The Second Mother

In The Second Mother, after getting a divorce Julie accepts a teaching post in a remote town in Maine. Julie is continuously warned that it is a very isolating town and hard to fit in at, which is the wicked truth of small town life. Small towns can be spooky and this book really embraces how eerie they can be. The first few moments that she is in the house alone start to play out how creepy it is to live alone in an isolated house. I love how atmospheric the story is as excellent descriptions of the island play into the isolationism.

Accommodating to being in a new small community plays a huge role in the progression of the plot. A backstory of the loss of a child makes the isolationism in the story even more eerie.

I won't give away any crucial plot points, but I can say that the island setting and realities she faces as a teacher are central to the story's plot. I really love how the characters and the setting really build the tension in this thriller. It is definitely a good read for a slow Sunday afternoon.

Thanks to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book.