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3.59 AVERAGE
3.59 AVERAGE
Well I knew shortly after I started that this book was not for me. Pretending to be her sister for the mom's sake is one thing - the rest was so completely unnecessary and just wrong. This grown adult was acting like a teenager and I just could not get past that. ..I did finish thinking that the onw decision my play oit okahy...no it led from one bad decision to another. The writing style was great and I would likely try this author again - just this particular storyline was a no.
An utterly immersive novel about the intertwining lives of two sisters: Joan is careful and the Vivian is larger than life. Joan's life is transformed when she has to fulfill her sister's dying request. The characters are so precisely real that the novel reads like a memoir. A beautiful book.
Thank you Netgalley, Penguin Random House Canada, Random House Canada and Lilian Nattel for free e-ARC in return of my honest review.
"Only Sisters" is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of family, identity, and the blurred lines between truth and deception. Joan, a palliative care doctor, has always been the responsible one, caring for her widowed mother and living a life of stability. Her sister, Vivien, on the other hand, has led a more adventurous and unpredictable life, working as a nurse in troubled areas around the world.
When Vivien learns of their mother's illness, she asks Joan to pose as her online in case she doesn't survive her dangerous assignment in a remote village affected by Ebola. Joan reluctantly agrees, thinking it will never come to that. However, when Vivien tragically passes away, Joan finds herself stepping into her sister's shoes, impersonating her online presence.
As Joan navigates the world of social media as Vivien, she discovers a newfound sense of freedom and liberation. However, things take a complicated turn when she receives a message from a man claiming to be Vivien's long-lost son. The novel delves into the moral dilemmas Joan faces as she grapples with the consequences of her actions and the blurred boundaries between right and wrong.
The author skillfully explores the dynamics of family relationships, delving into the complexities of sibling bonds and the weight of responsibility. Joan's journey of self-discovery and the exploration of her own desires and identity are beautifully portrayed throughout the narrative.
"Only Sisters" is a compelling and emotionally resonant novel that raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of truth, the lengths we go to protect our loved ones, and the consequences of our actions. The writing is engaging and evocative, drawing readers into Joan's world and making them reflect on their own choices and relationships.
Overall, "Only Sisters" is a captivating and introspective read that will leave readers contemplating the intricacies of family dynamics and the complexities of personal identity. It is a story that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.
"Only Sisters" is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of family, identity, and the blurred lines between truth and deception. Joan, a palliative care doctor, has always been the responsible one, caring for her widowed mother and living a life of stability. Her sister, Vivien, on the other hand, has led a more adventurous and unpredictable life, working as a nurse in troubled areas around the world.
When Vivien learns of their mother's illness, she asks Joan to pose as her online in case she doesn't survive her dangerous assignment in a remote village affected by Ebola. Joan reluctantly agrees, thinking it will never come to that. However, when Vivien tragically passes away, Joan finds herself stepping into her sister's shoes, impersonating her online presence.
As Joan navigates the world of social media as Vivien, she discovers a newfound sense of freedom and liberation. However, things take a complicated turn when she receives a message from a man claiming to be Vivien's long-lost son. The novel delves into the moral dilemmas Joan faces as she grapples with the consequences of her actions and the blurred boundaries between right and wrong.
The author skillfully explores the dynamics of family relationships, delving into the complexities of sibling bonds and the weight of responsibility. Joan's journey of self-discovery and the exploration of her own desires and identity are beautifully portrayed throughout the narrative.
"Only Sisters" is a compelling and emotionally resonant novel that raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of truth, the lengths we go to protect our loved ones, and the consequences of our actions. The writing is engaging and evocative, drawing readers into Joan's world and making them reflect on their own choices and relationships.
Overall, "Only Sisters" is a captivating and introspective read that will leave readers contemplating the intricacies of family dynamics and the complexities of personal identity. It is a story that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.
dark
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
What if you promised to impersonate a family member using social media after they had passed away? Sisters Joan and Vivian make a pact. Joan will continue Vivian’s life online to help their mother Sheila, cope with mental illness.
How long do you carry on the charade? Joan has always been the responsible one; working as a palliative doctor and also being a caregiver to their mother. Joan finds herself enjoying the escape in her sister’s adventurous life… until her double life catches up to her.
Always a fan of family drama stories with complex characters, I was left wanting more of [b:Only Sisters|60607204|Only Sisters|Lilian Nattel|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1652694009l/60607204._SY75_.jpg|95536781]. The book’s premise mixed in with the pandemic and social media diverted the focus from the impact of mental illness, death and family loyalty.
Thanks to Penguin Random House Canada for providing me with an e-ARC of this via Netgalley.
How long do you carry on the charade? Joan has always been the responsible one; working as a palliative doctor and also being a caregiver to their mother. Joan finds herself enjoying the escape in her sister’s adventurous life… until her double life catches up to her.
Always a fan of family drama stories with complex characters, I was left wanting more of [b:Only Sisters|60607204|Only Sisters|Lilian Nattel|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1652694009l/60607204._SY75_.jpg|95536781]. The book’s premise mixed in with the pandemic and social media diverted the focus from the impact of mental illness, death and family loyalty.
Thanks to Penguin Random House Canada for providing me with an e-ARC of this via Netgalley.
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
It was hard for me to enjoy this book because the POV character was so unsympathetic but in a pathetic way rather than a fun way. The pandemic felt poorly integrated and the ending did not feel earned. There were some really nice passages (and the bits about palliative care work were really good) but I can't recommend this.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Cancer, Death, Toxic relationship, Medical content, Grief, Death of parent
Moderate: Child abuse, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Pregnancy, Gaslighting
Minor: Adult/minor relationship, Animal death, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Genocide, Infertility, Racism, Sexual assault, Suicide, Antisemitism, Abortion, War
I was interested at first, then thought the storyline and writing fell apart two thirds of the way in.
This book was a beautiful story about family. I enjoyed it so much.
It was definitely worth the read.
An ARC was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It was definitely worth the read.
An ARC was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
emotional
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
emotional
reflective
medium-paced