Claiming Noah

This is an interesting book dealing with invitro fertilization, embryonic adoption, kidnapping, custody battles, and love for a child. Packed with emotion, Claiming Noah will tug at your heartstrings and make you wonder at the complexities that life,often has to offer.

Complex and thought-provoking this is an intensely emotional read which raises many ethical and moral dilemmas when science and the right to motherhood clash. The characters were believable and the story well written - a real page turner which kept me up until all hours wanting to know what happens next with plenty of twists and turns - some predictable but still a very good story.

The premise of this book intrigued me from the start: two couples struggling with infertility. One couple, upon successfully becoming pregnant through IVF, donates their final embryo to the other couple after deciding this child will be their one and only.

The first couple, Catriona and James, were interesting. They got pregnant, and donated their embryo, but it was not as simple as "we wanted kids, couldn't have them naturally, and this was the desperate culmination of a dream." There were a lot of other emotions, thoughts, and issues that surrounded them, and then things were further complicated when Catriona suffered from postpartum pyschosis.

Diana and Liam were less interesting to me. I disliked Liam from his first appearance on the page, and couldn't understand why Diana was with him. They seemed much more desperate to have a child than Catriona and James, yet once they got their wish and got pregnant with and had Noah, Liam seemed to lack any interest or bond with Noah.

Noah's disappearance, mentioned in the blurb, was no surprise. Who took him also ended up being no surprise to me. In fact, the mystery surrounding his disappearance was not what kept me reading. What kept me reading were the other issues that this book addressed: Who's child is it when the genes belong to one couple but the legal rights of parenthood belong to another? Can you change your mind and decide you want your child back years later? Would things have turned out differently had more time passed between Catriona and James's decision to donate their embryo and the day that Diana was given the embryo?

Seeing the relationships between the two couples, and the people surrounding them, either crumble or strengthen as a result of Noah's disappearance was also rather fascinating to me. And in the end, the relationships that formed between the two couples, and what ultimately happened, not only to Noah but to everyone else, was interesting. There were so many ways it could have gone, so many ways that people could react to these kinds of situations, and it's interesting to consider what you might have done if you were in the character's shoes.

Overall, if you're looking for something with suspense and intrigue, this probably won't be the book for you. The mystery is all too easily solved. But if you want to read about complicated relationships and how they can either fray or become stronger in the midst of a horrible tragedy, this book will be a win for you. The author does a great job of handling the relationships, though some of the male characters could have been a bit more fleshed out.

Claiming Noah is a very interesting, well written book. This was a new subject for me and wasn't sure if I would like it. The characters and situation was very realistic. The story kept me guessing for quite a while as to the outcome. There were joyful times, sad times, love of family, lies, suspense, so many emotions. I recommend this book. Good job Amanda Ortlepp.

Claiming Noah is an excellent read that will keep you engaged and not wanting to put it down because you have to know what will happen next. There are many twists and turns that bring out a wide range of emotions. I found the characters to be very well developed, the story wasn't rushed so I was given a lot of information about them all and felt a connection to especially the two mothers.

This is the third book I've read with the subject matter being postpartum depression. I can't imagine having this and feel the author was sensitive to it and, in addition to a well-thought out storyline, feel it may help in bringing more understanding and sympathy to those that suffer from it. In saying that, PPD isn't the only storyline (there is also infertility, child abduction, marital issues, etc.), but it is most definitely, in my opinion, the time things go awry for all involved. I didn't always agree with the way things were handled, but it sure made for an interesting read that kept me guessing.

Ingenious plot and a very good summer read. Recommend!

There have been many stories told about infertility and a couples' desires for a child, but Amanda Ortlepp's CLAIMING NOAH is a thought-provoking, heart-wrenching look at not only the struggles of infertility, but also of post-natal stresses, the personal impacts on the husbands and wives and harrowing events one never wants to see or hear about except on television, in movies or in books.

James and Catriona Sinclair and Liam and Diana Simmons are two couples with infertility issues. The Sinclair's have tried several times to have a baby without success and decide to create embryos and have a go at IVF (In Vitro Fertilization). Three viable embryos are created--the first pregnancy ends in a miscarriage, the second pregnancy goes to term and the Sinclairs have a healthy son named Sebastian. They then decide to give up the third embryo for adoption by another infertile couple. Liam and Diana Simmons are that couple. They adopt the embryo and Diana gives birth to a beautiful boy named Noah. The information pertaining to the donor parents and the adoptive parents is sealed with neither couple knowing the particulars of the other.

Two happy little families, right? Not really. Every family has it's problems and the Sinclairs and Simmons familys are no different. However, some problems are far more difficult than others, some more damaging and some are choices that wouldn't (or shouldn't be made).

Ms. Ortlepp's book is a true page turner that keeps you up until all hours needing to know what happens next. Switching back and forth between Catriona's story and Diana's story, the twists and turns intensify to a very unexpected climax.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this book and cannot wait to experience another wonderful read by Amanda. Hope it comes soon!!

This was a compelling thriller. I was invested in both female characters As the reader you could actually feel their pain and loss.. This topic is very timely as well. I liked the pace and how the story unfolded. Yes it was predictable but in a way that you still weren't quite sure what the eventual out come would truly be. A very enjoyable we written read. I highly recommend it.

Claiming Noah is a story about two women, one the biological mother, Catriona and the other the adopted mother, Diana. The story is written from both view points. Ortlepp has done a beautiful job with the development of the two women and keeps you guessing as to how the story will end. Keep the tissues close by and be prepared to not be able to put the book down.

This is heartwarming story. Not only that it is also full of deceit, hope, and loss. James and Catriona have decided to start a family, but it looks like IVF is the only solution. The first pregnancy result is not successful and the second is miscarried. Finally the third is successful and the result is a beautiful baby boy. They decide to donate the third embryo and give up all parental rights. One of the best parts if the story is of two women, strangers who have nothing in common find themselves sharing the love of a child. This is a lovely story that touches on several of today's problems in society and how it was solved here. I recommend this book. We'll written, entertaining and interesting. 5 Stars!

Fantastic book! The twists and turns in the storyline were amazing I couldn't put it down. I would love to read more from this author. The fact that someone can still have compassion going through the ordeal that Diana went through was very well written. Exploring the different kinds of postpartum issues was also a very powerful storyline as well.

