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Mothers' Instinct
Soon to be a major US motion picture starring Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain, Mothers' Instinct is a dark, twisty domestic thriller in which the bond between two couples--best friends and next-door neighbors--mutates in dangerous and deadly ways in the wake of a tragic accident.
David and Laetitia Brunelle and Sylvain and Tiphaine Geniot are inseparable friends and next-door neighbors in a pretty, tranquil suburb. Their sons Milo and Maxime, born in the same year, grow up together as close as brothers. But when Maxime is killed in an accident, their idyllic world shatters. Maxime's parents, Sylvain and Tiphaine, are consumed by grief and bitterness, while David and Laetitia are wracked with guilt for their role in the tragedy. Soon the couples are barely speaking, although they maintain a polite facade.
Then a mysterious series of "accidents" begins to happen to Milo, raising Laetitia's suspicions. Are their former best friends trying to punish them by threatening their son? As an increasingly paranoid Laetitia frantically tries to protect Milo from harm, the little civility left between the two families curdles into outward hostility. Is Laetitia just imagining things? Or are Sylvain and Tiphaine secretly conspiring to exact their revenge . . . and if so, who will pay?
In her American debut, blockbuster Belgian author Barbara Abel plunges into the deepest, darkest corners of her characters' hearts and minds to explore the limits of friendship, the overwhelming power of maternal love, and how far hate, fear, and vengeance can drive us. Tense and blood-chilling, with a surprising final twist, Mothers' Instinct will keep you on edge until the final page.
Translated from the French by Susan Pickford
David and Laetitia Brunelle and Sylvain and Tiphaine Geniot are inseparable friends and next-door neighbors in a pretty, tranquil suburb. Their sons Milo and Maxime, born in the same year, grow up together as close as brothers. But when Maxime is killed in an accident, their idyllic world shatters. Maxime's parents, Sylvain and Tiphaine, are consumed by grief and bitterness, while David and Laetitia are wracked with guilt for their role in the tragedy. Soon the couples are barely speaking, although they maintain a polite facade.
Then a mysterious series of "accidents" begins to happen to Milo, raising Laetitia's suspicions. Are their former best friends trying to punish them by threatening their son? As an increasingly paranoid Laetitia frantically tries to protect Milo from harm, the little civility left between the two families curdles into outward hostility. Is Laetitia just imagining things? Or are Sylvain and Tiphaine secretly conspiring to exact their revenge . . . and if so, who will pay?
In her American debut, blockbuster Belgian author Barbara Abel plunges into the deepest, darkest corners of her characters' hearts and minds to explore the limits of friendship, the overwhelming power of maternal love, and how far hate, fear, and vengeance can drive us. Tense and blood-chilling, with a surprising final twist, Mothers' Instinct will keep you on edge until the final page.
Translated from the French by Susan Pickford
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2003
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October 17, 2024
WTH? What the heck? This is the craziest, wildest thing I've read in a long time! Normally, I would devour this kind of fast-paced page-turner in one sitting, but I had to take at least 10 scream breaks! My blood ran cold, and I wrapped myself in three extra blankets to stop my shivering. I turned into a shaking human burrito! The last third of the book was especially over the edge. My eyes literally popped out of their sockets, making me resemble a new version of Haley Joel Osment murmuring the same words: "I read about crazy people! They're everywhere! They're next door!"
I can't wait to watch the American series adaptation of this book starring Jessica Chastain and Anne Hathaway! I'm certain these brilliant women will portray the troubled characters as perfectly as possible.
I think this book will give me nightmares for a long time. This bone-chilling, earth-shattering, bleak, unconventional, and horrifying domestic thriller is one of the greatest things I've ever read! Every time I remember a detail from the story, I want to start screaming again and hide under my bed! Trust me! Some of the characters in this book are scarier than monsters!
Here's a quick summary of the plot: David - Laetitia Brunelle and Sylvain - Tiphaine Geniot are next-door neighbors who have formed a close friendship over the span of 10 years. Laetitia and Tiphaine become pregnant at the same time and give birth to their sons, Milo and Maxime, respectively. The boys become best friends, just like their parents.
But one day, six-year-old Maxime falls ill, stays home, and... an accident takes his life! Tiphaine and Sylvain lose themselves in grief, and their once-tight bond shatters. Emotions are running high!
Both families start to threaten each other. Tiphaine believes Laetitia is responsible for her child's death, while Laetitia thinks Tiphaine is the reason behind the incidents that threaten her son Milo's life. And... things escalate! Shit hits the fan! All hell breaks loose! I'll stop right here! Just expect the unexpected! Get ready for a thrilling, pressure-building experience! Join me in screaming a little louder!
I loved it! It scared me! It disturbed me! But it's worth the thrill!
Quick note: I need more translations of Barbara Abel's works! I hope the publishing company releases more of her books! I wish I knew French!
Special thanks to NetGalley and HarperVia for sharing this brilliant digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
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I can't wait to watch the American series adaptation of this book starring Jessica Chastain and Anne Hathaway! I'm certain these brilliant women will portray the troubled characters as perfectly as possible.
I think this book will give me nightmares for a long time. This bone-chilling, earth-shattering, bleak, unconventional, and horrifying domestic thriller is one of the greatest things I've ever read! Every time I remember a detail from the story, I want to start screaming again and hide under my bed! Trust me! Some of the characters in this book are scarier than monsters!
Here's a quick summary of the plot: David - Laetitia Brunelle and Sylvain - Tiphaine Geniot are next-door neighbors who have formed a close friendship over the span of 10 years. Laetitia and Tiphaine become pregnant at the same time and give birth to their sons, Milo and Maxime, respectively. The boys become best friends, just like their parents.
But one day, six-year-old Maxime falls ill, stays home, and... an accident takes his life! Tiphaine and Sylvain lose themselves in grief, and their once-tight bond shatters. Emotions are running high!
Both families start to threaten each other. Tiphaine believes Laetitia is responsible for her child's death, while Laetitia thinks Tiphaine is the reason behind the incidents that threaten her son Milo's life. And... things escalate! Shit hits the fan! All hell breaks loose! I'll stop right here! Just expect the unexpected! Get ready for a thrilling, pressure-building experience! Join me in screaming a little louder!
I loved it! It scared me! It disturbed me! But it's worth the thrill!
Quick note: I need more translations of Barbara Abel's works! I hope the publishing company releases more of her books! I wish I knew French!
Special thanks to NetGalley and HarperVia for sharing this brilliant digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
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May 16, 2023
Suffice to say, when I read that this book was being made into a major U.S. motion picture starring two of my favorite actresses, Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain, I just had to READ IT before the theatrical release. Originally titled, “Behind the Hatred” the book was written in 2012 by blockbuster Belgian author Barbara Abel and was translated from French by Susan Pickford.
In 2018, a loose adaptation of the book, called “Duelles” (Mother’s Instinct) was made into a french language film, and was screened at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival. It received ten nominations in the 10th Magritte Awards, and won in 9 categories, setting a record for the most Magritte Awards won by a single film.
Maybe, because I was curious and googled all of this, as I was reading the book, I could definitely see why it translated so well to film. The names were changed in the French film, to names more familiar and it appears that the U.S. version will use the more familiar names as well. But, for now, this book has the original names. It looks like the time period that this story takes place in, will be adjusted as well.
This will make a great movie!
As for the book, I think the synopsis gives away TOO MUCH, so I recommend you go in blind!
David and Laetitia (Alice) Brunelle and and Sylvain and Tiphaine (Celine) Genoit were inseparable friends and next door neighbors, and their sons, Milo and Maxime, born in the same year, grow up together, close as brothers.
They share meals in their yards which are separated by only a hedge, and secrets over drinks. The tension in the book builds well, and you can guess the things that will become ticking time bombs.
You just don’t know WHEN.
A drunken confession, a suggestion to cut down part of the hedge to install a gate, a hastily scribbled note….
And, then one child is killed in a tragic accident and it becomes impossible for his parents to maintain their friendship with the other couple, going so far as to suggest that they played a role in it.
It isn’t FAIR that they still have their son.
How far would the grieving parents go to even the score?
DARK, TENSE and NAIL BITING, I read this book in a single day-I couldn’t put it down!
I will be curious to see how the movie is adapted for an American audience. And, yes, I pictured a certain actress for each role, and I agree with the casting. Jessica Chastain will play Laetitia (Alice) and Anne Hathaway will play Tiphaine (Celine)-if the same names are used as in the French movie.
A buddy read with DeAnn! Be sure to check out her amazing review for additional thoughts!
As for the movie, I haven’t seen a release date but you can read this while you are waiting!
AVAILABLE NOW
TRIGGER WARNING: Death of a Child
Thank You to HarperVia for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
In 2018, a loose adaptation of the book, called “Duelles” (Mother’s Instinct) was made into a french language film, and was screened at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival. It received ten nominations in the 10th Magritte Awards, and won in 9 categories, setting a record for the most Magritte Awards won by a single film.
Maybe, because I was curious and googled all of this, as I was reading the book, I could definitely see why it translated so well to film. The names were changed in the French film, to names more familiar and it appears that the U.S. version will use the more familiar names as well. But, for now, this book has the original names. It looks like the time period that this story takes place in, will be adjusted as well.
This will make a great movie!
As for the book, I think the synopsis gives away TOO MUCH, so I recommend you go in blind!
David and Laetitia (Alice) Brunelle and and Sylvain and Tiphaine (Celine) Genoit were inseparable friends and next door neighbors, and their sons, Milo and Maxime, born in the same year, grow up together, close as brothers.
They share meals in their yards which are separated by only a hedge, and secrets over drinks. The tension in the book builds well, and you can guess the things that will become ticking time bombs.
You just don’t know WHEN.
A drunken confession, a suggestion to cut down part of the hedge to install a gate, a hastily scribbled note….
And, then one child is killed in a tragic accident and it becomes impossible for his parents to maintain their friendship with the other couple, going so far as to suggest that they played a role in it.
It isn’t FAIR that they still have their son.
How far would the grieving parents go to even the score?
DARK, TENSE and NAIL BITING, I read this book in a single day-I couldn’t put it down!
I will be curious to see how the movie is adapted for an American audience. And, yes, I pictured a certain actress for each role, and I agree with the casting. Jessica Chastain will play Laetitia (Alice) and Anne Hathaway will play Tiphaine (Celine)-if the same names are used as in the French movie.
A buddy read with DeAnn! Be sure to check out her amazing review for additional thoughts!
As for the movie, I haven’t seen a release date but you can read this while you are waiting!
AVAILABLE NOW
TRIGGER WARNING: Death of a Child
Thank You to HarperVia for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
January 6, 2024
Shocking twist!
David and Laetitia Brunelle and Sylvain and Tiphaine Geniot are the best of neighbors. Over the years, they have become best friends.
When Laetitia and Tiphaine become pregnant in the same year, their kids, Milo and Maxime grow up like brothers.
Everything is going so well for these couples until after a terrible accident. Maxime dies.
Could Laetitia have done something more to prevent the death? Is Tiphaine to blame for the accident? Or was it David's reluctance to connect their properties the real culprit?
This is a dark, chilling, shocking novel. I suggest going in blind (like I did) to get the maximum enjoyment. There is no way I can forget this book. Is not an easy one to forget.
