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The Mother Tree
The water that surrounds Oriental, N.C. attracts people who need to heal. In Heather Cobham’s debut novel, Hungry Mother Creek, Maya Sommers landed in Oriental reeling from the trauma of Hurricane Katrina and the death of her husband. Now, Sloan Bostwick, a successful realtor from Raleigh, returns there in hopes of regaining the peace she experienced during the summers with her grandparents. Sloan purchases the oldest home in the county with plans to create a retreat center. Unbeknownst to Sloan, part of her property contains the Mother Tree, a live oak, where for over a hundred years, women have gathered. It was here, with the help of her women’s circle, that Maya recovered from her husband’s death.
Maya and Sloan’s lives intersect over the fate of the Mother Tree when the women’s circle rallies the community to protect the sacred tree. Travis, the handsome kayak guide Maya had a brief affair with, joins their efforts and Maya’s feelings for him are reignited. Will Travis fill the sense of yearning she’s had the past few months? What’s standing between her and true happiness? Meanwhile Sloan must admit that wounds from her childhood are still festering, waking her every night and distracting her from the retreat center.
Though Maya and Sloan clash over the fate of the Mother Tree, they have more in common than they realize. Join them on the banks of the Neuse River as the wisdom of women, past and present, helps Maya and Sloan transform their suffering into resilience.
Maya and Sloan’s lives intersect over the fate of the Mother Tree when the women’s circle rallies the community to protect the sacred tree. Travis, the handsome kayak guide Maya had a brief affair with, joins their efforts and Maya’s feelings for him are reignited. Will Travis fill the sense of yearning she’s had the past few months? What’s standing between her and true happiness? Meanwhile Sloan must admit that wounds from her childhood are still festering, waking her every night and distracting her from the retreat center.
Though Maya and Sloan clash over the fate of the Mother Tree, they have more in common than they realize. Join them on the banks of the Neuse River as the wisdom of women, past and present, helps Maya and Sloan transform their suffering into resilience.
- GenresFictionWomens Fiction
280 pages, Paperback
Published June 24, 2018
About the author
Heather W. Cobham
3 books27 followersI was born on Long Island, New York and moved to Clinton, North Carolina when I was five. I grew up in Clinton and consider myself a Southerner since most of my memories come from south of the Mason Dixon line. I attended Wake Forest University where I majored in health and sports science and then went on to UNC Chapel Hill to receive a Master’s in Exercise Physiology in 1991 and a Master’s in Social Work in 2003.
I’ve loved writing all my life, but until I started Hungry Mother Creek, it was limited to occasional poems, journaling and required writing for my education or job. In May of 2007, while standing by the waters of the Neuse River in Oriental, North Carolina, the inspiration for Hungry Mother Creek struck me with such force that I began jotting down ideas that day. Later that month I signed up for a weeklong writing retreat in the mountains of North Carolina. Since then, writing has been a staple in my life, and something I've created more time for because of the sense of fulfillment it brings me.
In addition to being an author, I'm a licensed clinical social worker and have my own counseling practice in New Bern North Carolina. The strength and resilience of my clients provides inspiration for the protagonists in my books. I live on the Neuse River in Oriental, North Carolina, the setting of my three novels. To keep my creative juices flowing and to maintain my own health and balance, I spend time with my husband, run, paddle board, do yoga and read.
I’ve loved writing all my life, but until I started Hungry Mother Creek, it was limited to occasional poems, journaling and required writing for my education or job. In May of 2007, while standing by the waters of the Neuse River in Oriental, North Carolina, the inspiration for Hungry Mother Creek struck me with such force that I began jotting down ideas that day. Later that month I signed up for a weeklong writing retreat in the mountains of North Carolina. Since then, writing has been a staple in my life, and something I've created more time for because of the sense of fulfillment it brings me.
