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The Twins: The most gripping psychological crime thriller of the year with a twist you won’t see coming!
*Shortlisted for the RNA Romantic Thriller of the Year Award* Susan and Sarah. Sisters. Best friends .
Together…forever? Nothing could break them apart. Until they meet him. And he can only choose one… Now Susan is back. Determined to reclaim everything Sarah has taken from her.
Her home, her husband…her life? Readers can’t get enough of The Twins : ‘ Wow. Mind Blown. J.S. Lark is a wily wordsmith and not to be trusted’ DJ ‘ My goodness, I don’t even know where to start with this one! … At times shocking, this book is an absolute must-read for anyone who likes a psychological thriller’ Emma ‘An original, gripping page turner and it had me guessing and shocked throughout ’ Ceri ‘ Started reading this Wednesday night and finished it by Friday morning …If you like physiological thrillers then you will love this’ Leanne ‘So many twists and turns that literally left me with my mouth hanging open ’ Randi ‘A fast paced twisty psychological thriller’ Jayne ‘Lots of twists and turns and I just had to read ‘one more chapter’ Abbi ‘Wonderful well written plot that had me engaged from the start …Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had ’ Billie
Together…forever? Nothing could break them apart. Until they meet him. And he can only choose one… Now Susan is back. Determined to reclaim everything Sarah has taken from her.
Her home, her husband…her life? Readers can’t get enough of The Twins : ‘ Wow. Mind Blown. J.S. Lark is a wily wordsmith and not to be trusted’ DJ ‘ My goodness, I don’t even know where to start with this one! … At times shocking, this book is an absolute must-read for anyone who likes a psychological thriller’ Emma ‘An original, gripping page turner and it had me guessing and shocked throughout ’ Ceri ‘ Started reading this Wednesday night and finished it by Friday morning …If you like physiological thrillers then you will love this’ Leanne ‘So many twists and turns that literally left me with my mouth hanging open ’ Randi ‘A fast paced twisty psychological thriller’ Jayne ‘Lots of twists and turns and I just had to read ‘one more chapter’ Abbi ‘Wonderful well written plot that had me engaged from the start …Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had ’ Billie
448 pages, Paperback
First published November 20, 2020
61 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
July 2, 2022
This is a Dark Thriller. I want to start by saying that this book has things in it that could upset some readers, so please do your research before reading this book (some things it has drug issues, rape of under age kids, and much more). I have to say it took me some time to get into this book because the book jumps from 1985 (I think) when the twins was 13 to present today. I do not feel that the book really does the time jumps well. I wish that under the character number would be the year we where in. I only say that because most the characters where in both timelines, so you have to read and just figure out what time period we would in. I did read an ARC, so maybe they will fix that before the book comes out. I love the twists, and this was super high pace once you get into it. I really enjoyed it after I figured out the timelines. I am going to say I would of give this book five stars if the timelines and plot line was not hard to follow. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (One More Chapter) or author (J.S. Lark) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review about how I feel about this book, and I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
October 23, 2020
Put me out of my reading misery, will you?
I did not care for the style of the writing, the dialogue was so bad, and if I had to read one more time about just how much these twins looked alike, I may have let out a really nasty string of curses. I mean, they're identical...that's kind of the point. Which reminds me...this author also really liked to discuss door handles, and how the car doors were opened, way too much.
I fully intended to give The Twins one star, but there was a little twist at the end I didn't expect...so I generously added a star. Because I'm kind like that. ;)
Unfortunately, I, once again, won't be recommending a book.
Available November 20,2020
**My sincere appreciation to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, for my review copy.
I did not care for the style of the writing, the dialogue was so bad, and if I had to read one more time about just how much these twins looked alike, I may have let out a really nasty string of curses. I mean, they're identical...that's kind of the point. Which reminds me...this author also really liked to discuss door handles, and how the car doors were opened, way too much.
I fully intended to give The Twins one star, but there was a little twist at the end I didn't expect...so I generously added a star. Because I'm kind like that. ;)
Unfortunately, I, once again, won't be recommending a book.
Available November 20,2020
**My sincere appreciation to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, for my review copy.
August 9, 2020
4-plus psycho sister stars! ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️💥
This is a twisty little domestic thriller about an evil twin. But which one is evil?
I really enjoyed the fast-paced and creepy writing of this novel, which jumps between the past and the present lives of twins Susan and Sarah. Both girls were in love with the same boy, but only one could have him. The story begins with the missing twin showing up in the life of the other twin, who married Jonny. But what does she want? Craziness and tragedy soon ensues.
This book had me riveted and turning the pages between the twins’ tragic young lives and present adulthood. Both timelines were mysterious and interesting and creepy AF. J.S. Lark’s writing is addictive and this book was a roller coaster ride. Dark, mysterious, and tragic with a generous dose of crazy. I really enjoyed the read.
My main and really only criticism is that from the very beginning and all throughout, it could be hard to tell the twins apart. They have very similar names - Sarah and Susan - and the timeline jumps back and forth so much that it can be hard to keep track of which twin experienced what events in the past. I think some of this was clearly by design, as it is part of the theme of the book that no one could ever tell the twins apart and that factors into the story. But while that was a cool idea in practice, it also made for a somewhat more confusing reading experience when I would have liked to have a better way to keep the twins straight at times. Chapter headings with timelines (years) or giving the twins more different names might have helped with this.
Despite that though, this was an extremely fun and thrilling reading experience that took the “evil twin” trope to new levels. I had an idea how it might end but was still surprised with several elements and enjoyed the way it unfolded. It’s a dark and sometimes depressing book with surprises at every turn which of course means I enjoyed it.
4 plus psycho sister stars! I’m definitely going to be reading more books by JS Lark because I really enjoy her style.
Thanks to NetGalley, Harper Collins and JS Lark for the advance copy of this fun twin thriller!
This is a twisty little domestic thriller about an evil twin. But which one is evil?
I really enjoyed the fast-paced and creepy writing of this novel, which jumps between the past and the present lives of twins Susan and Sarah. Both girls were in love with the same boy, but only one could have him. The story begins with the missing twin showing up in the life of the other twin, who married Jonny. But what does she want? Craziness and tragedy soon ensues.
This book had me riveted and turning the pages between the twins’ tragic young lives and present adulthood. Both timelines were mysterious and interesting and creepy AF. J.S. Lark’s writing is addictive and this book was a roller coaster ride. Dark, mysterious, and tragic with a generous dose of crazy. I really enjoyed the read.
My main and really only criticism is that from the very beginning and all throughout, it could be hard to tell the twins apart. They have very similar names - Sarah and Susan - and the timeline jumps back and forth so much that it can be hard to keep track of which twin experienced what events in the past. I think some of this was clearly by design, as it is part of the theme of the book that no one could ever tell the twins apart and that factors into the story. But while that was a cool idea in practice, it also made for a somewhat more confusing reading experience when I would have liked to have a better way to keep the twins straight at times. Chapter headings with timelines (years) or giving the twins more different names might have helped with this.