I hear this is becoming a movie with Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain. My dog-mom's instinct is telling me it's going to be a good one.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by HarperVia via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
David and Laetitia Brunelle and Sylvain and Tiphaine Geniot are the best of neighbors. Over the years, they have become best friends.
When Laetitia and Tiphaine become pregnant in the same year, their kids, Milo and Maxime grow up like brothers.
Everything is going so well for these couples until after a terrible accident. Maxime dies.
Could Laetitia have done something more to prevent the death? Is Tiphaine to blame for the accident? Or was it David's reluctance to connect their properties the real culprit?
This is a dark, chilling, shocking novel. I suggest going in blind (like I did) to get the maximum enjoyment. There is no way I can forget this book. Is not an easy one to forget.
I hear this is becoming a movie with Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain. My dog-mom's instinct is telling me it's going to be a good one.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by HarperVia via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
July 11, 2023
Originally published in 2012, Mother’s Instinct is not a new book but rather newly translated from French to English, and also soon to be a major motion picture starring Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain. The Brunelle’s and Geniot’s are next door neighbors and the best of friends. Their sons Milo and Maxime, born the same year, are as thick as thieves. One day tragedy strikes and Maxime is killed in an accident. Overcome with grief, this life altering event changes everything including the bond once shared by these two families. This is one of those books where I think the less you know going into it the better.
With short chapters and concise writing, this domestic suspense novel is the perfect length and kept me up late at night reading. Although I had a feeling where things were going, there were a few jaw dropping moments that left me with my mouth agape asking myself what the heck just happened. I could feel the tension building with each page turned. Minor critique is that although satisfying, the ending did feel a little abrupt. After reading this one, I hope more of this author’s work gets translated into English. I can’t wait to watch the movie! 4 stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and HarperVia for the opportunity to read this ARC.
With short chapters and concise writing, this domestic suspense novel is the perfect length and kept me up late at night reading. Although I had a feeling where things were going, there were a few jaw dropping moments that left me with my mouth agape asking myself what the heck just happened. I could feel the tension building with each page turned. Minor critique is that although satisfying, the ending did feel a little abrupt. After reading this one, I hope more of this author’s work gets translated into English. I can’t wait to watch the movie! 4 stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and HarperVia for the opportunity to read this ARC.
February 12, 2023
Ok, that just happened! Lol. I'm trying to figure out what I just read here.
This book is translated from French by Barbara Abel and it's a vicious one. We have two couples: David and Laetitia Brunelle and Sylvain and Tiphaine Geniot who live next to each other. They are good friends who are always over and their two son end up being best friends. Unfortunately, Sylvain and Tiphaine's son Maxime is killed in a accident and both couples go into insta-crazy......
Without going into any spoilers this one just goes off the rails as both couples try and deal with Maxime's death. One couple starts to blame the other couple and off we go....
The good: This one is mean and lean. No wasted time or verbiage. Short chapters. With a ending the equivalent of getting your head kicked in by a horse. Or, ok, maybe not that bad.
The bad: Like mentioned above it's translated from French to English so some of the dialogue is clunky. Kind of like watching a show with subtitles? You get use to it really quick, however, and the translation is top notch.
Highly recommended if you want a fast book that isn't scared to "go there....."
I really appreciate HarperVia for giving me the opportunity to review this book and it has a publication date of May 16, 2023.
This book is translated from French by Barbara Abel and it's a vicious one. We have two couples: David and Laetitia Brunelle and Sylvain and Tiphaine Geniot who live next to each other. They are good friends who are always over and their two son end up being best friends. Unfortunately, Sylvain and Tiphaine's son Maxime is killed in a accident and both couples go into insta-crazy......
Without going into any spoilers this one just goes off the rails as both couples try and deal with Maxime's death. One couple starts to blame the other couple and off we go....
The good: This one is mean and lean. No wasted time or verbiage. Short chapters. With a ending the equivalent of getting your head kicked in by a horse. Or, ok, maybe not that bad.
The bad: Like mentioned above it's translated from French to English so some of the dialogue is clunky. Kind of like watching a show with subtitles? You get use to it really quick, however, and the translation is top notch.
Highly recommended if you want a fast book that isn't scared to "go there....."
I really appreciate HarperVia for giving me the opportunity to review this book and it has a publication date of May 16, 2023.
August 6, 2024
Майчиният инстинкт никога не може да те подведе! Убедила съм се в това през последните 10 години. Онова чувство, което се прокрадва в теб, дори и най-малкото съмнение или намек за нещо нередно. Майките никога не грешат! Точно това е и в основата на романа на Барбара Абел, която ни потапя в най-голямата трагедия, която може да се случи на един родител - загубата на дете.
Историята започна завладяващо, много ми допадна стила на авторката, но скорострелно нещата се объркаха. През цялото време, докато четях имах усещането, че нещо ми липсва, че нещо ми убягва и след 100 страници разбрах, че е задълбоченост. От една страна имаме изключително интересен сюжет, от друга не можах да опозная героите, да ги почуствам живи, да вникна напълно в страховете и болката им. Най-голямото ми разочарование дойде с финала, който след един разкошен обрат никак не очаквах да бъде толкова претупан и до голяма степен неясен. Не точно отворен, но в никакъв случай категоричен. В допълнение имаше сюжетни линии, свързани с миналото на главните ни герои, които също бяха само щрихирани и за които ми се искаше авторката да се беше постарала повече.
Романът е много увлекателен, чете се неусетно, има атмосфера и огромен потенциал, но за съжаление Барбара Абел не успя да ме убеди, че не е претупала историята. Ако имаше още едни 200 страници и по-добре написан и категоричен финал щяхме да имаме страхотен психологически трилър.
