A Legacy of Strength and Secrets: A Review of “Like Mother, Like Mother”
A Compelling Family Saga
Susan Rieger’s “Like Mother, Like Mother” is a captivating exploration of three generations of strong-willed women, their intertwined lives, and the enduring impact of family secrets. The novel delves into the complexities of motherhood, ambition, and the blurred lines between love and control.
A Woman Defined by Her Past
The story revolves around Lila Pereira, a successful and formidable executive editor at The Washington Globe. Despite her professional triumphs, Lila carries the weight of a troubled childhood marked by her mother’s mysterious disappearance and her father’s abusive behavior. This traumatic experience has shaped her into a driven and independent woman, often prioritizing her career over her family.
A Mother-Daughter Dynamic
As Lila navigates the demands of her high-powered job, she becomes increasingly distant from her own daughters, Grace and Anya. Grace, the eldest, resents her mother’s neglect and strives to forge her own path, while Anya, the younger, idolizes her mother and yearns for her approval.
Unraveling Family Secrets
The novel’s narrative unfolds through multiple timelines, seamlessly shifting between the past and present. This structure allows Rieger to gradually reveal the secrets that have haunted the Pereira family for generations. As the truth unravels, the reader gains a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics between mothers and daughters, and the ways in which past traumas can reverberate through time.
A Cast of Compelling Characters
One of the novel’s strengths lies in its richly developed characters. Lila, with her sharp wit and unwavering ambition, is a compelling and flawed protagonist. Her daughters, Grace and Anya, are equally well-drawn, each with their own unique struggles and aspirations. The supporting characters, including Lila’s husband, Joe, and her loyal assistant, Fran, add depth and complexity to the story.
A Thought-Provoking Exploration
“Like Mother, Like Mother” is more than just a family drama. It is a thought-provoking exploration of the sacrifices women make in the pursuit of success, the enduring power of maternal love, and the importance of breaking the cycle of generational trauma. Rieger’s skillful storytelling and insightful characterizations make this novel a compelling and unforgettable read.
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