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A Good Mother
How far would you go to protect your child? An absorbing new novel of psychological suspense from bestselling author Patricia Dixon.
Three friends at pivotal points in their lives have some serious decisions to make . . .
Gina is struggling with demons from her past while trying to be the opposite of her feckless mother. She is about to lose everything and will do whatever it takes to avoid following in her parent’s footsteps.
Babs also has a battle on her hands, with her husband and her grown-up kids. After putting everyone first for so long, will she find the courage to break free?
Robin has her own secret to keep, a vow to honour, and a fragile daughter to protect. But when her back is against the wall, and she has nowhere to turn, who will help her?
These women, beset by threats, obstacles, and anguish, must find their paths forward. Each woman is living on the edge but for one of them, it’s the final straw. Who will it be?
Three friends at pivotal points in their lives have some serious decisions to make . . .
Gina is struggling with demons from her past while trying to be the opposite of her feckless mother. She is about to lose everything and will do whatever it takes to avoid following in her parent’s footsteps.
Babs also has a battle on her hands, with her husband and her grown-up kids. After putting everyone first for so long, will she find the courage to break free?
Robin has her own secret to keep, a vow to honour, and a fragile daughter to protect. But when her back is against the wall, and she has nowhere to turn, who will help her?
These women, beset by threats, obstacles, and anguish, must find their paths forward. Each woman is living on the edge but for one of them, it’s the final straw. Who will it be?
- GenresThriller
Audible Audio
First published April 13, 2023
101 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Dixon
21 books169 followersPublished by Bloodhound Books
Author of -
Over My Shoulder, They Don't Know, The Secrets of Tenley House, Liars, #MeToo, Blame. The Other Woman, Coming Home, Resistance, Birthright, Venus Was Her Name, A Good Mother, Rosie and Ruby, Anna, Tilly, Grace, Destiny, The Complete Destiny Series Box Set, The Suspense Boxset.
All titles available on Amazon -
amazon.co.uk/-/e/B00I1YV2RM
Author of -
Over My Shoulder, They Don't Know, The Secrets of Tenley House, Liars, #MeToo, Blame. The Other Woman, Coming Home, Resistance, Birthright, Venus Was Her Name, A Good Mother, Rosie and Ruby, Anna, Tilly, Grace, Destiny, The Complete Destiny Series Box Set, The Suspense Boxset.
All titles available on Amazon -
amazon.co.uk/-/e/B00I1YV2RM
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
April 3, 2023
Patricia Dixon certainly takes her time with this story as it becomes a slow-burner, more of a drama than a suspenseful read. As such, I did not enjoy it as much as my other reads from this author, but it is a powerful narrative that leaves you thinking after you have finished it.
The story is divided into two sections and I liked how this is founded around the virus lockdowns experienced in Britain in the 2020s. It takes readers back to a time that seem a distant memory – like a fuzzy nightmare that they would rather not remember – and I think Dixon really encapsulates how the nation felt during such a troubled time. The isolation, change in circumstances and finding yourselves having to stay at home meant that you did look inwards at your family. For some, this was a blessing: a chance for some much-needed family-time and a chance to re-connect with loved ones; for others, it merely exposed cracks that were already beginning to show.
With three protagonists, Babs, Gina and Robin initially seem very diverse characters. Yet, as Dixon’s narrative illustrates, they have one thing in common: a desire for happiness. Their circumstances all juxtapose and I liked that the women were full of flavour because I am sure readers can all relate to different parts of the women’s lives. In this sense, it made the characters seem very vivid and realistic; their troubles and concerns more poignant.
I don’t think I settled with a favourite character in this story but Babs, Gina and Robin all garnered my sympathy at different stages of the story. Throughout the novel I could not see how happiness would ever be reached, even once all lockdown restrictions had been lifted. It was like once all the negativity had been exposed, there was no turning back. It was down to the women themselves to find a solution and get to a “happy place” that they would be content with. Furthermore, the women needed to be happy for themselves, rather than for those around them, or a version of what they expected happiness to be.
The importance of family is a significant theme in this novel and the support it provides differs vastly across the three stories. I liked how the friendship between Babs, Gina and Robin triumphed as they knew they had someone they could confide in. At the same time however, family is proven to be suffocating and turning life into a prison. This aspect added a more emotional element to the story and climaxed in the final few chapters.
I did enjoy this different story from Dixon but think I was hoping for something more pacey. On the other hand, it is still quite hard-hitting because of the drama that exists in the women’s lives. It was an interesting portrayal of how happiness does not always come with a home and family; some people need to find their happiness beyond this.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story is divided into two sections and I liked how this is founded around the virus lockdowns experienced in Britain in the 2020s. It takes readers back to a time that seem a distant memory – like a fuzzy nightmare that they would rather not remember – and I think Dixon really encapsulates how the nation felt during such a troubled time. The isolation, change in circumstances and finding yourselves having to stay at home meant that you did look inwards at your family. For some, this was a blessing: a chance for some much-needed family-time and a chance to re-connect with loved ones; for others, it merely exposed cracks that were already beginning to show.
With three protagonists, Babs, Gina and Robin initially seem very diverse characters. Yet, as Dixon’s narrative illustrates, they have one thing in common: a desire for happiness. Their circumstances all juxtapose and I liked that the women were full of flavour because I am sure readers can all relate to different parts of the women’s lives. In this sense, it made the characters seem very vivid and realistic; their troubles and concerns more poignant.
I don’t think I settled with a favourite character in this story but Babs, Gina and Robin all garnered my sympathy at different stages of the story. Throughout the novel I could not see how happiness would ever be reached, even once all lockdown restrictions had been lifted. It was like once all the negativity had been exposed, there was no turning back. It was down to the women themselves to find a solution and get to a “happy place” that they would be content with. Furthermore, the women needed to be happy for themselves, rather than for those around them, or a version of what they expected happiness to be.
The importance of family is a significant theme in this novel and the support it provides differs vastly across the three stories. I liked how the friendship between Babs, Gina and Robin triumphed as they knew they had someone they could confide in. At the same time however, family is proven to be suffocating and turning life into a prison. This aspect added a more emotional element to the story and climaxed in the final few chapters.
I did enjoy this different story from Dixon but think I was hoping for something more pacey. On the other hand, it is still quite hard-hitting because of the drama that exists in the women’s lives. It was an interesting portrayal of how happiness does not always come with a home and family; some people need to find their happiness beyond this.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2023
Being childless I wasn't sure how I was going to relate to this book , but whilst motherhood does feature heavily it is more about the characters and the life changing decisions they face. This book is like the formation of a tapestry, You start with the bare bones and threads here and there and ultimately you have a beautifully woven picture that is testament to the strength of character of some very feisty, strong women. Gina I could absolutely relate to, Babs was possibly my favourite and Robin was the one who made me think the most. I've known several Robins and I could get where she was coming from. I may be an atheist now but once upon a time I wasn't.
All three women's stories are intricately intertwined together seamlessly. At varying points I was cheering someone on, hoping that something wouldn't happen and shouting NO towards the very end.
To me this book is much more than a story about mothers. It's about female solidarity, friendship, strength in the face of adversity. It really is "girl power". Patricia Dixon is a consummate writer and this book demonstrates that admirably
All three women's stories are intricately intertwined together seamlessly. At varying points I was cheering someone on, hoping that something wouldn't happen and shouting NO towards the very end.
To me this book is much more than a story about mothers. It's about female solidarity, friendship, strength in the face of adversity. It really is "girl power". Patricia Dixon is a consummate writer and this book demonstrates that admirably
April 10, 2023
This book tells the story of three friends Babs, Robin and Gina who all seem to be happy to the outside world. Then the pandemic strikes, lockdown begins and we learn of their struggles, secrets, fears, medical conditions, affairs, suspected affairs and friendships. Will they all survive the pandemic in the family set up they started with, or will there be new beginnings?
A great book, highly recommend.
Thank you to the author for my advance copy of this book.
A great book, highly recommend.
Thank you to the author for my advance copy of this book.
March 18, 2023
This book is one that had me invested in the characters and caring deeply about them from the very beginning, and that feeling only got stronger as the book progressed. The characters could be me. They could be you. They could be any one of us. I found a piece of me in all the main characters. I related to all of them in different ways. They all taught me something. Each of them could have been speaking for me in different ways. Gina is very like me in many ways, especially in the way she runs from the legacy of her own mother and strives to be different, and give her children the mother she wishes she had. Babs is someone I would like as a mother, and like a mother, she taught me some lessons I hadn’t learned quite as well as I thought I had. Robin with her fierce love and protectiveness of her fragile daughter spoke to me as well. We can’t always save the ones we love, not without help. We can’t always save ourselves if we can’t accept help. All three women are a testament to friendship, and how we’re stronger together. We don’t have to be alone, we just have to trust the right people. You don’t have to be a mother to relate to these characters, or even a woman. This is a beautiful book about the poignancy of life and love. The experience of being human, and how like a tree in a bad storm, with resilience we can bend instead of break.
March 20, 2023
This is a brilliant, heartwarming read all about family and friendship.
Through the book we get to know three remarkable women - Gina, Robin and Babs.
All three women are at a turning point in their lives and the book has made me feel like I know all three of them.
Patricia Dixon has a way with words and she really pulls you into the story, so you’re part of the character’s lives too.
I felt a connection with all three women and have learnt something from each one of them.
This is an uplifting, heartwarming read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for the opportunity to read this book.
Through the book we get to know three remarkable women - Gina, Robin and Babs.
All three women are at a turning point in their lives and the book has made me feel like I know all three of them.
Patricia Dixon has a way with words and she really pulls you into the story, so you’re part of the character’s lives too.
I felt a connection with all three women and have learnt something from each one of them.
This is an uplifting, heartwarming read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for the opportunity to read this book.
March 26, 2023
I was lucky enough to read a ARC copy of this book and I wasn't disappointed. I loved The characters Babs was my favourite she was always there for the others. How I'd love to have her as a friend. This story surrounds 3 woman all have known each other for years. Robin is married to Edmund the vicar and is caring for her daughter. Gina has demons that have been with her from past. She thinks her husband is having an affair. Babs is married to Pete and after her family are growing up is struggling. I highly recommend this book just couldn't put it down. If I could give this more than ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I would.
April 11, 2023
Yet another cracker from Patricia.
After reading this book I’ve come away with a bit of strength. It’s made me realise (a lot more than I did) that although you can be going through a really bad time and feel the need to speak to your friends, you feel you don’t want to burden them. But sometimes, speaking about your problems and worries, can be a catalyst for your friends to unburden too and understand, we are not in this alone. We have eachother.
After reading this book I’ve come away with a bit of strength. It’s made me realise (a lot more than I did) that although you can be going through a really bad time and feel the need to speak to your friends, you feel you don’t want to burden them. But sometimes, speaking about your problems and worries, can be a catalyst for your friends to unburden too and understand, we are not in this alone. We have eachother.
April 18, 2023
I loved all of the characters, how they were all different, how their lives intertwined.
Each had their own story all easily relatable to real life.
I loved the ending too
Each had their own story all easily relatable to real life.
I loved the ending too
March 27, 2023
I was so excited to read this latest book from Patricia Dixon. All her books really speak to me, and this was no different, it drew me in, engulfing me in the stories within, the lives of the characters, and helping me forget my own problems.
This wonderful book, set in a small Cheshire village during the pandemic lockdown and beyond, follows the lives of three very different women of different ages, and with different problems, but who are the closest of friends.
We have Robin, a sweet and loving mother who has two children, one of which has her own heart-breaking problems that really tug at the heart strings. Robin would do anything for her children, including staying in a loveless, soulless marriage.
We also have Gina, who again is a perfect mother, but despite all she does, and all she feels for her husband, she believes her marriage is on the rocks and doesn’t know how to cope. How can she keep her husband? How can she keep her family together?
Then there is Babs, the “mother hen” of the three, the one they have all turned to in the past, but Babs has her own tribulations in her home life. With an overflowing house, a husband who always puts her feelings last, and a need to spread her wings, things are not going well.
The Good Mother is a story of pure love, sacrifice, despair, and hope. It takes you on a journey of many emotions and you find that you are so engrossed in these amazing women’s stories, women that are facing their own secret demons, that you never want it to end.
This wonderful book, set in a small Cheshire village during the pandemic lockdown and beyond, follows the lives of three very different women of different ages, and with different problems, but who are the closest of friends.
We have Robin, a sweet and loving mother who has two children, one of which has her own heart-breaking problems that really tug at the heart strings. Robin would do anything for her children, including staying in a loveless, soulless marriage.
We also have Gina, who again is a perfect mother, but despite all she does, and all she feels for her husband, she believes her marriage is on the rocks and doesn’t know how to cope. How can she keep her husband? How can she keep her family together?
Then there is Babs, the “mother hen” of the three, the one they have all turned to in the past, but Babs has her own tribulations in her home life. With an overflowing house, a husband who always puts her feelings last, and a need to spread her wings, things are not going well.
The Good Mother is a story of pure love, sacrifice, despair, and hope. It takes you on a journey of many emotions and you find that you are so engrossed in these amazing women’s stories, women that are facing their own secret demons, that you never want it to end.
March 22, 2023
This is a tale of three friends in an English village, all from different backgrounds, about how their lives intertwine. Babs is a good solid character but has her own issues to deal with in her family life. Gina is a young Mum with a loving husband and two beautiful children but she too has things going on that are impacting on her life. Lastly is Robin, a vicars wife with the hardest story of them all. I was totally captivated with how they all support each other and how their lives are all linked by events totally out of their control. This author has a way of writing that totally draws you into the story and brings out emotions throughout, once again she had me laughing, crying and willing the women to act as I would in the circumstances. Another great novel, looking forward to her next already.
March 26, 2023
I get so excited when I hear a new Patricia Dixon is coming out because I know that I'm going to love it. This book is no exception. Patricia paints her characters so vividly and beautifully that you find yourself identifying with them all in different ways. The women in this book were all me but also every other woman I've ever met. There's heartache and struggles for all but they survive and it all comes together in a beautiful finish.
April 17, 2023
Thank you Bloodhound books for the advance copy in exchange for a honest review. The story of three friends Babs, Gina and Robin. They are all married with children as the Covid Pandemic hits and they go into lockdown. Forced to spend time with their husbands they realise their marriages are not as strong as they all thought but they would all do anything for their children. They each a brilliant job of hiding their marital problems and are shocked to discover the truth about each other when they get together after lockdown and have a heart to heart.The three characters are endearing and I was able to relate to their dilemmas regarding the future. A delightful read.
April 16, 2023
Patricia Dixon is always guaranteed to write a hardhitting and emotional story. A Good Mother is exactly that.
Great characters and a plot you can't second guess make this a book I couldn't put down. Set as the lockdown, the world experienced started in 2020 and just after July 2021. It focuses on three women, Babs, Gina, and Robin. All with life changing decisions to make. The reader is taken on an emotional and tense journey with them all.
I love the quality of this author's work. Whatever she writes, she always tugs at my heartstrings in one way or another. All I can say is read this book! It's excellent.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC to write an honest review.
Great characters and a plot you can't second guess make this a book I couldn't put down. Set as the lockdown, the world experienced started in 2020 and just after July 2021. It focuses on three women, Babs, Gina, and Robin. All with life changing decisions to make. The reader is taken on an emotional and tense journey with them all.
I love the quality of this author's work. Whatever she writes, she always tugs at my heartstrings in one way or another. All I can say is read this book! It's excellent.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC to write an honest review.
April 10, 2023
I really should stop reading this author as she always makes me cry. The emotions of the characters jump out of the page and into your soul as you drive through the pages at breakneck speed. It also had some parallels with my life at the moment as if she was trying to send me a message - spooky right.
I loved every second of the book and the twists and turns of the relationships Patricia Dixon writes about have you gripped and rooting for the right results for each woman involved. Would give more than 5 stars if I could.
I loved every second of the book and the twists and turns of the relationships Patricia Dixon writes about have you gripped and rooting for the right results for each woman involved. Would give more than 5 stars if I could.
April 8, 2023
I've read and loved several of Patricia Dixon's books over the last couple of years and this was another decent read though not my favourite of hers. Seemed to start a bit slower than some of her others but well described characters who you feel you can identify with. This story tells of the lives of Gina, Babs and Robin who are each dealing with different family challenges and how their lives intertwine. Felt more like a family drama than a typical psychological thriller but a good read nonetheless
March 23, 2023
I have to admit that hand on heart I have been torn on writing a review of A Good Mother.
Because I didn't know where to begin and without any spoilers.
Patricia Dixon is an exceptional author and in my own words an exceptional woman.
She writes from the heart with a no holds barred attitude to her writing.
Every chapter and every character has been written from the heart and I for one related to each and everyone of the females in the book.
I will try and do a review that this book really deserves.
There are three main characters in this novel and each and everyone of them will hold a special place in heart.
'Bubbly ' Babs as she is known, married far to young to her husband Pete after falling pregnant with their eldest Issac. And was soon followed by Sasha and the several years later their daughter Demi.
Issac who is yet to find his independence as an adult, and thinks exactly like his dad Pete that Babs should do everything in the home including cleaning up after him!
Sasha is for want of a word a complete lay about, she went of to university but soon came home to sit around doing nothing all day.
Then there is Demi and at seventeen years old is wiser beyond her years and she only wants her mum to be happy.
Robin is first and foremost the mother of her daughter Willow and her son Cris.
Robin was brought up in a loving home with her reverend father and her mother and her strong belief in faith.
When she met Edmund for the first time she believed that it was fate that brought them together as Edmund was also a man of the cloth.
After a long relationship she agreed to marry Edmund but sometimes fate has other ideas when his wayward brother turns up before the wedding and makes Robin question her faith.
As several years pass Robin is extremely unhappy with her relationship with her husband and when he banishes Cris from there home and years later something happens to Willow.
Can Robin ever become the woman she wants to be?
Gina is Willow's best friend since they where old enough to walk. Gina's mother Debbie was the small villagers Jezebel and often went without love ,affection and food if it hadn't been for Babs and Robin.
Now that she is married to Jimmy and has two small children of her own life should be perfect but Gina is hiding some secrets of her own.
Can all three women help each other to become the strong women they once were?
A brilliant and wonderful uplifting and emotional journey that every woman and man should read.
Because I didn't know where to begin and without any spoilers.
Patricia Dixon is an exceptional author and in my own words an exceptional woman.
She writes from the heart with a no holds barred attitude to her writing.
Every chapter and every character has been written from the heart and I for one related to each and everyone of the females in the book.
I will try and do a review that this book really deserves.
There are three main characters in this novel and each and everyone of them will hold a special place in heart.
'Bubbly ' Babs as she is known, married far to young to her husband Pete after falling pregnant with their eldest Issac. And was soon followed by Sasha and the several years later their daughter Demi.
Issac who is yet to find his independence as an adult, and thinks exactly like his dad Pete that Babs should do everything in the home including cleaning up after him!
Sasha is for want of a word a complete lay about, she went of to university but soon came home to sit around doing nothing all day.
Then there is Demi and at seventeen years old is wiser beyond her years and she only wants her mum to be happy.
Robin is first and foremost the mother of her daughter Willow and her son Cris.
Robin was brought up in a loving home with her reverend father and her mother and her strong belief in faith.
When she met Edmund for the first time she believed that it was fate that brought them together as Edmund was also a man of the cloth.
After a long relationship she agreed to marry Edmund but sometimes fate has other ideas when his wayward brother turns up before the wedding and makes Robin question her faith.
As several years pass Robin is extremely unhappy with her relationship with her husband and when he banishes Cris from there home and years later something happens to Willow.
Can Robin ever become the woman she wants to be?
Gina is Willow's best friend since they where old enough to walk. Gina's mother Debbie was the small villagers Jezebel and often went without love ,affection and food if it hadn't been for Babs and Robin.
Now that she is married to Jimmy and has two small children of her own life should be perfect but Gina is hiding some secrets of her own.
Can all three women help each other to become the strong women they once were?
A brilliant and wonderful uplifting and emotional journey that every woman and man should read.
March 24, 2023
There’s a real joy in opening one of Patricia's books. Always a stunning opening piece, almost poetic and evocative of what is to come to tempt and put the reader gently into things. Trish has a stunning talent with words and even into the prologue, I was so taken with the descriptions I sat and thought and then read again. “ Morning has broken. I know this before I open my eyes because outside the dawn chorus is in full throw. I picture pale sunrays illuminating the sky……. Stubborn beaks and wings spread wide. Joyful in the new day” How wonderful, how prosaic and a stunning use of the English language.
There are three main female characters- Babs, Gina and Robin who all live in a small village. Gina is the youngest and having had a troubled childhood the other two took her under their wing when she was small and there is still a wonderful bond. Only Gina knows a secret about Robin's husband who is the vicar of the parish and not quite as godly as he would have everyone believe. His wife tries to have little to do with him due to his narcissistic traits, preferring to chat to her (long dead) friend in the graveyard and look after her daughter Willow, who has far more demons than most. Babs has a house full- her husband , grown up kids and then son's girlfriend. This is all taking place as lockdown occurs due to the pandemic- a time when no-one really knew what we were in for. Each of the women have both their own battles and more.
A book about the inner strength we all possess but don’t always realise until it's really needed. One line really got me- about being in prison from her upbringing (Robin). To those who only in adulthood get this will truly understand the “ prison” that some unknowingly and unwittingly suffer. No, they don’t know because you don’t know what you don’t know- and then there is a massive dawn of realisation of what went before just as in Robin's and Babs’ journey. I felt for all the women but Willow especially so hindered by how her father treated her.
A stunningly written and (and for some) evocative piece to perhaps make the reader stop and think of their own journey through life. Has it been your journey or that dictated by others so far? One life- live it. A Powerful, dramatic, page turning, inspiring read. Wow, just wow.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
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April 12, 2023
Gina is a young wife with two small children living in a beautifully extended cottage, a far cry from her poor upbringing with her promiscuous mother. She suspects husband Jimmy of having an affair and hopes lockdown will keep him away from the other woman. Babs is her friend and cleaner. Babs has been married thirty years with three grown up kids all still at home, slogging away at her cleaning business to bring in extra money whilst her selfish and lazy husband Pete would rather spend his money on himself. Babs is glad of lockdown for a rest and to keep Pete out of the pub. Babs also cleans for vicar’s wife Robin, married thirty-three years to a hypocritical bore of a husband, caring for troubled damaged daughter Willow whilst son Cris has already caused a rift with his father by running off to Spain with Babs’ brother Tom. Willow is also Gina’s best friend. Robin keeps a secret. Since the age of six, Gina has lived under the caring wings of Babs and Robin but she keeps a secret about Robin’s family. Babs also knows the same secret but has never told. As lockdown strikes, all three women are considering making a life changing decision.
The story is split into before, March 2020, and after, July 2021. It’s quite a slow burn as the first half sets out the situation each of the women finds herself in and then moves onto how each one sets out to deal with their tough and often heart wrenching decisions that demand to be made if each of them is to find happiness and peace within themselves. The second half after lockdown, which in itself is very accurately dealt with, shows the women moving on with their lives and the freedom to venture back out again. It’s powerful stuff, featuring thought provoking and beautifully crafted characters who were easy to picture as the friendships between the three women, sometimes strong, sometimes not, are revealed with all their emotions and insecurities which many readers will be able to relate to in some way or another. There was also a nice inclusion of the Appleton Garden centre from “Coming Home” with cameo appearances from Carmen and Violetta. With a tense final few chapters and an absolutely smashing ending, this is a great story of life, love and just what a mother will do for her children.
The story is split into before, March 2020, and after, July 2021. It’s quite a slow burn as the first half sets out the situation each of the women finds herself in and then moves onto how each one sets out to deal with their tough and often heart wrenching decisions that demand to be made if each of them is to find happiness and peace within themselves. The second half after lockdown, which in itself is very accurately dealt with, shows the women moving on with their lives and the freedom to venture back out again. It’s powerful stuff, featuring thought provoking and beautifully crafted characters who were easy to picture as the friendships between the three women, sometimes strong, sometimes not, are revealed with all their emotions and insecurities which many readers will be able to relate to in some way or another. There was also a nice inclusion of the Appleton Garden centre from “Coming Home” with cameo appearances from Carmen and Violetta. With a tense final few chapters and an absolutely smashing ending, this is a great story of life, love and just what a mother will do for her children.
March 18, 2023
I have said before that this author always brings something new for her readers and ‘A Good Mother’ is no exception
I am not sure how to describe it, a part psychological, part family drama, part story of empowerment?, nothing seems to give this book the genre (s) it covers, what I do know is it was a fascinating, emotive, challenging yet relaxing, investing read that I thoroughly enjoyed
We meet 3 main female characters and quite a few others but the main focus is on these 3 and the situations they find themselves in pre, during and post lockdown and the decisions they make throughout this time, decisions that if followed through will change their lives forever
Pretty much from Page 1 I knew it was going to be a book to ‘stay with you’ when you weren’t reading and when you went back you were straight back into it, no faffing around trying to recall who was who and doing what with who, the characters were so real and written so well they stayed with me throughout
There is so much to say on this book but can’t spoil it for anyone but suffice to say I think this is my favourite read from this author ( maybe a follow up could happen, although not left on any cliffhangers ) and I loved everything about it
I also like how the author can criticise a characters handling of a position they are in without then criticising the whole profession/belief system, something a lot of people find hard to do, will make sense when you read it 😊
Also the acknowledgments at the end are frank, honest and made me think ‘ahhh that’s why that was in the book’ and ‘I remember that being mentioned and wondered if was a memory’ etc
A truly inspiring and unforgettable read that for me as a reader confirms why I love a good book, this, is that
5 Stars
10/10
March 20, 2023
What would you sacrifice? Your pride? Your dreams? Your Life?
This unique story will inspire you as a woman. Three determine women making their own decisions in their lives.
Gina , Robin and Babs. Three mothers, three friends, three different lives. The month and year of March 2020 and the pandemic of Covid lockdown has now begun, everyone staying home in their bubbles, wives and husbands and children living on top of each other, working from home and home schooling it wont be for long? The weather in Spring is glorious and carries on during the Summer in the little village of Buddington.
Gina in her haven home in Swallows Nest cottage and happy in her life and marriage for now.
Babs didn't have a good word to say about her husband, her small cleaning business helped pay the bills on their ex council house, but maybe this lockdown has been a good thing she won't have that dreaded holiday that he insisted on every year everything is cancelled.
And Robin, loving the outdoors, living in the vicarage at St Mary's all her husband was getting in a lather about conduction his sermon's.
And so the families just plodded on. Such a feel good story, full of wholesome goodness, that will blow your emotions you laugh, cry, smile, then cry again.
These women all have guts in their determination to get where they are now and for their future ahead, they always say no man is perfect but neither are women in a lot of ways. But one thing is they are all good mothers.
And a lot will relate to one of these characters, this is a book for every ones taste and I well and truly enjoyed every single chapter, and Boyo Boy you will definitely need a few tissues along the way.
Superbly written from the heart. 5 stars from a contented wife mother and booklover.
This unique story will inspire you as a woman. Three determine women making their own decisions in their lives.
Gina , Robin and Babs. Three mothers, three friends, three different lives. The month and year of March 2020 and the pandemic of Covid lockdown has now begun, everyone staying home in their bubbles, wives and husbands and children living on top of each other, working from home and home schooling it wont be for long? The weather in Spring is glorious and carries on during the Summer in the little village of Buddington.
Gina in her haven home in Swallows Nest cottage and happy in her life and marriage for now.
Babs didn't have a good word to say about her husband, her small cleaning business helped pay the bills on their ex council house, but maybe this lockdown has been a good thing she won't have that dreaded holiday that he insisted on every year everything is cancelled.
And Robin, loving the outdoors, living in the vicarage at St Mary's all her husband was getting in a lather about conduction his sermon's.
And so the families just plodded on. Such a feel good story, full of wholesome goodness, that will blow your emotions you laugh, cry, smile, then cry again.
These women all have guts in their determination to get where they are now and for their future ahead, they always say no man is perfect but neither are women in a lot of ways. But one thing is they are all good mothers.
And a lot will relate to one of these characters, this is a book for every ones taste and I well and truly enjoyed every single chapter, and Boyo Boy you will definitely need a few tissues along the way.
Superbly written from the heart. 5 stars from a contented wife mother and booklover.
March 22, 2023
I’ve read a lot of this authors books, and I definitely think this is my favourite. A psychological suspense drama that is almost three books in one. Set largely in the periods during Covid lockdown and post Covid this is told from the POV’s of three very different women, all friends, and all faced with life changing decisions. I was virtually glued to this book from start to finish so desperate was I to find out what each of them would do.
Briefly, Robin is married to a narcissistic vicar who treats her appallingly and despite that her strong religious beliefs make her stay with him. Gina seems to have a happy life and a happy marriage but she has an inbuilt fear that she could end up like her mother and that is affecting her peace of mind. Babs is the salt of the earth, running her own cleaning business that has to stop during lockdown, and she begins to look at her life and realise she wants more.
I was completely invested in the three women and their lives and despite never having been a mother I could see some of them in my own mother and friends with children. This is a poignant and at times very sad read, the life of one of the characters I found particularly heartbreaking. But despite all the sadness there is always the hope for something better, for each of them to break free of their shackles and live a fulfilling life. I truly wanted that for each of them. Just a very enjoyable read and one I will remember.
Briefly, Robin is married to a narcissistic vicar who treats her appallingly and despite that her strong religious beliefs make her stay with him. Gina seems to have a happy life and a happy marriage but she has an inbuilt fear that she could end up like her mother and that is affecting her peace of mind. Babs is the salt of the earth, running her own cleaning business that has to stop during lockdown, and she begins to look at her life and realise she wants more.
I was completely invested in the three women and their lives and despite never having been a mother I could see some of them in my own mother and friends with children. This is a poignant and at times very sad read, the life of one of the characters I found particularly heartbreaking. But despite all the sadness there is always the hope for something better, for each of them to break free of their shackles and live a fulfilling life. I truly wanted that for each of them. Just a very enjoyable read and one I will remember.
March 24, 2023
Another exceptional book from Patricia Dixon aka Trish! I was very honoured to have been given the opportunity to receive an advance reader copy of A Good Mother . The lives of three friends , Gina, Babs & Robin , have all reached a critical stage and as a reader I can honestly say I absolutely lived those lives with them . Set in a rural Cheshire village during the early stage of the covid pandemic, lockdown and then a slow return to normality is something many will totally relate to, but the way their stories are told , through the eyes and thoughts of the three women, via Trish’s pen is spectacular. Each chapter bought new emotions, sadness, happiness despair, love, fear , but overall the bond between the three women is an unbreakable and strong entity, and not only that but the love each of them have for their children. I loved Robin’s chats with Martha, and her increasing irreverence towards her self-righteous husband who just happens to be the vicar I found hilarious, and the reference to ‘Sandra Dee’…classic! Larger than life Babs who has everyone’s back whilst dealing with her own particular crisis, and Gina , who at times I wanted to slap, and at others give her a huge hug…simply fabulous. A Good Mother is truly exceptional, a ‘Trish special’…no surprise there, but you can feel her love for the girls on each turn of the page. Sublime!
April 12, 2023
This book has an enormous beating heart!
Meet Gina, Babs and Robin, three friends who have all reached a crossroads in their lives. Will they find the strength to take control and put their needs first!
Patricia Dixon portrays with sensitivity and knowledge the struggles Babs faces trying to cope with the menopause. Her words resonated very strongly with me. Friendship and family are at the heart of this story. Both are subjects that this author conveys so well. I could feel the warmth, care and love that these women had for each other. But like us mere mortals they have their problems and it is here that Patricia pulls her readers in and wraps her arms around them before spilling all her secrets! She is such a consummate storyteller!
Reading this book just enforced what I already know, Patricia Dixon is a phenomenal writer. She gets right to the beating heart of her characters. She draws them out like an artist. A little splodge here, a larger splodge there and before you know it, in front of you is the finished canvas. Glorious bright colours jump out at you, but underneath, if you look close enough, you will see the dark spots depicting the heartache they are facing.
OMG, I bloody loved these women! Talk about stealing my heart, they all but stole my life!
Meet Gina, Babs and Robin, three friends who have all reached a crossroads in their lives. Will they find the strength to take control and put their needs first!
Patricia Dixon portrays with sensitivity and knowledge the struggles Babs faces trying to cope with the menopause. Her words resonated very strongly with me. Friendship and family are at the heart of this story. Both are subjects that this author conveys so well. I could feel the warmth, care and love that these women had for each other. But like us mere mortals they have their problems and it is here that Patricia pulls her readers in and wraps her arms around them before spilling all her secrets! She is such a consummate storyteller!
Reading this book just enforced what I already know, Patricia Dixon is a phenomenal writer. She gets right to the beating heart of her characters. She draws them out like an artist. A little splodge here, a larger splodge there and before you know it, in front of you is the finished canvas. Glorious bright colours jump out at you, but underneath, if you look close enough, you will see the dark spots depicting the heartache they are facing.
OMG, I bloody loved these women! Talk about stealing my heart, they all but stole my life!
April 5, 2023
A good mother by Patricia Dixon was given to me to review thanks to bloodhound books.
This book really took me by surprise it being the first I’ve read by this author I can honestly say I will be reading more of her works .
The story centres around 3 women Robin, Babs and Gina and takes you through the journey of their married lives which to everyone around all appear amazing. Deep down though each marriage has its secrets and deep flaws and whilst all secretly envying the seemingly perfect marriages of everyone else it’s was interesting to see that all behind closed doors is at it seems!
I rather empathised with the character Babs as I could relate a lot to her story which gave me pause for thought!
Fundamentally all 3 women are trying to be the best mother they can be sacrificing everything to do just that and in doing so lose themselves. Covid and lockdown gave them time to reflect on things and how they could make changes to their lives and I couldn’t wait to keep reading to find out where it was all going to unravel. I mapped out directions for each of them in my mind and really became engrossed in each woman’s journey.
Fantastic read.
This book really took me by surprise it being the first I’ve read by this author I can honestly say I will be reading more of her works .
The story centres around 3 women Robin, Babs and Gina and takes you through the journey of their married lives which to everyone around all appear amazing. Deep down though each marriage has its secrets and deep flaws and whilst all secretly envying the seemingly perfect marriages of everyone else it’s was interesting to see that all behind closed doors is at it seems!
I rather empathised with the character Babs as I could relate a lot to her story which gave me pause for thought!
Fundamentally all 3 women are trying to be the best mother they can be sacrificing everything to do just that and in doing so lose themselves. Covid and lockdown gave them time to reflect on things and how they could make changes to their lives and I couldn’t wait to keep reading to find out where it was all going to unravel. I mapped out directions for each of them in my mind and really became engrossed in each woman’s journey.
Fantastic read.
April 12, 2023
As with all of the books from this author, I was hooked from the first page. I always feel like I am making new friends with the characters in the book and always feel like I am on the journey with them throughout the book.
This book centres around 3 women Babs, Gina, and Robin who live in a small village, each have issue's in their homelife and very different lives, but have a deep friendship. The book starts of in March 2020 when the pandemic hit and everyone is forced into lockdown, forcing families to stay indoors with their whole family. This brought some families together but for others it showed the cracks in the relationships that could be ignored before lockdown.
The Good mother will take you on a journey of emotions as you turn the pages of this book, you will laugh, cry and feel their pain as the characters face their demons. The only bad this that I can say about this book is that it ends, I felt like I had lost friendships as I wanted to continue their journey with them.
I cannot highly recommend this book, five stars is not enough and if you haven't read the authors other books you are missing out.
This book centres around 3 women Babs, Gina, and Robin who live in a small village, each have issue's in their homelife and very different lives, but have a deep friendship. The book starts of in March 2020 when the pandemic hit and everyone is forced into lockdown, forcing families to stay indoors with their whole family. This brought some families together but for others it showed the cracks in the relationships that could be ignored before lockdown.
The Good mother will take you on a journey of emotions as you turn the pages of this book, you will laugh, cry and feel their pain as the characters face their demons. The only bad this that I can say about this book is that it ends, I felt like I had lost friendships as I wanted to continue their journey with them.
I cannot highly recommend this book, five stars is not enough and if you haven't read the authors other books you are missing out.
April 13, 2023
This novel wasn’t quite what I expected. I had thought that it would be a straightforward suspense thriller in which a mother commits an act to protect her children from harm or take revenge against someone who has harmed them. Instead it is an attempt at an in depth psychological study of marriage and motherhood, which never quite resonated with me. Initially, I was confused about who was who and how the different characters were related. This gradually became clearer and I started to engage with the story. However, I did find it rather hard going. The religious aspects seemed excessively heavy to me, and none of the characters really rang true. The descriptions of the pandemic seemed to gloss over how very restrictive most of us found it, depicting, instead, a safe, relaxed atmosphere which people welcomed as a break from the pressures of everyday life. There were points where the plot gripped my attention, but the last section seemed to drag and I found myself skim reading and looking forward to the end. Ultimately, I couldn’t fully empathise with any of the characters, so, whilst I found the ending broadly satisfying, it was a book I was glad to finish.
April 12, 2023
This is a very powerful and emotive psychological thriller written extremely well by Patricia Dixon. Based mainly around three strong female characters, Babs, Gina and Robin, who live in a remote village. Such is village life the three woman all know each other and are friends. Each of the three woman are mothers and have family issues. With the onset of lockdown in 2020 each mother has a chance to take stock of their situation and work out how they would like their lives to move on. Post lockdown decisions are made which will affect not just their lives but others around them.
Although this book is a slow starter as the author sets the scene events do move on apace and it gets that the book is very hard to put down. Each of the main characters are likeable and you can relate to them. Their husbands maybe not so much! Although the storyline is about empowerment of women, which took me slightly out of my comfort zone, it is an intriguing read and makes you think about your own family life.
Although this book is a slow starter as the author sets the scene events do move on apace and it gets that the book is very hard to put down. Each of the main characters are likeable and you can relate to them. Their husbands maybe not so much! Although the storyline is about empowerment of women, which took me slightly out of my comfort zone, it is an intriguing read and makes you think about your own family life.
April 10, 2023
I am emarassed to say this was my first book by Patricia Dixon. I had the pleasure of receiving an ARC of her latest book, A Good Mother. I had no idea what the book was about or what to expect. I LOVED this book. It’s the story of Babs, Robin, and Gina, three married women and mothers in different stages of life. Told from alternating points of view, the author creates such vibrant and real characters. The story starts just before and during COVID lockdowns. The author shows how that situation impacted the relationships of our main characters. Babs is the oldest of the three, dealing with menopause (hilariously at times). Gina is the youngest and has self-esteem issues and concerns about her relationship with her husband. Robin falls in-between and is dealing with issues in her marriage. All question their abilities as mothers. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with these characters. A fabulous book. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 13, 2023
I really liked this well written book, even though it was a little slow at the beginning, soon it all comes together and we learn how all the characters and stories related one to another and become one cohesive drama.
The book tells the story of Gina, Babs and Robin, three married woman in three different stages in life and the hardships they suffered during the years of the covid pandemic, but this is not a book about the virus or the pandemic per se, it is a book about family, family relationships and the hardships of marriage. It is a book about the love of a mother for her children regardless of the age of the sons or daughters.
But it is also a book about friendship, female empowerment and support. It is a book of pain, happiness, sacrifice, despair but also hope.
I love the way the book is written, the description of the characters and the feelings that it makes you feel when reading it.
The book tells the story of Gina, Babs and Robin, three married woman in three different stages in life and the hardships they suffered during the years of the covid pandemic, but this is not a book about the virus or the pandemic per se, it is a book about family, family relationships and the hardships of marriage. It is a book about the love of a mother for her children regardless of the age of the sons or daughters.
But it is also a book about friendship, female empowerment and support. It is a book of pain, happiness, sacrifice, despair but also hope.
I love the way the book is written, the description of the characters and the feelings that it makes you feel when reading it.
June 24, 2023
This really is a great book. It was a slower burner to begin with then around 40% in and the book just absolutely blossomed. The story follows the lives of three women Gina, Babs and Robin and their families. Their lives are intertwined and although they have differences one thing they all want is to be happy.
The book follows family topics of tragedy, loss, affairs, mental health and love which are all set around the time of Covid.
What lengths will the women go to to find happiness?
I really enjoyed following each of the women’s lives where the author really captures what the emotions and personalities of not only the women in the story but all the characters especially Willow, Robin’s daughter. I found myself really feeling sad for Willow and the situation she found herself in and my dislike for the character Edmund her dad who is a vicar.
This is the first book I read by this author and certainly won’t be the last.
The book follows family topics of tragedy, loss, affairs, mental health and love which are all set around the time of Covid.
What lengths will the women go to to find happiness?
I really enjoyed following each of the women’s lives where the author really captures what the emotions and personalities of not only the women in the story but all the characters especially Willow, Robin’s daughter. I found myself really feeling sad for Willow and the situation she found herself in and my dislike for the character Edmund her dad who is a vicar.
This is the first book I read by this author and certainly won’t be the last.
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