This book tells the story of Blythe, a mother who finds it painfully difficult to bond with her daughter, Violet. Haunted by memories of her own mother’s neglect, Blythe fears that she might be trapped in a vicious cycle of generational trauma. Her attempts to connect with Violet only add to her fears, making her question her own sanity and wonder if her daughter is capable of normal emotions or is simply lashing out from feeling unloved.

While the book is slow-paced and isn’t driven by plot twists or action, it has a haunting depth. It explores themes not often shown in books or movies: the raw, sometimes dark sides of motherhood, the resentment and sadness that can pass from one generation to the next like a burden.

I’m hovering somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars for this one, but I’ll round up to 4.