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Tuesday's Child

Tuesday's Child

by Anya Mora 2019 310 pages
4.27
7k+ ratings
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Plot Summary

A Family Torn Apart

A tragic loss shatters family

Emery's world collapses when her daughter Betsy is found dead, and her adopted son Holden becomes the prime suspect. As the family grapples with grief, Emery's marriage to Mark, a state senator, is strained to the breaking point. The community's scrutiny intensifies as the investigation unfolds, leaving Emery to question everything she thought she knew about her family. The once picture-perfect life is now a nightmare, and Emery must navigate the chaos to uncover the truth behind Betsy's death.

Secrets in the Woods

A fateful Halloween night

On Halloween, Betsy and Holden encounter bullies who challenge their courage. Betsy, desperate to prove herself, agrees to a dangerous dare. The night ends in tragedy when Betsy is found dead in the woods, and Holden is accused of her murder. The community is quick to judge, and Emery is left to piece together the events of that night. As she delves deeper, she discovers a web of secrets and lies that threaten to destroy her family.

The Adoption Decision

A choice with consequences

Emery and Mark's decision to adopt Holden was meant to complete their family, but it brought unforeseen challenges. Holden's troubled past and behavioral issues strain their marriage and test Emery's resolve. As she reflects on the adoption, Emery grapples with guilt and doubt, wondering if she made the right choice. The pressure mounts as the investigation into Betsy's death intensifies, and Emery must confront the possibility that her decision may have led to tragedy.

A Mother's Doubt

Struggling with uncertainty

Emery's faith in Holden is shaken as evidence mounts against him. The community's judgment and Mark's distance leave her feeling isolated and overwhelmed. As she fights to protect her son, Emery is haunted by the possibility that he may be guilty. Her love for Holden is tested as she navigates the complexities of motherhood, marriage, and loss. Emery must find the strength to trust her instincts and uncover the truth, even if it means facing her worst fears.

Unraveling the Past

Dark secrets come to light

As Emery digs deeper into the past, she uncovers shocking revelations about Mark and Holden's biological mother, Tamara. The truth about Mark's involvement with Tamara and his connection to Holden is more sinister than Emery could have imagined. Betrayal and deception threaten to tear the family apart, and Emery must confront the reality of her husband's actions. The past and present collide, forcing Emery to make difficult choices to protect her children.

The Truth Revealed

Confronting the real killer

Emery's relentless pursuit of the truth leads her to a chilling discovery: Mark is responsible for Betsy's death. Driven by a desire to protect his political career, Mark's actions have devastating consequences. Emery's world is shattered as she realizes the extent of his betrayal. With the help of Cooper, her former love and Betsy's biological father, Emery fights to bring Mark to justice and clear Holden's name. The truth is finally revealed, but at a great cost.

A New Beginning

Healing and hope for the future

In the aftermath of tragedy, Emery and Cooper find solace in each other and their children. Holden, now free from suspicion, begins to heal and embrace his future. Emery, pregnant with Cooper's child, looks forward to a new chapter in their lives. The family is forever changed, but they are united in their love and resilience. As they lay Betsy to rest, Emery finds strength in the memories of her daughter and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

Characters

Emery Gable

A mother in turmoil

Emery is a devoted mother whose life is upended by her daughter's death and her son's accusation. Her journey is one of resilience and determination as she fights to uncover the truth and protect her family. Emery's love for her children is unwavering, even as she grapples with doubt and betrayal. Her character evolves from a woman seeking perfection to one who embraces the complexities of love and motherhood.

Holden Gable

A troubled but loving son

Holden is an adopted child with a traumatic past. Accused of his sister's murder, he struggles with anger and fear. Despite his challenges, Holden's love for Betsy is genuine, and his journey is one of redemption and healing. As the truth unfolds, Holden's resilience and bravery shine through, proving that he is more than the sum of his past.

Mark Gable

A politician with dark secrets

Mark is Emery's husband and a state senator whose ambition leads to devastating consequences. His involvement in Betsy's death and his betrayal of Emery reveal a man driven by power and self-preservation. Mark's character is a cautionary tale of how ambition can corrupt and destroy.

Betsy Gable

A beloved daughter lost too soon

Betsy is Emery's daughter, whose tragic death is the catalyst for the story. Her innocence and bravery are remembered by those who loved her. Betsy's character serves as a reminder of the impact of bullying and the importance of standing up for oneself.

Cooper Dawson

A steadfast protector

Cooper is Emery's former love and Betsy's biological father. His return to Port Windwick brings hope and healing to Emery and her family. Cooper's unwavering support and love for Emery and Holden are central to the story's resolution. His character embodies loyalty and redemption.

Tamara

A mother with a troubled past

Tamara is Holden's biological mother, whose actions and history are shrouded in mystery. Her connection to Mark and her role in the events leading to Betsy's death are pivotal to the story. Tamara's character highlights the complexities of motherhood and the consequences of past choices.

Plot Devices

Flashbacks

Revealing the past's impact

The use of flashbacks in the narrative provides crucial context for the characters' actions and motivations. By weaving past events into the present storyline, the author creates a rich tapestry of interconnected lives. These glimpses into the past reveal the depth of Emery's relationships and the secrets that have shaped her family's fate.

Unreliable Narrator

Questioning reality and truth

Emery's perspective is clouded by grief and doubt, making her an unreliable narrator at times. This device heightens the suspense and keeps readers questioning the truth. As Emery's understanding of her family evolves, so does the reader's perception of the events, leading to a powerful and unexpected resolution.

Symbolism

Objects representing deeper themes

Throughout the story, objects such as costumes, photographs, and journals symbolize the characters' inner struggles and desires. These symbols serve as reminders of the past and catalysts for change, driving the narrative forward and deepening the emotional impact of the story.

Analysis

A modern exploration of family and identity

"Tuesday's Child" delves into the complexities of family dynamics, adoption, and the search for identity. The story challenges traditional notions of family and highlights the resilience of the human spirit in the face of tragedy. Through Emery's journey, the author explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption, ultimately conveying a message of hope and healing. The novel serves as a poignant reminder of the power of truth and the strength found in embracing one's flaws and imperfections.

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Review Summary

4.27 out of 5
Average of 7k+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

Tuesday's Child received mostly positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.27 out of 5. Readers praised the book's suspenseful plot, character development, and unexpected twists. Many found it to be a gripping domestic thriller that explores themes of adoption, family dynamics, and motherhood. Some critics felt the ending was far-fetched, but overall, readers appreciated the emotional depth and fast-paced storytelling. The book's exploration of older child adoption and its challenges was particularly well-received by many reviewers.

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About the Author

Anya Mora is an author who draws inspiration from her experiences as a wife and mother to craft her novels. Her writing style tends to explore darker themes while ultimately emphasizing light, courage, and the power of love. Mora's work in "Tuesday's Child" (also published as "The Perfect Family") showcases her ability to create suspenseful domestic thrillers that delve into complex family dynamics and emotional struggles. Her storytelling often involves unexpected twists and deeply developed characters, resonating with readers who appreciate psychological depth in their thrillers. Mora's official website provides more information about her work and background.

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