The Push by Ashley Audrain

Most pregnant women worry about the dangers that can befall their unborn and then worry even more after they are born. They cover sharp objects, open outlets, and keep watch almost 24/7. The thing they don't think about is if the baby will love them or if they will love their baby. Blythe had a really abusive childhood so she vowed to become the mother of the year once she found out she was pregnant. Violet arrives and all her expectations go out the window. Violet is not an easy baby and grows up to be not an easy child except towards her father - becoming a total daddy's girl. Blythe doesn't want to see what she suspects Violet is capable of or the coldness in the way she looks at her. We feel for Blythe but she could be the world's best unreliable witness. When the unthinkable happens sides are taken and everything starts to unravel. Ashley Audrain presents an intimate look at motherhood and grief. The writing style is tense and sparse which adds to the sense of foreboding. This is one of those books that you keep reading and realize you held your breath for most of it. For readers who couldn't get enough of DEFENDING JACOB, this is your next read.  4 1/2 stars