My Sister's Shadow

by January Gilchrist

Envy and desire infiltrate the lives of twin sisters in this dark, Gothic suspense set in England and New York City, perfect for fans of Laura Joh Rowland and Hester Fox.

A mirror will never show you the truth.

England 1904. Mirror twins Adelaide and Victoria have spent their lives in orbit of each other– doomed to be in the other’s shadow, their lives are intertwined and inextricable as each other’s identical inverse. Adelaide is dutiful and reserved, happy to remain in her childhood home, Harewood Hall, forever. Victoria wishes for a thrilling life, exploring the world and finding a great romance–but the twins cannot live apart.

Visiting Lord Stanley bewitches Victoria with his talk of a life of luxury in New York, but it is obedient Adelaide whom he marries against her will and to Victoria’s fury. Together, they all move to New York and begin a new life.

Adelaide finds herself trapped in a gilded cage on Fifth Avenue with no one but her angry and tempestuous twin for company. Amid the glamor of the upper class, Adelaide is captivated by the independent and educated women of the elite social circle Mrs. Astor’s 400. As Adelaide’s star rises, tensions begin to surface between the sisters, and as Adelaide grows apart from her twin for the very first time, Victoria descends into a rage-fueled darkness that threatens everything and anyone standing in her way.

Darker and darker with every turn of the page, this Gothic suspense will enrapture readers of Daphne du Maurier and Laura Purcell.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Gothic, Fiction, Thriller, Historical, Horror, Audiobook

308 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 18, 2025

Reviews

[CarolG · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 1904 twins Adelaide and Victoria reside at Harewood Hall in Gloucester England with their widower father. Adelaide is dutiful and reserved; Victoria wishes for a thrilling life, exploring the world and finding a great romance. Invited guest Lord Stanley bewitches Victoria with his talk of a life of luxury in New York, but it is obedient Adelaide whose hand he asks for in marriage. Her father approves the match despite Adelaide's protestations and the two sisters and Lord Stanley move to New York.

I really enjoyed this historical fiction and was totally immersed in the story. It was so interesting to see the differences in how people of means were treated in Britain compared to New York. The characters are well portrayed and I enjoyed them all although I didn't like them all. There's some romance but nothing overt and there's also some psychological suspense, reminiscent of the gothic suspense/romance novels I used to read years ago. This is a fast-paced story that had me madly flipping pages right to the end, and what an ending it is!

The author has another book being published in July and I'll definitely be there for it.

Thanks to Crooked Lane Books via Netgalley for approving my request to read this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication Date: March 18, 2025

This review will be posted on Goodreads and Netgalley as of March 16, 2025 and on amazon.ca on March 18, 2025.

[ABCme · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book starts out pretty mellow. It is 1904 and Victoria and Adelaide lead a highly privileged life in Gloucester, UK. Despite being twins, the women are total opposites, Victoria bold and daring, Adelaide calm and reserved. Life takes them to New York and from there to Newport's high society. Up to this point the story is plain sailing, general fiction. But that's about to change.
An unexpected twist turns their world upside down. Darkness descends and goth takes over. Who can be trusted? The second half of this book had me on the edge of my seat, not able to put it down. Well crafted and fast paced to arrive at a grand finale. What a story!

Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC.

[Sarah Mac · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not awful, but not great—a quintessential mid read. The gothic ingredients are all here, & the story itself is enjoyable despite being uber-predictable, but…(huge caveats loading 👉🏻)…the characters are rather flat & the writing swerves between nicely descriptive, blandly pedestrian, & blatantly sloppy. Here are some examples of said sloppiness:


I cried out as my hair fell as silently as snow into my lap, but still I did not weep. Matron’s hands yanked at swaths of hair as the scissors snipped relentlessly. Cool air tickled unpleasantly at my now naked nape. I fingered a lock of the pale hair that lay in hanks at my feet, strange and foreign looking. Not my hair, lying limp and lifeless on the ground, surely. [pg 215]

Or:

Lifting my chin, I dug back into the filthy water and pulled out the dripping flannel. Water ran down arm and chest as I ran it over my face. [pg 223]


Note the non-poetic word repetitions (hair, ran). That drives me nuts because it shows neither the author nor the editor is attuned to the rhythm of the words *or* the content of the sentences beyond surface-level imagery. Slow your wacky clown car, dammit! ✋🏻 These details matter.

