Like Mother, Like Daughter

by Kimberly McCreight • 2024 • 320 pages

3.66

28.4K ratings

Thriller Mystery Mystery Thriller

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Plot Summary

Secrets Lurking in the Shadows

A mother's mysterious disappearance

Cleo McHugh returns to her childhood home, a pristine brownstone in Park Slope, after an urgent call from her mother, Katrina. Upon arrival, she finds the house eerily empty, with signs of a struggle—burning food, broken glass, and a pool of blood. Her mother is missing, leaving Cleo grappling with fear and confusion. The police, led by Detective Wilson, suspect foul play. Cleo's father, Aidan, arrives, and they both struggle to comprehend the situation, each harboring their own secrets and guilt.

A Daughter's Dreadful Discovery

Uncovering a hidden life

Determined to find answers, Cleo discovers her mother's laptop and stumbles upon a dating profile, revealing a side of Katrina she never knew. The revelation of her mother's secret life leaves Cleo reeling, questioning everything she thought she knew about her family. As she delves deeper, Cleo uncovers a series of messages with various men, hinting at a life filled with secrets and lies. The discovery adds to the growing tension between Cleo and her father, as they both struggle with their own feelings of betrayal and guilt.

Unraveling the Tangled Web

A family's secrets unravel

As Cleo and Aidan navigate the aftermath of Katrina's disappearance, they are forced to confront the fractures in their family. Cleo learns of her parents' separation and her father's affair, further complicating her feelings of anger and betrayal. Meanwhile, Aidan grapples with his own guilt and the realization that his actions may have contributed to the current crisis. The investigation into Katrina's disappearance intensifies, with Detective Wilson focusing on the family's secrets and the possibility of foul play.

The Past Haunts the Present

A mother's troubled past

Cleo discovers a journal from her mother's time at Haven House, a group home where Katrina spent her childhood. The entries reveal a traumatic past filled with abuse and neglect, shedding light on the origins of Katrina's controlling nature and her strained relationship with Cleo. As Cleo reads her mother's words, she begins to understand the depth of her mother's pain and the impact it had on their family. The revelations force Cleo to reevaluate her own feelings of anger and resentment towards her mother.

A Mother's Hidden Life

The truth about Katrina's life

As the investigation continues, Cleo learns more about her mother's secret life, including her involvement with a pharmaceutical company and a potential lawsuit. The discovery of Katrina's connection to a dangerous drug and its potential side effects raises questions about her disappearance and the possibility of foul play. Cleo is left to piece together the fragments of her mother's life, searching for answers that may hold the key to her whereabouts.

The Truth Behind the Facade

A family's facade crumbles

As Cleo and Aidan confront the truth about their family, they are forced to face the lies and secrets that have defined their lives. The investigation into Katrina's disappearance reveals a web of deceit and betrayal, with each family member harboring their own secrets. As the truth comes to light, Cleo and Aidan must decide whether to confront their past or continue living in denial. The choice they make will determine the future of their family and their ability to heal from the wounds of the past.

A Family's Fractured Trust

Rebuilding trust amidst betrayal

In the aftermath of Katrina's disappearance, Cleo and Aidan are left to pick up the pieces of their shattered family. As they work to rebuild their trust and mend their fractured relationships, they must confront the painful truths that have been uncovered. The journey towards healing is fraught with challenges, but Cleo and Aidan are determined to find a way forward. Together, they must navigate the complexities of their family dynamics and learn to trust each other once again.

Confrontation with a Dangerous Past

Reed's sinister return shocks Cleo

Cleo confronts Reed, her mother's former lover, who has resurfaced under a new identity. Reed, now a professor at NYU, has been blackmailing Katrina with threats from their past. Cleo realizes Reed's intentions are far more sinister than she imagined, as he seeks revenge for a life he claims was ruined by Katrina. The confrontation reveals the depth of Reed's manipulation and the danger he poses to Cleo and her family.

Secrets Unravel in the Shadows

Cleo uncovers hidden truths

As Cleo delves deeper into her mother's past, she discovers a web of secrets that have been hidden for decades. Katrina's involvement in a scandal at Haven House, a group home where she grew up, comes to light. Cleo learns that her mother was involved in a violent incident that has haunted her ever since. The revelations force Cleo to reevaluate her understanding of her mother and the choices she made to protect her family.

