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A Good Mother
I see my son’s scooter lying in the undergrowth. Time stands still. Where is he? Deafened by my own heartbeat, I keep looking but I can’t see him. This is all my fault. My punishment for the things I did, and the things I should have done.
All I ever wanted was to keep my son safe. I married the perfect husband, built the perfect home. I’ve tried to give Finn the life I never had.
Everything was going so well. Until now.
It’s just small things at first – a punctured tyre, an open gate that I'm sure I locked. But then I see the photograph of two young girls, and a night I’ve tried to forget.
I know I have to stop pretending that nothing is happening. I can’t escape the truth.
Someone knows my secret. But what do they want from me?
All I ever wanted was to keep my son safe. I married the perfect husband, built the perfect home. I’ve tried to give Finn the life I never had.
Everything was going so well. Until now.
It’s just small things at first – a punctured tyre, an open gate that I'm sure I locked. But then I see the photograph of two young girls, and a night I’ve tried to forget.
I know I have to stop pretending that nothing is happening. I can’t escape the truth.
Someone knows my secret. But what do they want from me?
- GenresThriller
343 pages, ebook
First published May 26, 2021
190 people are currently reading
378 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
May 19, 2021
This is the first of Sam Hepburn’s books that I have read. If you like good stories which build-up gradually, you will like this.
Nicola has had a tough childhood – growing up in foster care and later struggling to cope with finances. Her troubles seemed to significantly recede when she marries Ian, a dentist doing well in his career. He also is accepting of her son Finn, but there are things in Nicola’s past which are painful and which she keeps to herself. As one of her acquaintances from the past – Donna resurfaces in her life, she senses that she has to face the demons of her past, and also protect Finn.
The story is good and I liked Nicola’s character, though many of her experiences make for painful reading. I liked how the ending sections had some good twists and tied up the story well. Overall, recommended if you like slow burners which build layers to the story slowly.
My rating: 3.5 / 5.
Thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and the author for a free electronic review copy.
Nicola has had a tough childhood – growing up in foster care and later struggling to cope with finances. Her troubles seemed to significantly recede when she marries Ian, a dentist doing well in his career. He also is accepting of her son Finn, but there are things in Nicola’s past which are painful and which she keeps to herself. As one of her acquaintances from the past – Donna resurfaces in her life, she senses that she has to face the demons of her past, and also protect Finn.
The story is good and I liked Nicola’s character, though many of her experiences make for painful reading. I liked how the ending sections had some good twists and tied up the story well. Overall, recommended if you like slow burners which build layers to the story slowly.
My rating: 3.5 / 5.
Thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and the author for a free electronic review copy.
May 20, 2021
Meet Nicola
Had a shocking childhood and early teenage life, many regrets and many dark memories
But all is well now, married to Ian, a Dentist no less, nice house, brand new car and Finn, her adored son
Nicola would do anything for him
And as her life unravels, little by little until it’s safe to say its chaos she finds that she has to put that theory to the test
I started this and AGAIN thought I had worked it out, parts of it I had but there is a stonking and clever BAM moment that changes everything and puts the book into the next level
It really is a thrilling ride as things get out of hand for Nicola and her past becomes her now and if she does nothing her future
It twists and turns and twists again and I was unsure how it would end, but end it does and impressively
Really well told story, fabulous love to hate, despise even characters and a near perfect psychological drama
Very very good
10/10
5 Stars
Had a shocking childhood and early teenage life, many regrets and many dark memories
But all is well now, married to Ian, a Dentist no less, nice house, brand new car and Finn, her adored son
Nicola would do anything for him
And as her life unravels, little by little until it’s safe to say its chaos she finds that she has to put that theory to the test
I started this and AGAIN thought I had worked it out, parts of it I had but there is a stonking and clever BAM moment that changes everything and puts the book into the next level
It really is a thrilling ride as things get out of hand for Nicola and her past becomes her now and if she does nothing her future
It twists and turns and twists again and I was unsure how it would end, but end it does and impressively
Really well told story, fabulous love to hate, despise even characters and a near perfect psychological drama
Very very good
10/10
5 Stars
May 27, 2021
A Good Mother by Sam Hepburn is a slow burning thriller that tests the limits of one woman’s love for her child to see just how far she will go. The book introduces readers to Nicci who had lived a hard life spending her time growing up in the foster care system and not always making the best of choices.
Now Nicci has gotten her life on track not only for herself but for her young son. Working as a receptionist Nicci met her now husband who has treated her well and become the father her son needs. One day though out of the blue a woman from Nicci’s past comes back into her life and puts her perfect life at risk.
I seem to be on the outside with my rating for A Good Mother by Sam Hepburn as most have seemed to love this one. In my case the story started off rather slowly and as I read I just never really liked the main character in this one and felt a lot of her actions were over the top and unbelievable. The bones of the book were very appealing and probably would have rated higher if I had more of a connection to the characters but I would recommend trying this one for yourself since i am in the minority.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Now Nicci has gotten her life on track not only for herself but for her young son. Working as a receptionist Nicci met her now husband who has treated her well and become the father her son needs. One day though out of the blue a woman from Nicci’s past comes back into her life and puts her perfect life at risk.
I seem to be on the outside with my rating for A Good Mother by Sam Hepburn as most have seemed to love this one. In my case the story started off rather slowly and as I read I just never really liked the main character in this one and felt a lot of her actions were over the top and unbelievable. The bones of the book were very appealing and probably would have rated higher if I had more of a connection to the characters but I would recommend trying this one for yourself since i am in the minority.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
May 5, 2021
This is my first book by this author but it won’t be my last. It was well written and dark and intense. It’s definitely not for everyone as there are triggers and the characters are all cold, manipulative and out for themselves. But if you’re looking for a domestic thriller, this may be for you.
Nicola grew up in foster care after her mother’s suicide and while there made friends with some less than ideal girls but they were the only family she knew. As a result of choices made with her friends, her life was a giant series of bad decisions that affected not only her but those around her forever.
Now an adult, she is married to a charming, rich dentist she met while working as a receptionist for him and living an enviable life with her son, who her husband has taken under his care as if he were his own. Her husband doesn’t know much about her past and she prefers to keep it that way until one day her past comes calling back and sets in motion a series of events that spins faster than a carousel.
This was fast paced, loaded with twists and characters that you will loath one minute and cheer for the next.
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
Nicola grew up in foster care after her mother’s suicide and while there made friends with some less than ideal girls but they were the only family she knew. As a result of choices made with her friends, her life was a giant series of bad decisions that affected not only her but those around her forever.
Now an adult, she is married to a charming, rich dentist she met while working as a receptionist for him and living an enviable life with her son, who her husband has taken under his care as if he were his own. Her husband doesn’t know much about her past and she prefers to keep it that way until one day her past comes calling back and sets in motion a series of events that spins faster than a carousel.
This was fast paced, loaded with twists and characters that you will loath one minute and cheer for the next.
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this Arc in exchange for my review.
May 27, 2021
Nicola might seem to be in an ideal marriage. Married to a successful dentist, Ian. A mother of a young son named Finn. But, before I go on, I must say that this book might trigger some readers. In all honesty, it triggered me. Ian was a controlling husband. I cringed at his level of control. Page after page kept me with a lump in my throat, and I considered putting this book down.
But, no, I kept on reading. I looked more at Nicci. I needed to see if she could fight back. For herself. For Finn. What ensued was a dramatic story of how she became married to Ian and some backstory about her less than ideal life, one spent in care after her mother's suicide. As a young mother she met Ian. However, before that, in the years in foster care, she befriended another girl named Donna.
Donna is in Nicci's past. Or had been. What brings her into the story as it unfolded? Well, as I mentioned, drama. Not only do we see the disturbing relationship between Nicci and Ian, we see Donna come back into the picture. When Donna returns what she presents to Nicci is something very ugly. The twists in this book come fast and hard and most certainly kept me riveted to the story, although some of the twists were rather shocking.
Not only is Nicci consistently gaslighted by Ian, other strange things begin happening to her, proof that someone is watching her, that she might indeed be threatened. All of this, what is happening between her and Ian, as well as what is happening now is due to the fact that Nicci has been hiding a secret for years. Secrets, however, have a way of being exposed. How that happens in this story is up to the reader. Get past the domestic abuse and what Sam Hepburn has delivered to readers is definitely a page-turner, one that led me to just having to know the outcome.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
But, no, I kept on reading. I looked more at Nicci. I needed to see if she could fight back. For herself. For Finn. What ensued was a dramatic story of how she became married to Ian and some backstory about her less than ideal life, one spent in care after her mother's suicide. As a young mother she met Ian. However, before that, in the years in foster care, she befriended another girl named Donna.
Donna is in Nicci's past. Or had been. What brings her into the story as it unfolded? Well, as I mentioned, drama. Not only do we see the disturbing relationship between Nicci and Ian, we see Donna come back into the picture. When Donna returns what she presents to Nicci is something very ugly. The twists in this book come fast and hard and most certainly kept me riveted to the story, although some of the twists were rather shocking.
Not only is Nicci consistently gaslighted by Ian, other strange things begin happening to her, proof that someone is watching her, that she might indeed be threatened. All of this, what is happening between her and Ian, as well as what is happening now is due to the fact that Nicci has been hiding a secret for years. Secrets, however, have a way of being exposed. How that happens in this story is up to the reader. Get past the domestic abuse and what Sam Hepburn has delivered to readers is definitely a page-turner, one that led me to just having to know the outcome.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
May 18, 2021
This was a pretty good psychological thriller. The story was interesting enough to keep me going but there were just too many facets that weren't in line with the plot that had me constantly questioning what was going on.
Nicci was fresh out of the foster system with her best friend, Donna, and they were both heading straight down the wrong path when she became single mom to Finn. Finn changed her life and she fought for them both to survive leaving Donna and her old life behind. Along the way she married Ian, a successful dentist, and is suddenly living the good life - except that her husband is a jerk. Out of the blue Donna appears with a plot twist and threats of blackmail to bring down Nicci's new seemingly charmed life. And that's when things just get weird. Nicci's actions don't make a whole lot of sense from this point and she doesn't garner a lot of sympathy. Ian's character is abusive, when he's supposed to be subtly gaslighting. The bright spots in this book are the characters of Finn and Leon.
All in all, I was entertained while reading. I would like to thank #NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me an advance copy of #AGoodMother in exchange for an honest review.
Nicci was fresh out of the foster system with her best friend, Donna, and they were both heading straight down the wrong path when she became single mom to Finn. Finn changed her life and she fought for them both to survive leaving Donna and her old life behind. Along the way she married Ian, a successful dentist, and is suddenly living the good life - except that her husband is a jerk. Out of the blue Donna appears with a plot twist and threats of blackmail to bring down Nicci's new seemingly charmed life. And that's when things just get weird. Nicci's actions don't make a whole lot of sense from this point and she doesn't garner a lot of sympathy. Ian's character is abusive, when he's supposed to be subtly gaslighting. The bright spots in this book are the characters of Finn and Leon.
All in all, I was entertained while reading. I would like to thank #NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me an advance copy of #AGoodMother in exchange for an honest review.
May 20, 2021
★★★★★ 4.5 stars (rounded up)
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Sam Hepburn's gripping domestic thriller A GOOD MOTHER.
This is my first read by Sam Hepburn and I have to say I'm impressed. Her calibre for the domestic thriller is up there with Shalini Boland and K.L. Slater in her ability to engage the reader and keep them turning the pages throughout. Not to mention a riveting plot line different from anything I've read before. Her characters are not perfect; they are as flawed as the rest of us, making the protagonist in A GOOD MOTHER someone readers can sympathise and identify with and asking ourselves the question "what would we do should we find ourselves in the same situation?"
Nicola Cahill grew up in foster care after the suicide of her mother when she was five years old, shunted from home to home before the system spat her our at 16 and left her to fend for herself. Caught up in the only world she was familiar with, her foray into adulthood was filled with hardships and desperate measures.
Until one day, something happened to turn her life around. She became a mother. And from that day on, Nicola vowed to be a good mother and protect her son at all costs.
Six years later, Nicola has put the past behind her and now lives in a gorgeous house on affluent Juniper Close with her perfect husband, a successful dentist at the practice where she works as a receptionist. Ian is wonderful with her son Finn, taking him under his wing spending time with him teaching him chess and even coaching his soccer team. The sight of the two of them together warms her heart. To think all that she has come from to where she is now, Nicci had never thought it possible.
But then strange and bizarre things start happening. A dead blackbird on her car. A gash in her car tyre. Glass sprinkled by an open gate that she had securely locked. But it's not until she receives the photo that she knows her troubled past has come back to haunt her. She thought she had left all that behind her...but she was wrong. Because not only is her marriage not as happy as it seems, someone knows her secret...and are now threatening to destroy her carefuly composed life. But worse than that...they will stop at nothing to get at what she values most in the world. Her son, Finn.
And when a face from Nicci's past comes knocking on her door, she knows then that the facade of lies she has built around her is about to come tumbling down. How far will Nicci go to protect her son? Can she keep the secrets of her past hidden? And what happens if it all goes wrong and her lies are uncovered?
An intense psychological read, A GOOD MOTHER is fast-paced from start to finish that I could not put down. It is told completely from Nicola's perspective, in both the past and present narratives, as her past is slowly revealed to the reader. It's easy to sympathise with Nicola as a product of an uncaring system that just chews people up and then spits them out, leaving them without support or the resources to fend for themselves. This in turn leads to a sad chain of events of exploitation and abuse that in the end also dumps them when they become a liability. How are those in the foster care system supposed to make anything of themselves without the proper resources or support? It's appalling. It's no wonder Nicci ended up the way she did in her early years...but it was Finn's birth that was her saving grace. From that moment on, she stepped up to make something better of herself while caring for her son.
But Nicci's life was never meant to be an easy one for though she had escaped the cycle of an uncaring system she unknowingly swapped one form of abuse for another. That being in her marriage to husband Ian who I saw from the beginning was coercive, controlling and manipulative although she thought herself incredibly lucky to have found him. And he reminded her of that fact almost every day whilst at the same time insidiously chipping away at her self esteem and confidence therefore making her completely dependent on him. He was abhorrent and completely unlikeable and I wondered throughout the entire story how he would get his comeuppance because, let's face it, the bad guys usually do.
While A GOOD MOTHER is a fantastic read that is addictive and compelling, it's also one of those books that you can't help but dislike just about every character. They are pretty much all selfish, keeping secrets and out for themselves. I went from sympathising with Nicci to wanting to throttle her sometimes, knowing she was just digging herself in deeper and deeper. But despite it all, she just went from strength to strength that in the end she kicked butt majorly and I was cheering for her all the way.
The brilliant twisty has a frisson of tension running throughout as Nicci's tragic troubled past intertwines with her present in ways even I didn't see coming! Everything is woven expertly together in a way that leaves you breathless. So many secrets, so many lies. A GOOD MOTHER is a good...no, a bloody brilliant read that will have you turning the pages into the night...and still leave you reeling.
Perfect for fans of domestic thrillers and fans of Shalini Boland, K.L. Slater, Sheryl Browne and Ruth Heald.
I would like to thank #SamHepburn, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #AGoodMother in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Sam Hepburn's gripping domestic thriller A GOOD MOTHER.
This is my first read by Sam Hepburn and I have to say I'm impressed. Her calibre for the domestic thriller is up there with Shalini Boland and K.L. Slater in her ability to engage the reader and keep them turning the pages throughout. Not to mention a riveting plot line different from anything I've read before. Her characters are not perfect; they are as flawed as the rest of us, making the protagonist in A GOOD MOTHER someone readers can sympathise and identify with and asking ourselves the question "what would we do should we find ourselves in the same situation?"
Nicola Cahill grew up in foster care after the suicide of her mother when she was five years old, shunted from home to home before the system spat her our at 16 and left her to fend for herself. Caught up in the only world she was familiar with, her foray into adulthood was filled with hardships and desperate measures.
Until one day, something happened to turn her life around. She became a mother. And from that day on, Nicola vowed to be a good mother and protect her son at all costs.
Six years later, Nicola has put the past behind her and now lives in a gorgeous house on affluent Juniper Close with her perfect husband, a successful dentist at the practice where she works as a receptionist. Ian is wonderful with her son Finn, taking him under his wing spending time with him teaching him chess and even coaching his soccer team. The sight of the two of them together warms her heart. To think all that she has come from to where she is now, Nicci had never thought it possible.
But then strange and bizarre things start happening. A dead blackbird on her car. A gash in her car tyre. Glass sprinkled by an open gate that she had securely locked. But it's not until she receives the photo that she knows her troubled past has come back to haunt her. She thought she had left all that behind her...but she was wrong. Because not only is her marriage not as happy as it seems, someone knows her secret...and are now threatening to destroy her carefuly composed life. But worse than that...they will stop at nothing to get at what she values most in the world. Her son, Finn.
And when a face from Nicci's past comes knocking on her door, she knows then that the facade of lies she has built around her is about to come tumbling down. How far will Nicci go to protect her son? Can she keep the secrets of her past hidden? And what happens if it all goes wrong and her lies are uncovered?
An intense psychological read, A GOOD MOTHER is fast-paced from start to finish that I could not put down. It is told completely from Nicola's perspective, in both the past and present narratives, as her past is slowly revealed to the reader. It's easy to sympathise with Nicola as a product of an uncaring system that just chews people up and then spits them out, leaving them without support or the resources to fend for themselves. This in turn leads to a sad chain of events of exploitation and abuse that in the end also dumps them when they become a liability. How are those in the foster care system supposed to make anything of themselves without the proper resources or support? It's appalling. It's no wonder Nicci ended up the way she did in her early years...but it was Finn's birth that was her saving grace. From that moment on, she stepped up to make something better of herself while caring for her son.
But Nicci's life was never meant to be an easy one for though she had escaped the cycle of an uncaring system she unknowingly swapped one form of abuse for another. That being in her marriage to husband Ian who I saw from the beginning was coercive, controlling and manipulative although she thought herself incredibly lucky to have found him. And he reminded her of that fact almost every day whilst at the same time insidiously chipping away at her self esteem and confidence therefore making her completely dependent on him. He was abhorrent and completely unlikeable and I wondered throughout the entire story how he would get his comeuppance because, let's face it, the bad guys usually do.
While A GOOD MOTHER is a fantastic read that is addictive and compelling, it's also one of those books that you can't help but dislike just about every character. They are pretty much all selfish, keeping secrets and out for themselves. I went from sympathising with Nicci to wanting to throttle her sometimes, knowing she was just digging herself in deeper and deeper. But despite it all, she just went from strength to strength that in the end she kicked butt majorly and I was cheering for her all the way.