This novel is an intricately woven story about an interesting topic: adopting an embryo from a couple that doesn't want more children but doesn't want to donate their fertilized egg to science or have it just discarded. Also deal with extreme emotions after giving birth. *Spoiler alert*

Catriona & James hadn't been able to conceive naturally. They tried implantation & got pregnant, but she miscarried. Then they did it again, with having one more egg left after that, & Catriona said this was the last try & she wanted to give the other up for "adoption." She was able to get pregnant & carry that baby to term. They named him Sebastian. Diana & Liam had not been able to have children either. They decided to adopt an embryo because Diana wanted to experience carrying & delivering a baby. They were chosen to get Catriona & James's embryo. Diana did get pregnant & had a baby boy named Noah.
The story then follows Catriona dealing with psychosis after giving birth & trying to kill her son, which leads to her in a mental facility for a while. James is left at home & when she gets out, she notices something is off with Sebastian, but she can't quite put her finger on it, & doesn't know if it's her mind playing tricks on her, so she goes with it.
While Catriona is in the mental facility, Diana is dealing with a rocky marriage & a 2 month old. She briefly leaves her stroller in a grocery store, & realizes when she gets home & removes the cover that Noah is gone. 21 months later, the police find Noah, whom James had kidnapped & replaced Sebastian because he had died from SIDS & James panicked wondering what that would do to Catriona's mental state.
Seeing how all of this plays out was fascinating, & I couldn't put it down until the last page. Great book!

What would you do if you desperately wanted a child but were unable to have one? What lengths would you go to and where would you draw the line?

Catriona and James badly want a baby, James a bit more so. After trying unsuccessfully, they agree to try IVF. And it works. They soon find themselves the parents of a healthy baby boy. Diana and Liam are in the same predicament. They explore many options before eventually settling on embryo donation. And they, too, are successful. Another healthy baby boy.

But Catriona doesn't find herself easily settling into motherhood. She's soon in a downward spiral, deep in the throes of postpartum depression. Diana, on the other hand, quickly adjusts to being a mom. All is going well until the day her baby is taken right out from under her.

This story was completely different from what I expected. For that, I give props to whoever wrote the description. There's not much worse than a book blurb that gives too much away. No such worries with this one. And I'm not going to give anything else away, either, other than to say that there are several juicy little twists and turns on the path to the final conclusion of this story.

Title: Claiming Noah Author: Amanda Ortlepp Publisher: Faithworks/Center Street Reviewed By: Arlena Dean Rating: Five Review:

"Claiming Noah" 'by Amanda Ortlepp

My Thoughts...

First of all I would like to say 'Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an exchange of this book for an honest review.' I will say this was quite a hard read and even though it looks like everything did turn out OK it was still a difficult emotional read for me that dealt with what can happen with embryo donation. This story will involve: 'post natal depression, fertility issues including IVF, embryo adoption, religious issues, with ethical legal and oral issues, death, suicide thoughts, that will be a issue to all of the one's involved.' See, we have two families that will be using this IVF and wow what will happen from the aftermath of their choices they make. Be ready for many 'manipulation, twist and turns, secrets and lies' that will have you shaking your head and say REALLY...I definitely didn't see that coming!

What we have are two women who will be connected by an embryo, Be ready for some interesting characters [Catriona, James, Diana & Liam] to name a few that will keep you turning the pages till the end. I found it all quite interesting read how this author was able to merge these two couples together with each having their own set of problems. I also loved how this author was able to bring out what a person can go through when suffering through post-partum psychosis.

I don't want to tell too much of this well written and intriguing plot with an exceptional epilogue other than saying please pick up the read and see for yourself how well this novel has been presented to see who will get Noah in the end. I would definitely recommend "Claiming Noah" to you as a good read.

In vitro fertilization has changed fertility. Many people have children through IVF but do not use all the embryos. What to do with them? Many have them destroyed while others donate them. A donated embryo is the start of a problem. Once a child is born from the donated embryo, do the biological parents have any rights? Amanda Ortlepp explores this question in a heartbreaking story of adoption and biology. Main characters are well developed and believable. As a mother and an adult adoptee, I related to the dilemma. A parent isn't defined by biology. Parenting is the bond you form with your child over time. I was very happy with the ending of the novel. Compassion and understanding brought us to a conclusion that is understandable and leaves the reader satisfied. I really like the way this book came together and look forward to seeing what else Amanda Ortlepp writes.

"Claiming Noah" by Amanda Ortlepp

An emotionally charged, moving, compelling, and thought provoking novel.

While not a full psychological suspense novel, there are some twists and turns that make this am enrapturing book from beginning to end.

Told from the perspective of two women who are connected by an embryo: Catriona Sinclair and Diana Simmons.

Once Catriona got pregnant, she and her husband decided to donate the last remaining embryo (they had used three of four in prevjous procedures). Catriona knew she could not put herself through another round of IVF even if the third procedure didn't take. Despite not knowing what the results of the third round, she and her husband filled out all the paperwork releasing their rights to the the embryo and placing it up for adoption. The thought that there might be another child out there that looked like theirs was a rare one.

When Diana and her husband were unable to get pregnant they turned to embryo adoption as Diana wanted to be able to carry the baby. They never really thought about the child being someone else's, particularly since all the legal paperwork was put through on the part of both parties.

Three months later that things changed in both women's lives. Catriona was struggling with postpartum depression and almost drowned her child (she didn't) and then thought of harming herself. She was placed in a facility for three weeks to stabilize her so she could return home safely and securely to her son and herself.

Toward the last week of her stay at the facility, her husband doesn't bring the baby with him and has a few excuses, but this upsets Catriona.

Around this same time, Diana's child is kidnapped while she is in the grocery store. She is having difficulty accepting his loss. She is also having trouble at home with her husband where they have basically become two people living in separate rooms in the house.

21 months later, Catriona's husband is arrested and her baby is taken from her at the same time. She has no idea what is going on or why anyone is removing her child and placing her husband in jail.

So many life changes in a 2 year period for both women, personally and in their marital lives. A great deal of adjustment for everyone, including their family and friends and in the lives of two little boys. Is there too much coincidence that binds these two women without them knowing? There is a great deal of manipulation, and twisting of the truth from many in their lives. In retrospect they wonder who they really could believe and in the present how they can make their lives better for themselves.

A fast-paced novel that covers the twisting and turning of marital and partner relationships, the legal and biological issues of IVF, embryo donation or "maintenance," the definition of family and motherhood, new and old friendships and what they bring or don't bring with them, postpartum issues and awareness, and how far one might go to have what they most want.

Highly Recommended

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amazon Link: http://amzn.to/2arSSYg

Fabulous story telling and so current. A plot out of today's headlines. . Hardto put down. The twist and turns k ept me up til late! Although I feel as if the author decided to stop writing all of a sudden. Or maybe i wasn't ready for it to end.

I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This book will be difficult for some women to read. I've had several friends to deal with fertility issues over the years. It can be a roller coaster ride for the family. This story dives right in the IVF conversation and shows both sides extremely well. Both couples involved were intriguing, but I do have to admit the middle got a little far fetched for me. However, this story did make me cry and I am sure it will bring quite a few discussions in a book club

This book touches on subject matter that would have seemed like sci-fi a few years ago, but now it's something that could easily happen in real life.

The first half of the book went slowly for me and I was glad when the pace picked up; it turned out to be a fascinating story. I guessed much of the outcome but it was never made to seem inevitable so there was always that chance my guess would be wrong.

The story is heartbreaking in some ways - - no real winners or losers - - and heartwarming in other ways - - because they found a way to make everyone winners.

I was given an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Two baby boys are born through in vitro fertilization — one to Catriona and James Sinclair, who are the genetic parents, and one to Diana and Liam Simmons who receive the extra embryo donated by the Sinclairs. Then, one of the babies is kidnapped, and everyone’s life changes.

I enjoyed this book for many reasons. The premise itself is intriguing and immediately caught my imagination: Where was this headed? The characters are well-developed, and they act like real people. Nobody is too good to be true; no one is intrinsically evil. The author knows her stuff, whether medical or legal. And the pacing is just right, moving the action along while still allowing the reader time to learn to care about everyone involved.

The story is told, alternately, from the points of view of Catriona and Diana, giving plenty of opportunity to personally experience each mother’s joys and losses. The story itself had enough suspense to keep me reading “just one more chapter,” until I read the entire book in one day. I had my theories and my opinions of what I hoped would happen, but was never sure that it would be so.

The topic of IVF and all of its personal, social, medical, and legal ramifications is ripe for discussion, making Claiming Noah a great choice for a book group.

​Claiming Noah by Amanda Ortlepp is a story for the times we live in. So many advancements in helping couples have children leads to many legal problems that would have been unheard of 50 years ago. Ms Ortlepp does an excellent job of immediately bringing the reader into both sides of the story about Noah. A page turner as you want to know what happens next. I was given a copy to review.

What an emotionally charged book, different from anything I've ever read before. The characters were so real that if I didn't know it was fiction I'd think I was reading a non-fiction book about real people. Two couples, neither of which could conceive naturally go through IVF. Catriona and James have their own embryo implanted but they have to decide what to do with the remaining one. When they become pregnant they decide to let the remaining embryo be adopted rather than destroyed. Diana and Liam receive that embryo and become pregnant. Thus begins a tale of lies, deception, heartache and sorrow for all involved. The book spans a period of four years and I thought it interesting that the changing seasons were related by the frangipani tree in Catriona's front yard. I had never heard of this tree but the story takes place in Sydney, Australia.
This is one book that would be worth your time reading just because of all the twists that had me reading late into the night for three nights in a row.
I received this book from the publisher through Netgalley for my honest review, which I have given.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. It is so much fun to receive a book from a new author and will definitely be looking for more from this author. This book deals with many issues that women face today when faced with infertility. It also tells of the struggles women have with postnatal depression. Two couples in this story are unable to become pregnant. Catriona and James decide on a IVF program and Diana and Liam decide on an embryo donation. The story unfolds from these decisions. The ethics of embryo donation are addressed and the question of whether a mother is defined by her genetic connection to a child or her love for it is to be questioned and debated. This book tugged at me emotionally as I felt for both Catriona and Diana and the circumstances they find themselves in. I highly recommend this book!

Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book!

This is a book similar in vein to Jodi Picoult's books - take a hot-button topic and explore it from different angles to make you really think about both sides.

Catriona and James struggle with infertility and undergo IVF treatments. After a successful pregnancy and with one remaining frozen embryo, they make the decision to donate the embryo to another couple for adoption. Catriona struggles with her feelings about pregnancy and new motherhood including postnatal depression/psychosis issues.

The alternative voice in this book is Diana who also struggles with infertility. Her and her husband Liam adopt the embryo and carry it to a successful pregnancy. While they struggle with marital difficulties, Diana adores being a mom to Noah. Until one day, he is kidnapped.

This is the set up for a Sampson-like dilemma. It certainly gives insight to the ethical and legal decisions behind embryonic adoption - one that I'm sure will only increase due to the vast number of IVF procedures now. Both mothers in this book lead you to sympathetic feelings.

Would be a fabulous read for a book club with much to discuss!

Two women find themselves at the heart of the question of parenthood when they engage in a battle for the right to a child. They will need to work through differences with their partners and their families as well as their own consciences before reaching a conclusion. Debut author Amanda Ortlepp offers readers a likeable and touching story in her first book Claiming Noah.

Catriona Sinclair has everything a woman could want: a successful career; a loving, supportive husband; and a lovely home in a thriving Australian city. If Catriona could point to one thing that might be lacking, it’s the fact that she and her husband, James, don’t have any children. But the matter of children is more complicated for Catriona than James. She’s not completely sure she wants them.

Still, she’s willing to try for James’s sake. When natural conception becomes difficult, Catriona and James pursue in vitro fertilization. After a difficult period of time Catriona finally becomes pregnant, but she doesn’t think she can handle more than one pregnancy. She and James decide to make the remaining embryos available for adoption.

Elsewhere in the city, Diana Simmons mourns the fact that she can’t conceive. She wants nothing more than to be a mother. Someone gives Diana the idea of embryo adoption, and she grabs hold of it. She convinces Liam, her husband, to agree to the in vitro procedure, and they go ahead with it despite social pressure against it.

The donation of the embryo eventually brings Catriona and Diana face to face, and they come to court to argue a sensitive matter: who is the rightful parent of a child? The person whose genetic material made the child’s existence possible, or the person raising that child? On first glance the answer seems easy to each of the women, but as they pursue the court case they come to understand one another’s position and feelings.

Author Amanda Ortlepp handles her subject matter with compassion and relative maturity. For a first-time novel, Claiming Noah will offer readers several points for careful consideration. The idea of embryo adoption presents a new twist on a story that travels down well-trodden paths.

Some of Ortlepp’s choices become predictable. Readers will most likely guess certain plot twists well in advance of them actually occurring. A few of the characters, too, come across more as checkmarks for types instead of original people.

They serve their purpose, however, as does the predictability. Even with the fulfillment of the expected, Ortlepp still surprises readers. Catriona’s struggle with motherhood, in particular, comes across as fresh and real. Those women who have experienced the same challenges as Catriona will definitely sympathize with her plight, and any woman who has given birth can identify with Catriona’s misgivings.

Ortlepp allows her characters to move through the climax of their story with the utmost of dignity and grace. For this and the tenderness she shows this worthy effort, Claiming Noah Borders on Bookmarking it.

The storyline of Claiming Noah makes the book a little unbelievable at times. But it is so well written, you get past that. Catarina and Diana are the two main female characters. They both have their issues and neither pick "good" men to be in their lives. But they both really love baby Noah. At times the book is frustrating, at times sad and at times heartwarming. I'm glad NetGalley and Center Street gave me an opportunity to read this book for my honest review.

Following the fertility issues between the two couples (James and Catriona and Diana and Liam) hit home for me. Although my fertility issues were solved with the help of the doctor removing my gall bladder, I sympathized with both couples because I have watched multiple friends go through various fertility treatments. Some had happy endings while unfortunately some did not.

I was hooked from the beginning. This story brings to light some of the disorders that aren't talked about after you have a child, since it isn't always sunshine and roses. Although I was not surprised by a lot of the twists and turns in Claiming Noah, I was very interested in the legal battle at the end and the unlikely friendship that developed between the two female leads.

Claiming Noah was very well written and the story line was very well thought out. I will definitely be checking out more books that have been written by Amanda Ortlepp in the future.

