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Sister Dear
All Allie Marshall wants is a fresh start. But first she has to deal with the past.
Convicted of a crime she didn t commit, Allie watched a decade of her life vanish. Now, out on parole, Allie is determined to clear her name and reconnect with the daughter she barely knows.
But Allie s return to Brunswick, Georgia, sends earthquakes through the small, coastal community. Even her daughter Caroline, now a teenager, challenges Allie s claims of innocence. Refusing defeat, a stronger, smarter Allie launches a campaign for the truth, digging deep into the past. Her investigation threatens her parole status, her own safety, and the already-fragile bond with her family. What Allie uncovers is far worse than she imagined. Her own sister has been hiding a dark secret one that holds the key to Allie s freedom."
Convicted of a crime she didn t commit, Allie watched a decade of her life vanish. Now, out on parole, Allie is determined to clear her name and reconnect with the daughter she barely knows.
But Allie s return to Brunswick, Georgia, sends earthquakes through the small, coastal community. Even her daughter Caroline, now a teenager, challenges Allie s claims of innocence. Refusing defeat, a stronger, smarter Allie launches a campaign for the truth, digging deep into the past. Her investigation threatens her parole status, her own safety, and the already-fragile bond with her family. What Allie uncovers is far worse than she imagined. Her own sister has been hiding a dark secret one that holds the key to Allie s freedom."
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2016
91 people are currently reading
3525 people want to read
About the author
Laura McNeill
11 books528 followers*Laura McNeill also writes under the pen name "Lauren Clark" (The World Breaks Everyone" (August 2018 release, suspense)*
ACCLAIM FOR CENTER OF GRAVITY (July 14, 2015)
"A bold and poignant look into an imploding marriage, told in a chorus of assured voices. Center of Gravity is a compelling, fierce, and ultimately hopeful tale, and McNeill is a writer to watch."
- Josilyn Jackson, author of Someone Else's Love Story
“McNeill’s debut is a heart stopping, nail-biting suspense novel that held me captive until I read the last page."
--Colleen Coble, author of The Inn at Ocean’s Edge and the Hope Beach novels
"A breathless, gut-wrenching, satisfying page turner about the real superheroes of the world who stand up to evil and won’t back down."
--Erin Healy, author of The Baker's Wife
Laura McNeill has been a voracious reader since the age of four and would rather be stranded at the library than on a desert island. In her former life, she worked as an anchor and producer for CBS affiliates in Upstate New York and Alabama. Lauren adores her family, yoga, her new Electra bike, and flavored coffee. Center of Gravity is her first novel with Harper Collins/Thomas Nelson.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 285 reviews
May 9, 2016
3.75 Stars (I know, I know-why not just give it a 4 star rating, right?)
I have to be honest-there really isn't anything wrong with this book... It's written well, the pace moves quickly, and I could identify with the characters.
So why not a higher rating?
It's because I've read this storyline before. From different authors. The characters might have different names and live in different towns, but the set up and end result is all basically the same.
My other issue with this book is in the title itself.
Maybe it should have a warning before you read the title, like "SPOILER ALERT!"
Now, if you haven't read a lot of books about wrongly accused women getting out of prison with the intent of clearing their name, (and who happen to have a sister or a daughter) then I highly recommend you read this, as it's written a lot better than some of the others that I have read with a similar theme.
I will absolutely read more from this author. I only hope next time it's a storyline that hasn't been written to death already.
My thanks to NetGalley for the ARC I exchange for an honest review.
I have to be honest-there really isn't anything wrong with this book... It's written well, the pace moves quickly, and I could identify with the characters.
So why not a higher rating?
It's because I've read this storyline before. From different authors. The characters might have different names and live in different towns, but the set up and end result is all basically the same.
My other issue with this book is in the title itself.
Maybe it should have a warning before you read the title, like "SPOILER ALERT!"
Now, if you haven't read a lot of books about wrongly accused women getting out of prison with the intent of clearing their name, (and who happen to have a sister or a daughter) then I highly recommend you read this, as it's written a lot better than some of the others that I have read with a similar theme.
I will absolutely read more from this author. I only hope next time it's a storyline that hasn't been written to death already.
My thanks to NetGalley for the ARC I exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2020
Another book that is written so well, great writing style, brilliant relatable characters but a storyline that’s not unique.
My other fault is that the author gives us the clues every step of the way instead of allowing the reader to fit the jigsaws together thus undermining the readers intelligence.
Well, that’s my take on it.
Hence my ratings
But don’t go by me, read others reviews as some really loved it.
My other fault is that the author gives us the clues every step of the way instead of allowing the reader to fit the jigsaws together thus undermining the readers intelligence.
Well, that’s my take on it.
Hence my ratings
But don’t go by me, read others reviews as some really loved it.
May 24, 2016
After ten years in prison for a crime she didn’t commit, Allie Marshall was finally paroled and able to return home. Her sister Emma picked her up to begin the long drive back to the small country town of Brunswick in Georgia that they called home; to their parents and Allie’s daughter Caroline. Caroline had been five years old when Allie was incarcerated – now fifteen and not having seen her mother in years, Allie had no idea what would happen when they saw one another again. All Allie knew was that she missed her; had missed her with a fierce ache in her heart and she hoped seeing Caroline again would make it all right…
But there were immediate problems for Allie – no one wanted her back in their home town. She was a killer; how could anyone feel comfortable with her among them all? So Allie, alienated from her daughter and everyone else she had once known, feeling a little tentative around her sister and parents, did the only thing she knew how. Her strength of character was completely different after spending ten years inside – her courage and determination to find the truth at the risk of her parole surmounted everything else.
As Allie quietly began uncovering secrets it was obvious someone didn’t want the truth to surface. Was she putting herself in danger? Worse, was she putting Caroline in harm’s way? But the darkness wouldn’t go away – what was the truth? What would finding the answers do to Allie; to her family? But she just had to clear her name; for herself, her daughter and their future…
Sister Dear by Laura McNeill is the second I have read by this author and I absolutely loved her first, Center of Gravity. Sister Dear felt a little different – not quite as gritty; a little choppy and disjointed to me. But the plot was a good one, and I enjoyed it for the most part. I really liked Allie’s character – her reaching out to get past insurmountable odds and her calmness in the face of adversity was really well done. I would still recommend Sister Dear for all lovers of the genre – it’s likely many others will love this book.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
But there were immediate problems for Allie – no one wanted her back in their home town. She was a killer; how could anyone feel comfortable with her among them all? So Allie, alienated from her daughter and everyone else she had once known, feeling a little tentative around her sister and parents, did the only thing she knew how. Her strength of character was completely different after spending ten years inside – her courage and determination to find the truth at the risk of her parole surmounted everything else.
As Allie quietly began uncovering secrets it was obvious someone didn’t want the truth to surface. Was she putting herself in danger? Worse, was she putting Caroline in harm’s way? But the darkness wouldn’t go away – what was the truth? What would finding the answers do to Allie; to her family? But she just had to clear her name; for herself, her daughter and their future…
Sister Dear by Laura McNeill is the second I have read by this author and I absolutely loved her first, Center of Gravity. Sister Dear felt a little different – not quite as gritty; a little choppy and disjointed to me. But the plot was a good one, and I enjoyed it for the most part. I really liked Allie’s character – her reaching out to get past insurmountable odds and her calmness in the face of adversity was really well done. I would still recommend Sister Dear for all lovers of the genre – it’s likely many others will love this book.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
December 5, 2016
A special thank you to Thomas Nelson--FICTION and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Top 50 Books of 2016!
Talented storyteller, Laura McNeill returns following her sensational debut, Center of Gravity, landing on my Top 50 Books of 2015 “Best Southern Domestic Psycho-Suspense" with a strong followup, SISTER DEAR, an edge of your seat (nail-biter), tension-filled, psychological suspense thriller Top Books of 2016.
From jealousy, greed, betrayal, family, revenge, murder, and highly charged topics of steroid use in high school sports-football; mixed with brilliant writing and clever plotting; A mind-blowing whodunit mystery!
As the book opens Allie Marshall is finally getting out of prison. She has been an inmate at Arrendale State Prison for a crime she did not commit. Someone murdered the high school football coach. Who set her up? She thinks it may have been the Sheriff; however, she needs proof.
She has lost her life, her promising medical career, her reputation, and her daughter. The judge had sentenced Allie to sixteen years. She had been granted an early release—ten years behind bars.
"An imprint made by an incident, mistake and tragedy. Evidence and lack of it." Appeals failed. She was innocent. The wrong place at the wrong time. And the killer still out there.
Caroline, her daughter was only five- years- old when Allie was convicted. Caroline is now a teen, living with her Aunt Emma, Allie's sister. She does not even know her. The joyous reunion she had imagined for years, did not happen.
Allie is returning to Brunswick, Georgia a small historic southeastern town on the coast, in South Georgia, near northeast Florida. Her father has sold his veterinary practice, from the stress of the trial (Allie worked there as a vet tech).
She had it all before prison, a college education, and an acceptance to medical school—she was leaving the following week. She was almost there- living her dream. From college honor societies and her charity work to her job—destroyed by one night long ago. She was the good girl, the responsible studious daughter.
Her sister, Emma was the one always in trouble. One night before leaving for school, she wanted to celebrate with her sister Emma. A quiet girls night in with movies, dinner, and some wine. Emma led a secretive life. Dangerous secrets. She had everyone fooled. One trip to the pharmacy had led Allie to go after her. The one night which changed Allie’s life. The wrong place, the wrong time—trying to rescue her sister.
Emma was the only one who came to see Allie when she was in prison. Was she really a supporter? She has been raising her daughter Caroline. She was the one constant in her life.
Allie, also lost Ben, the guy who wanted to marry her; however, with his political career, he even wanted to sacrifice—she could not allow this and broke it off. Her best friend Morgan was long gone. At first Lily, her mother, and Paul, her dad came to visit at the prison. Then their visits stopped as well as Caroline. Her prison sentence changed everyone and everything.
She had survived. Her mission is to get her daughter back, find a job, and try and find the real killer. She wants justice. She was free. She will go to the new veterinarian owners and get a job, doing anything. Hopefully, the new owners will give her a chance to start over.
Carolina was not speaking to her. Old friends ignored her, and her own parents were keeping a safe distance.
The author skillfully unravels the events leading up to the tragic murder, the past, and the present. Flashing back and forth from 2006-2016; through the years, we hear from perspectives: Allie, Emma, Caroline, and Sheriff Gaines. The secrets of a town.
Emma is overly protective of Caroline. She wants to adopt Caroline. She needs Allie gone.
Before prison, Allie was dating Ben. Living in a small town ruled by football, Allie discovered Coach Thomas was abusing the football players—one being Ben’s brother. There were many. Outrages, tempers, personality changes. Everyone turned a blind eye. The coach wanted to win and the use of drugs and steroids was suspected. He wanted to make a name for himself—wins, college football scholarships, and NFL recruits. He would use whatever tactics he could. Allie submitted an editorial about it ten years earlier. No one else was concerned or believed her.
When the coach was murdered and Allie was the first on the scene, she was quickly convicted, without a lot of evidence. Allie does not trust Sheriff Gaines. She needs proof. Coach Thomas’ family was in the pharmaceutical business. However, it is hard attaining proof, when she was being watched--her every move. Everyone was judging Allie, waiting for her to screw up so they could send her back to prison. A daughter and a town which wants nothing to do with her. Wrongly accused, and now having served her time--she is an outcast.
Caroline, a teen is losing all her friends at school since her mom has returned. She felt like her life was a Stephen King movie. Everywhere she went, tension built. It was the anticipation, the beats leading up to the moment when tragedy struck the main character. Things start happening to remind everyone of the murder. Everything attached to her is being attacked. From her boyfriend to her best friend—now gone from her life.
Interestingly, Sheriff Gaines' wife June, is in a nursing home where Caroline works part-time. Her mind is not right, after an accident, but she recalls things from the past. Mysteriously, she thinks Caroline is Emma.
