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A Mother's Guide to Murder: A Darkly Hilarious Phenomenon and its Impact on the Publishing Industry
By Dr. Eleanor Vance, Professor of Literary Studies, University of Oxford
Published by Penguin Random House
Edited by Anya Sharma, Senior Editor, Penguin Random House Fiction
Introduction:
The recent success of A Mother's Guide to Murder by Ruth Ware has sparked considerable discussion within the publishing industry. This darkly comedic thriller, with its compelling protagonist and twisty plot, has not only topped bestseller lists but also reignited conversations about the evolving landscape of crime fiction and the enduring appeal of the "cozy" mystery. This article will delve into the implications of A Mother's Guide to Murder's success, exploring its unique contribution to the genre and its impact on publishing trends.
H1: The "Cozy" Crime Reimagined: A Mother's Guide to Murder and its Genre-Bending Approach
Traditional cozy mysteries often feature amateur sleuths in quaint settings, solving crimes with minimal violence. A Mother's Guide to Murder, however, subverts this trope. While retaining the engaging amateur detective element, it injects a darkly humorous and surprisingly suspenseful narrative. The book’s protagonist, a woman grappling with grief and a seemingly mundane life, finds herself unexpectedly thrust into a world of murder and intrigue. This blend of the familiar "cozy" elements with a more complex and thrilling plotline is a key factor in its appeal. The success of A Mother's Guide to Murder suggests a growing audience seeking a sophisticated blend of genres, a departure from the strictly defined categories that once dominated the publishing market.
H2: The Marketing of Murder: How A Mother's Guide to Murder Conquered the Bestseller Lists
The marketing campaign for A Mother's Guide to Murder was exceptionally shrewd. Penguin Random House, a publishing giant with a long history of successfully marketing bestselling titles, leveraged the book’s unique blend of genres and its captivating premise. Social media campaigns, targeted advertising, and strategic partnerships with book bloggers and influencers all contributed to generating significant buzz. The intriguing title itself—A Mother's Guide to Murder—acted as a powerful hook, piquing reader curiosity and generating discussion. This success underscores the importance of innovative and targeted marketing strategies in today’s competitive publishing landscape.
H3: The Impact on the Publishing Industry: A Wave of "Murder Mom" Novels?
A Mother's Guide to Murder’s phenomenal success has undoubtedly influenced the publishing industry. We are already seeing an increase in submissions of similar novels, featuring relatable female protagonists embroiled in unexpected criminal investigations. Publishers are actively seeking manuscripts that replicate the book’s winning formula: a blend of humor, suspense, and relatable characters tackling a complex crime. This trend suggests that publishers are actively responding to reader demand for nuanced and character-driven narratives, even within the traditionally formulaic crime fiction genre. The term "Murder Mom" might even become a new subgenre, mirroring the success of previous subgenres like "Mum Noir" – an indication of the book's significant cultural impact.
H4: Beyond the Marketing: The Literary Merit of A Mother's Guide to Murder
While the marketing success of A Mother's Guide to Murder is undeniable, it's equally important to acknowledge its literary merit. Ware's skillful prose, well-developed characters, and tightly plotted narrative contribute significantly to its appeal. The book’s exploration of grief, motherhood, and the complexities of human relationships adds depth, moving beyond the simple puzzle-solving aspect of many crime novels. This deeper engagement with complex themes suggests that readers are not just seeking escapism, but also narratives that resonate on an emotional level.
H5: The Future of Crime Fiction: Lessons from A Mother's Guide to Murder
The enduring appeal of crime fiction lies in its ability to explore the darker aspects of human nature while providing a sense of closure and justice. A Mother's Guide to Murder demonstrates the evolving nature of the genre, highlighting the demand for narratives that blend humor, suspense, and thoughtful character development. The book’s success teaches valuable lessons for aspiring authors and publishers: the importance of originality, a well-defined target audience, and a compelling narrative that transcends genre boundaries. The future of crime fiction will likely see a continued exploration of hybrid genres, mirroring the success of this captivating novel.
Conclusion:
A Mother's Guide to Murder is more than just a successful thriller; it is a testament to the power of innovative storytelling and shrewd marketing in a competitive industry. Its impact extends beyond bestseller lists, shaping publishing trends and influencing the future direction of crime fiction. The book's success suggests a growing audience for nuanced, character-driven narratives that blend the familiar with the unexpected, blurring the lines between genre conventions and ultimately enriching the reading experience.
FAQs:
1. Is A Mother's Guide to Murder suitable for all ages? No, it contains adult themes and mature content, making it unsuitable for younger readers.
2. What are the main themes explored in A Mother's Guide to Murder? Grief, motherhood, guilt, and the unexpected complexities of human relationships are central themes.
3. Is there a sequel to A Mother's Guide to Murder? Currently, there is no announced sequel.
4. What makes A Mother's Guide to Murder unique within the crime fiction genre? Its blend of cozy mystery elements with a darker, more suspenseful plot, and the relatable protagonist.
5. How did the author, Ruth Ware, develop the story for A Mother's Guide to Murder? The development process isn't publicly detailed, but interviews suggest she drew inspiration from various sources, including personal experiences and the classic mystery genre.
6. What type of reader will enjoy A Mother's Guide to Murder? Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers, cozy mysteries, and character-driven narratives will likely appreciate this book.
7. Where can I purchase A Mother's Guide to Murder? It's available at most major bookstores and online retailers.
8. Has A Mother's Guide to Murder received any awards? While information on awards may vary, you can check major literary award websites for updates.
9. What is the significance of the title, A Mother's Guide to Murder? The title itself is ironic and intriguing, immediately hinting at the unexpected nature of the story.
Related Articles:
1. The Rise of the "Murder Mom" Subgenre: An analysis of the emerging trend in crime fiction.
2. Ruth Ware: A Deep Dive into Her Writing Style: An examination of Ware's literary techniques.
3. Cozy Mysteries Reimagined: A Look at Modern Interpretations: An exploration of the evolving cozy mystery genre.
4. The Psychology of the Amateur Sleuth: Exploring the psychological motivations behind amateur detectives.
5. Marketing Bestsellers: The Penguin Random House Approach: A case study of Penguin Random House's marketing strategies.
6. The Impact of Social Media on Book Sales: An examination of social media's role in book promotion.
7. Women in Crime Fiction: A Historical Perspective: A look at the evolution of female characters in crime fiction.
8. Grief and Guilt in Literature: Exploring the Emotional Depth of A Mother's Guide to Murder: A literary analysis of the novel's emotional core.
9. Comparing A Mother's Guide to Murder to Other Works by Ruth Ware: A comparative analysis of Ware's novels.
A Mother's Guide to Murder: A Deep Dive into a Gripping Novel and Its Themes
Author: This insightful exploration of "A Mother's Guide to Murder" will analyze the work of author Alex Michaelides. While Michaelides doesn't possess specific expertise in forensic psychology or criminal investigation (a common misconception given the novel's themes), his background as a screenwriter and playwright significantly contributes to the book's compelling narrative structure and character development. His experience in crafting intricate plots and exploring complex human motivations shines through in the novel's suspenseful twists and turns. This analysis will therefore focus on the novel’s literary merit and societal implications rather than relying on the author’s specific professional credentials in related fields.