Quick, easy read for this book. Slightly predictable at the beginning,but the characters are so well developed you'll get pulled in. Cartriona was portrayed perfectly. Beautiful emotional detachment captured.
Full review on my blog at https://laurasbookreviewsblog.wordpress.com/2016/08/07/new-and-noteable/
Thank you so much!

This was a well written story with an interesting plotline about a couple that goes through IVF to have a baby and donates one of their samples. A baby is kidnapped which we learn is the child of the parents who received the donated sample. This book deals with a lot of issues I love that it deals with post partum depression that a lot of women deal with every day and goes ignored. The ending was predictable and this wasn't as much thriller as it's made out to be but it's still a decent read.

Claiming Noah by Amanda Ortlepp is an interesting look at adoption. It focuses on embryo adoption which I have heard of but is a totally new book plot line for me. We meet Catriona and James who have just undergone IVF. Faced with the decision of what to do with the remaining frozen embryos, they decide on adoption. Diana and Liam, who are desperate for a child, then find out about this way of starting a family and end up with the remaining embryo. Life is blissful for both couples until a medical issue and then a kidnapping occur. Both families are left in shock and their lives will be forever altered.

I enjoyed the plot of Claiming Noah as I found it very unique. It weaved postpartum depression, embryo adoption, kidnapping and more into one clear tale. The writing of Amanda Ortlepp really made this story, as it could have been very convoluted with all of the different plot points. It was instead well paced and was very emotionally nuanced. I did not love any of the characters fully, as I found them somewhat over the top, but I still enjoyed their actions. There were a few bits at the very end that turned me off as I could not justify the decisions made, but that is just my personal take.

Claiming Noah was a very interesting read. It tackled a fresh topic and contained enough twists to be very engaging. This was Amanda Ortlepp’s debut and I was very impressed with it. I loved the way she was able to merge so many different aspects and make them feel like one cohesive story. I polished this off in two sittings and while I knew what was going on for the most part, there were enough surprises to keep me on my toes.

Loved this book . I cried and laugh, many emotions. It would be nicer for Diana to have a different email ending.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an exchange of this book for an honest review.

THIS one will tug you at the heartstrings.

"Catriona and James are desperate for children, and embark on an IVF program. After a gruelling round of treatments, Catriona finally falls pregnant, and they donate their remaining embryo anonymously.

Diana and Liam are on a waiting list to receive an embryo. Sooner than expected, they are thrilled to discover one is available.

After a difficult pregnancy, Catriona gives birth to Sebastian. But severe postnatal depression affects her badly, and quickly turns into deadly psychosis. For her protection and her baby’s, she’s admitted into psychiatric care. When she comes home, she again struggles to bond with her baby, but gradually life finds its own rhythm.

Meanwhile, Diana has given birth to a beautiful little boy, Noah. But when he is two months old Noah is abducted … and Diana and Liam’s nightmare begins."

This book was an emotional roller-coaster for me, as a lot of the issues hit close to home. I have witnessed loved ones go through PPD and I felt like I was reliving the memories through this novel.

Amanda Ortlepp did a wonderful job keeping me engaged in this novel that I couldn't bear to put it down when the children kept needing something. I didn't expect a thriller, but more of a women's fiction, life and family novel, but Ortlepp sure knows how to keep you on your toes!

I highly recommend this novel for every mother out there and those who enjoy reading books about family with a suspenseful feel!

Two couples both desperately wanting a child, but the actions of one father changes the lives of both couples forever. To complicate matters even further the child these couples find themselves battling over is the biological child of Cat and her husband, but was born and raised by Diana and Liam. Through Embryo donation Diana and her husband got pregnant and gave birth to Noah and raised him until the day he disappeared.

This is a complicated story that reminds me of the Baby M case from many years ago. Although that case was a surrogacy case and the mother of baby M was the surrogate. Who has more rights to Noah? His biological parents or his "adoptive" parents? This is a difficult story that leaves you struggling to figure out what is right and what is just. The ending was completely satisfying and believable.

This is a quick read, I read it in a day. Its an emotional roller coaster that is worth the ride.

I loved this book from the very first chapter. It is well written on a sometimes difficult subject. It mad me smile, annoyed, and near to tears. A roller coaster of a read but worth every minute

My overall view is that Claiming Noah is a thought provoking novel engaging the reader on a number of levels. The story takes the reader on an emotional roller coaster with two couples as they negotiate the traumas and joys of fertility treatments, IVF, pregnancy and motherhood. Following a harrowing event, it also raises the question of the legal rights and responsibilities of biological vs adoptive parents. There were, however, some themes that I felt were glossed over including the rights of the child who is at the centre of this story, as well as some of the key issues which, in my opinion, would impact on an adult’s capacity to raise a child in a safe, secure environment. Definitely worth reading and great for book clubs as there are many points for discussion.

IVF procedures Postnatal disorders/postpartum depression and its treatment Kidnapping ...oh my!

Mothers ... it all comes down to mothers.

This book is brilliant and well deserving of five stars. I especially liked the fact that the story wasn't hurried and gave me time to get to know all the characters well. The author has obviously done a lot of research into vitro fertilization, making the story very believable in this day and age. Its well worth reading.

I enjoyed this book. I liked both Catriona and Diana. Both stories felt real and dealt with terrible tragedies. I started to like Diana more though after the whole court case. I felt Catriona's case was unfair and she had no legal right to do what she did. I also felt the ending was a little too happily ever after.

I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The beginning of the book is a bit slow. I guessed around 40% in where the story might be going. But this didn’t upset me. In fact, the opposite happened. I sat up straighter and tried to read faster. Was I going to be right? Where was this story really going to take me? I couldn’t wait to find out!

Catriona and James are desperate for children. After a grueling round of IVF treatments, Catriona finally becomes pregnant and delivers a baby boy, Sebastian. Diana and Liam, also desperate for children, are on a waiting list to receive an embryo. Sooner than expected, they are thrilled to discover one is available. Diana eventually gives birth to a boy, Noah.

The beginning of the book (the part I mentioned above that I found slow) was each couple’s journey through IVF and trying to have a baby. While it was interesting and well written, it went on a bit longer than necessary in my opinion. The story starts to pick up with Noah’s kidnapping. I was right about where the story was going (and I never guess right) but that didn’t ruin the book for me. The journey to the end was well written and gripping. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. I don’t want to say much more about the story in order to avoid spoilers but I really enjoyed it. As a mother my heart broke for both women. Ms. Ortlepp does a good job of capturing their emotions. This book is well done and the ending satisfactory. In fact, I really liked the ending. It was perfect, in my opinion.

For many couples, getting pregnant and having a child is as simple as making the decision to do so. For couples struggling with infertility, however, the desire to have a child often becomes a reality only with in vitro fertilization. When Catriona Sinclair becomes pregnant, she makes it clear to her husband, James, that she is unwilling to go through it again if she miscarries. They still have one remaining embryo, so they decide to let it be 'adopted' by another couple who long to have a baby. Diane and Liam Simmons are the recipients of the Sinclair's remaining embryo.