Историята започна завладяващо, много ми допадна стила на авторката, но скорострелно нещата се объркаха. През цялото време, докато четях имах усещането, че нещо ми липсва, че нещо ми убягва и след 100 страници разбрах, че е задълбоченост. От една страна имаме изключително интересен сюжет, от друга не можах да опозная героите, да ги почуствам живи, да вникна напълно в страховете и болката им. Най-голямото ми разочарование дойде с финала, който след един разкошен обрат никак не очаквах да бъде толкова претупан и до голяма степен неясен. Не точно отворен, но в никакъв случай категоричен. В допълнение имаше сюжетни линии, свързани с миналото на главните ни герои, които също бяха само щрихирани и за които ми се искаше авторката да се беше постарала повече.
Романът е много увлекателен, чете се неусетно, има атмосфера и огромен потенциал, но за съжаление Барбара Абел не успя да ме убеди, че не е претупала историята. Ако имаше още едни 200 страници и по-добре написан и категоричен финал щяхме да имаме страхотен психологически трилър.
March 15, 2023
Two couples have been neighbors and best friends for 10 years. One of their sons die in a horrible accident and they all have to come to terms with starting over. This was a very twisty story and kept me reading till the end. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this re-release, soon to be made into a movie on the big screen. To be published May 2023. I’ll be watching for the movie!
July 22, 2023
My friend and I both bought Mothers' Instinct by Barbara Abel when we were at an airport, and I was completely drawn in by both the cover and the fact that it is a movie with Anne Hathaway which apparently came out in 2018 without me realizing. I am interested to see what the movie will be like and if they decided to play the ending out the same way. I thought this was a very dramatic and engaging story, and it starts out with a hint of mystery before the author goes back and gives the reader the full story. I have a feeling this is going to be a really hard novel for mothers to read, and even my heart was breaking for Tiphaine. It felt a lot more like a domestic drama for the majority of the book, but we definitely did eventually get into some thriller territory and the tension was very thick.
I thought the narrator for the audiobook, Jeremy Carlisle Parker, did a great job of getting the emotions of all of the characters through to the listener, and she did an exceptional job in the areas where the women are bickering and doing a lot of yelling. I don't know how you can sound like that without grating on a listener's nerves, but she did it and I am thankful. There are quite a few viewpoints even though the main focus is on the 2 families, and I probably could have done without some of them. I would have preferred only the 2 moms I think, and we didn't really get to know anyone all that well. The translation is pretty good although at times the writing did seem a little stilted.
The biggest issue I had (and the reason I can only bring myself to give this a 2) is the ending. It was such a huge disappointment to me after all of the build-up, and I honestly hated it. However, don't let that deter you because there are plenty of people who loved this one, I just could not get behind the ending at all. Abel is a Belgium author who has a ton of books out and Mothers' Instinct is the first to be translated. Even though the ending took away from everything else for me, I would definitely still read more from this author, and I do hope they translate more of her books in the future.
I thought the narrator for the audiobook, Jeremy Carlisle Parker, did a great job of getting the emotions of all of the characters through to the listener, and she did an exceptional job in the areas where the women are bickering and doing a lot of yelling. I don't know how you can sound like that without grating on a listener's nerves, but she did it and I am thankful. There are quite a few viewpoints even though the main focus is on the 2 families, and I probably could have done without some of them. I would have preferred only the 2 moms I think, and we didn't really get to know anyone all that well. The translation is pretty good although at times the writing did seem a little stilted.
The biggest issue I had (and the reason I can only bring myself to give this a 2) is the ending. It was such a huge disappointment to me after all of the build-up, and I honestly hated it. However, don't let that deter you because there are plenty of people who loved this one, I just could not get behind the ending at all. Abel is a Belgium author who has a ton of books out and Mothers' Instinct is the first to be translated. Even though the ending took away from everything else for me, I would definitely still read more from this author, and I do hope they translate more of her books in the future.
March 16, 2023
Best friends and neighbors, Laetitia and Tiphaine, both have sons that are three months apart from each other. They grow up playing together and become best friends. Then one day, Tiphaine's son, Maxime, has a freak accident and Laetitia is blamed. Soon after, their friendship falls apart. This sets off a whirlwind of events for both families.
I was blown away by MOTHERS' INSTINCT. I will warn you this was not an easy read, but also one that I could not put down. I can't imagine the feelings both of these woman had. It is unimaginable to me to lose a child, but the way Tiphaine handled it had my mind spinning! This story will not be one I will ever forget and I look forward to seeing it when it hits the big screen at the theater! I do recommend it if you like a twisty domestic thriller, but I would like to remind you of the trigger warning of child loss.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperVia for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
I was blown away by MOTHERS' INSTINCT. I will warn you this was not an easy read, but also one that I could not put down. I can't imagine the feelings both of these woman had. It is unimaginable to me to lose a child, but the way Tiphaine handled it had my mind spinning! This story will not be one I will ever forget and I look forward to seeing it when it hits the big screen at the theater! I do recommend it if you like a twisty domestic thriller, but I would like to remind you of the trigger warning of child loss.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperVia for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
January 13, 2023
A great mystery thriller. This was a great quick read that kept me involved in the characters' story through the entire book. I can see why it would be a great movie adaptation. I highly suggest this book to thriller lovers.
March 26, 2023
This book was engrossing but so totally depressing. It centers on next door neighbors and best friends, one couple whose son dies in a tragic accident. Guilt and suspicion ensues.
All 4 characters did some not-nice things but I was still sympathetic to them in some cases. The story itself was just gut wrenching, though, and I felt sad the entire way through, and even more sad at the end.
Overall, this was an engaging and fast read and it will definitely stick with me but it was just so very sad. I can’t imagine I would event watch the movie. If you are prepared for sadness, then read this good book. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange doe an honest review.