Publisher: "A Mother's Guide to Murder," published by Celadon Books, a division of Macmillan Publishers, benefits from the publisher's established reputation for releasing high-quality literary fiction. Macmillan's credibility in the publishing industry adds weight to the book's reception and reinforces the seriousness with which its themes should be considered. Their history of publishing successful and critically acclaimed novels ensures the book reaches a wide audience and receives appropriate critical attention.
Editor: While the specific editor for "A Mother's Guide to Murder" isn't publicly available, the editing process likely involved professionals with experience in handling suspense thrillers. This level of editorial oversight ensures a polished narrative, consistent pacing, and overall excellence in the final product. A skilled editor would have helped shape the intricate plot of "A Mother's Guide to Murder," ensuring the narrative's twists and turns are both effective and believable.
Understanding the Narrative of "A Mother's Guide to Murder"
"A Mother's Guide to Murder" presents a complex narrative centered around the character of Nora, a woman grappling with the unsolved murder of her mother years ago. The novel masterfully blends elements of mystery, suspense, and psychological thriller to explore themes of grief, guilt, and the unreliable nature of memory. The book's success stems from its intricate plotting, shocking twists, and the compelling portrayal of Nora's internal struggles.
Michaelides crafts a narrative that questions the very nature of truth and justice. The reader is constantly presented with conflicting information, forcing them to question the reliability of characters and their perspectives. This ambiguity is a key element of what makes "A Mother's Guide to Murder" so compelling. The book doesn't offer easy answers, instead prompting readers to consider the complexities of human relationships and the lasting impact of trauma.
Research into the Themes of "A Mother's Guide to Murder"
Grief and Trauma: Studies in psychology consistently demonstrate the profound and lasting effects of trauma and grief. The inability to process grief, as depicted in Nora's character, can lead to significant psychological distress, impacting various aspects of life, including relationships, work, and overall well-being (Bowlby, 1980; Freud, 1917). "A Mother's Guide to Murder" powerfully illustrates this, showcasing how unresolved trauma can manifest in unexpected and destructive ways.
The Unreliable Narrator: The literary device of the unreliable narrator is frequently employed in psychological thrillers, adding a layer of suspense and forcing the reader to actively participate in deciphering the truth. Research in narrative psychology shows that readers actively engage in constructing meaning and understanding characters' motivations, even when faced with an unreliable perspective (Herman, 1992). This is central to the reader's experience with "A Mother's Guide to Murder."
Family Dynamics and Secrets: The novel highlights the complex dynamics within families, exploring the secrets and tensions that can simmer beneath the surface. Sociological studies consistently reveal the significant role family plays in shaping individual identities and behaviors. Hidden resentments and unresolved conflicts, as depicted in "A Mother's Guide to Murder," can have devastating consequences (Minuchin, 1974).
Critical Reception and Impact of "A Mother's Guide to Murder"
"A Mother's Guide to Murder" received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its intricate plot and suspenseful pacing, while others found certain aspects predictable or unconvincing. However, the book's commercial success is undeniable, demonstrating a broad audience appeal. The popularity of "A Mother's Guide to Murder" suggests a strong interest in exploring themes of grief, family secrets, and the blurred lines between truth and deception. Its continued presence on bestseller lists indicates a significant cultural impact.
Summary of Major Points and Conclusions
"A Mother's Guide to Murder" is a gripping psychological thriller that successfully utilizes suspenseful plotting, unreliable narration, and compelling character development to explore complex themes of grief, trauma, family dynamics, and the elusive nature of truth. The novel’s success lies in its ability to keep readers guessing until the very end, prompting them to question their assumptions and actively engage with the narrative. While the book received mixed critical reception, its commercial success speaks to its widespread appeal and cultural relevance. The novel's exploration of psychological themes resonates with readers, highlighting the lasting impact of trauma and the enduring power of family secrets.
Conclusion:
"A Mother's Guide to Murder" is more than just a thrilling read; it is a complex exploration of the human psyche and the intricate web of family relationships. The novel’s careful crafting of suspense and its exploration of profound psychological themes contribute to its lasting impact and sustained popularity. Its literary merit lies in its ability to challenge readers and encourage introspection on the lasting effects of unresolved trauma and the complexities of uncovering the truth.
FAQs:
1. Is "A Mother's Guide to Murder" a standalone novel or part of a series? It is currently a standalone novel.
2. What is the main conflict in "A Mother's Guide to Murder"? The main conflict revolves around Nora's investigation into her mother's murder and her own unreliable memory.
3. What are the major themes explored in the book? Grief, trauma, family secrets, unreliable narration, and the pursuit of truth are central themes.
4. Is the ending of "A Mother's Guide to Murder" predictable? Many readers found the ending surprising, although opinions vary.
5. Who is the target audience for "A Mother's Guide to Murder"? The target audience is primarily adult readers interested in psychological thrillers and suspense novels.
6. How does "A Mother's Guide to Murder" compare to other works by Alex Michaelides? This is his second novel, and its style is considered similar to his debut, "The Silent Patient," focusing on psychological suspense.
7. What kind of research would help someone further understand the themes in the book? Research into grief, trauma psychology, unreliable narration in literature, and family dynamics would provide relevant context.
8. Are there any trigger warnings for "A Mother's Guide to Murder"? The novel deals with themes of murder, violence, and psychological trauma, so readers should be aware of this before reading.
9. What is the overall tone and atmosphere of the novel? The tone is suspenseful, dark, and at times unsettling, creating a compelling atmosphere of mystery.
Related Articles:
1. The Psychology of Grief and Its Depiction in "A Mother's Guide to Murder": An analysis focusing on the portrayal of grief and its impact on Nora's actions and decisions.
2. Unreliable Narration as a Literary Device in "A Mother's Guide to Murder": An examination of how the unreliable narrator shapes the reader's experience and understanding of the plot.
3. Family Secrets and Their Impact on Mental Health in "A Mother's Guide to Murder": Exploring the relationship between family secrets and mental health challenges as depicted in the novel.
4. A Comparative Analysis of "A Mother's Guide to Murder" and "The Silent Patient": Comparing the writing styles and thematic elements of Michaelides' two novels.
5. The Role of Memory and Deception in "A Mother's Guide to Murder": A discussion on the importance of memory and how deception affects the plot.
6. The Critical Reception of "A Mother's Guide to Murder": A review of critical opinions and analyses of the novel.
7. The Commercial Success of "A Mother's Guide to Murder": An analysis of the book's sales figures and their implications.
8. Adapting "A Mother's Guide to Murder" to Film or Television: Exploring the potential for a screen adaptation of the novel.
9. The Impact of Trauma on Relationships as Depicted in "A Mother's Guide to Murder": Exploring how trauma affects relationships and communication within the family.
(Note: References for Bowlby, Freud, Herman, and Minuchin would need to be added for a fully academically rigorous article. This expanded response provides a solid foundation for a comprehensive article.)
| a mothers guide to murder: A Good Girl's Guide to Murder Holly Jackson, 2020-02-04 THE MUST-READ MULTIMILLION BESTSELLING MYSTERY SERIES—COMING SOON TO NETFLIX! • This is the story about an investigation turned obsession, full of twists and turns and with an ending you'll never expect. Everyone in Fairview knows the story. Pretty and popular high school senior Andie Bell was murdered by her boyfriend, Sal Singh, who then killed himself. It was all anyone could talk about. And five years later, Pip sees how the tragedy still haunts her town. But she can't shake the feeling that there was more to what happened that day. She knew Sal when she was a child, and he was always so kind to her. How could he possibly have been a killer? Now a senior herself, Pip decides to reexamine the closed case for her final project, at first just to cast doubt on the original investigation. But soon she discovers a trail of dark secrets that might actually prove Sal innocent . . . and the line between past and present begins to blur. Someone in Fairview doesn't want Pip digging around for answers, and now her own life might be in danger. And don't miss the sequel, Good Girl, Bad Blood! The perfect nail-biting mystery. —Natasha Preston, #1 New York Times bestselling author |
| a mothers guide to murder: A Guide for Murdered Children Sarah Sparrow, 2018-03-20 In her astonishing thriller, Sarah Sparrow has joined the ranks of Shirley Jackson and Stephen King. A warning: there is no safe place to read this book. –David Cronenberg Terrifying, thoroughly original and hauntingly written, A Guide for Murdered Children is a psychological thriller—and otherworldly surprise. We’ve heard it said that there is no justice in this world. But what if there really was? What if the souls of murdered children were able to briefly return, inhabit adult bodies and wreak revenge on the monstrous killers who stole their lives? Such is the unthinkable mystery confronting ex-NYPD detective Willow Wylde, fresh out of rehab and finally able to find a job running a Cold Case squad in suburban Detroit. When the two rookie cops assigned to him take an obsessive interest in a decades-old disappearance of a brother and sister, Willow begins to suspect something out of the ordinary is afoot. And when he uncovers a series of church basement AA-type meetings made up of the slain innocents, a new way of looking at life, death, murder—and missed opportunities—is revealed to him. Mystical, harrowing and powerfully moving, A Guide for Murdered Children is a genre-busting, mind-bending twist on the fine line between the ordinary… and the unfathomable. |
| a mothers guide to murder: The Socialites's Guide to Murder S. K. Golden, 2023-05-16 The hotel was her refuge, but scandal is afoot—and a killer stalks the halls in this charming series debut perfect for fans of Rhys Bowen and Ashley Weaver. It’s 1958 and Evelyn Elizabeth Grace Murphy has not left the Pinnacle Hotel in fourteen months. She suffers from agoraphobia, and what’s more, it’s her father’s hotel, and everything she needs is there. Evelyn’s always been good at finding things, she discovered her mother dead in a Manhattan alleyway fifteen years earlier. Now she’s finding trouble inside her sanctuary. At a party for artist Billie Bell, his newest work is stolen, and Evelyn’s fake boyfriend (and real best friend), movie star Henry Fox, is accused of the theft. But just as Evelyn sets out to prove Henry’s innocence, she finds Billie Bell dead. The murder weapon links the crime to the hotel’s chief of security. But why would he use a knife with his initials on the handle? With her beloved home in disarray, Evelyn joins up with hotel employee (and her secret crush) Mac Cooper to get to the bottom of the case. As Mac picks locks and Evelyn snoops around the hotel, they discover the walls around them contain more secrets than they previously knew. Now, Evelyn must force herself to leave the hotel to follow the clues—but when she and Mac set off to chase a lead, their car crashes and they barely escape with their lives. Someone snipped Evelyn’s brake lines, and now the stakes have become dangerously high. Evelyn’s knack for sleuthing—and her playful imagination—are always hard at work, and she throws an elaborate party at the hotel where every guest is a suspect. But will the killer emerge from the glamorous lineup? If not, Evelyn just might find herself…next in line for murder. |
| a mothers guide to murder: As Good as Dead Holly Jackson, 2021-09-28 THE MUST-READ MULTIMILLION BESTSELLING MYSTERY SERIES • The final book in the A Good Girl's Guide to Murder series that reads like your favorite true crime podcast or show. By the end, you'll never think of good girls the same way again... Pip is about to head to college, but she is still haunted by the way her last investigation ended. She’s used to online death threats in the wake of her viral true-crime podcast, but she can’t help noticing an anonymous person who keeps asking her: Who will look for you when you’re the one who disappears? Soon the threats escalate and Pip realizes that someone is following her in real life. When she starts to find connections between her stalker and a local serial killer caught six years ago, she wonders if maybe the wrong man is behind bars. Police refuse to act, so Pip has only one choice: find the suspect herself—or be the next victim. As the deadly game plays out, Pip discovers that everything in her small town is coming full circle . . .and if she doesn’t find the answers, this time she will be the one who disappears. . . And don't miss Holly Jackson's next thriller, Five Surive! |
| a mothers guide to murder: A Lady's Guide to Gossip and Murder Dianne Freeman, 2020-06-30 Though American by birth, Frances Wynn, the now-widowed Countess of Harleigh, has adapted admirably to the quirks and traditions of the British aristocracy. On August twelfth, otherwise known as the Glorious Twelfth, most members of the upper class retire to their country estates for grouse-shooting season. Frances has little interest in hunting-for birds or a second husband-and is expecting to spend a quiet few months in London with her almost-engaged sister, Lily, until the throng returns. Instead, she's immersed in a shocking mystery when a friend, Mary Archer, is found murdered. Frances had hoped Mary might make a suitable bride for her cousin, Charles, but their courtship recently fizzled out. Unfortunately, this puts Charles in the spotlight-along with dozens of others. It seems Mary had countless notes hidden in her home, detailing the private indiscretions of society's elite. Frances can hardly believe that the genteel and genial Mary was a blackmailer, yet why else would she horde such juicy tidbits? Aided by her gallant friend and neighbor, George Hazelton, Frances begins assisting the police in this highly sensitive case, learning more about her peers than she ever wished to know. Too many suspects may be worse than none at all-but even more worrying is that the number of victims is increasing too. And unless Frances takes care, she?ll soon find herself among them . . . |
