Motherlover
Two single mothers form an unexpected romantic connection in Lindsay Ishihiro’s endearing graphic novel Motherlover.
After a breakup, Alex, a cool, cosmopolitan musician, returns to her late parents’ suburban home with her daughter, Nolan. Imogen, their next-door neighbor, is a full-time mother of four whose husband is having an affair. As Imogen’s marriage disintegrates, she and her children move in with Alex and Nolan. The women develop a close friendship that blossoms into romance; together, they create a fresh start for all.
The art is vibrant and expressive, highlighted by an exceptional chapter with no dialogue and minimal text. Here, a series of images documents the growing closeness between Alex and Imogen through family breakfasts, quiet respites, and holidays. Alex and Imogen’s romantic connection is irresistible, and Imogen’s detour into self-discovery is poignant as she realizes she’s more than just a mother. Meanwhile, living in the house she was raised in, Alex traces her own, more complex problems back to her interactions with her parents. With each other’s help, Alex and Imogen experience personal growth, making the most of the opportunity to live fuller lives. Others have their moments too: In one subplot, Imogen’s oldest son discovers his own sexual identity.
Motherlover is a tender graphic novel romance about two women finding love amid life’s obstacles.
Reviewed by
Peter Dabbene
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
