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Confessions of the Other Sister
Beth Harbison, New York Times bestselling author of The Cookbook Club, has written her strongest novel yet: a story filled with humor, heart and a little bit of snark. This unforgettable story about two very different sisters who must come together and face their past if they can make their future better is perfect for fans of Jennifer Weiner, Sophia Kinsella, and Christina Lauren.
They were two sisters with nothing in common but their parents.
Frances Turner has a confession to make: her sister, Crosby, who has built her life on good luck and good looks, drives her crazy. The woman wakes up in the morning with perfect hair. Men flock to her. And she somehow managed to jump out of the frying pan and into fame, writing a blockbuster novel--and making a zillion bucks--without even trying. And Frances, who has followed every rule, is stuck in pause.
Crosby Turner has a confession as well: Frances locks herself in a miserable little box and Crosby can't understand it. With her fear of the unknown and her "Franic Attacks," her sister is a small-time actress with big-time dreams--and talent--but playing by the rules gets her nowhere. Heck, the closest Frannie gets to famous is as a caterer to the stars. Why can't she break loose and climb out of her rut?
Then fate intervenes, throwing these incompatible siblings together in this sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking novel of sisterhood, grown-ups who need to grow up, and the realization that no one in a family is invisible.
They were two sisters with nothing in common but their parents.
Frances Turner has a confession to make: her sister, Crosby, who has built her life on good luck and good looks, drives her crazy. The woman wakes up in the morning with perfect hair. Men flock to her. And she somehow managed to jump out of the frying pan and into fame, writing a blockbuster novel--and making a zillion bucks--without even trying. And Frances, who has followed every rule, is stuck in pause.
Crosby Turner has a confession as well: Frances locks herself in a miserable little box and Crosby can't understand it. With her fear of the unknown and her "Franic Attacks," her sister is a small-time actress with big-time dreams--and talent--but playing by the rules gets her nowhere. Heck, the closest Frannie gets to famous is as a caterer to the stars. Why can't she break loose and climb out of her rut?
Then fate intervenes, throwing these incompatible siblings together in this sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking novel of sisterhood, grown-ups who need to grow up, and the realization that no one in a family is invisible.
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 11, 2022
115 people are currently reading
6537 people want to read
About the author
Beth Harbison
25 books1,701 followersBeth Harbison grew up in Potomac, Maryland, in the shadow of Washington, D.C. Apart from the occasional irritation at being held up in traffic by a presidential motorcade, she has remained fairly uninvolved in the politics that define her home town. Her latest book is CONFESSIONS OF THE OTHER SISTER, William Morrow 10/11/22
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
June 8, 2022
When I won this book in a giveaway I don't know that I've ever been so excited. Beth Harbison is one of my favorite authors. Opening her book is like going back to talk to an old friend. I have a sister and this book resonated with me on so many levels. I don't want to give anything away, but this bittersweet tale of two sisters is worth the read. So glad I had an advanced copy. I wouldn't have wanted to wait even one more day to read it.
August 8, 2022
I was happy to have won an advance copy of Confessions of the Other Sister by Beth Harbison on Goodreads as I have enjoyed many of her books in the past. Unfortunately, I think I have outgrown this author. The first eighty percent of the book is light women's fiction or what is formally known as chick-lit and I think it would have made a descent, if forgettable, beach read. However, the book takes a turn into something a bit darker which I felt ruined the easy, escapist tone of the novel. The main characters are in their mid-thirties but seemed to me at least a decade younger with their problems, attitudes, and views on life. Sadly, I can't really recommend this book to anyone other than diehard fans of the author.
November 8, 2022
Usually, as someone with a sister, I really enjoy books that describe a sibling relationship, but there was just something missing here for me. Maybe the issue for me is that my relationship with my sister is so different from this, so I couldn't help but not relate here. Family relationships can be so personal, so you can go two ways with this. You can either completely relate, or not see any connection. I am not at all saying that each book needs to be universally relatable, because clearly that is not realistic, this just happened to be a book I didn't quite connect to.
Overall, this story is enjoyable and had some really difficult moments, albeit also some rather slow moments as well.
Definitely thankful for winning this from a Goodreads Giveaway and would be interested in reading more from this author.
Overall, this story is enjoyable and had some really difficult moments, albeit also some rather slow moments as well.
Definitely thankful for winning this from a Goodreads Giveaway and would be interested in reading more from this author.
October 12, 2022
Confessions of the Other Sister is a powerful story about family, misguided jealousy and secrets between two sisters and the unfortunate trauma it takes to heal their souls.