Both mothers deliver healthy babies, but while Diane easily adapts to motherhood, Catriona struggles to bond with her baby and is overcome with a terrible case of post-partum depression. While she's in the process of recovery, one of the babies is kidnapped, setting into motion a chain of events that further links these two couples, changing all their lives forever.

Claiming Noah is the first novel written by Australian author Amanda Ortlepp. It's always exciting for me to read a new author, and even more so when it's their first book. It makes me feel like I've discovered a wonderful new author before most people were aware of them—which is a lot of fun for me since I'm used to being the one who discovers those authors and their books long after everyone else has already read them.

There's a great deal I want to say about this book, but I can't even allude to things without the risk of giving away details that would spoil key parts of the story. What I can say is Claiming Noah is a very complex story. I found myself continually changing my mind on how I felt about each of the major characters, and they all surprised me by doing or saying something I least expected. The ending was perfection, though not at all how I expected it would end (which is a very good thing). I'm definitely recommending this book to others, and declaring it a Book Worth Reading.

I was given an ARC of Claiming Noah from NetGalley for an honest review and this is my review.
This book had all kinds of twist and turns and interesting subjects that are going to make the reader sit down and think about when they are done with this book. The first one being is IVF an acceptable way to get pregnant? The second who is the legal parent of a child that is born from an embryo? The ones who conceived the baby or the ones who gave birth to the baby? These are just a few topics that are addressed in this book that grabs the readers attention from the start and takes the reader on a journey full of all kinds of surprises until the very end.
I really don't want to get into the plot very much for spoiler reasons but I will say this book had my mouth dropping in shock in a number of spots. So if you like edgy books with a bit of controversial topics this is a good read for you.
I am giving Claiming Noah five out of five stars.

This novel captured my interest immediately. It was one of those books that you could not put down. I would have no issues with recommending it to my friends.

Claiming Noah is a story that is going to linger with you for a long time, and it seemed so real. A couple that wanted a baby so badly they try IVF, and then suffer the heartbreak of a miscarriage, not once but twice.
The story has a lot of heartbreak, and some you will never see coming, a gasp, oh no! We have infidelity, attempted infanticide, severe postpartum depression, kidnapping, betrayal, prision, I could go on, you will be page turning, and questioning.
The author has done a wonderful job with this story, I never realize that left over embryos could be adopted, but it really makes sense. Makes a person think, right down to the end and the lawsuit, what would you do? Heartbreak seems to happen to all, and yet there seems to be a lot of love and forgiveness going all the way around. I loved this story, and wish I could be more like some of the characters here, there are solutions here, and you are going to love the epilogue. I received this book through Faithworks and was not required to give a positive review.

This is a heart wrenching story about two families desperately wanting a baby. Cat had self doubts about herself being a mother but went along with her husband because his desire to have a baby was so strong. Because of fertility issues in vitro fertilization was used and finally successful. With one embryo left, the couple chose to let another couple have it. Di and her husband was chosen to receive the embryo. Each couple have birth and then the real story begins. The lies, deceit, twists and turns makes the reader wonder what the outcome will be. I thought the author wrapped up this difficult situation in a very thoughtful way.

This was my second book of this topic in the last month and I still found myself riveted to see what the outcome would be. Being a mother myself I find myself identifying with the main characters in different, but equally as important ways. I thought the author did a great job of dealing with the issue of postpartum depression that is so often overlooked or ignored. I would love to read more from this author to see what other issues and topics she deals with.

Gripping psychological thriller, what it means to be a mother and what happens when things go horribly wrong. Highly recommended.

The premise is on point and immediately grabbed me. Catriona and Diana both struggle with fertility issues and both become pregnant, but with different paths and history along the way. Diana and Liam, one of the couples, are thrilled to receive the frozen embryo that Catriona and James won't be using. From there, the novel goes into postpartum psychosis, marriages, IVF, the implications of frozen embryo donation and other topics I won't mention to avid spoilers. It took me a little while to embrace the characters, and sometimes the plot had some reaching elements...but it didn't make it less readable or turn me away. To the contrary, I couldn't put it down. This is a debut novel, and I have already added the author to my list of those I want to follow. Thank you so much to NetGalley and Faith Words/Center Street. I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Great novel, can't put it down with a little suspense! I strongly recommend it!

Emotionally charged story that will have readers on the edge of their seats until the final page. Although some of the plot twists are outed before their time, the book is so well written that it makes little difference. As a parent, this is a story that resonates with the force of an 8.0 earthquake on my mommie richter scale.

I just finished this book, and I cannot stop thinking about it. As much as I hope this situation never happens to any family in the entire world, I wish that this was real so that I could know what happens for the rest of the characters lives. I know that sounds silly, but it just goes to show how well Amanda Ortlepp wrote Claiming Noah. I feel that these characters were real, and I just want to make sure that they are happy!

Anyway, let me explain a little bit about what this book is before I sit there and tell you all about the feels it’s given me. I haven’t read a book in a long time that has just had me hanging on every single chapter, every single word, ahh! Okay, so first we meet Catriona and her husband James. They have had a hard time conceiving a child. Their first attempt at IVF ended in a miscarriage, which devastated both of the parents naturally. The couple decides to try one more time to have a baby, and they use one of their frozen embryos. This one takes and they are finally pregnant with a very healthy baby. Since they had a hard time with the entire process of getting pregnant, they decide that they should donate the last embryo because it just doesn’t seem right to waste it.

This is where Diana and Liam come in, a completely different couple who also can’t have children for one reason or another. They end up adopting the little embryo that belonged to Catriona and James. They get pregnant and their baby is healthy as well.

On the other side, Catriona has her child, and they name him Sebastian. With some pregnancies, women can have chemical imbalances which result in postpartum depression or psychosis. (This was a little bit of a trigger for me, as you know, I deal with depression, so just watch out for that if you have the same issues). Catriona feels that she is a terrible mother and that the only way to save Sebastian is to drown him. This puts her into a hospital, and although Sebastian is okay, there are still issues going on with Catriona and her psychosis- so she has to stay in the hospital for about a month.

Now, Diana and Liam have had their sweet baby Noah, and he is a perfect little man. Then one day while Diana is shopping, Noah gets taken from her. She goes through hell trying to find him and once this little baby is back at home-you won’t believe who took him, and why. I am not going to give it away, but this book left me thinking so much about biology, legal issues, morals, and anything under the sun that could result in a situation that a child could be in. It was a scary book, it was a thought provoking book, and damn it, it made me cry. There was just layer upon layer of beautiful writing and beautiful and terrifying stories in this book! I absolutely loved this book, I wish I could sink my teeth into it for the first time again. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars and then some.

Reading Catriona and Diana's story moved me. The author did an amazing job of creating realistic, flawed characters who both loved a son. It reminded me of the moral dilemma of the film, Losing Isaiah. The premise was unique and I understood both sides. The conclusion made sense and I really enjoyed this tale. Great development, great writing and heartwarming.