There is also a boy Russell, working at the nursing home—his parents now own the local vet, and Allie’s new boss. He befriends Caroline. Natalie gives Allie a job. Between Natalie, Allie, Caroline, and Russell---will they figure out the pieces of the mystery before it is too late. What really happened that night? What kind of monster is Emma? What about Sheriff Gaines--how is he connected?
WOW, Emma is one sick character. On the exterior, Allie thinks she is the best sister, supportive and caring. However, she is her worst enemy. She is out to steal her daughter and ruin her life. She is manipulative, obsessive, and conniving to the tune of: A Fatal Attraction, The Hand That Rocks the Cradle and the Boy Next Door. .
The suspense is chilling, mind-blowing—keeping you guessing as what went down. Until after the 50% -80% readers do not know what went down and how it all happened until the very end. Readers get bits and pieces, keeping you glued to the pages.
Loved, Loved!!! "Un-put-down-able" a read in one sitting. Twists and turns you do not see coming. Emma is pure evil—two faces. Ideal for the big screen---Predict, a New York Times Bestseller. Laura McNeill has written two back to back winners---quickly becoming one of my favorite psychological suspense authors.
The twists with Sheriff Gaines and June were brilliant—and wow, loved Natalie and Russell’s character. Heart-pounding intensity. Everything about this crime thriller was top-notch. You will root for Allie from page one to the end. From the excellent character development, the pacing, and the explosive ending.
A riveting Southern mystery! Dealing with highly charged topics of steroids, drugs, and abuse in the sports industry. Readers will be truly invested in the story, its characters, and the vivid settings. For fans of Mary Kubica --McNeill's lyrical writing shines -Tops on my list!
SISTER DEAR has all the ingredients I look for in an engaging psychological thriller – Highly Recommend!
On a personal note: Enjoyed familiar places, having lived in Buckhead and weekends in Dahlonega (North Georgia, Lake Lanier) as well as Southern coastal Brunswick and Jekyll Island. If you have ever lived in Atlanta, you know their obsession with football.
JDCMustReadBooks
Top 50 Books of 2016!
Talented storyteller, Laura McNeill returns following her sensational debut, Center of Gravity, landing on my Top 50 Books of 2015 “Best Southern Domestic Psycho-Suspense" with a strong followup, SISTER DEAR, an edge of your seat (nail-biter), tension-filled, psychological suspense thriller Top Books of 2016.
From jealousy, greed, betrayal, family, revenge, murder, and highly charged topics of steroid use in high school sports-football; mixed with brilliant writing and clever plotting; A mind-blowing whodunit mystery!
As the book opens Allie Marshall is finally getting out of prison. She has been an inmate at Arrendale State Prison for a crime she did not commit. Someone murdered the high school football coach. Who set her up? She thinks it may have been the Sheriff; however, she needs proof.
She has lost her life, her promising medical career, her reputation, and her daughter. The judge had sentenced Allie to sixteen years. She had been granted an early release—ten years behind bars.
"An imprint made by an incident, mistake and tragedy. Evidence and lack of it." Appeals failed. She was innocent. The wrong place at the wrong time. And the killer still out there.
Caroline, her daughter was only five- years- old when Allie was convicted. Caroline is now a teen, living with her Aunt Emma, Allie's sister. She does not even know her. The joyous reunion she had imagined for years, did not happen.
Allie is returning to Brunswick, Georgia a small historic southeastern town on the coast, in South Georgia, near northeast Florida. Her father has sold his veterinary practice, from the stress of the trial (Allie worked there as a vet tech).
She had it all before prison, a college education, and an acceptance to medical school—she was leaving the following week. She was almost there- living her dream. From college honor societies and her charity work to her job—destroyed by one night long ago. She was the good girl, the responsible studious daughter.
Her sister, Emma was the one always in trouble. One night before leaving for school, she wanted to celebrate with her sister Emma. A quiet girls night in with movies, dinner, and some wine. Emma led a secretive life. Dangerous secrets. She had everyone fooled. One trip to the pharmacy had led Allie to go after her. The one night which changed Allie’s life. The wrong place, the wrong time—trying to rescue her sister.
Emma was the only one who came to see Allie when she was in prison. Was she really a supporter? She has been raising her daughter Caroline. She was the one constant in her life.
Allie, also lost Ben, the guy who wanted to marry her; however, with his political career, he even wanted to sacrifice—she could not allow this and broke it off. Her best friend Morgan was long gone. At first Lily, her mother, and Paul, her dad came to visit at the prison. Then their visits stopped as well as Caroline. Her prison sentence changed everyone and everything.
She had survived. Her mission is to get her daughter back, find a job, and try and find the real killer. She wants justice. She was free. She will go to the new veterinarian owners and get a job, doing anything. Hopefully, the new owners will give her a chance to start over.
Carolina was not speaking to her. Old friends ignored her, and her own parents were keeping a safe distance.
The author skillfully unravels the events leading up to the tragic murder, the past, and the present. Flashing back and forth from 2006-2016; through the years, we hear from perspectives: Allie, Emma, Caroline, and Sheriff Gaines. The secrets of a town.
Emma is overly protective of Caroline. She wants to adopt Caroline. She needs Allie gone.
Before prison, Allie was dating Ben. Living in a small town ruled by football, Allie discovered Coach Thomas was abusing the football players—one being Ben’s brother. There were many. Outrages, tempers, personality changes. Everyone turned a blind eye. The coach wanted to win and the use of drugs and steroids was suspected. He wanted to make a name for himself—wins, college football scholarships, and NFL recruits. He would use whatever tactics he could. Allie submitted an editorial about it ten years earlier. No one else was concerned or believed her.
When the coach was murdered and Allie was the first on the scene, she was quickly convicted, without a lot of evidence. Allie does not trust Sheriff Gaines. She needs proof. Coach Thomas’ family was in the pharmaceutical business. However, it is hard attaining proof, when she was being watched--her every move. Everyone was judging Allie, waiting for her to screw up so they could send her back to prison. A daughter and a town which wants nothing to do with her. Wrongly accused, and now having served her time--she is an outcast.
Caroline, a teen is losing all her friends at school since her mom has returned. She felt like her life was a Stephen King movie. Everywhere she went, tension built. It was the anticipation, the beats leading up to the moment when tragedy struck the main character. Things start happening to remind everyone of the murder. Everything attached to her is being attacked. From her boyfriend to her best friend—now gone from her life.
Interestingly, Sheriff Gaines' wife June, is in a nursing home where Caroline works part-time. Her mind is not right, after an accident, but she recalls things from the past. Mysteriously, she thinks Caroline is Emma.
There is also a boy Russell, working at the nursing home—his parents now own the local vet, and Allie’s new boss. He befriends Caroline. Natalie gives Allie a job. Between Natalie, Allie, Caroline, and Russell---will they figure out the pieces of the mystery before it is too late. What really happened that night? What kind of monster is Emma? What about Sheriff Gaines--how is he connected?
WOW, Emma is one sick character. On the exterior, Allie thinks she is the best sister, supportive and caring. However, she is her worst enemy. She is out to steal her daughter and ruin her life. She is manipulative, obsessive, and conniving to the tune of: A Fatal Attraction, The Hand That Rocks the Cradle and the Boy Next Door. .
The suspense is chilling, mind-blowing—keeping you guessing as what went down. Until after the 50% -80% readers do not know what went down and how it all happened until the very end. Readers get bits and pieces, keeping you glued to the pages.
Loved, Loved!!! "Un-put-down-able" a read in one sitting. Twists and turns you do not see coming. Emma is pure evil—two faces. Ideal for the big screen---Predict, a New York Times Bestseller. Laura McNeill has written two back to back winners---quickly becoming one of my favorite psychological suspense authors.
The twists with Sheriff Gaines and June were brilliant—and wow, loved Natalie and Russell’s character. Heart-pounding intensity. Everything about this crime thriller was top-notch. You will root for Allie from page one to the end. From the excellent character development, the pacing, and the explosive ending.
A riveting Southern mystery! Dealing with highly charged topics of steroids, drugs, and abuse in the sports industry. Readers will be truly invested in the story, its characters, and the vivid settings. For fans of Mary Kubica --McNeill's lyrical writing shines -Tops on my list!
SISTER DEAR has all the ingredients I look for in an engaging psychological thriller – Highly Recommend!
On a personal note: Enjoyed familiar places, having lived in Buckhead and weekends in Dahlonega (North Georgia, Lake Lanier) as well as Southern coastal Brunswick and Jekyll Island. If you have ever lived in Atlanta, you know their obsession with football.
JDCMustReadBooks
August 4, 2020
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. These are my honest thoughts.
When will there be a clean psychological thriller?
That’s what I was hoping for in this book, especially since it’s published by Thomas Nelson, who used to be known for their high standards in publishing decent, biblical-principled books. This particular book has ruined that reputation in my eyes.
I am completely saddened by the vulgar content in this book. If I wanted to read a bra-ripping sex scene, I would have chosen a mainstream book with a scantily clad model on the cover. (That’s not my personal taste in books, thanks, and I try to avoid them.) There were also at least two main characters who had backgrounds of sleeping around; one character in particular seemed to throw herself at a wide variety of men including coaches and college professors. The vulgar, sex-crazed attitude this book took on disgusted me and is the main reason why my rating is only two stars. Some other factors were the couple of profane uses of the Lord’s name, handfuls of expletives laced throughout the book, and the heavy alcohol usage throughout.
The ranty part of this review is now over. On to the good stuff.
The family dynamics in this book were awesome. From sisters to mother/daughter to aunt/niece, I was hooked on these relationships from the beginning and hoped with every flip of the page that these broken relationships could somehow be mended. The hurts, grudges, vindictiveness, love, compassion, and regrets all punched at my emotions until I cried a bit.
The volunteer work of the teens in this book was neat. Getting hands-on experience in a nursing home is not always easy, but these kids showed bravery and dedication in their efforts. That was cool to see.
Something fun was trying to piece together the clues of who committed the murder. I liked the various aspects of who it might have been: the woman convicted of the crime who served ten years in prison for it; the sheriff who arrested her; the players on the team; and a few other people along the way. The psychological thriller aspect was used well when it came to the pacing and uncovering of clues and the chapter breaks as well as the flashbacks in time. This author is talented in the genre, no doubt.
I especially liked that an ex-con was out to prove her innocence of the crime she’d been convicted of committing. This was a storyline I hadn’t seen before in fictional books, and it reminded me of the movie and 2000-01 TV show The Fugitive.
I won’t be reading any additional books by this author, but I’ll be keeping my eyes out for some decent psych-thrillers, because I love the genre and want cleaner books in it to read.
Content: sex (including a bra-ripping scene and “sleeping around” backstories for two leads), alcohol, profanity, expletives, sexual terms/phrases, teen drinking (mentioned), replacement expletives, physical abuse, steroids (other drugs mentioned but not used), marital affairs
When will there be a clean psychological thriller?
That’s what I was hoping for in this book, especially since it’s published by Thomas Nelson, who used to be known for their high standards in publishing decent, biblical-principled books. This particular book has ruined that reputation in my eyes.
I am completely saddened by the vulgar content in this book. If I wanted to read a bra-ripping sex scene, I would have chosen a mainstream book with a scantily clad model on the cover. (That’s not my personal taste in books, thanks, and I try to avoid them.) There were also at least two main characters who had backgrounds of sleeping around; one character in particular seemed to throw herself at a wide variety of men including coaches and college professors. The vulgar, sex-crazed attitude this book took on disgusted me and is the main reason why my rating is only two stars. Some other factors were the couple of profane uses of the Lord’s name, handfuls of expletives laced throughout the book, and the heavy alcohol usage throughout.
The ranty part of this review is now over. On to the good stuff.
The family dynamics in this book were awesome. From sisters to mother/daughter to aunt/niece, I was hooked on these relationships from the beginning and hoped with every flip of the page that these broken relationships could somehow be mended. The hurts, grudges, vindictiveness, love, compassion, and regrets all punched at my emotions until I cried a bit.
