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My Darling Girl by Jennifer McMahon
Alison is a children’s book author who experienced a tragic childhood at the hands of her maniacal mother. However, she persevered and built a successful career and family. Her husband is a major fan of Christmas while Alison spends the holidays white-knuckling until the festivities end. But this year she attempts to be more cheerful and embrace the season.When her estranged mother, Mavis, is diagnosed with cancer and requests a place to stay, Alison—though hesitant—agrees. She immediately regrets that decision as her mom brings the tourmalinated quartz containing a dark mystery. The terminal illness has not improved Mavis’ disposition. Alison fears her mother will poison her children, especially her youngest daughter. She promises to protect her family. “…making promises I knew I couldn’t keep because they were already broken.” Soon Alison's idyllic home becomes infested with Mavis’ toxic temperament. However, the family directs their ire toward Alison. When Alison reaches out to her dear friend and neighbor, Penny, she encounters distrust and fear. There is good reason to be afraid. If Alison cannot face her past and overcome her fear, people will die—or worse.
Alison is a children’s book author who experienced a tragic childhood at the hands of her maniacal mother. However, she persevered and built a successful career and family. Her husband is a major fan of Christmas while Alison spends the holidays white-knuckling until the festivities end. But this year she attempts to be more cheerful and embrace the season.When her estranged mother, Mavis, is diagnosed with cancer and requests a place to stay, Alison—though hesitant—agrees. She immediately regrets that decision as her mom brings the tourmalinated quartz containing a dark mystery. The terminal illness has not improved Mavis’ disposition. Alison fears her mother will poison her children, especially her youngest daughter. She promises to protect her family. “…making promises I knew I couldn’t keep because they were already broken.” Soon Alison's idyllic home becomes infested with Mavis’ toxic temperament. However, the family directs their ire toward Alison. When Alison reaches out to her dear friend and neighbor, Penny, she encounters distrust and fear. There is good reason to be afraid. If Alison cannot face her past and overcome her fear, people will die—or worse.