Growing Hope Anthology

4 Stars

Growing Hope is a charity anthology is aid of The National Foundation for Fertility Research. Four authors each bring us a story of ‘growing hope’. Whether that be a journey toward parenthood, fertility issues, relationships, and romance- we’re on the journey alongside the characters as everything unfolds.
The collections contains:

My Treasure By: Nastasia Botha.

Get the tissues ready for this emotional story. Ms. Botha brings us an emotive, romantic, heartbreaking, yet touching story that has some funny banter and a touch of spice to give some balance to the emotional elements.
Camille has her future mapped out as she walks down the aisle with the love of her life, Liam. Both of their dreams are within reach- or so they think. But things don’t quite go according to plan- putting a strain on their marriage and leaving Camille stressed out. Then just when things start to take a turn for the better, tragedy strikes, bringing heartbreak and grief. What happens you ask? Well you are going to have to read all the emotional details for yourself. Will hope grow amidst all the heartache?

Tiny Miracles By: J.M Goodrich

Beth has always dreamed of a family of her own. But when her husband suddenly announces that he never wants children, Beth is devastated. Her emotions are already strained, when her best friend announces her pregnancy- only rubbing salt in Beth’s already wounded heart. But being the supportive friend that she is, Beth is determined to be their every step of the way for her friend. Will her marriage survive the strain that comes with her husband’s announcement? Is she willing to give up her dreams of motherhood? Will fate have different ideas?
This story has drama, angst, miscommunication, trust issues, friendship, and surprising developments. It is a very quick and easy read with both main characters perspectives playing out at the same time. There were a few spelling mistakes, or wrong words being used- but that didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment of the story.

Chasing Hope at Munster Glade By: C.M Lehsten

Ok… this is definitely my favourite story of this anthology- and my favourite story of Ms. Lehsten’s that I’ve read, to date. I was completely captivated and really didn’t want the story to end. I wanted to stay in the story and keep reading, following the characters on the next leg of their journey. Though this story may be short in length, it’s definitely not lacking in content!!! Ms. Lehsten weaves a wonderful story- full of vibrant and magical details that swept me up and pulled me along as the story unfolded. Her creative and masterful world building brought the whole story to life and gave it a real spellbinding quality.
Tellie and Connor are embarking on a weekend away in a secluded cabin, to celebrate their 8th wedding anniversary. They love each other deeply, but not being able to conceive has put pressure on their relationship. The strain is beginning to show, and Tellie feels like they’re slowly drifting apart- so the weekend means some much needed downtime, where they can re-connect both physically and emotionally. What ensues is a magical weekend away- where their deepest heart’s desires may just be granted in a very unexpected way.
A sweet and wonderful tale!

Hope’s Second Chance By: Harmony Joy

Hope Patterson is a wedding planner with 5 years under her belt. She’s been unlucky in love and is happy to be alone- so she keeps telling herself. But, with a Bridezilla and a reluctant suitor- things are about to get interesting.
A story with secrets, lies, promises, assurances, romance, and some chickens! Harmony Joy takes us on an interesting journey!

Thank you to all the contributing authors!

The National Foundation for Fertility Research is a collaborative of researchers doing ongoing groundbreaking research in this field. They share findings with reproductive medical communities around the world. They are the only place that combines the resources, the passion and the belief that progress can be made in the fight against fertility. NFFR is conducting the kind of research responsible for advancing reproductive technology, which ultimately gives couples a real chance at having children of their own. That’s why supporting their research is the most important step we can take in the fight to end infertility. The research began at NFFR in 2005 and in May 2007, the National Foundation for Fertility Research (NFFR) and the Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine (CCRM) began the world’s first Comprehensive Chromosomal Screening (CCS) clinical study looking at all 23 pairs of chromosomes in a few cells removed from an embryo on day 5 of development. The goal of CCS is to only transfer embryos that have the correct number of chromosomes, thus increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome. Results show significantly higher pregnancy rates and lower miscarriage rates when compared to IVF without CCS, especially in women 38-42 years of age. Their findings are published in international peer reviewed journals to share with clinics and organizations around the world. Ongoing research performed by the National Foundation for Fertility Research is a valuable asset to couples struggling to conceive from Colorado to across the globe. Learn more here: http://www.fertilityresearch.org/.