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The Wrong Family
He tells you he’s your father. He welcomes you into his family. And now you’re trapped…
I’ve never met my father. It was always just me and Mom, so when she died, I was completely alone. But today, years since I first mailed my DNA to Family Ties, I finally have a match. They’ve found my biological father.
When I meet Robert , he’s warm, dependable, sturdy. I’m desperate for him to like me. I want to be part of his perfect, high-flying family more than anything.
Except, I’m not so sure they are perfect. Every day, strange things go wrong in the Thompsons’ grand Lake Tahoe house. A family photo is found burning. Robert’s car is tampered with. My mother’s necklace goes missing.
Though that’s nothing compared to the horror of finding the huge family portrait violently slashed in its ornate gold frame… But someone is trying to blame me for everything—all eyes are on me. I can’t run now.
And then I receive an email from Family Ties that makes my blood run cold.
Robert Thompson is not my father.
Now I’m trapped in a house full of strangers, with no idea who I can trust. And I’m terrified my life is in grave danger…
I’ve never met my father. It was always just me and Mom, so when she died, I was completely alone. But today, years since I first mailed my DNA to Family Ties, I finally have a match. They’ve found my biological father.
When I meet Robert , he’s warm, dependable, sturdy. I’m desperate for him to like me. I want to be part of his perfect, high-flying family more than anything.
Except, I’m not so sure they are perfect. Every day, strange things go wrong in the Thompsons’ grand Lake Tahoe house. A family photo is found burning. Robert’s car is tampered with. My mother’s necklace goes missing.
Though that’s nothing compared to the horror of finding the huge family portrait violently slashed in its ornate gold frame… But someone is trying to blame me for everything—all eyes are on me. I can’t run now.
And then I receive an email from Family Ties that makes my blood run cold.
Robert Thompson is not my father.
Now I’m trapped in a house full of strangers, with no idea who I can trust. And I’m terrified my life is in grave danger…
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2023
638 people are currently reading
1178 people want to read
About the author
Ellery A. Kane
17 books439 followersForensic psychologist by day, novelist by night, Ellery Kane has been writing--professionally and creatively--for as long as she can remember. Just like many of her main characters, Ellery loves to ask why, which is the reason she became a psychologist in the first place. Real life really is stranger than fiction, and Ellery's writing is often inspired by her day job. Evaluating violent criminals and treating trauma victims, she has gained a unique perspective on the past and its indelible influence on the individual. And she's heard her fair share of real life thrillers.
Ellery lives in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, a picturesque setting that provides the backdrop for many of her novels. If you don't find Ellery interviewing murderers behind prison walls or pecking away at her latest novel, she is probably at the gym landing a solid jab-cross to a punching bag; riding bicycles with her special someone; or enjoying a movie the old-fashioned way--at the theater with popcorn and Milk Duds.
Ellery was previously selected as one of ten semifinalists in the MasterClass James Patterson Co-Author Competition and is the author of the Doctors of Darkness, Rockwell and Decker, and Legacy Series, with two standalone thrillers from Bookouture coming in 2022.
If you'd like to receive a notification when new books are released, please sign up for Ellery's newsletter at ellerykane.com. Ellery also signs e-books on authorgraph.com.
Ellery lives in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, a picturesque setting that provides the backdrop for many of her novels. If you don't find Ellery interviewing murderers behind prison walls or pecking away at her latest novel, she is probably at the gym landing a solid jab-cross to a punching bag; riding bicycles with her special someone; or enjoying a movie the old-fashioned way--at the theater with popcorn and Milk Duds.
Ellery was previously selected as one of ten semifinalists in the MasterClass James Patterson Co-Author Competition and is the author of the Doctors of Darkness, Rockwell and Decker, and Legacy Series, with two standalone thrillers from Bookouture coming in 2022.
If you'd like to receive a notification when new books are released, please sign up for Ellery's newsletter at ellerykane.com. Ellery also signs e-books on authorgraph.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews
July 24, 2023
Confession time… After reading the fantastic synopsis for this book, and then seeing the author’s name- I immediately requested this book from NetGalley. However, I thought this was written by Ellery Lloyd (I was confused for a moment with the familiar name 🤦🏻♀️). But- no worries, because I have found a new author to read with Ellery Kane!
This story centers around our main character, Hallie. Hallie had been looking for her biological father through a family DNA test. She then sent letters to all potential matches of those who could be her father. When she gets a response back from her “biological” father, Hallie feels as if all her dreams have been answered.
I loved how this story played out. Ever hear the saying, “Watch out what you wish for”? Well, that’s what happened in this book. I also resonated with Hallie’s character, as she wanted to be liked and belong to a family. But sometimes you can’t always trust your family (or belong), especially when strange occurrences start to take place and you are found to be the one being blamed for everything…
This was an enjoyable read for me, and I do plan on reading more from this author in the future. My only gripes were that the pacing started off a little slow at first, but it did gradually pick up with a satisfying conclusion. I also felt that this book may be geared towards a younger audience. Regardless, I still recommend reading this as the storyline was original and gripping!
(3.5 stars rounded up)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture, and the author for an ARC of this book which I had the pleasure of reading. All opinions are my own. Publication date: August 30, 2023.
Genre~ General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers
This story centers around our main character, Hallie. Hallie had been looking for her biological father through a family DNA test. She then sent letters to all potential matches of those who could be her father. When she gets a response back from her “biological” father, Hallie feels as if all her dreams have been answered.
I loved how this story played out. Ever hear the saying, “Watch out what you wish for”? Well, that’s what happened in this book. I also resonated with Hallie’s character, as she wanted to be liked and belong to a family. But sometimes you can’t always trust your family (or belong), especially when strange occurrences start to take place and you are found to be the one being blamed for everything…
This was an enjoyable read for me, and I do plan on reading more from this author in the future. My only gripes were that the pacing started off a little slow at first, but it did gradually pick up with a satisfying conclusion. I also felt that this book may be geared towards a younger audience. Regardless, I still recommend reading this as the storyline was original and gripping!
(3.5 stars rounded up)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture, and the author for an ARC of this book which I had the pleasure of reading. All opinions are my own. Publication date: August 30, 2023.
Genre~ General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers
February 26, 2024
The Wrong Family by Darcey Kane felt like a long winded soap opera that had me turning the pages but got to much for me.
We have Hallie who was brought up in foster homes not knowing who her father was, she got in contact with an online DNA company called Family Ties, she starts to get emails back from every Robert Thompson on the web, until she finally meets him in a cafe.
As you would be nervous he seems nothing like her mother described him ( mum is deceased) he is charming accepts her into their family with open arms, they even run their own restaurant in Lake Tahoe she fits in perfectly until she over hears Natalie say I hope she doesn’t find out what we are doing why do they need a gun?
I found this to be a bit repetitive with the emails go back & forth , also Hallie was very naive she got on my nerves to the point I just wanted to shake her all the characters were unlikeable which for me makes it a drag, I have liked Ms Kane’s other offerings but this one not so much.
We have Hallie who was brought up in foster homes not knowing who her father was, she got in contact with an online DNA company called Family Ties, she starts to get emails back from every Robert Thompson on the web, until she finally meets him in a cafe.
As you would be nervous he seems nothing like her mother described him ( mum is deceased) he is charming accepts her into their family with open arms, they even run their own restaurant in Lake Tahoe she fits in perfectly until she over hears Natalie say I hope she doesn’t find out what we are doing why do they need a gun?
I found this to be a bit repetitive with the emails go back & forth , also Hallie was very naive she got on my nerves to the point I just wanted to shake her all the characters were unlikeable which for me makes it a drag, I have liked Ms Kane’s other offerings but this one not so much.
September 22, 2023
It had me guessing until the very end!
Overall, a solid read! Highly recommend to fans of thrillers and suspense.
*** Thank you to NetGalley, Ellery A. Kane, and Dreamscape Media for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
Overall, a solid read! Highly recommend to fans of thrillers and suspense.
*** Thank you to NetGalley, Ellery A. Kane, and Dreamscape Media for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
August 29, 2023
Ancestry websites are great for helping people reconnect with long lost relatives and those who they never knew they were related to. But what happens when you are paired with The Wrong Family? This was a gripping and twist filled book that kept me on my toes, turning the pages until the very last page. I love trying to figure out books, but Ellery Kane pulled the wool over my eyes as I did not see the reveal coming!
Hallie's mother died in an accident when she was young, and she grew up in foster care. She never knew her father, only his name. She wrote to all the men named Robert Thompson, but never found him until she sent a DNA sample into Family Ties and was matched!!!! Her biological father has been found! Not only has he been found but he has welcomed her into his home and business with open arms.
Things begin to happen, small at first but then they grow more dangerous and as the tension and danger mounts, all fingers point at Hallie. Then she learns Robert Thompson is not her father.
I felt for Hallie as she tried to fit into the family and tried to prove her cooking abilities. Hallie is a likeable character that has not had an easy life. She is determined, flawed, vulnerable, smart, and impulsive. As the plot progresses, readers get to know the family members, observe their interactions and the supporting characters. With any book, there are both likeable and unlikeable ones.
I was drawn into the mystery of whodunit and as I mentioned I did my best to figure out whodunit. I enjoyed the many twists and turns along with the two reveals in the book. Very clever. Plus, as I mentioned, Hallie wrote to men named Robert Thompson, hoping to find her father and I enjoyed reading the few responses that she received in return. I thought this was a very nice touch.
There was an undercurrent of tension flowing throughout the book. I always love tension in books, so this was right up my alley. I also enjoyed the family dynamic and how each member reacted to the strange occurrences and mounting dread.
Well written, tense, intriguing and hard to put down!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Hallie's mother died in an accident when she was young, and she grew up in foster care. She never knew her father, only his name. She wrote to all the men named Robert Thompson, but never found him until she sent a DNA sample into Family Ties and was matched!!!! Her biological father has been found! Not only has he been found but he has welcomed her into his home and business with open arms.
Things begin to happen, small at first but then they grow more dangerous and as the tension and danger mounts, all fingers point at Hallie. Then she learns Robert Thompson is not her father.
I felt for Hallie as she tried to fit into the family and tried to prove her cooking abilities. Hallie is a likeable character that has not had an easy life. She is determined, flawed, vulnerable, smart, and impulsive. As the plot progresses, readers get to know the family members, observe their interactions and the supporting characters. With any book, there are both likeable and unlikeable ones.
I was drawn into the mystery of whodunit and as I mentioned I did my best to figure out whodunit. I enjoyed the many twists and turns along with the two reveals in the book. Very clever. Plus, as I mentioned, Hallie wrote to men named Robert Thompson, hoping to find her father and I enjoyed reading the few responses that she received in return. I thought this was a very nice touch.
There was an undercurrent of tension flowing throughout the book. I always love tension in books, so this was right up my alley. I also enjoyed the family dynamic and how each member reacted to the strange occurrences and mounting dread.
Well written, tense, intriguing and hard to put down!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
September 21, 2023
The Wrong Family is a slow burn that feels like a soapy lifetime drama. There are subtle twists and clues sprinkled throughout the winding plot. Mysterious events constantly occur that range from inconsequential to tragic. The big reveal was unexpected and wrapped up loose ends for a satisfying conclusion. Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy.
August 9, 2023
Can the act of wanting become damaging at some point?
We all want to belong, either to someone or something, and oftentimes that drive becomes all-consuming. It certainly did for orphaned Hallie Sherman. This resilient and determined, often homeless, young woman has a burgeoning desire to find her father. She’s never met him and her mother never discussed him. Nevertheless, just knowing who he is becomes Hallie’s quest.
“It’s important to understand where you come from. Who you come from. To know you belong. Don’t you think?”
In short, this book is about a girl who receives the results of her DNA test and discovers that her new family isn’t what she expected and now her life is in danger.
Be careful what you wish for, right?
Hallie comes to the realization that DNA technology is a double-edged sword: it can be used for good as well as evil. When she arrives in Incline Village to spend time with her father and his family, her initial fascination with their perceived perfection soon wanes as she starts to see signs of imperfection. The warning bells were ringing loud and clear.
“It felt therapeutic to find the evidence of imperfection.”
The star of this book is the ever-present sense of dread and the characterization. From the start, I was aware that something wasn’t quite right, but I didn’t know what. Kane managed to hook me and keep me reading until I discovered for myself what shocking secret Hallie had unearthed. I was glad for the lighting on my Kindle so that I could read this well past my bedtime and not irritate my husband with the bedroom light on! The characterization was stellar! I loved to hate the conniving “I never lose” Nat and loved trying to figure out what her brother was hiding. I didn’t see the twists coming!
This novel that explores how DNA technology is making it more difficult to get away with murder needs to be on every thriller lover's reading list!
I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
We all want to belong, either to someone or something, and oftentimes that drive becomes all-consuming. It certainly did for orphaned Hallie Sherman. This resilient and determined, often homeless, young woman has a burgeoning desire to find her father. She’s never met him and her mother never discussed him. Nevertheless, just knowing who he is becomes Hallie’s quest.
“It’s important to understand where you come from. Who you come from. To know you belong. Don’t you think?”