In addition to being an author, I'm a licensed clinical social worker and have my own counseling practice in New Bern North Carolina. The strength and resilience of my clients provides inspiration for the protagonists in my books. I live on the Neuse River in Oriental, North Carolina, the setting of my three novels. To keep my creative juices flowing and to maintain my own health and balance, I spend time with my husband, run, paddle board, do yoga and read.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
March 10, 2019
The Mother Tree, by Heather W. Cobham, follows the author’s first book, Hungry Mother Creek. Although I enjoyed this one more than the first, I suggest reading both. Cobham’s writing style is pleasing in its simplicity, and her knowledge of Eastern North Carolina is apparent. Both books take us to the small town of Oriental, where slow southern living is a character in and of itself.
In a nutshell, The Mother Tree is the tale of women finding themselves while trying to come to terms with the past; not only their personal pasts, but the past of the beautiful piece of property at the crux of the story. Will the property, home to the centuries-old Mother Tree, be destroyed by logging? Or will it endure, much like the women in the story?
This novel dips its toe into the warmth of female bonding, nature, and healing. It is less about today’s colloquial term “female empowerment” than it is about body, mind, and spirit working together to create happiness within us. Because, as we learn from this book, we all have the power to find this happiness, especially when we forgive ourselves and others for past mistakes and open up to new ideas.
While I did figure out something early on that (I believe) wasn’t supposed to be discovered until the book’s end, I found The Mother Tree to be a sweet story, where women learn to accept the kindness of other women, and not push them away because they do not want to appear weak. It is this openness, and ultimately this acceptance that pervades the story, and in the end it is clear that we all should have a group of friends we know we can rely on no matter what; that without bonding, we truly are moving through life alone; that once we are open, amazing things start to happen.
In a nutshell, The Mother Tree is the tale of women finding themselves while trying to come to terms with the past; not only their personal pasts, but the past of the beautiful piece of property at the crux of the story. Will the property, home to the centuries-old Mother Tree, be destroyed by logging? Or will it endure, much like the women in the story?
This novel dips its toe into the warmth of female bonding, nature, and healing. It is less about today’s colloquial term “female empowerment” than it is about body, mind, and spirit working together to create happiness within us. Because, as we learn from this book, we all have the power to find this happiness, especially when we forgive ourselves and others for past mistakes and open up to new ideas.
While I did figure out something early on that (I believe) wasn’t supposed to be discovered until the book’s end, I found The Mother Tree to be a sweet story, where women learn to accept the kindness of other women, and not push them away because they do not want to appear weak. It is this openness, and ultimately this acceptance that pervades the story, and in the end it is clear that we all should have a group of friends we know we can rely on no matter what; that without bonding, we truly are moving through life alone; that once we are open, amazing things start to happen.
July 8, 2018
I loved returning to Oriental, NC to revisit the characters of Hungry Mother Creek and to meet some intriguing new members of the community. Heather brings the beauty of the area to life and her characters are interesting and accessible, the kind of people with whom you'd like to become friends. I couldn't put the book down not only because I wanted to know the fate of the Mother Tree but also because I cared about the characters and wanted the best outcome for all. Heather sprinkles nuggets of wisdom throughout the book- reminders to cherish each moment, to notice the natural beauty around us, and to live our truth. The Mother Tree is an embrace, and you'll feel its warmth long after reading the last page.
November 5, 2020
We are proud to announce that THE MOTHER TREE by Heather W. Cobham is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells readers that this book is well worth their time and money!
June 2, 2018
This book was like comfort-food for the soul. Sitting outside while reading this book, I found my sense of sound and sight heightened by the influences of Heather’s writing. This is a heartwarming story about thoughtful, strong women (and a couple of nice men) who connect and conflict over the fate of The Mother Tree and surrounding land.
All of the characters are sympathetic, even the antagonist who insists she can do whatever she wants with The Mother Tree. All of the characters have their demons and dreams, exquisitely played out in dialog or rambling conflicting thoughts.
It’s a story of a women’s circle, their everyday relationships, and events, their twice-yearly ritual gatherings at The Mother Tree to take stock of their lives, and revisit intentions. “It has to do with connection, connecting with our own truth, with each other and with nature.”
