Completed: Mar. 26th

My review is a mixed bag so please bear with me. I will share what I enjoyed as well as that which I didn't care for.

This novel, in my personal opinion, is a clean psychological thriller. It is free of cursing and graphic scenes. The cover is really well done and suits the story. The writing is strong and it's full of many twists and turns that are difficult to predict or guess. The premise is very intriguing and the title *definitely* fits.

One of my two favourite passages from the novel is, "Want is an open grave that needs to be constantly filled." I found that to be very profound and convicting. The other comes 3/4 of the way through when Charlotte has a deep revelation of her twin sister, Acelynn. I read it over several times, especially the line that read, "And you will always find what you want to see." How true is that of our world in general?!

The main character, Charlotte, is somewhat difficult to like. She's been through many tough times and has a lot of battle scars. She had a drug addict for a mom as well as some very harrowing foster placements. Her adult life is somewhat unknown but she has a lot of street smarts and experience that cause the reader to question her a little and feel somewhat detached. I found myself torn between feeling sorry for Charlotte and being totally exasperated with her. In many ways, I felt she seemed to be what is referred to as an "unreliable narrator." I wanted to scream, "LISTEN TO TILLIE!!!" However, it's hard for me to relate to someone who has had such tragedy and horror.

The same day the twins meet, something happens and Charlotte has to assume Acelynn's life. Even with her previous research and her knack for accents, the stretch to carry it off is gargantuan. She quickly learns that this life she had just envied is not at all what it appears. Everyone seems to have secrets and the lies are everywhere. Everything and everyone is shallow and most are mean and spiteful. The relationships are odd to say the least. On top of all of that, there is a serial killer on the loose.

There is a second storyline from someone else who is not identified. The book became very dark and very heavy. I can't really explain it except to say that I felt an unease that didn't sit well with me. While I know evil exists, an evil child is unsettling. I've read many psychological thrillers and high-octane suspense books but this was a new feeling for me.

The character of Christian Patrick gives a bit of a glimpse into a very different way of life through faith. Charlotte does sense something about him but she doesn't trust him until the end in the aftermath. He becomes a representative of justice and proof that there are good people out there who do the right thing. Her best friend, Tillie, represents true friendship and honesty. There is an act of redemption with Charlotte at the end, but we are given virtually no details. We couldn't really sit in that moment with the character because it was brief and vague.

A huge sticking point for me is close to the end of the book. A particularly sick topic comes up more than once that I didn't feel was needed. It didn't help the story. I actually felt that it took away from the book. It made me cringe and feel queasy, to be honest. Ironically the novel included the reference to VC Andrews,' Flowers in the Attic. (Like every other young teen, that was the book to read in the early 80s. Little did I know what I was in for back then. It didn't belong in a school library at all and this novel includes the same topic.). This book is for adults but I stand by my opinion that it was unnecessary. There is a lot of ugly in the world and I fully realize that, but I still wish it wasn't included.

Though I can appreciate twists and turns, I felt that aspect was a little excessive, as with the previous release. I liken it to enjoying a certain treat but then you have too much and it takes away a little of your appreciation for it.

The main twist of the book is really well done. This book will likely appeal to those who enjoy psychological thrillers but certain aspects may not appeal to some. The ending is quite the eye-popper!


*** My thanks to Love Inspired Trade and Net Galley for an advance digital copy. My honest review is voluntary and exclusively in my own words.

The Other Sister is a twisty psychological thriller that will keep you guessing right to the end. Oh, my goodness! So many shockers and so much tension. I loved going on this trip with the protagonist, Charlotte Kane, who is no saint. The whole time I was reading, I was asking, “Is she telling the truth?” “And, what about her…Is she telling the truth?” “And, is he telling the truth?” In other words, I trusted no one.

It's billed as Christian, general fiction, mystery, and thriller and is published by Harlequin, known for romance, so there’s plenty of room for all readers. I would not read it expecting a romance or Christian fiction, though—one character wears a cross necklace and it’s free of foul language and sex. That’s about it, but it is a nice change from most contemporary fiction.

Themes of sisterhood, motherhood, family, friendship, and “friends as family” collide with themes of identity, loyalty, appearance, wealth, and deception. The ever-intriguing conflicts that arise from a difference in socio-economic class and the unending question of nature versus nurture add depth to the mystery.

I loved it. Thanks to Harlequin and NetGalley for an advance review copy.

4.5 stars!

Charlotte Kane discovers she has an identical twin sister, Acelynn Benedict, who has a seemingly perfect life. After a tragedy, Charlotte assumes her sister's identity, only to uncover dark secrets and realize that no one in Acelynn's life is who they seem to be. Charlotte wants to escape this dangerous situation, but revealing the truth would mean returning to her old, troubled life.

I am still reeling from the whirlwind of emotions this book has left me with! This is the third book I have read this month centered around twins, and the plot twists just keep getting more intricate. The rollercoaster ride of this book took me by surprise, as I found myself unable to predict the ending despite my best efforts.

Once again, we are thrust into the world of identical twins assuming each other's identities with seemingly little consequence...or so it seems. We follow the lives of Charlotte and Acelyn, both with their own unique set of side characters that are easily distinguishable. Most of these characters were quite unlikable, adding to the suspense and mystery of the story. It may seem simple for twins to switch lives, but the reality is far more complex, as even identical twins have distinct personalities. The plot was well-crafted, keeping me on the edge of my seat until the very end.

I was fortunate enough to experience this story through both an audiobook and an eBook, providing me with a dual perspective. The narrator did an excellent job of bringing the story to life, further immersing me in the narrative. I found myself completely engrossed in the story, struggling to pause or walk away when necessary.

If you enjoy delving into the dark and twisted world of twin dynamics, filled with suspense and guessing games, then this book is a must-read for you.

Thank you, Love Inspired Trade and Harlequin Audio, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I thought it was very thought provoking to think about what life would be like if I found out I had a twin sister who lived an affluent life. Especially if I had the chance to assume her identity. This book gave a good job of how that could go very wrong. This was a really good psychological thriller and was better than I had expected.

Like other Jessica R. Patch books, once I started reading I couldn’t put it down. The Other Sister by Jessica R. Patch is another page-turner with a twist. Just when you think you have it figured out get ready for a surprise while reading this stolen identity, psychological thriller. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will recommend it to my friends. Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Books for letting me preview this book. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to leave a positive review & all opinions are my own.

Thank you to Harlequin -Love Inspired Trade and NetGalley for an early chance to read and review this book. All thoughts and feelings expressed are my own.

Charlotte Kane has always dreamed of a different life and then after her mother dies she discovers she has a twin who had been put up for adoption. Acelynn Benedict lives in Savannah, and seem to have everything Charlotte craves. She’s just as surprised as Charlotte to learn she has a sister. But when tragedy hits and Charlotte is forced to assume Acelynn’s identity in a desperate moment, she uncovers something altogether darker. Nothing and no one in Acelynn’s life is what it/they, seem(s). For Charlotte, going back to her old life would sign her death warrant.

I struggled with this book in the beginning. It is like Charlotte did every stupid thing, but not the right thing. However, although this book does not have implicit faith for most of the book but by the end of the book we can see a change occur thanks to a caring cop. I was super frustrated with Charlotte. However, those plot twists at the end got me. I did not see them coming. Because of how much Charlotte got on my nerves at the beginning and the fact that I struggled to get into it at beginning. I only gave it three stars.

This book definitely would qualify as a thriller or to be more specific, a psychological thriller. Because of this, I would not recommend this book to every reader of Christian Fiction. However, if you enjoy twisty, turny books exploring creepy crimes then this could be your book. #theothersister
#netgalley

“Her eyes are vacant orbs that pierce my soul and chill my bones.”

That’s the first line of this book, and from it to the VERY end, there are more lines like that, leaving you shaking. Wow!
This newest psychological thriller by Jessica R. Patch will leave you double-thinking how you see things.
I’ve loved all of this author’s books, and I will continue to read them, but I have to admit that this one was one of her most twisted and full of creepy incidents.
It was one of those books where you don’t want to put it down, but yet you do because it gets under your skin and into your head, and you don’t really want to know what’s going to happen, but yet you do! UGH! This makes for a GREAT creepy, scary suspense.
I pride myself in solving puzzles and figuring out a book's ins and outs, but I was so not even close to this one! When I thought I knew who the “bad” guy was, I stopped to remember that this was Jessica R. Patch, a master at deception and twists. I was totally stumped. Even up to the very end, I was totally blown away!
Jessica Patch is a very skilled author who weaves intriguing stories that will grip your heart and captivate your soul. Her writing will keep you on the edge of your chair and keep you reading long after it’s time to stop. She has just the right way with words, and even though her stories can be creepy, scary, and suspenseful, she weaves in hope, resolution, and justice for those who are hurting and lost.
I highly recommend picking up this book.
However, I must warn you that you might not want to read this at night! Also, be prepared: You might not get much sleep until you finish reading it!
I was given this book by the publisher, but it in no way influenced my review; all opinions are my own.

“I assumed I was walking into a happily-ever-after, but now… now I can’t help but think I might have walked into a horror film.”


Gasp. That was intense! What a brilliantly crafted thriller!

I loved this book. Although it had dark themes, I thought Patch did a great job shaping it into a redemption story and bringing the light into the darkness. And the twists were spot on! I did suspect some of them, but there were also ones I didn’t see coming! Even the ones I figured out, I’m not mad about it. I would have been mad if she didn’t go that direction.

The title is perfect, the premise compelling, and the execution thrilling.



The basic premise is this:

Charlotte has been in and out of foster homes due to her mother’s drug addiction. When her mother dies of overdose, Charlotte receives a box of her mother’s things, including the surprising knowledge that Charlotte has an identical twin.

Charlotte finds and contacts her twin, Acelynn, to meet up with her in Chicago, but when they’re together, Charlotte’s foster brother and close friend gets himself in trouble with a mobster. Things go bad fast and Charlotte witnesses the murder of not only her friend, Tommy, but also Acelynn. Her only escape route now is to lay low at Acelynn’s house, using her funds to help her find a more permanent way to disappear.

But of course, she is spotted and forced to fess up to her true identity or play the part of Acelynn until she can figure a way out. Charlotte’s own sketchy past has given her the skills to pull it off.

“We all keep certain things about ourselves locked deep down. No one knows every single thing about us or our thoughts. I even try to hide truths from my own self.”

But instead of a dream life, it’s a nightmare. There’s a serial killer on the loose nearby and apparently Acelynn was in a bit of a mess before she went to Chicago.

“I’m not sure I’ve met a single person in Acelynn’s life who isn’t pretending to be someone they aren’t. And that includes me.”

Charlotte’s abilities and street smarts are put to the test as she maneuvers a life and circle she doesn’t know, a suspicious circle Acelynn was at the middle of… with a target on her back.

“I’ve survived a lot. But can I survive this many secrets and knives plunging into my back?”



Though there is no swearing in this book, the darkness is real. There are no graphic descriptions or grisly scenes, but one of the themes in this book is about the evil in our hearts— what are we really capable of?

“Maybe we’re all coexisting, both sides fighting against each other. Sometimes the beauty wins, and sometimes it loses to the beast.”

“I’m believing more than ever that maybe it’s not our upbringing or financial status or even education that shapes us, but our hearts. And our hearts seem to all be dark and wicked to the core.”

Patch uses this identical twin trope to explore the similarities and differences (nature or nurture) between Charlotte and Acelynn— born from the same drug addict mother, but one was a product of the system and the other was adopted, now living a life of luxury and influence.

As Charlotte finds out more and more about Acelynn’s life and the people who fear her, she finds herself introspective, knowing the things she, herself, is capable of, and wondering what’s in their DNA and can she escape the evil intent she finds in her own heart?



Throughout the book we also get chapters titled ‘Then’ where a woman is sharing about her disturbing daughter:

“Other parents would judge me if they knew how terrified of my daughter I am. But they don’t know the evil I live with. The fear that always haunts me, forcing me to keep my mouth shut. They don’t have a child like mine. Vindictive. Evil. A monster. A child they fear.”

These are the darkest parts of the book as we learn the extent to which this daughter is a sociopath, doing evil things and blaming others for it and gaining power by gaining secrets, while the mother is drugged and always on the precipice of being sent away to a psychiatric facility.

As readers we are trying to identify who this sociopathic girl is and what the fallout will be when she strikes in the present.

That’s the true question of this book: how is this all connected? Or is it?

The web woven in this book was phenomenal and strong. Perhaps after sitting with it longer I might think of a loose end, but my first and second thoughts are that no, Patch covered everything and she did a fantastic job!

I wish I could read it for the first time again!

Was it too dark?

Patch actually addresses this question as she talks about one reviewer’s negative thoughts on the book saying it needed more mention of God. I found the blog post HERE and if this is a question you’re asking, her defense may be helpful for you to read.

I’ve read a lot of secular thrillers and some that are really dark, sometimes making me feel disturbed when I’m done. I did not feel that with this book at all. This book does have light and hope and truth that other dark thrillers don’t.

In most secular thrillers there may be a ‘good ending’ to some extent but there isn’t usually any sort of redemption. You’re just stuck with the twisted story.

The reality is that there is darkness in the world. And there is darkness in our hearts.

“No one’s life is filtered on the inside. We’re all a bunch of messy, broken people pretending. Except for those who are free.”

Patch uses the detective character, Christian Patrick, as the light-bringer, almost a Christ figure. In a genre where distrust is a key element, I found it nice to have a character I could trust. Christian is that character.

“He saved me in spite of my failures and flaws, and has kept the door open for confession and truth.”

I liked the illustration Christian gives Charlotte at some point in the book when he’s investigating her and she’s trying to obtain information from him. She is using Acelynn’s interior design job as a way to infiltrate Christian’s house and access his notes on the case. They are discussing new paint colors for his house.

Charlotte- “You know you can paint over wallpaper. Saves time.”

Christian- “I could. But when you paint over another layer like that, it eventually peels, and what’s underneath is revealed. I find stripping away the old, even if it appears pretty, is the right way to go about it. It’s so much easier to work with a completely bare source. It’s fresh and clean and ready for color. I don’t mind the time it takes. I’ll be happier with the results.”

Such a good illustration and a natural way to introduce truth into the story without making it preachy. The only way to break free from the chains of darkness in our hearts is to become a new creation. The old has gone, the new has come. We can’t just ‘cover it up’ and make it look nice on the outside. We need a complete overhaul.

Patch doesn’t share the gospel message word for word, so I would bet that some people reading this book may not fully get where she’s going with some of the subtle hints (it’s hard for me to know what they’ll think) but I think the light is hard to miss.

Along these same lines, we have Charlotte’s discontent with her own life and her desire for what others have. I thought this was a really profound line Patch wrote in regards to that:

“Want is an open grave that needs to be constantly filled.”


So yes, we have wickedness in this story, but we also have light and truth and I can attest that this reads different than your typical secular twisted psychological thriller even if God isn’t mentioned on every page.

Patch says in that blog that instead of telling: “I’d rather SHOW the brokenness. I’d rather use other characters to reveal parts of her heart–corruption, lies, justification of sin, wickedness and even depravity.”

I think Patch’s message is clear: Each of us has brokenness in our hearts, a depraved nature regardless of our upbringing, because we are all sinners. Sin is a path of destruction, an open grave that wants more and more. But we are not without hope. Even when we feel we have done too much and that we are outside the reach of grace, we find an outstretched hand beckoning us to come clean, to free ourselves from the chains of our sin.

And I would agree with Patch when she says, “[My God] is an all consuming fire whether he’s spoken of once or 8 times or 800.”


If you feel convicted to not read this book, by all means, stick to your convictions, but I think Patch’s writing has a great quality to it that invites readers who would not normally pick up a ‘Christian’ book to take in a story that is not afraid to enter into the real mess that we know is in the world, and offer light and hope in a way they may be more willing to hear.

It offers opportunities for us as readers to consider and wrestle with the darkness in our own hearts and the things like discontent, lies, and justification for our sin that we may need to come to terms with.



Recommendation

If you enjoy a good thriller, I would definitely recommend this book! Even if you’re generally put-off by Christian fiction, I would give this book a chance.

If you really try to avoid books that have some dark themes, then it may not be the book for you, but even with the darkness I will reiterate that there is no swearing or graphic scenes and there is plenty of light that contrasts with the darkness.

Jessica Patch is up there for some of my favorite authors and I look forward to reading more of her work!


**Received an ARC via NetGalley**

[Content Advisory: no swearing; dark themes of a sociopathic child, a serial killer, abuse, infidelity; nothing graphic is described in detail, no sex scenes but sexual things are referenced]

This book sets the standard for high-intensity psychological thrillers with a foundation of hope and faith. Charlotte finds out that she is a twin and circumstances thrust her into Acelynn’s life. Charlotte thought her life was messed up until she stepped into the dumpster fire that was Acelynn’s life. What a wild ride this book is, from beginning to end! The twists just kept coming, along with serial murders, suspects and lots of family drama. I loved the interactions between the realistic characters, mostly high society and full of themselves, with little desire to lower themselves to common people. Charlotte is basically a hot mess who has no idea what she is doing in Savannah, but she is determined to hide there for a while since she is running away from a murder in her hometown. So much action happens so quickly that I couldn’t take my eyes off the page and was on the edge of my seat for much of the story. The faith factor is one of hope and redemption, undeserved mercy and grace and offered a welcome respite from all of the dark parts of the story. A child who is manipulative and dangerous is in the center of the story and the surprise is who she really is. So many secrets in this brilliantly written and cleverly executed complex story! I cannot write a lot more without giving something away, but let’s just say, run to get a copy of this book and prepare to read all night with all of the lights on.
Disclaimer
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review,and all opinions expressed are my own.

The Other Sister
by Jessica R. Patch
Pub Date: April 22, 2025
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
No one in her sister’s life is quite who they seem to be. And every discovery leads Charlotte deeper into a web of deadly secrets. Charlotte may have wanted Acelynn’s life, yet now that she’s living it, she wants out. But if she reveals the truth about herself, it will mean returning to her old life—and she’s already a dead woman there.
I wish there was a little more faith development after Charlotte met Christian. She’s angry at God, which is a real issue and if done right, makes the story stick with me. Not saying that this one won’t. There are a lot of twists and turns in this unpredictable story.

This story will be great for those who love psychological thrillers, mind games, whodunits, serial killers, secrets, drama, women’s fiction, domestic thrillers, dark, twisted, family sagas, chilling beach reads, elements of horror, and maybe even split time novels.

Psychological thriller with some edge of the seat moments. Suspenseful with twists and turns that kept it unpredictable all the way through to the end. Definitely unique characters, with a glimpse into the life of a person who experienced less than ideal foster care and a drug-addicted parent. It takes a candid snapshot of families who look perfect on the outside, but hold terrible secrets underneath. A ray of light shines through the dark with a bit of hope and redemption at the end.
Readers who like suspenseful mysteries with an edge may like this one.

“Want is an open grave that needs to be constantly filled.”

This quote has stayed with me for days since finishing Jessica Patch’s psychological thriller, The Other Sister. Patch’s characters are constantly on the move figuring out ways to keep shovelling.

You’ll meet Charlotte Kane who is struggling to make ends meet in Chicago when she learns that her mom has passed away. While going through her mom’s things, she finds a photo that shocks her. She has a sister - an identical twin! Charlotte drops everything to meet with her … and both sisters' lives are changed forever.

Masquerading is one of the most prominent themes in this book. I was feverishly turning pages to see if the characters were able to hang on long enough to ‘fake it until they made it.’ Patch made sure I was entertained, was left gasping, and that Charlotte and Acelynn buried themselves deep in my mind. I’m still thinking about them!

“This community of social butterflies is masquerading. Underneath they’re yellow jackets, and I’m not safe until I know what is truly going on.”

I was reminded that:
✔️A change of setting doesn’t mean a change of events
✔️Trying to be one step ahead is tiring and joy gets trampled
✔️Abandonment deeply affects our personality
✔️Being angry at God is a bumpy journey

This was a great story, but to use the cover as an example, I’d have loved a wider gap between the light and dark.

If you love 5-star twisty psychological thrillers with a very light Christian thread and dark undertones, a behind-the-curtain peek into the effects of long-term foster care, murder and plenty of deception, this one’s for you!

I was gifted this copy by the publisher through NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

Charlotte Kane has always dreamed of a different life, one where she isn’t living paycheck to paycheck. An existence worlds away from the chaos of her own. Then her estranged mother dies, and Charlotte makes a stunning discovery—she has an identical twin who was given up for adoption.

Acelynn Benedict is polished, successful and seems to have everything Charlotte yearns for—a wealthy, doting family in Savannah, a handsome boyfriend, a great career. She’s just as surprised as Charlotte to learn she has a sister. But when tragedy hits and Charlotte is forced to assume Acelynn’s identity in a desperate moment, she uncovers something altogether darker…

No one in her sister’s life is quite who they seem to be. And every discovery leads Charlotte deeper into a web of deadly secrets. Charlotte may have wanted Acelynn’s life, yet now that she’s living it, she wants out. But if she reveals the truth about herself, it will mean returning to her old life—and she’s already a dead woman there.

I utterly loved this. Twisted. Dark. It deals with some heavy themes, and the undercurrent of good versus evil is there. The faith aspect of this took me a little by surprise, and I've seen other reviewers mention they wish there was more exploration of this. Not me. I loved this just the way it was. It was chef's-kiss perfect for me. 5⭐

I received an advanced complimentary digital copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed are my own.

I was unable to finish. I couldn’t get into it, it didn’t hold my inter3st. I’m sure formsomemthey loved it.

Charlotte (who grew up off and on in foster care) finds out about a twin sister she has never met. As Charlotte reads a letter from her twin’s adoptive mother she decides to contact Acelynn. Thus begins a series of twists and turns and creepy happenings that I had a hard time keeping up with. The plot is intricate and every time I thought I had figured out what was happening, the author threw me for a loop. The story is pretty edgy for Christian fiction, so readers should be aware.

I was not required to give a favorable review to this ARC.

Wowzers!!! Brilliantly, brilliantly written!!! This book truly blew me away! Despite being unwell, I couldn't tear myself away!
The enthralling twists and turns, mental games, intense intrigue, and frightening thrills are just next level!!
The subtle correlation to Christ's redemption and our choice of whether we accept it or not! Wow!!
Yes, like Charlotte, we do carry masks, and yes, we try to show only the best side to others. How many times do we covet other's lives and even what they have? And the deeper truth still, if you keep the darkness in you hidden and do not expose it to the Light, it will keep you in prison for the rest of your life!

Between having a drug addicted mother, Foster Care, and trying to make ends meet as an adult, Charlotte Kane has had a rough life. But when her mom passes away and she finds a diary, along with the knowledge that she’s a twin, she’s determined to find her sister and change her future for the better. Acelynn Benedict is everything Charlotte isn’t. Wealthy, successful, and polished, with two loving parents and a multitude of friends. In a desperate tragic moment Charlotte is forced to become Acelynn, settling into her family and home as if it’s always been hers. But things on the surface aren’t what they seem, and Charlotte begins to find herself in too deep with countless secrets and no one to trust.

This is my second book from Jessica and I can’t wait to read more! This is definitely a fast paced psychological thriller. There are faith elements of hope and redemption in Christ but overall the storyline is on the darker side.

Thank you to Harlequin for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Charlotte, who grew up in foster care, finds herself despairing at life as an adult. After her estranged mother’s death by overdose, she discovers that she has an identical twin sister, Acelynn, whom she’s never known. She plans a reunion with hopes to finally find love within the family. Acelynn seems to have everything that Charlotte desires—a successful business, loving family, and a handsome boyfriend. Once the two sisters are happily reunited, grimmer parts of Charlotte’s world interrupt the occasion, changing both of their lives forever. This forces Charlotte to take Acelynn’s identity in a desperate attempt to salvage the situation, but she quickly learns that her sister’s life was not what it seemed. Once immersed in her sister’s disturbing life, Charlotte must make a difficult decision to right her wrongs or continue spiraling. The story explores the raw experiences associated with trauma and abuse, showcasing human depravity at its worst. VERDICT Patch’s (The Garden Girls) delivery of consecutive plot twists in this psychological thriller that explores faith and the opportunity to choose between good and evil will keep readers riveted to the end. Perfect for fans of Colleen Coble and Lisa Jewell.

UPDATED REVIEW. The Other Sister by Jessica R. Patch

Charlotte Kane has lived a life of trauma and turmoil. The daughter of a lifelong addict, Charlotte was in and out of foster care her entire childhood. She saw the best and worst of what foster care could provide, but unfortunately the best portion was so brief it sits a a vague memory in her mind. Now, she is faced with some disturbing truths one, her estranged biological mother has fatally overdosed. Two, she has an identical twin sister, Acelynn Benedict, that is living the life that she’s always dreamed of living.

This is where the twisted tale begins. Nothing is as it seems and everyone has secrets. Lies, Murder, Manipulation, and a very disturbing diary of a mother with a child that possess evil within her.

There is a subtle undertone of faith, but it is smothered by the darker tones of a traditional psychological thriller. As a reader of Christian content, I would not categorize this as a Christian fiction thriller. There are very disturbing themes that I am sure are often found in mainstream thrillers, but to include them in Christian fiction is a stretch. One theme in particular was introduced near the end of the book, and it made me very uncomfortable. However, the book is free from profanity.

The author has a compelling writing style with a clear ability to tell a story, make you see glimmers of hope, and weave a tale that twists and turns continuously keeping you guessing and a little unsettled the way a thriller should.

Overall, the storyline started out as a very engaging read, but the edgy, crude and uncomfortable content was too much at times. Sadly, I cannot recommend this book to others seeking Christian content. This is terribly unfortunate, because the writing is so good but the story would have been just as convincing without the difficult to stomach content.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book from
Netgalley and Harlequin in exchange for my honest review.

I can sum this book up in one word…WOW! It’s a high-octane psychological race against time that kept me turning the pages to find out what happened next. The characters are broken, but in the end, the heroine finds redemption. Loved her character arc. The plot moved along nicely with some great twists. Jessica is known for her twists and this book proves why. Loved it. Highly recommend The Other Sister.

**I received no compensation and the opinions in this review are my own.