The volunteer work of the teens in this book was neat. Getting hands-on experience in a nursing home is not always easy, but these kids showed bravery and dedication in their efforts. That was cool to see.
Something fun was trying to piece together the clues of who committed the murder. I liked the various aspects of who it might have been: the woman convicted of the crime who served ten years in prison for it; the sheriff who arrested her; the players on the team; and a few other people along the way. The psychological thriller aspect was used well when it came to the pacing and uncovering of clues and the chapter breaks as well as the flashbacks in time. This author is talented in the genre, no doubt.
I especially liked that an ex-con was out to prove her innocence of the crime she’d been convicted of committing. This was a storyline I hadn’t seen before in fictional books, and it reminded me of the movie and 2000-01 TV show The Fugitive.
I won’t be reading any additional books by this author, but I’ll be keeping my eyes out for some decent psych-thrillers, because I love the genre and want cleaner books in it to read.
Content: sex (including a bra-ripping scene and “sleeping around” backstories for two leads), alcohol, profanity, expletives, sexual terms/phrases, teen drinking (mentioned), replacement expletives, physical abuse, steroids (other drugs mentioned but not used), marital affairs
July 6, 2016
Wow! It's been over a week since I finished reading "Sister Dear" and I still can't get it out of my head! This is a book that will keep you thinking long after you finish it. You'll wonder why didn't I see that or "Really?" Needless to say, I loved this family mystery.
The story is about a young woman, Allie, who is convicted of a crime she supposedly didn't commit. After she gets out of prison, she returns to the town she lived in and encounters a massive amount of prejudice. She, of course, is out to prove her innocence. And that is where I'm going to leave the storyline. You'll want to read the book to find out what happens.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The story is about a young woman, Allie, who is convicted of a crime she supposedly didn't commit. After she gets out of prison, she returns to the town she lived in and encounters a massive amount of prejudice. She, of course, is out to prove her innocence. And that is where I'm going to leave the storyline. You'll want to read the book to find out what happens.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
March 22, 2016
This was a great mind twisty mystery. A bit slow in the first several chapters, but once you get into the heart of the story you'll be flipping pages like nobody's business. A great book for those rainy Spring days.
Note:::Near the end of the book there are one or two instances of mild language.
Note:::I recieved this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Note:::Near the end of the book there are one or two instances of mild language.
Note:::I recieved this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
February 6, 2016
Laura McNeill has a knack for weaving an intricate & intriguing family story! Alternating in time makes for a very quick paced & entertaining read. The facets of families & how they deal with secrets, tragedies & hope are all included! Fabulous read!
June 3, 2017
Entertaining , the perfect holiday read unless you are spending your time with your sister!
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www.theleisurediaries.blogspot.com
May 16, 2016
Two Sisters, one jealous sister, and a trail of unbelievable acts.
Could you really be that jealous of someone and have such a desire for revenge that you would go to any lengths to ruin that person's life?
We meet Allie as she is released from prison after ten years for a crime she didn't commit, Emma, Allie's sister who raised Allie's daughter, and Caroline, Allie's 15-year-old daughter.
Allie was released from prison and returned to her home town in hopes of reconciling with her daughter, but all wasn't easy especially in the small town of Brunswick where the residents didn't forget what happened ten years ago and wouldn't change what they believed.
Allie knew she hadn't killed a man, but the jury and the town still accused her and shunned her.
Being a felon in her small, home town wasn't working out too well for Allie. Emma subtly and cruelly made things difficult for her sister and niece and would stop at nothing to keep Caroline as her own. Caroline was embarrassed to have anyone know her mother was out of prison and back in Brunswick.
All of the characters had a lot of baggage to deal with along with the jealousy factor that definitely did a lot of personal damage.
The characters in SISTER DEAR were for the most part not trustworthy.
Emma was a sister that I am glad was not mine.
The sheriff was not likable at all and definitely a sheriff who had some secrets.
I liked Allie and Caroline, though, because they seemed genuine.
SISTER DEAR is unmistakably a tension-building page turner that keeps your interest from the opening sentence.
Be sure you have a lot of time when you begin SISTER DEAR because you won’t be able to stop reading.
The last 20 pages became even more suspenseful...I was nervous. :) 5/5
This book was given to me free of charge and without compensation by the publisher and Litfuse Publicity in return for an honest review.
September 23, 2016
I won a copy of Sister Dear from a Goodreads Giveaway.
I didn't like this book and while I wouldn't say I hated it, I wouldn't recommend it only because you know whodunit by the fifth chapter. When that happens, it makes the book not worth finishing, in my opinion.
The characters are shallow archetypes of exactly the types you would find in these plots:
1. The picture perfect family minus the bratty, younger, wild sister Emma who is jealous of the-
2. Brainy, beautiful, dependable older sister, Allie, whose one night stand ended up in a pregnancy and I feel strongly Ms. McNeill just threw it in there to emphasize Caroline and Emma's similar appearance due to Caroline's Italian sperm donor which is why Dr. Gaines is able to mistake Caroline for disloyal aunt.
3. The small town setting where everybody knows your business and no one likes you, not even your parents
4. The equally bratty, whiny daughter who is just...really annoying and just to add an extra dose of Lifetime drama because you just can't have enough
5. The loyal boyfriend who comes back to profess his undying love for her so there is the archetype happily ever after
There is a slight twist at the end that I was able to suspend a tiny bit of belief for because, hey, I made it to the end. I may as well get something out of it.
Oh, and in case you didn't figure it out, the sister did it.
I didn't like this book and while I wouldn't say I hated it, I wouldn't recommend it only because you know whodunit by the fifth chapter. When that happens, it makes the book not worth finishing, in my opinion.
The characters are shallow archetypes of exactly the types you would find in these plots:
1. The picture perfect family minus the bratty, younger, wild sister Emma who is jealous of the-
2. Brainy, beautiful, dependable older sister, Allie, whose one night stand ended up in a pregnancy and I feel strongly Ms. McNeill just threw it in there to emphasize Caroline and Emma's similar appearance due to Caroline's Italian sperm donor which is why Dr. Gaines is able to mistake Caroline for disloyal aunt.
