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Rival Sisters
Tragedy pushed them apart. Can troubled times bring them back together? Hannah and Nat were teenagers when their mum died in a terrible accident. The pain of it tore them apart, creating a rift that they’ve never been able to bridge. Neither is able to understand or appreciate her sister’s perspective, each quick to be riled by the other. Both women have been indelibly shaped by the tragedy. Hannah is controlling, desperate to protect her loved ones in a way she failed to do with her mum. Meanwhile, Nat is forever running from the ‘selfish daughter’ label that she was marked with after the accident. Now secrets in both women’s lives threaten to bring them down. Help may be close at hand, but neither can see it. But with life falling apart and the truth in short supply, can they finally see past their differences to the bond that could bring them together?
415 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2020
1008 people are currently reading
2865 people want to read
About the author
Louise Guy
23 books129 followersLouise has enjoyed working in marketing, recruitment and film production, all of which have helped steer her towards her current, and most loved, role – writer.
Her passion for writing women’s fiction is a result of her love of reading, writing and exploring women’s emotions and relationships. Women succeeding through hard work, overcoming adversity or just by owning their choices and decisions is something to celebrate, and Louise loves the challenge of incorporating their strengths in these situations into fiction.
Originally from Melbourne, a trip around Australia led Louise to Queensland’s stunning Sunshine Coast, where she lives with her two sons, gorgeous fluffball of a cat and an abundance of visiting wildlife – the kangaroos and wallabies the most welcome, the snakes the least!
Awed by her beautiful surroundings, Louise loves to take advantage of the opportunities the coast provides for swimming, hiking, mountain biking and kayaking. When she’s not writing or out adventuring Louise loves any available opportunity to curl up with a glass of red wine, switch on her Kindle and indulge in a new release from a favourite author.
To get in touch with Louise, or to join her mailing list, visit: www.LouiseGuy.com
Her passion for writing women’s fiction is a result of her love of reading, writing and exploring women’s emotions and relationships. Women succeeding through hard work, overcoming adversity or just by owning their choices and decisions is something to celebrate, and Louise loves the challenge of incorporating their strengths in these situations into fiction.
Originally from Melbourne, a trip around Australia led Louise to Queensland’s stunning Sunshine Coast, where she lives with her two sons, gorgeous fluffball of a cat and an abundance of visiting wildlife – the kangaroos and wallabies the most welcome, the snakes the least!
Awed by her beautiful surroundings, Louise loves to take advantage of the opportunities the coast provides for swimming, hiking, mountain biking and kayaking. When she’s not writing or out adventuring Louise loves any available opportunity to curl up with a glass of red wine, switch on her Kindle and indulge in a new release from a favourite author.
To get in touch with Louise, or to join her mailing list, visit: www.LouiseGuy.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
September 19, 2021
When Hannah and Nat’s mother died on the day of her birthday, the girls were only teenagers. Her death shaped their lives from that day forward. While their dad struggled with his grief, their grandmother Phyllie became the backbone of the family, to become their mother, grandmother and friend all in one. She was a feisty woman and now, at eighty-nine years of age, she still had her faculties. But when Hannah wanted Phyllie to be put in a care home, Phyllie baulked, so a simple solution was found – Nat would live with her grandmother to ‘keep an eye on her’.
Hannah and Nat didn’t get on anymore. Although incredibly close before their mother died, both girls had changed and their bitterness toward one another irritated the rest of the family. Hannah had a huge secret she was keeping from Damien, her beloved husband, and because of the decision she'd made twelve years ago, she was now being blackmailed. Nat had a caring nature, putting others before herself, but couldn’t seem to keep a job, had itchy feet and couldn’t work out what her life’s purpose was to be. And Nat’s secret was bogging her down, making her moody and hard to be around.
What would be the outcome for these two sisters? Would they find their former closeness or be forever apart?
Rival Sisters is an exceptional look at love, life, families, grief and secrets by Aussie author Louise Guy and I thoroughly enjoyed it, reading until late last night to finish. Hannah’s daughter Amy was a sweetheart and Bear was adorable. I could see what was going to happen; I kept telling them not to do it; what to do about the problem – but they didn’t listen! Not often I talk to the characters in my books, but I did with Rival Sisters 😉 An excellent book which I highly recommend.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
Hannah and Nat didn’t get on anymore. Although incredibly close before their mother died, both girls had changed and their bitterness toward one another irritated the rest of the family. Hannah had a huge secret she was keeping from Damien, her beloved husband, and because of the decision she'd made twelve years ago, she was now being blackmailed. Nat had a caring nature, putting others before herself, but couldn’t seem to keep a job, had itchy feet and couldn’t work out what her life’s purpose was to be. And Nat’s secret was bogging her down, making her moody and hard to be around.
What would be the outcome for these two sisters? Would they find their former closeness or be forever apart?
Rival Sisters is an exceptional look at love, life, families, grief and secrets by Aussie author Louise Guy and I thoroughly enjoyed it, reading until late last night to finish. Hannah’s daughter Amy was a sweetheart and Bear was adorable. I could see what was going to happen; I kept telling them not to do it; what to do about the problem – but they didn’t listen! Not often I talk to the characters in my books, but I did with Rival Sisters 😉 An excellent book which I highly recommend.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2020
I am called Nat (like the main character) and I have a bossy sister (like Nat does), so on this basis thought it might be a good read. I have now learnt that these are not good reasons to pick a book!
I struggled a lot with the story line and the characters weren’t very likeable. It just felt like nothing much was really happening throughout, with a less than satisfying ending. I almost gave up a few times but I really dislike doing that so plodded on to the end.
On a positive note, Philly is pretty cool and had me chuckling a fair bit. She kind of kept me going when I wanted to give up. Unfortunately though, Philly alone was not enough to win me over. Therefore, I am giving this book 2 stars ⭐️ ⭐️
I struggled a lot with the story line and the characters weren’t very likeable. It just felt like nothing much was really happening throughout, with a less than satisfying ending. I almost gave up a few times but I really dislike doing that so plodded on to the end.
On a positive note, Philly is pretty cool and had me chuckling a fair bit. She kind of kept me going when I wanted to give up. Unfortunately though, Philly alone was not enough to win me over. Therefore, I am giving this book 2 stars ⭐️ ⭐️
September 19, 2020
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
3.5 stars
Sisters divided by loss and tragedy are the central concern of Louise Guy’s latest novel, Rival Sisters. Hidden truths, dark lies, fractured communication channels and blame circulates through the fourth domestic fiction title from Australian author Louise Guy.
Rival Sisters is the emotional journey of two sisters, Hannah and Nat, who were once very close as children but now they lead very separate lives. A deep tragedy has separated these sisters and the pain over losing their mother is too intense for the sisters to bear. Unable to overcome their grief, the sisters are now estranged. The differences in opinion and life situations also mean that the siblings are unable to connect. Each is quick to blame the other for this damaged relationship and for the loss of their mother. Hannah and Nat have both been impacted significantly by the loss of their mother. For Hannah, it is about dominance and control. While Nat faces her own challenges in breaking free from being labelled as the nasty sister. But the past is threatening to boil over into the present and both women must gain the upper hand over their downward spiraling lives. With lies, hard truths and life pressures mounting, it seems these sisters need each other more than they know.
Louise Guy is quite the champion in terms of life literature and domestic fiction stories. Rival Sisters is yet another down to earth tale of ordinary sisters trying to overcome general problems many of us have faced in life. I have really appreciated the realism and natural situations Louise Guy takes to her novels and she definitely injects these qualities into her latest round of contemporary fiction.
Rival Sisters closely examines a splintered family dynamic. A terrible tragedy from childhood cuts deep into the relationship between two once close sisters. We witness a barrage of emotions, pain, guilt, blame and separation from a defining life event. I think Guy does a good job of pulling apart this aspect of her novel. I also appreciated the clear presentation of these two very different sisters. Hannah and Nat were illuminated closely by the author. However, I will be utterly truthful and say I didn’t warm to either sister and my inability to connect to the leads did impair my full enjoyment of this novel. I had a hard time agreeing with the decisions and movements these two women made along the journey of this novel and they did infuriate me. The saving grace in this novel is the grandmother figure, what a beautiful soul this woman was and I am thankful for her presence.
Themes wise, Rival Sisters covers extensive ground and I could not fault this area of the novel. There is a rich and authentic investigation into relationships, marriage, sibling issues, grief, loss and tragedy. Guy also takes the opportunity to tie in a number of topical scenarios on gambling, addiction, blackmail, debt, financial pressures, adoption and online chat rooms. I did find the accompanying dialogue and everyday interactions between the characters in relation to these issues to be on point. However, I struggled with the online chat room conversations that were inserted within the overarching narrative, despite valuing the purpose of these episodes it seemed to break my attention away from the main events.
In the end, the relationship that has been so ruptured between sisters Hannah and Nat over the course of the novel is eventually repaired in quite unexpected circumstances. The characters do seem to grow and come full circle which was gratifying. The repair and restitution focus, along with the expressed life messages that are relayed towards the latter stages of the book made the journey worthwhile for the few days I spent in the company of Rival Sisters.
All in all, Rival Sisters offered an in touch and observant look at some rather complicated family relations.
*I wish to thank Louise Guy for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Rival Sisters is book #102 of the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
3.5 stars
Sisters divided by loss and tragedy are the central concern of Louise Guy’s latest novel, Rival Sisters. Hidden truths, dark lies, fractured communication channels and blame circulates through the fourth domestic fiction title from Australian author Louise Guy.
