A psychological thriller centred around motherhood
Published 24.01.22, 07:29 AM
There is only one way to read Ashley Audrain’s debut thriller – read through the night and then take a leave from work the next day just so you can finish it in one sitting.
The central character of the story is Blythe Connor. Having had an absent mother during her growing years, Blythe promises that she will not let the cycle repeat itself and strives to be a loving, affectionate mom to her daughter, Violet. However, right from the get-go, she feels that there is something unusual about Violet, which prevents her from being the kind of mother she wants to be for her daughter. This only intensifies after Blythe’s second child is born and she realises she has no trouble bonding with him. Despite her husband’s dismissive attitude towards her concerns, Blythe is convinced that something is amiss. When she finally confronts the truth, her entire life is upended in an instant.
Audrain explores a grimer and darker side to motherhood in The Push and the result is a compelling psychological thriller. Expertly weaving together history and memory, the book is a quick-paced and exhilarating read.
