Contemporary family drama is my go-to genre and Caroline’s Bond’s novels have been on my radar for a while, so I was delighted to spend time with The Forgotten Sister. Cassie Haines was adopted as an infant and at seventeen learns that the adoptive parents, she so adores, have lied. She embarks on a journey to reconnect with her birth family, which reveals unsettling truths about both the care system and neglect. A sense of menace builds throughout, as Cassie tries to do the right thing.

Initially, I found the story a little difficult to get into as it was partly told from the viewpoint of a baby, which felt strange and, in truth, pulled me out of the narrative. However, readers should stick with it, as once we hear more from Cassie’s parents the story takes flight. The relationships between Cassie and her sisters felt very realistic, with their characters honestly portrayed.

The Forgotten Sister is an emotional read with interesting insights into the adoption process that made me consider how making the right decision may not always be as clear as we imagine. A sensitively written exploration of a family’s response when young Cassie is torn between those she loves and the blood relations she longs to know better.

I found this book quite sad and in parts disturbing. It certainly throws light on the dangers of keeping secrets, especially the impact it has once secrets are revealed. A compelling well-written read, which would make a good Netflix film.

Heartfelt and very well written, it took me a while to read as it was emotional in some places. I liked that it was believable and felt that it ended in a good place.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy of this title in exchange for an unbiased review.

Great story. Well written. Really enjoyed the plot. Characters were well written. Will be looking for more from this author

Another excellent read that made me slightly concerned to read on for what might happen next. Thank goodness the parents were so caring and sensible. I don't want to say much more lest I give a way any spoilers but the characters are well rounded and the story will stay with you for a long time.

Story of an adopted child who is contacted by an unknown sibling. The story covers relationships, lies and family feelings. I enjoyed this book

An interesting and intriguing read, at times heartbreaking when you consider the failings of the care system. Unlikable teenage characters blend with parents trying to do the best for their kids (and an eye opening insight into teenage years!)

Absorbing and engaging, a good read!

The Forgotten Sister by Caroline Bond is a fast paced family drama. It will appeal to Jodi Picoult fans but is based in the UK. It covers a number of themes including infertility, adoption and child neglect. The family at the centre of the story is faced with their adopted daughter wanting to trace her birth mother. The story takes a surprising turn and all concerned have to deal with the implications of what she discovers.

This is a story of an adopted child who tries to find her real parents. It shows the dangers of keeping secrets. Very emotional story and very realistic at times. Compelling story to read.

I really wanted to like this book but when I started reading the book just didn’t draw me in. It was ok but not one of those books I couldn’t put down which was disappointing

A really heartwarming story I really struggled to put down. It is centred around a girl who was adopted and the drama of her family and her biological family. Sad, sweet and emotive, really enjoyed it

This is one of those books that grips you and holds onto you long after you’ve finished. Following Cassies quest to find her birth parents, secrets and lies are quickly uncovered that shatter cassies view of everything. A fast paced, shattering novel.

Loved this book full review on the blog soon! Such an engrossing read. Kept me up until the early hours wanting to turn the page!

this is the story of an adopted child, who wants to find her birth mother, but gets found by a sister she didn’t know she had. It was heart wrenching in places,and showed how families can be broken, but can also be mended again.

A book I read ages ago but seems I never left feedback. I really can’t remember a great deal about this story which probably means it had no great impact on me.

This is a heartfelt story based on an adopted child. When Cassie reaches 17 she wants to find her birth family, and then the secrets begin to unfold. I did feel the ending didn't tie up all the ends though

A book that really grabbed me and didn’t let go - fantastic read. Great characterisation and really pulled the storyline along. I’ll be looking out for more by the author.

This is a cracking book that builds on the mystery and trauma of an adoption, with clear character insight into the adoptive parents and the angst they face, to the 'real' daughter and sister. The confusion and chaos brought by the late-life revelation, where you just want to shout at the main character for going off the rails in an otherwise middle class and stable environment. But also intriguing insight into the bitter and twisted sister attitude, who feels entitled to far more than she had in real life. Gripping. Gritty.

I gave up on this book at 30 percent in sorry but it really did not grab my attention. It was very slow.

A brilliant read, a strong story told well, with a great understanding of the subject matter, found myself waking up in the night just to read a few more pages