Made for Me by Careshmeh French Dean is a heartfelt memoir that speaks to anyone who has ever loved deeply, grieved profoundly, or searched for meaning when life takes an unexpected turn. From the very first pages, readers meet Careshmeh as she steps into a story she never imagined would be hers. She met Joshua Michael French at a time when love felt like a gentle surprise, and their connection quickly grew into a forever she welcomed with open arms. Their life together unfolded in simple joys. They shared playful dates, warm kitchen dances, and the kind of laughter that fills a home with peace. Careshmeh discovered what it felt like to find her perfect love after earlier heartbreak, and she embraced every moment of this blessing.
Their story, however, shifted suddenly. Loss changed everything. Readers are invited into the honest, painful journey that followed, including moments no spouse ever wants to endure. Through it all, Careshmeh guides others with warmth and wisdom, showing how faith can steady the soul when it feels like the world has collapsed.
Walking Through Loss With Grace and Faith
This memoir goes beyond recounting events. It gently shows what grief can feel like from the inside. Careshmeh describes nights spent watching over Joshua in the hospital and the quiet pain of whispered goodbyes. Her words offer comfort to anyone who has walked through similar valleys. She writes with sincerity, offering space for tears and space for healing.
Even in sorrow, the book highlights hope. Careshmeh never pretends grief is simple. She acknowledges every ache. Readers see how love leaves a permanent imprint and how faith can light the darkest road. Her honesty gives comfort to those who are grieving and guidance to those who want to support someone in pain. Everyone experiences loss at some point. This memoir provides a gentle reminder that love continues to shape us long after tragedy.
A Story of Second Chances and Steadfast Hope
While many books touch on grief or love, this one blends both through a Christian lens. Careshmeh shares her faith openly, reflecting on how divine grace carried her through heartbreak. The memoir becomes a testimony of resilience. It shows how God can bring unexpected joy even after deep sorrow. Love proves stronger than the finality of loss. Readers searching for courage, strength, or a reminder of spiritual comfort will find it here.
Careshmeh’s story also speaks to those rebuilding their faith. She writes about the struggle to hold onto hope when everything feels overwhelming. She offers reassurance that healing takes time and that joy can return in ways no one expects. Her journey becomes a mirror for others learning to believe in love again.
The Woman Behind the Words
Beyond her deeply personal story, Careshmeh brings years of experience in understanding people and guiding them with care. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science and later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. For the past four years, she has served as a passionate elementary teacher, known for her engaging classroom presence and genuine commitment to her students.
Before entering education and writing, Careshmeh built a successful 15-year career in real estate. Her work helped her sharpen her communication and leadership skills, preparing her for the next chapter of her life. Her ability to speak with clarity and compassion shines through every page of her memoir. As a natural storyteller and gifted public speaker, Careshmeh now uses her voice to uplift, encourage, and inspire readers from all walks of life.
Her book is more than a recollection of memories. It is an invitation to understand love in all its forms, to appreciate the people around us, and to believe that hope survives even the hardest moments. Made for Me reminds readers that while loss is inevitable, love continues to guide, teach, and transform us.
This memoir stands as a companion to anyone searching for comfort, strength, or a reminder that they’re never truly alone.
We had the privilege of interviewing the author. Here are excerpts from the interview:
Thank you so much for joining us today! Why did you decide to write such an intimate story, and did you ever hesitate to “let people in” to all the emotions in Made For Me?
I didn’t really decide to write, it was more of a need. I mourned and chronicled my grief on FB so I wouldn’t forget. I was holding on to every shred of my experience to keep my sanity. We think we can recall memories at will, and some may work that way, but when you’re facing down the actual loss, it’s not that easy. Writing is necessary for preservation. I was preserving my experiences but also my reality. Putting it in book format was only natural. I am very transparent by nature, and expressing my reality can’t happen without showing all my emotions. I truly believe my story will resonate with everyone on a level that will inform, comfort and align. It’s a human story, and one that everyone will experience in one form or another.
What would you say made your grief “complicated”, as in complicated grief, referred to in your previous interviews?
Looking back at the level of grief, which for me was complicated, I see now that had I had the support of my in-laws, the grief would have been less severe. I had wonderful people helping me, but they were trying to put out the fires my in-laws were continually starting and fanning, which prevented me from mourning the loss of my Bear. I couldn’t fully focus on the actual events, as every time I began a step forward, these people would send a horrific letter, or exclude me from family events, or make claims that I was responsible for my husband’s suffering. It was mind-boggling how viciously they operated in a situation where tenderness and solidarity were required.
Parts of your book are very raw. What do you credit most that helped you during your darkest times, and what would you share with others who have faced their own loss of a loved one (spouse or child)?
I have an incredibly strong relationship with my maker, and my continued faith and prayers were pivotal in pushing me forward on my path. That faith and those prayers brought people into my life, each time someone left or created destruction. Each of these people was angelic in their love and aid. I would suggest that anyone experiencing loss keep firmly anchored to their faith or convictions. If you aren’t spiritual, I would find a conviction that speaks to you. Allow the people who cross your path to buoy you up. Take the love they give and keep the door open for the light to come in. Light drives out the dark every time.
Who is the target audience for your book?
My target audience is everyone. Everyone will experience loss. It is inevitable. Reading this book will give insight into the best way to handle those around you in grief, give hope to those grieving and restore the ever-present hope in love.
You referred to being quarantined (due to an over-hyped covid protocol) in a hospital room for over a month during Joshua’s chemo. What did you do to stay mentally fit and/or to occupy your time?
Being quarantined for an entire month in four walls should have been maddening, but this is where I realized that Josh and I were each other’s home. It wouldn’t have mattered where we were; we were together, and that made everything doable. We loved talking, playing games, watching movies and planning for our future. There was never a doubt that we wouldn’t make it.
Thank you so much, Careshmeh, for giving us your precious time! We wish you all the best for your journey ahead!
