Mothers and Daughters

by Erica James

A sweeping family drama of old secrets and new beginnings…

‘A satisfying treat’ Adele Parks, Platinum




‘A compelling family drama’ Sarah Morgan




‘Wise and warm with plenty of twists and turns’ Rachel Hore




‘Emotional and uplifting’ Veronica Henry




‘Captivating and vivid’ Miranda Dickinson



Even happy families have their secrets…
Anchor House is the coastal home where Naomi and her husband raised their two girls. Now widowed, Naomi is building a new life alone, but the arrival of Ellis next door is bringing some long-awaited fun back too.


Naomi’s daughters are very different: Martha is determined and driven like her father, while Willow is a free spirit. The three women have always been close, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have secrets of their own. There are things Naomi has kept from her girls, like the fact that her marriage to their father wasn’t quite what it seemed…


The Sunday Times bestselling author Erica James returns with this gloriously compelling tale of mothers and daughters, secrets and love.



Praise for Mothers and Daughters:



‘A beautifully written story that examines the wonderful intimacy between mothers and daughters … a satisfying treat’ Adele Parks, Platinum


‘A brilliant read. A compelling family drama, full of twists and turns. Completely absorbing’ Sarah Morgan


‘Wise and warm with plenty of twists and turns, you'll love this engrossing family story’ Rachel Hore


‘A wonderfully compelling family drama that deftly touches upon some serious issues’ Sunday Express


‘You’ll be swept away then brought gently back to harbour in this beautiful portrait of a family and its multigenerational secrets. Emotional and uplifting, it unfolds in the most glorious coastal setting’ Veronica Henry


‘Glorious … a real treat’ Sunday Post


‘Surprising and reassuringly wise, captivating and vivid, beautiful and authentic … I adored this book’ Miranda Dickinson


‘Deliciously immersive … tracing the complex emotions and dangerous undercurrents that lie beneath the deceptively smooth surface of family life’ Iona Grey


‘A brilliant and gripping family drama … full of heart’ My Weekly


‘A captivating read’ OK!

Genres: Fiction, Romance, Roman, Contemporary, Audiobook, Family, Womens Fiction

448 pages, Paperback

Published May 2, 2023

About the author

With an insatiable appetite for other people's business, Erica James will readily strike up conversation with strangers in the hope of unearthing a useful gem for her writing. She finds it the best way to write authentic characters for her novels, although her two grown-up sons claim they will never recover from a childhood spent in a perpetual state of embarrassment at their mother's compulsion.

The author of nineteen bestselling novels, and the winner of the 2006 Romantic Novel of the Year Award, Erica divides her time between Suffolk and Lake Como in Italy.

Reviews

[Ellie Spencer (catching up from hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an easy book to read, and the setting made it a perfect summer read to get stuck into!

Mothers and Daughters follows Mum Naomi, her two grown up daughters Martha and Willow, and their partners. Martha and Willow are completely different from each other. Will their differences separate them or can they come together when they need each other most?

I absolutely loved the beach house setting that was part of this book. It made me want to pack up straight away so I could feel the sand and hear the waves. James created such a wonderfully vivid atmosphere that is perfect for the warmer months! I loved that each chapter swapped between different points of view. Although the POV’s weren’t clearly labelled, it didn’t take me long to figure out who each chapter was dedicated to. I particularly loved Willow’s chapters as I felt quite an affinity to her.

This book manages to tackle some important topics in a sensitive manner. I didn’t quite expect such difficult things to be bought up when I had seen the cover! Although nothing particularly surprised me, I still thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I also came away with a renewed appreciation for my own mum, and how lucky I am to have her! James’ writing is seamless and beautiful to read. The characters were all quite different but special in their own ways. The changes shown in the daughters towards the end of the book moved me so much. I love it when characters grow as a novel progresses and this book was a wonderful example of that. This certainly won’t be my last book by James.

