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Mischief Bay #4
Sisters Like Us
The grass is always greener on your sister’s side of the fence…
Divorce left Harper Szymanski with a name no one can spell, a house she can’t afford and a teenage daughter who’s pulling away. With her fledgling virtual-assistant business, she’s scrambling to maintain her overbearing mother’s ridiculous Susie Homemaker standards and still pay the bills, thanks to clients like Lucas, the annoying playboy cop who claims he hangs around for Harper’s fresh-baked cookies.
Spending half her life in school hasn’t prepared Dr. Stacey Bloom for her most daunting challenge—motherhood. She didn’t inherit the nurturing gene like Harper and is in deep denial that a baby is coming. Worse, her mother will be horrified to learn that Stacey’s husband plans to be a stay-at-home dad…assuming Stacey can first find the courage to tell Mom she’s already six months pregnant.
Separately they may be a mess, but together Harper and Stacey can survive anything—their indomitable mother, overwhelming maternity stores and ex’s weddings. Sisters Like Us is a delightful look at sisters, mothers and daughters in today’s fast-paced world, told with Susan Mallery’s trademark warmth and humor.
Divorce left Harper Szymanski with a name no one can spell, a house she can’t afford and a teenage daughter who’s pulling away. With her fledgling virtual-assistant business, she’s scrambling to maintain her overbearing mother’s ridiculous Susie Homemaker standards and still pay the bills, thanks to clients like Lucas, the annoying playboy cop who claims he hangs around for Harper’s fresh-baked cookies.
Spending half her life in school hasn’t prepared Dr. Stacey Bloom for her most daunting challenge—motherhood. She didn’t inherit the nurturing gene like Harper and is in deep denial that a baby is coming. Worse, her mother will be horrified to learn that Stacey’s husband plans to be a stay-at-home dad…assuming Stacey can first find the courage to tell Mom she’s already six months pregnant.
Separately they may be a mess, but together Harper and Stacey can survive anything—their indomitable mother, overwhelming maternity stores and ex’s weddings. Sisters Like Us is a delightful look at sisters, mothers and daughters in today’s fast-paced world, told with Susan Mallery’s trademark warmth and humor.
433 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 23, 2018
1756 people are currently reading
5340 people want to read
About the author
Susan Mallery
862 books15.4k followers#1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery writes heartwarming and humorous novels about the relationships that define women's lives—family, friendship, romance. She's best known for putting nuanced characters into emotionally complex, real-life situations with twists that surprise readers to laughter. Because Susan is passionate about animal welfare, pets play a big role in her books. Beloved by millions of readers worldwide, her books have been translated into 28 languages.
Critics have dubbed Mallery "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!" It's no wonder that her books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list.
Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her most popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.
Susan lives in Washington state with her husband, two ragdoll cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.
Critics have dubbed Mallery "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!" It's no wonder that her books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list.
Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her most popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.
Susan lives in Washington state with her husband, two ragdoll cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 945 reviews
January 23, 2018
Two sisters, two different life styles, but the same mother that always was perfect and critical.
Harper was the sister who made everything from scratch and owned a virtual assistant business that she tried to do all alone. She struggled with her finances since her husband left her for a younger woman, left her with a teenage daughter, and left her with no financial help.
Stacey was the sister who was a brilliant, successful scientist who never thought she would be pregnant and keeps denying the fact that she is to be a mother soon. The worst thing was that she still hadn't told her overbearing mother she is expecting.....that definitely won't go well.
SISTERS LIKE US was a light read that addressed everyday situations with spouses and teenagers and some actual family situations that could happen even though they were stretched to the limit a bit.
I enjoyed SISTERS LIKE US and enjoyed most of the characters including Bunny the overbearing, critical mother. There were some laugh-out-loud moments as well as some what-are-you doing moments. Some parenting advice as well as some romance was included. A book always needs a little romance.
If you need a fun, heartfelt read, give SISTERS LIKE US a try. 5/5
This book was given to me free of charge and without compensation by the publisher in return for an honest review.
March 1, 2020
I loved this book until the last chapter! I was so happy that Lucas was in it, but so disappointed with his behavior at the end of the book. I thought Harper and her daughter finally got a nice man to depend on after her lousy ex husband. It would have made more sense if it happened in the middle of the book, not the end. I thought Lucas evolved so nicely in this book by finding love with Harper, but in the last chapter, trying to sabotage it by reverting back to his old ways of going for a younger woman. All that did was prove to Harper that all the things she was insecure about, were true, then to forgive him for doing it? No way. How would she be able to trust him in the future if he got scared about an adult relationship again? And his behavior basically told her daughter that all men do it. Not a good lesson. Bad ending:( It ruined my good feeling about the rest of the book.
January 21, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
It’s like Beetlejuice. If you say her name too many times, she’ll rise up with horrific powers and do unspeakable things. I’m being cautious.
Stacey met the gaze of the pregnant dog. The animal looked calm and kind of sweet, in a very large, I could eat you in a hot minute kind of way.
His shirt was barely wrinkled, he was rested and tanned, while she was a hot mess. No, she thought, thinking of her mom jeans and stained T-shirt. Even her messiness wasn’t the least bit hot. She was a cold mess.
You need a date for your ex’s wedding. Showing up by yourself will make you feel awful… What about Lucas? He’s very handsome and I’m sure he knows how to behave. You could ask him to bring his gun and shoot the groom… Or the bride. Your choice.
My Review:
I adored this book start to finish, I’ve read a handful of Susan Mallery books and after each one, I declare it to be my favorite. Deftly written with bold strokes of levity, thoughtful and insightful observations, witty banter, endearing characters, and clever use of animals for the uptight characters to bare their private fears with, this was an easy read that squeezed my heart while it also made me smile. The plot was relevant and realistic, the storyline was well-crafted and entertaining, and the writing was crisp, yet thoughtful and sensitive. The characters were wildly flawed, singularly quirky, and fascinating. I favored Lucas most of all and had a mad crush on him until he pulled a dick move and broke my heart.
It’s like Beetlejuice. If you say her name too many times, she’ll rise up with horrific powers and do unspeakable things. I’m being cautious.
Stacey met the gaze of the pregnant dog. The animal looked calm and kind of sweet, in a very large, I could eat you in a hot minute kind of way.
His shirt was barely wrinkled, he was rested and tanned, while she was a hot mess. No, she thought, thinking of her mom jeans and stained T-shirt. Even her messiness wasn’t the least bit hot. She was a cold mess.
You need a date for your ex’s wedding. Showing up by yourself will make you feel awful… What about Lucas? He’s very handsome and I’m sure he knows how to behave. You could ask him to bring his gun and shoot the groom… Or the bride. Your choice.
My Review:
I adored this book start to finish, I’ve read a handful of Susan Mallery books and after each one, I declare it to be my favorite. Deftly written with bold strokes of levity, thoughtful and insightful observations, witty banter, endearing characters, and clever use of animals for the uptight characters to bare their private fears with, this was an easy read that squeezed my heart while it also made me smile. The plot was relevant and realistic, the storyline was well-crafted and entertaining, and the writing was crisp, yet thoughtful and sensitive. The characters were wildly flawed, singularly quirky, and fascinating. I favored Lucas most of all and had a mad crush on him until he pulled a dick move and broke my heart.
January 15, 2018
3.5, maybe 4 stars.
So, I've had the first book in this series, "The Girls of Mischief Bay" sitting on my Kindle for several years. I forgot about it until I downloaded this one. I was partway through it before realizing I had the first book, lol. So when as I finished "Sisters Like Us" I picked up "The Girls of Mischief Bay".
"Sisters Like Us" and "The Girls of Mischief Bay" both dealt with change. "Sisters" was less gut-wrenching, and had many laugh out-loud moments. As the title says, the focus is on two sisters, Stacey and Harper, and their families. And while both sisters and their families are undergoing major changes, they are good changes, mostly happy changes. The two sisters are very different. Harper is in some traditional - she tries so hard to be the perfect housewife and mother despite her divorce. She's creative and organized and a caretaker, But she's been so caught trying to get her business off the ground and make a living that she hasn't been paying attention to her teenage daughter. Harper's daughter Becca was both sympathetic and annoying. She was self-absorbed and egotistical but slowly started to look outside herself and see the world through other people's perspectives.
Stacey, though married, is not a traditional wife. She is a research scientist, committed to her work. Although it's never said, or really even hinted at, Stacey shows characteristics of autism. Her husband, who is laid back, understands his wife, accept her for who she is, and is devoted to her. She worries, especially now that she's pregnant, that she won't be enough - won't be a good enough mother, won't be a good enough wife. Now, she has good reason to think that - her mother Bunny has told her all life and continues to tell her, that she's not good enough, she's a failure, and a disappointment. Bunny also wastes no opportunity to tell Harper that her marriage failed because she wasn't a good enough wife and failed to please her husband.
I passionately hated Bunny. She was verbally and emotionally cruel to her daughters and an expert at making herself into the victim. I so very much wanted her to get hit by a car. Sadly, no such luck. But, Mallery did partially redeem Bunny near the end. At first, Bunny was over the top and unbelievable. Gradually, Mallery added some depth to her. I never grew to like her but I did understand her a bit better. Still, she could have a heart attack and die in her sleep and I wouldn't be sad.
While I've enjoyed the romances of Mallery's that I've read, I think these books, this series, may be my favorite. They're about 70% women's fiction and 30% romance. The stories are real, the characters, most of them, delightful, and I love Mallery's humor. Her storytelling draws me in and makes me care. I'm caught up in what's happening. She has a knack for writing family dynamics and for interpersonal relationships. Now, I need to get my hands on books two and three and catch up.
Some favorite quotes:
She hadn't had sex in so long, she was pretty sure she was practically a virgin-wouldn't it be nice to have a penis again? Even if it was just for the night? "I really have to start dating," she muttered.
She jumped back and dropped her gaze.
"Holy crap, you have an erection."
His expression was pained. "You really haven't been dating since the divorce, have you?"
"OMG, you want to have sex with me."
Yes, there were complications, yes, this could be a huge mistake, but honestly, who cared? She grabbed his hand and started for her bedroom, only to come to a stop and spin toward him.
"I don't have condoms."
"I do."
"I haven't washed the sheets in three days."
"Shocking but I'll recover."
She bit her lower lip. "I'm not sure I remember how."
One corner of his mouth turned up. "I'm happy to reacquaint you with everything you need to know."
"You don't have to bring me anything."
"I do if you feed me."
"You already got me a guy who will scoop dog poop. That's about the best gift there is."
"You're welcome."
So, I've had the first book in this series, "The Girls of Mischief Bay" sitting on my Kindle for several years. I forgot about it until I downloaded this one. I was partway through it before realizing I had the first book, lol. So when as I finished "Sisters Like Us" I picked up "The Girls of Mischief Bay".
"Sisters Like Us" and "The Girls of Mischief Bay" both dealt with change. "Sisters" was less gut-wrenching, and had many laugh out-loud moments. As the title says, the focus is on two sisters, Stacey and Harper, and their families. And while both sisters and their families are undergoing major changes, they are good changes, mostly happy changes. The two sisters are very different. Harper is in some traditional - she tries so hard to be the perfect housewife and mother despite her divorce. She's creative and organized and a caretaker, But she's been so caught trying to get her business off the ground and make a living that she hasn't been paying attention to her teenage daughter. Harper's daughter Becca was both sympathetic and annoying. She was self-absorbed and egotistical but slowly started to look outside herself and see the world through other people's perspectives.
Stacey, though married, is not a traditional wife. She is a research scientist, committed to her work. Although it's never said, or really even hinted at, Stacey shows characteristics of autism. Her husband, who is laid back, understands his wife, accept her for who she is, and is devoted to her. She worries, especially now that she's pregnant, that she won't be enough - won't be a good enough mother, won't be a good enough wife. Now, she has good reason to think that - her mother Bunny has told her all life and continues to tell her, that she's not good enough, she's a failure, and a disappointment. Bunny also wastes no opportunity to tell Harper that her marriage failed because she wasn't a good enough wife and failed to please her husband.
I passionately hated Bunny. She was verbally and emotionally cruel to her daughters and an expert at making herself into the victim. I so very much wanted her to get hit by a car. Sadly, no such luck. But, Mallery did partially redeem Bunny near the end. At first, Bunny was over the top and unbelievable. Gradually, Mallery added some depth to her. I never grew to like her but I did understand her a bit better. Still, she could have a heart attack and die in her sleep and I wouldn't be sad.
