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Burying the past only delays the inevitable.

Sarah Cartwright is on the cusp of having it all—a new baby, a devoted partner, and a great job as a political campaign director. However, Sarah’s return to the office after maternity leave finds her powerful position assigned to someone else, and Sarah didn’t work hard for years just so she could observe from the sidelines.

As her dreams threaten to crash and burn around her, the lies she’s built her life upon are exposed. Smears that put her entire career on the brink are splashed across news headlines, and caught between a new boss, backstabbing co-workers, and a wary partner, Sarah can’t be certain who to trust.

When bodies start to drop and the police show up on her doorstep, the past can no longer stay hidden.

All sins are punished one day.

346 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 31, 2019

204 people are currently reading
155 people want to read

About the author

Jo Crow

30 books135 followers
Jo Crow crafts chilling psychological thrillers that delve into the shadows of everyday life, where dark secrets and twisted motives lurk just beneath the surface. Her stories capture the eerie tension of family life, where the familiar can suddenly become dangerous.

When she’s not writing, Jo is a mom of two, often drawing inspiration from the unpredictability of parenthood. She enjoys curling up with a good thriller, taking her golden retriever on misty evening walks, and imagining the hidden fears that keep us awake at night.

Connect with Jo on Facebook, visit her website, or sign up for her mailing list for exclusive sneak peeks and updates.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Joyce Stewart Reviews.
566 reviews44 followers
February 11, 2020
A Mother's Sins
by Jo Crow
Publication date: October 31, 2019
373 pages
Description :
Sarah Cartwright is on the cusp of having it all—a new baby, a devoted partner, and a great job as a political campaign director. However, Sarah’s return to the office after maternity leave finds her powerful position assigned to someone else, and Sarah didn’t work hard for years just so she could observe from the sidelines. As her dreams threaten to crash and burn around her, the lies she’s built her life upon are exposed. Smears that put her entire career on the brink are splashed across news headlines, and caught between a new boss, backstabbing co-workers, and a wary partner, Sarah can’t be certain who to trust. When bodies start to drop and the police show up on her doorstep, the past can no longer stay hidden.
😎 My Review 😎
Having read all of this authors books I was so happy to hear she had another new book out.
The last two books have been good ,just not been as good as her first books.

While I did enjoy the story I found it to be very confusing. Two of the main characters share a name. It was really hard to tell who was who at times. Told in two parts now and then with parts of the story moving so slow I found myself losing interest a lot. I was also able to figure the big "twist" out very early on which was a total downer for me. There was also a lot that just seemed way to unrealistic . With all of that being said the plot was so intriguing it kept me turning the pages. Looking forward to reading her next book .

Thank you to NetGalley , the publisher and author for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Cath.
950 reviews17 followers
November 11, 2019
The main character in this book is called Sarah Cartwright and that is where part of the confusion from the start of the book begins. The book starts with memories of different characters, or are they the same person, this is what you have to try and work out for yourself. The storyline goes back and forth from events in the past and events in the now and then. A person born and named Sarah, by a young mother, is given up for adoption.

Years later, we have a character called Sarah, who has just had a baby and returns to her important and busy job as a campaign manager, after three months maternity leave and not a minute more, as any more would be unpaid and the campaign is also coming to a close and she needs to get back asap. When she gets to work, she finds her post has been given to someone else, a pretty woman called Janette, after her deputy couldn’t manage the pressure of the job. No-one had bothered to contact Sarah, thinking her too busy with her new baby!

She is faced with either taking a demotion, or having no job at all. Her boyfriend would be quite happy if she stayed home with the baby, but she can’t give up what she has worked so many years to attain and refuses to give up. She refuses to get married, having worries over trust issues and such a commitment. But, that is just where the weirdness starts to happen. Inappropriate photographs of her with the political candidate are given to the press. They are years old, but put him in a bad position so close to the election date. Her partner believes her, but her colleagues are viewing her very differently.

It is suggested she take a completely different and even lower role, away from the campaign office, but that doesn’t stop the trouble following her. More photographs are uncovered, again putting her in a bad light and shortly after, the reporter who was going to smear her further with these lies, dies in suspicious circumstances. More deaths follow and now Sarah finds herself being questioned as a possible suspect.

Whether this may have anything to do with the secrets she has kept for over twenty years, from just before the sudden death of her mother, is to be uncovered in bits and pieces. She has changed her life and has lied to many about her earlier years and hasn’t even been truthful to her own partner about her family past or even what really happened to her mother. Every year at the anniversary of her mother’s death, she gets very upset and worked up and refuses to talk about things with friends or her partner. She has a secret storage room with past belongings and a box of things from her mother, including her belongings at her time of death.

A strange read and certainly has a good few twists in the storyline. Who is the Sarah who was adopted? Is it the Sarah of the main tale and how does this mix with what starts to happen to Sarah? Part of the surprise was easy to figure out, but if you think the same, there will still be a few more surprises to come that will totally throw you! Once you get past the first few confusing chapters, the story opens up as a crime style novel, with links to one person, but it is obvious to the reader that she is not responsible. If it hadn’t been quite so confusing with the characters to start, it would have been a bit easier to read, which leaves me marking it down slightly.

I received an ARC copy of this book and I have clearly given my own opinion of the book above.
Profile Image for Rose.
3,106 reviews73 followers
November 4, 2019
A Mother's Sins by Jo Crow was an easy, quick read. It is about Sarah Cartwright, who seemingly has a perfect life. She is with a man who loves her completely, a sweet new baby, and a job she enjoys. But, she is hiding things about her past from Brad, her boyfriend. He wants to marry her, but she is holding back, afraid that if he knows the truth about her, he will leave her.
When Sarah returns to work as the campaign manager for an aspiring gubernatorial candidate, Bill, she finds that she has been replaced by Janette. Sarah doesn't trust Janette, but as time goes by, she lets Janette into her life more completely. As things start to go wrong around Sarah, she is reminded of times in her childhood that she wasn't perfect.
The book is told in 2 parts - now and then, and alternates between them. Sarah admits to things that happened when she was a teenager in the "THEN" scenarios, and you start to wonder about her. But, then there is a big reveal about halfway into the book, and then everything makes sense. There are lots of passages that lead you to believe one way, but I was hesitant to believe them because it just was too neat. After the reveal, I knew I was correct to not be fooled by where the author was trying to lead me.
There were a few things that I thought were suspect in this novel, but all in all, it was a solid book.
I was a bit surprised at the depth of forgiveness and caring at the end, but I am not sure how I would react if I were in that situation. I would hope that my heart would be as open.
I received a copy of this from Booksprout, but my opinions of the book are my own, and entirely voluntary.
285 reviews7 followers
December 27, 2019
Preface: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I have slightly mixed feelings about this book. Overall, it was not an unpleasant read. There was nothing gross or offensive. However, it does overstay its welcome a bit. There is a point where the main character stumbles onto some key information, and in my opinion, this is where the twist should have been revealed. Instead, she has to leave town to pursue this lead and try to figure things out on her own. This poorly impacts the pacing, since by now the reader is already aware of the twist, and is just waiting for the main character to catch up.

The main character is also honestly kind of stupid at certain points. She suspects another character in particular, and goes hard on that belief, even when it stops making sense. She acts in ways that are suuuper suspicious to the police, and really don't help her declaration of her innocence.

All that being said, this book isn't bad by any means. In addition to the actual plot, which is mostly handled well (the timing of the twist reveal is perfect, as it's just when you start to figure it out on your own, and it perfectly addresses one big complaint I was going to have), it does kind of touch on the theme of a woman having to choose between her career and her family, which I found interesting. And the ending is surprisingly heartwarming - big points for the way the main character ends up handling everything. If you're interested in thrillers and the like, you might enjoy this - just be aware of its shortcomings.
180 reviews
November 8, 2019
Well-written, excellent book. 'A Mother's Sins' was an original, solid tale that didn't get mired down in the muck of political campaigning nor investigative details. It moved at a quick pace and the characterizations were marvelous.

Overall, I really liked this book, however, I would have loved this book if the author would have been a little stingier with the clues. Fairly early on in the book, it was easy to discern how things were going to shake out. IMO, with some creative subterfuge, the potential was there to add some significant shock value to the plot twist. But, in all honesty, it is still a very minor issue.

This was the second title that I have read from this author, and I have to say, I was certainly glad I gave her work another try. I noticed a significant change in the writing style. The prose was clean, tight, and succinct—perfect for this genre. Great book. Give it a go.

Thank you to NetGalley, Relay Publishing, and Jo Crow for an Arc of 'A Mother's Sins' in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Henriette.
920 reviews13 followers
November 26, 2019
This was the second Jo Crow book that I have read and both from The Secrets of Suburbia series and I LOVED both!

This book for some reason had less of a suburb feeling to it, less soccer mom and more struggling working mom.
The book is a little confusing as it switches between Then and Now, at both times the main character is called Sarah, but the Sarah then does not seem to match with the Sarah Now. I didn't like the Sarah then all that much. She may have had it had, but she was a cold b*tch. The Sarah now is very likeable. A new mom, just returning to work, only her first day back it seems she has been replaced. On the homefront things are also rather tense as her boyfriend and father of her daughter keeps proposing, and Sarah keeps putting him off. Anyways... as the story carries on it seems someone is out to ruin Sarah (Now) both her political career and at home, but why?

Great read and would definitely recommend it to anyone that enjoys a good pyschological thriller with some twists here and there.
Profile Image for Irida.
105 reviews
November 6, 2019
I have read The first book is this series from Jo Crow, “A Mother’s Lie “ and absolutely loved it. This one a bit less as the plot started out very interesting and got me really hooked but then there were events that make a bit too unrealistic for me and at times the storyline was too slow and I was losing interest and then gaining interest again. I wish I had paid more attention to the emails that offered me the ARC’s in this series. However, so many books to read and such little time. But I definitely will not miss another one again. I am happy that I read this one to get me back on track with Ms. Crow!



I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,221 reviews4 followers
November 6, 2019
Sarah has a perfect life - a beautiful new baby, a terrific boyfriend who wants forever with her, a high-powered career. But she's hiding big secrets from her past. When she returns from maternity leave to find out that her position has been given to someone less qualified, her life begins to unravel, and with it, her secrets. This entire book is just wow! The author manages to plant seeds of doubt along the way, making you believe that something is going on, then yanks the rug out from under you by sending the plot in an entirely different direction. By the end of the book, the answers are a complete surprise, and yet not really.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
6,021 reviews45 followers
November 6, 2019
The biggest sins of their mother were to have two daughters, giving one away, and giving the second the same name.

Lying baby daddies, extended family that does whatever they can to keep children from their mother just because they can, pawns in a war not of their choosing, poor children.

Finding and hanging onto the most real elements of family life, very difficult.


Intense drama

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Pat Eroh.
2,618 reviews32 followers
November 15, 2019
This story was a bit strong for me but in all honesty, it is too good to ignore. There are so many of us women who try to do it all and sometimes it is build on fragile lies. The story is compelling and the writing, as always by this author, is amazing. So I still recommend it if you can get past some of the language.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nan Christine  Borton-Smith.
555 reviews12 followers
February 22, 2021
Jo Crow is back.....

I can’t imagine writing a book, putting it out there for people to read and critique let alone a series. In this series there have been a few stories, that in my opinion, could have been a lot better ..BUT Jo hits it out with the park with the 5th (or 6th???) book in the series, with lots of twists and turns, and great characters.
Saras story was interesting, imaginative without being too farcical and consistent.
NCB


Profile Image for Eileen Patterson.
170 reviews22 followers
February 28, 2021
Good Book

This was a good book. It's frustrating, like all Jo Crow's books are, because the plot has lots of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing, and I figured out the twist and then had to spend like a hundred pages pulling my hair out while I waited for the characters in the book to get it, too. I'm glad I read it though. I think this might actually be my favorite JoCrow novel yet.
Profile Image for Sharon.
278 reviews
November 6, 2019
Excellent psychological drama. This book takes the reader deeply into the heart and mind of a woman faced with many life-changing events and how each facet of her past, present and future intertwine to create unimaginable consequences. Highly recommend!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Profile Image for Heather W.
4,065 reviews35 followers
November 6, 2019
A Mother's Sins is an interesting psychological suspense story. Sarah's past comes back to haunt her as she is faced with the ugly truth once again. Who can she trust when people are dying and the police suspect her. This is a well-written story with drama, intrigue, death, and violence.

I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
1,014 reviews11 followers
November 7, 2019
This is my second Book by this author and I thoroughly enjoy a good psychological thriller and this one hits the spot! Sarah has it all but secrets are buried deep in her past and threaten her now ‘perfect ‘ life. Told in two timelines (then and now) this is a fast paced, quick read and I will certainly read another!
10.8k reviews125 followers
November 8, 2019
This is the 3rd book I've read written by Jo Crow; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.

The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.

I loved the chemistry between the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
2,416 reviews
November 13, 2019
I enjoyed reading A Mother’s Sins by Jo Crow. The story kept me drawn in and interested throughout. I found the storyline and characters well written. I’m looking forward to reading more by Jo Crow. I recommend reading this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kelly.
245 reviews4 followers
November 21, 2019
I enjoyed A Mother’s Sins the story kept me interested throughout. I found the storyline and characters well written, As I started the book I was too sure about the plot but after chapter 2 the story had me captivated. Psychological thriller that plays with your mind even when you figure out where the story is heading
208 reviews8 followers
February 16, 2020
This is my second book by this author. I liked the first and liked this one even more! It got me right from the beginning and I didn't want to put it down. Even though I found it easy to figure out who was behind all the bad things happening to Sarah I still enjoyed reading how it all unfolded. Will definitely continuing reading more Jo Crow
2 reviews
August 17, 2021
My first read by this author .

Brilliant storyline kept me enthralled all the time ,made me think of how I would have approach ed the situation if it happened ed to me ,also makes you realise how important it is to know something of your family history even if at times it can be sad or hurtful .Look forward to reading further no is by this author.
Profile Image for Kelly.
245 reviews4 followers
October 28, 2022
I enjoyed A Mother’s Sins the story kept me interested throughout. I found the storyline and characters well written, As I started the book I was too sure about the plot but after chapter 2 the story had me captivated. Psychological thriller that plays with your mind even when you figure out where the story is heading
Profile Image for Diane.
1,005 reviews37 followers
November 5, 2019
This is a steady paced thriller with a surprise twist. This book kept me guessing on who could and couldn't be trusted with some "you've got to be kidding" moments in there.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Cristie Underwood.
2,270 reviews63 followers
November 5, 2019
This is part of a series and i hadn't read any of the other titles, but I didn't feel like I was missing anything by only reading this book. The suspense was plentiful and the writing was excellent. The only part that I didn't enjoy was the ending, as I do not believe many would forgive as easily.
Profile Image for Bev.
3,271 reviews98 followers
November 7, 2019
A mother's adopted daughter finds her and a sister. This is a secret the mother does not want out there. There is a lot going on in this book. Some things I saw coming, some I did not. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Booksprout and Hidden Gems.
Profile Image for MeWriter.
847 reviews14 followers
November 8, 2019
Very good psychological thriller about the hard choices we make and the lies we tell that impact far and wide in ways we could never predict. This was an easy read with surprises and a huge twist that will keep you reading all the way to the end!
1,989 reviews23 followers
November 23, 2019
Enjoyable

One could say this is a story of a twisted way to show love. Or it could be a case of jealous and revenge. Then again it also speaks of a traumatic childhood that was screaming for recognition and help. Which ever way you look at it you should enjoy this quick read.
Profile Image for Dee Kendall.
537 reviews9 followers
November 7, 2019
Excellent book! As all by this author, keeps you guessing, and reading. I couldn't put it down.
Profile Image for Marilyn Parker.
46 reviews
January 4, 2020
Intriguing

Pulled me in right from the start. Full of twists and keeps you guessing through out the story. Highly recommended
Profile Image for Pam Devine.
586 reviews11 followers
January 11, 2020
After a fairly slow start this book grew and grew on me and I couldn't put it down by the end. Recommended.
32 reviews
May 24, 2020
Love!!

This book had me hooked from the very beginning. The twists, storyline, character's are perfect. I can't wait to start the next book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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