In short, this book is about a girl who receives the results of her DNA test and discovers that her new family isn’t what she expected and now her life is in danger.
Be careful what you wish for, right?
Hallie comes to the realization that DNA technology is a double-edged sword: it can be used for good as well as evil. When she arrives in Incline Village to spend time with her father and his family, her initial fascination with their perceived perfection soon wanes as she starts to see signs of imperfection. The warning bells were ringing loud and clear.
“It felt therapeutic to find the evidence of imperfection.”
The star of this book is the ever-present sense of dread and the characterization. From the start, I was aware that something wasn’t quite right, but I didn’t know what. Kane managed to hook me and keep me reading until I discovered for myself what shocking secret Hallie had unearthed. I was glad for the lighting on my Kindle so that I could read this well past my bedtime and not irritate my husband with the bedroom light on! The characterization was stellar! I loved to hate the conniving “I never lose” Nat and loved trying to figure out what her brother was hiding. I didn’t see the twists coming!
This novel that explores how DNA technology is making it more difficult to get away with murder needs to be on every thriller lover's reading list!
I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
August 11, 2023
The Wrong Family
By Ellery A. Kane
Pub Date: 30 Aug 2023
Bookouture General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers
Rating: 4.25/5
Ellery A. Kane's The Wrong Family's suspenseful plot, combined with unexpected twists, will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Kane's sharp writing style and intriguing characters drive the story forward and will have readers eagerly turning the pages to discover the secrets within.
There has been a lot of hardship in the life of Hallie Sherman. Through a genetic testing site called Family Ties, she has been trying to find her father after her mother passed away when she was young. Several years later, she receives an email stating she has a match. Hallie logs into the site to discover the match is her father. Hallie finally feels closure, knowing her search was successful and she can meet her family. She meets her biological father after many years and establishes a connection with him and his current family. Hallie's dream of becoming a chef starts to become a reality with this family and they open the door for her to start pursuing that dream. Now, her journey of self-discovery is complete and Hallie is ready to take on the world. But since Hallie arrived at her dad's house weird things keep happening and she always is connected in some way. Who, then, is behind the mysterious occurrences surrounding Hallie's newfound family? Could it be someone wanting to keep her and her father apart, or is it something far more sinister? How does she always find herself in the midst of conflict?
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for sharing this mysterious book with me. In my experience, reading Kane's books always entails a thrilling adventure.
#TheWrongFamily #ElleryAKane
@advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #bookmail #netgalleyapprovals #Netgalleyapproval @advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra
By Ellery A. Kane
Pub Date: 30 Aug 2023
Bookouture General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers
Rating: 4.25/5
Ellery A. Kane's The Wrong Family's suspenseful plot, combined with unexpected twists, will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Kane's sharp writing style and intriguing characters drive the story forward and will have readers eagerly turning the pages to discover the secrets within.
There has been a lot of hardship in the life of Hallie Sherman. Through a genetic testing site called Family Ties, she has been trying to find her father after her mother passed away when she was young. Several years later, she receives an email stating she has a match. Hallie logs into the site to discover the match is her father. Hallie finally feels closure, knowing her search was successful and she can meet her family. She meets her biological father after many years and establishes a connection with him and his current family. Hallie's dream of becoming a chef starts to become a reality with this family and they open the door for her to start pursuing that dream. Now, her journey of self-discovery is complete and Hallie is ready to take on the world. But since Hallie arrived at her dad's house weird things keep happening and she always is connected in some way. Who, then, is behind the mysterious occurrences surrounding Hallie's newfound family? Could it be someone wanting to keep her and her father apart, or is it something far more sinister? How does she always find herself in the midst of conflict?
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for sharing this mysterious book with me. In my experience, reading Kane's books always entails a thrilling adventure.
#TheWrongFamily #ElleryAKane
@advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #bookmail #netgalleyapprovals #Netgalleyapproval @advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra
September 11, 2023
The Wrong Family by Ellery Kane and Narrated by Madeline Pell
3.5 ⭐ rounded up
If you like family drama with a bit of mystery, this book may be for you. After reading the synopsis I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book as this genre is right up my alley. Ellery Kane starts us off with an exciting premise of finding your lost family, but nothing is as it seems.
Hallie has had a rough childhood, and never knew her father. So when her mother passes she sends in her DNA with the hopes of finding her Father. When that doesn't seem to get anywhere she looks up every Robert Thompson and sends them each a letter in hopes that someone will recognize her mother's name and submit a DNA sample
.
Her life is a mess, she loses her job, her apartment, and has no where else to go when suddenly she gets a match. Her new found father invites her to come and stay with him and his family for a few weeks so that they could get to know her. It seemed like the answer to all her problems so she excitedly accepts. Trying to fit in she paints herself into something she isn't, but Hallie isn't the only one keeping secrets. When things quickly take a turn, Hallie finds herself wondering what she has gotten herself into. None of these people are what they seem.
The Narration by Madeline Pell was wonderfully done and easy to listen to.
An enjoyable read that will keep you on your toes.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a review of the audiobook.
3.5 ⭐ rounded up
If you like family drama with a bit of mystery, this book may be for you. After reading the synopsis I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book as this genre is right up my alley. Ellery Kane starts us off with an exciting premise of finding your lost family, but nothing is as it seems.
Hallie has had a rough childhood, and never knew her father. So when her mother passes she sends in her DNA with the hopes of finding her Father. When that doesn't seem to get anywhere she looks up every Robert Thompson and sends them each a letter in hopes that someone will recognize her mother's name and submit a DNA sample
.
Her life is a mess, she loses her job, her apartment, and has no where else to go when suddenly she gets a match. Her new found father invites her to come and stay with him and his family for a few weeks so that they could get to know her. It seemed like the answer to all her problems so she excitedly accepts. Trying to fit in she paints herself into something she isn't, but Hallie isn't the only one keeping secrets. When things quickly take a turn, Hallie finds herself wondering what she has gotten herself into. None of these people are what they seem.
The Narration by Madeline Pell was wonderfully done and easy to listen to.
An enjoyable read that will keep you on your toes.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a review of the audiobook.
July 31, 2023
This was a quick, easy read with twists and mysterious happenings that keep you guessing throughout. I thought the incorporation of the letters from the different Robert Thompsons were a fun way to depict that aspect of Hallie’s journey to finding her father and I enjoyed reading the variety of stories and responses.
Overall, I did not particularly care for this book. I thought it was a bit boring and read like a YA novel. I also felt the scenes started to get repetitive (mostly going from the Thompson house to the Cerulean and back). I hoped for a bit more variety in both the scenes and characters.