While I've enjoyed the romances of Mallery's that I've read, I think these books, this series, may be my favorite. They're about 70% women's fiction and 30% romance. The stories are real, the characters, most of them, delightful, and I love Mallery's humor. Her storytelling draws me in and makes me care. I'm caught up in what's happening. She has a knack for writing family dynamics and for interpersonal relationships. Now, I need to get my hands on books two and three and catch up.
Some favorite quotes:
She hadn't had sex in so long, she was pretty sure she was practically a virgin-wouldn't it be nice to have a penis again? Even if it was just for the night? "I really have to start dating," she muttered.
She jumped back and dropped her gaze.
"Holy crap, you have an erection."
His expression was pained. "You really haven't been dating since the divorce, have you?"
"OMG, you want to have sex with me."
Yes, there were complications, yes, this could be a huge mistake, but honestly, who cared? She grabbed his hand and started for her bedroom, only to come to a stop and spin toward him.
"I don't have condoms."
"I do."
"I haven't washed the sheets in three days."
"Shocking but I'll recover."
She bit her lower lip. "I'm not sure I remember how."
One corner of his mouth turned up. "I'm happy to reacquaint you with everything you need to know."
"You don't have to bring me anything."
"I do if you feed me."
"You already got me a guy who will scoop dog poop. That's about the best gift there is."
"You're welcome."
February 20, 2018
Sisters Like Us is another great story by Susan Mallery. I had no idea this was the fourth novel in this series when I requested it but I don't think you need to read the rest first to truly enjoy it. I certainly did.
The story relates the tribulations of two sisters and their families during a time when they are both going through big changes in their lives.
Harper Szymanski was brought up to become the perfect housewife. Sadly, she's now divorced and her ex-husband is dating someone younger. She's having problems with her teenage daughter who's rebellious and selfish at times. She's also struggling with her monthly bills and her job as a virtual assistant. Over the years, she has developed a clientele including Lucas, a cop who got hurt in the line of duty and who needed someone to organize his life afterward. Harper loves to do things from scratch. She's a great cook and great at her job as an assistant but her relationship with her daughter is suffering and she's not dedicating enough time to her job either. She feels overwhelmed.
Stacey Bloom is a research scientist. She's very smart and she's also very pregnant. She hasn't told her mother she's six months pregnant and the longer she waits to tell her, the harder it is. You see, Stacey has never wanted to be a mother but she loves her husband and they are at the right time in their lives to start a family. Her husband adores her and supports her. He's also going to be taking care of their baby once he's born while she goes back to work. Yet, she dreads telling her mother she's pregnant since her mother believes her to be a failure. She's nothing like Harper. Being a housewife was never her goal. But her mother, Bunny is old school and under her hypercritical eyes, neither daughter became what she wanted them to be.
Sisters Like Us had more of a women's fiction vibe than a romance. I still very much appreciate the romance in it. Lucas was great until I wanted to punch him but regardless, he was there for Harper in so many different ways. He was also there for Harper's daughter. Stacey's husband was adorable and just perfect for her. I love the humor in this novel. So many great quotes. Some of them had me laughing out loud. I love seeing the growth of the female characters too. Harper's daughter learned to think about more than herself and started helping Harper more. I never warmed up to Bunny. She was mean to her daughters and her archaic thoughts rubbed me the wrong way.
I want to go back and read the rest of the books in this series. I know I'll enjoy them.
"OMG, you want to have sex with me."
Yes, there were complications, yes, this could be a huge mistake, but honestly, who cared? She grabbed his hand and started for her bedroom, only to come to a stop and spin toward him.
"I don't have condoms."
"I do."
"I haven't washed the sheets in three days."
"Shocking but I'll recover."
She bit her lower lip. "I'm not sure I remember how."
One corner of his mouth turned up. "I'm happy to reacquaint you with everything you need to know."
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Harlequin/ Mira Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
February 26, 2018
"Sisters Like Us" focuses on two sisters (Harper and Stacey) and Harper's daughter, Becca. This book picks up more than a year after the events in "A Million Little Pieces." There is a connection via the hero in this book to the characters in the last book, so you do have a tenuous connection there. I think that my problem with this one is that the transition from Harper to Stacey's POVs don't work. You honestly did not need Becca included in this. And I still don't know if Stacey had Asperger's Syndrome or what. Mallery is not clear about that and it just felt like it was something that someone would mention. There is also unresolved tension from Harper and Stacey's mom that I wish had been actually worked out. She acts like a jerk and everyone ignores it.
Stacey is the top in her field and now that she is expecting her first child, she and her husband agree that he will be the one to stay home while she continues to work. Though Stacey gets science, she doesn't get how having a baby is going to change her and she honestly doesn't want it to. Stacey is also hiding her pregnancy from her mother because she's terrible. I honestly didn't get why anyone was even dealing with the mom in this story, she's a nasty piece of work and I was not a fan.
Harper is still trying to recover after being left and divorced. Running her own virtual assistant business (which I was very intrigued by) doesn't leave her with a lot of time to be there to listen to her daughter Becca, but she is trying. Harper has a long time client, Lucas, that definitely seems to be sniffing around her and she's wondering if she is ready to give romance another go.
Becca's story should have been another book since it didn't fit well in here that much. Becca is dealing with losing her friends during the school year when she finally admits a secret to her best friend. Falling for her aunt's nephew, Becca starts thinking about having sex for the first time and what to do about her lack of a relationship with her father.
Stacey's husband was not really there at all in this book. Lucas was up front and center in the story and I am sorry, I was over that clown after he pulls a BS move after forcing his way into Harper's life. The whole thing left a bad taste in my mouth and I did not find myself rooting for him at all. The only saving grace was Becca told his tiresome butt off and he deserved it.
Most of Stacey's POV is oddly flat and it's so jarring to go from her to Harper. When we jump into Becca it becomes a bit worse. I think if we either focused on the two sisters the book could have been stronger or just have a stand alone book with Becca.
The ending was abrupt as anything and I was surprised there was not more to the story. There was so much left unresolved regarding Becca and her father that if Mallery does another book in this series, I hope she follows up with her.
Stacey is the top in her field and now that she is expecting her first child, she and her husband agree that he will be the one to stay home while she continues to work. Though Stacey gets science, she doesn't get how having a baby is going to change her and she honestly doesn't want it to. Stacey is also hiding her pregnancy from her mother because she's terrible. I honestly didn't get why anyone was even dealing with the mom in this story, she's a nasty piece of work and I was not a fan.
