The New Mother    by Nora Murphy Order:  USA  Can Minotaur, 2023 (2023) Hardcover, e-Book      Reviewed by Hilary Williamson The lead in Nora Murphy's The New Mother is exactly that. Natalie and Tyler Fanning (both attorneys) have just had a baby, Oliver. When Nat and Oliver are discharged from the hospital, Tyler takes them to their new house on Ashby Drive. The story opens on Detective Jill West driving up to what she believes is the home of a murderer. That sets the scene and builds up tension. Nat hadn't really wanted to move and she struggles with motherhood, though she loves her son deeply. Unfortunately he's colicky and she's insecure and overwhelmed. Their neighbor, Paul Riley, is a stay-at-home father, a wannabe novelist, previously a university professor. His wife Erin sees him as a liability and resents the difficult pregnancy she had with their daughter Petra. Nat and Oliver meet Paul, who seems to be a baby whisperer. He's sympathetic and Nat wants to see him again. She goes back to work but is distracted by anxiety about Oliver. Her work and her relationship with Tyler both suffer. She takes a sabbatical. Paul insinuates himself into her life and she welcomes his sympathy and help. She resents Tyler, especially when he makes partner. When Erin is murdered and Natalie comes under suspicion, she realizes she's been part of a cat and mouse game. This is a solid mystery, also a brilliant portrayal of how challenging new motherhood can be for some - and the last sentence is hilarious. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews