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My Sister's Baby
Your sister once saved your life… Would you repay her with the child she’s always dreamed of?
Liv and Toni were once inseparable. While their parents focused on Mandy, their little sister with special needs, the two older sisters leaned on each other for love, support and security.
When they were in their teens, and Liv needed a lifesaving operation, Toni didn’t hesitate to do whatever it took to help her. Since then, their lives have gone in different directions. They live in different cities and rarely see each other. But now it’s Toni who needs help from Liv. Because she’s desperate for a baby…
When Liv finds herself in a situation where she could help Toni fulfil her dream, she wants more than anything to say yes. But Liv is keeping a dark secret. And she can’t help but wonder – is giving a baby to her sister the right thing to do… or will it destroy their family forever?
A gripping emotional page turner with a heart-wrenching twist that readers won’t see coming. Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Kate Hewitt and Emma Robinson.
Liv and Toni were once inseparable. While their parents focused on Mandy, their little sister with special needs, the two older sisters leaned on each other for love, support and security.
When they were in their teens, and Liv needed a lifesaving operation, Toni didn’t hesitate to do whatever it took to help her. Since then, their lives have gone in different directions. They live in different cities and rarely see each other. But now it’s Toni who needs help from Liv. Because she’s desperate for a baby…
When Liv finds herself in a situation where she could help Toni fulfil her dream, she wants more than anything to say yes. But Liv is keeping a dark secret. And she can’t help but wonder – is giving a baby to her sister the right thing to do… or will it destroy their family forever?
A gripping emotional page turner with a heart-wrenching twist that readers won’t see coming. Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Kate Hewitt and Emma Robinson.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 5, 2024
1073 people are currently reading
398 people want to read
About the author
Louise Guy
31 books50 followersLouise Guy, bestselling author of six novels, blends family and friendship themes with unique twists and intrigue. Her characters captivate readers, drawing them deeply into their compelling stories and struggles. Previously published by Lake Union, she lives in Australia. Her latest book My Sister's Baby is published in 2024.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
February 2, 2024
When sisters Liv, Toni and Mandy, along with their mother Sara, lost their father and husband, the family grieved deeply. But when Toni's desperate call to Liv in Sydney arrived, and she begged her sister to come home to Melbourne because both Mandy and their mother weren't coping, she dropped everything. Toni and Joel were married and had been trying for the past eight years to have a baby. Every time Toni became pregnant, she miscarried before 12 weeks. Liv had to be strong for everyone in the family, and her shock on seeing the house - and their mother - in the condition it was, caused her to make some decisions. Mandy had special needs and had always needed her parents. Now Liv offered for Mandy to come to Sydney for a few weeks on a holiday, to give Sara a break and time to grieve properly.
Mandy and Liv's neighbour, Barb, became firm friends. They would go out and explore around Sydney's harbour while Liv was at work, and Mandy had a wonderful time. Gradually Liv made some decisions for the future, decisions that would either be amazing, or have disastrous consequences. The secrets that Liv was keeping - were they too much? Would the outcome ruin the family bond they'd all had over the years?
My Sister's Baby was an amazing read by Aussie author Louise Guy and I certainly didn't expect the major twist at the end! Well done Ms Guy on that one! Set in both Melbourne and Sydney, My Sister's Baby touched on many issues - people with special needs; transplants; IVF and the parents desperation for a baby; familial love - and all were handled with care. Touching, poignant and both heartwarming and heartbreaking, I highly recommend this wonderful book.
With thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Mandy and Liv's neighbour, Barb, became firm friends. They would go out and explore around Sydney's harbour while Liv was at work, and Mandy had a wonderful time. Gradually Liv made some decisions for the future, decisions that would either be amazing, or have disastrous consequences. The secrets that Liv was keeping - were they too much? Would the outcome ruin the family bond they'd all had over the years?
My Sister's Baby was an amazing read by Aussie author Louise Guy and I certainly didn't expect the major twist at the end! Well done Ms Guy on that one! Set in both Melbourne and Sydney, My Sister's Baby touched on many issues - people with special needs; transplants; IVF and the parents desperation for a baby; familial love - and all were handled with care. Touching, poignant and both heartwarming and heartbreaking, I highly recommend this wonderful book.
With thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2024
Olivia and Antonia Montgomery felt their parents focused on their younger sister Mandy who has special needs and she always came first. When their dad passes away, five weeks later their mum Sara isn’t coping, Toni calls Liv to tell her and she returns to Melbourne.
