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My Secret Sister
A deeply moving and emotional page-turner about motherhood and family secrets, with a moral dilemma at its heart. Perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty, Jodi Picoult, and John Marrs’ The One.
“She’s taught me that motherhood is not about the mother at all. It’s about bringing a tiny life, a new spirit into the world and loving it for what it is, for as long as it blesses you with its presence.”
Two women, two secret heartbreaks…
Claire is living every mother’s worst nightmare. Her daughter, Jess, is suffering from a rare illness and desperately needs a bone marrow transplant. In a race against time, she will do anything to find the match that will save her daughter’s life.
On the other side of the country, Marianne has suffered a string of miscarriages. With her perfect life crumbling around her, she will do whatever it takes to become a mother.
Two DNA tests…
When the results of a DNA test show an unexpected relationship between Claire and Marianne, Claire must confront the darkest secrets of her past and make impossible choices about the future.
One big lie…
Is Claire’s secret sister the answer to her prayers?
Or will she cost her everything?
“She’s taught me that motherhood is not about the mother at all. It’s about bringing a tiny life, a new spirit into the world and loving it for what it is, for as long as it blesses you with its presence.”
Two women, two secret heartbreaks…
Claire is living every mother’s worst nightmare. Her daughter, Jess, is suffering from a rare illness and desperately needs a bone marrow transplant. In a race against time, she will do anything to find the match that will save her daughter’s life.
On the other side of the country, Marianne has suffered a string of miscarriages. With her perfect life crumbling around her, she will do whatever it takes to become a mother.
Two DNA tests…
When the results of a DNA test show an unexpected relationship between Claire and Marianne, Claire must confront the darkest secrets of her past and make impossible choices about the future.
One big lie…
Is Claire’s secret sister the answer to her prayers?
Or will she cost her everything?
- GenresFictionContemporary
426 pages, Paperback
First published August 31, 2021
744 people are currently reading
944 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Westwood
21 books119 followersLauren Westwood is my pen name for writing women's fiction. Thanks for taking the time to look me up and I hope you enjoy my books, which are a blend of romance, mystery, and romantic suspense.
Here are a couple of things that I'd like you to know about the real me, not the social media me:
I try very hard to write books that people will like and want to read, and I take a lot of pride in my work. It can take up to 1000 hours to write a book from beginning to end. I am unfortunately not able to make a living as an author, so I have a day job working as a lawyer. I also have three children.
Your honest ratings on goodreads are very important to me, and I try to take comments on board - both good and bad. I know that there are a lot of books out there, and that your reading time is precious. Thank you in advance if you choose to read my books.
Here are a couple of things that I'd like you to know about the real me, not the social media me:
I try very hard to write books that people will like and want to read, and I take a lot of pride in my work. It can take up to 1000 hours to write a book from beginning to end. I am unfortunately not able to make a living as an author, so I have a day job working as a lawyer. I also have three children.
Your honest ratings on goodreads are very important to me, and I try to take comments on board - both good and bad. I know that there are a lot of books out there, and that your reading time is precious. Thank you in advance if you choose to read my books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
July 16, 2022
I really liked this book, way more than I thought I would . Real people dealing with real problems, really liked the happy ending !
December 26, 2022
This was an unusual read, it felt part thriller yet without feeling like one at all. It wasn’t a romance either… it was a story with twists and turns, and some elements were really far fetched.
The positives were the pace for the most part, it could have been about 50 pages less. I also enjoyed the story line and was interested to find out how it all panned out.
But I really didn’t like any of the characters, I thought they were all really shitty people but I did empathise with their situations too but the author could have definitely made them more likeable.
I also have picked up in this book amongst others by this author that she seems to body shame which irritates me considerably referring to characters as “plumper” and glamorising the one who is deemed “slimmer”.
The positives were the pace for the most part, it could have been about 50 pages less. I also enjoyed the story line and was interested to find out how it all panned out.
But I really didn’t like any of the characters, I thought they were all really shitty people but I did empathise with their situations too but the author could have definitely made them more likeable.
I also have picked up in this book amongst others by this author that she seems to body shame which irritates me considerably referring to characters as “plumper” and glamorising the one who is deemed “slimmer”.
July 14, 2024
This book was amazing. The storyline is quite gripping because you really get to empathise with a lot of the characters. Sometimes, some of them (especially Claire) can get annoying but I think this makes the characters even more human. I liked how a lot of the decisions were contemplated and how, in moments of tension or suspense, the language used conveys exactly that. This book had me hooked from the first chapter. 10/10.
April 9, 2022
Finished this book last week and waited a few days to write a review because I thought it might grow on me. It didn’t. Interesting subject matter, badly executed. All the different plot strands are just too convenient to fit together.
Couldn’t warm to the characters, esp. the two main characters. Are readers suppposed to feel sorry for them? Sorry, I couldn’t. I just found them annoying.
Also, this book is about 75 pages too long. A lot of waffling and repetition going on. Better editing would certainly have helped with the flow of the story.
Wouldn’t recommend this book. 1.5 stars.
Couldn’t warm to the characters, esp. the two main characters. Are readers suppposed to feel sorry for them? Sorry, I couldn’t. I just found them annoying.
Also, this book is about 75 pages too long. A lot of waffling and repetition going on. Better editing would certainly have helped with the flow of the story.
Wouldn’t recommend this book. 1.5 stars.
November 14, 2021
My Secret Sister
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This completely blew my mind 🤯 it had such incredible twists that certainly kept me on my toes. I loved Becky! What an amazing sister! As for Claire is was 50/50 with her throughout the book. It's the kind of book that will make you think what what you do in that situation. Some parts are heartbreaking to read, and I shed a fair few tears. Seriously worth a read. Brilliant book!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This completely blew my mind 🤯 it had such incredible twists that certainly kept me on my toes. I loved Becky! What an amazing sister! As for Claire is was 50/50 with her throughout the book. It's the kind of book that will make you think what what you do in that situation. Some parts are heartbreaking to read, and I shed a fair few tears. Seriously worth a read. Brilliant book!
January 14, 2023
Id give this a 4.5* ! This book touched on a many important deep topics but kept a light engaging flow throughout! It’s full of lots of twist and turns that kept me reading. I’d definitely recommend!
November 17, 2021
I have read and enjoyed a couple of Lauren’s books now. I have by no means caught up with everything that she has written but I am getting there. I read the synopsis of ‘My Secret Sister’ and it certainly sounded like my kind of read. I was spot on too. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘My Secret Sister’ but more about that in a bit.
I must be honest and say that it took me a little while to get into this book which has more to do with the fact that I was tired and finding it hard to concentrate than anything else. Once I got into it then that was it and I was away as the saying goes. From then on, I just couldn’t put the book down. The book wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I had my own suspicions as to what was going to happen so of course I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track or if I had wandered down the wrong path entirely. The pages turned over increasingly quickly as I made my way through the story. I liked the way in which family history played a part in the story as that is something that fascinates me. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘My Secret Sister’. I found ‘My Secret Sister’ to be a gripping and emotional read, which kept me on my toes and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
'My Secret Sister’ is very well written. The author has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. The author certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story. The story is divided up into chapters which are written from the point of view of particular characters. This way of telling the story works as it allows the reader to see events from multiple points of view. At times I found myself feeling quite emotional over certain aspects of the story but I won’t bore you with the details as to why. Reading ‘My Secret Sister’ certainly took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride with all the ups and downs, twists and turns. I love the way in which Lauren describes her characters as she makes them seem just as real as you and I. Lauren certainly made me feel as though I was part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘My Secret Sister’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Lauren’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I must be honest and say that it took me a little while to get into this book which has more to do with the fact that I was tired and finding it hard to concentrate than anything else. Once I got into it then that was it and I was away as the saying goes. From then on, I just couldn’t put the book down. The book wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. I had my own suspicions as to what was going to happen so of course I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track or if I had wandered down the wrong path entirely. The pages turned over increasingly quickly as I made my way through the story. I liked the way in which family history played a part in the story as that is something that fascinates me. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘My Secret Sister’. I found ‘My Secret Sister’ to be a gripping and emotional read, which kept me on my toes and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
'My Secret Sister’ is very well written. The author has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. The author certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story. The story is divided up into chapters which are written from the point of view of particular characters. This way of telling the story works as it allows the reader to see events from multiple points of view. At times I found myself feeling quite emotional over certain aspects of the story but I won’t bore you with the details as to why. Reading ‘My Secret Sister’ certainly took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride with all the ups and downs, twists and turns. I love the way in which Lauren describes her characters as she makes them seem just as real as you and I. Lauren certainly made me feel as though I was part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘My Secret Sister’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Lauren’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
August 10, 2022
The story progresses pretty slow and at about 73% in I was thinking to not finish it. I’m glad I stayed persistent as the story took a turn and suddenly couldn’t put the book down. Defiantly a great finish.
January 2, 2023
If your looking for a extreme heart warming yet has its thriller moments this book is the one for you! This book was absolutely amazing! It’s a book that most people live with and some don’t even know about it.
November 18, 2021
I didn't like it.
January 8, 2025
Awesome book. Loved every minute of it.
December 30, 2021
How Far Can The Love Of A Parent Go?
I chose this book because it deals with a lot of morals, values and ethics similar to something I'd read by Jodi Picoult. It definitely didn't disappoint. Not only is there a secret sister, but you get to see the individual lives of each, learn about their struggles, and how each is facing the brink of losing everything. There are a lot of small twists and turns for the reader. The story had me placing myself into each person's life and decision making process--asking myself if I'd do the same. I really enjoyed this story & if you're a fan of Jodi Picoult, you will enjoy this book, too. Great job Lauren Westwood for not duplicating JP's style, and making this your own!!
I chose this book because it deals with a lot of morals, values and ethics similar to something I'd read by Jodi Picoult. It definitely didn't disappoint. Not only is there a secret sister, but you get to see the individual lives of each, learn about their struggles, and how each is facing the brink of losing everything. There are a lot of small twists and turns for the reader. The story had me placing myself into each person's life and decision making process--asking myself if I'd do the same. I really enjoyed this story & if you're a fan of Jodi Picoult, you will enjoy this book, too. Great job Lauren Westwood for not duplicating JP's style, and making this your own!!
February 15, 2022
sadly this is a predictable read, by the numbers :( the mother isn't very nice or kind and I couldn't understand her coldness to her oldest daughter she was too cold for me, Story was dull and done so many times before and done better.
October 6, 2022
Snooze!
December 28, 2024
3.5 Stars, which I will round down to 3 stars overall.
I picked up this book as a kindle, after having it on my wishlist for a while. I had never read anything by this author before so, I thought I would start here and see what happened. Spoiler, I think this might be the only book I read from this author.
To start with the negative, like other people have mentioned, I could not relate to the characters. On some level, I think I did like Marianne more than Claire. I was upset at Claire for most of this book. While I did understand that she was dealing with a child who had a very serious medical condition, I also felt that she was very self absorbed. Her entire identity had become her youngest, sick child. She couldn't seem to do anything other than worry and invade her space, while actively neglecting her husband and eldest child. In fact, of all of the characters, I think I connected mostly with Claire's oldest child, Beckly. She seemed like the child no one wanted, especially her mother. I feel like if Claire could have blamed Beckly for her younger sister's illness and gotten away with it, she would have. Yes, I found Claire to be that unlikeable. I do realize that having a sick child is probably a lot to take but, I felt for Becky throughout this entire book.
My second issue with this book was the ending, which I also think others have commented on. I was in this book. I read it quickly, found it hard to put down, despite my dislike for the two main characters. I wanted to know how it ended, especially after *spoiler* Marianne and Claire find out that they are sisters. For me, this story could have been about a child with a serious medical condition finding a long lost sister, and then helping that child while building a new family and extended family. i could have been on board with that kind of book and, for a while, that is what it was looking like. Then, in the end, this author was pulling everything out at once; another sister, a dad in witness protection, Marianne's marriage falling apart and her finally becoming a mom herself. It was just too much for me. If all of that content was going to be in this story, I would have rathered it be built through the whole story, not the final couple of chapters.
The positives, and the reason for my 3.5 star review, is the book was well written. I liked the book until the last few chapters. I was in it, I was invested, I could not put it down. I liked Becky as a chapter, and I did start to feel for Marianne and her dreams of being a mother during this story.
For me, this was an okay book. I don't regret reading it but I am not sure if I would read more from this author. I just did not connect like I hoped I would.
I picked up this book as a kindle, after having it on my wishlist for a while. I had never read anything by this author before so, I thought I would start here and see what happened. Spoiler, I think this might be the only book I read from this author.
To start with the negative, like other people have mentioned, I could not relate to the characters. On some level, I think I did like Marianne more than Claire. I was upset at Claire for most of this book. While I did understand that she was dealing with a child who had a very serious medical condition, I also felt that she was very self absorbed. Her entire identity had become her youngest, sick child. She couldn't seem to do anything other than worry and invade her space, while actively neglecting her husband and eldest child. In fact, of all of the characters, I think I connected mostly with Claire's oldest child, Beckly. She seemed like the child no one wanted, especially her mother. I feel like if Claire could have blamed Beckly for her younger sister's illness and gotten away with it, she would have. Yes, I found Claire to be that unlikeable. I do realize that having a sick child is probably a lot to take but, I felt for Becky throughout this entire book.
My second issue with this book was the ending, which I also think others have commented on. I was in this book. I read it quickly, found it hard to put down, despite my dislike for the two main characters. I wanted to know how it ended, especially after *spoiler* Marianne and Claire find out that they are sisters. For me, this story could have been about a child with a serious medical condition finding a long lost sister, and then helping that child while building a new family and extended family. i could have been on board with that kind of book and, for a while, that is what it was looking like. Then, in the end, this author was pulling everything out at once; another sister, a dad in witness protection, Marianne's marriage falling apart and her finally becoming a mom herself. It was just too much for me. If all of that content was going to be in this story, I would have rathered it be built through the whole story, not the final couple of chapters.
The positives, and the reason for my 3.5 star review, is the book was well written. I liked the book until the last few chapters. I was in it, I was invested, I could not put it down. I liked Becky as a chapter, and I did start to feel for Marianne and her dreams of being a mother during this story.
For me, this was an okay book. I don't regret reading it but I am not sure if I would read more from this author. I just did not connect like I hoped I would.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2021
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)
My Secret Sister reminded me of the late evening true-life mystery shows you might see on tv; Dateline, or 48 Hours Mystery. The type of story that seems almost too unbelievable to be true, but yet it can happen, and it does happen. Most of my time spent reading about Claire and Marianne was in a constant state of “Whoa.” To discover that you have a half-sister somewhere would be mind blowing enough, yet the way Lauren Westwood depicted it, particularly by bringing in special charm bracelets that at first elicit mainly emotional significance and then later showcases so much more beneath the murky surface of what is really going on, I mean--my mind is still blown by all of it.
Claire’s story, particularly where her daughters are concerned, was incredibly touching and deeply tragic. Claire would do anything for Jess, absolutely anything, and I could completely identify with that emotion. That’s why Marianne felt like such a lifeline to Claire at certain times, but when more is revealed when it comes to Marianne’s intentions, the end goal becomes blurry. There seems to be a lot of sacrifice from everyone involved, and it’s hard to know what the right or wrong thing is anymore.
I loved how everyone was flawed and multi-dimensional. I could understand why each character wants what they want, at times seeking out destruction in order to achieve that. No one was the obvious protagonist or antagonist, because those characteristics melded together in every single person, which made for a really deeply involved read. Who do you side with, who do you root for? I think I rooted for or pushed against all of them at some point in time, hopeful there would be some sort of resolution in the end.
With the ending--I had a feeling it would happen the way it did. I saw it coming, but that didn’t diminish from it. It fit in well with the flow and progression of the story, giving me what I wanted. Who needs television? A true-life mystery was revealed to me right here on the written page, and I more than enjoyed it. A well-written five-star read.
