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The New Mother
A relatable and nerve-wracking, sympathetic and bone-chilling story — a fresh new twist on motherhood and murder in suburbia.
Isolated. Lonely. Tired. It's hard being The New Mother. Sometimes it's murder.
Nothing is simple about being a new mom alone in a new house, especially when your baby is collicky. Natalie Fanning loves her son unconditionally, but being a mother was not all she wanted to be.
Enter Paul, the neighbor.
Paul provides the lifeline she needs in what feels like the most desperate of times. When Paul is helping with Oliver, calmed by his reassuring, steady presence, Nat feels like she can finally rest.
But Paul wants something in return. It’s no coincidence that he has befriended Nat—she is the perfect pawn for his own plan. Will Nat wake up in time to see it?
Isolated. Lonely. Tired. It's hard being The New Mother. Sometimes it's murder.
Nothing is simple about being a new mom alone in a new house, especially when your baby is collicky. Natalie Fanning loves her son unconditionally, but being a mother was not all she wanted to be.
Enter Paul, the neighbor.
Paul provides the lifeline she needs in what feels like the most desperate of times. When Paul is helping with Oliver, calmed by his reassuring, steady presence, Nat feels like she can finally rest.
But Paul wants something in return. It’s no coincidence that he has befriended Nat—she is the perfect pawn for his own plan. Will Nat wake up in time to see it?
304 pages, Hardcover
First published May 30, 2023
About the author
Nora Murphy
7 books509 followersNora Murphy attended law school in Washington, D.C., then worked as a judicial law clerk before transitioning to private practice. A practicing attorney, Nora writes as much as she can, usually long before the sunrise or on her phone while holding her infant son. Nora resides in Maryland with her husband, children, and five rescue pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 937 reviews
June 11, 2023
YAWN
The New Mother is described as a chilling mystery/thriller. It’s not even close. It is more of a domestic drama/commentary on new motherhood and highlights the dangers of postpartum depression.
When Natalie and her husband Tyler move to an upscale suburban neighborhood in anticipation of the birth of their new child, nothing could have prepared them for what is to come. After Natalie gives birth to their son Oliver, she struggles greatly with the burdens of new motherhood. She is sleep-deprived, thinking uncomfortable thoughts about her new son, and feels an inexplicable rage toward Tyler. Only one thing can bring her comfort, her new neighbor Paul who seems to uniquely understand Natalie's struggles. But Paul has other plans for Natalie and preys on her vulnerable state to enact his evil plan.
Narrated primarily by Natalie, her chapters go into tedious detail about breastfeeding, sleep deprivation, and other elements that come along with being a new mother. I wouldn’t have minded some of this included, but once she starts, she NEVER stops. Her chapters are repetitive and painful to read, to say the least. I don't want to ever read about sore nipples again.
The reader gets a glimpse of Paul as his PoV is shared in a few chapters. Paul’s character could have been interesting, but he is only a sketch of a villain as the meat of the novel is focused on Natalie’s turmoil.
The novel is broken into four parts--the first three focus on Natalie’s experience. Finally, the fourth chapter deals with the consequences of Paul's plan, and the outcome is laughable.
This book was tedious to read. It took me several weeks to get through, and I only finished it because I won it as a giveaway. The premise is enticing, but unfortunately, the execution falls flat. However, Murphy does make some important points about postpartum depression and psychosis, and her author’s note resonates. Sadly, her focus and themes get lost in the murder plotline.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway!
The New Mother is described as a chilling mystery/thriller. It’s not even close. It is more of a domestic drama/commentary on new motherhood and highlights the dangers of postpartum depression.
When Natalie and her husband Tyler move to an upscale suburban neighborhood in anticipation of the birth of their new child, nothing could have prepared them for what is to come. After Natalie gives birth to their son Oliver, she struggles greatly with the burdens of new motherhood. She is sleep-deprived, thinking uncomfortable thoughts about her new son, and feels an inexplicable rage toward Tyler. Only one thing can bring her comfort, her new neighbor Paul who seems to uniquely understand Natalie's struggles. But Paul has other plans for Natalie and preys on her vulnerable state to enact his evil plan.
Narrated primarily by Natalie, her chapters go into tedious detail about breastfeeding, sleep deprivation, and other elements that come along with being a new mother. I wouldn’t have minded some of this included, but once she starts, she NEVER stops. Her chapters are repetitive and painful to read, to say the least. I don't want to ever read about sore nipples again.
The reader gets a glimpse of Paul as his PoV is shared in a few chapters. Paul’s character could have been interesting, but he is only a sketch of a villain as the meat of the novel is focused on Natalie’s turmoil.
The novel is broken into four parts--the first three focus on Natalie’s experience. Finally, the fourth chapter deals with the consequences of Paul's plan, and the outcome is laughable.
This book was tedious to read. It took me several weeks to get through, and I only finished it because I won it as a giveaway. The premise is enticing, but unfortunately, the execution falls flat. However, Murphy does make some important points about postpartum depression and psychosis, and her author’s note resonates. Sadly, her focus and themes get lost in the murder plotline.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway!
May 30, 2023
I have to admit….the title “The New Mother” and the premise, didn’t appeal to me, as a woman who remained childless by choice, but I loved the author’s debut novel last year, “The Favor”, so I took a chance on this anyway.
I should have listened to my instincts and SKIPPED this one.
The author acknowledges that she wanted to write a story on Postpartum Depression, and how DIFFICULT a being a new mother can be-especially if your infant is colicky and doesn’t sleep, and you are committed to breastfeeding, at all costs.
And, she succeeds there-this story should reassure any new mother who is struggling.
But where it DOES NOT succeed is as the mystery/thriller it is marketed as.
RESENTMENT
Natalie Fanning is the struggling new mom, who begins to resent her husband Tyler for being able to continue his career as an attorney, as if they never had a baby, while her career as one is placed “on hold” while she takes time off to stay home with their new baby, Oliver.
Paul Riley, a “want to be” author, is the “stay at home” Dad down the street, who resents his wife, Erin, for treating him like the “hired help” while she is the breadwinner of their family. Ten years is too long to remain “unpublished” and “unemployed”, and now that their daughter, Petra, is ten years old, she would like him to return to work.
The two will commiserate together.
The story opens with Detective Jill West, arriving in a neighborhood that isn’t the sort where a murder would take place, or where a murderer would live-and yet that is what brought her there.
And, the book ends abruptly with an EPILOGUE when the “murder” is solved.
But, unfortunately, although I WAS intrigued by the suspense of the murder, IT was overshadowed by the ENDLESS descriptions of sleep deprivation, engorged, leaky breasts, inflamed sore nipples, and breastfeeding.
Not exactly, riveting material for what is billed as a mystery/thriller.
I enjoyed her DEBUT enough to give her THIRD book a try-but I can’t recommend this SOPHOMORE effort to readers looking for a satisfying mystery/ thriller.
Did DeAnn and MarilynW have better luck with it? Be sure to watch for their amazing reviews!
AVAILABLE NOW
Thank You to Minotaur Books for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
I should have listened to my instincts and SKIPPED this one.
The author acknowledges that she wanted to write a story on Postpartum Depression, and how DIFFICULT a being a new mother can be-especially if your infant is colicky and doesn’t sleep, and you are committed to breastfeeding, at all costs.
And, she succeeds there-this story should reassure any new mother who is struggling.
But where it DOES NOT succeed is as the mystery/thriller it is marketed as.
RESENTMENT
Natalie Fanning is the struggling new mom, who begins to resent her husband Tyler for being able to continue his career as an attorney, as if they never had a baby, while her career as one is placed “on hold” while she takes time off to stay home with their new baby, Oliver.
Paul Riley, a “want to be” author, is the “stay at home” Dad down the street, who resents his wife, Erin, for treating him like the “hired help” while she is the breadwinner of their family. Ten years is too long to remain “unpublished” and “unemployed”, and now that their daughter, Petra, is ten years old, she would like him to return to work.
The two will commiserate together.
The story opens with Detective Jill West, arriving in a neighborhood that isn’t the sort where a murder would take place, or where a murderer would live-and yet that is what brought her there.
And, the book ends abruptly with an EPILOGUE when the “murder” is solved.
But, unfortunately, although I WAS intrigued by the suspense of the murder, IT was overshadowed by the ENDLESS descriptions of sleep deprivation, engorged, leaky breasts, inflamed sore nipples, and breastfeeding.
Not exactly, riveting material for what is billed as a mystery/thriller.
I enjoyed her DEBUT enough to give her THIRD book a try-but I can’t recommend this SOPHOMORE effort to readers looking for a satisfying mystery/ thriller.
Did DeAnn and MarilynW have better luck with it? Be sure to watch for their amazing reviews!
AVAILABLE NOW
Thank You to Minotaur Books for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
March 19, 2023
Nora Murphy’s New Mother scared the living daylights out of me! This is not a horror novel! This is most honest and realistic fiction I’ve lately read about a woman’s struggling to be the best mother to her child! You may ask: what’s so terrifying about it? It sounds like a self exploratory, emotional bounding story! No, it isn’t!
Natalie Fanning might be one of the best portrayed characters I truly empathize with. She’s lonely, isolated, helpless, sleep deprived, exhausted, depressed, trapped in her new house with her new born, doing everything she can to keep him safe, well- fed, loved.
But what about her needs? She’d graduated summa cum laude from college and then law school. She’d passed the bar exam. She’d been promoted to senior associate at my firm and had negotiated hundreds of commercial contracts over the course of seven years of practice. But really gut now she barely fastens a baby wrap.
The author puts emphasis on the dark side of C-section by giving detailed examples about Natalie’s daily struggles like witch hazel pads she’d need for her hemorrhoids; the magical ice packs; the diaper-like sanitary napkins; the billowing, hospital-issue underwear; the sit bath and squirt bottle. She’s dealing with third degree tear!
She’s physically and psychologically in pain! She cannot sleep. She has to endure strict diet rules for her baby’s health issues! She’s just like ghost version of herself lurking around in her house! You can hear her inner screams at each page!
Unfortunately nobody understands why she’s struggling so much. Her husband thinks something wrong with her. Sabbatical is the best solution he could present! But what if Natalie wants to work and get the promotion she highly deserved instead of sending him work and taking care of her son all day alone as she slowly loses her mind! She’d been isolating herself in her spiral of confusion and sleeplessness, of swinging moods and irrational thoughts, of missing hours and panic attacks.
Her only friend Elaine is also pregnant, counting the days, burying her head into her own world. She cannot help her!
Her mother passed away. Her old father lives in his own world. He cannot be helpful, either.
Thankfully her neighbor Paul Riley who is stay at home/ writer dad provides the emotional support she needs. She’s taking care of her baby to give her enough time for resting, cooking her muffins, giving her special gifts for the baby. He’s godsend! Is he really?
When we read Paul’s POV, we sense something is truly off with him. First of all he was having a affair with the married woman who recently moved from the same house Natalie is living. He has special plans for Natalie. Do you want to know what his devious plans are? Keep in reading!
