spending time with her mother but very concerned on what brought this all about so suddenly. I really liked how each character while they had their own story line they were all intertwined with each other so you really got to see their perspectives on what was going on and why they made the decisions that they did at the time as well as their own secrets. One of my favourite parts about this book was all the raw emotion that both the bio mom and the adoptive mom had. It made it seem very real and it helped the reader connect with the characters. While this book was told though multiple perspectives I really enjoyed it because it was very easy to navigate and tell who was talking at what time so it didn't confuse the reader. Great read for those who like emotional story lines and aren't afraid of a good tearjerker at times. I cannot wait to read more by this author.
February 10, 2022
The Child I Never Had by Kate Hewitt is a story of the two families affected by an "open" adoption. Daisy was now 16 years old. Her adoptive parents, Suzanne and Mark had been divorced for several years. Her birth mother, Mia, lived in South Carolina, miles away from New York, with her husband, Tom, and her three daughters. Daisy didn't fit in. She felt like her mother (Suzanne) didn't understand her or even care to. It all hurt too much so she took off to see her birth mother, arriving with no prior notice. The little girls wanted to know who she was, so their mother sat down and explained it to them. That hurt Daisy more: she had never been important enough to tell them about her.
The Child I Never had is full of introspection, primarily of the two mothers; the reliving of past days and now they could have been lived better. It was sad and difficult, and maybe a little redundant. Much of what Daisy was going through could be chalked up to being 16. The adults felt guilt; they had their reasons. It was a lovely story in many ways, but I am not attracted to pages of rambling inner thoughts. The three women's characters were pretty well developed, much of it through relived memories. It puts a microscope to the strength needed to adopt, be adopted, and to give up a child to adoption. There is not a mother in the world that doesn't think she could have been a better mother; these two are no exception. People can learn to get along if they care to. Interesting book.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Child I Never Had by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. #netgalley #bookoutre #katehewitt #thechildineverhad
The Child I Never had is full of introspection, primarily of the two mothers; the reliving of past days and now they could have been lived better. It was sad and difficult, and maybe a little redundant. Much of what Daisy was going through could be chalked up to being 16. The adults felt guilt; they had their reasons. It was a lovely story in many ways, but I am not attracted to pages of rambling inner thoughts. The three women's characters were pretty well developed, much of it through relived memories. It puts a microscope to the strength needed to adopt, be adopted, and to give up a child to adoption. There is not a mother in the world that doesn't think she could have been a better mother; these two are no exception. People can learn to get along if they care to. Interesting book.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Child I Never Had by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. #netgalley #bookoutre #katehewitt #thechildineverhad
February 10, 2022
Sometimes adoption is the best option, but are we fully aware of the consequences and the feelings of the children? I for one was not and I guess a lot of people are not. That’s a pity, because it could help understand why some children act the way they do.
Of course is adopting a good thing. You want to give the child the best life, but are we not turning ourselves a bit into heroes because we saved them? Are we taking into consideration that they also wonder why their birth parents did not want them and how they feel about being taken from their own culture and placed in one where they are different from the others around them?
The author mentioned ACS (Adopted Child Syndrome). I never knew this existed and I went and looked it up. I know a few people who have adopted children and where quite some problems started to develop. I wonder whether someone ever told them about ACS. I guess not. I am convinced it could have helped them, parents as well as children.
This is an emotional story. Sometimes it was a bit too slow paced for my liking, but when the paced picked up towards the end, it was great. I loved the twist that came to the surface and the flashbacks that made me understand everything so much better.
A beautiful story. It showed the emotional strains connected with an adoption. Birth parents, adoptive parents, children they all have a lot to deal with. Hiding your feelings is not the way to go, but talking is often very hard. 4 stars
Thank you, Kate Hewitt and Bookouture
Of course is adopting a good thing. You want to give the child the best life, but are we not turning ourselves a bit into heroes because we saved them? Are we taking into consideration that they also wonder why their birth parents did not want them and how they feel about being taken from their own culture and placed in one where they are different from the others around them?
The author mentioned ACS (Adopted Child Syndrome). I never knew this existed and I went and looked it up. I know a few people who have adopted children and where quite some problems started to develop. I wonder whether someone ever told them about ACS. I guess not. I am convinced it could have helped them, parents as well as children.
This is an emotional story. Sometimes it was a bit too slow paced for my liking, but when the paced picked up towards the end, it was great. I loved the twist that came to the surface and the flashbacks that made me understand everything so much better.
A beautiful story. It showed the emotional strains connected with an adoption. Birth parents, adoptive parents, children they all have a lot to deal with. Hiding your feelings is not the way to go, but talking is often very hard. 4 stars
Thank you, Kate Hewitt and Bookouture
February 1, 2023
This book touched very close to home for me. I was an unwed mother in the early 70's a freshman in college. I came from a small town and a large family of 8 children. I was the second daughter of 5 girls and 3 small brothers. I was unsupported by my parents. When they found out that I was pregnant they kicked me out of the house. Fortunately, my pastor's wife helped me out and found me an unwed mother's home to stay in until I delivered. I did not have an open adoption but did get updated periodically on how my daughter Anna was doing. I talked to my daughter Anna for the 1st time on Christmas Eve 1992 when she was 19. She was afraid, rebellious, running away and yes pregnant. She wanted to come live with us. I could not imagine at the time what that entailed. My husband and I talked it over we consulted with her parents and after the first of the new year and some shuffling of our own 6 yes six children all adopted, we moved Anna in. At first everything was great getting to know someone who I lost I was never able to have any more children, my husband had retarded sperm because of being a downwinder of Hanford Nuclear Power in the 50's. But that didn't last long about 2 months into the journey with all house rules being disregarded we to had to ask Anna to leave our home. The disrespect shown to us was so blatant as she threw the keys to my husband and said here you go Jimbo. All is not lost I still have some relationship with my daughter but in her terms. Life is good. God is Great. And I am going to Celebrate her 50th birthday with her this year.
September 28, 2022
This is about the two moms involved in an open adoption. It’s told in present day and in reverse chronological order beginning when Daisy (the child) is 17.
Adoptive mom Suzanne is shocked when Daisy tells her she wants to live with her birth mom Mia for a year. Although Mia has visited Daisy sporadically over the years, visits have become less frequent in recent years and Suzanne does not understand why Daisy feels she needs to leave New York. Birth mom Mia is taken by surprise when Daisy shows up at her door, and the visit throws her family into some turmoil.
Initially, I found both Mia and Suzanne somewhat whiny, each with their own “issues“. If I was Daisy, I would not want to live with either of them. The first third of the book was mediocre.
But about halfway through, some secrets came out on both sides, increasing my interest (and the rating) by one star. At first, I found one of the secrets a bit implausible, but I suppose anything is possible in fiction.
The last quarter of the story was quite good as the three main characters, Suzanne, Mia, and Daisy, come to an understanding about their complicated relationships.
This review is of the audiobook, but there was no option for that in goodreads.
Adoptive mom Suzanne is shocked when Daisy tells her she wants to live with her birth mom Mia for a year. Although Mia has visited Daisy sporadically over the years, visits have become less frequent in recent years and Suzanne does not understand why Daisy feels she needs to leave New York. Birth mom Mia is taken by surprise when Daisy shows up at her door, and the visit throws her family into some turmoil.
Initially, I found both Mia and Suzanne somewhat whiny, each with their own “issues“. If I was Daisy, I would not want to live with either of them. The first third of the book was mediocre.
But about halfway through, some secrets came out on both sides, increasing my interest (and the rating) by one star. At first, I found one of the secrets a bit implausible, but I suppose anything is possible in fiction.
The last quarter of the story was quite good as the three main characters, Suzanne, Mia, and Daisy, come to an understanding about their complicated relationships.
This review is of the audiobook, but there was no option for that in goodreads.
January 26, 2022
This was a story about the choices, Mia and Suzanne made when they were young. As they grow up, they each become a woman who doesn't understand they are struggling with things, until Daisy does something that makes her want to spend her senior year with her biological mother Mia.
Events happen that make the woman look at themselves, who they are and how did they get to this point. Neither one likes who they are and take steps to become the woman they want to be instead of just moving along not realizing what is happening.
It is the story of their life and all that goes along with it. The story follows them from being young to Daisy going off to college. In between is the women they became along the way, just going through their busy life, not thinking about what was happening, just accepting. The day does come when they have to stop and look at themselves, and actually see who they are and what they have become. When that happens, they look at life and themselves differently, and start to think about their choices, their life, and who they are becoming. It changes who they are and the lives they have.
I received an ARC from Bookouture through NetGalley.
Events happen that make the woman look at themselves, who they are and how did they get to this point. Neither one likes who they are and take steps to become the woman they want to be instead of just moving along not realizing what is happening.
It is the story of their life and all that goes along with it. The story follows them from being young to Daisy going off to college. In between is the women they became along the way, just going through their busy life, not thinking about what was happening, just accepting. The day does come when they have to stop and look at themselves, and actually see who they are and what they have become. When that happens, they look at life and themselves differently, and start to think about their choices, their life, and who they are becoming. It changes who they are and the lives they have.
I received an ARC from Bookouture through NetGalley.
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