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Sisterhood #32
Bitter Pill
An Amazon Best of the Month Selection
No one weaves a story as well as beloved New York Times bestselling author Fern Michaels. In the Sisterhood's 32nd adventure together, a team of unscrupulous doctors pushing destructive natural remedies is profiting from others' distress--but these loyal friends know just the cure...
The Sisterhood: a group of women from all walks of life bound by friendship and a quest for justice. Armed with vast resources, top-notch expertise, and a loyal network of allies around the globe, the Sisterhood will not rest until every wrong is made right.
For the Sisterhood, every mission matters. But there's a special satisfaction that comes with helping a friend in need, especially when it's someone as dear as Myra Rutledge's childhood friend Charlotte. After she receives a worrying letter, Myra quickly arranges for Charlotte to visit, hoping to restore her peace of mind. She learns that Charlotte has spent tens of thousands of dollars on "natural herbal remedies" as part of an innovative program to boost longevity. But far from improving her health, the medications seem to be destroying it.
Myra becomes suspicious of the trio of doctors in charge of the program, especially once the Sisterhood's investigations reveal that one patient has died, and another lapsed into a coma. While those in their care suffer, the three doctors--located in London, Aspen, and New York--all enjoy indulgent lifestyles and extravagant toys. But the passions and obsessions paid for by their selfish scheme may be the very means to get revenge. Justice, after all, is always the best medicine--and no one dispenses it better than the Sisterhood...
No one weaves a story as well as beloved New York Times bestselling author Fern Michaels. In the Sisterhood's 32nd adventure together, a team of unscrupulous doctors pushing destructive natural remedies is profiting from others' distress--but these loyal friends know just the cure...
The Sisterhood: a group of women from all walks of life bound by friendship and a quest for justice. Armed with vast resources, top-notch expertise, and a loyal network of allies around the globe, the Sisterhood will not rest until every wrong is made right.
For the Sisterhood, every mission matters. But there's a special satisfaction that comes with helping a friend in need, especially when it's someone as dear as Myra Rutledge's childhood friend Charlotte. After she receives a worrying letter, Myra quickly arranges for Charlotte to visit, hoping to restore her peace of mind. She learns that Charlotte has spent tens of thousands of dollars on "natural herbal remedies" as part of an innovative program to boost longevity. But far from improving her health, the medications seem to be destroying it.
Myra becomes suspicious of the trio of doctors in charge of the program, especially once the Sisterhood's investigations reveal that one patient has died, and another lapsed into a coma. While those in their care suffer, the three doctors--located in London, Aspen, and New York--all enjoy indulgent lifestyles and extravagant toys. But the passions and obsessions paid for by their selfish scheme may be the very means to get revenge. Justice, after all, is always the best medicine--and no one dispenses it better than the Sisterhood...
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2020
2784 people are currently reading
9687 people want to read
About the author
Fern Michaels
424 books6,518 followersFern Michaels isn’t a person. I’m not sure she’s an entity either since an entity is something with separate existence. Fern Michaels® is what I DO. Me, Mary Ruth Kuczkir. Growing up in Hastings, Pennsylvania, I was called Ruth. I became Mary when I entered the business world where first names were the order of the day. To this day, family and friends call me Dink, a name my father gave me when I was born because according to him I was ‘a dinky little thing’ weighing in at four and a half pounds. However, I answer to Fern since people are more comfortable with a name they can pronounce.
As they say, the past is prologue. I grew up, got a job, got married, had five kids. When my youngest went off to Kindergarten, my husband told me to get off my ass and get a job. Those were his exact words. I didn’t know how to do anything except be a wife and mother. I was also a voracious reader having cut my teeth on The Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys, Cherry Ames and the like. The library was a magical place for me. It still is to this day. Rather than face the outside world with no skills, I decided to write a book. For some reason that didn’t intimidate me. As my husband said at the time, stupid is as stupid does. Guess what, I don’t have that husband any more. Guess what else! I wrote 99 books, most of them New York Times Best Sellers.
Moving right along here . . . Several years ago I left Ballantine Books, parted company with my agent, sold my house in New Jersey that I had lived in all my married life and in 1993 moved to South Carolina. I figured if I was going to go through trauma let it be all at one time. It was a breeze. The kids were all on their own at that point. The dump was a 300 year old plantation house that is listed in the National Registry that I remodeled. Today it is beyond belief as are the gardens and the equally old Angel Oaks that drip Spanish moss. Unfortunately, I could not get my ghost to relocate. This ghost has been documented by previous owners. Mary Margaret as we call her, is “a friendly”. She is also mischievous. It took me two weeks to figure out that she didn’t like my coffee cups. They would slide off the table or counter or else they’d break in the dishwasher. I bought red checkered ones. All are intact as of this writing. She moves pillows from one room to the other and she stops all the clocks in the house at 9:10 in the a.m. at least once a week. When the Azaleas are in bloom, and only then, I find blooms on my night stand. I have this glorious front porch and during the warm months I see my swing moving early in the morning when the air is still and again late in the day. She doesn’t spook the dogs. I always know when she’s around because the five of them line up and look like they’re at a tennis match. As of this writing we’re co-habiting nicely.
Most writers love what they do and I’m no exception. I love it when I get a germ of an idea and get it down on paper. I love breathing life into my characters. I love writing about women who persevere and prevail because that’s what I had to do to get to this point in time. It’s another way of saying it doesn’t matter where you’ve been, what matters is where you’re going and how you get there. The day I finally prevailed was the day I was inducted into the New Jersey Literary Hall of Fame. For me it was an awesome day and there are no words to describe it.
I’ve been telling stories and scribbling for 37 years. I hope I can continue for another 37 years. It wasn’t easy during some of those years. As I said, I had to persevere. My old Polish grandmother said something to me when I was little that I never forgot. She said when God is good to you, you have to give back. For a while I didn’t know how to do that. When I finally figured it out I set up The Fern Michaels® Foundation.
READ FERN MICHAELS' FULL BIOGRAPHY HERE: http://www.fernmichaels.com/biography/
As they say, the past is prologue. I grew up, got a job, got married, had five kids. When my youngest went off to Kindergarten, my husband told me to get off my ass and get a job. Those were his exact words. I didn’t know how to do anything except be a wife and mother. I was also a voracious reader having cut my teeth on The Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys, Cherry Ames and the like. The library was a magical place for me. It still is to this day. Rather than face the outside world with no skills, I decided to write a book. For some reason that didn’t intimidate me. As my husband said at the time, stupid is as stupid does. Guess what, I don’t have that husband any more. Guess what else! I wrote 99 books, most of them New York Times Best Sellers.
Moving right along here . . . Several years ago I left Ballantine Books, parted company with my agent, sold my house in New Jersey that I had lived in all my married life and in 1993 moved to South Carolina. I figured if I was going to go through trauma let it be all at one time. It was a breeze. The kids were all on their own at that point. The dump was a 300 year old plantation house that is listed in the National Registry that I remodeled. Today it is beyond belief as are the gardens and the equally old Angel Oaks that drip Spanish moss. Unfortunately, I could not get my ghost to relocate. This ghost has been documented by previous owners. Mary Margaret as we call her, is “a friendly”. She is also mischievous. It took me two weeks to figure out that she didn’t like my coffee cups. They would slide off the table or counter or else they’d break in the dishwasher. I bought red checkered ones. All are intact as of this writing. She moves pillows from one room to the other and she stops all the clocks in the house at 9:10 in the a.m. at least once a week. When the Azaleas are in bloom, and only then, I find blooms on my night stand. I have this glorious front porch and during the warm months I see my swing moving early in the morning when the air is still and again late in the day. She doesn’t spook the dogs. I always know when she’s around because the five of them line up and look like they’re at a tennis match. As of this writing we’re co-habiting nicely.
Most writers love what they do and I’m no exception. I love it when I get a germ of an idea and get it down on paper. I love breathing life into my characters. I love writing about women who persevere and prevail because that’s what I had to do to get to this point in time. It’s another way of saying it doesn’t matter where you’ve been, what matters is where you’re going and how you get there. The day I finally prevailed was the day I was inducted into the New Jersey Literary Hall of Fame. For me it was an awesome day and there are no words to describe it.
I’ve been telling stories and scribbling for 37 years. I hope I can continue for another 37 years. It wasn’t easy during some of those years. As I said, I had to persevere. My old Polish grandmother said something to me when I was little that I never forgot. She said when God is good to you, you have to give back. For a while I didn’t know how to do that. When I finally figured it out I set up The Fern Michaels® Foundation.
READ FERN MICHAELS' FULL BIOGRAPHY HERE: http://www.fernmichaels.com/biography/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 335 reviews
September 13, 2020
It is not so much that I like these stories, but rather the incredible way everything gets put together. Where does the author get these ideas!?
