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My Sister’s Secret
Four sisters, four secrets. Who has the deadliest of them all?
Something happened to me when I was nine.
My childhood memories before that fateful day are gone. Extinguished.
The aftermath has become a living nightmare with a guilt that runs so deep that I’m not sure I can ever tell anyone. I fear I've left it too late...
The burden of my secret and the hurt and pain that silence cost each and every member of my family is too overwhelming.
But you can't avoid fate and now I have the opportunity to right the wrongs inflicted on us.
There was no justice. Not then. Not now. But I can change that.
The big question is, how far am I willing to go?
Diane Saxon’s immersive thriller will have you debating how far you would go for your family to right a wrong…
Something happened to me when I was nine.
My childhood memories before that fateful day are gone. Extinguished.
The aftermath has become a living nightmare with a guilt that runs so deep that I’m not sure I can ever tell anyone. I fear I've left it too late...
The burden of my secret and the hurt and pain that silence cost each and every member of my family is too overwhelming.
But you can't avoid fate and now I have the opportunity to right the wrongs inflicted on us.
There was no justice. Not then. Not now. But I can change that.
The big question is, how far am I willing to go?
Diane Saxon’s immersive thriller will have you debating how far you would go for your family to right a wrong…
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 23, 2023
769 people are currently reading
633 people want to read
About the author
Diane Saxon
31 books374 followersDiane Saxon lives in the Shropshire countryside with her tall, dark, handsome husband. She has two gorgeous daughters, a Dalmatian, two cats, numerous rare breed chickens, and grandfurbabies too.
After working for years in a demanding job, Diane gave it up when her husband said, “Follow that dream.” She subsequently had 12 romances published for the U.S. market then turned to the dark side with her psychological thrillers published through Boldwood Books.
Nominated for the CWA Dagger in the Library Award 2024 and an International No 1 Amazon Bestseller, Diane never regrets living her second life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
January 4, 2023
**TRIGGER WARNING** Child Abuse
My childhood memories of that fateful day are gone. Extinguished. The aftermath has become a living nightmare with guilt that runs so deep that I'm not sure I can ever tell anyone. I fear I've left it too late. The burden of my secret and the hurt and the pain that silence cost each and every member of my family is too overwhelming. But if you can't avoid fate and now, I have the opportunity to right the wrongs inflicted on us.
This story makes you question what you would do if you found yourself in a similar situation. Four sisters who all have their own secret. We get a little backstory to show why the sisters are the way they are. Just when you think you know what's happening, a curve ball comes along and knocks you sideways. As all the secrets are revealed, more violence occurs. I was quickly pulled into this fast-paced psychological thriller, and I could not put it down.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #DianeSaxon for my ARC of #MySistersSecret in exchange for an honest review.
My childhood memories of that fateful day are gone. Extinguished. The aftermath has become a living nightmare with guilt that runs so deep that I'm not sure I can ever tell anyone. I fear I've left it too late. The burden of my secret and the hurt and the pain that silence cost each and every member of my family is too overwhelming. But if you can't avoid fate and now, I have the opportunity to right the wrongs inflicted on us.
This story makes you question what you would do if you found yourself in a similar situation. Four sisters who all have their own secret. We get a little backstory to show why the sisters are the way they are. Just when you think you know what's happening, a curve ball comes along and knocks you sideways. As all the secrets are revealed, more violence occurs. I was quickly pulled into this fast-paced psychological thriller, and I could not put it down.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #DianeSaxon for my ARC of #MySistersSecret in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2023
Four sisters grapple with the past and the horrific events that changed them forever while the men who committed those acts are made to pay. But by whom?
I loved this story. Excellent writing. Well-developed characters. So many twists and turns. A great and emotional thriller.
I loved this story. Excellent writing. Well-developed characters. So many twists and turns. A great and emotional thriller.
January 16, 2023
The bigger the secret...the deeper the lies...
Four sisters - Tess, Bobbi, Alexis and Sarah - were born years apart and, though very different personalities, remain close now that they are adults. Because something happened when they were children that drew them together and kept them bonded throughout their lives. Even a shadow of a memory can still be as vivid today as the day it happened, as it did for the sisters. One of them endured a twisted kind of depravity whilst another suffered her own trauma silently. And yet it affected all of them.
Over three decades later, Tess is married to a philandering sixty-two year old who she herself had stolen from his previous wife; Bobbi is happily married to Craig, a heavy vehicle driver and a life and sanity saver, who helps keep their family together while she works long hours as a social worker; Alexis, a paramedic, is a emotional anxious wreck with two husbands behind her and a train wreck of broken relationships; and then there is Sarah, the youngest of them all who probably suffered the least of them, is a gym instructor and personal trainer who has her own happy news to impart which she fears will once again be overshadowed by Alexis' drama...again.
A face from the past is splashed across the local newspapers with the news that after an emotional court case the judge had deemed the case against him to be weak and unable to convict him, freeing him to offend again. Gary Philpotts is a serial offender who began his deviant path in his teens and, although he has been jailed for drug possession and dealing, has never been found guilty or convicted or served time for the abhorrent atrocities he has committed over several decades.
When the sisters get wind of his all-but-acquittal, they are livid. How could he get away with such crimes for so long? Everyone knows what he was capable of, what he was guilty of, and yet the police failed to make any charges stick. And so the sisters call an emergency meeting for mutual support. But one of them secretly takes things further...
But he wasn't the only man guilty of abuse. How many others deserve punishment for their sins?
MY SISTER'S SECRET is very different from what I expected. It was a slow burn to begin with that I did wonder if it was every going to pick up. I think it took almost 30% before the sisters actually convened to discuss the shocking development they just discovered. After that, the pace did pick up a little more but it is not fast pace page turner. More like a casual stroll that allows you to uncover little tidbits along the way.
The story itself is quite character driven and for once we are spared the teenage angst from the moody 15 year old who turns out to be not so bad. The story unfolds through the eyes of each sister throughout, with an odd unnamed first person narrative who battles their own trauma and memories whilst trying to maintain their every day mask. You don't know which of the sisters this anonymous narrative is but I did narrow it down fairly early on. And yet their identity isn't revealed until the very end. There are several red herrings to throw you off track but don't be fooled by them...or the false sense of security you may feel. Because this is one heck of a family drama of massive proportions.
The subject matter is one that is incredibly emotive but Saxon handles it sensitively without any graphic description...more nuance and innuendo which more than give the reader the idea. Also a nod to the author for including herself a mention in the plot.
MY SISTER'S SECRET is filled with secrets throughout...but which one of the sisters has the biggest secret?
Overall, a good solid read that was entertaining despite the slow start which ends up being a highly charged and emotional read.
Can you guess the sister?
Trigger warning: rape, child abuse, molestation.
I would like to thank #DianeSaxon, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #MySistersSecret in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Four sisters - Tess, Bobbi, Alexis and Sarah - were born years apart and, though very different personalities, remain close now that they are adults. Because something happened when they were children that drew them together and kept them bonded throughout their lives. Even a shadow of a memory can still be as vivid today as the day it happened, as it did for the sisters. One of them endured a twisted kind of depravity whilst another suffered her own trauma silently. And yet it affected all of them.
Over three decades later, Tess is married to a philandering sixty-two year old who she herself had stolen from his previous wife; Bobbi is happily married to Craig, a heavy vehicle driver and a life and sanity saver, who helps keep their family together while she works long hours as a social worker; Alexis, a paramedic, is a emotional anxious wreck with two husbands behind her and a train wreck of broken relationships; and then there is Sarah, the youngest of them all who probably suffered the least of them, is a gym instructor and personal trainer who has her own happy news to impart which she fears will once again be overshadowed by Alexis' drama...again.
A face from the past is splashed across the local newspapers with the news that after an emotional court case the judge had deemed the case against him to be weak and unable to convict him, freeing him to offend again. Gary Philpotts is a serial offender who began his deviant path in his teens and, although he has been jailed for drug possession and dealing, has never been found guilty or convicted or served time for the abhorrent atrocities he has committed over several decades.
When the sisters get wind of his all-but-acquittal, they are livid. How could he get away with such crimes for so long? Everyone knows what he was capable of, what he was guilty of, and yet the police failed to make any charges stick. And so the sisters call an emergency meeting for mutual support. But one of them secretly takes things further...
But he wasn't the only man guilty of abuse. How many others deserve punishment for their sins?
MY SISTER'S SECRET is very different from what I expected. It was a slow burn to begin with that I did wonder if it was every going to pick up. I think it took almost 30% before the sisters actually convened to discuss the shocking development they just discovered. After that, the pace did pick up a little more but it is not fast pace page turner. More like a casual stroll that allows you to uncover little tidbits along the way.
The story itself is quite character driven and for once we are spared the teenage angst from the moody 15 year old who turns out to be not so bad. The story unfolds through the eyes of each sister throughout, with an odd unnamed first person narrative who battles their own trauma and memories whilst trying to maintain their every day mask. You don't know which of the sisters this anonymous narrative is but I did narrow it down fairly early on. And yet their identity isn't revealed until the very end. There are several red herrings to throw you off track but don't be fooled by them...or the false sense of security you may feel. Because this is one heck of a family drama of massive proportions.
The subject matter is one that is incredibly emotive but Saxon handles it sensitively without any graphic description...more nuance and innuendo which more than give the reader the idea. Also a nod to the author for including herself a mention in the plot.
MY SISTER'S SECRET is filled with secrets throughout...but which one of the sisters has the biggest secret?
Overall, a good solid read that was entertaining despite the slow start which ends up being a highly charged and emotional read.
Can you guess the sister?
Trigger warning: rape, child abuse, molestation.
I would like to thank #DianeSaxon, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #MySistersSecret in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
August 5, 2023
This is the first book I've read from this author and I was not disappointed.
A gripping read about four sisters who each have a secret. It starts off as a slow burner as we get to know the sisters. I found this helped keep up the intrigue and tension.
This is a great psychological thriller that I highly recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
A gripping read about four sisters who each have a secret. It starts off as a slow burner as we get to know the sisters. I found this helped keep up the intrigue and tension.
This is a great psychological thriller that I highly recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2023
My Sister's Secret by Diane Saxon
Pub Date: 19th January
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Genre:General Fiction, Mystery and Thriller
The story unfolds, and I found myself on the edge of my seat, gasping for the next bit but unsure what to expect. A true thriller that had me completely engrossed with twists and turns and a brilliant ending that took me completely by surprise.
A childhood secret binds four sisters together. They lead very different lives, but they are always there for one another. They are linked by a day in the past, about which they do not speak. If they ever did, the floodgates would open.
A character is haunted by terrible childhood events that occurred when he was nine years old. He got away with it because she kept quiet. Every day since, the guilt and fear have consumed her. If she can avoid it, she will never again let an innocent life suffer.
Every character was well-drawn, likeable, and realistic. The reader is horrified by the amount of suffering endured by the four main characters. They will never be free of their past.
We can see the fierce defence.of a mother's love. She is willing to go to any length to protect her children, no matter how old they are.
The novel is composed in alternating time periods and from alternating first and third person points of view. We become familiarised with the characters whom we admire for overcoming adversity. Throughout, we hear a first-person voice. It is up to us to figure out who is speaking.
#NetGalley #bookstagram #bookreview #goodreads #mysteryandthriller #generalfictionadult #mysisterssecret
Pub Date: 19th January
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Genre:General Fiction, Mystery and Thriller
The story unfolds, and I found myself on the edge of my seat, gasping for the next bit but unsure what to expect. A true thriller that had me completely engrossed with twists and turns and a brilliant ending that took me completely by surprise.
A childhood secret binds four sisters together. They lead very different lives, but they are always there for one another. They are linked by a day in the past, about which they do not speak. If they ever did, the floodgates would open.
A character is haunted by terrible childhood events that occurred when he was nine years old. He got away with it because she kept quiet. Every day since, the guilt and fear have consumed her. If she can avoid it, she will never again let an innocent life suffer.
Every character was well-drawn, likeable, and realistic. The reader is horrified by the amount of suffering endured by the four main characters. They will never be free of their past.
We can see the fierce defence.of a mother's love. She is willing to go to any length to protect her children, no matter how old they are.
The novel is composed in alternating time periods and from alternating first and third person points of view. We become familiarised with the characters whom we admire for overcoming adversity. Throughout, we hear a first-person voice. It is up to us to figure out who is speaking.
#NetGalley #bookstagram #bookreview #goodreads #mysteryandthriller #generalfictionadult #mysisterssecret
May 29, 2024
I read someone on here recently talking about how books don’t need trigger warnings. Something about fiction and being wrapped in cotton wool, I disagreed then, and I disagree now. They do, and this was a perfect example for me of why. I went into this expecting a psychological thriller, and obviously some disturbing content. What I got was a book completely based around pedophilia, sexual predators and child abusers.
It needed a content warning. It was deeply disturbing and triggering. I really wish more authors/publishers would consider adding them. If I was so triggered I don’t know how survivors would feel.
There’s a vigilante style story line that would generally leave me a little conflicted however I’d no issue with these dead peadophiles, in fact I couldn’t think how better to deal with them than kill them. Overall the story was solid, the writing was good and the mystery of who is bumping them off doesn’t come out til the very last chapter, and I genuinely couldn’t guess who was responsible. For this reason it’s a 4⭐️
The audio narration was excellent.
Currently included with audible 🎧
It needed a content warning. It was deeply disturbing and triggering. I really wish more authors/publishers would consider adding them. If I was so triggered I don’t know how survivors would feel.
There’s a vigilante style story line that would generally leave me a little conflicted however I’d no issue with these dead peadophiles, in fact I couldn’t think how better to deal with them than kill them. Overall the story was solid, the writing was good and the mystery of who is bumping them off doesn’t come out til the very last chapter, and I genuinely couldn’t guess who was responsible. For this reason it’s a 4⭐️
The audio narration was excellent.
Currently included with audible 🎧
January 16, 2023
This is was a emotional book told from the POV from 4 sisters Tess, Bobbi, Alexis and Sarah that are now grown and are living their own lives. But when they learn that Gary Philpotts a man they knew from their childhood is being released on a technicality on sometime he did two of the sisters are not ok with that ruling so they decide to get together and that’s when some of the sisters secrets come out that they were unaware of and once they hear what happened they discuss what they are going to do to him. But does one of them think he deserves more of a punishment follow them and see what happens. This author does a great job writing about such a sensitive subject and telling you about the characters and what they are going through.
November 19, 2023
almost a dnf
This book took me FOREVER to get into. Finally around 70% read it finally got more interesting. Glad I finished it because I was definitely surprised by the end but took way to long to get good.
This book took me FOREVER to get into. Finally around 70% read it finally got more interesting. Glad I finished it because I was definitely surprised by the end but took way to long to get good.
January 19, 2023
My Sisters Secret by Diane Saxon
Four sisters, four secrets. Who has the deadliest of them all?
Something happened to me when I was nine.
My childhood memories before that fateful day are gone. Extinguished.
The aftermath has become a living nightmare with guilt that runs so deep that I'm not sure I can ever tell anyone. I fear I've left it too late.
The burden of my secret and the hurt and pain that silence cost every family member is too overwhelming.
There was no justice. Not then. Not now. But I can change that?
Diane Saxon's books take up a shelf on my bookcase, so, obviously, I genuinely enjoy her writing style and thrilling tangible plots. This compelling page-turner is about how far you would go for your family to right a wrong.
Each sister's secrets are scrutinised, and it is interesting to discover their opinions and feelings about why they acted the way they did. But, it begs the question, how would you react put in each's position?
A satisfying read that I am happy to recommend.
I want to thank Publisher Boldwood Books, author Diane Saxon and Rachel's Random Resources for a spot on the tour and a copy to read and review.