Harper is still trying to recover after being left and divorced. Running her own virtual assistant business (which I was very intrigued by) doesn't leave her with a lot of time to be there to listen to her daughter Becca, but she is trying. Harper has a long time client, Lucas, that definitely seems to be sniffing around her and she's wondering if she is ready to give romance another go.
Becca's story should have been another book since it didn't fit well in here that much. Becca is dealing with losing her friends during the school year when she finally admits a secret to her best friend. Falling for her aunt's nephew, Becca starts thinking about having sex for the first time and what to do about her lack of a relationship with her father.
Stacey's husband was not really there at all in this book. Lucas was up front and center in the story and I am sorry, I was over that clown after he pulls a BS move after forcing his way into Harper's life. The whole thing left a bad taste in my mouth and I did not find myself rooting for him at all. The only saving grace was Becca told his tiresome butt off and he deserved it.
Most of Stacey's POV is oddly flat and it's so jarring to go from her to Harper. When we jump into Becca it becomes a bit worse. I think if we either focused on the two sisters the book could have been stronger or just have a stand alone book with Becca.
The ending was abrupt as anything and I was surprised there was not more to the story. There was so much left unresolved regarding Becca and her father that if Mallery does another book in this series, I hope she follows up with her.
February 27, 2018
While this is an easy quick read totally suited to read while doing laundry or watching TV, the female characters are really horrible stereotypes and the ending of this book left me with a profound dislike for Harper and her lack of self respect.
April 13, 2020
I haven't read any of the other books in the Mischief Bay series, but that didn't seem to be an issue.
Sisters Like Us tells the story of sisters Harper and Stacey who could not be more different if they tried.
Harper is divorced, runs a home-based virtual assistant business, has a teenage daughter Becca, and tries to appease her mother.
Stacey is a doctor researching MS, is married to a teacher, and can't tell her own mother she's pregnant.
While the sisters' lives seem to be out of their control, they overcome their challenges, including their mother and doberman pinschers.
Sisters Like Us tells the story of sisters Harper and Stacey who could not be more different if they tried.
Harper is divorced, runs a home-based virtual assistant business, has a teenage daughter Becca, and tries to appease her mother.
Stacey is a doctor researching MS, is married to a teacher, and can't tell her own mother she's pregnant.
While the sisters' lives seem to be out of their control, they overcome their challenges, including their mother and doberman pinschers.
November 2, 2019
It was a sweet story. I love the characters and their development through the book. Very different two sisters but their fears are similar in a way. I love multiple characters telling their stories. Every one was well-written and detailed. I just wanted to read more of last part, but when I finished it, I realized I had a good time. Turkish publishers should remember Susan Mallery and translate her books more.
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Sevimli bir öyküydü, karakterlerin kitap boyunca gelişmelerini çok beğendim. Birbirinden farklı iki kız kardeş ama ikisinin de korkuları benzer. Çoklu anlatım olması ayrıca güzeldi, her karakteri güzel işleyip detaylıca anlatmış bence yazar. Finalini biraz havada gibi hissettim ama kitabı bitirdiğimde güzel vakit geçirdiğimi fark ettim. Susan Mallery’i bizim yayınevleri de ara sıra hatırlasa fena olmaz gerçekten.
---
Sevimli bir öyküydü, karakterlerin kitap boyunca gelişmelerini çok beğendim. Birbirinden farklı iki kız kardeş ama ikisinin de korkuları benzer. Çoklu anlatım olması ayrıca güzeldi, her karakteri güzel işleyip detaylıca anlatmış bence yazar. Finalini biraz havada gibi hissettim ama kitabı bitirdiğimde güzel vakit geçirdiğimi fark ettim. Susan Mallery’i bizim yayınevleri de ara sıra hatırlasa fena olmaz gerçekten.
February 1, 2018
Being the rebel that I am I jumped into this series at book four. It looks like each book focuses on a new set of characters with cameos from past favorites which made it extremely easy to follow. Sisters Like Us is about, well, sisters Harper and Stacey as well as their mother Bunny and Harper’s daughter Becca. I never get tired of reading about sister and mother/daughter relationships and Mallery brought these women to life in a realistic and appealing way.
I really enjoyed the majority of the characters with the exception of Bunny, I couldn’t stand her. Harper was my favorite probably because our lives are the most similar. Stacey was quirky, a bit of an oddball but her mannerisms and outlook on life were endearing and made for great reading. Mallery’s books always provide me with a much needed escape and every time I glanced at the cover I thought about how pretty it was. There was a little romance that added some spice but it’s main focus was on the dynamics of the family and Mallery writes with an effortless ease that keeps you turning pages. A lovely story with gentle life lessons and tons of heart, recommended for fans of Kristan Higgins and Kristy Woodsen Harvey.
Sisters Like Us in three words: Lighthearted, humorous and sweet.
I really enjoyed the majority of the characters with the exception of Bunny, I couldn’t stand her. Harper was my favorite probably because our lives are the most similar. Stacey was quirky, a bit of an oddball but her mannerisms and outlook on life were endearing and made for great reading. Mallery’s books always provide me with a much needed escape and every time I glanced at the cover I thought about how pretty it was. There was a little romance that added some spice but it’s main focus was on the dynamics of the family and Mallery writes with an effortless ease that keeps you turning pages. A lovely story with gentle life lessons and tons of heart, recommended for fans of Kristan Higgins and Kristy Woodsen Harvey.
Sisters Like Us in three words: Lighthearted, humorous and sweet.
May 3, 2020
Sisters Like Us is the fourth book in the Mischief Bay series, but I read it as a standalone. While the title speaks about sisters, the book is actually about three women - Harper, her teenaged daughter Becca, and Harper’s sister Stacey.
Harper is recently divorced and makes a living as a virtual-assistant working out of her home. The business is young and Harper is spending much of her time working. Thankfully she has a Lucas, one of her clients, to support her along the way. Becca is 16, a young woman with challenges of her own. Sometimes she wishes her Mom had more time for her, like she did before the divorce. Stacey, is a pregnant M.S. research scientist who loves her work but is thankful her husband Kit will be a stay at home Dad. She has no maternal feelings towards her soon to be born daughter and plans on returning to work after a three week maternity leave. The matriarch of the family is Bunny, a traditional stay at home Mom who feels that the most important role for a woman is to care and nurture her family. She has always taken great joy on entertaining and decorating for the different holidays throughout the year - and feels Harper should be doing so too. She has always told Stacey that she is not like other girls and does not have the same expectations for domestic life that she has for Harper.
The book addresses the complexity and challenges to women’s lives throughout the age spectrum . Women tend to hold high expectations for themselves which are often unrealistic. It is through the process of trial and error , as well as experience, that creates change and/or acceptance. Mallery does a good job in presenting this. While the character of Bunny is disrespectful of her daughters in the beginning, the remaining significant characters were likeable. The book was entertaining and was the light read I was looking for.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book from my local library. Tanya Eby is the narrator and does a great job of both female and male voices. I recommend this book to those that love women’s fiction and romance.
Harper is recently divorced and makes a living as a virtual-assistant working out of her home. The business is young and Harper is spending much of her time working. Thankfully she has a Lucas, one of her clients, to support her along the way. Becca is 16, a young woman with challenges of her own. Sometimes she wishes her Mom had more time for her, like she did before the divorce. Stacey, is a pregnant M.S. research scientist who loves her work but is thankful her husband Kit will be a stay at home Dad. She has no maternal feelings towards her soon to be born daughter and plans on returning to work after a three week maternity leave. The matriarch of the family is Bunny, a traditional stay at home Mom who feels that the most important role for a woman is to care and nurture her family. She has always taken great joy on entertaining and decorating for the different holidays throughout the year - and feels Harper should be doing so too. She has always told Stacey that she is not like other girls and does not have the same expectations for domestic life that she has for Harper.
The book addresses the complexity and challenges to women’s lives throughout the age spectrum . Women tend to hold high expectations for themselves which are often unrealistic. It is through the process of trial and error , as well as experience, that creates change and/or acceptance. Mallery does a good job in presenting this. While the character of Bunny is disrespectful of her daughters in the beginning, the remaining significant characters were likeable. The book was entertaining and was the light read I was looking for.
I listened to the audiobook version of this book from my local library. Tanya Eby is the narrator and does a great job of both female and male voices. I recommend this book to those that love women’s fiction and romance.
February 4, 2018
No one else can do what Susan Mallery does with her stories. Her characters are people who are as real as anyone I know. Even the ones who are so very irritating, like Bunny, become someone else as she weaves their tales. This is a wonderful book.
February 17, 2018
Another great addition to the Mischief Bay series (#4) I highly recommend this series.
February 2, 2025
4.5 stars. Sisters Like Us is #4 in the Mischief Bay series, while part of a series it is very much a stand alone as well. I had been anticipating it with reading relish because so far I have really liked this series.
There are two sisters - Stacey who is about to become a Mom, she is about 6 months pregnant and as sure as can be that she will not make a good mother. Her mother - Bunny sent her the message in childhood that there was something wrong with her, and every since she has believed it. She has a wonderful husband Kit and his insightful nephew Ashton who would most likely hold a different opinion entirely about Stacey.
Harper runs her own business and seems often to be overwhelmed by it, taking on too much and not standing up to one demanding client. Her mother - Bunny is always harping on to her about getting all the home things right. As the book opens she isn't getting things quite right with her daughter Becca, who is struggling with some pertinent issues.
We also meet the police cop from the book A Million Little Things. He uses Harper's business to deal with some of the details of his life like paying his bills. I really liked him and his approach especially to Becca, although I felt one thing he did was really not quite in character, but everyone seemed to understand!
So this story deals with mothers and daughters - what makes a good mother? How can you juggle an important job and be a mother too? And the messages we receive as children from our parents can have a huge impact. As well we see two sisters who do really support each other, teenage friendships explored, the need for a strong father in one's life and what makes a great teenage romantic relationship.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book - just as I expected.
There are two sisters - Stacey who is about to become a Mom, she is about 6 months pregnant and as sure as can be that she will not make a good mother. Her mother - Bunny sent her the message in childhood that there was something wrong with her, and every since she has believed it. She has a wonderful husband Kit and his insightful nephew Ashton who would most likely hold a different opinion entirely about Stacey.
Harper runs her own business and seems often to be overwhelmed by it, taking on too much and not standing up to one demanding client. Her mother - Bunny is always harping on to her about getting all the home things right. As the book opens she isn't getting things quite right with her daughter Becca, who is struggling with some pertinent issues.
We also meet the police cop from the book A Million Little Things. He uses Harper's business to deal with some of the details of his life like paying his bills. I really liked him and his approach especially to Becca, although I felt one thing he did was really not quite in character, but everyone seemed to understand!
So this story deals with mothers and daughters - what makes a good mother? How can you juggle an important job and be a mother too? And the messages we receive as children from our parents can have a huge impact. As well we see two sisters who do really support each other, teenage friendships explored, the need for a strong father in one's life and what makes a great teenage romantic relationship.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book - just as I expected.
February 21, 2018
Wow, I thought I had been to Mischief Bay before. Turns out, not only had I not been there, this is also my first book by Susan Mallery. I know, what rock have I been under? Hey, I had heard of her. Ha!!
I have SO enjoyed my time in Mischief Bay. The characters really grew on me, and quickly. And, this is book number 4!! Their major problems might have been cheesy and corny, but I forgot mine while reading the book.
I am, however, sad that it's over. But I take comfort, now, knowing there are 3 more already that were previous to this one.
So, yes I loved this book and would definitely recommend it.
I received an ARC from the author via her "Review Crew" in exchange for an honest, unbiased review. Thank you, I totally enjoyed my time in Mischief Bay!!!
I have SO enjoyed my time in Mischief Bay. The characters really grew on me, and quickly. And, this is book number 4!! Their major problems might have been cheesy and corny, but I forgot mine while reading the book.
I am, however, sad that it's over. But I take comfort, now, knowing there are 3 more already that were previous to this one.
So, yes I loved this book and would definitely recommend it.
I received an ARC from the author via her "Review Crew" in exchange for an honest, unbiased review. Thank you, I totally enjoyed my time in Mischief Bay!!!
November 8, 2017
Review to come soon.
Quick thoughts:
I really enjoy visiting Mischief Bay each year and Sisters Like Us is no exception. Now, Susan has def extended her books beyond the 3 original women that the book focused on, but you'll see some faces from the past mentioned in this book and you'll def remember Lucas from A Million Little Things!
Loved the sisters. I really disliked Bunny for a good bit of the book, but by the end she had grown on me (very little, tho, but way better than earlier in book!)
Poor Stacy- I wanted to tell her numerous times- Normal is just a setting on a washing machine.
Recommended!
Quick thoughts:
I really enjoy visiting Mischief Bay each year and Sisters Like Us is no exception. Now, Susan has def extended her books beyond the 3 original women that the book focused on, but you'll see some faces from the past mentioned in this book and you'll def remember Lucas from A Million Little Things!
Loved the sisters. I really disliked Bunny for a good bit of the book, but by the end she had grown on me (very little, tho, but way better than earlier in book!)
Poor Stacy- I wanted to tell her numerous times- Normal is just a setting on a washing machine.
Recommended!
January 17, 2018
I always look forward to this authors books because I know that she will take me on an emotional journey. In this new book she delves into the complexities of family relationships; mothers and daughters, daughters and fathers, sisters, and those who may come with them. I loved the relationships between all the different characters and how each problem that popped up could be looked at in many ways. As I read the tears flowed, the laughter echoed, and in the end the smiles came. It showed me that no matter how hard life can be you just need to stop, look at the situation, and take a chance. I can't wait for the authors next words so that I can take another emotional ride and come out the end with things a little bit clearer.
I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 9, 2018
What do you get when you have a mom (Bunny) who's fixated on the 1950's stereotype of a perfect wife and mother? Her daughter (Harper) who is doing her best to live up to that role, rocking her inner Martha Stewart every day, but, according to Bunny, is failing miserably with HER daughter (Becca) and her life, since she and her husband divorced? Another daughter, (Stacey) who is a brilliant scientist, pregnant, (but Bunny doesn't know it), with a husband (Kit) willing to do everything except gestate the child? Why Sisters Like Us, of course. The newest book by Susan Mallery, Mischief Bay!
We begin with Harper, who is a Virtual Assistant for people who need someone to make sure things are done. Unfortunately, she doesn't seem to value her time or the amount of work that goes into her jobs, and allows some of her clients to walk all over her. Lucas is one of her clients, a 50ish police detective with a proclivity for dating MUCH younger women, but he just can't stop hanging out at Harper's house. He seems to have a problem with boundaries and the client/VA relationship! Becca is having problems with her dad, but then she's a teen so enough said there!
Stacey is at the top of her field in medical research, scholastically brilliant, although socially awkward. While Harper took all of her mother's edicts to heart, Stacey ignored them, or didn't realize they were things she should be learning. Tall and thin, Stacey is VERY pregnant, but is not showing so Bunny has no idea. Everyone is telling Stacey to tell her mom, but Stacey isn't sure she's cut out to be a mom. Her insecurities regarding her impending motherhood know no bounds! Kit is fabulous! He's rocking the 'stay at home dad' thing, and can't wait to meet his child.
Put all of these things together and you have a book looking at parent and child relationships, parent and child generational differences, boundaries, pregnancy, non-traditional parenting styles, and pretty much MOST of the things we're faced with daily. Adding the Susan Mallery humor and writing style, this is another winner!
This book was fun. It gave some insight into what's going on in the lives of characters from past Mischief Bay books, but is absolutely a stand alone. Five stars in my opinion. A worthwhile read.
We begin with Harper, who is a Virtual Assistant for people who need someone to make sure things are done. Unfortunately, she doesn't seem to value her time or the amount of work that goes into her jobs, and allows some of her clients to walk all over her. Lucas is one of her clients, a 50ish police detective with a proclivity for dating MUCH younger women, but he just can't stop hanging out at Harper's house. He seems to have a problem with boundaries and the client/VA relationship! Becca is having problems with her dad, but then she's a teen so enough said there!
Stacey is at the top of her field in medical research, scholastically brilliant, although socially awkward. While Harper took all of her mother's edicts to heart, Stacey ignored them, or didn't realize they were things she should be learning. Tall and thin, Stacey is VERY pregnant, but is not showing so Bunny has no idea. Everyone is telling Stacey to tell her mom, but Stacey isn't sure she's cut out to be a mom. Her insecurities regarding her impending motherhood know no bounds! Kit is fabulous! He's rocking the 'stay at home dad' thing, and can't wait to meet his child.
Put all of these things together and you have a book looking at parent and child relationships, parent and child generational differences, boundaries, pregnancy, non-traditional parenting styles, and pretty much MOST of the things we're faced with daily. Adding the Susan Mallery humor and writing style, this is another winner!
This book was fun. It gave some insight into what's going on in the lives of characters from past Mischief Bay books, but is absolutely a stand alone. Five stars in my opinion. A worthwhile read.
October 15, 2019
Harper and Stacey are as opposite as sister's can be, and each has their own uniqueness. One, Harper is as perfect as a particular type of mother can be. She is the type of woman who decorates her house for every (and I mean every) holiday, cooks homemade everything and is always dressed well. Since her divorce she has tried to turn her crafting into a business; a virtual assistant business. She is not doing well, either with her business (she has never worked outside the home) or with her daughter. The typical entitled teen.
On the other hand, Stacey is looking for a cure for MS, she is a scientist, she is also very pregnant and has not told her mother. Stacey is also worried that she will not be able to nurture or love her child.
These two have what I considered the worst mother -a know it all throwback to a very different era when women put their husband and children first and Bunny (the Mother---that name is telling isn't it!) lets her daughters know flat out that what they've done is not good enough (Harper getting a divorce and trying to make a living) or abnormal (Stacey for working and putting family second).
The good parts of this book are that it combines narrative for both sisters and the parts were written so you have a clear understanding that each was their own person. It has an interesting love story, the mother Bunny is almost redeemed at the end and the daughter grows, matures and learns many valuable lessons.
The bad part is that I couldn't connect with either sister, and it took more than 50% of the book to stop being annoyed (and that's a mild word compared to what I really want to say) with these women and to stop wanting to smack them silly.
It's not a bad beach read as long as you don't mind being frustrated for much of the novel.
*ARC supplied by the publisher/NetGalley.
On the other hand, Stacey is looking for a cure for MS, she is a scientist, she is also very pregnant and has not told her mother. Stacey is also worried that she will not be able to nurture or love her child.
These two have what I considered the worst mother -a know it all throwback to a very different era when women put their husband and children first and Bunny (the Mother---that name is telling isn't it!) lets her daughters know flat out that what they've done is not good enough (Harper getting a divorce and trying to make a living) or abnormal (Stacey for working and putting family second).