December 3, 2021
Sisters stick together especially Charlotte, she been spending a lot of money on health aids and they are not helping her. One day she is ok and the next day her brain if foggy.
It's discovered that the medicines she is taking is harmful to her. If others are taking these medicines they too are in danger. One person did die and one other one is in a coma, her sisters found out.
Next is too investigate these doctors.
There is proof these doctor are living well beyond their means. they own fancy cars, priceless paintings and diamond jewelry.
Selling the vitamins at high prices is the way these doctors can operate.
The sisterhood helped put them away.
I won this free book from Kensington Publishing.
It's discovered that the medicines she is taking is harmful to her. If others are taking these medicines they too are in danger. One person did die and one other one is in a coma, her sisters found out.
Next is too investigate these doctors.
There is proof these doctor are living well beyond their means. they own fancy cars, priceless paintings and diamond jewelry.
Selling the vitamins at high prices is the way these doctors can operate.
The sisterhood helped put them away.
I won this free book from Kensington Publishing.
September 12, 2020
The story was OK -- 3 so-called doctors making money from the very wealthy by giving them bogus meds. However, the dialogue between/among the "sisters" is too insipid to comprehend. And besides the "woo-hoos", they are constantly high fiving and fist pumping until I'm sure their arms would fall off. Silly beyond belief. I know Fern Michaels has written many many MANY books, and I can only hope the rest are less ridiculous.
March 14, 2022
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. It’s #32 in a series. This did not cause a problem as there was enough explanation of who was who as far as regular characters. It was an ok read for me. I thought if I really liked it I would go back to the beginning of the series, but that was not the case.
February 22, 2021
As a 25 year old, I felt like the characters were a bit hard to relate to. I can only imagine myself being a wealthy older woman, but I never felt the connection to them like I do in other books that I read. I thought the first half of the book was hard to get into, and the “sisterhood” was almost a bit tantalizing. I wasn’t sure if it was simply a group of friends that had an obsession with minding other’s business or some sort of actual government-related takedown team. It was hard to remember who each character was and what they did. I thought the ending- them putting the two doctors in their dungeon- was absolutely bizarre (and not in a good way). I understand that they wanted to serve “justice,” but I felt like this was very wicked and opposite of what they were wanting to portray the group as. I also have no respect for anyone who has to specify when there is a black character. With names like Fergus and Yoko who had NO specification of race, I thought it was unnecessary to call the nurse at the end the “black nurse” every time he was talked about. That rubs me the wrong way. I might have given it 3 stars if it weren’t for the ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2021
Sisters
I love the sister's missions; it is also so wonderful to see someone with unlimited wealth doing good with it. As a single mother, who put myself through college and raised my 7 year old son, finally becoming a teacher. Your stories helped me take a breath of fresh air from the real world and all the bad people! Ya'll are all so loving and kind to good people. Keep on writing stories to help others face their own burdens.
I love the sister's missions; it is also so wonderful to see someone with unlimited wealth doing good with it. As a single mother, who put myself through college and raised my 7 year old son, finally becoming a teacher. Your stories helped me take a breath of fresh air from the real world and all the bad people! Ya'll are all so loving and kind to good people. Keep on writing stories to help others face their own burdens.
November 2, 2021
The sisterhood is at it again when an old friend writes that she is having health problems is invited to come to the farm for a visit where it is discovered that she has been paying thousands of dollars for some questionable treatments by even more questionable "Doctors". The sisterhood sets out to expose the Doctors and extract their brand of punishment.
November 19, 2021
I was very skeptical reading this book. If it wasn’t for the amazing reviews of 4.5+ stars I never would have continued it. The opening pages were warning that this was to be a non-intelligent book. All the characters were superfluous, patronizing, over the top unrealistic. I can’t imagine how this woman has written and sold so many books writing like this. This will be the last book I ever read by this author.
February 8, 2022
I'll be honest and say I came very close to filing this under DNF but managed to get through the book. Implausible plot and the characters were too numerous and too unrealistic to be enjoyed. I found their constant whooping and fist bumping annoying and unnecessary for a group not consisting of preteens. And what the hell was up with that ending?
I received this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I received this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
July 10, 2022
I believe this is my first ever Fern Michaels book, I won this from a Goodreads giveaway. You definitely do not need to have read any of the series to understand. I had no idea what to expect. The story was good, pretty fast paced and interesting. The only thing keeping me from a higher rating is it’s a little too far-fetched and felt too “picture perfect”.
January 15, 2021
WHO WROTE THIS BOOK????
So very disappointing! I have been reading Ms Michael's books for many, many years , including every sisterhood book. It is truly my opinion that she did not write this book at all. What a total waste of time and money.
So very disappointing! I have been reading Ms Michael's books for many, many years , including every sisterhood book. It is truly my opinion that she did not write this book at all. What a total waste of time and money.
February 16, 2021
I didn't realize that this was one of a long series when I got this from the library...too many characters to keep track of and a thin and implausible plot. I surprised myself by actually reading it all the way through, especially considering I found her writing style annoying.
October 11, 2020
Seriously? Unbelievable. Rich ladies trying to solve problems. Not worth the paper it's printed on.
October 24, 2020
Another installment in the Sisterhood series, Fern Michaels comes up with yet another unique mission for the Vigilantes. Let's just say greed is at the root of this story, and when that impacts one of Myra and Annie's friends, there will be revenge. I've read a few other reviews of this book and do have to agree with other readers that there a few too many high five and fist pumps, but I did enjoy the story. 7 out of 10.
December 6, 2023
2.5 stars. I started out liking this book and wanting to find out how the evildoers would be found out. But 1/3 to 1/2 of the way through, I became annoyed with the group of female sleuths who were essentially vigilantes and were constantly hooting, cackling, giggling and giving each other high fives. I went from thinking I would read more from this author’s “sister” series to definitely being one and done.
October 21, 2020
As always the sisters are a funny and vicious group when need arise, but when it's a friend who has been taken advantage of they are just plain brutal. And it is a phenomenal read.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2021
This is the latest Fern Michaels book, in the Sisterhood series I didn’t enjoy it, like I did the other books in the series. It was actually boring.
December 15, 2020
BITTER PILL by Fern Michaels is the 32nd book in the Sisterhood Book series. It’s a wonderfully exciting book about the Sisterhood, a group of dedicated woman (with the help of a few men) who seek justice for others when it seems the justice system has let wrongdoers fall through their finger.
The Sisterhood consists of Myra Rutledge, Niki (Myra’s adopted daughter), The Countess Anna Ryland de Silva (childhood friend of Myra aka Annie and thought by many to be the wealthiest woman in the world), Kathryn, Yoko, Isabelle, Maggie and Alexis. Although the group consisted of woman, they are assisted by a small group of men, including Myra’s husband, Charles. Each comes to the group with their own set of skills making the Sisterhood a well-oiled justice seeking team.
In BITTER PILL, Myra is upset to find out that dear childhood friend, Charlotte Hansen is in dire straits and in need of a place to regroup. Her upset soon turns to fiery rage when she finds out the truth behind her friends situation.
In a vanity search for youth and overcoming forgetfulness, Charlotte had placed her faith in a doctor referred to her by her retiring physician. However, it’s his regiment of shots and pills that has Charlotte at the end of her rope reaching out to Myra as a lifeline. Further investigation of the Sisterhood has them finding out that Dr. Raymond Corbett, “longevity doctor, is in league with two other so call physicians – Dr. Julian Marcus in London and Dr. Harold Steinwood in Aspen. Each has acquired quite a fortune at the expense of their patients – many like Charlotte, one who died and another in a coma in the hospital. It also seems that none of these “doctors” graduated from medical school or are licensed to practice medicine. To top it off, when they find out that the pills that Charlotte had been given to her by Corbett were actually synthetic phenobarbital and Adderall, they know that bringing these three men down and getting justice for their victims had to be the Sisterhood’s next assignment.
Can they formulate a plan to bring down all three men simultaneously so not to warn of the others giving them a chance to disappear? Since the pills weren’t prescribed, can they find out where they are coming from? Will Charlotte be on board in helping the Sisterhood once she knows the facts? Will the vice of each of the doctors be their undoing? With their immense list of contacts, will the proper authorities help them do what needs to be done? Will they not only be able to bring the victims justice, but also find them restitution?