As a warning for those who struggle with it, the death of animals is mentioned in this book. I want to thank Netgalley, HQ Publishers, and Erica James for allowing me to read this book and give my personal thoughts.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Siblings Martha and Willow couldn’t be more different – chalk and cheese they’d always been told, especially by their father. Now with Colin having died of a heart attack two years prior, Naomi, the girls’ mother, was getting on with her life at Tilsham, where she could hear the waves, walk on the shore and enjoy the scenery from the home she loved and where the girls had grown up. Martha was trying desperately to become pregnant to her husband Tom. They loved each other dearly and balanced one another out, with Martha being pedantic, sensible, prone to organizing everything, and Tom happy to cook and care for her when she needed it. While Willow had always had great empathy, was a good listener and had no ambitions other than to enjoy life. When she met Rick, it seemed she had finally met the man of her dreams…

When Naomi bumped into Ellis, a man she’d known through university, their rekindling of friendship was immediate. He’d moved into a cottage next door to Naomi to be nearer his mother who was in care and not expected to last much longer. Naomi and Ellis found they enjoyed one another’s company, laughing and reminiscing over the past. But Martha – especially Martha – wasn’t happy to see this new man in her mother’s life. It was too soon in her opinion, although Tom tried to temper her irritation. As emotions ran hot, and tempers flared, the discomfort which ran through the family was damaging. What would be the outcome for this family – this mother and her daughters? Would things right themselves; would they make their peace with one another?

Mothers and Daughters is another excellent read from the pen of Erica James. I was so involved, I was talking to the characters, telling them what they should or shouldn’t do! I wasn’t too fussed on Martha to start with, but she grew on me – Willow was a delight, although she let herself be walked over. And Naomi was pretty much perfect – secrets and all! Mothers and Daughters is a novel I highly recommend.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this one first read by Erica James love the cover made me feel like I was at the beach 🏖 the plot line drew me in & couldn’t put down, my favourite character was Willow Naomi’s youngest daughter she was sassy had a mind of her own & did her own thing, her oldest sister Martha was practical, efficient two sisters completely opposites.

This book is about family, looking out for one another,
Naomi is hiding a secret she doesn’t want revealed a perfect read for those who like family dramas, there were subjects mentioned in this book that were handled delicately by the author I did have a few problems following the narratives by both daughters but figured it out quickly a solid 4 ⭐️

[Karren Sandercock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naomi Miller lives in the English village of Tilsham, her beautiful garden leads down onto the beach and her property is called Anchor House. Naomi’s husband Colin passed way two years ago, and she has two adult daughters Martha and Willow.

Martha is her eldest daughter and she’s married to Tom Adams and has a successful marketing career. Martha’s very much like her father, a high achiever, determined and a perfectionist. Martha and Tom want to start a family, after months of trying, she’s still not pregnant and Martha’s feeling very stressed.

Willow is the opposite of her older sister, she’s currently working as a telemarketer and didn’t finish university. Her father found her annoying as a child, she was too sensitive and Martha was his favorite. Willow’s new boyfriend Rick Falconer is charming, he has a good job and an immaculate apartment. Her father would approve of Rick, Willow’s not sure if she and Rick are really suited, she has a more laid back and casual approach to life.

Ellis Ashton moves into Waterside Cottage next door to Naomi, and they have been dating for two months. Naomi doesn’t know how to tell her daughters about Ellis, especially Martha, she was very close to her father and she won’t be happy. Naomi has always kept aspects of her marriage to Colin private, she’s never told anyone what really went on behind closed doors and now is the time. Martha and Ellis both have their doubts about Rick, unfortunately it’s a case of history repeating itself, Naomi needs to protect Willow and she must tell her daughters the truth about their father and they will be shocked.

A captivating story about a mother’s relationship with her two daughters, to protect them she has kept secrets and her daughters now understanding their mother is a free and independent woman, she has every right to live where she chooses, start a new relationship and fall in love.

I received a copy of Mothers and Daughters from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review, this is the first book I have read by Erica James, and it won’t be my last and five stars from me.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KarrenReadsH...

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a compelling and fabulous story about relationships and life and what mothers will do to protect their children, I loved it from start to finish, it was a hard book to put down and what a beautiful setting, a beautiful cottage Anchor House on the coast of a small English village Tilsham. We get to meet Naomi and her daughters Martha and Willow, this is a moving and emotional story and so beautifully told.

Naomi’s husband Colin passed away suddenly two years ago and life has moved on well for Naomi she has settled into life on her own in her beautiful home by the sea and has her daughters and friends and is very happy.

Martha is the eldest daughter happily married to Tom she has a fabulous job, she is organized and always in control of her life, she is very much like her father. She and Tom are trying for a baby but things are not going as Martha planned and this is causing a little stress for her.

Willow is easy going, caring and loving and just ambles through life changing jobs and boyfriends, her father found that so frustrating and was very open to letting her know that she needed to make some plans and be more like Martha. Willow has a new boyfriend Rick who at first everyone thinks is just what Willow needs in her life, even her father would approve of Rick but Willow is not sure if he is the right guy.

