The Push by Ashley Audrain

Rating: ★★★★✰

Dates Read: 2/3/23 - 2/5/23

    Blythe Connor is determined to be the loving and nurturing mother she never had for her newborn daughter, Violet. However, as the challenges of early motherhood take their toll, Blythe becomes convinced that something is wrong with her daughter's behavior, setting off a series of unsettling events. Her husband, Fox, dismisses her fears, attributing them to Blythe's imagination. As doubt creeps into Blythe's mind, she starts questioning her own sanity. The novel takes us on a gripping journey, making us question the truth behind Blythe's life and experiences.

    When their son Sam is born, Blythe finally feels the deep connection with her child that she had always longed for. The bond between her and Sam seems perfect, and even Violet appears to love her little brother. However, a sudden life-altering event leads to a devastating fallout, forcing Blythe to confront the truth.

    "The Push" is an immersive and compelling novel that challenges our perceptions of motherhood and the complexities of the mother-child bond. It delves into the intricate web of relationships, exploring what we owe our children and the consequences when women's voices are doubted and dismissed. This tour de force is a captivating read that will keep you enthralled from start to finish, as you question the boundaries of reality and the depths of maternal love.

    I couldn't put this book down! It took me by surprise and captivated me from the start. The alternating chapters between the protagonist's past and present added depth to the story and kept me hooked. The writing style was fantastic, drawing me in with its honesty and authenticity. At first, I was hesitant due to mixed reviews, but this psychological drama turned out to be a thrilling character study of Blythe and her family. The raw and genuine portrayal of parenthood's fears terrified me, making the story dark, unsettling, and at times, profoundly depressing. Despite that, it was an incredible and tense journey that had me completely immersed and invested. This was a four star read only because I anticipated the ending just a bit, however, I still loved the ending.

    The hints sprinkled throughout the book only intensified the shocking moments, leaving me stunned. The final scene was a highlight, and though some might find parts repetitive, I found it all fascinating and engrossing. The complex mother-daughter relationship explored here was one of the most intriguing I've encountered in literature. At its core, this book delves into the art of being a good mother and the struggles that come with it, especially when you lack positive role models. Blythe's heritage and family history were bleak, but the question of whether she would break the cycle added another layer of suspense.

    As Blythe navigates her role as a mother to Violet, who exhibits troubling behavior, she faces doubt and disbelief from her own husband and mother-in-law. The arrival of their second child adds further complexity, as Blythe hopes for a fresh start but fears the consequences of her actions. The intensity of this story is mind-blowing, pushing readers out of their comfort zones and keeping them on edge. The pages flew by as I flipped them quickly, caught in the gripping narrative. The book had moments that made me want to scream and even throw things, particularly at Blythe's husband, Fox, who failed to see the reality of their situation.

    In all, "The Push" is a gem among thrillers—crazy, frustrating, blood-pumping, and mind-numbing in the best possible way. This deliciously disturbing novel will leave you stimulated and questioning what you just read. It's a must-read for anyone looking for an intense and captivating psychological exploration of motherhood and family dynamics.