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The Good Mother
I’ve always known Jack was different. Ever since he was eight years old and he killed his father. He was protecting me, just like I’ve always protected him.
But now he’s eighteen and this time he’s gone too far. Steve is dead. He was a good man, and god, we could have been really great together — but now he’s bleeding out on our kitchen table.
I must keep my boy safe. No one can ever know what he’s done. What he’s capable of. But Jack’s got a taste for killing. And I won’t let him get caught.
I’ll do whatever it takes to keep him safe, keep him with me. Even if it means becoming a monster myself.
What would you do if your only son was a killer? How far would you go?
But now he’s eighteen and this time he’s gone too far. Steve is dead. He was a good man, and god, we could have been really great together — but now he’s bleeding out on our kitchen table.
I must keep my boy safe. No one can ever know what he’s done. What he’s capable of. But Jack’s got a taste for killing. And I won’t let him get caught.
I’ll do whatever it takes to keep him safe, keep him with me. Even if it means becoming a monster myself.
What would you do if your only son was a killer? How far would you go?
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2023
154 people are currently reading
668 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
January 29, 2023
I've always known Jack was different. ever since he was eight years old, and he killed his father. He was protecting me, just like I've always protected him. But now he's eighteen and this time he's gone too far. Steve is dead. He was a good man, and God, we could have been really great together - but now he's bleeding out on our kitchen table. I must keep my boy safe. No one can ever know what he's done. What he's capable of. But Jack's got a taste for killing. And I won't let him get caught.
This is one creepy, disturbing, gripping and goriest books I've ever read. Jack, the son, is a weird character. Natasha thinks she's a good mum. She always tries to protect her son. But by the end of this book, I didn't know which of them was the worst. There are lots of twist and turns to keep you guessing. But some of it is a bit predictable. We are drip fed information on Natash's past, making us aware of what had previously taken place. This is one twisted read. I struggled to put this book down.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #LizzieFry for my ARC of #TheGoodMother in exchange for an honest review.
This is one creepy, disturbing, gripping and goriest books I've ever read. Jack, the son, is a weird character. Natasha thinks she's a good mum. She always tries to protect her son. But by the end of this book, I didn't know which of them was the worst. There are lots of twist and turns to keep you guessing. But some of it is a bit predictable. We are drip fed information on Natash's past, making us aware of what had previously taken place. This is one twisted read. I struggled to put this book down.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #LizzieFry for my ARC of #TheGoodMother in exchange for an honest review.
January 26, 2023
“What would you do if your only son was a killer? How far would you go?”
These questions are from the synopsis, and I can honestly say that I wouldn’t have an answer if they were asked to me. I don’t think I’d go as far as this mom, though! This was quite the implausible tale, though it did keep me interested throughout the whole thing.
Natasha’s son, Jack, killed his father when he was only eight years old. Now, he’s about to turn 18 and become an independent man, but his mother knows that can’t happen. Jack will probably never be able to live independently…if he wants to stay out of prison. What can Natasha - a single mom who works as an archivist - do to keep her son safe from himself?
The answer to that question will probably shock you, because this mom goes to extreme lengths to keep her son from hurting others. As the book goes on, things become more twisted, in more ways than one. I didn’t care much for the writing style, but this story itself is decent, if not slightly absurd. I enjoyed this though, and while I didn’t love the ending, I didn’t see it coming, either. 3.5 stars for keeping me entertained, but not really blowing my mind.
(Thank you to Joffe Books, Lizzie Fry, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be published on February 4, 2023.)
These questions are from the synopsis, and I can honestly say that I wouldn’t have an answer if they were asked to me. I don’t think I’d go as far as this mom, though! This was quite the implausible tale, though it did keep me interested throughout the whole thing.
Natasha’s son, Jack, killed his father when he was only eight years old. Now, he’s about to turn 18 and become an independent man, but his mother knows that can’t happen. Jack will probably never be able to live independently…if he wants to stay out of prison. What can Natasha - a single mom who works as an archivist - do to keep her son safe from himself?
The answer to that question will probably shock you, because this mom goes to extreme lengths to keep her son from hurting others. As the book goes on, things become more twisted, in more ways than one. I didn’t care much for the writing style, but this story itself is decent, if not slightly absurd. I enjoyed this though, and while I didn’t love the ending, I didn’t see it coming, either. 3.5 stars for keeping me entertained, but not really blowing my mind.
(Thank you to Joffe Books, Lizzie Fry, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be published on February 4, 2023.)
January 31, 2023
This book has me shook! I binged it in one sitting it was so good. What would you do if you found out your son was a serial killer? You would help him right? Because that’s what good mothers do.
Jack’s mother Natasha always knew he was different. When he was eight years old he killed his father and his mother always protected him. Jack is now eighteen and over a family dinner he kills Natasha’s boyfriend Steve. She will make sure no one knows what Jack did. She will continue to protect him even if it destroys herself.
Perfect for fans of Lucinda Berry The Good Mother is available February 4, 2023
Thank you netgalley and Joffebooks for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Jack’s mother Natasha always knew he was different. When he was eight years old he killed his father and his mother always protected him. Jack is now eighteen and over a family dinner he kills Natasha’s boyfriend Steve. She will make sure no one knows what Jack did. She will continue to protect him even if it destroys herself.
Perfect for fans of Lucinda Berry The Good Mother is available February 4, 2023
Thank you netgalley and Joffebooks for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
December 29, 2022
I didn’t love this but did think it was a page-turner. Natasha prides herself in being the best mom in the world but has a very twisted view of what being a good parent actually means. The story is dark, bordering on ridiculous, and it’s hard to root for any character.
