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Mother
A Girl’s Worst Nightmare is Her Mother ...
Priscilla Martin. She’s the diva of Morning Glory Circle and a driving force in the quaint California town of Snapdragon. Overseer of garage sales and neighborhood Christmas decorations, she is widely admired. But few people know the real woman behind the perfectly coiffed hair and Opium perfume.
Family is Forever. And Ever and Ever ...
No one escapes Prissy’s watchful eye. No one that is, except her son, who committed suicide many years ago, and her daughter, Claire, who left home more than a decade past and hasn’t spoken to her since. But now, Priscilla’s daughter and son-in-law have fallen on hard times. Expecting their first child, the couple is forced to move back … And Prissy is there to welcome them home with open arms … and to reclaim her broken family.
The Past Isn’t Always as Bad as You Remember. Sometimes it’s Worse ...
Claire has terrible memories of her mother, but now it seems Priscilla has mended her ways. When a cache of vile family secrets is uncovered, Claire struggles to determine fact from fiction, and her husband, Jason, begins to wonder who the monster really is. Lives are in danger - and Claire and Jason must face a horrifying truth … a truth that may destroy them … and will forever change their definition of “Mother.”
“A great combination of strong characters that remind me of my V.C. Andrews characters, wonderful creepy twists, and a plot that will recall Mommie Dearest in an original take that shocks and delights at the same time. This is a full blown psychological thriller worth the investment of time and money.” -Andrew Neiderman, Author of The Devil's Advocate and the V.C. Andrews novels
Priscilla Martin. She’s the diva of Morning Glory Circle and a driving force in the quaint California town of Snapdragon. Overseer of garage sales and neighborhood Christmas decorations, she is widely admired. But few people know the real woman behind the perfectly coiffed hair and Opium perfume.
Family is Forever. And Ever and Ever ...
No one escapes Prissy’s watchful eye. No one that is, except her son, who committed suicide many years ago, and her daughter, Claire, who left home more than a decade past and hasn’t spoken to her since. But now, Priscilla’s daughter and son-in-law have fallen on hard times. Expecting their first child, the couple is forced to move back … And Prissy is there to welcome them home with open arms … and to reclaim her broken family.
The Past Isn’t Always as Bad as You Remember. Sometimes it’s Worse ...
Claire has terrible memories of her mother, but now it seems Priscilla has mended her ways. When a cache of vile family secrets is uncovered, Claire struggles to determine fact from fiction, and her husband, Jason, begins to wonder who the monster really is. Lives are in danger - and Claire and Jason must face a horrifying truth … a truth that may destroy them … and will forever change their definition of “Mother.”
“A great combination of strong characters that remind me of my V.C. Andrews characters, wonderful creepy twists, and a plot that will recall Mommie Dearest in an original take that shocks and delights at the same time. This is a full blown psychological thriller worth the investment of time and money.” -Andrew Neiderman, Author of The Devil's Advocate and the V.C. Andrews novels
462 pages, Paperback
First published April 9, 2016
113 people are currently reading
228 people want to read
About the author
Tamara Thorne
75 books291 followersTamara Thorne has collected ghost stories, true and fictional, since she saw her first Twilight Zone as a tot, and continues to this day. In addition to writing novels and stories of the paranormal, she also writes non-fiction and is an active ghost hunter. She makes her home in southern California with her husband and their feline family and when she’s not writing, can be found haunting ghost towns, phantom-filled hotel rooms, and other spooky places. Tamara loves to hear from her readers. Whether you have questions or comments or would like to share your own ghostly experience,come visit her at her website www.tamarathorne.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 2, 2019
OMG!!!
Best book I have EVER READ!!!
My heart was pounding throughout! I literally could not put this one down. Full of twists and turns this is one is not to be missed. I have never said this about a book before but this was disturbing on so many levels-and I loved every minute of it. Be warned-this book deals with very heavy topics and is quite descriptive.
Best book I have EVER READ!!!
My heart was pounding throughout! I literally could not put this one down. Full of twists and turns this is one is not to be missed. I have never said this about a book before but this was disturbing on so many levels-and I loved every minute of it. Be warned-this book deals with very heavy topics and is quite descriptive.
January 5, 2025
I have been a big fan of Thorne for years, but somehow missed this gem. That stated, this constitutes more of a phycological thriller than her other works, which typically contain some supernatural aspects. It does prove, however, that sometimes humans themselves make for the scariest monsters.
Our lead, Claire, grew up with her mother and handicapped father in the quaint town of Snapdragon, California, but ran away just after she finished her high school and never contacted her mother since. Her husband, Jason, worked as a commercial pilot until he had a seizure one day and was diagnosed with a mild form of epilepsy; mild or not, that ended his career. Claire also lost her job about the same time and now works as a freelance web designer, but they definitely hit hard times financially. Further, Claire recently found out she was pregnant.
At their wits end, Jason contacted Claire's mother and she offered to let them use the apartment above her three car garage indefinitely; Claire has absolutely no desire to return home, but her mother also got Jason a job as a flight instructor in town. Claire warned her husband that her mother completely dominated her life and her dear brother, who committed suicide 20 years ago. Nonetheless, forearmed and forewarned, they take up the offer. Bad move!
Priscilla Martin, Claire's mother, is really a piece of work; she makes mommy dearest look like mother Teresa. Thorne (and Cross, the co-author) must of had a lot of fun writing this. The whole 'evil mother' trope has been done many times, but Thorne puts a great spin on it, even referencing Mommy Dearest when Claire and Prissy get into a fight over wire coat hangers 😎 Also, lots of easter eggs from Thorne's other works, which made me want to reread some of her other novels once again.
To say Priscilla is sociopathic would be an understatement; she needs to be in control of everything. In the cul-de-sac where she lives, she organizes various events, coordinates yard sales, potlucks, etc., and runs the town's charities. You know this will be ugly real quick. Claire's father Fred still lives in the house, cared for by Priscilla, a retired nurse, after his 'accident' when Claire was young. Supposedly he cannot speak/brain damaged, but when Claire and Jason sneak into his locked room (locked from outside), they find him in pretty good shape; they also find empty bottles of Botox in his trash. With enough Botox around his mouth, he can hardly speak. Prissy forbids Claire visiting him (as a child, Prissy told her he was the boogieman and she never saw him) and hides the keys. I will not go further to avoid spoilers.
One thing I always like about Thorne's work regards her wicked sense of humor. Obviously, she hates little dogs and always has a few in her stories. Here, Priscilla's old dogs (dead) have been stuffed and she still sleeps with them on her bed. Thorne also knows how to pace a story and this just builds and builds. One quibble-- once things started to go bad, why did not Jason and Claire split? They had a house lined up and even partially moved into. Yes, Claire broke a leg and the doctor told her she needed bedrest, but her mom as a live-in nurse? Please! 4 evil stars.
Our lead, Claire, grew up with her mother and handicapped father in the quaint town of Snapdragon, California, but ran away just after she finished her high school and never contacted her mother since. Her husband, Jason, worked as a commercial pilot until he had a seizure one day and was diagnosed with a mild form of epilepsy; mild or not, that ended his career. Claire also lost her job about the same time and now works as a freelance web designer, but they definitely hit hard times financially. Further, Claire recently found out she was pregnant.
At their wits end, Jason contacted Claire's mother and she offered to let them use the apartment above her three car garage indefinitely; Claire has absolutely no desire to return home, but her mother also got Jason a job as a flight instructor in town. Claire warned her husband that her mother completely dominated her life and her dear brother, who committed suicide 20 years ago. Nonetheless, forearmed and forewarned, they take up the offer. Bad move!
Priscilla Martin, Claire's mother, is really a piece of work; she makes mommy dearest look like mother Teresa. Thorne (and Cross, the co-author) must of had a lot of fun writing this. The whole 'evil mother' trope has been done many times, but Thorne puts a great spin on it, even referencing Mommy Dearest when Claire and Prissy get into a fight over wire coat hangers 😎 Also, lots of easter eggs from Thorne's other works, which made me want to reread some of her other novels once again.
To say Priscilla is sociopathic would be an understatement; she needs to be in control of everything. In the cul-de-sac where she lives, she organizes various events, coordinates yard sales, potlucks, etc., and runs the town's charities. You know this will be ugly real quick. Claire's father Fred still lives in the house, cared for by Priscilla, a retired nurse, after his 'accident' when Claire was young. Supposedly he cannot speak/brain damaged, but when Claire and Jason sneak into his locked room (locked from outside), they find him in pretty good shape; they also find empty bottles of Botox in his trash. With enough Botox around his mouth, he can hardly speak. Prissy forbids Claire visiting him (as a child, Prissy told her he was the boogieman and she never saw him) and hides the keys. I will not go further to avoid spoilers.
One thing I always like about Thorne's work regards her wicked sense of humor. Obviously, she hates little dogs and always has a few in her stories. Here, Priscilla's old dogs (dead) have been stuffed and she still sleeps with them on her bed. Thorne also knows how to pace a story and this just builds and builds. One quibble-- once things started to go bad, why did not Jason and Claire split? They had a house lined up and even partially moved into. Yes, Claire broke a leg and the doctor told her she needed bedrest, but her mom as a live-in nurse? Please! 4 evil stars.
May 8, 2016
I just finished this fantastic novel, and I just had to right the review! This book was amazing. If you're a fan of dark & twisted (and I mean seriously twisted) you will love this book! The horror is just real and grounded in this crazy family saga that I struggled to put the book down.
These two authors work SO well together that the flow is seamless. I've read other works with author pairs and you can tell when the other picks up the writing. This book flowed so well. It got into your head, and twisted around in there and made you connect so deeply with these characters. There's a main mystery in this book, but also so many small side ones that also take time to come out, that you're constantly trying to figure it out!
This story was dark. I will warn those away that don't like very dark and twisted things to stay away. There's many taboo subjects covered that may make people uncomfortable but I loved it. It's exactly one of those great things about horror. Things that are so normal and everyday can be hiding some really really dark things. Complete 5 stars from me. I am excited to see what comes next from this pair of authors! They are an unstoppable horror force!
*free copy in exchange for honest review. This review is done in conjunction with NerdGirl. For more information, search them on Facebook.
These two authors work SO well together that the flow is seamless. I've read other works with author pairs and you can tell when the other picks up the writing. This book flowed so well. It got into your head, and twisted around in there and made you connect so deeply with these characters. There's a main mystery in this book, but also so many small side ones that also take time to come out, that you're constantly trying to figure it out!
This story was dark. I will warn those away that don't like very dark and twisted things to stay away. There's many taboo subjects covered that may make people uncomfortable but I loved it. It's exactly one of those great things about horror. Things that are so normal and everyday can be hiding some really really dark things. Complete 5 stars from me. I am excited to see what comes next from this pair of authors! They are an unstoppable horror force!
*free copy in exchange for honest review. This review is done in conjunction with NerdGirl. For more information, search them on Facebook.
October 22, 2019
This book started out with so much promise and I was really enjoying it. It all just went a LOT too far. I’m all for a crazy, sociopath mother character but this was just too disturbing for me. And I’m no prude! I’ll probably have nightmares (and not the good kind from a great horror book) So. Gross. It ended up feeling desperate and cheap. Not my cup of tea. 🤷🏻♀️
April 18, 2016
Dark and Enthralling
Mother is a superbly crafted and enthralling psychological thriller which has emerged from the writing partnership of Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross. For me, the novel has strong echoes of David Lynch and Stephen King: there are a myriad of secrets and dark deeds which go on behind the immediate visual landscape, complemented by a host of quirky yet intense characterisations and a devilishly twisted plot. The read also contains some very dark humour.
The words sociopath, narcissist and even monster fail to adequately describe Prissy Martin, the ‘Mother’ of the title. She is one evil package of destructive, controlling, self-serving and remorseless desires who will let no one get in her way. Indeed, this monster’s tentacles reach far and wide.....
It is into this that Claire, her estranged daughter, pregnant with her first child, reluctantly returns, accompanied by her husband Jason, the couple having fallen on hard times. Surely Mother is not as bad as Claire’s memories indicate? Indeed, at first Prissy appears to do all she can to make them feel welcome, but it is not long before they too become prey to her nefarious designs and her need to control all around her. Their marriage, health and Claire’s sanity is soon under threat as Mother reverts to form.
Mother has her own special plans (exactly what we are not made privy to until the novel reaches its conclusion) and will not be thwarted….. Family secrets, lies and the past intertwine to create a read where, with each turn of the page, my heart beat ever faster as the evil intent reveals itself as we approach the novel’s shocking denouement. Madness threatens to consume Claire and her mother Prissy and it is uncertain who will be the victor.
The novel contains some truly superb characterisations, not just Prissy herself but also the unfortunate Claire, the unsuspecting Jason, Barb, Prissy’s long-suffering neighbour and friend and Fathers Pike and Flanagan, the current and former local priests. The residents of Morning Glory Circle each have their own secrets and there are many surprises in store as they are slowly revealed.
I was open mouthed as the plot unfolded. This deeply psychological novel contains truly appalling revelations, and is certainly not for the faint of heart. If you are looking for an unforgettable and heart stopping read that explores the depths of human depravity then this is the book for you. An unforgettable read by a writing duo that are at he top of their game. Please note, an ARC of this book was given to me for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
Mother is a superbly crafted and enthralling psychological thriller which has emerged from the writing partnership of Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross. For me, the novel has strong echoes of David Lynch and Stephen King: there are a myriad of secrets and dark deeds which go on behind the immediate visual landscape, complemented by a host of quirky yet intense characterisations and a devilishly twisted plot. The read also contains some very dark humour.
The words sociopath, narcissist and even monster fail to adequately describe Prissy Martin, the ‘Mother’ of the title. She is one evil package of destructive, controlling, self-serving and remorseless desires who will let no one get in her way. Indeed, this monster’s tentacles reach far and wide.....
It is into this that Claire, her estranged daughter, pregnant with her first child, reluctantly returns, accompanied by her husband Jason, the couple having fallen on hard times. Surely Mother is not as bad as Claire’s memories indicate? Indeed, at first Prissy appears to do all she can to make them feel welcome, but it is not long before they too become prey to her nefarious designs and her need to control all around her. Their marriage, health and Claire’s sanity is soon under threat as Mother reverts to form.
Mother has her own special plans (exactly what we are not made privy to until the novel reaches its conclusion) and will not be thwarted….. Family secrets, lies and the past intertwine to create a read where, with each turn of the page, my heart beat ever faster as the evil intent reveals itself as we approach the novel’s shocking denouement. Madness threatens to consume Claire and her mother Prissy and it is uncertain who will be the victor.
The novel contains some truly superb characterisations, not just Prissy herself but also the unfortunate Claire, the unsuspecting Jason, Barb, Prissy’s long-suffering neighbour and friend and Fathers Pike and Flanagan, the current and former local priests. The residents of Morning Glory Circle each have their own secrets and there are many surprises in store as they are slowly revealed.
I was open mouthed as the plot unfolded. This deeply psychological novel contains truly appalling revelations, and is certainly not for the faint of heart. If you are looking for an unforgettable and heart stopping read that explores the depths of human depravity then this is the book for you. An unforgettable read by a writing duo that are at he top of their game. Please note, an ARC of this book was given to me for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
February 18, 2021
Sometimes, the most terrifying things are ones that can lurk right next door. Or in your own house. MOTHER wraps true evil in a perfectly pressed pink Jackie O knockoff skirt-suit and crowns it in a wreath of dried flowers, tied with a bracelet made of a dead child's hair. Sin is at the very heart of this macabre tale set in a Pleasant Valley Sunday-style cul-de-sac, sins excused and sins perceived, all served potluck. MOTHER draws you in and does not let go.
September 18, 2016
What a despicable woman. It was great! Once I got to the halfway point I couldn't put it down. Every chance I got at work I was pulling out my phone to sneak a few pages in. Thorne & Cross never disappoint. A truly disturbing and memorable book. Prissy Martin is one character you won't forget!
February 8, 2024
What the heck did I just read?!?
Desperate housewives meets highschool cliques and pettiness (no it’s not about high schoolers), meets anything written by Alice Feeney and John Marrs, meets Sharp Objects.
Wow. Just frikkin wow.
Desperate housewives meets highschool cliques and pettiness (no it’s not about high schoolers), meets anything written by Alice Feeney and John Marrs, meets Sharp Objects.
Wow. Just frikkin wow.
May 2, 2016
First, many thanks to the author(s), who provided a free copy of Mother in exchanged for an honest review. Warning to sensitive readers: this book is not for the faint of heart. Abandon hope, all ye who enter here thinking this is a safe little side trip into the shadows...these shadows have teeth, and think you would taste good with ketchup.
This book blew my mind. It was fantastic. One part Misery, one part Sharp Objects, another part Peyton Place, with a dash of Steel Magnolias and the Stepford Wives thrown in for good measure. This book was both bone-chilling and impossible to put down.
The last thing that Claire wants to do is to go back to her mother’s home, despite the desperate financial situation that has driven her and her husband, Jason, to this point. Claire is pregnant, and Jason has just been diagnosed with epilepsy, which has effectively killed his career as a pilot. The job that he is offered (thanks to Prissy, Claire’s mom) seems like a godsend. Just a few months, he tells her. Hold out for just a few months and we will be able to move. Claire reluctantly agrees, but keeps her guard up around her mother. Prissy puts on a good show for Jason, and soon has him convinced that Claire has over exaggerated and is being unduly harsh to her mother.
Boy, is he in for a shock.
When Claire reveals just the tip of the iceberg that is Prissy’s crazy, Jason is thrown for a loop. The fact that Claire’s disabled father is held hostage in the house is disturbing, but when Claire is injured herself Prissy insists on taking charge of her care. After all, she is a nurse…. As I said, Jason and Claire only know the tip of the iceberg. When Claire’s repressed memories begin to surface, they leave her wondering just what is real and what is her imagination. This goes far beyond rooms piled with useless junk, and the undying need to mind everyone else’s business. When Prissy’s need for control really decides to kick up its skirts and dance, everyone suffers.
I loved this book. Just when I thought it couldn’t get any wackier, any darker, or any more screwed up, I was granted a peek into a level of nuts I never have seen before. Calling this a psychological thriller is like calling a hydrogen bomb a bottle rocket! I could rave on about it for another few paragraphs, but all I can really say about it is GO READ IT! It’s so worth it!
June 6, 2016
It might be weird to say that I enjoyed the book, but I really found Mother immensely interesting. The neighborhood of Morning Glory Circle was made up of individualistic residents so real you see a little of yourself and your neighbors in them. Who would have thought each of them hid secrets so deep and dark inside of them? It was equally surprising and horrifying at the same time? Well, it seems that it’s time to reevaluate your neighbors and think about how well you really know them.
It was a wonder how Prissy managed to hide her true self so well from the prying eyes of the neighborhood. At the beginning, I had a similar mindset to that of Jason, Claire’s husband. Claire must be over-reacting. Prissy couldn’t be that bad, right? Wrong. She was insane. I can easily sympathize and understand Claire’s reluctance on returning to her childhood home. No one should have gone through what she and her brother, Tim, went through. It was simply a nightmare. Throughout the story, I learnt that Claire was a strong and sure about herself despite what the people around her may say.
The plot and the setting of the story were perfect as well. When I first got a picture of Morning Glory Circle, it reminded me a little of the neighborhood in the movie “Edward Scissorhands”. Just another cheery and innocent row of houses which store exciting and bewitching mysteries in them. Mysteries that are bound to unravel sooner or later. There were a plethora of personalities in the neighborhood, from the motherly Barbara to the weird Deans. The collection of characters really made my imagination perk up.
It was a wonder how Prissy managed to hide her true self so well from the prying eyes of the neighborhood. At the beginning, I had a similar mindset to that of Jason, Claire’s husband. Claire must be over-reacting. Prissy couldn’t be that bad, right? Wrong. She was insane. I can easily sympathize and understand Claire’s reluctance on returning to her childhood home. No one should have gone through what she and her brother, Tim, went through. It was simply a nightmare. Throughout the story, I learnt that Claire was a strong and sure about herself despite what the people around her may say.
The plot and the setting of the story were perfect as well. When I first got a picture of Morning Glory Circle, it reminded me a little of the neighborhood in the movie “Edward Scissorhands”. Just another cheery and innocent row of houses which store exciting and bewitching mysteries in them. Mysteries that are bound to unravel sooner or later. There were a plethora of personalities in the neighborhood, from the motherly Barbara to the weird Deans. The collection of characters really made my imagination perk up.
May 12, 2016
Mother by Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross is about as disturbing as one can get. These authors are seriously twisted individuals that know how to horrify and entertain at the same time. Individually their books are quite enthralling, but together, they are a force to be reckoned with. I know once I start reading one of their books, I just can’t put it down until I finish. Well, there was one I didn’t love as much, but this isn’t about that book
This book really takes a look at the lengths some will go to due to mental illness. Keeping the perfect façade for others, while inside is a black and twisted mess is quite the talent. And Pricilla takes it to a whole other level of crazy. Her daughter Claire really takes the brunt of her abuse once her brother is gone. These authors make you feel awful for Claire, and you know there is nothing you can do.
Despite the horror that is Pricilla Martin, I do love her neighbors. How they have put up with her shit for this long is amazing to me. I’m not sure if I could have been as “neighborly” as they were. Her neighbors are freakin hilarious. Gossipy bunch, but that’s old ladies for you.
I really enjoyed every sick page of this book. It was disturbing and horrible. Some of the scenes made me throw up in my mouth a little bit as I was reading, but I still couldn’t stop. I just had to see what that crazy bitch would do next! I’m not sure what that says about my own mental health, but let’s just move along.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a different type of Thriller.
This book really takes a look at the lengths some will go to due to mental illness. Keeping the perfect façade for others, while inside is a black and twisted mess is quite the talent. And Pricilla takes it to a whole other level of crazy. Her daughter Claire really takes the brunt of her abuse once her brother is gone. These authors make you feel awful for Claire, and you know there is nothing you can do.
Despite the horror that is Pricilla Martin, I do love her neighbors. How they have put up with her shit for this long is amazing to me. I’m not sure if I could have been as “neighborly” as they were. Her neighbors are freakin hilarious. Gossipy bunch, but that’s old ladies for you.
I really enjoyed every sick page of this book. It was disturbing and horrible. Some of the scenes made me throw up in my mouth a little bit as I was reading, but I still couldn’t stop. I just had to see what that crazy bitch would do next! I’m not sure what that says about my own mental health, but let’s just move along.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a different type of Thriller.
August 10, 2016
Okay, before I start my actual review, I should probably make a confession. I am not a fan of psychological thrillers, which is crazy considering I went to school for many years to obtain my MS in Psychology. Often times, I find myself over-analyzing, instead of simply enjoying the book....soooooo I typically avoid most things that hint at having a psychological foundation. This is one instance that I'm glad to have gone against my "better" judgement.
I feel like we all probably have that one (those of you with only one should consider yourselves lucky) family member with a few loose screws, but Priscilla Martin, "Prissy" will make most of our's look like saints. As I flipped through the pages, of Mother I found myself sympathizing with Claire, screaming at Jason, cringing at what Prissy might do next, and laughing at the antics of Babs Vandercooth (one of several awesome neighbors).
This book was full of riveting twists and turns, and just when you think that there couldn't be another surprise you'll be proven wrong. Mother is a must read that will make your family's level of crazy seem not so bad.
You can find this review (along with many more) here, on the CommonBookSense blog!
I feel like we all probably have that one (those of you with only one should consider yourselves lucky) family member with a few loose screws, but Priscilla Martin, "Prissy" will make most of our's look like saints. As I flipped through the pages, of Mother I found myself sympathizing with Claire, screaming at Jason, cringing at what Prissy might do next, and laughing at the antics of Babs Vandercooth (one of several awesome neighbors).
This book was full of riveting twists and turns, and just when you think that there couldn't be another surprise you'll be proven wrong. Mother is a must read that will make your family's level of crazy seem not so bad.
You can find this review (along with many more) here, on the CommonBookSense blog!
August 8, 2019
Well,slow ominous build where yes she was awfull still but you thought where’s the crazy behaviours and then ,well there are many
Loved how not just focused on them three but the whole village and that gave me hope for the dreaded foreboding
Their were close commections,goodsouls and u cd Only hope they wd come together and fight this controlling abusive character
Wow
I have read many like this bout obsessive relationships and this was dark yet strangely at the beginning felt like a cosy mystery due to the street community focus
But when it goes it goes and it can be actually hard to read at times I think as the abuse is very vivid and we shdnt shy away I know but it is hard to face if u work with people who are survivors daily and hear some harrowing lives it’s hard to face what ever so be prepared .
It is though a very good race through page turner
There are many of this type I know but this is vivid and the characters well drawn and the outcome satisfactory
So though not amazing literature ,for its genre it’s well done ,clearly thought about t and takes a well worn subject come alive
Loved how not just focused on them three but the whole village and that gave me hope for the dreaded foreboding
Their were close commections,goodsouls and u cd Only hope they wd come together and fight this controlling abusive character
Wow
I have read many like this bout obsessive relationships and this was dark yet strangely at the beginning felt like a cosy mystery due to the street community focus
But when it goes it goes and it can be actually hard to read at times I think as the abuse is very vivid and we shdnt shy away I know but it is hard to face if u work with people who are survivors daily and hear some harrowing lives it’s hard to face what ever so be prepared .
It is though a very good race through page turner
There are many of this type I know but this is vivid and the characters well drawn and the outcome satisfactory
So though not amazing literature ,for its genre it’s well done ,clearly thought about t and takes a well worn subject come alive
April 19, 2016
I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review. This is in no way reflected in my opinion of this book.
Mother is a psychological horror that shows us the seedy underbelly of a small town cul-de-sac. Peyton Place has nothing on this Snapdragon, Ca street and Prissy makes Mommie Dearest look like a cookie baking sweetheart. Everybody has secrets they don't want to get out and one woman knows most of them. Prissy Martin is evil incarnate as she rules over her neighborhood, church, family and friends. Doing whatever she needs to to get what she wants. I found myself wishing that someone, usually Claire or Barb, would call her on her bad behavior. The cast of characters found here is large but never feels unwieldy or unrealistic. I really liked Claire, Barb, Jason, Paul and Stephanie. The story moves at a quick pace and keeps you wanting to know what happens next. The secrets that are revealed at the end are incredibly shocking and disturbing. A fantastically entertaining 4.5 star read.
Mother is a psychological horror that shows us the seedy underbelly of a small town cul-de-sac. Peyton Place has nothing on this Snapdragon, Ca street and Prissy makes Mommie Dearest look like a cookie baking sweetheart. Everybody has secrets they don't want to get out and one woman knows most of them. Prissy Martin is evil incarnate as she rules over her neighborhood, church, family and friends. Doing whatever she needs to to get what she wants. I found myself wishing that someone, usually Claire or Barb, would call her on her bad behavior. The cast of characters found here is large but never feels unwieldy or unrealistic. I really liked Claire, Barb, Jason, Paul and Stephanie. The story moves at a quick pace and keeps you wanting to know what happens next. The secrets that are revealed at the end are incredibly shocking and disturbing. A fantastically entertaining 4.5 star read.