The Mother Tree brings the magic of the Pamlico Coastal Estuary alive, with kayak rides, sunrise and sunset views, accompanied by the bird and insect sounds of the creeks -- and dolphin visits! The depiction of the town of Oriental, a quasi-retirement/working fishing village is delightful. Heather catches the essence of this intimate, little southern town, as her characters move through their lives, eating and drinking, exercising, working… it’s an ordinary story, about ordinary flawed people, living ordinary lives. And it is an inspiriting story about people in search of their higher selves -- connecting to something greater than themselves.
I highly recommend it. Pamper yourself and get close to nature while reading it. You will love it even more.
All of the characters are sympathetic, even the antagonist who insists she can do whatever she wants with The Mother Tree. All of the characters have their demons and dreams, exquisitely played out in dialog or rambling conflicting thoughts.
It’s a story of a women’s circle, their everyday relationships, and events, their twice-yearly ritual gatherings at The Mother Tree to take stock of their lives, and revisit intentions. “It has to do with connection, connecting with our own truth, with each other and with nature.”
The Mother Tree brings the magic of the Pamlico Coastal Estuary alive, with kayak rides, sunrise and sunset views, accompanied by the bird and insect sounds of the creeks -- and dolphin visits! The depiction of the town of Oriental, a quasi-retirement/working fishing village is delightful. Heather catches the essence of this intimate, little southern town, as her characters move through their lives, eating and drinking, exercising, working… it’s an ordinary story, about ordinary flawed people, living ordinary lives. And it is an inspiriting story about people in search of their higher selves -- connecting to something greater than themselves.
I highly recommend it. Pamper yourself and get close to nature while reading it. You will love it even more.
April 23, 2020
This week I discovered a new author and fell in love with her novel THE MOTHER TREE. It is the story of a circle of female friends and their determination to preserve a beloved landmark from encroaching civilization.
Setting her novel in the quaint coastal town of Oriental, North Carolina, author Heather Cobham paints a word picture so vivid, her readers can see the colorful sunrises, smell the pungent pluff mud, and feel the warmth of the women’s circle as they gather, in friendship and solidarity, around the Mother Tree.
With well-defined and believable characters, all of whom I loved and related to in some way, Heather Cobham has written a lovely, heart-warming can’t-put-down novel.
Setting her novel in the quaint coastal town of Oriental, North Carolina, author Heather Cobham paints a word picture so vivid, her readers can see the colorful sunrises, smell the pungent pluff mud, and feel the warmth of the women’s circle as they gather, in friendship and solidarity, around the Mother Tree.
With well-defined and believable characters, all of whom I loved and related to in some way, Heather Cobham has written a lovely, heart-warming can’t-put-down novel.
November 5, 2020
Much more than I bargained for in the best way. This book really drew me in and didn’t let go. I was immersed in it.
Heather W. Cobham manages to bring not just the setting and plot to life, but the characters and drama as well. I pictured everything so clearly in my head and could feel right along with these characters.
The relationships in this book are not just one note. There are intricacies in each of them and they are quite complex.
Underlying themes of resilience and strength really added to the story.
It wasn’t a difficult read, but it does make you think on a deeper level.
Heather W. Cobham manages to bring not just the setting and plot to life, but the characters and drama as well. I pictured everything so clearly in my head and could feel right along with these characters.
The relationships in this book are not just one note. There are intricacies in each of them and they are quite complex.
Underlying themes of resilience and strength really added to the story.
It wasn’t a difficult read, but it does make you think on a deeper level.
August 29, 2018
The sequel to Hungry Mother Creek, The Mother Tree showed a new dimension in Cobham's writing. Characters are fully developed and her writing has a lyrical quality. One benchmark of a good story is how much it occupies my mind when not reading! I daydreamed about how conflicts would be resolved, and actually teared up at the sweet ending. This is a good read, one that will strike a chord, especially for women involved in a circle or spirituality group.
October 21, 2020
Completely consuming. Heather W. Cobham’s words really resonated with me. This is an emotional read and she pulls that emotion from the reader effortlessly.