3. The small town setting where everybody knows your business and no one likes you, not even your parents
4. The equally bratty, whiny daughter who is just...really annoying and just to add an extra dose of Lifetime drama because you just can't have enough
5. The loyal boyfriend who comes back to profess his undying love for her so there is the archetype happily ever after
There is a slight twist at the end that I was able to suspend a tiny bit of belief for because, hey, I made it to the end. I may as well get something out of it.
Oh, and in case you didn't figure it out, the sister did it.
April 21, 2016
This is a book that will blow you away! A real page-turner, full of secrets, jealousy, and lots of twists and turns! Allie has served 10 years in prison after being convicted of killing a revered high school football coach, although she has always proclaimed her innocence. At the time of her conviction she was the single mother of a young daughter and was about to enter medical school. Allie's sister, Emma has taken care of her daughter, Caroline, while she was imprisoned. Allie has no idea that her sister has always been extremely jealous of her, and that her jealousy goes way beyond sibling rivalry. Emma will do anything she can to keep Caroline away from her mother. Even more than that, Emma is harboring deep, dangerous, secrets of the events 10 years ago that landed her sister in prison. This story is engrossing and compelling, as it becomes clear what really happened that horrific night.
August 16, 2017
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is one of those books that just fall into the "there" category. I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it. I read of lot of books in this genre and ultimately the biggest flaw with Sister Dear is that it is entirely too predictable. I mean, the title of the book alone basically tells you what you need to know. Right from the get go I knew who really killed Coach Thomas, so although there is a small ah-ha moment at the end, it wasn't really this gripping thriller that kept me turning pages. I mostly wanted to finish just to see if I was right (I was).
Honestly, I don't think I would recommend this book, even though the writing is very good. It was just not gripping enough and the ending just entirely too obvious for my taste. However, I do seem to be in the minority, as there are a lot of 4 and 5 star reviews, so maybe it is just me.
This is one of those books that just fall into the "there" category. I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it. I read of lot of books in this genre and ultimately the biggest flaw with Sister Dear is that it is entirely too predictable. I mean, the title of the book alone basically tells you what you need to know. Right from the get go I knew who really killed Coach Thomas, so although there is a small ah-ha moment at the end, it wasn't really this gripping thriller that kept me turning pages. I mostly wanted to finish just to see if I was right (I was).
Honestly, I don't think I would recommend this book, even though the writing is very good. It was just not gripping enough and the ending just entirely too obvious for my taste. However, I do seem to be in the minority, as there are a lot of 4 and 5 star reviews, so maybe it is just me.
March 30, 2016
It's no secret that I loved Laura McNeill's highly suspenseful and intriguing debut novel, Center of Gravity. I loved her full-of-secrets sophomore novel, Sister Dear, for all the same reasons. Tight prose where I savor every word, multiple viewpoints told in both the present and the past, fully fleshed out, complex characters; all with a super quick, page-turning pace. I am still thinking about the ever evolving characters, each of whom I would find totally sympathetic, only to change my mind on the very next page. I highly recommend this book for fans of domestic suspense. While this advanced copy was generously given to me by the author, I had already preordered a copy because I love sharing great books with friends. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 5, 2020
What a twisted tale. In this psychological thriller, the story begins with Allie's release from prison after serving ten years of her sentence for a murder she insists she didn't commit. Allie's sister, Emma, has taken care of her daughter, Caroline, in her absence. The story is told through four points of view: Allie, Emma, Caroline (15 at time of Allie's release) and Sheriff Gaines. Most chapters include a current day thread and flash back to details that occurred the year of the murder or prior.
May 30, 2020
One sister gets out of jail after 10 years of an unjust verdict, although she is the only one who knows that. She is determined to find out who actually committed the murder so that she can win back her daughter who has been raised by her sister. There were a fair number of very unlikely things that happened along the way, but it was entertaining.
July 9, 2016
Allie is fresh out of prison after serving ten years of a sixteen year sentence for murder. All she was to do is re-aquatint herself with her daughter Caroline and prove her innocence.
Caroline is beautiful and popular. The last thing she wants is a convict mother spoiling the life she has she doesn't want to explain her mother's release to her friends.
Emma, Allie's sister has been a rock to Caroline, she is the mother Allie isn't and obviously couldn't be, and all Emma wants to do is 'put things right' for everyone.
This is a fabulous read. Laura McNeill manages to write a convincing tale of love and revenge. Emma isn't the kind of person you cross and if you do BEWARE.
Sister Dear is a dark and intense thriller. It also gives an insight to how people cope when faced with events that can turn your life upside down.
Allie is a lovely character, and the reader is on her side from the start. She is judged and has to overcome many obstacles in her quest for the truth. But is it the truth she wants to hear?? Who can she really trust?? and why is the person she needs the most, is the one she needs the least??
Riveting and dramatic, Sister Dear would make a fabulous film.
Caroline is beautiful and popular. The last thing she wants is a convict mother spoiling the life she has she doesn't want to explain her mother's release to her friends.
Emma, Allie's sister has been a rock to Caroline, she is the mother Allie isn't and obviously couldn't be, and all Emma wants to do is 'put things right' for everyone.
This is a fabulous read. Laura McNeill manages to write a convincing tale of love and revenge. Emma isn't the kind of person you cross and if you do BEWARE.
Sister Dear is a dark and intense thriller. It also gives an insight to how people cope when faced with events that can turn your life upside down.
Allie is a lovely character, and the reader is on her side from the start. She is judged and has to overcome many obstacles in her quest for the truth. But is it the truth she wants to hear?? Who can she really trust?? and why is the person she needs the most, is the one she needs the least??
Riveting and dramatic, Sister Dear would make a fabulous film.
July 21, 2016
I've read Center of Gravity by this author so I couldn't wait to read this one.
I didn't read the synopsis before I started this. I've got to say as I kept reading I really hoped it was going to have a big twist that would blow my mind, that would make this stand apart from other stories like this. Sadly it didn't.
Don't get me wrong it's a well written story that I read in a few days and I didn't guess straight off who did it. The ending was also different to what I thought it would happen. All good positives for my reading of this story.
Allie is a strong willed character who was falsely imprisoned. After being released she aims to find out who did it. She doesn't bet on getting more than she bargained for.
My heart went out to Allies daughter Caroline. I really wanted to sit her down and tell her about her mum truthfully.
Emma is Allies sister. I didn't like her and then began to really hate her.
Good story that had me angry one minute & covered in goosebumps the next minute. Will definitely be reading more from this author.
I didn't read the synopsis before I started this. I've got to say as I kept reading I really hoped it was going to have a big twist that would blow my mind, that would make this stand apart from other stories like this. Sadly it didn't.
Don't get me wrong it's a well written story that I read in a few days and I didn't guess straight off who did it. The ending was also different to what I thought it would happen. All good positives for my reading of this story.
Allie is a strong willed character who was falsely imprisoned. After being released she aims to find out who did it. She doesn't bet on getting more than she bargained for.
My heart went out to Allies daughter Caroline. I really wanted to sit her down and tell her about her mum truthfully.
Emma is Allies sister. I didn't like her and then began to really hate her.
Good story that had me angry one minute & covered in goosebumps the next minute. Will definitely be reading more from this author.
May 27, 2016
This book! I couldn't put it down. Secrets, tragedies, plenty of sisterly drama... It's all included here, and the alternating storylines, switching between past and present, makes it a quick and engaging read. Five stars!
December 10, 2020
10 years ago Allie was sentenced to prison for a crime that she didn't commit as she was found guilty of murdering the high school football coach. Her whole life went up in flames as Allie was always the good sister and the one destined for much bigger things than their smalltown offered, she also had an amazing boyfriend Ben, and a daughter Caroline. Why would she risk losing all that? It was a case of the wrong place and the wrong time she has tried to appeal all these years. Out of good behavior, Allie has moved back to town to try and rebuild her life and reconnect after all these years with her daughter Caroline and her sister Emma. The thing though that we are about to discover is that Emma isn't happy being shoved to the side once again as with Allie in prison, Emma got to be the center of attention for once and all the praise went to her. Now Emma has a good job and the daughter she always wanted in Caroline but now with Allie home that is all threatened. Read as Emma tries to sabotage Allie's reintegration back into society and worsen Caroline and Allie's relationship by filling her head with lies. This book flips back to the past leading up to the death of the coach and how Allie was the perfect scapegoat to take the blame. When Caroline challenges Allie to prove her innocence, Allie is more determined than ever but will she be met with resistance as there are people in the town who do not want the truth to be revealed about what happened that night and the past drudged up and Sheriff Gaines who arrested Allie is one of those people. Needing a good mystery to break up your romance reading so it doesn't get stale? Check out Sister Dear by Laura McNeill.
October 8, 2016
Laura McNeill kept me flipping the pages until deep in the night. LOVED.
April 14, 2016
I am really behind today because I just could not put down this completely engrossing domestic suspense drama. Told from multiple points of views and switching between present and past, all the characters were intricately fleshed out and were totally believable, and the amazing thing was, the author managed to make me have feelings for all of them, even the 'nasty' ones, because they were all portrayed in such a complex way that you could understand what was driving them and why they acted the way they did.
10 years ago, Allie was convicted of killing the local high school football coach. Released on parole, she returns to her hometown where the locals are less than welcoming, the sheriff is suspicious of her and even her parents don't know how to act around her. But Allie can cope with all that. All she is hoping for is to reestablish a relationship with her teenage daughter, Caroline. But Caroline wants nothing to do with her. She is having a hard time being the daughter of a convicted felon and becomes increasingly isolated at school. Caroline has been brought up by Allie's sister, Emma. I don't think I'm giving much away when I divulge that Emma has issues. Serious issues.
In order to get her daughter back, Allie has to find a way to prove that, 10 years ago, she was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Sister Dear isn't so much a whodunit, but an exciting uncovering of the why and how. There was so much skillfully crafted into this storyline: drugs and football, jealousy and betrayal, small-town politics, love and loss, and forgiveness.
The writing was so adept, you really felt you were there. I actually felt compelled to look up Brunswick and Saint Simons Island and have added them to my bucket list of places-to-visit-one-day ;)
Realistic, gritty, absolutely riveting.
If you haven't guessed by now: I loved it.
Laura McNeill was an author I hadn't heard of before, but on finishing Sister Dear, I immediately downloaded Center of Gravity, her debut novel from last year.
Many thanks to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a copy of Sister Dear via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
10 years ago, Allie was convicted of killing the local high school football coach. Released on parole, she returns to her hometown where the locals are less than welcoming, the sheriff is suspicious of her and even her parents don't know how to act around her. But Allie can cope with all that. All she is hoping for is to reestablish a relationship with her teenage daughter, Caroline. But Caroline wants nothing to do with her. She is having a hard time being the daughter of a convicted felon and becomes increasingly isolated at school. Caroline has been brought up by Allie's sister, Emma. I don't think I'm giving much away when I divulge that Emma has issues. Serious issues.
In order to get her daughter back, Allie has to find a way to prove that, 10 years ago, she was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Sister Dear isn't so much a whodunit, but an exciting uncovering of the why and how. There was so much skillfully crafted into this storyline: drugs and football, jealousy and betrayal, small-town politics, love and loss, and forgiveness.
The writing was so adept, you really felt you were there. I actually felt compelled to look up Brunswick and Saint Simons Island and have added them to my bucket list of places-to-visit-one-day ;)
Realistic, gritty, absolutely riveting.
If you haven't guessed by now: I loved it.
Laura McNeill was an author I hadn't heard of before, but on finishing Sister Dear, I immediately downloaded Center of Gravity, her debut novel from last year.
Many thanks to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a copy of Sister Dear via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
June 2, 2016
I was really excited to read this book because of all the publicity it got before it was published. I have to admit that I was disappointed that it did not live up to the hype, at least for me.
The story is very well-written, but there was not, in my opinion, any nail-biting suspense. The plot is overdone and far too predictable. It took almost no time at all to figure out who the real killer had been and why they had killed the person and allowed Allie to take the blame.
I really liked the character of Caroline, Allie's daughter. The things she had to go through, and the choices she had to make, were very well written and developed. For me, she was the most sympathetic character of the book.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
The story is very well-written, but there was not, in my opinion, any nail-biting suspense. The plot is overdone and far too predictable. It took almost no time at all to figure out who the real killer had been and why they had killed the person and allowed Allie to take the blame.
I really liked the character of Caroline, Allie's daughter. The things she had to go through, and the choices she had to make, were very well written and developed. For me, she was the most sympathetic character of the book.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
May 3, 2016
“All Allie Marshall wants is a fresh start. But when dark secrets refuse to stay buried, will her chance at a new life be shattered forever?”
Laura McNeill’s novels keep getting stronger and more compelling. The characters are richer and the plots more sophisticated and layered. Laura’s early novels seemed to focus on family and place. Her central character has always been a strong woman overcoming insurmountable obstacles, but now her storylines seem to have taken a turn toward the psychological thriller. So far she has shown a talent for writing that genre and I look forward to reading more.
http://www.lauramcneill.com
Laura McNeill’s novels keep getting stronger and more compelling. The characters are richer and the plots more sophisticated and layered. Laura’s early novels seemed to focus on family and place. Her central character has always been a strong woman overcoming insurmountable obstacles, but now her storylines seem to have taken a turn toward the psychological thriller. So far she has shown a talent for writing that genre and I look forward to reading more.
http://www.lauramcneill.com
February 23, 2016
Review to come closer to publication.
What if.. you made a mistake that cost you 10 years of your life? And then what if the mistake was not even really a mistake, more of being in the wrong place at wrong time?
You get out of jail. You want to be good. To have life go back to normal. But someone out there won't rest till you've paid. And paid. And paid.
What do you do?
What if.. you made a mistake that cost you 10 years of your life? And then what if the mistake was not even really a mistake, more of being in the wrong place at wrong time?
You get out of jail. You want to be good. To have life go back to normal. But someone out there won't rest till you've paid. And paid. And paid.
What do you do?
May 6, 2016
Review over at my blog: http://wp.me/p75OHV-2R
February 14, 2017
This was a slow build kind of read that was very enjoyable because I liked the main character and felt a lot of sympathy for her situation. Allie was surrounded by all sorts of folks who may not have always been like-able, but definitely made the story more interesting. Laura McNeill's stories are not usually fast-paced but her writing style flows nicely and the story line is typically interesting so its an enjoyable journey.
November 29, 2018
Great story! However you always knew who and what was going to happen! Sisters are always jealous and always you knew who was in the wrong and who was in the right. I hate the words in my head approach.
June 13, 2016
Gone Girl with a Twist
Thank you to Thomas Nelson for giving me a copy of Sister Dear in exchange for an honest review.
I have followed Laura’s career as a writer from the beginning. Her books have always been enjoyable and have been great reads! The story in Sister Dear is different from the past but in such a good way.
Synopsis:
Allie Marshall is getting her release from prison, and her freedom back. Once she is out she can go about investigating who really committed the murder she went to prison for? This crime has cost her ten years of her life. Allie has no relationship with her daughter Caroline. Her only visitor has been her sister Emma. What happened? Will Allie find the answers she is looking for and prove her innocence? Will Caroline be willing to give her mother another chance?
My Thoughts:
What a story! I could not put it down. Laura has such a way of crafting a story that makes you want to find out what will happen next. She created a character in Allie Marshall that readers will empathize with as they read. They will also want to fight for Allie as she strives to find the truth. She is the protagonist. Emma who is the antagonist in this story is steadily revealed over the course of this novel. The story is told through five different characters points of view. These characters are Allie Marshall, Emma Marshall, Caroline Marshall, Sheriff Boyd Gaines, and Natalie. The description of the setting made me want to visit the Brunswick area where it was set.
I titled this review Gone Girl with a Twist because it had a similar feel to me. I did not read the book but I have seen the movie. The concept of forgiveness in a Gone Girl type plot is interesting but not what we would typical see as readers. One lesson about forgiveness is that it is more about you than others. Secondly, it is about letting the one that wronged you go. Thirdly, it is about letting God be in control.
Laura McNeill is definitely one to watch!
Thank you to Thomas Nelson for giving me a copy of Sister Dear in exchange for an honest review.
I have followed Laura’s career as a writer from the beginning. Her books have always been enjoyable and have been great reads! The story in Sister Dear is different from the past but in such a good way.
Synopsis:
Allie Marshall is getting her release from prison, and her freedom back. Once she is out she can go about investigating who really committed the murder she went to prison for? This crime has cost her ten years of her life. Allie has no relationship with her daughter Caroline. Her only visitor has been her sister Emma. What happened? Will Allie find the answers she is looking for and prove her innocence? Will Caroline be willing to give her mother another chance?
My Thoughts:
What a story! I could not put it down. Laura has such a way of crafting a story that makes you want to find out what will happen next. She created a character in Allie Marshall that readers will empathize with as they read. They will also want to fight for Allie as she strives to find the truth. She is the protagonist. Emma who is the antagonist in this story is steadily revealed over the course of this novel. The story is told through five different characters points of view. These characters are Allie Marshall, Emma Marshall, Caroline Marshall, Sheriff Boyd Gaines, and Natalie. The description of the setting made me want to visit the Brunswick area where it was set.
I titled this review Gone Girl with a Twist because it had a similar feel to me. I did not read the book but I have seen the movie. The concept of forgiveness in a Gone Girl type plot is interesting but not what we would typical see as readers. One lesson about forgiveness is that it is more about you than others. Secondly, it is about letting the one that wronged you go. Thirdly, it is about letting God be in control.
Laura McNeill is definitely one to watch!
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