It seems like Jaycee Givens never had a chance. Her dad died in an auto accident before she was born, and her mom, after becoming addicted to painkillers and then heroine, gets tossed in jail due to her fatal neglect of Jaycee's little brother. Jaycee blames herself for her brother's death. Now that she's pregnant, she feels trapped and despairs for her child's future.
This is the bleak world of Amy Sorrells's novel Before I Saw You. As bleak as it is, Sorrells offers a lot of hope in Jaycee's story. Jaycee herself shows a strength of character and a depth of faith that demonstrates her ability to overcome hardship. Her neighbor Sudie has been a mentor and maternal support for her all her life. Her coworkers at the local diner give support and friendship. Her newest coworker Gabe is especially supportive as they inevitably fall in love.
The central conflict is Jaycee's pregnancy. Her mean, abusive boyfriend (How'd she end up with that jerk, anyway?) wants her to have the baby and he wants custody. Well, his mother wants him to want custody. Jaycee knows she doesn't want to raise the baby in the trailer park where she lives. Adoption is an option she might consider.
Amidst the pressures of life, with mom in prison, drug addiction and closed factories ravaging her town, her best friend and mentor getting sick, conflict with her ex-boyfriend and the decision about the baby, Jaycee finds love and beauty in her life. Before I Saw You is an enjoyable story with emotional moments, social themes, and hope in spite of pain. I admit, I shed a tear from time to time.
Thanks to the Tyndale Blog Network for the complimentary review copy!
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