Not My Mother" is a poignant exploration of fractured familial bonds, shaped by perception, distance, and the elusive quest for understanding identity. More than just a literal statement of rejection, the title serves as an entry point into a complex narrative tapestry woven with threads of disillusionment, unspoken expectations, and the yearning to reconcile the idealized image of a parent with the flawed reality. The story likely delves into the protagonist's struggle to connect with their mother on a genuine level. This disconnect might stem from differing values, unfulfilled promises, or perhaps even a perceived lack of affection. The protagonist may be grappling with a feeling that their mother is not the nurturing, supportive figure they envisioned, leading to a sense of alienation and the recurring thought, "Not my mother." Furthermore, the narrative may explore the impact of this strained relationship on the protagonist's sense of self. The parental figure often plays a crucial role in shaping a child's identity, and a fractured relationship can leave the protagonist feeling lost, questioning their own worth and belonging. The story may depict the protagonist's journey to forge their own path, independent of their mother's influence, while simultaneously grappling with the lingering effects of that early disconnect. Ultimately, "Not My Mother" promises to be a compelling meditation on the complexities of family relationships. It invites us to consider the weight of expectations, the power of perception, and the challenges of reconciling our idealized versions of loved ones with their authentic selves. Through the protagonist's journey, the story likely seeks to explore the profound impact that familial bonds, both positive and negative, can have on shaping our identities and our understanding of the world. The story likely leaves the reader contemplating the lasting effects of fractured relationships and the enduring search for self-discovery in the face of familial complexities.

Theo does it again. Hooked from page one to the end!!
I really enjoyed this one. It was hard to put down. It kept me wanting more. The characters are amazing! And I love the title and the story line. Such an amazing book!

Not My Mother by Theo Baxter is a captivating psychological thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story centers on Carly, who is caught in a complicated relationship with the famous artist Nelson Carter. Just as she’s about to leave him due to his womanizing ways, a violent attack on Nelson's wife, Amanda, forces Carly to step in and care for Nelson’s traumatized son, Jake.

However, things take a sinister turn when Jake starts insisting that the woman who returned from the hospital is not his mother. Carly dismisses the idea at first, but soon notices unsettling changes in Amanda’s behavior. As the tension builds and Jake becomes a target, Carly is drawn into a dangerous investigation that unearths terrifying secrets that could alter her life forever.

Baxter masterfully combines suspense, mystery, and psychological intrigue, crafting a story that explores themes of identity, trust, and the lengths people will go to protect dark secrets. The twists and turns keep the reader hooked, and Carly’s evolving understanding of the situation adds depth to her character. Not My Mother is an unforgettable, chilling tale that will have readers questioning everything they thought they knew about the people closest to them.

**A Gripping Psychological Thriller That Keeps You Guessing**

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Theo Baxter's *Not My Mother* is an absolutely riveting psychological thriller that hooks you from the very first page and refuses to let go until the final twist. This book masterfully blends suspense, emotion, and a touch of eerie paranoia, making it impossible to put down.

The story centers around a protagonist grappling with buried secrets, fractured memories, and a chilling sense that something is terribly wrong. Baxter's writing is sharp and evocative, drawing readers into a world of uncertainty and dread where every character and detail feels significant.

What truly sets this novel apart is its pacing. Baxter knows exactly when to unravel the story's secrets, keeping readers on edge with expertly placed twists and turns. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, the plot takes a sharp, unexpected turn, leaving you reeling in the best way possible.

The emotional depth of the characters adds another layer to the story, making it not just a thriller but also a poignant exploration of identity, family, and the sometimes fragile nature of trust.

If you're a fan of psychological thrillers with complex characters and shocking twists, *Not My Mother* is an absolute must-read. Theo Baxter has crafted a masterpiece that will linger in your mind long after you've turned the last page. Highly recommended!

Not My Mother by Theo Baxter is a chilling psychological thriller that expertly combines suspense with emotional complexity. Carly, caught in a tumultuous affair with famous artist Nelson Carter, is forced to care for his son, Jake, after a violent attack on Nelson’s wife, Amanda. But when Jake insists that the woman who returned from the hospital isn’t really his mother, Carly begins to notice unsettling changes in Amanda’s behavior. As Carly investigates, she uncovers a web of secrets that threatens her own safety and will leave readers hooked until the final page. Baxter delivers a gripping, twist-filled story about deception, trust, and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones.

I thought I could predict where the story was going, but I was so wrong. This book kept me guessing the entire time. The last few chapters completely blew my mind.

This book was gripping. From the first page, the action started, and it kept up until the end. There was a predictable twist, but that did not take away from the story at all.

A gripping and thrilling novel that will have you guessing and second guessing. I was hooked from the beginning and cannot recommend this enough.

This one is wild! It had my attention from beginning to end. I loved the relationship between Carly and Jake. This is fast paced , with twists I didn’t see coming

This follows the story of Carly as she battles with her ex Nathan over his son Jake. After an accident Jakes mother is acting strange and Carly and Jake take it upon themselves to investigate what is happening.

I really enjoyed this book, I found it fast paced but easy to follow and it's one of those books you can easily pick up and put down if you have a busy lifestyle. I look forward to read more from Theo!

The writing is drawn out. Majority of the scenes are unnecessary to the story. The narration follows every little detail of Carly’s everyday life. Hence, we would get boring descriptions of the simplest things like—deciding to get pizza, calling pizza place, placing order, hanging up the phone… The whole book is written like this. If transitions are difficult, doing hard scene breaks would still be better than this type of overwriting. Interestingly enough, certain scenes that should’ve been described in great detail are just glossed over or summarized in 1-2 sentences.

This was such a gripping and engaging book! Its fast pace and dramatic plot made it an entertaining and suspenseful book!

We all love Baxter unique style of writing …. This time something between a bit of science fiction and awesome psychological thrilling writing ! Love it ! 😊

This was a very fast paced read. Drama and action start at the beginning and continues throughout the story.

Carly is mistress to Nelson Carter for many years. When he finally leaves his wife Carly thinks he is committing to her. She would be wrong. Finally fed up with Nelson's antics she is ready to leave him and move on. Of course fate has other plans for Carly. An accident to Nelson's wife has Carly caring for their child Jake.
While caring for him they discover the woman that left the hospital is not who she says she is. Together they work to uncover the truth.

Jake's parents will not win any parenting awards so the bond that forms between Carly and Jake is heartwarming.

Theo Baxter's books keep getting better and better!

Thanks to Netgalley and Inkubator books for the advanced copy of this book

Guess what? I have finally found my new favourite 5 star thriller read! I feel like this author & his books are quite under rated. The story was gripping from the very beginning. I would find all the characters of the book suspicious. But the twist that comes, will leave you wondering. Whatever assumptions you would make, would ultimately prove to be false. Moreover, I thought that it must be a nightmare of any of the characters & they would wake up to reality & laugh it off.
This was a very fulfilling read! I finished it in a couple of days only! Planning to read more by this author!

This book was very fast paced which is what I loved. The book was exactly what it set out to be and I think the author met the audience they intended it for - I think as a parent it can become quite far fetched but I didn’t see it like this and enjoyed the book for what it was.

Carly is the mistress, and Nelson promises he is going to leave his wife but that has yet to happen. Carly feels like she is more of a babysitter these days for Nelson’s son Jake than his lover. But she loves Jake like her own son and has been more of a parental figure than his real parents have.
When Carly is finally ready to split ties with Nelson his wife, Amanda, has a grave accident that leaves her with amnesia. Carly is yet again wrapped into their lives but now as Jake’s nanny. This new dynamic seems to be working, that is until Jake starts wondering if Amanda is truly his mom or an impostor. Is Amanda’s amnesia to blame for her inability to know she has a son or is there a sinister reason behind her new behaviors? Carly must find out her true identity and motivations before she or Jake ends up dead.
Overall rating 3 /4
This was a quick page turner and kept you wondering who Amanda truly was, or if Jake was just making it all up. I liked the character development throughout and how all of us are capable of making bad or good decisions in life. I did have difficulty with some of the conversations that Carly had with a 10-year-old. I also had a hard time believing that a woman who is the girlfriend of the boy's dad would be texting him as much as she does and even Snapchatting him. The blatant display of affection that Nelson shows Carly right in front of Amanda is also quite cringy. If you are into suspense with a happy ending, this book is for you.
*Thank you to Theo Baxter, Netgalley and Inkubator Books for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.

Not My Mother by Theo Baxter

I like a good thriller, and whilst the plot wasn’t too complex or unexpected, I found it to be an enjoyable read.

"Not My Mother" by Theo Baxter follows Carly, who finds herself entangled in a web of deceit and danger when Jake, a young boy, confides in her that the woman who returned from the hospital claiming to be his mother is an imposter. As Carly digs deeper, she uncovers dark secrets that threaten to unravel everything she thought she knew. With tension mounting and danger lurking at every turn, Carly must navigate her own complicated personal life while racing against time to uncover the truth before it's too late.

I’ve got to say that the way Carly was introduced into Jake’s life was trifling to say the least and it did make me side-eye Carly for her naivety a little, no matter how good her intentions may have been. I also felt Hans was also a little too understanding for me when it came to accepting Carly’s past. I definitely thought that there might have been more to his character than meets the eye.

While some of the main characters were insufferable, the believable villain arc added depth to the storyline and kept me engaged throughout.

Overall, "Not My Mother" turned out to be a surprisingly enjoyable read once the storyline picked up the pace. I'd recommend it to those seeking a thriller-lite experience.


#NotMyMother #NetGalley
#BookReview #ThrillerReads #Bookstagram #SuspenseNovel #BookRecommendation #ReadingCommunity #Bookish #BookLovers #InstaReads #GoodReads #BookishRecommendations #BookNerd #Bookworm #BookishCommunity #BookAddict

Jake’s mom went to hospital. Someone else came back.Carly has a complicated personal life. She’s been the mistress of famous artist Nelson Carter for the past five years. Now Nelson has finally left his wife Amanda, but instead of committing to Carly, he’s indulging in a series of one-night stands.She has had enough and is about to leave him when a vicious attack on Amanda means Carly has to put her plans on hold to care for Nelson’s traumatized ten-year-old son, Jake.Only when Amanda is released from hospital can Carly finally move on with her life.But then a frightened Jake confides a disturbing secret - ‘That’s not my mom’. He is convinced the woman who came home from hospital is an imposter.Carly tries to brush this off, but she can see that Amanda’s behavior does seem strange. And when someone targets Jake, Carly realizes she has to get to the truth of what’s happening.A decision that leads her step by terrifying step towards a dark secret that will change her life forever.

Loved it from start to finish. Theo Baxter knows how to spin an amazing story.

Firstly thank you to the publishers for my chance to review.
This is a new author for me.

I raced through this intrigued to discover the truth!
It was fast paced and unpredictable.
The plot made it difficult to know who to trust so that added to the suspense.

However some parts did seem rushed and even far fetched especially reading as a parent. But still a great way to escape 😊