Best friends Lily and Inga do everything together—they even meet their future loves at the same bar. After one serendipitous night, it seems like it’s going to be Lily and Alex and Inga and Matt forever.
But life gets more complicated. A job offer moves Inga and Matt from Norwich to London. Lily, who craves stability after a traumatic childhood, is already struggling with the change when Inga confides in her a secret that could tear the group apart for good. At the same time, Lily’s friendship with Matt deepens, and she wonders if she was always meant to be with him instead of Alex.
As the two couples try to hold on to their dreams and one another, Lily’s life is further upended by the reappearance of her long-lost sister—and all the terrible truths she brings home. Lily needs her chosen family more than ever, but in order to heal the rifts, she must find the courage to be honest with herself and reveal the secrets she’s kept hidden from her loved ones for too long.
About The Author
My Review
This is a poignant and introspective novel that delves into the lasting effects of childhood trauma and the complexity of familial bonds. Centered around Lily, a woman who seems to have built a stable, promising life, the story is upended by the unexpected return of her estranged younger sister after years of silence. This reappearance forces Lily to confront painful memories and unresolved emotions, challenging her sense of identity and future.
While some of the heavier themes—like alcoholism, child neglect, and drug abuse—are handled with a lighter touch than they perhaps deserve, the emotional heart of Lily’s journey remains engaging and authentic. This story focus on sisterhood, personal growth, and the often messy road to healing. Readers who appreciate character-driven stories with emotional depth and a hopeful undertone will find much to admire here, especially those familiar with Johnson’s previous work.
My Rating
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