The Push

Ashley Audrain

Welcome to , ,

Initially, I hesitated to pick up this book due to its thriller label, a genre I typically don’t gravitate toward. Surprisingly, it unfolded as more of a psychological drama than a conventional thriller, which may have been just what I needed to overcome my thriller-phobia. 

We could have counted our problems on the petals of the daisy in my bouquet, but it wouldn’t be long before we were lost in a field of them 

The story revolves around Blythe, who seemingly finds the ideal partner to start a family with. However, her traumatic childhood casts a shadow of doubt over her ability to be the perfect mother to her daughter. Throughout the book, Blythe candidly shares her rollercoaster of emotions during pregnancy and motherhood with her husband. He struggles to comprehend why she can’t love their daughter as effortlessly as he does. Yet, it’s far from simple for Blythe to wholeheartedly embrace her daughter when she detects unsettling traits in her that send shivers down her spine. 

This book proved to be a swift and engaging read, guiding readers through the intricate landscape of motherhood and the accompanying emotions. It struck an emotional chord at times, providing a genuine portrayal of the highs and lows that come with being a parent. While I found the story compelling, I couldn’t help but wonder about the untapped potential it might have had if it ventured further into suspense and unpredictability. 

I would recommend this book to those looking to dip their toes into the thriller genre gently. It offers a blend of psychological depth and a taste of suspense, making it an accessible starting point for those seeking to explore this genre. 

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