The Good Sister Book Review

Title: The Good Sister

Author: Sally Hepworth

ISBN: 9781473697058

Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

Pages: 304

Source: ARC NetGalley

‘There’s only been one time that Rose couldn’t stop me from doing the wrong thing and that was a mistake that will haunt me for the rest of my life.’
Fern Castle works in her local library. She has dinner with her twin sister Rose three nights a week. And she avoids crowds, bright lights and loud noises as much as possible. Fern has a carefully structured life and disrupting her routine can be . . . dangerous.
When Rose discovers that she cannot fall pregnant, Fern sees her chance to pay her sister back for everything Rose has done for her. Fern can have a baby for Rose. She just needs to find a father. Simple.
Fern’s mission will shake the foundations of the life she has carefully built for herself and stir up dark secrets from the past, in this quirky, rich and shocking story of unexpected love.

Official Summary

The Good Sister looks at the relationship between two troubled sister’s, twin sisters. These fictional sisters have their share of ups and down starting life in what appears to be a troubled home with a mother depicted as being unstable.

Fern Castle suffers from a sensory disorder which leaves her vulnerable to loud sounds, bright lights, and strong smells. As a result, she leads a simple, quiet life and depends largely on her sister Rose, for support and assistance. Rose is the only person that understands her, the only person that is always there for her.

When Fern finds out that Rose wants a baby and cannot conceive, she sees an opportunity to repay Rose for everything she always does for her. Fern decides to have a baby for her sister…..

This book was my introduction to Sally Hepworth, while The Good Sister is a far cry from my usual choices, it was refreshingly different and a book I found myself racing through. I simply could not get enough. Written from Fern’s perspective with diary entries made by Rose in between it flows beautifully, giving you an insight into both sister’s thoughts. It is an easy, gripping read that draws you into the story from the beginning.

As I sit facing my keyboard, I am overwhelmed with the thoughts I want to share on this book – unfortunately, a lot of those thoughts will lead to spoilers. This story held a lot of surprises and took a turn I did not predict. To say that I loved this book would be an understatement.

Having grown up with brothers, I spent my life wishing I had a sister. Also envious of the bond my friends had with their sisters. However, after reading this book, I am extremely pleased that I grew up with brothers. The Good Sister shows just how complicated a sister relationship can turn out being. If anything, I find I am looking at my daughters in a new light – looking at their relationship just a little more closely.

The author created two very remarkable characters, both Fern and Rose started out extremely likeable. Characters you found crawling into your heart from the beginning. Fern with all her challenges and need for routine was impossible to dislike. Rose on the other hand was caring and compassionate, giving so much of herself to ensure her sister’s safety.

As the story progressed, I slowly started questioning Rose and wondering if she was not just a little too involved in her sister’s life. The author did a fabulous job in unfolding Rose’s character, keeping the reader guessing where the story will lead all the time.

The Good Sister has everything needed to be called a brilliant read! Mystery to keep you unsure of where the story is headed, a touch of humour to keep a smile on your face and added to that a few moments that tug at your heartstrings just enough to guarantee you keep turning the pages. Lastly, a plot twist that has your jaw dropping to the ground!

This story was one of the most unpredictable I have read in a while! It is without a doubt one to be added to my LOVED list.

In case you are not sure – Yes, I recommend this book. The Good Sister will appeal to women who enjoy a good mystery that has the power to touch your heart and almost bring a tear…..

Coming Soon

About the Author

Sally Hepworth is the bestselling author of six novels, most recently The Mother In Law (2019) which has been optioned by actress, Amy Poehler, for television. Her latest novel, The Good Sister is available now in Australia & NZ and will be available in early 2021 in North America and UK.
Drawing on the good, the bad and the downright odd of human behaviour, Sally writes incisively about family, relationships and identity. Her domestic thriller novels are laced with quirky humour, sass and a darkly charming tone.
 Sally’s novels are available worldwide in English and have been translated into 20 languages.
​Sally lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and three children.

Thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for allowing me the opportunity to enjoy and review this book. My 2021 challenge is to explore as many new authors as possible. Reading this book by Sally Hepworth reinforces the fact that there are many brilliant authors out there worth exploring.

Thank you for spending your time reading my review. Have you read any books by Sally Hepworth? Which were your favourite? Leave a comment below. Until next time….. Happy Reading!

                                                               

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2 thoughts on “The Good Sister Book Review”

  1. First of all I would like to say great blog!
    I had a quick question which I’d like
    to ask if you do not mind. I was interested to know how
    you center yourself and clear your head
    prior to writing. I’ve had a difficult time clearing my mind in getting my ideas
    out there.
    I do enjoy writing but it just seems like the first 10 to 15 minutes are usually lost just trying to
    figure out how to begin. Any ideas or hints?
    Thank you!

    1. Hi there, I start with junk writing – I sit down and write everything that comes to mind not relevant to the topic at hand – that seems to clear my head and then I can focus on the review I need to write.

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