JDCMustReadBooks

By Colleen Oakley
ISBN: 9781476761664
Publisher: Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books
Publication Date: 01/06/2015
Format: Other
My Rating: 5 Stars
Debut Novel

A special thank you to Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Delighted to discover this new Atlanta southern author, Colleen Oakley! If this is a debut, can't wait to see what is next.

BEFORE I GO is a poignant, novel of love and loss, mixed with humor and emotion, keeping you glued to the pages-to learn the fate of lovable Daisy.

Daisy Richmond is still in her twenties, and has had cancer before; she and her much loved husband, Jack have gotten past the fear and each year they celebrate another year of cancer-free remission.

Jack is a veterinary student and will be graduating soon. The couple have big plans to create a family with dreams for the future, as most young married couples.

When Daisy receives the devastating news her cancer has returned, they will not be celebrating. She begins worrying how Jack will survive without her in his life, for the future. She is very organized and runs a tight household, and has always been there for Jack in every way.

She becomes obsessed with finding Jack his next wife. While she is going through her fears, and concerns, trying all sorts of trial drugs and therapy to extend her life; instead of enjoying her precious time with her husband, she is moody and withdrawn, while addicted to finding the perfect replacement wife. When things start looking like her plan is working, she gets afraid, jealous and possessive.

Colleen writes a beautiful and emotional novel, with nice character development, and enough suspense to keep readers guessing what is up, with Jack. She creates the right amount of humor mixed with the tragedy and illness, told with compassion. I enjoyed the sassy and honest relationship with her best friend, Kayleigh-a nice touch; and a likable and supportive husband.

While personally understanding the emotions surrounding cancer, as my mom has been battling for a year with ups and down with chemo, treatment, side effects, complications, and not always receiving the hopeful and positive news from ongoing scans and tests. A thought-provoking takeaway for readers, to treasure time with loved ones, while we can.

A riveting and compelling debut, fans of The Replacement Wife,by Eileen Goudge, as well as authors, Jojo Moyes, Kaira Rouda, Jane Green, Elizabeth Hein, Emily Giffin, Jennifer Weiner, and Liane Moriarty will enjoy Oakley's unique style, with insights into today’s contemporary women, marriage, and relationships.

Highly recommend, and look forward to reading more!