The brilliant twisty has a frisson of tension running throughout as Nicci's tragic troubled past intertwines with her present in ways even I didn't see coming! Everything is woven expertly together in a way that leaves you breathless. So many secrets, so many lies. A GOOD MOTHER is a good...no, a bloody brilliant read that will have you turning the pages into the night...and still leave you reeling.
Perfect for fans of domestic thrillers and fans of Shalini Boland, K.L. Slater, Sheryl Browne and Ruth Heald.
I would like to thank #SamHepburn, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #AGoodMother in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
June 15, 2023
Very good read! Will definitely check out more of this authors books.
May 30, 2021
Wow! This author always delivers. This book was gut wrenching and packed a punch from start to finish. What a thrilling read. I just could not put it down. Do read this one. Warning - you will not get anything done until you have reached the end. A pageturning, suspenseful, amazing read.
May 22, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, author Sam Hepburn, and Bookouture for giving me a free arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5 stars
This was my first Sam Hepburn’s books that I have read. and it will not be my last. If you are looking for good stories which build-up gradually, this book is for you!
This book was well written with the right amount of layered mystery, false leads, and dark and intense characters. There were some topics that were discussed and/or took place throughout this book that might be trigger warnings for some people, so be aware.
Many of the characters had a very dark past that caused them to act out of self preservation and self interest, which made for a very interesting story that keeps you reading until the very end.
Nicola grew up in the foster care system along with her friend Donna. After a tragic event takes place, Nicola and Donna go their separate ways. Years later, Nicola has moved on from her dark past and holds those secrets close. She has married the perfect man, a dentist and has a wonderful little boy. Nicola finally has the life she has always wanted. But Nicola's past is about to make an appearance in her perfect present when someone from her secretive past enters back into her life. That is where events start to unravel very quickly. This book was very fast paced and kept me guessing to the very end how it was all going to be resolved. I enjoyed the twist and turns that took place as characters began to show their true selves. I found myself not really liking any of the characters. They were not poorly written quite the contrary, they were well developed and held my interest. But all of them had their own secrets, agendas, and dark sides that made me think Finn, the little boy, would have been better off with his father's family and away from all the crazies! Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend this book for those who are huge fans of domestic psychological thrillers. I can't wait to read more books by this author!
5 stars
This was my first Sam Hepburn’s books that I have read. and it will not be my last. If you are looking for good stories which build-up gradually, this book is for you!
This book was well written with the right amount of layered mystery, false leads, and dark and intense characters. There were some topics that were discussed and/or took place throughout this book that might be trigger warnings for some people, so be aware.
Many of the characters had a very dark past that caused them to act out of self preservation and self interest, which made for a very interesting story that keeps you reading until the very end.
Nicola grew up in the foster care system along with her friend Donna. After a tragic event takes place, Nicola and Donna go their separate ways. Years later, Nicola has moved on from her dark past and holds those secrets close. She has married the perfect man, a dentist and has a wonderful little boy. Nicola finally has the life she has always wanted. But Nicola's past is about to make an appearance in her perfect present when someone from her secretive past enters back into her life. That is where events start to unravel very quickly. This book was very fast paced and kept me guessing to the very end how it was all going to be resolved. I enjoyed the twist and turns that took place as characters began to show their true selves. I found myself not really liking any of the characters. They were not poorly written quite the contrary, they were well developed and held my interest. But all of them had their own secrets, agendas, and dark sides that made me think Finn, the little boy, would have been better off with his father's family and away from all the crazies! Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend this book for those who are huge fans of domestic psychological thrillers. I can't wait to read more books by this author!
May 18, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I love reading books where the heroine is considered a dimwit, stupid, and an easily manipulated victim yet turns out to be so much more. A Good Mother by Sam Hepburn introduces us to Nicola, a rather unremarkable woman married to a successful and gorgeous dentist. As often happens though, Nicola hides a lot of damaging secrets...so does her hubby. Putting the pieces of the story together makes for a good read. I especially loved the ending to this book featuring the comeuppance to the unsavory men spotlighted in this novel. I predict this book is going to be very popular. Don’t mess with a girl and her child. You will live to regret it. #abuse #prostitution #childabuse #sextrafficing #redemption #motherhood @bookouture @netgalley @samhepburnauthor #agoodmother #triggers
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. Thank you to NetGalley and @bookouture for this free ARC, but my thoughts and review are my own and without bias. #reading #books #bookstagram #book #read #bookworm #booklover #bookish #bibliophile #reader #novel #booksofinstagram #booklovers #bookish #lindaleereads2021 #mmdbookclub #idratherbereading #readinglife #mmd #modernmrsdarcybookclub
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. Thank you to NetGalley and @bookouture for this free ARC, but my thoughts and review are my own and without bias. #reading #books #bookstagram #book #read #bookworm #booklover #bookish #bibliophile #reader #novel #booksofinstagram #booklovers #bookish #lindaleereads2021 #mmdbookclub #idratherbereading #readinglife #mmd #modernmrsdarcybookclub
May 14, 2021
Meet Nicola. She grew up in foster care. Her childhood and early adulthood years were full of unthinkable trauma and hardships.
She’s trying to move on from all of that and live happily with her husband and son. Bizarre things start happening and she feels like her past is coming back to haunt her. Can she keep the secrets of her past hidden? How far will she go to protect her son?
I couldn’t stop reading this! When all of the secrets from her past start spilling out everything falls into place like a twisted puzzle. There are some really intense parts which left me holding my breath! More secrets come to light in the last few chapters that I didn’t see coming! Thank you so much to NetGalley and Bookouture for this advanced reader’s copy!
She’s trying to move on from all of that and live happily with her husband and son. Bizarre things start happening and she feels like her past is coming back to haunt her. Can she keep the secrets of her past hidden? How far will she go to protect her son?
I couldn’t stop reading this! When all of the secrets from her past start spilling out everything falls into place like a twisted puzzle. There are some really intense parts which left me holding my breath! More secrets come to light in the last few chapters that I didn’t see coming! Thank you so much to NetGalley and Bookouture for this advanced reader’s copy!
