A Wigwam for a Goose's Bridle

Sometimes I feel guilty for being a “fake fan” of Sally Hepworth. I’m definitely a fan, that’s not fake, but I discovered her when I won a copy of her first book, The Secrets of Midwives, via her publisher. I enjoyed it, and followed her on social media, where I later managed to win copies of The Things We Keep (up there as one of my favourite books) and The Mother’s Promise (also brilliant). I have felt guilty that I love her so much without having bought these books for myself (I do love my free autographed copies!). I have bought a couple of copies for friends. But finally, I have supported this Australian author properly and purchased her next two books for myself! Unfortunately they are on e-reader as I’m breastfeeding the newborn at the moment so I can only really read on my kindle. It’s still reading, but not as amazing as holding a proper book.

I just read The Mother-in-Law, absolutely recommended! Even the dedication at the front is gold. In this novel, Sally manages to weave so many complex personal and social issues into a family drama thriller. What I love is the detail, the little thoughts you have about your relationship with other people in your extended family. I am a daughter-in-law, so often saw myself in bits of Lucy. I am not yet a mother-in-law but I am a mother, so even found myself in moments of Diana. Very thought-provoking novel. How quick we are to judge others. Things are often not as they seem.