Rival Sisters is the emotional journey of two sisters, Hannah and Nat, who were once very close as children but now they lead very separate lives. A deep tragedy has separated these sisters and the pain over losing their mother is too intense for the sisters to bear. Unable to overcome their grief, the sisters are now estranged. The differences in opinion and life situations also mean that the siblings are unable to connect. Each is quick to blame the other for this damaged relationship and for the loss of their mother. Hannah and Nat have both been impacted significantly by the loss of their mother. For Hannah, it is about dominance and control. While Nat faces her own challenges in breaking free from being labelled as the nasty sister. But the past is threatening to boil over into the present and both women must gain the upper hand over their downward spiraling lives. With lies, hard truths and life pressures mounting, it seems these sisters need each other more than they know.
Louise Guy is quite the champion in terms of life literature and domestic fiction stories. Rival Sisters is yet another down to earth tale of ordinary sisters trying to overcome general problems many of us have faced in life. I have really appreciated the realism and natural situations Louise Guy takes to her novels and she definitely injects these qualities into her latest round of contemporary fiction.
Rival Sisters closely examines a splintered family dynamic. A terrible tragedy from childhood cuts deep into the relationship between two once close sisters. We witness a barrage of emotions, pain, guilt, blame and separation from a defining life event. I think Guy does a good job of pulling apart this aspect of her novel. I also appreciated the clear presentation of these two very different sisters. Hannah and Nat were illuminated closely by the author. However, I will be utterly truthful and say I didn’t warm to either sister and my inability to connect to the leads did impair my full enjoyment of this novel. I had a hard time agreeing with the decisions and movements these two women made along the journey of this novel and they did infuriate me. The saving grace in this novel is the grandmother figure, what a beautiful soul this woman was and I am thankful for her presence.
Themes wise, Rival Sisters covers extensive ground and I could not fault this area of the novel. There is a rich and authentic investigation into relationships, marriage, sibling issues, grief, loss and tragedy. Guy also takes the opportunity to tie in a number of topical scenarios on gambling, addiction, blackmail, debt, financial pressures, adoption and online chat rooms. I did find the accompanying dialogue and everyday interactions between the characters in relation to these issues to be on point. However, I struggled with the online chat room conversations that were inserted within the overarching narrative, despite valuing the purpose of these episodes it seemed to break my attention away from the main events.
In the end, the relationship that has been so ruptured between sisters Hannah and Nat over the course of the novel is eventually repaired in quite unexpected circumstances. The characters do seem to grow and come full circle which was gratifying. The repair and restitution focus, along with the expressed life messages that are relayed towards the latter stages of the book made the journey worthwhile for the few days I spent in the company of Rival Sisters.
All in all, Rival Sisters offered an in touch and observant look at some rather complicated family relations.
*I wish to thank Louise Guy for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Rival Sisters is book #102 of the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
September 2, 2021
Setting: Melbourne, Australia. Sisters Hannah and Nat were inseparable as teenagers - but the untimely death of their mother in a riding accident caused the two to take totally different roads. Roll on to adulthood:- Hannah, now married with a daughter, has become super-risk aware and it is starting to severely impact on her relationship with her daughter and husband; Nat has made her career in the charity care sector but her desire to help people regardless of the rules has led to her losing yet another job and eviction from her shared house - she feels that Hannah is always ready to criticise anything she does. Constantly clashing, Hannah and Nat battle through their individual and family crises - but will they ever rediscover their previous relationship?...
This was a really good story with an excellent cast of characters. Not my usual genre but still enjoyable - 8/10.
This was a really good story with an excellent cast of characters. Not my usual genre but still enjoyable - 8/10.
October 12, 2020
Louise writes strong, authentic, honest fiction with a touch of domestic drama and she does it so well.
When their mother passed away, Hannah and Nat were just teenagers but this incident shaped their lives and caused a distance between them.
Complete opposites, married Hannah is controlling and lives by facts, figures and statistics, single Nat is unfortunate in life and can be selfish.
Secrets, lies and betrayals are first and foremost in the sisters minds but can they heal from the past and bond together to help and repair to forgiveness.
We all seem to be intrigued by the relationship between sisters, the ins and outs of how their minds work has always been a fascination for readers.
I love how Louise has the natural ability to make her writing real.
It flows beautifully with a down to earth realism, all the good and all the bad.
Relatable complex characters in real life raw moments while tackling some serious and everyday issues and problems.
I don’t think either of the sisters are likeable, whether or not this was Louise’s intention, if so, it worked.
She has captured the real essence of getting yourself into horrible situations and the battle you can have with family.
Towards the end I felt that both sisters did redeem themselves and I didn’t dislike them as much as I did in the beginning.
The bright spark in this story is Phyllie.
A no nonsense, straight up grandma whose wise words always made you feel better and was always right.
Louise Guy is a must read for me now, with two books under my belt and five shining stars for each, I can’t wait to read her next venture.
When their mother passed away, Hannah and Nat were just teenagers but this incident shaped their lives and caused a distance between them.
