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The Favourite Child
'Mollie’s missing.' As I look at my husband, I struggle to take in his words. For years, I’ve been so focussed on our son, who needed me to care for him. I’ve sacrificed so much to make him feel safe. But have I put my own daughter’s life in danger?
When we discovered we were having twins, a boy and a girl, I couldn’t believe our luck. Within months we would have the perfect family we’d always dreamed of.
The first few years were so happy. Our house was chaotic but full of love, just as it should be. But as the years passed, we had to acknowledge that our son Ben needed a lot more support than Mollie. I had no choice but to put his needs first. I wanted him to have the best life possible. But it came at a devastating cost.
Now, Mollie is missing. Clasping my husband’s hands for the first time in years, we start to piece together any reason for why she disappeared. Mollie was a straight-A student, a perfect daughter, a loyal friend. As my husband looks at me in fear, I’m forced to confront a truth I have spent years trying to hide.
They say it is impossible to choose a favourite child. But years ago, during a house fire I had to do just that. I had to push one child to safety ahead of the other. I chose my son. Now I’m forced to question whether my dear daughter has always remembered what I did. Am I the real reason she disappeared? And will I ever see her again?
An absolutely unputdownable and tear-jerking read about the strength of a mother’s love. Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Kate Hewitt and Diane Chamberlain.
What readers are saying about Emma
‘Completely heartbreaking. This book gave me ALL the feels. My emotions have been all over the place reading this… This will definitely have you hooked from the beginning. It’s a book that you won’t want to put down… I adored it.’ Littlemissbooklover87 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Oh wow! Emma’s books really should come with a warning or maybe just a box of tissues! Be ready to be pulled in, but also get your heart broken!… You will find it hard to put this one down… A heart-wrenching, heartwarming read!… A must-read!’ CypressCornerReads ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘One of my queens of tissues… A beautiful, heart breaking and heartwarming story that pulled every string of my heart… There is only one thing I can say about this amazingly beautiful.’ B for bookreview ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Fabulous… lots of tissues were required in this heartbreaking yet heartwarming and emotional read… I read this in practically one sitting as once I have picked up a book by this author I know that I won’t get anything else done. This book left me with a book hangover.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
When we discovered we were having twins, a boy and a girl, I couldn’t believe our luck. Within months we would have the perfect family we’d always dreamed of.
The first few years were so happy. Our house was chaotic but full of love, just as it should be. But as the years passed, we had to acknowledge that our son Ben needed a lot more support than Mollie. I had no choice but to put his needs first. I wanted him to have the best life possible. But it came at a devastating cost.
Now, Mollie is missing. Clasping my husband’s hands for the first time in years, we start to piece together any reason for why she disappeared. Mollie was a straight-A student, a perfect daughter, a loyal friend. As my husband looks at me in fear, I’m forced to confront a truth I have spent years trying to hide.
They say it is impossible to choose a favourite child. But years ago, during a house fire I had to do just that. I had to push one child to safety ahead of the other. I chose my son. Now I’m forced to question whether my dear daughter has always remembered what I did. Am I the real reason she disappeared? And will I ever see her again?
An absolutely unputdownable and tear-jerking read about the strength of a mother’s love. Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Kate Hewitt and Diane Chamberlain.
What readers are saying about Emma
‘Completely heartbreaking. This book gave me ALL the feels. My emotions have been all over the place reading this… This will definitely have you hooked from the beginning. It’s a book that you won’t want to put down… I adored it.’ Littlemissbooklover87 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Oh wow! Emma’s books really should come with a warning or maybe just a box of tissues! Be ready to be pulled in, but also get your heart broken!… You will find it hard to put this one down… A heart-wrenching, heartwarming read!… A must-read!’ CypressCornerReads ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘One of my queens of tissues… A beautiful, heart breaking and heartwarming story that pulled every string of my heart… There is only one thing I can say about this amazingly beautiful.’ B for bookreview ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Fabulous… lots of tissues were required in this heartbreaking yet heartwarming and emotional read… I read this in practically one sitting as once I have picked up a book by this author I know that I won’t get anything else done. This book left me with a book hangover.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2025
2261 people are currently reading
463 people want to read
About the author
Emma Robinson
26 books271 followersEmma Robinson is a USA Today Bestseller with a passion for stories which explore the power of family and friendship in the most challenging circumstances. Whilst her early novels are humorous; her recent work focuses on emotional themes and these novels are both heart-breaking and life affirming.
Emma currently lives in Essex, England with a husband, two children and a small black dog.
Emma currently lives in Essex, England with a husband, two children and a small black dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
February 26, 2025
Emma Robinson, a master storyteller known for her compelling soulful family dramas, returns with her latest emotional and gripping narrative, THE FAVOURITE CHILD, a must-read for her fans.
A mother, torn by guilt and facing every parent's nightmare, is forced to make a heart-wrenching decision: to save her son over her daughter. Years later, her daughter is missing, and the consequences of her choice haunt her.
About...
Erica and Andrew have twins. A boy. Ben and a girl, Mollie. However, Ben requires more attention due to his Autism and special needs. This puts a strain on the marriage and their family.
Andrews is a cop, and one night, while at work, there is a fire at the house. Erica is trying to get both the twins to safety and makes a split decision to help Ben first.
Five years later, they have moved to a different house closer to Ben's school, but Mollie is resentful and, being the typical teen, starts getting into all sorts of trouble acting out.
Then she goes missing.
Erica starts feeling guilty and questioning all the decisions she has made. She feels she has not given enough attention to her daughter, but she is pulled thin from being the primary caregiver for her son. Mollie is not open or shares her feelings, acting out.
Will this family, torn apart by their past, find a way to heal and reunite?
My thoughts...
THE FAVOURITE CHILD is a compelling and intricate story of a family wrestling with a myriad of complex issues. Life is hard, and as parents, we constantly question our decisions when it comes to our kids. Teens especially do not think of parents and others and tend to be self-centered.
The author compassionately navigates these emotionally charged topics, delivering a cautionary tale that silence is not always the best policy. Honesty and openness are always the better choice, even though some shy away from expressing their true feelings.