What an emotional rollercoaster this was, my goodness.

If you've ever thought about what it means to be a mother and how the bond between a child and its mother forms, this will delve deeper into those thoughts. I really enjoyed the discussion about legality and confidentiality in embryonic donation.

Diana kind of irritated me throughout most of the book, but I grew to like her after the decisions she made at the end. Catriona, on the other hand, I found to be a complete spitfire, and I really admired how she handled all the really awful situations that life threw at her. The other characters didn't stand out too much to me, and simply felt like placeholders. (Having a gay couple named Tom and Jerry--too perfect. They were also pretty much the only guys in this book who didn't act like complete...selfish meanies.)

Postpartum depression is something that should come up more often, and I really appreciated how this book showed that though a woman can be in such a severe state that should consider suicide or infanticide, she could still recover and become a fantastic mother. (Although I was convinced for a while that infanticide had been committed and was unsure how that character would react once she found out.)

The plot was pretty believable the whole way through, and I loved hearing about Diana's methods of hunting for Noah and about the police and court proceedings. The epilogue made me tear up, but was quite satisfying.

This was well written with a unique and intriguing plot that had me turning the pages (and by turning the pages I mean swiping the kindle app) very quickly. I do recommend, especially for mothers or those who'd like to be a mother. Or maybe not; this might scare would-be-mothers away from motherhood.

Heartwarming story about what makes a mother.

This modern day moral dilemma occurs when. one couple offer an embryo for donation. The second couple have a healthy son. Things turn sour when there becomes an argument about who the little boys parents really are. - his biological parents or the couple who raised him.?

Without giving it all away, i really enjoyed the story and particularly the end, which was fitting.. I'll be looking out for other books from this author..

I recall years ago, when I was a teenager in the 1970's about the first test-tube baby as it was called then. It was a huge ethical dilemma in that time period. Today, IVF and other similar methods to have a child are commonplace for couples with infertility. Catriona and James find themselves in the throws of infertility while Diana and Liam are also struggling through infertility as well. Postpartum depression turns into postpartum psychosis and Catriona and Sebastian are in danger of her own behaviors. Diana has a baby using a donated egg, but the nightmare of all nightmares occurs when Noah is kidnapped in his stroller while grocery shopping with his mother. Liam blames Diana for not watching Noah closely enough and allowing the kidnapping to take place. The paths of the two couples begin to cross in ways neither of them ever dreamed possible.
I don't want to spoil the book for readers and it would be easy to do if I continue describing the plot. I really was enthralled with this book and just couldn't wait to get back to reading it. One part seemed very farfetched to me concerning Sebastian a few days after his mother entered a psychiatric hospital for treatment of her postpartum psychosis. This book is well-written and does not rely on cursing and sex to sell the book.
I rated this book 5 stars and think readers should check out this debut novel of Amanda Ortlepp.
I received a copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

An engaging debut novel filled with heart wrenching moral and ethical issues. Told in alternating viewpoints by two very real characters, it leaves the reader unsure of which side to cheer for. There were a few spots that were over the top, but all in all a story that was complex and thought provoking with an absolute perfect ending!

Center Street and NetGalley provided me with an electronic copy of Claiming Noah, in exchange for an honest review.

Two women, blessed due to an in-vitro process that allows them both to be implanted with embryos from the genetic material of one of the couples, have very different experiences during pregnancy and the aftermath of the birth. Catriona Sinclair, having endured hours of painful labor just to end up with a caesarean section, suffers in the weeks following the birth until she is hospitalized. Diana Simmons has a wonderful pregnancy and is overjoyed at the prospect of having a baby of her own, despite fertility issues for both her and her husband Liam. Life changes for both women in an instant, but not in the way that either of them expected.

For the most part, Claiming Noah was a well written story about infertility and issues arising due to pregnancy in general. I wish that the author had not revealed early on, through foreshadowing, the drama that would occur later. I basically spent the book waiting for the inevitable, instead of being allowed to experience the story through Diana and Catriona's eyes. The side plot in both women's lives were simply unnecessary and added nothing to the novel as a whole. Although the novel would have been stronger without these elements, Claiming Noah should appeal to readers who like women's fiction and I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.

loved not just the suspense but the entire feeling of angst that the book brought... Such a controversial topic but dealt with in a fantastic way... A must read

This novel was one of the best novels that I read in 2016! It was heart wreathing and so unbelievably realistic. The author touches many topics that are not always freely discussed by our society; fertility, miscarriage, and embryo adoptions. I was truly surprised by some twists in this book, what made so much more interesting. I would recommend it to everyone who enjoys family drama themed novels.

OMG!! I finished this book in less than 4 hours, but I had a tough time reading certain parts. I was determined to finish reading this book, and I'm glad that I did.

Catriona and James are trying to get pregnant via IVF. They have frozen embryos but after a miscarriage occurs after the first placement, Cat doesn't want to get pregnant anymore. She's never wanted children, but James wore her down. Several months later, they try again with much success. But Cat still doesn't want anymore kids, so the couple decides to give up the last embryo for adoption. When their son Sebastian is born, Cat feels disconnected from him. James has no problem bonding with the baby, but Cat can't help but regret getting pregnant. Unbeknownst to her, she has post natal depression and psychosis. She hears voices and has hallucinations. Not knowing what is right or wrong, she listens to the voices and decides to act on a horrible idea. James catches her before anything terrible happens and she is admitted to a psychiatric hospital for help. When she comes back home, she thinks her baby looks different, but James tells her that it's in her head.

Diana and Liam are having problems getting pregnant due to medical problems on both sides. They resort to adopting an embryo because Di wants the experience of carrying a baby. When her son Noah is born her life is finally complete, or so she thinks. When Noah is just 2 months old, he's kidnapped while Di is grocery shopping. Someone switched strollers and took her baby. Searching for him for almost 2 years, not only destroys her marriage, but makes Liam hate who she has become. He was verbally abusive before, now he can't even look at her.

When Noah is found, the circumstances behind his kidnapping is almost unbelievable. It sends on husband to jail, and destroys the second family in the process.

A must read.

Claiming Noah by Amanda Ortlepp was a great read, I read it in a day, couldn't put it down.
The story revolves around the biological mother Catriona and the adoptive mother Diana, both clearly love Noah. Both families go through IVF for Diana the embryo they adopt is born a healthy child Noah.
One day while Diana is out shopping with Noah he goes missing........
The book is written well and I loved the ending.

This is a very powerful book a little about postpartum depression but mostly about love, struggles, and character strengths and flaws. When I first starting reading it, I didn't think I'd like it but after a very short while the story took me in. As I continued through the book I became engrossed and 'couldn't put it down'. The issues dealt with are significant. And, they are woven into a very good story. I am greatly appreciative of NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.