Complete opposites, married Hannah is controlling and lives by facts, figures and statistics, single Nat is unfortunate in life and can be selfish.
Secrets, lies and betrayals are first and foremost in the sisters minds but can they heal from the past and bond together to help and repair to forgiveness.
We all seem to be intrigued by the relationship between sisters, the ins and outs of how their minds work has always been a fascination for readers.
I love how Louise has the natural ability to make her writing real.
It flows beautifully with a down to earth realism, all the good and all the bad.
Relatable complex characters in real life raw moments while tackling some serious and everyday issues and problems.
I don’t think either of the sisters are likeable, whether or not this was Louise’s intention, if so, it worked.
She has captured the real essence of getting yourself into horrible situations and the battle you can have with family.
Towards the end I felt that both sisters did redeem themselves and I didn’t dislike them as much as I did in the beginning.
The bright spark in this story is Phyllie.
A no nonsense, straight up grandma whose wise words always made you feel better and was always right.
Louise Guy is a must read for me now, with two books under my belt and five shining stars for each, I can’t wait to read her next venture.
July 15, 2020
Not a fan . Luckily it was just a free book from kindle
August 9, 2020
Thank you to the publisher/author for the opportunity to read this book through a Goodreads Giveaway. Is it possible to like and dislike a book at the same time? Hannah and Nat are sisters who lost their mother at young age. As adults they have a difficult relationship. I found myself frustrated with characters and their decisions. However, I liked the grandmother and her unique outlook on life.
July 10, 2020
This was one of my Kindle First choices this month of being permitted to download 2. I have packed it in at 32%, though, as I was just despising both of the sisters featured. They both tell lies and one in particular you'd expect to be a teenager, the way she behaves, but no, they're both grown adults in their 30s !! So one was dopey and the other was a neurotic mess !! She snaps at her poor daughter and husband all the time, even though she is well aware she is doing this.....
I did like Phyllie.....she was at least a character you could warm to, but the sisters are a pair of flakes. The last highlight/note I made was that I didn't want to spend any more time with these hateful women.
I only spotted a mistake where I'd have used an apostrophe in drinks' cabinet but that was it so presentation is spot on.....I just hated the characters !
I did like Phyllie.....she was at least a character you could warm to, but the sisters are a pair of flakes. The last highlight/note I made was that I didn't want to spend any more time with these hateful women.
I only spotted a mistake where I'd have used an apostrophe in drinks' cabinet but that was it so presentation is spot on.....I just hated the characters !
July 26, 2020
I struggled with this one. It was a story about taking risks and the bad decisions people make, especially financial. Problem for me was that every member of this family made some dumb ass decisions, and nobody ever said "are you crazy, why would you do that?". For one member of the family to be stupid I could accept, but not all of them at the same time.
August 23, 2020
What a shitshow. Packed this disaster of horrendous characters and a storyline in around 26%. No stars.
May 1, 2021
Enjoyable read
I really enjoyed this book, well written and thought provoking. The story is realistic, focusing on two sisters, the impact of their mothers death on them and their personalities, behaviours towards each other and attitudes to life. The story includes their families and various life events. An interesting read.
I really enjoyed this book, well written and thought provoking. The story is realistic, focusing on two sisters, the impact of their mothers death on them and their personalities, behaviours towards each other and attitudes to life. The story includes their families and various life events. An interesting read.
March 6, 2021
I wasn’t sure what to think of this one going in but I was pleasantly surprised. There was a good level of drama and I enjoyed it. Probably one of the better books I’ve read as an Amazon Prime First Read.
August 22, 2020
Absolutely loved this. How small incidents in life can shape us, how we see ourselves aren't necessarily how others perceive us. Its never too late to have a look at ourselves and change and grow.
September 28, 2020
Real and relatable
I enjoyed the reality of this story, nothing easy about it but engaging and inspiring. Totally excited to find more from this author
I enjoyed the reality of this story, nothing easy about it but engaging and inspiring. Totally excited to find more from this author
January 4, 2023
4.5
who expected a book about gambling and addiction to be so good (it was about more than that but !!!)
who expected a book about gambling and addiction to be so good (it was about more than that but !!!)
September 14, 2020
Lovely book. Thanks for the e-ARC NetGalley. The characters were so profound and gripping, looking forward to read more books by the author.
July 20, 2020
Really slow and took till 75% for me to get into it
August 2, 2020
Hmm. Readable but not a must-read. The story relied heavily on secrets and lies, which can get a bit frustrating at times, because if everyone just talked to each other it could all be sorted out in moments. And of course, it ends up with everyone talking to each other and sorting it out. The middle section felt like reading a Gambling addiction wiki. By the end it felt like the author was cramming too much in - the legacy of the mother's tragic death, gambling addiction, fraud, blackmail, adoption... the adoption storyline in particular felt extraneous, like it would be better off in a story of its own as it's such a major event. Overall; not a bad read, but not a great one either - enjoyable enough while you're relaxing with a coffee, but you're not going to be staying up to the wee hours desperate to finish it.