BITTER PILL is a well thought out plot, excellently executed by a wonderful author that knows how to weave an exciting, page-turning story. Although part of a series, this book can most definitely be read as a standalone. This is the first book that I’ve read in this series and I had no difficulty at all in keeping up with who was who or the plot. You can’t help but fall in love with the characters, their strengths and how they fight for the underdog and for justice. I most definitely will be checking out more books by Fern Michaels in the future. 5+ STARS
The Sisterhood consists of Myra Rutledge, Niki (Myra’s adopted daughter), The Countess Anna Ryland de Silva (childhood friend of Myra aka Annie and thought by many to be the wealthiest woman in the world), Kathryn, Yoko, Isabelle, Maggie and Alexis. Although the group consisted of woman, they are assisted by a small group of men, including Myra’s husband, Charles. Each comes to the group with their own set of skills making the Sisterhood a well-oiled justice seeking team.
In BITTER PILL, Myra is upset to find out that dear childhood friend, Charlotte Hansen is in dire straits and in need of a place to regroup. Her upset soon turns to fiery rage when she finds out the truth behind her friends situation.
In a vanity search for youth and overcoming forgetfulness, Charlotte had placed her faith in a doctor referred to her by her retiring physician. However, it’s his regiment of shots and pills that has Charlotte at the end of her rope reaching out to Myra as a lifeline. Further investigation of the Sisterhood has them finding out that Dr. Raymond Corbett, “longevity doctor, is in league with two other so call physicians – Dr. Julian Marcus in London and Dr. Harold Steinwood in Aspen. Each has acquired quite a fortune at the expense of their patients – many like Charlotte, one who died and another in a coma in the hospital. It also seems that none of these “doctors” graduated from medical school or are licensed to practice medicine. To top it off, when they find out that the pills that Charlotte had been given to her by Corbett were actually synthetic phenobarbital and Adderall, they know that bringing these three men down and getting justice for their victims had to be the Sisterhood’s next assignment.
Can they formulate a plan to bring down all three men simultaneously so not to warn of the others giving them a chance to disappear? Since the pills weren’t prescribed, can they find out where they are coming from? Will Charlotte be on board in helping the Sisterhood once she knows the facts? Will the vice of each of the doctors be their undoing? With their immense list of contacts, will the proper authorities help them do what needs to be done? Will they not only be able to bring the victims justice, but also find them restitution?
BITTER PILL is a well thought out plot, excellently executed by a wonderful author that knows how to weave an exciting, page-turning story. Although part of a series, this book can most definitely be read as a standalone. This is the first book that I’ve read in this series and I had no difficulty at all in keeping up with who was who or the plot. You can’t help but fall in love with the characters, their strengths and how they fight for the underdog and for justice. I most definitely will be checking out more books by Fern Michaels in the future. 5+ STARS
September 7, 2020
Fun read of a group of people who had been “had” by someone or something. They are out to right a wrong and save lives. Kind of unbelievable how they work, but still fun.
October 23, 2020
I love Fern Michael's books. The Sisterhood series, though, I have never been able to immerse myself in them. I like the concept: a group of women looking out for each other and getting even. The culprits in Bitter Pill were extra slimy and it was satisfying to see them be dealt with accordingly. I just couldn't get into this book. I have tried reading other Sisterhood books and had the same issue. I'll stick with Michael's stand alone reads. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the early read.
October 15, 2021
Another great book from a GREAT author!
If you love mystery and intrigue, Fern .Michaels is the author to choose. I have read every one of the Sisterhood books and have enjoyed every one. Hopefully they will ever end.
If you love mystery and intrigue, Fern .Michaels is the author to choose. I have read every one of the Sisterhood books and have enjoyed every one. Hopefully they will ever end.
October 31, 2024
If you have enjoyed any of Fern Michaels books, you will enjoy this one of hers too. You know who the good guys and bad "guys" are and I had trouble putting the book down, as I wanted to see who won the battle. I am not giving anything else away, you just need to read it!
February 5, 2021
I personally could not get into this book. I was confused with the characters, and found myself not wanting to pick up the book once i put it down.
March 10, 2021
I did not like this book. Too many references to wealth, far fetched storyline, unbelievable group of female vigilantes.
October 19, 2021
Read this for Senior Center book club and found it fairly boring and predictable. Not to my liking, though reading is an individual activity.