After they tidy up the house, Liv offers to take Mandy back with her to Sydney and give her mum a break. Barb is Liv's neighbour and she offers for Mandy to stay with her while Liv’s at work and they go on adventures together.
When the sisters were in their teens Liv needed a kidney transplant and Toni was her donor, Liv finds herself in a situation where she can repay Toni and give her a gift she and her husband Jack desperately want.
My Sister’s Baby is another emotional and heart rendering story by Louise Guy it raises awareness to issues and situations people have to deal with. Including parents with adult children with disabilities, many don’t get a break and it's exhausting, should they consider placing into a group housing facility, where they learn to live independently, and it’s not an easy choice to make.
Infertility and the toll it takes on a couple, the stress of raising a young baby, despite desperately wanting one and the challenges new mothers face, and nothing can prepare you for parenthood, it takes a village to raise a child and families can come in different forms.
Five stars from me I highly recommend both My Sister's Baby and Louise Guy’s previous book, A Mother’s Betrayal.
After they tidy up the house, Liv offers to take Mandy back with her to Sydney and give her mum a break. Barb is Liv's neighbour and she offers for Mandy to stay with her while Liv’s at work and they go on adventures together.
When the sisters were in their teens Liv needed a kidney transplant and Toni was her donor, Liv finds herself in a situation where she can repay Toni and give her a gift she and her husband Jack desperately want.
My Sister’s Baby is another emotional and heart rendering story by Louise Guy it raises awareness to issues and situations people have to deal with. Including parents with adult children with disabilities, many don’t get a break and it's exhausting, should they consider placing into a group housing facility, where they learn to live independently, and it’s not an easy choice to make.
Infertility and the toll it takes on a couple, the stress of raising a young baby, despite desperately wanting one and the challenges new mothers face, and nothing can prepare you for parenthood, it takes a village to raise a child and families can come in different forms.
Five stars from me I highly recommend both My Sister's Baby and Louise Guy’s previous book, A Mother’s Betrayal.
February 5, 2024
This is such a page-turner, it is filled with so many emotions as many family stories are, come and meet the Montgomery family, mother, Sara, daughters Toni, Liv and Mandy as they track through life with many ups and downs, secrets and the love they share.
With the death of their father, Sara is not coping real well at the moment, Liv lives in Sydney and Toni is busy with her marketing position, husband Joel and they also desperately want a baby and Sara is doing her best to cope with Mandy an intellectually challenged thirty year old, Toni asks Liv for help and she arrives to help out. Liv and Toni have always been very close while their parents spent so much time with Mandy, fifteen years ago Toni helped save Liv’s life how far would Liv go to pay her sister back?
Liv takes Mandy home to Sydney for a holiday and to give her mother a break, Mandy makes friends with Liv’s neighbour and friend Barb and Mandy is loving her trip and it has been extended a couple of times now, she is also learning to live independently, things seem to be going well. But when Liv finds that there may be a chance to help her sister with the biggest wish she has that is to have a baby, Liv plunges in with a plan, but will this plan bring them together or pull them all apart?
This is an absolutely fabulous read that takes in so many issues that happen in life today, organ donations and transplants, IVF and people with special needs and grief, but it opens up a world of family love and caring and what extent they will go to, to give the ones they love the things they want most, I did thoroughly enjoy this one my emotions where all over the place and there were tears, and a twist, it really is a beautiful and well told story and one that I do highly recommend.
My thanks to the publisher Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
With the death of their father, Sara is not coping real well at the moment, Liv lives in Sydney and Toni is busy with her marketing position, husband Joel and they also desperately want a baby and Sara is doing her best to cope with Mandy an intellectually challenged thirty year old, Toni asks Liv for help and she arrives to help out. Liv and Toni have always been very close while their parents spent so much time with Mandy, fifteen years ago Toni helped save Liv’s life how far would Liv go to pay her sister back?
Liv takes Mandy home to Sydney for a holiday and to give her mother a break, Mandy makes friends with Liv’s neighbour and friend Barb and Mandy is loving her trip and it has been extended a couple of times now, she is also learning to live independently, things seem to be going well. But when Liv finds that there may be a chance to help her sister with the biggest wish she has that is to have a baby, Liv plunges in with a plan, but will this plan bring them together or pull them all apart?