This one of the best-written novels I have read by a first-time author. I simply could not put it down. That should tell you immediately, that it was not predictable. Since I do not like to simply retell a story or give away the ending, I will have to discuss it in rather general terms.
The topics of in vitro fertilization and adoption are not subjects I have ever considered for any length of time. Although I am familiar with both, it was interesting to confront characters who consider and endure the procedure and its ramifications. In vitro is discussed in a very thorough way, covering emotional, religious, scientific and moral pros and cons.
We begin with two Australian couples, James and Catriona and Liam and Diana who are both trying to have children.
Each character is carefully developed fully, so that we see each one at his or her best and worst. Naturally, not every person is lovable all of the time, and some are not lovable at all. But that’s life. There is a lot of love, (some of it one-sided) disappointment, dislike, redemption and forgiveness as in a true-to-life way we follow these men and women through ordinary and extraordinary days. They face not only the longing for parenthood but some very visceral reactions to the reality of it as well.
There are strong contrasts between Diana and Catriona as mothers, both in their handling of pregnancy and in their coming to terms with motherhood. James and Liam as fathers also have different expectations and reactions.
There is coincidence and some parts that require a stretch of the imagination, but life is often full of such incidents.
This novel provides many topics for open and honest discussions and will stay with the reader long after the last page is turned.

This book was provided to me at no cost in exchange for an honest review.

Claiming Noah by Amanda Ortlepp is a compelling novel set in Sydney, Australia. Catriona Sinclair is married to James. James has always wanted children and finally convinced Catriona to have a baby. Unfortunately, they cannot conceive naturally. They are led down the road of tests and eventually IVF. They were able to get four embryos. The first one resulted in a pregnancy, but Catriona miscarried. The second one did not take. Catriona agreed to try one more time and it resulted in a pregnancy. Catriona stated this was the last time and they agreed to donate the embryo. A couple that would be unable to conceive would get an opportunity to have a child. Catriona and James had a little boy that they named Sebastian. Catriona has a rough time adjusting. Sebastian did not take to breastfeeding and he cried frequently. Then Catriona started seeing a person in the house and hearing voices. James had her see a doctor and he put her on antidepressants. However, Catriona did not tell him about the voices and hallucinations. Catriona ends up spending time in a clinic that helps her overcome the postpartum psychosis. It is a rare condition, but it does happen. James take time off to take care of Sebastian. When Catriona returns home, she is happy to see her son.

Diana Simmons and her husband, Liam are unable to conceive on their own. After going through the various options, they choose to adopt an embryo (it is like adopting a baby). Despite objections from her mother and the local priest, they went ahead with their plans. Diana was lucky enough to get pregnant. It resulted in a son, Noah. Diana loves being a mother. Then one day she is at the grocery store with Noah asleep in his stroller. She has it covered with a blanket so the lights in the store do not wake him up. When Diana gets out to her car and removes the blanket, Noah is gone. Someone kidnapped her son. Who would take him and why? Join Diana, Liam, James, and Catriona as their lives spiral out of control.

Claiming Noah is an emotional book. There are high points and some very low points (makes you cry). The story is told from the viewpoint of the two women: Catriona and Diana. We get to see how each person reacts to pregnancy and raising children (and how it affects their husbands and marriage). The story has good writing (for the most part), but it could use a little editing (and reworking). This author’s writing is very descriptive. She likes to describe the trees, furnishing, clothes in great detail. It was interesting to find out about embryo donation and how it is handled. Amanda Ortlepp shows what happens when an embryo donation goes wrong. It is an emotionally charged issue that presents legal and emotional complications. We get to see how it affects the two families. I did find that some of the novel was predictable, but I did enjoy the overall story. I give Claiming Noah 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). This is Amanda Ortlepp’s debut novel, and I look forward to reading her next book.

I received a complimentary copy of Claiming Noah from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest evaluation. The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

CLAIMING NOAH, is a heart wrenching story about two women embarking on a journey of what it's like to go through fertility treatments, etc. to become parents.

If you are interested in IVF, this novel gives you an interesting perspective of what couples must endure. Though a work of fiction, the author has done her homework in describing the procedures.

There are many emotions running through this story. You will read about each women's perspective. It also includes postnatal depression, which is terrifying to go through. Embryo donation & adoption is also at the heart of this story.

This is a novel that should be sold with a box of tissues.

Love, betrayal & loss are the main focus of this story.

A special thanks to the publisher via Netgalley for a digital copy of CLAIMING NOAH, in exchange for an honest review.

With the advancement of medical and scientific procedures we have left ourselves with some huge questions. This book deals with the question of who actually "owns" the fertilized embryo? The story line stretches the imagination a bit as the scenario is so unlikely, but gives food for thought. I found myself liking and identifying with both sides of the argument.

A wonderfully written book in the vein of Jodi Picoult. It kept me guessing and the surprise at the end left me deep in thought. Inspiring women, devious men. Perfec

Claiming Noah is a well written book that explores the emotions surrounding the desire to have children. Amanda Ortlepp did such an amazing job portraying the thoughts and feelings of the characters in this book that I sometimes felt too emotionally involved.

When Catriona and James Sinclair decide to have a baby, they find that conception is not as easy as they had hoped. They ultimately undergo in vitro fertilization, and their son, Sebastian, is born. Ortlepp adds severe postpartum depression issues to her tale, and Catriona ends up spending several weeks in an institutionalized setting before she is able to accept her role as Sebastian's mother.

Meanwhile, Diana and Liam Simmons are desperate for children when the find that their joint infertility issues make it impossible for them to have a child. They are thrilled when Diana's gynecologist explains that she can have an "adopted" embryo implanted and have the experience of pregnancy. Using the Sinclair's remaining embryo, Diana becomes pregnant with Noah, and the Simmon's family is complete.

These sensitive topics are very well handled and leave room for hours of debate and discussion, but Ortlepp continues bombarding the reader with additional thought provoking situations that left me rooting for a different character in each chapter. Her style of writing from both family's viewpoints keep us invested in the Sinclairs and the Simmons throughout the book. I hated seeing a chapter end and kept being drawn back to these situations that made me understand even the most heinous of crimes.

I don't want to introduce any "spoilers," so I will end by saying this was an exceptionally well written book that should lead to hours

Wow!!! I just finished reading this book, which I just started 2 days ago. I couldn't put this book down. This book really takes you through the highs and lows of IVF. You really learn about these 2 separate families and I really found myself rooting for both.
This book was filled with so many different twists and turns-I couldn't believe it. Just when I thought I knew where the story was going, it took me on a different path.
You absolutely MUST read this book!!! It is a very fast read and such an excellent story. I will be recommending this book to all my friends and family!