The good parts of this book are that it combines narrative for both sisters and the parts were written so you have a clear understanding that each was their own person. It has an interesting love story, the mother Bunny is almost redeemed at the end and the daughter grows, matures and learns many valuable lessons.
The bad part is that I couldn't connect with either sister, and it took more than 50% of the book to stop being annoyed (and that's a mild word compared to what I really want to say) with these women and to stop wanting to smack them silly.
It's not a bad beach read as long as you don't mind being frustrated for much of the novel.
*ARC supplied by the publisher/NetGalley.
February 17, 2020
I can honestly say I strongly disliked this book. None of the characters were realistic and there was only one I could say I thought was actually genuine and he doesn't even show up until over half way through the book (Dean).
The over-bearing, judgemental mother is horrible. I can't believe they cared when she moved out. I would have said "good riddance".
The daughter is a whiny brat and the characters who are nice are so over the top nice, I wanted to gag.
The kind, sweet Lucas does something very uncharacteristic and it doesn't even make sense!
Even the picture on the cover makes no sense! Two women on the beach? That didn't even happen!
Overall, I would recommend never even starting this book. I wish I had been given a free copy to write an honest review.
The over-bearing, judgemental mother is horrible. I can't believe they cared when she moved out. I would have said "good riddance".
The daughter is a whiny brat and the characters who are nice are so over the top nice, I wanted to gag.
The kind, sweet Lucas does something very uncharacteristic and it doesn't even make sense!
Even the picture on the cover makes no sense! Two women on the beach? That didn't even happen!
Overall, I would recommend never even starting this book. I wish I had been given a free copy to write an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2019
This is my first Susan Mallery book and I have to admit that while the plot had a few annoyances, I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading/listening to more.
Without hashing out the entire plot Stacey's character bothered me a bit but probably because she was so unlike me. I was really happy with the way her character ended up with her family. I LOVED Harper, who was my favorite character and I loved Nathan.... until... UGH. His character did a couple 180s and they were hard to keep track of. I understood a bit later what he did was due to his background but at first when he did the terrible thing he did to Harper, I wondered if it was only to make a plot point with her daughter Becca and I was really upset by that. However, it was explained more later, and while I thought Harper forgave him too fast she did understand him and in the end... it's just a book and one that I enjoyed.
It ended too abruptly for me and I thought it would have really benefited from a prologue. Hopefully since there was not one, this is not the last we have seen of these characters!
Without hashing out the entire plot Stacey's character bothered me a bit but probably because she was so unlike me. I was really happy with the way her character ended up with her family. I LOVED Harper, who was my favorite character and I loved Nathan.... until... UGH. His character did a couple 180s and they were hard to keep track of. I understood a bit later what he did was due to his background but at first when he did the terrible thing he did to Harper, I wondered if it was only to make a plot point with her daughter Becca and I was really upset by that. However, it was explained more later, and while I thought Harper forgave him too fast she did understand him and in the end... it's just a book and one that I enjoyed.
It ended too abruptly for me and I thought it would have really benefited from a prologue. Hopefully since there was not one, this is not the last we have seen of these characters!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2018
This is trademark Susan Mallery. The likable female characters span the age from teenage to very mature adults. The males come in several varieties. Some are just plain horrible, some are almost too good to be true, and some are in-between. The plot runs from teenage betrayals to reformed playboys with the life and relationship between the two sisters always at the heart of the story. One of the sisters seemed very familiar and I finally realized she was very like another very smart but socially clue less character from one of the Fool's Gold stories. She made for a lot of fun in many of the scenes as she did not realize the impact she was having on others. Like all of Mallory's stories this was a fun book to read.
I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
November 7, 2019
A charming and quiet novel for women and about women, my first by Mallery. I’m not enamored, but I liked it well enough to try more of this writer.
The story follows two 40-ish sisters in their struggles through divorce, money problems, teenage parenting, a new baby, and an interfering mother. The best thing about this novel is the sisters’ relationship. They love and support each other no matter what.
Male characters play secondary roles in this story, but their presence is mandatory too. They are placeholders for the sisters’ love interests, and those two love stories, weaving around each other, feel like cornerstones of the entire novel, even if the men themselves are not.
I enjoyed it.
The story follows two 40-ish sisters in their struggles through divorce, money problems, teenage parenting, a new baby, and an interfering mother. The best thing about this novel is the sisters’ relationship. They love and support each other no matter what.
Male characters play secondary roles in this story, but their presence is mandatory too. They are placeholders for the sisters’ love interests, and those two love stories, weaving around each other, feel like cornerstones of the entire novel, even if the men themselves are not.
I enjoyed it.
September 3, 2018
3.5 stars. Susan Mallery tells the story of two sisters -- Forty-two year old Harper who is divorced and struggling financially with a 17 year old daughter and an at-home business as a virtual assistant. Forty year old Stacey is a brilliant scientist who is pregnant with her first child. Harper is maternal with Martha Stewart skills. Stacey will be content to let her husband stay home with the baby because she doesn't think she will be a good mother. The story follows their ups and downs in life with teenagers, babies, mothers, husband/significant other, and work situations.
I liked the humor mixed in throughout the story. I confess I liked Harper's character more than Stacey's but Stacey had some good moments with her nephew. I especially liked how the dogs fit into their lives. I rated 3.5 and rounded up because I was absorbed in Harper's business and all her craft ideas. I disliked Lucas's behavior at the end and expected better of him.
I liked the humor mixed in throughout the story. I confess I liked Harper's character more than Stacey's but Stacey had some good moments with her nephew. I especially liked how the dogs fit into their lives. I rated 3.5 and rounded up because I was absorbed in Harper's business and all her craft ideas. I disliked Lucas's behavior at the end and expected better of him.
August 29, 2018
Simple, direct, well developed plot; it tackled tons of issues regarding family, sisterhood, comparison and contrast between the main characters, teenage angst, gender roles within family and society. Susan Mallery smoothly incorporated all this without sounding preachy at all and hadn't gotten lost in the way. What pulled me in most is that characters are a real person and not some kind of an imaginary friend drawn in black and white.
I loved it!
I loved it!
January 28, 2018
Like candy, Mallory’s books are sweet and addictive. The main characters in this book are sisters Harper and Stacey, and Harper’s daughter Becca. The sisters are very different, and the one thing I would have like to see more of was their relationship, as their stories were quite separate, except in their interaction with their old fashioned and annoying mother. Becca’s is more of a coming of age story, dealing with betrayals, her parents’ divorce and boys. A good light vacation read.
February 3, 2018
Mischief Bay has been an excellent series to read. Sisters Like Us is the fourth book to be released in this series and is about two sisters, as different as night and day and their wonderfully quirky mother, Bunny. This book can be read as a stand alone but I highly recommend the entire series. Susan Mallery has a natural gift for writing about women for women, a very emotional read! I thank the author for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 13, 2018
FirstLine ~ There wasn't s holiday on the calendar that Harper Szymanski couldn't celebrate, cook for, decorate, decoupage, create a greeting card about or wrap in raffia.
I love Mallery as she writes books that make my heart happy. She writes books that are ones that you wish could be made into a show because her books are so binge worthy and so would the shows if the books were made into a TV series. I love following the characters around and seeing how things work out for them. The setting and characters are those that they reader can relate to because she they real, flawed and engaging. This book is original and fun to read with topics that are both light and deep in perfect measure.
I love Mallery as she writes books that make my heart happy. She writes books that are ones that you wish could be made into a show because her books are so binge worthy and so would the shows if the books were made into a TV series. I love following the characters around and seeing how things work out for them. The setting and characters are those that they reader can relate to because she they real, flawed and engaging. This book is original and fun to read with topics that are both light and deep in perfect measure.
January 18, 2018
4.5 stars.
Sisters Like Us by Susan Mallery is a winsome story about three generations of women and their sometimes complicated relationships. This fourth installment in the Mischief Bay series easily stands on its own, but I highly recommend the previous books as well.
Forty-two year old Harper Szymanski is a divorced mom who loves her sixteen year old daughter Becca but works long hours trying to keep her virtual assistant business going. She is a people pleaser who lets people walk all over her since she has a difficult time standing up for herself. Her relationship with her mother Bunny is a bit of a mess since Bunny is firmly stuck in the '50s where a man is always right and a woman should always put her husband and family's needs before her own.
Harper's younger sister, forty year old Stacey Bloom, is a super smart and socially awkward scientist who works on the cutting edge of MS research. She and her husband Kit are about to become first time parents and Stacey is greatly concerned over her lack of maternal instincts. She is also worried about Bunny's reaction to their nontraditional plan for Kit to become a stay at home dad while she continues working. But what troubles Stacey the most are her fears about what effect a baby will have on her and Kit's relationship.
Becca is a typical teen who is insecure, somewhat self-absorbed and struggling with the loss of one of her closest friend's after she moves out of state. She is also quite unhappy with the situation with her father who makes promises to her that he never keeps. He has virtually disappeared from her life which leaves her feeling unloved. Just when Becca reaches her lowest point, she meets Kit's nephew, Ashton, and their friendship becomes a highlight in her life.
One of Harper's favorite clients, Lucas Wheeler, is a fifty year old cop whose dating life is an endless array of short term relationships with vapid young women in their early twenties. He is a frequent visitor in their home whose friendship she greatly treasures. Lucas is surprisingly attentive to Becca and he becomes a father figure of sorts after he spend a lot of time with her helping her get her driver's license. Lucas and Harper unexpectedly fall into a relationship but since she is so different from the women he typically dates, will there be a shelf-life to their fling?
Sisters Like Us is an emotionally compelling novel that is poignant yet humorous. The chapters alternate between Harper, Stacey and Becca's points of view as each of them attempt to overcome their personal issues. Harper and Stacey are both struggling with Bunny's negative influence in their lives as she continues to make them both feel inadequate. Becca matures with guidance and advice from Lucas and a surprise romance of her own. Lucas and Harper's transition from friends to lovers is understated and their interactions are laugh out loud funny and quite moving. Old and new fans of Susan Mallery are going to love this newest addition to the enchanting Mischief Bay series.
Sisters Like Us by Susan Mallery is a winsome story about three generations of women and their sometimes complicated relationships. This fourth installment in the Mischief Bay series easily stands on its own, but I highly recommend the previous books as well.
Forty-two year old Harper Szymanski is a divorced mom who loves her sixteen year old daughter Becca but works long hours trying to keep her virtual assistant business going. She is a people pleaser who lets people walk all over her since she has a difficult time standing up for herself. Her relationship with her mother Bunny is a bit of a mess since Bunny is firmly stuck in the '50s where a man is always right and a woman should always put her husband and family's needs before her own.
Harper's younger sister, forty year old Stacey Bloom, is a super smart and socially awkward scientist who works on the cutting edge of MS research. She and her husband Kit are about to become first time parents and Stacey is greatly concerned over her lack of maternal instincts. She is also worried about Bunny's reaction to their nontraditional plan for Kit to become a stay at home dad while she continues working. But what troubles Stacey the most are her fears about what effect a baby will have on her and Kit's relationship.
Becca is a typical teen who is insecure, somewhat self-absorbed and struggling with the loss of one of her closest friend's after she moves out of state. She is also quite unhappy with the situation with her father who makes promises to her that he never keeps. He has virtually disappeared from her life which leaves her feeling unloved. Just when Becca reaches her lowest point, she meets Kit's nephew, Ashton, and their friendship becomes a highlight in her life.
One of Harper's favorite clients, Lucas Wheeler, is a fifty year old cop whose dating life is an endless array of short term relationships with vapid young women in their early twenties. He is a frequent visitor in their home whose friendship she greatly treasures. Lucas is surprisingly attentive to Becca and he becomes a father figure of sorts after he spend a lot of time with her helping her get her driver's license. Lucas and Harper unexpectedly fall into a relationship but since she is so different from the women he typically dates, will there be a shelf-life to their fling?
Sisters Like Us is an emotionally compelling novel that is poignant yet humorous. The chapters alternate between Harper, Stacey and Becca's points of view as each of them attempt to overcome their personal issues. Harper and Stacey are both struggling with Bunny's negative influence in their lives as she continues to make them both feel inadequate. Becca matures with guidance and advice from Lucas and a surprise romance of her own. Lucas and Harper's transition from friends to lovers is understated and their interactions are laugh out loud funny and quite moving. Old and new fans of Susan Mallery are going to love this newest addition to the enchanting Mischief Bay series.
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