Four sisters, four secrets. Who has the deadliest of them all?
Something happened to me when I was nine.
My childhood memories before that fateful day are gone. Extinguished.
The aftermath has become a living nightmare with guilt that runs so deep that I'm not sure I can ever tell anyone. I fear I've left it too late.
The burden of my secret and the hurt and pain that silence cost every family member is too overwhelming.
There was no justice. Not then. Not now. But I can change that?
Diane Saxon's books take up a shelf on my bookcase, so, obviously, I genuinely enjoy her writing style and thrilling tangible plots. This compelling page-turner is about how far you would go for your family to right a wrong.
Each sister's secrets are scrutinised, and it is interesting to discover their opinions and feelings about why they acted the way they did. But, it begs the question, how would you react put in each's position?
A satisfying read that I am happy to recommend.
I want to thank Publisher Boldwood Books, author Diane Saxon and Rachel's Random Resources for a spot on the tour and a copy to read and review.
January 23, 2023
Diane Saxton builds up walls ..then smashes right through them in this story of four sisters and the unconditional bond they share ..the lives they lead and the secrets they keep tangled up inside .There are wolves in sheeps clothing ..A kind of paralytic fear that thrashes and twists ..broken trust and betrayal..It's a story that crushes you in parts as you break through the layers ..Dark Emotive and Shattering ...
December 21, 2022
Great story about 4 sisters and about what they've overcome with some secual abuse growing up. The beginning of the book was a tad confusing because there are so many characters and it was overwhelming to keep track of who is who, what child is she talking about, and what sister is "speaking now." But it gets better and eventually the twists start. Not my favorite, but I'll read more from this same author.
January 21, 2023
This book was so well written. It describes the trauma and lasting effects after a child was raped. It goes through the shame and guilt and fear that you hide the truth and then how it affects the family. Four sisters and four secrets and how far you will go for your family.
Filled with family drama, secrets, shame and revenge this book was a quick read.
I love how the author doesn’t sugar coat the drama and vigilante justice to rid the world of those who have gotten away with hurting children.
Filled with family drama, secrets, shame and revenge this book was a quick read.
I love how the author doesn’t sugar coat the drama and vigilante justice to rid the world of those who have gotten away with hurting children.
August 3, 2024
I dont usually write reviews but this book was just not good. The author repeats the same thing chapter after chapter. I get it. The sisters all think Tess has a problem with alcohol and likes expensive wine. I'm usually never able to predict the end but I did. I'm also pretty sure the name of the kid in the story line changed from the end to the beginning but maybe I'm making thag up.
January 21, 2023
What you do for family
This book was so very different from the previous books that I have read by Diane Saxon.
The murderer was so casual that it seems wrong to say murderer and the reasons for the murders were plausible, if you're that way inclined.
I liked that family was at the heart of the story with all the foibles of family life. I wouldn't cross this woman though.
Very different and very good.
This book was so very different from the previous books that I have read by Diane Saxon.
The murderer was so casual that it seems wrong to say murderer and the reasons for the murders were plausible, if you're that way inclined.
I liked that family was at the heart of the story with all the foibles of family life. I wouldn't cross this woman though.
Very different and very good.
January 23, 2023
Oh goodness me, my 💯 favourite by Mrs Saxon so far. Absolutely had me hooked from start to finish. I bought the kindle but listened to the audible and it was really well narrated 5 shiny stars from me ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 26, 2023
This was so good. Can highly recommend
January 22, 2023
Good read with lots of secrets to unfold
January 7, 2023
The bigger the secret, The deeper the lies.
Alexis saw Gary Philpotts face on that newspaper and crumbled.
Her sisters Bobbi, Tess and Sarah were called in for a meeting.
They didn't tell, it's the darkest secret.
Gary Philpotts has walked free again.
And Alexis is no longer a child, he has to pay.
He's not the only one.
This book gripped me in from the start, WOW what a twisted story that you won't be abled to leave alone.
I totally loved it, with characters that you love and hate.
Lots of heavy secrets unfold and you just love it chapter after chapter.
A brilliant book once again from this author.
Alexis saw Gary Philpotts face on that newspaper and crumbled.
Her sisters Bobbi, Tess and Sarah were called in for a meeting.
They didn't tell, it's the darkest secret.
Gary Philpotts has walked free again.
And Alexis is no longer a child, he has to pay.
He's not the only one.
This book gripped me in from the start, WOW what a twisted story that you won't be abled to leave alone.
I totally loved it, with characters that you love and hate.
Lots of heavy secrets unfold and you just love it chapter after chapter.
A brilliant book once again from this author.
January 19, 2023
Thanks to boldwood books and netgalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. It took a while for me to get into this book, but I'm glad i persevered.. lots of twists and turns. Subject is of a sensitive nature, but is well written
January 22, 2023
Wow
Diane Saxon has done it again. This book was a page turner right from the start. Bobbie and her sisters all have secrets omg what a book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Diane Saxon has done it again. This book was a page turner right from the start. Bobbie and her sisters all have secrets omg what a book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 22, 2023
There are secrets between the four sisters. An affair, alcoholism, murder, among other things. The women couldn't be more different, but they're bonded by childhood trauma. Child abuse and rape are discussed so steer clear if you're triggered by those as they are central to the plot.