The storyline was unique and there were a few surprises but I struggled a bit with how Natasha’s son Jack had gotten to be almost 18 with no one suspecting that there was something weird going on. As mentioned above, the lengths that Natasha went to bordered on being just plain silly, but the story did hold my interest.
Overall, a memorable read but the lack of relatable characters and the need to suspend my disbelief made this one not a favorite for me. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The storyline was unique and there were a few surprises but I struggled a bit with how Natasha’s son Jack had gotten to be almost 18 with no one suspecting that there was something weird going on. As mentioned above, the lengths that Natasha went to bordered on being just plain silly, but the story did hold my interest.
Overall, a memorable read but the lack of relatable characters and the need to suspend my disbelief made this one not a favorite for me. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2023
When Jack was ten years old he killed his father. At eighteen he's killed again and, yet again, his mother is determined to do whatever it takes to protect him from any and all consequences.
This was chilly, dark, and creepy. Not only is Jack a murderer but he's a stone-cold brat. Just an awful human. His mother isn't much better and it was disturbing. I really enjoyed this story but I also struggled with the characterization of Natasha.
She was bad but had a mother's love and protective nature. And it felt like two totally opposing personalities. In one instance she's protecting her son who she sees as a savior, a lovely boy. In another, she's envisioning bashing his face into the dashboard. It was a difficult bridge to gap. It bothered me through the whole book.
This was chilly, dark, and creepy. Not only is Jack a murderer but he's a stone-cold brat. Just an awful human. His mother isn't much better and it was disturbing. I really enjoyed this story but I also struggled with the characterization of Natasha.
She was bad but had a mother's love and protective nature. And it felt like two totally opposing personalities. In one instance she's protecting her son who she sees as a savior, a lovely boy. In another, she's envisioning bashing his face into the dashboard. It was a difficult bridge to gap. It bothered me through the whole book.
February 21, 2023
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed all the twists and turns in this book! I honestly had no idea what direction it was headed in and it totally didn’t turn out the way I expected! This story is about a mom trying her hardest to keep her psychotic son from going to jail for his murderous habits. It was very intriguing and I’m always a sucker for a good unreliable narrator! I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a psychological thriller that doesn’t turn out the way you think it’s going to!
I really enjoyed all the twists and turns in this book! I honestly had no idea what direction it was headed in and it totally didn’t turn out the way I expected! This story is about a mom trying her hardest to keep her psychotic son from going to jail for his murderous habits. It was very intriguing and I’m always a sucker for a good unreliable narrator! I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a psychological thriller that doesn’t turn out the way you think it’s going to!
July 29, 2023
This book had me gripped from the first sentence and gave me goosebumps. How far would you go to protect your son .... even if he was a murderer!!!
Jack kills his dad when he was just 8, stabs him on an ordinary Sunday morning whilst wearing his Star Wars onesie. Jack's mother Natasha protects him.
Jack is now 18 and is meeting his mother's boyfriend for the first time over dinner. Let the drama begin!!!
As the story progresses we realise Natasha will do anything to protect her son. This is a roller coaster of a ride with twists and shock moments galore.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jack kills his dad when he was just 8, stabs him on an ordinary Sunday morning whilst wearing his Star Wars onesie. Jack's mother Natasha protects him.
Jack is now 18 and is meeting his mother's boyfriend for the first time over dinner. Let the drama begin!!!
As the story progresses we realise Natasha will do anything to protect her son. This is a roller coaster of a ride with twists and shock moments galore.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2023
I tried for several days and I could just not get through this. It was too slow and I found myself not picking this back up. I was pretty sure I knew where this was going and I flipped to the end and I was right; the ending was predictable and not going through. I can’t recommend this to anyone who’s read more than a few thrillers; newbies to the genre might like this one but the slow start may detract those who want to try.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
January 19, 2023
If you thought everything was going your way, you probably haven't read The Good Mother yet. Nothing is what it seems here. I loved the amazing twist. To this day, I can't get over it. When I found out the truth, I was deeply shocked. How could this have happened? Do you believe that if you grow up in an abusive home, you will grow up to be abusive adults? Jack grew up in a very bad home. His dad abused him and his mother. The boy saw his mother being beaten by her husband. He wanted to help her, and unfortunately he killed his father. He was 8 years old then. What would you do in Natasha's place? Would you tell the truth? 10 years have passed since this event. The boy grew up to be a very violent young man. What he did throughout this story made my heart stop. Unfortunately, his mother is no better. She tries to protect Jack at all costs. I think it's a very toxic relationship. I don't think she can accept the fact that her son is no longer a small child. Will she let Jack go to study in another city? Will Natasha fall in love again? What tragedies will all this lead to? In short, it will be very dangerous, dark, bloody and there will be plenty of murders. The Good Mother is a very dark psychological thriller. I couldn't stop reading, so I finished the book last night. Perfect work. Congratulations to the author. She showed the relationship of mother to son and son to mother very well. Sometimes it's hard to let go of your own child and let him live on his own terms. She perfectly showed us what the future of a man who was the child of an abusive father could look like. I sincerely hope that the story in this book was not based on facts. I really liked the surprise ending. It's great that it turned out that way.
Who is the Camden Killer? Do you guess?
Who is the Camden Killer? Do you guess?
June 22, 2023
This was dark but mostly enjoyable.
January 2, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Good Mother - Lizzie Fry
When Natasha’s 8 year old son kills his dad after finding his parents fighting, Natasha vows to protect him at all costs. But now 10 years later when history seems to be repeating itself, how far is Natasha willing to go to protect her son.
This was a real page turner, I struggled to put this one down. The characters were quite evil but despite this you could really connect with them.
It is quite gory and does go into detail with the description of the killings so if you’re a bit squeamish this may not be for you.
I really enjoyed this one and will definitely be looking out for more of Lizzie Fry’s books in the future.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for gifting me a copy of this book for review.
When Natasha’s 8 year old son kills his dad after finding his parents fighting, Natasha vows to protect him at all costs. But now 10 years later when history seems to be repeating itself, how far is Natasha willing to go to protect her son.
This was a real page turner, I struggled to put this one down. The characters were quite evil but despite this you could really connect with them.
It is quite gory and does go into detail with the description of the killings so if you’re a bit squeamish this may not be for you.
I really enjoyed this one and will definitely be looking out for more of Lizzie Fry’s books in the future.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for gifting me a copy of this book for review.
January 12, 2023
Good Mum, Bad Mum? You decide.
There's a lot of the past that will be shared to make you think who done it.
Natasha is Mum to Jake, her soon to be 18 year old who's thinking about college. Lots of interesting stories about raising her teen.
Steve is her current boyfriend. Dean was Jakes Dad.
Aaron is into crime stories for his podcast exposure.
I will admit several times I wanted to smack, shake and scream at Tasha throughout this book. Also, many times I felt that some crimes were a bit unbelievable as far as how they would get away with such unrealistic investigations, come on!
There's so many twists and turns in this psychological thriller you will be unable to put it down as you want to know what happens next.
A great read, thank you to the Publisher, the Author and to NetGalley for my free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
3.5 Stars due to the poor crime investigating.
There's a lot of the past that will be shared to make you think who done it.
Natasha is Mum to Jake, her soon to be 18 year old who's thinking about college. Lots of interesting stories about raising her teen.
Steve is her current boyfriend. Dean was Jakes Dad.
Aaron is into crime stories for his podcast exposure.
I will admit several times I wanted to smack, shake and scream at Tasha throughout this book. Also, many times I felt that some crimes were a bit unbelievable as far as how they would get away with such unrealistic investigations, come on!
There's so many twists and turns in this psychological thriller you will be unable to put it down as you want to know what happens next.
A great read, thank you to the Publisher, the Author and to NetGalley for my free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
3.5 Stars due to the poor crime investigating.
June 23, 2025
Audiobook review 🎧
"What would you do if your only son was a killer? How far would you go?"
This one was INSANEEEEEE. I’m usually a romance girly only, but this has opened my eyes to the world of a thriller book, and I know I’m going to be reading so many more.
I binged this audiobook. I think the narrator helped tell the story so brilliantly. She was SO captivating and brought all the characters to life.
At the age of 8, Jack found his taste for killing. He had murdered his father to protect himself and his mother.
10 years later, his mother decides to introduce a new boyfriend to Jack. Seems like Jack’s murderous side never left him 👀
I really enjoyed this book! It was fast paced, and I found myself shocked by the ending in particular, with its huge twist!!
Definitely one to recommend 🩷
"What would you do if your only son was a killer? How far would you go?"
This one was INSANEEEEEE. I’m usually a romance girly only, but this has opened my eyes to the world of a thriller book, and I know I’m going to be reading so many more.
I binged this audiobook. I think the narrator helped tell the story so brilliantly. She was SO captivating and brought all the characters to life.
At the age of 8, Jack found his taste for killing. He had murdered his father to protect himself and his mother.
10 years later, his mother decides to introduce a new boyfriend to Jack. Seems like Jack’s murderous side never left him 👀
I really enjoyed this book! It was fast paced, and I found myself shocked by the ending in particular, with its huge twist!!
Definitely one to recommend 🩷
January 20, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for an advance copy of The Good Mother in return for my honest review.
How far would a mother go to protect her child?
In the wild, animal mothers hunts at night, facing unimaginable dangers to feed their young.
A mother’s instinct.
When Natasha’s husband is murdered in their home, she does everything she can to protect her 8 year old son Jack…from being discovered.
She’s a good mother.
Ten years later, Natasha will do anything she can to keep her 18 year old baby boy safe… from getting caught.
She’s a good mother. The best.
When Jack’s grandfather passed away, she will sacrifice everything to help him fight his daemons… in the basement 😳
He’s a good boy. What are mums for?
When Natasha meets a young true crime podcaster who comes to town looking for a connection between a famous film pioneer and a local serial killer, none of their lives will ever be the same.
This book was twisted!
The first chapter was insane, then after a slow start, it became a real page turner about halfway through. The characters are awful, but in the best ways. Stories about creepy kids are my favourite… but did you ever wonder where they got it from?
Read this if you like…
🎙️ True crime podcasts
📺 Dexter
🧠 Psychological thrillers
🌪️ Unexpected twists
👨👩👧👦 Family drama
How far would a mother go to protect her child?
In the wild, animal mothers hunts at night, facing unimaginable dangers to feed their young.
A mother’s instinct.
When Natasha’s husband is murdered in their home, she does everything she can to protect her 8 year old son Jack…from being discovered.
She’s a good mother.
Ten years later, Natasha will do anything she can to keep her 18 year old baby boy safe… from getting caught.
She’s a good mother. The best.
When Jack’s grandfather passed away, she will sacrifice everything to help him fight his daemons… in the basement 😳
He’s a good boy. What are mums for?
When Natasha meets a young true crime podcaster who comes to town looking for a connection between a famous film pioneer and a local serial killer, none of their lives will ever be the same.
This book was twisted!
The first chapter was insane, then after a slow start, it became a real page turner about halfway through. The characters are awful, but in the best ways. Stories about creepy kids are my favourite… but did you ever wonder where they got it from?
Read this if you like…
🎙️ True crime podcasts
📺 Dexter
🧠 Psychological thrillers
🌪️ Unexpected twists
👨👩👧👦 Family drama
February 12, 2023
This is such a great read, and the synopsis just makes you want to pick it up. I actually couldn't put it down once I had started reading it!
If you, like me, love a book that's thought-provoking, twisty, and disturbing all at the same time. The Good Mother is one to try. Characters you love to hate, a plot you can't quite come to terms with. A psychological thriller that is not for the feint hearted, that's for sure!!
Thanks to Jill Burkinshaw of BooksNAll Promotions and Joffe Books for the ARC
If you, like me, love a book that's thought-provoking, twisty, and disturbing all at the same time. The Good Mother is one to try. Characters you love to hate, a plot you can't quite come to terms with. A psychological thriller that is not for the feint hearted, that's for sure!!
Thanks to Jill Burkinshaw of BooksNAll Promotions and Joffe Books for the ARC
February 17, 2023
What is the definition of a good mother?
Natasha and Jack. The bond of blood in more ways than one.
This book takes the idea of perfect motherhood and twists it into a spiral of obsession.
I was both fascinated and repelled.
Read and weep
Natasha and Jack. The bond of blood in more ways than one.
This book takes the idea of perfect motherhood and twists it into a spiral of obsession.
I was both fascinated and repelled.
Read and weep
January 22, 2024
That was…. Not good.
February 23, 2023
I had a very hard time with this book; finished it but really didn’t enjoy
January 4, 2023
This book is a page turner for sure, but it wasn't one of my favorite reads. The storyline was definitely different and there was a lot I did not see coming. But it was also just weird; a little too weird in my opinion and it was edging on the end of ridiculous.
Natasha is a mother that thinks she is one of the best and dotes on her son, but she has a very twisted viewpoint on what it means to be a good mother. She is a single mother to her son, Jack, whom is as crazy as his mother. There is killing, lies and cover ups like no other. There is a lot of shock factors in this book, which is why I kept on reading it. You run through a whole gambit of emotions while reading this book; compassion for Natasha in the begining and then horror as you see her true colors. You touch on horror as you watch event unfold that you didn't even think possible. Then the final twist at the end leaves you speechless.
While I was not crazy about this book, it keeps you wanting to turn the page because you need to see where the heck this book is going to go next. So kudos to the author for making things interesting in a completely different way.
Thank you NetGalley for an ARC copy in return for an honest review.
Natasha is a mother that thinks she is one of the best and dotes on her son, but she has a very twisted viewpoint on what it means to be a good mother. She is a single mother to her son, Jack, whom is as crazy as his mother. There is killing, lies and cover ups like no other. There is a lot of shock factors in this book, which is why I kept on reading it. You run through a whole gambit of emotions while reading this book; compassion for Natasha in the begining and then horror as you see her true colors. You touch on horror as you watch event unfold that you didn't even think possible. Then the final twist at the end leaves you speechless.
While I was not crazy about this book, it keeps you wanting to turn the page because you need to see where the heck this book is going to go next. So kudos to the author for making things interesting in a completely different way.
Thank you NetGalley for an ARC copy in return for an honest review.
February 26, 2023
This book just wasn’t the thriller I thought or hoped that it would be. I couldn’t get into as much as I hoped I could. It was a hard finish for me but I did it!
January 9, 2023
I need a scalding hot shower and gallons of brain bleach. That was disturbing, creepy, ghoulish and wrong on so many levels, and yet I loved it! Sometimes I worry about me!!
January 29, 2023
Via NetGalley
DNF
I don’t know why people are calling this a page turner. It’s taken me a lot of effort just to get 60 pages in & now I’m giving up. I’ve read bad stories that somehow kept me hooked & this isn’t one. I’m not going to get through this within thirty days.
The protagonist is thoroughly unlikable - genuinely pleased at being desired by teenage boys, only deciding not to turn her son in because she fears her own prison time … & that’s only two of the reasons to find her unappealing so early into this disaster. Really, it’s every thought she has & every word spoken that makes me hate her.
It’s also very, very badly written, & so full of cliches there’s basically no original content. At one point the word ‘lame’ is used as what the author calls “teen-speak” - making it all come across as very cringe, as an actual Gen Z would say. ‘MILF’ makes an appearance as well… ‘trendy’… a lot of second-hand embarrassment & I hate feeling it.
I kept telling myself to give it a chance but I just don’t care about what happens to these people. I didn’t care that Steve died, & I don’t care about the fate of the obnoxious mother or her psychotic son. I’m kind of wondering if the twist is that she’s the murderer, imagining seeing her son being a monster because she can’t face her own depravity… that’s a bit predictable though. I don’t see a plausible ending that will shock me. And I can’t get through the bad writing to find out if that’s true. I’m both angry that I’ve wasted any time on this, and sorry for writing such a harsh review.
DNF
I don’t know why people are calling this a page turner. It’s taken me a lot of effort just to get 60 pages in & now I’m giving up. I’ve read bad stories that somehow kept me hooked & this isn’t one. I’m not going to get through this within thirty days.
The protagonist is thoroughly unlikable - genuinely pleased at being desired by teenage boys, only deciding not to turn her son in because she fears her own prison time … & that’s only two of the reasons to find her unappealing so early into this disaster. Really, it’s every thought she has & every word spoken that makes me hate her.
It’s also very, very badly written, & so full of cliches there’s basically no original content. At one point the word ‘lame’ is used as what the author calls “teen-speak” - making it all come across as very cringe, as an actual Gen Z would say. ‘MILF’ makes an appearance as well… ‘trendy’… a lot of second-hand embarrassment & I hate feeling it.
I kept telling myself to give it a chance but I just don’t care about what happens to these people. I didn’t care that Steve died, & I don’t care about the fate of the obnoxious mother or her psychotic son. I’m kind of wondering if the twist is that she’s the murderer, imagining seeing her son being a monster because she can’t face her own depravity… that’s a bit predictable though. I don’t see a plausible ending that will shock me. And I can’t get through the bad writing to find out if that’s true. I’m both angry that I’ve wasted any time on this, and sorry for writing such a harsh review.
February 13, 2023
The start of this book has me shivering with the anticipation. The story started out so strongly which gave me goosebumps. This just started with a bang.
I love a serial killer story and this one had me gripped from page 1. What I like is it's not the standard that I have seen in my long look back at reading crime which is the very 25 years.
Being shocked is unique by a story is a good thing as it brings home that I haven't read all types of stories and that authors can surprise me.
The mother annoys me but I do understand her as what would any mother do to protect their only child. Yes it is hard to believe that the mother wouldn't turn him in for what he does especially as it affected her life so much.
The son seems to have no feelings for anyone other than himself and well he seems to care a bit for his mother but she seems to be a means to ane ends.
This book ticks all the boxes.
Great writing , Check
Great story, Check
Great characters , Check
What I really like is it's not all about the story of findinf out the killer it's more from the standpoint of someone involved with it or protecting the killer. It is different which is what makes it even more intriguing.
This book has so many psychological aspects that make my skin crawl. The controlling nature of Jack makes me want to walk away never seeing him and makes me also want to ensure he gets caught. He is sociopathic or so it feels to me.
The mother to me is equally as guilty not by what her son does but more because she covers up what he does and while she is controlled and scared of him that doesn't work as a legal excuse.
What I really liked is that the story is so warped and the characters are just evil that you just have to think what else could she have done to them.
The ending does have some unexpected items so I was very pleased.
I love a serial killer story and this one had me gripped from page 1. What I like is it's not the standard that I have seen in my long look back at reading crime which is the very 25 years.
Being shocked is unique by a story is a good thing as it brings home that I haven't read all types of stories and that authors can surprise me.
The mother annoys me but I do understand her as what would any mother do to protect their only child. Yes it is hard to believe that the mother wouldn't turn him in for what he does especially as it affected her life so much.
The son seems to have no feelings for anyone other than himself and well he seems to care a bit for his mother but she seems to be a means to ane ends.
This book ticks all the boxes.
Great writing , Check
Great story, Check
Great characters , Check
What I really like is it's not all about the story of findinf out the killer it's more from the standpoint of someone involved with it or protecting the killer. It is different which is what makes it even more intriguing.
This book has so many psychological aspects that make my skin crawl. The controlling nature of Jack makes me want to walk away never seeing him and makes me also want to ensure he gets caught. He is sociopathic or so it feels to me.
The mother to me is equally as guilty not by what her son does but more because she covers up what he does and while she is controlled and scared of him that doesn't work as a legal excuse.
What I really liked is that the story is so warped and the characters are just evil that you just have to think what else could she have done to them.
The ending does have some unexpected items so I was very pleased.
September 9, 2023
Unexpected ending!!!
January 31, 2023
A bone-chilling (true-) crime thriller!
They fascinate: these human predators. Numerous books have been written about them, and have become bestseller books. Their stories stir public opinion - Netflix having gone ‘serial killer’, defying the limits of what is permissible - with series, such as Mindhunters, and ‘Dahmer’ (Jeffrey -, red.) almost glorifying the criminally insane; no matter how crazy, macabre or gruesome their crimes, they have already done it long ago.
And if you think it can't get any crazier, they have been putting this idea into practice for a very long time.
Science has been researching the link between nature and nurture for years, and unfortunately it turns out that growing up in a single-parent household, an absent father figure, or domestic violence puts quite a risk in the balance that your ‘very dearest sweet boy(/- girl) will grow up to be a cruel individual with a pathological predilection to control, manipulate others, and everything else unthinkable.
The Good Mother is a bone-chilling story, in which the reader descends into the mind of the criminal insane. Both protagonists are absolutely bonkers, no need for a M.D. here- the story veers between true crime and (fictional) crime thriller, in which the author has also managed to weave in references to 'real cases,’ e.g. Dennis Nilsen, the Camden Ripper (the real one recently deceased because of covid-19), ‘House of Horrors” (Fred West), et& ..
I initially gave the book 4 stars because I was confused about the lead-up to the story. I honestly didn't understand anything about it, and didn't know what to believe.
Now that I've finished the book, I think the author wanted to fool the reader. I now understand the beginning better, albeit it was rather chaotic and rather incredible.