All 4 characters did some not-nice things but I was still sympathetic to them in some cases. The story itself was just gut wrenching, though, and I felt sad the entire way through, and even more sad at the end.
Overall, this was an engaging and fast read and it will definitely stick with me but it was just so very sad. I can’t imagine I would event watch the movie. If you are prepared for sadness, then read this good book. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange doe an honest review.
March 23, 2023
THIS WAS SUCH A RIDE!
Apparently this book was originally published in 2012, but this is its first time in english translation (film adaptation also coming soon). I’m shocked it took this long to be released here in the US because this is PEAK domestic suspense drama! Not sure if I’d necessarily categorize it as a mystery/thriller - it’s about the relationship between two couples who are neighbors, until a tragedy occurs that completely unravels them, and all 4 become more and more unhinged as the story progresses to a climax i was NOT expecting!
this is an intense and uncomfortable look at grief and how it can unravel the best of relationships
Apparently this book was originally published in 2012, but this is its first time in english translation (film adaptation also coming soon). I’m shocked it took this long to be released here in the US because this is PEAK domestic suspense drama! Not sure if I’d necessarily categorize it as a mystery/thriller - it’s about the relationship between two couples who are neighbors, until a tragedy occurs that completely unravels them, and all 4 become more and more unhinged as the story progresses to a climax i was NOT expecting!
this is an intense and uncomfortable look at grief and how it can unravel the best of relationships
August 11, 2024
Много хубава идея, ноооо изпълнението е кошмар.
Купих си книгата, защото гледах трейлъра на екранизацията(надявам се тя да е по-добра, но не знам какво трябва да се случи, за да не е). Очаквах едно, но се случи нещо страшно. Започвам с факта, че единственото хубаво според мен, са кратките глави. Това прави книгата супер четивна, но и супер неразвита сюжетно. В началото главите са мега хаотични и се обърках, след това добиха някаква консистентност, нооо 🫣
Не мога да си обясня, дали стила на авторката е толкова дървен или превода нещо не е ок, защото в книга за родителството, където главна тема е загубата, да не успееш да покажеш каквато и да е емоция… АД!
Персонажите ми бяха безлични, скучни, неприятни и доста плоски. Взаимоотношенията между тях неадекватни. А финалЪТ… мадре миа…
За момента това е най-разочароващата книга, която съм чел през 2024та 😔
Купих си книгата, защото гледах трейлъра на екранизацията(надявам се тя да е по-добра, но не знам какво трябва да се случи, за да не е). Очаквах едно, но се случи нещо страшно. Започвам с факта, че единственото хубаво според мен, са кратките глави. Това прави книгата супер четивна, но и супер неразвита сюжетно. В началото главите са мега хаотични и се обърках, след това добиха някаква консистентност, нооо 🫣
Не мога да си обясня, дали стила на авторката е толкова дървен или превода нещо не е ок, защото в книга за родителството, където главна тема е загубата, да не успееш да покажеш каквато и да е емоция… АД!
Персонажите ми бяха безлични, скучни, неприятни и доста плоски. Взаимоотношенията между тях неадекватни. А финалЪТ… мадре миа…
За момента това е най-разочароващата книга, която съм чел през 2024та 😔
January 31, 2023
What a fun and fast-paced book! Actually, “fun” may not be the right word…this book was at times quite emotional and deep, but it was also a fantastic thriller book (soon to become a major motion picture).
Laetitia and Tiphaine are next-door neighbors, and best friends. Laetitia grew up in the duplex the two couples share, and feels so lucky that a couple their age has moved in next door. The two couples become close friends - and that friendship grows even more when the women get pregnant within months of each other, both bearing little boys who became to be like brothers.
For years, these families had great times together. Long nights enjoying drinks while the boys played, always having built-in emergency childcare with friends they trust completely, watching their sons grow up together - it was the idyllic situation, until one day, tragedy strikes. When one of the boys dies, a wedge was driven between these families, and both women started (understandably) going off the rails.
While I saw the ending coming throughout most of the book, it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story. There is obviously a trigger warning for the death of a child, but that part was written thoughtfully and true-to-life. Towards the end, some things did get a little wacky and implausible, but overall this was a fantastic book with excellent writing. If the movie follows the book well (and the all-star cast won’t hurt anything), it should be pretty good. I’m giving this 4.5 stars; it was definitely a page-turner and a great story.
(Thank you to HarperVia, Barbara Abel, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on May 15, 2023.)
Laetitia and Tiphaine are next-door neighbors, and best friends. Laetitia grew up in the duplex the two couples share, and feels so lucky that a couple their age has moved in next door. The two couples become close friends - and that friendship grows even more when the women get pregnant within months of each other, both bearing little boys who became to be like brothers.
For years, these families had great times together. Long nights enjoying drinks while the boys played, always having built-in emergency childcare with friends they trust completely, watching their sons grow up together - it was the idyllic situation, until one day, tragedy strikes. When one of the boys dies, a wedge was driven between these families, and both women started (understandably) going off the rails.
While I saw the ending coming throughout most of the book, it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story. There is obviously a trigger warning for the death of a child, but that part was written thoughtfully and true-to-life. Towards the end, some things did get a little wacky and implausible, but overall this was a fantastic book with excellent writing. If the movie follows the book well (and the all-star cast won’t hurt anything), it should be pretty good. I’m giving this 4.5 stars; it was definitely a page-turner and a great story.
(Thank you to HarperVia, Barbara Abel, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on May 15, 2023.)
April 29, 2020
Cette lecture était passée pendant la période la plus belle de ma vie !!
Je me sens vraiment choquée et déçue à la fois pendant une longue durée après cette lecture !!
Mais vraiment c’est quoi cette Barbarie de l’héroïne pour une raison illogique et incompréhensible !
Au file des années elle a vécu une mélancolie profonde à cause de sa stérilité ainsi que la froideur et l’autorité de son mari mais ils sont protégeaient leurs images devant le monde aristocrates, une image d’un couple harmonieux et solidaire ❣️ et devenu un couple parfait 👍 ! Sa vengeance de ces années passées plein de mensonges et de manque de respect de son mari ainsi que sa trahison était choquante et littéralement une folie !
Je me sens vraiment choquée et déçue à la fois pendant une longue durée après cette lecture !!
Mais vraiment c’est quoi cette Barbarie de l’héroïne pour une raison illogique et incompréhensible !
Au file des années elle a vécu une mélancolie profonde à cause de sa stérilité ainsi que la froideur et l’autorité de son mari mais ils sont protégeaient leurs images devant le monde aristocrates, une image d’un couple harmonieux et solidaire ❣️ et devenu un couple parfait 👍 ! Sa vengeance de ces années passées plein de mensonges et de manque de respect de son mari ainsi que sa trahison était choquante et littéralement une folie !
January 22, 2024
Right before this I read The Mystery Guest (the second Molly Maid book,) & they are about as opposite as 2 books can be. This is dark. The majority read as more of a character study than a thriller, but I couldn’t get enough. I put down whatever else I was reading & devoured every word. I really enjoyed & recommend the audio version. & I look forward to them translating more of her books.
August 30, 2024
Knew nothing about this book before reading it other than the film version of the book was being shot in my town. The book was just okay. I didn’t necessarily like the ending which was a really big surprise and not in a good way. I will add that the movie version with Anne Hathaway and Jessica Chastain was horrible and completely, completely different and almost unrecognizable from its printed version. I’d say keep far away from the book and the movie!
February 1, 2023
I promise myself over and over again that I will stick to my thoroughly planned out list of books I need to read in order .
Do you think I stick to this list?
Nope.
Not when a book like Mothers’ Instinct was just approved .
I, like most of us blogger, get to the end of the month and fear missing out on just one more book. So instead of going to work like a normal human, I called out to read .
Don’t judge me .
The one thing I don’t regret is playing hookie when I just concluded another banger of a book. Giving this book ONLY five stars would be an insult . This book breaks every rating scale we have put forth.
If you want to know what I’m talking about you better run on over to your favorite bookstore and preorder this mind bending thriller.
Also, a little birdie told me this book is going to hit the bring screen .
Teaser :
David and Laetitia Brunelle and Sylvain and Tiphaine Geniot are inseparable friends and next-door neighbors in a pretty, tranquil suburb. Their sons Milo and Maxime, born in the same year, grow up together as close as brothers. But when Maxime is killed in an accident, their idyllic world shatters. Maxime's parents, Sylvain and Tiphaine, are consumed by grief and bitterness, while David and Laetitia are wracked with guilt for their role in the tragedy. Soon the couples are barely speaking, although they maintain a polite façade.
Then a mysterious series of “accidents” begins to happen to Milo, raising Laetitia’s suspicions. Are their former best friends trying to punish them by threatening their son? As an increasingly paranoid Laetitia frantically tries to protect Milo from harm, the little civility left between the two families curdles into outward hostility. Is Laetitia just imagining things? Or are Sylvain and Tiphaine secretly conspiring to exact their revenge . . . and if so, who will pay?
In her American debut, blockbuster Belgian author Barbara Abel plunges into the deepest, darkest corners of her characters’ hearts and minds to explore the limits of friendship, the overwhelming power of maternal love, and how far hate, fear, and vengeance can drive us. Tense and blood-chilling, with a surprising final twist, Mothers' Instinct will keep you on edge until the final page.
Do you think I stick to this list?
Nope.
Not when a book like Mothers’ Instinct was just approved .
I, like most of us blogger, get to the end of the month and fear missing out on just one more book. So instead of going to work like a normal human, I called out to read .
Don’t judge me .
The one thing I don’t regret is playing hookie when I just concluded another banger of a book. Giving this book ONLY five stars would be an insult . This book breaks every rating scale we have put forth.
If you want to know what I’m talking about you better run on over to your favorite bookstore and preorder this mind bending thriller.
Also, a little birdie told me this book is going to hit the bring screen .
Teaser :
David and Laetitia Brunelle and Sylvain and Tiphaine Geniot are inseparable friends and next-door neighbors in a pretty, tranquil suburb. Their sons Milo and Maxime, born in the same year, grow up together as close as brothers. But when Maxime is killed in an accident, their idyllic world shatters. Maxime's parents, Sylvain and Tiphaine, are consumed by grief and bitterness, while David and Laetitia are wracked with guilt for their role in the tragedy. Soon the couples are barely speaking, although they maintain a polite façade.
Then a mysterious series of “accidents” begins to happen to Milo, raising Laetitia’s suspicions. Are their former best friends trying to punish them by threatening their son? As an increasingly paranoid Laetitia frantically tries to protect Milo from harm, the little civility left between the two families curdles into outward hostility. Is Laetitia just imagining things? Or are Sylvain and Tiphaine secretly conspiring to exact their revenge . . . and if so, who will pay?
In her American debut, blockbuster Belgian author Barbara Abel plunges into the deepest, darkest corners of her characters’ hearts and minds to explore the limits of friendship, the overwhelming power of maternal love, and how far hate, fear, and vengeance can drive us. Tense and blood-chilling, with a surprising final twist, Mothers' Instinct will keep you on edge until the final page.
September 28, 2023
This one took me a while to finish. It is a super slow burn of a domestic thriller, and honestly it kind of left me unsatisfied. There is gaslighting and manipulation happening throughout the whole story, and the jumps that were made were off hinged. The end didn’t seem likely, and there were loose ties that were still waving about.
