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My Mother's Daughter
County Wicklow, Ireland. Margo has just lost her husband Conor and is grieving his passing, unsure how she and her daughter Elsa will survive without him. Then she receives a letter that turns everything she thought she knew on its head. Not only has she lost her husband, but now Margo fears she could lose her daughter as well.
Ohio, United States. Cassie has just split from her husband acrimoniously. Upset and alone she does not know how to move forward. Then her ex-husband demands a paternity test for their daughter Tilly and sorrow turns to anger as Cassie faces the frightening possibility of losing her daughter.
A powerful, moving stories of family, resilience and compassion, and how women support each other through the most difficult times, My Mother's Daughter takes the issues closest to our hearts and makes us ask ourselves the most difficult questions - what would we do in Margo and Cassie's place?
Praise for Ann's
'The Ludlow Ladies' Society brought me to a beautiful place and into a circle of friends that I didn't want to leave. Unputdownable' KATE KERRIGAN
'It's a heart-warming story ... but also an addictive page-turner with plenty of unexpected twists and reveals in store' READER'S DIGEST
'A moving tale of loss, love and redemption' BELLA MAGAZINE
'Deftly written, moving and courageous' THE SUNDAY TIMES
'Slow-marching, romantic prose draws us into an old world that is rustic, genteel, quaint...[but] scandals lie in wait' IRISH INDEPENDENT
'Highly engaging debut you will want to dive into' SUNDAY INDEPENDENT, IRELAND
'A lovely story of two women with the courage to confront the injustices of the past, bringing light to a dark corner of Ireland s recent history' KATHLEEN MACMAHON, BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF THIS IS HOW IT ENDS
Ohio, United States. Cassie has just split from her husband acrimoniously. Upset and alone she does not know how to move forward. Then her ex-husband demands a paternity test for their daughter Tilly and sorrow turns to anger as Cassie faces the frightening possibility of losing her daughter.
A powerful, moving stories of family, resilience and compassion, and how women support each other through the most difficult times, My Mother's Daughter takes the issues closest to our hearts and makes us ask ourselves the most difficult questions - what would we do in Margo and Cassie's place?
Praise for Ann's
'The Ludlow Ladies' Society brought me to a beautiful place and into a circle of friends that I didn't want to leave. Unputdownable' KATE KERRIGAN
'It's a heart-warming story ... but also an addictive page-turner with plenty of unexpected twists and reveals in store' READER'S DIGEST
'A moving tale of loss, love and redemption' BELLA MAGAZINE
'Deftly written, moving and courageous' THE SUNDAY TIMES
'Slow-marching, romantic prose draws us into an old world that is rustic, genteel, quaint...[but] scandals lie in wait' IRISH INDEPENDENT
'Highly engaging debut you will want to dive into' SUNDAY INDEPENDENT, IRELAND
'A lovely story of two women with the courage to confront the injustices of the past, bringing light to a dark corner of Ireland s recent history' KATHLEEN MACMAHON, BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF THIS IS HOW IT ENDS
400 pages, Paperback
Published March 10, 2020
34 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 7, 2019
I’ve got one other book written by this author, unread as yet, I think that’s going to change very very soon after my reading this.
I so thoroughly was invested in this book that time just slipped away from me.
The women in this book are Mothers, good Mothers who want nothing else but security, and that their child is loved and feels love.
They are separate Mothers. Neither know the other exists.....
Until....
Something comes to the surface that connect these two women. Extraordinary circumstances that alter all lives.
From the pages of 300 (ish) I was in tears.
That doesn’t happen often but when it does it shows just how powerful words of a story can be on a reader.
I was happy to be an audience to this book, to the realistic characters that became 3D in my minds eye.
If you live books like this in the categories I’ve shelved it on Goodreads, truly add it to your reading list.
This author is truly a remarkable storyteller.
May 21, 2019
5☆ An Unmissable read! Heartbreakingly Authentic!
I can't begin to tell you just how much I adored this gorgeous book! If I could give 10☆ I would!
Not many books get me teared up, but My Mother's Daughter really got to me.
It was Thought Provoking, Poignant, Heart Breaking, yet Comforting.
I have watched a TV series called Switched at Birth and it kind of reminded me a little of that. But the stories were so much more.
I am not going to go into the plot as this is a book you NEED to discover for yourself.
In some cases it was a little predictable but then WOW did Ann throw in some shocking Curve Balls. Utterly Brilliant!
My Mother’s Daughter got right under my skin perfectly.
It touched my heart and I wanted to tell people about this heart breaking yet courageous and inspiring story.
The main characters are so well written, they are strong, courageous, very relatable, memorable, real and genuine. The supporting Cast of Characters were strong perfectly written and complemented the main characters seamlessly.
Ann is such a talented Author I could feel every bit of their raw emotions and pain, at times it was gut wrenching.
Even now i can't begin to imagine what it was like for a Mother to discover her child she raised for so many years wasn't actually her child!
The story is told from both viewpoints, by each of the Mother's personal story, journey and encounters, which I loved. It was seamlessly weaved together and it was cleverly written. I loved getting to know each Of the stories and how they lived such different lives, but how they connected and come together for their Daughters.
The writing style was Heartbreakingly authentic, told with much empathy and compassion, a totally absorbing read that's beautifully written.
The story is full of emotional dilemmas, grief, heart break, tough decisions, Friendship, Family, Support, yet it's incredibly touching, tugs at the heart strings,
a powerful and gut-wrenching story,
That touches the heart and pulls the reader in.
My Mother's Daughter is a vivid rich tale that has absolutely stolen my heart, it's a unique book that once read will truly stay with you for a lifetime.
I can't recommend this Unputdownable Novel Enough, An Unmissable read!
Thank you to Tracy at Compulsive Readers Tours for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
I can't begin to tell you just how much I adored this gorgeous book! If I could give 10☆ I would!
Not many books get me teared up, but My Mother's Daughter really got to me.
It was Thought Provoking, Poignant, Heart Breaking, yet Comforting.
I have watched a TV series called Switched at Birth and it kind of reminded me a little of that. But the stories were so much more.
I am not going to go into the plot as this is a book you NEED to discover for yourself.
In some cases it was a little predictable but then WOW did Ann throw in some shocking Curve Balls. Utterly Brilliant!
My Mother’s Daughter got right under my skin perfectly.
It touched my heart and I wanted to tell people about this heart breaking yet courageous and inspiring story.
The main characters are so well written, they are strong, courageous, very relatable, memorable, real and genuine. The supporting Cast of Characters were strong perfectly written and complemented the main characters seamlessly.
Ann is such a talented Author I could feel every bit of their raw emotions and pain, at times it was gut wrenching.
Even now i can't begin to imagine what it was like for a Mother to discover her child she raised for so many years wasn't actually her child!
The story is told from both viewpoints, by each of the Mother's personal story, journey and encounters, which I loved. It was seamlessly weaved together and it was cleverly written. I loved getting to know each Of the stories and how they lived such different lives, but how they connected and come together for their Daughters.
The writing style was Heartbreakingly authentic, told with much empathy and compassion, a totally absorbing read that's beautifully written.
The story is full of emotional dilemmas, grief, heart break, tough decisions, Friendship, Family, Support, yet it's incredibly touching, tugs at the heart strings,
a powerful and gut-wrenching story,
That touches the heart and pulls the reader in.
My Mother's Daughter is a vivid rich tale that has absolutely stolen my heart, it's a unique book that once read will truly stay with you for a lifetime.
I can't recommend this Unputdownable Novel Enough, An Unmissable read!
Thank you to Tracy at Compulsive Readers Tours for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
February 10, 2021
Four and a half stars
Two women in two different countries find their lives connect in ways they never expected. In County Wicklow, Ireland, Margo is grieving the death of her husband. She and her twelve year old daughter Elsa, are trying to look to the future. A disturbing letter, threatening that future, arrives. In Ohio, USA, Cassie is also grieving. Grieving the death of her marriage after her husband Charles walked out on her and their twelve year old daughter Tilly. When Charles demands a paternity test, life is thrown into chaos. But worse is yet to come.
Right from the start I was emotionally invested in this story. Even though I had an idea what was coming I had to see how it all played out. I really liked both Margo and Cassie. The reader also sees the contrast between the deceased Conor and Charles. Charles is a real piece of work who cares only about himself and his own interests.
This is not a book that leaves the reader outside the situation, looking on. The author effortlessly draws the reader in to experience what is happening. For this reason I suggest keep tissues handy is essential. Maybe I am just in a sooky mood but I was teary a lot of the time in this book. Anyone who has experienced or even been close to losing a daughter will find it particularly emotional.
Possibly a couple of things towards the end are a little convenient, but overall I loved this story of two women, two daughters and more than one momentous decision. Recommended reading for anyone who like stories of families with heartbreaking decisions and who likes to be drawn into their lives.
Two women in two different countries find their lives connect in ways they never expected. In County Wicklow, Ireland, Margo is grieving the death of her husband. She and her twelve year old daughter Elsa, are trying to look to the future. A disturbing letter, threatening that future, arrives. In Ohio, USA, Cassie is also grieving. Grieving the death of her marriage after her husband Charles walked out on her and their twelve year old daughter Tilly. When Charles demands a paternity test, life is thrown into chaos. But worse is yet to come.
Right from the start I was emotionally invested in this story. Even though I had an idea what was coming I had to see how it all played out. I really liked both Margo and Cassie. The reader also sees the contrast between the deceased Conor and Charles. Charles is a real piece of work who cares only about himself and his own interests.
This is not a book that leaves the reader outside the situation, looking on. The author effortlessly draws the reader in to experience what is happening. For this reason I suggest keep tissues handy is essential. Maybe I am just in a sooky mood but I was teary a lot of the time in this book. Anyone who has experienced or even been close to losing a daughter will find it particularly emotional.
Possibly a couple of things towards the end are a little convenient, but overall I loved this story of two women, two daughters and more than one momentous decision. Recommended reading for anyone who like stories of families with heartbreaking decisions and who likes to be drawn into their lives.
January 31, 2019
My Rating ~ 3.5/4*
Two mothers,
Two daughters,
Two families changed forever
Margo Clifford is grieving after the recent passing of her husband, Conor. Now rudderless, Margo is very unsure of the path her life will take. Her only daughter, Elsa, is her only motivation every day to put one foot in front of the other and carry on living. Conor died of cancer, taken too young , leaving all his dreams behind him, never fulfilled. Margo and Conor had chosen their home, Rathmoney House, a beautiful large estate house in Co. Wicklow, following a trip to Ireland some years before. They had wanted to leave the rat-race of modern life behind them with the intention of eventually opening a guest house and re cultivating the gardens to help with their plan of living a little less complicated life.
Now, Margo finds herself overwhelmed with the enormity of the road ahead and doubts her ability to keep their dream alive. The local neighbours, Jack and Ida Roper, have been very good to Margo since Conor’s passing, with Jack maintaining the land until she figures out what she intends doing.
‘She remembered the first day they had viewed this house. Conor had called it a magical place beside the river; the aspect beautiful….they’d known even before they stepped inside that this was going to be the place they called home….In such a short time, things had changed utterly at Rathmoney House. Conor’s dream of a guesthouse was still alive, but Conor was no more’
With the help of Ida, Margo begins to see some hope. Ida encourages Margo to continue with the idea of opening a guest house and over a short period of time they begin to get the house in order. Margo wonders if is it possible. Can she survive this major crisis in her life? Is there light at the end of the tunnel? Will the arrival of a very shocking letter put everything she has left, everything she holds dear, in jeopardy?
Cassandra Richards is an estate agent in Bowling Green, Ohio. With her marriage in disarray, Cassie is in turmoil. Charles had been the love of her life, her forever and after a time living in France, they returned home with a new baby, a little girl they named Tilly, and with a new life planned. Charles returned to his father’s car dealership and life was ok. But over the years Charles changed and Cassie could feel the distance between them.
‘She had let Charles go, hoping he would scratch whatever itch he had, then come back to her. When, after five days, she called at the car lot, she was told Charles was in New York; she knew then he was never going to return home. He was unapologetic when she rang him. “I’m calling it a day Cas. You know it hasn’t been right between us for a long time. I want out.”'
Now sitting in her attorney’s office, Cassie is informed that Charles is going to make this separation very difficult and ‘play hardball’ Cassie is distraught and upset at the demands Charles is making but refuses to lie down without a fight. Her work is now more important than ever to her but her concentration is no longer what it should be and she is not closing the sales. With the pressures of work and the pressures of single motherhood ahead, Cassie is stressed. When Charles drops the bombshell that he is now looking to have a paternity test to prove he actually is Tilly’s father, he unwittingly unleashes a chain of events that will eventually cross oceans and continents and will reek havoc on the lives of many.
My Mother’s Daughter is a fictional tale but the themes Ann O’ Loughlin writes about are all too real. Death, grief, serious illness, divorce, relationships, trust, stress are all an unfortunate part of many of our lives today. How we deal with these issues and how we move on is very much dependent on those we are surrounded by. For Ann O’ Loughlin, she writes about what she knows, female friendship, that wondrous network of support that comes into force for a woman when the chips are down. I always thoroughly enjoy the flow and the writing style of an Ann O’ Loughlin book but I did have a little niggle with some of the dialogue in this book. On some occasions it felt a little stilted, lacking in the emotion I felt the scene deserved. I would have wished for a little more warmth in some of the conversations that took place around these moments. There was also a relationship in the book that I felt was a little peculiar and I’m not so sure how necessary it was to the story.
My Mother’s Daughter is a very much a novel about the strength of the love a mother has for her daughter and it seriously challenges this love, asking how far would you go? Margo and Cassie are two mothers, two women who have suffered and who have major obstacles to overcome. Can they save themselves? Can they save their daughters?
Ann O’ Loughlin always writes novels with a compassion and a warmth that touches a chord with many. I have absolutely no doubt that My Mother’s Daughter will be another such book, as folk take the story of Margo and Cassie to their hearts.
Two mothers,
Two daughters,
Two families changed forever
Margo Clifford is grieving after the recent passing of her husband, Conor. Now rudderless, Margo is very unsure of the path her life will take. Her only daughter, Elsa, is her only motivation every day to put one foot in front of the other and carry on living. Conor died of cancer, taken too young , leaving all his dreams behind him, never fulfilled. Margo and Conor had chosen their home, Rathmoney House, a beautiful large estate house in Co. Wicklow, following a trip to Ireland some years before. They had wanted to leave the rat-race of modern life behind them with the intention of eventually opening a guest house and re cultivating the gardens to help with their plan of living a little less complicated life.
Now, Margo finds herself overwhelmed with the enormity of the road ahead and doubts her ability to keep their dream alive. The local neighbours, Jack and Ida Roper, have been very good to Margo since Conor’s passing, with Jack maintaining the land until she figures out what she intends doing.
‘She remembered the first day they had viewed this house. Conor had called it a magical place beside the river; the aspect beautiful….they’d known even before they stepped inside that this was going to be the place they called home….In such a short time, things had changed utterly at Rathmoney House. Conor’s dream of a guesthouse was still alive, but Conor was no more’
With the help of Ida, Margo begins to see some hope. Ida encourages Margo to continue with the idea of opening a guest house and over a short period of time they begin to get the house in order. Margo wonders if is it possible. Can she survive this major crisis in her life? Is there light at the end of the tunnel? Will the arrival of a very shocking letter put everything she has left, everything she holds dear, in jeopardy?
Cassandra Richards is an estate agent in Bowling Green, Ohio. With her marriage in disarray, Cassie is in turmoil. Charles had been the love of her life, her forever and after a time living in France, they returned home with a new baby, a little girl they named Tilly, and with a new life planned. Charles returned to his father’s car dealership and life was ok. But over the years Charles changed and Cassie could feel the distance between them.
‘She had let Charles go, hoping he would scratch whatever itch he had, then come back to her. When, after five days, she called at the car lot, she was told Charles was in New York; she knew then he was never going to return home. He was unapologetic when she rang him. “I’m calling it a day Cas. You know it hasn’t been right between us for a long time. I want out.”'
Now sitting in her attorney’s office, Cassie is informed that Charles is going to make this separation very difficult and ‘play hardball’ Cassie is distraught and upset at the demands Charles is making but refuses to lie down without a fight. Her work is now more important than ever to her but her concentration is no longer what it should be and she is not closing the sales. With the pressures of work and the pressures of single motherhood ahead, Cassie is stressed. When Charles drops the bombshell that he is now looking to have a paternity test to prove he actually is Tilly’s father, he unwittingly unleashes a chain of events that will eventually cross oceans and continents and will reek havoc on the lives of many.
My Mother’s Daughter is a fictional tale but the themes Ann O’ Loughlin writes about are all too real. Death, grief, serious illness, divorce, relationships, trust, stress are all an unfortunate part of many of our lives today. How we deal with these issues and how we move on is very much dependent on those we are surrounded by. For Ann O’ Loughlin, she writes about what she knows, female friendship, that wondrous network of support that comes into force for a woman when the chips are down. I always thoroughly enjoy the flow and the writing style of an Ann O’ Loughlin book but I did have a little niggle with some of the dialogue in this book. On some occasions it felt a little stilted, lacking in the emotion I felt the scene deserved. I would have wished for a little more warmth in some of the conversations that took place around these moments. There was also a relationship in the book that I felt was a little peculiar and I’m not so sure how necessary it was to the story.
My Mother’s Daughter is a very much a novel about the strength of the love a mother has for her daughter and it seriously challenges this love, asking how far would you go? Margo and Cassie are two mothers, two women who have suffered and who have major obstacles to overcome. Can they save themselves? Can they save their daughters?
Ann O’ Loughlin always writes novels with a compassion and a warmth that touches a chord with many. I have absolutely no doubt that My Mother’s Daughter will be another such book, as folk take the story of Margo and Cassie to their hearts.
May 15, 2019
My Mother’s Daughter is my first read by this author and it certainly won’t be my last.
Two mothers who love their daughters with everything they’ve got.
Two women trying hard to move on from heartbreak.
Two women who knows nothing of the others existence until fate intervenes.
This is a powerful read that gave me goosebumps while reading it. I was so engrossed in it everything around me
When I was in my early twenties I read quite a few books from Irish authors. This author will definitely be added to my favourite Irish authors.
Two mothers who love their daughters with everything they’ve got.
Two women trying hard to move on from heartbreak.
Two women who knows nothing of the others existence until fate intervenes.
This is a powerful read that gave me goosebumps while reading it. I was so engrossed in it everything around me
When I was in my early twenties I read quite a few books from Irish authors. This author will definitely be added to my favourite Irish authors.
April 25, 2021
Review also posted here: http://www.book-drunk.co.uk/2019/05/m...
I've been a big fan of Ann O'Loughlin ever since I read her debut novel The Ballroom Cafe back in 2015. Ann's books are emotional, moving and truly compelling and it is safe to say that her latest book, My Mother's Daughter, is no different.
At the beginning of the book, we meet two women who are going through some very tough times. In Ireland, we meet Margo. She is grieving after the death of her husband, Conor, and is crippled by loneliness. The one shining light in her life is her daughter, Elsa, but then a letter arrives and Margo is terrified that the contents may tear apart the lives of both her and Elsa.
In the USA, we meet Cassie. Cassie has just split up from Charles, her husband, who is refusing to pay for child support and is demanding a paternity test, leaving their daughter Tilly unhappily caught in the middle. For Cassie, the answer is obvious. She knows they were in love young and that Charles is 100% the father, so they get a paternity test done to prove this, except this one test sends Cassie and Tilly's lives into disarray.
Ann O'Loughlin never fails to produce thoroughly thought-provoking fiction and always creates realistic and authentic characters and from the moment I'd read the first couple of chapters and been introduced to Margo and Cassie, I knew that this was the case in My Mother's Daughter. Their stories are captivating and I absolutely loved reading how they intertwined. This story really brings home the love between a mother and her daughter and the unbreakable bonds between them and I really felt the warmth in the relationships between Margo and Elsa and Cassie and Tilly, despite the struggles life was throwing at them.
One thing I particularly loved about this book were the many themes delved into. Ann O'Loughlin is such an honest writer and her storytelling is so easy to become emotionally invested in. Ann's portrayal of grief, of mothers-and-daughters, of friendship and relationships, of all of these things is so genuine and encapsulating. In particular, for me, Margo's grief in this book is so believeable and I really felt for her because you can see how much losing her husband has affected her life. Living in the home she and Conor had loved so much, but living in it now without him, this has such an impact on Margo and how everything has changed yet around her it is exactly the same.
I had the odd little niggle with aspects to this book at times, such as the dialogue which I found sometimes didn't give justice to the scene. It's hard to explain without spoilers, but for me on occasions there were moments and scenes that were shocking or quite emotional but the dialogue didn't fully represent that. However, this is just a minor issue with a book that for the most part was wonderfully compelling and for me the best kind of books are the ones that make you think and My Mother's Daughter fit the bill quite beautifully.
Poignant and touching, the chapters vanished so quickly as I was reading My Mother's Daughter as I always wanted to know more and never could find the right time to put the book down. I read this in one afternoon as the writing flowed so effortlessly and the twists interweaved within the plot grabbed a hold of me until I simply had no other choice but to read to the end to see how things would turn out for Cassie and Margo and all the supporting characters who made this book so fascinating. They are not characters who are forgotten instantly when the last page is drawn - these characters and this story will stay with me for a long time.
I've been a big fan of Ann O'Loughlin ever since I read her debut novel The Ballroom Cafe back in 2015. Ann's books are emotional, moving and truly compelling and it is safe to say that her latest book, My Mother's Daughter, is no different.
At the beginning of the book, we meet two women who are going through some very tough times. In Ireland, we meet Margo. She is grieving after the death of her husband, Conor, and is crippled by loneliness. The one shining light in her life is her daughter, Elsa, but then a letter arrives and Margo is terrified that the contents may tear apart the lives of both her and Elsa.
In the USA, we meet Cassie. Cassie has just split up from Charles, her husband, who is refusing to pay for child support and is demanding a paternity test, leaving their daughter Tilly unhappily caught in the middle. For Cassie, the answer is obvious. She knows they were in love young and that Charles is 100% the father, so they get a paternity test done to prove this, except this one test sends Cassie and Tilly's lives into disarray.
Ann O'Loughlin never fails to produce thoroughly thought-provoking fiction and always creates realistic and authentic characters and from the moment I'd read the first couple of chapters and been introduced to Margo and Cassie, I knew that this was the case in My Mother's Daughter. Their stories are captivating and I absolutely loved reading how they intertwined. This story really brings home the love between a mother and her daughter and the unbreakable bonds between them and I really felt the warmth in the relationships between Margo and Elsa and Cassie and Tilly, despite the struggles life was throwing at them.
One thing I particularly loved about this book were the many themes delved into. Ann O'Loughlin is such an honest writer and her storytelling is so easy to become emotionally invested in. Ann's portrayal of grief, of mothers-and-daughters, of friendship and relationships, of all of these things is so genuine and encapsulating. In particular, for me, Margo's grief in this book is so believeable and I really felt for her because you can see how much losing her husband has affected her life. Living in the home she and Conor had loved so much, but living in it now without him, this has such an impact on Margo and how everything has changed yet around her it is exactly the same.
I had the odd little niggle with aspects to this book at times, such as the dialogue which I found sometimes didn't give justice to the scene. It's hard to explain without spoilers, but for me on occasions there were moments and scenes that were shocking or quite emotional but the dialogue didn't fully represent that. However, this is just a minor issue with a book that for the most part was wonderfully compelling and for me the best kind of books are the ones that make you think and My Mother's Daughter fit the bill quite beautifully.
Poignant and touching, the chapters vanished so quickly as I was reading My Mother's Daughter as I always wanted to know more and never could find the right time to put the book down. I read this in one afternoon as the writing flowed so effortlessly and the twists interweaved within the plot grabbed a hold of me until I simply had no other choice but to read to the end to see how things would turn out for Cassie and Margo and all the supporting characters who made this book so fascinating. They are not characters who are forgotten instantly when the last page is drawn - these characters and this story will stay with me for a long time.
May 22, 2019
This is a brilliant book for fans of Jodi Picoult or Susan Lewis who get right to the heart of matters which affect our lives-in their shoes, would you do the same?
The actions of one man, in America,who intends on making a divorce as nasty and bitter as possible b y demanding a paternity test, has ripples across the Atlantic affecting another family which has been decimated by grief.
The impossible situation becomes a fight to be a mother for both Margo and Cassie.
Ann O'Loughlin superbly creates 2 very different worlds which are literally, and figuratively, miles away in terms of lifestyle and content which are very believable. She does not judge the decisions that each woman makes, she lays their stories out for the reader to expereince and ask these questions of themselves. It is uplifting and heartwarming in the depiction of the lengths that mothers will go to for their children's sake and honestly, I am not easily moved to tears-literally my husband has taken to calling me Lady Stoneheart!-but this bookblogger needed mansize tissues before the end.
Thoroughly recommended for anyone who loves strong family stories and heartfelt reads.
The actions of one man, in America,who intends on making a divorce as nasty and bitter as possible b y demanding a paternity test, has ripples across the Atlantic affecting another family which has been decimated by grief.
The impossible situation becomes a fight to be a mother for both Margo and Cassie.
Ann O'Loughlin superbly creates 2 very different worlds which are literally, and figuratively, miles away in terms of lifestyle and content which are very believable. She does not judge the decisions that each woman makes, she lays their stories out for the reader to expereince and ask these questions of themselves. It is uplifting and heartwarming in the depiction of the lengths that mothers will go to for their children's sake and honestly, I am not easily moved to tears-literally my husband has taken to calling me Lady Stoneheart!-but this bookblogger needed mansize tissues before the end.
Thoroughly recommended for anyone who loves strong family stories and heartfelt reads.
April 19, 2022
Thanks for the recommendation Louise. Loss, love and redemption. A warming and pleasant read.
May 20, 2019
TWs: DEATH, TERMINAL ILLNESS, GRIEF
Two mothers,
Two daughters,
Two families changed forever
The characters:
The mothers: Margo and Cassie - from completely different worlds, but finding themselves in a very similar situation. The daughters: Elsa and Tilly - two girls who share a birthday and who's lives are about to change. Ida and Jack - The neighbours in Co. Wicklow who become part of the family for several reason, not least of which is their support of Margo and Elsa after their bereavement. There are several other characters who are important, as well, and contribute heavily to the plot, such as Cassie's husband (hated!!) and father (loved him).
The plot:
What a phenomenal story O'Loughlin has given us in this novel! I really loved this whole book. This is very much a story about how far a mother is willing to go to protect her daughter, and what sacrifices she makes along the way. Both mothers have been put into an impossible situation and are making the best of it as much as they can. The two women, Margo and Cassie, are very similar in that they are very strong, doing their best for their girls, and willing to do anything to protect that. When a detail comes to light that might change their entire lives, the both have very similar reactions. At first, I couldn't pin how the two storylines intersected, but when they finally did it was explosive! I can't really talk much about it without giving away spoilery details, but just believe me when I tell say you need to read this! I was shocked at how completely I was drawn in and made to feel like a bystander of their story. O'Loughlin has 100% become a favourite author!
Final thoughts:
This was a poignantly written story that explores so many themes in great detail. I loved Ann O'Loughlin's storytelling and writing style, so will absolutely be picking up another of her books some time soon. She had me in tears several times throughout the book, but it was so worth the read. Thank you, Ann!
Two mothers,
Two daughters,
Two families changed forever
The characters:
The mothers: Margo and Cassie - from completely different worlds, but finding themselves in a very similar situation. The daughters: Elsa and Tilly - two girls who share a birthday and who's lives are about to change. Ida and Jack - The neighbours in Co. Wicklow who become part of the family for several reason, not least of which is their support of Margo and Elsa after their bereavement. There are several other characters who are important, as well, and contribute heavily to the plot, such as Cassie's husband (hated!!) and father (loved him).
The plot:
What a phenomenal story O'Loughlin has given us in this novel! I really loved this whole book. This is very much a story about how far a mother is willing to go to protect her daughter, and what sacrifices she makes along the way. Both mothers have been put into an impossible situation and are making the best of it as much as they can. The two women, Margo and Cassie, are very similar in that they are very strong, doing their best for their girls, and willing to do anything to protect that. When a detail comes to light that might change their entire lives, the both have very similar reactions. At first, I couldn't pin how the two storylines intersected, but when they finally did it was explosive! I can't really talk much about it without giving away spoilery details, but just believe me when I tell say you need to read this! I was shocked at how completely I was drawn in and made to feel like a bystander of their story. O'Loughlin has 100% become a favourite author!
Final thoughts:
This was a poignantly written story that explores so many themes in great detail. I loved Ann O'Loughlin's storytelling and writing style, so will absolutely be picking up another of her books some time soon. She had me in tears several times throughout the book, but it was so worth the read. Thank you, Ann!
July 13, 2019
I wanted to like this book. I really, really did want to. I read all the way to the end expecting it to get better and really impress. It didn't. The writing, aside from the dialogue (which was almost entirely forced and awkward and totally unrealistic) was good but the story just plodded along until the last 75 pages where suddenly all sorts of stuff happened, none of which was given the attention it was due and some of which just didn't make any sense () Ugh. I don't mind the suspension of reality for fiction but come on. Margo's decision at the end baffled me and I don't think anything in the story supported her decision; I felt I had no idea why that was what she decided and where she was coming from. I thought all the waffling in the first 2/3rds of the book was really overdone. I get that there'd be a lot of anxiety and worry and distrust and going back and forth but I just found both of the adult women so tiresome on this front and that the real meaning behind what they were experiencing to be missed out because the story stayed focused on the surface worries. I couldn't recommend this book, honestly, and won't be in a rush to read more of her books.
May 14, 2019
This isn’t the genre of book that I usually find myself reading but I was intrigued and the details tugged at my heart strings.
I couldn’t imagine how such devastating events could be put in to a novel which could capture the true feelings and outrage. I was not disappointed!
My Mother’s Daughter is the most emotive book I have read in some time. Taking you through the trauma of death, the stress of DNA tests and what it means to love someone so deeply. This book has it all.
I couldn’t put it down. A story which I challenge anyone not to shed a tear or have your heart sink and even laugh out loud.
The characters are just perfect. I would like to say I have a favourite character but it is just so difficult to choose. The girls, Elsa and Tilly, are so brave. Going through so many traumatic events yet staying strong.
I would not normally read this genre but I have to say I am beyond impressed. Ann O’Loughlin’s writing draws you in so that you are hanging off of every word. I am physically shaking from the emotional rollercoaster she has created.
Writing is one thing but to be able to get the reader to feel like they are there and part of the story is just something else.
I recommend this to anyone no matter what genre you usually read. You will find it difficult to put down.
I couldn’t imagine how such devastating events could be put in to a novel which could capture the true feelings and outrage. I was not disappointed!
My Mother’s Daughter is the most emotive book I have read in some time. Taking you through the trauma of death, the stress of DNA tests and what it means to love someone so deeply. This book has it all.
I couldn’t put it down. A story which I challenge anyone not to shed a tear or have your heart sink and even laugh out loud.
The characters are just perfect. I would like to say I have a favourite character but it is just so difficult to choose. The girls, Elsa and Tilly, are so brave. Going through so many traumatic events yet staying strong.
I would not normally read this genre but I have to say I am beyond impressed. Ann O’Loughlin’s writing draws you in so that you are hanging off of every word. I am physically shaking from the emotional rollercoaster she has created.
Writing is one thing but to be able to get the reader to feel like they are there and part of the story is just something else.
I recommend this to anyone no matter what genre you usually read. You will find it difficult to put down.
July 26, 2019
I am giving this book one star purely based on the fact that it got published. By page 5 I was checking back to see if this booked had been published by a legitimate publisher. I am still stumped by the strange and random nonsensical strings of words included in the pages. If this can get published then I urge Dustin the Turkey to write a book... dreadful badly written dross. I actually kept at it albeit I pretty much skimmed the useless words filling up the pages with random nothingness.. to find something vaguely relevant to this bizarre story. EG.. Vince arrives at Rathmoney House. Margo opens the door - tells him he’s not expected until tomorrow. He tells her the airline messed up and gave him a better deal to fly out a day early but he doesn’t bother to phone and tell anyone. Why is Cassie having her eyebrows painted and wearing wigs...? Cassie could be on a climbing wall in a gym in Kerry and she she get to the top who’s there waving at her... Jack. The girl can’t move without Jack appearing around the corner waving at her. Early pages in book.. Margo devasted by grief.... - Ida “would you not open a BnB”. Margo through tears and snots immediately asks “but what would I feed them”. And I’ve no furniture. No problem says Ida let go shopping and next day they’re ordering up a storm!!! It’s is quite possibly the worst book I have ever read.
May 13, 2019
How to put into words my feelings on this wonderful book. Whatever I write I feel won’t be adequate enough. This is a tender novel on a heartbreaking subject and it’s one that will make you hug your children just a little bit harder. Margo and Cassie are both wonderful characters with a strength and resilience that shines from every page. But for me Ida was the strongest woman of them all and she was a joy to read.
The writing is so powerful that you feel grief and frustration alongside all of them. She has written characters from a young age to pensioners and they are all believable and authentic ( Becca only a small part but a very meaningful inclusion) .
The story should be depressing but I found it to be ultimately uplifting , showing that when times are tough it’s friendships that light up the dark. In each other they found their tribe and peace.
The writing is so powerful that you feel grief and frustration alongside all of them. She has written characters from a young age to pensioners and they are all believable and authentic ( Becca only a small part but a very meaningful inclusion) .
The story should be depressing but I found it to be ultimately uplifting , showing that when times are tough it’s friendships that light up the dark. In each other they found their tribe and peace.
January 13, 2019
ROLLERCOASTER EXTRAVAGANZA
Having read Ann's other books couldn't wait to read her new one from the first page I was totally captivated.
The story spans America Ireland and France it's a tragic tale of two women Cassie and margo who become amazing friends in later years with two daughters born on the same day a twisting tale that has laugh out loud moments and at the text turn you need lots of tissues
Totally brilliant plot loved every page I would highly recommend to friends and family it deserves more stars than I can give
Having read Ann's other books couldn't wait to read her new one from the first page I was totally captivated.
The story spans America Ireland and France it's a tragic tale of two women Cassie and margo who become amazing friends in later years with two daughters born on the same day a twisting tale that has laugh out loud moments and at the text turn you need lots of tissues
Totally brilliant plot loved every page I would highly recommend to friends and family it deserves more stars than I can give
May 15, 2019
My Mother’s Daughter is my first read by this author and it certainly won’t be my last.
Two mothers who love their daughters with everything they’ve got.
Two women trying hard to move on from heartbreak.
Two women who knows nothing of the others existence until fate intervenes.
This is a powerful read that gave me goosebumps while reading it. I was so engrossed in it everything around me
When I was in my early twenties I read quite a few books from Irish authors. This author will definitely be added to my favourite Irish authors.
Two mothers who love their daughters with everything they’ve got.
Two women trying hard to move on from heartbreak.
Two women who knows nothing of the others existence until fate intervenes.
This is a powerful read that gave me goosebumps while reading it. I was so engrossed in it everything around me
When I was in my early twenties I read quite a few books from Irish authors. This author will definitely be added to my favourite Irish authors.
June 12, 2019
This was the first book by the author I have read and I was very impressed. I did not want to put this one down and I loved her warmth and compassionate style of writing.
The story definitely tugged at the heartstrings and covered a wide range of topics from divorce to grief to serious illness but the overwhelming themes were those of a mother’s love and the strength of female friendship for me.
I really enjoyed this story and raced through it, desperate to pick it up whenever I could and I think most readers will feel the same. Will be keeping an eye out for more from this author.
The story definitely tugged at the heartstrings and covered a wide range of topics from divorce to grief to serious illness but the overwhelming themes were those of a mother’s love and the strength of female friendship for me.
I really enjoyed this story and raced through it, desperate to pick it up whenever I could and I think most readers will feel the same. Will be keeping an eye out for more from this author.
March 28, 2020
I normally love her books story takes off at beginning and you dont want leave it This was case here BUT part 2 it seemed dragged out and i was beginning to loose interest. But persisted sticking with it. It picked.up again but it could have been shorted. I loved the judges wife it was engrosing whole way through.
April 8, 2019
An quick and easy read. Made better as currently staying down the road from where the story is set (Greystones, Ireland)
November 14, 2019
Brilliant
I have read all Ann O’Loughlin books and this book is a real page turner and tear jerker. Great story line that had me hooked from the first page!
I have read all Ann O’Loughlin books and this book is a real page turner and tear jerker. Great story line that had me hooked from the first page!
June 23, 2020
Another really good story from this author with a lot of twists and turns. Also characters that you can really relate to. It's a bittersweet tale but one I couldn't put down.
August 16, 2020
I just couldnt finish it as it was too close to home, being l have a kidney disease and starting the tranplant process
January 9, 2021
This book is a must read, I laughed and I cried, I rejoiced and I grieved.
January 25, 2021
The ending was predictable and felt rushed. The first part of the book was better quality writing
March 5, 2021
All in all quite enjoyable. I did wonder about some of the choices the author made regarding the characters
July 28, 2021
Very good loved hearing about Elsa and Tilly abs their lives
March 15, 2022
2 women,1american, 1 Irish, both give birth in France 12 years earlier. 1 now a widow, the other going for divorce, husband wants a paternity test . Read on to find out what happens..............
January 10, 2025
Need the tissues for this book it was a lovely read even with sad bits I don't know what I would have done in similar circumstances
July 3, 2021
This book was such a heartache. The emotions were really intense and I just felt like I was there living it all.
The book is nicely written and there are enough twists to be fully engrossed in the books along the way.
The people feel so real, almost too real that I often thought that this was a true story.
It's such a nice book and absolutely loved reading it.
The book is nicely written and there are enough twists to be fully engrossed in the books along the way.
The people feel so real, almost too real that I often thought that this was a true story.
It's such a nice book and absolutely loved reading it.
April 15, 2019
An absolutely stunning novel that had me gripped from the first pages. I've been a fan of Ann O'Loughlin since her first book and she simply never disappoints. My Mother's Daughter tells the story of Margo and Cassie, their daughters and the discovery of a connection they never knew existed. I absolutely loved this book, O'Loughlin has a beautiful way with words and keeps the reader captivated from start to finish. The plot is engrossing and the characters are endearing.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC
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