June 21, 2021
The Series is Good but This Book is Weak
I have read the whole “Sisterhood” series and have, for the most part, enjoyed all the books. In the series, a group of friends work together to administer their own form of justice to those who would not otherwise be punished for harm they have inflicted. Cases come to them by word of mouth, usually through referral by a friend. This vigilante group calls themselves The Sisterhood and they decide together what is an appropriate punishment for a given crime. In my opinion,the punishments were far too physical and extreme in some of the stories. But the focus of the series is this group of women (and their spouses/partners, who nearly always manage to get involved). They are all friends who enjoy being together and have fun planning and carrying out their “missions”. These missions usually involve elaborate costumes, lots of travel, high-level computer hacking, cutting-edge equipment, and favors done by the contacts they seem to have in every department of government in nearly every country. Money is no object, of course, since a member of The Sisterhood happens to be one of the richest women in the world. I would rate the series as a whole at about a three; some books are especially good and deserve a four. Not so this latest offering, the 32nd in the series. I was so disappointed with the book that I actually wondered if it had been written by the same person as usual. The plot was not nearly as intricate as in previous installments and the book just barreled through the crime, investigation, punishment, the end. The book seemed shorter than usual and lacked all the elements that have previously drawn me to read this series: time spent on the friendship between the women, a peek at what is happening in their personal lives, and the inevitable interference/help of their significant others, all of which are usually amusing and endearing. In most of the books at least one of the Sisters is facing a challenge in her personal life, which runs throughout the book as a parallel plot line. And often something major is at stake- someone very important or something quite significant hangs in the balance, and only the Sisterhood can save the day. Not so in this book, where a new character is introduced just to present a problem. I felt detached from the character and the issue, I wanted to spend more time with the Sisters, and I missed hearing about their families. As I said, the writing even seemed to strike a false note. One character has become prone to giggling, when she has previously only chuckled. It’s as though the writer was given only the bare facts about each character and so the characters come across as flat. Maggie likes to eat? Well, have her ask for extra food whenever she talks. And so on. No visits to familiar restaurants or homes or offices. Does Harry still run his dojo? What’s going on with Lizzie? Jack must be dead since he isn’t even mentioned. And, while I’m at it, why was Burt written out of the cast (several books ago). I am happy to see this series continue, but wherever you have taken the real Fern Michaels, please bring her back. 2 stars on this one, with hopes that the next installment is back up to par.
I have read the whole “Sisterhood” series and have, for the most part, enjoyed all the books. In the series, a group of friends work together to administer their own form of justice to those who would not otherwise be punished for harm they have inflicted. Cases come to them by word of mouth, usually through referral by a friend. This vigilante group calls themselves The Sisterhood and they decide together what is an appropriate punishment for a given crime. In my opinion,the punishments were far too physical and extreme in some of the stories. But the focus of the series is this group of women (and their spouses/partners, who nearly always manage to get involved). They are all friends who enjoy being together and have fun planning and carrying out their “missions”. These missions usually involve elaborate costumes, lots of travel, high-level computer hacking, cutting-edge equipment, and favors done by the contacts they seem to have in every department of government in nearly every country. Money is no object, of course, since a member of The Sisterhood happens to be one of the richest women in the world. I would rate the series as a whole at about a three; some books are especially good and deserve a four. Not so this latest offering, the 32nd in the series. I was so disappointed with the book that I actually wondered if it had been written by the same person as usual. The plot was not nearly as intricate as in previous installments and the book just barreled through the crime, investigation, punishment, the end. The book seemed shorter than usual and lacked all the elements that have previously drawn me to read this series: time spent on the friendship between the women, a peek at what is happening in their personal lives, and the inevitable interference/help of their significant others, all of which are usually amusing and endearing. In most of the books at least one of the Sisters is facing a challenge in her personal life, which runs throughout the book as a parallel plot line. And often something major is at stake- someone very important or something quite significant hangs in the balance, and only the Sisterhood can save the day. Not so in this book, where a new character is introduced just to present a problem. I felt detached from the character and the issue, I wanted to spend more time with the Sisters, and I missed hearing about their families. As I said, the writing even seemed to strike a false note. One character has become prone to giggling, when she has previously only chuckled. It’s as though the writer was given only the bare facts about each character and so the characters come across as flat. Maggie likes to eat? Well, have her ask for extra food whenever she talks. And so on. No visits to familiar restaurants or homes or offices. Does Harry still run his dojo? What’s going on with Lizzie? Jack must be dead since he isn’t even mentioned. And, while I’m at it, why was Burt written out of the cast (several books ago). I am happy to see this series continue, but wherever you have taken the real Fern Michaels, please bring her back. 2 stars on this one, with hopes that the next installment is back up to par.
June 15, 2021
A other winner!!
I have been reading Fern Michael's books from saggy back to the 'Texas' trilogy days, and fell in love with her style of writing.
