Mothersick

The stunning new novel from the critically-acclaimed author of Piglet, a rich intergenerational family drama about the impossible choices women face around family, identity and motherhood. Perfect for readers of Ann Patchett and Claire Lombardo.

‘A thing of beauty’ CLAIRE LOMBARDO, bestselling author of The Most Fun We Ever Had

‘A beautifully messy portrait of family and motherhood... Hazell's writing absolutely dazzles’ MARISA KASHINO, bestselling author of Best Offer Wins

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‘If I had to choose, I’d rather have a sister over parents. I’d rather you over anyone.’

Mara and Nell will never be able to forget the day that their parents’ marriage fell apart.

They declare their family of origin wrecked, and the traditional structure to be a complete farce. From now on, all they have is each other. So, in their twenties, they make a pact: no marriage, no babies, and no repeating their parents’ mistakes.

But a few years later, Mara does the unthinkable – she falls in love and becomes a mother, leaving Nell behind. Mara wishes that Nell could relate to her new life – its terrifying claustrophobia and unexpected joys – but Nell hardly recognizes her sister or the path she has chosen.

Their pact now irrevocably broken, Nell throws herself into a relationship with an undeniable catch of a man without asking whether they want the same things, or if she’s willing to compromise her hard-won independence. A cosmic fork in the road has changed everything between the sisters, and just when they need their mother the most, they’re confronted by the shadow of her absence and the secrets they’ve all been keeping from each other.

Can they find their way back to each other – and themselves?

From the acclaimed author of Piglet comes a profound intergenerational family story that addresses the life-altering question of whether to embrace, reject, or redefine motherhood. Mothersick explores the enduring and infuriating spell of sisterhood, and the beauty, captivity, and optimism of family in its many forms.

Praise for Lottie Hazell:

‘Very wise, and so wonderful…a must-read story’ Daily Mail

‘Unforgettable’ Sunday Times

‘Darkly compelling' Sophie Mackintosh, Booker Prize-longlisted author of The Water Cure

'Searingly good' Joanne Harris, bestselling author of Chocolat

'Intriguing, propulsive, delicious and ultimately satisfying ' Claire Daverley, bestselling author of Talking at Night

‘Prose Nora Ephron would be proud of’ Marlowe Granados, author of Happy House

‘I completely devoured it’ Catherine Newman, bestselling author of We All Want Impossible Things