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Blood Sisters
After losing her family, Judith Blackwell seriously considers ending her life ... until a mysterious letter captures her attention. Opening the envelope, she is shocked to discover the obituary of Jasmine, her childhood friend. Shaken out of her valley of darkness, Judith journeys to her hometown and uncovers more than she bargained for. When she confides the truth to a handsome detective, they form a plan that will save the community ... or trap them in the heart of danger.
A riveting novel, Blood Sisters demonstrates how God brings His own from the edge of darkness into His incredible light.
A riveting novel, Blood Sisters demonstrates how God brings His own from the edge of darkness into His incredible light.
428 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2001
53 people are currently reading
677 people want to read
About the author
Melody Carlson
424 books3,289 followersMelody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
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August 15, 2020Focusing on the 1960's-70's, in the area of Washington/Oregon, a group of southerners has built a private subdivision with pool, club, etc and only WASP's are allowed to live there. They don't even want any other cultures living in their small town of Cedar Crest. When Judith Blackwell receives an obituary indicating her best friend from childhood has committed suicide, Judith is shocked and heads back to Cedar Crest to find out what happened. Little does she know that she is going to become wrapped up in a federal investigation of racism in her small home town.
Becoming a young adult during the 60's and 70's, I vividly remember the racial prejudice that abounded during that time period. This book definitely brings it to life along with the horrible atrocities carried out by those who were prejudiced. Judith is a young woman who cares about all people, she surprises herself with how strong she is when defending others rights. Adam was a wonderful hero who worked together with Judith to stop the hatred that was permeating their town. And Aunt Lenore was a marvelous feisty senior citizen who even through her age fought for what was right and just.
Excellent book covering race relations during this time period.
Becoming a young adult during the 60's and 70's, I vividly remember the racial prejudice that abounded during that time period. This book definitely brings it to life along with the horrible atrocities carried out by those who were prejudiced. Judith is a young woman who cares about all people, she surprises herself with how strong she is when defending others rights. Adam was a wonderful hero who worked together with Judith to stop the hatred that was permeating their town. And Aunt Lenore was a marvelous feisty senior citizen who even through her age fought for what was right and just.
Excellent book covering race relations during this time period.
March 19, 2009
Very sad story.
August 17, 2011
A spectacular read! An amazing, heart-felt yet seat gripping story about race, judgement, love and in the a midst of fear and challenges trusting God.
September 27, 2011
this is the book that i will forever compare other books i read to. Wonderful!
May 21, 2013
This book was a lot better and so much different than I expected. Judith is laying out pills to take her life when she discovers a letter that was sent to her. That letter was actually an obituary for her best friend that she had long ago lost touch with. The obit does not explain how her friend Jasmine had died, but does reveal that Jasmine had moved to back to their home town just a short drive from where Judith lives. This news renews Judith's desire to live. What follows is a mystery of trying to solve the death of her blood sister. This leads to a discovery of racism in her home town. I'm afraid saying much more would ruin the story, but this is an excellent story filled with mystery and emotion. I highly recommend this book.
June 11, 2013
Excellent book. Emotions range from deadly despair, to disbelief, shock, anger, revengeful feelings to finding hope and faith. I highly recommend this book.
From Amazon's description: "That afternoon Mr. Jones read to them from Tom Sawyer, and when he reached the part about blood brothers, Judith knew just what she and Jasmine should do. Hidden behind an oak tree, the little girls jabbed their forefingers with a thumbtack and mixed their blood to become honest-to-goodness blood sisters. In their childish hearts they vowed to be best friends forever and ever."
From Amazon's description: "That afternoon Mr. Jones read to them from Tom Sawyer, and when he reached the part about blood brothers, Judith knew just what she and Jasmine should do. Hidden behind an oak tree, the little girls jabbed their forefingers with a thumbtack and mixed their blood to become honest-to-goodness blood sisters. In their childish hearts they vowed to be best friends forever and ever."
May 30, 2013
This story was more religion than mystery. While I am fine with religious books, this one seemed a bit unrealistic. Atleast it wasn't so had that I couldn't finish it. It just took me awhile since it didn't have me rushing home to read it. Overall, the story was touching. I found the whole thing pretty sad especially if it truly was need on a true story.
March 25, 2013
Great book, hooked me from the beginning. Sad story but one worth reading so that we can be mindful of the bigotry and hatred that still exists in our nation and that it takes all of us to make a difference in the future.
May 31, 2013
I loved this book and I didn't think I would. It hit a cord in my heart. It reinforced my faith that God is always working in our lives. It kept my interest and wove a story that is very real and touching.
October 16, 2008
this is the book that i will forever compare other books i read to. Wonderful!
January 28, 2013
This book was a wonderful read... one that I will never forget! Racism is always present in so many ways unfortunately... but keeping our faith in God can help us overcome ANYTHING!!
February 2, 2013
Loved it! Engages the reader emotionally on many levels. It was the kind of book that you don't want to put down.
April 7, 2013
I was enthralled by this book from cover to cover. The way Melody addresses racism and true Christian values is masterfully presented.
August 21, 2013
surprisingly really good! Drew me in from the beginning, and was hard to put down.
May 27, 2018
This was a painful book to read. The focus on racial prejudices and intense bigotry was hard to digest. The story, though, was well written. The characters were well developed and dug themselves deeply into your heart. You suffer along with the "blood sisters" and find yourself feeling extreme sadness for all they endure.
The atrocities of racism and prejudices is astounding. But I am aware that these ideals still exist today and it is hard to know that there are people who believe this way. It breaks my heart to think a person is judged based on the color of his/her skin or their religious beliefs or their sexual preferences.
While the subject matter was difficult to endure, the fact that there are individuals who believe that we are all God's children and are willing to take a stand against such horrible beliefs is uplifting. It was difficult to suffer through the viewpoints espoused by some of the characters. But knowing that others were working behind the scenes to change the climate in Cedar Crest kept you hoping and praying! And prayers were a big theme throughout this book. Small and simple...or childlike...the prayers lifted were an important part of traveling through this difficult environment.
I am so pleased that this book was chosen as our book club book this month.
The atrocities of racism and prejudices is astounding. But I am aware that these ideals still exist today and it is hard to know that there are people who believe this way. It breaks my heart to think a person is judged based on the color of his/her skin or their religious beliefs or their sexual preferences.
While the subject matter was difficult to endure, the fact that there are individuals who believe that we are all God's children and are willing to take a stand against such horrible beliefs is uplifting. It was difficult to suffer through the viewpoints espoused by some of the characters. But knowing that others were working behind the scenes to change the climate in Cedar Crest kept you hoping and praying! And prayers were a big theme throughout this book. Small and simple...or childlike...the prayers lifted were an important part of traveling through this difficult environment.
I am so pleased that this book was chosen as our book club book this month.
August 3, 2018
Tough topics covered in the story and done very well. Racism, murder, suicide and controlling dad are just some of what is part of this book. The author weaves a deep, mystery that keeps you glued to the pages.
The characters are believable and well developed. I can't really name a favorite because there were some really good ones and most were quite likeable.
If you enjoy a mystery full of suspense you'll want to get your hands on this book. I highly recommend it.
The characters are believable and well developed. I can't really name a favorite because there were some really good ones and most were quite likeable.
If you enjoy a mystery full of suspense you'll want to get your hands on this book. I highly recommend it.
October 3, 2023
It was ok, but there were too many things that weren’t believable. Also, it was a “Hallmark” story trying desperately to be a mystery/suspense story! I am not a fan of authors who think they have to spoon-feed their readers and this is how I felt about this author. If you are someone who likes stories that end up all nice and tidy, then you’ll like this one…again, not my thing. I will give it a thumbs up in that it was a Christian author and therefore, a wholesome read.
January 1, 2023
A story about racism and prejudice. A bit on the predictable side with parts of the storyline bordering on the unbelievable. Some very strong characters while others lack depth. Wraps up too quick and neat. One negative for me was the overuse of the word whatnot, it seemed out of place in the book. An enjoyable read. Thank you to Stonhouse Inc. and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
September 10, 2019
Interesting twist of a book. Some mystery, some religion, and just a touch of romance. This book dealt with some of the bad situations out there such as white supremacy and how some people will go to great lengths to support that lifestyle. I would recommend this book
October 22, 2020
It took me a little while to get into this book but I persisted and I’m glad I did. This is a book about racism and how it affects people even years into the future. Overall this is a great read and I would recommend it to anyone.
March 10, 2018
Blood sisters
What a different story from you was good. We have choices we make in our lives and people judge us on the choices we make this book made you think and trust God
What a different story from you was good. We have choices we make in our lives and people judge us on the choices we make this book made you think and trust God
July 20, 2019
Loved it
February 19, 2020
Wonderful characters
I enjoy most of Carlson’s writings. Exquisite storyline. Editing was lacking - punctuation and formatting errors terribly distracting and unprofessional.
I enjoy most of Carlson’s writings. Exquisite storyline. Editing was lacking - punctuation and formatting errors terribly distracting and unprofessional.
September 27, 2016
This is a story about two young girls who pledge their friendship to each other to last forever. Through time and space their pledge turns tragedy into triumph. It's an amazing character study of how death turns into life and weakness into strength. It's a must read!
April 24, 2015
Blood Sisters
Melody Carlson says writing is both her work and her passion. That is very apparent in Blood Sisters. She is able to tackle difficult subjects in a way that often makes me understand them in a different light. This book is about the ugly subjects of racism and hatred for Thomas who are different.
The story is an excellent example of how hatred affects not only those who are hated but more importantly those who are so wrapped up in hating they miss out on the joy of a life well lived. Ms Carlson's characters are fully fleshed out. She has a way of making them so real I sometimes forget they aren't people I know. If you've never read one of her books this one is a great introduction.
Melody Carlson says writing is both her work and her passion. That is very apparent in Blood Sisters. She is able to tackle difficult subjects in a way that often makes me understand them in a different light. This book is about the ugly subjects of racism and hatred for Thomas who are different.
The story is an excellent example of how hatred affects not only those who are hated but more importantly those who are so wrapped up in hating they miss out on the joy of a life well lived. Ms Carlson's characters are fully fleshed out. She has a way of making them so real I sometimes forget they aren't people I know. If you've never read one of her books this one is a great introduction.
August 23, 2013
This is the 1st book I read by Melody Carlson. This book's storyline is very sad & some parts of the story can make you mad. In the beginning I felt so sorry for Judith but in the end I was so proud of her. I thought Pearl is adorable. I didn't mind Christian dialogue in this story I thought it was well needed. I can't imagine growing up in the year this story takes place, it had to be very difficult. This was a great story to read it was keep you interested to the very end. Great job Ms. Carlson.
January 30, 2013
I have, in the past enjoyed a few of Melody's novels..however, this one just seemed flat. I spent the first half of the book wondering when things were going to get moving and 3/4 into the book, I was ready for it to be finished.
On the plus side, the ending was great..it just took a long time with minimal character development to getr there.
On the plus side, the ending was great..it just took a long time with minimal character development to getr there.
February 4, 2013
I had read several of Carlson's "teen" books so was not sure what to expect - I was pleasantly surprised as this was an excellent read that made me want to keep reading to see what was going to happen next. The situation that the main character finds herself in is not an unlikely situation and makes you think about how you view and treat those with opposite, and quite awful views. Worth reading
September 30, 2009
This book was okay. It took a while to get into, but once I did (about 100 pages in or so) it was a fast read. I don't know how I feel about the racist issues covered in the book. I believe rasicm is wrong, but I feel like it was a bit over done in the book.
January 16, 2013
Meh. This book was okay but not great. I didn't have a problem with the racial subject matter or the constant praying, but the characters were a little flat and the conclusion predictable. Quick enjoyable read, but no literary masterpiece.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews