You Can't Have My Daughter: A true story of a mother's desperate fight to save her daughter from Oxford's sex traffickers.
Elizabeth McDonnell
Apr 2015 · Pan Macmillan
4.9star
32 reviewsreport
Ebook
288
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About this ebook
As a single 51-year-old woman, Elizabeth McDonnell had given up hope of ever becoming a mother. When she was approved to adopt ten-year-old Lara, a sweet and caring girl, it was a dream come true.
Elizabeth knew that that her new daughter had had a difficult past but when she found out that Lara had been abused, the extent of her emotional damage became clear. By the age of twelve, Lara was often out of control, hanging out with drug dealers in Oxford, disappearing for days. For the next five years Elizabeth put herself in danger to rescue her daughter time and time again, while battling the authorities who failed to give Lara the help she so desperately needed. She had no idea that her daughter was being trafficked by a sex ring.
Because she refused to give up on Lara, today Elizabeth and Lara have a close and loving relationship. Deeply moving, You Can't Have My Daughter is the story of a mother determined to keep her promise to her daughter: 'I will always be there for you, whether you want me to or not'.
Elizabeth knew that that her new daughter had had a difficult past but when she found out that Lara had been abused, the extent of her emotional damage became clear. By the age of twelve, Lara was often out of control, hanging out with drug dealers in Oxford, disappearing for days. For the next five years Elizabeth put herself in danger to rescue her daughter time and time again, while battling the authorities who failed to give Lara the help she so desperately needed. She had no idea that her daughter was being trafficked by a sex ring.
Because she refused to give up on Lara, today Elizabeth and Lara have a close and loving relationship. Deeply moving, You Can't Have My Daughter is the story of a mother determined to keep her promise to her daughter: 'I will always be there for you, whether you want me to or not'.
Ratings and reviews
4.9
32 reviews
Kate O'Hara
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August 27, 2015
I recently read the book written of these horrific crimes from the point of view of lara. Harrowing to say the least. When I came across this book from 'mothers' perspective, I was keen to see the other side. I was not disappointed. Again a truly harrowing story which opened my eyes to horrible situations that occur to children but the warmth and love projected is truly inspiring and heart warming. A truly great read, very well written.
4 people found this review helpful
Julia Jones
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October 27, 2019
Really enjoyed reading the Mum's point of view of the story Girl A by Lara McDonnell. It must have been so difficult at times. Would definitely recommend reading both Lara's and Elizabeth's stories.
rena spaine
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June 11, 2016
Loved the book loved the openness being brought up in care and knowing the failings I understand the frustration also love the strength of a mother an what she will do for a child what an incredible bond that's unbreakable good luck to the growing family you can only get stronger xxx
About the author
Elizabeth McDonnell has worked for many years in the charity sector, most recently in a freelance capacity. She lives with Lara and her two grandchildren. You Can't Have My Daughter is her first book.
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