This is an absolutely fabulous read that takes in so many issues that happen in life today, organ donations and transplants, IVF and people with special needs and grief, but it opens up a world of family love and caring and what extent they will go to, to give the ones they love the things they want most, I did thoroughly enjoy this one my emotions where all over the place and there were tears, and a twist, it really is a beautiful and well told story and one that I do highly recommend.
My thanks to the publisher Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.
January 27, 2024
What a fantastic book so unusual but addictive. this book was so thought provoking and I throughly enjoyed it. This book never let up and it left me sad when I finished it. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
June 27, 2024
Very good read. It had a good pace and really picked up full force in the last 1/4 of the book
January 9, 2024
The story about three sisters. After their father dies and their mother is unable to cope, two of the sisters Liv and Toni try to help their youngest sister Mandy who has special needs.
Toni is desperate for a baby and Liv decides to help her too.
A family drama with some twists and turns.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Toni is desperate for a baby and Liv decides to help her too.
A family drama with some twists and turns.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2024
Meet the Montgomery sisters, Toni, Liv, and Mandy.
As the two eldest, Toni and Liv have always been close. Ever since Toni donated her kidney to Liv fifteen years previously, their bond has become even more special.
As for any sort of relationship with Mandy... well, that is something that could be worked on. The youngest sister has an intellectual disability, which means that all their parents' love and attention have been focused on her. And Toni's always resented Mandy for that.
Still, as sisters, there's that unspoken rule that secrets must be kept.
Toni and her husband Joel have been struggling to conceive for years. All Toni had ever wanted was a baby of her own. Stuck in an awkward situation, Liv has one to gift her to repay Toni for her selfless act.
But when baby Ruby arrives, Liv's good intentions will become a problem for everyone involved. Toni suddenly finds herself stuck in depression, and instead of speaking up, she begins to reject baby Ruby. Liv discovers that she's being blackmailed because of her actions. Meanwhile, Mandy, isn't exactly welcome in Ruby's life, despite displaying an affinity with the infant.
Just like a car crash, your eyes will be peeled as everything crumbles down... As their Mum Sara predicts, it's unlikely that this plan will end well.
But it's the twist that knocked me for six, ultimately smashing my heart to pieces.
Welcome to the world of Louise Guy, an author who's been on my radar for quite a while now. She's been touted as a domestic drama queen, and gosh, doesn't that come through in her writing. My Sister's Baby dealt with so many relatable issues, not only motherhood and sisterhood but also infertility, adoption, postnatal depression, women's rights to choose, grief, and also that hard decision to place an intellectually challenged child into independent living.
Big hugs to anyone who's dealing with a lot on their plate today.
4.5 🌟
As the two eldest, Toni and Liv have always been close. Ever since Toni donated her kidney to Liv fifteen years previously, their bond has become even more special.
As for any sort of relationship with Mandy... well, that is something that could be worked on. The youngest sister has an intellectual disability, which means that all their parents' love and attention have been focused on her. And Toni's always resented Mandy for that.
Still, as sisters, there's that unspoken rule that secrets must be kept.
Toni and her husband Joel have been struggling to conceive for years. All Toni had ever wanted was a baby of her own. Stuck in an awkward situation, Liv has one to gift her to repay Toni for her selfless act.
But when baby Ruby arrives, Liv's good intentions will become a problem for everyone involved. Toni suddenly finds herself stuck in depression, and instead of speaking up, she begins to reject baby Ruby. Liv discovers that she's being blackmailed because of her actions. Meanwhile, Mandy, isn't exactly welcome in Ruby's life, despite displaying an affinity with the infant.
Just like a car crash, your eyes will be peeled as everything crumbles down... As their Mum Sara predicts, it's unlikely that this plan will end well.
But it's the twist that knocked me for six, ultimately smashing my heart to pieces.
Welcome to the world of Louise Guy, an author who's been on my radar for quite a while now. She's been touted as a domestic drama queen, and gosh, doesn't that come through in her writing. My Sister's Baby dealt with so many relatable issues, not only motherhood and sisterhood but also infertility, adoption, postnatal depression, women's rights to choose, grief, and also that hard decision to place an intellectually challenged child into independent living.
Big hugs to anyone who's dealing with a lot on their plate today.
4.5 🌟
January 16, 2024
How do you measure the depth of a sister’s love? Liv and Toni have always been close, especially growing up with Mandy, their intellectually challenged sister. After a serious accident, Toni donates a kidney to save Liv’s life. Now Liv has the opportunity to return the gift by helping Toni achieve her dream of becoming a mother. Liv’s well intentioned plan has the potential to backfire and destroy the family she loves.
My Sister’s Baby completely snuck up on me. The story started slowly and halfway through I wanted to scream at all the characters. As the story unfolded and the lies unraveled, I couldn’t stop reading and by the final chapters, my tears were flowing. I’m a big Jodi Picoult fan and Louise Guy’s novel is reminiscent of Picoult’s ability to transform a reader’s opinion of characters and themes as the story develops.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
My Sister’s Baby completely snuck up on me. The story started slowly and halfway through I wanted to scream at all the characters. As the story unfolded and the lies unraveled, I couldn’t stop reading and by the final chapters, my tears were flowing. I’m a big Jodi Picoult fan and Louise Guy’s novel is reminiscent of Picoult’s ability to transform a reader’s opinion of characters and themes as the story develops.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my unbiased review.
May 2, 2024
Keep a box of tissues handy when reading Louise Guy’s My Sister’s Baby because this book will make you sob your heart out.
Sisters Liv and Toni were like two peas in a pod. With their parents focused on their little sister who had special needs, Liv and Toni had no choice but to rely on each other for love and support. When in their teens, Liv had needed a life-saving operation and Toni hadn’t hesitated and stepped in to help. However, a lot has changed since then and the two sisters who had once been inseparable had drifted apart and made new lives for themselves far from one another. Until now. Toni wants a baby and the only person who can help her get her her heart’s desire is the sibling she has barely spoken to in years: Liv.
Liv wants more than anything to help her sister. However, unbeknownst to Toni, Liv has a secret. A secret so dark and powerful that backs her in a dark corner where she is forced to make the hardest decision of her life: either give her sister a baby or tell the truth and destroy their family forever.
A complex and astute exploration of sibling relationships, family ties and the secrets that tear us apart, Louise Guy’s My Sister’s Baby is a poignant, affecting and emotional tale that tugs at the heartstrings, gets under your skin and will keep you on the edge of your seat as you find yourself completely caught up in this immersive and compulsively readable page-turner.
Perfect for book clubs, Louise Guy’s My Sister’s Baby is a superb read you will certainly not forget in a hurry.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sisters Liv and Toni were like two peas in a pod. With their parents focused on their little sister who had special needs, Liv and Toni had no choice but to rely on each other for love and support. When in their teens, Liv had needed a life-saving operation and Toni hadn’t hesitated and stepped in to help. However, a lot has changed since then and the two sisters who had once been inseparable had drifted apart and made new lives for themselves far from one another. Until now. Toni wants a baby and the only person who can help her get her her heart’s desire is the sibling she has barely spoken to in years: Liv.
Liv wants more than anything to help her sister. However, unbeknownst to Toni, Liv has a secret. A secret so dark and powerful that backs her in a dark corner where she is forced to make the hardest decision of her life: either give her sister a baby or tell the truth and destroy their family forever.
A complex and astute exploration of sibling relationships, family ties and the secrets that tear us apart, Louise Guy’s My Sister’s Baby is a poignant, affecting and emotional tale that tugs at the heartstrings, gets under your skin and will keep you on the edge of your seat as you find yourself completely caught up in this immersive and compulsively readable page-turner.
Perfect for book clubs, Louise Guy’s My Sister’s Baby is a superb read you will certainly not forget in a hurry.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 27, 2024
Interesting story. Unusual plot.
I've never read a story with a plot lot this one before. I got seriously annoyed with all the secrets these people thought they needed to keep. Satisfactory ending. All tied up in a neat little bow, just the way I hoped. (Personal kindle ed)
I've never read a story with a plot lot this one before. I got seriously annoyed with all the secrets these people thought they needed to keep. Satisfactory ending. All tied up in a neat little bow, just the way I hoped. (Personal kindle ed)
August 5, 2024
I liked it. For a bit it was slow going, but it picks up and the ending was a happy one 🙂
February 23, 2024
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'My Sister's Baby' by Louise Guy.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Louise Guy, Boldwood, Book And Tonic, The Bold Book Club and Rachel's Random Resources.
Publication date 5th February 2024..
This may be the first book I have read by this author but it most definitely wont be my last!
This novel consists of 37 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
'My Sister's Baby' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Louise discusses/includes miscarriage, IVF, adoption, meningitis, organ donation, mental health and meningitis. .
The first thing I have got to say that if you are a fan of books by Jodi Picoult and Nicholas Sparks then I wouldn't bother reading any further because if you love them you will definitely love this stunning book that will pull at your heart strings and bring you out in tears!! This is an absolutely fantastically written book by the very talented Louise! It is is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions and is filled with family, loss, resentment, sadness, love, forgiveness, heartbreak, motherhood, challenges, grief, secrets and lies. Louise writes about so many difficult topics in just one book but doesn't just manage to discuss them in a sensitive and tactful way, she has also obviously done a lot of research in to these topics and then manages to weave them all into an absolutely stunning and memorable page turner. One of my pet hates is when an author doesn't research their chosen topic as it then has a high risk of the storyline being littered with mistakes which can spoil a potentially fantastic storyline but this was definitely not a problem in this gorgeous read! Louise also does an amazing job on highlighting the challenges and emotional suffering any of these challenges can have on the people involved. Well done Louise for the research and for highlighting such important topics in such a brilliant way. The storyline is based around three sisters, each with their own challenges and problems. Mandy has a long term intellectual disability after contracting meningitis as a baby, Liv almost died but survived thanks to Toni donating her a kidney and then there is Toni who has been trying for a baby for years but miscarries every time before she can get to 12 weeks. Can these three very different sisters support and help each other in these challenging times after they have all lost a father and their own mother is struggling? Liv helps her Mum by taking Mandy away to Sydney with her to give her a break but can she give Toni what she desires the most? I don't want to go into too many details as I don't want to give too much away but make sure you have the tissues at the ready as Louise manages to make the tears flow and emotions run high. I absolutely devoured this book in one sitting as there was just no chance I was ever going to put it down until I found out what was going to happen! One thing I will say is that I was NOT expecting THAT ENDING!! My jaw dropped to the floor so well done Louise, again, on managing to completely shock me as it is getting harder and harder with every book I read but you certainly managed it! Louise's evocative writing skills brings the story and characters to life around you making your heart beat faster and pulls on your heart strings. An absolutely fantastic success from an extremely talented author and I can't wait to see what she comes out with next and in the meantime I am going to get stuck in to her previous books!!
The characters are strong and realistic. My heart really went out to them all for different reasons. Sara is the mum of Mandy, Liv and Toni. She recently lost her husband and is struggling to cope with her daughter Mandy who is 30 years old and lives with her. Mandy contracted meningitis when she was 3 months old which left her with a log term intellectual disability. There was talk of putting her into independent living before Sara's husband died but Sara was against the idea. There is a lot in the news about meningitis at the moment so I think was a fantastic illness to include to bring awareness to the risks contracting meningitis can cause. My heart broke for both Sara and Mandy as I can imagine how hard it must be for them both. I have twins who have autism and they can be extremely challenging at times but I wouldn't change them for the world. However there are days where I have struggled myself. It is also heartbreaking for the person with any disabilities such as those discussed in the book as the people with those difficulties are not aware of how their behaviours can harm or upset others and then not understand why people are upset at them. Anyway, I could talk for hours about that but I will wrap up how I feel about those characters. The main storyline focuses on sisters Liv and Toni who are also struggling. Toni and her husband have wanted a baby for years but Toni miscarriages before 12 weeks each and every time. I cannot begin to imagine how heartbreaking this must be for her so I wont pretend I do. However, after Liv was donated a kidney by Toni which saved her life so Liv now sees a way of possibly repaying her but life is never as simple as that. My favourite character had to be Mandy who had a heart of gold, I just found her to be an amazing character and some of the things reminded me of some of the things my boys have or may do in the future. I was rooting for each of the characters as well as emphasising with them and had tears streaming down my eyes by the end. Louise's fantastic writing skills brings an emotive storyline to life ensuring the characters come to life and you feel everything along with them. I'm not going to say anymore about the characters as I don't want to let anything slip but Louise does a fantastic job of making realistic and strong characters that come to life in front of the readers eyes and ones that will stay with me for a very long time so a HUGE CONGRATUUALTIONS LOUISE!
Clear your schedules and get the tissues ready as you wont be able to put this down!! Well done Louise an absolutely gorgeous emotional page turner and here's to your next success!! Welcome to my favourite authors club!!
Overall an addictive rollercoaster ride of emotions that will keep you turning the pages with a twist you wont see coming.
348 pages
This book is just £1.99 to purchase, free with kindle unlimited and £9.99 in paperback (at time of review) on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
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Review for 'My Sister's Baby' by Louise Guy.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Louise Guy, Boldwood, Book And Tonic, The Bold Book Club and Rachel's Random Resources.
Publication date 5th February 2024..
This may be the first book I have read by this author but it most definitely wont be my last!
This novel consists of 37 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
'My Sister's Baby' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Louise discusses/includes miscarriage, IVF, adoption, meningitis, organ donation, mental health and meningitis. .
The first thing I have got to say that if you are a fan of books by Jodi Picoult and Nicholas Sparks then I wouldn't bother reading any further because if you love them you will definitely love this stunning book that will pull at your heart strings and bring you out in tears!! This is an absolutely fantastically written book by the very talented Louise! It is is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions and is filled with family, loss, resentment, sadness, love, forgiveness, heartbreak, motherhood, challenges, grief, secrets and lies. Louise writes about so many difficult topics in just one book but doesn't just manage to discuss them in a sensitive and tactful way, she has also obviously done a lot of research in to these topics and then manages to weave them all into an absolutely stunning and memorable page turner. One of my pet hates is when an author doesn't research their chosen topic as it then has a high risk of the storyline being littered with mistakes which can spoil a potentially fantastic storyline but this was definitely not a problem in this gorgeous read! Louise also does an amazing job on highlighting the challenges and emotional suffering any of these challenges can have on the people involved. Well done Louise for the research and for highlighting such important topics in such a brilliant way. The storyline is based around three sisters, each with their own challenges and problems. Mandy has a long term intellectual disability after contracting meningitis as a baby, Liv almost died but survived thanks to Toni donating her a kidney and then there is Toni who has been trying for a baby for years but miscarries every time before she can get to 12 weeks. Can these three very different sisters support and help each other in these challenging times after they have all lost a father and their own mother is struggling? Liv helps her Mum by taking Mandy away to Sydney with her to give her a break but can she give Toni what she desires the most? I don't want to go into too many details as I don't want to give too much away but make sure you have the tissues at the ready as Louise manages to make the tears flow and emotions run high. I absolutely devoured this book in one sitting as there was just no chance I was ever going to put it down until I found out what was going to happen! One thing I will say is that I was NOT expecting THAT ENDING!! My jaw dropped to the floor so well done Louise, again, on managing to completely shock me as it is getting harder and harder with every book I read but you certainly managed it! Louise's evocative writing skills brings the story and characters to life around you making your heart beat faster and pulls on your heart strings. An absolutely fantastic success from an extremely talented author and I can't wait to see what she comes out with next and in the meantime I am going to get stuck in to her previous books!!
The characters are strong and realistic. My heart really went out to them all for different reasons. Sara is the mum of Mandy, Liv and Toni. She recently lost her husband and is struggling to cope with her daughter Mandy who is 30 years old and lives with her. Mandy contracted meningitis when she was 3 months old which left her with a log term intellectual disability. There was talk of putting her into independent living before Sara's husband died but Sara was against the idea. There is a lot in the news about meningitis at the moment so I think was a fantastic illness to include to bring awareness to the risks contracting meningitis can cause. My heart broke for both Sara and Mandy as I can imagine how hard it must be for them both. I have twins who have autism and they can be extremely challenging at times but I wouldn't change them for the world. However there are days where I have struggled myself. It is also heartbreaking for the person with any disabilities such as those discussed in the book as the people with those difficulties are not aware of how their behaviours can harm or upset others and then not understand why people are upset at them. Anyway, I could talk for hours about that but I will wrap up how I feel about those characters. The main storyline focuses on sisters Liv and Toni who are also struggling. Toni and her husband have wanted a baby for years but Toni miscarriages before 12 weeks each and every time. I cannot begin to imagine how heartbreaking this must be for her so I wont pretend I do. However, after Liv was donated a kidney by Toni which saved her life so Liv now sees a way of possibly repaying her but life is never as simple as that. My favourite character had to be Mandy who had a heart of gold, I just found her to be an amazing character and some of the things reminded me of some of the things my boys have or may do in the future. I was rooting for each of the characters as well as emphasising with them and had tears streaming down my eyes by the end. Louise's fantastic writing skills brings an emotive storyline to life ensuring the characters come to life and you feel everything along with them. I'm not going to say anymore about the characters as I don't want to let anything slip but Louise does a fantastic job of making realistic and strong characters that come to life in front of the readers eyes and ones that will stay with me for a very long time so a HUGE CONGRATUUALTIONS LOUISE!
