Claire Douglas’ The Wrong Sister is an engaging thriller that holds your attention with its excellent storyline and a sense of intrigue that ties together nicely by the end. The plot unfolds with a steady pace, and while it doesn’t redefine the genre, it is crafted in a way that keeps you curious about the characters’ motivations and the secrets they harbor.
That said, this novel isn’t a blockbuster or groundbreaking in its originality. Its narrative structure feels somewhat cookie-cutter, a formula often seen in contemporary thrillers. For avid readers of the genre, it might lack the twists and novelty to make it truly unforgettable. Personally, I figured out the killer about a quarter of the way through the book, thanks to a subtle but telling detail mentioned almost in passing early on. While this didn’t entirely diminish the reading experience, it did remove some of the suspense that the book aimed to build.
For those who enjoy audiobooks, the narrator is often as crucial as the writing itself, and unfortunately, the performance here fell short for me. The narrator’s delivery came across as annoying and whiney, which detracted from my ability to immerse myself fully in the story. Whether it was an acting choice or producer direction, the vocal tone made it difficult to listen for extended periods without frustration.
Despite these flaws, The Wrong Sister is still a worthwhile read, particularly for fans of Claire Douglas or those seeking a straightforward, well-executed thriller. Just be mindful of your preferred format—this might be one to read with your eyes rather than your ears.