April 12, 2024
What I liked about Rival Sisters:
Philly's character was the best part of Rival Sisters, offering humor, wisdom, and warmth to the narrative. Her portrayal reminded me vividly of my own granny and grandma, and I could easily imagine them in Philly's role throughout the story.
What I disliked about Rival Sisters:
Unfortunately, the plot of the book was highly predictable and made it difficult for me to connect with or care about either sister. Their sibling rivalry, characterized by constant bickering and contrasting lifestyles, felt clichéd and only served to make their interactions tedious rather than compelling.
The story's heavy reliance on secrets and lies added to the frustration, suggesting that many conflicts could have been easily resolved with straightforward communication. This theme continued with a subplot involving gambling addiction, along with elements of fraud and blackmail, which only served to overcomplicate and dilute the main narrative. Moreover, the con within the story was implausible, and it was hard to believe that anyone sensible could fall for it.
The conclusion neatly wrapped up all the loose ends, with the characters finally resolving their issues. However, it seemed the author attempted to squeeze too much into the final chapters, resulting in the narrative feeling cluttered and lacking focus. As a result, maintaining interest became a challenge.
What I think would have made Rival Sisters better:
I wish that there had been more development on the sisters and their relationship, rather than cramming in multiple complex issues like adoption and gambling addiction. It would have made the story more engaging and cohesive.
Would I recommend Rival Sisters by Louise Guy:
While I might be in the minority, I found this book to be just okay. It's not a bad read, but it's not exceptional either. It's not the type of book that will keep you up late, eagerly turning pages. I would recommend it to readers looking for a compelling, unpredictable narrative, as it has its enjoyable moments.
****
In Rival Sisters, Hannah and Nat, once close, grew apart after their mother's tragic death. Hannah focuses on her job as a risk assessor to protect her family, while Nat aims to help the homeless. Their mother's loss caused a rift, leading to misunderstandings and resentment. Hannah becomes controlling, and driven by a need to protect, while Nat feels burdened by the label of a "selfish daughter." Secrets in their lives threaten to unravel as they struggle to rebuild their bond.
Philly's character was the best part of Rival Sisters, offering humor, wisdom, and warmth to the narrative. Her portrayal reminded me vividly of my own granny and grandma, and I could easily imagine them in Philly's role throughout the story.
What I disliked about Rival Sisters:
Unfortunately, the plot of the book was highly predictable and made it difficult for me to connect with or care about either sister. Their sibling rivalry, characterized by constant bickering and contrasting lifestyles, felt clichéd and only served to make their interactions tedious rather than compelling.
The story's heavy reliance on secrets and lies added to the frustration, suggesting that many conflicts could have been easily resolved with straightforward communication. This theme continued with a subplot involving gambling addiction, along with elements of fraud and blackmail, which only served to overcomplicate and dilute the main narrative. Moreover, the con within the story was implausible, and it was hard to believe that anyone sensible could fall for it.
The conclusion neatly wrapped up all the loose ends, with the characters finally resolving their issues. However, it seemed the author attempted to squeeze too much into the final chapters, resulting in the narrative feeling cluttered and lacking focus. As a result, maintaining interest became a challenge.
What I think would have made Rival Sisters better:
I wish that there had been more development on the sisters and their relationship, rather than cramming in multiple complex issues like adoption and gambling addiction. It would have made the story more engaging and cohesive.
Would I recommend Rival Sisters by Louise Guy:
While I might be in the minority, I found this book to be just okay. It's not a bad read, but it's not exceptional either. It's not the type of book that will keep you up late, eagerly turning pages. I would recommend it to readers looking for a compelling, unpredictable narrative, as it has its enjoyable moments.
****
In Rival Sisters, Hannah and Nat, once close, grew apart after their mother's tragic death. Hannah focuses on her job as a risk assessor to protect her family, while Nat aims to help the homeless. Their mother's loss caused a rift, leading to misunderstandings and resentment. Hannah becomes controlling, and driven by a need to protect, while Nat feels burdened by the label of a "selfish daughter." Secrets in their lives threaten to unravel as they struggle to rebuild their bond.
November 29, 2020
Rival sisters
This book is about a family. The heart of the book is about two sisters, but we have a cast of supporting characters. The sisters mother dies 10 years earlier. Their father has since remarried and they all live in Australia where the novel is set.
Nat is the younger sister, a little wild, led by her heart. Hannah is quite the opposite in there every situation has a pro and con list, a right and a wrong way of doing things. After the death of their mother, their relationship is fractured and doesn’t seem to recover. Hannah does her best to control everyone and Nat is a free spirit. In adulthood, Nat is trying to figure out how to manage her life and manage a growing gambling addiction, while Hannah is trying to keep a secret hidden of her own.