Frances Turner is a chef to celebrities. She lives in L.A. and really wants to become an actress, but it seems the only thing she is good at is cooking and auditioning. She is a very organized person with an organized life and plans…for everything, accept when her employer tells her she is moving to Palm Springs and invites Frances to go with her. But if Frances goes, she knows she will never become the actress she knows she can be.
Crosby Turner, Frances’ sister, is a bestselling author who lives a glamorous life in New York City. She buys the best of everything and doesn’t worry about where the money will come from because she is rich, rich, rich! Until her accounts tells her she is poor, poor, poor and she better come out with another best-seller if she wants to survive! Unfortunately for Crosby, she has had a bit of writer’s block for years…probably too busy enjoying her lifestyle! But when an offer comes from a singer Crosby grew up loving to ghostwrite her memoir, she thinks she’s hit the jackpot. But there is a catch. She would have to go to L.A. to do the interviews and ugh, her sister lives there.
Frances and Crosby have not been very close for years, even when they were children, they both seemed to vie for their parent’s attention and have been competitive ever since. When Crosby stole Frances’ boyfriend during high school, well that sealed the deal for her. So, when Frances finds out Crosby will be coming to her neck of the woods, needless to say she is not too thrilled.
As the two try and get along things don’t seem to be working out so well. Neither can understand why the other is so hurtful. Crosby really can’t afford to be here and finds out she rented a dump. Then she realizes the musician she admired all those years ago it a bit of a scatterbrain. Frances must choose between following her dream, or the security of a job and when she is asked to put her sister in contact with someone she has auditioned for she must decide if she wants to do that fearing her sister’s vibrant personality will push her out of the running for the part.
But when an unexpected tragedy occurs, which will change their lives forever, they must somehow come together and put all their past grievances aside and reconcile. They must attempt to listen to each other and heal their grievances. They must become the sisters they never really were.
Confessions of the Other Sister is a witty look at sibling rivalry, a heartbreaking story about all the time which was lost due to misunderstandings, and a hopeful story of learning to not only be siblings, but friends.
Thank you #Goodreads #WilliamMorrow #/BethHarbison #ConfessionsoftheotherSister for the advanced copy.
Frances Turner is a chef to celebrities. She lives in L.A. and really wants to become an actress, but it seems the only thing she is good at is cooking and auditioning. She is a very organized person with an organized life and plans…for everything, accept when her employer tells her she is moving to Palm Springs and invites Frances to go with her. But if Frances goes, she knows she will never become the actress she knows she can be.
Crosby Turner, Frances’ sister, is a bestselling author who lives a glamorous life in New York City. She buys the best of everything and doesn’t worry about where the money will come from because she is rich, rich, rich! Until her accounts tells her she is poor, poor, poor and she better come out with another best-seller if she wants to survive! Unfortunately for Crosby, she has had a bit of writer’s block for years…probably too busy enjoying her lifestyle! But when an offer comes from a singer Crosby grew up loving to ghostwrite her memoir, she thinks she’s hit the jackpot. But there is a catch. She would have to go to L.A. to do the interviews and ugh, her sister lives there.
Frances and Crosby have not been very close for years, even when they were children, they both seemed to vie for their parent’s attention and have been competitive ever since. When Crosby stole Frances’ boyfriend during high school, well that sealed the deal for her. So, when Frances finds out Crosby will be coming to her neck of the woods, needless to say she is not too thrilled.
As the two try and get along things don’t seem to be working out so well. Neither can understand why the other is so hurtful. Crosby really can’t afford to be here and finds out she rented a dump. Then she realizes the musician she admired all those years ago it a bit of a scatterbrain. Frances must choose between following her dream, or the security of a job and when she is asked to put her sister in contact with someone she has auditioned for she must decide if she wants to do that fearing her sister’s vibrant personality will push her out of the running for the part.
But when an unexpected tragedy occurs, which will change their lives forever, they must somehow come together and put all their past grievances aside and reconcile. They must attempt to listen to each other and heal their grievances. They must become the sisters they never really were.
Confessions of the Other Sister is a witty look at sibling rivalry, a heartbreaking story about all the time which was lost due to misunderstandings, and a hopeful story of learning to not only be siblings, but friends.
Thank you #Goodreads #WilliamMorrow #/BethHarbison #ConfessionsoftheotherSister for the advanced copy.
November 12, 2022
I just love Beth Harbison. She used to live in my area and I had a fantasy that we would meet and become besties locally. I understand from this book that she now lives in LA, so I suppose this is even more unlikely now. All this is to say that while I am a huge fan of hers, this book was a little underwhelming compared to how I felt about her other books. I didn’t really like either sister that much, and the plot was also relatively predictable.
But even with that, I think her books are considerably better than most authors in this genre. So I don’t want to discourage anyone who might consider reading one of her books for the first time. You will enjoy it!
But even with that, I think her books are considerably better than most authors in this genre. So I don’t want to discourage anyone who might consider reading one of her books for the first time. You will enjoy it!
May 10, 2023
This book hit home on so many levels. Thanks, Beth, for another wonderful one…with recipes!
December 6, 2022
This was my first book by Harbison. I was not very impressed with this read. I had to force myself to read it, that is not like me. I read every day all day. Maybe it was just I could not connect with the characters. I might try another one of this authors books to see how I feel. This is just my opinion maybe you will enjoy it.
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September 15, 2022Crosby and Frances are very, very different although they grew up together and are sisters. Crosby was the little tagalong sister and Frances loved her but wanted to be her own person and have her space. Then, something happened to Crosby while tagging along with Frances at a high school party. Frances never knew what really happened because Crosby never told her the truth about it.
Throughout life they spoke when they needed to but overall they kept their distance. It almost seemed that they longed for a close relationship but just couldn’t bring themselves to do it. They were both stubborn. An opportunity arose for Frances thanks to Crosby calling her and giving her the opportunity to be a part of something BIG! Something Frances needed.
They reunited in person while Frances began working on this opportunity and they were still hesitant with each other but able to confess some things and bond like they should have years before. They went through some rough times and also some good fortunes together while Frances was living near Crosby again.
A story of love, resentment, lack of communication, and a journey through Crosby and Frances’ need for stardom and accomplishment in life. Also, a strive for happiness and a big break in life and the beautiful bond that we have with family that comes through when it is needed most.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow & Company for the ARC of this book.
Throughout life they spoke when they needed to but overall they kept their distance. It almost seemed that they longed for a close relationship but just couldn’t bring themselves to do it. They were both stubborn. An opportunity arose for Frances thanks to Crosby calling her and giving her the opportunity to be a part of something BIG! Something Frances needed.
They reunited in person while Frances began working on this opportunity and they were still hesitant with each other but able to confess some things and bond like they should have years before. They went through some rough times and also some good fortunes together while Frances was living near Crosby again.
A story of love, resentment, lack of communication, and a journey through Crosby and Frances’ need for stardom and accomplishment in life. Also, a strive for happiness and a big break in life and the beautiful bond that we have with family that comes through when it is needed most.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow & Company for the ARC of this book.
October 5, 2024
No real direction with the book or plot & the ending felt sudden, rushed, and predictable. Sometimes there was also too much dialogue that didn’t feel like it moved the plot along. That being said, the characters were relatable/likeable which kept me reading
June 12, 2022
This is a tale of two sisters who are very different from each ot her. Frances is the younger one, always wanting to be a great actress, but of course the competition is stiff. A great cook, Frances can always find a job that pays her bills in that field. Also, the practical one, not impulsive.
The older sister, Crosby, is the daring one and has honed a mystery story starting from childhood and it became a best seller.
A page turner, family story with two wonderful parents thrown in, I wondered at the beginning if I could finish it. It seemed too light and fluffy but them, a few serious turns made it into a better znd deeper story. Because of its page turning quality it would make a great beach read or a gift for a friend to read in the hospital.
I have ADHD and I was dismayed at the portrayal of has been movie star who made it big when she was a teen. I thought that her ADD was overdone. I wondered if someone could be that distracted all the time. Either I am in better shape than typical or the actress is not typical. I will let other readers decide.
I did like the way that the sisters were portrayed, but I have had a sister. so you tell me if the relationship was painted realistically.
The older sister, Crosby, is the daring one and has honed a mystery story starting from childhood and it became a best seller.
A page turner, family story with two wonderful parents thrown in, I wondered at the beginning if I could finish it. It seemed too light and fluffy but them, a few serious turns made it into a better znd deeper story. Because of its page turning quality it would make a great beach read or a gift for a friend to read in the hospital.
I have ADHD and I was dismayed at the portrayal of has been movie star who made it big when she was a teen. I thought that her ADD was overdone. I wondered if someone could be that distracted all the time. Either I am in better shape than typical or the actress is not typical. I will let other readers decide.
I did like the way that the sisters were portrayed, but I have had a sister. so you tell me if the relationship was painted realistically.
June 20, 2022
Who doesn't live with regret? In this book, both sisters Frances and Crosby deal with their regret and ponder on how these choices influence their relationship with each other. I didn't expect to enjoy this book as much as I did -- but I found the rivalry between sisters, their choices and their relationship interesting and engaging. Though I did feel that the ultimate reveal was a little rushed and quickly pushed aside. Overall, it was a fast, satisfying read. I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review.
October 31, 2022
Did not like this book. Would not have finished it except I won a free kindle copy through Goodreads. I read it off and on over about two weeks and struggled to get through a few pages at a time. I just didn’t relate to the sisters. I didn’t like their characters. The rape at the beginning just seemed way too serious and didn’t fit the rest of the book
January 22, 2023
I bookmarked sixteen pages of insightful, funny and profound quotes as I read Confessions of the Other Sister, but I hated the book.
I dislike the main characters, Frances and Cosby, immensely. They constantly tell us about the wonderful, loving family in which they grew up.
They are two of the most self-involved, insecure, self-made pitiful and weak-kneed characters I can remember encountering.
The chapters are labeled by the voice of the sister telling it, but far too many times I couldn't tell which one was speaking in their conversations with the other or to themselves while in their conversations with each other.
By the time Ms. Harbison got around to mocking the Catholic Church, my negative view Confessions of the Other Sister was cemented. I would love to know why she found it necessary to take such an unnecessary a cheap shot.
The story takes a one hundred eighty degree turn with a sad event and, just as suddenly, the two sisters are planning their future together. Good luck, ladies. Until you learn to be honest with yourselves and each other, you're going to need it.
Confessions of the Other Sister is the thirteenth book I've read by Beth Harbison. I so enjoyed the first twelve but this one is just awful.
Barely 2 stars for Confessions of the Other Sister and only because of this poignant line,
I dislike the main characters, Frances and Cosby, immensely. They constantly tell us about the wonderful, loving family in which they grew up.
"Dad said he'd help if there was an emergency, so. . .
"Typical Dad. Mom too. We were so lucky to have them. That was probably one thing we could really agree on."
"Life was never hopeless as long as I could go home. And my parents were, to me, home."Telling us is not showing us.
They are two of the most self-involved, insecure, self-made pitiful and weak-kneed characters I can remember encountering.
"Why did it feel so cold to be around her?They have a push-pull relationship with each other, each determined to believe the 'other sister' got the better of life, usually at their expense. They share times together but rarely share grace. Grow up ladies, you're in your mid to late thirties hanging on to childhood and high school slights.
Gah. Better not to think too much about it. I'd just keep on being the clown, my apparent role in the family, and she can keep on judging me and being superior. Practical. Confident. That was her role."
The chapters are labeled by the voice of the sister telling it, but far too many times I couldn't tell which one was speaking in their conversations with the other or to themselves while in their conversations with each other.
By the time Ms. Harbison got around to mocking the Catholic Church, my negative view Confessions of the Other Sister was cemented. I would love to know why she found it necessary to take such an unnecessary a cheap shot.
"It was so strange to see him in Frances's apartment. His presence seemed to puff and fill every crevice of the place. It seemed forever blessed now, like a devout Catholic's house after it was visited by the pope. One of the really good popes. Are there lots of good ones, or is it just this most recent one who thinks gay marriage is cool?"Really? A proficient and best-selling author can't produce a better simile or, perhaps, have the good sense to leave out the posturing on social issues completely irrelevant to the story?
The story takes a one hundred eighty degree turn with a sad event and, just as suddenly, the two sisters are planning their future together. Good luck, ladies. Until you learn to be honest with yourselves and each other, you're going to need it.
Confessions of the Other Sister is the thirteenth book I've read by Beth Harbison. I so enjoyed the first twelve but this one is just awful.
Barely 2 stars for Confessions of the Other Sister and only because of this poignant line,
"How long did it take to tread, awake, through the hours, days, and weeks following a death until finally the memories brought smiles instead of tears?"
November 6, 2022
Can two sisters renew their relationship after a lifetime of competition? Confessions of the Other Sister by Beth Harbison explores this age-old question in her latest novel. Frances and Crosby cannot get along. Frances, a struggling actress in Los Angeles, moonlights as a chef for a famous, veteran actress while Crosby writes a runaway bestseller and cannot think what to do next. Crosby flees her secret second-book slump, massive debts, and New York City apartment to see what's available to her in La-La Land. But will Frances welcome her with open arms?
I'm a fan of Beth Harbison, so I was looking forward to reading this book, but I was disappointed. While it wasn't necessarily predictable, it was somewhat threadbare. There's not enough romance even though one character does have the potential for a new relationship. Many stories begin and then do not get tied up. And it's not even cliffhanger material--it just trails off without the prospect of a sequel to wrap things up.
Although a major rift between the women gets its own chapters, and, at first, you're not sure which sister is involved in the event, it isn't felt throughout the book. At the end, it's revealed, but, for as devastating an incident as it is, it's almost brushed aside. It seemed that it should be addressed more in-depth.
For one sister, I didn't like her trajectory because I felt like she was dismissing her true calling. Sure, her parents were totally supportive of her dreams, but the character seemed to be reaching for something that wasn't really logical or possible. Plus, like another reviewer mentioned that I never even thought of, the characters appeared much older than what you would expect. It was hard to believe that neither one really had their lives together.
Anyway, I hated to give this a lackluster review, but it just didn't match up to my expectations. She has so many great books, but this one wasn't one of them.
I'm a fan of Beth Harbison, so I was looking forward to reading this book, but I was disappointed. While it wasn't necessarily predictable, it was somewhat threadbare. There's not enough romance even though one character does have the potential for a new relationship. Many stories begin and then do not get tied up. And it's not even cliffhanger material--it just trails off without the prospect of a sequel to wrap things up.
Although a major rift between the women gets its own chapters, and, at first, you're not sure which sister is involved in the event, it isn't felt throughout the book. At the end, it's revealed, but, for as devastating an incident as it is, it's almost brushed aside. It seemed that it should be addressed more in-depth.
For one sister, I didn't like her trajectory because I felt like she was dismissing her true calling. Sure, her parents were totally supportive of her dreams, but the character seemed to be reaching for something that wasn't really logical or possible. Plus, like another reviewer mentioned that I never even thought of, the characters appeared much older than what you would expect. It was hard to believe that neither one really had their lives together.
Anyway, I hated to give this a lackluster review, but it just didn't match up to my expectations. She has so many great books, but this one wasn't one of them.
November 9, 2022
I read all of Confessions of the Other Sister in one day. It was definitely engaging and entertaining. I enjoyed seeing both Frances and Crosby's perspectives and getting to know them. They were both likable even though they had their own flaws and insecurities to overcome. I also liked seeing their interactions with each other, which felt genuine. I could definitely feel Crosby's frustration with Mardie when they were working together. I also felt sympathy toward Frances over all the hurdles she was trying to jump to make her dream a reality.
I read an advanced copy of this novel, so I am hoping the timing inconsistencies were caught and ironed out for the final publication. I do time math in my head whenever I'm reading a book, so I just have to overlook it when I'm reading an ARC, but it's hard to train my mind to do that. I also felt like things didn't really get tied up and a lot was left hanging.
One part of the story hit close to home, but it's not like Beth could have predicted that when she wrote it.
Overall, an interesting and relatable read!
Movie casting suggestions:
TW: Sexual assault
I read an advanced copy of this novel, so I am hoping the timing inconsistencies were caught and ironed out for the final publication. I do time math in my head whenever I'm reading a book, so I just have to overlook it when I'm reading an ARC, but it's hard to train my mind to do that. I also felt like things didn't really get tied up and a lot was left hanging.
One part of the story hit close to home, but it's not like Beth could have predicted that when she wrote it.
Overall, an interesting and relatable read!
Movie casting suggestions:
Frances: Rebecca Rittenhouse
Crosby: AJ Michalka
Mardie: Izabella Miko
Trey: Channing Tatum
Jill: Christine Baranski
TW: Sexual assault
September 11, 2022
Family relationships can be fantastic or the pits. When you have competitive members who don't get along and have their own views of the other, good times do not roll. Confessions of the Other Sister is told in alternating perspectives by each sister. Frances is the elder who does everything possible to follow her dream to be an actress but just can't get there. She is successful though is a caterer to a actress who will do just about anything to help her meet her dreams. Crosby the younger found success almost immediately but has no control with money and just can't get anywhere with her second novel. When circumstances brings them together, oh the thoughts and actions of two 30 somethings really need to grow up and talk, a bit of #adulting would help both. The author does a good job with character development even though those characteristics of each can drive you crazy particularly for an individual old enough to be their mother. It is probably even sadder to see that a happy family with great parents did not stop to see that together the girls could have had a supportive relationship if talk and working out teenage conflicts had been in their wheelhouse. Yet I think we all find out as an adult, perspectives on growing up and each other by siblings can show quite different points of view. I think those who enjoy family stories or maybe have a bit of conflict with their own siblings will enjoy the read. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC.
September 17, 2022
Francis and Crosby Turner are sisters who have little in common. Francis is somewhat jealous of Crosby because good luck seems to fall into her lap, and Crosby harbors anger towards Francis for a perceived slight in their youth. When Crosby has an opportunity in Francis' city, the sisters live together again and tensions rise to the surface.
This was an ok story about two people who can't really communicate. I wanted to shake both of them because it would've been so easy to just be honest with each other. I know that this is a major component to conflict and makes the story better, but the miscommunication between them was far too serious to carry into adulthood. Francis and Crosby were in their 30s but seemed so much younger. Both characters had strong feelings, good and bad, towards the other, but I didn't really *feel* it, if that makes sense. The feelings of hurt and anger didn't really make an impression on me, and while the story was well-written, these characters will not stay with me.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy.
This was an ok story about two people who can't really communicate. I wanted to shake both of them because it would've been so easy to just be honest with each other. I know that this is a major component to conflict and makes the story better, but the miscommunication between them was far too serious to carry into adulthood. Francis and Crosby were in their 30s but seemed so much younger. Both characters had strong feelings, good and bad, towards the other, but I didn't really *feel* it, if that makes sense. The feelings of hurt and anger didn't really make an impression on me, and while the story was well-written, these characters will not stay with me.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy.
July 14, 2022
Beth Harbison tells a story of two sisters in Confessions of the Other Sister that anyone who has a sister can easily relate to. HarperCollins sent me an uncorrected proof copy to read; this version even includes an appendix full of recipes that aspiring actress/successful chef Frances Turner talks about making in her part-time job cooking for TV Diva Jill Cameron. Frances has always been jealous of her younger sister Crosby who wrote a best-seller but, unknown to Frances, has squandered all of those profits. Crosby comes out to Los Angeles to ghost-write a memoir for a self-centered young actress, which scares Frances because she is sure Crosby is going to steal any opportunities to succeed that Frances might have. When a secret finally comes out, the relationship between the girls improves to leave readers on a satisfying note. Book clubs will enjoy tearing the relationship apart and analyzing it in their discussions.
September 20, 2022
I received a copy from a Goodreads giveaway.
It's a good book about sisters and their love and/or hate relationship. The beginning of the story jumps from the past and present and also between the two sisters perspectives.
I wasn't drawn to either of the characters. It's interesting how one perceives a person and how it can be completely inaccurate. The assumptions that are made are usually incorrect and the consequences of that are displayed in this book. These assumptions affect our decision making, relationships, and more. These sisters fall under this category.
The storyline was pretty good but the end moved rather quickly and predictable. When tragedy strikes, relationships are generally re-evaluated as well as our life choices. I guess it's only human nature.
I did enjoy the extras such as the music playlist to accompany the story as well as recipes. I made the Cream of Crab Soup and my husband really enjoyed it.
It's a good book about sisters and their love and/or hate relationship. The beginning of the story jumps from the past and present and also between the two sisters perspectives.
I wasn't drawn to either of the characters. It's interesting how one perceives a person and how it can be completely inaccurate. The assumptions that are made are usually incorrect and the consequences of that are displayed in this book. These assumptions affect our decision making, relationships, and more. These sisters fall under this category.
The storyline was pretty good but the end moved rather quickly and predictable. When tragedy strikes, relationships are generally re-evaluated as well as our life choices. I guess it's only human nature.
I did enjoy the extras such as the music playlist to accompany the story as well as recipes. I made the Cream of Crab Soup and my husband really enjoyed it.
October 9, 2022
Crosby and Frances- sisters who are both hiding their career struggles. Frances, an actress who has never gotten a speaking part in a film, believes her younger sister Crosby, who has had a hit song and a hot novel, has it all. Yes, Crosby has it all- all the bills and she's broke so when Frances, who has been working as a chef to a former TV icon, passes her name along as a co-writer for the "autobiography" of an aging pop star, she grabs it. These two don't really like each other, with resentment that dates to their teen years in particular. The dark assault that colors their relationship doesn't really fit with the rest of the story in a way I can't quite put my finger on. That said, this is an entertaining look at the other side of Hollywood. It's also a portrait of aging women - not just Crosby and Frances but all the other characters. And there's a an unlikely romance. No spoilers from me. Thanks to Edelweiss for the ARC.
November 11, 2022
Like so many people, I read this book in just one day. It was a good book, interesting and engaging, and I am glad I chose it. Unfortunately it just seemed “rushed” to me.
I loved the storyline. I loved that there were plenty of fascinating avenues to explore. But this could have been a trilogy, and I’m not really sure that would have been enough time to fully flesh out the characters. The book was well written and, while there were some timing or continuity errors, they were not glaring. It has to be said that I did read this book quickly, but there were a few places where it was clear that the author had planned a scene that didn’t quite make the final cut. I figured it out - there was usually an illusion to whatever was missing - but there was a missed opportunity to really explore these characters, and their fascinating lives, in depth.
I vacillated between three and four stars and ultimately realized that the flaws did outweigh the extra star.
I loved the storyline. I loved that there were plenty of fascinating avenues to explore. But this could have been a trilogy, and I’m not really sure that would have been enough time to fully flesh out the characters. The book was well written and, while there were some timing or continuity errors, they were not glaring. It has to be said that I did read this book quickly, but there were a few places where it was clear that the author had planned a scene that didn’t quite make the final cut. I figured it out - there was usually an illusion to whatever was missing - but there was a missed opportunity to really explore these characters, and their fascinating lives, in depth.
I vacillated between three and four stars and ultimately realized that the flaws did outweigh the extra star.
April 24, 2023
3.5 stars
Crosby and Frances are adult sisters who grew up close in age, but total opposites. Now that Crosby has a best-selling book under her belt and Frances has had a mildly successful acting career, they are both wondering what is next for them. Both find themselves struggling financially, and they are both preparing for a career change.
When Frances gets a lead for a new ghostwriting job for Crosby, she hesitantly gets in touch with her sister to pass the offer on. Crosby jumps at the offer and finds herself moving across the country for the job, and for a reunion with her sister.
While the girls struggle with their renewed close proximity, they both put up a front with how successful and thriving they are. But, they can't keep up airs with each other for long.
All in all, this is a feel-good story about the strength of the sisterhood bond and shared family experiences. I story kept my interest and I enjoyed the writing.
I won this book from First Reads.
Crosby and Frances are adult sisters who grew up close in age, but total opposites. Now that Crosby has a best-selling book under her belt and Frances has had a mildly successful acting career, they are both wondering what is next for them. Both find themselves struggling financially, and they are both preparing for a career change.
When Frances gets a lead for a new ghostwriting job for Crosby, she hesitantly gets in touch with her sister to pass the offer on. Crosby jumps at the offer and finds herself moving across the country for the job, and for a reunion with her sister.
While the girls struggle with their renewed close proximity, they both put up a front with how successful and thriving they are. But, they can't keep up airs with each other for long.
All in all, this is a feel-good story about the strength of the sisterhood bond and shared family experiences. I story kept my interest and I enjoyed the writing.
I won this book from First Reads.
October 11, 2022
There was a lot I liked about this book, particularly that it's a great illustration of the large and small stories we tell ourselves about what others are doing and why, and how when we act on those stories we sometimes move in the wrong direction.
However, I was absolutely appalled at the extreme alcohol use in this book. The characters were drinking alcohol in almost every scene and were talking or thinking about it when they weren't drinking. This was particularly strange given that one of the characters was sexually assaulted while drunk and then told herself she always had to be careful afterward, but then apparently had no problem being intoxicated in all kinds of situations. It just did not seem consistent to me. As a nondrinker for over a decade, it's just hard to see how this substance is glorified in our society.
However, I was absolutely appalled at the extreme alcohol use in this book. The characters were drinking alcohol in almost every scene and were talking or thinking about it when they weren't drinking. This was particularly strange given that one of the characters was sexually assaulted while drunk and then told herself she always had to be careful afterward, but then apparently had no problem being intoxicated in all kinds of situations. It just did not seem consistent to me. As a nondrinker for over a decade, it's just hard to see how this substance is glorified in our society.
August 25, 2023
I have been a fan of Beth Harbison for a long time. Her writing style is fun and easy. The books she writes are great palate cleansers. Confessions of the Other Sister was exactly that but with a bit more emotion added in. Those emotions included laughter and sadness, but also so much frustration. The way that the sisters thought of each other was maddening because it was petty and childish at times, even though they are both in their 30s. But then I realized Harbison captured the emotions exactly as they were. It was meant to be frustrating for those exact reasons. Just like real life siblings bicker nonsensically and you want to do all you can to tell them to just knock it off. Most importantly, this book was about love and understanding. I really did enjoy this read.
I received an advanced reader's copy from William Morrow via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received an advanced reader's copy from William Morrow via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 24, 2022
It's been a minute since I've picked up a Beth Harbison book and I can't remember why! I absolutely enjoy her storytelling and writing style. Her character development is fantastic and you are instantly roped into their lives. This story about two sisters, Frances & Crosby, is what I imagine life with a sibling would be like. Constantly at odds or feeling like the other is so much better, when in all actuality no one has their stuff together!
I rounded up for stars, because it really is a good book, but would probably give it a 3.5 if half stars were allowed. I wanted more of the Crosby love story to play out! I was so engaged in that and kept waiting for more!
Thank you NetGalley, William Morrow & Beth Harbison for the ARC. I'm so excited to share this book with others!
I rounded up for stars, because it really is a good book, but would probably give it a 3.5 if half stars were allowed. I wanted more of the Crosby love story to play out! I was so engaged in that and kept waiting for more!
Thank you NetGalley, William Morrow & Beth Harbison for the ARC. I'm so excited to share this book with others!
September 7, 2022
3.5 stars
I noticed some minor mistakes, but since I was provided an uncorrected proof, I'm hoping they'll be fixed in the final version.
