The Good sister by sally Hepworth

The Good Sister
Sally Hepworth
Read by Casey Withoos
Bolinda Audio
 
Twins with a traumatic past. Now adults, each tell a story of growing up and the effects on them in the present. Which story should we trust?

Rose considers herself the sensible twin, concerned with actions and consequences. Her depiction of their mother and growing up poor is heart-breaking, and these stories justify the way that she and Fern live their lives and make decisions as adults.

Fern is a little different. She needs Rose to guide her. She doesn’t trust herself, and she doesn’t quite remember the past the way Rose does. Nevertheless, she has a steady, predictable job in a library and a sister who cares for her deeply. If things can stay the same, things can be good.

The sisters have a well-rehearsed way of life. Rose understands Fern’s need for routine and predictability. Fern appreciates Rose’s help and guidance in remembering what she needs to do and when. This is, until Fern discovers Rose is unable to fall pregnant and decides she can help.

Enter Rocco. Rocco is the man Fern decides will help her secretly fix Rose’s problem. He’s unique like Fern, and likes to spend time with her. In fact, Fern discovers that she too, enjoys spending time with Rocco. Rose on the other hand does not think that a romantic relationship is a safe thing for Fern to pursue. Things soon begin to unravel as Fern makes choices that don’t align with Rose’s way of thinking.

Sally Hepworth has crafted these two distinct voices with brilliance. She weaves a profound relationship between the two women, demonstrating a bond only twins could experience.

Casey Withoos is superb in giving voice to the two women as well as the secondary characters, making the listening experience a pleasure.

Hepworth is an Australian author, recognised for her nine published novels and awarded New York Times Bestselling Author credentials. She writes domestic thrillers; crafting female characters that readers come to love, trust, and then question.
​
The reader is undoubtedly questioning the whole way through the book ‘Who is the good sister’?