My Secret Sister reminded me of the late evening true-life mystery shows you might see on tv; Dateline, or 48 Hours Mystery. The type of story that seems almost too unbelievable to be true, but yet it can happen, and it does happen. Most of my time spent reading about Claire and Marianne was in a constant state of “Whoa.” To discover that you have a half-sister somewhere would be mind blowing enough, yet the way Lauren Westwood depicted it, particularly by bringing in special charm bracelets that at first elicit mainly emotional significance and then later showcases so much more beneath the murky surface of what is really going on, I mean--my mind is still blown by all of it.
Claire’s story, particularly where her daughters are concerned, was incredibly touching and deeply tragic. Claire would do anything for Jess, absolutely anything, and I could completely identify with that emotion. That’s why Marianne felt like such a lifeline to Claire at certain times, but when more is revealed when it comes to Marianne’s intentions, the end goal becomes blurry. There seems to be a lot of sacrifice from everyone involved, and it’s hard to know what the right or wrong thing is anymore.
I loved how everyone was flawed and multi-dimensional. I could understand why each character wants what they want, at times seeking out destruction in order to achieve that. No one was the obvious protagonist or antagonist, because those characteristics melded together in every single person, which made for a really deeply involved read. Who do you side with, who do you root for? I think I rooted for or pushed against all of them at some point in time, hopeful there would be some sort of resolution in the end.
With the ending--I had a feeling it would happen the way it did. I saw it coming, but that didn’t diminish from it. It fit in well with the flow and progression of the story, giving me what I wanted. Who needs television? A true-life mystery was revealed to me right here on the written page, and I more than enjoyed it. A well-written five-star read.
November 17, 2021
All my reviews can be found at: http://jessicasreadingroom.com
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This review will appear on my site on November 17, 2021.
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My Secret Sister shows how at home DNA testing can be like opening Pandora’s Box: Are you sure you actually want to take the test as you never know what family secrets you may bee revealing. This is the kind of book that book clubs are made for: Covering many topics ranging from IVF, parental issues, medical issues, deceit, and at home DNA testing, this one will have many discussions!
The author started writing this novel before Covid-19 and chose to keep it out of the story. I am glad she chose this as it would have muddied the waters of an already complicated situation. As Covid-19 will most likely always be with us, it doesn’t have to be present in novels that deal with medical situations.
We have three narrators throughout the novel with Claire, Marianne, and Becky and see each of their sides with a variety of emotions. I was pulled in the most with Becky’s chapters. I am not a parent, but have a sister with a physical disability, so I identified with Becky. I can see mothers identifying with Claire and women who have experienced fertility issues identifying with Marianne. Needless to say I think every reader will identify with one of our narrators.
I was intrigued and also unsure with what was going to happen and we get some twists and turns as well. Are we going to have a happy ending or not? My Secret Sister really starts moving around the last third of the novel, but the final twists just did not work for me, as they really came out of left field.
Otherwise, I did enjoy this novel and look forward to what else Westwood has written!
My Secret Sister is recommended.
I received a copy as a part of the blog tour that I volunteered for.
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This review will appear on my site on November 17, 2021.
~~~~
My Secret Sister shows how at home DNA testing can be like opening Pandora’s Box: Are you sure you actually want to take the test as you never know what family secrets you may bee revealing. This is the kind of book that book clubs are made for: Covering many topics ranging from IVF, parental issues, medical issues, deceit, and at home DNA testing, this one will have many discussions!
The author started writing this novel before Covid-19 and chose to keep it out of the story. I am glad she chose this as it would have muddied the waters of an already complicated situation. As Covid-19 will most likely always be with us, it doesn’t have to be present in novels that deal with medical situations.
We have three narrators throughout the novel with Claire, Marianne, and Becky and see each of their sides with a variety of emotions. I was pulled in the most with Becky’s chapters. I am not a parent, but have a sister with a physical disability, so I identified with Becky. I can see mothers identifying with Claire and women who have experienced fertility issues identifying with Marianne. Needless to say I think every reader will identify with one of our narrators.
I was intrigued and also unsure with what was going to happen and we get some twists and turns as well. Are we going to have a happy ending or not? My Secret Sister really starts moving around the last third of the novel, but the final twists just did not work for me, as they really came out of left field.
Otherwise, I did enjoy this novel and look forward to what else Westwood has written!
My Secret Sister is recommended.
I received a copy as a part of the blog tour that I volunteered for.
December 31, 2022
This was an interesting departure from typical suspense or dramatic reads. It took me a little while to get into it, but I found the characters irresistible. I saw pieces of myself in Marianne, Claire and Becky, and know what it’s like to have a chronically sick sibling. The author does a wonderful job of reminding us that each moment is a blessing, although it might not be the “life” we tried to create. In fact, real life can be bitter and sweet at the same.
On a personal note, I lost my goddaughter during the pandemic. Ironically, not to COVID. I received a cryptic 4-line email which was like a break-up, with no real explanation for why. It was life changing and devastating. The author helped me realize that every moment I spent with her in my life was a gift, and helped me process some of the loss I continue to experience. Children are children, family is family, even if they are not your biological families.
I appreciate that this wasn’t a typical, it all works out in the end book. It did work out, but with many surprises and twists, and not all happy.
Highly recommend!
On a personal note, I lost my goddaughter during the pandemic. Ironically, not to COVID. I received a cryptic 4-line email which was like a break-up, with no real explanation for why. It was life changing and devastating. The author helped me realize that every moment I spent with her in my life was a gift, and helped me process some of the loss I continue to experience. Children are children, family is family, even if they are not your biological families.
I appreciate that this wasn’t a typical, it all works out in the end book. It did work out, but with many surprises and twists, and not all happy.
Highly recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2021
This is the first book I have read by this author, but it most definitely will not be the last. I was gripped almost immediately, as I was taken on a highly emotional journey with complex yet intriguing characters.
Covering topics such as IVF, parenthood, and deceit this is a must read for any fans of family based thrillers with moral dilemmas that will get you thinking hard about the ethical struggles being faced. This is thought provoking and would make an ideal read for a book club as there is plenty to discuss.
The plot is perfectly paced and there are lots of surprises and shocking revelations throughout this story. It is well written, in a pleasurable yet intense style, making it easy to follow, and a classic page turner.
A highly recommended and entertaining read that will get your heart and mind racing in unison!
Thank you Rachel’s Random Resources for a place on this book tour and a gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own and this review has been left voluntarily.
Covering topics such as IVF, parenthood, and deceit this is a must read for any fans of family based thrillers with moral dilemmas that will get you thinking hard about the ethical struggles being faced. This is thought provoking and would make an ideal read for a book club as there is plenty to discuss.
The plot is perfectly paced and there are lots of surprises and shocking revelations throughout this story. It is well written, in a pleasurable yet intense style, making it easy to follow, and a classic page turner.
A highly recommended and entertaining read that will get your heart and mind racing in unison!
Thank you Rachel’s Random Resources for a place on this book tour and a gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own and this review has been left voluntarily.
November 30, 2023
I don't know why I torture myself by buying the crappiest sounding books on the kindle store, but sometimes it's cathartic to read something you hate. Every single one of these characters was not just unlikeable - they were caricatures. Never once did any of them feel real. Their actions were never grounded in reality. The pacing was odd. The writing was blah. There was a bizarre pro-life angle and the constant desperation of one of the MCs to get pregnant - and everything she does to achieve this goal is absolutely unhinged - was bonkers to read but it did, at least, reinforce my decision to be childfree lmao. Of course everything is wrapped up neatly in the end with a bow and it's all perfect thanks to the biggest deus ex machina in literature I have ever experienced, leaving me rolling my eyes through the last ten pages.
Oh, also, one character saying she wanted to go for the "juggler" instead of the jugular made me howl with laughter.
This one isn't even a "so bad it's good" book... it's just plain bad.
Oh, also, one character saying she wanted to go for the "juggler" instead of the jugular made me howl with laughter.
This one isn't even a "so bad it's good" book... it's just plain bad.
June 23, 2025
“Two DNA tests…One big lie…”
An emotional roller coaster from start to finish, My Secret Sister is a very well written and researched book that will pull on your heartstrings and even have you shedding a tear or two. Lauren Westwood has crafted an authentic tale that delves into some very sensitive themes, including miscarriages, IVF and Aplastic Anaemia, which may be triggers for some readers. You feel everything that each of the characters go through, not limited to, grief, fear and anger, which is a credit to how real and believable they all are in their creation and brought to life through Westwood’s prose.
I enjoyed the other element of the story which focuses on genealogy which adds more drama to the story, as our two leads must face and and come to terms with shocking secrets uncovered, which throws open one massive can of worms! It is this that also makes this tale even more riveting and adds to its gripping outcome.
An emotional roller coaster from start to finish, My Secret Sister is a very well written and researched book that will pull on your heartstrings and even have you shedding a tear or two. Lauren Westwood has crafted an authentic tale that delves into some very sensitive themes, including miscarriages, IVF and Aplastic Anaemia, which may be triggers for some readers. You feel everything that each of the characters go through, not limited to, grief, fear and anger, which is a credit to how real and believable they all are in their creation and brought to life through Westwood’s prose.
I enjoyed the other element of the story which focuses on genealogy which adds more drama to the story, as our two leads must face and and come to terms with shocking secrets uncovered, which throws open one massive can of worms! It is this that also makes this tale even more riveting and adds to its gripping outcome.
November 13, 2021
A book that isn't just emotional it's full of suspense that creates a story that makes you want to read until you have to tear yourself away.
A well written story with strong and complex characters that hold your attention and make you want to discover what will happen next, even if the characters aren't all likeable. I really did become invested in this story. I am a mother and this pulled on my heartstrings so much. It isn't a light read at times and even though I have never experienced what these women were going through, I still felt like I was by their sides.
A deeply moving story that shows the bonds of family and how DNA testing can affect not just one family but several. A gripping, intriguing and at times emotional read.
A well written story with strong and complex characters that hold your attention and make you want to discover what will happen next, even if the characters aren't all likeable. I really did become invested in this story. I am a mother and this pulled on my heartstrings so much. It isn't a light read at times and even though I have never experienced what these women were going through, I still felt like I was by their sides.
A deeply moving story that shows the bonds of family and how DNA testing can affect not just one family but several. A gripping, intriguing and at times emotional read.
November 23, 2021
My Secret Sister by Lauren Westwood is my first read from this author and I really enjoyed it. I don’t read s ton of women’s fiction, but I see why I should change that.
My Secret Sister was difficult to put down. It has a bit of dark humor mixed in with suspense and emotion. The writing is really compelling, and I felt very drawn into the story from page one.
The characters are complex. They are not always likeable and like real life people, make decisions you won’t always agree with. This adds a sense of realism I sometimes think authors are afraid to add, and I really appreciated it.
Overall, this was a great read. I think you’ll enjoy it if you give it a shot!
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the free review copy. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
My Secret Sister was difficult to put down. It has a bit of dark humor mixed in with suspense and emotion. The writing is really compelling, and I felt very drawn into the story from page one.
The characters are complex. They are not always likeable and like real life people, make decisions you won’t always agree with. This adds a sense of realism I sometimes think authors are afraid to add, and I really appreciated it.
Overall, this was a great read. I think you’ll enjoy it if you give it a shot!
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the free review copy. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
November 15, 2021
I'm sorry to have to say, but all the characters in this book are basically self-centred, scheming, devious, secretive, and awful. If you are a relatively forthright and honest type, they will drive you mad, as they did me. Even the terrible teenager is dreadful compared with real people of her age. It makes me think a bit of those incels that commit mass shootings or car rammings. When one obsession starts to rule your life, you lose sight of everything that can be special in your life and you relinquish principles of decency. This novel is a good illustration of that point, and as such it is a good read.
November 10, 2021
Two women on opposite sides of the country are connected in a way they never knew. They are both looking for a close family relation, one to save her daughter and one to have a child. Both are mothers that will do anything to protect their children. What I loved about this book was the honest writing. Lauren takes you on an emotional journey with these two women. Their home lives are not perfect. Their husbands have given up on them. But through it all they keep going for their children.
I really enjoyed the premise of the story and the ending. It was unexpected but fit the book perfectly.
I really enjoyed the premise of the story and the ending. It was unexpected but fit the book perfectly.
November 15, 2021
Fantastic! This was one of those books that takes you on one big, fat emotional journey through the lives of our two as yet unknown to each other sisters, both flawed but determined, headstrong characters.
The first book I've read by this author & it definitely won't be the last. Her style of writing flawless, allowing the story to flow seamlessly from the pages.
Such a compelling read, full of twists & turns.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot & gifted copy.
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 5 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
The first book I've read by this author & it definitely won't be the last. Her style of writing flawless, allowing the story to flow seamlessly from the pages.
Such a compelling read, full of twists & turns.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot & gifted copy.
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 5 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
May 7, 2022
I feel like this book had so much potential…. But felt disappointing. Way too many plot lines happening without half of them being wrapped up?
The main character, Claire, made it hard for me to feel bad for her. There was too much inner dialogue in my opinion. Half of the chapters felt like they dragged on.
The dad story line was so interesting and great until the end… he’s alive, barely explains himself, then just leaves?! I think there should have been more explanation.
Also the very last chapter… Marianne finds out her dad was a fraud. She has a baby with a guy that she refers to as the baby’s uncle and won’t tell him the baby is his?? She just went through a whirlwind of issues with her dad and is now going to make her baby’s situation weird?
Overall, I think the book was okay. I just wish there was more plot rather than inner dialogue!
The main character, Claire, made it hard for me to feel bad for her. There was too much inner dialogue in my opinion. Half of the chapters felt like they dragged on.
The dad story line was so interesting and great until the end… he’s alive, barely explains himself, then just leaves?! I think there should have been more explanation.
Also the very last chapter… Marianne finds out her dad was a fraud. She has a baby with a guy that she refers to as the baby’s uncle and won’t tell him the baby is his?? She just went through a whirlwind of issues with her dad and is now going to make her baby’s situation weird?
Overall, I think the book was okay. I just wish there was more plot rather than inner dialogue!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2023
Brilliant book
I really loved this book, it is thought provoking, absorbing and emotional. The story follows Claire and her two daughters, one of whom needs a bone marrow transplant. With no suitable donor to be found in the immediate family, Claire begins a DNA journey in an attempt to find a match before it’s too late. There are plenty of twists and turns along the way and I’m not going to spoil any of it! The main characters are well written and believable, and I was rooting for things to turn out well. I will definitely be reading more by this author.
I really loved this book, it is thought provoking, absorbing and emotional. The story follows Claire and her two daughters, one of whom needs a bone marrow transplant. With no suitable donor to be found in the immediate family, Claire begins a DNA journey in an attempt to find a match before it’s too late. There are plenty of twists and turns along the way and I’m not going to spoil any of it! The main characters are well written and believable, and I was rooting for things to turn out well. I will definitely be reading more by this author.
March 28, 2023
I very much looked forward to reading this but right from the start I wasn't into it. I found it boring.
It was all over the place and there were gaps of weeks or months between chapters that made the whole thing uncoehesive.
Things picked up around the halfway mark but by then I just didn't care.
The story became even more ridiculous as the 2 sisters suddenly seem to have a personality change and then just became plain stupid with an unbelievable reveal regarding their father.
Not worth the read.
It was all over the place and there were gaps of weeks or months between chapters that made the whole thing uncoehesive.
Things picked up around the halfway mark but by then I just didn't care.
The story became even more ridiculous as the 2 sisters suddenly seem to have a personality change and then just became plain stupid with an unbelievable reveal regarding their father.
Not worth the read.
February 16, 2025
I enjoyed this book as a whole, but there were a few things that erked me. I really didn’t like a few of the main characters. Especially Claire. I hated her and the way she treated Becky. I loved reading about the experiences of someone being treated for blood cancer. It’s truly heartbreaking. The stuff with the dad was very far fetched and unnecessary. And I felt that the book really dragged at the end.
Oh, and it bothered me that they were trying to blame infertility issues on abortion. It made me wonder if this was a scare tactic to stop women getting abortions…?
Oh, and it bothered me that they were trying to blame infertility issues on abortion. It made me wonder if this was a scare tactic to stop women getting abortions…?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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