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A Good Mother
Two mothers. Two daughters. One devastating truth.
Alex Blake was terrified of water, and had been since she nearly drowned at age five. So when police find her body in the river and rule it a suicide, her mother, Jen knows they're wrong. But no one will listen to a grieving mother.
The police dismiss her. Her husband thinks she's in denial. Even their neighbours, the Higgins family, urge her to accept the truth and move on. But something isn't right. Why was Alex messaging Lia Higgins, Jen's former best friend, the day she died? And why is Lia now so desperate to shut down Jen's questions?
The more Jen digs into the perfect family next door, the more she realises Alex was keeping secrets. Dangerous ones. Someone knows what really happened to her daughter. And they're determined to keep Jen from uncovering the truth.
A breathtaking, stay-up-all-night emotional page-turner about motherhood, friendship and betrayal. Perfect for fans of K.L. Slater, Lisa Jewell and Nicola Sanders.
What readers are saying about A Good Mother:
‘Wow. From the first page to the last. Wow.‘ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This fast-paced, emotional novel had me in its grips from the beginning. I couldn't put it down!‘ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Wowza! This book was like driving a race car you were careening along super fast and banking corners going way too fast. I loved every second of it.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I could not put this book down! I was hooked after the first paragraph… It is suspenseful and tragic. My heart broke multiple times for so many reasons.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Wow I don't even know where to begin with this book! It was gripping and I couldn't put it down. The twists were crazy, I wasn't expecting the ending. This book had me feeling all sorts of emotions being a mother myself.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I read every free moment I had until the last page. I highly recommend that face paced, psychological thriller.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Such an amazing thriller… I did not want to put this one down and was constantly trying to find more time to read. This one will stay with me for a long time.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘The best kind of domestic thriller. I’ve not been this hooked and this unsettled for quite a while... I literally didn’t and couldn’t put it down… I would tell anyone and everyone to read this book. it was sooooooo good.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This story hooked me from the start and didn't let go until the end… Once you start reading it will be hard to put down. I absolutely loved this book.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I read this compulsively...
Alex Blake was terrified of water, and had been since she nearly drowned at age five. So when police find her body in the river and rule it a suicide, her mother, Jen knows they're wrong. But no one will listen to a grieving mother.
The police dismiss her. Her husband thinks she's in denial. Even their neighbours, the Higgins family, urge her to accept the truth and move on. But something isn't right. Why was Alex messaging Lia Higgins, Jen's former best friend, the day she died? And why is Lia now so desperate to shut down Jen's questions?
The more Jen digs into the perfect family next door, the more she realises Alex was keeping secrets. Dangerous ones. Someone knows what really happened to her daughter. And they're determined to keep Jen from uncovering the truth.
A breathtaking, stay-up-all-night emotional page-turner about motherhood, friendship and betrayal. Perfect for fans of K.L. Slater, Lisa Jewell and Nicola Sanders.
What readers are saying about A Good Mother:
‘Wow. From the first page to the last. Wow.‘ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This fast-paced, emotional novel had me in its grips from the beginning. I couldn't put it down!‘ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Wowza! This book was like driving a race car you were careening along super fast and banking corners going way too fast. I loved every second of it.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I could not put this book down! I was hooked after the first paragraph… It is suspenseful and tragic. My heart broke multiple times for so many reasons.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Wow I don't even know where to begin with this book! It was gripping and I couldn't put it down. The twists were crazy, I wasn't expecting the ending. This book had me feeling all sorts of emotions being a mother myself.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I read every free moment I had until the last page. I highly recommend that face paced, psychological thriller.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Such an amazing thriller… I did not want to put this one down and was constantly trying to find more time to read. This one will stay with me for a long time.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘The best kind of domestic thriller. I’ve not been this hooked and this unsettled for quite a while... I literally didn’t and couldn’t put it down… I would tell anyone and everyone to read this book. it was sooooooo good.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This story hooked me from the start and didn't let go until the end… Once you start reading it will be hard to put down. I absolutely loved this book.’ Reader Review, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘I read this compulsively...
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2025
155 people are currently reading
423 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Dunne
11 books120 followersMichelle Dunne is a crime and thriller writer from Cork whose new number 1 Best Seller The Good Girl is out now. A psychological thriller that begs the question: Would you know a serial killer if you met one? What if she served you your coffee every day?
Her much anticipated follow-up, The Hotel Maid follows June Calloway, a maid who finds the body of a murdered woman in her hotel room, just as a child is reported missing on hotel grounds. The Hotel Maid was released to rave reviews in August 24.
Michelle also wrote While Nobody is Watching and The Invisible, a series of thrillers following former soldier and UN Peacekeeper Lindsey Ryan as she tries to adapt to her new life in the clutches of PTSD. The series is currently in development for television and is inspired by Michelle’s own experiences as an infantry soldier and United Nations Peacekeeper.
Michelle is organiser and programmer of the Spike Island Literary Festival – a crime-themed festival set in Ireland's very own Alcatraz!
Her much anticipated follow-up, The Hotel Maid follows June Calloway, a maid who finds the body of a murdered woman in her hotel room, just as a child is reported missing on hotel grounds. The Hotel Maid was released to rave reviews in August 24.
Michelle also wrote While Nobody is Watching and The Invisible, a series of thrillers following former soldier and UN Peacekeeper Lindsey Ryan as she tries to adapt to her new life in the clutches of PTSD. The series is currently in development for television and is inspired by Michelle’s own experiences as an infantry soldier and United Nations Peacekeeper.
Michelle is organiser and programmer of the Spike Island Literary Festival – a crime-themed festival set in Ireland's very own Alcatraz!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
April 28, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ | Whew… This was a deep one. This complex story between 2 families was a very emotionally charged domestic thriller, that grabs you from the very beginning and refuses to let go. It builds suspense and the authenticity of the story shows how families sometimes deal with trauma and their resilience.
How far will you go to protect your child? Loyalties will be tested amongst these families & it is easy to get emotionally attached to some of them. Jen & Lia will do anything to protect their families! Imagine the divide when Jen’s daughter is assumed to have committed suicide & Jen feels Lia and her family knows more than they are revealing!! Simon (Lia’s son) is a chip off the old block and gets his conniving ways from his narcissistic father, Jay.
Overall, this was a gripping & powerful read. I truly enjoyed this authors writing style, as the layers to this story weaved together & unfolded. I will definitely be reading more from Michelle Dunne. Thank you Storm Publishing and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
How far will you go to protect your child? Loyalties will be tested amongst these families & it is easy to get emotionally attached to some of them. Jen & Lia will do anything to protect their families! Imagine the divide when Jen’s daughter is assumed to have committed suicide & Jen feels Lia and her family knows more than they are revealing!! Simon (Lia’s son) is a chip off the old block and gets his conniving ways from his narcissistic father, Jay.
Overall, this was a gripping & powerful read. I truly enjoyed this authors writing style, as the layers to this story weaved together & unfolded. I will definitely be reading more from Michelle Dunne. Thank you Storm Publishing and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
April 5, 2025
An emotionally charged and unsettling psychological thriller, featuring two mothers, two daughters and some devastating choices.
I was hooked into the storyline right from the beginning, and the revelations kept me guessing right to the end. There are several despicable characters in this story, and the choices they make have lasting impacts for many.
WARNING: There are some difficult topics covered in this story, and many frighteningly realistic situations are depicted. Some of the content warnings include coercive control, rape, suicide, bullying, assault, domestic abuse, eating disorders, violence.
With thanks to Storm Publishing, Michelle Dunne and NetGalley for this e-ARC to read and review.
This is the first story I have read from Michelle Dunne, and I am interested to read what she writes next.
Release date: 29th April
#MichelleDunne #StormPublishing #AGoodMother #NetGalley
I was hooked into the storyline right from the beginning, and the revelations kept me guessing right to the end. There are several despicable characters in this story, and the choices they make have lasting impacts for many.
WARNING: There are some difficult topics covered in this story, and many frighteningly realistic situations are depicted. Some of the content warnings include coercive control, rape, suicide, bullying, assault, domestic abuse, eating disorders, violence.
With thanks to Storm Publishing, Michelle Dunne and NetGalley for this e-ARC to read and review.
This is the first story I have read from Michelle Dunne, and I am interested to read what she writes next.
Release date: 29th April
#MichelleDunne #StormPublishing #AGoodMother #NetGalley
November 26, 2025
4 - 4.5 stars
WARNING - There are some difficult themes found in this book - rape, suicide, bullying, assault, domestic abuse, eating disorders, death, violence, manipulation, and others.
A Good Mother is an emotionally dark and heavy psychological thriller, and another great book by Michelle. It is a heartbreaking tale with a few twists I did not see coming. Fear, death, manipulation, lies, secrets and much more.
There are characters you are going to like, and then there are a couple that are despicable, and you love to hate them.
Overall, A Good Mother is one tale that you have to read and can't put down because you have to know what happens, and you won't see the ending coming.
WARNING - There are some difficult themes found in this book - rape, suicide, bullying, assault, domestic abuse, eating disorders, death, violence, manipulation, and others.
A Good Mother is an emotionally dark and heavy psychological thriller, and another great book by Michelle. It is a heartbreaking tale with a few twists I did not see coming. Fear, death, manipulation, lies, secrets and much more.
There are characters you are going to like, and then there are a couple that are despicable, and you love to hate them.
Overall, A Good Mother is one tale that you have to read and can't put down because you have to know what happens, and you won't see the ending coming.
April 23, 2025
A domestic thriller with all the heavy emotions.
Jen's daughter is found dead in the river. It seems she committed suicide, but there is a problem. Alex, Jen's daughter, is terrified of the water, and she doesn't believe her daughter drowned herself.
Jen and Lia are ex-best friends but are neighbors; their children are friends, yet there are secrets that Lia doesn't want anyone to know.
Jen and Lia have different lives. Jen is overworked and can hardly keep afloat with all the things she needs to do. She has little time for Alex, while Lia, on the other hand, lives the perfect life as a housewife in a wealthy marriage, where everything she does needs to be perfect. The author does a good job with the characters, showing how your perception or how you relate to some can change over time. Alex's story is heartbreaking, revealing the events that transpired. Even though you think you know, the twist comes, and everything changes.
Overall, I enjoyed the story; the topics are very heavy, emotional, and heartbreaking, but very realistic about today's society. The only problem I have with the story is that Jen knows what kind of people Lia and her husband are, and she knows that Lia will do anything to protect her loved ones, because she has done so before. But she found herself living in the same neighborhood and let her daughter be friends with her children. If that were me, I wouldn't, so that part seems a little unrealistic.
Content: suicide, bullying, domestic abuse, mental illness.
Thank you, NetGalley and the Publisher for the ARC.
Jen's daughter is found dead in the river. It seems she committed suicide, but there is a problem. Alex, Jen's daughter, is terrified of the water, and she doesn't believe her daughter drowned herself.
Jen and Lia are ex-best friends but are neighbors; their children are friends, yet there are secrets that Lia doesn't want anyone to know.
Jen and Lia have different lives. Jen is overworked and can hardly keep afloat with all the things she needs to do. She has little time for Alex, while Lia, on the other hand, lives the perfect life as a housewife in a wealthy marriage, where everything she does needs to be perfect. The author does a good job with the characters, showing how your perception or how you relate to some can change over time. Alex's story is heartbreaking, revealing the events that transpired. Even though you think you know, the twist comes, and everything changes.
Overall, I enjoyed the story; the topics are very heavy, emotional, and heartbreaking, but very realistic about today's society. The only problem I have with the story is that Jen knows what kind of people Lia and her husband are, and she knows that Lia will do anything to protect her loved ones, because she has done so before. But she found herself living in the same neighborhood and let her daughter be friends with her children. If that were me, I wouldn't, so that part seems a little unrealistic.
Content: suicide, bullying, domestic abuse, mental illness.
Thank you, NetGalley and the Publisher for the ARC.
April 2, 2025
A psychological thriller with heavy topics. It Will keep you guessing. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
May 22, 2025
Jen and Lisa used to be close friends but not after something tore them apart. Years later they are living their lives separately, both are married and have kids. One mother’s daughter is dead, the other mother’s son could be the one responsible. This book deals with dark themes such as bulling, SA, and death of a teenager.
This was a heart wrenching story that captivated me from beginning to end. Jen was a resilient mother and I admire the way she fought for the truth of what happed to her daughter. I thought I knew how this would end but I was very wrong. It was so saddening towards the ending when the true reason behind Alex’s death was revealed. I was so shocked and in disbelief! Out of everyone I never once suspected this.
Like father like son, Jay and Simon were both equally horrible characters and I hated everything about them. I hated the way Jay treated his wife and kids but then would pretend to be this great person in public. I also hated the way Simon treated Alex and how he would manipulate the truth of what happened between him and Alex. He was a gross character. I also hated the person that was responsible for Alex’s death.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a heart wrenching story that captivated me from beginning to end. Jen was a resilient mother and I admire the way she fought for the truth of what happed to her daughter. I thought I knew how this would end but I was very wrong. It was so saddening towards the ending when the true reason behind Alex’s death was revealed. I was so shocked and in disbelief! Out of everyone I never once suspected this.
Like father like son, Jay and Simon were both equally horrible characters and I hated everything about them. I hated the way Jay treated his wife and kids but then would pretend to be this great person in public. I also hated the way Simon treated Alex and how he would manipulate the truth of what happened between him and Alex. He was a gross character. I also hated the person that was responsible for Alex’s death.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2025
Another absolutely riveting, yet absolutely heartbreaking novel by this author. This domestic drama involves domestic abuse, bullying, assault, death, all the sad things. However, it is such a worthwhile read.
April 13, 2025
A chilling tale of the consequences of bullying.
“A Good Mother” deals with contemporary issues such as the pressure on young people from social media and bullying. It is the story of two mothers and two sets of children. The children have been best friends since birth, but then for seemingly no reason, it’s as if a hand grenade has been thrown into the midst of their relationship. To cope, each teenager pulls away from the other in an act of self-preservation, but causing immense pain to their friends in the process.
It is no spoiler to say the books opens with an apparent suicide by drowning, the death of Alex, Jen’s only child. In a midst of her grief, Jen struggles to come to terms with aspects of her daughter’s life she was oblivious too; but the more Jen learns about her child, she more convinced she becomes that Alex would never have taken her own life.
This is a complex, emotional story of broken friendships; with the message that doing what feels like the right thing at the time, to make a stand, perhaps isn’t the best choice in the long run.
I did guess the outcome about a third of the way through, but this isn’t the point. This isn’t a who-dunnit type mystery, but an unravelling of people and the slow realisation of what is truly important in life. I took away from this book the importance of making time and listening, and to cherish those you hold dear no matter how busy you are.
“A Good Mother” deals with contemporary issues such as the pressure on young people from social media and bullying. It is the story of two mothers and two sets of children. The children have been best friends since birth, but then for seemingly no reason, it’s as if a hand grenade has been thrown into the midst of their relationship. To cope, each teenager pulls away from the other in an act of self-preservation, but causing immense pain to their friends in the process.
It is no spoiler to say the books opens with an apparent suicide by drowning, the death of Alex, Jen’s only child. In a midst of her grief, Jen struggles to come to terms with aspects of her daughter’s life she was oblivious too; but the more Jen learns about her child, she more convinced she becomes that Alex would never have taken her own life.
This is a complex, emotional story of broken friendships; with the message that doing what feels like the right thing at the time, to make a stand, perhaps isn’t the best choice in the long run.
I did guess the outcome about a third of the way through, but this isn’t the point. This isn’t a who-dunnit type mystery, but an unravelling of people and the slow realisation of what is truly important in life. I took away from this book the importance of making time and listening, and to cherish those you hold dear no matter how busy you are.
April 17, 2025
Wow I don’t even know where to begin with this book!
It was gripping and I couldn’t put it down. The twists were crazy, I wasn’t expecting the ending. This book had me feeling all sorts of emotions being a mother myself.
Absolutely recommend this book to anyone.
5* from me
It was gripping and I couldn’t put it down. The twists were crazy, I wasn’t expecting the ending. This book had me feeling all sorts of emotions being a mother myself.
Absolutely recommend this book to anyone.
5* from me
March 31, 2025
A GOOD MOTHER BY MICHELLE DUNNE.
4 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s
Release date set for the 29th of April 2025.
As soon as this book landed on my kindle I've started reading straight away.
Really good psychological thriller and good paced.
Love the cover for this book. As everyone knows a cover means a lot to me.
This is my first book by this author and I'm already looking forward to reading another one.
4 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s
Release date set for the 29th of April 2025.
As soon as this book landed on my kindle I've started reading straight away.
Really good psychological thriller and good paced.
Love the cover for this book. As everyone knows a cover means a lot to me.
This is my first book by this author and I'm already looking forward to reading another one.
May 6, 2025
This is a fascinating look at an emotionally-charged situation that gets out of hand easily. Jen and Lia used to be best friends and now live across the street from each other even though Jen's ex-husband is now married to Lia. But when Jen's daughter, Alex is found dead in the water, Jen is ure something is suspicious as Alex was deathly afraid of water. And so begins a tale of jealousy, greed, backstabbing, and political motives. Loved this novel!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
April 26, 2025
Release Date: Friday, April 29
HOLY COW — A Good Mother was absolutely AMAZING! I literally could not put it down. Michelle Dunne completely hooked me from the very first page.
The story is told through multiple characters’ points of view, and the transitions between them were so seamless that I never once felt lost or confused. I always knew exactly whose perspective I was reading, which made the pacing even more gripping.
And the ending? My jaw was on the floor. Dunne masterfully builds tension and delivers twists that you do not see coming.
If you don’t already have A Good Mother on your TBR, you NEED to add it immediately. It’s an unforgettable, edge-of-your-seat read that I’ll be thinking about for a long time.
** Huge thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC before its publication date!
HOLY COW — A Good Mother was absolutely AMAZING! I literally could not put it down. Michelle Dunne completely hooked me from the very first page.
The story is told through multiple characters’ points of view, and the transitions between them were so seamless that I never once felt lost or confused. I always knew exactly whose perspective I was reading, which made the pacing even more gripping.
And the ending? My jaw was on the floor. Dunne masterfully builds tension and delivers twists that you do not see coming.
If you don’t already have A Good Mother on your TBR, you NEED to add it immediately. It’s an unforgettable, edge-of-your-seat read that I’ll be thinking about for a long time.
** Huge thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC before its publication date!
April 2, 2025
This psychological thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat!
It’s fast paced, gripping and suspenseful.
Even though it’s a hard subject to read since it talks about domestic violence and abuse, still a great book, with a great plot.
This was my first book by Michelle and I will definitely read more from her.
Thank you so much to Storm Publishing for sending me this eARC. I definitely recommend.
It’s fast paced, gripping and suspenseful.
Even though it’s a hard subject to read since it talks about domestic violence and abuse, still a great book, with a great plot.
This was my first book by Michelle and I will definitely read more from her.
Thank you so much to Storm Publishing for sending me this eARC. I definitely recommend.
April 30, 2025
This book totally blew my mind! This psychological thriller is about two mothers (Jen and Lia), and their daughters, (Alex and Lia's other daughter), gets suspenseful right from the start. You think you know where it's going, but NO... you don't!
The story kicks off with a tragedy. And that's Alex's death. Her mother Jen, refuses to accept as suicide.
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THIS BOOK:
Seeing Jen desperately try to find the truth, even though everyone else (like Lia and the Higgins family), tells her she's wrong... makes things really tense. You can feel how frustrated and determined Jen is as she starts noticing inconsistencies and strange connection between Alex and Lia. There's a weird link between the two.
As Jen looks closer at the Higgins family's perfect life, all these secret layers start coming off. And WOW!!! Some of them are really messed up! You'll keep wondering why everyone is doing what they're doing and suspecting almost every person in the book. Michelle Dunne (the author) does an amazing job of building this crazy suspense that keeps you glued to the pages. It will make you really want to find out what Alex was HIDING.
This book isn't just a mystery. It's also a sad, tragic exploration at being a mom, being friends, and being betrayed. Jen goes through some intense emotions. And the shocking truths you find out will stick with you even after you finish the book. If you want a book you can't put down and that will keep you guessing the whole time, you should definitely read this one!
----------
NOTE: This is my personal opinion about the book. My goal is to share my experience, not to change anyone's perspective. Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this early.
The story kicks off with a tragedy. And that's Alex's death. Her mother Jen, refuses to accept as suicide.
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THIS BOOK:
Seeing Jen desperately try to find the truth, even though everyone else (like Lia and the Higgins family), tells her she's wrong... makes things really tense. You can feel how frustrated and determined Jen is as she starts noticing inconsistencies and strange connection between Alex and Lia. There's a weird link between the two.
As Jen looks closer at the Higgins family's perfect life, all these secret layers start coming off. And WOW!!! Some of them are really messed up! You'll keep wondering why everyone is doing what they're doing and suspecting almost every person in the book. Michelle Dunne (the author) does an amazing job of building this crazy suspense that keeps you glued to the pages. It will make you really want to find out what Alex was HIDING.
This book isn't just a mystery. It's also a sad, tragic exploration at being a mom, being friends, and being betrayed. Jen goes through some intense emotions. And the shocking truths you find out will stick with you even after you finish the book. If you want a book you can't put down and that will keep you guessing the whole time, you should definitely read this one!
----------
NOTE: This is my personal opinion about the book. My goal is to share my experience, not to change anyone's perspective. Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this early.
April 21, 2025
A really difficult book to read, but meant in the most flattering way as it is so hard hitting. The characters are terrifyingly real so much so that I forgot several times that this was fiction and was genuinely left holding my breath or having to step away for a beat. Having got to the end I feel a bit emotionally washed out, such was its impact and genuinely a bit sad.
There are some very tricky subject matters tackled seamlessly within the storyline, from domestic abuse and coercive control to bullying and teenagers finding their identity and the courage to be themselves against adversity. Definitely not a light read but I wholeheartedly recommend it, very clever and insightful writing.
There are some very tricky subject matters tackled seamlessly within the storyline, from domestic abuse and coercive control to bullying and teenagers finding their identity and the courage to be themselves against adversity. Definitely not a light read but I wholeheartedly recommend it, very clever and insightful writing.
May 6, 2025
This is the most heartbreaking book I’ve read in a while. Check triggers before starting. The storyline was good and kept my attention. Some parts got a little slow but it was to slowly build up emotion for the ending. The last 25% of the book I couldn’t put it down. I had to finally get answers. This story brings important issues to light and reminds parents to really get involved with their kids. It also reminds us that not everything you see is reality. People show you what they want you to see. Always look deeper.
April 24, 2025
This book started at 75 MPH in the fast line.
Families are complex. When you take former best friends who are now raising their children across the street from one another, the secrets start to emerge, especially after one of the teenagers is found dead.
While fiction, it’s nearly unfathomable to think that this story line could be true. The worst part of it all, is that it definitely could be, especially in 2025.
The ending seemed to be a quick drop off, but the more I ruminated on it, the more it felt oddly perfect with the story.
Difficult & realistic topics in with this one — Rape, abuse, coercive control, death, suicide, bullying, eating disorder.
PS: Of course his name is Jay 🙄
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of A Good Mother.
I look forward to reading more of Michelle Dunne’s writings.
Release Date: April 29, 2025
Families are complex. When you take former best friends who are now raising their children across the street from one another, the secrets start to emerge, especially after one of the teenagers is found dead.
While fiction, it’s nearly unfathomable to think that this story line could be true. The worst part of it all, is that it definitely could be, especially in 2025.
The ending seemed to be a quick drop off, but the more I ruminated on it, the more it felt oddly perfect with the story.
Difficult & realistic topics in with this one — Rape, abuse, coercive control, death, suicide, bullying, eating disorder.
PS: Of course his name is Jay 🙄
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of A Good Mother.
I look forward to reading more of Michelle Dunne’s writings.
Release Date: April 29, 2025
May 9, 2025
✨✨BOOK REVIEW✨✨
Imagine you have it all. A gorgeous, charismatic husband, an incredibly successful career, political office on the horizon, and provides unwavering love and support to his family. You are the mother to a set of twins, both smart and talented in their own way, with a close relationship. You have a beautiful house, a wardrobe one could only dream of, unlimited money at your disposal, and not a care in the world. There is nothing to want. But the perception of your fairytale life is a sham when the public is not around. The facade of what appears to be crumbles.
Meet Lia. The mom of twins, married to the love of her life. She is a dedicated wife, a mother of twins, and a valued community member. She gives so much of herself to her children’s school, her husband’s campaign, and her self-care. It appears she has it all. Her world is not as perfect as people believe.
Meet Jen, Lia’s best friend in high school until they had a falling out when Lia began to date Jay. Fast forward years ahead. They are now neighbors, with daughters of their own who are best friends. Their daughter’s, Willow and Alex, are always together, along with Willow’s brother Simon, who tags along.
Unlike the way Lia’s life appears, Jen’s is not so easy. She works long hours, keeping their family’s head floating above water to make ends meet. Jen has tremendous pressure on many levels. She feels like a rubber band being pulled to the point of breaking, until one day life just SNAPS. Jen’s family circle comes undone when the girls’ lifelong friendship spins completely out of control.
I loved A Good Mother! I could have devoured this in one sitting, if I had endless time to read. Dunne immersed me in the lives of the characters, feeling as though I was a silent character myself between the pages. Upon the completion of each chapter, I wanted to race to the next. Dunne crafted a fantastic story, one I hope you will read and experience the same need to page flip late into the night! If you have not read a book by Dunne, put this on your TBR!
Thank you to Net Galley and Storm Publishing for providing me with the opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Imagine you have it all. A gorgeous, charismatic husband, an incredibly successful career, political office on the horizon, and provides unwavering love and support to his family. You are the mother to a set of twins, both smart and talented in their own way, with a close relationship. You have a beautiful house, a wardrobe one could only dream of, unlimited money at your disposal, and not a care in the world. There is nothing to want. But the perception of your fairytale life is a sham when the public is not around. The facade of what appears to be crumbles.
Meet Lia. The mom of twins, married to the love of her life. She is a dedicated wife, a mother of twins, and a valued community member. She gives so much of herself to her children’s school, her husband’s campaign, and her self-care. It appears she has it all. Her world is not as perfect as people believe.
Meet Jen, Lia’s best friend in high school until they had a falling out when Lia began to date Jay. Fast forward years ahead. They are now neighbors, with daughters of their own who are best friends. Their daughter’s, Willow and Alex, are always together, along with Willow’s brother Simon, who tags along.
Unlike the way Lia’s life appears, Jen’s is not so easy. She works long hours, keeping their family’s head floating above water to make ends meet. Jen has tremendous pressure on many levels. She feels like a rubber band being pulled to the point of breaking, until one day life just SNAPS. Jen’s family circle comes undone when the girls’ lifelong friendship spins completely out of control.
I loved A Good Mother! I could have devoured this in one sitting, if I had endless time to read. Dunne immersed me in the lives of the characters, feeling as though I was a silent character myself between the pages. Upon the completion of each chapter, I wanted to race to the next. Dunne crafted a fantastic story, one I hope you will read and experience the same need to page flip late into the night! If you have not read a book by Dunne, put this on your TBR!
Thank you to Net Galley and Storm Publishing for providing me with the opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
April 9, 2025
A Good Mother
By: Michelle Dunne
4 Stars
Jen and Lia used to be best friends. Now they have kids, and their kids are close, while they are not. When her daughter, Alex, is pulled from the river, Jen knows she didn't do it to herself. This leads her on a heartbreaking journey to find out what actually happened to her daughter, and the truth is shocking.
This was a fast-paced gripping novel. Secrets abound in this story. Everyone has a hidden life behind closed doors, and this story really shows the lengths some will go through to protect the fragile lives that they lead. This book was emotional while the characters were real and relatable. I was completely enamored by this story that kept me on the edge of my seat starting on the very first page.
This book is one that will have you reading late into the night. It makes you want more by captivating your emotions and leaving you shocked and awed. It is written well and descriptive. It was a really good psychological read done at its finest.
*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
By: Michelle Dunne
4 Stars
Jen and Lia used to be best friends. Now they have kids, and their kids are close, while they are not. When her daughter, Alex, is pulled from the river, Jen knows she didn't do it to herself. This leads her on a heartbreaking journey to find out what actually happened to her daughter, and the truth is shocking.
This was a fast-paced gripping novel. Secrets abound in this story. Everyone has a hidden life behind closed doors, and this story really shows the lengths some will go through to protect the fragile lives that they lead. This book was emotional while the characters were real and relatable. I was completely enamored by this story that kept me on the edge of my seat starting on the very first page.
This book is one that will have you reading late into the night. It makes you want more by captivating your emotions and leaving you shocked and awed. It is written well and descriptive. It was a really good psychological read done at its finest.
*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
April 2, 2025
A DYNAMIC psychological thriller.
Some protect their children
Others protect their secrets
There is no way to be a perfect mother.
Quiet little cul-de-sac Honeywell Crescent,
Two families hard working Jen Blake husband Dale and daughter Alex are just making ends meet.
Lia Higgins her old best friend husband Jay with a good job and twins Willow and Simon, have the perfect life.
But their lives are soon to come crushing down.
A teenage suspicious suicide in the family, leaves Jen knowing won't shut up till the truth comes out, that make her incredible dangerous to Lia's precious family.
This book is one big page turner, a hard topic of domestic abuse and violence.
I enjoyed every page right through.
Some protect their children
Others protect their secrets
There is no way to be a perfect mother.
Quiet little cul-de-sac Honeywell Crescent,
Two families hard working Jen Blake husband Dale and daughter Alex are just making ends meet.
Lia Higgins her old best friend husband Jay with a good job and twins Willow and Simon, have the perfect life.
But their lives are soon to come crushing down.
A teenage suspicious suicide in the family, leaves Jen knowing won't shut up till the truth comes out, that make her incredible dangerous to Lia's precious family.
This book is one big page turner, a hard topic of domestic abuse and violence.
I enjoyed every page right through.
April 21, 2025
A fantastic read and topics that the author handled sensitively in my opinion regarding suicide.
Jen and Dale are about to lose their house, yet their old friends Jay and Lia are lording it up. When Jay's daughter Willow starts to choose new friends over Alex Jens' daughter and friends since forever, everything starts to break down. Simon, who is Jay and Lias son has always been the third wheel in their friendship, but Alex never minded simon. Will Willows' new friends become so accommodating??
When Alex is found in the river, has she taken her own life? Surely not she has a deep seated fear of water and would go nowhere near it, would she? Or has something else taken place?? Thoroughly enjoyed it
Jen and Dale are about to lose their house, yet their old friends Jay and Lia are lording it up. When Jay's daughter Willow starts to choose new friends over Alex Jens' daughter and friends since forever, everything starts to break down. Simon, who is Jay and Lias son has always been the third wheel in their friendship, but Alex never minded simon. Will Willows' new friends become so accommodating??
When Alex is found in the river, has she taken her own life? Surely not she has a deep seated fear of water and would go nowhere near it, would she? Or has something else taken place?? Thoroughly enjoyed it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2025
This was an ARC I received from NetGalley.
Whew, this was one wild ride!
This was a story about the lengths a mother will go to for her child. I love how Jen never gave up on getting justice for her daughter. Not once did she back down or have any doubts in her belief that Alex was murdered. This story is mainly told from the pov of Jen and her neighbor and once friend Lia. I felt so bad for Lia’s situation, and kept rooting for her the entire time. The twist at the end I somewhat saw coming, but it did not detract from my complete immersion in this heartbreaking story. I am now going to see what other books this author wrote, because I want more! She nabbed me with this one, hook, line and sinker.
Whew, this was one wild ride!
This was a story about the lengths a mother will go to for her child. I love how Jen never gave up on getting justice for her daughter. Not once did she back down or have any doubts in her belief that Alex was murdered. This story is mainly told from the pov of Jen and her neighbor and once friend Lia. I felt so bad for Lia’s situation, and kept rooting for her the entire time. The twist at the end I somewhat saw coming, but it did not detract from my complete immersion in this heartbreaking story. I am now going to see what other books this author wrote, because I want more! She nabbed me with this one, hook, line and sinker.
April 28, 2025
This is the first book I’ve read by Michelle and it won’t be my last! This book hooked me from the beginning with its short chapters and multiple POVs, and I found myself wanting to pick it up to read more. It covers the loss of a child, bullying, suicide, domestic abuse and sexual assault so just be wary when reading it if these topics are hard for you. As a mum of a pre-teen, this is ever mums worst nightmare! Jen is a strong mum who is fighting for justice for her child and Lia is the mum who looks like she has the perfect life. They used to be best friends, until Lia met Jay and now they are civil as their children are best friends. I had a feeling about what was going to happen but I still really enjoyed it!
April 29, 2025
Two very different mothers—Jen, who works too much and wears her struggles openly, and Lia, who seems to have it all together behind her flawless facade. Their daughters are best friends… until Alex is found dead. For Jen, there’s no question: her daughter, terrified of water since childhood, would never have chosen suicide by drowning.
As Jen pushes past the dismissals from police and family, she begins to uncover disturbing truths—not just about what happened to Alex, but about the seemingly perfect family next door. Lia may look like the ideal wife and mother, but beneath the surface lies a storm of fury, shame, and helplessness.
This is such an underrated thriller! I couldn’t put it down. I loved how the story dives deep into the emotional and psychological layers of family life and friendships. It’s chilling to realise how much danger can hide behind a beautiful, polished exterior.
As Jen pushes past the dismissals from police and family, she begins to uncover disturbing truths—not just about what happened to Alex, but about the seemingly perfect family next door. Lia may look like the ideal wife and mother, but beneath the surface lies a storm of fury, shame, and helplessness.
This is such an underrated thriller! I couldn’t put it down. I loved how the story dives deep into the emotional and psychological layers of family life and friendships. It’s chilling to realise how much danger can hide behind a beautiful, polished exterior.
May 1, 2025
An astonishingly good read!
Every parent’s worst nightmare unfolds in this emotionally charged and heart wrenching tale. Right from the offset you are at the edge of the waterfront whilst Alex’s body is being recovered from the river. From there you’re flung back in time to 3 months before where we follow Alex throughout her life in the days building up to her untimely death. I loved how the author chose to tell this story from multiple perspectives. It added an extra dimension to the tragedy and redirected the focus not just on Alex but the rift between the families and each characters own turmoil.
I’ve not read this author before but wow am I glad I did! I was searching for a good book and saw that this had been highly rated and I can confirm that it deserves all the stars!
Thanks to NetGalley for my advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Every parent’s worst nightmare unfolds in this emotionally charged and heart wrenching tale. Right from the offset you are at the edge of the waterfront whilst Alex’s body is being recovered from the river. From there you’re flung back in time to 3 months before where we follow Alex throughout her life in the days building up to her untimely death. I loved how the author chose to tell this story from multiple perspectives. It added an extra dimension to the tragedy and redirected the focus not just on Alex but the rift between the families and each characters own turmoil.
I’ve not read this author before but wow am I glad I did! I was searching for a good book and saw that this had been highly rated and I can confirm that it deserves all the stars!
Thanks to NetGalley for my advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 28, 2025
Michelle Dunne is an author I discovered thanks to NetGalley and this is the second novel of hers that I have read. 'A Good Mother' is a hard hitting domestic thriller which covers some difficult topics including domestic abuse and bullying carried out by some despicable characters.
Jen Blake and Lia Higgins have known each other for years and were once very close. Their children are still best friends having grown up together, but suddenly it seems something has come between them. Tragedy occurs and as the narrative progresses the tension and anxiety grow.
This is not an easy read but a worthwhile one. Especially if it does nothing more than make you realise we should make time to listen to the ones we love. With thanks to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and the author.
https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...
Jen Blake and Lia Higgins have known each other for years and were once very close. Their children are still best friends having grown up together, but suddenly it seems something has come between them. Tragedy occurs and as the narrative progresses the tension and anxiety grow.
This is not an easy read but a worthwhile one. Especially if it does nothing more than make you realise we should make time to listen to the ones we love. With thanks to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and the author.
https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...
March 31, 2025
Also recommended by Michelle Dunne: The Hotel Maid.
Two mothers. Two daughters. One devastating truth. Alex was terrified of water so when she drowned and they called a suicide, her mother knew it wasn’t. Why was Alex messaging her former best friend and neighbor, Lia? What secrets was Alex keeping? Jen is determined to find out what happened to her daughter.
At times this was a tough one to read because of the mental/emotional domestic abuse with one of the families which was rubbing off on their son. I absolutely wanted to kill the husband! On the other hand, I could not put this book down – I read it in two days – because I could not wait to see how it ended and if Jen got her answers she deserved. A great book!
Two mothers. Two daughters. One devastating truth. Alex was terrified of water so when she drowned and they called a suicide, her mother knew it wasn’t. Why was Alex messaging her former best friend and neighbor, Lia? What secrets was Alex keeping? Jen is determined to find out what happened to her daughter.
At times this was a tough one to read because of the mental/emotional domestic abuse with one of the families which was rubbing off on their son. I absolutely wanted to kill the husband! On the other hand, I could not put this book down – I read it in two days – because I could not wait to see how it ended and if Jen got her answers she deserved. A great book!
April 6, 2025
Overall 4.25 stars!
Premise: A mother who loses her daughter to apparent suicide, seeks to find out answers and the suspicious connections with her next door neighbours.
I really enjoyed this book! It’s a beautifully written domestic thriller. The events are mostly written through the female characters view points (although they’re not usually 1st person) and it really gives the realities between people’s circumstances; what can appear beautiful, can be quite rotten. Although the characters can be frustrating at times, it is quite easy to empathise with them in both positive and negative lights (apart from a couple).
The suspense and plot was very well curated however I felt the ending was a little rushed; both in the sense that one trail of thought seemed to open up before it was quickly cut off and another that should have been stretched felt brushed off to the background.
Premise: A mother who loses her daughter to apparent suicide, seeks to find out answers and the suspicious connections with her next door neighbours.
I really enjoyed this book! It’s a beautifully written domestic thriller. The events are mostly written through the female characters view points (although they’re not usually 1st person) and it really gives the realities between people’s circumstances; what can appear beautiful, can be quite rotten. Although the characters can be frustrating at times, it is quite easy to empathise with them in both positive and negative lights (apart from a couple).
The suspense and plot was very well curated however I felt the ending was a little rushed; both in the sense that one trail of thought seemed to open up before it was quickly cut off and another that should have been stretched felt brushed off to the background.
April 9, 2025
The characters in this book are so well written. I truly hated some of them and they felt so real. Michelle Dunne does a great job writing stories that seem so realistic and evoke a lot of emotion. The two mothers in this story were so starkly opposite. Thriller that keeps you guessing about what really happens and makes you continuously doubt yourself on whether you figured it out. Very fulfilling conclusion as well. I read another Michelle book and enjoyed it so I went into this one blind and I would really recommend doing so.
Thanks to Storm Publishing for this arc.
Thanks to Storm Publishing for this arc.
April 16, 2025
The Blake and Higgins families are more than neighbors, they share a past. Jen and Lia were best friends in high school. Their own children have grown up together, sharing common interests. Their daughters, Alex Bailey and Willow Higgins are now inseparable, that is until the night Alex is found floating dead in a river. Alex is deathly afraid of water and her mother, Jen knows for certain that her daughter would never choose to end her life in a body of water. Jen is on a mission to find the truth in her daughter's death and what really happened that awful night.
This book has it all! It is full of secrets and the length one will go to keep those secrets. I read every free moment I had until the last page. I highly recommend that face paced, psychological thriller.
I look forward to reading more Michelle Dunne. If you like Lisa Jewell, then you will enjoy A Good Mother. Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this eARC to read and review.
Book releases 4/29/25
This book has it all! It is full of secrets and the length one will go to keep those secrets. I read every free moment I had until the last page. I highly recommend that face paced, psychological thriller.
I look forward to reading more Michelle Dunne. If you like Lisa Jewell, then you will enjoy A Good Mother. Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this eARC to read and review.
Book releases 4/29/25
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