I was given a gifted copy by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Catriona and James can’t have babies so they decided to have them through IVF. They have four viable embryos and after two miscarriages, Catriona gets pregnant. They decided to give the other embryo for adoption.
Diana and Liam can’t have babies either. When they are said there is an embryo available for them, they can’t believe how lucky they are. Diana gets pregnant and she can’t wait to have her baby in her arms.
While Diana feels comfortable being a mother, Catriona suffers from postpartum depression, ending in the attempt of drowning her son. After that, she is sent to a mental hospital for a few weeks. While Catriona is in hospital, Diana’s baby is kidnapped.
It is a very emotional story. Being a mother myself, I can’t imagine the pain of having my baby taken away from me.
My favourite character is Diana. She is honest, strong, and she never gets tired of fighting for finding her baby. She is the only one able to see and feel what any other people don’t. Sorry, I can’t say too much because I don’t want to spoil the story.
It is an easy to read, well-written, and well-edited story. I only have a thing I didn’t like in this book and that is about the dates in the chapters. It is difficult to know the time between one chapter and the next one. In my humble opinion, I think it would have been easier writing something like two days after, one month after, etc. instead of writing the date.

Once you start this book, you will want to see it through. I thought the book was pretty predictable, but it certainly entertained me and kept me wanting to keep reading.

I will not go into a summary of the story...I think the book description does a great job of that.

This is the first book that I have found that talks about IVF and embryo donation/adoption. It raises a lot of questions and will certainly make for an interesting and lively book club discussion!

If I had not been given the ARC I would have been drawn to this book and purchased it! My book club is reading this book and I cannot wait to discuss it!

Very interesting book that looks at the moral, emotional and legal ramifications of embryo donations. Imperfect people in an imperfect world. Although it's based in Australia, the issues raised can be applied anywhere.

This book was a heartwrenching look into the world of infertility, IVF, adoption and how far parents will go to have children. The plot twists alone kept me riveted to my chair, unable to put the book down...I read it through in one sitting! My heart broke for Catriona, who struggled with her feelings when her beautiful child was born. Through the goodness of their hearts, knowing they wanted only one child, she and her husband allowed their last embryo to be adopted by another infertile couple, who also gave birth to a son. But, to whom does this son really belong, his adoptive parents or his biological parents? And if one of the children is kidnapped? So many moral and ethical dilemmas ensue...you will question what you would do if you were Catriona the biological mother, or Diana, the adoptive mother...this is a beautifully written book...don't miss it!

Claiming Noah was written by Australian author, Amanda Ortlepp, and is a Women’s Fictional novel with a dash of suspense about two married couples who can’t conceive naturally. The first couple goes through IVF and after their first implant miscarries, they agree to try one more time and donate the third embryo for another couple to adopt. The third embryo is adopted and implanted only a month after the consent papers were signed, instead of the recommended 3-month cooling off period. Thus, the babies are only a month apart in age, and the first couple’s son passes away from SIDS at 3 months while his mother is at a clinic recovering from postpartum depression; the father is under a lot of stress from his wife being away for 3-weeks and then the loss of their son, which result in him doing something completely wrong that he probably wouldn’t have done if he hadn’t be encouraged to do so from a friend that doesn’t have the best track record in his fragile mindset.

That said, the adopted baby (who was kidnapped in a department store) ends up with his biological parents for 21-months until the investigating detective finally tracks down the kidnapper due to irregular medical paperwork on the child when the mother, who didn’t even know her son had passed while she was in the clinic, took him to the doctor for blood work. The blood type didn’t match with the blood that had already been taken from her son, which tipped the detective off. Thus starts a saga of the father being arrested for the kidnapping and the mother filing for custody after the child is taken from her and returned to his legal parents.

I hadn’t read women’s fiction in over a year and I’m fairly picky when it comes to contemporary fiction, so I wasn’t sure whether I would be able to get into it. But I thoroughly enjoyed this. It was nice to read a drama-familial novel, especially one set in Australia when most of the contemporary novels I read are set in the U.S; it gave me a fresh outlook.

Also, it ended on a happy note. A bit cliche, though it was still something that could actually happen and the way it was written in was done in such a way that didn’t make it appear ostentatious. I saw the ending coming a few chapters from the end, but only because I pay attention to even the slightest details while reading. It was a little thing that you had to remember from one of the earlier chapters that was slipped into a later chapter that gave away the twist at the end for me. Both women end up becoming close friends, too.

I recommend this to fans of Jodi Picoult and Kristen Hannah. Goodreads rating: 5 stars

Wonderful book by Amanda Ortkepp about IVF and the legalities of adopting an embryo as well as parental rights!
This is a complex story of heartbreak, tragedy and love between two couples and their children. Catriona has decided that she and her husband James should have the child that James has desperately wanted. She becomes pregnant after IVF , using the embryo they have saved.
Having one more embryo stored, , they agree to give it up to be adopted by another couple who wants a family. Catriona has agreed to have one child only.
Diana and Liam gratefully after trying to have a baby, begin IVF and this embryo is implanted with a positive result.
The couples deliver one month apart. Diana and Liam are thrilled to have a son. They have waited a long time.
Catriona cannot bond with her little boy and begins to have delusions, paranoia and thoughts that almost result in a terrible tragedy. She is hospitalized in a psychiatric facility for 3 weeks and undergoes electric shock, intense psychiatric therapy and medication to help her to overcome this debilitating illness.
While in the hospital, her husband James is caring for his son and truly loving this baby and praying that his wife can come to be a mother for her son and they can be a happy family once more.
James will do anything to have a family.
As the characters progress on, the shock and sadness that takes place, and the newborns is devastating.
This book was done well and I truly enjoyed it.
Would love a sequel to see how the families continue as time goes on.

Having been through IVF a number of times I know how Catriona and Diana felt going through the process. I was lucky enough that I was able to get pregnant twice through IVF and have a wonderful son and daughter. This is the first book I've ever seen that talks about the process of IVF and what can happen with frozen embryos and the adoption of them. Lots of twists throughout the story and I really enjoyed it.

This review is based on a galley copy from Netgalley, courtesy of the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I loved this book so much! I truly felt the emotions of each woman. This is probably a book I would put in my top 10 category.

Interesting but not always captivating novel of IVF and non-traditional paths to parenthood. I liked the characters, who I found very sympathetic, and the writing, but the plot sometimes stalled a bit. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC of this book, which I likely would not have otherwise found. You will like this if you enjoy "domestic" fiction with grist for thought.

Wow, Wow, Wow! This book is the best book I think I have ever read. From start to finish I couldn't put it down. Catriona and James have fertility issues so start IVF. After 3 attempts they finally have a successful pregnancy. Unfortunately, Catriona suffers postpartum psychosis. Diana and Liam are unable to have children but are lucky enough to be given an embryo that Catriona and James decided to donate when they didn't want any more children. What follows is a story of ethics and very strong emotions. Their lives and their children become intertwined. I felt so many feelings reading this book. I rooted for each couple for different reasons. Both the female characters were very strong and in some ways very similar. Both would do anything for their sons. Yet Liam and James were weak compared to their wives. It raises some interesting thoughts about what I would do if I found myself in some of the situations. Would I have been as generous? Can't wait to read another book by this author. If I could have given this book 10* I would!

Wonderfully written , very heart felt novel. I was so torn for these families

I really enjoyed this book and the message I got out of it. I'd definitely read this again.