When Abby’s mother-in-law commits suicide, it feels like something of a fresh start. Finally, her overbearing influence on Abby’s husband Ralph can be exorcised, and the two can move on from their past traumas and start a family of their own. But when Abby goes down to the basement and catches Ralph talking to his mother’s ghost, she realises that things may be a little more complicated. This book is definitely original, and the things it had to say about motherhood and trauma are poignant and well done. In some ways, I feel like my problems with it were more of a result of the marketing. From the cover and blurb you expect a horror, a ghost story, and while those elements are there, it’s definitely more of a dark comedy – it shocks better than it scares. ‘Motherthing’ isn’t for everyone, but I would recommend it to those looking for a batshit read. MG

Atlantic Books