Motherhood and parenting are not easy, especially when accused of favoritism between siblings, especially when one has unique needs.
The character-driven story explores how decisions by one can have catastrophic effects on the remainder of the family. It is a moving story of a mother's love to protect her children as best she can.
Compelling, engaging, honest, and deeply compassionate with relatable characters.
Recs...
The Favourite Child is for fans of the author and those who enjoy complex family dramas, motherhood, and works by Marybeth Mayhew Whalen, Suzanne Redfearn, and Diane Chamberlain.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a digital advanced review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 4 Stars
Pub Date: Feb 28, 2025
Feb 2025 Must-Read Books
Feb Newsletter
A mother, torn by guilt and facing every parent's nightmare, is forced to make a heart-wrenching decision: to save her son over her daughter. Years later, her daughter is missing, and the consequences of her choice haunt her.
About...
Erica and Andrew have twins. A boy. Ben and a girl, Mollie. However, Ben requires more attention due to his Autism and special needs. This puts a strain on the marriage and their family.
Andrews is a cop, and one night, while at work, there is a fire at the house. Erica is trying to get both the twins to safety and makes a split decision to help Ben first.
Five years later, they have moved to a different house closer to Ben's school, but Mollie is resentful and, being the typical teen, starts getting into all sorts of trouble acting out.
Then she goes missing.
Erica starts feeling guilty and questioning all the decisions she has made. She feels she has not given enough attention to her daughter, but she is pulled thin from being the primary caregiver for her son. Mollie is not open or shares her feelings, acting out.
Will this family, torn apart by their past, find a way to heal and reunite?
My thoughts...
THE FAVOURITE CHILD is a compelling and intricate story of a family wrestling with a myriad of complex issues. Life is hard, and as parents, we constantly question our decisions when it comes to our kids. Teens especially do not think of parents and others and tend to be self-centered.
The author compassionately navigates these emotionally charged topics, delivering a cautionary tale that silence is not always the best policy. Honesty and openness are always the better choice, even though some shy away from expressing their true feelings.
Motherhood and parenting are not easy, especially when accused of favoritism between siblings, especially when one has unique needs.
The character-driven story explores how decisions by one can have catastrophic effects on the remainder of the family. It is a moving story of a mother's love to protect her children as best she can.
Compelling, engaging, honest, and deeply compassionate with relatable characters.
Recs...
The Favourite Child is for fans of the author and those who enjoy complex family dramas, motherhood, and works by Marybeth Mayhew Whalen, Suzanne Redfearn, and Diane Chamberlain.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a digital advanced review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 4 Stars
Pub Date: Feb 28, 2025
Feb 2025 Must-Read Books
Feb Newsletter
July 3, 2025
This was such a good book that touched on real life situations that many families go through. I loved the realness of it and lessons that were taken from it.
March 3, 2025
No parent should ever have to choose one child over another. Erica, a mother of teenage twins, faced this difficult decision. Despite her fervent love for both Mollie and Benjamin, she knew Benjamin’s needs were paramount.
As a child on the autism spectrum, Erica’s dream of Benjamin attending a school tailored to his needs led her to the painful choice of living apart from her husband. But this also meant living apart from Mollie. She believed Mollie would be better off with her father, staying in her current school without losing the friendships she cultivated.
Mollie’s challenges were unsurprising, given the family’s split. Visitation between parents and children became difficult, testing Erica’s bond with Mollie and her relationship with her husband.
Does Erica favor one child over the other? The cracks in the relationships in this book become more evident. This sensitive and heartbreaking read takes an unexpected turn, tugging at your heartstrings even more than the perception of favoritism. Mollie faces difficulties and dangers that might have been avoided if Erica hadn’t separated the family.
I was captivated by the portrayal of the story. While we primarily see Erica’s narrative, we also get Mollie’s perspective, giving the book immense depth. As a parent and a grandparent, this heart-wrenching story made me question whether I could have made such difficult decisions and navigated such treacherous waters. I was fully immersed in this beautifully written story and couldn’t put it down. Emma Robinson’s storytelling tugged at my heartstrings, and I really hoped for a happy ending for all. Kudos to another exceptional story, Ms. Robinson.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
As a child on the autism spectrum, Erica’s dream of Benjamin attending a school tailored to his needs led her to the painful choice of living apart from her husband. But this also meant living apart from Mollie. She believed Mollie would be better off with her father, staying in her current school without losing the friendships she cultivated.
Mollie’s challenges were unsurprising, given the family’s split. Visitation between parents and children became difficult, testing Erica’s bond with Mollie and her relationship with her husband.
Does Erica favor one child over the other? The cracks in the relationships in this book become more evident. This sensitive and heartbreaking read takes an unexpected turn, tugging at your heartstrings even more than the perception of favoritism. Mollie faces difficulties and dangers that might have been avoided if Erica hadn’t separated the family.
I was captivated by the portrayal of the story. While we primarily see Erica’s narrative, we also get Mollie’s perspective, giving the book immense depth. As a parent and a grandparent, this heart-wrenching story made me question whether I could have made such difficult decisions and navigated such treacherous waters. I was fully immersed in this beautifully written story and couldn’t put it down. Emma Robinson’s storytelling tugged at my heartstrings, and I really hoped for a happy ending for all. Kudos to another exceptional story, Ms. Robinson.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
April 2, 2025
The Favorite Child by Emma Robinson is a heart-wrenching, emotionally charged thriller that stays with you long after you read it.
Parents are not supposed to have a favorite child, but deep down, they just might even if they don't like to admit it and try their best to not let it show.
When the main character and her husband found out they were expecting they were thrilled, they were overjoyed when they found out it was twins and over the moon when they found out it was boy/girl twins. Their ideal family all in one go.
Going from zero kids to two was chaotic but they learned over the years that their son Ben would need their help more then his twin Mollie. Ben's mom thought she was doing her best to give Ben the best shot at life, but didn't realize that it might come at the cost of Mollie.