I found the visual depictions of the environment to be lacking at times, especially during scene transitions which made it difficult for me to visualize the settings. For example, The Grotto is a place that came up multiple times but I didn’t feel like it was described well enough for me to actually visualize it.
My biggest issue with the book was that the description straight up tells you that Robert is not Hallie’s father. WHY? That was the biggest twist of the book, revealed near the end and in my opinion, the other twists and reveals weren’t strong or exciting enough to make up for this. I felt like I was reading a book that someone had spoiled for me. I didn’t see the need for it.
Also, I don’t feel like the description provided is an accurate summary of the book. I feel like it drew me in under this idea that Robert was a villain who was going to lure Hallie into his home under false pretenses then literally - as it says on the cover - trap her there. The description says Hallie received an email that made her blood run cold. Robert is not her father. I mean, I GUESS. Kind of, but not really. It makes it sound like Hallie is going to get an email from Family Ties letting her know that they are very sorry but there has been a mistake and Robert Thompson is not a paternal match. Then, she was going to have to play it cool as she tried to discover who the Thompson’s really are and make it out alive.
The reality was that Robert and the Thompsons were as warm and welcoming as Hallie could have ever hoped (almost — Natalie was pretty mean but you almost couldn’t blame her, they really didn’t know this girl and she was the only one who seemed to have a problem with that). Hallie was exposed by Natalie which made Robert double check what he thought he had done in good faith. They had both been swindled and both ended up hurt. Nothing about Robert or the family was sinister or nefarious as the cover and description implied. To me, it was really a story of a child’s desperation to belong. How the need to be loved and to feel the warmth of familial connections never fades with age (Hallie, “Jay,” Logan). The literal and figurative village. The lengths we’ll go for our family, both given and chosen. I don’t necessarily dislike that story line, but that’s not how this book was described.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Overall, I did not particularly care for this book. I thought it was a bit boring and read like a YA novel. I also felt the scenes started to get repetitive (mostly going from the Thompson house to the Cerulean and back). I hoped for a bit more variety in both the scenes and characters.
I found the visual depictions of the environment to be lacking at times, especially during scene transitions which made it difficult for me to visualize the settings. For example, The Grotto is a place that came up multiple times but I didn’t feel like it was described well enough for me to actually visualize it.
My biggest issue with the book was that the description straight up tells you that Robert is not Hallie’s father. WHY? That was the biggest twist of the book, revealed near the end and in my opinion, the other twists and reveals weren’t strong or exciting enough to make up for this. I felt like I was reading a book that someone had spoiled for me. I didn’t see the need for it.
Also, I don’t feel like the description provided is an accurate summary of the book. I feel like it drew me in under this idea that Robert was a villain who was going to lure Hallie into his home under false pretenses then literally - as it says on the cover - trap her there. The description says Hallie received an email that made her blood run cold. Robert is not her father. I mean, I GUESS. Kind of, but not really. It makes it sound like Hallie is going to get an email from Family Ties letting her know that they are very sorry but there has been a mistake and Robert Thompson is not a paternal match. Then, she was going to have to play it cool as she tried to discover who the Thompson’s really are and make it out alive.
The reality was that Robert and the Thompsons were as warm and welcoming as Hallie could have ever hoped (almost — Natalie was pretty mean but you almost couldn’t blame her, they really didn’t know this girl and she was the only one who seemed to have a problem with that). Hallie was exposed by Natalie which made Robert double check what he thought he had done in good faith. They had both been swindled and both ended up hurt. Nothing about Robert or the family was sinister or nefarious as the cover and description implied. To me, it was really a story of a child’s desperation to belong. How the need to be loved and to feel the warmth of familial connections never fades with age (Hallie, “Jay,” Logan). The literal and figurative village. The lengths we’ll go for our family, both given and chosen. I don’t necessarily dislike that story line, but that’s not how this book was described.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2023
This had all the elements of a well crafted thriller and I really enjoyed it. I particularly enjoyed the main character Hallie. I feel she was written in a realistic way and the choices she made did make a lot of sense given her history and current situation. I really liked her relationship with Nick and how they grew as friends throughout the book. I find thrillers can focus entirely on the shock of the plot and can lack in the areas of character development but this book was able to balance both well. I think the pacing of the plot (although slow by thriller standards) felt really good and was able to drop little twists to make the reader feel uneasy while building to the big reveal. The ending was a little bit predictable but I find that there are very few thrillers that blindside me anymore. One thing that I thought was absolutely great was the inclusion of the letter replies Hallie got. This wasn’t essential to the plot but it allowed the reader to breathe a little bit and have a little laugh here and there. The ending nicely wrapped everything up in a satisfying way leaving not many questions from the reader.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture publishing and Ellery A. Kane for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. The Wrong Family will be published on August 30th.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture publishing and Ellery A. Kane for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. The Wrong Family will be published on August 30th.
September 8, 2023
ARC audiobook provided in exchange for an honest review.
Madeline Pell does a great job with the narration on this book! So good in fact I thought there much have been different narrators at some points! The story itself focuses around a young woman who meets her father for the first time after submitting her DNA to a familial site. She goes to stay with him and his family in Lake Tahoe for a few weeks to get to know them and crazy things start happening not long after she arrives. There were lots of twists, many I didn’t see coming! I would recommend to anyone who likes thrillers and mysteries!
Madeline Pell does a great job with the narration on this book! So good in fact I thought there much have been different narrators at some points! The story itself focuses around a young woman who meets her father for the first time after submitting her DNA to a familial site. She goes to stay with him and his family in Lake Tahoe for a few weeks to get to know them and crazy things start happening not long after she arrives. There were lots of twists, many I didn’t see coming! I would recommend to anyone who likes thrillers and mysteries!
August 13, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book read more like a contemporary than like a thriller. There were several moments in which I forgot this was supposed to be a thriller instead of a contemporary.
None of the characters were likeable not even the MC. The twist about her at the end wasn't even that impactful. The big reveal that Robert was not really her dad was prematurely revealed in the blurb, I agree with other readers on that front. Had it not been revealed so early to the reader that that would happen it would have been a crazy/enjoyable twist 80% of the way in.
I really appreciated the addition of all the responses all of the Robert Thompsons sent back to the MC interspersed between chapters. I thought it was a clever way to tie that aspect of the plot into the story and was a very realistic depiction of the vast variety of responses you would get by sending the same letter to a bunch of random people with the same name. That part was very creative and well done.
The way that everything was revealed by the end was very cartoon villany-like which made me take it much less seriously than I should have. I do however, appreciate the revealed identity of the one pulling the strings behind the scenes the whole time. I actually suspected it when the character was first introduced to us but then I quickly dismissed my theory for some reasons until it was revealed I got it right all along.
I do however agree with other readers in that the blurb was misleading for making it seem like the scary villains were the family she started living with/ her new dad when that wasn't really the case besides the catty selfish little sister she inherited. Another way the blurb was misleading was the way it explained the MC found out about this not being her real dad. The blurb said she got an email from Family Ties saying they made a mistake with the DNA reading and this person was not actually her father. I was highly anticipating the dread the MC would feel upon reading this and then uncovering what this man/family really wants from her. However that was a lie, the way the MC found out was her fake father insisted on calling Family Ties in front of her to confirm that they are in fact DNA relatives only to find out that the notifications they received about their DNA relation was fake. This was an extremely anti-climactic way to reveal the truth to the characters not to mention in direct contradiction with what the synopsis claimed happened. I would highly recommend that before this releases at the end of August the author/editor changes the blurb to more accurately depict what goes on in the story as many readers (like myself) will feel very misled which is never good.
All in all I was kind of bored after the exposition of the story because of the repetitive nature of the story with the only two settings in the story being the restaurant the father owns and the father's house. Some more diversity in the setting would have been greatly appreciated and would have broken up the monotony of the routine of the scenes. It felt like every day life wake up do the same thing you did yesterday then go to bed and repeat it all again tomorrow. I read books to get away from the monotonous routine of life not to have more of it. This was a big part of the reason I wasn't able to fully immerse myself into the story as well as the lack of a likeable character in the story.
This book read more like a contemporary than like a thriller. There were several moments in which I forgot this was supposed to be a thriller instead of a contemporary.
None of the characters were likeable not even the MC. The twist about her at the end wasn't even that impactful. The big reveal that Robert was not really her dad was prematurely revealed in the blurb, I agree with other readers on that front. Had it not been revealed so early to the reader that that would happen it would have been a crazy/enjoyable twist 80% of the way in.
I really appreciated the addition of all the responses all of the Robert Thompsons sent back to the MC interspersed between chapters. I thought it was a clever way to tie that aspect of the plot into the story and was a very realistic depiction of the vast variety of responses you would get by sending the same letter to a bunch of random people with the same name. That part was very creative and well done.
The way that everything was revealed by the end was very cartoon villany-like which made me take it much less seriously than I should have. I do however, appreciate the revealed identity of the one pulling the strings behind the scenes the whole time. I actually suspected it when the character was first introduced to us but then I quickly dismissed my theory for some reasons until it was revealed I got it right all along.
I do however agree with other readers in that the blurb was misleading for making it seem like the scary villains were the family she started living with/ her new dad when that wasn't really the case besides the catty selfish little sister she inherited. Another way the blurb was misleading was the way it explained the MC found out about this not being her real dad. The blurb said she got an email from Family Ties saying they made a mistake with the DNA reading and this person was not actually her father. I was highly anticipating the dread the MC would feel upon reading this and then uncovering what this man/family really wants from her. However that was a lie, the way the MC found out was her fake father insisted on calling Family Ties in front of her to confirm that they are in fact DNA relatives only to find out that the notifications they received about their DNA relation was fake. This was an extremely anti-climactic way to reveal the truth to the characters not to mention in direct contradiction with what the synopsis claimed happened. I would highly recommend that before this releases at the end of August the author/editor changes the blurb to more accurately depict what goes on in the story as many readers (like myself) will feel very misled which is never good.
All in all I was kind of bored after the exposition of the story because of the repetitive nature of the story with the only two settings in the story being the restaurant the father owns and the father's house. Some more diversity in the setting would have been greatly appreciated and would have broken up the monotony of the routine of the scenes. It felt like every day life wake up do the same thing you did yesterday then go to bed and repeat it all again tomorrow. I read books to get away from the monotonous routine of life not to have more of it. This was a big part of the reason I wasn't able to fully immerse myself into the story as well as the lack of a likeable character in the story.
September 3, 2023
The Wrong Family is a gripping domestic thriller that had me intrigued from the very beginning. I did find this to be a slow burn of a read for the first half. However the second half went at a much faster pace. I really enjoyed the build up at the start, getting to know the characters. I was suspicious of everyone as the author slowly drip feeds you information about thr characters. This is one of those great reads where I has absolutely no clue who was telling the truth. The letters that were dispersed through the story were an excellent addition to the book and I loved reading them. 4⭐️
February 23, 2024
If you like messy family drama's then this is the book for you.
Ellery A. Kane's The Wrong Family is filled with suspense and a whole lot of twists.
Kane's characters are what makes this story so captivating that it is hard to put down.
A definite recommend
Ellery A. Kane's The Wrong Family is filled with suspense and a whole lot of twists.
Kane's characters are what makes this story so captivating that it is hard to put down.
A definite recommend
August 25, 2023
Great read!
This book keeps you on your toes. It’s hard to know who are the bad guys out of all the characters. Lots of twists and turns.
I would definitely recommend it 4.5stars.
This book keeps you on your toes. It’s hard to know who are the bad guys out of all the characters. Lots of twists and turns.
I would definitely recommend it 4.5stars.
July 24, 2023
Hallie Sherman has been trying to find the father she never knew, sending letters to every Robert Thompson in the Pacific Northwest and sending her DNA to the Family Ties genealogy website. When she gets an email with a first-degree paternal match, she’s elated – she’s finally found her dad. When he invites her to join his family at their Lake Tahoe home, the offer couldn’t have come at a better time for the down-on-her-luck young waitress. Although her new siblings aren’t enthused, Robert and his wife Shelly are warm and welcoming, and Hallie feels hopeful that she could become part of the Thompson family. But no sooner has she arrived than things start going terribly wrong, and people are becoming suspicious of Hallie’s intentions.
This was my first Ellery Kane book and I really enjoyed it! Hallie is an appealing main character, flawed but likeable. Her desperation for a better life and a family of her own are understandable, even when she makes questionable choices to get there. The writing is wonderfully descriptive, and I could easily envision the beautiful, exposed beam lake house and could almost taste the delicious recipes the Hallie whipped up. The eerie happenings surrounding the Thompson family gradually ramp up as Hallie gets drawn further into a dangerous web she doesn’t understand. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me an advance copy of this book.
This was my first Ellery Kane book and I really enjoyed it! Hallie is an appealing main character, flawed but likeable. Her desperation for a better life and a family of her own are understandable, even when she makes questionable choices to get there. The writing is wonderfully descriptive, and I could easily envision the beautiful, exposed beam lake house and could almost taste the delicious recipes the Hallie whipped up. The eerie happenings surrounding the Thompson family gradually ramp up as Hallie gets drawn further into a dangerous web she doesn’t understand. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me an advance copy of this book.
September 14, 2023
This book had so many subplots but they all tied nicely and didn’t feel like a distraction from the main plot, Hallie and her newly found father.
I really felt like this was written nicely and the structure is very well done, I was expecting a standard popcorn thriller but definitely got way more than I bargained for!
This is a good introduction to full on mystery-thrillers for fans of cozy mysteries, it has the elements of found family and food that are so unique within one, but the elements of suspense and chills are still there.
Certifiably on the look out for more books from Ellery Kane.
I really felt like this was written nicely and the structure is very well done, I was expecting a standard popcorn thriller but definitely got way more than I bargained for!
This is a good introduction to full on mystery-thrillers for fans of cozy mysteries, it has the elements of found family and food that are so unique within one, but the elements of suspense and chills are still there.
Certifiably on the look out for more books from Ellery Kane.
August 9, 2023
Thanks to netgalley and Bookouture for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Oh well, what a ride ! I didn't see the twist coming at all !! I found the replies from her request so fun sometimes haha, I'm still think of a few of them. I loved how it ended, except that I wanted her to open that mail. Haha, can't have everything, right ? I'm thinking maybe there'll be a second book to reveal that ?
Oh well, what a ride ! I didn't see the twist coming at all !! I found the replies from her request so fun sometimes haha, I'm still think of a few of them. I loved how it ended, except that I wanted her to open that mail. Haha, can't have everything, right ? I'm thinking maybe there'll be a second book to reveal that ?
July 22, 2023
#TheWrongFamily #NetGalley is an amazing thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Hallie just wants to meet her father. She lost her mother at an early age, was put into the foster care system, and has struggled ever since.
When the DNA agency Family Ties emails her that she's matched to another client, she's nervous but excited.
Fast forward to the meeting, the invite to his family home, then the whirlwind of destruction that erupts after all the lies are uncovered.
This book is fantastic! The characters, the storyline, it all worked so well together and created an unbelievable world, where things aren't always what they appear to be.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Hallie just wants to meet her father. She lost her mother at an early age, was put into the foster care system, and has struggled ever since.
When the DNA agency Family Ties emails her that she's matched to another client, she's nervous but excited.
Fast forward to the meeting, the invite to his family home, then the whirlwind of destruction that erupts after all the lies are uncovered.
This book is fantastic! The characters, the storyline, it all worked so well together and created an unbelievable world, where things aren't always what they appear to be.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
July 29, 2023
I really enjoyed this book and could not put it down. The author did a perfect job developing the characters in my opinion. The flow of the story was just enough to keep you engaged and and although it felt like there was a lot going on in the story, it was easy to follow! More times than not I find myself figuring out the ending early on, but I missed it and didn’t see the twist at the end coming! Add this to your list! Publishing date is Aug 30th!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an e-ARC!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an e-ARC!
September 3, 2023
For allllllll that buildup, THAT was the ending??
Like okay, the story kept me guessing because it could have ended in so many different ways, but the ending wasn’t worth it to me 😭
How 2 months after this man pointed a gun at her chest is she saying he’s not a threat?! Sister, he just tried to k*ll you and another “family member” tried to frame you for murder and you’re talking about the color of the sky at the end of the book? BYE.
Like okay, the story kept me guessing because it could have ended in so many different ways, but the ending wasn’t worth it to me 😭
How 2 months after this man pointed a gun at her chest is she saying he’s not a threat?! Sister, he just tried to k*ll you and another “family member” tried to frame you for murder and you’re talking about the color of the sky at the end of the book? BYE.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2023
4⭐️! This was an arc from NetGalley that comes out on August 30th!
I did overall enjoy this book! It’s marketed as a thriller, which it does have some, but I think it’s also a family drama. The plot immediately interested me, which is why I requested it. I have never read anything by this author or heard or them, but I’m glad I took the chance.
I will say my one complaint is that this book was a little slow moving. While I was enjoying the story, I wasn’t fully invested until about 200 pages in. I wish there was a little more action or twists before this. But once it started to get good, I flew through the last 100 pages! I also don’t love cooking, so there was just a little too much of that for me in this, but that’s a personal thing to me!
I didn’t see the big twist coming! I like when a thriller can throw me for a loop. I liked that it wasn’t a very unbelievable twist either. Then there was a couple other twists after this. I really enjoyed the inclusion of the emails from all the Roberts, I think it was done really well. The emails were short, and added to the story.
But I will say I couldn’t not stand Natalie!! My god she was making me want to pull my hair out every time she spoke or talked about her followers.
Loved the little romance with Nick! I wish we got more on that. I also wish at the very end it didn’t leave on a cliffhanger. I want to know what it said!!!
But overall I did enjoy this book and do recommend it! This comes out on august 30th!
Edit to add: this does kind of feel more like a YA novel even though the main character is 28. So just a heads up if you might not like that!
I did overall enjoy this book! It’s marketed as a thriller, which it does have some, but I think it’s also a family drama. The plot immediately interested me, which is why I requested it. I have never read anything by this author or heard or them, but I’m glad I took the chance.
I will say my one complaint is that this book was a little slow moving. While I was enjoying the story, I wasn’t fully invested until about 200 pages in. I wish there was a little more action or twists before this. But once it started to get good, I flew through the last 100 pages! I also don’t love cooking, so there was just a little too much of that for me in this, but that’s a personal thing to me!
I didn’t see the big twist coming! I like when a thriller can throw me for a loop. I liked that it wasn’t a very unbelievable twist either. Then there was a couple other twists after this. I really enjoyed the inclusion of the emails from all the Roberts, I think it was done really well. The emails were short, and added to the story.
But I will say I couldn’t not stand Natalie!! My god she was making me want to pull my hair out every time she spoke or talked about her followers.
Loved the little romance with Nick! I wish we got more on that. I also wish at the very end it didn’t leave on a cliffhanger. I want to know what it said!!!
But overall I did enjoy this book and do recommend it! This comes out on august 30th!
Edit to add: this does kind of feel more like a YA novel even though the main character is 28. So just a heads up if you might not like that!
September 11, 2023
When a DNA site puts Hallie in touch with the father she's never known, she's thrilled to immerse herself into his world. But since she meets his family, strange things start to happen.
Wow this book was so captivating! I listened to the audiobook and was hooked as I listened and found everything I thought to be true, completely not! There were twists aplenty in this one and I was all in for it. Great narration and very addictive!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Wow this book was so captivating! I listened to the audiobook and was hooked as I listened and found everything I thought to be true, completely not! There were twists aplenty in this one and I was all in for it. Great narration and very addictive!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this ALC in exchange for my honest review.
August 30, 2023
This was a great read! I wasn't expecting the ending and the story moved at a good pace. I like how unique the premise is and that it isn't a typical thriller, it's unique. I would recommend this to those that enjoy thrillers. Special Thank You to Ellery A Kane, Bookouture, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy prior to publication in exchange for an honest review.
September 7, 2023
Thanks to #NetGalley and #Bookouture for the ARC of #TheWrongFamily by #ElleryKane. This book kept me guessing to the very end. I loved the relationships, the banter, and the jealousy this book out out. This was a new author for me and I plan on reading more by Ellery. Highly recommend.
https://www.instagram.com/thrillology...
https://www.instagram.com/thrillology...
September 4, 2023
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.I read Watch Her Vanish and Her Perfect Bones and so Ellery Kane's newest release, The Wrong Family, piqued my curiosity. The suspense, engaging storyline, plot twists and interesting characters will have readers glued to the pages as they attempt to unravel the secrets of the Thompson family.
The Wrong Family tells the story of Hallie Sherman. Since losing her mom at the tender age of nine, Hallie has been in and out of several foster homes. During this time, the life she lived was plagued with one misfortune after the other. During this time, she searches for the man who sired her. In doing so, she engaged the services of an ancestry/genetic testing company, Family Ties. Now at the age of twenty-eight, her search bore fruit. One of the many Robert Thompson's responded, indicating he was a match. However, on her arrival in the Thompson's home, weird things start happening. For some reason, these events always lead back to her. She now needs to unravel the mystery behind the events, before it's too late.
Hallie was a flawed but likeable character. However, the same can't be said of most of the secondary characters. Not only were they flawed, bur they were also rotten to the core. One cannot help but feel empathy for Hallie. Having endured so much pain and loss, she is trying to find a place where she fits in. She believes the Thompson's could provide her with all she had missed out on growing up.
Although the pacing was not as one would expect from a thriller, the suspense on the pages made it a riveting read. Also trying to figure out the source of the strange events along with the family secrets aided in making this a page turner. It was interesting seeing how the series of events leading up to the shocking revelation played out. I had an inkling regarding a particular character and their role in the weird events. However, I never expected the shocking reveal regarding their identity.
Overall, an intriguing read which ended on a satisfying note with justice served. I wholeheartedly recommend The Wrong Family to readers who enjoy psychological thrillers.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
The Wrong Family tells the story of Hallie Sherman. Since losing her mom at the tender age of nine, Hallie has been in and out of several foster homes. During this time, the life she lived was plagued with one misfortune after the other. During this time, she searches for the man who sired her. In doing so, she engaged the services of an ancestry/genetic testing company, Family Ties. Now at the age of twenty-eight, her search bore fruit. One of the many Robert Thompson's responded, indicating he was a match. However, on her arrival in the Thompson's home, weird things start happening. For some reason, these events always lead back to her. She now needs to unravel the mystery behind the events, before it's too late.
Hallie was a flawed but likeable character. However, the same can't be said of most of the secondary characters. Not only were they flawed, bur they were also rotten to the core. One cannot help but feel empathy for Hallie. Having endured so much pain and loss, she is trying to find a place where she fits in. She believes the Thompson's could provide her with all she had missed out on growing up.
Although the pacing was not as one would expect from a thriller, the suspense on the pages made it a riveting read. Also trying to figure out the source of the strange events along with the family secrets aided in making this a page turner. It was interesting seeing how the series of events leading up to the shocking revelation played out. I had an inkling regarding a particular character and their role in the weird events. However, I never expected the shocking reveal regarding their identity.
Overall, an intriguing read which ended on a satisfying note with justice served. I wholeheartedly recommend The Wrong Family to readers who enjoy psychological thrillers.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
September 10, 2023
The Wrong Family is about loss, growing up in foster care, surviving, and using DNA to find your father.
Hallie Sherman lost her mother at 9 years old and has been in and out of several foster homes since. During her life she’s been plagued with one misfortune after another. Her mother never told her who her father was, just that he left them and how awful he was. At 28, she makes the decision to find her father by using genetic testing, with a company called Family Ties. It lets her know her fathers name is Robert Thompson and not much else, so she decides to write to every Robert Thompson who could possibly have fathered her and hopes to receive a response. One day Hallie and Robert receives an email from Family Ties that they are a match. They talk and he decides to invite her to stay with him and his family for 2 weeks at their Lake Tahoe home so they can get to know each other.
On her arrival to the Thompson’s home, weird things start to happen. She finds a family photo that was partially burned at a recently put out fire pit. Next, the tires on Robert’s truck are slashed. A family photo is slashed and the same day her mother’s pearls, the gun she found in the closet, and all her money go missing. She tries to dismiss the events as strange coincidences…but they always seem to point to her.
Hallie knew she wasn’t perfect and had made a lot of mistakes, but I felt like she was constantly trying to redeem herself, find some place where she can fit in, she just didn’t really know how. She wanted so badly to be part of a family and to know what’s it’s like to have a dad. I really enjoyed this story and what was going to happen, I wouldn’t consider it a thriller. More of a dysfunctional family full of secrets, with everything coming to the surface and unfortunately Hallie is in the middle. I enjoyed “watching” everything unfold. Thank you to Bookoutre and NetGalley for letting me read this ARC for my honest review. I give this book 3.5 stars
Hallie Sherman lost her mother at 9 years old and has been in and out of several foster homes since. During her life she’s been plagued with one misfortune after another. Her mother never told her who her father was, just that he left them and how awful he was. At 28, she makes the decision to find her father by using genetic testing, with a company called Family Ties. It lets her know her fathers name is Robert Thompson and not much else, so she decides to write to every Robert Thompson who could possibly have fathered her and hopes to receive a response. One day Hallie and Robert receives an email from Family Ties that they are a match. They talk and he decides to invite her to stay with him and his family for 2 weeks at their Lake Tahoe home so they can get to know each other.
On her arrival to the Thompson’s home, weird things start to happen. She finds a family photo that was partially burned at a recently put out fire pit. Next, the tires on Robert’s truck are slashed. A family photo is slashed and the same day her mother’s pearls, the gun she found in the closet, and all her money go missing. She tries to dismiss the events as strange coincidences…but they always seem to point to her.
Hallie knew she wasn’t perfect and had made a lot of mistakes, but I felt like she was constantly trying to redeem herself, find some place where she can fit in, she just didn’t really know how. She wanted so badly to be part of a family and to know what’s it’s like to have a dad. I really enjoyed this story and what was going to happen, I wouldn’t consider it a thriller. More of a dysfunctional family full of secrets, with everything coming to the surface and unfortunately Hallie is in the middle. I enjoyed “watching” everything unfold. Thank you to Bookoutre and NetGalley for letting me read this ARC for my honest review. I give this book 3.5 stars
August 7, 2023
The story revolves around a web of secrets, as the characters desperately try to bury their pasts. Hallie embarks on a quest to find her long-lost father, diligently sending letters to every Robert Thompson within the correct age range. When she receives notification from Family Ties that they have found a potential match, she eagerly accepts their invitation to visit. As Hallie becomes involved in the family business, she forms a bond with Nick, the talented chef at the family's restaurant by Lake Tahoe. However, trust becomes elusive in a world filled with hidden truths.
Thrillers often prioritize shocking plot twists, sometimes neglecting well-developed characters. However, "The Wrong Family" strikes a perfect balance between the two. Despite its slower pace compared to typical thrillers, the story effectively builds suspense with clever twists, leaving readers on edge until the final reveal. While the ending may be somewhat predictable, it still captivates the reader's attention. Additionally, the inclusion of Hallie's letter responses adds a delightful touch, providing moments of levity amidst the tension.
I found this book less engaging, as it felt somewhat monotonous and reminiscent of young adult novels. The repetition of scenes, particularly between the Thompson house and the Cerulean, became tiresome, leaving me longing for greater diversity in both settings and characters.
Although the plot may be convoluted and less believable, "The Wrong Family" remains an enjoyable read. The characters may lack depth, and their lives may not entirely resonate with reality. Despite these shortcomings, I continued reading with a burning curiosity to see how it all unfolds. The resolution, while not entirely convincing, tied up loose ends.
Overall, I recommend approaching this book with a grain of salt, as it offers a decent escapade into the world of psychological thrillers.
Thrillers often prioritize shocking plot twists, sometimes neglecting well-developed characters. However, "The Wrong Family" strikes a perfect balance between the two. Despite its slower pace compared to typical thrillers, the story effectively builds suspense with clever twists, leaving readers on edge until the final reveal. While the ending may be somewhat predictable, it still captivates the reader's attention. Additionally, the inclusion of Hallie's letter responses adds a delightful touch, providing moments of levity amidst the tension.
I found this book less engaging, as it felt somewhat monotonous and reminiscent of young adult novels. The repetition of scenes, particularly between the Thompson house and the Cerulean, became tiresome, leaving me longing for greater diversity in both settings and characters.
Although the plot may be convoluted and less believable, "The Wrong Family" remains an enjoyable read. The characters may lack depth, and their lives may not entirely resonate with reality. Despite these shortcomings, I continued reading with a burning curiosity to see how it all unfolds. The resolution, while not entirely convincing, tied up loose ends.
Overall, I recommend approaching this book with a grain of salt, as it offers a decent escapade into the world of psychological thrillers.
December 7, 2023
Hallie Sherman is on a mission to find her father, and when she receives an email from DNA testing site Family Ties alerting her that she has a match, she is shocked to think she’s finally found him. When her father reaches out and invites her to spend the summer with his family in Lake Tahoe, she is excited and nervous to meet the family she never had. But her excitement soon turns to trepidation as she starts to uncover secrets this family had hoped would stay buried. In turn, her own secrets are threatening to spill, the longer she sticks around.
I initially noticed this book because I am a Sacramento native who spent her summers in Tahoe. It is always fun to see familiar locations mentioned!
The first half or so of the book was very slow and it was hard for me to decide if I cared what happened to any of the characters. Even Hallie is not always likable so I couldn’t decide if I was rooting for her.
The story eventually picked up and I really wanted to unwrap the mystery. I’ll give it credit for keeping me up late one night! Some of the reveals were predictable, and the way the author set up the exposition portion of the book, where everyone revealed their secrets, was a bit contrived to me.
Overall, it’s decent. It’s not a thriller, but it is a mystery that will have you curious. You might be a little disappointed by the destination, but the journey may at least be fun!
I initially noticed this book because I am a Sacramento native who spent her summers in Tahoe. It is always fun to see familiar locations mentioned!
The first half or so of the book was very slow and it was hard for me to decide if I cared what happened to any of the characters. Even Hallie is not always likable so I couldn’t decide if I was rooting for her.
The story eventually picked up and I really wanted to unwrap the mystery. I’ll give it credit for keeping me up late one night! Some of the reveals were predictable, and the way the author set up the exposition portion of the book, where everyone revealed their secrets, was a bit contrived to me.
Overall, it’s decent. It’s not a thriller, but it is a mystery that will have you curious. You might be a little disappointed by the destination, but the journey may at least be fun!
August 15, 2023
Oh if you know me, you know I LOVE Rich People Family Drama, throw in a murder and you got me hooked. So. when I read the tag line for this book I knew I was going to inhale it. And inhale it indeed I did.
This was my first Ellery Kane novel and I will most certainly be checking out her backlist (I hope she has a long one!) because she is great at building character, developing the plot and creating intrigue. Each page was full of tension and the characters all seemed "believable". Some thriller/mystery writers overdo certain aspects, but I honestly can say they felt real. Another part of her writing that made me like her style was, after a longer intense chapter or deep plot twist she would throw in some random emails from other "Robert Thompsons" I loved this mental break it provided for me as the reader. It also showed creativity Kane had for coming up with plausible reasons that the fakes were not indeed the MC's father.What was most enjoyable was I did not trust one single character. I had no idea who was behind all the craziness that was tearing the Thompson family apart.
The ending had some unresolved questions that I think I would have liked to have been addressed, but overall it was satisfying. The ending will leave you with questions that I guess you could debate at your book club if you chose to read this with others.
Very easy to read book, that kept my attention the whole time. Bonus a great ending!
Thank you Net Galley for this advanced copy read of The Wrong Family. I was not influenced or paid for my honest review of this book.
This was my first Ellery Kane novel and I will most certainly be checking out her backlist (I hope she has a long one!) because she is great at building character, developing the plot and creating intrigue. Each page was full of tension and the characters all seemed "believable". Some thriller/mystery writers overdo certain aspects, but I honestly can say they felt real. Another part of her writing that made me like her style was, after a longer intense chapter or deep plot twist she would throw in some random emails from other "Robert Thompsons" I loved this mental break it provided for me as the reader. It also showed creativity Kane had for coming up with plausible reasons that the fakes were not indeed the MC's father.What was most enjoyable was I did not trust one single character. I had no idea who was behind all the craziness that was tearing the Thompson family apart.
The ending had some unresolved questions that I think I would have liked to have been addressed, but overall it was satisfying. The ending will leave you with questions that I guess you could debate at your book club if you chose to read this with others.
Very easy to read book, that kept my attention the whole time. Bonus a great ending!
Thank you Net Galley for this advanced copy read of The Wrong Family. I was not influenced or paid for my honest review of this book.
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