Summarised: Jack witnesses his mother getting beaten up by his father, and as a last resort, he stabs his father. The story continues 10 years later, Jack is then 18, and mother is now doing fine. She has her life back on track reasonably well, and has since found a nice job. She even starts dating, and the relationship with her new boyfriend Steve seems to be getting serious, she invites him for dinner and to meet Jack.
How the story continues is for the reader to find out for themselves. It’ll be a rollercoaster, with the reader being tossed back and forth between fascination, repulsion, and bewilderment. Clearly, Jack has obvious ‘mommy issues.’
If you don't believe the story of what happens in the basement, keep in mind that Ed Kemper's mother kept her son in a rat infested basement, offering him as a baby for a can of beer to the first one who wanted him.
I did not give five stars, - because there are quite a few loose ends in the story. If the body of a missing person is not found, it seems strange to me that there is a funeral within a week after, nowadays a mobile phone and its location can be traced easily, plus the fact that the police do not investigate further, and some things are presented as facts, domestic violence is said to have been normalised. Says who?
The beginning is rather messy, with the lead story sometimes coming across as so implausible that I can imagine some readers not wanting to continue reading, however, it pays to read on. I did find mum's internal dialogue quite disturbing. After a mere fact, or action, a whole ethical epistle follows about the how and what: I don’t think that was necessary. Despite some criticism, I devoured the book, and, being a single mum of three, I had to scratch my head, yet in the end I think I am just a good enough mum, no skeletons in the cupboard here. This macabre story is quite a different story, mind you. And I would love to read more by this author! Highly recommended, though not for the faint hearted!
**** 4 stars
Thank you Netgalley and Lizzie Fry for this arc. I leave this review voluntarily.
They fascinate: these human predators. Numerous books have been written about them, and have become bestseller books. Their stories stir public opinion - Netflix having gone ‘serial killer’, defying the limits of what is permissible - with series, such as Mindhunters, and ‘Dahmer’ (Jeffrey -, red.) almost glorifying the criminally insane; no matter how crazy, macabre or gruesome their crimes, they have already done it long ago.
And if you think it can't get any crazier, they have been putting this idea into practice for a very long time.
Science has been researching the link between nature and nurture for years, and unfortunately it turns out that growing up in a single-parent household, an absent father figure, or domestic violence puts quite a risk in the balance that your ‘very dearest sweet boy(/- girl) will grow up to be a cruel individual with a pathological predilection to control, manipulate others, and everything else unthinkable.
The Good Mother is a bone-chilling story, in which the reader descends into the mind of the criminal insane. Both protagonists are absolutely bonkers, no need for a M.D. here- the story veers between true crime and (fictional) crime thriller, in which the author has also managed to weave in references to 'real cases,’ e.g. Dennis Nilsen, the Camden Ripper (the real one recently deceased because of covid-19), ‘House of Horrors” (Fred West), et& ..
I initially gave the book 4 stars because I was confused about the lead-up to the story. I honestly didn't understand anything about it, and didn't know what to believe.
Now that I've finished the book, I think the author wanted to fool the reader. I now understand the beginning better, albeit it was rather chaotic and rather incredible.
Summarised: Jack witnesses his mother getting beaten up by his father, and as a last resort, he stabs his father. The story continues 10 years later, Jack is then 18, and mother is now doing fine. She has her life back on track reasonably well, and has since found a nice job. She even starts dating, and the relationship with her new boyfriend Steve seems to be getting serious, she invites him for dinner and to meet Jack.
How the story continues is for the reader to find out for themselves. It’ll be a rollercoaster, with the reader being tossed back and forth between fascination, repulsion, and bewilderment. Clearly, Jack has obvious ‘mommy issues.’
If you don't believe the story of what happens in the basement, keep in mind that Ed Kemper's mother kept her son in a rat infested basement, offering him as a baby for a can of beer to the first one who wanted him.
I did not give five stars, - because there are quite a few loose ends in the story. If the body of a missing person is not found, it seems strange to me that there is a funeral within a week after, nowadays a mobile phone and its location can be traced easily, plus the fact that the police do not investigate further, and some things are presented as facts, domestic violence is said to have been normalised. Says who?
The beginning is rather messy, with the lead story sometimes coming across as so implausible that I can imagine some readers not wanting to continue reading, however, it pays to read on. I did find mum's internal dialogue quite disturbing. After a mere fact, or action, a whole ethical epistle follows about the how and what: I don’t think that was necessary. Despite some criticism, I devoured the book, and, being a single mum of three, I had to scratch my head, yet in the end I think I am just a good enough mum, no skeletons in the cupboard here. This macabre story is quite a different story, mind you. And I would love to read more by this author! Highly recommended, though not for the faint hearted!
**** 4 stars
Thank you Netgalley and Lizzie Fry for this arc. I leave this review voluntarily.
January 30, 2023
Advanced Reader Copy Review
I've started to write this review after more than a week and finding myself still only 40% in...
I think that this time the problem is more me than it is the author, Lizzie Fry, as her writing isn't too bad, her descriptives are OK and the premise is "probably" interesting ...I just don't feel invested, and am forcing myself to continue out of respect to the publishers who have trusted me to compete a pre -release review.
It's strange as I enjoyed watching Dexter (note to self, maybe you should try reading that source novel at some point), but I am clearly not engrossed in this Brit based serial killer yarn, let alone enjoying the experience...so to me the cover blurb about an "utterly gripping psychological thriller" isn't strictly true as I am definitely not utterly gripped...I'm more "so what"...but as I say I think it's more me than the actual book...I am not empathising with the "good mother" or her clearly troubled son ...I am missing what normally hooks me to a good crime novel - interesting investigators (41% in and the only police involvement to date has been front door knockers with no back story or continuing involvement), there are implausible aspects as to how the first two reported murders were contained and allowed to pass without too much trouble to let the story evolve
I've settled down to try and crack on with the book this afternoon - let's see if that moves my half-way point 3* rating.
Truth to tell 61% in and it's all got a bit fanciful - (SEMI-SPOILER ALERT: So, our main character has cash flow issues with a low paying job but has easy access to purchase a "hypodermic of tranquilliser", not to mention a lot of paraphernalia associated with basement activities - yes, there was a throwaway about credit cards previously but nothing is actually adding up for me, especially as she bought ketamine from a drug dealer, I'm pretty sure that'll be a trail free cash only transaction...though a few pages on Lizzie explains that "bought" was hand jobs, strange currency and probably not convincingly cost effective for a middle-class dealer - my earlier lack of love has, if anything, grown...the last third of this assignment is going to be a struggle)
73% The supposedly "Good Mother" is treated to a Spa stay by her unemployed son - now, call me a pedant but I doubt that can be acheived (even, or perhaps especially, in Soho?) for less than a couple of hundred pounds - where's that materialised from, have we missed something about the lad having a slush fund, incongruous with the hand to mouth existence they live under - especially as she is currently at best "between jobs"; the funding might be explained in the next chapter but there's a disatisfaction in this reader that Mother didn't ponder the why's and wherefores as she approached the spa hotel, or indeed in the immediate aftermath of that appointment.
...and then we come to the climax and you know what, it WAS me...I didn't like the subject matter, I clearly had issues with.some of the logic/plot devicing and challenge some of that BUT if this sort of story is YOUR thing then you'll get a fully wrapped up tale that's got a beginning, a middle and an end (or two).
There were some twists, might argue still as to whether it was "utterly" gripping but there was a story...most things did get explained , there is an ending that makes sense...I don't think there will be follow-ups with these characters but I'd probably be tempted to try the author again in a different setting
I'm still saying 3* but accept that's personal and could understand fans of the genre going one higher.
I've started to write this review after more than a week and finding myself still only 40% in...
I think that this time the problem is more me than it is the author, Lizzie Fry, as her writing isn't too bad, her descriptives are OK and the premise is "probably" interesting ...I just don't feel invested, and am forcing myself to continue out of respect to the publishers who have trusted me to compete a pre -release review.
It's strange as I enjoyed watching Dexter (note to self, maybe you should try reading that source novel at some point), but I am clearly not engrossed in this Brit based serial killer yarn, let alone enjoying the experience...so to me the cover blurb about an "utterly gripping psychological thriller" isn't strictly true as I am definitely not utterly gripped...I'm more "so what"...but as I say I think it's more me than the actual book...I am not empathising with the "good mother" or her clearly troubled son ...I am missing what normally hooks me to a good crime novel - interesting investigators (41% in and the only police involvement to date has been front door knockers with no back story or continuing involvement), there are implausible aspects as to how the first two reported murders were contained and allowed to pass without too much trouble to let the story evolve
I've settled down to try and crack on with the book this afternoon - let's see if that moves my half-way point 3* rating.
Truth to tell 61% in and it's all got a bit fanciful - (SEMI-SPOILER ALERT: So, our main character has cash flow issues with a low paying job but has easy access to purchase a "hypodermic of tranquilliser", not to mention a lot of paraphernalia associated with basement activities - yes, there was a throwaway about credit cards previously but nothing is actually adding up for me, especially as she bought ketamine from a drug dealer, I'm pretty sure that'll be a trail free cash only transaction...though a few pages on Lizzie explains that "bought" was hand jobs, strange currency and probably not convincingly cost effective for a middle-class dealer - my earlier lack of love has, if anything, grown...the last third of this assignment is going to be a struggle)
73% The supposedly "Good Mother" is treated to a Spa stay by her unemployed son - now, call me a pedant but I doubt that can be acheived (even, or perhaps especially, in Soho?) for less than a couple of hundred pounds - where's that materialised from, have we missed something about the lad having a slush fund, incongruous with the hand to mouth existence they live under - especially as she is currently at best "between jobs"; the funding might be explained in the next chapter but there's a disatisfaction in this reader that Mother didn't ponder the why's and wherefores as she approached the spa hotel, or indeed in the immediate aftermath of that appointment.
...and then we come to the climax and you know what, it WAS me...I didn't like the subject matter, I clearly had issues with.some of the logic/plot devicing and challenge some of that BUT if this sort of story is YOUR thing then you'll get a fully wrapped up tale that's got a beginning, a middle and an end (or two).
There were some twists, might argue still as to whether it was "utterly" gripping but there was a story...most things did get explained , there is an ending that makes sense...I don't think there will be follow-ups with these characters but I'd probably be tempted to try the author again in a different setting
I'm still saying 3* but accept that's personal and could understand fans of the genre going one higher.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley, Joffe Books, and Lizzie Fry for this book.
What a novel. A mother tries to protect her son after he stabs his father at the age of eight and spends the next ten years protecting him and hoping he’s not a serial killer. Natasha protects her son from everything and everyone not dating anyone after her husband was murdered. Jack, her son, kills her latest boyfriend Steve when he realizes that this could turn into his parents marriage and her hurting him like she did with his dad Dave. Natasha has it in her twisted mind that what she is doing is justified and even makes their basement into a killing place for her son and chooses his victims and his lures them to her house. She only chooses men she believes to be bad people. She works with an archivist and helps a true crime podcaster named Aaron find a letter proving that an old lady who died was in cohorts with a serial killer and ends up dating him. She ends up finding out he was using her and tells Jack to kill him and Jack ends up befriending and dating Aaron who is bisexual. Jack ends up killing his mom after she locks him in the basement along with Aaron when Jack wants to leave and they have to escape before she kills Aaron. Aaron ends up killing Jack because he doesn’t want to hide for the rest of his life and make his podcast a huge success because he’s the only one still standing and nobody would know otherwise. I mean Natasha killed her own father, the only father figure Jack had because she believed he was going to tell but he wanted to help and get Jack the help he needed. Natasha molds and shapes him into a killer so she wouldn’t have to kill anyone else and she would keep him forever.
What a novel. A mother tries to protect her son after he stabs his father at the age of eight and spends the next ten years protecting him and hoping he’s not a serial killer. Natasha protects her son from everything and everyone not dating anyone after her husband was murdered. Jack, her son, kills her latest boyfriend Steve when he realizes that this could turn into his parents marriage and her hurting him like she did with his dad Dave. Natasha has it in her twisted mind that what she is doing is justified and even makes their basement into a killing place for her son and chooses his victims and his lures them to her house. She only chooses men she believes to be bad people. She works with an archivist and helps a true crime podcaster named Aaron find a letter proving that an old lady who died was in cohorts with a serial killer and ends up dating him. She ends up finding out he was using her and tells Jack to kill him and Jack ends up befriending and dating Aaron who is bisexual. Jack ends up killing his mom after she locks him in the basement along with Aaron when Jack wants to leave and they have to escape before she kills Aaron. Aaron ends up killing Jack because he doesn’t want to hide for the rest of his life and make his podcast a huge success because he’s the only one still standing and nobody would know otherwise. I mean Natasha killed her own father, the only father figure Jack had because she believed he was going to tell but he wanted to help and get Jack the help he needed. Natasha molds and shapes him into a killer so she wouldn’t have to kill anyone else and she would keep him forever.
February 7, 2023
Tasha is trying to rebuild her life with her teenage son Jack. 10 years before her husband and Jack’s father was murdered by eight year old Jack. At the time Tasha thought he was just defending her but soon she finds out the reasons go much deeper. At the time she told the police her husband who was already known for JD dealings was taken out by one of his many enemies and they believe that but when she invites her new boyfriend Steve over to meet Jack and Jack murders him she doesn’t know what to do. This is what she realizes Jack’s issues go way deeper than just boys will be boys Natasha is determined to be a good mother it will do anything for Jack and I do mean anything! There is so much more to this book than the brief summary I have given there was a podcaster, missing homeless people and so much more. Most mothers would do anything for the children but Tasha goes above and beyond and she says it’s all for Jack but is it? This book was so good I don’t know what to say and what not to say because I don’t want to give any key plot points away this book was so good it’s dark witty intelligently done just an all-around great read. When it comes to thrillers The Good Mother by list Fry is up there with the best. Instead of whodunit the question is why in the answer is astounding. I’ve really enjoyed this book and think it is a five star thriller and that is only because I cannot give it more. This is a book I definitely highly recommend to those who love thrillers I received it from NetGalley and Jafibooks but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
February 19, 2023
Just from reading the book’s description we know that Natasha’s teenage son, Jack, has killer someone. And it’s not the first time he has killed someone. But his mother will do what she must to cover it up and protect him at all costs. After all, it is what a good mother would do.
Holy smokes, this probably one of the most disturbing thrillers I have read in a long time. Many times while reading I had to pick my jaw up off the floor or take a break and put it away for a bit. A large part of the story is told from the point I view of Natasha, but the further you read in the book the more you question whether she is a reliable narrator. Can we believe her accounts of the events in our story? Further toward the end of the book we hear the story from Jack’s point of view, but is he believable? In the end, who do you trust when telling this story? These two characters are clearly in a toxic relationship, but what caused it and how can they break the cycle? I do not want to reveal ANYTHING because I want everyone to be as shocked as I was, so keep reading and you will find out!
If you choose to read this book, buckle up and prepare yourself for a DARK and twisted thriller. There is a LOT of gore and disturbing imagery, which made me rate it lower than what I probably would have rated it had I been prepared for it in advance. I feel like I need to go watch a happy musical or read a lighthearted romance to cleanse my mind of the dark and twisted world of Natasha and Jack.
Thank you NetGalley and Joffe Books for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
Holy smokes, this probably one of the most disturbing thrillers I have read in a long time. Many times while reading I had to pick my jaw up off the floor or take a break and put it away for a bit. A large part of the story is told from the point I view of Natasha, but the further you read in the book the more you question whether she is a reliable narrator. Can we believe her accounts of the events in our story? Further toward the end of the book we hear the story from Jack’s point of view, but is he believable? In the end, who do you trust when telling this story? These two characters are clearly in a toxic relationship, but what caused it and how can they break the cycle? I do not want to reveal ANYTHING because I want everyone to be as shocked as I was, so keep reading and you will find out!
If you choose to read this book, buckle up and prepare yourself for a DARK and twisted thriller. There is a LOT of gore and disturbing imagery, which made me rate it lower than what I probably would have rated it had I been prepared for it in advance. I feel like I need to go watch a happy musical or read a lighthearted romance to cleanse my mind of the dark and twisted world of Natasha and Jack.
Thank you NetGalley and Joffe Books for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
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