... the sort of novel that can suck a reader in and hold them until a whole day has passed, but it’s also a multidimensional story with riches revealed through close attention ... With a light hand and a touch of mystery, Hankin’s debut explores feminism, class and the expectations placed on mothers. This is a romp with substance, consumed easily as a beach read but offering ample opportunity for self-reflection.
The glamorous, privileged mommies of New York might appear to have it all, but Hankin’s sophomore novel has great fun satirizing that perception ... With a devilish sense of humor, Hankin crushes the perception that anyone’s life is perfect, despite how it may appear. A slow build to hidden motives and a clever sense of humor make this a fast read, but it’s Claire’s thoughtful look at our expectations of women and mothers that give the novel its depth. Fans of Sophie Kinsella’s My (not so) Perfect Life (2017) will read this in one sitting.
There’s no shortage of books that deal with rich moms keeping up appearances, but Hankin manages to make overused subject matter feel fresh and vibrant. What starts out as a satire of privileged parenting quickly becomes something else entirely—a domestic thriller with twists and turns that are entirely unexpected and incredibly fun ... A dramatic and immensely entertaining page-turner about secrets, lies, and mom culture.
