The Unmothers: A Novel Authored By Leslie J. Anderson

The Unmothers is a triumph of folk horror that will captivate fans of Midsommar and The Handmaid's Tale—Library Journal, starred review.

In this raw and lyrical folk horror novel, journalist Marshall is reeling from the recent death of her husband when a devastating accident leaves her in need of a new story. Her editor sends her to the remote, insular town of Raeford to investigate an absurd rumor: a horse purportedly gave birth to a healthy human baby boy.

Upon arrival, Marshall discovers that Raeford is more focused on their prized horses than their own townspeople. As she digs deeper, the discovery of two mangled bodies—one horse, one human—pushes her investigation into darker, more unsettling territory. The townsfolk are tight-lipped and wary, adding to the eerie atmosphere.

Marshall’s descent into Raeford’s secrets challenges her grasp on reality. The horrifying events she uncovers hint at a long-buried truth connected to the town’s women—a truth marred by generational trauma, female rage, and a struggle for bodily autonomy.

Unbearably tense and utterly gripping, The Unmothers weaves a chilling tale of an investigative journalist unraveling a horrifying legacy. This atmospheric novel marks the arrival of a masterful storyteller who delves into the darkest corners of folklore and human emotion. 📚❤️