I have said this before, but I love a book where a sister relationship is at the heart of it. Sibling relationships can be so complex and interesting and I love the way the author depicts the push and pull between Nat and Hannah as they navigate their delicate relationship.
Aside from the conflict between sisters, there was so much going on in this book it was kind of ridiculous at times. The author kept putting up different obstacles and creating new conflict so often that the characters didn’t get a chance fully develop. There was no space or breathing room. They were constantly in reaction to external circumstances. It was a way to move the story along, because I was invested. But, I felt the book would have benefited from fewer conflict, and more character development.
There was a character, the grandma, who was in early stages of dementia. That struck a chord with me because I’m familiar with that, having a close family member experience the same thing. I just had a hard time connecting emotionally to the characters because there was just so much going on.
This book is about a family. The heart of the book is about two sisters, but we have a cast of supporting characters. The sisters mother dies 10 years earlier. Their father has since remarried and they all live in Australia where the novel is set.
Nat is the younger sister, a little wild, led by her heart. Hannah is quite the opposite in there every situation has a pro and con list, a right and a wrong way of doing things. After the death of their mother, their relationship is fractured and doesn’t seem to recover. Hannah does her best to control everyone and Nat is a free spirit. In adulthood, Nat is trying to figure out how to manage her life and manage a growing gambling addiction, while Hannah is trying to keep a secret hidden of her own.
I have said this before, but I love a book where a sister relationship is at the heart of it. Sibling relationships can be so complex and interesting and I love the way the author depicts the push and pull between Nat and Hannah as they navigate their delicate relationship.
Aside from the conflict between sisters, there was so much going on in this book it was kind of ridiculous at times. The author kept putting up different obstacles and creating new conflict so often that the characters didn’t get a chance fully develop. There was no space or breathing room. They were constantly in reaction to external circumstances. It was a way to move the story along, because I was invested. But, I felt the book would have benefited from fewer conflict, and more character development.
There was a character, the grandma, who was in early stages of dementia. That struck a chord with me because I’m familiar with that, having a close family member experience the same thing. I just had a hard time connecting emotionally to the characters because there was just so much going on.
August 2, 2020
What an intriguing novel to read. Hannah and Nat are sisters but are polar opposites which is exacerbated by the death of their mother when they are teenagers. Hannah is married and has a young daughter and her live revolves around risk assessments which she not only does for work but brings it home as well, she is very anal about doing the right things and being very critical of others.
Nat is a bit of a free spirit and is very devoted to her work with the less fortunate and has a habit of not being able to keep a job because she takes pity on people and wants to help them out even if it means breaking the rules. Consequently she has little or no money and is kicked out of her shared accommodation because she can't pay her share of the rent.
White night Phillie is their 89 yo grandmother and offers Nat a proposition to live with her which will get Hannah off her back about moving into supported accommodation because of her age. Nat agrees but very soon is drawn into a gambling addiction which threatens to take over her whole life and the lives of her family.
Louise Guy tackles some pretty interesting topics throughout this book - gambling, addiction, control, adoption and family and I read this book in a couple of days even reading 200 pages in one sitting. I highly recommend this book to readers of Womens Fiction, Family Stories and even psychological thrillers as it definitely has a dark story within.
This author continues to evolve with each novel and I can't wait to read her next novel when it comes out.
Nat is a bit of a free spirit and is very devoted to her work with the less fortunate and has a habit of not being able to keep a job because she takes pity on people and wants to help them out even if it means breaking the rules. Consequently she has little or no money and is kicked out of her shared accommodation because she can't pay her share of the rent.
White night Phillie is their 89 yo grandmother and offers Nat a proposition to live with her which will get Hannah off her back about moving into supported accommodation because of her age. Nat agrees but very soon is drawn into a gambling addiction which threatens to take over her whole life and the lives of her family.
Louise Guy tackles some pretty interesting topics throughout this book - gambling, addiction, control, adoption and family and I read this book in a couple of days even reading 200 pages in one sitting. I highly recommend this book to readers of Womens Fiction, Family Stories and even psychological thrillers as it definitely has a dark story within.
This author continues to evolve with each novel and I can't wait to read her next novel when it comes out.
August 2, 2020
It is always lovely when you've been waiting for a new release from a favourite author to find that book absolutely delightful. Such was the case with Louise Guy's new novel, Rival Sisters. It is a beautiful book, complex but not complicated with a beautiful conclusion that is uplifting.
Hannah and Nat are extremely close sisters until their mother dies after a tragic accident on her birthday. From then on the relationship is changed and when all the family get together annually on their Mother's birthday, also the anniversary of her death, the relationship is strained even more. Hannah wants to protect every one she loves from any harm so without realising she becomes controlling, with Nat feeling like she is judged and smothered.
Phyllie is Grandmother, substitute Mother and confidant. She is so lovable and understanding and is always ready to listen and although ageing is totally against any form of assisted living.