Years ago they had a house fire, and the kids mom had to choose which child to push out to safety first, she chose Ben. So when Mollie goes missing her mom can't help but wonder, is she to blame? Did Mollie know Ben was the favorite?
Thank you Emma Robinson for working with NetGalley. I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
Parents are not supposed to have a favorite child, but deep down, they just might even if they don't like to admit it and try their best to not let it show.
When the main character and her husband found out they were expecting they were thrilled, they were overjoyed when they found out it was twins and over the moon when they found out it was boy/girl twins. Their ideal family all in one go.
Going from zero kids to two was chaotic but they learned over the years that their son Ben would need their help more then his twin Mollie. Ben's mom thought she was doing her best to give Ben the best shot at life, but didn't realize that it might come at the cost of Mollie.
Years ago they had a house fire, and the kids mom had to choose which child to push out to safety first, she chose Ben. So when Mollie goes missing her mom can't help but wonder, is she to blame? Did Mollie know Ben was the favorite?
Thank you Emma Robinson for working with NetGalley. I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
May 19, 2025
Do you have a favourite child? Which would you save 1st
Like most mum's the main character in this book doesn’t have a favourite, however other people’s perceptions may not be the same.
Home alone with her twins, 8 year old Mollie amd Benjamin. Benjamin, is autistic and needs extra support, Mollie is easier and more independent. When a fire breaks out in the middle of the night, Erika, wakes her twins and tries to get them all to safety. As they’re making their escape, she is forced to choose one over the other, in a moment that she can never forgive herself for. It seems shes not alone and for the next 5 years this decision has caused a rift between her and her husband. As more and more often, Erika puts Benjamin’s needs above the rest of the family, that rift grows bigger.
When now 13 year old Mollie, disappears, after being suspended from school, Erika and her husband Andrew are forced to not only face their past decisions but think very carefully about their future.
I found the characters likeable and relatable and totally understood Erika’s sometimes questionable decisions.
The story was well told and all the characters were well written.
Like most mum's the main character in this book doesn’t have a favourite, however other people’s perceptions may not be the same.
Home alone with her twins, 8 year old Mollie amd Benjamin. Benjamin, is autistic and needs extra support, Mollie is easier and more independent. When a fire breaks out in the middle of the night, Erika, wakes her twins and tries to get them all to safety. As they’re making their escape, she is forced to choose one over the other, in a moment that she can never forgive herself for. It seems shes not alone and for the next 5 years this decision has caused a rift between her and her husband. As more and more often, Erika puts Benjamin’s needs above the rest of the family, that rift grows bigger.
When now 13 year old Mollie, disappears, after being suspended from school, Erika and her husband Andrew are forced to not only face their past decisions but think very carefully about their future.
I found the characters likeable and relatable and totally understood Erika’s sometimes questionable decisions.
The story was well told and all the characters were well written.
February 20, 2025
Andrew is a police officer, and whilst at work one night, there was a fire at his house. His wife Erica and their twins, Mollie and Benjamin were in the house. Erica had to get herself and the children out, she had to make a split second decision that she has never come to terms with.
Five years on and the family live in another house, until Erica moves to a flat with Benjamin, close to where his new school is. Benjamin has autism and Erica is the only person who can deal with him.
When Mollie gets into trouble and then runs away, Erica starts to question all of the decisions she has made and starts to realise she hasn’t been there for her daughter.
There is so much more to this story than you realise when you start reading it. You have to peel away the layers to get to the truth.
My heart went out to Mollie, she was older than her years and with so much weight on her shoulders.
A story that shows how silence is not a good thing and honesty really is the best policy.
I felt this story was an important one, it shows some of the issues involved with a neurodivergent child alongside a child who isn’t neurodivergent. The different types of relationships between each member of the family was hard hitting. I found it emotional at times.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Five years on and the family live in another house, until Erica moves to a flat with Benjamin, close to where his new school is. Benjamin has autism and Erica is the only person who can deal with him.
When Mollie gets into trouble and then runs away, Erica starts to question all of the decisions she has made and starts to realise she hasn’t been there for her daughter.
There is so much more to this story than you realise when you start reading it. You have to peel away the layers to get to the truth.
My heart went out to Mollie, she was older than her years and with so much weight on her shoulders.
A story that shows how silence is not a good thing and honesty really is the best policy.
I felt this story was an important one, it shows some of the issues involved with a neurodivergent child alongside a child who isn’t neurodivergent. The different types of relationships between each member of the family was hard hitting. I found it emotional at times.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 11, 2025
Such a lovely, well written, thoughtful, thought provoking, wonderful book.
I’ve loved everything I’ve read from Emma Robinson and this is no exception. The story follows a family and all the trials and tribulations that come with navigating two teenage children through life, along side hard working, caring parents.
This book just really resonated with me, the author clearly took time to write this in a considerate way, showing how difficult it is to deal with everyday life when challenges are sent to try us, everything from dealing with new dangers children face today, like the internet, to living with a child who has extra needs.
I can’t quite find the words to describe how well this was written, how each character was developed and their story told, intertwined with everyone else’s story. The family’s story is so real, so raw, but has the best ending. The characters just grow on you throughout the book as you begin to understand everything from their different perspectives.
This has got to be my favourite quote from the book and will definitely be at the forefront of my mind when thinking about my son ‘Don’t look at his world through your eyes, look through his eyes.’
So basically go and read it! You will not be disappointed.
I’ve loved everything I’ve read from Emma Robinson and this is no exception. The story follows a family and all the trials and tribulations that come with navigating two teenage children through life, along side hard working, caring parents.
This book just really resonated with me, the author clearly took time to write this in a considerate way, showing how difficult it is to deal with everyday life when challenges are sent to try us, everything from dealing with new dangers children face today, like the internet, to living with a child who has extra needs.
I can’t quite find the words to describe how well this was written, how each character was developed and their story told, intertwined with everyone else’s story. The family’s story is so real, so raw, but has the best ending. The characters just grow on you throughout the book as you begin to understand everything from their different perspectives.
This has got to be my favourite quote from the book and will definitely be at the forefront of my mind when thinking about my son ‘Don’t look at his world through your eyes, look through his eyes.’
So basically go and read it! You will not be disappointed.
October 1, 2025
Such a sweet, heart-wrenching story. When Erica and Andrew got pregnant, they were surprised with twins- a boy and a girl. As they were growing, it became apparent that the boy had developmental issues while the girl was highly intelligent and confident. Ben had autism and required a lot of attention while Mollie was very independent. When the twins were 13, Ben started at a special needs school an hour away from home. Mom ends up getting a small apt. so her and Ben don’t have to commute back and forth. Meanwhile Mollie stays with her dad and continues at her same school. When Mollie suddenly gets into trouble, everyone is shocked. But Mollie has been feeling like all of her moms attention is on Benjamin, her favorite child. Great emotional conclusion.
January 29, 2025
A brilliant read as always from this author, great storytelling and characters.
I can thoroughly recommend this book.
I can thoroughly recommend this book.
March 3, 2025
Wow what a book! An emotional rollercoaster that will make you smile, and then choke back tears. I absolutely loved it. It’s a very clever idea, and not implausible. A five-star review from me.
When Erica and Andrew find out they are having twins they are over the moon. They love the fact that they are having both a boy and a girl (Ben and Mollie), but the shock that Ben has Special Needs threatens to break up the family as Ben needs a lot more support than Mollie. However, when Mollie goes missing, it throws the whole family into panic. For the first time, Mollie is everyone’s priority. Erica hasn’t ever got over feeling guilty about something that happened when the twins were small, and she takes Mollie’s disappearance very hard. Can Erica and Andrew work together to ensure Mollie, and Ben, are safe?
A book full of raw emotion. Guilt, stress, happiness, betrayal, devastation and so much more. The characters are both likeable and relatable and Mollie seems like someone I could have as a good friend. A great story - I finished it in a day!
When Erica and Andrew find out they are having twins they are over the moon. They love the fact that they are having both a boy and a girl (Ben and Mollie), but the shock that Ben has Special Needs threatens to break up the family as Ben needs a lot more support than Mollie. However, when Mollie goes missing, it throws the whole family into panic. For the first time, Mollie is everyone’s priority. Erica hasn’t ever got over feeling guilty about something that happened when the twins were small, and she takes Mollie’s disappearance very hard. Can Erica and Andrew work together to ensure Mollie, and Ben, are safe?
A book full of raw emotion. Guilt, stress, happiness, betrayal, devastation and so much more. The characters are both likeable and relatable and Mollie seems like someone I could have as a good friend. A great story - I finished it in a day!
March 12, 2025
Wow and Loved!!!!! The best way to describe this author books is to compare them to opening up gifts on Christmas morning. They are all so joyful and heartwarming. I do want to say too that I normally don’t read this genre because it gets me all sad and sappy but I do make an exception for this author. Yes, her books make you feel all warm but they do also have a hint of mystery to them as well. Thats why I like them so much. I don’t always want to read a book that’s 100% thriller. I want some sadness to it so I can have a good cry which this author is great at doing. Now let’s talk about this one. The characters were all fantastic. They each fit the story perfectly. The characters really made this book for me. The plot also helped. It kept me intrigued and hooked the whole way through. I couldn’t put this one down. There were so twists that I knew would keep me thinking about this book for a long time after I was done reading it. Up next, that awe of an ending. I couldn’t ask for anything more. This has to be this authors best book yet. I can’t wait for her next one. I’m not sure how she’s going to top this one. It’s definitely going to be hard to beat this book.
September 6, 2025
It was ok but so boring imo. I think because it had a ton of potential to be great but just fell so short that I was just even more disappointed. I also did the audio and when Molly was upset her voice was almost unbearable to listen to, high pitched screeching. That also killed it for me. The other voices are good and when she wasn’t mad her voice was tolerable.
July 13, 2025
This book had promise but failed to deliver.
February 25, 2025
Erica and Andrew were over the moon when they discovered they were having twins, and even more so that it was a boy and a girl. They took to parenthood well but as the twins, Mollie and Ben, grew they realised that Ben had special needs, he was going to need a lot more support than Mollie and Erica was putting Ben’s needs first. Now teenage Mollie has gone missing and her parents are trying to get their heads round what could have instigated this. Is it that Mollie got into trouble at school or does the issue run deeper than that? Erica is forced to relive an incident that happened five years ago when the twins were eight years old and the split second decision she had to make, does Mollie remember what happened that night, does she blame Erica for choosing Ben over her, is he her favourite child?
The Favourite Child is the latest family drama from Robinson, told from the perspectives of Erica and Mollie, this story depicts how decisions made by one person can have catastrophic effects on the rest of the family. When we have children, we are not given a handbook to show us how to do it right and we all make mistakes. I felt for both Erica and Andrew and, as a parent myself, I know I would move heaven and earth to protect my children, but sometimes you can over-protect and I think this was Erica’s downfall. It was obvious that Ben was always going to need more attention, but not at the expense of Mollie’s wellbeing and my heart went out to her too. Robinson’s books are written from the heart and it’s obvious that she does her research very well, her characters are relatable and realistic and her stories are so well written, time and time again she has torn my heart out and walked all over it and this time was no exception. Another heart-wrenching and emotionally raw story from this wonderful author, which I highly recommend and, as always, you will need tissues.
I’d like to thank Bookouture and Netgalley for the auto approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
The Favourite Child is the latest family drama from Robinson, told from the perspectives of Erica and Mollie, this story depicts how decisions made by one person can have catastrophic effects on the rest of the family. When we have children, we are not given a handbook to show us how to do it right and we all make mistakes. I felt for both Erica and Andrew and, as a parent myself, I know I would move heaven and earth to protect my children, but sometimes you can over-protect and I think this was Erica’s downfall. It was obvious that Ben was always going to need more attention, but not at the expense of Mollie’s wellbeing and my heart went out to her too. Robinson’s books are written from the heart and it’s obvious that she does her research very well, her characters are relatable and realistic and her stories are so well written, time and time again she has torn my heart out and walked all over it and this time was no exception. Another heart-wrenching and emotionally raw story from this wonderful author, which I highly recommend and, as always, you will need tissues.
I’d like to thank Bookouture and Netgalley for the auto approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
March 3, 2025
Ugh, this book really is heartbreaking. Emma Robinson writes beautiful stories that are both thought provoking and heartbreaking. I partially related to this book and to Erica so I really felt it deeply. Erica has spent a lot of time caring for Ben, who has autism. I don’t have children with autism, but I do have a developmentally delayed child, who is also speech delayed and has ADHD (he’s also had some previous medical issues that have resolved). He just needs our attention more than my older son. While my older son is neurodivergent with his ADHD, he is very independent and can ask for help when he needs it. My younger son cannot. So I kind of feel like my older son is the “glass child.” We do tend to overlook him sometimes because we’ve had to focus on our younger son. This book has opened my eyes some.
I don’t want to give too much about this book away, but there is another very important aspect of this book. It has to do with navigating teenage life for young girls, but that’s all I’m going to say because I want people to read this book and be as surprised as I was that the book went this way. Based on the story lines of this book, I think that this book would be an excellent one for a book club discussion.
Emma Robinson wrote in this book, “Don’t look at his world through your eyes, look through his eyes” and I think this quote is going to stick with me for a long time. It really makes me think differently about both of my children. Thank you Emma Robinson for writing such a beautiful, honest, raw book.
I don’t want to give too much about this book away, but there is another very important aspect of this book. It has to do with navigating teenage life for young girls, but that’s all I’m going to say because I want people to read this book and be as surprised as I was that the book went this way. Based on the story lines of this book, I think that this book would be an excellent one for a book club discussion.
Emma Robinson wrote in this book, “Don’t look at his world through your eyes, look through his eyes” and I think this quote is going to stick with me for a long time. It really makes me think differently about both of my children. Thank you Emma Robinson for writing such a beautiful, honest, raw book.
January 26, 2025
Do people have a favourite child? I don't really know because I only have one child and they are my favourite one. I guess you can like and dislike certain characteristics in your children, but that goes for all the people around you, right?
If you have a child who needs more care than another one, you automatically invest more in that one. It does not mean you love them more, but it might feel that way for the sibling. After all they must be your favourite because of all the attention and time you give them. That way of thinking is very understandable, but that does not mean it's true. In my opinion, you know what you are doing, but what else can you do and in the end you don't only 'forget' about the other child, but also about your relationship with your partner and the time you should take for yourself.
Sometimes you have to make choices that will rip your heart apart, but sometimes being to protective makes the situation worse instead of making it better. Sometimes you have to replace your heart with a stone what some choices are concerned in order to make a whole family better.
It's a sad and at the same time very beautiful story. Sometimes you have to wade through difficult decisions in order to reach a peaceful and happy place for everyone.
I loved it. My heart that broke in lots of pieces, was glued together again. 5 stars
Thank you
If you have a child who needs more care than another one, you automatically invest more in that one. It does not mean you love them more, but it might feel that way for the sibling. After all they must be your favourite because of all the attention and time you give them. That way of thinking is very understandable, but that does not mean it's true. In my opinion, you know what you are doing, but what else can you do and in the end you don't only 'forget' about the other child, but also about your relationship with your partner and the time you should take for yourself.
Sometimes you have to make choices that will rip your heart apart, but sometimes being to protective makes the situation worse instead of making it better. Sometimes you have to replace your heart with a stone what some choices are concerned in order to make a whole family better.
It's a sad and at the same time very beautiful story. Sometimes you have to wade through difficult decisions in order to reach a peaceful and happy place for everyone.
I loved it. My heart that broke in lots of pieces, was glued together again. 5 stars
Thank you
February 26, 2025
This is definitely a well written, thought provoking book, with some great characters and a family going through some trials and tribulations.
Following a devastating fire Andrew and Erica have moved to a new home with twins, Mollie & Ben. Erica was home alone with the twins when the fire took hold and although everyone got out the house alive there are plenty of physical and mental scars remaining within the family.
They are now settled in a new home but family life has changed beyond recognition. Ben, who has autisim, has moved to a new school which is miles away from the family home, so himself and Erica now live in a small flat nearer the school. Meanwhile Andrew and Mollie have remained in the family home. Despite trying to return home at weekends Erica is finding herself drifting further from Andrew and Mollie. But Erica is the only person that can keep Ben calm and no what he wants, isn't she?
One day their life is turned up side down when Mollie runs away from home. She hasn't been herself for days and just recently she was caught stealing from her favourite teachers purse. Why did she do that? And what is happening with Mollie? Why has she suddenly changed? She was always the one that just got on with things and always so happy to help with everything, wasn't she?
A truly eye opening, though provoking story that will have you so invested in each of the characters. A complex family with so many different needs and relationships, will they stand the test of time? An absolutely well written emotional book.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for a digital copy of this book.
Following a devastating fire Andrew and Erica have moved to a new home with twins, Mollie & Ben. Erica was home alone with the twins when the fire took hold and although everyone got out the house alive there are plenty of physical and mental scars remaining within the family.
They are now settled in a new home but family life has changed beyond recognition. Ben, who has autisim, has moved to a new school which is miles away from the family home, so himself and Erica now live in a small flat nearer the school. Meanwhile Andrew and Mollie have remained in the family home. Despite trying to return home at weekends Erica is finding herself drifting further from Andrew and Mollie. But Erica is the only person that can keep Ben calm and no what he wants, isn't she?
One day their life is turned up side down when Mollie runs away from home. She hasn't been herself for days and just recently she was caught stealing from her favourite teachers purse. Why did she do that? And what is happening with Mollie? Why has she suddenly changed? She was always the one that just got on with things and always so happy to help with everything, wasn't she?
A truly eye opening, though provoking story that will have you so invested in each of the characters. A complex family with so many different needs and relationships, will they stand the test of time? An absolutely well written emotional book.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for a digital copy of this book.
February 27, 2025
The Favourite Child by Emma Robinson is a gripping well written novel that looks at the choices we make and how they affect everything and everyone.
