The Mother's Mistake by Ruth Heald

I haven't read a psychological thriller in a while, and this book was the perfect introduction back into the genre!

Claire has just moved from London to the country with her husband and newborn. She's excited to have a fresh start, but almost immediately strange things begin to happen. Her mother-in-law is condescending and lets herself into Claire's home without invitation or warning. Things go missing in their little cottage, and Claire feels someone watching her. Is she losing her mind, or is she and her baby genuinely in danger?

This was one of those can't-put-down thrillers. Everyone around Claire seems to have a motive, and her past history with alcoholism and depression makes reality even muddier. Add to it a new postpartum depression diagnosis, and Claire's situation rapidly feels like being on a sinking ship. 

I liked how the author emphasized how exhausting and isolating being a new mother can be. I felt exactly the same way when my daughter was a newborn, and sympathized with Claire, who really doesn't have a support system apart from a workaholic husband. 

The ending was a big shock as well! Let's just say, I kept assuming that another character was the big baddie.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.