Mother and daughters are very close and talk often but when Naomi meets her new neighbour, Ellis who is actually an old friend and more, Naomi decides that now is the time to move forward, a new Naomi and that includes having Ellis by her side. Martha has other ideas and wants her mother to sell her home and move closer to the girls, this causes some major problems with the normal flow of family life with them.

Emotions boil over with these woman and soon there are secrets being told that Naomi had kept a long time about her husband, their father, add to this the stress with trying to fall pregnant for Martha and what is happening to Willow, this story becomes very emotional but a story that is told beautifully with care and thought, it takes in issues that are very prevalent in today’s world. The characters are so real, the author has bought them to life on the pages. Really this is an awesome story one that I would highly recommend I can’t praise it enough, it is the first book from Erica James that I have read but it won’t be the last.

My thanks to Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review

[Dale Harcombe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since her husband Colin died a couple of years ago, Naomi has quietly rebuilt her life in Anchor House in the coastal village of Tilsham. She has reconnected with Ellis, who she knew during uni. Romance has blossomed between them but what will her two daughters think?
Naomi is a lovely character as are Ellis, his stepson Lucas and Tom, Martha’s husband. Willow is sweet but had always been considered to be lacking in many areas by her recently dead father Colin and sister Martha. Martha is a most abrasive personality but she is far from the most obnoxious character in this story. Two others take that title. Martha is bossy and controlling. But the one thing she has no control over is falling pregnant despite having been married ten months and both her and Tom keen for children. By contrast for the first time Willow has a boyfriend in Rick, who her family approve of as charming, steady and dependable. But Willow is not prepared for the changes that comes into her life. Secrets emerge from more than one person. What will they do to family dynamics?
Erica James is a go to author for me, so I was keen to read this one. I was not disappointed. It hooked me in right from the start. I was right there with Naomi and her family. This one certainly pushed a lot of emotional buttons, anger and outrage, tears and smiles. One of those books I never wanted to have to put down. A highly recommended read for all who like family stories with a side issue of romance. Or just a great story well told. Some important social issues covered in a sensitive manner. I adored this book and wholeheartedly recommend it as a tremendous read.

[Rachel (not currently receiving notifications) Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mothers and Daughter is both a compelling and hugely relatable family drama centred around recently widowed sixty-three-year-old Naomi and her thirty-something adult daughters, Martha and Willow, as they move forward with their lives. Just over two years ago, Naomi’s husband, Colin, and the father of both her daughters, died suddenly leaving her a widow in the Tilsham cottage the family once shared. Having rebuilt her life and reconnected by random chance with Ellis, a friend from university, Naomi is ready to start afresh but worried about both her daughter’s reaction to a new man, especially that of Martha who idolised her father. The truth of the marriage and the real man behind Colin’s bonhomie is something that Naomi has kept from both her daughters, but as Martha and Naomi each meet Ellis, they are harbouring concerns of their own..

Martha is married to Tom and she is her father’s daughter; driven, determined and efficient with a master’s degree and a successful career. She was also her father’s clear favourite whilst younger and more empathetic sister, Willow, was happy to drift along. Having decided the time is right for a baby, Martha is dismayed that after ten months of trying she still hasn’t conceived and it’s starting to feel like failure to a woman driven by perfectionism. The arrival of Ellis has also put a spanner in the works of her plans for Naomi to move closer and be a hands-on grandparent. Easy-going drifter, Willow, has finally met a new boyfriend in Rick, whom her family seem to approve of, so why doesn’t she too feel convinced by his obvious overtures to settle down?

This was my first read of an Erica James book and I was impressed with the emotionally powerful storylines and how grounded in reality the whole story proved to be, along with how well-drawn and flawed the characters were. The stories of all three women are woven together superbly and although the overall tone of the novel is heartwarming, they each face plenty of adversity along the way which affect them at an individual level and change the dynamic between them all. Each chapter is written from the perspective of an individual character and this allows the reader to get to know, and understand, the dilemmas they are each facing and their opinions on the unfolding dramas. The novel never strayed into twee territory despite the reader feeling relatively safe in the knowledge of an ultimately happy ending, regardless of the upheaval along the way. I can’t say I was surprised by any of the outcomes but although I usually demand a little more intrigue I was happy to sit back and indulge in a very readable and engaging story. Although I had several minor niggles, one in particular relating to the far too convenient disposal of a nuisance character that felt lazy, I was impressed with the storytelling ability of Erica James and would happily read more about these characters or another of her books.

[Martina Fraňová (fandomky) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5*

[Alayne Emmett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so pleased to be approved to read this book as in the past I used to read every new Erica James book that came out. Unfortunately I drifted away and missed out on her most recent ones. This one just kept in delivering, it had everything I enjoy in a book, sadness and happiness and a happy ending. Now I’ve read this one I’m going to try and read the ones I’ve missed plus re-read the others I haven’t. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a captivating story that I really enjoyed. It’s my first read from James and I hope it won’t be my last, because this book was such a good novel. I liked James’ story-telling, exploring the connections between three women that goes beyond just being mother and daughter.

Each of the characters are unique and I liked how the writer created such diverse identities. Despite being sisters, Willow and Martha are opposites in how they live their life and what gives them enjoyment. However, they are both miserable and have inward struggles that they find difficult to cope with. For Martha, it is the challenge of falling pregnant; Willow, on the other hand, feels trapped in a new relationship and wonders if she should settle with Rick because of everyone else’s approval. This disparity between the siblings is reflected in their terse relationship, made even more strained when their mother reveals some secrets of her own.

I really liked Naomi’s character and how she is enjoying life, despite being widowed for several years. Rekindling her friendship with Ellis encourages her to acknowledge that her marriage was not as perfect as everyone would seem. Therefore, this spark she has with Ellis is symbolic of a new start; an excitement and happiness that ironically is missing from her daughters lives. I was really rooting for Naomi and understood the choices she makes over the novel. On reflection, I think it is quite interesting that an older character in the story connected with me the most. Perhaps because Naomi is presented as so caring and selfless, in contrast to Willow and Martha’s sometimes selfish or erratic behaviours.

Over the story, more parallels are established between the three women. The insecurity in relationships and hidden secrets means that the women are more connected than they realise, even when Willow and Martha are opposed to Naomi’s connection with Ellis. Furthermore, events that happen in the novel link to Naomi’s past and I think this makes the family even closer still.

I loved the setting of Tilsham and Naomi’s house. It sounded so peaceful and idyllic! Although the story does not fully take place by the coast, scenes at Naomi’s house always felt shrouded in a calmness that I could never feel with Willow and Martha’ story. I think this symbolises the different pace of life that the characters lead and reinforces Naomi’s more laid-back approach to decisions. Indeed, with Ellis by her side, they seem content to garden, appreciate their surroundings, and help out with village life. It sounds like bliss.

As the story developed, I grew to like the characters more and more. I could not foresee how the story would progress and liked how the narrative shifted mostly between the three women. It was a lovely family drama that rests on the importance of communication and this evolves over the story. At the beginning, there is a lot of distance between the family but by the closing, events have occurred that makes them even stronger as a family unit.

Whilst there are some emotional issues explored in this story, I thought the ending was uplifting and optimistic. I enjoyed seeing Willow and Martha come together as sisters, and then become accepting of their mother’s decisions. Family life is emphasised in this story, but also the importance of friendship and independence. It sends some significant messages to readers about acceptance of life choices and I appreciate this moral message that James is trying to convey. Well worth the read.

With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Donna McEachran · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book for an honest review.

Family drama with widowed mother and pushy daughter. Bit over the idea that women over 60 need to have someone else make their decisions for them, particularly after the death of their controlling spouse.

[Elaine and Tess the Springer. I won’t be on GR for a bit. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven’t read Erica James in years, and initially, I struggled to stay with it, but that was me and not the book. It’s a lovely story about Naomi and her two adult daughters, Martha and Willow. There are lots of twists that keep the book interesting. Very enjoyable.

[Philippa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for giving me an e-book copy of this novel for a review.

I’ve been reading Erica James novels for over 20 years – hers were the first adult books I ever read, and her books are always fun and enjoyable.

This one is no exception. The relationship of three women, a mother and her two grown up daughters and how they have dealt with the death of their father/husband two years previously is explored in the novel. There is mention of the coronavirus pandemic, but it isn’t really about that, and it seems to take place when we’re all out of this mess! The three women, Naomi, Martha and Willow are all in relationships of various different stages. Naomi, at 60 odd is with the one who got away at university. Martha is in a stable satisfying marriage and Willow is finally with a man that is viewed as perfect boyfriend material by the rest of the family.

The initial struggles are interesting as both Martha and Naomi are strong and know what they want in life, Martha desperately wants a baby whilst Naomi is concerned how her children will react to meeting her new boyfriend. Willow’s conflict is less explicit – she lacks confidence in herself and the ability to stick with anything. I must say I thoroughly engaged with Willow’s character as I think women too often are negative about themselves and she seemed such a believable character, although I suspect she may annoy other readers!

They all meet regularly in their family home, Anchor House in Sussex which sounds divine! Erica James does have an uncanny knack of making the places she describes feel real, and the house was almost as much a character in the story as the human ones.

Ms James has the knack of making her characters feel real – as I said I have read her books for years and still remember the names and personality of some of them. Quite a feat when you consider how many books I read! And I believe these three women will probably be the same. They feel so realistic that you wouldn’t be surprised to meet one of them at work or in your local coffee shop! Fully rounded, living with pasts that affect their current actions, the relationships between them all give an insight into the human condition. Ms James doesn’t use stereotypes, there are no wicked people or femme fatales which is so refreshing.

There were only two things that bugged me a little. One was the lack of knowledge of pregnancy! In the NHS you get two scans, one at 12 weeks and one at 20. The idea that the first could be delayed till 18 weeks due to other commitments seemed very odd to me and to be fair, this is not hard to research. Also, you wouldn’t find out the sex at the first scan – they offer gender scans from about 16 weeks but the NHS will offer to tell you the gender scan at 20 weeks. There were other things around birth and prematurity that didn’t always ring true and again these are not hard to research. Prematurity, for example, is devastating to the mother even if the baby is only born a few weeks early and I doubt very much she would be over it that quickly. It takes an immense mental toll. As does infertility, which is slightly glossed over in the book – IVF is not the monster the characters assume. I know the point of the book was not the infertility or the prematurity or even the pregnancy, but it was a large part of the book and could have been handled with more care/research.

The other niggle was the way one of the characters were dealt with at the end. They had become an inconvenience and it seems as though the author didn’t really know what to do with them.

But these are very specific problems that I know about through other means and probably wouldn’t affect other people’s interest or enjoyment in the story, and to be fair didn’t affect mine either!

The characters, their lives and their conflicts were very realistic and immensely enjoyable – a perfect holiday read to sweep you away.

[Stace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and was really sorry when I had finished it. Erica James’ writing appears so effortless, and from the first paragraph, I was drawn into the story.

Martha, whom we meet first is the elder of two siblings and is desperately trying for a baby with her husband Tom. They are a well-organised, forward-thinking professional couple. The younger sister Willow is different, chalk and cheese, as the sisters themselves recognise. She is a lot more relaxed and tends to have boyfriends who don’t last very long before she tires of them. She is now seeing a man called Rick who has a good job and is very protective of her. Martha and their mother approve.

Their mother is Naomi, who is a widow of two years standing. Her husband Colin was adored by Martha in particular, who shares some of his traits. Willow sadly never met his high standards, and nor did any boyfriends she brought home. However, Rick would certainly have received his seal of approval.

The real drama begins when we discover that Naomi, in her middle sixties, has met a man, Ellis, and is having a serious relationship with him. He has rented the house next door to Naomi by chance before discovering they were at university together. The two girls think it is far too soon for Naomi to move on and are very reluctant to meet Ellis. They think he must be a man on the make and do not know of their history. Martha in particular, having been so close to her father and being very touchy because she failed to become pregnant is particularly against the poor man.

Any family meetings from then on also include Rick because Willow has moved in with him, into his immaculate flat. Before that, Willow had been house-sitting for absent friends. I can’t say much more about the story without giving away spoilers. I’ll just say that a lot of the history of Colin, Naomi, and Ellis is revealed. Also, by about halfway through the book I was getting really cross with one of the characters, and audibly giving advice!

Anyway, matters resolved themselves.

I don’t often come across a book in which I find so many of the characters empathetic. At the same time, the situations rang true to life and I could imagine my sisters, or my daughters reacting similarly.

I haven’t mentioned the setting, which is an idyllic village on the coast. Naomi is an enthusiastic gardener who loves her house which backs onto the beach. Reading Mothers and Daughters gave me a lot of pleasure.

[Yuliya · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although I found there was a certain degree of predictability in the storyline in this family saga, I thought that all the characters were well-portrayed and, with the gradual revelation of long-held secrets as the story unfolded, that the changing dynamics of their interactions were psychologically convincing. I was especially impressed by the ways in which the author explored the changes in the relationships between Naomi and her daughters, Martha and Willow, as well as those between the two sisters, as the various crises in the family force them to confront some uncomfortable home truths about the past and to recognise the corrosive, undermining effects of family secrets. Little by little the women use the insights they gain to begin to let go of well-established but dysfunctional patterns of behaviour, to adjust their perceptions of each other and to let go of guilt, anger and misplaced loyalties.
Themes of domestic abuse and coercive control in relationships are central to the story and were dealt with in a sensitive and insightful way, particularly in recognising how violent and controlling behaviour frequently develops in an incremental way, enabling the perpetrator to gradually undermine his victim’s self-confidence, thus encouraging totally misplaced feelings of shame and guilt to become entrenched, preventing the victim from feeling able to do anything to stop the cycle of violence and intimidation. If the perpetrator is a popular and successful member of the community, who is going to believe that such horrors are happening behind closed doors? However, as the story demonstrates, once the truth emerges it usually becomes apparent that it doesn’t come as a shock to some people, those who have either been aware of, or have suspected, what has been happening but haven’t felt able to ask!
The author also convincingly captured the range of emotions and tensions which can arise when a widowed parent begins a new relationship, only to find their happiness threatened by disapproval from adult offspring. Without introducing any spoilers by giving examples, there were moments when I found myself feeling furious with Martha’s controlling, manipulative behaviour as she attempted to derail her mother’s relationship with Ellis!
This is an easy to read, warm-hearted family saga and although I found it difficult to accept how quickly some of the conflicts were resolved, as the essence of the resolutions felt credible I was, for the most part, able to set aside my doubts and believe in the fresh beginnings promised for the characters. I also enjoyed the evocative descriptions of the rather genteel seaside village of Tilsham and of the family home.
Although I have been vaguely aware of seeing Erica James’s novels in bookshops, and noticing them on ‘best-seller’ lists, I’ve never been tempted to read one, assuming from their rather cosy, sentimental covers that they would fall into the type of romantic genre which holds no appeal to me. I was, therefore, more than a little surprised by how much I enjoyed reading Mothers and Daughters – a salutary lesson in not judging a book by its cover!
With thanks to Readers First and the publisher for an ARC of this novel in return for an honest review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Erica James is most firmly on my favourite author list; I’ve read virtually all of her books over the years from the very first one and she never disappoints.

The latest, Mothers and Daughters I loved. The central characters are Naomi, a strong and resilient character, widowed after a long marriage to Colin. Her two adult daughters Martha, who is determined, bossy, organised to the nth degree and her father’s favourite and then there is Willow. The youngest and the most indecisive, who drifts along in life not really having a focus of what she wants to do. Each woman has their own memory of Colin who casts his shadow over their lives, even after his death.

Although the relationship between the three women is at the heart of the story, other relationships are bought under the spotlight including marital problems, the issues facing blended families, control and abuse and deciding how much of your real self that you let others see.

So much of the story felt authentic both in plot and characters. Some I felt so much sympathy for and I was so hoping that they wouldn’t sabotage their own chance of happiness. There were others that raised red flags almost immediately and I found myself shaking my head in disbelief and shock.

I thought the author did a perfect job of blending all the different personalities and showing how they each reacted to change and personal challenges – as well as focusing on the difficulties that arise when someone wants to reclaim their own life in the face of opposition from others.

This was one book that I really didn’t want to put aside. The idyllic setting of the harbour village of Tilsham on the Sussex coast and Anchor House with its beach access contrasted sharply with the slightly darker undertone to the story. There was so much to enjoy about this story, highly recommended.

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

A glorious read from one of my favourite authors, Erica James. Her stories are always very substantial reads and Mothers and Daughters was no exception. Set in the English village of Tilsham near Chichester, Sussex, this was a family drama style story and it had the usual depth that I have come to associate with the author's superb writing. The tale fired my imagination as I knew that it would and there was certainly never a dull or boring moment. The characters were all well-drawn and most were very relatable and likeable, though a few were not, however, they all had a valuable contribution to make to the story. Mothers and Daughters had it all, from families, friendship and trust to conflict, domestic abuse, control and secrets. Highly recommended and well worth five stars!

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from HQ via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.

[Susan Potts · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always, a great read from Erica James - I loved the way the interaction played out between all the characters, but especially the daughters.

[Janice · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the best books I've read by this author. The characters were so believable and well observed. I really got involved with the drama and wanted to shout at the characters ! Above all it shows how it is easy to get taken in by appearances which hide the real person behind the shiny surface.

[Novelle Novels · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
The writing in this book is so good and it’s full of characters I loved however the triggers in the book meant I had to take regular breaks. If you aren’t affected by them then I’m sure you will love it. Yes this about mothers, daughters and secrets but its darker than I expected.

[Kim Coenen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Het was vooral de beschrijvende tekst die me overtuigde en enorm nieuwsgierig maakte naar het verhaal. Ik heb nog niet eerder een verhaal gelezen van Erica James, dus ik heb geen idee wat ik precies kan en moet verwachten. De stralende en rustgevende cover van een landschap van gras en een pad en op de achtergrond de zee die wordt afgescheiden door een muur en hek, is wel passend bij de beschrijvende tekst.

Het verhaal:

Moeder Naomi en haar dochters Martha en Willow hebben een goede band. Toch zijn er dingen tussen hen die altijd onuitgesproken zijn. De twee zussen verschillen van elkaar als dag en nacht. Martha is vastberaden en gedreven zoals haar vader. Willow is een vrije geest, die het leven op haar af laat komen. Naomi heeft heel wat dingen voor haar meisjes achtergehouden. Ze leek een gelukkig en goed huwelijk te hebben, helaas was daar niets van waar. Nu ze weduwe is en Noami een nieuwe liefde tegen het lijf loopt, lijkt het tijd om open kaart te spelen. Kunnen ze elkaar weer vinden in hun zoektocht naar geluk?

Mijn ervaring:

Het verhaal is geschreven vanuit de drie hoofdpersonages die per hoofdstuk elkaar afwisselen. Hierdoor krijg je in alle drie de vrouwen een enorm goede diepgang en kan je echt in alle drie de vrouwen helemaal op gaan. De drie vrouwen verschillen enorm van elkaar, en toch kan je als lezer de beslissingen en beweegredenen van alle drie de personages goed volgen en begrijpen. Wel zorgde deze wisseling ervoor dat het wat langer duurde voordat ik echt goed in het verhaal zat.

De verhaallijn is origineel, sterk en zit enorm goed in elkaar. Het is wel een verhaallijn waar je goed je hoofd bij moet houden. Vooral omdat het vooral het spanningsveld en de interactie tussen de verschillende personages enorm bepalend en veelzeggend zijn voor het verhaal. Het is enorm sterk hoe Erica James de psychologie en sfeer tussen de verschillende personages weet te creëren en je ook als lezer laat voelen en ervaren. Daarbij weet ze taboe onderwerpen zoals moeite met zwanger raken, ongepland zwanger raken, vreemdgaan en huiselijk geweld allemaal op bijzonder goede wijze in het verhaal te integreren. Met een verrassend en sterk plot sluit het mooie verhaal af. Het is een intense, mooie en heftige roman die je weet te raken.

Moeders en dochters is een ontzettend origineel, sterk en intens familieverhaal waarin ook veel taboe-onderwerpen passend in de realistische verhaallijn zijn verweven. Hierdoor weet het verhaal je echt te raken. Het verhaal is vanuit drie verschillende personages geschreven, wat de verhaallijn nog intenser en dynamischer maakt. Een verrassende, maar enorm dikke aanrader.

[Jeanniehay64 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The cover was the first thing which made me want to read it and it is the perfect introduction to the beautiful story.

The story centres around Naomi and her two daughters Martha and Willow. Naomi has recently been widowed and is trying to rebuild her life in the little village of Tilsham by the sea.

Naomi's daughters are like chalk and cheese . Martha the eldest daughter is sensible and determined. Willow the youngest daughter is very easy-going and full of fun.

Naomi’s life has revolved around her family. Since her husbands death and her daughters embarking on their own relationships Naomi is at a crossroads where she is finding herself on her own for the first time in years. Martha is hoping Naomi will move closer to her especially as she is planning on having a baby. She tries to enlist Willows help who is not so sure and feels her mum should stay in their family home.

Unbeknown to her daughters, Naomi has recently met a Ellis an old love from her past. He has awakened feelings and companionship which Naomi had forgotten about. Should Naomi take a chance on a new beginning ? What will her daughters feel about her having her own life?

Growing up in a family with an elder sister I can totally relate to this story. Martha could easily be my sister and Willow could easily be me. The similarities had me shaking my head at times. I loved how the characters were so relatable and so well written.

A lot of difficult issues are handled in a very sensitive way throughout this novel. Introducing new members into an established family can sometimes cause fractions and difficulties I thought this was brilliantly explored in the book. Family, sibling rivalry, fertility, infidelity, domestic violence, narcissism and finding happiness were a few of the subjects which were intertwined throughout the story.

This book was one I find difficult to put down.Most families have secrets which usually come to light and this had me empathising with Naomi. I thought the author really brought the characters and the beautiful setting to life in such a way I felt like I had travelled to Anchor House as a guest.

[Grace J Reviewerlady · Rating 4 out of 5]

A touching and honest portrayal of a mother and her two daughters dealing with that thing called life.

Naomi has been widowed for two years. Her daughters are chalk and cheese; Martha, the eldest, is a chip off the old block with her father’s characteristics, holding down a responsible job, and with a solid marriage the only thing not going her way is her need for a child. Younger sister Willow is more of a free spirit, floating through life from job to job, which was a constant frustration to her father. Naomi loves her two girls, but when she meets an old friend it upsets the equilibrium and, although they think they know everything about their mother, Naomi, like most of us, has her secrets – and she’s not the only one.

This is a wonderful family saga and Erica James has the ability of getting to the heart of families with an honesty I’ve long admired. Siblings are often very different to each other and the author does an excellent job of bringing life to her characters. It’s not all sweetness and light in their world, hidden secrets tend to reveal themselves in time and there are some shocking issues in this one. It is a lovely story of trauma and survival and I admired each of the women, but can’t help but feel that it’s a little fortuitous that everything worked out so easily. In my experience, it’s not that easy – but this is fiction and very well written fiction at that. Very enjoyable and a definite recommended read to every who enjoys a good family saga. 4.5*

My thanks to the publisher for my copy via NetGalley; this is – as always – my honest, original and unbiased review.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naomi was suddenly widowed a couple of years ago, but has remained in Tilsham by the sea, rebuilding her life and generally feeling content

Her two daughters; Martha and Willow are like chalk and cheese. Martha plans everything meticously and is very like her late father. Willow is more of a dreamer, drifting through life, but has recently seemed to settle with new boyfriend Rick.

Whilst the three women share a very close relationship, there are things that are kept hidden, especially by Naomi. Her daughters would like her to sell up and move to London to be near them. Naomi hasn’t told them about Ellis; a long-lost friend who has recently moved in next door and is fast becoming much more than just a friend.

Naomi has also never revealed the full details of her life when married to their father, fearing that this would destroy their happy memories.

Martha and Willow are both dealing with their own secrets too. Relationships that appear to be wonderful on the outside can be very dark and damaging behind closed doors and keeping up cheery appearances when the one thing you long for isn’t happening can be exhausting.

Erica James’ twenty-fourth novel is a wonderfully compelling family drama that touches upon some serious and fairly dark issues. Her characterisation is excellent, the setting is beautiful and the slow reveals are delicately and sensitively handled.

Warm, escapist and ultimately uplifting. Erica James is on top form, writing about warm, believeable women who led sometimes very complicated lives.

[Shirley Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this family drama with all the up’s and down’s of each family member, an easy and enjoyable read where i soon became a great supporter of Willow. Thank you Erica for a great story.

[anonymous:)]

Loved <3
This is a captivating and amazing story about relationships and life, and what mothers will do to protect their children; I enjoyed it from beginning all the way up to the end and found it difficult to put down. What a beautiful setting, a magnificent Anchor House on the seaside of a small English village called Tilsham. Naomi and her daughters Martha and Willow are introduced; this is a powerful and dramatic storyline that is splendidly presented. Naomi meets her new neighbour, Ellis, who is actually an old acquaintance, and thinks that now is the time to move past the death of her husband, Colin, and have Ellis by her side. Martha, on the other hand, has other ideas and wants her mother to sell her house and move closer to the daughters, which disrupts the natural flow of family life with them...
This book beautifully depicts the significance of the relationship between mother and daughter!!

[Sharon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written and enjoyable family saga that addresses some serious themes of fertility problems, domestic abuse, and finding love in middle age.

I normally love Erica’s books but this didn’t quite hit the mark for me.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my review.

[Liz Fenwick]

It’s been a while since I read a novel in a day…and what a story. Gripping, emotional, beautiful. It had me from page one and didn’t let me go until the last. I loved it.

[Gill Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant book by Erica James, I loved it.