I have read other Joshilyn Jackson books and enjoyed them so that is why I requested this from NetGalley. It turns out She is just getting better and better. I enjoyed this book so much! It is written in a way that the reader can imagine themselves in the situation. After a few strange spottings of an old woman, Bree turns around for a moment and when she looks back her baby is gone. She immediately is suspicious of the old woman, but who is she and why would she want her baby? I loved how the role of a mother was examined in the book and how it looks at just what a mother would do for her children in different situations. But it all comes down to the fact that a mom will do most anything for her child. This is a fast paced and twisting plat that will keep the reader interested and guessing until the very end.

My exposure to Joshilyn Jackson’s works so far has been limited to her 2019 release Never Have I Ever, which I remember was a well-written, brilliantly plotted thriller that kept me guessing throughout. I also remember, when I wrote my review for that book, how impressed I was that an accomplished author who is used to writing books in a particular genre, could venture into a whole different genre (one that isn’t easy to succeed in, to boot) and do such a good job with it. With her newest novel Mother May I, Jackson once again takes on the thriller / suspense genre, this time centering the story around another flawed female protagonist, Bree Cabbat, and her wealthy, privileged family. Just like with Never Have I Ever, Jackson incorporated elements into the story that reflected societal issues from the last couple years — for example, drug addiction and the opioid crisis, disparity between rich and poor, racism, wealth and privilege, the metoo movement, etc.

As with all thriller / suspense novels, I recommend going in knowing as little as possible, so my review will be deliberately short and vague. One thing I will say though is that I actually liked Jackson’s previous thriller (Never Have I Ever) a tad better. While this newest one (Mother May I) was just as well-written, I feel it wasn’t as tightly plotted and enthralling — I was able to figure out most of the plot points relatively easily and guessed the ending early on too. I also thought that parts of the plot came across a bit melodramatic, though not to the point that it affected my reading experience. I also wasn’t particularly fond of the characters either — Bree annoyed me quite a bit, especially with some of her actions in the last part of the story — but again, not to the point that it detracted from the story.

Jackson definitely knows how to tell a compelling story! Even though I figured out most of the plot early on, the story was still engaging enough to keep me continuously turning the pages, only putting the book down once (and reluctantly at that) to tend to some urgent matters. I ended up finishing this one in two sittings. If you’re looking for a well-written, suspenseful story that goes beyond being a “run-of-the-mill” thriller, then definitely pick this one up. Do be warned though that triggers abound, especially as it relates to sex and some of the characters’ actions / behaviors.

Of course I can’t wait for Jackson’s next book (whether it will be a thriller or not) — while I wait, I need to find time to read her other works as well (though easier said than done given my schedule).

Received ARC from publisher (William Morrow) via NetGalley.

[4.25/5] This is a heart-pounding, adrenaline-fueled thriller!

The main character, Bree, felt like a real mother and a fully-formed character. (Her husband and a couple of the other characters, not as much, but that wasn’t such a big deal). I felt strongly for Bree, and was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen to her and her family.

The story took some surprising turns, which I appreciated. Gotta love twisty, unexpected thrillers! I liked being able to view things from Marshall’s perspective, too.

On top of the gripping plot, this book tackled themes of privilege, culpability, and motherhood. It had more substance than a typical thriller might have.

There were a few parts that were slower-paced, but mostly it was super intense (especially toward the end!). Mother May I is a solid thriller, especially for fans of domestic suspense!

I am a long time fan of Joshilyn Jackson and although thrillers aren’t my favorite genre, this one kept me turning the pages.

Great read. Grabbed my attention right from the start and kept it all the way to the end. I couldn’t put it down and have recommends to two coworkers already!

I absolutely adore Joshilyn Jackson's writing style, so I knew this would be a book I would want to read. Our main character, Bree, has her child kidnapped from under her and has to make a decision that no mother ever wants to make if she wants to get her son back. I was with her most of the way, and granted I probably wouldn't have personally done some of the things she did, I couldn't help but read to find out what was going to happen next. While this wasn't my favorite of Jackson's books, it was still a good read and one I'll be recommending to patrons who have read her work, or those who enjoy thrillers.

I really liked this book. I felt the story line was developed nicely and I really got to know the characters and feel their emotions. The twists and turns of this book kept me hooked,This was definitely not like any other book I have read. Thank you to Net Galley and Scene of the Crime for an advanced copy of this book. This is my honest review.

Thank the gods for Kelly. Bree and Trey's infant son is kidnapped. What unfolds is a mystery for events that took place in the past. Events that people need to pay for. I was entranced for every minute of this thriller/mystery. Highly recommend!

Loved the first half and the premise but i felt that the second half was a little underwhelming. The story line was too neat and predictable. I kept waiting another twist that never came.

I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved the characters, I loved the story line. I loved the twists and the turns. I was rooting for Bri from start to finish. I thought it was all well thought out and flowed well. Another book that I will be happy to recommend to friends, family, and patrons.

