A review by oceanwriter
Darling Girls by Sally Hepworth

challenging dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Truthfully, the cover of this book had me thinking this was going to be some kind of beach-read thriller (is there such a thing?). I wasn’t sure what to expect but I’m almost always willing to give a thriller a try. I’m glad my first impression of the book was wrong! 
 
First Jessica, then Norah, then Alicia. These three girls were taken in at different times by someone whom they were told was a loving and caring foster mother. This is especially true for Jessica who, for a time, was the apple of Miss Fairchild’s eye. Things begin to change when Miss Fairchild takes in two other girls, and later, some younger children. The three older girls forge a strong bond, knowing that getting through the day under Miss Fairchild’s roof relies on teamwork. 
 
In the present-day timeline, Jessica, Norah, and Alicia are grown and have lives of their own. It’s been years since they’ve seen Miss Fairchild. When a body is found under the house they grew up in, they must confront their pasts. Whether it’s as witnesses or suspects, none of them are certain. 
 
I loved the foster sister relationships in this book. I love how much these girls/women looked out for one another. Though I was more invested in the past storyline, I was quite interested in the mystery in the modern setting as well. I found Miss Fairchild to be an intriguing antagonist right up to the end. Without getting into spoilers, I will admit that I was left a little perplexed by her motives aside from the obvious character traits she displays. 
 
Were the characters particularly memorable and unique? No. Did I enjoy the vibes? Absolutely. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator, Jessica Clarke, does a fantastic job delivering the story. 
 
A huge thanks to Macmillan and NetGalley for inviting me to read a free audio ARC of the book! 
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