I had a hard time remembering which sister was which for most of the story. At first, I thought the four sisters were the children of the first narrator but not so. I liked the narration style, focusing on each of the sisters at a time, with an unknown narrator in between. I figured out who the narrator was before long but the author does try to throw in enough other details to make you second guess a few times.
I had a hard time remembering which sister was which for most of the story. At first, I thought the four sisters were the children of the first narrator but not so. I liked the narration style, focusing on each of the sisters at a time, with an unknown narrator in between. I figured out who the narrator was before long but the author does try to throw in enough other details to make you second guess a few times.
February 18, 2023
Awesome read
First I must send my apologies to Diane Saxon. On revising a different book I was a little unsure about the chapters of this particular book after I had read the synopsis. I mistook my little brother by a similar title and in that one he only had one sister. So that's where the confusion came in. I have actually read my little brother by Diane Saxon . Anyhow my sincere apologies if I have anime the ring impression it's my fault entirely. I should have known really as I read so many books and sometimes get them mixed up. I do know that Diane Saxon knocks some element books out and this one is no exeption. Just brilliant. I had read some reviews saying at first it was a bit confusing to follow which sister was saying what. Yet i didn't find it confusing at all. I know when certain things started to happen I will not be enlightened you as I do not do spoilers ever. It was surreal in the sense of who was doing what. Which was the best kept secret throughout the book. I am sorry to say I had suspected one in particular. Which just happens to be the correct one, without giving a spoilers or two I away I could tell.you how I came to the conclusion I did. But as I said I will never ever give spoilers away. I remember once many years ago I was reading a book of 12 set during the French revolution. It was a brilliant series each book picked up where the last one ended, I had finally got to the last book and I so wanted this Angeliica to find her husband no it was not a sloppy book by far it was not I had read the first few chapters when I had to put it down due to my in-laws visiting. My husband's mum said oh I have read that series she finds her husband in that book you are reading right now. I swear to you she had ruined the entire series of books and I never picked that last book up again that's why I will never in my life out a spoiler in any review. I would hate anyone to feel how I did after my last book was ruins. So going back to the 4 sisters in this book. Each one as there own demons to deal with each and everyone of them I do definitely recommend you read this blog as it keeps you guessing all the way through it keeps you wanting to turn page*after page at such speed because you just can not put it down until you do know. One brilliant book and one assume series all must must be read especially this one. Read read read is a absolutely must I promise you. You will not be disappointed
First I must send my apologies to Diane Saxon. On revising a different book I was a little unsure about the chapters of this particular book after I had read the synopsis. I mistook my little brother by a similar title and in that one he only had one sister. So that's where the confusion came in. I have actually read my little brother by Diane Saxon . Anyhow my sincere apologies if I have anime the ring impression it's my fault entirely. I should have known really as I read so many books and sometimes get them mixed up. I do know that Diane Saxon knocks some element books out and this one is no exeption. Just brilliant. I had read some reviews saying at first it was a bit confusing to follow which sister was saying what. Yet i didn't find it confusing at all. I know when certain things started to happen I will not be enlightened you as I do not do spoilers ever. It was surreal in the sense of who was doing what. Which was the best kept secret throughout the book. I am sorry to say I had suspected one in particular. Which just happens to be the correct one, without giving a spoilers or two I away I could tell.you how I came to the conclusion I did. But as I said I will never ever give spoilers away. I remember once many years ago I was reading a book of 12 set during the French revolution. It was a brilliant series each book picked up where the last one ended, I had finally got to the last book and I so wanted this Angeliica to find her husband no it was not a sloppy book by far it was not I had read the first few chapters when I had to put it down due to my in-laws visiting. My husband's mum said oh I have read that series she finds her husband in that book you are reading right now. I swear to you she had ruined the entire series of books and I never picked that last book up again that's why I will never in my life out a spoiler in any review. I would hate anyone to feel how I did after my last book was ruins. So going back to the 4 sisters in this book. Each one as there own demons to deal with each and everyone of them I do definitely recommend you read this blog as it keeps you guessing all the way through it keeps you wanting to turn page*after page at such speed because you just can not put it down until you do know. One brilliant book and one assume series all must must be read especially this one. Read read read is a absolutely must I promise you. You will not be disappointed
January 13, 2023
My Sister's Secret by Diane Saxon is a highly recommended psychological thriller.
Four sisters, Tess, Bobbi, Alexis, and Sarah, were born years apart and all very different adults, but they are still bonded together. The bond is over their childhood but also something awful that happened to one of the girls. Unknown to the others, another sister also experienced a trauma. They crossed paths with Gary Philpotts. One was molested and threatened while another was raped. Authorities were never contacted, but Philpotts was charged for another incident and they have kept track of him. When he is released on a technicality, the sisters call an emergency meeting for mutual support. Only one of them secretly takes things a bit further....
Saxon does an excellent job describing and establishing the background to her characters and bringing them to life. All the sisters were believable, fully realized and unique characters. Readers will have to pay attention to the sister's ages (and Bobbi's children) at the beginning to keep them all sorted out as the novel progresses.
The narrative in My Sister's Secret is told through the point-of-view of the sister's individually and also one of the sisters when she was a nine-year-old child and now as an adult. Her story is the beginning of the insight into what the sister's experienced and kept secrets concerning. There is an awful experience that bonded the sisters and kept them close.
Both the subject matter and the plot are emotionally charged. The novel is well-written and will immediately pull readers into the worlds of the sisters and their concerns. Once you start reading My Sister's Secret you will definitely be compelled to keep reading. There are a few incidences that require you to suspend disbelief, but you will gladly do so in order to find out what happens next. This is a very dark but entertaining novel that serves up a certain type of justice and it is up to the reader to decide if it is appropriate.
Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of Boldwood Books via NetGalley.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2023/0...
Four sisters, Tess, Bobbi, Alexis, and Sarah, were born years apart and all very different adults, but they are still bonded together. The bond is over their childhood but also something awful that happened to one of the girls. Unknown to the others, another sister also experienced a trauma. They crossed paths with Gary Philpotts. One was molested and threatened while another was raped. Authorities were never contacted, but Philpotts was charged for another incident and they have kept track of him. When he is released on a technicality, the sisters call an emergency meeting for mutual support. Only one of them secretly takes things a bit further....
Saxon does an excellent job describing and establishing the background to her characters and bringing them to life. All the sisters were believable, fully realized and unique characters. Readers will have to pay attention to the sister's ages (and Bobbi's children) at the beginning to keep them all sorted out as the novel progresses.
The narrative in My Sister's Secret is told through the point-of-view of the sister's individually and also one of the sisters when she was a nine-year-old child and now as an adult. Her story is the beginning of the insight into what the sister's experienced and kept secrets concerning. There is an awful experience that bonded the sisters and kept them close.
Both the subject matter and the plot are emotionally charged. The novel is well-written and will immediately pull readers into the worlds of the sisters and their concerns. Once you start reading My Sister's Secret you will definitely be compelled to keep reading. There are a few incidences that require you to suspend disbelief, but you will gladly do so in order to find out what happens next. This is a very dark but entertaining novel that serves up a certain type of justice and it is up to the reader to decide if it is appropriate.
Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of Boldwood Books via NetGalley.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2023/0...
January 18, 2023
My Sister’s Secret by Diane Saxon is a marvelous contemporary psychological suspense that gripped me from the start.
Four sisters bonded closely by a childhood secret. They live very different lives but are always there for each other. A day in the past unites them, but about which they do not talk. If ever they did, then the floodgates would open.
Terrible childhood events haunt a character – one day aged nine years old would remain forever. She kept quiet and he got away with it. Every day since, the guilt and the fear have eaten her up. Never again must an innocent life suffer if she can help it.
All the characters were well drawn, likable and realistic. The reader is horrified by the amount of suffering the four lead characters have faced. The past never leaves them.
We see the fierce protection of a mother’s love. There are no lengths to which she will not go in order to protect her children – no matter how old they are.
The novel is written in alternating time periods and from alternating points of view in both the first and the third person. We become intimately acquainted with the characters whom we applaud for becoming over-comers. We hear a first person voice throughout. It is up to us to work out who is doing the talking.
My Sister’s Secret is absolutely heart-breaking as we witness innocent lives being ripped apart. Those who should protect, abuse their positions of power.
Diane Saxon has written a compelling tale and one that will haunt me forever. This is such a powerful book and one you do not want to miss.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Four sisters bonded closely by a childhood secret. They live very different lives but are always there for each other. A day in the past unites them, but about which they do not talk. If ever they did, then the floodgates would open.
Terrible childhood events haunt a character – one day aged nine years old would remain forever. She kept quiet and he got away with it. Every day since, the guilt and the fear have eaten her up. Never again must an innocent life suffer if she can help it.
All the characters were well drawn, likable and realistic. The reader is horrified by the amount of suffering the four lead characters have faced. The past never leaves them.
We see the fierce protection of a mother’s love. There are no lengths to which she will not go in order to protect her children – no matter how old they are.
The novel is written in alternating time periods and from alternating points of view in both the first and the third person. We become intimately acquainted with the characters whom we applaud for becoming over-comers. We hear a first person voice throughout. It is up to us to work out who is doing the talking.
My Sister’s Secret is absolutely heart-breaking as we witness innocent lives being ripped apart. Those who should protect, abuse their positions of power.
Diane Saxon has written a compelling tale and one that will haunt me forever. This is such a powerful book and one you do not want to miss.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
May 21, 2023
Dark, harrowing and unsettling, My Sister’s Secret is the chilling new thriller by Diane Saxon.
Bobbi, Alexis, Tess and Sarah are four sisters who lead very different lives. Each sibling has a secret, however, one sister’s secret has been a horrific burden which she has carried with her ever since she was nine years old when she had been the victim of a shocking incident that left her scarred for life. Not a day goes by when she doesn’t think of that fateful day and the guilt and shame continue to lie heavily on her shoulders. Keeping her secret has become overwhelming, but when it transpires that the perpetrator who had ruined her life has done it again and nearly destroyed another innocent’s life, silence is no longer an option.
Back then, no justice had been done and the courts are letting this dangerous man get away with ruining other people’s lives time and time again. Bobbi, Alexis, Tess and Sarah will not stand for it. Not this time around. With vengeance on their mind, the four siblings will not stop until justice has been served. But how far are they prepared to go to ensure that the guilty party pays for their reprehensible actions?
Diane Saxon’s My Sister’s Secret is a high-stakes, explosive and unpredictable thriller that is definitely not for the faint-hearted. A shocking page-turner that explores the many forms of evil, obsessive revenge and the lengths people go to for their loved ones, My Sister’s Secret is a disturbing, gritty and wholly engrossing thriller readers will have a hard time putting down.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Bobbi, Alexis, Tess and Sarah are four sisters who lead very different lives. Each sibling has a secret, however, one sister’s secret has been a horrific burden which she has carried with her ever since she was nine years old when she had been the victim of a shocking incident that left her scarred for life. Not a day goes by when she doesn’t think of that fateful day and the guilt and shame continue to lie heavily on her shoulders. Keeping her secret has become overwhelming, but when it transpires that the perpetrator who had ruined her life has done it again and nearly destroyed another innocent’s life, silence is no longer an option.
Back then, no justice had been done and the courts are letting this dangerous man get away with ruining other people’s lives time and time again. Bobbi, Alexis, Tess and Sarah will not stand for it. Not this time around. With vengeance on their mind, the four siblings will not stop until justice has been served. But how far are they prepared to go to ensure that the guilty party pays for their reprehensible actions?
Diane Saxon’s My Sister’s Secret is a high-stakes, explosive and unpredictable thriller that is definitely not for the faint-hearted. A shocking page-turner that explores the many forms of evil, obsessive revenge and the lengths people go to for their loved ones, My Sister’s Secret is a disturbing, gritty and wholly engrossing thriller readers will have a hard time putting down.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 26, 2023
Book Title: My Sister’s Secret
Author: Diane Saxon
Narrator: Charlotte Worthing
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Pub Date: January 23, 2023
Pages; 356
My Rating: 2.7 Rounded up.
~Four sisters, four secrets. Something happened to one when she was nine~
Triggers, warning…
child abuse, molesting, rape ~
This novel was high recommended by a reader in one of my FB Book Groups.
However, I soon doubted my choice.. I am a psychological thriller fan but had a hard time relating to any of the sisters.
We find out rather early one of the nasty secrets.
I had read My Little Brother and I liked the twist so I hung in there on this one!
However it was a struggle.
I took time off my usually evening reading time to watch the College Basketball March Madness Tournament. The games were so exciting and like one of the thrillers I like to read whodunit or in this case ‘whowonit’ didn’t happen until the very end.
This story did reveal the big secret actually secrets at the end. But the story on a whole fell short of what I was expecting. I wasn’t positive if it was the ‘dry performance’ of the characters by the audiobook narrator or if it was the story itself -perhaps some of both.
Author: Diane Saxon
Narrator: Charlotte Worthing
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Pub Date: January 23, 2023
Pages; 356
My Rating: 2.7 Rounded up.
~Four sisters, four secrets. Something happened to one when she was nine~
Triggers, warning…
child abuse, molesting, rape ~
This novel was high recommended by a reader in one of my FB Book Groups.
However, I soon doubted my choice.. I am a psychological thriller fan but had a hard time relating to any of the sisters.
We find out rather early one of the nasty secrets.
I had read My Little Brother and I liked the twist so I hung in there on this one!
However it was a struggle.
I took time off my usually evening reading time to watch the College Basketball March Madness Tournament. The games were so exciting and like one of the thrillers I like to read whodunit or in this case ‘whowonit’ didn’t happen until the very end.
This story did reveal the big secret actually secrets at the end. But the story on a whole fell short of what I was expecting. I wasn’t positive if it was the ‘dry performance’ of the characters by the audiobook narrator or if it was the story itself -perhaps some of both.
January 26, 2023
Diane Saxon's book My Little Brother just about broke me, so I just knew I had to read her latest book. My Sisters Secret did not disappoint - though my only irk was I found it hard sometimes to tell who was narrating the chapter --- but..... after finishing I realise it was done that way deliberately to throw you off the scent as to what sister had the secret, so kudos nicely done! Four sisters and each one is keeping a secret from the other, one is pregnant, one is a lesbian, another's husband is having an affair and the last... we don't really know exactly what secret they are carrying until all is revealed at the end. And it is not what you are going to expect!
Saxon has a lot of red herrings in this thrilling tale, and I honestly couldn't put this book down. After Gary Philpotts who is a serial offender escapes jail yet again and it really effects the sisters seeing his face splashed all over the local newspapers, I love how the sisters have family meeting to go over everything, they really are a close knit family yet at the same time they all have their secrets. When things start happening to people connected to the sisters past and present you are left wondering just who is behind it all? I thought I knew I was adamant in my mind it was them, but that last chapter,,,, wow blew it out the water for me!
5 stars!!
Saxon has a lot of red herrings in this thrilling tale, and I honestly couldn't put this book down. After Gary Philpotts who is a serial offender escapes jail yet again and it really effects the sisters seeing his face splashed all over the local newspapers, I love how the sisters have family meeting to go over everything, they really are a close knit family yet at the same time they all have their secrets. When things start happening to people connected to the sisters past and present you are left wondering just who is behind it all? I thought I knew I was adamant in my mind it was them, but that last chapter,,,, wow blew it out the water for me!
5 stars!!
January 28, 2023
Reading Between the Wines book review #12/115 for 2023:
Rating: 3 🍷 🍷 🍷
Book 🎧: My Sister’s Secret
Author: Diane Saxon
Genre: General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers
Available now!
Sipping thoughts: I was not expecting what I just read!! It starts off with an incident that traumatized one of the sisters and then it just crescendo into a childhood secret and revenge. All the sisters are holding secrets and any of them are capable of getting revenge. The question is just which one (or more than one) has decided she can’t take anymore? I went back and forth on who it was and was wrong and then right and then wrong again. This book will have you second-guessing yourself but also rooting for the revenge-seeking sister!
Cheers and thank you to @NetGalley and @BoldwoodBooks for an advanced copy of @MySistersSecret.
#MySistersSecret #DianeSaxon #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #advancedreadercopy #ARC #Kindle #Booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #bookstagram #nicoles_bookcellar #bookworm #bookdragon #booknerd #booklover #bookstagrammer #bookaholic #bookreview #bookreviewer #IHaveNoShelfControl #ReadingBetweenTheWines #fiction #thriller #suspense #mystery #MysteryAndThrillers #GeneralFictionAdult
Rating: 3 🍷 🍷 🍷
Book 🎧: My Sister’s Secret
Author: Diane Saxon
Genre: General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers
Available now!
Sipping thoughts: I was not expecting what I just read!! It starts off with an incident that traumatized one of the sisters and then it just crescendo into a childhood secret and revenge. All the sisters are holding secrets and any of them are capable of getting revenge. The question is just which one (or more than one) has decided she can’t take anymore? I went back and forth on who it was and was wrong and then right and then wrong again. This book will have you second-guessing yourself but also rooting for the revenge-seeking sister!
Cheers and thank you to @NetGalley and @BoldwoodBooks for an advanced copy of @MySistersSecret.
#MySistersSecret #DianeSaxon #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #advancedreadercopy #ARC #Kindle #Booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #bookstagram #nicoles_bookcellar #bookworm #bookdragon #booknerd #booklover #bookstagrammer #bookaholic #bookreview #bookreviewer #IHaveNoShelfControl #ReadingBetweenTheWines #fiction #thriller #suspense #mystery #MysteryAndThrillers #GeneralFictionAdult
April 17, 2024
My Sister's Secret
The unforgettable psychological thriller from Diane Saxon, author of My Little Brother.
by Diane Saxon
Pub Date19 Jan 2023
Boldwood Books
General Fiction \(Adult\)| Mystery & Thrillers
Netgalley and Boldwood Books have provided me with a copy of My Sisters Secret for review:
Trigger warning this book delves into topic of childhood sexual abuse, if this is a trigger for you I do not recommend you read this book...
Due to the subject matter I do not recommend this book to those under the age of sixteen.
Four sisters, each with a secret! Which one is the deadliest?
At the age of nine, something happened to me! I have no memory of my childhood before that fateful day!
In the aftermath, I've been living a nightmare with guilt so deep I'm not sure I can ever disclose it. It's too late now, I fear...
Silence has cost everyone in my family a lot of hurt and pain.
I now have an opportunity to make amends for the wrongs we have suffered.
There was no justice. Not then. Not now. But I can change that.
In the end, it all boils down to the question: how far am I willing to go?
I give My Sisters Secret four out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
The unforgettable psychological thriller from Diane Saxon, author of My Little Brother.
by Diane Saxon
Pub Date19 Jan 2023
Boldwood Books
General Fiction \(Adult\)| Mystery & Thrillers
Netgalley and Boldwood Books have provided me with a copy of My Sisters Secret for review:
Trigger warning this book delves into topic of childhood sexual abuse, if this is a trigger for you I do not recommend you read this book...
Due to the subject matter I do not recommend this book to those under the age of sixteen.
Four sisters, each with a secret! Which one is the deadliest?
At the age of nine, something happened to me! I have no memory of my childhood before that fateful day!
In the aftermath, I've been living a nightmare with guilt so deep I'm not sure I can ever disclose it. It's too late now, I fear...
Silence has cost everyone in my family a lot of hurt and pain.
I now have an opportunity to make amends for the wrongs we have suffered.
There was no justice. Not then. Not now. But I can change that.
In the end, it all boils down to the question: how far am I willing to go?
I give My Sisters Secret four out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
December 22, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this eARC.
I really enjoyed this book and was drawn into the story right from the start. It is about four sisters where at least one of them was abused as a child and scared to tell anyone. As adults they all have secrets and will stick together against whatever is thrown at them. I loved the writing style here, it was very engaging and this quickly became a very absorbing read for me. As the book progressed I had so much empathy with the characters and could fully understand their thoughts and feelings and why they acted as they did. The underlying abuse theme is written sensitively and doesn’t contain any graphic detail (thank god) leaving it to the readers imagination. I thought the plot line was good, I couldn’t work out which sister was taking action which really piqued my interest and definitely made me want to continue reading and know more. Overall a very good and entertaining read which I would recommend. Thoroughly loved this book.
I really enjoyed this book and was drawn into the story right from the start. It is about four sisters where at least one of them was abused as a child and scared to tell anyone. As adults they all have secrets and will stick together against whatever is thrown at them. I loved the writing style here, it was very engaging and this quickly became a very absorbing read for me. As the book progressed I had so much empathy with the characters and could fully understand their thoughts and feelings and why they acted as they did. The underlying abuse theme is written sensitively and doesn’t contain any graphic detail (thank god) leaving it to the readers imagination. I thought the plot line was good, I couldn’t work out which sister was taking action which really piqued my interest and definitely made me want to continue reading and know more. Overall a very good and entertaining read which I would recommend. Thoroughly loved this book.
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