Another issue is the lackluster romance—as if Addy & Jack were in love only because the author said so. We rarely see Addy & Jack interacting on the page; most of their “love” happens offscreen, & I don’t mean closed-door sex. I wouldn’t have minded Clean(tm) if they’d had any real spark, but Jack was a cardboard standup with no presence whatsoever, leaving Addy & Wiffy as an unsung sapphic OTP. Indeed, I guessed that’s where things were ultimately headed because Wiffy is 100x more developed compared to Jack…but nope. 🤔 PSA to authors: your m/f romance has totally failed if the heroine has better chemistry with her bff than her male love interest—a clear example of forcing the story into a mold it either outgrew or never fit to begin with.

Ultimately, I would label this a junk food gothic—mildly entertaining, but if you’re a seasoned genre reader you won’t find anything new or impressive.

[MaryannC Victorian Dreamer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a bit torn on the rating for this one. While it was atmospheric and descriptive, I liked the story as a whole about two beautiful twin sisters, one good and one essentially evil, but the plot at times felt a bit melodramatic especially when a romance blossoms between two of the main characters. I also wished that while one of the twins perspective was voiced throughout the storyline that it would have been insightful to hear the other twin's reasoning as to what made her tick and perhaps shed light on her deeds. Still enjoyable and worthwhile.

Thank you to author January Gilchrist and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest opinion.

[NrsKelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whenever I read historical fiction like this, I always am so happy I was born in modern times.
This book follows mirror twins Adelaide and Victoria from England to New York City. The only thing keeping Adelaide from losing her mind is her sister…..or is it?
You’ll love this if you like: Historical fiction, found family, main character growth and mystery
TW: physical abuse, forced hospitalization
I received a ARC of this title, all opinions are my own.

[Yvette Jarrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

January Gilchrist's My Sister's Shadow is a mesmerizing historical fiction novel steeped in gothic suspense, family drama, and psychological intrigue. Set in 1904, the story follows twin sisters Adelaide and Victoria, who live in the grand Harewood Hall in England with their widowed father. While Adelaide is reserved and dutiful, Victoria is bold and adventurous, yearning for excitement and status. Their world shifts when Lord Stanley, a wealthy businessman, visits their home. Victoria is instantly captivated by his promises of luxury and adventure in New York, but to her shock, it is Adelaide whom he chooses to marry. Their father approves the match despite Adelaide's protests, and soon, all three find themselves navigating the glittering yet treacherous world of Gilded Age New York.

What unfolds is a gripping tale of betrayal, power, and survival. As Adelaide is thrust into an unfamiliar world of high society, she struggles to find her place while unraveling the unsettling truths about her husband and sister. Victoria, consumed by jealousy and ambition, becomes a formidable force, and the sisters' once-unbreakable bond fractures into something dark and dangerous. The novel masterfully explores the suffocating societal constraints placed on women, the psychological toll of manipulation, and the resilience it takes to break free.

Gilchrist's writing is immersive and richly detailed, drawing sharp contrasts between the rigid social structures of England and the cutthroat opulence of New York. The gothic undertones weave seamlessly into the narrative, heightening the tension and creating an atmosphere of unease. While there are elements of romance, they take a backseat to the psychological and emotional struggles of the characters, making this a deeply layered and thought-provoking read.

The pacing is excellent-after a measured start, the story builds momentum, culminating in a stunning, unforgettable ending. Adelaide's transformation from an obedient, overlooked sister to a woman who seizes control of her fate is both heartbreaking and triumphant. Secondary characters, particularly Wiffy, add depth and warmth, providing much-needed moments of light amid the novel's darker themes.

My Sister's Shadow is a chilling, beautifully written novel that will appeal to fans of historical fiction with gothic suspense. While those expecting a full-fledged supernatural element may find that aspect more subtle, the psychological unraveling and intense character dynamics more than make up for it. This is a story of love, betrayal, and resilience-one that lingers long after the final page.

Rating: 4/5 - Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction, gothic suspense, and intricate family dramas.

Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for the ARC. This review is voluntary and reflects my honest opinion.

[Chelsylynn91 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reviews I’ve read have indicated they feel this story starts out slowly, however I didn’t feel that way at all. I thought it was well paced and balanced. It is separated into three parts which I think really helps the story move along. That being said, I do wish there was a little more mystery surrounding the sister. I wish there had been some kind of twist or something to make it stand out. Other than that, I really enjoyed it and the narrator was fantastic.

[Leah May Lim-Atienza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Harrowing. That is the single word that kept running over and over in my mind while I was reading this book. Everything that Adelaide went through at the hands of her husband and twin sister Victoria had me gritting my teeth and clenching my fists. I wanted to fight for her when she couldn’t, so it goes without saying that I cheered her on when she started to and celebrated her victory as if it were my own.

I love that Addy had an angel in Wiffy though and found her true love. That she was able to see everything and everyone for who they were and fought for herself. And, I just want to say that I loathe Addy’s husband and his household. I hated him right from the start and I was not wrong to do so.

All in all, this book is perfect for those who love dark Gothic suspense. It’s the kind of book that will have you infuriated enough to want to throw it at the wall, but can’t tear your eyes away from the pages for so long to do it.

[Bookofy · Rating 4 out of 5]

"...The sister two words harmless yet bearing a weight that brought my hand and the card to my side.."

My sister's shadow is a historical mystery/thriller fiction sets in England 1904 and  Newyork .
Two sister's who are identical in appearance but different how they want there life to be . ADELAIDE  wants to spend her entire life where she was born and with the people she grow .But her elder sister VICTORIA wants her life outside the harewood house a life full of adventure, high profile parties in Newyork .
In a way they are different from there desire and view towards there life or Future.
There Father wants to control over her daughters wants to get them away from Harewood as he think they have similarities like HER.. so when lord Stanley sends the proposal for her daughter Adelaide ,without any hesitation he accepts it .Eventhough Adelaide never wants it. the world of two sisters crumble with a prososal . As Victoria wants a thrilling and adventurous life of new York she accompanies Adelaide to NewYork.

" It's an age old story.Marriage ,swiftly followed by catastrophe. Or was it the other way around? In this case ,it was marriage itself that was catastrophe "

Adelaide finds herself confined in the four walls of Fifth Avenue in Newyork with her twin sister . ADELAIDE never align herself with the upper class rules and showoff of wealth there she finds a friend 'wiffy' ,a icon for FREEDOM for Adelaide. But the fire explodes between their sisterly bond when Adelaide goes out without her sister .and Invitations starts to  come with the name of Adelaide and one more. This agitates the Rage inside  Victoria and she takes the step that no one can imagine and destroys Everything that comes in her path to reach the high class society.

I love this book till the end when i read this book i ask this question several time like 'how the beautiful bond between the sisters can be affected in a way we never imagine !' I like how the Author dealt with various themes and sensitive topic in a thoughtful manner.
"  I knew there was no sharing. The one standing in the sun must cast a shadow.and it was my lot in life to stand in the shadow "

Must  Read

[Susan Stradiotto · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Disturbing Historical Tale of Sisterhood

My Sister’s Shadow by January Gilcrest is a beautifully written historical fiction novel that delves deep into the complexities of sisterhood—the expectations, the disappointments, and the unshakable ties that bind. With its lush prose and strong themes of female oppression, it delivers an emotionally charged narrative that will resonate with fans of historical and family dramas.

Marketed as a Gothic novel, My Sister’s Shadow certainly starts off on the right foot, setting an atmospheric stage with elegant, moody descriptions and a compelling tone. However, for those looking for the full Gothic experience—ghostly hauntings, supernatural elements, or a brooding Byronic hero—you might find some key tropes missing. While the novel does hint at psychological decay, mystery, and vulnerability, the horror and supernatural undercurrents that typically define Gothic fiction remain more in the background than at the forefront.

That said, the book shines in its portrayal of its central characters. Adelaide and Victoria are richly developed, their dynamic brimming with tension, betrayal, and heartbreak. The sisterly twists in this novel are some of its strongest elements, keeping the reader engaged and invested. However, the supporting cast, particularly Adelaide’s husband—who plays a crucial antagonistic role—could have benefited from more development. Similarly, the romance subplot felt a little underexplored; while there were hints at passion and desire, it lacked the depth and immersive moments needed to truly make readers fall for the love interest.

Where My Sister’s Shadow truly excels is in its examination of women's oppression. The novel paints a vivid picture of societal constraints and the silent battles fought within marriage, family, and social expectations. This thematic weight adds a layer of richness to the story, making it stand out in the realm of historical fiction.

Overall, if you're drawn to beautifully crafted historical fiction with an intimate look at the bonds and betrayals of sisterhood, My Sister’s Shadow is well worth a read. However, for those seeking a full-fledged Gothic experience, this one may not entirely scratch that itch. But as a story of love, loss, and resilience? It’s a compelling journey well told.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5) – Perfect for fans of historical fiction and family drama, with a touch of Gothic atmosphere.

[muc sióg · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a conflicting read for me. On the one hand the setting was so descriptive and I was immersed in the Edwardian time period. However, this all fell flat when it came to the characters and overall plot of the novel itself.

Adelaide, our main character, has no bad bone in her body, with her only major flaw being her meekness. Victoria, on the other hand, is evil incarnate who has spent all her life taking advantage of her subservient twin sister. Initially, Victoria seems to be a flawed and complex individual, but toward the end of the book it is clear that she is only made so sinister to force the reader into sympathising with poor Adelaide. Twin dynamics are so interesting in the real world because every set of twins I have ever met has such conflicting opinions of their other half. There is never one bad twin and one good twin, just two siblings whose conflict mostly stems from a lack of individuality. It was such a missed opportunity to not go all the way with characterising the sisters with that believable edge to them. But this lack of characterisation wasn’t just reserved for Adelaide and Victoria — the character of Winnifred was bland and completely unrealistic, especially with her being “one of the lucky ones” with the perfect husband who actually respects women, unlike Lord Stanley.

It is clear one of the major themes of the novel is the normalised misogyny and the subservience of women of the time period — unfortunately, I don’t think this is portrayed well in the narrative whatsoever. When Adelaide is chastised by Lord Stanley and eventually thrown into an “insane asylum” in the third act, I felt like it broke my suspension of disbelief. Bad things happened to Adelaide purely for the sake of progressing the narrative where it just kept getting worse and worse to the point it felt cartoonish. Even the main antagonist of Adelaide’s story being her own sister, a woman, completely throws out any feminism this book is trying to achieve with its message.

While the research was definitely done with regard to the high society and the setting of 1910s New York, I felt like this couldn’t save the novel from above a two-star rating. The narrative and characters just felt too juvenile and stripped the story of any merit I may have held for it.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This gothic, suspense novel focuses on the relationship between the twins, Adelaide and Victoria. Although they look exactly alike, the two have very different personalities. Victoria loves to be the life of the party, but in a turn of events, Lord Stanley offers a marriage proposal to Adelaide, which their father does not refuse. The twins both head to New York, to make their way in society, but something has changed between them. This makes you wonder... just how far does a twin's love really go? Overall, this book had a great atmosphere and shows life in the early 1900s for women very well. I would check trigger warnings before reading this book because it does have some themes of abuse, loveless marriages, and mental health. I was given the chance to listen to this audio book through NetGalley, and hope it finds other gothic literature lovers.

[Kallia Rinkel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely a slow start, but if you can get through the setup in the first half, I do feel like the second half is worth the work. The villains are incredibly well done - while it takes Adelaide a while to realize that they're the worst, I started hating them from our the gate. Most importantly, remember: 👏🏻 girls 👏🏻 support 👏🏻 girls 👏🏻

[Alina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading "My Sister's Shadow" was a challenging yet deeply emotional experience, as I felt profound sadness for the character of Adelaide. The novel highlights the stark realities women faced in the early 1900s, showcasing their lack of rights and autonomy during that period.

It’s heartbreaking to realize how women were treated as property, often denied the chance to shape their own lives. The story illustrates the significant progress we've made since then. Adelaide embodies the nurturing spirit of women, yet she tragically falls victim to her manipulative twin sister, who uses Adelaide’s social status for her own gain, ultimately trapping her in her own home.

Despite the heavy themes, the writing is beautifully crafted, and the narrative is engaging. The ending is particularly satisfying, allowing readers to rejoice in Adelaide’s hard-won happiness after such adversity.

Thank you to January Gilchrist for this poignant tale and to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Allison Rogers · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book had great potential with the plot of mirror-twins navigating their lives together with dark, disastrous results. However, I found it disappointing in so many ways. The character development was poor - Victoria was a hateful shrew from the beginning, with no reason for Addy’s love for and connection to her. Addy whipped from a meek girl unable to speak to strangers to a passionate rebel charting her own path, and back again more times than I could count. The plot devices of drugging and forced commitment to an insane asylum have been done before. The one saving grace of this novel was the character of Winnifred - clever, confident, and loyal.

[Ann-Maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

"My Sister's Shadow" by January Gilchrist, narrated by Siobhan Waring, proved to be an unexpected delight that captivated my attention and kept me distracted from the daunting task of cleaning our house for sale. Throughout the listening experience, I found myself pausing frequently to truly absorb the profound events unfolding in the narrative, as it skillfully guides us through the complex struggles faced by women throughout history. The tale encourages deep reflection on our current lives and fosters an appreciation for the freedoms we often take for granted in the year 2025.

The story is set in the house of Harewood, in England, in the year 1904. It centers around mirror twins Adelaide and Victoria, who endure a stifling existence under the oppressive rule of their unforgiving father. Their lives are intricately woven together, but despite their identical appearances, they possess starkly different personalities. Adelaide is mild-mannered and compliant, while Victoria is spirited and rebellious, longing for excitement and opportunity.

This delicate balance is disrupted when the charismatic Lord Stanley pays a visit to their family, leading to a life-altering proposal to marry the more dutiful Adelaide. Caught in a web of family obligation and no way to escape, Adelaide is forced into the marriage, as her father prioritizes the prospect of marriage above the suitability of her suitor. This dilemma is complicated by the fact that Lord Stanley has plans to move to New York in just two months.

Victoria, harboring a fierce resentment towards her sister’s impending marriage, is driven by her own aspirations for a life of grandeur and high society in New York City. Her envy burns intensely as she fantasizes about the luxurious lifestyle of a lady, contrasting sharply with Adelaide’s desire for the simplicity of home, tending to the garden, and enjoying the company of the household staff. Victora ultimately made the decision to accompany her sister to New York, recognizing the importance of being there for her during a pivotal moment in her life.

Gilchrist weaves a gripping tale of betrayal, power dynamics, and the will to survive, filled with emotional turmoil and rich historical context. The story expertly holds the reader’s—or in this case, listener's—attention, ensuring a riveting exploration of familial bonds and individual desires that will resonate long after the final chapter.

[Chewable Orb · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Sister's Shadow: A Novel by January Gilchrist

Victoria and Adelaide, twins, are the subject of January Gilchrist's captivating book. The period of 1904 in England is significantly different. Women were often regarded as mere pawns in the games of the aristocracy, relegated to a position of subservience to the influential men who dominated their lives. Their father's decision to invite a wealthy businessman, Lord Stanley, to their home, Harewood Hall, in an attempt to ascend the societal hierarchy has a life-changing impact on the family. Adelaide, a gentle and accommodating woman, and Victoria, a dynamic and assertive presence, are poised to captivate Lord Stanley with their entertaining charm. Lord Stanley's unconventional decision astounds both women, and we watch as a tale of deceit and lies is revealed. In an attempt to network with high society socialites and raise funds for his ideal horse track, Stanley relocates them to New York. After arriving in America, the genuine aspirations of all parties start to emerge, and the cracks in their facade begin to form. The reader is prompted to enquire, "Who is loyal to who?"

Amazing! I was just captivated. Examining the differences in attitudes towards women in British and American societies reveals complexities like the challenging dynamics often seen between siblings, particularly twins. The novel's pace was spot-on. If you like a bit of romance, it has that. If you prefer a mystery, we have you covered. Perhaps a bit of a psychological thriller is what you are after; again, January Gilchrist has you covered.

I went into this read with an open mind. Historical fiction isn't my favorite genre, perhaps not even in my top three. However, after I read this novel, I may need to recalibrate my thinking. Did I mention the ending? True perfection, and I smiled from ear to ear.

I am giving this 5 out of 5 stars. Strongly Recommended!

Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books for the ARC through Netgalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion.

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Sister's Shadow by January Gilchrist is a gothic thriller about twin sisters, set in 1904 in England and New York.

My Sister's Shadow is told from the perspective of Adelaide, a quiet, introverted, and somewhat socially awkward young woman with an identical mirror twin, Victoria, who in personality appears to be the total opposite. The story opens at their home in England and very shortly it is clear that although they come from a privileged family, there are strange dynamics going on within the family, and most especially, between the sisters.

I found the story to be a bit of a mixture. It started out rather slow with a hint of gothic mystery at their home, Harewood House in England, but then turned rather ordinary for a good portion of the novel as the sisters travelled to New York, and Adelaide was introduced to the social scene there. Then it suddenly took a melodramatic turn back to gothic, suspense for the final portion of the novel.

I really enjoyed the book but for the middle portion, I really wondered what was going on, and if the description of the book was accurate. I'll be honest, it was a bit boring. I think the book would have benefitted from the point of view being split between Adelaide and Victoria, as we lost sight of Victoria for a large portion of the novel, and it would have been interesting to see her actions, and understand what was going on in her head throughout a lot of the story.

I also felt like Adelaide's husband was superfluous to the story. Other than as a way to get the girls to New York, and an authority figure in one of the plot points near the end of the novel, he was barely present and I wondered why he was ever even introduced. I think his actions later in the novel would have seemed more believable if he had been more present throughout. Yes, we heard that he had done a few questionable, abusive things, but those instances were almost brushed off and seemed unimportant to the story the way they were presented.

I did find the third part of the story a bit over the top, but at the same time, it makes one wonder about the past, and how many women were gaslighted into similar circumstances in reality. I know my comments here are vague, but I don't want to give away any important points of the plot and ruin the story.

In all I enjoyed the story, and I do recommend it, but I can't think of any books I have read that I can compare it to for other readers. You'll just have to take a chance on it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Debra Gaynor · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the tale of two sisters, identical twins. Adelaide is modest, submissive, quiet and pleasant her desire is to stay in her childhood home, Harewood Hall, for the rest of her life. Victoria wants to a thrilling life, she wants to travel the world exploring all corners, she wants romance; she demands to be the center of attention and is belligerent if she isn’t. The setting is England and New York City, 1904. The sisters’ lives are intertwined.
Lord Stanley talks of a life of luxury in New York, just the kind of life Victoria dreams of. Victoria expected him to request her hand in marriage, but it wasn’t Victoria he requested, his eyes were on Adelaide. Against her will Adelaide marries the Lord. Victoria is furious but manages to manipulate affairs to move to New York with Adelaide.
New York isn’t very welcoming. The servants treat the twins with disdain. There isn’t always adequate food, and Lord Stanley is rarely home. She must come to terms with the man she married. His persona when they first met was a façade. Things look better for Adelaide when she meets some women in the elite social circle. The women are independent and educated. They like Adelaide and take her under their wing, which infuriates Victoria. As Adelaide takes control of her own life, Victoria descends into darkness; she is consumed by jealousy and ambition. Victoria is dangerous.
Adelaide allowed her sister to run rough-shod over her. Victoria was cruel and dangerous from the beginning. I found it hard to understand why Adelaide allowed her sister to mistreat her. I disliked Lord Stanley.
This is a goth psychological tale.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

[Shaina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you so much to NetGalley and January Gilchrist for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for My Sister's Shadow coming out March 18, 2025. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

England 1904. Mirror twins Adelaide and Victoria have spent their lives in orbit of each other– doomed to be in the other’s shadow, their lives are intertwined and inextricable as each other’s identical inverse. Adelaide is dutiful and reserved, happy to remain in her childhood home, Harewood Hall, forever. Victoria wishes for a thrilling life, exploring the world and finding a great romance–but the twins cannot live apart.

Visiting Lord Stanley bewitches Victoria with his talk of a life of luxury in New York, but it is obedient Adelaide whom he marries against her will and to Victoria’s fury. Together, they all move to New York and begin a new life.

Adelaide finds herself trapped in a gilded cage on Fifth Avenue with no one but her angry and tempestuous twin for company. Amid the glamor of the upper class, Adelaide is captivated by the independent and educated women of the elite social circle Mrs. Astor’s 400. As Adelaide’s star rises, tensions begin to surface between the sisters, and as Adelaide grows apart from her twin for the very first time, Victoria descends into a rage-fueled darkness that threatens everything and anyone standing in her way.

I believe this is a debut novel. I really love gothic stories and the early 1900s time period was intriguing to me. Twin stories are really interesting and I love the evil twin trope. However, there were aspects of the story that were a little slow and didn’t hold my attention as much. The characters weren’t very likable. I thought the ending wasn’t exactly what I was hoping for. I would check out other books by this author.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved "My Sister's Shadow" by January Gilchrist! Suspense so good it is hard to put down. And this was very dark. It would make an amazing movie. The images in my head were vivid and disturbing.

Sisters are meant to be your closest allies.....not rage filled with jealousy, determined to destroy you...almost to the point of insanity. But Adelaide and Victoria, identical twins, are like chalk and cheese in nature. While Adelaide has grown up submissive, in the background, loving nature and happy for Victoria to have the limelight,
Their worlds are upended when Adelaide is forced into a world of high society in New York. She is a fish out of water....nervous and quiet amongst a gaggle of brash New York A listers. But her true nature shines through to make an influential friend in Wiffy, whose loyalty is the greatest gift of all, when Victoria and Lord Stanley cruelly betray Adelaide. Remember that in those days people were sent to an asylum for being different....emotional, gay, senile; at the wim of their family and with very little medical diagnosis. If you weren't mad when you were incarcerated, you quickly became so.

The difference between Adelaide at the start of the book and the end of the book is rewarding.

A psychological thriller, so emotional, you feel as destroyed as Adelaide in parts. January Gilchrist is new to me.....but rest assured she is now firmly on my radar for historical mysteries. Thanks to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books and January Gilchrist for my copy.

[Rina · Rating 4 out of 5]

England 1904. Mirror twins Adelaide and Victoria have spent their lives in orbit of each other. Visiting Lord Stanley bewitches Victoria with his talk of a life of luxury in New York, but it is obedient Adelaide whom he marries against her will and to Victoria’s fury. Together, they all move to New York and begin a new life. Adelaide finds herself trapped in a gilded cage on Fifth Avenue with no one but her angry and tempestuous twin for company.

One word to describe this book: atmospheric! The tension gripped from the first page and didn’t let go until the end. I loved the claustrophobic feeling that came from Adelaide’s perspective. Even though she travelled across countries, she constantly felt her world was small and narrow.

To be honest, I tried to guess the genre of this book a few times while reading. At some point, I thought it was going to turn into a thriller. But no, this was a suspenseful historical fiction, not a popcorn thriller. I could see how some readers might’ve wanted twists and turns, but I was content with the pretty straightforward plot because I was captivated by Adelaide’s inner thoughts.

I loved how Gilchrist touched the sisterhood aspect of the story - one that was given by blood and one that was forged through experience. I’m a fan of found-family trope, so this hit the right note. I’d recommend this to any fan of slow-burn gothic suspense.

(Thanks to NetGalley and Spotify for a gifted review copy)

See my bookstagram review.

[Hijabi_booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a huge obsession with books that are gothic, historical fiction/ non-fiction especially surrounding sister dynamics. Historical fiction/non-fiction is my absolute favorite genre of all time, followed by psychological thrillers, true crime and fantasy.

Remarkable! I found myself thoroughly engrossed. Analyzing the varying perspectives on women within British and American cultures uncovers intricate dynamics, reminiscent of the often-complex relationships observed among siblings, particularly twins. The pacing of the novel was impeccable. For those who enjoy a touch of romance, it is present. If mystery is your preference, it is also well represented. Perhaps you seek a psychological thriller; once again, January Gilchrist delivers. Adelaide and Victoria are mirror twins, each serving as the other's reflection. Adelaide is introspective, satisfied with a life of solitude and gardening. In contrast, Victoria yearns for social engagement, desiring admiration and attention. Ironically, it is Adelaide who captures the interest of a Lord relocating to America, while Victoria remains as the unmarried sister, overshadowed and inconsequential.


I love how the author beautifully mastered a historical fiction book that divulges into the bonds of sisterhood, bonds, betrayal, although it is not the big Gothic experience I expected, however it makes up for it with the hint of romance, loss and the resilience one goes through.

[Mystica · Rating 4 out of 5]

1904 and Harewood Hall still lives in a Gothic age. The twin daughters Adelaide and Victoria have only known each others company. Adelaide is reserved and happy to be at home, Victoria longs to leave. They both are petrified of their harsh father.

Forced into a marriage by her father, Adelaide is fearful of her future when she leaves for New York. She is counting on Victoria’s support but Victoria is anything but supportive. The story is a dark one - deep envy from Victoria destroying any chance of any happiness for Adelaide, coupled with her husbands desire for an heir and that he only married her for her dowry. When Stanley wants to get rid of his wife, he commits her to an asylum, knowing there is no way she can get out. Lord Stanley fully supported by Victoria, who was irrational in her hatred for her sister who had made the society marriage she coveted, and in New York was able to effortlessly be befriended by top society, was just too much for Victoria to handle.

How Adelaide managed to escape and make a life for herself was the only bright outcome in a very sad story.

The 1904 in England was bleak for women but in New York freedom of a kind for women was very evident, especially for those who were rich enough to ignore public opinion. This story dealt mainly with upper class, fabulously rich American women who were far removed from other women of the time. The contrast between Harewood Hall and New York was immense. Two different worlds.

[Patricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I asked to read this book because I loved the cover, and I'm interested in historical fiction books with sisters! This one didn't disappoint!
This book starts out with adult twin sisters still living with their father. They each want different things in life, but their dreams seem within their grasp despite their father isn't very caring towards them. But never would I have expected the outcome of the second half of the book!
I felt like the writing wasn't completely consistent throughout. At times you had beautifully descriptive imagery, Victorian style writing, but then it would slip into a more modern writing. Sometimes I couldn't figure out if we had jumped time in the story or who exactly it was talking about. But there definitely was personalities put into the characters to make you love and hate them!
** If you're looking for a gothic tale with various levels of love and hate, this book will have you turning pages to find out how it ends. Nothing overly graphic, but would recommend for high school or older due to certain content.
*** Cautionary content: uncaring father, deceased mother, art with nudity, adultery, attempted suicide/murder, gambling, mental health, descriptions of the harshness of asylums at that time, implications of sex, trying to get pregnant and periods,

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this dramatic gothic novel set in early twentieth century England and New York City, readers follow mirror twins Adelaide and Victoria, complete opposites and totally inseparable. Adelaide, dutiful and reserved, has no desire to leave her childhood home of Harewood Hall in the English countryside, while Victoria wants to explore the world and have a great romance. However, Lord Stanley and his talk of a luxurious life drive the sisters apart, marrying an unwilling Adelaide and an angry Victoria, and the gilded Fifth Avenue cage becomes more dangerous as Adelaide discovers a life of her own that is everything that Victoria wanted. Only increasing in intensity and drama as the novel unfolds, readers are in store for a dark and twisted romance and sisterly relationship. The two sisters are excellently written and more complex than they appear, which really adds to the interpersonal tension and drama in this gripping and intense novel. The characters are the star of the novel, but the glitz of New York City and the quiet of Harewood Hall are perfect backgrounds for the characters’ development and indicative of the emotional state of the novel. Gothic and dramatic, this is hard to put down and emotionally intense, so readers should be ready for an emotional rollercoaster of a book.

Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the advance copy.

[A Mac · Rating 2 out of 5]

Actual Rating 1.5

Twin sisters Adelaide and Victoria have spent their lives intertwined as a pair. But when a visiting lord visits and decides to marry one of the sisters, they find themselves swept to America. But all isn't as it seems, and smiling faces and lavish houses hide more enemies than the sisters realize. 

My biggest issue with this work is that it felt familiar, predictable, and didn't really add anything to the topics the book explored. The work includes many elements, tropes, and cliches that felt too familiar given the topic, which added to the book feeling familiar and making it feel bland. The plot had no surprises. The setting wasn't well incorporated either, leaving a flat backdrop. 

The characters weren't strong. There was no development or depth included for them beyond what was absolutely necessary for the plot. The "romance" was also cliche and predictable, as well as insta-love, which gave that subplot no redeeming qualities. The protagonist was painfully dense, to the point where I couldn't be invested in her suffering because there was no way she should have been that oblivious. 

This historical fiction is readable, but I can't recommend it. My thanks to NetGalley and Spotify Audiobooks for allowing me to listen to this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

[Jordie Slesarenko · Rating 4 out of 5]

January Gilchrist’s "My Sister's Shadow" is a gripping Gothic novel that ensnares readers from the very first page. The story revolves around identical twins Adelaide and Victoria, whose starkly contrasting personalities—Adelaide’s brooding introspection versus Victoria’s vivacious charm—create a fascinating dynamic that drives the narrative.

Gilchrist masterfully intertwines the Gothic elements with the twins' intense relationship, creating an atmosphere brimming with dark secrets and eerie tension. The novel’s chilling settings and mysterious undertones are reminiscent of "The Thirteenth Tale," another tale of complex family bonds and hidden truths. However, "My Sister's Shadow" stands on its own with its rich character development and evocative prose.

The book’s ability to sustain suspense and intrigue throughout is commendable, and while it occasionally leans on familiar Gothic tropes, it does so with enough originality to keep it fresh and compelling. Overall, "My Sister's Shadow" is a must-read for fans of atmospheric thrillers and family dramas, deserving of a solid four stars for its engaging plot and atmospheric depth.

A special thank you to NetGalley for providing the ARC copy of this enthralling read.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book!!!

This is a suspenseful, period drama that keeps you on your toes!

Slow Start: The book was a bit slow for me in the beginning. I don't fault the author; period pieces are always hard for me to get into. Once I got past the first few chapters, the book was hard to put down.

This book follows the lives of twin sisters: one who wants to be noticed and of high status and one who just wants to be happy. The jealousy, comparisons, self-esteem issues and what I would consider mental instability/narcissism of the MCs actually draws you in. You quickly see their differences and pick up on how things could go wrong.

The twists and turns + unlikely romances and friendships keep the book interesting and the reader on their toes.

Period writings such as this are a stark reminder of the realities women had to live through during these times. How in most instances, women held very limited (if any) power and could be locked up for no reason other than a man saying she was unstable.

If I could mark this as 4.5⭐ I would. The author did an excellent job describing the feelings of the MCs and the unlikely side characters who become more like family than the actual family. Excellent book!

[virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the story of two sisters who live in England and want different things out of life. Initially, the novel is a slow burn, taking me a while to get into it. I liked one sister, but the other one annoyed me endlessly. I struggled with this story because I never felt attached to any character. The captivating parts kept me reading—full of feminine anger, jealousy, lies, and betrayals. A study in contrast, indeed!

The author does an excellent job of using tension to develop family secrets and lies. Although the author’s style eventually intrigued me, the book just left me wanting.

The E-book had some structural and grammatical errors, but none detracted from my reading.

If you like a dark, gothic-style novel with rivalries and sisters in a love-hate relationship, this historical fiction novel will resonate. On first impression, it was a 3.5-star read, but I liked the book as I got to the finish line. I would recommend it.

Thank you to Net Galley for this advanced copy read. My review is voluntary and is mine alone.