Despite that though, this was an extremely fun and thrilling reading experience that took the “evil twin” trope to new levels. I had an idea how it might end but was still surprised with several elements and enjoyed the way it unfolded. It’s a dark and sometimes depressing book with surprises at every turn which of course means I enjoyed it.
4 plus psycho sister stars! I’m definitely going to be reading more books by JS Lark because I really enjoy her style.
Thanks to NetGalley, Harper Collins and JS Lark for the advance copy of this fun twin thriller!
August 31, 2020
Sarah gets a terrible shock one evening when a knock at the door reveals her twin sister Susan who she hasn’t seen for thirty years. Sarah’s daughter Lucy insists the aunt she knew nothing about is invited in despite Sarah’s huge reluctance. What unravels is a dark and twisted tale with the premise of one twin being evil and with Sarah’s husband Jonny caught in between them. The story is told in different timelines by Sarah and Susan.
There are a number of really positive aspects to the story. The twins childhood is not a pretty tale, their mother is useless and they practically raise themselves and become almost feral. However at this point they are very much a unit, almost as one and this bond is conveyed really well. As they enter their teens their lives start to go totally off the rails and it becomes dysfunctional and dangerous which is conveyed clearly but thankfully it’s not overblown because it’s not an easy story to read. Competition between them grows and they start to split, their bond broken especially after Jonny enters their lives. Their feelings and emotions are described well and at times with intensity. There are secrets between them and these keep building and growing in magnitude with layers of lies built upon lies. Towards the end it all seems a bit predictable but then it becomes apparent that it most certainly isn’t and you’d better pay attention! Although it’s true to say it’s convoluted that’s a positive thing as you really can’t be sure who is the evil twin.
However, the biggest problem in the book lies with the character switching and timelines as it’s confusing because it isn’t clear which twin we are reading about although I do appreciate why this is done. The main characters are not very likeable and Jonny seems to be the best character in the book, but even he has his moments!
Overall though, I did enjoy the book especially the twisty ending which I definitely did not see coming.
With thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK/ One More Chapter for the ARC.
There are a number of really positive aspects to the story. The twins childhood is not a pretty tale, their mother is useless and they practically raise themselves and become almost feral. However at this point they are very much a unit, almost as one and this bond is conveyed really well. As they enter their teens their lives start to go totally off the rails and it becomes dysfunctional and dangerous which is conveyed clearly but thankfully it’s not overblown because it’s not an easy story to read. Competition between them grows and they start to split, their bond broken especially after Jonny enters their lives. Their feelings and emotions are described well and at times with intensity. There are secrets between them and these keep building and growing in magnitude with layers of lies built upon lies. Towards the end it all seems a bit predictable but then it becomes apparent that it most certainly isn’t and you’d better pay attention! Although it’s true to say it’s convoluted that’s a positive thing as you really can’t be sure who is the evil twin.
However, the biggest problem in the book lies with the character switching and timelines as it’s confusing because it isn’t clear which twin we are reading about although I do appreciate why this is done. The main characters are not very likeable and Jonny seems to be the best character in the book, but even he has his moments!
Overall though, I did enjoy the book especially the twisty ending which I definitely did not see coming.
With thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK/ One More Chapter for the ARC.
September 28, 2024
"Smiles like that boy’s are like the music of a snake charmer. He is the Pied Piper for girls".
The Twins
by J.S. Lark
My review:
Wow. Where do I begin?
First off..I want to say even though I gave this a low rating, I was consumed with it and the writing really made me unable to put it down. So there's that.
Also....TRIGGER ALERTS..Rape, Drug use, Physical abuse..lots of triggers in this one. It is a deeply upsetting book.
OK..So this book essentially is about two twin sisters, Susan and Sarah. They have been estranged for over thirty years and we, the readers do not know why. Sarah has made a happy life for herself with her daughter and husband Johnny. One day the door bell rings and it's Susan. She has tracked down her t win and wants them to be close again. Sara is terrified and does not want this. But why?
So.that is a quick plot review. I do not like giving two's. But I had issues with quite alot in this book.
First off, as others have said, it is confusing to follow..very much so. The book jumps in time and often it is tough to follow because there is no order to all the time jumps. And there are three different time lines here.It was very hard to follow and the format is not one I adore.
Then there are the twins themselves. I got so confused who was who. It was almost enough to make one dizzy. That is all I can say about that without giving anything away.
Perhaps the biggest let down was Johnny and Sarah. He dated Susan first but married Sarah. I wanted to see the interaction between them. I LOVED their late night conversations and I felt that was done really well. But through the whole book, I was waiting on how these two got into a romance and when I did get there, which is at the end of the book, we are told not shown. I was so let down by that. I also wanted more from Johnny..(whom I could not stand by the way).
I wanted to know which twin he really loved..if either. I wanted to know what was in him that both girls loved him so fiercely.
I got literally no personality in Johnny. He was passive, he was sort of a nonentity. I mean..all I got was that he had Golden/Hazel eyes but nothing about his soul..He was obviously protective of Sarah but I needed more about him in present day. All his character seemed to do was say "let's not argue" and there was a passivity about him that made me despise him. Seriously.
Now I need to add spoilers:
SPOILERS:
The book delved into impossible situations that some might call plot twists. Things that couldn't have happened, and I got more and more let down.
examples:
the girls kept "switching". You mean to tel me Johnny would not have been able to tell the difference? What about their bodies? Their voices? I just didn't believe it. And Rachel goes to see Sarrah at the end after Sarah has basically murdered her whole family? Really? I do not know a person who would DO that.
Also at the end.... I honestly was not sure whether Johnny was still alive. Did I miss something? I most likely did. The chase scene was incredibly confusing and why did his lover run toward Sarrah/Susan?
Also I did not feel Sarah/s actions matched up with her persona. She was portrayed as the good twin..no way would she have let Rachel get in that car. Although she was insane at that point. So maybe I could let that go but that whole aspect of the book was crazy and to out there for me.
I felt this book could have been a real masterpiece..if it had been shorter, easier to follow and did not have such outlandish plot twists. On the plus side, I could not stop reading! I think the writing was great and the idea also great but the formatting and uneven aspects to the book let me down. Others may feel differently.
The Twins
by J.S. Lark
My review:
Wow. Where do I begin?
First off..I want to say even though I gave this a low rating, I was consumed with it and the writing really made me unable to put it down. So there's that.
Also....TRIGGER ALERTS..Rape, Drug use, Physical abuse..lots of triggers in this one. It is a deeply upsetting book.
OK..So this book essentially is about two twin sisters, Susan and Sarah. They have been estranged for over thirty years and we, the readers do not know why. Sarah has made a happy life for herself with her daughter and husband Johnny. One day the door bell rings and it's Susan. She has tracked down her t win and wants them to be close again. Sara is terrified and does not want this. But why?
So.that is a quick plot review. I do not like giving two's. But I had issues with quite alot in this book.
First off, as others have said, it is confusing to follow..very much so. The book jumps in time and often it is tough to follow because there is no order to all the time jumps. And there are three different time lines here.It was very hard to follow and the format is not one I adore.
Then there are the twins themselves. I got so confused who was who. It was almost enough to make one dizzy. That is all I can say about that without giving anything away.
Perhaps the biggest let down was Johnny and Sarah. He dated Susan first but married Sarah. I wanted to see the interaction between them. I LOVED their late night conversations and I felt that was done really well. But through the whole book, I was waiting on how these two got into a romance and when I did get there, which is at the end of the book, we are told not shown. I was so let down by that. I also wanted more from Johnny..(whom I could not stand by the way).
I wanted to know which twin he really loved..if either. I wanted to know what was in him that both girls loved him so fiercely.
I got literally no personality in Johnny. He was passive, he was sort of a nonentity. I mean..all I got was that he had Golden/Hazel eyes but nothing about his soul..He was obviously protective of Sarah but I needed more about him in present day. All his character seemed to do was say "let's not argue" and there was a passivity about him that made me despise him. Seriously.
Now I need to add spoilers:
SPOILERS:
The book delved into impossible situations that some might call plot twists. Things that couldn't have happened, and I got more and more let down.
examples:
the girls kept "switching". You mean to tel me Johnny would not have been able to tell the difference? What about their bodies? Their voices? I just didn't believe it. And Rachel goes to see Sarrah at the end after Sarah has basically murdered her whole family? Really? I do not know a person who would DO that.
Also at the end.... I honestly was not sure whether Johnny was still alive. Did I miss something? I most likely did. The chase scene was incredibly confusing and why did his lover run toward Sarrah/Susan?
Also I did not feel Sarah/s actions matched up with her persona. She was portrayed as the good twin..no way would she have let Rachel get in that car. Although she was insane at that point. So maybe I could let that go but that whole aspect of the book was crazy and to out there for me.
I felt this book could have been a real masterpiece..if it had been shorter, easier to follow and did not have such outlandish plot twists. On the plus side, I could not stop reading! I think the writing was great and the idea also great but the formatting and uneven aspects to the book let me down. Others may feel differently.
November 22, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
The head teacher told Mum we’re feral.
There’s a strange detached sensation that tingles through my nerves. I feel as if I’m sitting up high in the corner of the room watching all of us acting out a scene in a play. I’m in the audience. High above them, on the upper balcony. Like a queen on a throne orchestrating all of this.
My Review:
I had some issues while reading this one, but while I debated my feelings and looked at my notes, it is still a cleverly crafted 5-star read. It was not an easy tale as the plot was unique and complicated and bent back on itself several times, and was cast with a slate of complex and difficult characters. It was also deeply disturbing, smartly contrived, indubitably twisty, frequently frustrating, and intensely intriguing. The twins were delinquents before they were even juveniles – by thirteen they were hooligans, hoochie mamas, drug addicts, parents, and prostitutes. Wow... Mind Blown! J.S. Lark is a wily wordsmith and not to be trusted.
The head teacher told Mum we’re feral.
There’s a strange detached sensation that tingles through my nerves. I feel as if I’m sitting up high in the corner of the room watching all of us acting out a scene in a play. I’m in the audience. High above them, on the upper balcony. Like a queen on a throne orchestrating all of this.
My Review:
I had some issues while reading this one, but while I debated my feelings and looked at my notes, it is still a cleverly crafted 5-star read. It was not an easy tale as the plot was unique and complicated and bent back on itself several times, and was cast with a slate of complex and difficult characters. It was also deeply disturbing, smartly contrived, indubitably twisty, frequently frustrating, and intensely intriguing. The twins were delinquents before they were even juveniles – by thirteen they were hooligans, hoochie mamas, drug addicts, parents, and prostitutes. Wow... Mind Blown! J.S. Lark is a wily wordsmith and not to be trusted.
November 20, 2020
Well, blow me away with a leaf blower! What a rollercoaster of a read! I could not believe my eyes as the plot was developing and was literally gasping at every page and every revelation. Fantastic writing from Lark and what a mind-bender!
This book is complicated. Firstly, we have the twins who are identical and have very similar names. Secondly, the structure of the narrative is somewhat a challenge. Deliberately (as I found out when reflecting on the plot), Lark jumps around between Sarah and Susan’s perspectives. In addition, we have three time-lines to follow: Sarah and Susan’s childhood/growing up; before the accident; after the accident. As you can guess, just from this on its own, it’s going to be a bit of a mind-warp and you certainly have to concentrate!
I struggled to get my head around the different timelines and perspectives, reading through the first couple of pages in the chapter to find out clues – which do come. As I was reading, I wondered why Lark had not given the chapters a label to indicate which character was narrating and at what time frame. However, having finished the book, it makes complete sense in a muddled sort of way, and definitely added to the intensity of the narrative.
This story is very tense and deals with some harrowing topics including child neglect, child rape and drug addiction. However, I think the way that Lark presents these topics was in a sensitive manner and they did not make me feel uncomfortable. It all added to a rather sad narrative that means you cannot put the book down for wanting to know what happens to Sarah and Susan.
I grew to love the ambiguity in this narrative, particularly once I had got used to the uncertain perspective. It reinforces the closeness between Sarah and Susan that becomes more sinister as the story progresses. Whilst Sarah has established herself in the idyllic Lake District, it some becomes clear that this life is on borrowed time as Susan features more and more in her life.
In the end I could not put this book down! Once I had finished it, I tried to draw a diagram to show to myself the events of the narrative, but even that confused me. I think this story will sit with me for such a long time. It was so well-written and so absorbing, that it was an effortless five star rating. I cannot wait to read more by Lark.
With thanks to One More Chapter, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is complicated. Firstly, we have the twins who are identical and have very similar names. Secondly, the structure of the narrative is somewhat a challenge. Deliberately (as I found out when reflecting on the plot), Lark jumps around between Sarah and Susan’s perspectives. In addition, we have three time-lines to follow: Sarah and Susan’s childhood/growing up; before the accident; after the accident. As you can guess, just from this on its own, it’s going to be a bit of a mind-warp and you certainly have to concentrate!
I struggled to get my head around the different timelines and perspectives, reading through the first couple of pages in the chapter to find out clues – which do come. As I was reading, I wondered why Lark had not given the chapters a label to indicate which character was narrating and at what time frame. However, having finished the book, it makes complete sense in a muddled sort of way, and definitely added to the intensity of the narrative.
This story is very tense and deals with some harrowing topics including child neglect, child rape and drug addiction. However, I think the way that Lark presents these topics was in a sensitive manner and they did not make me feel uncomfortable. It all added to a rather sad narrative that means you cannot put the book down for wanting to know what happens to Sarah and Susan.
I grew to love the ambiguity in this narrative, particularly once I had got used to the uncertain perspective. It reinforces the closeness between Sarah and Susan that becomes more sinister as the story progresses. Whilst Sarah has established herself in the idyllic Lake District, it some becomes clear that this life is on borrowed time as Susan features more and more in her life.
In the end I could not put this book down! Once I had finished it, I tried to draw a diagram to show to myself the events of the narrative, but even that confused me. I think this story will sit with me for such a long time. It was so well-written and so absorbing, that it was an effortless five star rating. I cannot wait to read more by Lark.
With thanks to One More Chapter, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2020
Susan and Sara are identical twins ... best friends .... forever.
But when they both fell in love with the same man, things changed....
The man makes his choice .... and they've been together for many years. They have a daughter that means the world to them both.
But one day ... the other twin knocks on the other's door. It's been almost thirty years without contact with each other. The one twin seems to have everything ... everything the other twin thinks was stolen from her.
She's determined to take back what should have been hers ... husband, child, home, ... her life.
Love, hate, vengeance, passion, death ... there's a little bit of everything in this well written story riddled with twists and turns that rival a roller coaster ride. And what really happened all those years ago? The ending was totally unexpected and riveting.
Many thanks to the author / One More Chapter / Harper Collins UK / Netgalley for the digital copy of this excellent psychological thriller.
But when they both fell in love with the same man, things changed....
The man makes his choice .... and they've been together for many years. They have a daughter that means the world to them both.
But one day ... the other twin knocks on the other's door. It's been almost thirty years without contact with each other. The one twin seems to have everything ... everything the other twin thinks was stolen from her.
She's determined to take back what should have been hers ... husband, child, home, ... her life.
Love, hate, vengeance, passion, death ... there's a little bit of everything in this well written story riddled with twists and turns that rival a roller coaster ride. And what really happened all those years ago? The ending was totally unexpected and riveting.
Many thanks to the author / One More Chapter / Harper Collins UK / Netgalley for the digital copy of this excellent psychological thriller.
November 21, 2020
Twins Susan and Sarah are inseparable. Through good and bad, the girls will always be together. Until they meet Jonny. He's older, handsome, charming and offers the girls much needed love and attention. But he can only choose one of the girls. For the first time in their lives, the girls find themselves split apart.
There's lots of secrets, violence and abuse in this story. The chapters are told alternately in the past and present. Sarah and Jonny are married and Sarah has been estranged from Susan for years. But Susan turns up on her doorstep. The story is told from Susan and Sarah's point of view, but at times we are not sure which twin is narrating. There's lots of twists but I loved the twist at the end.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #JSLark for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
There's lots of secrets, violence and abuse in this story. The chapters are told alternately in the past and present. Sarah and Jonny are married and Sarah has been estranged from Susan for years. But Susan turns up on her doorstep. The story is told from Susan and Sarah's point of view, but at times we are not sure which twin is narrating. There's lots of twists but I loved the twist at the end.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #JSLark for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2020
I wish I could give this book twenty stars instead of five as it was so brilliant. At first I found it a little confusing as to who I was reading about but, as I had be warned of this by a family member I was prepared for it so, it wasn’t such a shock. Having said that the book carried me along a twisty path with plenty of shocks and at times yes, it made me shudder but, on the whole I loved it. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
August 7, 2020
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
The Twins is z book I could not put down! I desperately wanted to know what happened next after each chapter and even though I figured out the twist about half way through, the build up to it and how it happened was gripping!
Sarah and Susan are identical twins with a past that will make your toes curl. Sarah manages to escape the past with Jonny (Susan's ex) but Susan catches up to them many years later - but what deep dark secret is there between the twins, their past and the present!
I highly recommend this psychological read to anyone who loves suspense and thrillers! You really must read this!
The Twins is z book I could not put down! I desperately wanted to know what happened next after each chapter and even though I figured out the twist about half way through, the build up to it and how it happened was gripping!
Sarah and Susan are identical twins with a past that will make your toes curl. Sarah manages to escape the past with Jonny (Susan's ex) but Susan catches up to them many years later - but what deep dark secret is there between the twins, their past and the present!
I highly recommend this psychological read to anyone who loves suspense and thrillers! You really must read this!
May 1, 2023
I was incredibly underwhelmed with this novel. By 60% in I was hoping it would pick up pace and offer something spectacular. Not to be.
The novel switches between two timeframes in the life of two twin sisters. I found the earlier parts of their life when they were teenagers more interesting by far. However, the book just did not deliver for me.
It’s very slow, The emotion in it could be a lot better and overall the plot was rather insipid. I was really struggling to want to keep reading. The dialogue is poor and at times very hard to distinguish which twin was “speaking” - it would of been better to head up chapters with their name. I’d be halfway through, confused then realise it was the other twins thoughts I was reading.
Despite being identical twins the fact that significant people could not at all tell them apart was rather unbelievable. I couldn’t love any character as all were weakly presented.
I love books involving family dynamics, dysfunction and consequences of choices and actions. I’ve read many great books this year. The Twins was a major disappointment in my reading plan.
Only two stars from me. I see I’m not alone and am stunned if those giving it 5 stars as a “dark thriller” read the same book.
Thank you to Harper Collins and NetGalley for my review copy. All opinions are my own and totally unbiased.
The novel switches between two timeframes in the life of two twin sisters. I found the earlier parts of their life when they were teenagers more interesting by far. However, the book just did not deliver for me.
It’s very slow, The emotion in it could be a lot better and overall the plot was rather insipid. I was really struggling to want to keep reading. The dialogue is poor and at times very hard to distinguish which twin was “speaking” - it would of been better to head up chapters with their name. I’d be halfway through, confused then realise it was the other twins thoughts I was reading.
Despite being identical twins the fact that significant people could not at all tell them apart was rather unbelievable. I couldn’t love any character as all were weakly presented.
I love books involving family dynamics, dysfunction and consequences of choices and actions. I’ve read many great books this year. The Twins was a major disappointment in my reading plan.
Only two stars from me. I see I’m not alone and am stunned if those giving it 5 stars as a “dark thriller” read the same book.
Thank you to Harper Collins and NetGalley for my review copy. All opinions are my own and totally unbiased.
August 10, 2020
This was an interesting take on the twin theme, which is a theme I greatly enjoy. It centers around Sarah and Susan, who were inseparable as kids (even believing that they were just 2 pieces of the same person) but ended up falling out (the details of this come to light as the story progresses). Decades pass and Susan tracks down Sarah, now living a good life married to the guy they initially fought over as teenagers- Susan believes that Sarah owes her, and Sarah would prefer that Susan never came back at all.
The story was told in alternating voices between Sarah and Susan, and jumps back and forth between present time and when they were kids, so the reader can see the events leading up to where they are now. This is a writing style that I enjoy, though I will say in this case it was very confusing, as the author didn't clearly let you know when the voice or the timeframe was changing. This would have worked much better if each chapter had been labeled with the narrator and year/time. I also found a couple times where I think it just said the wrong name in a sentence, unless it had switched POVs just for one paragraph.
I thought the story itself was really engaging- the twins had a horrible upbringing with a deadbeat mom and the author did a good job of making that clear without dwelling on it. There are 2 pretty big twists in this book, both which I figured out early because my mind automatically jumps to the craziest twist I can think of. Figuring out the twists didn't take away from the book, though, and was actually rather vindicating!
Overall, I'd recommend this book- you will not fall in love with any of these characters but the story itself is a good one and there is plenty of suspense and backstabbing going on. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story was told in alternating voices between Sarah and Susan, and jumps back and forth between present time and when they were kids, so the reader can see the events leading up to where they are now. This is a writing style that I enjoy, though I will say in this case it was very confusing, as the author didn't clearly let you know when the voice or the timeframe was changing. This would have worked much better if each chapter had been labeled with the narrator and year/time. I also found a couple times where I think it just said the wrong name in a sentence, unless it had switched POVs just for one paragraph.
I thought the story itself was really engaging- the twins had a horrible upbringing with a deadbeat mom and the author did a good job of making that clear without dwelling on it. There are 2 pretty big twists in this book, both which I figured out early because my mind automatically jumps to the craziest twist I can think of. Figuring out the twists didn't take away from the book, though, and was actually rather vindicating!
Overall, I'd recommend this book- you will not fall in love with any of these characters but the story itself is a good one and there is plenty of suspense and backstabbing going on. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2020
2.5/3 Wanting Yours Stars
* * * Spoiler Free
This has the Twin factor on overload. At a young age, they were inseparable. Then Boys/A Man Happened. A Choice was made and their lives were split apart.
Now they are grown-ups, one is married and her life is set, But nowhere perfect. The other has lived a life that had many ugly experiences. She looks at her twin and decides she deserves better...
She deserves what her twin has. Each twin has been tied to this man and he has become this twisted prize.
This book has many dark pieces that could be triggering.
The Twins
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * Spoiler Free
This has the Twin factor on overload. At a young age, they were inseparable. Then Boys/A Man Happened. A Choice was made and their lives were split apart.
Now they are grown-ups, one is married and her life is set, But nowhere perfect. The other has lived a life that had many ugly experiences. She looks at her twin and decides she deserves better...
She deserves what her twin has. Each twin has been tied to this man and he has become this twisted prize.
This book has many dark pieces that could be triggering.
The Twinshttps://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
February 3, 2022
Sarah and Susan are identical twins , best friends , two parts of one being. They didn’t have the best time growing up and things start falling apart when they fall in the love with the same boy. There are definitely some trigger warnings in this book with child rape and drug addictions.
The book is told from their time growing up in the 80s then onto the day in 2018 when Susan knocks on Sarah’s door again while she is sat with her daughter Lucy. They say there is always one evil twin but which one is it?
The book is told from their time growing up in the 80s then onto the day in 2018 when Susan knocks on Sarah’s door again while she is sat with her daughter Lucy. They say there is always one evil twin but which one is it?
August 31, 2020
Twin girls have a mom that is not frilly or gives them the love and attention they deserve, so they have always been close until they meet Johnny and both seek his attention and love, which he gives, but only to one. But things change. Twists and turns galore. Susan feels snubbed by Sarah for having the life she wanted. Susan shows up to Sarah and Johnny's house with secrets and bad blood to share. Only one twin will have him. This story is crazy and so good! Highly recommended and a re-read for sure.
Thanks to Netgalley, JS Lark and Harper Collins UK 1 More Chapter for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Available: 11/20/20
Thanks to Netgalley, JS Lark and Harper Collins UK 1 More Chapter for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Available: 11/20/20
July 26, 2020
2.5 stars
This went from predictable to unbelievable very quickly.
The last few chapters felt OTT.
Entertaining enough read,but for me it never quite caught my attention enough that I HAD to pick it up and read.
Others will love it... it might well prove to be a marmite book,like many bestsellers.
This went from predictable to unbelievable very quickly.
The last few chapters felt OTT.
Entertaining enough read,but for me it never quite caught my attention enough that I HAD to pick it up and read.
Others will love it... it might well prove to be a marmite book,like many bestsellers.
October 11, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for granting my wish to read this book by J.S Larke.
4 stars as it was a really gripping read, i loved how it was written and portrayed i finished within 1 day it was a great book to read so thank you to the author of this book for writing an immense book! Defintiely recommend to anyone as this follows a set of twins in whom are inseperable from one another and until a guy comes along and chooses one of them then they are split apart... Then you see what happens to the twin whom he didnt choose and what happened in her life to the twin who got chosen to be with him.
love love love!!
4 stars as it was a really gripping read, i loved how it was written and portrayed i finished within 1 day it was a great book to read so thank you to the author of this book for writing an immense book! Defintiely recommend to anyone as this follows a set of twins in whom are inseperable from one another and until a guy comes along and chooses one of them then they are split apart... Then you see what happens to the twin whom he didnt choose and what happened in her life to the twin who got chosen to be with him.
love love love!!
November 16, 2020
Sarah and Susan growing up were inseparable and then tragedy struck as lies started to unfold and unravel and the girls started to drift apart, that is until Susan shows up on Sarah's doorstep fifteen years later. One of my favorite things to read about is twins and even more so if they are identical. The Twins by J.S Lark also had that added excitement of being a mystery. In The Twins, we learn that Sarah and Susan had a hard life growing up and that in a way Susan has always been the bad twin and Sarah getting the brunt of everything from being almost killed which resulted in their first separation. This book goes through their lives past and present. In the present, Susan has arrived and wants to get to know Sarah and her family again and be part of her life. Sarah though knows how dangerous Susan can be and wishes to have nothing to do with her, unfortunately for Sarah - her husband Johnny still has a soft spot for Susan who was his first love. Though he cared about both twins - Susan was his first girl. As the book goes along, we discover Susan's plan and if Sarah isn't careful - the plan might just work as Susan plans to take over Sarah's life completely and get rid of Sarah once and for all. The only thing I had hoped we might have gotten more answers about was the fact that both girls had, had children when they were younger and given up for adoption. Overall, though if you are looking for a good identical twin UK mystery, then check out The Twins by JS Lark today.
November 22, 2020
First and foremost, I should mention that I read an ARC of this from Netgalley so it might be that some of the things I had a problem with will be fixed in the final copy.