A Daughter's Desperate Search

Cleo races against time

Determined to find her missing mother, Cleo embarks on a frantic search for answers. She retraces Katrina's steps, uncovering clues that lead her to confront the people from her mother's past. As Cleo pieces together the puzzle, she realizes that the threats against her family are more serious than she initially thought. Her journey is fraught with danger, but Cleo is driven by a fierce determination to save her mother and uncover the truth.

The Truth Behind the Threats

Reed's motives are revealed

Cleo learns that Reed's vendetta against her mother stems from a violent encounter that left him scarred. Reed blames Katrina for the life he lost and seeks retribution by targeting Cleo. The revelation of Reed's true identity and his connection to Katrina's past forces Cleo to confront the reality of her mother's actions and the lengths she went to protect her family. The truth is both shocking and liberating, as Cleo gains a deeper understanding of her mother's struggles.

Redemption and New Beginnings

A path to healing and hope

In the aftermath of the revelations, Cleo and her family begin the difficult journey of rebuilding their lives. As they confront the painful truths that have been uncovered, they find a renewed sense of hope and the possibility of redemption. Cleo's determination to understand her mother and the choices she made leads to a deeper connection and a path toward healing. Together, they must navigate the complexities of their family dynamics and learn to trust each other once again.

Characters

Cleo McHugh

A determined seeker of truth

Cleo is a young woman driven by the need to uncover the truth about her mother's disappearance. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to navigate the complexities of her family dynamics and her own identity. Cleo's determination to find her mother and understand her past reveals her strength and resilience, as she confronts the secrets that have defined her life.

Katrina McHugh

A mother haunted by her past

Katrina is a woman shaped by the trauma and abuse she endured at Haven House. Her disappearance sets off a chain of events that reveal the secrets she has kept hidden from her family. Katrina's life is more complex than anyone imagined, as she navigates the challenges of her past and the choices she made to protect her family.

Aidan McHugh

A father seeking redemption

Aidan is Cleo's father, a filmmaker with a history of infidelity and financial troubles. His relationship with Katrina is strained, and their separation adds to the tension within the family. As the investigation into Katrina's disappearance unfolds, Aidan is forced to confront his own guilt and the impact of his actions on his family. His journey is one of redemption, as he seeks to rebuild trust with Cleo and find a way forward.

Reed Harding

A vengeful figure from the past

Reed is a man driven by a desire for revenge against Katrina, whom he blames for the life he lost. His reappearance under a new identity as a professor at NYU brings danger to Cleo and her family. Reed's manipulation and threats reveal the depth of his anger and the lengths he will go to achieve his goals.

Detective Wilson

A relentless investigator

Detective Wilson is the lead investigator in Katrina's disappearance. Her methodical approach and determination to uncover the truth reveal the web of deceit and betrayal within the McHugh family. Detective Wilson's role is crucial in unraveling the mystery and bringing the family closer to the truth.

Lauren Pasternak

A loyal friend

Lauren is Katrina's best friend and confidante. She provides support to Cleo during the investigation, offering insight into Katrina's past and the challenges she faced. Lauren's loyalty to Katrina is unwavering, and she plays a key role in helping Cleo understand her mother's life and the choices she made.

Jules Kovacis

An assistant with secrets

Jules is Katrina's assistant, privy to the inner workings of her life and career. Her sudden departure from the firm raises questions about her involvement in Katrina's disappearance. As Cleo seeks answers, Jules's role becomes increasingly important, revealing the depth of her connection to Katrina and the secrets she may be hiding.

Plot Devices

Secrets and Lies

A web of deceit

The narrative is driven by the secrets and lies that define the McHugh family. Each character harbors their own secrets, contributing to the tension and conflict within the family. The revelation of these secrets is central to the plot, as Cleo and Aidan are forced to confront the truth and rebuild their fractured relationships.

The Past's Influence

The impact of history

The story explores the impact of the past on the present, particularly through Katrina's experiences at Haven House. Her troubled childhood shapes her controlling nature and strained relationship with Cleo. The past's influence is a recurring theme, as characters grapple with the consequences of their actions and the choices they have made.

The Investigation

Uncovering the truth

The investigation into Katrina's disappearance serves as a catalyst for the narrative, driving the characters to confront their secrets and lies. Detective Wilson's role is crucial in unraveling the mystery, as she methodically pieces together the evidence and uncovers the truth behind the family's facade. The investigation is a key plot device, propelling the story forward and bringing the characters closer to the truth.

Analysis

A tale of secrets and redemption

"Like Mother, Like Daughter" by Kimberly McCreight is a gripping exploration of family secrets, the impact of the past, and the journey toward redemption. The novel delves into the complexities of familial relationships, highlighting how hidden truths and unresolved traumas can shape individuals and their interactions. Through Cleo's determined quest to uncover the truth about her mother's disappearance, the story reveals the power of understanding and forgiveness in healing fractured bonds. The narrative underscores the importance of confronting one's past to pave the way for new beginnings, offering a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring strength of family ties.

Last updated: February 1, 2025

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FAQ

Synopsis & Basic Details

What is Like Mother, Like Daughter about?

A mother vanishes mysteriously : The story begins with Cleo returning home to find her mother, Katrina, missing, with signs of a struggle, setting off a desperate search for answers.
Secrets and hidden lives: The narrative explores the complex relationship between Cleo and her mother, revealing hidden aspects of Katrina's life, including a secret dating profile and a troubled past.
A family's unraveling : The story delves into the fractured dynamics of the McHugh family, exposing secrets, betrayals, and the impact of past traumas on their present lives.

Why should I read Like Mother, Like Daughter?

Intricate family drama : The novel offers a compelling exploration of mother-daughter relationships, delving into the complexities of love, resentment, and the impact of secrets.
Suspenseful mystery : The story keeps readers engaged with a gripping mystery surrounding Katrina's disappearance, filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations.
Psychological depth : The characters are richly developed, exhibiting complex motivations and psychological struggles, making their journeys both compelling and thought-provoking.

What is the background of Like Mother, Like Daughter?

Contemporary setting : The story is set in modern-day Brooklyn, New York, reflecting the cultural and social dynamics of a privileged urban environment.
Focus on family dynamics : The narrative explores the impact of family secrets and past traumas on present relationships, highlighting the complexities of mother-daughter bonds.
Exploration of social issues : The novel touches on themes of power, control, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, particularly within the context of corporate and legal settings.

What are the most memorable quotes in Like Mother, Like Daughter?

"Once she was born I was never not afraid." : This quote from the prologue encapsulates the pervasive fear and anxiety that often accompany motherhood, setting a tone of unease.
"You will do whatever it takes. Even when you don't know what that is. Especially then." : This quote highlights the fierce, unconditional love and determination that mothers possess, even in the face of uncertainty.
"You're supposed to love me no matter what, you know." : This quote reveals Cleo's longing for unconditional acceptance and her frustration with her mother's controlling nature, a central conflict in the story.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Kimberly McCreight use?

Multiple perspectives : The story is told from the alternating viewpoints of Cleo and Katrina, providing insight into their individual thoughts, feelings, and motivations.
Non-linear timeline : The narrative shifts between the present and the past, gradually revealing the secrets and events that led to Katrina's disappearance.
Foreshadowing and suspense : McCreight employs subtle foreshadowing and suspenseful pacing to keep readers engaged and guessing, creating a sense of unease and anticipation.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

The broken glass : The broken glass at the scene of Katrina's disappearance is a recurring image, symbolizing the shattered state of the family and the fragility of their lives.
The missing clothes : Aidan's missing clothes from the closet foreshadow his involvement in the events surrounding Katrina's disappearance, hinting at his deception and hidden motives.
The old journal : Katrina's journal from Haven House provides a window into her traumatic past, revealing the origins of her controlling nature and her deep-seated fears.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

The opening prologue : The prologue about the contradictions of motherhood foreshadows the complex and often conflicting emotions that Cleo and Katrina experience throughout the story.
The mention of the ocean : Cleo's fear of the ocean, stemming from a childhood accident, foreshadows the emotional turmoil and sense of being overwhelmed that she experiences during her mother's disappearance.
The recurring phrase "You'll be fine" : The repeated use of this phrase, often by characters who are not being truthful, creates a sense of unease and highlights the pervasive deception in the story.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Janine and Aidan's affair: The revelation of Janine and Aidan's affair is a shocking twist, highlighting the hidden betrayals and complex relationships within the seemingly close-knit community.
Jules and the Xytek lawsuit: The connection between Jules and the Xytek lawsuit reveals a hidden layer of complexity to Katrina's work life and the potential danger she was facing.
Reed and Haven House: The connection between Reed and Haven House reveals a shared history with Katrina, highlighting the long-lasting impact of her past and the danger it poses to her present.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Detective Wilson: Her methodical approach and determination to uncover the truth drive the investigation forward, revealing the web of deceit and betrayal within the McHugh family.
Lauren Pasternak: Katrina's best friend, she provides support to Cleo and offers insight into Katrina's past, acting as a voice of reason and a source of comfort.
Jules Kovacis: Katrina's assistant, her sudden departure and connection to the Xytek lawsuit raise questions about her involvement in Katrina's disappearance and the secrets she may be hiding.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Katrina's need for control: Driven by her traumatic past, Katrina's controlling nature stems from a deep-seated fear of losing control and a desire to protect her daughter from the dangers she experienced.
Aidan's desire for validation: Aidan's affair and financial schemes reveal a deep-seated need for validation and a desire to escape the perceived limitations of his life.
Cleo's longing for acceptance: Cleo's rebellious behavior and her relationships with men stem from a longing for acceptance and a desire to be seen and loved for who she is, not who her mother wants her to be.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Katrina's trauma: Katrina's past at Haven House has left her with deep-seated trauma, manifesting in her controlling behavior, her fear of vulnerability, and her difficulty forming close relationships.
Cleo's identity crisis: Cleo struggles with her identity, torn between her desire for independence and her need for her mother's approval, leading to a pattern of self-destructive behavior.
Aidan's narcissism: Aidan's self-centeredness and his tendency to manipulate others reveal a deep-seated narcissism, masking his own insecurities and fears.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Cleo's discovery of the dating profile: This revelation shatters Cleo's perception of her mother, forcing her to confront the hidden aspects of Katrina's life and the complexities of their relationship.
The reading of Katrina's journal: This moment allows Cleo to understand her mother's past trauma, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of her motivations.
The confrontation with Reed: This encounter forces Cleo to confront the danger her mother faced and the lengths she went to protect her family, leading to a shift in her perspective.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Cleo and Katrina: Their relationship evolves from one of resentment and misunderstanding to one of empathy and a deeper understanding of each other's struggles.
Cleo and Aidan: Their relationship shifts from one of distant co-parenting to a more honest and vulnerable connection, as they confront their shared grief and guilt.
Katrina and Aidan: Their relationship is revealed to be built on a foundation of secrets and betrayals, ultimately leading to their separation and a reevaluation of their shared history.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The full extent of Darden's knowledge : The novel leaves some ambiguity about the extent to which Darden Pharmaceuticals was aware of the risks associated with Xytek, raising questions about corporate responsibility and ethical conduct.
The nature of Reed's relationship with Katrina: The exact nature of Reed and Katrina's relationship is left somewhat ambiguous, leaving readers to question the extent of their connection and the impact it had on their lives.
The future of Cleo and Aidan's relationship: The ending leaves the future of Cleo and Aidan's relationship open-ended, suggesting that their journey toward healing and reconciliation is ongoing.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Like Mother, Like Daughter?

Katrina's actions towards Cleo: Katrina's controlling behavior and her attempts to manipulate Cleo's choices are controversial, raising questions about the boundaries of parental love and the impact of trauma on parenting styles.
Aidan's affair and financial schemes: Aidan's infidelity and his attempts to manipulate Katrina for financial gain are morally questionable, sparking debate about the nature of betrayal and the consequences of self-centered behavior.
Cleo's involvement with Kyle: Cleo's decision to help Kyle sell drugs and her subsequent relationship with him are controversial, raising questions about her judgment and her willingness to engage in self-destructive behavior.

Like Mother, Like Daughter Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

Katrina's survival and recovery: Katrina's survival and her journey toward physical and emotional recovery offer a sense of hope and resilience, highlighting the possibility of healing from trauma.
Cleo's newfound understanding: Cleo's journey of self-discovery leads to a deeper understanding of her mother's past and the complexities of their relationship, fostering empathy and forgiveness.
A path toward new beginnings : The ending suggests that while the past cannot be erased, it can be acknowledged and used as a foundation for building a more authentic and meaningful future.