The bonds of sisterhood were unbreakable. Until him.
Sisters Hannah and Stef are very different. Intelligent and quick-witted, Hannah is an academic, partnered with an older man who doesn’t want any more children. Bubbly and warm, Stef is divorced, struggling with parenting two children with a dismissive ex-husband. Yet, despite their differences, the sisters have an unbreakable bond… or so they thought.
When it’s revealed they have a half-brother, their stable family environment is rocked. As Alex charms his way into their folds, becoming each sister’s confidant, cracks in the foundation behind to show. Hannah and Stef become inextricably bound by the whims and machinations of their half-brother.
Through their insecurities and secrets, Alex plays the sisters against each other until the bonds between them, their partners and children are irrevocably broken. As Alex’s own secrets are revealed, the sisters begin to realise exactly who they’ve invited into their family and are forced to deal with the consequences.
Author Christine Keighery is the bestselling author of more than thirty-five novels for children and young adults. The Half Brother is her first adult novel, and she’s knocked it out of the park. Examining the nature versus nurture debate and family bonds, Keighery has created an enthralling tale of family loyalties and sibling rivalry in a compelling example of domestic noir.
The Half Brother is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the themes of family, loyalty, secrets, and manipulation. Keighery does a stellar job of creating realistic and complex characters that you can relate to and care about. The secretive and enigmatic Alex is masterfully contrasted by the supportive and down-to-earth sisters, adding an extra layer of depth.
The novel is told from the alternating perspectives of Hannah and Stef, allowing you to see how Alex manipulates, influences and affects them in different ways. The dual perspective is unsettling yet gripping; you’ll feel the impacts of Alex’s wrath right by Hannah and Stef’s sides.
Alex is such a chilling antagonist, carefully manipulating every scenario for his own gain. He has a dark past that he hides from Hannah and Stef, and a sinister agenda that he pursues with ruthless determination. Alex’s mysterious yet twisty personality will send chills up your spine and make you crave to find out more.
This book is no slow burn. The suspense and tension simmer from the few first pages, ramped up skillful twists and turns that left me puzzled until the final reveal – you’ll never see it coming!
The Half Brother is perfect for anyone who loves a good thriller with a strong family drama element. Keighery’s writing style will reel you in with her clear, engaging and fast-paced storytelling, making it hard to put the book down. It’s a captivating read that will make you question how well you know your loved ones and what you would do to protect them.
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