July 15, 2016
Creepy!
I have always enjoyed Tamara Thorns books but this reached an all time high for me.
Prissy,the self-proclaimed matriarch of Morning Glory Circle, is the neighbor that nightmares are made of. If you are looking for a book to make you wonder about YOUR neighborhood be sure to read Mother.
I have always enjoyed Tamara Thorns books but this reached an all time high for me.
Prissy,the self-proclaimed matriarch of Morning Glory Circle, is the neighbor that nightmares are made of. If you are looking for a book to make you wonder about YOUR neighborhood be sure to read Mother.
May 19, 2016
Another really good read from Tamara Thorne. She has quickly become one of my favorites.
July 12, 2020
In Mother by Tamara Thorne & Alistair Cross, the adage that “you can’t go home again” becomes the horrifying truth. Jason and Claire Holbrook find themselves in an untenable position. She’s pregnant, he’s a newly disabled pilot with no job. Moving in with the mother, Claire ran away from ten years earlier, was the last thing she wanted to do, but it was the only thing they could do. The only problem, the Femme Fatale from Hell, just also happens to be the Mother from Hell.
A psychological thriller that will have you engrossed, ignoring the clock, and so profoundly disturbed you won’t close the book until early the next day. Just be prepared for sleep to evade as you contemplate the possible existence of such monsters.
Mother is a reimagined “Psycho” and an even more alarming glimpse into the world of psychopaths. Well done Thorne and Cross, even King and Hitchcock would doff their hats!
A psychological thriller that will have you engrossed, ignoring the clock, and so profoundly disturbed you won’t close the book until early the next day. Just be prepared for sleep to evade as you contemplate the possible existence of such monsters.
Mother is a reimagined “Psycho” and an even more alarming glimpse into the world of psychopaths. Well done Thorne and Cross, even King and Hitchcock would doff their hats!
April 30, 2021
I enjoy the way Thorne's villains and antagonists. They are disgusting and repulsive enough to keep me reading and invested in their ultimate demise. I couldn't wait for Mother to suffer. I was frustrated that she got away with so much and how everyone seemed to cow down to her but it was certainly believable. How many stories have we heard and seen about people pushing away doubts and horrible actions that they've heard or witnessed someone do. I found myself being annoyed by most of the character's inactions which though annoying made the story believable and realistic. Although this novel is set in contemporary times, it felt very nostalgic of the 60s which I enjoyed. I definitely agree with the Mommie Dearest reference. I could think of a few other stories but don't want to reveal any spoilers but it was an enjoyable read. Definitely one of my top favorite novels by Thorne; Brimstone as well but Haunted is my all-time favorite. I LOVE LOVE LOVE Haunted.
February 9, 2022
This was an exceptional book, it's obvious I put 5 stars. I have never read a book by either author alone or together. The narration was great. With that being said, I think the book was a little longer than it should have been. I think it could have been shorter by many chapters and it wouldn't have taken anything away from the story. Two things I didn't like with this book: 1) They did not explore as to why Priscilla Martin was the way it was. They hinted at some things, but did not explore it. The extra chapters they could have done without could have been used for this. 2) The chapter "Down The Rabbit Hole" cannot be explained. It's horrible. 60 minutes of nonsense. Even though I've said this, I have to say it was still an exceptional book. I look forward to reading more from the authors alone and/or together.
August 11, 2023
I almost didn't read this book, when the first thing I saw was a list of 70+ characters. But I decided to go ahead, maybe I'd like the story. I liked the idea of the story, but it was poorly done. It got dragged down by all the secondary characters, and none of them acted like normal people. It might have been believable if the evil old woman controlled a few people...but to have the entire neighborhood and beyond ask how high every time she said jump was nonsense. The most idiotic being the daughter and son-in-law, who took it all like helpless children. It was hard to even root for them. Totally lost me when the the woman in her 60's was flashing her vagina at priests. My biggest pet peeve is books with characters that don't act and react like normal people, and that was this book from the first page to the last. Can't say I'd read anything else from these authors.
September 1, 2019
CRAZY! Wow, I was sucked in; disturbing yet incredibly entertaining. Great job!
~ Claire and her husband, Jason, we’re going through tough times. After Jason started suffering seizures, he could no longer work as a pilot. Now that they are expecting their first baby, they have no choice but to move in with Claire’s mother, Peggy. Although Claire hates the idea; she knows better -although many of her memories have been buried. She hasn’t seen her mother in more than a decade, after all. Jason promises to only stay for a short time, and if they can’t bare it, they’ll leave. Quickly he learns that Peggy’s charm is definitely different; a fraud with pathological problems. Will Claire’s memories of her childhood return before they get trapped in Peggy’s web?
~ Claire and her husband, Jason, we’re going through tough times. After Jason started suffering seizures, he could no longer work as a pilot. Now that they are expecting their first baby, they have no choice but to move in with Claire’s mother, Peggy. Although Claire hates the idea; she knows better -although many of her memories have been buried. She hasn’t seen her mother in more than a decade, after all. Jason promises to only stay for a short time, and if they can’t bare it, they’ll leave. Quickly he learns that Peggy’s charm is definitely different; a fraud with pathological problems. Will Claire’s memories of her childhood return before they get trapped in Peggy’s web?
April 29, 2023
Well... this book certainly has a bit of everything. The Mother is definitely a Psychopath. A little gross for my taste. (The punishments Mother doled out to her son, Timothy.) Priscilla Martin had 2 children and 2 husbands. The 1st husband died and she married his brother. The husbands had been twins. Priscilla had something on everyone on her cul-de-sac, she knew her everyone 's secrets and threatened to divulge them if people didn't do as she wanted. She terribly fixated on her son and did unspeakable things to him. The story is very convoluted and it is an interesting read, but not for everyone. 🤔🤔🐇🐇🐇
August 4, 2020
What did I just read
This book host a cast of almost 40 characters! It's a little confusing in the beginning to keep them all straight since they each have there own sub plot revolving around "mother" aka Prissy.
This book is about one women's diabolical deeds to get what she wants and how it ultimately destroys the community around her. It is extremely well written.
Some parts of the abuse she inflicted on her children is hard to read. Especially the sexual abuse she descended on her son.
This book host a cast of almost 40 characters! It's a little confusing in the beginning to keep them all straight since they each have there own sub plot revolving around "mother" aka Prissy.
This book is about one women's diabolical deeds to get what she wants and how it ultimately destroys the community around her. It is extremely well written.
Some parts of the abuse she inflicted on her children is hard to read. Especially the sexual abuse she descended on her son.
August 8, 2019
WAY better than expected. Big cast of characters that never manages to lose the claustrophobic feeling of Claire's suffering at the hands of her mother. Occasionally drags more than needed to try to build suspense, but overall quite an effective little horror story that is entirely human. Some descriptions of CSA.
February 3, 2021
Go give your momma a hug...
And thank your lucky stars she's not like Priscilla Martin. If she is, come here and let me give you a hug! This book will play head games with you, and you'll love it. Just keep in mind that you might not know what is lurking behind pretty pastel colors and Astro turf lawns until it's too late...
And thank your lucky stars she's not like Priscilla Martin. If she is, come here and let me give you a hug! This book will play head games with you, and you'll love it. Just keep in mind that you might not know what is lurking behind pretty pastel colors and Astro turf lawns until it's too late...
July 11, 2022
Disturbing
Whilst reading this I was desperate to get to the last page. If I could have I would have jumped forward. Stomach turning ,but morbidly fascinating, with a few giggles thrown in. Although maybe not intentional. Surely no one has a mother like that? Your worse nightmare x
Whilst reading this I was desperate to get to the last page. If I could have I would have jumped forward. Stomach turning ,but morbidly fascinating, with a few giggles thrown in. Although maybe not intentional. Surely no one has a mother like that? Your worse nightmare x
July 8, 2023
If you thought "Mommy Dearest" was as low as someone could go---this Mother is a true psychological mish mosh of every diagnosis in the book!! I could not stop reading this although I was cringing every page or so. This is true psychological terror! How it all ends for this demonic woman will shock you----Thankfully her family had a happy ending.
October 9, 2019
Dirty little secrets...
I couldn't put this book down!
The mysteries, the secrets, the horrors...
It was like the guilty pleasure of reading V.C. Andrews - without the guilt, haha!
It was perfect!
I couldn't put this book down!
The mysteries, the secrets, the horrors...
It was like the guilty pleasure of reading V.C. Andrews - without the guilt, haha!
It was perfect!
February 26, 2021
Another big wow to these two authors. Slow building tension ( never boring thou ) and 30 % into the book it goes bang and never stops. Mother definitely deserves a place in the horror hotel. Some draw dropping chapters and overall a fantastic read. Can't get enough of Alistair and Tamara. Two brilliant authors and looking forward to reading another book by these two.
June 12, 2018
Review to come
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