The sister's relationship is really odd for me. They are now 13 years removed from the "incident" that contributed to their estranged/uncomfortable relationship but they've never. discussed. it. Ever. Which I don't get. And then as soon as a situation arises that lands them in the same vicinity, they still don't really discuss it. And it takes many more mistakes/assumptions/insecurities before it comes up. It just didn't feel 100 percent genuine to me. The most "real" part of the book - in terms of character - was when they fly back home.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for my honest review.
I noticed some minor mistakes, but since I was provided an uncorrected proof, I'm hoping they'll be fixed in the final version.
The sister's relationship is really odd for me. They are now 13 years removed from the "incident" that contributed to their estranged/uncomfortable relationship but they've never. discussed. it. Ever. Which I don't get. And then as soon as a situation arises that lands them in the same vicinity, they still don't really discuss it. And it takes many more mistakes/assumptions/insecurities before it comes up. It just didn't feel 100 percent genuine to me. The most "real" part of the book - in terms of character - was when they fly back home.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for my honest review.
September 12, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐Thank you Goodreads and William Morrow Books for this ARC giveaway. This book really resonated with me. I very much enjoyed it and flew through it in just a couple days. This story weaves together the separate lives of two sisters who are quite opposite from each other, each struggling with life in different ways. One feels overshadowed by the other, the other feels ignored and in turn they never allowed each other into their adult lives. A chance job offer brings them together and they work to understand each other in order to overcome the jealousy and animosity felt between them. This book had the feel of In Her Shoes by Jennifer Weiner, with the sibling relationship as it was described. Wished the ending provided a bit more story and closure, but overall I really liked it.
October 24, 2022
Frances is a private chef in LA but deep down, wants to be an actress. Her younger sister, Crosby wrote a best selling book and is struggling financially. She’s given an opportunity to ghost write a memoir for a star in LA. She and Frances are reunited in L A but there are a lot of unresolved differences between them from their childhood.
A life changing event occurs which requires Frances and Crosby to join forces and put aside their differences. As they spend more time together, they clear up many of the problems from their past and begin to form a true sisterly bond.
Parts of this book are heartbreaking but I really enjoyed the reconnection between the sisters and the direction that their future appears to take. Look forward to the author’s next book.
A life changing event occurs which requires Frances and Crosby to join forces and put aside their differences. As they spend more time together, they clear up many of the problems from their past and begin to form a true sisterly bond.
Parts of this book are heartbreaking but I really enjoyed the reconnection between the sisters and the direction that their future appears to take. Look forward to the author’s next book.
May 17, 2023
***I won an ARC of this book in a giveaway which did not affect my review***
This book was really sweet. There's not a big conflict and a lot of the issues that come up just kind of fizzle out or are not really addressed by the end of the book. The main focus of the book is on the relationship between the two main characters (sisters), and how they navigate the simultaneous love and resentment they feel for one another. The end feels like there should be an epilogue or something to expand the plot more, but there isn't.
Like I said, it's a cute read, but not a lot happens, so don't expect a bunch of plot twists or a build up to a big climax. It's more of a slice-of-life piece just showing a couple of sisters navigate through a rough patch in their lives.
This book was really sweet. There's not a big conflict and a lot of the issues that come up just kind of fizzle out or are not really addressed by the end of the book. The main focus of the book is on the relationship between the two main characters (sisters), and how they navigate the simultaneous love and resentment they feel for one another. The end feels like there should be an epilogue or something to expand the plot more, but there isn't.
Like I said, it's a cute read, but not a lot happens, so don't expect a bunch of plot twists or a build up to a big climax. It's more of a slice-of-life piece just showing a couple of sisters navigate through a rough patch in their lives.
June 8, 2022
Got this book from Goodreads giveaway
Thank you Harper collins Publishers
2 sisters,Francis and Crosby Turners
Who are absolutely opposite of each other and want to be like the other one and think that the other one has such a better life
Their lives come together when Crosby comes out to try to write a book and the love hate relationship comes into play again
Family is everything and it all comes together when their dad has a Heart attack and they finally talk to resolve their issues
They grow up and kind of resolve their issues when dad is no longer there
Sad and funny at times
Always interesting reading about sisters and how they deal with family and life
Thank you Harper collins Publishers
2 sisters,Francis and Crosby Turners
Who are absolutely opposite of each other and want to be like the other one and think that the other one has such a better life
Their lives come together when Crosby comes out to try to write a book and the love hate relationship comes into play again
Family is everything and it all comes together when their dad has a Heart attack and they finally talk to resolve their issues
They grow up and kind of resolve their issues when dad is no longer there
Sad and funny at times
Always interesting reading about sisters and how they deal with family and life
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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