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Sisterhood #2
Payback
Some Women Get Angry. . . The Sisterhood Gets Even.
Meet the Sisterhood--seven very different women who found one another in their darkest days and formed an indelible friendship, strong enough to heal their pasts and bring laughter and joy back into their lives. In Myra Rutledge's beautiful, Virginia home, amid hugs and fresh iced tea, shrimp fritters and shell-pink tulips, the friends have gathered to embark on their second mission of sweet revenge for one of their own. Julia Webster's husband, a U.S. Senator, has used his wife's graciousness and elegance to advance his career even as he's abused her trust at every turn and left her dreams for the future in tatters. Now, on the eve of his greatest political victory, he's about to learn a serious lesson in payback. Because the senator crossed the wrong woman. . .and there are six more where she came from. . .
Meet the Sisterhood--seven very different women who found one another in their darkest days and formed an indelible friendship, strong enough to heal their pasts and bring laughter and joy back into their lives. In Myra Rutledge's beautiful, Virginia home, amid hugs and fresh iced tea, shrimp fritters and shell-pink tulips, the friends have gathered to embark on their second mission of sweet revenge for one of their own. Julia Webster's husband, a U.S. Senator, has used his wife's graciousness and elegance to advance his career even as he's abused her trust at every turn and left her dreams for the future in tatters. Now, on the eve of his greatest political victory, he's about to learn a serious lesson in payback. Because the senator crossed the wrong woman. . .and there are six more where she came from. . .
317 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
2284 people are currently reading
4305 people want to read
About the author
Fern Michaels
424 books6,514 followersFern Michaels isn’t a person. I’m not sure she’s an entity either since an entity is something with separate existence. Fern Michaels® is what I DO. Me, Mary Ruth Kuczkir. Growing up in Hastings, Pennsylvania, I was called Ruth. I became Mary when I entered the business world where first names were the order of the day. To this day, family and friends call me Dink, a name my father gave me when I was born because according to him I was ‘a dinky little thing’ weighing in at four and a half pounds. However, I answer to Fern since people are more comfortable with a name they can pronounce.
As they say, the past is prologue. I grew up, got a job, got married, had five kids. When my youngest went off to Kindergarten, my husband told me to get off my ass and get a job. Those were his exact words. I didn’t know how to do anything except be a wife and mother. I was also a voracious reader having cut my teeth on The Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys, Cherry Ames and the like. The library was a magical place for me. It still is to this day. Rather than face the outside world with no skills, I decided to write a book. For some reason that didn’t intimidate me. As my husband said at the time, stupid is as stupid does. Guess what, I don’t have that husband any more. Guess what else! I wrote 99 books, most of them New York Times Best Sellers.
Moving right along here . . . Several years ago I left Ballantine Books, parted company with my agent, sold my house in New Jersey that I had lived in all my married life and in 1993 moved to South Carolina. I figured if I was going to go through trauma let it be all at one time. It was a breeze. The kids were all on their own at that point. The dump was a 300 year old plantation house that is listed in the National Registry that I remodeled. Today it is beyond belief as are the gardens and the equally old Angel Oaks that drip Spanish moss. Unfortunately, I could not get my ghost to relocate. This ghost has been documented by previous owners. Mary Margaret as we call her, is “a friendly”. She is also mischievous. It took me two weeks to figure out that she didn’t like my coffee cups. They would slide off the table or counter or else they’d break in the dishwasher. I bought red checkered ones. All are intact as of this writing. She moves pillows from one room to the other and she stops all the clocks in the house at 9:10 in the a.m. at least once a week. When the Azaleas are in bloom, and only then, I find blooms on my night stand. I have this glorious front porch and during the warm months I see my swing moving early in the morning when the air is still and again late in the day. She doesn’t spook the dogs. I always know when she’s around because the five of them line up and look like they’re at a tennis match. As of this writing we’re co-habiting nicely.
Most writers love what they do and I’m no exception. I love it when I get a germ of an idea and get it down on paper. I love breathing life into my characters. I love writing about women who persevere and prevail because that’s what I had to do to get to this point in time. It’s another way of saying it doesn’t matter where you’ve been, what matters is where you’re going and how you get there. The day I finally prevailed was the day I was inducted into the New Jersey Literary Hall of Fame. For me it was an awesome day and there are no words to describe it.
I’ve been telling stories and scribbling for 37 years. I hope I can continue for another 37 years. It wasn’t easy during some of those years. As I said, I had to persevere. My old Polish grandmother said something to me when I was little that I never forgot. She said when God is good to you, you have to give back. For a while I didn’t know how to do that. When I finally figured it out I set up The Fern Michaels® Foundation.
READ FERN MICHAELS' FULL BIOGRAPHY HERE: http://www.fernmichaels.com/biography/
As they say, the past is prologue. I grew up, got a job, got married, had five kids. When my youngest went off to Kindergarten, my husband told me to get off my ass and get a job. Those were his exact words. I didn’t know how to do anything except be a wife and mother. I was also a voracious reader having cut my teeth on The Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys, Cherry Ames and the like. The library was a magical place for me. It still is to this day. Rather than face the outside world with no skills, I decided to write a book. For some reason that didn’t intimidate me. As my husband said at the time, stupid is as stupid does. Guess what, I don’t have that husband any more. Guess what else! I wrote 99 books, most of them New York Times Best Sellers.