This writing style made my head hurt. There was jumping back and forth between perspectives and timelines and I could hardly keep up with the jumps because there were no chapter markers with names or years. Perhaps it was the point to confuse the reader with these twins, but it was not at all enjoyable. I found myself getting increasingly frustrated that I had to read a couple sentences to guess who was talking and what chunk of time we were in. Also, there were 2 or 3 spots where the wrong sister's name was used based on whose perspective it was. I have no idea if it was intentional or not based on the plot and conclusion of the book, but again, I didn't like it.
Trigger warnings up the wazoo for this one - rape, pedophilia, drug use, heroin addiction, abandonment, abortion, prostitution, I'm sure the list goes on.
Also, there was not one likable character in this story. Susan sucked, Sarah sucked, Johnny sucked, their mother sucked, and even Lucy sucked. Yes, I stand by Lucy sucking because what kind of adult daughter learns that her mother has been through something traumatic and presses her for endless details without a thought of how reliving such intense trauma might be harmful? I understand wanting to know more, but it doesn't take a genius to realize that you don't push for information like that. So yes, Lucy sucked too.
I wanted to DNF this at 10% in because I could tell it wasn't for me, but I wanted to push through for Netgalley's sake. If you look at other reviews, people seem to like it. Not me. 100% hated it. Oh well, different strokes for different folks.
This writing style made my head hurt. There was jumping back and forth between perspectives and timelines and I could hardly keep up with the jumps because there were no chapter markers with names or years. Perhaps it was the point to confuse the reader with these twins, but it was not at all enjoyable. I found myself getting increasingly frustrated that I had to read a couple sentences to guess who was talking and what chunk of time we were in. Also, there were 2 or 3 spots where the wrong sister's name was used based on whose perspective it was. I have no idea if it was intentional or not based on the plot and conclusion of the book, but again, I didn't like it.
Trigger warnings up the wazoo for this one - rape, pedophilia, drug use, heroin addiction, abandonment, abortion, prostitution, I'm sure the list goes on.
Also, there was not one likable character in this story. Susan sucked, Sarah sucked, Johnny sucked, their mother sucked, and even Lucy sucked. Yes, I stand by Lucy sucking because what kind of adult daughter learns that her mother has been through something traumatic and presses her for endless details without a thought of how reliving such intense trauma might be harmful? I understand wanting to know more, but it doesn't take a genius to realize that you don't push for information like that. So yes, Lucy sucked too.
I wanted to DNF this at 10% in because I could tell it wasn't for me, but I wanted to push through for Netgalley's sake. If you look at other reviews, people seem to like it. Not me. 100% hated it. Oh well, different strokes for different folks.
December 30, 2020
Lucy and her mum, Sarah are enjoying a relaxing evening together drinking their wine and snacking on nibbles when there's a knock at the door. Sarah's twin sister, Susan who she hasn’t seen for thirty years is on the doorstep. Lucy invites the aunt she knows nothing about inside despite Sarah’s reluctance.
The Twins
is the slow unravelling of a dark and twisted tale about identical twins with Sarah’s husband, Jonny caught slap bang in their midst.
Compelling writing and continuous tension ensured that I was riveted to the story for the entirety of the book. Told from Sarah's and Susan's perspectives in different timelines, when they were thirteen and thirty years later, I really appreciated Jane Lark's guileful narrative. The pacing was comfortable, and the tension soon escalated to suspenseful levels. This was an absolute cracker of a thriller and the author's characterisation was superb with a blend of fascinating players, most of whom were unlikable, though this did not affect my enjoyment of the story.
The Twins was a cleverly plotted page-turner complete with jaw-dropping twists leading up to an exciting, exhilarating conclusion. Full of passion, love, vengeance, hate, violence, abuse, jealousy, and devastating betrayal I recommend this unsettling and unpredictable novel very highly.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from One More Chapter via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Compelling writing and continuous tension ensured that I was riveted to the story for the entirety of the book. Told from Sarah's and Susan's perspectives in different timelines, when they were thirteen and thirty years later, I really appreciated Jane Lark's guileful narrative. The pacing was comfortable, and the tension soon escalated to suspenseful levels. This was an absolute cracker of a thriller and the author's characterisation was superb with a blend of fascinating players, most of whom were unlikable, though this did not affect my enjoyment of the story.
The Twins was a cleverly plotted page-turner complete with jaw-dropping twists leading up to an exciting, exhilarating conclusion. Full of passion, love, vengeance, hate, violence, abuse, jealousy, and devastating betrayal I recommend this unsettling and unpredictable novel very highly.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from One More Chapter via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
October 3, 2020
When I read the description of this book I was excited and really wanted to like it. I was sadly disappointed. While it got better towards the end of the book the writing was not great and the dialogue felt forced. I don’t mind a book that switches perspective or jumps around in time, but this book did both with nothing to distinguish one perspective/time than any of the others, I think it was to make the whole story like a shell game but it just made me lose interest. The story was ok but the twists weren’t particularly shocking or interesting. I think there is a seed for a good story in here but I don’t think it got what it needed to grow. Two twins, Susan and Sarah, share everything until they reach the age of 13 and Susan meets a boy and falls in love. Nothing is the same after this. Poverty, rape, drug abuse, exploitation and murder - Sarah and Susan have no idea what they’re in for.
August 29, 2020
Loved it! 4.5 Stars.
The Twins by J.S. Lark was an absolute page turner for me! I love all novels, movies, stories about twins...but make it a thriller? OMG, I'm there. As a child, two of my closest friends were identical twins and my cousins were identical twins as well. So...this book was so very interesting to me...twins where one is good and one is bad. Which twin is good? Is it Sarah, whose perfect life with her husband and daughter is being invaded by her twin sister Susan? Or is it Susan who wishes to take over Sarah's life as her own? The story covers 3 timelines and is told in alternating perspectives of each twin. Honestly, it was a bit confusing in the very beginning until I got a handle on the personalities of each twin. The timeline switches around between when the twins are children, and then 2 timelines when they are adults. It wasn't hard to figure out the time period once I read a few sentences of each chapter, but chapter titles indicating the year and twin would certainly help prevent confusion. That said, everything else was fantastic for me. Lots of triggers for those who are sensitive--like rape, child abuse, teenage pregnancy, drug abuse, and prostitution. (mostly off page, but not all)
I couldn't put this one down! I had to know how it ended! My 80 year old mother has been a reading demon during this pandemic...she will love this...and when it is published, November 20, 2020, I'm definitely buying her a copy! If you like a thriller you can't put down, this may be the one for you!
Many thanks to Netgalley One More Chapter, HarperCollins UK and of course, the author JS Lark for the opportunity to read and review this advanced readers copy. Thank you!!!
The Twins by J.S. Lark was an absolute page turner for me! I love all novels, movies, stories about twins...but make it a thriller? OMG, I'm there. As a child, two of my closest friends were identical twins and my cousins were identical twins as well. So...this book was so very interesting to me...twins where one is good and one is bad. Which twin is good? Is it Sarah, whose perfect life with her husband and daughter is being invaded by her twin sister Susan? Or is it Susan who wishes to take over Sarah's life as her own? The story covers 3 timelines and is told in alternating perspectives of each twin. Honestly, it was a bit confusing in the very beginning until I got a handle on the personalities of each twin. The timeline switches around between when the twins are children, and then 2 timelines when they are adults. It wasn't hard to figure out the time period once I read a few sentences of each chapter, but chapter titles indicating the year and twin would certainly help prevent confusion. That said, everything else was fantastic for me. Lots of triggers for those who are sensitive--like rape, child abuse, teenage pregnancy, drug abuse, and prostitution. (mostly off page, but not all)
I couldn't put this one down! I had to know how it ended! My 80 year old mother has been a reading demon during this pandemic...she will love this...and when it is published, November 20, 2020, I'm definitely buying her a copy! If you like a thriller you can't put down, this may be the one for you!
Many thanks to Netgalley One More Chapter, HarperCollins UK and of course, the author JS Lark for the opportunity to read and review this advanced readers copy. Thank you!!!
November 29, 2020
I was filled with unease from the first chapter, where Sarah finds her identical twin, Susan, at the door after thirty years of no contact. It was not a happy reunion, despite the welcome given to Susan by Sarah’s daughter and husband. And from there on starts a malicious game of waiting, watching, and striking when the time is right. The story carries with it a sense of disquiet and tension all throughout, as if a tightly-coiled spring will unfurl at any moment.
I thought I had it all figured out by around 25%, but I was only partially right. The final twist had me dumbfounded. It is all too mind-bending and vicious for me to even think about. I feel some trigger warnings, such as rape of a minor, violence, prostitution, and drug addiction should be mentioned.
Susan and Sarah’s impoverished and violent childhood, spent unloved and largely ignored, tugged at my heartstrings. No child should have to practically raise themselves in such a manner. Their mother’s motivations remain unsaid, but I formed a poor opinion of her.
The author underlines the closeness of the twins repeatedly, and shows how separation affects them physically and mentally. So it was fascinating to watch how they moved from such closeness to a deep, dark hatred–and especially why the shift happened.
The only problem I had with the book was that it was difficult to keep track of the timelines and the narrator. The story alternates between 1985 (when the twins were teenagers) to 2018-2019 (when they are adults). Even though the years are clearly marked, sometimes there are flashbacks and it confused me. Also, I had to do some back-and-forth reading to understand who was the “I” in a certain chapter–Susan or Sarah.
Overall, The Twins is a tense, dark, gritty, and distressing novel with a cracker of a twist at the end that will leave you holding your head in your hands.
(I received a review copy from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review.)
I thought I had it all figured out by around 25%, but I was only partially right. The final twist had me dumbfounded. It is all too mind-bending and vicious for me to even think about. I feel some trigger warnings, such as rape of a minor, violence, prostitution, and drug addiction should be mentioned.
Susan and Sarah’s impoverished and violent childhood, spent unloved and largely ignored, tugged at my heartstrings. No child should have to practically raise themselves in such a manner. Their mother’s motivations remain unsaid, but I formed a poor opinion of her.
The author underlines the closeness of the twins repeatedly, and shows how separation affects them physically and mentally. So it was fascinating to watch how they moved from such closeness to a deep, dark hatred–and especially why the shift happened.
The only problem I had with the book was that it was difficult to keep track of the timelines and the narrator. The story alternates between 1985 (when the twins were teenagers) to 2018-2019 (when they are adults). Even though the years are clearly marked, sometimes there are flashbacks and it confused me. Also, I had to do some back-and-forth reading to understand who was the “I” in a certain chapter–Susan or Sarah.
Overall, The Twins is a tense, dark, gritty, and distressing novel with a cracker of a twist at the end that will leave you holding your head in your hands.
(I received a review copy from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review.)
October 14, 2020
Review to follow
July 25, 2020
WOW!!!!! I could not put this one down.
The Twins are Sarah and Susan, identical In every way. We are introduced to them as they are in their 40’s, having been estranged for over 30 years. Sarah is married with one daughter. Susan shows up on Sarah’s doorstep with secrets to spill.
I had made assumptions based on the prologue but this novel had so many plot twists I did not see coming at all! Terrific novel, though my only issue was it was difficult to gauge if the chapter was current or past, as well as who the narrator was at that moment.
The Twins are Sarah and Susan, identical In every way. We are introduced to them as they are in their 40’s, having been estranged for over 30 years. Sarah is married with one daughter. Susan shows up on Sarah’s doorstep with secrets to spill.
I had made assumptions based on the prologue but this novel had so many plot twists I did not see coming at all! Terrific novel, though my only issue was it was difficult to gauge if the chapter was current or past, as well as who the narrator was at that moment.
July 26, 2020
two twins sisters Susan and Sarah .so very close and best friends there mum is hopeless the girls get lots of uncles . but one day they meet Jonny and everything changes . they both want him but only one can how this story unfolds is so good what sister is nice what one sister will do to get what she wants a must read
December 5, 2020
J S Lark is back with a terrifying new thriller guaranteed to give readers sleepless nights: The Twins!
Twins Susan and Sarah aren’t just sisters. They have been the best of friends from the moment they drew breath and they have always been there for one another through the good times and the bad. Always willing to help and support each other, the bond between the two sisters has only strengthened and deepened over time. Nothing and nobody could come between the two of them and there is no way on earth that one of the sisters will betray the other. Their relationship is of paramount importance to the two of them, but is it as rock solid as they’ve always thought it to be? When a dashing older man comes into their lives, a wedge is driven between the two of them. Both Susan and Sarah have fallen in love with Jonny. But who will he choose?
Jonny gives the girls all the love and attention that has long been denied to them. Susan and Sarah would absolutely love nothing more than to be Jonny’s wife, but Jonny can only marry one of them and when he makes his choice, one of them is disappointed and broken-hearted and their bond is severed for ever. For the first time in their lives, the girls find themselves having to forge their own path. Will they thrive and prosper? Or will they fail in a cruel and unforgiving world without the support of the other?
While Sarah begins to build a new life for herself with her new husband and family, Susan’s life spirals out of the control. While Sarah starts a family and creates a stable life for herself, Susan lurches from one disaster to the next. But Susan has had enough. She wants her old life back and she wants her sister to pay for taking what should have been hers in the first place. Susan wants what she believes is rightfully hers and she will not stop until she possesses the happiness that has been stolen from her – even if it means hurting the sister who used to mean everything to her.
J S Lark never fails to plumb the depths and darkness of the human psyche and pen gritty, twisted and disturbing thrillers which keep readers hooked throughout and in The Twins, she has written a chilling tale of vengeance, loyalty and betrayal that will make every single hair on the back of your neck stand on end. A heart-stopping and nerve-twisting page-turner packed with shocking twists nobody could possibly predict, The Twins is a fantastic thriller that examines tangled family relationships, destructive jealousy and devastating betrayals.
A spine-tingling tale readers won’t forget in a hurry, The Twins is another must-read by J S Lark.
Twins Susan and Sarah aren’t just sisters. They have been the best of friends from the moment they drew breath and they have always been there for one another through the good times and the bad. Always willing to help and support each other, the bond between the two sisters has only strengthened and deepened over time. Nothing and nobody could come between the two of them and there is no way on earth that one of the sisters will betray the other. Their relationship is of paramount importance to the two of them, but is it as rock solid as they’ve always thought it to be? When a dashing older man comes into their lives, a wedge is driven between the two of them. Both Susan and Sarah have fallen in love with Jonny. But who will he choose?
Jonny gives the girls all the love and attention that has long been denied to them. Susan and Sarah would absolutely love nothing more than to be Jonny’s wife, but Jonny can only marry one of them and when he makes his choice, one of them is disappointed and broken-hearted and their bond is severed for ever. For the first time in their lives, the girls find themselves having to forge their own path. Will they thrive and prosper? Or will they fail in a cruel and unforgiving world without the support of the other?
While Sarah begins to build a new life for herself with her new husband and family, Susan’s life spirals out of the control. While Sarah starts a family and creates a stable life for herself, Susan lurches from one disaster to the next. But Susan has had enough. She wants her old life back and she wants her sister to pay for taking what should have been hers in the first place. Susan wants what she believes is rightfully hers and she will not stop until she possesses the happiness that has been stolen from her – even if it means hurting the sister who used to mean everything to her.
J S Lark never fails to plumb the depths and darkness of the human psyche and pen gritty, twisted and disturbing thrillers which keep readers hooked throughout and in The Twins, she has written a chilling tale of vengeance, loyalty and betrayal that will make every single hair on the back of your neck stand on end. A heart-stopping and nerve-twisting page-turner packed with shocking twists nobody could possibly predict, The Twins is a fantastic thriller that examines tangled family relationships, destructive jealousy and devastating betrayals.
A spine-tingling tale readers won’t forget in a hurry, The Twins is another must-read by J S Lark.
August 6, 2020
This was a mess, a big hot mess. *WARNING: this book includes rape, drug abuse, and prostitution.* So, where to begin. This story revolves around two twins who come together after years apart, and the main thing is that one twin wants the life of the other twin. Now my biggest issue were the characters, lets start with Susan, she is manipulative, obsessive, and unhinged, then we have Sarah, who has suffered a ton of shit and is just trying to cope, and last but not least Jonny, the man that comes between the two girls. To say Jonny was my least favorite character would be putting it lightly, this dude is 18 when he starts having sex with Susan( a 13 year old). Throughout the present ( as the story switches back and forth between present and past) he constantly belittles his wife's needs, forces her to do things she clearly doesn't want to do, and he is the most passive person I've ever read about who is constantly using his " I'm not taking sides, I'm a nice guy" act and I do not see the appeal of him. Seriously ladies, this dude is the most lukewarm person on earth, he barely supports his wife and her mental trauma and honestly I would have left him. I clearly don't understand how or why either Sarah or Susan would obsess over this man. He irritated me beyond belief, I just wanted Sarah and Susan to move on from this guy. And to top it off the very last minute twist on his character? Just confirms how much of a garbage dude he is. Seriously 19 years younger?! Gross. He is just GROSS. Now onto the plot between Susan and Sarah, the book switches narratives between the two and you are constantly thrown between both girls claiming to be one girl or the other and its kinda confusing but in the end it sorts itself out. Sarah was the real gem out of everyone in this book. She suffers horrific things but still tries her best to get her life together and do whats right. She literally saves Susan and she suffers so much for Susan. Honestly this book left me feeling, not good. The plot twists were fine and it wraps up fine, but honestly it is not a feel good book.
* Thanks netgalley for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*
* Thanks netgalley for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*
December 16, 2020
Sarah and Susan are identical twins. So identical that even their mother could not tell them apart. Plus, she was a useless mother – inevitably the twins got up to mischief, hardly ever at school, stealing and as they got into their teens, they got into even more trouble, even being place into a home at one point – they ran away.
They meet up with some boys, one, Jonny is a lovely character and he falls for one of the twins, whilst the other twin has a far more disturbing encounter with his friend, but Jonny helps her and she in turn is smitten by Jonny.
Thirty years later and one of the twins is married to Jonny and they have a daughter, Lucy. Enter the other twin, Jonny and Lucy are delighted to welcome her, but not so her twin. She distrusts her and she is frightened.
Firstly, let me state that I did enjoy this book and I couldn’t wait to see what transpired. That said, it was a bit difficult to follow at times. You will note that I refer to ‘one twin’ or ‘the other twin’. Therein lies the difficulty. It was all a bit confusing, two names fairly similar, different timelines backwards and forwards. So, I can’t say with any certainty which twin was married to Jonny – not without looking it up again.
So all in all, yes I would recommend this because it is cleverly constructed; sad in places, shocking inasmuch as the neglect of the girls, and characterisation feels relevant and viable. Yes, it is an easy read, but be prepared to shuffle backwards and forwards to see which twin is doing what, and to whom! Perhaps this is a clever device of the author, to confuse the reader, much as the characters were confused in identifying/separating the twins.
Thank you to the author, publishers and NetGalley for providing an ARC via my Kindle in return for an honest review.
They meet up with some boys, one, Jonny is a lovely character and he falls for one of the twins, whilst the other twin has a far more disturbing encounter with his friend, but Jonny helps her and she in turn is smitten by Jonny.
Thirty years later and one of the twins is married to Jonny and they have a daughter, Lucy. Enter the other twin, Jonny and Lucy are delighted to welcome her, but not so her twin. She distrusts her and she is frightened.
Firstly, let me state that I did enjoy this book and I couldn’t wait to see what transpired. That said, it was a bit difficult to follow at times. You will note that I refer to ‘one twin’ or ‘the other twin’. Therein lies the difficulty. It was all a bit confusing, two names fairly similar, different timelines backwards and forwards. So, I can’t say with any certainty which twin was married to Jonny – not without looking it up again.
So all in all, yes I would recommend this because it is cleverly constructed; sad in places, shocking inasmuch as the neglect of the girls, and characterisation feels relevant and viable. Yes, it is an easy read, but be prepared to shuffle backwards and forwards to see which twin is doing what, and to whom! Perhaps this is a clever device of the author, to confuse the reader, much as the characters were confused in identifying/separating the twins.
Thank you to the author, publishers and NetGalley for providing an ARC via my Kindle in return for an honest review.
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