The Shadow Sister: Book Three (The Seven Sisters)

Sometimes we need to look in the past in order to move forward. The Shadow Sister was a captivating story about a young woman on a journey of self discovery.

I honestly had no idea what to expect with this book. Being my first by this author and the third in a series, I was a little worried I might get lost. Much to my surprise The Shadow Sister read very well as a standalone. All I want now are the first two books!

Written in present and past the Riley did a fantastic job of blending the lives of Star D'Aplièse and Flora MacNichol without taking away from the main story. Star is the main character but Flora holds such an important role she acts as a main character herself. It truly was two stories beautifully blended into one glorious tale. Star is definitely living in the shadows of her sisters and importantly her closest sister CeCe. But it's the death of her father that truly sets the wheels in motion. Having left her and her adopted sisters clues to where they are from.

CeCe has convinced Star to move to London with her. Their bond to each other is strong and while Star may feel as though she's lost her way, CeCe is right there to bring her along "her" journey. It doesn't take long for Star to begin feeling restless and in turn the clues left to her create an escape. Opening one door leads Star to an old bookstore and from there the real story begins.

I loved how real my struggle became, not knowing which story I wanted more Flora or Star's! I found myself yearning for one when the other would pick back up. The parallels between Flora and Star were also worth noting. Both of these women lead similar lives many decades apart. I only wish I could adequately describe how engaging and riveting this story is. I didn't want it to end, yet I couldn't wait for the end. For it's the coming to terms with who she really is that brings Star's story full circle.

I will be honest and admit that I didn't totally love the connection between Star and Mouse. I totally get it, I just didn't feel it. This is really my only critique. I cannot wait for the next book! First I need to go back and read books one and two!

* I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader’s Copy of this book *

Set in present day London, Star D’Aplièse's genealogy and roots conveniently send the reader to the Edwardian England, with some Victorian influences. It is one of my dearest periods in the English history, and seeing names like Beatrix Potter's, and even the King's used in the novel was a treat. I didn't know about Alice Keppel, but it was a nice surprise. As with the first two books in the series, I am amazed how well the details and intricacies of the English families were nicely used to create the main character's story. I confess I needed a notebook to write down some details, or else I would have got lost in the maze of names and historical information.

Although I believe Star, Beatrix Potter and Alice Keppel the characters, Aurelia and Flora are strong characters, not coincidentally strong leading feminine characters, my suspicion that arose even from the previous two books that The Seven Sisters men are weaker than the women has been confirmed. Both the men from the past, those in connection with Flora and Aurelia, and the men in the present day in connection to Star's life seem weak in comparison to their female partners. Mouse, Archie, the King are not as impressive in their actions, words and decisions as their counterparts, Star, Flora/Aurelia, Alice. Most men exhibit an unfounded air of superiority, talk too much, and often act only prompted, like pawns. Maybe it's the feminism tendencies in me, but it was a thought that followed me throughout the novel, and I am curious if it will be confirmed by the next books.

A thing that seemed somewhat inauthentic were some exchanges between characters. Mouse and Star's rocky start of relationship can be excused due to their inexperience and their personalities, but still their exchanges seemed forced. However, the most out of place was the one between Star and Shanti when Shanti expresses her romantic interest. I sensed from the moment she was introduced in the novel that she was going in that direction, but I wish it had been done in a less cringy way. Curiously, the present day characters seem to have the problem of authentic talking rather than the characters in the past. Maybe this is because it's the Edwardian period and puffy language is excused.

As far as the plot goes - well done! The story-telling is so written as to keep the reader interested to the very end, even after you learn everything about Star's past. Another thing that gave the novel consistency was the way the author connected the events. In book two there is a concert Ally is in and we were told that Star attended it. In book three we learn how exactly did Star get there, and why isn't Cece with her. I like the little details that tie the novels.

4,5/5stars

I received a free e-book copy from the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

After the death of her adoptive father, Star learns that her father left her a clue to her origins. The clue he left behind leads her to a small bookstore in London and asks for the name of Flora MacNicol. Little that she knows that by befriending the owner of the bookstore, Orlando, that she learns her connection to his family and finds her own independence. The family eventually tells her Flora’s story. As she listens to the story, Star learns the truth about where she comes from and makes tough choices in order to find her happiness.