After what seemed like a slow start, this story ramps up and does it fast! Just when you think your past is behind you and forgotten, here it comes back to haunt you. Only sometimes it isn't your past thats the problem Bree and Trey are married with 3 kids and have a seemingly perfect life, until their baby boy is kidnapped. Bree is asked to do the unthinkable, and when she complies, she beings to unravel a tale of a past not her own that will shock her. It all winds up to an explosive conclusion that I wasn't expecting and that will keep you guessing to the end. Couldn't put this down - 5 stars for an excellent suspense read!

What would you do to save your child? That’s the first of many questions in Mother May I. Bree is a wife and mother living a comfortable life, until one fateful weekend, when all hell breaks loose. If you like fast pace and suspense, this book will delight you. I am a fan of Josilyn Jackson, and this new one doesn’t disappoint.Her characters are seemingly ordinary, but they have nerves of steel when trouble comes for them.

Bree is living a glamorous life as a trophy wife to Trey. She has three children, a sparkling house, a devoted husband, and a bunch of glittery toys. What else could you want in life? Bree thinks she is the luckiest person alive until she realizes that her infant son his disappeared or more specifically been kidnapped. What will Bree do to get her young son back? Who is telling the truth? How will this story end?

This thriller seemed to be unevenly paced. It was very page turning in places and it dragged in others. Additionally, the ending was just unbelievable, and the last few pages were completely forgettable. Also, I was a bit surprised that this book didn't have as many unexpected twists.

In addition to the pacing, this book felt a little off in the way in which it was written. The book primarily focuses on Bree and was told in the first person narrative using I statements. However, the story would also talk about Marshall and talk about his memories and happenings in his life. So I'm confused....what happened to the first person narrative?

Overall, a decent thriller but the ending was so lackluster and ended on such an uneventful note that I wonder if I will even remember this book a few months from now.

Wow this was a fantastic read, it was fast paced action packed and a all around emotional read. I loved this book and found it hard to put down. Course this is one of my favorite genres, and when I find a book like this it checks off all the boxes. How far would you go to save your child? That is the question Bree must answer in this well written thriller. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone.

I received a ARC from NetGalley and the publisher, and this is my own personal opinion of the book.

Thank you to @williammorrowbooks @bookclubgal for a copy of the book. This book grabs you from the start with the twists keeps coming. I really liked how this book explores motherhood and what you would do for your child. I liked how the book unfolded with what is happening in the present and the backstory of the past connected.

What would you do to save your child? Bree Cabbat has created a wonderful life. Her marriage is passionate, the relationship with her teen/tween daughters is strong, and she adores her infant son. When her child disappears, she’s terrified and willing to do anything to get him back ... but is she?
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Mother May I confirms Joshilyn Jackson’s skills as an author of suspense as well as women’s fiction. The tension in this plot begins early and is maintained throughout - some twists and turns definitely surprised me. The joys and hardships of motherhood are explored from several points of view. Trigger warnings: Kidnapping, child abuse, substance abuse, rape, suicide
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hank you to William Morrow for the review copy of this title; all thoughts are my own.

This is a first read by this author for me and I must say I will be looking to read more. A novel of domestic suspense that keeps the reader engaged throughout. A novel showing a mother’s love for her child and how far she will go to protect her child. This book makes you stop and think about the world and how well do you really know anyone. How someone’s unsavory past can play a role in the present. I knew when the witch showed up it would produce a whirlwind!
I was given a copy of this book via NetGalley.

Mother May I by Joshilyn Jackson has one of my least favorite thriller tropes - a missing child, so I went into this book with trepidation and low expectations. I am glad to say that it by far exceeded my expectations. I was engrossed in the story from the beginning and was on the edge of my seat the whole time.

Bree's ten-weeks old son, Robert, was snatched from under her nose, while she was watching her eldest daughter's rehearsal. The kidnapper, an old woman, demands that Bree follow her instructions and doesn't contact the police if she wants to get her son back. While trying to get her son back, Bree uncovers dark secrets about people close to her that could destroy her family.

As with most thrillers, it's best to go into it with minimal spoilers so I will not say anything else. I will say that Mother May I is one of the best thrillers I've read recently, and I highly recommend it!

Creepy AF, suspenseful, very Alfred Hitchcock-y. Mother May I hits all of the scary nerves just right, and I continue to be so impressed by Ms. Jackson’s creative range. Her last couple of books have definitely explored her more gothic side, and she gets it right everywhere.

Thank you @williammorrowbooks and @netgalley for my gifted ALC.
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Mother May I was the first book I have read by author @joshilyn_jackson it will not be my last. What’s a ride !! I felt like I was going crazy trying to figure out what was going on! It was a really entertaining suspenseful mystery that I could not put down!. I listen to this on audio and the author narrated it herself !!! I LOVED THAT! I listen to it in one day so that should tell you lol.
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In this story we meet Bree who’s son has been kidnapped by an unknown woman and in order to get him back she need to carry out some task set by the woman. As Bree tries to save her son and unravel the mystery behind why she was chosen , she discover a long buried secret about someone close to her .
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This story was fast paced and I really enjoyed it!
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