The Push

by Ashley Audrain
The Push cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Thriller/Suspense
Technical:
  • ID: 921
  • Added: 2025-09-23
  • Updated: 2025-09-23
  • ISBN: 9781405945059
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2021-01-07
  • Formats: 20
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

The Push delves into the complex and often terrifying bond between a mother and daughter, exploring themes of obsession and the dark side of parenthood. Blythe and Violet's relationship is fraught with tension and suspicion, as Blythe begins to question whether her daughter is truly a monster or if her own fears are clouding her judgment. Praise for The Push has been overwhelming, with comparisons to classic psychological thrillers like 'The Girl on the Train' and 'We Need to Talk About Kevin'. The novel's suspenseful narrative and expertly crafted tension have made it a worldwide bestseller, with over half a million copies sold. It has also been recommended by major publications and is soon to be adapted for the screen.

Reviews
What Is Quinn Reading? · 2025-07-23
melancholic 3.50

The book is more of a melancholy family drama than a straightforward thriller. It's a profound exploration of family dynamics and mental health.

The reviewer was surprised to find that the book is more of a melancholy family drama rather than a straightforward thriller. They appreciate the profound exploration of family dynamics and mental health, noting the emotional depth and complexity of the characters. The book's ability to evoke a range of emotions is particularly highlighted.

Quick quotes

    The Push is more of a melancholy family drama than I was expecting going into it.

    It's a profound exploration of family dynamics and mental health.

    The book's ability to evoke a range of emotions is particularly highlighted.

Goodreads · 2021-01-05
riveting 4.00

The plot is riveting and twisted, making it a dark psychological thriller. It's a gripping exploration of the complexities of mother-daughter relationships.

The reviewer found the plot of the book to be riveting and twisted, making it a gripping read. They particularly appreciate the dark psychological elements and the exploration of the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. The book's ability to keep the reader engaged and guessing is highly praised.

Quick quotes

    The Push is a tautly written, dark psychological thriller about mothers and daughters.

    I found the plot riveting and twisted.

    The book's ability to keep the reader engaged and guessing is highly praised.

The Guardian · 2021-01-02
compelling 4.00

This novel cleverly exploits the fears and insecurities of motherhood. It's a gripping exploration of the darker aspects of parenting.

The reviewer praises the novel for its clever manipulation of universal maternal fears and insecurities. They highlight how the book delves into the darker side of motherhood, making it a compelling read. The story's intensity and emotional depth are particularly noted, drawing readers into a thought-provoking exploration of family dynamics.

Quick quotes

    This is a clever concept novel that manipulates and exploits the fears and insecurities almost every mother has, however happy her own childhood.

    The novel delves into the darker side of motherhood, making it a compelling read.

    The story's intensity and emotional depth are particularly noted.

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