The sub threads of online gambling, chat rooms and adoption are woven into the story so that everything flows naturally. As someone who loves Australian women's literature I believe that Rachael John's fans would love this book. I have no hesitation in giving it 5 stars, something I only do if a book "speaks to me."
Hannah and Nat are extremely close sisters until their mother dies after a tragic accident on her birthday. From then on the relationship is changed and when all the family get together annually on their Mother's birthday, also the anniversary of her death, the relationship is strained even more. Hannah wants to protect every one she loves from any harm so without realising she becomes controlling, with Nat feeling like she is judged and smothered.
Phyllie is Grandmother, substitute Mother and confidant. She is so lovable and understanding and is always ready to listen and although ageing is totally against any form of assisted living.
The sub threads of online gambling, chat rooms and adoption are woven into the story so that everything flows naturally. As someone who loves Australian women's literature I believe that Rachael John's fans would love this book. I have no hesitation in giving it 5 stars, something I only do if a book "speaks to me."
July 7, 2020
A story of two sisters who were once so close but following the sudden death of their mother put a strain on their relationship, both feeling a little to blame. One sister kept a secret from her husband for 12 years to proect him, she was being blackmailed which eventually forced her to come clean with her husband.
The other sister has been unfortunate in her life choices and mounted up debts and therefore became addicted to online gambling to recover her debts which got her in a lot of financial trouble.
Both sisters joined the same an online chat room in disguise to help them both overcome their issues and chatted openly about their problems. By discussing these further with their own family members, Hannah the eldest sister realised her new online chat friend was actually her sister and they formed a new close bond following the events that had recently materialised as Hannah realised they were being set up by fraudsters. A moving story that had me in tears!
The other sister has been unfortunate in her life choices and mounted up debts and therefore became addicted to online gambling to recover her debts which got her in a lot of financial trouble.
Both sisters joined the same an online chat room in disguise to help them both overcome their issues and chatted openly about their problems. By discussing these further with their own family members, Hannah the eldest sister realised her new online chat friend was actually her sister and they formed a new close bond following the events that had recently materialised as Hannah realised they were being set up by fraudsters. A moving story that had me in tears!
August 30, 2020
A heartwarming and exhilarating story of two sisters who were drawn apart by the tragic death of their dear mother. Each of them having their own way to deal with their grief.
Hannah, the older sister, kept a secret from her husband for 12 years in order to protect him, however, she was repeatedly blackmailed which eventually compelled her to tell her husband the truth.
Nat, the other sister, had made some bad choices which resulted in her being addicted to online gambling in order to pay off her debts, this didn't work out well for her and resulted in her being in deeper financial woes.
The characters in the book are easy to relate to and in some instances, capture and hold the reader's attention together.
Summary: An easy afternoon read which is rather enjoyable, may result in a roller coaster of emotions and uncovering family secrets, some of which may be best kept hidden.
Hannah, the older sister, kept a secret from her husband for 12 years in order to protect him, however, she was repeatedly blackmailed which eventually compelled her to tell her husband the truth.
Nat, the other sister, had made some bad choices which resulted in her being addicted to online gambling in order to pay off her debts, this didn't work out well for her and resulted in her being in deeper financial woes.
The characters in the book are easy to relate to and in some instances, capture and hold the reader's attention together.
Summary: An easy afternoon read which is rather enjoyable, may result in a roller coaster of emotions and uncovering family secrets, some of which may be best kept hidden.
January 8, 2021
So much happens like real life
I downloaded this because it sounded a lot like me and my sister..misinterpreting each other ,but deep down loving and caring about each other.
Although I did feel in places this meandered on a bit too much ,making the outcome of a situation predictable...I did enjoy this novel . Some excellent characters and relationships..grandma was absolutely wonderful ,as were the other 3 main characters.;the sisters and the husband. All the stories within this novel..and there were quite a few..were realistic and I think there will be many readers touched by at least 1 in there lives..I know I did.
I did enjoy this novel very much..once I'd got past some bits being drawn out a bit too much for me ..I didn't want to put it down til id finished.
Definitely recommend
I downloaded this because it sounded a lot like me and my sister..misinterpreting each other ,but deep down loving and caring about each other.
Although I did feel in places this meandered on a bit too much ,making the outcome of a situation predictable...I did enjoy this novel . Some excellent characters and relationships..grandma was absolutely wonderful ,as were the other 3 main characters.;the sisters and the husband. All the stories within this novel..and there were quite a few..were realistic and I think there will be many readers touched by at least 1 in there lives..I know I did.
I did enjoy this novel very much..once I'd got past some bits being drawn out a bit too much for me ..I didn't want to put it down til id finished.
Definitely recommend
August 4, 2020
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. The review I'm leaving is being done voluntarily and contains my own thoughts, views, and personal opinions.
3.5 stars rounding up.
I can't lie, I hated both of these characters. I persevered because I saw the promise in the story, but I did so with clenched teeth. However, when the book was over, I realized one of the reasons I kept going is because of how much I didn't like the characters. That might not make sense, but let me backpedal a step. One of the major selling points of this story is the fact that it's about everyday people with everyday problems. Sure, they aren't the most typical of problems, but they felt real and genuine and it was surprisingly easy to put yourself into their shoes. It was a refreshing read because it felt like you were diving into a real family and watching them unravel then find a way to come back together again.
3.5 stars rounding up.
I can't lie, I hated both of these characters. I persevered because I saw the promise in the story, but I did so with clenched teeth. However, when the book was over, I realized one of the reasons I kept going is because of how much I didn't like the characters. That might not make sense, but let me backpedal a step. One of the major selling points of this story is the fact that it's about everyday people with everyday problems. Sure, they aren't the most typical of problems, but they felt real and genuine and it was surprisingly easy to put yourself into their shoes. It was a refreshing read because it felt like you were diving into a real family and watching them unravel then find a way to come back together again.
February 18, 2021
This is the second book of Louise Guy's that I have read the first being Everyday Lies and I have to stay that I enjoyed Rival Sisters a lot more.
Rival Sisters tells the story of two sisters Nat and Hannah who since the death of their mother when they were teenagers, they once close relationship has turned bitter. I enjoyed the fact that neither were as perfect as they first appear and they learn more about themselves and each other as the plot unfolds.
I have moved Guy's other novel A Life Worth Living that I got from Netgalley to the top of my TBR list and have high hopes for.
Highly recommend!!!!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.
Rival Sisters tells the story of two sisters Nat and Hannah who since the death of their mother when they were teenagers, they once close relationship has turned bitter. I enjoyed the fact that neither were as perfect as they first appear and they learn more about themselves and each other as the plot unfolds.
I have moved Guy's other novel A Life Worth Living that I got from Netgalley to the top of my TBR list and have high hopes for.
Highly recommend!!!!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.
August 3, 2020
I enjoyed this book. Is it my favourite of the year? No, but certainly readable. Felt it was slow in the middle.
Much preferred Nat to Hannah, but I’m glad they managed to turn it around. Eliza was definitely too good to be true, and I personally would have run for the hills / done my research on whatever it was they were promising. But that’s just me; Nat is far more spontaneous.
Really liked Damien; I knew he hadn’t loaned that money to Nat, but I thought he’d gone and taken it out for therapy, lol. And Phyllie is someone we all need in our lives — unjudgemental, and always on hand with a glass of Prosecco!
It was nice to read this amidst of my usual fare of thriller and crime.
Much preferred Nat to Hannah, but I’m glad they managed to turn it around. Eliza was definitely too good to be true, and I personally would have run for the hills / done my research on whatever it was they were promising. But that’s just me; Nat is far more spontaneous.
Really liked Damien; I knew he hadn’t loaned that money to Nat, but I thought he’d gone and taken it out for therapy, lol. And Phyllie is someone we all need in our lives — unjudgemental, and always on hand with a glass of Prosecco!
It was nice to read this amidst of my usual fare of thriller and crime.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2020
In Rival Sisters, Hannah and Nat are sisters that have grown apart after tragically losing their mom as teenagers. Hannah has thrown her self into her job as a risk assessor and keeping her own family safe. Nat want to chance the world, one homeless person at a time. Hannah over-does it, Nat under-does it.
I think I am in the minority, but this book was just okay. I thought the story was predictable and I couldn't identify with or care about any of the characters.
Thanks to NetGalley, Louise Guy, and Amazon Publishing UK for allowing me to access Rival Sisters by Louise Guy in exchange for my honest opinion.
#RivalSisters #NetGalley
I think I am in the minority, but this book was just okay. I thought the story was predictable and I couldn't identify with or care about any of the characters.
Thanks to NetGalley, Louise Guy, and Amazon Publishing UK for allowing me to access Rival Sisters by Louise Guy in exchange for my honest opinion.
#RivalSisters #NetGalley
August 7, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the eARC.
Unfortunately, I didn't much like this book. I found Hannah and her sister Nat annoying, When they were young, they were close, but when their mother died they drifted apart and can't help sniping at each other as adults. Hannah is uptight, rigid and successful, but Clare is totally different. She's had one job after another, gives all her money to the needy and ends up jobless and homeless.
She moves in with her grandmother and gets involved in online gambling. Hannah gets an unwelcome phone call that threatens her marriage.
I found the sisters' decisions stupid and selfish and didn't really care what happened to them.
Unfortunately, I didn't much like this book. I found Hannah and her sister Nat annoying, When they were young, they were close, but when their mother died they drifted apart and can't help sniping at each other as adults. Hannah is uptight, rigid and successful, but Clare is totally different. She's had one job after another, gives all her money to the needy and ends up jobless and homeless.
She moves in with her grandmother and gets involved in online gambling. Hannah gets an unwelcome phone call that threatens her marriage.
I found the sisters' decisions stupid and selfish and didn't really care what happened to them.
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