With the 'Sisterhood' series, that so far seems likely to never end, (!), you find a diverse group of women from many different backgrounds and ages, but they all share one similar desire-justice for those who have been wronged.
In 'Butter Pill', a childhood friend of both Annie and Myra sought out a doctor in London, claiming to be able to keep her young! He, and his 2 partners in Aspen and New York, it turns out, aren't really do goes at all, and the over supplements they sell, for extravagantly high prices, are laced with narcotics!
Charlotte, Annie and Myras friend, comes to them for help. Little does she know who she is asking for help from!!! That's right!! THE SISTERHOOD!!!
Although I have read the entire series, the earlier books, perhaps the first dozen were the best of the series. After that, it seems as if Ms. Michael's is just churning out 'Sisterhood ' books because of the demand for them from fans. This book was a little better but still, churned. I fell in love with this series because of all the ACTION and ADVENTURE , the heart pounding and heart stopping moments this group of women had!! I felt as if I was right there, alongside Nikki, or Yoko. They were doing things you didn't read about anywhere else. These women are my S-HEROS!! (pronounced shh!!eros).
Just my opinion but women NEED a group of women like the SISTERHOOD to look up to. What else have we got? Wonder Woman?
Meh. Old school, and she's in a lot of 'boy's comic's anyhow.
PLEASE MAKE THESE BOOKS INTO MAJOR MOTION PICTURES!!!
I have been reading Fern Michael's books from saggy back to the 'Texas' trilogy days, and fell in love with her style of writing.
With the 'Sisterhood' series, that so far seems likely to never end, (!), you find a diverse group of women from many different backgrounds and ages, but they all share one similar desire-justice for those who have been wronged.
In 'Butter Pill', a childhood friend of both Annie and Myra sought out a doctor in London, claiming to be able to keep her young! He, and his 2 partners in Aspen and New York, it turns out, aren't really do goes at all, and the over supplements they sell, for extravagantly high prices, are laced with narcotics!
Charlotte, Annie and Myras friend, comes to them for help. Little does she know who she is asking for help from!!! That's right!! THE SISTERHOOD!!!
Although I have read the entire series, the earlier books, perhaps the first dozen were the best of the series. After that, it seems as if Ms. Michael's is just churning out 'Sisterhood ' books because of the demand for them from fans. This book was a little better but still, churned. I fell in love with this series because of all the ACTION and ADVENTURE , the heart pounding and heart stopping moments this group of women had!! I felt as if I was right there, alongside Nikki, or Yoko. They were doing things you didn't read about anywhere else. These women are my S-HEROS!! (pronounced shh!!eros).
Just my opinion but women NEED a group of women like the SISTERHOOD to look up to. What else have we got? Wonder Woman?
Meh. Old school, and she's in a lot of 'boy's comic's anyhow.
PLEASE MAKE THESE BOOKS INTO MAJOR MOTION PICTURES!!!
June 29, 2022
I do not know if Bitter Pill by Fern Michaels is considered a mystery. It is more like a group of ultra rich ladies solving crimes, with a little help from numerous trained "spies," and/or government workers.
I liked the premise of the story about a group of doctors billing themselves as anti-aging experts. They charge exorbitant fees prescribing medications and administering shots to their clients. They prefer wealthy widows, although they accept any senior patient who can afford to pay their fees.
When a friend gave me a copy of Bitter Pill I did not realize it was 32nd in a Sisterhood series. I did not care for the considerable descriptions. I thought to skip the accounts of flower types brought into the home, and which room they were placed. However, I thought, perhaps this laborious detail had some bearing on the story, so I plodded through it.
The boring descriptions continued with deciding which expensive glassware or china to use; the cooking, serving, eating of meals. WHAT DOES THIS HAVE TO DO WITH THE DOCTORS? Apologize for venting my frustration, but it was at that point I was ready to stop reading the novel. As it was, I skimmed & skipped reading to get to the end.
I could not relate to the characters. I can not tell the difference between a wine glass and a crystal wine glass, nor understand people's obsession with overpriced, name brand merchandise. I found the ending of the story to be implausible. I might try the first book in the Sisterhood series, but doubt it.
I liked the premise of the story about a group of doctors billing themselves as anti-aging experts. They charge exorbitant fees prescribing medications and administering shots to their clients. They prefer wealthy widows, although they accept any senior patient who can afford to pay their fees.
When a friend gave me a copy of Bitter Pill I did not realize it was 32nd in a Sisterhood series. I did not care for the considerable descriptions. I thought to skip the accounts of flower types brought into the home, and which room they were placed. However, I thought, perhaps this laborious detail had some bearing on the story, so I plodded through it.
The boring descriptions continued with deciding which expensive glassware or china to use; the cooking, serving, eating of meals. WHAT DOES THIS HAVE TO DO WITH THE DOCTORS? Apologize for venting my frustration, but it was at that point I was ready to stop reading the novel. As it was, I skimmed & skipped reading to get to the end.
I could not relate to the characters. I can not tell the difference between a wine glass and a crystal wine glass, nor understand people's obsession with overpriced, name brand merchandise. I found the ending of the story to be implausible. I might try the first book in the Sisterhood series, but doubt it.
August 1, 2021
Bitter Pill: Sisterhood Book 32 is by Fern Michaels. The sisterhood has been around for a long time now. One would think they have solved all the problems their friends may have had; but evidently that is not so. Gern Michaels keeps to her exacting standards as she writes this book. The sisters haven’t lost any of their enthusiasm.
Myra gets a call from her friend Charlotte. Charlotte is in London visiting her daughter and she is seeing a doctor while she is there. Her own doctor recommended him. However, Charlotte feels funny taking the medicines and stops taking it. Her daughter wants her to see the doctor. Instead, Myra arranges for Charlotte to come visit her at the farm. When she gets there, Myra, Anne, and Charles figure out that the supplements she is getting are really drugs used dangerously. They find that one woman has died from these supplements and another is in a coma. They are glad Charlotte has stopped taking them; but want the doctor stopped before he gets everyone on these supplements to die. They find that he is in league with two other doctors in the US. The sisters set out to set this wrong right.
The book is very good and easily read. It is always fun to see hoe the sisters work things out with the help of Charles, Fergus, and Avery.
Myra gets a call from her friend Charlotte. Charlotte is in London visiting her daughter and she is seeing a doctor while she is there. Her own doctor recommended him. However, Charlotte feels funny taking the medicines and stops taking it. Her daughter wants her to see the doctor. Instead, Myra arranges for Charlotte to come visit her at the farm. When she gets there, Myra, Anne, and Charles figure out that the supplements she is getting are really drugs used dangerously. They find that one woman has died from these supplements and another is in a coma. They are glad Charlotte has stopped taking them; but want the doctor stopped before he gets everyone on these supplements to die. They find that he is in league with two other doctors in the US. The sisters set out to set this wrong right.
The book is very good and easily read. It is always fun to see hoe the sisters work things out with the help of Charles, Fergus, and Avery.
October 24, 2020
Interesting story. The Sisters are at it again.....
For the Sisterhood, every mission matters. But here's a special satisfaction that comes with helping a friend in need, especially when it's someone as dear as Myra Rutledge's childhood friend Charlotte. After she receives a worrying a letter, Myra quickly arranges for Charlotte to visit, hoping to restore her peace of mind. She learns that Charlotte has spent tens of thousands of dollars on "natural herbal remedies" as part of an innovative program to boost longevity. but far from improving her health, the medications seems to be destroying it.
Myra becomes suspicious of the trio of doctors in charge og the program, especially once the Sisterhood's investigations reveal one patient has dies, and another lapsed into a coma. While those in their care suffer, the three doctors--located in Aspen, London, and New York-- all enjoy indulgent lifestyles and extravagant toys. But the passions and obsessions paid for by their selfish scheme may be the very means to get revenge. Justice, after all, is always the best medicine--- and no one dispenses it better than the Sisterhood.....
For the Sisterhood, every mission matters. But here's a special satisfaction that comes with helping a friend in need, especially when it's someone as dear as Myra Rutledge's childhood friend Charlotte. After she receives a worrying a letter, Myra quickly arranges for Charlotte to visit, hoping to restore her peace of mind. She learns that Charlotte has spent tens of thousands of dollars on "natural herbal remedies" as part of an innovative program to boost longevity. but far from improving her health, the medications seems to be destroying it.
Myra becomes suspicious of the trio of doctors in charge og the program, especially once the Sisterhood's investigations reveal one patient has dies, and another lapsed into a coma. While those in their care suffer, the three doctors--located in Aspen, London, and New York-- all enjoy indulgent lifestyles and extravagant toys. But the passions and obsessions paid for by their selfish scheme may be the very means to get revenge. Justice, after all, is always the best medicine--- and no one dispenses it better than the Sisterhood.....
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