This is the prefect womens fiction read. It’s inspiring and thought-provoking.
I loved the complex writing style of the author. It takes a little more thought as a reader, but in a great way that makes you think about her words and meaning.
This is a wonderful book and you won’t be disappointed!
This is the prefect womens fiction read. It’s inspiring and thought-provoking.
I loved the complex writing style of the author. It takes a little more thought as a reader, but in a great way that makes you think about her words and meaning.
This is a wonderful book and you won’t be disappointed!
October 22, 2020
I have not read Hungry Mother Creek. I will say that after reading this, I definitely want to go back and read that one as well. I found this to be emotionally captivating and powerful on many levels.
Heather W. Cobham brings us a story that does not shy away from imporant themes and topics, she stays true to her characters the entire way through. She flays them open for the reader and you feel what they feel.
Well written, witty and smart, heartwarming, endearing, and so much more!
Heather W. Cobham brings us a story that does not shy away from imporant themes and topics, she stays true to her characters the entire way through. She flays them open for the reader and you feel what they feel.
Well written, witty and smart, heartwarming, endearing, and so much more!
August 6, 2018
Really enjoyed, once again, reading about the women of the mother tree! I especially look foreword to reading more about Sloan’s continuing struggle with her past! The retreat center will offer endless opportunities to introduce us to more fascinating characters that will intrigue us as Heather continues to grace us with her stories.
January 19, 2020
Always Believe in Yourself!
I just finished this book with tears in my eyes, and wishing I could sit in the circle with the women in this book, by their Mother Tree. An amazing heartfelt and wonderful story, that only a woman could write and understand. I found a new author and she writes amazing books!
I just finished this book with tears in my eyes, and wishing I could sit in the circle with the women in this book, by their Mother Tree. An amazing heartfelt and wonderful story, that only a woman could write and understand. I found a new author and she writes amazing books!
October 15, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed the book! Was well written with a great story line.
I loved the intricate nuances and themes throughout the book. The author really delivered a thought provoking read.
This was one of those books I had trouble putting down because I was thoroughly engrossed.
Overall this is a book that I would highly recommend.
I loved the intricate nuances and themes throughout the book. The author really delivered a thought provoking read.
This was one of those books I had trouble putting down because I was thoroughly engrossed.
Overall this is a book that I would highly recommend.
November 13, 2021
A great folllow up
As the 2nd book with the women of Oriental, it was a great follow up as we learned more about their histories and their dreams for moving forward. The story is an easy and enjoyable read with strong female characters, and the descriptions of local area are spot on for eastern NC. Looking forward to the next book.
As the 2nd book with the women of Oriental, it was a great follow up as we learned more about their histories and their dreams for moving forward. The story is an easy and enjoyable read with strong female characters, and the descriptions of local area are spot on for eastern NC. Looking forward to the next book.
October 12, 2022
Felt like a kid being taught things without realizing it. Fun read that gives you characters to pull for and want to help. I have read both of Heather Cobham's novels and f8nd myself missing the story since finishing the book yesterday. Very nice relaxing reads.
July 17, 2018
I love to read a book that draws me in from the start, and this book did just that. I did not want to put it down, but did not want to finish it and have to say goodbye to the characters.
August 20, 2018
She knows the definition of ambiguous and writes about Oriental. What more could you want?
April 28, 2019
A sweet book about women and what ties us all together
August 11, 2021
In my review of the first book, Hungry Mother Creek, I commented that the author found her voice about halfway through the novel. In this sequel, she hit her stride immediately. She created characters that feel 3-dimensional, and I wanted very much to know where the story was going. It was one of those books that I didn’t want to finish, because I didn’t want to leave this community of women.
September 17, 2020
loved this book. It is a Sequel to Hungry Mother Creek...another delightful book of her’s to read first. The characters come alive and are believable. Sweet Story takes place in the town I live in now so it is fun to think of the story through my eyes as i live in and walk around the town.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews