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Good Bad Mother
When we move to the exclusive Cutters Island, my life changes overnight. Dressed like the perfect wife, pushing my baby down the street in her pink stroller, I look up and smile at the security cameras. Because I know they are watching. And for now, I need to play my part.
I wake up in my beautiful bedroom and instinctively feel for my husband. But the silk sheets are cold—he hasn’t come home. Reaching for the baby monitor on my nightstand, I scan the screen for the familiar shape of my sleeping daughter. But she’s not there.
Moving through the house in the darkness, I tell myself the footage is just grainy. I pass the large window over the stairs, and see a light on in my mother-in-law’s house across the street, as if she is watching. The thought sends a chill down my spine and I start to run. And as I open my daughter’s bedroom door, my worst fear comes my baby is gone.
As I collapse onto the carpet, I smell smoke. And when I turn to see flames licking at the banister, I know this is my fault. I am paying for what happened that night all those years ago…
Because I am not a perfect wife. I am not a good mother. But I am the perfect liar.
No one knows what I have been through to get this life. And they shouldn’t underestimate how far I’ll go to get my baby back…
I wake up in my beautiful bedroom and instinctively feel for my husband. But the silk sheets are cold—he hasn’t come home. Reaching for the baby monitor on my nightstand, I scan the screen for the familiar shape of my sleeping daughter. But she’s not there.
Moving through the house in the darkness, I tell myself the footage is just grainy. I pass the large window over the stairs, and see a light on in my mother-in-law’s house across the street, as if she is watching. The thought sends a chill down my spine and I start to run. And as I open my daughter’s bedroom door, my worst fear comes my baby is gone.
As I collapse onto the carpet, I smell smoke. And when I turn to see flames licking at the banister, I know this is my fault. I am paying for what happened that night all those years ago…
Because I am not a perfect wife. I am not a good mother. But I am the perfect liar.
No one knows what I have been through to get this life. And they shouldn’t underestimate how far I’ll go to get my baby back…
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 17, 2025
332 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
Anya Mora
28 books320 followersAnya Mora relies on her experience as a wife and mother to form her creative expression. Her novels, while leaning toward the dark, ultimately reflect light, courage, and her innate belief that love rewards the brave.
You can discover more about the author at https://anyamora.com
You can discover more about the author at https://anyamora.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
January 27, 2025
The past always comes back to haunt you. Especially if you don't tell your deepest, darkest secret to your husband. (Side note: so many stories where the protagonist is hiding things from their significant other, which I get happens, but huge things? I would feel like I'd know but maybe love blinds you!). Also, never live near your in-laws, especially when they don't seem to like you or prefer your husband's former lover. Some families are just messed up. Good characters. Interesting plot. Echoes normal intrigue from the author's books. Will continue to read more.
January 22, 2025
Good Bad Mother held my attention throughout. I enjoyed how the story was told by alternating POVs and timelines. The plot was suspenseful with an underlying feeling of unease. The story is emotional and unpredictable. There were plenty of unexpected twists that added intrigue. The conclusion had my heart racing. Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC.
February 20, 2025
I can’t have my picture taken.
Timothy can’t find out about my past.
Someone will see me, know what I did, where I am, and my perfect world will explode.
Amelia is in a panic because her past is unknown to her husband.
I have to leave and take the baby, but can I?
Then a letter arrives- what is in it?
Amelia doesn’t want to open it, but she does.
And…we are in suspense wanting to know what’s inside.
Tension, lies, and secrets abound in this twisty psychological thriller that you won't be able to put down. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Timothy can’t find out about my past.
Someone will see me, know what I did, where I am, and my perfect world will explode.
Amelia is in a panic because her past is unknown to her husband.
I have to leave and take the baby, but can I?
Then a letter arrives- what is in it?
Amelia doesn’t want to open it, but she does.
And…we are in suspense wanting to know what’s inside.
Tension, lies, and secrets abound in this twisty psychological thriller that you won't be able to put down. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
February 7, 2025
I was a "GOOD/BAD" reader/listener for a "GOOD BAD MOTHER".
1) WHY "GOOD"?
I always enjoy audiobooks with full-cast narrations, and narrators Lauryn Allman and Penelope Rawlins gave brilliant performances.
2) WHY "BAD"?
I am an impatient reader/listener and dislike slow-paced books with repetitive text and prolonged angst.
For example, at the beginning of the audiobook, the mom protagonist lamented her fears of having her real identity exposed for two hours.
"What happens if they find out my real name?"
"Will they discover what I did?"
IMHO, these emotions/fears/vulnerabilities could have been revealed in the book's first 15 minutes.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
February 19, 2025
Amelia is in the throes of new motherhood and it took me back to when my son was just born. The isolation, the exhaustion, the overwhelming love, the overwhelming sense of inexperience and ineptitude. My heart broke to see how alone she was, even with family surrounding her and to feel her ache as her secrets and past life threatened to upend what she had worked so hard to achieve.
This book was hard to put down. Secrets were festering under the surface and Mora released them bit by bit, keeping my curiosity piqued and the questions flowing. I liked that we had flashbacks to the past and that there were so many red herrings and curveballs with the present.
The Sterling family was downright atrocious and reading about Timothy and Celeste and they dynamics there made my blood boil. Amelia was much calmer than I would have been had an ex-girlfriend insinuated herself into my family! I also felt frustration with Amelia that regardless of being part of an incredibly wealthy family, she wasn't able to accept any outside support or care.
Good Bad Mother is a quick read. If you love a story that will keep you guessing and have you on the edge of your seat flipping pages at warp speed, this one is for you!
Thank you to Bookouture for the copy. Good Bad Mother releases February 17th!
This book was hard to put down. Secrets were festering under the surface and Mora released them bit by bit, keeping my curiosity piqued and the questions flowing. I liked that we had flashbacks to the past and that there were so many red herrings and curveballs with the present.
The Sterling family was downright atrocious and reading about Timothy and Celeste and they dynamics there made my blood boil. Amelia was much calmer than I would have been had an ex-girlfriend insinuated herself into my family! I also felt frustration with Amelia that regardless of being part of an incredibly wealthy family, she wasn't able to accept any outside support or care.
Good Bad Mother is a quick read. If you love a story that will keep you guessing and have you on the edge of your seat flipping pages at warp speed, this one is for you!
Thank you to Bookouture for the copy. Good Bad Mother releases February 17th!
February 1, 2025
Before I start off with my review I'd like to thank netgalley and Bookouture for providing me with the ARC for Good Bad Mother by Anya Mora.
........................................
It was a book that promised high-stakes tension, dark secrets, and a desperate mother willing to go to any lengths to get her baby back.
Sounds like a heart-pounding thriller, right?
Well, almost. Anya Mora delivers a story set against the moody, isolated backdrop of Cutters Island, weaving together family politics, psychological suspense, and a protagonist who is constantly on edge.
But while the atmosphere is on point, and the build-up keeps the pages turning, the payoff? Let’s just say it left me wanting more.
*Summary of Content*
Our protagonist has the picture-perfect life—or so it seems. She’s living in an exclusive neighborhood, playing the role of the ideal wife, and pushing her baby in a stroller under the ever-watchful security cameras. But beneath this carefully crafted facade, things are anything but perfect.
One night, she wakes up to find her baby missing, her husband absent, and flames creeping through the house.
The mystery unfolds across multiple timelines, hinting at dark secrets from the past and the terrifying present she’s trapped in. It’s all set up to be an emotional rollercoaster—except, somewhere along the way, the thrill fizzles out.
- The Heroine (Amelia): The protagonist’s internal struggles feel real, but her lack of agency makes it frustrating to root for her. She had the potential to be a gripping, complex lead, but her passivity was maddening. She lives in constant fear of her husband finding out truth, but never questions his obvious red flags, and lets things happen to her rather than taking action.
The blurb promised a mother who would stop at nothing to get her baby back—what we got was someone who barely stepped up to resolve the situation.
- The Husband (aka Walking Red Flag #1): If there was an award for Most Loathsome Male Character, this man would take the trophy without contest. Hypocritical, manipulative, and downright insufferable, he skates through the story without ever truly facing the consequences of his actions. And that is a crime in itself.
- Tabitha (the saving grace): If not for Tabitha, our protagonist might have been entirely lost. As a friend, she brought much-needed warmth to the story, and her presence added some depth to an otherwise frustrating narrative.
- The Sterling Family & Their Politics: The power plays, the secrets, the manipulations— the award for the worst family and the reason why their son turned out the way he turned out.
*Writing Style & Structure*
The writing was atmospheric, successfully creating a tense, claustrophobic feeling throughout. The choice to tell the story in alternating timelines worked well, slowly unraveling the protagonist’s past and present. The pacing was solid—there were no dragging moments, and the book kept me engaged. But then came the ending.
*Originality*
While the setting and concept had potential, the execution leaned into predictable tropes. The mystery wasn’t all that mysterious—I saw the big revelation coming from a mile away. And for a book that teased high-stakes action, the climax was incredibly underwhelming.
*Strengths:*
✔ The isolated island setting was perfect for the story’s eerie vibe.
✔ The Sterling family and their dynamics added an intriguing layer.
✔ The pacing and timeline shifts were well-executed.
✔ Tabitha—because we all need a friend like her.
*Weaknesses:*
✘ The protagonist lacked agency—she was reactive instead of proactive.
✘ The husband was a villain, but an infuriatingly untouchable one.
✘ The climax was weak—where was the fight? The desperation? The edge-of-your-seat moment?
✘ The ending was rushed, and the resolution felt too convenient.
Final Verdict
Good Bad Mother had all the right ingredients for a gripping thriller but ultimately served a lukewarm dish. The tension was there, the build-up was strong, but the climax and character depth fell short. If you’re new to psychological thrillers, this could be an entertaining entry point.
But for me, it might felt predictable and frustratingly lacked in punch.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5) – A decent read with a great setting and good buildup, but an underwhelming finish.
........................................
It was a book that promised high-stakes tension, dark secrets, and a desperate mother willing to go to any lengths to get her baby back.
Sounds like a heart-pounding thriller, right?
Well, almost. Anya Mora delivers a story set against the moody, isolated backdrop of Cutters Island, weaving together family politics, psychological suspense, and a protagonist who is constantly on edge.
But while the atmosphere is on point, and the build-up keeps the pages turning, the payoff? Let’s just say it left me wanting more.
*Summary of Content*
Our protagonist has the picture-perfect life—or so it seems. She’s living in an exclusive neighborhood, playing the role of the ideal wife, and pushing her baby in a stroller under the ever-watchful security cameras. But beneath this carefully crafted facade, things are anything but perfect.
One night, she wakes up to find her baby missing, her husband absent, and flames creeping through the house.
The mystery unfolds across multiple timelines, hinting at dark secrets from the past and the terrifying present she’s trapped in. It’s all set up to be an emotional rollercoaster—except, somewhere along the way, the thrill fizzles out.
- The Heroine (Amelia): The protagonist’s internal struggles feel real, but her lack of agency makes it frustrating to root for her. She had the potential to be a gripping, complex lead, but her passivity was maddening. She lives in constant fear of her husband finding out truth, but never questions his obvious red flags, and lets things happen to her rather than taking action.
The blurb promised a mother who would stop at nothing to get her baby back—what we got was someone who barely stepped up to resolve the situation.
- The Husband (aka Walking Red Flag #1): If there was an award for Most Loathsome Male Character, this man would take the trophy without contest. Hypocritical, manipulative, and downright insufferable, he skates through the story without ever truly facing the consequences of his actions. And that is a crime in itself.
- Tabitha (the saving grace): If not for Tabitha, our protagonist might have been entirely lost. As a friend, she brought much-needed warmth to the story, and her presence added some depth to an otherwise frustrating narrative.
- The Sterling Family & Their Politics: The power plays, the secrets, the manipulations— the award for the worst family and the reason why their son turned out the way he turned out.
*Writing Style & Structure*
The writing was atmospheric, successfully creating a tense, claustrophobic feeling throughout. The choice to tell the story in alternating timelines worked well, slowly unraveling the protagonist’s past and present. The pacing was solid—there were no dragging moments, and the book kept me engaged. But then came the ending.
*Originality*
While the setting and concept had potential, the execution leaned into predictable tropes. The mystery wasn’t all that mysterious—I saw the big revelation coming from a mile away. And for a book that teased high-stakes action, the climax was incredibly underwhelming.
*Strengths:*
✔ The isolated island setting was perfect for the story’s eerie vibe.
✔ The Sterling family and their dynamics added an intriguing layer.
✔ The pacing and timeline shifts were well-executed.
✔ Tabitha—because we all need a friend like her.
*Weaknesses:*
✘ The protagonist lacked agency—she was reactive instead of proactive.
✘ The husband was a villain, but an infuriatingly untouchable one.
✘ The climax was weak—where was the fight? The desperation? The edge-of-your-seat moment?
✘ The ending was rushed, and the resolution felt too convenient.
Final Verdict
Good Bad Mother had all the right ingredients for a gripping thriller but ultimately served a lukewarm dish. The tension was there, the build-up was strong, but the climax and character depth fell short. If you’re new to psychological thrillers, this could be an entertaining entry point.
But for me, it might felt predictable and frustratingly lacked in punch.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5) – A decent read with a great setting and good buildup, but an underwhelming finish.
January 14, 2025
This book starts with a nightmare that’s unfortunately not a dream: a mother wakes up and finds her husband isn’t in bed with her. She groggily makes her way to the nursery to see if he’s with their newborn, but the crib is empty and she smells smoke. The book then ricochets us back and forth in time, from the present to the past that led to our main character having so many secrets.
Amelia and Timothy had a whirlwind courtship, which hastened into marriage when she unexpectedly got pregnant. Now, their daughter, Clover, is two months old, and Amelia is getting used to living the life of a VERY wealthy woman. Her husband, along with his parents and his sister, run Sterling Enterprise, a real estate development company, and all of them live on Cutter’s Island, outside of Seattle. Amelia didn’t grow up with money and is a woman of simple tastes, but she now finds herself in a huge house that is dwarfed by the even huger mansion next door. The mansion belongs to her new in-laws, who aren’t happy about Amelia now being in their lives. They are always there, watching from cameras or windows, always making her feel less-than, always making her feel excluded. This feeling intensifies when Timothy’s ex returns to the island, and it’s clear that she was a much better match for this lifestyle.
I can’t say much more than that - Amelia has secrets she’s been keeping, and a magazine article about the Sterlings that includes their pictures has her reeling. She’s spent ten years hiding from the world, and now her picture is right there along with this famous family. She’s also struggling with being a new mother; why does everyone seem to think it’s easy except for her? This has a lot of common domestic thriller tropes, but all the same, it was it was very entertaining and had an unexpected but interesting ending. Four stars!
(Thank you to Bookouture for inviting me on this book tour! “Good Bad Mother” is slated to be released on February 17, 2025.)
Amelia and Timothy had a whirlwind courtship, which hastened into marriage when she unexpectedly got pregnant. Now, their daughter, Clover, is two months old, and Amelia is getting used to living the life of a VERY wealthy woman. Her husband, along with his parents and his sister, run Sterling Enterprise, a real estate development company, and all of them live on Cutter’s Island, outside of Seattle. Amelia didn’t grow up with money and is a woman of simple tastes, but she now finds herself in a huge house that is dwarfed by the even huger mansion next door. The mansion belongs to her new in-laws, who aren’t happy about Amelia now being in their lives. They are always there, watching from cameras or windows, always making her feel less-than, always making her feel excluded. This feeling intensifies when Timothy’s ex returns to the island, and it’s clear that she was a much better match for this lifestyle.
I can’t say much more than that - Amelia has secrets she’s been keeping, and a magazine article about the Sterlings that includes their pictures has her reeling. She’s spent ten years hiding from the world, and now her picture is right there along with this famous family. She’s also struggling with being a new mother; why does everyone seem to think it’s easy except for her? This has a lot of common domestic thriller tropes, but all the same, it was it was very entertaining and had an unexpected but interesting ending. Four stars!
(Thank you to Bookouture for inviting me on this book tour! “Good Bad Mother” is slated to be released on February 17, 2025.)
February 20, 2025
3 1/2 stars rounded up.
Excellent narration cast, alternating POV’s with different narrators so it’s really easy to follow, couple of alternating timelines, but again easy to follow.
The Sterling family is absolutely atrocious, I’m not sure if there was one redeeming character trait in any of them. Absolute snob to the hundredth power.
Amelia is now married to Timothy Sterling and it hints at secrets from her past for quite a while, which I will admit in the first 1/3 of the book was getting annoying how it would reference the secret but not really give you anything. Once the secrets started pouring out, it definitely picked up the pace and kept you intrigued as to what all she was hiding in her past.
My first by the author and definitely can’t wait to see what she does next!
Thanks to NetGalley for my Audible advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Excellent narration cast, alternating POV’s with different narrators so it’s really easy to follow, couple of alternating timelines, but again easy to follow.
The Sterling family is absolutely atrocious, I’m not sure if there was one redeeming character trait in any of them. Absolute snob to the hundredth power.
Amelia is now married to Timothy Sterling and it hints at secrets from her past for quite a while, which I will admit in the first 1/3 of the book was getting annoying how it would reference the secret but not really give you anything. Once the secrets started pouring out, it definitely picked up the pace and kept you intrigued as to what all she was hiding in her past.
My first by the author and definitely can’t wait to see what she does next!
Thanks to NetGalley for my Audible advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 8, 2025
This dual pov is very engaging as you want to find out what the secrets are and how the stories come together. Some of the past seemed very
far fetched and put in to enhance a story. At the heart of the story is we are all the product of the sums of our history every event and interaction . I found the ending seemed a bit rushed and too ideal. There were parts of the story which seemed unrealistic that people with money would not investigate who they marry but on reflect i think these were added to make it more engaging and to make you care about the characters and their past. it did tug on the heartstrings and i found myself thinking it was one secret and then there were another reveal. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good mystery but read it for what it is without any expectations. Thanks netgalle.ry, publisher and author
far fetched and put in to enhance a story. At the heart of the story is we are all the product of the sums of our history every event and interaction . I found the ending seemed a bit rushed and too ideal. There were parts of the story which seemed unrealistic that people with money would not investigate who they marry but on reflect i think these were added to make it more engaging and to make you care about the characters and their past. it did tug on the heartstrings and i found myself thinking it was one secret and then there were another reveal. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good mystery but read it for what it is without any expectations. Thanks netgalle.ry, publisher and author
February 15, 2025
Thank you Net galley and Bookouture Publisher for e-ALC of this mind-blowing book.
3.75 stars! i want to give it 4 but starting was hard to grip.
This was my first attempt to listen a mystery-thrilling audiobook so took me time to process it.
.
Don't know how to summarize plot but definitely a YES it was worth reading/listening. The plot and curiosity had me on my toes till the end, even though it took me 5 days to finish unfortunately.
I was kind of getting tired of over-thinking and anxiety the female lead was experiencing but after getting to know her side of story i realized that she was going through such a depressing and overwhelming phase of her life.
She deserved so much from the start and glad that she got her happy ending in the end. I love it when wrongly accused people gets apology and justice they deserve.
3.75 stars! i want to give it 4 but starting was hard to grip.
This was my first attempt to listen a mystery-thrilling audiobook so took me time to process it.
.
Don't know how to summarize plot but definitely a YES it was worth reading/listening. The plot and curiosity had me on my toes till the end, even though it took me 5 days to finish unfortunately.
I was kind of getting tired of over-thinking and anxiety the female lead was experiencing but after getting to know her side of story i realized that she was going through such a depressing and overwhelming phase of her life.
She deserved so much from the start and glad that she got her happy ending in the end. I love it when wrongly accused people gets apology and justice they deserve.
January 27, 2025
We meet Amelia, living the dream on the million/billion aires Cutter Island, newly married and just had a baby, all is perfect
But of course it isen’t
There is a massive back story Amelia is hiding from everyone even her husband Timothy and via a pic for a fancy magazine on ‘well to do families’ could it all be about to be wrenched away
The ex fiancé moving back opposite also causes big problems
Pretty much every psychological thriller trait is used in this book but if you love them then its a perfect quick read to add to your collection, it was comfortably predictable, something we all like now and again
Well written and as the author says being a Mum of 6 she knows how to write about Mum’s
But of course it isen’t
There is a massive back story Amelia is hiding from everyone even her husband Timothy and via a pic for a fancy magazine on ‘well to do families’ could it all be about to be wrenched away
The ex fiancé moving back opposite also causes big problems
Pretty much every psychological thriller trait is used in this book but if you love them then its a perfect quick read to add to your collection, it was comfortably predictable, something we all like now and again
Well written and as the author says being a Mum of 6 she knows how to write about Mum’s
March 27, 2025
Good bad mother was a good bad book. Nothing overly terrible, but obvious, unrelatable, and repetitive. For new thriller readers this may be amazing but I think veterans of the genre will be less amused.
Amelia is perfect so that no one suspects that she isn't who she says she is. Obviously the best way to do that is to marry into a millionaire family on an exclusive Island. An island that, conveniently, her family moves to without her and without telling her years before. Amelia is not really Amelia but in fact a young murderer trying to hide that fact. Amelia struggles to live with the guilt despite the fact that she says later she knows she didn't do it.
This was convoluted at best and overdone at worst.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author Anya Mora, and Bookoture Audio for my ARC of this audiobook.
Amelia is perfect so that no one suspects that she isn't who she says she is. Obviously the best way to do that is to marry into a millionaire family on an exclusive Island. An island that, conveniently, her family moves to without her and without telling her years before. Amelia is not really Amelia but in fact a young murderer trying to hide that fact. Amelia struggles to live with the guilt despite the fact that she says later she knows she didn't do it.
This was convoluted at best and overdone at worst.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author Anya Mora, and Bookoture Audio for my ARC of this audiobook.
January 11, 2025
4⭐️ 0🌶️
Amelia is a new wife and mother, living a picture-perfect life with her husband, Timothy, in their stunning new home on Cutters Island. However, when her wealthy in-laws, the Sterlings, insist she participate in a magazine photoshoot and family interview, Amelia reluctantly agrees—only for her carefully hidden past to find her. It soon becomes clear that Amelia may not be as flawless as she appears.
This story had me hooked from the very first page. As Amelia’s past started to close in on her, I found myself getting anxious right along with her! I read quite a lot of thrillers, so the twists didn’t blow me away—but that didn’t stop me from flipping the pages desperate to find out what would happen next!
If you’re looking for an edge of your seat, heart-pumping, domestic thriller— I highly recommend Anya Mora’s “Good Bad Mother”. What a ride!
Special thanks to Bookouture for providing me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Amelia is a new wife and mother, living a picture-perfect life with her husband, Timothy, in their stunning new home on Cutters Island. However, when her wealthy in-laws, the Sterlings, insist she participate in a magazine photoshoot and family interview, Amelia reluctantly agrees—only for her carefully hidden past to find her. It soon becomes clear that Amelia may not be as flawless as she appears.
This story had me hooked from the very first page. As Amelia’s past started to close in on her, I found myself getting anxious right along with her! I read quite a lot of thrillers, so the twists didn’t blow me away—but that didn’t stop me from flipping the pages desperate to find out what would happen next!
If you’re looking for an edge of your seat, heart-pumping, domestic thriller— I highly recommend Anya Mora’s “Good Bad Mother”. What a ride!
Special thanks to Bookouture for providing me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read
February 6, 2025arc review!! this was very entertaining but felt a little rushed at the end.
February 12, 2025
Good Bad Mother💔
By Anya Mora❣️
Review📝
This one started off quite strong for me, and I was completely engrossed in the main character. She was a new mother who was struggling with parenting and attempting to hide her past. As the story progressed, I was on the edge of my seat, thus I felt the suspense was top-notch. The only disappointment for me was the final reveal; I was expecting a little more after such a long wait. It was a quick and engaging thriller.
Thriller🔪
Suspense🫣
Multiple POVs🗣️
Lies🤫
3 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️
By Anya Mora❣️
Review📝
This one started off quite strong for me, and I was completely engrossed in the main character. She was a new mother who was struggling with parenting and attempting to hide her past. As the story progressed, I was on the edge of my seat, thus I felt the suspense was top-notch. The only disappointment for me was the final reveal; I was expecting a little more after such a long wait. It was a quick and engaging thriller.
Thriller🔪
Suspense🫣
Multiple POVs🗣️
Lies🤫
3 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 12, 2025
Good Bad Mother follows the twisted history of new mom and newlywed MC who is running from something in her past. Married into wealth, our MC isn’t feeling like she’s fitting into the family and is concerned when her new husband’s ex-girlfriend starts hanging around. As the chapters continue, Amelia drops hints to her past, little by little to keep the reader wanting more. The same past is coming back to haunt her and threatens to ruin the family and life she’s created.
While I didn’t find this book overly exciting, I did enjoy my time listening to it. I found myself excited to restart it every chance I could. The twist at the end was predictable, however, the other twist was not. Overall, the story was fun and kept me wanting more. The writing felt a little redundant at times and a little juvenile, but still good.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for this ALC!
While I didn’t find this book overly exciting, I did enjoy my time listening to it. I found myself excited to restart it every chance I could. The twist at the end was predictable, however, the other twist was not. Overall, the story was fun and kept me wanting more. The writing felt a little redundant at times and a little juvenile, but still good.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for this ALC!
February 16, 2025
Big thanks to Bookouture for a copy on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Good Bad Mother is a tension filled read with some twists and turns to make sure you are not asleep.
Amelia is a new wife and mother.
Her husband Timothy is part of a wealthy Sterling family on Cutter Island.
Her in laws request her to be a part of family interviews, photoshoots and events.
Amelia cautiously and hesitantly agrees.
But Amelia is hiding from her secrets and now her past is back to seek its own truth.
I quite enjoyed this and my reading experience was never a dull moment.
A fast paced, intriguing and enjoyable thriller.
Absorbing, appealing, surprising and satisfying, a book that will keep you engaged right to the very end.
Good Bad Mother is a tension filled read with some twists and turns to make sure you are not asleep.
Amelia is a new wife and mother.
Her husband Timothy is part of a wealthy Sterling family on Cutter Island.
Her in laws request her to be a part of family interviews, photoshoots and events.
Amelia cautiously and hesitantly agrees.
But Amelia is hiding from her secrets and now her past is back to seek its own truth.
I quite enjoyed this and my reading experience was never a dull moment.
A fast paced, intriguing and enjoyable thriller.
Absorbing, appealing, surprising and satisfying, a book that will keep you engaged right to the very end.
February 17, 2025
Such an amazing read, my first by this author but certainly not my last. A story of the challenges of motherhood, past secrets and guilt! It drew me in literally from the beginning and kept my attention by making me continue to guess what’s going on. Amelia has buried secrets & lies from her past, that she is trying to keep buried. Suddenly letters begin to appear threatening to reveal what she is trying to keep hidden. Her paranoia threatens all her current relationships, including with her new husband Timothy and her awful in-laws. A must read that I highly recommended. Absolutely amazing narration, they really brought the characters to life. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
January 21, 2025
✨️ ARC REVIEW ✨️
Good Bad Mother by Anya Mora
Publication date: February 17th 2025
"I'm doing the one thing I vowed I would never do. Have my photo taken by a stranger"
It's very rare for me to not predict very early on in the book where the story's going .. This read was PACKED! The FMC is flawed to the T yet she's one of those characters I'd defend like my life depends on it😂🙆🏼♀️
Amelia is doing everything she can to be the perfect wife to her husband, Timothy, and a good mother to Clover. On the surface, their life looks like a dream— money, connections and safety. Amelia finally feels like she’s building a stable future. However Amelia’s hiding a dark past, and she’ll do whatever it takes to make sure it stays buried. Things start to spiral when a family photoshoot takes place and you could say the "cherry on top" in midst of this is the reappearance of Celeste who doesn't shy away when it comes to making Amelia uncomfortable but that's the least of her problems (literally) when Amelia receives an anonymous letter from someone who knows her biggest secrets and dark past. How long will it take before her picture perfect life falls apart...
I thoroughly enjoyed this read! I need more people to read this to see if anyone can actually figure out the ending cause I'm lowkey annoyed with myself that I didn't figure it out faster 🤣
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the arc
Good Bad Mother by Anya Mora
Publication date: February 17th 2025
"I'm doing the one thing I vowed I would never do. Have my photo taken by a stranger"
It's very rare for me to not predict very early on in the book where the story's going .. This read was PACKED! The FMC is flawed to the T yet she's one of those characters I'd defend like my life depends on it😂🙆🏼♀️
Amelia is doing everything she can to be the perfect wife to her husband, Timothy, and a good mother to Clover. On the surface, their life looks like a dream— money, connections and safety. Amelia finally feels like she’s building a stable future. However Amelia’s hiding a dark past, and she’ll do whatever it takes to make sure it stays buried. Things start to spiral when a family photoshoot takes place and you could say the "cherry on top" in midst of this is the reappearance of Celeste who doesn't shy away when it comes to making Amelia uncomfortable but that's the least of her problems (literally) when Amelia receives an anonymous letter from someone who knows her biggest secrets and dark past. How long will it take before her picture perfect life falls apart...
I thoroughly enjoyed this read! I need more people to read this to see if anyone can actually figure out the ending cause I'm lowkey annoyed with myself that I didn't figure it out faster 🤣
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the arc
February 18, 2025
I couldn't resist the allure of this book's captivating cover and intriguing synopsis; the bonus? It was available as an audiobook! Although I wasn't familiar with the two narrators, I was pleasantly surprised by their performances—they truly brought the story to life. I’ll definitely be diving into more of their work.
This domestic thriller unfolded slower than I typically prefer, making the audiobook the perfect choice. I loved the dual timelines and perspectives, which added layers to the narrative that kept me engaged.
At the heart of the story is Amelia, who finds herself married into the prestigious and influential Sterling family. However, her decision may not be wise; Amelia carries dark secrets from her childhood that she desperately wants to keep hidden.
When Timothy proposes to the expectant Amelia after a whirlwind romance, it’s no surprise that someone in the Sterling family will start digging into her past. And you know what they say: the truth has a way of coming out.
I found the novel's structure intriguing, particularly because the identity and connection of one narrator remained a mystery for much of the story. However, the big reveal didn’t quite meet my expectations. Overall, I thought the audiobook was a fast and entertaining experience.
Thank you to the author and Bookouture Audio for the advanced copy of this audiobook provided via NetGalley. All opinions are my own and are left voluntarily.
#GoodBadMother #NetGalley #AnyaMora #audiobookreview #ARC #BookoutureAudio
#ARC #capcut #lefttoread #reader #read #honestreview #thriller #bookreviewer #thrillerbooklovers #thepulse #thrillerfriendsunite #thrillerobsessedbookishclub #lovetoread #lovebooks #booknerd #readaholic #bookstagrammer #booktok #bookish
This domestic thriller unfolded slower than I typically prefer, making the audiobook the perfect choice. I loved the dual timelines and perspectives, which added layers to the narrative that kept me engaged.
At the heart of the story is Amelia, who finds herself married into the prestigious and influential Sterling family. However, her decision may not be wise; Amelia carries dark secrets from her childhood that she desperately wants to keep hidden.
When Timothy proposes to the expectant Amelia after a whirlwind romance, it’s no surprise that someone in the Sterling family will start digging into her past. And you know what they say: the truth has a way of coming out.
I found the novel's structure intriguing, particularly because the identity and connection of one narrator remained a mystery for much of the story. However, the big reveal didn’t quite meet my expectations. Overall, I thought the audiobook was a fast and entertaining experience.
Thank you to the author and Bookouture Audio for the advanced copy of this audiobook provided via NetGalley. All opinions are my own and are left voluntarily.
#GoodBadMother #NetGalley #AnyaMora #audiobookreview #ARC #BookoutureAudio
#ARC #capcut #lefttoread #reader #read #honestreview #thriller #bookreviewer #thrillerbooklovers #thepulse #thrillerfriendsunite #thrillerobsessedbookishclub #lovetoread #lovebooks #booknerd #readaholic #bookstagrammer #booktok #bookish
April 4, 2025
Good Bad Mother by Anya Mora
Amelia Sterling has it all. The perfect husband, the amazing house and a cute little baby she adores… It doesn’t matter if her in-laws look down on her… That’s the least of her worries… Her past is coming back to bite her in the butt and keeping it buried is getting harder by the minute.
It was slow… Like really slow. I thought the plot was super clever and there was some real excellence in the writing.. BUT… It was repetitive. I felt likeI could have been listening to the same chapter every 4 chapters… She was literally spiralling over her past and we didn’t really seem to get anywhere. I couldn’t connect with any of the characters because they were all jerks
It was a real shame because the narration was good and the story was good. I just think more could have been done had all the repetitiveness had been eradicated and I still don’t understand what was up with her husband…. I don’t want to spoil it but WTAF.
Having said that I did actually enjoy the book.
3.75 stars
Amelia Sterling has it all. The perfect husband, the amazing house and a cute little baby she adores… It doesn’t matter if her in-laws look down on her… That’s the least of her worries… Her past is coming back to bite her in the butt and keeping it buried is getting harder by the minute.
It was slow… Like really slow. I thought the plot was super clever and there was some real excellence in the writing.. BUT… It was repetitive. I felt likeI could have been listening to the same chapter every 4 chapters… She was literally spiralling over her past and we didn’t really seem to get anywhere. I couldn’t connect with any of the characters because they were all jerks
It was a real shame because the narration was good and the story was good. I just think more could have been done had all the repetitiveness had been eradicated and I still don’t understand what was up with her husband…. I don’t want to spoil it but WTAF.
Having said that I did actually enjoy the book.
3.75 stars
February 11, 2025
3.5 🌟 for this thriller from a somehow new to me author.
While I really enjoyed Good Bad Mother, I was kept entertained throughout, the story felt a little too padded out. There was far too much time spent going over the fact that our protagonist was hiding something from her past, something that her husband could never find out, then when the secret was divulged to the reader the plot became a bit obvious , however neither of these points made me dislike the story.
I’m struggling to think of a likeable character throughout the story, and genuinely I find with a thriller that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
Good enough story, great plot, great setting. Had it been condensed a bit I think I’d have rated it far higher. I’d definitely read other titles from the author.
The dual narrators done a really good job with the story.
My thanks to Bookouture Audio via NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
While I really enjoyed Good Bad Mother, I was kept entertained throughout, the story felt a little too padded out. There was far too much time spent going over the fact that our protagonist was hiding something from her past, something that her husband could never find out, then when the secret was divulged to the reader the plot became a bit obvious , however neither of these points made me dislike the story.
I’m struggling to think of a likeable character throughout the story, and genuinely I find with a thriller that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
Good enough story, great plot, great setting. Had it been condensed a bit I think I’d have rated it far higher. I’d definitely read other titles from the author.
The dual narrators done a really good job with the story.
My thanks to Bookouture Audio via NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
January 20, 2025
Talk about a book that will have you hooked from start to finish! I seriously could NOT put this down. I was on the edge of my seat so eager to know where the story would lead. Quick chapters, duel timelines, and a plot twist that will have your jaw on the floor!
Amelia has everything she could want. A gorgeous house, a rich husband, and a beautiful new baby. She lives on a the enviable Cutters Island, surrounded by her husbands billionaire family. Although it seems picture perfect, Amelia knows she doesn’t fit in there. And it’s only made more clear when strange letters start showing up in her mailbox. Someone knows exactly who Amelia really is, and what she’s hiding, will they unleash the truth and unveil everything Amelia has worked so hard to cover up?
Thank you NetGalley and bookouture for the arc! pub date is 2/17/25
Amelia has everything she could want. A gorgeous house, a rich husband, and a beautiful new baby. She lives on a the enviable Cutters Island, surrounded by her husbands billionaire family. Although it seems picture perfect, Amelia knows she doesn’t fit in there. And it’s only made more clear when strange letters start showing up in her mailbox. Someone knows exactly who Amelia really is, and what she’s hiding, will they unleash the truth and unveil everything Amelia has worked so hard to cover up?
Thank you NetGalley and bookouture for the arc! pub date is 2/17/25
February 18, 2025
Everyone has a past, some worse than others. Amelia has dark secrets from her past, and she is working hard to keep them buried. She suddenly starts receiving letters letters that threaten the new life she has built as a wife and mother. How far will a mother go to keep her past hidden? How far will a mother go to protect her child?
Even though this book was a slow burn, it drew me in right from the first page, and I was invested up until the end. I was so curious to know how everything would play out. The author kept me in the dark for a long time, and I kept guessing about what would happen. All of those guesses were wrong! The suspense building by Mora was top notch, and elements of surprise that were intertwined throughout the plot development kept me intrigued. I loved the ending, and I thought the narrators (Lauryn Allman and Penelope Rawlins) did a good job bringing the story to life. I enjoy books that have multiple narrators.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Even though this book was a slow burn, it drew me in right from the first page, and I was invested up until the end. I was so curious to know how everything would play out. The author kept me in the dark for a long time, and I kept guessing about what would happen. All of those guesses were wrong! The suspense building by Mora was top notch, and elements of surprise that were intertwined throughout the plot development kept me intrigued. I loved the ending, and I thought the narrators (Lauryn Allman and Penelope Rawlins) did a good job bringing the story to life. I enjoy books that have multiple narrators.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
May 4, 2025
Amelia is living the dream with her husband Timothy but Amelia is hiding her past from her husband and his family and it seems to be catching up with her.
This was a twisty and tense thriller and i loved it. Go in blind and enjoy the ride. Would definitely recommend. I will definitely be looking to read more of this author back list.
I listened to this book on audio and in one sitting it completely drew me in and kept me on the edge of my seat. Very well read and easy to listen to.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture and Anya Mora for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a twisty and tense thriller and i loved it. Go in blind and enjoy the ride. Would definitely recommend. I will definitely be looking to read more of this author back list.
I listened to this book on audio and in one sitting it completely drew me in and kept me on the edge of my seat. Very well read and easy to listen to.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture and Anya Mora for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2025
I really enjoyed this thriller! It was pretty good! The audiobook was good as well. I listened to it in one sitting. The storyline kept me hooked. Some of the twists surprised me. I seen some of it coming, but not all. This is my first book by this author. I’ll definitely have to check out some other books by her! If you want a quick thriller that’s hard to put down, then definitely check this one out!
February 15, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for allowing me to give to listen to an advanced audio of this book.
This audiobook got me hooked right from the start! From the opening scene, we're thrown into chaos with Amelia in a full-blown panic because her baby, Clover, is missing. Then, the plot thickens when she smells smoke - the house is literally on fire. But here's the kicker: this isn't just some freak accident. Someone's out for revenge against Amelia.
Amelia is a new mom, married to Timothy, who's loaded. They tied the knot in a hurry after finding out about the pregnancy. But there's this air of mystery around Amelia. She's super paranoid about her past, to the point where she's scared to even be in a family photo - she's terrified someone might recognize her. As the story unfolds through the speakers, we start piecing together what she's hiding from, and let me tell you, the twists were completely unexpected. An engrossing listen that keeps you captivated until the very end.
This audiobook got me hooked right from the start! From the opening scene, we're thrown into chaos with Amelia in a full-blown panic because her baby, Clover, is missing. Then, the plot thickens when she smells smoke - the house is literally on fire. But here's the kicker: this isn't just some freak accident. Someone's out for revenge against Amelia.
Amelia is a new mom, married to Timothy, who's loaded. They tied the knot in a hurry after finding out about the pregnancy. But there's this air of mystery around Amelia. She's super paranoid about her past, to the point where she's scared to even be in a family photo - she's terrified someone might recognize her. As the story unfolds through the speakers, we start piecing together what she's hiding from, and let me tell you, the twists were completely unexpected. An engrossing listen that keeps you captivated until the very end.
February 22, 2025
The cover to this one is absolutely fantastic. And I love the title...the word play on being a good bad mother.... brilliant. Sometimes good people do bad things, don't they? But does our past truly define us?
Twisty twisty.... this one was great! I loved the concept of the past creeping into the present and wrecking absolute havoc. This was a story that held my attention and kept me on edge. I definitely want to check out more from this author.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Twisty twisty.... this one was great! I loved the concept of the past creeping into the present and wrecking absolute havoc. This was a story that held my attention and kept me on edge. I definitely want to check out more from this author.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2025
I loved this book as it details a "now" and "then" journey featuring Amelia and husband Timothy as they deal with baby Clover and his wealthy family on Cutters Island. Amelia has never "fit in" with them as she grew up poor and they seem to shun her whenever they attend frequent family dinners. But Amelia has been leading a secret life and begins receiving threatening notes in her mailbox. Is her past catching up to her or is her present life in danger with the wealthy family who snubs her when they can?
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
January 9, 2025
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for an early copy of Good Bad Mother. This started very slow but stick with it, it was a really good story. I felt for the main character, she had it tough. Her family was not nice, and neither was her husband’s family. I loved the ending, it wrapped up nicely.
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