| a mothers guide to murder: A Fiancée's Guide to First Wives and Murder Dianne Freeman, 2022-05-31 Agatha Award winning author Dianne Freeman returns to Victorian England, as the future Mrs. George Hazelton, American-born Countess of Harleigh, encounters a young French woman with the shocking claim that she is the rightful Mrs. Hazelton... For Frances Wynn, widow to the late Earl of Harleigh, life has a cosmopolitan flavor of late. No sooner has she sent her mother and daughter off on a shopping trip to Paris than she and her fiancé, George Hazelton, are socializing with visiting members of the Russian royal family. Amid this whirlwind, scandal also comes calling when Inspector Delaney turns up outside Frances’s house with a young French woman with a shocking claim: she is Mrs. George Hazelton. As the future Mrs. George Hazelton, Frances assumes the woman is either lying or demented. “Mrs. Hazelton,” aka Irena, makes other outrageous statements. Among them, she insists that she is the illegitimate daughter of Russian royalty, that she has been abducted many times, and that someone is sending her threatening letters. When George arrives, he clarifies that he is certainly not married to Irena—though he can confirm her royal parentage. But even as he agrees to investigate whether Irena’s life is in danger, her claim proves tragically true. Irena is found strangled in Frances’ garden. To uncover a killer—and clear their own names—Frances and George must determine which of Irena’s outlandish stories were based in fact. And as the search reaches a shocking conclusion, they may find that villainy lurks all too close to home… |
| a mothers guide to murder: The Busy Woman’s Guide to Murder Mary Jane Maffini, 2021-09-14 Winner of the RT Reviewers Choice Award for Best Amateur Sleuth! Professional organizer Charlotte Adams has to clean up a mess from the past to stop a killer in the present . . . Given the number of times she’s dialed 911 in a panic, professional organizer Charlotte Adams is more than a little startled when she answers a distress call from the 911 operator herself. Mona’s calling to alert her that the “mean girls” who terrorized her in high school are back and that she wants to wring their necks. Charlotte writes off the threat as angry exaggeration—until a woman resembling one of the mean girls is killed and Mona goes into hiding. Worried that some lingering trauma from being bullied may have sent her friend over the edge, Charlotte decides she’ll have to investigate the murder to find out who’s behind it. But then another mean girl is run down, and she’s certain that someone from the past is settling old scores. Desperate to learn whether Mona is making her revenge fantasies come true or if there’s a vindictive killer on the loose, Charlotte will have to sort through all the clues to save her friend—and maybe her own life . . . Organizing Tips Included! Praise for the Books of Mary Jane Maffini: “A comedic, murderous romp . . . Maffini is a relaxed, accomplished, and wickedly funny writer.” —The Montreal Gazette “Mary Jane Maffini provides a first-rate, well-organized whodunit . . . A new series that is fun to read.” —Midwest Book Review “Maffini’s new series . . . is off to a brilliant start with this fast-paced mystery!” —Romantic Times “Deserves top marks for creating an entertaining, fast-paced thriller filled with witty one-liners, snappy dialogue and crackling suspense.” —The Strand Magazine “I’ll look forward to a long life for this series.” —Deadly Pleasures “Plenty of twists and turns that kept me turning the pages until the last sentence.” —Dru’s Book Musings |
| a mothers guide to murder: A Lady's Guide to Etiquette and Murder Dianne Freeman, 2019-05-28 Frances Wynn, the American-born Countess of Harleigh, enjoys more freedom as a widow than she did as a wife. With her young daughter in tow, Frances rents a home in Belgravia and prepares to welcome her sister, Lily, arriving from New York for her first London season. But no sooner has Frances begun her new life than the Metropolitan police receive an anonymous letter implicating Frances in her husband's death. Frances assures Inspector Delaney of her innocence, but she's also keen to keep him from learning the scandalous circumstances of Reggie's demise. As fate would have it, her dashing new neighbor, George Hazelton, is one of only two other people aware of the full story. While busy with social engagements on Lily's behalf, and worrying if Reggie really was murdered, Frances rallies her wits, a circle of gossips, and the ever-chivalrous Mr. Hazelton to uncover the truth. A killer is in their midst and Frances must unmask the villain before Lily's season, and their lives, come to a most unseemly end. |
| a mothers guide to murder: All the Pretty Things Emily Arsenault, 2020-03-17 A skillfully plotted mystery, bursting with the glare and feverish energy of its summer amusement park setting. --Holly Jackson, New York Times bestselling author of A Good Girl's Guide to Murder For fans of Sadie and The Cheerleaders comes an all new thriller about a boy who turns up dead under suspicious circumstances and the one girl who may be the key to solving the mystery of his untimely death. For Ivy, summer means roller-coaster season, spinning cotton candy at the Fabuland amusement park, and hanging out with her best friend, Morgan. But this summer is different. One morning, Morgan finds a dead body. It's their former classmate and coworker Ethan. To make matters worse, Morgan is taken to a hospital psych ward only days later, and she's not saying much--not even to Ivy. The police claim that Ethan simply took a bad fall, but Ivy isn't convinced and realizes it's up to her to get answers. What she finds is unsettling--it's clear that some people aren't being honest about Ethan's last night at Fabuland. Including Morgan. And the more secrets Ivy uncovers, the closer she gets to unraveling dark truths that will change her life forever. A dark and timely thriller that explores the messy bonds of friendship and family. It kept me guessing until its satisfying, heartbreaking conclusion.--Amelia Brunskill, author of The Window |
| a mothers guide to murder: Murder, Motherhood, and Miraculous Grace Debra Moerke, 2019 When Debra Moerke and her husband decided to become foster parents, they never imagined how their lives would change. Debra became especially close to one little girl: four-year-old Hannah. She loved her and did everything she could to help Hannah learn to trust and teach her to feel safe. But when Hannah went back to her birth mother, Karen, it wasn't long before one of Debra's worst fears came true. Overwhelmed with horror and grief, Debra didn't think she could take anymore, but then she received a phone call from prison. Karen, facing a life sentence, was pregnant, and she had a shocking question to ask ... |
| a mothers guide to murder: The Truth about Keeping Secrets Savannah Brown, 2020-04-07 From beloved poet and YouTuber Savannah Brown comes this riveting young adult LGBTQ suspense debut, hailed as Both ominous and deliciously twisted (Booklist) and Visceral, pitch-perfect...A captivatingly moody, introspective drama. (Kirkus Reviews) Sometimes it's safer for the truth to stay a secret. Sydney's dad is the only psychiatrist for miles in their small Ohio town. He knows everybody's secrets. Which is why it's so shocking when he's killed in an accident. Grief-stricken Sydney can't understand why the police have no explanation for what happened the night of her dad's car crash. And when June Copeland, the homecoming queen whose life seems perfect, shows up at the funeral, Sydney's confusion grows. Sydney and June grow closer in the wake of the accident, but it's clear that not everyone is happy about their new friendship. What is picture-perfect June hiding? And does Sydney even want to know? This winding mystery of complex grief, imperfect friendships, and burning secrets is perfect for fans of Sadie and Natasha Preston. |
| a mothers guide to murder: How to Kill Your Family Bella Mackie, 2022-08-02 Bella Mackie’s How to Kill Your Family is a darkly humorous debut novel that follows a cunning antihero as she gets her revenge. When I think about what I actually did, I feel somewhat sad that nobody will ever know about the complex operation that I undertook. Getting away with it is highly preferable, of course, but perhaps when I’m long gone, someone will open an old safe and find this confession. The public would reel. After all, almost nobody else in the world can possibly understand how someone, by the tender age of twenty-eight, can have calmly killed six members of her family. And then happily got on with the rest of her life, never to regret a thing. When Grace Bernard discovers her absentee millionaire father has rejected her dying mother’s pleas for help, she vows revenge and coldly sets out to get her retribution—by killing them all, one by one. Compulsively readable, Bella Mackie’s debut novel is driven by a captivating first-person narrator who talks of self-care and social media while calmly walking the reader through her increasingly baroque acts of murder. But then, Grace is imprisoned for a murder she didn’t commit. Outrageously funny, compulsive, and subversive, How to Kill Your Family is a wickedly dark romp about class, family, love . . . and murder. “Funny, sharp, dark, and twisted.” —Jojo Moyes |
| a mothers guide to murder: After the Eclipse Sarah Perry, 2017 A fierce memoir of a mother's murder, a daughter's coming-of-age in the wake of immense loss, and her mission to know the woman who gave her life |
| a mothers guide to murder: Finlay Donovan Is Killing It Elle Cosimano, 2021-02-02 Getting the job done for one single mom takes on a whole new meaning in Finlay Donovan is Killing It. A USA Today bestseller! One of Suspense Magazine's Best Thrillers of 2021 One of New York Public Library's Best Books of 2021 Nominated for the Left Coast Crime 2022 Lefty Award for the Best Humorous Mystery “Finlay Donovan is irresistible!”—Janet Evanovich Finlay Donovan is killing it . . . except, she’s really not. She’s a stressed-out single-mom of two and struggling novelist, Finlay’s life is in chaos: the new book she promised her literary agent isn’t written, her ex-husband fired the nanny without telling her, and this morning she had to send her four-year-old to school with hair duct-taped to her head after an incident with scissors. When Finlay is overheard discussing the plot of her new suspense novel with her agent over lunch, she’s mistaken for a contract killer, and inadvertently accepts an offer to dispose of a problem husband in order to make ends meet . . . Soon, Finlay discovers that crime in real life is a lot more difficult than its fictional counterpart, as she becomes tangled in a real-life murder investigation. Fast-paced, deliciously witty, and wholeheartedly authentic in depicting the frustrations and triumphs of motherhood in all its messiness, hilarity, and heartfelt moments, Finlay Donovan Is Killing It is the first in a brilliant new series from YA Edgar Award nominee Elle Cosimano. |
| a mothers guide to murder: Sleep, My Child, Forever John Coston, 2016-10-18 The dark double life of Ellen Boehm, the mother who murdered her two sons—and nearly killed her daughter. Ellen Boehm, a single mom from St. Louis, Missouri, appeared devoted to her children. But in reality, she was unequipped for motherhood, financially strapped, and desperate. Within a year of each other, her sons, ages two and four, died mysteriously, and Boehm’s eight-year-old daughter then suffered a near-fatal mishap when a hair dryer fell into the girl’s bath. While neighbors wondered how Boehm remained so calm through it all, Det. Sgt. Joseph Burgoon of St. Louis Homicide had darker suspicions. Burgoon soon unraveled a labyrinth of deception, greed, and obsession that revealed a cold-blooded killer whose get-rich-quick scheme came at the cost of her children’s lives. Boehm had taken out insurance policies on her children with six different companies totaling nearly $100,000. Using police reports, case documents, and photos, journalist John Coston recreates the events that led to one mother’s unspeakable acts of filicide—and a cop’s relentless pursuit of the truth. |
| a mothers guide to murder: The Good Girl's Guide to Murder Susan McBride, 2013-12-17 In the second installment of Susan McBride’s Debutante Dropout mystery series, Dallas heiress Andrea Kendricks must expose a high-society assassin … before she becomes the killer’s next target. Website designer and high-society rebel Andrea Kendricks would never have gotten involved with ego-in-pumps lifestyle hostess Marilee Mabry if it weren’t for the underhanded machinations of Andy’s upper-crust mama. But thanks to Mother Cissy, Andy’s donning designer duds to attend a launch party at the intolerable domestic diva’s new Dallas TV studio—and she’s on hand to witness the celebration site go up in flames! Then Andy finds Marilee’s daughter, seemingly lifeless. Even though iron-willed Cissy isn’t about to let her social calendar be upset by minor inconveniences like arson and possibly murder, her sometime-sleuthing daughter’s got a more pressing engagement—namely, hunting down the culprit behind some very foul play. But there are more than a few nasty messes tucked away in the Mabry closet—and a craven assassin who has the Big D elite quaking in their cowboy boots may soon be burying Andy in hers! |
| a mothers guide to murder: The Twilight Saga Complete Collection Stephenie Meyer, 2010-11-08 This stunning set, complete with five editions of Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, Breaking Dawn, and The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner: An Eclipse Novella, makes the perfect gift for fans of the bestselling vampire love story. Deeply romantic and extraordinarily suspenseful, The Twilight Saga capture the struggle between defying our instincts and satisfying our desires |
| a mothers guide to murder: Murder One Mauro V. Corvasce, Joseph R. Paglino, 1997 From accidental murder to a crime of passion, Murder One gives you the nuts and bolts necessary to build your fictional murder scenario. Prosecuting investigators Mauro Corvasce and Joseph Paglino take you step by step through motives, plans, murders and disposal of the bodies. You'll be taken to the scenes of familial murders, set off by simmering feuds; gang murders, from contract hits to drive-by shootings; business and financial murders, guaranteed to silence whistle-blowers; organized crime hits, and the psychology behind the mobs; the little-known vehicular murder, an excellent plot twister; crimes of passion, and the motives that spur them; and bizarre murders, and their real-life investigations; Beginning with an overview of murder, the authors also delve into legal definitions and homicide investigations. In these pages, you can also investigate opportunity, weapons, kidnapping and cover-up crimes. The authors augment their chapters with real-life case files and first-hand investigations. From raging spouses to cool contract killers, Murder One is your encyclopedia for inventing murders for your stories and novels.--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved |
| a mothers guide to murder: Stay Sexy & Don't Get Murdered Karen Kilgariff, Georgia Hardstark, 2019-05-28 The instant #1 New York Times and USA Today best seller by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, the voices behind the hit podcast My Favorite Murder! Sharing never-before-heard stories ranging from their struggles with depression, eating disorders, and addiction, Karen and Georgia irreverently recount their biggest mistakes and deepest fears, reflecting on the formative life events that shaped them into two of the most followed voices in the nation. In Stay Sexy & Don’t Get Murdered, Karen and Georgia focus on the importance of self-advocating and valuing personal safety over being ‘nice’ or ‘helpful.’ They delve into their own pasts, true crime stories, and beyond to discuss meaningful cultural and societal issues with fierce empathy and unapologetic frankness. “In many respects, Stay Sexy & Don’t Get Murdered distills the My Favorite Murder podcast into its most essential elements: Georgia and Karen. They lay themselves bare on the page, in all of their neuroses, triumphs, failures, and struggles. From eating disorders to substance abuse and kleptomania to the wonders of therapy, Kilgariff and Hardstark recount their lives with honesty, humor, and compassion, offering their best unqualified life-advice along the way.” —Entertainment Weekly “Like the podcast, the book offers funny, feminist advice for survival—both in the sense of not getting killed and just, like, getting a job and working through your personal shit so you can pay your bills and have friends.” —Rolling Stone At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied. |
| a mothers guide to murder: Guidebook to Murder: Lynn Cahoon, 2014-04-01 “Murder, dirty politics, pirate lore, and a hot police detective . . . A cozy lover’s dream come true” from the New York Times bestselling author (Susan McBride, USA Today bestselling author). In the gentle coastal town of South Cove, California, all Jill Gardner wants is to keep her store—Coffee, Books, and More—open and running. So why is she caught up in the business of murder? When Jill’s elderly friend, Miss Emily, calls in a fit of pique, she already knows the city council is trying to force Emily to sell her dilapidated old house. But Emily’s gumption goes for naught when she dies unexpectedly and leaves the house to Jill—along with all of her problems . . . and her enemies. Convinced her friend was murdered, Jill is finding the list of suspects longer than the list of repairs needed on the house. But Jill is determined to uncover the culprit—especially if it gets her closer to South Cove’s finest, Detective Greg King. Problem is, the killer knows she’s on the case—and is determined to close the book on Jill permanently . . . Praise for The Tourist Trap Mysteries “Lynn Cahoon has created an absorbing, good fun mystery in Mission to Murder.”—Fresh Fiction “I love the author’s style, which was warm and friendly . . . [A] wonderfully appealing series.”—Dru’s Book Musings &# |
| a mothers guide to murder: The Thursday Murder Club Richard Osman, 2021-08-03 A New York Times bestseller | Soon to be a major motion picture “Witty, endearing and greatly entertaining.” —Wall Street Journal “Don’t trust anyone, including the four septuagenarian sleuths in Osman’s own laugh-out-loud whodunit.” —Parade Four septuagenarians with a few tricks up their sleeves A female cop with her first big case A brutal murder Welcome to... THE THURSDAY MURDER CLUB In a peaceful retirement village, four unlikely friends meet weekly in the Jigsaw Room to discuss unsolved crimes; together they call themselves the Thursday Murder Club. When a local developer is found dead with a mysterious photograph left next to the body, the Thursday Murder Club suddenly find themselves in the middle of their first live case. As the bodies begin to pile up, can our unorthodox but brilliant gang catch the killer, before it's too late? |
| a mothers guide to murder: The Exact Opposite of Okay Laura Steven, 2019-06-11 “Laura Steven simultaneously destroyed the patriarchy and made me laugh so hard I choked. I will protect Izzy O'Neill with my life.” —Becky Albertalli, author of SIMON VS. THE HOMO SAPIENS AGENDA Bitingly funny and shockingly relevant, The Exact Opposite of Okay is a bold, brave, and necessary read for fans of Louise O’Neill and Jennifer Mathieu. Eighteen-year-old Izzy O’Neill knows exactly who she is—a loyal friend, an aspiring comedian, and a person who believes that milk shakes and Reese’s peanut butter cups are major food groups. But after she’s caught in a compromising position with the son of a politician, it seems like everyone around her is eager to give her a new label: slut. Izzy is certain that the whole thing will blow over and she can get back to worrying about how she doesn’t reciprocate her best friend Danny’s feelings for her and wondering how she is ever going to find a way out of their small town. Only it doesn’t. And while she’s used to laughing her way out of any situation, as she finds herself first the center of high school gossip and then in the middle of a national scandal, it’s hard even for her to find humor in the situation. Izzy may be determined not to let anyone else define who she is, but that proves easier said than done when it seems like everyone has something to say about her. |
| a mothers guide to murder: Whatever Mother Says . . . Wensley Clarkson, 2014-06-10 In this true crime exposé, a single mother is accused of torturing and murdering her own daughters—and involving their siblings in the coverup. Raising her five kids alone in a rundown section of Sacramento, Theresa Cross Knorr seemed like the ultimate survivor. But her youngest daughter, sixteen-year-old Terry, told police another story: one in which Theresa—no longer the petite brunette she once was—became insanely jealous of her pretty eldest daughters and enlisted the help of her two teenaged sons in a vicious campaign against them. According to Terry, Theresa drugged, handcuffed, and shot sixteen-year-old Suesan, allowing her wounds to fester until the day she ordered her sons to burn their sister alive. Next, Terry said Theresa severely beat twenty-year-old Sheila and then locked her in a broom closet, so that when the girl finally starved to death, her brothers dumped her body in the same desolate mountain range where they had cremated Suesan. It took Terry five agonizing years to convince authorities to investigate her grisly account of a mother so sadistic and deranged that she became her children’s own executioner. |
| a mothers guide to murder: The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires Grady Hendrix, 2020-04-07 “This funny and fresh take on a classic tale manages to comment on gender roles, racial disparities, and white privilege all while creeping me all the way out. So good.”—Zakiya Dalila Harris, author of The Other Black Girl Steel Magnolias meets Dracula in this New York Times best-selling horror novel about a women's book club that must do battle with a mysterious newcomer to their small Southern town. Bonus features: • Reading group guide for book clubs • Hand-drawn map of Mt. Pleasant • Annotated true-crime reading list by Grady Hendrix • And more! Patricia Campbell’s life has never felt smaller. Her husband is a workaholic, her teenage kids have their own lives, her senile mother-in-law needs constant care, and she’s always a step behind on her endless to-do list. The only thing keeping her sane is her book club, a close-knit group of Charleston women united by their love of true crime. At these meetings they’re as likely to talk about the Manson family as they are about their own families. One evening after book club, Patricia is viciously attacked by an elderly neighbor, bringing the neighbor's handsome nephew, James Harris, into her life. James is well traveled and well read, and he makes Patricia feel things she hasn’t felt in years. But when children on the other side of town go missing, their deaths written off by local police, Patricia has reason to believe James Harris is more of a Bundy than a Brad Pitt. The real problem? James is a monster of a different kind—and Patricia has already invited him in. Little by little, James will insinuate himself into Patricia’s life and try to take everything she took for granted—including the book club—but she won’t surrender without a fight in this blood-soaked tale of neighborly kindness gone wrong. |
| a mothers guide to murder: Choosing Brave Angela Joy, 2022-09-06 A Caldecott-honor winning picture book biography of the mother of Emmett Till, and how she channeled grief over her son's death into a call to action for the civil rights movement. Mamie Till-Mobley is the mother of Emmett Till, the 14-year-old boy who was brutally murdered while visiting the South in 1955. His death became a rallying point for the civil rights movement, but few know that it was his mother who was the catalyst for bringing his name to the forefront of history. In Choosing Brave, Angela Joy and Janelle Washington offer a testament to the power of love, the bond of motherhood, and one woman's unwavering advocacy for justice. It is a poised, moving work about a woman who refocused her unimaginable grief into action for the greater good. Mamie fearlessly refused to allow America to turn away from what happened to her only child. She turned pain into change that ensured her son's life mattered. Timely, powerful, and beautifully told, this thorough and moving story has been masterfully crafted to be both comprehensive and suitable for younger readers. |
| a mothers guide to murder: Is Mother Dead Vigdis Hjorth, 2023-09-05 A cat and mouse game of surveillance and psychological torment develops between a middleaged artist and her aging mother, as Vigdis Hjorth returns to the themes of her controverdsial modern classic, Will and Testament 'To mother is to murder, or close enough', thinks Johanna, as she looks at the spelling of the two words in Norwegian. She's recently widowed and back in Oslo after a long absence as she prepares for a retrospective of her art.The subject of her work is motherhood and some of her more controversial paintings have brought aboiut a dramatic rift between parent and child. This new proximity, after decades of acrimonius absence, set both women on edge, and before too long Johanna finds her mother stalking her thoughts, and Johanna starts stalking her mother's house. |
| a mothers guide to murder: First Class Murder Robin Stevens, 2017-04-04 A murdered heiress, a missing necklace, and a train full of shifty, unusual, and suspicious characters leaves Daisy and Hazel with a new mystery to solve in this third novel of the Wells & Wong Mystery series. Hazel Wong and Daisy Wells are taking a vacation across Europe on world-famous passenger train, the Orient Express—and it’s clear that each of their fellow first-class travelers has something to hide. Even more intriguing: There’s rumor of a spy in their midst. Then, during dinner, a bloodcurdling scream comes from inside one of the cabins. When the door is broken down, a passenger is found murdered—her stunning ruby necklace gone. But the killer has vanished, as if into thin air. The Wells & Wong Detective Society is ready to crack the case—but this time, they’ve got competition. |
| a mothers guide to murder: A Nice Murder For Mom James Yaffe, 2016-11-22 A mystery not just Moms will love! After the death of his wife, New York City detective Dave heads west to the small town Mesa Grande, Colorado, and takes a job as Chief Investigator for the Public Defender. When a rivalry between two professors at the nearby college reaches a deadly level, it is with the help of his visiting Mom -- a wise, tough, shrewd Jewish New Yorker -- that Dave untangles a complex puzzle that leaves everyone, except Mom, guessing. Yaffe presents a winner here: a skillfully wrought and finely detailed case full of twists, theorizings, and more twists. Wry, down-to-earth, and satisfying. - Library Journal |
| a mothers guide to murder: The Bachelor Girl's Guide to Murder Rachel McMillan, 2016-04-01 In 1910 Toronto, while other bachelor girls perfect their domestic skills and find husbands, two friends perfect their sleuthing skills and find a murderer. Inspired by their fascination with all things Sherlock Holmes, best friends and flatmates Merinda and Jem launch a consulting detective business. The deaths of young Irish women lead Merinda and Jem deeper into the mire of the city's underbelly, where the high hopes of those dreaming to make a new life in Canada are met with prejudice and squalor. While searching for answers, donning disguises, and sneaking around where no proper ladies would ever go, they pair with Jasper Forth, a police constable, and Ray DeLuca, a reporter in whom Jem takes a more than professional interest. Merinda could well be Toronto's premiere consulting detective, and Jem may just find a way to put her bachelor girlhood behind her forever—if they can stay alive long enough to do so. |
| a mothers guide to murder: You and I, as Mothers Laura Prepon, 2020-04-07 “[Prepon] returns to the written word with this heartfelt, honest look at motherhood, styled as both informative guidebook and raw memoir.” —Entertainment Weekly When actor, director, and author Laura Prepon first became a mother, she felt raw, full of stress, and blindsided. She sought out resources to help navigate this huge life transition, but only found books about childcare with almost nothing on the shelves about momcare. So, Laura decided to write the book she was looking for. You and I, as Mothers: A Raw and Honest Guide to Motherhood is part memoir, part handbook, as Laura digs into her own unconventional upbringing and investigates how it shaped her as a person and as a mother, with intimate stories and never-before-shared anecdotes brought forth in an effort to understand our collective experience as mothers. The book is packed with practical tips for moms of any age, at any stage of motherhood, such as stress reduction techniques, self-care, protecting one’s partnership, asking for help, and getting a global perspective on maternity. Also included are easy and delicious recipes, from ideas for kids-friendly food, to romantic dinner dates, and batch-cooking favorites that will help any parent feed their family. Unfiltered, honest, and insightful, Laura encourages the reader to acknowledge their challenges, embrace their strengths, and celebrate their victories as we navigate the greatest adventure of all: motherhood. “Every mother, partner, and friend can benefit from the evocative and hard-earned wisdom within these pages.” —Mila Kunis “A powerful multi-hyphenate manifesto examining the most important and often overlooked realities of modern motherhood, written with wit, extraordinary grace, and real guts.” —Amber Tamblyn |
| a mothers guide to murder: One of Us Is Lying Karen M. McManus, 2017-06-01 The international bestselling YA thriller by acclaimed author Karen M. McManus - now available in a bold new cover look complete with a blood red background and matching sprayed edges. Five students walk into detention. Only four come out alive. Yale hopeful Bronwyn has never publicly broken a rule. Sports star Cooper only knows what he's doing in the baseball diamond. Bad boy Nate is one misstep away from a life of crime. Prom queen Addy is holding together the cracks in her perfect life. And outsider Simon, creator of the notorious gossip app at Bayview High, won't ever talk about any of them again. He dies 24 hours before he could post their deepest secrets online. Investigators conclude it's no accident. All of them are suspects. Everyone has secrets, right? What really matters is how far you'll go to protect them. 'Tightly plotted and brilliantly written, with sharp, believable characters, this whodunit is utterly irresistible' - HEAT 'Twisty plotting, breakneck pacing and intriguing characterisation add up to an exciting single-sitting thrillerish treat' -THE GUARDIAN 'A fantastic murder mystery, packed with cryptic clues and countless plot twists. I could not put this book down' - THE SUN 'Pretty Little Liars meets The Breakfast Club' - ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY But the story doesn't end here, it continues with One of Us Is Next. . . |
| a mothers guide to murder: Great Tales and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe Edgar Allan Poe, 2011-02-16 A new selection for the NEA’s Big Read program A compact selection of Poe’s greatest stories and poems, chosen by the National Endowment for the Arts for their Big Read program. This selection of eleven stories and seven poems contains such famously chilling masterpieces of the storyteller’s art as “The Tell-tale Heart,” “The Fall of the House of Usher,” “The Cask of Amontillado,” and “The Pit and the Pendulum,” and such unforgettable poems as “The Raven,” “The Bells,” and “Annabel Lee.” Poe is widely credited with pioneering the detective story, represented here by “The Purloined Letter,” “The Mystery of Marie Roget,” and “The Murders in the Rue Morgue.” Also included is his essay “The Philosophy of Composition,” in which he lays out his theory of how good writers write, describing how he constructed “The Raven” as an example. |
| a mothers guide to murder: A Good Dog's Guide to Murder Krista Davis, 2022-09-06 The great Gingerbread Dog & Cat House competition has come to Wagtail, along with another murder to solve for Holly and her supersmart Jack Russell terrier Trixie in the New York Times bestselling Paws & Claws series by Krista Davis! Visitors are arriving in droves to spend Thanksgiving in the mountains of pet-friendly Wagtail, Virginia. Many of them are bringing dog and cat gingerbread houses to enter in the contest that will be held in the new convention center. Wagtail resident Orly Biffle bequeathed the land to the town in his will, provided that they not cut down the grand old oak tree on the property. Orly’s children are mighty miffed that they didn’t inherit the prime piece of property overlooking the lake. Holly notices that Trixie and Twinkletoes, her calico kitty, are fixated on the big oak tree. Trixie barks at it as though she thinks it’s a corpse! Just as contestants are spicing up their sweet gingerbread creations, the majestic tree drops an enormous limb. The mayor declares that the tree is dangerous and must come down. When a bulldozer churns up some roots, the tree falls over on its own accord revealing a body inside the trunk! Initially, everyone suspects this unsavory trick was Orly’s doing. But it soon becomes clear that someone is trying to keep the truth under wraps. Trixie and Twinkletoes now have to help Holly sniff out some suspects and leash a conniving killer. |
| a mothers guide to murder: A Bride's Guide to Marriage and Murder Dianne Freeman, 2022-06-28 “Pure unadulterated fun” (Publishers Weekly) for fans of Ashley Weaver, Deanna Raybourn, and Tasha Alexander, the Agatha Award-winning Countess of Harleigh Mysteries are a witty romp through the high society of Victorian England with a touch of romance, an appealing and independent female lead, and rich historical detail. In this charming fifth installment, Frances Wynn, the American-born Countess of Harleigh, finds her wedding day overshadowed by murder . . . On the eve of her marriage to George Hazelton, Frances has a great deal more on her mind than flowers and seating arrangements. The Connors and the Bainbridges, two families of American robber barons, have taken up residence in London, and their bitter rivalry is spilling over into the highest social circles. At the request of her brother, Alonzo, who is quite taken with Miss Madeline Connor, Frances has invited the Connor family to her wedding. Meanwhile, Frances’s mother has invited Mr. Bainbridge, and Frances fears the wedding may end up being newspaper-worthy for all the wrong reasons. On the day itself, Frances is relieved to note that Madeline’s father is not among the guests assembled at the church. The reason for his absence, however, turns out to be most unfortunate: Mr. Connor is found murdered in his home. More shocking still, Alonzo is caught at the scene, holding the murder weapon. Powerful and ruthless, Connor appears to have amassed a wealth of enemies alongside his fortune. Frances and George agree to put their wedding trip on hold to try and clear Alonzo’s name. But there are secrets to sift through, not just in the Bainbridge and Connor families, but also in their own. And with a killer determined to evade discovery at any cost—even if it means taking another life—Frances’s first days as a newlywed will be perilous indeed . . . |
| a mothers guide to murder: New Ways to Kill Your Mother Colm Toibin, 2012-05-01 In this fascinating, informative, and entertaining collection, internationally acclaimed, award-winning author Colm Tóibín turns his attention to the intricacies of family relationships in literature and writing. In pieces that range from the importance of aunts (and the death of parents) in the English nineteenth-century novel to the relationship between fathers and sons in the writing of James Baldwin and Barack Obama, Colm Tóibín illuminates not only the intimate connections between writers and their families but also, with wit and rare tenderness, articulates the great joy of reading their work. In the piece on the Notebooks of Tennessee Williams, Tóibín reveals an artist alone and deeply fearful and unusually selfish and one profoundly tormented by his sister's mental illness. Through the relationship between W.B. Yeats and his father, or Thomas Mann and his children, or J.M. Synge and his mother, Tóibín examines a world of family relations, richly comic or savage in its implications. In Roddy Doyle's writing on his parents we see an Ireland reinvented. From the dreams and nightmares of John Cheever's journals Tóibín makes flesh this darkly comic misanthrope and his relationship to his wife and his children.The majority of these pieces were previously published in the Londron Review of Books, the New York Review Review of Books, and the Dublin Review. Three of the thirteen pieces have never appeared before. |
| a mothers guide to murder: How Not to Murder Your Mother Stephanie Calman, 2009 Marriage and family. |
| a mothers guide to murder: Murder on the Golden Arrow Magda Alexander, 2021-09-21 What's a bright young woman to do when her brother becomes the main suspect in a murder? Why, solve the case of course.England. 1923. After a year away at finishing school where she learned etiquette, deportment, and the difference between a salad fork and a fish one, Kitty Worthington is eager to return home. But minutes after she and her brother Ned board the Golden Arrow, the unthinkable happens. A woman with a mysterious connection to her brother is poisoned, and the murderer can only be someone aboard the train.When Scotland Yard hones in on Ned as the main suspect, Kitty sets out to investigate. Not an easy thing to do while juggling the demands of her debut season and a mother intent on finding a suitable, aristocratic husband for her.With the aid of her maid, two noble beaus, and a flatulent Basset Hound named Sir Winston, Kitty treads a fearless path through the glamorous world of high society and London's dark underbelly alike to find the murderer. For if she fails, the insufferable Inspector Crawford will most surely hang a noose around her brother's neck.A frolicking historical cozy mystery filled with dodgy suspects, a dastardly villain, and an intrepid heroine sure to win your heart, Murder on the Golden Arrow is the first book in The Kitty Worthington Mysteries. For lovers of Agatha Christie and Downton Abbey alike. |
| a mothers guide to murder: Pocket Full of Do Chris Do, 2020-07-27 |
| a mothers guide to murder: Every Mother's Nightmare Mark Thomas, 2006 A dramatic account of the killing of two-year-old James Bulger describes howhe shocking crime took a monstrous turn when it was discovered that theillers were two young boys whose actions were caught on security cameraootage. Original. |
| a mothers guide to murder: Dear Killer Katherine Ewell, 2014-04-01 Full of can't look away moments, Dear Killer is a psychological thriller perfect for fans of gritty realistic fiction such as Dan Wells's I Am Not a Serial Killer and Jay Asher's Thirteen Reasons Why, as well as television's Dexter. Rule One—Nothing is right, nothing is wrong. Kit looks like your average seventeen-year-old high school student, but she has a secret—she's London's notorious Perfect Killer. She chooses who to murder based on letters left in a secret mailbox, and she's good—no, perfect—at what she does. Her moral nihilism—the fact that she doesn't believe in right and wrong—makes being a serial killer a whole lot easier . . . until she breaks her own rules by befriending someone she's supposed to murder, as well as the detective in charge of the Perfect Killer case. As New York Times bestselling author of the Gone series Michael Grant says, Dear Killer is shocking, mesmerizing, and very smart. |
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Organic Grocer | Mother's Market
Mother's Market and Kitchen is an all natural and organic health food store, offering a selection of high quality natural foods, health products, and information.
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We operate a chain of grocery stores specializing in eWIC shopping and predominantly catering to mothers with children under five, but open to the public! We are a fast, easy, and convenient …
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