The Sister Effect: A Novel - book cover
  • Publisher : HQN; Original edition
  • Published : 07 Mar 2023
  • Pages : 416
  • ISBN-10 : 1335448640
  • ISBN-13 : 9781335448644
  • Language : English

The Sister Effect: A Novel

"Mallery beautifully illustrates the power of female friendship and the importance of reaching for one's dreams."-Publishers Weekly

Beloved bestselling author Susan Mallery brings readers an emotional, witty, and heartfelt story that explores the nuances of a broken family's complex emotions as they strive to become whole in this uplifting story of human frailty and resilience.

Finley McGowan is determined that the niece she's raising will always feel loved and wanted. Unlike how she felt after her mom left to pursue a dream of stardom, and when the grandfather who was left to raise them abandoned her and her sister, Sloane, when they needed him most. Finley reacted to her chaotic childhood by walking the straight and narrow-nose down, work hard, follow the rules.

Sloane went the other way.

Now Sloane is back, as beautiful and as damaged as ever…and she wants a relationship with her daughter. She says she's changed, but Finley's heart has been burned once too often for her to trust easily. But is her reluctance to forgive really about Sloane or worry over losing what she loves the most? With the help of a man who knows all too well how messy families can be, Finley will learn there's joy in surrendering and peace in letting go.

 

Editorial Reviews

"Mallery is an expert at writing about strong women, their friendships, and their romances." -Booklist

"Mallery beautifully illustrates the power of female friendship and the importance of reaching for one's dreams."-Publishers Weekly

"Susan Mallery never disappoints."-Debbie Macomber, #1 New York Times bestselling author

"Mallery is one of a kind."-RT Book Reviews

"Fans of ReaAnne Thayne and Robyn Carr will enjoy how prolific women's fiction master Mallery orchestrates community connections, friendships, and fulfilling romances."-Booklist

"The Summer Getaway is a reflective and moving tale of family ties."-New York Journal of Books on The Summer Getaway

"Mallery's latest contemporary romance has the family dynamics, heartfelt introspection, and emotional truths that keep readers coming back. The perfect escape for readers wanting to get away."-Booklist on The Summer Getaway

"The Boardwalk Bookshop is a classic beach-read romance that will be enjoyed by fans of Robyn Carr and Sheryl Woods. Readers will appreciate that, while Mallery keeps the tone romantic and fun, the protagonists make hard choices and don't default to the easy way out, giving everyone a character to root for."-Booklist on The Boardwalk Bookshop

"A book begging to be read on the beach, with the sun warming the sand and salt in the air: pure escapism."-Kirkus on The Boardwalk Bookshop

Readers Top Reviews

Beth FosterBecky
This was an emotional read. Dealing with an alcoholic in the family can be heart breaking. The family dynamic was not her usual WI really enjoyed the story. The lesson I learned was that no one can hurt you like family. Learning to forgive is the key.
Patricia Schaeffe
I don't know how to say how much I enjoyed this book. I laughed and I cried and I couldn't put it down until I finished it my heart went out to both of the sisters and I cheered at the ending. I would give this more then 5 stars if I could
JanPatricia Schae
I can’t believe how much I enjoyed this book. It was a pleasure to read, the story was very interesting and believable. I also learned a lot about alcoholism and how it affects our loved ones. I identified with Finley, at times shouting “YES “ because someone finally described how I feel. If you love someone with an addiction this book is for you. It’s better than any Alanon meeting.
PickygirlJanPatri
This book was so good that I honestly didn’t want it to end. Finley, Sloane, Aubrey, and the rest of the characters are so finely drawn that I feel like if I close my eyes I will be able to see them. Susan Mallery is one of my all time favorite authors, and as of right now, this is my all time favorite Susan Mallery book. Hoping for a sequel!!
santaPickygirlJan
I could not put this down and read it in a day and a half. I loved the story and the info about alcoholism. The reality of what its like for some people and the people around them. I loved the theme of families being together and being a village to help each other through the hard times. In a world where it seems everyone is for themselves this was a shining example of the way it should be.

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