When neighbors become best friends, that’s a special relationship. When the best friends become pregnant at the same time and give birth to healthy young boys a couple months apart, they become tight knit. When tragedy strikes, emotions flare and accusations are thrown. What will be done to try and set things right?
When neighbors become best friends, that’s a special relationship. When the best friends become pregnant at the same time and give birth to healthy young boys a couple months apart, they become tight knit. When tragedy strikes, emotions flare and accusations are thrown. What will be done to try and set things right?
May 5, 2024
Still thinking about how to rate this. I had this book on my radar last year. Found out it’s been made into a movie recently that has two of my favourite actresses and just had to pick it up.
Although it can feel quite slow, I actually got through it pretty quickly. Haven’t read anything in about a week or two and this managed to get me out of my slump. Despite that, I’m not sure how I feel about it. It wasn’t exactly what I was expecting. That’s not necessarily a bad thing but I do need to think about it for a bit.
Although it can feel quite slow, I actually got through it pretty quickly. Haven’t read anything in about a week or two and this managed to get me out of my slump. Despite that, I’m not sure how I feel about it. It wasn’t exactly what I was expecting. That’s not necessarily a bad thing but I do need to think about it for a bit.
August 15, 2016
4 rocks
Rholalala....
Haletant, noir et violent...
Une écriture efficace qui en fait un véritable page turner.
Un style super agréable et fluide. Ça se dévore tout seul.
Rholalala....
Haletant, noir et violent...
Une écriture efficace qui en fait un véritable page turner.
Un style super agréable et fluide. Ça se dévore tout seul.
October 13, 2024
Insanity 🤯🤯😱😱
Holy smokes!!! It's been ages since I was so engrossed in a book. This was simply unputdownable - there's always a sense of dread, tension and foreboding even when there's no apparent conflict. You just know that something's gonna implode.
I love how the cast, writing and setting are all so minimal and frills-free, but yet the novel is nothing short of gripping, suspenseful and explosive. In fact, I don't think the exact location is ever mentioned but it's so vivid and atmospheric regardless.
And that ending!!!! Can't decide if I love it or hate it, but it certainly made my head spin and left me slack-jawed.
Thank you to HarperVia for the Netgalley ARC.
Favourite quotes:
✨ "Real life isn't about straight lines. Life is one vast expanse of rugged terrain, riddled with obstacles, twists and turns, and deviations. A maze full of pitfalls with no straight lines in sight. The shortest path between two points is the one you know best."
✨ "When silence launches its attack, whispers become rumors, running wild, out of control, spreading breathlessly from loose lips to eager ears."
✨ "When words and numbers are gone, tears are all that remain. And silence. Now and forever. The silence of a missing presence screaming in your head, your heart, deep in your gut, leaving no peace, no respite, only the damp misery of regret."
Holy smokes!!! It's been ages since I was so engrossed in a book. This was simply unputdownable - there's always a sense of dread, tension and foreboding even when there's no apparent conflict. You just know that something's gonna implode.
I love how the cast, writing and setting are all so minimal and frills-free, but yet the novel is nothing short of gripping, suspenseful and explosive. In fact, I don't think the exact location is ever mentioned but it's so vivid and atmospheric regardless.
And that ending!!!! Can't decide if I love it or hate it, but it certainly made my head spin and left me slack-jawed.
Thank you to HarperVia for the Netgalley ARC.
Favourite quotes:
✨ "Real life isn't about straight lines. Life is one vast expanse of rugged terrain, riddled with obstacles, twists and turns, and deviations. A maze full of pitfalls with no straight lines in sight. The shortest path between two points is the one you know best."
✨ "When silence launches its attack, whispers become rumors, running wild, out of control, spreading breathlessly from loose lips to eager ears."
✨ "When words and numbers are gone, tears are all that remain. And silence. Now and forever. The silence of a missing presence screaming in your head, your heart, deep in your gut, leaving no peace, no respite, only the damp misery of regret."
October 27, 2015
Je n'ai pas du tout aimé :(
J'ai souvent voulu arrêter mais comme Marine en a fait une si bonne pub je me suis forcée !
La forme, c'était un supplice pour moi à lire. Des phrases longues et tout en répétions du genre "Interloqué, il la regarda stupéfait avec un regard étonné"; des personnages complètement insipides (il m'a fallu un long moment pour arrêter de confondre les couples); des dialogues parfois en "langage naturel", parfois dans un langage que personne jamais n'emploierait (ou alors seulement en Belgique); bref, c'est assez horrible...
En plus de ça, je n'ai pas trouvé le thriller très bien construit : les indices sont relevés tout au long du roman, enlevant toute surprise...
J'ai souvent voulu arrêter mais comme Marine en a fait une si bonne pub je me suis forcée !
La forme, c'était un supplice pour moi à lire. Des phrases longues et tout en répétions du genre "Interloqué, il la regarda stupéfait avec un regard étonné"; des personnages complètement insipides (il m'a fallu un long moment pour arrêter de confondre les couples); des dialogues parfois en "langage naturel", parfois dans un langage que personne jamais n'emploierait (ou alors seulement en Belgique); bref, c'est assez horrible...
En plus de ça, je n'ai pas trouvé le thriller très bien construit : les indices sont relevés tout au long du roman, enlevant toute surprise...
August 9, 2023
Un thriller domestic, slowburn și nu tare alert, dar pentru mine a fost exact ce am avut nevoie să citesc.
O casă duplex, două cupluri și 2 copii de aceeași vârstă. Se înțeleg de minune, ca o adevărată familie. Dar totul se duce pe râpă după o tragedie. Atunci se va vedea dacă legătura lor este într-adevăr puternică.
A fost destul de intens pe alocuri cu paranoia unor personaje, o ură puternică și suspiciuni la tot pasul. Apoi a venit finalul care efectiv mi-a tras o palmă. As fi vrut să fi fost diferit, dar măcar a fost neașteptat.
Prietenia este o forţă de care nimeni nu poate pretinde că se poate lipsi. Avem nevoie de prieteni aşa cum avem nevoie să mâncăm, să bem sau să dormim. Prietenia seamănă cu hrana spiritului: ea hrănește inima, susține mintea, ne copleșește de bucurie, de speranţă și de pace. Este bogăția unei vieţi. Și garanţia unei anumite idei despre fericire.
O casă duplex, două cupluri și 2 copii de aceeași vârstă. Se înțeleg de minune, ca o adevărată familie. Dar totul se duce pe râpă după o tragedie. Atunci se va vedea dacă legătura lor este într-adevăr puternică.
A fost destul de intens pe alocuri cu paranoia unor personaje, o ură puternică și suspiciuni la tot pasul. Apoi a venit finalul care efectiv mi-a tras o palmă. As fi vrut să fi fost diferit, dar măcar a fost neașteptat.
Prietenia este o forţă de care nimeni nu poate pretinde că se poate lipsi. Avem nevoie de prieteni aşa cum avem nevoie să mâncăm, să bem sau să dormim. Prietenia seamănă cu hrana spiritului: ea hrănește inima, susține mintea, ne copleșește de bucurie, de speranţă și de pace. Este bogăția unei vieţi. Și garanţia unei anumite idei despre fericire.
May 16, 2023
Disappointed. This story started off great! It’s intriguing and the plot is really good. The tension between the characters and the buildup to the climax has you on edge and then we get to the ending and it is just so humdrum . It’s almost like the author ran out of creative juices and just decided to end the story. This could have been a phenomenal story, but it just didn’t happen.
August 22, 2023
I listened to this on audio and was distracted by the narrator. I'm trying not to have that impact my review. The story was good but forgettable.
June 25, 2024
Мрачен и тревожен домашен трилър. Тази книга разказва историята на едно някога красиво приятелство между две семейства, след като то започва да се разпада поради трагичен инцидент. Напрежението е осезаемо, тъй като вина, подозрение и обвинения на��тройват двойките един срещу друг. Тази книга наистина обръща страници: караше ме да гадая, държеше ме на ръба от интерес и ме взриви с край, който беше наистина добре извъртян!
Идиличната обстановка е нарушена от смъртта на едно от момчетата и това е съдба, от която никой не може да се възстанови напълно. Скръбта превзема живота и на двете майки. Скръб по загубеното майчинство, загубеното приятелство и загубената надежда. Двете жени всеки ден изпадат в непоносими положения. Животът на една двойка след загубата на дете се променя завинаги, но също и отношенията им с всички близки. Двете момчета никога повече няма да играят заедно в дворовете си. И двете двойки никога нямаше да се сгодят отново, тъй като домашната еуфория, която ги свързваше, беше завинаги изгубена.
Но „Майчин инстинкт“ не е просто история за скръб; това е история за отмъщение и божествено разпитване. Защо човек трябва да бъде избран да преживее най-голямата от всички трагедии? Едното семейство поискаха да знаят, докато другото ставаха все по-предпазливи към малките инциденти, които започнаха да помрачават живота на тяхното малко момче. Вълшебният крайградски въздух започва да излъчва все повече и повече параноя и агония с всяка страница.
През цялото време, докато четях тази книга преминах от невъзможност да си представя колко невероятно би било да отглеждаш деца с най-добрия си приятел/съсед (като чиста завист) до невъзможност дори да проумея как някое от двете семейства може да се възстанови от случайната смърт на собственото си дете. Като добавим цялата вина ,се оказах напълно погълнат от това напрегнато и емоционално четиво.
Главите са много кратки, което създаваше чувството, че страниците просто летят до края. Единственият недостатък за мен беше колко бързо нещата ескалираха и след това приключиха. Свалих звезда от оценката, защото не чувствах, че някои части са достатъчно реалистични и краят се стори прибързан.
Идиличната обстановка е нарушена от смъртта на едно от момчетата и това е съдба, от която никой не може да се възстанови напълно. Скръбта превзема живота и на двете майки. Скръб по загубеното майчинство, загубеното приятелство и загубената надежда. Двете жени всеки ден изпадат в непоносими положения. Животът на една двойка след загубата на дете се променя завинаги, но също и отношенията им с всички близки. Двете момчета никога повече няма да играят заедно в дворовете си. И двете двойки никога нямаше да се сгодят отново, тъй като домашната еуфория, която ги свързваше, беше завинаги изгубена.
Но „Майчин инстинкт“ не е просто история за скръб; това е история за отмъщение и божествено разпитване. Защо човек трябва да бъде избран да преживее най-голямата от всички трагедии? Едното семейство поискаха да знаят, докато другото ставаха все по-предпазливи към малките инциденти, които започнаха да помрачават живота на тяхното малко момче. Вълшебният крайградски въздух започва да излъчва все повече и повече параноя и агония с всяка страница.
През цялото време, докато четях тази книга преминах от невъзможност да си представя колко невероятно би било да отглеждаш деца с най-добрия си приятел/съсед (като чиста завист) до невъзможност дори да проумея как някое от двете семейства може да се възстанови от случайната смърт на собственото си дете. Като добавим цялата вина ,се оказах напълно погълнат от това напрегнато и емоционално четиво.
Главите са много кратки, което създаваше чувството, че страниците просто летят до края. Единственият недостатък за мен беше колко бързо нещата ескалираха и след това приключиха. Свалих звезда от оценката, защото не чувствах, че някои части са достатъчно реалистични и краят се стори прибързан.
July 31, 2023
Not for me. Wow, an intense thriller.
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