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Only a Mother
ONLY A MOTHER . . .
Erica Wright hasn't needed to scrub 'MURDERER' off her house in over a year. Life is almost quiet again. Then her son, Craig, is released from prison, and she knows the quiet is going to be broken.
COULD BELIEVE HIM
Erica has always believed Craig was innocent - despite the lies she told for him years ago - but when he arrives home, she notices the changes in him. She doesn't recognise her son anymore.
COULD LIE FOR HIM
So, when another girl goes missing, she starts to question everything. But how can a mother turn her back on her son? And, if she won't, then how far will she go to protect him?
COULD BURY THE TRUTH Perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Louise Jensen, Katerina Diamond, Helen Fields and CL Taylor - a hard-hitting psychological thriller told from the fresh perspective of a killer's mother. Readers LOVE Elisabeth Carpenter . . .
'I LOVED 99 Red Balloons . What a rollercoaster of a read! I swear, you could almost SEE the moment when everything clicked into place in my head! A brilliant , tense , pacy read' Lisa Hall , bestselling author of Between Me and You ' Breathtaking ' . . . 'Kept me enthralled from start to finish' . . . ' I was hooked from the beginning
Erica Wright hasn't needed to scrub 'MURDERER' off her house in over a year. Life is almost quiet again. Then her son, Craig, is released from prison, and she knows the quiet is going to be broken.
COULD BELIEVE HIM
Erica has always believed Craig was innocent - despite the lies she told for him years ago - but when he arrives home, she notices the changes in him. She doesn't recognise her son anymore.
COULD LIE FOR HIM
So, when another girl goes missing, she starts to question everything. But how can a mother turn her back on her son? And, if she won't, then how far will she go to protect him?
COULD BURY THE TRUTH Perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Louise Jensen, Katerina Diamond, Helen Fields and CL Taylor - a hard-hitting psychological thriller told from the fresh perspective of a killer's mother. Readers LOVE Elisabeth Carpenter . . .
'I LOVED 99 Red Balloons . What a rollercoaster of a read! I swear, you could almost SEE the moment when everything clicked into place in my head! A brilliant , tense , pacy read' Lisa Hall , bestselling author of Between Me and You ' Breathtaking ' . . . 'Kept me enthralled from start to finish' . . . ' I was hooked from the beginning
352 pages, Paperback
First published December 27, 2018
74 people are currently reading
696 people want to read
About the author
Elisabeth Carpenter
10 books245 followersElisabeth (Libby) Carpenter won a Northern Writers New Fiction Award (2016) and was longlisted for Yeovil Literary Prize (2015 & 2016) and MsLexia Women’s Novel award (2015).
Elisabeth lives in Preston, Lancashire with her family. She loves the north of England, setting most of her stories in the area – including the novel she is writing at the moment.
99 Red Balloons was Elisabeth’s debut novel.
Elisabeth lives in Preston, Lancashire with her family. She loves the north of England, setting most of her stories in the area – including the novel she is writing at the moment.
99 Red Balloons was Elisabeth’s debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
October 30, 2019
Devotion
Only a Mother is an edgy, psychological thriller that is emotionally taut and suspicious at the turn of every page.
Craig Wright has spent 17 years in jail for the rape and murder of 18-year-old Lucy Sharpe, and there is a cloud of suspicion hanging over him for the unsolved murder of another young woman at the time, Jenna Threlfall. Craig's mother Erica, has never doubted his innocence and has suffered at the hands of the local community all those years, with verbal abuse, alienation and attacks on her home. She even lost her best friend Denise who betrayed her and the pervasive feeling of isolation and loneliness are palpable. Her only friendship interactions are with online relatives of guilty prisoners, and prison visits to see her son.
Old family secrets start unwinding in an already charged atmosphere and some run to the core of how their lives have played out. Craig has never known his father, as Erica’s relationship with him was only a passing encounter and he was gone long before Craig was born. Erica had a difficult time with her own mother in a single-parent family. Erica is a character so beautifully drawn that we naturally care deeply for her. She is the forgotten sufferer, maybe not as acute as the victim’s families, but as an innocent, she suffers the continuous abuse from others, and the belief her son is punished for something he didn’t do. We deeply sympathise with her as she has grown old, timid and detached.
I love the sharp punchy writing style that portrays a sense of tension and anxiety. There is a menacing atmosphere with the long-term threats that have been made from those that live in the area. When Craig is released he is no longer the same man and we are tempted into guessing what has caused the change – prison life, social rehabilitation, loss, guilt, frustration, or the unfairness of it all. When another girl goes missing, all the old accusations, suspicions, confusion and worry resurface. The reader is reminded that most criminals will re-offend within 6 months of being released. Just saying!
The suspicion of who the killer is falls on several characters. That mistrust of all the characters is so extremely well developed, as it creeps up on you as you progress through the story. If Craig is the killer, will he do it again? If he’s not the killer, will the real killer take advantage and kill again, framing Craig … again?
I found the story gripping and delivered at a pace that doesn’t allow you to draw breath. The writing style and craft are perfect for the suspense thriller genre and the plot was full of surprises that kept me guessing. Some shocking developments add to the realisation that core to this story is a cold-hearted, remorseless murderer, capable of killing anyone.
It was a sheer delight to read this book and one I wouldn't hesitate to highly recommend. I would like to thank Orion Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC version of the book in return for an honest review.
Only a Mother is an edgy, psychological thriller that is emotionally taut and suspicious at the turn of every page.
Craig Wright has spent 17 years in jail for the rape and murder of 18-year-old Lucy Sharpe, and there is a cloud of suspicion hanging over him for the unsolved murder of another young woman at the time, Jenna Threlfall. Craig's mother Erica, has never doubted his innocence and has suffered at the hands of the local community all those years, with verbal abuse, alienation and attacks on her home. She even lost her best friend Denise who betrayed her and the pervasive feeling of isolation and loneliness are palpable. Her only friendship interactions are with online relatives of guilty prisoners, and prison visits to see her son.
Old family secrets start unwinding in an already charged atmosphere and some run to the core of how their lives have played out. Craig has never known his father, as Erica’s relationship with him was only a passing encounter and he was gone long before Craig was born. Erica had a difficult time with her own mother in a single-parent family. Erica is a character so beautifully drawn that we naturally care deeply for her. She is the forgotten sufferer, maybe not as acute as the victim’s families, but as an innocent, she suffers the continuous abuse from others, and the belief her son is punished for something he didn’t do. We deeply sympathise with her as she has grown old, timid and detached.
I love the sharp punchy writing style that portrays a sense of tension and anxiety. There is a menacing atmosphere with the long-term threats that have been made from those that live in the area. When Craig is released he is no longer the same man and we are tempted into guessing what has caused the change – prison life, social rehabilitation, loss, guilt, frustration, or the unfairness of it all. When another girl goes missing, all the old accusations, suspicions, confusion and worry resurface. The reader is reminded that most criminals will re-offend within 6 months of being released. Just saying!
The suspicion of who the killer is falls on several characters. That mistrust of all the characters is so extremely well developed, as it creeps up on you as you progress through the story. If Craig is the killer, will he do it again? If he’s not the killer, will the real killer take advantage and kill again, framing Craig … again?
I found the story gripping and delivered at a pace that doesn’t allow you to draw breath. The writing style and craft are perfect for the suspense thriller genre and the plot was full of surprises that kept me guessing. Some shocking developments add to the realisation that core to this story is a cold-hearted, remorseless murderer, capable of killing anyone.
It was a sheer delight to read this book and one I wouldn't hesitate to highly recommend. I would like to thank Orion Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC version of the book in return for an honest review.
January 12, 2019
5☆ Gets Right Under Your Skin!
A Must Read for 2019!
Wow oh wow this is my first thriller of the year and Ohhh I Loved it!,
This is one of those books that gets under your skin and won't let go!
I'm not going to delve too much into the plot, as it's far too good to potentially give anything away!
What I will briefly say, is this is a compulsive read about a broken Mother (Erica), who puts all her faith, love and trust in her Son (Craig)
But the problem is her Son was convicted of a horrific rape and murder of a young girl.
He has served his time and now it's time to be released!
Erica has not only been tortured emotionally by the implications of what her Son has done. She is physically abused every day too, from the local community, so much so they endanger her life by setting fire to her letterbox on a regular basis.
Erica truly believes her Son is innocent.
Is he innocent?
I'll let you decide!
My heart literally broke for Erica, she was in so much turmoil, my heart went out to her.
Only A Mother has so many thrilling twists and turns, I found myself so enthralled I kept changing my mind on the truth.
This book seriously gets right under your skin.
It plays with your emotions, and sends you on a roller coaster of a ride.
The plot and characters kept me on the edge of my seat. The tension ramps up page by page until it's impossible to know who to trust.
Only a Mother is a Taut and Chilling Psychological Thriller / Murder Mystery, thats Tense, dark in all the right places, full of suspense, and complex characters.
Which makes for a sinister and satisfying read. A compelling page-turner i devoured it in two nights.
So would I recommend reading this..... without a doubt..... 100%..... YES!!!
Thank you to Orion Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
A Must Read for 2019!
Wow oh wow this is my first thriller of the year and Ohhh I Loved it!,
This is one of those books that gets under your skin and won't let go!
I'm not going to delve too much into the plot, as it's far too good to potentially give anything away!
What I will briefly say, is this is a compulsive read about a broken Mother (Erica), who puts all her faith, love and trust in her Son (Craig)
But the problem is her Son was convicted of a horrific rape and murder of a young girl.
He has served his time and now it's time to be released!
Erica has not only been tortured emotionally by the implications of what her Son has done. She is physically abused every day too, from the local community, so much so they endanger her life by setting fire to her letterbox on a regular basis.
Erica truly believes her Son is innocent.
Is he innocent?
I'll let you decide!
My heart literally broke for Erica, she was in so much turmoil, my heart went out to her.
Only A Mother has so many thrilling twists and turns, I found myself so enthralled I kept changing my mind on the truth.
This book seriously gets right under your skin.
It plays with your emotions, and sends you on a roller coaster of a ride.
The plot and characters kept me on the edge of my seat. The tension ramps up page by page until it's impossible to know who to trust.
Only a Mother is a Taut and Chilling Psychological Thriller / Murder Mystery, thats Tense, dark in all the right places, full of suspense, and complex characters.
Which makes for a sinister and satisfying read. A compelling page-turner i devoured it in two nights.
So would I recommend reading this..... without a doubt..... 100%..... YES!!!
Thank you to Orion Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
October 1, 2018
What an absolutely amazing read. I’ve been glued reading this.
The rounded out characters were so in your face and believable.
Erica the Mother of Craig who was convicted of a crime has always said her son was innocent. Let’s face it, we all would be the same, a friendly lad, a good son, who could imagine such a thing.
Was she right? Or was she wrong to trust her Mothers instincts?
She fell out with her long time best friend over an interview she gave to the papers about her son.
Erica stayed put in the home she raised her son for all kinds of reasons. The abuse and harm always being taken out on her. So much so that it appeared to me she accepted it as the price she had to pay.
I grew to adore Erica.
Her son Craig appeared to be a hardened criminal.
The plot was so thick you couldn’t see your way out at times as a reader. It took you in and overtook all you’re logical thinking. My confusion was like smog.
Towards the end the fog starts to clear as more and more comes to light peeking through.
I have the authors other two books on my kindle. I desperately need to get to them because I so thoroughly enjoyed this.
The rounded out characters were so in your face and believable.
Erica the Mother of Craig who was convicted of a crime has always said her son was innocent. Let’s face it, we all would be the same, a friendly lad, a good son, who could imagine such a thing.
Was she right? Or was she wrong to trust her Mothers instincts?
She fell out with her long time best friend over an interview she gave to the papers about her son.
Erica stayed put in the home she raised her son for all kinds of reasons. The abuse and harm always being taken out on her. So much so that it appeared to me she accepted it as the price she had to pay.
I grew to adore Erica.
Her son Craig appeared to be a hardened criminal.
The plot was so thick you couldn’t see your way out at times as a reader. It took you in and overtook all you’re logical thinking. My confusion was like smog.
Towards the end the fog starts to clear as more and more comes to light peeking through.
I have the authors other two books on my kindle. I desperately need to get to them because I so thoroughly enjoyed this.
May 10, 2019
I really liked and enjoyed this book. I felt awful for Erica throughout it all. Especially with how she was treated by the community. I figured out what was going on early on the book so there was no big surprise for me in it. The writing was brilliant and it was told very well. I really liked most of the charterers as well especially Erica and Luke. They were good people and I’m glad things got better for them in the end. It was a thoroughly enjoyable book and I definitely recommend it.
January 16, 2019
Almost twenty years ago, Erica’s son, Craig, was convicted of the murder of a young girl. Erica has always believed in her son’s innocence but she was the only one. Friends and neighbours have stopped talking to her. She has often come home to graffiti on her front door or poop through the letterbox. Her life has basically come to a stand-still. Afraid to leave the house in daylight but determined not to leave her home, she’s pretty much a pariah in the community. Just when life finally seems to quieten down a little, Craig is released from prison.
His homecoming isn’t exactly all roses and sunshine, though. Craig is now 38 years old. A man, no longer a teenager. A man hardened by life in prison, on top of that. Erica barely recognises him, is possibly even slightly afraid of him. And when another young girl goes missing, she starts to question everything. Was she wrong about her son?
The question surrounding Craig’s guilt or innocence continues throughout the story and my loyalties kept shifting. Craig isn’t exactly a likeable character and does little to redeem himself. And even though it was hard not to sympathise with Erica, I couldn’t quite warm to her either. Faced with difficult decisions, how far will a mother go to protect her child? This is very much a “what would you do” scenario. It’s quite easy to judge Erica and her actions but I couldn’t at all decide what I would do if I were faced with a situation like this.
I did figure out what happened but the author did such a great job of keeping the story tense and suspenseful that that didn’t bother me at all. Apart from Erica and Craig, we also meet Luke. He’s a reporter for the local paper who is trying to figure out if Craig was responsible for another murder all those years ago. But with a family to take care of, is he putting them all in danger?
This character-driven psychological thriller is immensely thought-provoking. It’s not about the murders exactly, but more about how prison life affects those who are left behind. The impact a child’s conviction has on a mother isn’t a topic that’s often talked about. If you’re looking for a thrill a minute, this probably isn’t it. But if you enjoy reading about realistic and believable characters in tense and dramatic situations, then this will undoubtedly hook you from start to finish.
His homecoming isn’t exactly all roses and sunshine, though. Craig is now 38 years old. A man, no longer a teenager. A man hardened by life in prison, on top of that. Erica barely recognises him, is possibly even slightly afraid of him. And when another young girl goes missing, she starts to question everything. Was she wrong about her son?
The question surrounding Craig’s guilt or innocence continues throughout the story and my loyalties kept shifting. Craig isn’t exactly a likeable character and does little to redeem himself. And even though it was hard not to sympathise with Erica, I couldn’t quite warm to her either. Faced with difficult decisions, how far will a mother go to protect her child? This is very much a “what would you do” scenario. It’s quite easy to judge Erica and her actions but I couldn’t at all decide what I would do if I were faced with a situation like this.
I did figure out what happened but the author did such a great job of keeping the story tense and suspenseful that that didn’t bother me at all. Apart from Erica and Craig, we also meet Luke. He’s a reporter for the local paper who is trying to figure out if Craig was responsible for another murder all those years ago. But with a family to take care of, is he putting them all in danger?
This character-driven psychological thriller is immensely thought-provoking. It’s not about the murders exactly, but more about how prison life affects those who are left behind. The impact a child’s conviction has on a mother isn’t a topic that’s often talked about. If you’re looking for a thrill a minute, this probably isn’t it. But if you enjoy reading about realistic and believable characters in tense and dramatic situations, then this will undoubtedly hook you from start to finish.
December 30, 2018
Addictive psychological thriller that does it exactly what it says on the tin, keeping you reading and guessing whether "Only A Mother " knows her son is innocent or perhaps he's fooled her all along.
Proper page turner. Full review to follow for the tour.
Proper page turner. Full review to follow for the tour.
May 2, 2023
"Dog walkers found her. It's always dog walkers, isn't it?"
Couldn't put this one down. It was fast-paced, and I couldn't wait to get to the end. I did guess about halfway in what was really going on and I thought it would ruin the ending, but it really didn't.
Well written characters and an intriguing plot. Definitely one for your tbr.
Couldn't put this one down. It was fast-paced, and I couldn't wait to get to the end. I did guess about halfway in what was really going on and I thought it would ruin the ending, but it really didn't.
Well written characters and an intriguing plot. Definitely one for your tbr.
January 11, 2019
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I have read a few books by this author now and really enjoyed them so I was delighted to be able to get my hands on her latest release – Only a Mother!
I found the book to be well written and I was hooked by the plot line from the outset. I will admit that I guessed the ending and that did affect my enjoyment slightly in that it took away the surprise element as I was just left waiting to see when it would all happen, but I still though it was a really enjoyable story that had an excellent flow to it which helped add in suspense. The ending really suits the story and works well at wrapping up the loose ends.
The characters are very well developed and I really felt for Erica throughout the story. I went through the mill feeling her emotions, she has waited so long for her son to be releases and is determined to find who he told her was really responsible – has history really repeated itself?
Four stars from me for this one, I really enjoyed it – highly recommended and can’t wait to read what she releases next!
I have read a few books by this author now and really enjoyed them so I was delighted to be able to get my hands on her latest release – Only a Mother!
I found the book to be well written and I was hooked by the plot line from the outset. I will admit that I guessed the ending and that did affect my enjoyment slightly in that it took away the surprise element as I was just left waiting to see when it would all happen, but I still though it was a really enjoyable story that had an excellent flow to it which helped add in suspense. The ending really suits the story and works well at wrapping up the loose ends.
The characters are very well developed and I really felt for Erica throughout the story. I went through the mill feeling her emotions, she has waited so long for her son to be releases and is determined to find who he told her was really responsible – has history really repeated itself?
Four stars from me for this one, I really enjoyed it – highly recommended and can’t wait to read what she releases next!
January 7, 2019
Oh my god! How have I not read anything by Elisabeth Carpenter before! I have 11 Missed calls on my Kindle and I need to get 99 Red Balloons. But bloody hell, I need to sort this out pronto! I mean WOW what a book!
This book has put me through the wringer completely. I have been wrought with fear, fear what is going to come but it has caused something to happen in my eyes. I mean this liquid came out of my eyes a bit when reading this book and I am sure at one point she may have caused me a bit of heart failure. So when I say WOW about this book, I say it breathlessly as she has knocked me for six.
This book shows us what it could be like if we were Erica, the mother of a convicted killer, what lengths would we go to to protect our loved ones? Once her son goes to prison, she becomes a shell of a person. She is ostracised from the community, the things people say and do just broke my heart. It was all so realistic and harrowing because you know these things probably do happen every day.
The story is told between Erica, her excitement of having her boy Craig home and both their adjustments when he is home. She has always believed that he is innocent, but is he? Will things be the same? Will she still recognise that sweet boy she loved seventeen years ago? But we are also told the story by Luke, the reporter who wrote the articles regarding the murders seventeen years ago. He is trying to figure out why Craig was not convicted for both murders whilst juggling his home life.
Erica is the star here, fraught with the guilt of what happened in the past, her actions on that night. Did she behave correctly? Now with another girl going missing, can she rectify her previous transgressions?
I would have finished this in one sitting, had I not had to get up for work today. The way this book has been written is just addictive. Erica and Luke had a story that had to be told, a crime to be solved and resolution to be achieved. This book is tense, but the main focus is not on the missing girl nor the previous murder, but the every day with Erica. I knew the twist that would be coming, but it when everything played out it was shocking. The darkness inside of someone, the shock of their behaviour and emptiness of their emotions was just so harrowing in this book and quite frankly shocking.
This is another book I have read where it is so character driven and I loved it. The characters in this book, help build the world and they drive us forward, making me worry for them, care about them and fear what might happen to them. The story also unfurls slowly, forever building the tension which is why I flew through the book because I had to know.
I wholeheartedly recommend this to everyone and I think this is going to be hitting my top books for 2019 already! It took my breath away and I will be thinking about this book for a few days more.
March 1, 2020
I was a little disappointed in this story as it was a touch predictable. While the concept of a mother's love was developed well, the actual story fell flat for me.
June 18, 2020
3,5/5
"Tylko matka" nie jest może thrillerem, który sprawi, że kapcie pospadają Wam z nóg, a serce będzie chciało wyskoczyć z piersi, ale to powieść z nutką dreszczyku, którą naprawdę dobrze się czyta.
Sam pomysł na fabułę jest czymś nowym, aczkolwiek nieprzekombinowanym - po latach odsiadki Craig wraca do domu, do matki, która zawsze wierzyła w jego niewinność, ale gdy zauważa zmiany, jakie zaszły w synu w więzieniu, i gdy ginie młoda dziewczyna, sama zaczyna podawać w wątpliwość uczciwość swojego jedynego dziecka.
Historia opowiadana jest z perspektywy trzech osób - Ericki, dziennikarza Luke'a i mordercy we własnej osobie. Lubię takie zabiegi, bo pozwalają mi przynajmniej na chwilę znaleźć się w głowie psychola, któremu wydaje się, że wszystkich przechytrzył. Nie mogę, niestety, powiedzieć, że coś mnie w tej powieści zaskoczyło, wszystko ma tu swój sens i jest logicznie wyjaśnione, jednak żadnej niespodzianki nie uświadczyłam. Nie zmienia to jednak faktu, że spędziłam przy tym tytule kilka miłych godzin, wciągnęłam się w historię Ericki i Craiga i zadowolona odłożyłam książkę na półkę. Chętnie przeczytam kolejne powieści pióra Carpenter, jestem ciekawa, co brytyjska autorka ma jeszcze w zanadrzu.
"Tylko matka" nie jest może thrillerem, który sprawi, że kapcie pospadają Wam z nóg, a serce będzie chciało wyskoczyć z piersi, ale to powieść z nutką dreszczyku, którą naprawdę dobrze się czyta.
Sam pomysł na fabułę jest czymś nowym, aczkolwiek nieprzekombinowanym - po latach odsiadki Craig wraca do domu, do matki, która zawsze wierzyła w jego niewinność, ale gdy zauważa zmiany, jakie zaszły w synu w więzieniu, i gdy ginie młoda dziewczyna, sama zaczyna podawać w wątpliwość uczciwość swojego jedynego dziecka.
Historia opowiadana jest z perspektywy trzech osób - Ericki, dziennikarza Luke'a i mordercy we własnej osobie. Lubię takie zabiegi, bo pozwalają mi przynajmniej na chwilę znaleźć się w głowie psychola, któremu wydaje się, że wszystkich przechytrzył. Nie mogę, niestety, powiedzieć, że coś mnie w tej powieści zaskoczyło, wszystko ma tu swój sens i jest logicznie wyjaśnione, jednak żadnej niespodzianki nie uświadczyłam. Nie zmienia to jednak faktu, że spędziłam przy tym tytule kilka miłych godzin, wciągnęłam się w historię Ericki i Craiga i zadowolona odłożyłam książkę na półkę. Chętnie przeczytam kolejne powieści pióra Carpenter, jestem ciekawa, co brytyjska autorka ma jeszcze w zanadrzu.
February 26, 2019
It is rare that a book begins with what happens after the murderer is serving a prison sentence, in this story Craig has served 17 years for killing a young girl who was meant to be his then girlfriend, he was also suspected of but never proving of killing another young female victim.
All these years during and after his mother held to her belief in him and stayed firm to her knowledge of her son, is this a mother pinning her hopes on her criminal son or is it a mother who has every right to believe in her boy? Is she stupid or naïve to believe in him?
I loved this book, I wanted to speed through it. It was unlike anything I had read before in terms of having the events come after and before the main storyline, it was genius by Elisabeth Carpenter to write like this; it made for excellent and exciting reading!
Without giving anymore away I suggest you waste no more time and get reading this wonderful book! :) Also look out for her other titles.
All these years during and after his mother held to her belief in him and stayed firm to her knowledge of her son, is this a mother pinning her hopes on her criminal son or is it a mother who has every right to believe in her boy? Is she stupid or naïve to believe in him?
I loved this book, I wanted to speed through it. It was unlike anything I had read before in terms of having the events come after and before the main storyline, it was genius by Elisabeth Carpenter to write like this; it made for excellent and exciting reading!
Without giving anymore away I suggest you waste no more time and get reading this wonderful book! :) Also look out for her other titles.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2019
I really enjoyed the first two books by Elisabeth Carpenter, 99 Red Balloons and 11 Missed Calls, and so when the opportunity arose to read this latest offering, I jumped at it. Would the book meet my expectations? Well ... it's a very different kind of read, a different tone and perhaps even pacing, but yes. Yes, it absolutely did.
This is, in essence, the story of Erica, a woman who has had to come to terms with the fact that her son is a convicted murderer, a child who, somewhere along the way, went off the rails and murdered his girlfriend. At least she has accepted that he has been convicted - she has never, ever, believed him to be guilty. But is he?
We meet Erica and Craig on the verge of his release from prison. Erica has spent years hiding from people, suffering all manner of abuse and suspicion, deemed almost as guilty as her son for what has happened. She is an intelligent and resolute, but also kind of meek woman, and Elisabeth Carpenter has done a brilliant job of presenting a woman who has been beaten down but has not yet given up. She is convinced of Craig's innocence, but shocked by the way in which prison has changed him.
Told partly from Erica's point of view, her story centres around her relationships - both with friends and neighbours, and with her son - just before and after he is released from prison and how she, and Craig struggle to adjust to the changes in front of them. We are also treated to the point of view of journalist, Luke, who covered the original case and is now trying to get more of a story out of Erica and Craig, particularly the belief that everyone has that Craig was responsible for another murder locally.
I love the way in which the author has slowly built the anticipation in this novel, gradually adding subtle layers of doubt and mystery into what should be an open and shut case. We are treated to the point of view of one other character, but as to who that is we cannot be certain. There are clues and hints dropped, perhaps the odd moment of misdirection, but it is all cleverly fed into Erica, Craig and Luke's stories, keeping the reader intrigued without jarring them out of the main action.
This is billed as suspense, and I can see that. However, where the previous two books perhaps fit more clearly into the genre, this book takes a much steadier approach, with a good proportion of Erica's story actually being a keenly observed study of how prison can affect both the guilty and their family and friends, and how the victims of a killer can extend well beyond the deceased. I was as intrigued by this portrayal of humankind every bit as much as I was the need to find out whether or not Craig was as guilty as his confession would suggest. The segments featuring Luke and, more especially, the mystery narrator perhaps fit the style more definitely, but all three narrative elements add to the story in their own way.
I love the way in which the author has developed the characters in this book, all of them believable, and often found myself feeling sympathy for Erica especially. I liked Luke too, the way he juggled the need to write his story, his personal beliefs, and his marriage which seemed to be struggling. It isn't a fast paced book so if you are looking for a cut and thrust thriller, this probably isn't for you. It is far more subtle than that, and all the richer for it. Don't get me wrong, the sense of jeopardy builds towards the end of the book and there is a powerful resolution which sees all remaining questions answered amid a very tense showdown involving all of the main characters.
If you are looking for a character driven story with a subtly built tension then this could be the read for you. I'd definitely recommend it.
This is, in essence, the story of Erica, a woman who has had to come to terms with the fact that her son is a convicted murderer, a child who, somewhere along the way, went off the rails and murdered his girlfriend. At least she has accepted that he has been convicted - she has never, ever, believed him to be guilty. But is he?
We meet Erica and Craig on the verge of his release from prison. Erica has spent years hiding from people, suffering all manner of abuse and suspicion, deemed almost as guilty as her son for what has happened. She is an intelligent and resolute, but also kind of meek woman, and Elisabeth Carpenter has done a brilliant job of presenting a woman who has been beaten down but has not yet given up. She is convinced of Craig's innocence, but shocked by the way in which prison has changed him.
Told partly from Erica's point of view, her story centres around her relationships - both with friends and neighbours, and with her son - just before and after he is released from prison and how she, and Craig struggle to adjust to the changes in front of them. We are also treated to the point of view of journalist, Luke, who covered the original case and is now trying to get more of a story out of Erica and Craig, particularly the belief that everyone has that Craig was responsible for another murder locally.
I love the way in which the author has slowly built the anticipation in this novel, gradually adding subtle layers of doubt and mystery into what should be an open and shut case. We are treated to the point of view of one other character, but as to who that is we cannot be certain. There are clues and hints dropped, perhaps the odd moment of misdirection, but it is all cleverly fed into Erica, Craig and Luke's stories, keeping the reader intrigued without jarring them out of the main action.
This is billed as suspense, and I can see that. However, where the previous two books perhaps fit more clearly into the genre, this book takes a much steadier approach, with a good proportion of Erica's story actually being a keenly observed study of how prison can affect both the guilty and their family and friends, and how the victims of a killer can extend well beyond the deceased. I was as intrigued by this portrayal of humankind every bit as much as I was the need to find out whether or not Craig was as guilty as his confession would suggest. The segments featuring Luke and, more especially, the mystery narrator perhaps fit the style more definitely, but all three narrative elements add to the story in their own way.
I love the way in which the author has developed the characters in this book, all of them believable, and often found myself feeling sympathy for Erica especially. I liked Luke too, the way he juggled the need to write his story, his personal beliefs, and his marriage which seemed to be struggling. It isn't a fast paced book so if you are looking for a cut and thrust thriller, this probably isn't for you. It is far more subtle than that, and all the richer for it. Don't get me wrong, the sense of jeopardy builds towards the end of the book and there is a powerful resolution which sees all remaining questions answered amid a very tense showdown involving all of the main characters.
If you are looking for a character driven story with a subtly built tension then this could be the read for you. I'd definitely recommend it.
January 16, 2019
I have read both previous books by Elisabeth Carpenter so feel well qualified to say that Only A Mother is her best book so far! I always review in order to spread the book love to other readers but only very rarely do I feel compelled to message an author to tell them how their book has made me feel! There was a point about half way through this book that a simple paragraph hit me so hard that I unbelievably burst into tears! And after staying up late to finish the book last night, I’ve been unable to move on from it today and pick up anything else to read as I still feel emotionally connected and involved in the life of Erika, mother of a convicted murderer. A major book hangover has left me unable to even put the book back on my shelf-another sign that there’s a big possibility of this book being one of my favourite reads of the year already! It was a perfect example of my favourite genre and that puts me under so much pressure as I need to try and communicate why!
I looked at my previous reviews for this Author’s books before I attempted to write this one and I found a passage that also applies so well to this book that I’ve used it again here…
If you’re looking for an action packed, twist upon twist rollercoaster of a psychological suspense then this book probably isn’t for you! But I personally love Elisabeth Carpenters books so I hope that other people will also pick up this book and enjoy it, which is why I’ve tried to bring an understanding of her style to my review. Her books are subtly crafted and the tension is very slowly built up across the viewpoints of her characters whilst also drawing in those who have been the most affected by the issues raised. She takes normal families and uses difficult situations to explore the emotional dilemmas that face them and how they cope.
And that is exactly how I felt here as well. Erika was a relatable character for me as a mother because I think every parent worries about how they have brought up their child, hoping that they have made the right decisions and will be proud of the adult they become. But what if the sweet, loving child you tuck up in bed every night ends up a convicted killer. You can’t turn off your love for that child completely as there is always the hope and conviction at the forefront of your mind that your child couldn’t possibly have done the things they have been found guilty of. And this is true even more so in today’s society where it is becoming more and more culturally acceptable to blame others for any of your child’s misdemeanours. But Erika was a wonderfully sketched character who was gradually shaded in so we didn’t see her decisions in black and white but were able to look deeper into her eyes to see the past as her true colours came alive. She was braver than I would have been, staying in her hometown, in the house that both she and Craig were born and bred into and punishing herself by dealing with the daily attacks on her family by members of her own community.
Everything about Only A Mother worked for me. The plot was carefully brought to fruition even though I had my mind made up about who/what/why well before the end. The setting was recognisably authentic and even though it was painted as a bleak habitat there were some exquisite comparisons to the life Craig lived whilst in prison. But ultimately it was the character development that wormed its way into my heart and gave it a great big squeeze. Erika and Luke especially were flawlessly brought to life which was ironic because it was ultimately their own flaws that made them feel so convincing.
Elisabeth Carpenter is now right up there with my favourite authors and this book is one I will remember for a very long time. I loved it from start to unexpected finish. Just stunning!
March 14, 2019
Only A Mother is author Elizabeth Carpenter's third book but it is the first one that I have read. I have heard a fair bit about her previous books, especially 99 Red Balloons which is a book on my tbr pile that I very much hope to read soon.
When I was given the opportunity to read Only A Mother I was quick to say yes, not only because of the author but also because the blurb sounded interesting. The idea that your child had committed an awful crime and was in prison isn't a nice one, would you stand by them and visit them regularly, or would you step back from them, dissociating yourself from them and the crime that they have committed?
Erica stuck by her son, despite being made a social pariah and suffering regular abuse she stayed in her home that was a bus ride away from the prison that her son was kept in. She determinedly insisted that he was innocent, yet we also know that she has doubts, she knows that he lied to her but despite this, she insists that he would not be capable of hurting anyone.
Is she in denial? It certainly seems that she is and when Craig is finally released from prison she finds that her son is not the one who left her all those years ago, and for the first time she feels scared of him and starts to wonder just how well she knows her son.
When another girl goes missing everything explodes and the police are once again knocking at Erica's door and she once again has to make the decision of whether to protect her son or face the possibility that he is not the person that she thought he was.
I really enjoyed Only A Mother, while it is quite a depressing read at times, there is also a lot of light and hope in the story. It certainly made me think about things and the people around me, and just how well do I know them?
This was a compelling read, if I wasn't reading it then I was thinking about the book which is a sure sign of a great read.
I am sure that many people will enjoy Only A Mother by Elizabeth Carpenter, I know that I did and now I want to read her previous books even more than I did before.
When I was given the opportunity to read Only A Mother I was quick to say yes, not only because of the author but also because the blurb sounded interesting. The idea that your child had committed an awful crime and was in prison isn't a nice one, would you stand by them and visit them regularly, or would you step back from them, dissociating yourself from them and the crime that they have committed?
Erica stuck by her son, despite being made a social pariah and suffering regular abuse she stayed in her home that was a bus ride away from the prison that her son was kept in. She determinedly insisted that he was innocent, yet we also know that she has doubts, she knows that he lied to her but despite this, she insists that he would not be capable of hurting anyone.
Is she in denial? It certainly seems that she is and when Craig is finally released from prison she finds that her son is not the one who left her all those years ago, and for the first time she feels scared of him and starts to wonder just how well she knows her son.
When another girl goes missing everything explodes and the police are once again knocking at Erica's door and she once again has to make the decision of whether to protect her son or face the possibility that he is not the person that she thought he was.
I really enjoyed Only A Mother, while it is quite a depressing read at times, there is also a lot of light and hope in the story. It certainly made me think about things and the people around me, and just how well do I know them?
This was a compelling read, if I wasn't reading it then I was thinking about the book which is a sure sign of a great read.
I am sure that many people will enjoy Only A Mother by Elizabeth Carpenter, I know that I did and now I want to read her previous books even more than I did before.
January 4, 2019
I appear to have Elisabeth Carpenter's first two books (99 Red Balloons and 11 Missed Calls, in case you were wondering), waiting for me on my TBR pile. I must rectify this as I enjoyed her latest offering, Only a Mother, very much indeed.
In fact, this is a book I found hard to put down, racing through the final 120 pages in one go. The story is told mostly from two characters' points of view: Erica's in the first person and Luke's in the third. Erica is the mother of Craig, a man who has been in prison for years for the murder of a young girl. When we first meet her, he is about to be released and she's wondering what life will be like with him back living with her after so long.
Luke is a journalist on the local newspaper. He lacks the ambition of some reporters but is always looking for a story. He's also probably far too kind and thoughtful for cut-throat journalism, but it made me take to him as a character.
Luke is obviously interested in Craig's release as a story, especially when another girl goes missing soon after. But this is really not the story of missing girls, it's very much a look at how a mother copes with the incarceration of her child. Erica is targeted by the local community, pretty much ostracised and lives a lonely life. I thought this angle was so interesting and it really made me think about how you deal with something like this as a parent.
Whilst not a story filled with action, I found it really fast-paced and exciting, one of those books I couldn't wait to get back to. I think the strength is very much in the characterisations, especially Erica who I thought had a compelling voice.
I must admit that there were no surprises for me in the plot. I guessed which way it was going fairly early on, but I didn't mind that. Whilst those 'OMG' moments are great, if a book is well-written it needs only that to hook me and reel me in. Only a Mother definitely fits the bill.
In fact, this is a book I found hard to put down, racing through the final 120 pages in one go. The story is told mostly from two characters' points of view: Erica's in the first person and Luke's in the third. Erica is the mother of Craig, a man who has been in prison for years for the murder of a young girl. When we first meet her, he is about to be released and she's wondering what life will be like with him back living with her after so long.
Luke is a journalist on the local newspaper. He lacks the ambition of some reporters but is always looking for a story. He's also probably far too kind and thoughtful for cut-throat journalism, but it made me take to him as a character.
Luke is obviously interested in Craig's release as a story, especially when another girl goes missing soon after. But this is really not the story of missing girls, it's very much a look at how a mother copes with the incarceration of her child. Erica is targeted by the local community, pretty much ostracised and lives a lonely life. I thought this angle was so interesting and it really made me think about how you deal with something like this as a parent.
Whilst not a story filled with action, I found it really fast-paced and exciting, one of those books I couldn't wait to get back to. I think the strength is very much in the characterisations, especially Erica who I thought had a compelling voice.
I must admit that there were no surprises for me in the plot. I guessed which way it was going fairly early on, but I didn't mind that. Whilst those 'OMG' moments are great, if a book is well-written it needs only that to hook me and reel me in. Only a Mother definitely fits the bill.
January 6, 2019
Another fast paced and dramatic storyline!
I have read Elisabeth Carpenter's first two books 99 Red Balloons and 11 missed calls so was interested to read this latest book Only a Mother.
As with the previous books you get to know certain characters really well as the plot opens up. Erica is a Mother certain of her sons innocence but throughout the story his actions make you question his role in the murder 17 years ago.
You also get to know Luke a local newspaper reporter and hearing and seeing things from his point of view allows you to find out details from the case when it originally broke 17 years previously and follow him as he unearths more details about the case.
Elisabeth Carpenter get a under the skin of the characters and really describes them so well that you feel as if you know them and that drives you to read on! I found i was unable to put this book down hence finishing this at 5am! I found the pace brisk, the characterisation in-depth and even the setting well depicted. You really get a feel of a northern town in Only a mother as you do with the other 2 books.
Highly recommended and if you haven't read the other books i suggest they go on your "must read" list. I look forward to the next book.
Gritty, dark at times, dramatic, swift paced and addictive!
I have read Elisabeth Carpenter's first two books 99 Red Balloons and 11 missed calls so was interested to read this latest book Only a Mother.
As with the previous books you get to know certain characters really well as the plot opens up. Erica is a Mother certain of her sons innocence but throughout the story his actions make you question his role in the murder 17 years ago.
You also get to know Luke a local newspaper reporter and hearing and seeing things from his point of view allows you to find out details from the case when it originally broke 17 years previously and follow him as he unearths more details about the case.
Elisabeth Carpenter get a under the skin of the characters and really describes them so well that you feel as if you know them and that drives you to read on! I found i was unable to put this book down hence finishing this at 5am! I found the pace brisk, the characterisation in-depth and even the setting well depicted. You really get a feel of a northern town in Only a mother as you do with the other 2 books.
Highly recommended and if you haven't read the other books i suggest they go on your "must read" list. I look forward to the next book.
Gritty, dark at times, dramatic, swift paced and addictive!
July 17, 2021
Erica is a Mother certain of her sons innocence but throughout the story his actions make you question his role in the murder 17 years ago.
You also get to know Luke a local newspaper reporter and hearing and seeing things from his point of view allows you to find out details from the case when it originally broke 17 years previously and follow him as he unearths more details about the case.
Erica who is preparing for her son’s release from prison, seventeen years after he was convicted for killing a young girl. He was also linked to the murder of another young woman, but not enough evidence could be found to charge him. Journalist Luke is desperate to find that evidence linking him to the second girl’s death, but what if all is not as it seems? Just how far will Erica go to protect her son?
Erica is a character who I really felt sorry for as I was reading this book. I could definitely understand her need to want to protect son, even though he committed such a heinous act and her love for him came across very strongly in her character, although it did seem a lot of the time as though she still thought of him as the young, gentle boy she once knew him as. She is also very much a victim herself as the people of the town she lives in swiftly turned against her after her son’s arrest.
You also get to know Luke a local newspaper reporter and hearing and seeing things from his point of view allows you to find out details from the case when it originally broke 17 years previously and follow him as he unearths more details about the case.
Erica who is preparing for her son’s release from prison, seventeen years after he was convicted for killing a young girl. He was also linked to the murder of another young woman, but not enough evidence could be found to charge him. Journalist Luke is desperate to find that evidence linking him to the second girl’s death, but what if all is not as it seems? Just how far will Erica go to protect her son?
Erica is a character who I really felt sorry for as I was reading this book. I could definitely understand her need to want to protect son, even though he committed such a heinous act and her love for him came across very strongly in her character, although it did seem a lot of the time as though she still thought of him as the young, gentle boy she once knew him as. She is also very much a victim herself as the people of the town she lives in swiftly turned against her after her son’s arrest.
January 27, 2019
Having read and enjoy 11 missed calls by Elizabeth Carpenter I was looking forward to reading her latest book .
A mother’s love and protection of her children is something I can relate to. I would do anything for my three sons but if I was faced with Ericas situation in this book I’m not sure how I would react.
Erica is Craig’s mother , he has been in prison for murder. Craig is due for release and although Erica is looking forward to his return she is also apprehensive about sharing her life with Craig, who has undoubtedly changed whilst in prison.
Ericas story is beautifully told. The anxiously and helpless she has felt since her son was convicted is heartbreaking. Her belief of his innocence is not shared by anyone in her neighbourhood and she has been the target of hate crime repeatedly. This has led to her being in her own prison , scared to leave her home to face the accusing faces of everyone around her.
Luke the newspaper reporter, Jason who is Luke’s childhood friend and his mother are all central to the story, and are wonderful characters.
I loved how the narrative of the killer had me guessing could it be Craig or not?? This novel centres on a mother’s worst fears . Can you protect your child? Is someone you have loved and cared for since birth be capable of evil? Can you trust your instincts?
The pages of this book turned quickly for me. Another brilliant book by Elizabeth Carpenter, original, intense and addictive I definitely recommend it.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for my chance to read this powerful book.
A mother’s love and protection of her children is something I can relate to. I would do anything for my three sons but if I was faced with Ericas situation in this book I’m not sure how I would react.
Erica is Craig’s mother , he has been in prison for murder. Craig is due for release and although Erica is looking forward to his return she is also apprehensive about sharing her life with Craig, who has undoubtedly changed whilst in prison.
Ericas story is beautifully told. The anxiously and helpless she has felt since her son was convicted is heartbreaking. Her belief of his innocence is not shared by anyone in her neighbourhood and she has been the target of hate crime repeatedly. This has led to her being in her own prison , scared to leave her home to face the accusing faces of everyone around her.
Luke the newspaper reporter, Jason who is Luke’s childhood friend and his mother are all central to the story, and are wonderful characters.
I loved how the narrative of the killer had me guessing could it be Craig or not?? This novel centres on a mother’s worst fears . Can you protect your child? Is someone you have loved and cared for since birth be capable of evil? Can you trust your instincts?
The pages of this book turned quickly for me. Another brilliant book by Elizabeth Carpenter, original, intense and addictive I definitely recommend it.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for my chance to read this powerful book.
January 3, 2019
Only A Mother is the third book I have read by Elisabeth Carpenter and in my opinion is the best one yet.
It is a crime novel, but one that deals with what happens years after the crime. Most of it is told by the viewpoint of either Erica, mother of Craig who has just been released from prison or Luke who is a journalist covering the story of a killer released back into the local area. I found it mesmerising. The abuse that Erica faced daily. Not just vandalism but also the whispers and the isolation that she has been forced into. Luke also has issues, married with two young children, he should feel happy but he feels like a failure.
Whilst the crimes do feature it is the emotion that carries this novel and makes it believable. It made me think about what a Mother would do to protect her child, how hard is it to feel loyal and give support to a convicted killer. And always wondering if he was capable of murder. It is a crime novel that made me feel emotional at times, especially near the end.
As well as the storyline I also enjoyed the local setting. I live in the town in which the book is set and I had a lot of fun identifying local places. Elisabeth Carpenter is an author who has plenty more novels to come. Recommended.
It is a crime novel, but one that deals with what happens years after the crime. Most of it is told by the viewpoint of either Erica, mother of Craig who has just been released from prison or Luke who is a journalist covering the story of a killer released back into the local area. I found it mesmerising. The abuse that Erica faced daily. Not just vandalism but also the whispers and the isolation that she has been forced into. Luke also has issues, married with two young children, he should feel happy but he feels like a failure.
Whilst the crimes do feature it is the emotion that carries this novel and makes it believable. It made me think about what a Mother would do to protect her child, how hard is it to feel loyal and give support to a convicted killer. And always wondering if he was capable of murder. It is a crime novel that made me feel emotional at times, especially near the end.
As well as the storyline I also enjoyed the local setting. I live in the town in which the book is set and I had a lot of fun identifying local places. Elisabeth Carpenter is an author who has plenty more novels to come. Recommended.
August 10, 2020
Nie mogę ostatnio trafić na dobry thriller, ten nie był zły, ale brakowało mi tego dreszczyku emocji podczas czytania. Szkoda, bo zapowiadało się świetnie. Być może wrócę do tego gatunku jesienią, ale na razie daję sobie chwilę oddechu.
February 22, 2019
A really well written edge of your seat thriller! Exactly the type of book I like to read! This book kept me guessing throughout and I was impressed with the twists that unfolded.
March 4, 2020
2.5/5
December 10, 2018
The thing I enjoyed most about this book is how the author created such an intense connection between me as the reader and the characters depicted in this book. For me in particular, I felt most strongly towards Erica who is the mother of Craig who was convicted of the murder of a young girl and has spent most of his adult life in prison. Erica has endured unbelievable backlash from the community and press after the conviction of her son to the point where she has basically been held just as liable for committing the crime as her son. Despite the atrocious things she has had to deal with her faith in her sons innocence has remained steadfast.
I felt so strongly for Erica and can’t imagine what that must be like to have your only child accused and convicted of such a crime. The author beautifully put across Erica’s emotions and she was firmly a character I could get behind and wanted more than anything for her to prevail.
The other character we get to know quite in-depth throughout this book is Luke, a local news reporter who becomes entangled in the drama upon Craig’s release. We get some depth in to Luke’s background and his family issues however, for me personally I’m not really sure how these parts added much value to the story apart from rounding out Luke’s character. In my personal opinion I would have rather Craig’s character been developed more and would have liked to read more about his thoughts and mind-set. Having said this, I did really enjoy this story on the whole and it’s an interesting concept reading about this situation from the mother’s point of view.
I felt so strongly for Erica and can’t imagine what that must be like to have your only child accused and convicted of such a crime. The author beautifully put across Erica’s emotions and she was firmly a character I could get behind and wanted more than anything for her to prevail.
The other character we get to know quite in-depth throughout this book is Luke, a local news reporter who becomes entangled in the drama upon Craig’s release. We get some depth in to Luke’s background and his family issues however, for me personally I’m not really sure how these parts added much value to the story apart from rounding out Luke’s character. In my personal opinion I would have rather Craig’s character been developed more and would have liked to read more about his thoughts and mind-set. Having said this, I did really enjoy this story on the whole and it’s an interesting concept reading about this situation from the mother’s point of view.
January 27, 2019
Having read and enjoy 11 missed calls by Elizabeth Carpenter I was looking forward to reading her latest book .
A mother’s love and protection of her children is something I can relate to. I would do anything for my three sons but if I was faced with Ericas situation in this book I’m not sure how I would react.
Erica is Craig’s mother , he has been in prison for murder. Craig is due for release and although Erica is looking forward to his return she is also apprehensive about sharing her life with Craig, who has undoubtedly changed whilst in prison.
Ericas story is beautifully told. The anxiously and helpless she has felt since her son was convicted is heartbreaking. Her belief of his innocence is not shared by anyone in her neighbourhood and she has been the target of hate crime repeatedly. This has led to her being in her own prison , scared to leave her home to face the accusing faces of everyone around her.
Luke the newspaper reporter, Jason who is Luke’s childhood friend and his mother are all central to the story, and are wonderful characters.
I loved how the narrative of the killer had me guessing could it be Craig or not?? This novel centres on a mother’s worst fears . Can you protect your child? Is someone you have loved and cared for since birth be capable of evil? Can you trust your instincts?
The pages of this book turned quickly for me. Another brilliant book by Elizabeth Carpenter, original, intense and addictive I definitely recommend it.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for my chance to read this powerful book.
A mother’s love and protection of her children is something I can relate to. I would do anything for my three sons but if I was faced with Ericas situation in this book I’m not sure how I would react.
Erica is Craig’s mother , he has been in prison for murder. Craig is due for release and although Erica is looking forward to his return she is also apprehensive about sharing her life with Craig, who has undoubtedly changed whilst in prison.
Ericas story is beautifully told. The anxiously and helpless she has felt since her son was convicted is heartbreaking. Her belief of his innocence is not shared by anyone in her neighbourhood and she has been the target of hate crime repeatedly. This has led to her being in her own prison , scared to leave her home to face the accusing faces of everyone around her.
Luke the newspaper reporter, Jason who is Luke’s childhood friend and his mother are all central to the story, and are wonderful characters.
I loved how the narrative of the killer had me guessing could it be Craig or not?? This novel centres on a mother’s worst fears . Can you protect your child? Is someone you have loved and cared for since birth be capable of evil? Can you trust your instincts?
The pages of this book turned quickly for me. Another brilliant book by Elizabeth Carpenter, original, intense and addictive I definitely recommend it.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for my chance to read this powerful book.
August 20, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and Orion Publishing Group for the advance copy.
My first Elisabeth Carpenter book and always a delight to find a new Author, Only a Mother spins the tale of a Mother after her son is convicted of a heinous crime.
Erica the Mother of Craig is a tormented soul after the fallout of the events 17 years ago, we pick up the story as she awaits Craig's release from prison.
The book is told from two perspectives of Erica and Luke a local news journalist who covered the events and trial and is looking to do a follow up to his story regarding Craig's release, I found it strange that we didn't get Craig's perspective at all until the last few pages of the book, I feel Carpenter missed a trick here as it would have made the book for me more interesting.
Erica and Luke are well rounded and fleshed out characters but we don't really get to know Craig or understand his mindset, the writing is good and the story is well thought out and all gets wrapped up nicely in the end.
Its a slow burner and the pace was just a little too slow for me I also felt the book would have been served much better as I've said if we understood Craig's mindset instead we get Luke he is ok but a large part of the book is dedicated to him and his family which for me this could have been dedicated to Craig.
Overall an ok read worth your time and money.
My first Elisabeth Carpenter book and always a delight to find a new Author, Only a Mother spins the tale of a Mother after her son is convicted of a heinous crime.
Erica the Mother of Craig is a tormented soul after the fallout of the events 17 years ago, we pick up the story as she awaits Craig's release from prison.
The book is told from two perspectives of Erica and Luke a local news journalist who covered the events and trial and is looking to do a follow up to his story regarding Craig's release, I found it strange that we didn't get Craig's perspective at all until the last few pages of the book, I feel Carpenter missed a trick here as it would have made the book for me more interesting.
Erica and Luke are well rounded and fleshed out characters but we don't really get to know Craig or understand his mindset, the writing is good and the story is well thought out and all gets wrapped up nicely in the end.
Its a slow burner and the pace was just a little too slow for me I also felt the book would have been served much better as I've said if we understood Craig's mindset instead we get Luke he is ok but a large part of the book is dedicated to him and his family which for me this could have been dedicated to Craig.
Overall an ok read worth your time and money.
May 22, 2019
Erica’s son Craig is about to be released from prison after serving seventeen years for the rape and murder of his girlfriend Lucy. Those long years have had an enormous effect on Erica, she’s suffered verbal and emotional abuse from her neighbours and the people of her town. Craig comes home and instantly he’s breaking his release rules by going out drinking, mixing with teenage girls and hanging out with criminals like his best mate Jason. As Craig’s behaviour becomes more erratic and troubling, it dawns on Erica that she’s scared of her son and that he’s like a stranger to her. She begins to wonder what he’s capable of and whether she’s been wrong all these years to believe that he was innocent.
I read this book very quickly as it had me hooked from the first page. The story is fast paced and brilliantly done with the author portraying the characters in a gritty but believable light.
Thank you to Orion Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my opinion.
I read this book very quickly as it had me hooked from the first page. The story is fast paced and brilliantly done with the author portraying the characters in a gritty but believable light.
Thank you to Orion Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my opinion.
December 2, 2019
Definitely not as good as this author's previous works.
Here, the writing style is still great and what made me read this till the end, because the plot...oh my. It's a mess. So full of holes, things that simply make no sense and added nothing to the story, so could have easily just not been put there! (for example, )
I won't give up on Elisabeth Carpenter, though because her other books were truly great so I'll just pretend this one never happened...
Here, the writing style is still great and what made me read this till the end, because the plot...oh my. It's a mess. So full of holes, things that simply make no sense and added nothing to the story, so could have easily just not been put there! (for example, )
I won't give up on Elisabeth Carpenter, though because her other books were truly great so I'll just pretend this one never happened...
January 23, 2019
Unfortunately I didn’t enjoy this book as much as her previous 2 novels. I wasn’t racing to pick it up and thought it was a bit hard going. The story, although original, was trying to be much more than it was with characters written in just for the hell of it. The conclusion wasn’t much of a shocker either. An average 3 stars.
January 11, 2019
Even though I ended up buying my own physical copy of this book to read, I still would like to thank Netgalley and the publishers for also providing me with a copy to review.
This book follows Erica Wright, who hasn't needed to scrub 'MURDERER' off her house in over a year. Life is almost quiet again. Then her son, Craig, is released from prison, and she knows the quiet is going to be broken. Erica has always believed Craig was innocent - despite the lies she told for him years ago - but when he arrives home, she notices the changes in him. She doesn't recognise her son anymore. When another girl goes missing, she starts to question everything. But how can a mother turn her back on her son? And, if she won't, then how far will she go to protect him?
I just loved this author's first two books, '99 Red Balloons' and '11 Missed Calls', so as soon as this one was released, it immediately become the first book on my TBR list - Being my very first read of 2019! While this book wasn't quite as gripping as Elisabeth's debut, I still really enjoyed this one!
The plotline is gritty, fast-paced and thought-provoking, delivering a story that strongly pulls you in from the very first page with it's well-rounded, believeable well-written characters that certainly had me invested instantly. I'm not even a parent but Erica is a character who I very much felt sorry for the whole way through the book. A mother who will do anything for her son. Her need to protect Craig and her love for him rose off the pages and came across so strongly. And that fact that she has become a victim herself due to an unforgiving neighbourhood is quite upsetting.
With POV's from both Erica and Luke, a journalist who is trying to link Craig to a second girl's death, and an ending that may of been a tad predictable but is written brilliangly, 'Only a Mother' is yet another novel by the fantastic Elisabeth Carpenter that is a must read. If you haven't read her other two books, I STRONGLY recommend you put them at top of your TBR list!
This book follows Erica Wright, who hasn't needed to scrub 'MURDERER' off her house in over a year. Life is almost quiet again. Then her son, Craig, is released from prison, and she knows the quiet is going to be broken. Erica has always believed Craig was innocent - despite the lies she told for him years ago - but when he arrives home, she notices the changes in him. She doesn't recognise her son anymore. When another girl goes missing, she starts to question everything. But how can a mother turn her back on her son? And, if she won't, then how far will she go to protect him?
I just loved this author's first two books, '99 Red Balloons' and '11 Missed Calls', so as soon as this one was released, it immediately become the first book on my TBR list - Being my very first read of 2019! While this book wasn't quite as gripping as Elisabeth's debut, I still really enjoyed this one!
The plotline is gritty, fast-paced and thought-provoking, delivering a story that strongly pulls you in from the very first page with it's well-rounded, believeable well-written characters that certainly had me invested instantly. I'm not even a parent but Erica is a character who I very much felt sorry for the whole way through the book. A mother who will do anything for her son. Her need to protect Craig and her love for him rose off the pages and came across so strongly. And that fact that she has become a victim herself due to an unforgiving neighbourhood is quite upsetting.
With POV's from both Erica and Luke, a journalist who is trying to link Craig to a second girl's death, and an ending that may of been a tad predictable but is written brilliangly, 'Only a Mother' is yet another novel by the fantastic Elisabeth Carpenter that is a must read. If you haven't read her other two books, I STRONGLY recommend you put them at top of your TBR list!
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