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A review by jedore
The Push by Ashley Audrain
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
“A mother’s heart breaks a million ways in her lifetime.”
The Push is a suspenseful psychological drama centered on the complexities of motherhood and generational trauma. The story is about Blythe, a woman struggling with her strained bond with her daughter, Violet. While her husband insists everything is fine, Blythe becomes convinced there’s something very wrong with Violet. The narrative peels back layers of Blythe’s fears and her own dysfunctional upbringing in a way that you don't know what’s real and what’s imagined.
This book is really well written and had me hooked from start to finish. The tension builds perfectly, the twists are (mostly) unpredictable, and the psychological depth is fascinating. Audrain captures the darker sides of motherhood in a way that’s equally chilling and thought-provoking.
The Push is an unsettling read that will stay with you long after you finish. If you love psychological thrillers with rich character development and plenty of twists, this one’s a must-read!
Graphic: Child death, Emotional abuse, Mental illness, Murder, Pregnancy, and Gaslighting
Moderate: Toxic friendship