Moving right along here . . . Several years ago I left Ballantine Books, parted company with my agent, sold my house in New Jersey that I had lived in all my married life and in 1993 moved to South Carolina. I figured if I was going to go through trauma let it be all at one time. It was a breeze. The kids were all on their own at that point. The dump was a 300 year old plantation house that is listed in the National Registry that I remodeled. Today it is beyond belief as are the gardens and the equally old Angel Oaks that drip Spanish moss. Unfortunately, I could not get my ghost to relocate. This ghost has been documented by previous owners. Mary Margaret as we call her, is “a friendly”. She is also mischievous. It took me two weeks to figure out that she didn’t like my coffee cups. They would slide off the table or counter or else they’d break in the dishwasher. I bought red checkered ones. All are intact as of this writing. She moves pillows from one room to the other and she stops all the clocks in the house at 9:10 in the a.m. at least once a week. When the Azaleas are in bloom, and only then, I find blooms on my night stand. I have this glorious front porch and during the warm months I see my swing moving early in the morning when the air is still and again late in the day. She doesn’t spook the dogs. I always know when she’s around because the five of them line up and look like they’re at a tennis match. As of this writing we’re co-habiting nicely.
Most writers love what they do and I’m no exception. I love it when I get a germ of an idea and get it down on paper. I love breathing life into my characters. I love writing about women who persevere and prevail because that’s what I had to do to get to this point in time. It’s another way of saying it doesn’t matter where you’ve been, what matters is where you’re going and how you get there. The day I finally prevailed was the day I was inducted into the New Jersey Literary Hall of Fame. For me it was an awesome day and there are no words to describe it.
I’ve been telling stories and scribbling for 37 years. I hope I can continue for another 37 years. It wasn’t easy during some of those years. As I said, I had to persevere. My old Polish grandmother said something to me when I was little that I never forgot. She said when God is good to you, you have to give back. For a while I didn’t know how to do that. When I finally figured it out I set up The Fern Michaels® Foundation.
READ FERN MICHAELS' FULL BIOGRAPHY HERE: http://www.fernmichaels.com/biography/
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 478 reviews
January 5, 2017
I'm hooked on this series because of the crazy characters. It is a light read with good, well thought out solutions to some peoples deplorable lack of moral scruples. No murder or gunfights just a good ole caper with a little humor mixed in. Some parts are a bit far fetched but it certainly adds to the adventure. Laural Merlington's excellent narrative brings life and timing to all of the characters personalities. Onto the next in the series, it's a nice, light way to start out the New Year.
April 26, 2017
"Vengeance is mine," saith the Lord but these seven ladies has taken it into their own hands. The first story in the series was great but this one seems to put them into a fantasy status. I don't know how I would react if my husband did something that deadly to me but the steps they took for payback is beyond measure. If they are truly going for payback, denigrating them is okay but to hypnotize and make them slaves in another country is truly unbelievable.
Another issue is the ADA, Jack Emery. He's suspicious of their activities and is willing to risk his job to catch them. Now he's been attacked by the President of the United States "goon squad" to the near point of death. The president has a gang? Oh my....
A fun read but highly unbelievable.....why it's called fiction!
Another issue is the ADA, Jack Emery. He's suspicious of their activities and is willing to risk his job to catch them. Now he's been attacked by the President of the United States "goon squad" to the near point of death. The president has a gang? Oh my....
A fun read but highly unbelievable.....why it's called fiction!
August 18, 2015
Payback by Fern Michaels is a 2005 Zebra publication.
Years ago, It was suggested to me that I might like this series. But, I was skeptical because at that time I was into really dark, gritty novels and looking at the book covers, this one as an example, with a white picket fence and red roses on it, I was sure it was too syrupy for me. But, when I received a copy of one the sisterhood novels as a gift a while back I thought- “Why not?”
As it turns out I really liked the book, and wanted to read the series from the beginning, but I doubt that will ever happen, so I will try to read one here and there where I can and as close to being in order as possible.
Payback reunites the ladies, and Charles, once more as they gather to help one of their own with a little 'payback'. In this case, Julia, a doctor and the wife of a prominent senator, discovers her husband is a philanderer and has given her HIV. So, she wants to be sure he pays for cutting her life short and she will start by casting doubts on his political future by making sure the press discovers his infidelity, but that's just for starters...
The story also continues the saga between Nikki and Jack as they begin living separate lives, despite still being in love, but Jack finds his prying into the sisterhood's activities has dire consequences. Still, Jack is a very stubborn man, so I doubt he has fully learned his lesson.
I enjoyed this one well enough, but certain parts of the plot puzzled me, like Julia insisting on keeping her diagnosis a secret from her husband. It seems to me that the longer she waited, the more likely he could infect someone else. The plot against the senator was vague and things moved too slowly for my taste, and there wasn't a lot of action or build up of suspense.
What sold this one for me was the drama between Nikki and Jack and his obsession with finding out what the ladies were up to, which led him into territory he never dreamed of.
I know there are books in this series that were a lot stronger than this one. But, it was nice to go back and read one of the older titles and get a little more background on the long running series.
Overall 3 stars
Years ago, It was suggested to me that I might like this series. But, I was skeptical because at that time I was into really dark, gritty novels and looking at the book covers, this one as an example, with a white picket fence and red roses on it, I was sure it was too syrupy for me. But, when I received a copy of one the sisterhood novels as a gift a while back I thought- “Why not?”
As it turns out I really liked the book, and wanted to read the series from the beginning, but I doubt that will ever happen, so I will try to read one here and there where I can and as close to being in order as possible.
Payback reunites the ladies, and Charles, once more as they gather to help one of their own with a little 'payback'. In this case, Julia, a doctor and the wife of a prominent senator, discovers her husband is a philanderer and has given her HIV. So, she wants to be sure he pays for cutting her life short and she will start by casting doubts on his political future by making sure the press discovers his infidelity, but that's just for starters...
The story also continues the saga between Nikki and Jack as they begin living separate lives, despite still being in love, but Jack finds his prying into the sisterhood's activities has dire consequences. Still, Jack is a very stubborn man, so I doubt he has fully learned his lesson.
I enjoyed this one well enough, but certain parts of the plot puzzled me, like Julia insisting on keeping her diagnosis a secret from her husband. It seems to me that the longer she waited, the more likely he could infect someone else. The plot against the senator was vague and things moved too slowly for my taste, and there wasn't a lot of action or build up of suspense.
What sold this one for me was the drama between Nikki and Jack and his obsession with finding out what the ladies were up to, which led him into territory he never dreamed of.
I know there are books in this series that were a lot stronger than this one. But, it was nice to go back and read one of the older titles and get a little more background on the long running series.
Overall 3 stars
March 19, 2022
Entertaining, emotional, spies, action…I enjoyed it.
July 6, 2020
I devoured this story immediately after I finished the previous one, which was the first in the series, which is about a group of seven women (aka The Sisterhood) who help one another get revenge on the people that have wronged them and gotten away with it. The first book was Kathryn's story, in which she was able to get revenge on three men who raped her seven years ago while her disabled husband watched helplessly.
This second book tells Julia's revenge story, in which she is able to repay her serially-cheating husband for giving her HIV and destroying her career as a surgeon. I 100% despised Julia's husband while I was reading this and it was delicious to read how the seven women worked together to make him pay for all of the harm he had caused their friend.
These Sisterhood books are light and easy to read, which is what I've been craving lately. They're revenge stories that require the suspension of disbelief. But they're so, so fun and so worth it. These women operate fully outside of the law at great cost to their "real" lives and "real" careers. They're completely loyal to one another, which is really refreshing to read. They all feel so deeply for one another because they have the shared experiences of feeling let down when they've had to pay dearly for the actions of other people. It feels like the more I read of these women, the more I like them. I keep buying up the books so I have them on hand when I want a FUN read. They are not perfect and they're a little outdated, but I'm still enjoying them immensely.
Audiobook Notes: I added the audio to my read again and while I enjoyed listening, there were a few things that annoyed me with the narration. I'm still really weirded out about how old the narrator makes some of the characters sound, even though they're only in their 60's. And for some reason, the narrator used a very Southern accent with one of the main characters, which was jarring. This story is set in Virginia, near Washington DC, so I wouldn't expect the characters to sound like me. (I have a deep drawl and twang.) I'm also somewhat enamored at the way the narrator reads the bad-guy Assistant District Attorney Jack-he has a total villain voice and it almost makes me giggle. At any rate, the fun I had with the story overshadowed these minor annoyances and I may even continue listening to the audiobooks as I breeze through this series.
Title: Payback by Fern Michaels
Series: The Sisterhood #2
Narrator: Laural Merlington
Length: 6 hours, 6 minutes, Unabridged
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
This second book tells Julia's revenge story, in which she is able to repay her serially-cheating husband for giving her HIV and destroying her career as a surgeon. I 100% despised Julia's husband while I was reading this and it was delicious to read how the seven women worked together to make him pay for all of the harm he had caused their friend.
These Sisterhood books are light and easy to read, which is what I've been craving lately. They're revenge stories that require the suspension of disbelief. But they're so, so fun and so worth it. These women operate fully outside of the law at great cost to their "real" lives and "real" careers. They're completely loyal to one another, which is really refreshing to read. They all feel so deeply for one another because they have the shared experiences of feeling let down when they've had to pay dearly for the actions of other people. It feels like the more I read of these women, the more I like them. I keep buying up the books so I have them on hand when I want a FUN read. They are not perfect and they're a little outdated, but I'm still enjoying them immensely.
Audiobook Notes: I added the audio to my read again and while I enjoyed listening, there were a few things that annoyed me with the narration. I'm still really weirded out about how old the narrator makes some of the characters sound, even though they're only in their 60's. And for some reason, the narrator used a very Southern accent with one of the main characters, which was jarring. This story is set in Virginia, near Washington DC, so I wouldn't expect the characters to sound like me. (I have a deep drawl and twang.) I'm also somewhat enamored at the way the narrator reads the bad-guy Assistant District Attorney Jack-he has a total villain voice and it almost makes me giggle. At any rate, the fun I had with the story overshadowed these minor annoyances and I may even continue listening to the audiobooks as I breeze through this series.
Title: Payback by Fern Michaels
Series: The Sisterhood #2
Narrator: Laural Merlington
Length: 6 hours, 6 minutes, Unabridged
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
December 15, 2021
It is Julia Webster’s turn to get even with her husband. He is a U.S. Senator who has destroyed Julia’s life while advancing his career. To him she is just someone to make him look good to the public while he runs around behind her back. Well, she knows and now so does the Sisterhood. I was a bit nervous at one point because I thought their plan was going to fall apart. Julia had a hard time controlling her emotions sometimes and she said more than she should have. It all worked out though and the mission was accomplished. What the Sisterhood did is a bit tamer than the first book, but just as vengeful.
This was a quick fun read and I look forward to moving onto the next book and the rest of the series.
This was a quick fun read and I look forward to moving onto the next book and the rest of the series.
March 21, 2023
The second book in the Sisterhood series and it was almost as good as the first.
I was glad that Julia got her payback and hope we get to see more of her in the future.
I was glad that Julia got her payback and hope we get to see more of her in the future.
April 30, 2019
While the Sisterhood series by Fern Michaels is in my opinion, simple beach-read material, nonetheless the stories of revenge are quite satisfying. I will probably work my way through the entire series, and enjoy them. The plots are sometimes quite implausible but still it makes the reader wish for a group like this who can help exact revenge.
I recommend this series for light, enjoyable reading.
I recommend this series for light, enjoyable reading.
October 10, 2009
This is the second in the Sisterhood series. The Sisterhood being 7 female vigilantes that have been wronged by the American justice system. I enjoyed the first one, but this one was ridiculous. First of all, I had a hard time believing that a local lawyer is going to actually sell most everything he owns and take a month leave of absence from his prestigious job just to spy on these women. Jack is a very annoying character and if he is in the other books, I may not bother to read them. Anyway, this edition of the Sisterhood is about exacting revenge for Julia, a doctor married to a philandering senator that gave her AIDS. There was no real tension or suspense leading up to the vengeful moment and the outcome was ridiculous and displeasing. Are we really to believe that a bunch of HMO people were just secretly spririted to Africa and hypnotized and forced to work on a farm? Get real. I am not completely giving up on the Sisterhood series, but I hope the rest of them are better.
July 27, 2021
Pese embora seja uma leitura ligeira, li avidamente o primeiro livro desta série. Nada melhor para nos distrair do que pensar em sete mulheres que têm um objectivo comum: vingança. Daí ter ficado expectante com o lançamento deste volume, que comprei logo que saiu.
Não quero imaginar o que faria se marido meu me transmitisse algo mortal, mas tudo o que aqui é narrado não é ficção, é mera fantasia. A estória está repleta de inconsistências e, mais que isso, tem uma escrita bem inferior à do primeiro volume. Pontos por explicar, demasiada fantasia e um livro que deixa muito a desejar. Diria, até, francamente mau.
Não quero imaginar o que faria se marido meu me transmitisse algo mortal, mas tudo o que aqui é narrado não é ficção, é mera fantasia. A estória está repleta de inconsistências e, mais que isso, tem uma escrita bem inferior à do primeiro volume. Pontos por explicar, demasiada fantasia e um livro que deixa muito a desejar. Diria, até, francamente mau.
March 25, 2018
I don't read fiction, and I picked this up on 50 cent table at the library. I couldn't put it down. I like that it is suspenseful and an easy read.
December 24, 2018
Payback continues the story of The Sisterhood, a group of women that seek revenge on people that have wronged them (so far it seems to be all men).
In my review of Weekend Warriors, the first book, I mentioned that the suspension of belief for a contemporary was a bit of a stretch in this series. I think it's similar to thinking that a businessman could create things like Batman and go solve crimes without anyone realizing who he really was. While fun, it's not very believable.
The second book throws a ghost into the mix that speaks to two of the women, basically encouraging them to continue seeking revenge on people who have wronged them and escaped traditional justice.
Once again, the person they hunt deserves to have something happen to them. But again, the punishment really turned my stomach. I think these stories would be so much better if instead of a physical revenge, they found a way for the real justice system to get these guys.
In the background you have the added drama of Jack, an attorney that used to be engaged to one of the women, catching on and trying to prove they are doing things. Jack is a good guy, and he gets swept up in the revenge, and it just makes me like the main group of characters even less.
Still, there is something about this series that I can't look away from. Even with the typos, plot contradictions, errors, and awful acts the Sisterhood take part in, I somehow need to keep going to see what's next.
In my review of Weekend Warriors, the first book, I mentioned that the suspension of belief for a contemporary was a bit of a stretch in this series. I think it's similar to thinking that a businessman could create things like Batman and go solve crimes without anyone realizing who he really was. While fun, it's not very believable.
The second book throws a ghost into the mix that speaks to two of the women, basically encouraging them to continue seeking revenge on people who have wronged them and escaped traditional justice.
Once again, the person they hunt deserves to have something happen to them. But again, the punishment really turned my stomach. I think these stories would be so much better if instead of a physical revenge, they found a way for the real justice system to get these guys.
In the background you have the added drama of Jack, an attorney that used to be engaged to one of the women, catching on and trying to prove they are doing things. Jack is a good guy, and he gets swept up in the revenge, and it just makes me like the main group of characters even less.
Still, there is something about this series that I can't look away from. Even with the typos, plot contradictions, errors, and awful acts the Sisterhood take part in, I somehow need to keep going to see what's next.
June 25, 2008
It's an interesting story, but not much to it. I often wonder why I read her books. Perhaps it's for the continuation of her characters' stories, but overall, I'm not impressed with her writing.
February 29, 2024
Payback by Fern Michaels
Sisterhood #2
related series Men of the Sisterhood
+186-page Kindle Ebook [Location Only] 2671
Genre: Thriller
Featuring: Author's Bibliography, Washington, D. C.; Lawyers, Wealthy Socialite, Injustices, Revenge Plot, Defense Lawyer and Prosecutor Trope, Murder, Assault, Vigilantes Women's Club, Paranormal Activity, HIV, Politics, Senators, FBI, Presidency, Corruption, Sneak Peak for No Way Out - 2 Chapters
Rating as a movie: R for adult content including violence
Songs for the soundtrack: "Upside Down" by Diana Ross
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½⚖️
My thoughts: 🔖68% Location 1815 of 2671 Ten - This had a shakey start but is starting to get better. I'm debating on staying awake to finish it or going to bed. It's pretty much a cozy thriller at this point.
I made it. I did doze off once but I'm glad I didn't wait till tomorrow, the suspense would have kept me up. I about what punishment these people deserved and felt it was predictable when they had the same idea, but they had me fooled and took it to another level. I'm going to read the series but it won't be a binge.
Recommend to others: Maybe. These definitely read like cozy thrillers except there's violence.
Sisterhood
1. Weekend Warriors (2003)
2. Payback (2004)
3. Vendetta (2005)
4. The Jury (2005)
5. Sweet Revenge (2006)
6. Lethal Justice (2006)
7. Free Fall (2007)
8. Hide and Seek (2007)
9. Hokus Pokus (2007)
10. Fast Track (2008)
11. Collateral Damage (2008)
12. Final Justice (2008)
13. Under the Radar (2009)
14. Razor Sharp (2009)
15. Vanishing Act (2009)
16. Deadly Deals (2009)
17. Game Over (2010)
18. Cross Roads (2010)
19. Deja Vu (2010)
20. Home Free (2011)
21. Gotcha! (2012)
22. Blindsided (2013)
23. Kiss and Tell (2014)
24. Eyes Only (2014)
25. In Plain Sight (2015)
26. Point Blank (2015)
26.5. And the Angels Sing (2015)
aka Wishes for Christmas
27. Crash and Burn (2016)
Sisterhood Series: Books 14-15 (2017)
28. Need to Know (2017)
29. Safe and Sound (2018)
30. Cut and Run (2019)
31. Truth and Justice (2020)
32. Bitter Pill (2020)
33. 19 Yellow Moon Road (2021)
A Golden Tree (2021)
34. Tick Tock (2022)
35. Rock Bottom (2023)
36. Backwater Justice (2024)
Sisterhood #2
related series Men of the Sisterhood
+186-page Kindle Ebook [Location Only] 2671
Genre: Thriller
Featuring: Author's Bibliography, Washington, D. C.; Lawyers, Wealthy Socialite, Injustices, Revenge Plot, Defense Lawyer and Prosecutor Trope, Murder, Assault, Vigilantes Women's Club, Paranormal Activity, HIV, Politics, Senators, FBI, Presidency, Corruption, Sneak Peak for No Way Out - 2 Chapters
Rating as a movie: R for adult content including violence
Songs for the soundtrack: "Upside Down" by Diana Ross
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½⚖️
My thoughts: 🔖68% Location 1815 of 2671 Ten - This had a shakey start but is starting to get better. I'm debating on staying awake to finish it or going to bed. It's pretty much a cozy thriller at this point.
I made it. I did doze off once but I'm glad I didn't wait till tomorrow, the suspense would have kept me up. I about what punishment these people deserved and felt it was predictable when they had the same idea, but they had me fooled and took it to another level. I'm going to read the series but it won't be a binge.
Recommend to others: Maybe. These definitely read like cozy thrillers except there's violence.
Sisterhood
1. Weekend Warriors (2003)
2. Payback (2004)
3. Vendetta (2005)
4. The Jury (2005)
5. Sweet Revenge (2006)
6. Lethal Justice (2006)
7. Free Fall (2007)
8. Hide and Seek (2007)
9. Hokus Pokus (2007)
10. Fast Track (2008)
11. Collateral Damage (2008)
12. Final Justice (2008)
13. Under the Radar (2009)
14. Razor Sharp (2009)
15. Vanishing Act (2009)
16. Deadly Deals (2009)
17. Game Over (2010)
18. Cross Roads (2010)
19. Deja Vu (2010)
20. Home Free (2011)
21. Gotcha! (2012)
22. Blindsided (2013)
23. Kiss and Tell (2014)
24. Eyes Only (2014)
25. In Plain Sight (2015)
26. Point Blank (2015)
26.5. And the Angels Sing (2015)
aka Wishes for Christmas
27. Crash and Burn (2016)
Sisterhood Series: Books 14-15 (2017)
28. Need to Know (2017)
29. Safe and Sound (2018)
30. Cut and Run (2019)
31. Truth and Justice (2020)
32. Bitter Pill (2020)
33. 19 Yellow Moon Road (2021)
A Golden Tree (2021)
34. Tick Tock (2022)
35. Rock Bottom (2023)
36. Backwater Justice (2024)
August 10, 2017
*For some reason GRs is being weird and keeps setting the finish date as 8/11/17; actual finish date is 8/10/17*
For the second installment of the Sisterhood series, it's Julia's turn for vengeance. On her request the sisterhood takes on a two part mission; one - Julia's cheating husband from whom she contracted HIV/AIDS, and two - the Monarch family and their HMO health insurance scam.
The plot was interesting, and intertwined well with the subplot regarding the ever more troublesome Jack Emery, Nikki's ex fianćee. The characters are empathetic and relatable...I mean who wouldn't want to have the money and resources to get away with getting back at someone who grievously wronged them.
However, the plan for Julia's husband lacked closure. The man whose unfaithfulness condemned Julia to an incurable disease and extremely shortened life expectancy as well as killing her career as a plastic surgeon seems to fall to the wayside in favor of the Monarch family.
For the second installment of the Sisterhood series, it's Julia's turn for vengeance. On her request the sisterhood takes on a two part mission; one - Julia's cheating husband from whom she contracted HIV/AIDS, and two - the Monarch family and their HMO health insurance scam.
The plot was interesting, and intertwined well with the subplot regarding the ever more troublesome Jack Emery, Nikki's ex fianćee. The characters are empathetic and relatable...I mean who wouldn't want to have the money and resources to get away with getting back at someone who grievously wronged them.
However, the plan for Julia's husband lacked closure. The man whose unfaithfulness condemned Julia to an incurable disease and extremely shortened life expectancy as well as killing her career as a plastic surgeon seems to fall to the wayside in favor of the Monarch family.
June 18, 2021
When Myra Rutledge's daughter is killed with no consequences, she decides to take revenge with a group of other wronged women. In this book, the Sisterhood goes for revenge against Julia's husband, who cheated on her and gave her AIDS.
This book is a lot more explicit and crazy-sauce than the last book. The women are truly out for revenge and take no prisoners, though I thought the wrap-up at the end was a little too quick. Jack's subplot was more engaging in this book, and I felt genuine concern that he was getting too close to the truth at times.
This book is a lot more explicit and crazy-sauce than the last book. The women are truly out for revenge and take no prisoners, though I thought the wrap-up at the end was a little too quick. Jack's subplot was more engaging in this book, and I felt genuine concern that he was getting too close to the truth at times.
August 21, 2017
This was a fun easy read. I enjoyed the characters and the plot. The story at times was extremely far fetched but that adds to the fun. I do like how each book takes on another of the ladies cases and together they seek vigilante justice on their wrong doers. I'm excited to read the next one.
Read
March 19, 2019I don't know about this series, yet here I am reading book two...
December 8, 2022
Not what I expected
April 11, 2024
Another great read by Fern Michaels. Getting ready to read book three.
April 29, 2025
4.5⭐️
Great, fun, easy read!
Great, fun, easy read!
March 14, 2022
I really don't like Jack at all! It was kinda rushed but nice way to end that bit of revenge. I'm really pulling for Julia as well.
October 21, 2022
That was the best payback they could think of?? I understand this book has aged a bit, but c'mon ... Women scorned can do better than that.
April 19, 2025
Pure, over the top, silly fun.
Like a vacation for the brain.
Don't think, just enjoy the ride!
Like a vacation for the brain.
Don't think, just enjoy the ride!
September 21, 2011
Second in the Sisterhood suspense series that revolves around finding justice for each of the "sisters" and others they find worthy.
The Story
It's Julia Webster's turn for justice. Diagnosed with HIV caught from her philandering senator husband, Julia had to give up her career as a plastic surgeon. She wants Mitchell to pay with humiliation, disgrace, and never have the opportunity for a comeback. She also wants justice for the subscribers to the Monarch HMO. Hundreds, if not thousands, of subscribers or family members have died due to denials of claims all to fuel the greed of the three Monarchs.
The Characters
Seven women have joined together to find justice for the wrongs done them. And if any little cause comes along that strikes their fancy, they'll take that up, too. By this second story, the ladies have bonded and care greatly for each other, lovingly fed by Charles Martin, Myra's live-in lover.
Senator Mitchell Webster is a typical politician. More interested in himself and how he can gain power and influence as he f*cks his way through Washington D.C. The Monarchs, Derek, Elaine, and Ethan, are more interested in, well, more. They have houses throughout the world with rooms filled with the treasures and antiques they have collected at the expense of their subscribers. Thankfully, they are able to deny claims so they'll have more money to spend on more stuff.
My Take
I love the story. I hate Michaels' writing style. It's so simplistic. Not quite on the level of See Dick, but damn close. She has more simple sentences than a fourth-grade reader. And they don't necessarily connect up smoothly!
What's with Myra freaking out over every little thing? Is this supposed to set up her evolution through the series to a calmer, more accepting person?? Then there's poor, struggling Alexis driving her Mini Cooper. Does Michaels have any idea how expensive those things are?
Then there's the destruction of Mitch's career that Julia wanted. It never happened. WTF!!?? I was so looking forward to his humiliation and, hopefully, the anger of all the men whose wives he screwed. Damned disappointing. Although the Monarchs' disposal was quite poetic. Would have been more satisfying if they were aware of it though.
Two things I did like: Nikki feeling bad about Jack's little contretemps and Jack and Mark Lane going out on their own. Nice bit of justice there.
The Cover
The cover on the book I read doesn't match up.
The title is certainly appropriate for indeed Julia, the Monarch HMO subscribers, and a number of other organizations get Payback.
The Story
It's Julia Webster's turn for justice. Diagnosed with HIV caught from her philandering senator husband, Julia had to give up her career as a plastic surgeon. She wants Mitchell to pay with humiliation, disgrace, and never have the opportunity for a comeback. She also wants justice for the subscribers to the Monarch HMO. Hundreds, if not thousands, of subscribers or family members have died due to denials of claims all to fuel the greed of the three Monarchs.
The Characters
Seven women have joined together to find justice for the wrongs done them. And if any little cause comes along that strikes their fancy, they'll take that up, too. By this second story, the ladies have bonded and care greatly for each other, lovingly fed by Charles Martin, Myra's live-in lover.
Senator Mitchell Webster is a typical politician. More interested in himself and how he can gain power and influence as he f*cks his way through Washington D.C. The Monarchs, Derek, Elaine, and Ethan, are more interested in, well, more. They have houses throughout the world with rooms filled with the treasures and antiques they have collected at the expense of their subscribers. Thankfully, they are able to deny claims so they'll have more money to spend on more stuff.
My Take
I love the story. I hate Michaels' writing style. It's so simplistic. Not quite on the level of See Dick, but damn close. She has more simple sentences than a fourth-grade reader. And they don't necessarily connect up smoothly!
What's with Myra freaking out over every little thing? Is this supposed to set up her evolution through the series to a calmer, more accepting person?? Then there's poor, struggling Alexis driving her Mini Cooper. Does Michaels have any idea how expensive those things are?
Then there's the destruction of Mitch's career that Julia wanted. It never happened. WTF!!?? I was so looking forward to his humiliation and, hopefully, the anger of all the men whose wives he screwed. Damned disappointing. Although the Monarchs' disposal was quite poetic. Would have been more satisfying if they were aware of it though.
Two things I did like: Nikki feeling bad about Jack's little contretemps and Jack and Mark Lane going out on their own. Nice bit of justice there.
The Cover
The cover on the book I read doesn't match up.
The title is certainly appropriate for indeed Julia, the Monarch HMO subscribers, and a number of other organizations get Payback.
January 3, 2022
good storyline
I’ve read this series before but missed these beginning ones. This was a good story that provided depth and insight to each character you wanted to like and hate. I enjoy this series.
I’ve read this series before but missed these beginning ones. This was a good story that provided depth and insight to each character you wanted to like and hate. I enjoy this series.
August 17, 2013
1.75stars
I've rather enjoyed a couple of the later books of this series, but find the second installment far less appealing. The overall premise of women banding together for vengeance is a fine driver for this long-running series, and lends itself to a variety of situations for our protagonists. This time out the senator husband of one of the sisterhood has not only drained their financial accounts, he has given her a death sentence. Before she takes her last breath, Julia would like nothing better than to completely and irrevocably destroy the separate life of handsome, distinguished Mitch Webster and make him pay for not only taking her life, but for thinking to leave her destitute and dependent upon him. We're also treated to a thread featuring a broken hearted Nikki whose ex-fiance is attempting to: 1) verify there is a sisterhood; 2) discover their plan; 3)derail their current plan; 4) prove they are behind a work problem he is having and; 5) win Nikki back. The final major thread here has sisterhood founder Myra using and (frequently) talking to her deceased daughter's ghost.
I enjoyed seeing some of the characters from the later books and noting their changes. The elaborate scheme, interaction among the characters and the intricately woven threads all work for good and make this a serviceable series. One of the major things that didn't work for me in this effort was the stiffly formal speech (or maybe the rich are just that different) - I wish that were all that bothered me. The whole ghost thing didn't seem natural to me for this setting so I had a hard time accepting it - again, I wish that were all that bothered me. What bothered me was the insult I felt as a reader, a woman and an African American. In the end, I could never recommend this book to anyone ever due to the amount of illogical conclusions, TSTL actions of characters that should have known better and the stereotypes. Too many things didn't work here to not be annoyed with this read.
I've rather enjoyed a couple of the later books of this series, but find the second installment far less appealing. The overall premise of women banding together for vengeance is a fine driver for this long-running series, and lends itself to a variety of situations for our protagonists. This time out the senator husband of one of the sisterhood has not only drained their financial accounts, he has given her a death sentence. Before she takes her last breath, Julia would like nothing better than to completely and irrevocably destroy the separate life of handsome, distinguished Mitch Webster and make him pay for not only taking her life, but for thinking to leave her destitute and dependent upon him. We're also treated to a thread featuring a broken hearted Nikki whose ex-fiance is attempting to: 1) verify there is a sisterhood; 2) discover their plan; 3)derail their current plan; 4) prove they are behind a work problem he is having and; 5) win Nikki back. The final major thread here has sisterhood founder Myra using and (frequently) talking to her deceased daughter's ghost.
I enjoyed seeing some of the characters from the later books and noting their changes. The elaborate scheme, interaction among the characters and the intricately woven threads all work for good and make this a serviceable series. One of the major things that didn't work for me in this effort was the stiffly formal speech (or maybe the rich are just that different) - I wish that were all that bothered me. The whole ghost thing didn't seem natural to me for this setting so I had a hard time accepting it - again, I wish that were all that bothered me. What bothered me was the insult I felt as a reader, a woman and an African American. In the end, I could never recommend this book to anyone ever due to the amount of illogical conclusions, TSTL actions of characters that should have known better and the stereotypes. Too many things didn't work here to not be annoyed with this read.
July 17, 2015
This is the second book in the Sisterhood series, a group of ladies who have been done wrong by the justice system. Each book focuses on one lady and trying to avenge them. Now it's Julia Webster's turn and exacting revenge on her husband, a U.S. Senator whose philandering gave her AIDS. However, Julia's mission is two-fold. She is also determined to make an HMO pay for sentencing their patients to death by denying their claims for treatment.
I enjoyed the story though it is over the top and ridiculous at times (especially the ending). I mean seriously, do they really expect the reader to believe that a US Senator can disappear without a trace and no one will investigate? And
I did like Jack and Mark though Jack was a little over the top too. It will be interesting to see where they take their new agency. I wonder if Nikki and the ladies are going to be able to continue their vigilante activities with Jack and Mark watching their every move.
I enjoyed the story though it is over the top and ridiculous at times (especially the ending). I mean seriously, do they really expect the reader to believe that a US Senator can disappear without a trace and no one will investigate? And
I did like Jack and Mark though Jack was a little over the top too. It will be interesting to see where they take their new agency. I wonder if Nikki and the ladies are going to be able to continue their vigilante activities with Jack and Mark watching their every move.
August 17, 2010
This book is about mostly regular people who have been wronged and decide to form a sisterhood in order to exact revenge on those who wronged them.
The dead daughter speaking to various family members was cheezy and unnecessary. There was not enough character development. I didn't end up caring about any of them. There weren't enough details on how Charles was able to accomplish extraordinary tasks. The characters would often say, "I'm not even going to ask." You might be able to get away with that in a movie about spies, but not a book about supposedly regular people (plus a millionaire and a former MI-6 agent). It was a little too convenient and everything went down without a hitch.
Even the ending was wrapped up in a nice, neat, little bow. If the world learns that all you have to do to not get caught for a crime is to ship someone off to farm in Africa and have them hypnotized, then criminals would be doing this all the time. The premise was kind of interesting, but the follow-through left much to be desired.
The dead daughter speaking to various family members was cheezy and unnecessary. There was not enough character development. I didn't end up caring about any of them. There weren't enough details on how Charles was able to accomplish extraordinary tasks. The characters would often say, "I'm not even going to ask." You might be able to get away with that in a movie about spies, but not a book about supposedly regular people (plus a millionaire and a former MI-6 agent). It was a little too convenient and everything went down without a hitch.
Even the ending was wrapped up in a nice, neat, little bow. If the world learns that all you have to do to not get caught for a crime is to ship someone off to farm in Africa and have them hypnotized, then criminals would be doing this all the time. The premise was kind of interesting, but the follow-through left much to be desired.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2009
The Sisterhood series by Fern Michaels are very entertaining, quick reads. The characters are likeable, unique women who you envision to be your neighbors. The stories move at a nice pace and although you know that justice will prevail at the end, Michaels always throws in a couple of twists and turns in to keep you engaged.
One is not left with deep philosophical ponderings after reading these books. Instead, they make you feel like you have had a nice "catch up" visit with a friend and they make you smile a "sisterhood" type of smile.
One is not left with deep philosophical ponderings after reading these books. Instead, they make you feel like you have had a nice "catch up" visit with a friend and they make you smile a "sisterhood" type of smile.
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