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Another Mother
Adopted at birth, for years Lu has secretly dreamt of finding her birth mother but childhood bullying has left her with a lack of confidence. When a tragic accident changes her life forever it sets her on a mission to get in contact with her birth mother and find out the reasons behind her adoption.
When she tracks down her mother in Cornwall there is an emotional reunion and the pair begin to form a relationship.
But is everything as wonderful as it appears or has Lu walked into a nightmare?
When she tracks down her mother in Cornwall there is an emotional reunion and the pair begin to form a relationship.
But is everything as wonderful as it appears or has Lu walked into a nightmare?
258 pages, Paperback
First published April 10, 2018
341 people are currently reading
401 people want to read
About the author
Amanda James
24 books219 followersAmanda James (aka Mandy) was born in Sheffield and now lives in Cornwall with her husband and a cat. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, singing, and spending lots of time with her grandchildren. She also admits to spending far too much time chatting on Twitter and Facebook! Amanda feels most at home walking on the beach and making plots up in her head. A fair amount of these have made it onto paper, and been turned into books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
October 29, 2018
I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook and I must admit I stayed up late listening to the story.
Lu didn't have the best of starts in life adopted at birth, bullied at school for being different but luckily she was adopted by loving parents who where always their for her. She has a very happy life growing up with a family who love her but one day life will unexpectedly change for Lu and her Father.
The tragic news that her adopted mother has died in a car accident affects Lu and her Father deeply.
All her life Lu has wondered about her birth mother and she decides that now is the time to meet her.
With her Father's blessing she goes to meet her mother but perhaps this is the worst decision she has ever made in her life. You never know what life has in store for us and this was certainly true for Lu.
The story starts of a little slowly but soon turns into a really good thriller with many twists and turns.
The narration was really good but I stayed up really late because I didn't want to hit the pause button.
Really enjoyed.
Lu didn't have the best of starts in life adopted at birth, bullied at school for being different but luckily she was adopted by loving parents who where always their for her. She has a very happy life growing up with a family who love her but one day life will unexpectedly change for Lu and her Father.
The tragic news that her adopted mother has died in a car accident affects Lu and her Father deeply.
All her life Lu has wondered about her birth mother and she decides that now is the time to meet her.
With her Father's blessing she goes to meet her mother but perhaps this is the worst decision she has ever made in her life. You never know what life has in store for us and this was certainly true for Lu.
The story starts of a little slowly but soon turns into a really good thriller with many twists and turns.
The narration was really good but I stayed up really late because I didn't want to hit the pause button.
Really enjoyed.
April 11, 2018
4☆ A slower paced Thriller with a difference.
Another Mother is a story that combines a young women's struggle at finding herself once she discovers she was adopted.
Being bullied at school and never feeling like she belonged. The first half of this book didn't feel lile a thriller it was more of a compelling poignant read.
But don't let that warm secure feeling fool you.
It lulls you into a false sense of security when things start happening.
It starts to build up suspense nicely until before you know it the psychological thriller comes into play. Plenty of secrets to uncover!
When Lu's adoptive Mother tragically dies in a car accident. Lu is devestated.
She had always felt like something is missing from her life. So she decides to locate her biological Mother Mellyn.
When Mellyn finally makes contact she sets off to Cornwall to meet her. She's hoping she will get answers and find her missing jigsaw piece which is how she explains it to her adoptive Dad.
I really enjoyed seeing Lu flourish and become confident throughout the story.
I was bullied at school and it's one of the worst experiences. But it made me stronger. I'm just glad now Lu has found her place she grows.
Mellyn is Lu's biological Mother. I really wasn't sure about her she almost tried to make Lu feel guilty well that's how I perceived it. She laid too much on Lu all at once.
I did enjoy this book but I would of loved more suspense a little earlier I understand why Amanda has written the story this way as it really allows you to get to know Lu's story. But I do like my thrillers a little more faster paced or if slower you still get unnerved sooner.
Having said that I do recommend Another Mother to those who enjoy a slower paced thriller with a difference.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
Another Mother is a story that combines a young women's struggle at finding herself once she discovers she was adopted.
Being bullied at school and never feeling like she belonged. The first half of this book didn't feel lile a thriller it was more of a compelling poignant read.
But don't let that warm secure feeling fool you.
It lulls you into a false sense of security when things start happening.
It starts to build up suspense nicely until before you know it the psychological thriller comes into play. Plenty of secrets to uncover!
When Lu's adoptive Mother tragically dies in a car accident. Lu is devestated.
She had always felt like something is missing from her life. So she decides to locate her biological Mother Mellyn.
When Mellyn finally makes contact she sets off to Cornwall to meet her. She's hoping she will get answers and find her missing jigsaw piece which is how she explains it to her adoptive Dad.
I really enjoyed seeing Lu flourish and become confident throughout the story.
I was bullied at school and it's one of the worst experiences. But it made me stronger. I'm just glad now Lu has found her place she grows.
Mellyn is Lu's biological Mother. I really wasn't sure about her she almost tried to make Lu feel guilty well that's how I perceived it. She laid too much on Lu all at once.
I did enjoy this book but I would of loved more suspense a little earlier I understand why Amanda has written the story this way as it really allows you to get to know Lu's story. But I do like my thrillers a little more faster paced or if slower you still get unnerved sooner.
Having said that I do recommend Another Mother to those who enjoy a slower paced thriller with a difference.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
March 29, 2018
Lu was bullied at school and its left her with a lack of self esteem and lacking in confidence and self worth.
She's always known she was adopted and loved by her parents. When her Mom dies in a road traffic accident, although she adores her Dad, she would very much want to seek out who her biological Mother was. Wanting to know where she came from and her background, why she was adopted.
Jumping ahead;
With her Dad's blessing she travels down to where her birth Mother lives in Cornwall. They agree to meet.
After packing some of her things she decides to stay not with her biological Mother but to pay for somewhere to stay.
She wants to spend some time in Cornwall getting to know her Mother.
The first half of the book is about emotions, getting to know Lu as well as her biological Mother and the woman who has helped her get through the loss of her Mother's death, a neighbour, who has very much become part of Lu's crutch in life.
Lu finds herself confiding in this neighbour when she telephones home one day.
Things started to warm up then that started to earn this book 'psychological thriller' when certain things started to happen. The 'action' starts a little way into the halfway mark which more than whet my appetite to read more.
The climax at the end was more than impressive.
It started out with a feel of Contemporary fiction/family drama but you will see why at you continue your read.
What happened at the beginning certainly impacts on the end.
Fabulous. Another author for me to keep an eye out for more books from her.
My thanks to Bloodhounds for my copy via Net Galley
She's always known she was adopted and loved by her parents. When her Mom dies in a road traffic accident, although she adores her Dad, she would very much want to seek out who her biological Mother was. Wanting to know where she came from and her background, why she was adopted.
Jumping ahead;
With her Dad's blessing she travels down to where her birth Mother lives in Cornwall. They agree to meet.
After packing some of her things she decides to stay not with her biological Mother but to pay for somewhere to stay.
She wants to spend some time in Cornwall getting to know her Mother.
The first half of the book is about emotions, getting to know Lu as well as her biological Mother and the woman who has helped her get through the loss of her Mother's death, a neighbour, who has very much become part of Lu's crutch in life.
Lu finds herself confiding in this neighbour when she telephones home one day.
Things started to warm up then that started to earn this book 'psychological thriller' when certain things started to happen. The 'action' starts a little way into the halfway mark which more than whet my appetite to read more.
The climax at the end was more than impressive.
It started out with a feel of Contemporary fiction/family drama but you will see why at you continue your read.
What happened at the beginning certainly impacts on the end.
Fabulous. Another author for me to keep an eye out for more books from her.
My thanks to Bloodhounds for my copy via Net Galley
March 30, 2018
Another Mother by Amanda James was a psychological thriller that had me hooked from the start. After her adopted mother dies Lu decided to track down her birth mother and find out why she had been put up for adoption. She is delighted to get a reply from her birth mother and travels to Cornwall to meet her. Once there Lu finds that everything is not as it seems and feels confused and unsettled by her birth mothers behaviour. I enjoyed this book and would like to thank NetGalley and Bloodhound Books for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2018
4.5 Stars
Lucinda (Lu) was adopted at birth. For years, she has thought about looking for her birth parents, and it's not until a tragic accident changes her life forever.
She eventually tracks down her birth mother just 5 hours away. There is a solemn/happy reunion between the two women and a relationship starts to take form. What Lu wants to know more than anything is why she was given up.
But you know the saying ... be careful what you wish for .. you might get it.
This is an exceptional psychological thriller, well-written, with stand-out characters. Lu finds herself questioning all the things that her birth mother is telling her .... her fear becomes palpable. And the ending is nothing short of stupendous.
Many thanks to the author / Bloodhound Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Lucinda (Lu) was adopted at birth. For years, she has thought about looking for her birth parents, and it's not until a tragic accident changes her life forever.
She eventually tracks down her birth mother just 5 hours away. There is a solemn/happy reunion between the two women and a relationship starts to take form. What Lu wants to know more than anything is why she was given up.
But you know the saying ... be careful what you wish for .. you might get it.
This is an exceptional psychological thriller, well-written, with stand-out characters. Lu finds herself questioning all the things that her birth mother is telling her .... her fear becomes palpable. And the ending is nothing short of stupendous.
Many thanks to the author / Bloodhound Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
April 10, 2018
Lucinda or Lu as she is known as, is adopted and after a tragedy, goes in search of her birth mother and finds Mellyn. The first part of the story deals with their emotional meeting after so many years. But slowly things start unravelling between them which leads to doubts and secrets. All is not what is seems!!
My first book by author Amanda James, a good book to read. I liked the way Amanda has shown the inner workings of Lu's brain, the emotions which hit her in the beginning, followed by suspicion and fear. In the entire book, I felt Lu was like a wave advancing and retreating depending on Mellyn's moods.
Though I liked the development of Mellyn's character, I felt that the suspense shown could have been better. I liked both the characters but couldn't connect with either.
There were a few niggles, which delayed the read, took me 4 days to finish, which is far too long for me. The story started slow, and had its moments of intensity, but didn't last. It dealt more with the day to day life of Lu with her birth mother. The premise of the story was great, but I wanted the pitch to be higher for it to be classified as a complete thriller.
The author has written the book well, making it more of a family thriller with an unexpected twist in the epilogue.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and publisher Bloodhound Books, and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
My first book by author Amanda James, a good book to read. I liked the way Amanda has shown the inner workings of Lu's brain, the emotions which hit her in the beginning, followed by suspicion and fear. In the entire book, I felt Lu was like a wave advancing and retreating depending on Mellyn's moods.
Though I liked the development of Mellyn's character, I felt that the suspense shown could have been better. I liked both the characters but couldn't connect with either.
There were a few niggles, which delayed the read, took me 4 days to finish, which is far too long for me. The story started slow, and had its moments of intensity, but didn't last. It dealt more with the day to day life of Lu with her birth mother. The premise of the story was great, but I wanted the pitch to be higher for it to be classified as a complete thriller.
The author has written the book well, making it more of a family thriller with an unexpected twist in the epilogue.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and publisher Bloodhound Books, and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 10, 2018
Another Mother is a dark and brooding read of which the tension and suspense builds throughout.
Even though set in a wonderful picturesque part of the world, it was difficult at times to appreciate the idyllic setting as the readers thoughts are very much with Lu and her birth mother. What should be a wonderful reunion seemed to be turning sour.
To start with it was lovely to see the pair reunited. The more we get to know Lu’s mother though the uncertainty started to creep in. Things certainly don’t seem to be straight forward and I couldn’t wait to read more to see how things were going to unfold.
Another Mother is certainly a story that draws the reader in and keeps them engrossed until the very last page. Definitely one for lovers who likes there books full of suspense.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Even though set in a wonderful picturesque part of the world, it was difficult at times to appreciate the idyllic setting as the readers thoughts are very much with Lu and her birth mother. What should be a wonderful reunion seemed to be turning sour.
To start with it was lovely to see the pair reunited. The more we get to know Lu’s mother though the uncertainty started to creep in. Things certainly don’t seem to be straight forward and I couldn’t wait to read more to see how things were going to unfold.
Another Mother is certainly a story that draws the reader in and keeps them engrossed until the very last page. Definitely one for lovers who likes there books full of suspense.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
March 2, 2020
Another Mother by Amanda James is a slow burn of a psychological thriller and a book that I really enjoyed.
I had my suspicions for a few things while reading, but a couple of twists still threw me for a loop. I wouldn't say the twists are all that shocking (I could kind of tell the direction the book was headed), but Another Mother is just so well done and I found myself not wanting to put it down. I also really enjoyed the humor in the book, and it made me laugh out loud a few times as well. I love when a thriller can do that and it's not just completely dry or disturbing.
I was gripped from page one and I think a lot of people could easily read this in one sitting. It was totally engrossing, and I loved the setting too. I do wish it had been a bit more suspenseful, but overall Another Mother is a compelling novel that will still surprise you.
Final Thought: Keeping my review short since I think it is best to go in as blind as possible, but if you are in the mood for an addicting, slow burn I would highly recommend Another Mother. I loved the different characters and the writing, and I will definitely be reading more of James's books as soon as I can get my hands on them!
Thank you to the publisher for my advance review copy via NetGalley. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
I had my suspicions for a few things while reading, but a couple of twists still threw me for a loop. I wouldn't say the twists are all that shocking (I could kind of tell the direction the book was headed), but Another Mother is just so well done and I found myself not wanting to put it down. I also really enjoyed the humor in the book, and it made me laugh out loud a few times as well. I love when a thriller can do that and it's not just completely dry or disturbing.
I was gripped from page one and I think a lot of people could easily read this in one sitting. It was totally engrossing, and I loved the setting too. I do wish it had been a bit more suspenseful, but overall Another Mother is a compelling novel that will still surprise you.
Final Thought: Keeping my review short since I think it is best to go in as blind as possible, but if you are in the mood for an addicting, slow burn I would highly recommend Another Mother. I loved the different characters and the writing, and I will definitely be reading more of James's books as soon as I can get my hands on them!
Thank you to the publisher for my advance review copy via NetGalley. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
April 30, 2018
2.5 stars. This was not really my cup of tea! I was very interested in the adoption angle of this story, but didn’t find it credible how quickly Lu puts her dad to one side and throws her lot in with her new mum. I think a lot of the emotions were correct around meeting a biological parent, but I was uncomfortable with this then becoming the premise of this thriller. Apart from that, I did not enjoy the writing style either.
Thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book. All opinions are my own.
Thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book. All opinions are my own.
March 18, 2018
I found this story very slow to get going and a good portion of the book is definitely more family drama than psychological thriller; any tension only really surfaces towards the end of the book. Essentially, it is about Lu who finally meets up with her birth mother and discovers she might not be everything Lu was hoping for...in more ways than one! I enjoyed some of the characters, such as the kindly neighbour Adelaide, but the story didn't grip me or keep my interest all the way through. I'd probably recommend it more to those who enjoy family sagas with a bit of a twist than thrillers.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 4, 2018
**Thank you to Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for sending me an ARC in return for an honest review.
4 stars!!!
When I first got into this book, I was expecting a fast-paced psychological thriller but it turned out to be a bit different. The book is much slower paced but has enough tension to keep one's interest going. So, I would categorise this as more of a suspense/mystery story. Besides this, I did enjoy the novel a lot. I thought there were many aspects that made the story thrilling. Let me elaborate further.
Firstly, I found the setting for the story to be charming, idyllic but at the same time had a foreboding undercurrent. I think by placing our characters in a sleepy English village really amped up the atmosphere in the novel. This juxtaposition with Lu's town life added richer detail and context to the plotline. I also loved the descriptions that the author gives of the village such as the bed and breakfast, the shops, scenery and so on. This made for a pretty immersive read and I could easily picture our characters walking down the streets and engaging with their surroundings.
Secondly, I found Lu's character very likeable. I liked how she was independent and resourceful but also caring. I loved reading about her relationship with her parents and Adelaide. She was easily relatable as well. She's a girl who is trying to find herself after the death of her mother and her courage takes her in search of her birth mother, Mellyn. I found Lu decision making to be very level headed but you can see the emotional struggle she faces especially when she meets Mellyn. She tries to form a relationship with her and seeks to help her out when she realises she suffers from mental instability. I also liked how she pushes herself to be self-sufficient and makes a new life for herself. I especially enjoyed how she didn't make silly moves and actually listens to those around her even though at times it was hard.
Mellyn, on the other hand, was very dramatic. I really liked how the author unraveled her character. From the outset, you can see how volatile she is. I loved reading the details of her reactions to situations. You never really knew what to expect but I liked how her psychosis played out. It had me on the edge of my seat. However, the only fault that I had with the story was how it was resolved. I found it quite unsatisfying, especially with all the built-up tension and lies. I would have preferred an explosive finish instead of it just pattering out like that. I felt it was a bit of a cop-out. Regardless of this, I found the characters well developed even the minor ones. I felt they gave the book much-needed dimension and helped support as well as round off the protagonists.
Last but not least, I thought the writing style was seamless. The plot devices and reveals were shocking and that's what I look for in a mystery. The story progressed at a nice even pace and as a reader, you get entangled in the turmoil and chaos of the characters as long-buried secrets come tumbling out. At the heart of this story, it is about family, identity, love especially the relationship between a mother and daughter. The author does a good job exploring the effects of adoption from the point of view of a child and the process of finding one's roots. The addition of a sinister plotline gave the book a unique twist. So, all in all, an engaging read and I would recommend this book if you are looking for a novel with suspense and mystery but not one that's too intensive or heavy.
4 stars!!!
When I first got into this book, I was expecting a fast-paced psychological thriller but it turned out to be a bit different. The book is much slower paced but has enough tension to keep one's interest going. So, I would categorise this as more of a suspense/mystery story. Besides this, I did enjoy the novel a lot. I thought there were many aspects that made the story thrilling. Let me elaborate further.
Firstly, I found the setting for the story to be charming, idyllic but at the same time had a foreboding undercurrent. I think by placing our characters in a sleepy English village really amped up the atmosphere in the novel. This juxtaposition with Lu's town life added richer detail and context to the plotline. I also loved the descriptions that the author gives of the village such as the bed and breakfast, the shops, scenery and so on. This made for a pretty immersive read and I could easily picture our characters walking down the streets and engaging with their surroundings.
Secondly, I found Lu's character very likeable. I liked how she was independent and resourceful but also caring. I loved reading about her relationship with her parents and Adelaide. She was easily relatable as well. She's a girl who is trying to find herself after the death of her mother and her courage takes her in search of her birth mother, Mellyn. I found Lu decision making to be very level headed but you can see the emotional struggle she faces especially when she meets Mellyn. She tries to form a relationship with her and seeks to help her out when she realises she suffers from mental instability. I also liked how she pushes herself to be self-sufficient and makes a new life for herself. I especially enjoyed how she didn't make silly moves and actually listens to those around her even though at times it was hard.
Mellyn, on the other hand, was very dramatic. I really liked how the author unraveled her character. From the outset, you can see how volatile she is. I loved reading the details of her reactions to situations. You never really knew what to expect but I liked how her psychosis played out. It had me on the edge of my seat. However, the only fault that I had with the story was how it was resolved. I found it quite unsatisfying, especially with all the built-up tension and lies. I would have preferred an explosive finish instead of it just pattering out like that. I felt it was a bit of a cop-out. Regardless of this, I found the characters well developed even the minor ones. I felt they gave the book much-needed dimension and helped support as well as round off the protagonists.
Last but not least, I thought the writing style was seamless. The plot devices and reveals were shocking and that's what I look for in a mystery. The story progressed at a nice even pace and as a reader, you get entangled in the turmoil and chaos of the characters as long-buried secrets come tumbling out. At the heart of this story, it is about family, identity, love especially the relationship between a mother and daughter. The author does a good job exploring the effects of adoption from the point of view of a child and the process of finding one's roots. The addition of a sinister plotline gave the book a unique twist. So, all in all, an engaging read and I would recommend this book if you are looking for a novel with suspense and mystery but not one that's too intensive or heavy.
April 5, 2018
I am grateful to Bloodhound Books for letting me have an ARC of Another Mother in exchange for a fair and honest review. Amanda James is a new writer to me and I shall certainly be reading more of her novels. Her writing is polished, her characters interesting, and the plot is intriguing with a number of surprising twists. When Lucinda loses her mother in a car accident she sets out to discover who her birth mother was and then to meet her, with dramatic results!
April 20, 2018
After her adoptive mother dies in a tragic accident, Lucinda, overwhelmed with grief decides to look for her birth mother expecting a loving reunion with her but soon finds out not everything is as it seems.
This is a tale of unconditional love and the world of hurt that comes with it. It’s spectacularly written, i found it engrossing and it made me desperately want to find out how it all turns out for Lu who I was rooting for from the very beginning.
It’s not just the plot that i found so captivating, it’s the way author describes emotions like “the future will stretch before me, unknown and untested. Oddly, the future will also be my past. A circle of time joined end to end, spinning out of control on its axis –and the axis is me...”
This novel made me feel all sorts of emotions while reading it.. I was hurt, I loved, I laughed, I cried, I was there with Lu.
The only reason why I rate this 4 stars instead of 5 is because I almost wish it didn’t turn into a suspense novel with twists and turns at the end, I think I would appreciate it a little bit more if it just stayed a psychological family drama. Nevertheless, this is one exciting read that will stay with me for a very long time.
“Another Mother” is my first novel by Amanda James and most certainly won’t be the last.
Many thanks to Bloodhound Books for sending me a copy of the book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a tale of unconditional love and the world of hurt that comes with it. It’s spectacularly written, i found it engrossing and it made me desperately want to find out how it all turns out for Lu who I was rooting for from the very beginning.
It’s not just the plot that i found so captivating, it’s the way author describes emotions like “the future will stretch before me, unknown and untested. Oddly, the future will also be my past. A circle of time joined end to end, spinning out of control on its axis –and the axis is me...”
This novel made me feel all sorts of emotions while reading it.. I was hurt, I loved, I laughed, I cried, I was there with Lu.
The only reason why I rate this 4 stars instead of 5 is because I almost wish it didn’t turn into a suspense novel with twists and turns at the end, I think I would appreciate it a little bit more if it just stayed a psychological family drama. Nevertheless, this is one exciting read that will stay with me for a very long time.
“Another Mother” is my first novel by Amanda James and most certainly won’t be the last.
Many thanks to Bloodhound Books for sending me a copy of the book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2018
I've become quite a fan of Amanda James over the years, since discovering the amazing Summer in Tintagel that was published in 2016. So I was eager to read her latest book, Another Mother - the title alone gave me shivers as I envisaged jealousy and manipulation of a woman caught between her two mothers, however, nothing could have prepared me for the book I was about to read...
Lucinda has an awful situation to deal with when her mother, Hannah, is killed in a road accident. Her grief brings to the fore something she has been considering for a while: the search for her birth mother. Although I can understand Lu wanting to fill that mother shaped hole in her life, I found it hard to empathise with her as I felt her timing was way off. It's not long before Lu leaves her grieving father in Sheffield and heads off to Cornwall to meet her birth mother, Mellyn.
What a character Amanda James has created in Mellyn! Mellyn seems desperate for Lu to call her 'Mum', despite knowing that the woman that Lu has called 'Mum' all her life has just died. Ok, so selfish springs to mind, but I thought 'like mother like daughter' with Lu appearing so intent on replacing her adopted Mum so quickly. It quickly comes to light that all is not as it seems when Lu often sees flashes of anger in Mellyn's stormy eyes and I was pleased that Lu seemed to be a bit wary and decided to keep Mellyn at arms length. It did feel like Lu had fallen down the rabbit hole and landed in the Mad Hatter's tea party as Mellyn is entirely BONKERS!
With Mellyn being such a volatile and unpredictable character, I was completely intrigued to see how this story would play out. I loved how Amanda James created a backstory for Lu so we could see how her character developed into the woman she is today. It resulted in me reading with my fingers crossed for a happy ending for Lu but you'll just have to read the book to find out whether she gets her happy ending or not.
Another Mother is an intense family drama that will get into your head and under your skin. It left me feeling quite emotionally wrung out with so many ups and downs and it is the quality of Amanda James' writing that evokes such emotion in the reader. A compelling read from start to finish.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Lucinda has an awful situation to deal with when her mother, Hannah, is killed in a road accident. Her grief brings to the fore something she has been considering for a while: the search for her birth mother. Although I can understand Lu wanting to fill that mother shaped hole in her life, I found it hard to empathise with her as I felt her timing was way off. It's not long before Lu leaves her grieving father in Sheffield and heads off to Cornwall to meet her birth mother, Mellyn.
What a character Amanda James has created in Mellyn! Mellyn seems desperate for Lu to call her 'Mum', despite knowing that the woman that Lu has called 'Mum' all her life has just died. Ok, so selfish springs to mind, but I thought 'like mother like daughter' with Lu appearing so intent on replacing her adopted Mum so quickly. It quickly comes to light that all is not as it seems when Lu often sees flashes of anger in Mellyn's stormy eyes and I was pleased that Lu seemed to be a bit wary and decided to keep Mellyn at arms length. It did feel like Lu had fallen down the rabbit hole and landed in the Mad Hatter's tea party as Mellyn is entirely BONKERS!
With Mellyn being such a volatile and unpredictable character, I was completely intrigued to see how this story would play out. I loved how Amanda James created a backstory for Lu so we could see how her character developed into the woman she is today. It resulted in me reading with my fingers crossed for a happy ending for Lu but you'll just have to read the book to find out whether she gets her happy ending or not.
Another Mother is an intense family drama that will get into your head and under your skin. It left me feeling quite emotionally wrung out with so many ups and downs and it is the quality of Amanda James' writing that evokes such emotion in the reader. A compelling read from start to finish.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 12, 2018
This is the first book of Amanda's I have read so I wasn't really sure what to expect from it.
The book starts off like a normal fiction story about a 30 something trying to find her birth mother after her adoptive mother dies. This first part of the story seemed to drag a lot as we are introduced to Lu and follow the story to Cornwall to meet her real mother and are introduced to her.
I really liked the character of Lu as she developed through the story and gained more confidence towards the end, and once introduced to her mother I found her intriguing as I tried to work out the twist mentioned on the back page.
Once the story develops into a suspense the action built up to the thrilling conclusion, which I for one didn't see coming.
Overall it was a slow burner, which developed into a really good read.
The book starts off like a normal fiction story about a 30 something trying to find her birth mother after her adoptive mother dies. This first part of the story seemed to drag a lot as we are introduced to Lu and follow the story to Cornwall to meet her real mother and are introduced to her.
I really liked the character of Lu as she developed through the story and gained more confidence towards the end, and once introduced to her mother I found her intriguing as I tried to work out the twist mentioned on the back page.
Once the story develops into a suspense the action built up to the thrilling conclusion, which I for one didn't see coming.
Overall it was a slow burner, which developed into a really good read.
April 2, 2018
It started out a little slow but then .... whoa! Could not put it down. Great psychological thriller! #AnotherMother #AmandaJames
Thank you #BloodhoundBooks and #NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Thank you #BloodhoundBooks and #NetGalley for the advanced copy.
May 27, 2018
Lu has a happy home life although was bullied at school due to her being adopted so when her mother dies unexpectedly she starts to look into her adoption and finding her biological mother. Her father seems to have withdrawn into himself and so when she tracks her 'mother' down she goes to visit her in Cornwall, initially everything seems to be great and they get on quite well but as Lu tries to find out why she was put up for adoption the cracks start to appear but Lu seems unable to see what is happening will she get the truth? or will she regret ever setting out on this journey?
This is a little slow at the beginning but I think it is necessary to get to know Lu's background and then when she gets to Cornwall it hot's up. I really liked this book a 4.5 stars if I could give halves.
Thank you to NetGalley for my copy of the book.
This is a little slow at the beginning but I think it is necessary to get to know Lu's background and then when she gets to Cornwall it hot's up. I really liked this book a 4.5 stars if I could give halves.
Thank you to NetGalley for my copy of the book.
May 25, 2018
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After reading the first chapter I was completely hooked, I love a book that throws you straight in to the story and this was definitely one of them.
I loved the build up through the story as we crept along to the end at a steady pace that suited the book perfectly. This books has some fascinating characters and I loved the writing style - it is a very good psychological thriller.
A solid four stars from me, highly recommended!!
After reading the first chapter I was completely hooked, I love a book that throws you straight in to the story and this was definitely one of them.
I loved the build up through the story as we crept along to the end at a steady pace that suited the book perfectly. This books has some fascinating characters and I loved the writing style - it is a very good psychological thriller.
A solid four stars from me, highly recommended!!
February 20, 2019
Excellent! Grabbed me from the first chapter! RTC after I kick this strep throats butt!
March 9, 2018
Lucky was adopted at birth and is now looking for her birth mother. Will everything be as great as she hopes or is there something else going on? What a great read! Had me wanting to keep reading until I got to the end. Would definitely recommend
March 24, 2018
Lucinda has a happy home life but isn’t happy in her work. On the day she decides that she has had enough she arrives home to a life changing event. This leads her to track down her birth mother which she had thought about years beforehand but then decided that it wasn’t the right time. She travels to meet the woman who gave her life and she of course wants answers as to what happened thirty years ago. For the first half this is a family drama scenario, but you have that feeling that something, just that little niggle that you can’t quite put your finger on, isn’t quite right. This is a very well written novel and you can’t help but feel for Lu. I love books where the writing is so vivid about characters that you almost feel that you know them. A tense drama for the latter half that only made sense in the final chapter- no way did I guess the ending- the mark of a good book. A gripping, slightly chilling very entertaining read.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
January 6, 2020
Jeez! That is one rollercoaster of a book. My brain is not sure how to function right now, I feel like I have been hurdling in the front seat of out of control rollercoaster. This book is all about the characters, not action, not murder but the characters, and in it, there are only five main characters you need to focus on.
Lucinda, known as Lu, was adopted at birth and after a tragedy in the opening chapters of the books decides to hunt down her birth mother. But will it be a happy reunion?
Mellyn, Lu’s birth mother is the over the moon to have back in her life. But why is her behaviour so erratic and out of control?
Rosie, Lu’s best friend and confidant, but could there be more than meets the eye? And her mum Val, well god love her she was the sweetest! Adelaide, well I could not go without mentioning her, her strength and support and her eyebrows!
When you start the book, and the story unfolds I guessed how it was going to end…but although there was one twist I got straightaway I was not prepared for the second bigger twist to be thrown at me. I am not sure how I am meant to cope with this!
So many secrets are kept in this book, and secrets are the downfall for many people. I felt that I spent a lot of the book walking around on eggshells, I mean that is pretty crazy right, but I felt if I made a wrong move when reading it could be the catalyst for some of the inexplicable behaviours by one of the characters. The story was intense, I could not breathe, I could not justify the actions of a said character. Something just did not sit quite right with me or as it turns out with them!
As mentioned this book is completely character driven, so you do have the day-to-day lives of the characters, but I loved this. The mundane drove the intensity and suspense in the book as you wait for the next explosion to happen, the next thread to unravel and shocking reveal to happen.
Amanda James is an author I have only discovered this year, and the two books I have read so far this year have been awesome. She sucks you into the idyllic world in Cornwall, she throws you smack bang in the middle of the drama and their lives and she makes you give a damn. She makes you scream at the crazy people and she makes you sit in a cold sweat as you worry about the other people! Wondering what did the people of Cornwall do wrong in a past life!
Ms James is an author that as soon as I see her name, I want the book. I love the book and I just can not get enough of her writing. I cannot wait for the next psychological thrilling ride I go on.
April 11, 2018
Wow. At first I thought this was more a chick-lit, drama, family story but wow, when you get past half way BOOM! This story will hit you hard. It will mess with your head towards the end and have your heart racing to find out the outcome, very fast paced. Poor Lu, I really felt for her throughout. However, I did not expect that outcome at all. A true shocker! Jaw dropper.
I loved the setting off this book (Cornwall) and Lu’s and Rosie’s character! I couldn’t put this book down I just had to finish it and devour it. Another well deserved four stars from me, highly recommend to you all. I also love the cover on this story too! Another Mother is well written and will have you absorbed in Lu’s life and mess before you know it… But will there be a happy ending? That’s for you to find out. Perfect story. One I will not forget easily. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
I loved the setting off this book (Cornwall) and Lu’s and Rosie’s character! I couldn’t put this book down I just had to finish it and devour it. Another well deserved four stars from me, highly recommend to you all. I also love the cover on this story too! Another Mother is well written and will have you absorbed in Lu’s life and mess before you know it… But will there be a happy ending? That’s for you to find out. Perfect story. One I will not forget easily. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
April 10, 2018
Another Mother is the first book I've read by Amanda James and I can guarantee that I'll be reading more from her.
I knew from the first chapter that I was going to enjoy this book but I didn't quite know how much.
Lu was adopted at birth, but she hasn't yet met her birth mother for fear of upsetting her parents. So when Lu's adopted mum dies in a tragic accident, she decides it's time to get to know her other mother. When Lu finally heads down to Cornwall to meet her, she's surprised to find that her mother isn't what she expected at all and she's not sure if she's made a mistake.
It started pretty slow to be honest, very family drama orientated with not much thrill or suspense then one tiny thing happens and the whole book changes and it becomes a lot more gripping
I was completely sucked in and I felt everything Lu was feeling, I couldn't believe what I was reading half the time.
I saw the end coming quite quickly to be honest, as I'm sure a lot of people did. But it didn't stop me reading and I couldn't wait to see how it got there, but I was quite blown away by the next twist. I definitely didn't see that one coming, and I loved it. It pulled the story together perfectly and left me feeling quite content. A great book for anyone.
Thank you to the publisher, author and NetGaelley for me e-copy of Another Mother in exchange for an honest review.
I knew from the first chapter that I was going to enjoy this book but I didn't quite know how much.
Lu was adopted at birth, but she hasn't yet met her birth mother for fear of upsetting her parents. So when Lu's adopted mum dies in a tragic accident, she decides it's time to get to know her other mother. When Lu finally heads down to Cornwall to meet her, she's surprised to find that her mother isn't what she expected at all and she's not sure if she's made a mistake.
It started pretty slow to be honest, very family drama orientated with not much thrill or suspense then one tiny thing happens and the whole book changes and it becomes a lot more gripping
I was completely sucked in and I felt everything Lu was feeling, I couldn't believe what I was reading half the time.
I saw the end coming quite quickly to be honest, as I'm sure a lot of people did. But it didn't stop me reading and I couldn't wait to see how it got there, but I was quite blown away by the next twist. I definitely didn't see that one coming, and I loved it. It pulled the story together perfectly and left me feeling quite content. A great book for anyone.
Thank you to the publisher, author and NetGaelley for me e-copy of Another Mother in exchange for an honest review.
July 21, 2018
Another stunning read from Amanda James! I'm in awe of how each novel from this author is so very different.
Lu has known she was adopted from an early age; when she turned eighteen she had no interest in tracing her birth mother but twelve years on and with a change in family circumstances, she decides to go ahead. Her quest takes her from Sheffield to Cornwall and Lu embraces the change, looking forward to striking up a friendship with the woman who has cast a shadow over her life. But is everything as it seems at first meeting?
Having read and immensely enjoyed two other books by this author, I was eager to find out what Another Mother was all about. Completely different and unrelated to the others, this is a scintillating read which demanded - and got - my full attention. Great characters, skilfully woven into a riveting story and set in a beautiful area all add up to a striking tale! Full of twists and turns and so unpredictable, this is a novel which constantly surprised me. I never saw the end coming, and I'm certainly not going to spoil it for anyone else. A top-notch psychological thriller, and one I'm more than happy to give the highest recommendation.
I purchased the kindle edition of this novel from Amazon.
Lu has known she was adopted from an early age; when she turned eighteen she had no interest in tracing her birth mother but twelve years on and with a change in family circumstances, she decides to go ahead. Her quest takes her from Sheffield to Cornwall and Lu embraces the change, looking forward to striking up a friendship with the woman who has cast a shadow over her life. But is everything as it seems at first meeting?
Having read and immensely enjoyed two other books by this author, I was eager to find out what Another Mother was all about. Completely different and unrelated to the others, this is a scintillating read which demanded - and got - my full attention. Great characters, skilfully woven into a riveting story and set in a beautiful area all add up to a striking tale! Full of twists and turns and so unpredictable, this is a novel which constantly surprised me. I never saw the end coming, and I'm certainly not going to spoil it for anyone else. A top-notch psychological thriller, and one I'm more than happy to give the highest recommendation.
I purchased the kindle edition of this novel from Amazon.
April 10, 2018
Lu is your average almost 30 something, dead-end job and a bit of a loner, she is also adopted. After the recent death of her adoptive mother she decides this is the thing she needs to give her the push to actually find her birth mother. When contact is made, Lu makes the decision to make the visit to meet her mother in Cornwall. Things seem to go well and a tentative relationship is struck between mother and daughter. As they get to know each other a little more the cracks start to show.
This starts off more like a contemporary fiction and then slowly it morphs into an absolutely amazing psychological story. Lu is a really good character and I like the way she herself changed the story, from living at home with her adopted parents to finally taking the decision to stand on her own two feet. By the end of the story I thought she was more confident and also more upbeat and positive about her life. From being a bullied child to a more confident woman. The dynamics between the two different families is a convincing read that really does draw you in the their lives.
I am a little bit biased about the Cornish setting of the book as I live in Cornwall, but I have to say the author does a wonderful job with the descriptions of St. Ives. This knowledge of the area and also the love shows through in the authors writing giving a wonderful picture of a great place.
So as I mentioned earlier, this story changes, it steps up a gear and the depth the plot is revealed. Here I think the author has done a great job of building up the thought of something not being quite right and when the twist finally shows itself bloody hell was I shocked, really didn’t see it coming and caught me completely unawares.
This is a great read and I would highly recommend it to readers who like a book that turns from a contemporary read into an amazing dark psychological suspense filled read.
This starts off more like a contemporary fiction and then slowly it morphs into an absolutely amazing psychological story. Lu is a really good character and I like the way she herself changed the story, from living at home with her adopted parents to finally taking the decision to stand on her own two feet. By the end of the story I thought she was more confident and also more upbeat and positive about her life. From being a bullied child to a more confident woman. The dynamics between the two different families is a convincing read that really does draw you in the their lives.
I am a little bit biased about the Cornish setting of the book as I live in Cornwall, but I have to say the author does a wonderful job with the descriptions of St. Ives. This knowledge of the area and also the love shows through in the authors writing giving a wonderful picture of a great place.
So as I mentioned earlier, this story changes, it steps up a gear and the depth the plot is revealed. Here I think the author has done a great job of building up the thought of something not being quite right and when the twist finally shows itself bloody hell was I shocked, really didn’t see it coming and caught me completely unawares.
This is a great read and I would highly recommend it to readers who like a book that turns from a contemporary read into an amazing dark psychological suspense filled read.
April 20, 2018
Amanda James is on a winner with this one and it is the kind of book that would appeal to a greater audience. It is a family drama/psychological thriller and it's Amanda at her best. She paints Cornwall so vividly that it is real and I loved that. Lu sets out to meet her birth mother after the tragic death of her adopted mother. Enter Mellyn, unpredicatable, suspicious and unstable. Lu makes new friends in St Ives but her 'mother' displays a possessiveness that is stifling at times. As Lu learns about this woman she soon wonders if she has made a big mistake tracking her down. The story flows, so easy to read and a real page turner, this would be a brilliant holiday read. A brilliant debut for a new publisher. Four and a half stars from me.
April 22, 2018
The impact of a loved one’s death can bring out many emotions. Grief, despair, hopelessness, just to name a few. In some cases, death makes those left behind more determined to live life to its fullest and not waste a single day. I have always admired those who choose to seize the day, but I also feel a little concerned. Is the bereaved in the right state of mind to make decisions? Will someone try to take advantage of their vulnerable state? Another Mother, is the story of a young woman who has chosen to seize the day, after losing her mother. She embarks on a journey full of secrets, betrayals, and danger.
Lucinda has always been comfortable being out of the limelight. In her work and personal relationships, she is happy to be in the background. After losing her mother, Lucinda is ready to break out of her shell and find her place in the world. Lucinda believes to do this, she must find her biological mother. Lucinda departs for Cornwall leaving behind her home, and her father to meet her birth mother. She hopes to get answers but instead discovers many more questions.
As a child Lucinda was subjected to bullying which has left her scarred and introverted. So much so that as an adult, she still has flashbacks of the bullying when she is anxious or stressed. James does a fantastic job illustrating the long terms affects of bullying. While I felt an enormous amount of sympathy for Lucinda, I also admired her self-awareness. Lucinda knows her life could be better, she wants it to be better. She longs for happiness. One of the sadder parts of the story is Lucinda describing a recent New Year’s Eve, where she looked to the sky and wished for a happier more fulfilled year. This made Lucinda very relatable. Readers will cheer for Lucinda when she decides to take control of her life.
The death of Lucinda's mother leaves her father, Steve devastated. He becomes completely withdrawn and barely functions. Luckily Adelaide, their neighbor, steps in and adds some sense of normalcy to Lucinda and Steve's lives. With nothing but the best of intentions Adelaide provides support, comfort, and sound advice. Adelaide was my favorite character. She is wise and insightful without being overbearing. In Adelaide, James created the person I wish for everyone who is dealing with the death of a loved one.
Another Mother is a binge worthy read. While a little slow to start, Lucinda's arrival in Cornwall is a turning point in the story and readers will race to the end where a shocking twist unravels. Readers looking for a page turning, spring time binge read, should add Another Mother to thier list of must reads.
Murder and Moore Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
Lucinda has always been comfortable being out of the limelight. In her work and personal relationships, she is happy to be in the background. After losing her mother, Lucinda is ready to break out of her shell and find her place in the world. Lucinda believes to do this, she must find her biological mother. Lucinda departs for Cornwall leaving behind her home, and her father to meet her birth mother. She hopes to get answers but instead discovers many more questions.
As a child Lucinda was subjected to bullying which has left her scarred and introverted. So much so that as an adult, she still has flashbacks of the bullying when she is anxious or stressed. James does a fantastic job illustrating the long terms affects of bullying. While I felt an enormous amount of sympathy for Lucinda, I also admired her self-awareness. Lucinda knows her life could be better, she wants it to be better. She longs for happiness. One of the sadder parts of the story is Lucinda describing a recent New Year’s Eve, where she looked to the sky and wished for a happier more fulfilled year. This made Lucinda very relatable. Readers will cheer for Lucinda when she decides to take control of her life.
The death of Lucinda's mother leaves her father, Steve devastated. He becomes completely withdrawn and barely functions. Luckily Adelaide, their neighbor, steps in and adds some sense of normalcy to Lucinda and Steve's lives. With nothing but the best of intentions Adelaide provides support, comfort, and sound advice. Adelaide was my favorite character. She is wise and insightful without being overbearing. In Adelaide, James created the person I wish for everyone who is dealing with the death of a loved one.
Another Mother is a binge worthy read. While a little slow to start, Lucinda's arrival in Cornwall is a turning point in the story and readers will race to the end where a shocking twist unravels. Readers looking for a page turning, spring time binge read, should add Another Mother to thier list of must reads.
Murder and Moore Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
April 15, 2018
I received a copy via Net Galley.
Actual rating 3.5
When Lu's mother dies she decides to find her biological mother. She moves to be with her mum but everything is not what it appears.
This is a slow-moving thriller and the plot slowly unfolds. I didn't predict the ending but I really should have. The ending felt quite cliche and not particuarly original as I feel as if I have seen it before in other books.
Whilst I did enjoy the build up the book didn't have me on the edge of my seat which is what I would expect from a thriller. The majority of the main action happened within the last portion of the book which did have me on the edge of my seat.
I would read more from the author in the future she has a couple of other books out which I am interested in picking up.
Actual rating 3.5
When Lu's mother dies she decides to find her biological mother. She moves to be with her mum but everything is not what it appears.
This is a slow-moving thriller and the plot slowly unfolds. I didn't predict the ending but I really should have. The ending felt quite cliche and not particuarly original as I feel as if I have seen it before in other books.
Whilst I did enjoy the build up the book didn't have me on the edge of my seat which is what I would expect from a thriller. The majority of the main action happened within the last portion of the book which did have me on the edge of my seat.
I would read more from the author in the future she has a couple of other books out which I am interested in picking up.
February 13, 2021
Well written psychological thriller telling the story of Lu, who, after losing her adopted mother in a tragic accident, heads to Cornwall to seek out her birth mother.
I would give this three stars for the story and the characters around Lu like Adelaide and Rosie but I don’t think anyone would have hung around like Lu did!
There is a fourth star for the descriptions of St Ives which is one of my favourite places on earth. The author really made me feel I was in the town I know so well. The perfect description of the bookshop was the clincher !
I would give this three stars for the story and the characters around Lu like Adelaide and Rosie but I don’t think anyone would have hung around like Lu did!
There is a fourth star for the descriptions of St Ives which is one of my favourite places on earth. The author really made me feel I was in the town I know so well. The perfect description of the bookshop was the clincher !
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