In "The Mother I Never Became," Salise shares her deeply personal and transformative journey through the trials of infertility, adoption setbacks, and a crumbling marriage. This candid memoir invites readers into the backstory of her life as she navigates the emotional roller coaster of failed fertility treatments, the heartbreak of unsuccessful adoptions, and the dissolution of her marriage—all while grappling with her faith and the societal and Christian expectations placed upon her.
From her early years of abandonment by her mother, Salise believed that marriage and motherhood were the keys to finding unconditional love and self-worth. However, as each attempt to build a family fell apart, she was forced to confront these deeply ingrained beliefs. Through her struggles, Salise discovered that her value and worth were not tied to her ability to conceive or maintain a marriage, but were intrinsic and bestowed by a higher power.
Set against the backdrop of 20 years in London with her husband Julian, this story unfolds with raw honesty and vulnerability. Salise reveals the profound impact of her upbringing on her relationships and her faith, and how she found hope and joy despite the unfulfilled promise of a child. Her journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and offers a beacon of hope to women, especially women of faith, who may feel isolated in their own struggles with infertility.
"The Mother I Never Became" is a heartfelt narrative that stands out for its unique perspective—a faith-based account of a black woman's infertility journey, a story often overlooked in mainstream discussions. With a warm, conversational tone, Salise opens her heart to readers, offering love, hope, and the assurance that they are not alone.
This is a Pre-order of the book, The Mother I Never Became. The book launch event will be on Friday, 19 September 2025. Customers that purchase the book here will be invited to the book launch and received a signed copy of the book on the night.
