April 2021

Sally Hepworth is an author whose thrillers I always enjoy, so it was such fun to read THE GOOD SISTER. The story features twin sisters Fern and Rose. Fern has challenges, and Rose has always been there for her. Rose wants to have a baby but has been unable to get pregnant. What will Fern do for Rose? As the story unfolds, who is really doing what to whom?

The kernel of the story came to Sally when she saw her two daughters squabbling one day. The younger one had misbehaved, and when Sally was reprimanding her, the older one came to her defense. Sally thought this was so lovely until the older one said something to the effect of “No worries, I will get her back later.” And that got the wheels turning in motion for the plot.

Fern is a librarian, and thus we book lovers get a fun glimpse at her life working in the library. The parts of Fern’s job that she does not like were inspired by comments from the librarians at the library where Sally typically writes her books. Seriously, no one wants copier duty!

The book is perfectly paced, and you just want to keep reading. Ah, the twists…and the turns. Even the structure is special as Fern and Rose’s chapters are told in different styles. I think it’s Sally’s best book, and it’s her first to be a New York Times bestseller, so clearly many agree with me. And oh, look carefully at the cover. There are roses and ferns, along with an ominous message: “Everyone has a dark side.”

There’s a lot for book clubs to discuss --- and for those looking for a brisk read, this could be it!