My Beloved Son

A Powerful Family Drama of Secrets, Sacrifice, and Maternal Love

My Beloved Son by Catherine Cookson is a deeply emotional and gripping saga that explores the complex bonds between a mother and her child, set against the backdrop of early 20th-century England. First published in 1992 by Corgi, this novel showcases Cookson’s masterful storytelling and her unflinching portrayal of working-class life.

A Mother’s Devotion, A Family Divided

Ellen Jebeau has built a quiet, respectable life for herself and her son, Joseph. Widowed and proud, she has made sacrifices to ensure Joseph's future — sacrifices that weigh heavily on her soul. But when Joseph begins to question his past and push against the boundaries of the life she has shaped for him, long-hidden secrets threaten to surface. As ambition, resentment, and misunderstandings begin to pull mother and son apart, Ellen must confront the choices she’s made — and the truth she’s kept buried for so long.

A Classic Cookson Tale of Strength and Emotion

Rich in character and grounded in emotional authenticity, My Beloved Son is a moving exploration of love, loyalty, and the painful cost of silence. Perfect for fans of heartfelt historical fiction, Catherine Cookson’s novel is a timeless reminder of the complexities of family and the enduring strength of a mother’s love.