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The Good Mothers
With an eight-year-old son struggling with ADHD and nowhere else to turn, soon-to-be-divorced mom Lacey answers a life-saving “Seeking responsible single mom to join our household. Motherhood can be lonely and we support each other!”
When she arrives at Wildwood Lane she finds a ramshackle house with a welcoming bright yellow door and a wraparound porch with its cozy couch and scattered toys. And inside, three mothers who have forged their own rules for survival.
As Lacey battles her conspiracy-theorist ex-husband for custody while juggling a new, make-or-break job, she discovers these women offer more than shared childcare, communal dinners and late nights bonding over wine after the kids’ bedtime. They're building something a chosen family where women don’t just survive—they thrive.
But when her enigmatic housemate comes up with a risky plan which could secure her financially and protect her son’s future, she faces an impossible choice: How far will she go to protect the family she’s found?
A fierce, tender novel about how sometimes women have to break the rules to build the life they really want. Perfect for readers who loved Big Little Lies and All They Need to Know.
When she arrives at Wildwood Lane she finds a ramshackle house with a welcoming bright yellow door and a wraparound porch with its cozy couch and scattered toys. And inside, three mothers who have forged their own rules for survival.
As Lacey battles her conspiracy-theorist ex-husband for custody while juggling a new, make-or-break job, she discovers these women offer more than shared childcare, communal dinners and late nights bonding over wine after the kids’ bedtime. They're building something a chosen family where women don’t just survive—they thrive.
But when her enigmatic housemate comes up with a risky plan which could secure her financially and protect her son’s future, she faces an impossible choice: How far will she go to protect the family she’s found?
A fierce, tender novel about how sometimes women have to break the rules to build the life they really want. Perfect for readers who loved Big Little Lies and All They Need to Know.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 15, 2026
About the author
Caitlin Weaver
4 books54 followersCaitlin Weaver is the bestselling author of suspenseful, emotionally layered domestic dramas that are perfect for book clubs.
Her writing has been featured in Well+Good, Business Insider, Huff Post, Scary Mommy, and more.
Caitlin lives in Atlanta with her husband and children.
Her writing has been featured in Well+Good, Business Insider, Huff Post, Scary Mommy, and more.
Caitlin lives in Atlanta with her husband and children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
January 15, 2026
(Update: this “cozy domestic thriller” is now available today!) Wow! It’s no lie: this novel deserves a big Big Little Lies comp, and that’s a compliment! The Good Mothers is a great domestic thriller in the vein of Liane Moriarty and authors such as Sally Hepworth, Andrea Mara, and Lisa Jewell. As with all these authors’ works, Caitlin Weaver draws the reader in and earns their investment by crafting a story with flawed but likable characters wrestling with timely, relevant, and relatable issues and themes. Main character Lacey, an underemployed young mother of a struggling little boy with severe ADHD, finds herself homeless and in difficult financial straits after separating from her husband, whose beliefs have radically changed since they met and, among other factors, do not include acceptance of his son’s neurodivergence and special needs. Lacey stumbles across a potential communal living opportunity alongside three other single mothers - nurturing and witty Tavia, artistic and spiritual Nanette, and elegant, wise, but mysteriously aloof Regina - and their four children. However, will this shared housing situation (or “mommune”) really be the found family dream home it seems? Weaver deftly integrates a number of subplots and backstories - it often felt like I was watching a really engaging serial - and the story kept me riveted. I was on edge the whole time because of the high stakes involved in single motherhood, the realistic life and parenting challenges depicted, the sympathetic and multifaceted characters, and the aforementioned relatability factor. This was a solid and skillfully written page-turner and I was fully engaged through to the end. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to discover Caitlin Weaver’s work, and I thank the author, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for my honest review. Look for The Good Mothers on its scheduled publication date of January 15, 2026!
January 15, 2026
THE GOOD MOTHERS by Caitlin Weaver intricately crafts the poignant story of Lacey, a fiercely determined single mother who finds herself at the heart of an emotional and tumultuous custody battle that hangs in the balance like a fragile thread.
Amidst this harrowing struggle Lacey embraces a groundbreaking and unconventional lifestyle known as a "mommune," where the warmth of community support and the strength of collaboration create a nurturing tapestry for parenting in a modern, shared environment.
As she deftly navigates the myriad challenges of motherhood, her journey transforms into one of resilience and unwavering hope—a quest for belonging in a world that often feels isolating, enriched by the bonds of a newfound family that stands beside her through every trial and triumph.
About...
My thoughts....
I absolutely adored THE GOOD MOTHERS! Having navigated the tumultuous waters of divorce many years ago, along with all the challenges of single parenting and dealing with an ex-spouse, I am truly passionate about the concept of mommunes and the empowerment of women.
The thought-provoking, well-written domestic suspense portrays the Mommune community living as both heartwarming and inspiring, showcasing how it helps struggling mothers find their path and provides a much-needed support network through sisterhood.
However, the narrative also delves into the nuanced legal limitations that accompany such arrangements. While the novel presents this communal living as a groundbreaking solution, it simultaneously uncovers the internal and external pressures that can complicate these unconventional lifestyles. It's that intricate balance of hope and realism that makes the story so compelling and ideal for book clubs and further discussions.
The women of Wildwood Lane craft their own rules, determined to thrive in a world that often leaves them merely surviving. Their journey is fraught with moral dilemmas and heart-wrenching choices, particularly for Lacey, who finds herself at a crossroads. Regina’s ambitious plan compels Lacey to confront the depths of her resolve—how far is she willing to go to protect the family she has embraced? This internal struggle pits her unwavering moral compass against an all-consuming desperation to retain custody of her beloved son.
As the intricate plan begins to unfold, the narrative takes a dark turn, intensifying with rising anxiety and suspense. Lacey's path is fraught with complexities, forcing her to navigate the perilous repercussions of defying societal norms and expectations. Each step into the unknown brings with it a palpable tension, heightening the sense of danger that lurks just beneath the surface.
Amidst these challenges, the experience ultimately deepens the bonds between the mothers on Wildwood Lane, reinforcing their identity as a chosen family. Their collective strength becomes a sanctuary, a testament to their shared resilience in the face of adversity.
In the end, the consequences of Lacey's choices lead her toward a hard-won resolution. She emerges victorious, skillfully safeguarding her son and securing their future, but not without embracing a path that is both revolutionary and fraught with peril.
It is a journey that culminates in a satisfying conclusion, as Lacey and her newfound family redefine what it means to create a home together, infused with love and solidarity in a world that often tests their limits.
Themes
In The Good Mothers, Weaver skillfully explores several core themes centered on the modern experience of single motherhood and the radical solutions women create to survive systemic failures.
The "Mommune" and Chosen Family
A primary theme is the creation of a "revolutionary" shared household, or mommune. The novel highlights how single mothers can move beyond mere survival to "thrive" by pooling resources like shared childcare, communal meals, and emotional support.
~The Invisible Mental Load
~Breaking Rules for Survival
~Modern Custody and Adversity
~Trust and Dependence
The takeaway message of THE GOOD MOTHERS centers on the idea that women often have to break traditional rules to build the lives they truly want. The novel presents a "revolutionary" look at motherhood that prioritizes community over the isolation of the nuclear family.
The Power of Chosen Family: The novel emphasizes that "mommunes" or shared households can be a "life-saving" alternative to the loneliness of single motherhood. It suggests that women don't just survive but "thrive" when they pool resources like childcare and emotional support, while dealing with challenging societal stigmas.
The novel suggests that society's traditional structures often fail single mothers, and presents the "mommune" as a practical, grassroots model for better support, and highlights key areas where societal change of communal efforts could provide better support. Mothers can split essential burdens such as childcare, communal meals, and household maintenance, moving away from the isolated nuclear family model.
Society should value "chosen families" that offer emotional safety nets, allowing mothers to "thrive" rather than just survive.
A major takeaway is the need to eliminate the stigma around unmarried or single women seeking deep, interdependent support from each other rather than through a traditional spouse. Society should better recognize and validate the overwhelming "mental load" mothers carry, especially when parenting children with neurodivergence like ADHD.
The significance of the title lies in its subversion of traditional societal standards for "good" parenting. The use of the plural "Mothers" emphasizes that motherhood is not just an individual journey but a collective one. The women at Wildwood Lane find that their "goodness" as parents is amplified when they act as a "chosen family" rather than in isolation.
This is my first encounter with the works of this author, and I am eagerly anticipating diving into more of her literature! Having spent the majority of my career immersed in the vibrant media and publishing scene of Atlanta, I have a profound appreciation for the talent that emerges from this city and support Atlanta authors. Astonishingly, I am just now coming across her writing. I’m excited to explore her backlist and discover the stories and insights she has crafted.
Recs...
Readers who enjoyed The Good Mothers for its blend of domestic drama, moral complexity, and themes of unconventional motherhood might appreciate books that also feature strong female bonds, the challenges of single parenting, and characters making difficult choices.
~Beach House Rules by Kristy Woodson Harvey (mommune)
~All They Need to Know by Eileen Goudge (Gold Creek Series)
~The Ladybug Farm Series by Donna Ball
~On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass
~The Whispers by Ashley Audrain
~Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
Many thanks to Storm Publishing for introducing me to this talented author by providing an advanced reading copy via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: Jan 15, 2026
My Rating: 5 Stars
Jan Newsletter
Amidst this harrowing struggle Lacey embraces a groundbreaking and unconventional lifestyle known as a "mommune," where the warmth of community support and the strength of collaboration create a nurturing tapestry for parenting in a modern, shared environment.
As she deftly navigates the myriad challenges of motherhood, her journey transforms into one of resilience and unwavering hope—a quest for belonging in a world that often feels isolating, enriched by the bonds of a newfound family that stands beside her through every trial and triumph.
About...
Wildwood Lane:
Lacey is at the end of her rope. Facing a difficult divorce and homelessness, Lacey answers an ad for a shared household for single mothers. She moves into a ramshackle house with a huge porch, which seems cozy and loving on Wildwood Lane, with her eight-year-old son, Elliott, who has ADHD.
The "Mommune" Dynamic:
Lacey joins three other mothers who have created their own "chosen family". A Mommune. They share childcare, communal meals, and emotional support, providing Lacey with a sense of stability she lacked.
The Custody Battle:
Lacey is in a fierce legal battle with her ex-husband, Judd, a conspiracy theorist determined to take full custody of Elliott and keep him from his important medications, and does everything he can to manipulate, control, and undermine her and her parenting.
Regina’s Risky Plan:
One of the housemates, Regina, approaches Lacey with an "enigmatic" and "risky plan". This offer is framed as a way to secure Lacey's financial future and protect Elliott's custody, but it carries significant legal and moral risks.
Lacey must decide how far she will go to maintain the family she has found at Wildwood Lane and, as a mother, protect her son.
Key Characters
Lacey:
The protagonist, a soon-to-be-divorced mother trying to balance a new "make-or-break" job with parenting.
Elliott:
Lacey’s son, whose ADHD struggles are a central focus of her parenting journey.
Regina:
An "enigmatic" housemate who drives the book's "mystery" element with a secret backstory and a dangerous offer.
Judd:
Lacey's ex-husband and the primary antagonist in her custody battle.
My thoughts....
I absolutely adored THE GOOD MOTHERS! Having navigated the tumultuous waters of divorce many years ago, along with all the challenges of single parenting and dealing with an ex-spouse, I am truly passionate about the concept of mommunes and the empowerment of women.
The thought-provoking, well-written domestic suspense portrays the Mommune community living as both heartwarming and inspiring, showcasing how it helps struggling mothers find their path and provides a much-needed support network through sisterhood.
However, the narrative also delves into the nuanced legal limitations that accompany such arrangements. While the novel presents this communal living as a groundbreaking solution, it simultaneously uncovers the internal and external pressures that can complicate these unconventional lifestyles. It's that intricate balance of hope and realism that makes the story so compelling and ideal for book clubs and further discussions.
The women of Wildwood Lane craft their own rules, determined to thrive in a world that often leaves them merely surviving. Their journey is fraught with moral dilemmas and heart-wrenching choices, particularly for Lacey, who finds herself at a crossroads. Regina’s ambitious plan compels Lacey to confront the depths of her resolve—how far is she willing to go to protect the family she has embraced? This internal struggle pits her unwavering moral compass against an all-consuming desperation to retain custody of her beloved son.
As the intricate plan begins to unfold, the narrative takes a dark turn, intensifying with rising anxiety and suspense. Lacey's path is fraught with complexities, forcing her to navigate the perilous repercussions of defying societal norms and expectations. Each step into the unknown brings with it a palpable tension, heightening the sense of danger that lurks just beneath the surface.
Amidst these challenges, the experience ultimately deepens the bonds between the mothers on Wildwood Lane, reinforcing their identity as a chosen family. Their collective strength becomes a sanctuary, a testament to their shared resilience in the face of adversity.
In the end, the consequences of Lacey's choices lead her toward a hard-won resolution. She emerges victorious, skillfully safeguarding her son and securing their future, but not without embracing a path that is both revolutionary and fraught with peril.
It is a journey that culminates in a satisfying conclusion, as Lacey and her newfound family redefine what it means to create a home together, infused with love and solidarity in a world that often tests their limits.
Themes
In The Good Mothers, Weaver skillfully explores several core themes centered on the modern experience of single motherhood and the radical solutions women create to survive systemic failures.
The "Mommune" and Chosen Family
A primary theme is the creation of a "revolutionary" shared household, or mommune. The novel highlights how single mothers can move beyond mere survival to "thrive" by pooling resources like shared childcare, communal meals, and emotional support.
~The Invisible Mental Load
~Breaking Rules for Survival
~Modern Custody and Adversity
~Trust and Dependence
The takeaway message of THE GOOD MOTHERS centers on the idea that women often have to break traditional rules to build the lives they truly want. The novel presents a "revolutionary" look at motherhood that prioritizes community over the isolation of the nuclear family.
The Power of Chosen Family: The novel emphasizes that "mommunes" or shared households can be a "life-saving" alternative to the loneliness of single motherhood. It suggests that women don't just survive but "thrive" when they pool resources like childcare and emotional support, while dealing with challenging societal stigmas.
The novel suggests that society's traditional structures often fail single mothers, and presents the "mommune" as a practical, grassroots model for better support, and highlights key areas where societal change of communal efforts could provide better support. Mothers can split essential burdens such as childcare, communal meals, and household maintenance, moving away from the isolated nuclear family model.
Society should value "chosen families" that offer emotional safety nets, allowing mothers to "thrive" rather than just survive.
A major takeaway is the need to eliminate the stigma around unmarried or single women seeking deep, interdependent support from each other rather than through a traditional spouse. Society should better recognize and validate the overwhelming "mental load" mothers carry, especially when parenting children with neurodivergence like ADHD.
The significance of the title lies in its subversion of traditional societal standards for "good" parenting. The use of the plural "Mothers" emphasizes that motherhood is not just an individual journey but a collective one. The women at Wildwood Lane find that their "goodness" as parents is amplified when they act as a "chosen family" rather than in isolation.
This is my first encounter with the works of this author, and I am eagerly anticipating diving into more of her literature! Having spent the majority of my career immersed in the vibrant media and publishing scene of Atlanta, I have a profound appreciation for the talent that emerges from this city and support Atlanta authors. Astonishingly, I am just now coming across her writing. I’m excited to explore her backlist and discover the stories and insights she has crafted.
Recs...
Readers who enjoyed The Good Mothers for its blend of domestic drama, moral complexity, and themes of unconventional motherhood might appreciate books that also feature strong female bonds, the challenges of single parenting, and characters making difficult choices.
~Beach House Rules by Kristy Woodson Harvey (mommune)
~All They Need to Know by Eileen Goudge (Gold Creek Series)
~The Ladybug Farm Series by Donna Ball
~On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass
~The Whispers by Ashley Audrain
~Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
Many thanks to Storm Publishing for introducing me to this talented author by providing an advanced reading copy via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: Jan 15, 2026
My Rating: 5 Stars
Jan Newsletter
January 16, 2026
Thank you to netgalley and storm publishing for my advanced readers copy ~
I originally thought this was a thriller when applying but I still overall enjoyed this book. I loved the characters and storyline. A mom desperate to keep a roof over her son's head and to keep him safe from her verbally abusive ex husband. As a mom myself, I could feel these scenes pulling at my heart strings as I began to think what I would do in these situations, anything to protect your child's innocence in such a cruel world. The idea of a mommune was my favorite part and the ending made my heart so happy! I recommend this book to other readers 🩷
I originally thought this was a thriller when applying but I still overall enjoyed this book. I loved the characters and storyline. A mom desperate to keep a roof over her son's head and to keep him safe from her verbally abusive ex husband. As a mom myself, I could feel these scenes pulling at my heart strings as I began to think what I would do in these situations, anything to protect your child's innocence in such a cruel world. The idea of a mommune was my favorite part and the ending made my heart so happy! I recommend this book to other readers 🩷
January 12, 2026
The Good Mothers by Caitlin Weaver. Thanks to @stormpublishing for the gifted Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lacey joins a mommy community in the midst of her divorce. When her new roommates come with a risky plan to help her financially, she has an impossible choice of how far she’ll go to protect her son.
I connected with this one as the main character had a son with ADHD. I felt for her trials. Her unsupportive husband was the worse. It was entertaining and a fast read. There weren’t that many super suspenseful twists but it was a fun read.
“There’s nothing unnatural about going to extremes to protect your child. It’s instinct. Evolution.”
Read this if you like:
-Revenge stories
-Corporate thrillers
-Women sticking up for each other
The Good Mothers comes out 1/15.
Lacey joins a mommy community in the midst of her divorce. When her new roommates come with a risky plan to help her financially, she has an impossible choice of how far she’ll go to protect her son.
I connected with this one as the main character had a son with ADHD. I felt for her trials. Her unsupportive husband was the worse. It was entertaining and a fast read. There weren’t that many super suspenseful twists but it was a fun read.
“There’s nothing unnatural about going to extremes to protect your child. It’s instinct. Evolution.”
Read this if you like:
-Revenge stories
-Corporate thrillers
-Women sticking up for each other
The Good Mothers comes out 1/15.
January 16, 2026
This was a sweet, feel good story of women helping women. It was refreshing to see women having each other’s backs and forming true friendships. Parts were definitely unrealistic and a little ridiculous but it came together for a sweet ending.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Storm Publishing, Caitlin Weaver & NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
~
This book hooked me in straight from the start! It is right up my alley, so relatable, being a mother myself. I was interested to see where it would go.
I loved the mystery at each turn of this book wondering what would happen, and I was interested in all the characters and their emotional back stories and their resilience. I was rooting for all the women to win!
Looking forward to reading more from Caitlin in the future!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
~
This book hooked me in straight from the start! It is right up my alley, so relatable, being a mother myself. I was interested to see where it would go.
I loved the mystery at each turn of this book wondering what would happen, and I was interested in all the characters and their emotional back stories and their resilience. I was rooting for all the women to win!
Looking forward to reading more from Caitlin in the future!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
February 23, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, Storm publishing and Caitlin Weaver for the chance to read and review The Good Mothers.
I wasn’t even sure what genre this was going in, and I’m still not sure what to say it is. But don’t let that deter you from picking it up.
A little summary
Lacey has a 8 year old son who has ADHD. She is struggling to cope with life in general. Soon to be divorced from an over controlling ass hat. (Excuse my words)
Lacey soon becomes a part of a momma community, a group of women who live together, cook together and attempt to raise children together.
When one of her housemates brings up an unconventional idea to help Lacey and all of her financial matters. Lacey battles with her inner self, how far will she go to protect the people she loves the most?
The pacing was really fast. I did relate somewhat, obviously being a mother myself. I respect Lacey and her commitment to make everything work out in her life. Her protectiveness over her son was beautiful.
I did struggle a little bit towards the end, I felt things were a little jumpy and just rushed.
Overall I think it was a different experience, not bad at all. I love the tight knit community that Lacey formed.
3.5/5
I wasn’t even sure what genre this was going in, and I’m still not sure what to say it is. But don’t let that deter you from picking it up.
A little summary
Lacey has a 8 year old son who has ADHD. She is struggling to cope with life in general. Soon to be divorced from an over controlling ass hat. (Excuse my words)
Lacey soon becomes a part of a momma community, a group of women who live together, cook together and attempt to raise children together.
When one of her housemates brings up an unconventional idea to help Lacey and all of her financial matters. Lacey battles with her inner self, how far will she go to protect the people she loves the most?
The pacing was really fast. I did relate somewhat, obviously being a mother myself. I respect Lacey and her commitment to make everything work out in her life. Her protectiveness over her son was beautiful.
I did struggle a little bit towards the end, I felt things were a little jumpy and just rushed.
Overall I think it was a different experience, not bad at all. I love the tight knit community that Lacey formed.
3.5/5
April 15, 2026
This was such a good book! I really couldn't put it down, I wanted to know what was going to happen. I loved the storyline and the characters. It was, to me, a reality of parents fighting over custody and how the other parent 'parents'. I would definitely recommend this book.
January 26, 2026
A rollercoaster read, featuring multiple mothers who make the most of their circumstances and go to great lengths for their chosen family.
'Their house. Their rules. Their secrets.'
I appreciate the variety of characters represented in this story, as well as the realities of parenting. I enjoyed the premise of the "mommune - the commune of moms" and was keen to learn unravel the secrets behind the mysterious plan.
Despite some of the unrealistic elements of this story, I found the ending was satisfying.
3.5 stars
'Their house. Their rules. Their secrets.'
I appreciate the variety of characters represented in this story, as well as the realities of parenting. I enjoyed the premise of the "mommune - the commune of moms" and was keen to learn unravel the secrets behind the mysterious plan.
Despite some of the unrealistic elements of this story, I found the ending was satisfying.
3.5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley and the UK publishers for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I initially thought this was a thriller when i applied for the ARC, but I found it was more of a women's fiction with some thriller elements when it came to reading. This didn't impact my enjoyment.
I felt the strength of the book was in the characters. In the found family elements in the mommune, where I really enjoyed Regina's character particular. I was also invested in the strifes of the main character and juggling co-parenting and all the challenges that come with that and trying to create a new life.
There were two main plots going on, and I felt what should have been the subplot actually became the main plot for a lot of the book, which was slightly jarring. I wanted more from the main plot - it could have gone so much further. The resolution to both plot points was also a slightly easy and underwhelming, but one in particular was satisfying.
I'd definitely recommend this read if you aren't looking for a fast paced thriller and like more character-driven stories.
I initially thought this was a thriller when i applied for the ARC, but I found it was more of a women's fiction with some thriller elements when it came to reading. This didn't impact my enjoyment.
I felt the strength of the book was in the characters. In the found family elements in the mommune, where I really enjoyed Regina's character particular. I was also invested in the strifes of the main character and juggling co-parenting and all the challenges that come with that and trying to create a new life.
There were two main plots going on, and I felt what should have been the subplot actually became the main plot for a lot of the book, which was slightly jarring. I wanted more from the main plot - it could have gone so much further. The resolution to both plot points was also a slightly easy and underwhelming, but one in particular was satisfying.
I'd definitely recommend this read if you aren't looking for a fast paced thriller and like more character-driven stories.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I'm really getting tired of these supposedly empowering, feminist type stories where the only way women can prevail is by violence towards men. Because that's how to settle issues like the wage gap and toxic work environments - criminal acts. So inspiring. I'm really not exaggerating. You read this story, and it makes women come off even worse because they think they have to resort to terrible deeds in order to live a decent life.
Lacey is dealing with a tumultuous divorce from a man who apparently went crazy from COVID and refuses to medicate their son, who is diagnosed with ADHD. So she joins a 'mommune' where like-minded women who were abused or screwed over by men commiserate and raise their kids together. Literally, almost every night ends with the four women sitting around drinking copious amounts of wine. Seriously, almost every single night. It was like watching a Golden Girls marathon. Except that I enjoy that show immensely. Those were fierce women who owned their issues, worked hard, and ate tons of cheesecake. The women in this book drink and complain about the unfairness of it all.
So anyway, Lacey arrives with her son, but still needs a job. So the owner of the house creates a fake resume (illegal, but who cares, apparently) to get her a job with someone she used to know. It turns out there's a whole lot more going on than just these women innocently supporting each other and helping care for each other's kids. And almost everything about it is criminal, but they don't care. Because they deserve it, after all.
Almost every man in the book is terrible except one, who is the complete opposite and still gets screwed over because again, this story is ridiculous, and the women think criminal acts are justified because their lives are hard. The story is described as women 'breaking a few rules.' Are you kidding me? If it were men doing these things to get back at the women in their lives, everyone would complain. Plenty of women and men deal with hardship in ways other than revenge and violence, yet you'd never know it reading this book. Talk about bringing a gun to a knife fight. It truly boggles my mind that anyone would celebrate these characters.
I received this advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley
Lacey is dealing with a tumultuous divorce from a man who apparently went crazy from COVID and refuses to medicate their son, who is diagnosed with ADHD. So she joins a 'mommune' where like-minded women who were abused or screwed over by men commiserate and raise their kids together. Literally, almost every night ends with the four women sitting around drinking copious amounts of wine. Seriously, almost every single night. It was like watching a Golden Girls marathon. Except that I enjoy that show immensely. Those were fierce women who owned their issues, worked hard, and ate tons of cheesecake. The women in this book drink and complain about the unfairness of it all.
So anyway, Lacey arrives with her son, but still needs a job. So the owner of the house creates a fake resume (illegal, but who cares, apparently) to get her a job with someone she used to know. It turns out there's a whole lot more going on than just these women innocently supporting each other and helping care for each other's kids. And almost everything about it is criminal, but they don't care. Because they deserve it, after all.
Almost every man in the book is terrible except one, who is the complete opposite and still gets screwed over because again, this story is ridiculous, and the women think criminal acts are justified because their lives are hard. The story is described as women 'breaking a few rules.' Are you kidding me? If it were men doing these things to get back at the women in their lives, everyone would complain. Plenty of women and men deal with hardship in ways other than revenge and violence, yet you'd never know it reading this book. Talk about bringing a gun to a knife fight. It truly boggles my mind that anyone would celebrate these characters.
I received this advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When you have a child who is struggling with a medical condition, it’s important as a parent to have support from the people around you. It’s only natural to want to vent from time to time or to discuss ideas with someone who is also closely involved in the situation.
Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case, and you may feel forced to take measures you would rather avoid—but necessity knows no law. This is exactly what Lacey experiences firsthand. She is desperately searching for a solution, but there aren’t many options available… until a saving angel appears.
Lacey isn’t out of the deep hole she’s in just yet, but the first step has certainly been taken, and it seems that the only way is up—or so it appears. There are still several obstacles she needs to overcome before she gets there, and more than once she feels like she’s taking one step forward and two steps back.
This book truly captivated me from beginning to end. You can sense that at times things seem almost too good to be true—and often, that’s because they are. I really enjoyed the friendship and love woven into the story, as well as the twists and turns. For me, this is a very versatile book that doesn’t fit neatly into just one category.
One thing is certain: I thoroughly enjoyed it and followed with great anticipation as Lacey evolved from -10 to +10, taking every step in between.
Justice does come—but sometimes at a heavy price…
Excellent work by the author, though that was to be expected, as I was already a fan of the two other books I’ve read by her. I’m very much looking forward to what’s next.
For me, this book is definitely worthy of 5 stars.
Thank you
Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case, and you may feel forced to take measures you would rather avoid—but necessity knows no law. This is exactly what Lacey experiences firsthand. She is desperately searching for a solution, but there aren’t many options available… until a saving angel appears.
Lacey isn’t out of the deep hole she’s in just yet, but the first step has certainly been taken, and it seems that the only way is up—or so it appears. There are still several obstacles she needs to overcome before she gets there, and more than once she feels like she’s taking one step forward and two steps back.
This book truly captivated me from beginning to end. You can sense that at times things seem almost too good to be true—and often, that’s because they are. I really enjoyed the friendship and love woven into the story, as well as the twists and turns. For me, this is a very versatile book that doesn’t fit neatly into just one category.
One thing is certain: I thoroughly enjoyed it and followed with great anticipation as Lacey evolved from -10 to +10, taking every step in between.
Justice does come—but sometimes at a heavy price…
Excellent work by the author, though that was to be expected, as I was already a fan of the two other books I’ve read by her. I’m very much looking forward to what’s next.
For me, this book is definitely worthy of 5 stars.
Thank you
April 5, 2026
THE GOOD MOTHERS was not exactly what I had expected going in (which I was happy about). I would categorize this story as part women’s fiction and part thriller. This made for a nice mix and gave it a unique style. The writing was excellent, Caitlin Weaver did a fantastic job on this one! If you are looking for a women’s fiction story with some good twists and turns, you just found it!
Many thanks to Caitlin Weaver for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
Many thanks to Caitlin Weaver for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
February 7, 2026
Some thing(s) I liked:
✅Culty vibes
✅Writing was fine
Some thing(s), not so much:
⭕Not much happened... I thought I was reading a thriller but it just turned out to be a drama
⭕Silly hysterical woman just goes around making everything worse
✅Culty vibes
✅Writing was fine
Some thing(s), not so much:
⭕Not much happened... I thought I was reading a thriller but it just turned out to be a drama
⭕Silly hysterical woman just goes around making everything worse
March 13, 2026
I enjoyed this book, it had me intrigued. I did the audiobook. This is not my typical genre but the story held my attention and I couldn’t wait to see how the story played out.
January 8, 2026
Underrated authors are dangerous—because once they hook you, you lose sleep.
Caitlin Weaver is one of those authors. I took my time with this one, reading a couple of chapters each night… until I hit the point where I simply couldn’t stop. Next thing I knew, it was 2 a.m. and I’d devoured the final 55% in one sitting.
I really enjoyed the women’s fiction mashup with suspense, a blend Weaver is quickly becoming known for. The plot lines are layered and nuanced, but everything ties together nicely by the end. At face value, many readers might assume this is a straight-up thriller based on the description, but it isn’t—and going in with that expectation could lead to disappointment. This is primarily women’s fiction with a suspenseful edge. The tension comes from a constant sense of unease, that feeling of waiting for the other shoe to drop rather than nonstop action.
This is the kind of book that starts as a slow burn and ends with you checking the clock in disbelief.
If you’re in the mood for women’s fiction that quietly unsettles, keeps you emotionally invested, and pairs perfectly with a rainy day and a late bedtime, Caitlin Weaver deserves a spot at the top of your TBR.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary eARC from Storm Publishing via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
Caitlin Weaver is one of those authors. I took my time with this one, reading a couple of chapters each night… until I hit the point where I simply couldn’t stop. Next thing I knew, it was 2 a.m. and I’d devoured the final 55% in one sitting.
I really enjoyed the women’s fiction mashup with suspense, a blend Weaver is quickly becoming known for. The plot lines are layered and nuanced, but everything ties together nicely by the end. At face value, many readers might assume this is a straight-up thriller based on the description, but it isn’t—and going in with that expectation could lead to disappointment. This is primarily women’s fiction with a suspenseful edge. The tension comes from a constant sense of unease, that feeling of waiting for the other shoe to drop rather than nonstop action.
This is the kind of book that starts as a slow burn and ends with you checking the clock in disbelief.
If you’re in the mood for women’s fiction that quietly unsettles, keeps you emotionally invested, and pairs perfectly with a rainy day and a late bedtime, Caitlin Weaver deserves a spot at the top of your TBR.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary eARC from Storm Publishing via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
March 4, 2026
Loved the friendships but ending was pretty abrupt and unbelievable.
January 9, 2026
I’ve now read all five of Caitlin Weaver’s novels, and her forthcoming release, THE GOOD MOTHERS did not disappoint. I just love how dependable Weaver is. I always know what to expect when I’m about to dive in. She always delivers a juicy, dramatic, and thrilling story revolving around motherhood, marriage, and female friendship. It’s women’s fiction at its finest!
QUICK SYNOPSIS:
𝘈 𝘧𝘪𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘦, 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘶𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵. 𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘉𝘪𝘨 𝘓𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘓𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘕𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘒𝘯𝘰𝘸.
THE GOOD MOTHERS revolves around a group of single women all living together under one roof with their respective children. A “momune�� where all responsibilities like rent, childcare, cooking, and cleaning are shared and divided equally. As soon as Lacey, the lead protagonist and newest tenant moves in with her son, something about the overall vibe seemed fishy to me. My radar was up and I was suspicious AF. Something just felt off and a little too good to be true. I had absolutely NO idea where the author was going to take this story, and was completely bamboozled by the shocking plot and thrilling conclusion.
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Reflections on motherhood
- Marriage and divorce
- Female friendship
- Custody battles
- Slow-burning mysteries
- Domestic dramas
- Communal living arrangements
- Found family storylines
- Feminist undertones
- Shocking twists and turns
I truly loved the constant head-scratching, eyebrow-scrunching, confused and suspicious gut feeling that this novel gave me. I kept whispering, “What the heck is happening in this house?” the entire time, and I absolutely loved it!
THE GOOD MOTHERS releases on January 15th! Grab a bag of popcorn and settle in because you’re gonna binge this one. It gets 4/5 stars from me!
QUICK SYNOPSIS:
𝘈 𝘧𝘪𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘦, 𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘶𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵. 𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘉𝘪𝘨 𝘓𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘓𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘕𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘒𝘯𝘰𝘸.
THE GOOD MOTHERS revolves around a group of single women all living together under one roof with their respective children. A “momune�� where all responsibilities like rent, childcare, cooking, and cleaning are shared and divided equally. As soon as Lacey, the lead protagonist and newest tenant moves in with her son, something about the overall vibe seemed fishy to me. My radar was up and I was suspicious AF. Something just felt off and a little too good to be true. I had absolutely NO idea where the author was going to take this story, and was completely bamboozled by the shocking plot and thrilling conclusion.
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Reflections on motherhood
- Marriage and divorce
- Female friendship
- Custody battles
- Slow-burning mysteries
- Domestic dramas
- Communal living arrangements
- Found family storylines
- Feminist undertones
- Shocking twists and turns
I truly loved the constant head-scratching, eyebrow-scrunching, confused and suspicious gut feeling that this novel gave me. I kept whispering, “What the heck is happening in this house?” the entire time, and I absolutely loved it!
THE GOOD MOTHERS releases on January 15th! Grab a bag of popcorn and settle in because you’re gonna binge this one. It gets 4/5 stars from me!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Loved, loved and loved this one. I devoured this one in just one day. I really kind of like this sort of thrillers. Some sort of revenge thrillers. Especially by women.
This was a fast-paced thriller. This was such a good written thriller, I could put myself in the main character shoes. I could picture everything I read. I couldn’t turn the pages quickly enough. I read a book by this author earlier and that was a good one too, so maybe I have a knew author, which I want to read every book...
It has depth and issues that are real so you can relate to them. You can understand the problems they have. I said a couple of times, oh nooo...
So pick this one up it will publish next month.
This was a fast-paced thriller. This was such a good written thriller, I could put myself in the main character shoes. I could picture everything I read. I couldn’t turn the pages quickly enough. I read a book by this author earlier and that was a good one too, so maybe I have a knew author, which I want to read every book...
It has depth and issues that are real so you can relate to them. You can understand the problems they have. I said a couple of times, oh nooo...
So pick this one up it will publish next month.
January 10, 2026
The Good Mothers by Caitlin Weaver is a novel that initially presents itself as a mystery/thriller, but ultimately unfolds as a deeply relatable emotional family drama.
While the writing is strong and the story is well done, this isn’t my usual kind of read. I went in hoping for twists and tension and instead found a slower, more grounded exploration of motherhood, divorce, and survival. The ongoing custody battle between Lacey and her ex felt painfully familiar and, at times, emotionally heavy.
That said, the relationships between the women are thoughtfully portrayed, and I appreciated the sense of support and connection woven throughout the story.
Although the tension never quite reached the level I anticipated, the book ultimately ends on a hopeful note, which helped balance the somber tone elsewhere. Overall, The Good Mothers is a solid and heartfelt read!
While the writing is strong and the story is well done, this isn’t my usual kind of read. I went in hoping for twists and tension and instead found a slower, more grounded exploration of motherhood, divorce, and survival. The ongoing custody battle between Lacey and her ex felt painfully familiar and, at times, emotionally heavy.
That said, the relationships between the women are thoughtfully portrayed, and I appreciated the sense of support and connection woven throughout the story.
Although the tension never quite reached the level I anticipated, the book ultimately ends on a hopeful note, which helped balance the somber tone elsewhere. Overall, The Good Mothers is a solid and heartfelt read!
February 1, 2026
Special thank you to NetGalley, Caitlin Weaver and Storm Publishing for an ARC of this incredible book. I enjoyed the story from start to finish. Each of the characters were interesting and/or likeable. The strong theme of female empowerment, resilience and loyalty was evident throughout. The story was unique in the sense that it had some “thriller” traits (I.e., twists throughout), although I found them to be somewhat predictable. Despite this, the book was great and I loved the ending. I would definitely read more books by this author. 4.5 star ⭐️ rounded up to 5.
March 10, 2026
This was such an intriguing domestic suspense. I enjoyed it. Lacey is a mom who's going through a divorce and moves into a shared house with a few other moms. They become friends and really help each other out with things like childcare. I liked the characters and the plot was very interesting and entertaining, although at some points I had to suspend disbelief. But that's totally ok, because that's what reading is about. Escaping and enjoying. I hated Lacey's ex though. What an ass!! Overall, a great read and I can't wait to read more by this author.
April 4, 2026
I really enjoy this author's writing style and the psychological aspects of her books. As someone with severe ADHD I appreciate the inclusion so there is more awareness of the challenges that come with it. Lacey and the women she moves in with become a kind of found family and support each other through their individual struggles. There are moral and ethical dilemmas to navigate as Lacey tries to be a good mother to her son. An entertaining read that's hard to put down.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
THE GOOD MOTHERS BY CAITLIN WEAVER.
4 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
Release date set for the 15th of January 2026.
I really enjoyed this story and I've finished it so quickly. I started it lastnight.
Brilliant characters.
Brilliant author.
Brilliant cover.
I was gifted this book by Storm and so looking forward to picking up another caitlin weaver book ☺
4 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
Release date set for the 15th of January 2026.
I really enjoyed this story and I've finished it so quickly. I started it lastnight.
Brilliant characters.
Brilliant author.
Brilliant cover.
I was gifted this book by Storm and so looking forward to picking up another caitlin weaver book ☺
January 10, 2026
Wow, this book was addictive from the very first page. I felt all of the feelings reading this! Happy, surprised, shocked, annoyed, angry, surprised again! Being a mother with an ADHD child and I myself having adhd I was surprised how well it was depicted in the book. Caitlin’s writing style is elite!
December 24, 2025
The Good Mothers is both a “Will the main character triumph over adversity?” and a “How far would you go to protect the ones you love and prove your worth?” novel that I found so interesting. The premise of single moms living together, supporting one another, sharing responsibilities, and knowing someone will always be there seems like a brilliant idea. However, the trust that needs to take place for this to be successful is enormous. Lacey is a soon to be single mom struggling with an impending divorce and custody issues, a career that never took off, and is entering the world of dating. While desperately looking for a place to stay, she happens upon a house of women that fits her budget. All of the women in the “mommune” (I hate this word so much, but the story makes up for it) have an equally compelling and complicated story. The most important lesson is that no matter how far you are backed into a corner, you always have a choice. Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Books for the ARC!
April 30, 2026
I rarely take the time to write a review but this book had me hooked. I could see this becoming a limited series or movie, it had the drama, passion, and interesting characters to keep anyone hooked. I loved the imagery and writing style as well because it really did feel like I was almost watching it all unfold instead of reading it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you, NetGalley, for this ebook ARC of 'The Good Mothers' by Caitlin Weaver - expected release date of 01/15/2026
ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Weaver's writing was clean and this was a quick, easy read but the relationships (romantic and platonic) felt more surface level, rather than deep and meaningful. Because of this, I hard time understanding how the FMC, Lacey, could put so much trust in the new people she meets, right away (the mommune group, Simon). I guess though that was probably Weaver's way of providing a strong indicator of how desperate Lacey must've felt to establish a new life, given she just jumped right into the mommune and a new relationship right away. I figured out most of the reveals early on but there were still a few surprises that unraveled through the story. It was on the safe side but worth the read if you like lighter domestic thrillers
ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Weaver's writing was clean and this was a quick, easy read but the relationships (romantic and platonic) felt more surface level, rather than deep and meaningful. Because of this, I hard time understanding how the FMC, Lacey, could put so much trust in the new people she meets, right away (the mommune group, Simon). I guess though that was probably Weaver's way of providing a strong indicator of how desperate Lacey must've felt to establish a new life, given she just jumped right into the mommune and a new relationship right away. I figured out most of the reveals early on but there were still a few surprises that unraveled through the story. It was on the safe side but worth the read if you like lighter domestic thrillers
March 2, 2026
I absolutely loved the concept — a communal house where women raise their children together, sharing the load and creating the kind of village so many of us wish we had. That idea alone pulled me in immediately. There’s something really powerful about watching women build community on purpose, especially in the thick of motherhood.
I found myself rooting for the house and what it represented the entire time. I genuinely hoped there wouldn’t be some dark, sinister twist behind it all — I just wanted it to be exactly what it seemed: supportive, intentional, healing. While the story definitely keeps you questioning motives and dynamics, the heart of it — women trying to do motherhood differently — is what stuck with me most. It’s one of those books where the premise lingers even after you finish.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book before its release. My thoughts above are completely honest and are in no way affected by the fact that I received this book for free.
I found myself rooting for the house and what it represented the entire time. I genuinely hoped there wouldn’t be some dark, sinister twist behind it all — I just wanted it to be exactly what it seemed: supportive, intentional, healing. While the story definitely keeps you questioning motives and dynamics, the heart of it — women trying to do motherhood differently — is what stuck with me most. It’s one of those books where the premise lingers even after you finish.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book before its release. My thoughts above are completely honest and are in no way affected by the fact that I received this book for free.
January 15, 2026
Many thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an ARC of this novel.
As domestic fiction goes, Caitlin Weaver comes up with new spins on the kinds of stories that belong to everyone, especially women, and in this case single mothers. We begin with the beleaguered Lacey, who is suffering under a pile-up of everything that could go wrong for a thirty-something mother. She has a recently diagnosed 8 year old autistic son, her marriage to Judd is falling apart, she is penniless, she can’t figure out quality low-cost day care for a neurodivergent child. She has to give up her temporary shelter in her sister’s luxurious basement because her brother-in-law, the successful and wealthy exec, objects to Elliot’s disruptive impact on his perfect kids. Lacey has low self worth and much self blame. Out of desperation, she answers an ad calling for a single mother who wants ‘a community, not just roommates.’
This takes Lacey and Elliot to the ‘mommune,’ a rambling old house exuding warmth, female camaraderie, and mutual support. The owner and leader Regina, works at some undefined high tech job, mostly from home, and has twins Elliot’s age who are also on the spectrum. She is no-nonsense, unforthcoming, no hair out of place, but very reassuring. The other two mothers are the southern-born ‘honey-voiced’ Tavia, mother of baby Grace. She’s pert and pretty and an amazing cook. Then there is the artistic and outspoken Nanette, mother of five-year-old Linden, who left her marriage when she found out that she is lesbian.
Lacey, even to herself, is the most down-and-out of them. But Regina has her quiet, secretive, ways to help her get back on her feet just as she helped the other two when they first arrived in a similar state. If that involves faking credentials, work experience and even references, so what? Regina is confident that these women are so special they can do highly skilled jobs without any of that. And they do.
I do like the notion of female self-help groups, but much of what happens here is more on the level of magic, and not a little is of dubious morality. You can’t help but root for Lacey because she gave her all to marriage and motherhood until Judd ‘took a strange turn’ during the pandemic. Overnight, it seems, his entire personality changed and he became a rabid conspiracy theorist, anti-vaxer, and non-believer in the existence of autistic disorders much less their medical management. He scares his son and battles Lacey for sole custody so that she can’t medicate Elliot or take him for therapy. Discipline and religion will cure him.
The other main source of conflict, for which Regina recruits the other moms—I’d go so far as to say ‘manipulates’ them, even though they are promised a share in the winnings—has to do with what Regina is owed for her part in designing a groundbreaking piece of medical technology that is being exploited without her. There are some suspenseful moments, but hardly enough to put this into thriller category.
This is well-written single-mother centred story. It effectively captures common fears and anxieties having to do with single-mother families in which fathers are problematic, possibly dangerous, indifferent, or just plain absent. It definitely hammers home the difference that money makes. Although it leans toward making fathers the bad guys, the author provides a balancing glimpse of the thoughtful paternal responsibility in Lacey’s erstwhile boyfriend, Simon. He also falls into the too-good-to-be-real element. And that’s the problem I had with the whole book. Nice idea, promising premise, but, in the end, are these sisters really doing it for themselves? Or each other? They don’t even relate to each other more than sharing gourmet meals and an impressive amount of wine, dropping off kids at school, occasionally watching them for each other, and repeating supportive slogans. Everyone adjusts very quickly to everything. And where is the mommune in the end?
As domestic fiction goes, Caitlin Weaver comes up with new spins on the kinds of stories that belong to everyone, especially women, and in this case single mothers. We begin with the beleaguered Lacey, who is suffering under a pile-up of everything that could go wrong for a thirty-something mother. She has a recently diagnosed 8 year old autistic son, her marriage to Judd is falling apart, she is penniless, she can’t figure out quality low-cost day care for a neurodivergent child. She has to give up her temporary shelter in her sister’s luxurious basement because her brother-in-law, the successful and wealthy exec, objects to Elliot’s disruptive impact on his perfect kids. Lacey has low self worth and much self blame. Out of desperation, she answers an ad calling for a single mother who wants ‘a community, not just roommates.’
This takes Lacey and Elliot to the ‘mommune,’ a rambling old house exuding warmth, female camaraderie, and mutual support. The owner and leader Regina, works at some undefined high tech job, mostly from home, and has twins Elliot’s age who are also on the spectrum. She is no-nonsense, unforthcoming, no hair out of place, but very reassuring. The other two mothers are the southern-born ‘honey-voiced’ Tavia, mother of baby Grace. She’s pert and pretty and an amazing cook. Then there is the artistic and outspoken Nanette, mother of five-year-old Linden, who left her marriage when she found out that she is lesbian.
Lacey, even to herself, is the most down-and-out of them. But Regina has her quiet, secretive, ways to help her get back on her feet just as she helped the other two when they first arrived in a similar state. If that involves faking credentials, work experience and even references, so what? Regina is confident that these women are so special they can do highly skilled jobs without any of that. And they do.
I do like the notion of female self-help groups, but much of what happens here is more on the level of magic, and not a little is of dubious morality. You can’t help but root for Lacey because she gave her all to marriage and motherhood until Judd ‘took a strange turn’ during the pandemic. Overnight, it seems, his entire personality changed and he became a rabid conspiracy theorist, anti-vaxer, and non-believer in the existence of autistic disorders much less their medical management. He scares his son and battles Lacey for sole custody so that she can’t medicate Elliot or take him for therapy. Discipline and religion will cure him.
The other main source of conflict, for which Regina recruits the other moms—I’d go so far as to say ‘manipulates’ them, even though they are promised a share in the winnings—has to do with what Regina is owed for her part in designing a groundbreaking piece of medical technology that is being exploited without her. There are some suspenseful moments, but hardly enough to put this into thriller category.
This is well-written single-mother centred story. It effectively captures common fears and anxieties having to do with single-mother families in which fathers are problematic, possibly dangerous, indifferent, or just plain absent. It definitely hammers home the difference that money makes. Although it leans toward making fathers the bad guys, the author provides a balancing glimpse of the thoughtful paternal responsibility in Lacey’s erstwhile boyfriend, Simon. He also falls into the too-good-to-be-real element. And that’s the problem I had with the whole book. Nice idea, promising premise, but, in the end, are these sisters really doing it for themselves? Or each other? They don’t even relate to each other more than sharing gourmet meals and an impressive amount of wine, dropping off kids at school, occasionally watching them for each other, and repeating supportive slogans. Everyone adjusts very quickly to everything. And where is the mommune in the end?
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