March 10, 2023
I really enjoyed this book there was a great twist to it and it was well structured. The characters are well written and it’s a good read. The plot follows the main character Nicci when someone threatens to take her son and her past catches up with her how far will she go to protect him? Give it a read
July 30, 2022
3.5 stars. It probably deserves better, but I’m just tired of the same storyline in every domestic thriller I read. I think I will avoid any book with the word “wife” or “mother” in the title for a while. Looking for something different!
May 11, 2021
A roller-coaster storyline in which I didn't see where the story was heading which gripped me throughout. Nicci grew up in the care system and had horrendous foster parents, resulting in her and fellow foster child Donna following a disastrous path in their early life. Nicci turns her life around and marries Ian, sharing an affluent life with him. However, there is a constant niggle throughout the book where everything is not as it seems on the surface. Nicci is hiding a number of secrets from her past and will do anything to protect them, but what is her husband hiding? His secret came as a complete shock! Nicci and Donna's paths cross again later in life, which resulted in an explosive ending to the book. An emotional and intriguing read which kept me interested until the very last page, thoroughly enjoyable and I would highly recommend.
September 4, 2024
Good read and great ending!
April 28, 2021
hanks to author, publisher and Netgalley for me to have read in advance in exchange my honest review.
In fact, this book was a great read and it truly is a psychological thriller. I hardly put it down since from the first chapter. It kept me turning page to page and guessed what next happened. I became so excited and anxious when went through halfway and gripped me till the very end. Full of mystery and lies that you never knew who were telling the truth. Sam Hepburn is absolutely brilliant author as a queen of thriller. Trust me, she never disappoints me that why I love her books always. I highly recommend this book to those who love psychological thriller. fast-paced and well-written with many unexpected twists and turns. Compelling read and absolutely absorbed you in it. Highly recommend!!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
In fact, this book was a great read and it truly is a psychological thriller. I hardly put it down since from the first chapter. It kept me turning page to page and guessed what next happened. I became so excited and anxious when went through halfway and gripped me till the very end. Full of mystery and lies that you never knew who were telling the truth. Sam Hepburn is absolutely brilliant author as a queen of thriller. Trust me, she never disappoints me that why I love her books always. I highly recommend this book to those who love psychological thriller. fast-paced and well-written with many unexpected twists and turns. Compelling read and absolutely absorbed you in it. Highly recommend!!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 23, 2021
A good read and I can definitely recommend.
May 28, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Good Mother' by Sam Hepburn.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Sam Hepburn, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 26th May 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have previously read her previous book 'Gone Before' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated 'A gripping and suspenseful thriller with a jaw-dropping twist, fans of Friend Request, The Wife Between Us and The Girl on the Train won’t be able to put this down.' . I am a huge fan of 'The Girl On The Train' so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Sam and if this is half as good as 'Gone Before' it is sure to be a great read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 52 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in first person perspective and the main protagonist is Nicci. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture
WOW!!! What an unexpected ending!!!! Well done Sam you have absolutely smashed it yet again with yet another fantastic page turning psychological thriller!!!!
This book is fantastically written with vivid descriptions that put you straight in the picture. The cover, title and synopsis suited the plot perfectly and I much prefer this cover to the original, very eye catching!! The storyline is scarily realistic and shows alot of the dark side of society that people so often turn their back on or pretend it doesn't exist. It is filled with suspense, twists, lies, shocks, secrets and everything that makes a psychological thriller unputdownable which is exactly what this book is. I was completely absorbed throughout and read it in one sitting. I would never have guessed what was going to happen so a huge congratulations to Sam. It is getting harder and harder to shock me as I have found it with the past few books I've read, due to reading so many crime thrillers but you had me hook, line and sinker. I was kept on the edge of my seat and biting my nails while my heart was in my throat. The ending was absolutely perfect and everything was wrapped up and explained nicely, I'm a stickler for loose ends!!
The characters were vivid, complex and realistically (unfortunate in some cases as there are many people out there like some of the horrid characters in this book). I really liked Nicci and felt quite a bond with her. However, at times I was absolutely shouting at the book for her allowing that scum Ian treat her the way he did, I could not stand him or his mother from the moment I met them. I really did feel sorry for Nicci though as it wasn't just them 2 she had a problem and trouble with but some other vile people, I won't say anymore as I don't want to spoil it for future readers but I'm sure they'll know who I mean after reading. I also felt sorry for Finn and God forbid anyone spoke to my kids the way Ian spoke to him. I am so proud of how he turned out in the end and showed his strength. I really liked Susy's character who was a really good friend to Nic. Another character who really stood out for me was Leon and I'm so happy for the way things went for him too.
Congratulations Sam on what promises to be a HUGE success and I hope your busy writing your next novel as I for one cannot wait!!! I would love to see this book turned into a movie and I can guarantee it will be a huge hit!!
Overall an unputdownable, nail biting, page turning psychological thriller with explosive twists
Genres covered in this book include Mystery, Suspense, Thriller, Psychological Fiction and Crime Fi amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of 'The Girl On The Train' and anyone looking for a suspense packed page turner
343 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#AGoodMother #Bookouture #SamHepburn #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@SamHepburn @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
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Review for 'The Good Mother' by Sam Hepburn.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Sam Hepburn, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 26th May 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have previously read her previous book 'Gone Before' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated 'A gripping and suspenseful thriller with a jaw-dropping twist, fans of Friend Request, The Wife Between Us and The Girl on the Train won’t be able to put this down.' . I am a huge fan of 'The Girl On The Train' so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Sam and if this is half as good as 'Gone Before' it is sure to be a great read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 52 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in first person perspective and the main protagonist is Nicci. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture
WOW!!! What an unexpected ending!!!! Well done Sam you have absolutely smashed it yet again with yet another fantastic page turning psychological thriller!!!!
This book is fantastically written with vivid descriptions that put you straight in the picture. The cover, title and synopsis suited the plot perfectly and I much prefer this cover to the original, very eye catching!! The storyline is scarily realistic and shows alot of the dark side of society that people so often turn their back on or pretend it doesn't exist. It is filled with suspense, twists, lies, shocks, secrets and everything that makes a psychological thriller unputdownable which is exactly what this book is. I was completely absorbed throughout and read it in one sitting. I would never have guessed what was going to happen so a huge congratulations to Sam. It is getting harder and harder to shock me as I have found it with the past few books I've read, due to reading so many crime thrillers but you had me hook, line and sinker. I was kept on the edge of my seat and biting my nails while my heart was in my throat. The ending was absolutely perfect and everything was wrapped up and explained nicely, I'm a stickler for loose ends!!
The characters were vivid, complex and realistically (unfortunate in some cases as there are many people out there like some of the horrid characters in this book). I really liked Nicci and felt quite a bond with her. However, at times I was absolutely shouting at the book for her allowing that scum Ian treat her the way he did, I could not stand him or his mother from the moment I met them. I really did feel sorry for Nicci though as it wasn't just them 2 she had a problem and trouble with but some other vile people, I won't say anymore as I don't want to spoil it for future readers but I'm sure they'll know who I mean after reading. I also felt sorry for Finn and God forbid anyone spoke to my kids the way Ian spoke to him. I am so proud of how he turned out in the end and showed his strength. I really liked Susy's character who was a really good friend to Nic. Another character who really stood out for me was Leon and I'm so happy for the way things went for him too.
Congratulations Sam on what promises to be a HUGE success and I hope your busy writing your next novel as I for one cannot wait!!! I would love to see this book turned into a movie and I can guarantee it will be a huge hit!!
Overall an unputdownable, nail biting, page turning psychological thriller with explosive twists
Genres covered in this book include Mystery, Suspense, Thriller, Psychological Fiction and Crime Fi amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of 'The Girl On The Train' and anyone looking for a suspense packed page turner
343 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#AGoodMother #Bookouture #SamHepburn #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@SamHepburn @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
March 29, 2025
Over all, I found this entire story pretty lacking. I didn't really like the plot and found the storytelling was pretty dull. Where I should have been tense I felt nothing. It was not a page turner.
June 13, 2021
Nicola Dexter has a secure job, loving husband and a gorgeous 6 year old son. But she is haunted by her past, growing up in foster care and getting involved in drug trafficking and sexual exploitation. Now she tries to help other at risk teens but this is putting a strain on her marriage as Ian's love turns into controlling behaviour. The past also catches up with her and she'll do anything to protect her son...
A Good Mother is an enthralling thriller which ramps up the psychological tension as we discover more about the characters. The book is written mostly in the present day but there are also chapters from her teenage years leading up to Finn's birth.
Nicola is a very likeable character, having overcome the trouble of the past. She has been through a series of awful experiences but continues to put others first and has a genuine desire to save others from her own path. I felt so angry at her husband as he erodes her self confidence and tries to control all aspects of her life. He even belittles her son and I was desperate for Nicola to stand up to him.
The book is written from the first person narrative of Nicola so that we better understand the personal dilemmas that she faces. The revealing of her past through the chapters showing her teenage years add an emotional level. Her dedication to creating a happy life for herself and her son (as well as volunteering to help strangers) is so much more poignant when you understand what she went through.
There were plenty of hints and clues about potential twists, and I found myself caught up in the desperation as Nicola's peace of mind is attacked from different directions. The pace of the book varies according to the events taking place, for example Ian's insidious undermining is gradual but Nicola has to react frantically to some plot twists.
A Good Mother has plenty of drama, a likeable lead character and a tense narrative as events unfold.
A Good Mother is an enthralling thriller which ramps up the psychological tension as we discover more about the characters. The book is written mostly in the present day but there are also chapters from her teenage years leading up to Finn's birth.
Nicola is a very likeable character, having overcome the trouble of the past. She has been through a series of awful experiences but continues to put others first and has a genuine desire to save others from her own path. I felt so angry at her husband as he erodes her self confidence and tries to control all aspects of her life. He even belittles her son and I was desperate for Nicola to stand up to him.
The book is written from the first person narrative of Nicola so that we better understand the personal dilemmas that she faces. The revealing of her past through the chapters showing her teenage years add an emotional level. Her dedication to creating a happy life for herself and her son (as well as volunteering to help strangers) is so much more poignant when you understand what she went through.
There were plenty of hints and clues about potential twists, and I found myself caught up in the desperation as Nicola's peace of mind is attacked from different directions. The pace of the book varies according to the events taking place, for example Ian's insidious undermining is gradual but Nicola has to react frantically to some plot twists.
A Good Mother has plenty of drama, a likeable lead character and a tense narrative as events unfold.
June 7, 2021
'A good mother' by Sam Hepburn apart from being a thriller makes us think deeply about motherhood. What is it? Is it the process of giving birth or is it the bringing up of the child or is it the undying love for the child wherever the child is. To add to this a lot of thrill, suspense and intrigue and it makes the combination for a great story to read and enjoy
The story is about Nicci and her son Finn. Nicci is married to Ian a dental practitioner and she works in the same clinic as a receptionist. They have been married for sometime now and Nicci is convinced that Ian fell in love with her and proposed to her. Nicci has a past of growing up in the foster care system and now she wants to help other kids who are coming out of the system. So many things happening in the story, strange things start happening around her, when she starts questioning her sanity. To add to this a frind Donna from the past makes a visit and then her whole world turns topsy turvy.....What exactly is Donna wanting from her? What are the reasons for the strange occurrences? All these will keep you flipping through pages to get to know the story and the whys
The story goes between past and present giving the reader a glimpse into Nicci's character and the reader to make a judgement about her. Intricate plot with many parallel small stories and it all gets revealed in the most extraordinary sequence. The story kept me on the edge and curious till the end.
If you love stories with thrill, and enjoy the roller coaster of emotions then you should pick this book.
I thank Bookouture, Netgalley and the author for approving my request to read the story and the opinions expressed are mine alone.
The story is about Nicci and her son Finn. Nicci is married to Ian a dental practitioner and she works in the same clinic as a receptionist. They have been married for sometime now and Nicci is convinced that Ian fell in love with her and proposed to her. Nicci has a past of growing up in the foster care system and now she wants to help other kids who are coming out of the system. So many things happening in the story, strange things start happening around her, when she starts questioning her sanity. To add to this a frind Donna from the past makes a visit and then her whole world turns topsy turvy.....What exactly is Donna wanting from her? What are the reasons for the strange occurrences? All these will keep you flipping through pages to get to know the story and the whys
The story goes between past and present giving the reader a glimpse into Nicci's character and the reader to make a judgement about her. Intricate plot with many parallel small stories and it all gets revealed in the most extraordinary sequence. The story kept me on the edge and curious till the end.
If you love stories with thrill, and enjoy the roller coaster of emotions then you should pick this book.
I thank Bookouture, Netgalley and the author for approving my request to read the story and the opinions expressed are mine alone.
May 26, 2021
When are you considered being a good mother? It is because you give them everything money can buy but leave them hanging on the emotional side? Or is being poor, only being able to give them the basics, but love them with all your heart and show it?
Does being a good mother only applies to caring for your own children or can you love someone else’s so much you consider them your own?
Is being a good mother trying to turn your child into someone he isn’t or is it about letting them be their own person with their own strengths and weaknesses?
Are you a good mother when you only accept the child when you can use them to your own advantages or is it about putting your child’s needs before your own and fight for them with everything you have in you?
When you had an unhappy childhood, are you doomed to turn to crimes in order to stay alive? Sometimes unfortunately the answer is yes. You are vulnerable and thus an easy victim and when nobody takes notice, you are indeed doomed. Don’t forget there are some people who care and want to help you, but you have to let them. Be careful though, they might not do it for the right reasons, but do it because they have their own agenda…
The main character is Nicola. The author takes us on a trip through her life. We see pieces of the past to fill in the blanks in the present.
I loved this story. In my opinion the 5 stars are well deserved.
Thank you, Sam Hepburn and Bookouture
Does being a good mother only applies to caring for your own children or can you love someone else’s so much you consider them your own?
Is being a good mother trying to turn your child into someone he isn’t or is it about letting them be their own person with their own strengths and weaknesses?
Are you a good mother when you only accept the child when you can use them to your own advantages or is it about putting your child’s needs before your own and fight for them with everything you have in you?
When you had an unhappy childhood, are you doomed to turn to crimes in order to stay alive? Sometimes unfortunately the answer is yes. You are vulnerable and thus an easy victim and when nobody takes notice, you are indeed doomed. Don’t forget there are some people who care and want to help you, but you have to let them. Be careful though, they might not do it for the right reasons, but do it because they have their own agenda…
The main character is Nicola. The author takes us on a trip through her life. We see pieces of the past to fill in the blanks in the present.
I loved this story. In my opinion the 5 stars are well deserved.
Thank you, Sam Hepburn and Bookouture
April 23, 2021
I hesitated a bit before reading this book. Not because of the author, Sam Hepburn is absolutely brilliant, I that's the main reason I read this book. I have a hard time enjoying books about overprotective mothers. I enjoy reading about missing persons when the perspective is anyone else than the mother's.
I did not regret reading this book. Due to the brilliance of the author I didn't expect that either. However, the subject will simply never be one for me. This is however an excellent read for this specific subgenre. A Good Mother has many unexpected twists and turns.
This is one of those books you can't but dislike every adult in the book. Every man for himself. Everyone is selfish, hiding things from others, and trying to keep up appearances. This naturally means that the one suffering, is the child. Sadly, I could by this as a true story. Luckily it is fiction.
It is well written, a fairly quick and easy read. It left me feeling cold. Not because of the writing, but because of the utterly disgusting people in it. Sam Hepburn never disappoints and I can recommend this book to everyone who enjoys intense, psychological books, with many twists, and people with dark secrets.
I did not regret reading this book. Due to the brilliance of the author I didn't expect that either. However, the subject will simply never be one for me. This is however an excellent read for this specific subgenre. A Good Mother has many unexpected twists and turns.
This is one of those books you can't but dislike every adult in the book. Every man for himself. Everyone is selfish, hiding things from others, and trying to keep up appearances. This naturally means that the one suffering, is the child. Sadly, I could by this as a true story. Luckily it is fiction.
It is well written, a fairly quick and easy read. It left me feeling cold. Not because of the writing, but because of the utterly disgusting people in it. Sam Hepburn never disappoints and I can recommend this book to everyone who enjoys intense, psychological books, with many twists, and people with dark secrets.
April 30, 2021
Sam Hepburn writes great cautionary tales. In A Good Mother her underlying message is a plea to all women to hold on to their self-esteem, have confidence in their decision-making abilities, and avoid turning control of their lives over to someone else.
The protagonist of Hepburn’s story, Nicola, is bullied, undermined, and preyed upon by almost everyone in her life growing up, and as an adult her husband is arguably the worst offender. Her lack of self-esteem and faith in her own judgement is skillfully explained in her back story, which gives us empathy for her actions throughout the book. Though I understood the psychology behind Nicola’s passivity, I waited anxiously for her to enact the furious revenge her antagonists deserved. There was one scene involving Nicola’s son that didn’t sit exactly right with me, but that would require a spoiler to explain, so I’ll leave it to other readers to decide.
A Good Mother is a compulsive read that had me turning the pages at warp speed. There were plot twists I never saw coming and the plot lines were expertly woven together. Loved this one. A great read! Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing an ARC to read and review.
NetGalley Top Reviewer
The protagonist of Hepburn’s story, Nicola, is bullied, undermined, and preyed upon by almost everyone in her life growing up, and as an adult her husband is arguably the worst offender. Her lack of self-esteem and faith in her own judgement is skillfully explained in her back story, which gives us empathy for her actions throughout the book. Though I understood the psychology behind Nicola’s passivity, I waited anxiously for her to enact the furious revenge her antagonists deserved. There was one scene involving Nicola’s son that didn’t sit exactly right with me, but that would require a spoiler to explain, so I’ll leave it to other readers to decide.
A Good Mother is a compulsive read that had me turning the pages at warp speed. There were plot twists I never saw coming and the plot lines were expertly woven together. Loved this one. A great read! Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing an ARC to read and review.
NetGalley Top Reviewer
May 10, 2021
Five enthusiastic stars for “A Good Mother”, a new domestic thriller by Sam Hepburn!
Nicci had a hard young life growing up in foster care after her mother’s suicide. As an adult, Nicci’s life has all the appearances of being perfect – married to a successful dentist, a career as his receptionist, and a 6-year-old son named Finn. Surely she’s left her troubled past behind her… right? WRONG! Not only is Nicci’s marriage not as happy as it appears, but someone knows Nicci’s darkest secrets and is now threatening to destroy her carefully constructed life.
I absolutely loved Nicci’s character, her devotion to Finn, and the lengths she would go to to protect her little boy. She’s a complex character with a good heart but willing to take some dark paths to keep Finn safe and her secrets under wraps. The story is brilliantly twisty as Nicci’s tragic, gritty past is intertwined with her present in ways I never saw coming.
“A Good Mother” is a real page turner, with a frisson of tension running through the entire story that kept me up way past bedtime because I was so absorbed. The ending was absolutely worth losing sleep!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Nicci had a hard young life growing up in foster care after her mother’s suicide. As an adult, Nicci’s life has all the appearances of being perfect – married to a successful dentist, a career as his receptionist, and a 6-year-old son named Finn. Surely she’s left her troubled past behind her… right? WRONG! Not only is Nicci’s marriage not as happy as it appears, but someone knows Nicci’s darkest secrets and is now threatening to destroy her carefully constructed life.
I absolutely loved Nicci’s character, her devotion to Finn, and the lengths she would go to to protect her little boy. She’s a complex character with a good heart but willing to take some dark paths to keep Finn safe and her secrets under wraps. The story is brilliantly twisty as Nicci’s tragic, gritty past is intertwined with her present in ways I never saw coming.
“A Good Mother” is a real page turner, with a frisson of tension running through the entire story that kept me up way past bedtime because I was so absorbed. The ending was absolutely worth losing sleep!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2021
Another author, of which I was not familiar with, but after this book I definitely will look out for more of her books.
On the surface Nicola has the perfect life, a wonderful husband, a gorgeous little boy, a big house and after her troubled childhood it is well deserved. However suddenly one day her past and present collide and when secrets from her childhood start threatening to come out, how far will Nicola go to keep them under wraps and protect Finn her little boy.
I really enjoyed this book. I despised Ian from the start but any author that can provoke such feeling about a character in so few pages is a good one! The story was a little slow to start but at the same time it felt very ominous and threatening right from the beginning and I just had to keep reading. By half way through twists started occurring and at that point the speed of the story was racing and the pace carried on at that rate until the end of the book. I loved the ending and felt it was wrapped up very neatly.
I highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and I will be looking out for more of Sam Hepburns books. Brilliant.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Sam Hepburn for my advanced reading copy. Due out 26th May 2021.
On the surface Nicola has the perfect life, a wonderful husband, a gorgeous little boy, a big house and after her troubled childhood it is well deserved. However suddenly one day her past and present collide and when secrets from her childhood start threatening to come out, how far will Nicola go to keep them under wraps and protect Finn her little boy.
I really enjoyed this book. I despised Ian from the start but any author that can provoke such feeling about a character in so few pages is a good one! The story was a little slow to start but at the same time it felt very ominous and threatening right from the beginning and I just had to keep reading. By half way through twists started occurring and at that point the speed of the story was racing and the pace carried on at that rate until the end of the book. I loved the ending and felt it was wrapped up very neatly.
I highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and I will be looking out for more of Sam Hepburns books. Brilliant.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Sam Hepburn for my advanced reading copy. Due out 26th May 2021.
May 28, 2021
My Review:
Fantastic, awesome, and great are just some of the words that I would use to describe this book. This author had me hooked with the very first word. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to read more by her. This was my very first book by this author and what a wonderful job she did writing this book.
I want to start off by saying that I loved, loved, loved this book so much. I will shout this to to the moon and back. I can’t believe I waited this long to read this authors books. I will definitely be reading more of her books in the future. From start to finish I was so captivated by the story. I couldn’t wait for more as I turned each page. As the book progressed each chapter left you off craving more and more. It was like an addiction I couldn’t break and I loved every minute of it. I have to say though my favorite part of the book was the ending. It had so many twists and turns that I thought my head was going to explode. It was a total mind bender. This story will definitely stay with you for a long time. Kudos to Sam Hepburn.
Between the plot, characters and all the twists in this book it made it an easy and fast read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it 5 Hearts❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
May 3, 2021
4.5 stars for A Good Mother by Sam Hepburn
Nicola had to grow up in the foster care system after her mothers apparent suicide. She was forced to do things no one wants to do, but thinks they have to do to survive on the street. So years later when she gets a job as a receptionist at a posh dentist office and falls in love with the dentist, she feels like her life is finally headed in the right direction. She and her son Finn move into Ian's lovely home and begin the job of trying to make him happy and that is hard to do! I thought this was going to be another book about a victim, a poor controlled woman, who allows everyone else to make decisions for her. Boy was I wrong. Nicola just gets stronger and stronger as the story goes on and will do anything to protect her son from the people from her past and from this controlling new husband and situation that she has found herself in.
This was an exciting, fast paced read. I felt so connected with both the characters and the story. You will love this book!
I would like to thank NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Nicola had to grow up in the foster care system after her mothers apparent suicide. She was forced to do things no one wants to do, but thinks they have to do to survive on the street. So years later when she gets a job as a receptionist at a posh dentist office and falls in love with the dentist, she feels like her life is finally headed in the right direction. She and her son Finn move into Ian's lovely home and begin the job of trying to make him happy and that is hard to do! I thought this was going to be another book about a victim, a poor controlled woman, who allows everyone else to make decisions for her. Boy was I wrong. Nicola just gets stronger and stronger as the story goes on and will do anything to protect her son from the people from her past and from this controlling new husband and situation that she has found herself in.
This was an exciting, fast paced read. I felt so connected with both the characters and the story. You will love this book!
I would like to thank NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 6, 2021
A Good Mother by Sam Hepburn is a hard sell for me. I am clearly in the minority here looking at other reviews. The hardest part for me to swallow was the clear intention to gaslight the lead character. Gaslighting requires a subtle, almost imperceptible, effort made to make another feel they are going crazy, insane. What went on in this novel was relentless and consistent and constant. Thus, ridiculous. It also had no logic behind it. Even at the resolution it didn't justify the relentless shaming and ridicule Nicci endured. I think this novel would have been so much better if Ian had been more likable. I don't think it would have hurt the plot line at all. Secondly, the lengths to which Nicci goes to attain the ransom is ridiculous. Again, the reader isn't given the logic behind her just not coming clean. Surely telling the truth, paying off her blackmailers would be far easier than the lengths she goes to. All of this taints the very enjoyable synopsis I was looking forward to when selecting this title. But maybe it's just me. Probably is. Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for the advanced copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews