Just Like Mother

Rosemary's Baby meets The Return in Just Like Mother, Anne Heltzel's suspenseful modern gothic debut. Who could deny her own flesh and blood? Maeve doesn’t talk about the cult that nearly shattered her childhood—culminating in a tragic incident that stole away her cousin, Andrea, the only true friend she’s ever known. Ever since, Maeve has kept people at a safe distance while pursuing the trappings of normalcy in New York City. When Andrea abruptly reenters her life, Maeve easily succumbs to the connection they always shared. She doesn’t mind that Andrea’s wealthy friends—colleagues at a fertility-focused startup—preach values that condemn Maeve’s single lifestyle. And keeping family close is what Mother would have wanted. Blood runs thicker, after all. An invitation to a weekend getaway at Andrea’s palatial mountain home is a no-brainer; Maeve hopes the emptiness she’s felt for decades will finally be filled. But the eerie estate is tainted by the loss of Andrea’s infant daughter and chilling memories of a girlhood best forgotten. When Maeve’s fragile world begins to crack, she’s forced to confront her greatest fear: Will she ever outrun her horrific past? Or will she end up just like Mother?