When Erica and Andrew found out that they were having twins they were ecstatic. One boy and one girl made the surprise even better. But as Mollie and Ben started to grow older Erica and Andrew noticed that Ben was developing slower than Mollie. After a diagnosis of autism Erica realized Ben was going to need a lot more support than Mollie would need. When Erica made the difficult choice to move into an apartment with Ben closer to a specialized school, Mollie stayed in the family home with Andrew. Now that the twins are older, tensions between Mollie and Erica rise when Mollie feels Erica is putting Ben first and that he is her favorite child. And when Mollie runs away, Erica is forced to revisit a terrible accident years earlier when she had to make the most difficult choice to choose one child over the other.
This was such an emotional but intense book! Told from the perspectives of Erica and Mollie, you get to see how one choice greatly affects the whole family. Robinson's characters are real, vulnerable and relatable and this was such a raw and emotional read!
Thank you to NetGalley, Emma Robinson, and Bookouture for this ARC. Expected publication date is February 28th 2025.
When Erica and Andrew found out that they were having twins they were ecstatic. One boy and one girl made the surprise even better. But as Mollie and Ben started to grow older Erica and Andrew noticed that Ben was developing slower than Mollie. After a diagnosis of autism Erica realized Ben was going to need a lot more support than Mollie would need. When Erica made the difficult choice to move into an apartment with Ben closer to a specialized school, Mollie stayed in the family home with Andrew. Now that the twins are older, tensions between Mollie and Erica rise when Mollie feels Erica is putting Ben first and that he is her favorite child. And when Mollie runs away, Erica is forced to revisit a terrible accident years earlier when she had to make the most difficult choice to choose one child over the other.
This was such an emotional but intense book! Told from the perspectives of Erica and Mollie, you get to see how one choice greatly affects the whole family. Robinson's characters are real, vulnerable and relatable and this was such a raw and emotional read!
Thank you to NetGalley, Emma Robinson, and Bookouture for this ARC. Expected publication date is February 28th 2025.
March 4, 2025
Erica and Andrew are parents to twins Mollie and Benjamin. Andrew is a police officer and it was when he was working night shift that Erica woke up to smoke in the house. Grabbing the children, she managed to escape the house. They then bought another house that they loved.
It was when the children were around two that Erica noticed that Benjamin seemed to be lagging behind Mollie in social development. It wasn’t long after that he was diagnosed with a difficult autism. Erica is the one to help calm him.
Now, Erica and Benjamin live in an apartment about away from Andrew and Mollie as Benjamin attends a special school. It is difficult for all of them because Erica only gets to spend a few hours on Sunday with Mollie while Benjamin has a caregiver.
When Mollie is caught stealing money from her favorite teacher’s purse, Erica is shocked and tries to find out why she did it, but she refuses to talk about it.
This story spotlights how having an autistic child can present so many difficulties and challenges for the entire family. The love one has for their special needs child is immense and parents and siblings want only the best life for this child. If you know of someone with a special needs child or just want to learn more about it, I highly recommend the you read this book.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
It was when the children were around two that Erica noticed that Benjamin seemed to be lagging behind Mollie in social development. It wasn’t long after that he was diagnosed with a difficult autism. Erica is the one to help calm him.
Now, Erica and Benjamin live in an apartment about away from Andrew and Mollie as Benjamin attends a special school. It is difficult for all of them because Erica only gets to spend a few hours on Sunday with Mollie while Benjamin has a caregiver.
When Mollie is caught stealing money from her favorite teacher’s purse, Erica is shocked and tries to find out why she did it, but she refuses to talk about it.
This story spotlights how having an autistic child can present so many difficulties and challenges for the entire family. The love one has for their special needs child is immense and parents and siblings want only the best life for this child. If you know of someone with a special needs child or just want to learn more about it, I highly recommend the you read this book.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 26, 2025
Erica and Andrew are separated which also led to the separation of their twin children, Mollie and Benjamin. Benjamin has special needs and Erica’s life revolves around him while Mollie is struggling with issues of her own but she doesn’t feel that she can speak to her mom about the issues so she tries to handle them herself. This book takes you on a rollercoaster ride of events and emotions and will have you feeling so many different ways about the characters throughout the book. This is sure to be a bestseller!
This book is raw and real and will have your emotions all over the place. This book made me feel sad and mad and happy, all in waves throughout the book. As a mom to a daughter myself, parts of this book really hurt my heart and had me sympathizing with Erica but there were also parts of the book where I wanted to reach through the pages and shake her and Andrew. This story is the sad reality of what families can face and how your life can be turned upside down in an instant.
Thank you, Bookouture, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This book is raw and real and will have your emotions all over the place. This book made me feel sad and mad and happy, all in waves throughout the book. As a mom to a daughter myself, parts of this book really hurt my heart and had me sympathizing with Erica but there were also parts of the book where I wanted to reach through the pages and shake her and Andrew. This story is the sad reality of what families can face and how your life can be turned upside down in an instant.
Thank you, Bookouture, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
March 16, 2025
I have been in a reading slump recently, but I shot through the second half of this book. The main character is very likeable, especially as the story progresses and you understand the decisions she has had to make for her family and the difficult situations she has been in. I think, at the beginning, I judged her quite harshly, but as the novel progresses she really grows as a character and learns from impossible decisions in her past.
I also really loved the twins’ characters. Mollie and Ben both provide really important representation that many will relate to in some way. Ben with his high support needs autism and Mollie being a young carer. Parents and siblings of children with significant additional needs face many challenges and it’s important the whole family feels supported. I found this book to be an exploration of those challenges and some of the difficulties that can arise through not having support. There is a mystery and thriller element as well, which is very gripping. The ending is hopeful and satisfying.
I received an advance reader copy of this book which in no way affects my review. This review was written voluntarily.
I also really loved the twins’ characters. Mollie and Ben both provide really important representation that many will relate to in some way. Ben with his high support needs autism and Mollie being a young carer. Parents and siblings of children with significant additional needs face many challenges and it’s important the whole family feels supported. I found this book to be an exploration of those challenges and some of the difficulties that can arise through not having support. There is a mystery and thriller element as well, which is very gripping. The ending is hopeful and satisfying.
I received an advance reader copy of this book which in no way affects my review. This review was written voluntarily.
November 30, 2025
THE FAVORITE CHILD was such a great book. It starts off with a scene that takes place in the past, when Emma is trapped in a house fire with her two children, Molly and Ben. Ben is special needs and when Erica is trapped by the flames and the children are separated, she must make the terrible decision to prioritize saving one over the other.
It's a simple scene, but it’s a great example of what so often happens in families when one child has chronic medical needs that require a lot of parental time and attention, or in Ben’s case, has been a person with special needs since birth. The other child who is neurotypical sometimes gets ignored, not intentionally, but simply because the other child’s needs are so great, and author Emma Robinson did a great job of showing this throughout the novel, how difficult it had been for Molly’s parents Erica and Andrew to find that balance, leaving her feeling forgotten and neglected. There are some shocking things that happen throughout the novel with Molly and I think they really supported the narrative well. I enjoyed this novel and found it really well constructed. 5/5 stars.
It's a simple scene, but it’s a great example of what so often happens in families when one child has chronic medical needs that require a lot of parental time and attention, or in Ben’s case, has been a person with special needs since birth. The other child who is neurotypical sometimes gets ignored, not intentionally, but simply because the other child’s needs are so great, and author Emma Robinson did a great job of showing this throughout the novel, how difficult it had been for Molly’s parents Erica and Andrew to find that balance, leaving her feeling forgotten and neglected. There are some shocking things that happen throughout the novel with Molly and I think they really supported the narrative well. I enjoyed this novel and found it really well constructed. 5/5 stars.
February 28, 2025
First, I want to thank Emma Robinson, Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
WOW!! My heart was beating out of my chest reading the first chapter of The Favourite Child!! It was an incredibly intense scene that had me biting my already short nails and praying for the best outcome. If Emma Robinson writes a book you know I need to read and review it! She is one of my favorite authors! Nobody can pull on my heart strings like she can!
In The Favourite Child transported me back to my teenage years where I empathize wholeheartedly with everything that Mollie was going through. There were so many times I just wanted to jump in the book and give her a comforting hug of support. This is a book you are going to want to put on your TBR list for sure.
I appreciated that Emma introduced a character with Autism into the story. In doing so she brought awareness to the disorder showing how it affects others in the family.
Emma is known for her tear jerkers but this time she throws a bit of mystery into play as Mollie winds up missing.
WOW!! My heart was beating out of my chest reading the first chapter of The Favourite Child!! It was an incredibly intense scene that had me biting my already short nails and praying for the best outcome. If Emma Robinson writes a book you know I need to read and review it! She is one of my favorite authors! Nobody can pull on my heart strings like she can!
In The Favourite Child transported me back to my teenage years where I empathize wholeheartedly with everything that Mollie was going through. There were so many times I just wanted to jump in the book and give her a comforting hug of support. This is a book you are going to want to put on your TBR list for sure.
I appreciated that Emma introduced a character with Autism into the story. In doing so she brought awareness to the disorder showing how it affects others in the family.
Emma is known for her tear jerkers but this time she throws a bit of mystery into play as Mollie winds up missing.
March 5, 2025
Reading in Between the Wines book review #21/125 for 2025:
Rating: 4🍷🍷🍷🍷
Book: The Favourite Child
Author: Emma Robinson
AVAILABLE NOW!!!
Sipping thoughts: This was the most heart-wrenching book I've read in a long time. Working with children, this depiction of a child with autism wasn't only spot on but also just another aspect of sadness. Having multiple children can be hard because no matter what, at any given point, one will feel like they are getting less or more attention. This was a very well, written family drama.
Cheers and thank you to @Netgalley and @Bookouture for an advanced copy of @TheFavouriteChild.
#TheFavouriteChild EmmaRobinson #Bookouture #NetGalley #ARC #advancedreader #Kindle #Booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #bookstagram #nicoles_bookcellar #bookworm #bookdragon #booknerd #booklover #bookstagrammer #bookaholic #bokreview #bookreviewer #IHaveNoShelfControl #ReadingBetweenTheWines #fiction #thriller #suspense #mystery #MysteryAndThrillers #GeneralFictionAdult
#BookTour
Rating: 4🍷🍷🍷🍷
Book: The Favourite Child
Author: Emma Robinson
AVAILABLE NOW!!!
Sipping thoughts: This was the most heart-wrenching book I've read in a long time. Working with children, this depiction of a child with autism wasn't only spot on but also just another aspect of sadness. Having multiple children can be hard because no matter what, at any given point, one will feel like they are getting less or more attention. This was a very well, written family drama.
Cheers and thank you to @Netgalley and @Bookouture for an advanced copy of @TheFavouriteChild.
#TheFavouriteChild EmmaRobinson #Bookouture #NetGalley #ARC #advancedreader #Kindle #Booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #bookstagram #nicoles_bookcellar #bookworm #bookdragon #booknerd #booklover #bookstagrammer #bookaholic #bokreview #bookreviewer #IHaveNoShelfControl #ReadingBetweenTheWines #fiction #thriller #suspense #mystery #MysteryAndThrillers #GeneralFictionAdult
#BookTour
March 5, 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you for ripping out my heart and putting it back together.
Erica and her husband have teenage twins. Mollie is a typical child while Ben needs some extra attention. Erica is doing her best but then there is a house fire and she has to pick one child to help. She chooses to help Ben first. Both children were safe but Erica worries that Mollie thinks she favors Ben over her.When Mollie goes missing, her worst fear comes true.
As a mom, I know how hard it is to balance motherhood. You want to do the best for ALL of your children. I learned that treating everyone fairly doesn’t mean treating everyone the same! This is a MUST read recommendation for me, especially if you have more than one child. I look forward to more books by Emma Robinson. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#TheFavouriteChild #EmmaRobinson #NetGalley #Bookouture #BooksOnTour #BookLove #Bookstagram #NewBook #ILoveBooks
Thank you for ripping out my heart and putting it back together.
Erica and her husband have teenage twins. Mollie is a typical child while Ben needs some extra attention. Erica is doing her best but then there is a house fire and she has to pick one child to help. She chooses to help Ben first. Both children were safe but Erica worries that Mollie thinks she favors Ben over her.When Mollie goes missing, her worst fear comes true.
As a mom, I know how hard it is to balance motherhood. You want to do the best for ALL of your children. I learned that treating everyone fairly doesn’t mean treating everyone the same! This is a MUST read recommendation for me, especially if you have more than one child. I look forward to more books by Emma Robinson. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#TheFavouriteChild #EmmaRobinson #NetGalley #Bookouture #BooksOnTour #BookLove #Bookstagram #NewBook #ILoveBooks
January 29, 2025
This is a very raw, heartfelt story. Erica and Andrew have twins. A boy Ben and a daughter Mollie. Ben is severely autistic, and Erica is the parent who cares for him and his needs. Andrew is a police inspector who lets Erica deal with the hard things. Mollie is the perfect sister, daughter and student until there is an incident. Mollie steals money from her teacher and is caught red handed. Refusing to tell why, her parents are at a loss. Meanwhile, Erica moves to an apartment close to the special needs school that Ben goes to. Mollie feels abandoned, Andrew blames Erica, and she is just overwhelmed. When this becomes a criminal case with Mollie a victim, the family needs to come together. Anxiety, hopelessness and the fear of not being everything your child needs makes a book that makes you think, cry and hope for a better world for kids. I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley and I highly recommend it.
March 13, 2025
For the mothers…
Once again Emma has pulled at our heart strings. I don’t quite know how she always manages to make me cry but as I reached the end of this story I was choked again. Emma’s genius is tapping into what it is that makes us mothers. Our desperate need to do right by our children amidst the certainty that we feel we are so often not quite getting it right. In this case Erica is dealing with a child with complex needs but as Emma mentions in her after note all our children need loving differently and so I think again the universal experience of motherhood resonates. The online sexploitation storyline became weirdly prescient in my own life half way through reading and acted as a reminder that whatever their age our children are going to need us to reassure them as they navigate this thing called life. Thanks Emma - another gripping page turner - thoughtful and thought provoking.
Once again Emma has pulled at our heart strings. I don’t quite know how she always manages to make me cry but as I reached the end of this story I was choked again. Emma’s genius is tapping into what it is that makes us mothers. Our desperate need to do right by our children amidst the certainty that we feel we are so often not quite getting it right. In this case Erica is dealing with a child with complex needs but as Emma mentions in her after note all our children need loving differently and so I think again the universal experience of motherhood resonates. The online sexploitation storyline became weirdly prescient in my own life half way through reading and acted as a reminder that whatever their age our children are going to need us to reassure them as they navigate this thing called life. Thanks Emma - another gripping page turner - thoughtful and thought provoking.
February 10, 2025
I loved this book.
As a parent of a child with additional needs i related to Erica so much. And really felt for her and her family. Sometimes you just do notice certain things as ome child needs more than the others.
The autism representation is this book was spot on, not just from the child's issues but from the outlook and fears as a parent. And the Mum guilt you always feel.
Mollie is a lot like my daughter and this book has really hit me right in the chest and given me a new perspective. I felt for all of the characters and what they were going through. I just wish I could give them all a hug and let them know they are doing just fine.
Thank you for writing this book Emma, not just for me but to give a bit of perspective to people that maybe just don't quite understand.
This book is beautifully written.
As a parent of a child with additional needs i related to Erica so much. And really felt for her and her family. Sometimes you just do notice certain things as ome child needs more than the others.
The autism representation is this book was spot on, not just from the child's issues but from the outlook and fears as a parent. And the Mum guilt you always feel.
Mollie is a lot like my daughter and this book has really hit me right in the chest and given me a new perspective. I felt for all of the characters and what they were going through. I just wish I could give them all a hug and let them know they are doing just fine.
Thank you for writing this book Emma, not just for me but to give a bit of perspective to people that maybe just don't quite understand.
This book is beautifully written.
March 2, 2025
The Favourite Child by Emma Robinson
A pair of 13 years-old twins Mollie and Ben were living separately with their father and mother accordingly, because Ben needs more attention from his autism. It was hard to make the move, but Erica moved out with Ben to get to the school which suited Ben better. When Erica thought this was the best decision for everyone until Mollie disappeared. Mollie who used to be a charming girl, now her behaviour changed.
This all traced back to the fire at their home and Erica saved her favourite child...
The story was totally intriguing and it got me hooked right at the beginning. Among the 266 pages, it flew through in one seating. A real page-turner! The different POVs built up the tension and complexity which I enjoyed a lot.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and the author for my copy.
March 22, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley & Bookouture for the chance to read this book!
Decently Paced, pretty good read, for a special needs parent with another kid this book really hit home on a lot of topics.. Very good book, deeply informative and I would say from personal experience probably pretty accurate based on the family's feelings of the whole thing. So I'm giving it 5 stars just for touching on such a deep topic, I think just about every parent has thought "What would i do in a fire, how would I get everyone out!?" Living with guilt as a special needs mother is, thinking you have done everything wrong, second guessing yourself with little everything you do. Idk if the author is special needs mother or not but She definitely was spot on with everything, and I'm sure with the silblings feelings towards the primary parent as well.
Decently Paced, pretty good read, for a special needs parent with another kid this book really hit home on a lot of topics.. Very good book, deeply informative and I would say from personal experience probably pretty accurate based on the family's feelings of the whole thing. So I'm giving it 5 stars just for touching on such a deep topic, I think just about every parent has thought "What would i do in a fire, how would I get everyone out!?" Living with guilt as a special needs mother is, thinking you have done everything wrong, second guessing yourself with little everything you do. Idk if the author is special needs mother or not but She definitely was spot on with everything, and I'm sure with the silblings feelings towards the primary parent as well.
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