This is absolutely slow burn thriller. There’s no big twist. There’s no big mystery. You may sense Paul’s intentions from the beginning. But I truly loved Natalie’s voice: her loneliness, her silent cries and screams easily made me connect with her.
The lack of suspicion, slow pacing made me a little anxious but the characterization was perfection! So I decided to give four stars!
It’s effective, realistic, thought provoking story perfectly questions of motherhood and how far a mother can go to protect her child.
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/ Minotaur Books for sharing this stunning digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
Natalie Fanning might be one of the best portrayed characters I truly empathize with. She’s lonely, isolated, helpless, sleep deprived, exhausted, depressed, trapped in her new house with her new born, doing everything she can to keep him safe, well- fed, loved.
But what about her needs? She’d graduated summa cum laude from college and then law school. She’d passed the bar exam. She’d been promoted to senior associate at my firm and had negotiated hundreds of commercial contracts over the course of seven years of practice. But really gut now she barely fastens a baby wrap.
The author puts emphasis on the dark side of C-section by giving detailed examples about Natalie’s daily struggles like witch hazel pads she’d need for her hemorrhoids; the magical ice packs; the diaper-like sanitary napkins; the billowing, hospital-issue underwear; the sit bath and squirt bottle. She’s dealing with third degree tear!
She’s physically and psychologically in pain! She cannot sleep. She has to endure strict diet rules for her baby’s health issues! She’s just like ghost version of herself lurking around in her house! You can hear her inner screams at each page!
Unfortunately nobody understands why she’s struggling so much. Her husband thinks something wrong with her. Sabbatical is the best solution he could present! But what if Natalie wants to work and get the promotion she highly deserved instead of sending him work and taking care of her son all day alone as she slowly loses her mind! She’d been isolating herself in her spiral of confusion and sleeplessness, of swinging moods and irrational thoughts, of missing hours and panic attacks.
Her only friend Elaine is also pregnant, counting the days, burying her head into her own world. She cannot help her!
Her mother passed away. Her old father lives in his own world. He cannot be helpful, either.
Thankfully her neighbor Paul Riley who is stay at home/ writer dad provides the emotional support she needs. She’s taking care of her baby to give her enough time for resting, cooking her muffins, giving her special gifts for the baby. He’s godsend! Is he really?
When we read Paul’s POV, we sense something is truly off with him. First of all he was having a affair with the married woman who recently moved from the same house Natalie is living. He has special plans for Natalie. Do you want to know what his devious plans are? Keep in reading!
This is absolutely slow burn thriller. There’s no big twist. There’s no big mystery. You may sense Paul’s intentions from the beginning. But I truly loved Natalie’s voice: her loneliness, her silent cries and screams easily made me connect with her.
The lack of suspicion, slow pacing made me a little anxious but the characterization was perfection! So I decided to give four stars!
It’s effective, realistic, thought provoking story perfectly questions of motherhood and how far a mother can go to protect her child.
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/ Minotaur Books for sharing this stunning digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
May 7, 2023
I can think of very few people I’d feel more sympathetic to than a new mom. A tiny human now relies on you for everything, and you’re trying to do it with chemical and hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, societal and family pressures, and all the other demands of life that don’t stop just because you gave birth. It’s rewarding beyond measure, but let’s be honest … it’s HARD!
So, having said all that, this puts me in the very awkward position of saying this is one of the most miserable books featuring motherhood that I’ve ever read. Yes, there’s a murder storyline that shows up around the 60% mark, but up to that point it’s really a lot of anger, whining, confusion and snark from the MC, first-time mom Natalie, as she struggles to care for her colicky newborn, Oliver, while essentially never sleeping.
Despite his repeated offers of help, Natalie treats her husband, Tyler, like an irritating nuisance at best, while she views her neighbor, Paul, a stay-at-home dad and virtual stranger, as a baby whisperer on whom the sun rises and sets. It was annoying and served to make me more sympathetic towards Tyler than Natalie! I’m not sure that was the author’s intent.
Speaking of “perfect” Paul, he’s basically a polite, charming, diabolical narcissist who manipulates Natalie continually but is somehow still a stellar dad to his daughter and a baby savior to Natalie’s constantly crying son. The two sides of him don’t add up to a real human.
Bring in the late-stage murder storyline and a comically unbelievable investigation featuring a female detective who Natalie and Paul use as the human equivalent of a ping-pong match (She did it … no, he did it … no, look at her … no, look at him! …), and my eyes rolled through the remainder of the book.
I loved Murphy’s debut, The Favor, and I respect her effort in this book to bring attention and awareness to the very real issues of post-partum depression and, in more extreme cases, post-partum psychosis. For the real women who’ve experienced either of those conditions, they have ALL my sympathy. I wish Natalie had been a character that would’ve elicited the same response. It feels like a missed opportunity.
I still think Murphy is a talented author, and I’ll absolutely watch for her next book. This just wasn’t the right book for me.
★★ ½
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books, NetGalley, and author Nora Murphy for this ARC to honestly review. It’s due for publication on May 30, 2023.
So, having said all that, this puts me in the very awkward position of saying this is one of the most miserable books featuring motherhood that I’ve ever read. Yes, there’s a murder storyline that shows up around the 60% mark, but up to that point it’s really a lot of anger, whining, confusion and snark from the MC, first-time mom Natalie, as she struggles to care for her colicky newborn, Oliver, while essentially never sleeping.
Despite his repeated offers of help, Natalie treats her husband, Tyler, like an irritating nuisance at best, while she views her neighbor, Paul, a stay-at-home dad and virtual stranger, as a baby whisperer on whom the sun rises and sets. It was annoying and served to make me more sympathetic towards Tyler than Natalie! I’m not sure that was the author’s intent.
Speaking of “perfect” Paul, he’s basically a polite, charming, diabolical narcissist who manipulates Natalie continually but is somehow still a stellar dad to his daughter and a baby savior to Natalie’s constantly crying son. The two sides of him don’t add up to a real human.
Bring in the late-stage murder storyline and a comically unbelievable investigation featuring a female detective who Natalie and Paul use as the human equivalent of a ping-pong match (She did it … no, he did it … no, look at her … no, look at him! …), and my eyes rolled through the remainder of the book.
I loved Murphy’s debut, The Favor, and I respect her effort in this book to bring attention and awareness to the very real issues of post-partum depression and, in more extreme cases, post-partum psychosis. For the real women who’ve experienced either of those conditions, they have ALL my sympathy. I wish Natalie had been a character that would’ve elicited the same response. It feels like a missed opportunity.
I still think Murphy is a talented author, and I’ll absolutely watch for her next book. This just wasn’t the right book for me.
★★ ½
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books, NetGalley, and author Nora Murphy for this ARC to honestly review. It’s due for publication on May 30, 2023.
June 19, 2023
2.5⭐️
Our protagonist ,Natalie, is a new mother in her early thirties who puts her career on hold to take care of her newborn son. With her husband Tyler, also a lawyer, at work during the daytime, she spends her time alone at home caring for her baby, Oliver. Her return to work after her maternity leave proved to be difficult and though she yearns to get back to work, she decides to focus on her child. But depressed, exhausted and sleep deprived, Natalie struggles to take care of her colicky baby. Her husband doesn’t quite seem to understand what she is going through. Enter her neighbor, former college professor and stay-at-home father of a ten year old daughter Paul Riley, who seems to be the child whisperer, helping calm Oliver down, befriending Natalie and offering solid advice and a sympathetic ear to her troubles. But Paul has his own reasons for befriending her and beneath his friendly demeanor is a manipulative mind who intends to use Natalie as a pawn to further his own agenda. Will Natalie be able to see through Paul before it's too late?
Having enjoyed Nora Murphy’s The Favor, I was eager to read her latest offering. While the premise of The New Mother was interesting, the execution fell short. The author does an excellent job of depicting the struggles of a new mother suffering from Post Partum Depression and Psychosis with much sensitivity. Natalie’s struggles with motherhood, her anxiety and stress, her conflict over putting her career on the back burner and the strain it puts on her marriage cover more than half of the novel, which wouldn’t have been a problem had I not been expecting a thriller. Viewed from that perspective, I found the narrative repetitive ( I really don't feel like going into details here and I mean no disrespect to anyone who has gone through what Natalie goes through as a new mother!) and the pace dragged until after the second half of the novel and even then, I was not quite invested in the story which I felt was a tad simplistic (no twists or surprises) and contrived with an ending that was abrupt and less than satisfying.
Many thanks to St. Martins Press and NetGalley for the digital review copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Our protagonist ,Natalie, is a new mother in her early thirties who puts her career on hold to take care of her newborn son. With her husband Tyler, also a lawyer, at work during the daytime, she spends her time alone at home caring for her baby, Oliver. Her return to work after her maternity leave proved to be difficult and though she yearns to get back to work, she decides to focus on her child. But depressed, exhausted and sleep deprived, Natalie struggles to take care of her colicky baby. Her husband doesn’t quite seem to understand what she is going through. Enter her neighbor, former college professor and stay-at-home father of a ten year old daughter Paul Riley, who seems to be the child whisperer, helping calm Oliver down, befriending Natalie and offering solid advice and a sympathetic ear to her troubles. But Paul has his own reasons for befriending her and beneath his friendly demeanor is a manipulative mind who intends to use Natalie as a pawn to further his own agenda. Will Natalie be able to see through Paul before it's too late?
Having enjoyed Nora Murphy’s The Favor, I was eager to read her latest offering. While the premise of The New Mother was interesting, the execution fell short. The author does an excellent job of depicting the struggles of a new mother suffering from Post Partum Depression and Psychosis with much sensitivity. Natalie’s struggles with motherhood, her anxiety and stress, her conflict over putting her career on the back burner and the strain it puts on her marriage cover more than half of the novel, which wouldn’t have been a problem had I not been expecting a thriller. Viewed from that perspective, I found the narrative repetitive ( I really don't feel like going into details here and I mean no disrespect to anyone who has gone through what Natalie goes through as a new mother!) and the pace dragged until after the second half of the novel and even then, I was not quite invested in the story which I felt was a tad simplistic (no twists or surprises) and contrived with an ending that was abrupt and less than satisfying.
Many thanks to St. Martins Press and NetGalley for the digital review copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 30, 2023
3.5⭐
Publication date ~ May 30, 2023
Page Count ~ 304
Audio length ~ 11 hours 51 minutes
Narrators ~ Dylan Moore & Lee Osorio
POV ~ single 1st & single 3rd
Featuring ~ 4 part story, lawyers, unreliable narrator, murder, postpartum depression
Natalie is a brand new mom having a tough time. Oliver won't stop crying and she's feeling the stress of lack of sleep. There is no doubt she is struggling and although her husband, Tyler, tries he just can't seems to help in the way Natalie needs and she begins to resent him.
Paul is a stay at home dad in the neighborhood and weaves his way into Natalie's life with his understanding demeanor and stellar skills of calming Oliver down.
I totally think men and women can just be friends, but I think it's different if you'd already had that friendship before you were married then if it was developed during your marriage. Everyone will always make assumptions that something sinister is going on.
It's not a secret that Paul has something up his sleeve when he starts showing up when Natalie is taking strolls with the baby. I knew a crazy plan was up his sleeve, but I was surprised about the murder. Overall, this had definite slow points where I thought it was just all going to be about new motherhood, which is not super fascinating if you did it yourself, and probably if you haven't either. It takes a while for the pace to pick up, but it does so after the murder.
I was fortune enough to have both an audio and a kindle copy. I'd recommend reading over listening. Natalie's narrator was very stiff/robotic sounding, but I was able to listen to her at a faster speed. Paul's narrator had a nice voice, but I had to slow down his speed, so that was kind of annoying.
*Thanks to the author, St Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the ARC and audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
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Publication date ~ May 30, 2023
Page Count ~ 304
Audio length ~ 11 hours 51 minutes
Narrators ~ Dylan Moore & Lee Osorio
POV ~ single 1st & single 3rd
Featuring ~ 4 part story, lawyers, unreliable narrator, murder, postpartum depression
Natalie is a brand new mom having a tough time. Oliver won't stop crying and she's feeling the stress of lack of sleep. There is no doubt she is struggling and although her husband, Tyler, tries he just can't seems to help in the way Natalie needs and she begins to resent him.
Paul is a stay at home dad in the neighborhood and weaves his way into Natalie's life with his understanding demeanor and stellar skills of calming Oliver down.
I totally think men and women can just be friends, but I think it's different if you'd already had that friendship before you were married then if it was developed during your marriage. Everyone will always make assumptions that something sinister is going on.
It's not a secret that Paul has something up his sleeve when he starts showing up when Natalie is taking strolls with the baby. I knew a crazy plan was up his sleeve, but I was surprised about the murder. Overall, this had definite slow points where I thought it was just all going to be about new motherhood, which is not super fascinating if you did it yourself, and probably if you haven't either. It takes a while for the pace to pick up, but it does so after the murder.
I was fortune enough to have both an audio and a kindle copy. I'd recommend reading over listening. Natalie's narrator was very stiff/robotic sounding, but I was able to listen to her at a faster speed. Paul's narrator had a nice voice, but I had to slow down his speed, so that was kind of annoying.
*Thanks to the author, St Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the ARC and audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
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May 7, 2023
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Mom . It was the greatest honor. It was homogenizing. It was all-consuming, devouring, crushing.
The book is told from two points of view, new mother Natalie and her neighbour Paul who is a failed writer and stay-at-home dad. I really wanted to like this book because it deals with an important topic, postpartum depression. But it was very repetitive in the beginning and nothing really happened until I was half finished. The book is told in four parts and doesn't pick up until part three. I don't mind a slow burn but this was just monotonous.
There is a continuous loop of Natalie suffering from sleep deprivation and her son non-stop crying. Being a mother myself I know that's what happens with newborns but to read it over and over again in a book is tedious and boring. I can relate to the issue because my youngest didn't sleep through the night until he was almost three years old.
Even though I had something in common with Natalie, I did not connect with her at all, or any of the other characters. I think this is mislabeled as a thriller and the part that would fit into that genre was a bit too far-fetched for my liking and the ending was very abrupt and anti-climatic.
I did like the author's notes at the end of the book and recommend they be read. It's very touching and personal.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
Mom . It was the greatest honor. It was homogenizing. It was all-consuming, devouring, crushing.
The book is told from two points of view, new mother Natalie and her neighbour Paul who is a failed writer and stay-at-home dad. I really wanted to like this book because it deals with an important topic, postpartum depression. But it was very repetitive in the beginning and nothing really happened until I was half finished. The book is told in four parts and doesn't pick up until part three. I don't mind a slow burn but this was just monotonous.
There is a continuous loop of Natalie suffering from sleep deprivation and her son non-stop crying. Being a mother myself I know that's what happens with newborns but to read it over and over again in a book is tedious and boring. I can relate to the issue because my youngest didn't sleep through the night until he was almost three years old.
Even though I had something in common with Natalie, I did not connect with her at all, or any of the other characters. I think this is mislabeled as a thriller and the part that would fit into that genre was a bit too far-fetched for my liking and the ending was very abrupt and anti-climatic.
I did like the author's notes at the end of the book and recommend they be read. It's very touching and personal.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
March 31, 2023
Natalie and Tyler are bringing their new-born boy Oliver home from the hospital. A new chapter in their lives as they embrace parenthood. But wait a minute! Nobody told them how difficult it was going to be!
Realizing that Tyler is of no help at all (in Natalie's eyes only), Natalie turns to her neighbor Paul for support. He’s a certified stay-at-home dad so he gets it! Only Paul has reasons of his own for befriending Natalie.
Depressingly, the first 50% of this book is fully dedicated to Natalie’s sleep deprivation and Oliver’s constant crying. I think this could have been covered efficiently in under 20%.
But I understood this was going to be the set up for the mystery. Unfortunately, the actual crime and investigation appeared only as an afterthought. Leaving no reason for me to dust off my detective’s cap. It was a mystery…that really wasn’t.🤷♀️
My best description of this book would be that it's a story of new motherhood and . Billed as a thriller but minus any bona-fide thriller aspects to it.
I did enjoy the previous book by this author, The Favor, so I will likely be reaching for her next.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press
Realizing that Tyler is of no help at all (in Natalie's eyes only), Natalie turns to her neighbor Paul for support. He’s a certified stay-at-home dad so he gets it! Only Paul has reasons of his own for befriending Natalie.
Depressingly, the first 50% of this book is fully dedicated to Natalie’s sleep deprivation and Oliver’s constant crying. I think this could have been covered efficiently in under 20%.
But I understood this was going to be the set up for the mystery. Unfortunately, the actual crime and investigation appeared only as an afterthought. Leaving no reason for me to dust off my detective’s cap. It was a mystery…that really wasn’t.🤷♀️
My best description of this book would be that it's a story of new motherhood and . Billed as a thriller but minus any bona-fide thriller aspects to it.
I did enjoy the previous book by this author, The Favor, so I will likely be reaching for her next.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press
June 11, 2023
**Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press/Minotaur, and Nora Murphy for an ARC of this book! Now available as of 5.30!**
“Motherhood is tough. If you just want a wonderful little creature to love...you can get a puppy.” – Barbara Walters
Natalie Fanning is about to learn the meaning of the word 'tough'...in ways she NEVER could have anticipated. Nobody said motherhood was easy, but nobody could have prepared her for postpartum life either. On top of a difficult and arduous labor, Natalie's bundle of joy, Oliver, is anything but. He won't sleep (unless he's contact napping) and breastfeeding has sapped all of her remaining energy. Being up at all hours and having the life force draining out of her, Natalie feels trapped, isolated, and like she's slowly losing her mind...but at the same time, can't fathom life without the tiny person she brought into the world.
Husband Tyler wants to help, but he can't quite figure out how to stand in for Natalie, and she won't even usually let him try....but somebody else is waiting in the wings who seems to know ALL the tricks. Paul, a neighbor from down the street, makes Natalie's acquaintance and as a daughter of a 10 year old himself, knows just how to calm little Oliver. He seems to have the magic touch, and it gives Natalie hope for the first time. Nat is FINALLY able to focus on herself for a few hours: even just having time to shower and take a catnap feels like a gift.
But Paul has had his eye on this new mom for a while...and she isn't the first neighbor to live in that house that he has befriended. Paul's cold, stringent, and well-to-do wife Erin has him at his wits' end and in his mind, divorce isn't an option, for fear of losing custody of his daughter AND his cushy lifestyle. Could the answer to his problems be right in front of his eyes...in the form of one sleep deprived, desperate new mom...too forgetful to notice the small details, and too intrigued and charmed by Paul to question his motives...no matter how DEADLY the consequences?
Murphy is a student of law, and her first book The Favor was in line with a trend popping up in domestic suspense and women's fiction of late: women with an axe to grind getting well-deserved revenge on the deplorable men in their lives. The plot was intricate and handled the subject matter of domestic violence and intimate partner violence in a visceral, real, and sensitive way, while still providing some twists and turns to remind you it was indeed a fictitious tale. Though aspects were predictable, it had range and depth of emotion and was grounded in reality.
The New Mother had the same potential: the difference being that while Murphy nailed some of the emotions and thoughts that are part and parcel with the early days of new motherhood...this book had little success in any other arena. In fact, there was SO much heavy focus on all of the negative aspects of becoming a mom, that in some ways it became too much to read, even though I found it remarkably accurate. My son just turned two not too long ago, and though I am not too far removed from this time period, this book certainly gave me a violent shove back into the mindset and torturous sleep deprived feelings that in many ways I've forgotten. While the depictions were spot on, I could see it being arduous and even annoying to read to those who have no interest in child rearing or also for those who have struggled to conceive, so be forewarned.
Aside from this angle of the book, however, you'll quickly come to realize that these characters aren't particularly realistic in thought or action, and Paul in particular is unlikable from the jump. We aren't given enough information about Tyler to like or dislike him, and this might be because the only insight we receive on him is from Natalie's POV, and he isn't exactly her favorite person. Even Paul's estimation of Natalie is all over the place: one minute he assumes she will figure out certain things because she's an intelligent lawyer, and in the next breath he pats himself on the back for outwitting her.
Once the murder happens, things sort of fall apart completely in terms of the narrative, and there are plot holes aplenty (at least, IMO) including somewhat incompetent police/detectives, ONE piece of evidence and some tomfoolery with cell phones that somehow makes and breaks an investigation. I also had trouble with buy in with the motivation of one character (I won't name names to avoid spoilers) but again, this took the focus OFF of the very important message about postpartum depression and psychosis that Murphy was trying to shoehorn in here and left me somewhere in between frustrated and annoyed.
I know Murphy can plot better than this, for one simple reason: she has before.
I would have much preferred a relationship/family drama that tackled this same subject matter, but kept the focus on the dynamics of a new family and how a baby changes and tests every relationship in the home. The murder may have been 'necessary' to create conflict, but the REAL 'death' a new mom experiences is the death of her old self and her old way of life: this alone would give her plenty to talk about for the length of this book, and possibly more. I often feel that authors end up obligated to write one 'style' of book, but sometimes have something very different to say, and I truly believe this was the case here.
Murphy also helpfully adds some resources at the end of the book for those who may be struggling with postpartum depression and psychosis, and given that the numbers are constantly on the rise (and so many cases go untreated AND aren't even diagnosed!) NOW is definitely the time to have this conversation: I'm just not sure if Natalie's world of mayhem, murder, and motherhood was the right PLACE to have it.
2.5 stars
“Motherhood is tough. If you just want a wonderful little creature to love...you can get a puppy.” – Barbara Walters
Natalie Fanning is about to learn the meaning of the word 'tough'...in ways she NEVER could have anticipated. Nobody said motherhood was easy, but nobody could have prepared her for postpartum life either. On top of a difficult and arduous labor, Natalie's bundle of joy, Oliver, is anything but. He won't sleep (unless he's contact napping) and breastfeeding has sapped all of her remaining energy. Being up at all hours and having the life force draining out of her, Natalie feels trapped, isolated, and like she's slowly losing her mind...but at the same time, can't fathom life without the tiny person she brought into the world.
Husband Tyler wants to help, but he can't quite figure out how to stand in for Natalie, and she won't even usually let him try....but somebody else is waiting in the wings who seems to know ALL the tricks. Paul, a neighbor from down the street, makes Natalie's acquaintance and as a daughter of a 10 year old himself, knows just how to calm little Oliver. He seems to have the magic touch, and it gives Natalie hope for the first time. Nat is FINALLY able to focus on herself for a few hours: even just having time to shower and take a catnap feels like a gift.
But Paul has had his eye on this new mom for a while...and she isn't the first neighbor to live in that house that he has befriended. Paul's cold, stringent, and well-to-do wife Erin has him at his wits' end and in his mind, divorce isn't an option, for fear of losing custody of his daughter AND his cushy lifestyle. Could the answer to his problems be right in front of his eyes...in the form of one sleep deprived, desperate new mom...too forgetful to notice the small details, and too intrigued and charmed by Paul to question his motives...no matter how DEADLY the consequences?
Murphy is a student of law, and her first book The Favor was in line with a trend popping up in domestic suspense and women's fiction of late: women with an axe to grind getting well-deserved revenge on the deplorable men in their lives. The plot was intricate and handled the subject matter of domestic violence and intimate partner violence in a visceral, real, and sensitive way, while still providing some twists and turns to remind you it was indeed a fictitious tale. Though aspects were predictable, it had range and depth of emotion and was grounded in reality.
The New Mother had the same potential: the difference being that while Murphy nailed some of the emotions and thoughts that are part and parcel with the early days of new motherhood...this book had little success in any other arena. In fact, there was SO much heavy focus on all of the negative aspects of becoming a mom, that in some ways it became too much to read, even though I found it remarkably accurate. My son just turned two not too long ago, and though I am not too far removed from this time period, this book certainly gave me a violent shove back into the mindset and torturous sleep deprived feelings that in many ways I've forgotten. While the depictions were spot on, I could see it being arduous and even annoying to read to those who have no interest in child rearing or also for those who have struggled to conceive, so be forewarned.
Aside from this angle of the book, however, you'll quickly come to realize that these characters aren't particularly realistic in thought or action, and Paul in particular is unlikable from the jump. We aren't given enough information about Tyler to like or dislike him, and this might be because the only insight we receive on him is from Natalie's POV, and he isn't exactly her favorite person. Even Paul's estimation of Natalie is all over the place: one minute he assumes she will figure out certain things because she's an intelligent lawyer, and in the next breath he pats himself on the back for outwitting her.
Once the murder happens, things sort of fall apart completely in terms of the narrative, and there are plot holes aplenty (at least, IMO) including somewhat incompetent police/detectives, ONE piece of evidence and some tomfoolery with cell phones that somehow makes and breaks an investigation. I also had trouble with buy in with the motivation of one character (I won't name names to avoid spoilers) but again, this took the focus OFF of the very important message about postpartum depression and psychosis that Murphy was trying to shoehorn in here and left me somewhere in between frustrated and annoyed.
I know Murphy can plot better than this, for one simple reason: she has before.
I would have much preferred a relationship/family drama that tackled this same subject matter, but kept the focus on the dynamics of a new family and how a baby changes and tests every relationship in the home. The murder may have been 'necessary' to create conflict, but the REAL 'death' a new mom experiences is the death of her old self and her old way of life: this alone would give her plenty to talk about for the length of this book, and possibly more. I often feel that authors end up obligated to write one 'style' of book, but sometimes have something very different to say, and I truly believe this was the case here.
Murphy also helpfully adds some resources at the end of the book for those who may be struggling with postpartum depression and psychosis, and given that the numbers are constantly on the rise (and so many cases go untreated AND aren't even diagnosed!) NOW is definitely the time to have this conversation: I'm just not sure if Natalie's world of mayhem, murder, and motherhood was the right PLACE to have it.
2.5 stars
April 2, 2023
The New Mother starts off by Natalie giving birth to her baby boy, Oliver. Natalie is married to Tyler, and they will be bringing their baby home to their new larger house they just bought to start their new, larger family. Since they are new to the neighborhood, they haven’t met any of their neighbors yet. However, when Natalie takes the baby outside her neighbor Paul introduces himself. Paul is a stay at home dad, and he understands Natalie and everything that she is going through with the new baby and the many sleepless nights…
This book is broken down into Four Parts, and if I’m being honest I almost threw in the towel after Part I and II. Part I is basically a course on Breastfeeding 101. All we learned was how Natalie’s breasts were engorged, aching, and leaking. We also got pages upon pages of Natalie breastfeeding baby Oliver, and of Natalie using her breast pump to pump milk from her breasts. Now, I don’t have anything against breastfeeding, but I certainly didn’t need 100 pages of a thriller book going into detail about breastfeeding. Part II of this book also had more breastfeeding scenarios, but it also went into detail on how tired and stressed out she was because she never got any sleep due to the baby not sleeping (totally understandable). We also learn how Natalie is starting to resent her husband Tyler, thus she starts growing closer to her neighbor Paul. Paul is such a wonderful help to her with the baby, while her husband is not.
Now, Part III is where this book finally picked up the pace! We learn that a murder has taken place in the woods behind Natalie’s house 😳. There is a detective on the scene and she is questioning all the neighbors, including sleep deprived Natalie.
Part IV of this book brings us to the hopeful conclusion that I was waiting for. Will Natalie and Tyler’s marriage last? Is Paul really the friend that she thought he was? Will baby Tyler start to sleep finally so that Natalie can start to feel human again?
I am so glad that this book ended up redeeming itself after such a slow start. I also appreciated the author’s note at the end of the book about postpartum depression. I found it to be both beautiful and inspiring. I wish I would have had help with both of my newborns- especially my son who NEVER slept until he was five years old. It’s encouraging and wonderful to know that there are more resources and help available now for those who might need it.
Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur Books, NetGalley, and the author for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. Publication date: May 30, 2023.
This book is broken down into Four Parts, and if I’m being honest I almost threw in the towel after Part I and II. Part I is basically a course on Breastfeeding 101. All we learned was how Natalie’s breasts were engorged, aching, and leaking. We also got pages upon pages of Natalie breastfeeding baby Oliver, and of Natalie using her breast pump to pump milk from her breasts. Now, I don’t have anything against breastfeeding, but I certainly didn’t need 100 pages of a thriller book going into detail about breastfeeding. Part II of this book also had more breastfeeding scenarios, but it also went into detail on how tired and stressed out she was because she never got any sleep due to the baby not sleeping (totally understandable). We also learn how Natalie is starting to resent her husband Tyler, thus she starts growing closer to her neighbor Paul. Paul is such a wonderful help to her with the baby, while her husband is not.
Now, Part III is where this book finally picked up the pace! We learn that a murder has taken place in the woods behind Natalie’s house 😳. There is a detective on the scene and she is questioning all the neighbors, including sleep deprived Natalie.
Part IV of this book brings us to the hopeful conclusion that I was waiting for. Will Natalie and Tyler’s marriage last? Is Paul really the friend that she thought he was? Will baby Tyler start to sleep finally so that Natalie can start to feel human again?
I am so glad that this book ended up redeeming itself after such a slow start. I also appreciated the author’s note at the end of the book about postpartum depression. I found it to be both beautiful and inspiring. I wish I would have had help with both of my newborns- especially my son who NEVER slept until he was five years old. It’s encouraging and wonderful to know that there are more resources and help available now for those who might need it.
Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur Books, NetGalley, and the author for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. Publication date: May 30, 2023.
December 6, 2023
Disclaimer: The thoughts represented in this review are solely based upon my personal reading experience with this book. They are by no means meant to disparage this author, or anyone who has enjoyed this story.
There is a book for every Reader and a Reader for every book. Unfortunately, The New Mother was not for me.
Let's just rip the band-aid off, shall we?
I hated this book for the first 60%. I rarely say that. Hardly ever, in fact, but this story just rubbed me the wrong way. Natalie's perspective got under my skin and I absolutely loathed everything she had to say.
I was listening to the audiobook and at times, considered throwing myself out of my moving vehicle to get away from her. It was that bad for me.
I get it, post-partum depression is a serious issue. It is valid and it should be taken seriously. I understand that and respect that, but the way this is presented...
I just couldn't stand it. Again, you've read the disclaimer, that's just me. I am sure many Readers will enjoy this from the start and will be able to connect with Natalie and her experiences.
Around 60%, it does start to pick up a little. I wasn't completely disliking it. There's a little deviousness going on in their neighborhood, a slight glimmer, but at that point, it was sort of too little, too late.
I did know someone was going to get murdered, so I sort of hung around for that. Alas, there was no mystery, no thrills, and the only real suspense was whether or not the murderer would actually be able to pull off their plan.
Frankly, I was hoping that they would.
I won't drag this out any longer. You get the gist. Not for me, not at all, moving swiftly along.
As always though, I mean this, don't take my word for it. If the synopsis sounds intriguing to you, give it a go. You could end up loving it. There are certainly plenty of Readers who have already.
Thank you to the publisher, Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I appreciate the opportunity to provide my opinion.
There is a book for every Reader and a Reader for every book. Unfortunately, The New Mother was not for me.
Let's just rip the band-aid off, shall we?
I hated this book for the first 60%. I rarely say that. Hardly ever, in fact, but this story just rubbed me the wrong way. Natalie's perspective got under my skin and I absolutely loathed everything she had to say.
I was listening to the audiobook and at times, considered throwing myself out of my moving vehicle to get away from her. It was that bad for me.
I get it, post-partum depression is a serious issue. It is valid and it should be taken seriously. I understand that and respect that, but the way this is presented...
I just couldn't stand it. Again, you've read the disclaimer, that's just me. I am sure many Readers will enjoy this from the start and will be able to connect with Natalie and her experiences.
Around 60%, it does start to pick up a little. I wasn't completely disliking it. There's a little deviousness going on in their neighborhood, a slight glimmer, but at that point, it was sort of too little, too late.
I did know someone was going to get murdered, so I sort of hung around for that. Alas, there was no mystery, no thrills, and the only real suspense was whether or not the murderer would actually be able to pull off their plan.
Frankly, I was hoping that they would.
I won't drag this out any longer. You get the gist. Not for me, not at all, moving swiftly along.
As always though, I mean this, don't take my word for it. If the synopsis sounds intriguing to you, give it a go. You could end up loving it. There are certainly plenty of Readers who have already.
Thank you to the publisher, Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I appreciate the opportunity to provide my opinion.
March 23, 2023
Natalie Fanning can't sleep. She just gave birth to a son named Oliver who seems to cry all day and night. Natalie is struggling to adapt to the sleepless night, being away from work, and motherhood in general when she meets a neighbor named Paul. Paul is a stay-at-home dad and seems to instantly calm down her colicky baby. Natalie is happy to have someone help her so she can finally rest but Paul has his own hidden motives for helping Natalie. Soon after their budding friendship begins, Natalie discovers that her new pal may be a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
As a mother of two, this book instantly transported me back to the days of being a new mom. Having a career and being a mother is a struggle for all women so I could instantly connect to Natalie. The beginning was a bit too slowly paced for my taste but halfway through it began to pick up and I could not put it down until I finished it.
I really enjoyed Nora Murphy’s debut novel, The Favor and I found The New Mother equally as entertaining. I can see a lot of fans of domestic thrillers enjoying this one!
The New Mother by Nora Murphy Will be available on May 30. Many thanks to Minotaur Books and Netgalley for the gifted copy!
As a mother of two, this book instantly transported me back to the days of being a new mom. Having a career and being a mother is a struggle for all women so I could instantly connect to Natalie. The beginning was a bit too slowly paced for my taste but halfway through it began to pick up and I could not put it down until I finished it.
I really enjoyed Nora Murphy’s debut novel, The Favor and I found The New Mother equally as entertaining. I can see a lot of fans of domestic thrillers enjoying this one!
The New Mother by Nora Murphy Will be available on May 30. Many thanks to Minotaur Books and Netgalley for the gifted copy!
January 12, 2024
I like an easy audio, and this finished off my reading year nicely. Book 200 of 2023! I don’t know about my expectations of this challenge. It’s a bit stressful, and I’ve gone and done it again for this year, 2024. I think if I treat it as fun, and nothing more, I will be AOK.
Natalie is a new mum, and I really struggled with how she really struggled. She was not coping; she was a mess. Ultra critical of herself, her skills; she had no innate trust in herself as a mother. I always relate my stories to my own life, and out of my four babies I had none of these issues she suffered from. (Well, none of the extreme ones), but as the story progressed, the reasoning for her struggle fell into place. She was losing her mind from lack of sleep, her little one needed her 24/7.
Her poor hubby could do no right, he was able to go off to work, even earning promotion to partner, which she’d have killed for. It was pleasing to see that her choice of returning to work was not the the right one for her, and this issue of women pressuring themselves to return to work so soon after birth is a hard one. Eventually Natalie was able to see what was right, or not, for her.
Natalie was being drawn in by her neighbour Paul, a stay-at-home dad who understood her every problem, was there for her and gifting her goodies. They coffeed and chatted, and Paul was certainly callous in what he was doing, the core of his intent building and simmering.
Poor Natalie was so removed from reality, that as a reader I took a deep breathe when I realised what her source of grief was, and what she was able to try and do to reclaim her life. While this book was certainly a great psychological thriller, there was a real message underlying the issues of a new mother, and how in some aspects things do not go the way nature plans. Added resources at the end are included, which made this book even better for this reader.
The New Motherwas a propulsive thriller and an easy read, which I love. Particularly happy was I toward the end when I saw a quiet ally in our protagonist. I am happy to have found another new to me author. I recommend this audio version also. Who to trust when our mind is slipping into perilous territory? Not Paul our odd neighbour, that’s for sure.
I listened to this via the BorrowBox app and my public library.
Natalie is a new mum, and I really struggled with how she really struggled. She was not coping; she was a mess. Ultra critical of herself, her skills; she had no innate trust in herself as a mother. I always relate my stories to my own life, and out of my four babies I had none of these issues she suffered from. (Well, none of the extreme ones), but as the story progressed, the reasoning for her struggle fell into place. She was losing her mind from lack of sleep, her little one needed her 24/7.
Her poor hubby could do no right, he was able to go off to work, even earning promotion to partner, which she’d have killed for. It was pleasing to see that her choice of returning to work was not the the right one for her, and this issue of women pressuring themselves to return to work so soon after birth is a hard one. Eventually Natalie was able to see what was right, or not, for her.
Natalie was being drawn in by her neighbour Paul, a stay-at-home dad who understood her every problem, was there for her and gifting her goodies. They coffeed and chatted, and Paul was certainly callous in what he was doing, the core of his intent building and simmering.
Poor Natalie was so removed from reality, that as a reader I took a deep breathe when I realised what her source of grief was, and what she was able to try and do to reclaim her life. While this book was certainly a great psychological thriller, there was a real message underlying the issues of a new mother, and how in some aspects things do not go the way nature plans. Added resources at the end are included, which made this book even better for this reader.
The New Motherwas a propulsive thriller and an easy read, which I love. Particularly happy was I toward the end when I saw a quiet ally in our protagonist. I am happy to have found another new to me author. I recommend this audio version also. Who to trust when our mind is slipping into perilous territory? Not Paul our odd neighbour, that’s for sure.
I listened to this via the BorrowBox app and my public library.
June 19, 2023
The New Mother by Nora Murphy is a slow burn suspense novel that takes a deep dive into postpartum depression. The story is one that is told by changing the point of view between the characters to give both sides of the mystery involved.
Natalie Fanning is a new mother who feels like she is failing extremely at taking care of her new baby. Constant crying and late night feedings have Natalie’s world turned upside down and her husband, Tyler, is no help as he returns to his job leaving Natalie alone to spiral further down her rabbit hole.
One day Natalie meets a very helpful neighbor, Paul. Paul is a stay at home father to a ten year old daughter who now putters his days away while his wife is working and his daughter attends school. Paul is a baby whisperer and immediately Natalie trusts Paul to help her sooth her new infant giving her those precious moments of peace she so desires but should she really be trusting this charming neighbor??
The New Mother by Nora Murphy is one of those novels that seems to be a hit or miss with the early readers and I found myself being one of the ones that enjoyed this one. The author didn’t miss a thing when it came to developing Natalie’s character and I felt I wanted to jump in and help her myself. The mystery takes a while to develop but I was invested the entire way and actually found I enjoyed the wrap up after all the slowly built suspense throughout. I’d definitely come back to this author again in the future when finished.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Natalie Fanning is a new mother who feels like she is failing extremely at taking care of her new baby. Constant crying and late night feedings have Natalie’s world turned upside down and her husband, Tyler, is no help as he returns to his job leaving Natalie alone to spiral further down her rabbit hole.
One day Natalie meets a very helpful neighbor, Paul. Paul is a stay at home father to a ten year old daughter who now putters his days away while his wife is working and his daughter attends school. Paul is a baby whisperer and immediately Natalie trusts Paul to help her sooth her new infant giving her those precious moments of peace she so desires but should she really be trusting this charming neighbor??
The New Mother by Nora Murphy is one of those novels that seems to be a hit or miss with the early readers and I found myself being one of the ones that enjoyed this one. The author didn’t miss a thing when it came to developing Natalie’s character and I felt I wanted to jump in and help her myself. The mystery takes a while to develop but I was invested the entire way and actually found I enjoyed the wrap up after all the slowly built suspense throughout. I’d definitely come back to this author again in the future when finished.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
May 28, 2023
Natalie and Tyler Fanning are both lawyers and loving their work but Natalie is now a new mother and she had been so excited through her pregnancy and she read every book on parenting that she could get her hands on plus she tried to plan for all the unexpected details that she would read about. Well, Natalie fell madly in love with her son Oliver at first sight but she also felt terrified at the feel of his fragile, tiny body and the inner knowledge of the responsibility that she must forever protect him from everything and anything. Labor and delivery were extremely hard on Nat and she can barely walk with the soreness she feels plus she never envisioned that nursing a baby could also be so painful (who knew?) but she refuses to use formula because Natalie needs to be the best and most perfect mother for baby Oliver.
Night after night there is no sleep for Natalie because the baby is colicky and fretful and nursing him every hour seems to be the only way to calm him down. Soon Nat feels resentful of her husband, Tyler since he can sleep all night and then go off to work just like before Oliver was born. Nat planned to go back to work but now she feels torn about leaving Oliver with strangers yet she misses her fulfilling work life that she loved but she also is so exhausted all the time and just doesn't know how she will do it all, so her resentment starts turning to anger towards her husband who loves her so much but he has no clue about how Nat feels or what she is thinking because she won't talk to him and her negative feelings towards him and everything in her life and bad thoughts continue to brew and boil while they fester under the surface.
One day while walking the baby in his stroller she meets her new and attractive neighbor Paul, a stay-at-home dad who seems to understand and have compassion for new mom issues and let's her know that he went through many sleepless nights as well but assures her with time it will get easier. Paul then becomes a good friend to Nat and they begin visiting each other often while their spouses are at work but Nat doesn't see anything wrong with their friendship even though she has kept it a secret from Tyler. Nat has no sexual attraction to Paul because she has no sex drive at all right now and just cringes at the thought of it so she should be able to have a comforting companion in Paul who holds her baby and rocks him to sleep so Nat can get some breaks here and talks to her like a woman not some insecure failure as a new mother yet Natalie still doesn't get any sleep and her moods are getting darker and sometimes she wishes that she was still pregnant where Oliver would still be safe and she could still get sleep and also go to work everyday and she wonders if all new moms feel this way or maybe she wasn't meant to to be a mother even though she does love Oliver more than her own life but why can't she be happy like other moms or are they also pretending that their life is perfect.
Poor Natalie! Poor Tyler! Who is neighbor Paul really? Natalie hasn't a clue but a Paul has an agenda all set up for Nat and he only wants her to continue being dependent on his help and kindness and keep coming to his home because the time for his master plan to play out is very, very close now and it's working out even better than he could have anticipated. Will Natalie somehow wake up from her sleepless fugue and get a grip on her reality at hand or will her life continue the course of driving straight off the edge of the cliff where it's headed with Paul in the driver's seat taking her to an unforeseeable hell before he bails out while Nat crashes all alone?
I just loved this book! I considered it a slow-burn psychological thriller that was extremely well-written so my interest and curiosity never wavered. The characters were very flawed and detailed so it was easy to envision all their feelings and interactions. Natalie was just a full-blown mess. It was sad that none of the people in her life saw what was happening to her, even her pregnant best friend who also happened to be a pediatrician. Paul knew what was going on with Nat but he counted on her fragile state of mind to perfect his plan. The last third of the story brought non-stop excitement and I couldn't put the book down. I just needed to know how everything would play out since Natalie became so dependent on Paul and he could do no wrong in her eyes, but her mental instability became so acute that she couldn't even trust her own thoughts or memories so she also started putting Oliver unintentionally in harm's way. I enjoyed how the twists kept coming towards the end although, I really would have liked if the author had included one last chapter about Paul with his thoughts and feelings about Natalie and how everything turned out inside of his mind in the end of the story. For me, that would have been the even more delicious icing on the scrumptious cake that this book had become for me!
I highly recommend this book to just about everyone except Pregnant Women!
I want to thank the publisher "St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this novel and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given a rating of 4 DELICIOUSLY DISTURBING 🌟🌟🌟🌟 STARS!!
PUBLICATION DATE: May 30, 2923
Author: Nora Murphy
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Night after night there is no sleep for Natalie because the baby is colicky and fretful and nursing him every hour seems to be the only way to calm him down. Soon Nat feels resentful of her husband, Tyler since he can sleep all night and then go off to work just like before Oliver was born. Nat planned to go back to work but now she feels torn about leaving Oliver with strangers yet she misses her fulfilling work life that she loved but she also is so exhausted all the time and just doesn't know how she will do it all, so her resentment starts turning to anger towards her husband who loves her so much but he has no clue about how Nat feels or what she is thinking because she won't talk to him and her negative feelings towards him and everything in her life and bad thoughts continue to brew and boil while they fester under the surface.
One day while walking the baby in his stroller she meets her new and attractive neighbor Paul, a stay-at-home dad who seems to understand and have compassion for new mom issues and let's her know that he went through many sleepless nights as well but assures her with time it will get easier. Paul then becomes a good friend to Nat and they begin visiting each other often while their spouses are at work but Nat doesn't see anything wrong with their friendship even though she has kept it a secret from Tyler. Nat has no sexual attraction to Paul because she has no sex drive at all right now and just cringes at the thought of it so she should be able to have a comforting companion in Paul who holds her baby and rocks him to sleep so Nat can get some breaks here and talks to her like a woman not some insecure failure as a new mother yet Natalie still doesn't get any sleep and her moods are getting darker and sometimes she wishes that she was still pregnant where Oliver would still be safe and she could still get sleep and also go to work everyday and she wonders if all new moms feel this way or maybe she wasn't meant to to be a mother even though she does love Oliver more than her own life but why can't she be happy like other moms or are they also pretending that their life is perfect.
Poor Natalie! Poor Tyler! Who is neighbor Paul really? Natalie hasn't a clue but a Paul has an agenda all set up for Nat and he only wants her to continue being dependent on his help and kindness and keep coming to his home because the time for his master plan to play out is very, very close now and it's working out even better than he could have anticipated. Will Natalie somehow wake up from her sleepless fugue and get a grip on her reality at hand or will her life continue the course of driving straight off the edge of the cliff where it's headed with Paul in the driver's seat taking her to an unforeseeable hell before he bails out while Nat crashes all alone?
I just loved this book! I considered it a slow-burn psychological thriller that was extremely well-written so my interest and curiosity never wavered. The characters were very flawed and detailed so it was easy to envision all their feelings and interactions. Natalie was just a full-blown mess. It was sad that none of the people in her life saw what was happening to her, even her pregnant best friend who also happened to be a pediatrician. Paul knew what was going on with Nat but he counted on her fragile state of mind to perfect his plan. The last third of the story brought non-stop excitement and I couldn't put the book down. I just needed to know how everything would play out since Natalie became so dependent on Paul and he could do no wrong in her eyes, but her mental instability became so acute that she couldn't even trust her own thoughts or memories so she also started putting Oliver unintentionally in harm's way. I enjoyed how the twists kept coming towards the end although, I really would have liked if the author had included one last chapter about Paul with his thoughts and feelings about Natalie and how everything turned out inside of his mind in the end of the story. For me, that would have been the even more delicious icing on the scrumptious cake that this book had become for me!
I highly recommend this book to just about everyone except Pregnant Women!
I want to thank the publisher "St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this novel and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given a rating of 4 DELICIOUSLY DISTURBING 🌟🌟🌟🌟 STARS!!
PUBLICATION DATE: May 30, 2923
Author: Nora Murphy
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
July 16, 2023
After giving birth to baby Oliver, Natalie Fanning’s life becomes a revolving door of feedings every two hours, changings more often than she ever imagined, and unmitigated loneliness. Hard to comfort, her newborn son seems to be draining her from the inside out. And despite his eager attempts to help, Natalie’s husband, Tyler, appears to be rather useless at soothing Oliver, leaving her alone in the 24/7 demands of a new parent.
So when Natalie’s neighbor, Paul Riley, notices her struggle, she is relieved for the help. He, after all, seems more than capable to comfort her infant son. But Oliver isn’t the only one calmed by his presence, because around Paul, Natalie feels like she can finally breathe again. Exhausted and overwhelmed, she’ll take whatever help she can get.
Little does Natalie know, however, that Paul isn’t just being the helpful neighbor out of kindness. Oh, no. He has his own dark plans. A scheme that Natalie would be perfect to help him enact. Sleep deprived and seemingly floating through her days, will she realize what he’s up to before it’s too late? Or was her fate set the very moment she ran into the nice neighbor down the street?
Wow. What a truly special novel. I know that The New Mother has had some rather mixed reviews since its release, but for me it was a near perfect blend of riveting psychological suspense and emotional exploration of motherhood. Granted, motherhood tinged by possible postpartum depression, but it read as wholly genuine and true-to-life. So realistic, in fact, that it just might scare any woman thinking of having children.
While there weren’t any mind-blowing twists or captivating mysteries, I was okay with that. I do have to warn you, the start of this book was a slooow, slow burn as we were introduced to Natalie’s unraveling. The benefit of this, though, was the inchmeal sense of growing paranoia. In many respects, I found it similar to some of B.A. Paris’s novels where I was led to question time and time again if this unstable woman was ill or was instead being gaslighted to the extreme. After all, in this dual POV plot, Paul’s side of the story had just enough gaps early on that either alternative could’ve been true.
The plot for me, however, beyond Natalie’s characterization, was the most successful aspect of the book. With gradually escalating tension filled with unease, a slam dunk climax, and an utterly satisfactory conclusion, I was pleased to be led by the nose throughout. As the storyline developed into a delicious chase of cat-and-mouse (of the suburban variety), I found myself racing through the pages just dying to discover how this one would end.
I do have to say, however, that the second half of this book was decidedly more suspenseful than the first. But once all of the supposition was waylaid, it became relatively fast-paced and thoroughly addictive. For this reason, I would have preferred that the last half had been expanded, which would have allowed for better development of the thriller chunk of the story.
Nevertheless, however, I was wholeheartedly spellbound by this empathetic and poignant tale. Even better, the whole thing was imbued with a sinister neighborhood vibe that was a home run for me. Just a bit of a warning. Compared to Murphy’s debut novel, The New Mother definitely had more of a domestic drama edge. At least for the first half, that is. So if you’re looking for a breather between harder hitting thrillers, I definitely recommend giving this one a try. I, for one, am so very glad I did. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Trigger warning: infidelity, postpartum depression, gaslighting, strangulation
So when Natalie’s neighbor, Paul Riley, notices her struggle, she is relieved for the help. He, after all, seems more than capable to comfort her infant son. But Oliver isn’t the only one calmed by his presence, because around Paul, Natalie feels like she can finally breathe again. Exhausted and overwhelmed, she’ll take whatever help she can get.
Little does Natalie know, however, that Paul isn’t just being the helpful neighbor out of kindness. Oh, no. He has his own dark plans. A scheme that Natalie would be perfect to help him enact. Sleep deprived and seemingly floating through her days, will she realize what he’s up to before it’s too late? Or was her fate set the very moment she ran into the nice neighbor down the street?
Wow. What a truly special novel. I know that The New Mother has had some rather mixed reviews since its release, but for me it was a near perfect blend of riveting psychological suspense and emotional exploration of motherhood. Granted, motherhood tinged by possible postpartum depression, but it read as wholly genuine and true-to-life. So realistic, in fact, that it just might scare any woman thinking of having children.
While there weren’t any mind-blowing twists or captivating mysteries, I was okay with that. I do have to warn you, the start of this book was a slooow, slow burn as we were introduced to Natalie’s unraveling. The benefit of this, though, was the inchmeal sense of growing paranoia. In many respects, I found it similar to some of B.A. Paris’s novels where I was led to question time and time again if this unstable woman was ill or was instead being gaslighted to the extreme. After all, in this dual POV plot, Paul’s side of the story had just enough gaps early on that either alternative could’ve been true.
The plot for me, however, beyond Natalie’s characterization, was the most successful aspect of the book. With gradually escalating tension filled with unease, a slam dunk climax, and an utterly satisfactory conclusion, I was pleased to be led by the nose throughout. As the storyline developed into a delicious chase of cat-and-mouse (of the suburban variety), I found myself racing through the pages just dying to discover how this one would end.
I do have to say, however, that the second half of this book was decidedly more suspenseful than the first. But once all of the supposition was waylaid, it became relatively fast-paced and thoroughly addictive. For this reason, I would have preferred that the last half had been expanded, which would have allowed for better development of the thriller chunk of the story.
Nevertheless, however, I was wholeheartedly spellbound by this empathetic and poignant tale. Even better, the whole thing was imbued with a sinister neighborhood vibe that was a home run for me. Just a bit of a warning. Compared to Murphy’s debut novel, The New Mother definitely had more of a domestic drama edge. At least for the first half, that is. So if you’re looking for a breather between harder hitting thrillers, I definitely recommend giving this one a try. I, for one, am so very glad I did. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Trigger warning: infidelity, postpartum depression, gaslighting, strangulation
May 23, 2023
I read The New Mother a few weeks ago and I'm feeling conflicted in how I should rate this book. On one hand, I appreciate the author's attempt to tell a much bigger story than what you might find in a typical domestic thriller. Unfortunately, it bogged down the story to the point in which I was reading more to finish rather than enjoying the reading experience.
Natalie Fanning is a first time mother and her son, Oliver, is a handful. The kid does not sleep! So of course Natalie is tired, very, very, tired. Her neighbor Paul is great at calming Oliver down and Natalie is comforted by his presence. The problem is Paul has an ulterior motive and Natalie unknowingly will play a role in his master plan.
The author was effective in showing the harsh realities of motherhood. The repetitiveness of Natalie's days and nights spent with her son I'm sure was done by design but if you already have experience in this area, it's not really something you want to relive again so to speak. This story succeeded in raising my anxiety levels. Natalie is feeling isolated and is terrified and as the reader it's hard not pick up on that.
I would recommend this book if you are specifically wanting a depiction of the challenges of motherhood. There are better options out there though if you are in the mood for a domestic thriller or suspense read.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the advance digital copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
Natalie Fanning is a first time mother and her son, Oliver, is a handful. The kid does not sleep! So of course Natalie is tired, very, very, tired. Her neighbor Paul is great at calming Oliver down and Natalie is comforted by his presence. The problem is Paul has an ulterior motive and Natalie unknowingly will play a role in his master plan.
The author was effective in showing the harsh realities of motherhood. The repetitiveness of Natalie's days and nights spent with her son I'm sure was done by design but if you already have experience in this area, it's not really something you want to relive again so to speak. This story succeeded in raising my anxiety levels. Natalie is feeling isolated and is terrified and as the reader it's hard not pick up on that.
I would recommend this book if you are specifically wanting a depiction of the challenges of motherhood. There are better options out there though if you are in the mood for a domestic thriller or suspense read.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the advance digital copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
May 6, 2023
As a literary fiction novel, I think this would have been excellent. Unfortunately, it was labeled a thriller and I don’t think the content matches the label. The focus here is much more on the postpartum experience than on the murder and mayhem usually included in a good thriller.
Thank you to Minotaur and Macmillan Audio for the gifted advanced copies in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Minotaur and Macmillan Audio for the gifted advanced copies in exchange for my honest review.
January 28, 2023
If being a new mother wasn’t hard enough..
I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this book. It started off as another new mother struggling with her new reality. It quickly turned into something else and I was here for it! The ending was somewhat predictable but it didn’t take away from the rollercoaster ride.
Natalie is having a tough time after moving into a new house and having a new baby, Oliver. Tired, lonely, and frustrated she welcomes the friendship her neighbor Paul. Paul gives Natalie the support she is desperate for. She feels like she can finally rest. But Paul is not what he seems. He has a plan and that plan involves Natalie.
The New Mother is available May 30,2023.
Thank you netgalley and stmartinspress for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this book. It started off as another new mother struggling with her new reality. It quickly turned into something else and I was here for it! The ending was somewhat predictable but it didn’t take away from the rollercoaster ride.
Natalie is having a tough time after moving into a new house and having a new baby, Oliver. Tired, lonely, and frustrated she welcomes the friendship her neighbor Paul. Paul gives Natalie the support she is desperate for. She feels like she can finally rest. But Paul is not what he seems. He has a plan and that plan involves Natalie.
The New Mother is available May 30,2023.
Thank you netgalley and stmartinspress for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
May 31, 2023
Motherhood - not as simple as we believe
More than half of this book is about the experiences of a new mother struggling with depression, sleepless nights, and the challenges of caring for a newborn. Unfortunately it did not thrill my thrilling senses. The murder aspect felt out of place in the book and how it was solved was a bit disbelieving with Natalie clearly not in her right mind.
I did like the book but feel that the first half could have been cut shorter (short of it having no thriller aspects at all).
More than half of this book is about the experiences of a new mother struggling with depression, sleepless nights, and the challenges of caring for a newborn. Unfortunately it did not thrill my thrilling senses. The murder aspect felt out of place in the book and how it was solved was a bit disbelieving with Natalie clearly not in her right mind.
I did like the book but feel that the first half could have been cut shorter (short of it having no thriller aspects at all).
April 20, 2023
Unfortunately, I was pretty disappointed with this novel. And since the narrative primarily is about post partum depression exacerbated by a colic infant, I won’t be offering my rendition of the story.
More than 60% of the novel focuses on a new mother’s bout with depression, sleepless nights, and a clingy infant. The never-ending loop of feed, attempt sleep, endless crying really got tiresome. It was even more exasperating as the protagonist enters the realm of martyrdom — not sacrificing anything to save herself and her sanity. The protagonist’s adamancy of not bottle feeding, because “good” mothers don’t bottle feed their babies, got pretty old, pretty quick. Yet, she continued to drink coffee while breastfeeding…
There were so many annoying things, but I stuck it out, hoping for a redeeming finale. That. Did. Not. Happen. At best, it was pretty predictable, but very abrupt. And I got the feeling that the author wanted to emmulate the writing of another author that dealt with mental health issues. Sad to say that the execution didn’t meet my expectations. One and a half stars.
I received a digital ARC from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
More than 60% of the novel focuses on a new mother’s bout with depression, sleepless nights, and a clingy infant. The never-ending loop of feed, attempt sleep, endless crying really got tiresome. It was even more exasperating as the protagonist enters the realm of martyrdom — not sacrificing anything to save herself and her sanity. The protagonist’s adamancy of not bottle feeding, because “good” mothers don’t bottle feed their babies, got pretty old, pretty quick. Yet, she continued to drink coffee while breastfeeding…
There were so many annoying things, but I stuck it out, hoping for a redeeming finale. That. Did. Not. Happen. At best, it was pretty predictable, but very abrupt. And I got the feeling that the author wanted to emmulate the writing of another author that dealt with mental health issues. Sad to say that the execution didn’t meet my expectations. One and a half stars.
I received a digital ARC from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
June 2, 2023
A new house, a coveted neighborhood, a new baby… what more could you ask for?
Natalie wished she could handle motherhood. Her son would not sleep or stop screaming.
She became more and more sleep deprived and forgetful and decided to take a sabbatical from her job.
She became even more forgetful as time wore on and found her neighbor who was a stay-at-home dad a comfort because he gave her confidence.
This neighbor had plans other than being helpful.
He was a grooming Natalie to unknowingly be involved in his plan.
What was his plan?
Find out what happens in this slow burn that grows in intensity.
You will be biting your nails as the ending pages unfold.
Ms. Murphy also includes the importance of getting help if you have postpartum depression.
Enjoy THE NEW MOTHER when you read it. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Natalie wished she could handle motherhood. Her son would not sleep or stop screaming.
She became more and more sleep deprived and forgetful and decided to take a sabbatical from her job.
She became even more forgetful as time wore on and found her neighbor who was a stay-at-home dad a comfort because he gave her confidence.
This neighbor had plans other than being helpful.
He was a grooming Natalie to unknowingly be involved in his plan.
What was his plan?
Find out what happens in this slow burn that grows in intensity.
You will be biting your nails as the ending pages unfold.
Ms. Murphy also includes the importance of getting help if you have postpartum depression.
Enjoy THE NEW MOTHER when you read it. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
May 11, 2023
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: May 30, 2023
“The New Mother” is Nora Murphy’s second novel (the first being “The Favor”, which I read and loved) and I was thrilled to receive a copy.
Natalie Fanning is an attorney, married to Tyler, who is also a lawyer on the way to becoming a partner in his practice. Now, Natalie has just given birth to their son, Oliver, and it isn’t at all what she expected. Oliver is a difficult baby and she is often up all night, losing patience, sanity and sleep. Natalie is desperate for an escape and she finds one easier than she expected- in her neighbour, Paul, a married stay-at-home Dad. Soon, Natalie is relishing their time together in a purely platonic way. But that’s not what Paul’s wife, Erin, thinks, and vocally says so. So, when Erin is found dead, questions immediately arise and fingers are pointed- it’s usually the husband, but could the sleep-deprived, stressed, new mother next door be hiding dark secrets?
Murphy has another novel to add to the suburban murder genre! “The New Mother” will definitely resonate with mothers (new or not-so-new) but it even appeals to those of us non-procreators! Sure, the first few chapters detailed, ad nauseum, Natalie’s struggles with her newborn son and although I sympathized, I could not relate. But I know, from second-hand experience of friends and family, that motherhood is no joke and Murphy pulls no punches. Her honest depiction is terrifyingly realistic and I loved Murphy’s open honesty. Natalie’s fatigued mind and depressed mood also leads to her budding platonic friendship with Paul, which is where the real story begins.
“Mother” is narrated primarily by Natalie, but we do get to hear from Paul here and there. Right from the beginning, it is obvious who is (and isn’t) responsible, but this is intentional on Murphy’s part, and all that’s left for readers to do is be pulled in to the gripping suspense and follow the ride through to the end!
The beginning of the story was more of a slow burn than I would’ve liked, but it quickly picked up and I couldn’t put it down after that! Murphy is respectful of post-partum depression and psychosis (and shares an author’s note about her own experiences), and also depicts society’s understanding of it in an emotional way, without making the plot preachy. “The New Mother” is satisfying, emotional and suspenseful, and I’m so excited to read more from Murphy down the road!
Expected publication date: May 30, 2023
“The New Mother” is Nora Murphy’s second novel (the first being “The Favor”, which I read and loved) and I was thrilled to receive a copy.
Natalie Fanning is an attorney, married to Tyler, who is also a lawyer on the way to becoming a partner in his practice. Now, Natalie has just given birth to their son, Oliver, and it isn’t at all what she expected. Oliver is a difficult baby and she is often up all night, losing patience, sanity and sleep. Natalie is desperate for an escape and she finds one easier than she expected- in her neighbour, Paul, a married stay-at-home Dad. Soon, Natalie is relishing their time together in a purely platonic way. But that’s not what Paul’s wife, Erin, thinks, and vocally says so. So, when Erin is found dead, questions immediately arise and fingers are pointed- it’s usually the husband, but could the sleep-deprived, stressed, new mother next door be hiding dark secrets?
Murphy has another novel to add to the suburban murder genre! “The New Mother” will definitely resonate with mothers (new or not-so-new) but it even appeals to those of us non-procreators! Sure, the first few chapters detailed, ad nauseum, Natalie’s struggles with her newborn son and although I sympathized, I could not relate. But I know, from second-hand experience of friends and family, that motherhood is no joke and Murphy pulls no punches. Her honest depiction is terrifyingly realistic and I loved Murphy’s open honesty. Natalie’s fatigued mind and depressed mood also leads to her budding platonic friendship with Paul, which is where the real story begins.
“Mother” is narrated primarily by Natalie, but we do get to hear from Paul here and there. Right from the beginning, it is obvious who is (and isn’t) responsible, but this is intentional on Murphy’s part, and all that’s left for readers to do is be pulled in to the gripping suspense and follow the ride through to the end!
The beginning of the story was more of a slow burn than I would’ve liked, but it quickly picked up and I couldn’t put it down after that! Murphy is respectful of post-partum depression and psychosis (and shares an author’s note about her own experiences), and also depicts society’s understanding of it in an emotional way, without making the plot preachy. “The New Mother” is satisfying, emotional and suspenseful, and I’m so excited to read more from Murphy down the road!
June 3, 2023
The New Mother, author Nora Murphy's sophomore novel, explores the bewildering world of new motherhood - the joy, wonder and overwhelming love . . . along with the long, sleepless nights and hormonal mood swings that threaten the sanity of overwrought mothers with fussy, colicky babies who refuse to be consoled. While most mothers can sympathize, it's the questionable decisions the protagonist makes going forward that sets the dire tone for this domestic thriller.
Natalie Fanning is a new mother hanging on by a thread at the end of her rope and desperately seeking answers to her baby Oliver's never ending vocal demands. Her growing resentment of her husband Tyler's ability to continue his career and life as normal increases as her despondency escalates. Natalie's forced to give up a satisfying career as a lawyer for a life of isolation enduring endless days and nights of breastfeeding and dirty diapers with a wailing baby. Determined to meet high family and societal expectations, Natalie refuses offers of help choosing instead to become a martyr of sorts. In her loneliness and despair, she turns to the stay-at-home dad Paul Riley, who lives down the street, for help and companionship which he's more than happy to render. Paul's own resentment of his wife Erin, the family breadwinner, is growing as she is pushing Paul to return to the work force after ten years as a stay-at-home dad to their ten year old daughter. What begins as a harmless friendship between Natalie and Paul quickly morphs into something uglier and darker - something Natalie fails to recognize in her sleep deprived, zombie-like state. It seems Paul has become her lifeline . . . but at what cost?
The New Mother is a chilling domestic thriller that shines a spotlight on the many challenges of being not only a first time mother, but one suffering from undiagnosed postpartum depression or psychosis which is obvious only to readers. Murphy excels at characterizations and building empathy for characters like Natalie. The strong support cast is also well defined contributors to the validity of this story. While the pace is rather slow, I believe it's the author's intention to afford readers time to buy into the utter misery and hopelessness felt by Natalie. As the story unfolds, her downward spiral and increasing dependency upon Paul creates a malicious undertone that prevails throughout fueled even more as Paul's intentions become clearer to readers. While little is left to the readers's imagination when it comes to the true villain's intent and motive in The New Mother, knowing doesn't prevent readers from experiencing the trepidation of a perilous journey as they watch a train wreck waiting to happen.
Nora Murphy's The New Mother is an unique, eye-opening domestic thriller that's sure to touch a chord with mothers and caregivers everywhere. The author does a fantastic job highlighting the many challenges mothers face adjusting to the demands of motherhood. Fans of domestic thrillers will enjoy this well-developed story.
Special thanks to Minotaur Books for an advanced readers' copy of The New Mother available on May 30, 2023. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This review is available in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
Natalie Fanning is a new mother hanging on by a thread at the end of her rope and desperately seeking answers to her baby Oliver's never ending vocal demands. Her growing resentment of her husband Tyler's ability to continue his career and life as normal increases as her despondency escalates. Natalie's forced to give up a satisfying career as a lawyer for a life of isolation enduring endless days and nights of breastfeeding and dirty diapers with a wailing baby. Determined to meet high family and societal expectations, Natalie refuses offers of help choosing instead to become a martyr of sorts. In her loneliness and despair, she turns to the stay-at-home dad Paul Riley, who lives down the street, for help and companionship which he's more than happy to render. Paul's own resentment of his wife Erin, the family breadwinner, is growing as she is pushing Paul to return to the work force after ten years as a stay-at-home dad to their ten year old daughter. What begins as a harmless friendship between Natalie and Paul quickly morphs into something uglier and darker - something Natalie fails to recognize in her sleep deprived, zombie-like state. It seems Paul has become her lifeline . . . but at what cost?
The New Mother is a chilling domestic thriller that shines a spotlight on the many challenges of being not only a first time mother, but one suffering from undiagnosed postpartum depression or psychosis which is obvious only to readers. Murphy excels at characterizations and building empathy for characters like Natalie. The strong support cast is also well defined contributors to the validity of this story. While the pace is rather slow, I believe it's the author's intention to afford readers time to buy into the utter misery and hopelessness felt by Natalie. As the story unfolds, her downward spiral and increasing dependency upon Paul creates a malicious undertone that prevails throughout fueled even more as Paul's intentions become clearer to readers. While little is left to the readers's imagination when it comes to the true villain's intent and motive in The New Mother, knowing doesn't prevent readers from experiencing the trepidation of a perilous journey as they watch a train wreck waiting to happen.
Nora Murphy's The New Mother is an unique, eye-opening domestic thriller that's sure to touch a chord with mothers and caregivers everywhere. The author does a fantastic job highlighting the many challenges mothers face adjusting to the demands of motherhood. Fans of domestic thrillers will enjoy this well-developed story.
Special thanks to Minotaur Books for an advanced readers' copy of The New Mother available on May 30, 2023. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This review is available in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
June 4, 2023
I've read books about new motherhood and postpartum depression before, but none have so gone so deep into the description as The New Mother by Nora Murphy. While handled expertly, I'm afraid it was done a little too well for my enjoyment of the book. It was difficult for me to read. I had no idea it would hit me so hard. It brought back tough memories of dealing with postpartum depression after having my two children. The good thing about The New Mother, there are resources listed for help if you or anyone you know is dealing with postpartum depression or psychosis. I appreciated that.
The New Mother is a slow burn domestic thriller revolving around Natalie, a new mother dealing with postpartum depression and a colicky baby, and her neighbor Paul, who sees an opportunity to take advantage of Natalie's fragile state of mind. There wasn't much suspense related to the interaction with the neighbor. You could pretty much see where the story was headed. I wish there was an interesting plot twist or two thrown in.
All said, it was a good book. I wouldn't dissuade anyone from reading it. Just be careful about the postpartum depression. I didn't realize how hard that would hit me 25 to 30 years after dealing with it. I'm giving The New Mother 3 stars. I'm glad I had the opportunity to read it. I was provided a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
The New Mother is a slow burn domestic thriller revolving around Natalie, a new mother dealing with postpartum depression and a colicky baby, and her neighbor Paul, who sees an opportunity to take advantage of Natalie's fragile state of mind. There wasn't much suspense related to the interaction with the neighbor. You could pretty much see where the story was headed. I wish there was an interesting plot twist or two thrown in.
All said, it was a good book. I wouldn't dissuade anyone from reading it. Just be careful about the postpartum depression. I didn't realize how hard that would hit me 25 to 30 years after dealing with it. I'm giving The New Mother 3 stars. I'm glad I had the opportunity to read it. I was provided a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 19, 2023
Natalie and her husband Tyler have just moved into a beautiful house in a new neighborhood. Soon after, she has her son, Oliver. Oliver has not been the easiest baby. He cries all the time and won't sleep for very long. Natalie is struggling at being a new mom. She is exhausted! Her husband, Tyler, has tried to help her many times, but she won't let him. She meets her neighbor, Paul, who is a stay at home dad and has a ten year old daughter. He offers her help and assistance. They become fast friends, but is Paul really wanting to help her or does he have his own hidden agenda?
THE NEW MOTHER was everything I love in a book. It was engaging and relatable. This story brought back memories of when my two children were babies and that being a new mom is not easy. I felt bad for Natalie as she struggled and then got herself into such a situation. I loved Nora Murphy's debut THE FAVOR and I thought this book was just as good. Her writing is just so good, I found myself lost in the pages.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
THE NEW MOTHER was everything I love in a book. It was engaging and relatable. This story brought back memories of when my two children were babies and that being a new mom is not easy. I felt bad for Natalie as she struggled and then got herself into such a situation. I loved Nora Murphy's debut THE FAVOR and I thought this book was just as good. Her writing is just so good, I found myself lost in the pages.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
February 28, 2023
This is Nora Murphy’s 2nd book and I enjoyed this even more than her first book, which I also loved. Natalie is a new mom who suffers from postpartum depression. She and her husband moved into a new neighborhood where she meets Paul. The twists and turns are fantastic and had me guessing till the end. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review. To be released May 2023.
May 30, 2023
Thank you Minotaur for the gifted ARC and Macmillan audio for the gifted ALC.
First-time mom, Natalie, is struggling with motherhood. Her baby is colicky and never sleeps. She's exhausted, and it's severely impacting her mental and emotional health. When she meets neighbor and stay-at-home dad Paul, things are looking up for her! Paul is a natural with babies and gives Nat the respite she so needs. There's nothing nefarious going on between them... They're just friends. Or so she thinks. Paul, on the other hand, has something much more sinister in mind! 😳
I really enjoyed The Favor, so I couldn't wait to get my hands on The New Mother! As a thriller author, Nora Murphy has such a unique style, in that she adds a great deal of character depth to her stories. So often thrillers focus more on plot than character development, but Murphy does both!
And while this might not work for all readers, as it does tend to make the book more of a slow burn, it works for me! I find the characters more authentic, more believable when they're well fleshed out.
Something unexpected here was how much I related to Natalie! My second child was colicky, and while I didn't suffer from postpartum depression, I do remember going through a lot of what Nat went through.
Overall this was a solid thriller that I definitely recommend. The narrator duo did an excellent job bringing this book to life.
First-time mom, Natalie, is struggling with motherhood. Her baby is colicky and never sleeps. She's exhausted, and it's severely impacting her mental and emotional health. When she meets neighbor and stay-at-home dad Paul, things are looking up for her! Paul is a natural with babies and gives Nat the respite she so needs. There's nothing nefarious going on between them... They're just friends. Or so she thinks. Paul, on the other hand, has something much more sinister in mind! 😳
I really enjoyed The Favor, so I couldn't wait to get my hands on The New Mother! As a thriller author, Nora Murphy has such a unique style, in that she adds a great deal of character depth to her stories. So often thrillers focus more on plot than character development, but Murphy does both!
And while this might not work for all readers, as it does tend to make the book more of a slow burn, it works for me! I find the characters more authentic, more believable when they're well fleshed out.
Something unexpected here was how much I related to Natalie! My second child was colicky, and while I didn't suffer from postpartum depression, I do remember going through a lot of what Nat went through.
Overall this was a solid thriller that I definitely recommend. The narrator duo did an excellent job bringing this book to life.
February 23, 2023
I read this author’s debut novel (The Favor) last year and really enjoyed it - I knew this would be an author to keep an eye on, so I was very happy to get the ARC for this, her second book!
The synopsis is slightly short, as this review will probably be, because you don’t want to know what this man, Paul, has in store before you read it yourself. We know from the synopsis that he has an interest in our protagonist though, and it’s as creepy (if not more) than you’re imagining.
Natalie is our main character, and she’s a mom with a difficult newborn. It’s obvious from the beginning that she has post-partum depression, and that, combined with a lack of sleep, is really affecting her mental health. She loves them both, but she’s angry with her husband and angry with her baby - she can’t get sleep, her baby Oliver eats constantly and Natalie feels like a downed cow. At so many times in the book, I wanted to shake her and say “JUST LET HIM HAVE A BOTTLE SO YOU CAN HAVE YOUR SANITY”, but I know there are a lot of mothers who feel guilt over breast-feeding. Natalie is definitely one of them.
All this is happening in a new neighborhood, and Natalie has no close support system aside from her increasingly-distant husband. One day, while breaking down during a walk with her son, she meets Paul. He’s one of her neighbors, a stay-at-home dad/aspiring writer, and is the only person aside from Natalie who can get Oliver to sleep. Soon, she trusts this man completely … which was exactly his plan.
This was quick, super entertaining, relatable to moms, and a great thriller. It was also a good look at post-partum depression/psychosis and insomnia. I really enjoyed this one; it gets a solid four stars from me!
(Thank you to St. Martin’s Press, Nora Murphy, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on May 30, 2023.)
The synopsis is slightly short, as this review will probably be, because you don’t want to know what this man, Paul, has in store before you read it yourself. We know from the synopsis that he has an interest in our protagonist though, and it’s as creepy (if not more) than you’re imagining.
Natalie is our main character, and she’s a mom with a difficult newborn. It’s obvious from the beginning that she has post-partum depression, and that, combined with a lack of sleep, is really affecting her mental health. She loves them both, but she’s angry with her husband and angry with her baby - she can’t get sleep, her baby Oliver eats constantly and Natalie feels like a downed cow. At so many times in the book, I wanted to shake her and say “JUST LET HIM HAVE A BOTTLE SO YOU CAN HAVE YOUR SANITY”, but I know there are a lot of mothers who feel guilt over breast-feeding. Natalie is definitely one of them.
All this is happening in a new neighborhood, and Natalie has no close support system aside from her increasingly-distant husband. One day, while breaking down during a walk with her son, she meets Paul. He’s one of her neighbors, a stay-at-home dad/aspiring writer, and is the only person aside from Natalie who can get Oliver to sleep. Soon, she trusts this man completely … which was exactly his plan.
This was quick, super entertaining, relatable to moms, and a great thriller. It was also a good look at post-partum depression/psychosis and insomnia. I really enjoyed this one; it gets a solid four stars from me!
(Thank you to St. Martin’s Press, Nora Murphy, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on May 30, 2023.)
April 3, 2023
This book was not a thriller. It was 90% about how hard it is to be a new mom with a little suspense/murder sprinkled on top.
It took about 160 pages to even get to the point of the story... I kept reading hoping it would pick up. It didn't.
It took about 160 pages to even get to the point of the story... I kept reading hoping it would pick up. It didn't.
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