Flora’s story was moving and heart-wrenching. In the beginning of her story. She has a carefree life. She has a menagerie of animals, but the animal she really adores is her cat, Panther. However, she goes through hard trials and is separated from the man she loves. She sacrifices her dreams and happiness for her sister’s sake. Flora’s story was very emotional, and I hoped that her story would end in a satisfying outcome. There were times that Flora did some ruthless deeds, but she did them to protect her family. Thus, Flora is a lovable character because she always puts her family before herself.

While I preferred the historical aspect more than the modern one. Star’s story is captivating also. Star finds herself at ends with her with sister, Cece, and she must choose to be her own self or to be in her sister’s shadow. She is a strong person too and often helps her new friends. She also finds herself dealing with first love. Therefore, Star is a very relatable character, and readers root for her to achieve her independence from her needy sister!

Overall, this book is about family, love, friendship, secrets, choices, and happiness. All the characters were very realistic and likable. The Edwardian setting was very fascinating and we meet many famous figures, such as Beatrix Potter, Mrs. Keppel, and King Edward VII. The story also has a mystery aspect, for there are secrets that Flora has hidden for many decades. I have never read The Seven Sisters series before, and I was disappointed in myself that I hadn’t read the others at all. If if hadn’t been for The Shadow Sister, I might have missed out on a really good series. While I am waiting for the sequel, The Pearl Sister, I am definitely going to catch myself up on the first two books! The Shadow Sister is perfect for fans of Kate Morton, Gill Paul, and Melanie Dobson.
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)

The Shadow Sister is book three The Seven Sisters series. I had wanted to read this series from the beginning and I was a bit unsure how it would go starting with book three. But, despite some mentionings from the previous book did I find this book to work as a stand-alone. Although now I really want to read the previous two books!

I found the title of this book to be very fitting, both the main characters in the present time Star D'Aplièse and Flora MacNichol that lived in the beginning of the 20th-century are both shadow sisters. They both have to find their own way in life. Star by daring to finally break free from living her life in symbiosis with her sister CeCe and Flora who has always lived in the shadow of her beautiful younger sisters will one day have to choose between her own happiness or her sisters.

I got very engaged in both Star's and Flora's lives. Sure there were times I wanted to scream at them to not be stupid and think of themselves, but they are both very undemanding and their love for their sisters makes them make decisions that go against what they really want. I did have moments when I just wanted them both to be a bit more selfish, and tell them to reach for the stars!

The Shadow Sister is a thick book, but absolutely not a dull book. A lot of things are going on, I do admit that I did want the story to get going at a faster pace sometimes, but at the same time, I enjoyed reading about the people in the book. From the bookish Orlando to little Rory, and Mouse who had lost so much in life. And, of course, Star and Flora, both storylines were interesting to follow.

I'm looking forward to reading the next book which seems to be starring CeCe!

4.5 stars

I haven't read any book in this series before, but I am glad I took the chance to pick this book up! Even though I didn't read the previous books in this series, I didn't have a hard time following what was happening. This was such a magical read!

One of my favorite things about this book was the descriptive settings. The author's writing created such a lush and magical world. I loved how the author would be descriptive without creating info dumps. I felt like I was transported into the scenes, and I never wanted to leave!

I really enjoyed all of the characters. I was glad that author created a multitude of well developed and loveable characters. My favorite character was Star. She was more introverted and she had a big heart. I thought she was so sweet and easy relate to.

One of my favorite things about this book was reading the interactions between the characters, especially when they had hilarious banter. I loved how the author focused on family ties and what it means to be family.

The plot of this book kept me interested and entertained the entire time. There were some parts that felt a little slow, but I thought it was an addictive story overall. I loved discovering the twists and turns that the plot took. The author's skill for storytelling really shined throughout this book. I thoroughly enjoyed myself while reading this enchanting book.

Overall, this was a great read. I would recommend this book to anyone! I am excited to read more books in this series!

4 / 5 Fangs

*This ebook was given to me in exchange for an honest review. *

Atmospheric, absorbing and incredibly descriptive!

In this third instalment of The Seven Sisters we delve into the life of Star, a young woman who is yearning for a little independence from her sister CeCe and who discovers on her journey to find her parentage that she loves the simple things in life, taking care of others, dusty bookshops and small-town country living.

The story, itself, is exceptionally compelling and is filled with drama, familial dynamics, emotion, self discovery, secrets, love, loss, duty, courage, heartbreak and passion; as well as an intriguing look at the influential, glamorous, and regal figures of the Edwardian period. The characters are unique, flawed, multifaceted, lovable, and eccentric. And the prose is remarkably well-turned and eloquent.

This truly is a beautifully written novel that grabs you from the very start and does a wonderful job of blending historical facts with compelling and believable fiction. It is certainly a book for book lovers and even though I have loved all The Seven Sisters books so far, I think this one might just be my favourite. If you haven’t read this series yet, you really should!

This is the third novel in the Seven Sister series, but one doesn't have to read the books in order to understand the backstory as each book can stand alone. There are six sisters who were adopted from different parts of the world by a billionaire father. When he passes away, he sets each daughter on a journey of discovery to find her roots. The premise is fascinating, and I suspect the last sister will be revealed at the end of the series. This is the hook that will keep me reading each installment.
Star's story weaves back and forth in time with a woman of 100 years earlier. As the story unfolds, Star develops into a character of great strength. Although the first part of the novel is a tad slow, persevere a little and then the story will really take hold. A great little gem of a read! Looking forward to the next novel in the series.

Check out the full review at Kritters Ramblings

The third in the Seven Sisters series and as I said yesterday, I would highly recommend starting at book one. Although the stories are self contained with each sister getting a book, they completely build on each other and its nice to have background knowledge of the sisters before going into the next book. I will be reviewing the latest release, book four - The Pearl Sister tomorrow.

I loved that this story took place at the same time as The Storm Sister and that there were hints at the timeline in a few spots. Ally's story was highlighted in this book, so I am so glad I had the historical knowledge of her full story to see the peeks into it through this story.

This book was so wonderful to read! I have enjoyed the series so far and this one is my current favorite. Although, to be honest, I think that all the books will end up as favorites.

This book is all about Star with her sisters making appearances throughout. I love the way that the author draws the other characters close for short appearances, then brings us back to the main character so effortlessly.

The author also draws us back and forth between past and present throughout the book and I found it so easy to follow her in and out. All the characters were well drawn and the plot was easy to follow.

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for allowing me to read and review this book.

I've enjoyed each of these books more than the preceding one. Some of the circumstances and coincidences are just too implausible, but I find myself eager to learn what each sister finds out. Miss Riley is to be commended for her extensive research into the time periods and cultures in which her stores take place. The books are too long. There are a lot of incidents and conversations that do nothing for the story. I highly recommend reading them in order; otherwise, there are events that make no sense at all.

Interesting characters and main character who is transformed make this the best so far in this series. Star is likable as are the rest of the book's characters and this book isn't as hampered by Riley's clunky, immature writing and stilted dialogue. She's getting better, which is great because she has good storytelling chops and good ideas. This and The Storm Sister are strong books.

This is a lovely series but the latest installment- Shadow Sister- can easily and happily be read as a standalone. Star's quest to know and love herself leads us to Flora, whose story is intricately and beautifully told. This is the sort of novel you can settle into and read with delight. The characters- all of the sisters- are so well drawn and the tales of the families are neatly plotted. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Recommend this for fans of family sagas.

I have enjoyed all Lucinda Riley's books, and particularly like how her stories include real historical figures and events. I find myself digging to learn more about the people involved. For example, I researched to find out more about Edward VII. Having grown up in the UK, I also loved the descriptions of the Lake District, and Kent, "the garden of England". Both are on my list of places to visit when next I visit, hopefully soon.

Can't wait to move on to the 4th "Sisters" book.

I have enjoyed each book in the series - and look forward to those to come in the future. I love the way the author has picked different parts of the world and history to weave into each story. I truly enjoy getting to know the characters of each story. Wonderful concept; wonderful books.

I think this was my favorite book in the series ( although I thought that about the Storm Sister, too). The depth of the characters is what I like best about this series. It almost feels like you know these girls and can empathize with all their feelings. Super!

Hated putting this book down and could not wait to get back to it. Having spent this past Christmas in London and the Lake District of England made this book all the more special to me. A real winner!!!