The second sister

Ella Brooke's older sister, Miranda, disappeared when Ella was only 20, leaving her newborn child behind. Ten years later, that boy, Luke, begs his aunt to find out what really happened to his mother. Most people believe Miranda was a victim of a seductive, now-jailed serial killer named Jason Thorne. Ella begins to think otherwise. As Ella slowly creeps closer to the truth, Kendal reveals her cards, one tantalizing flip at a time. Just when you think you know where the story's going, you're jolted sideways. A wild matrix of secrets, betrayals, vendettas, jealousies and hidden motives is revealed, as no one seems to be who they say they are. (Is he acting fishy? Is he? Or is ... she?) After Ella uncovers what really befell Miranda, Kendal boxes her heroine into a corner so tight you can't fathom how she's ever going to get her out. It's marvelously tension-filled storytelling. Kendal misses a prime opportunity to take advantage of her setting, the English countryside near Bath; there are too many red herrings; and the ending is a bit too tidy. Nonetheless, "The Second Sister" is a psycho-thrilling romp, with Ella mentally talking to Miranda every step of the way - and Miranda answering back. It turns out sisters really do speak their own language. And it's one that's worth hearing.