Clear your schedules and get the tissues ready as you wont be able to put this down!! Well done Louise an absolutely gorgeous emotional page turner and here's to your next success!! Welcome to my favourite authors club!!
Overall an addictive rollercoaster ride of emotions that will keep you turning the pages with a twist you wont see coming.
348 pages
This book is just £1.99 to purchase, free with kindle unlimited and £9.99 in paperback (at time of review) on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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February 3, 2024
First, I want to thank Louise Guy, Boldwood Books, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
You may want to stock up on tissues for Louise Guy’s emotion filled story My Sister’s Baby. She tackles some very important issues within her storylines that will have readers talking way after you are finished with the book. This is one book where you will want to put it at the top of your tbr list!
This is the first book that I enjoyed every single character and what they brought to the story. Usually there may be a character that I don’t care for but not this one.
Mandy was one of my favorite characters out of all of them though. She had a beautiful heart of gold and showed it every chance she could. I really appreciated that Louise created this character to bring awareness of individuals with disabilities. As someone with a disability I would like to see more characters like this one. I enjoyed watching Mandy’s character grow within the storyline.
My Sister’s Baby is a highly addictive and fast paced read. This storyline has a ton of emotional highs, lows, twists, turns, secrets and shocking revelations. It is a story about family and what great lengths they will go to for eachother.
This book is in loving memory of Brian Guy and his selfless organ donor who gifted Brian an additional 15 years and 25 days.
You may want to stock up on tissues for Louise Guy’s emotion filled story My Sister’s Baby. She tackles some very important issues within her storylines that will have readers talking way after you are finished with the book. This is one book where you will want to put it at the top of your tbr list!
This is the first book that I enjoyed every single character and what they brought to the story. Usually there may be a character that I don’t care for but not this one.
Mandy was one of my favorite characters out of all of them though. She had a beautiful heart of gold and showed it every chance she could. I really appreciated that Louise created this character to bring awareness of individuals with disabilities. As someone with a disability I would like to see more characters like this one. I enjoyed watching Mandy’s character grow within the storyline.
My Sister’s Baby is a highly addictive and fast paced read. This storyline has a ton of emotional highs, lows, twists, turns, secrets and shocking revelations. It is a story about family and what great lengths they will go to for eachother.
This book is in loving memory of Brian Guy and his selfless organ donor who gifted Brian an additional 15 years and 25 days.
February 28, 2024
Thank you Louise for gifting us a copy to read and review.
I’ve made it no secret that I love Louise’s relationship, friendship and family themed stories with great twists and My Sisters’s Baby is another to add to her impressive list of titles.
A tangled web of mystery, family, lies, secrets, siblings, drama and shocking revelations.
Olivia and Toni had been close as sisters could possibly be but now have gone their seperate ways.
They needed each other, as their parents concentrated on raising their other sister Mandy, who has special needs.
When they were teenagers Liv needed a medical emergency and Toni helped her out.
Now Liv can return the favour and present her with a life changing opportunity.
But could a dark secret change everything…….
I love how Louise gets deep into her character’s psyche and really makes them authentic and striking.
An author who has mastered many essentials in creating an iconic story.
The mixed cast of characters have great chemistry, the plot is interesting, appealing and rich in feeling and the twist is clever.
The bundle of family dynamics and intricate emotions stand out in this supreme story.
Louise made me doubt myself when it came to the twist many times, I thought I’d worked it out then changed my mind, then went back to my original thought, then again changed my mind until all was revealed.
A book that you need to get a hold of and dedicate your time in reading.
I’ve made it no secret that I love Louise’s relationship, friendship and family themed stories with great twists and My Sisters’s Baby is another to add to her impressive list of titles.
A tangled web of mystery, family, lies, secrets, siblings, drama and shocking revelations.
Olivia and Toni had been close as sisters could possibly be but now have gone their seperate ways.
They needed each other, as their parents concentrated on raising their other sister Mandy, who has special needs.
When they were teenagers Liv needed a medical emergency and Toni helped her out.
Now Liv can return the favour and present her with a life changing opportunity.
But could a dark secret change everything…….
I love how Louise gets deep into her character’s psyche and really makes them authentic and striking.
An author who has mastered many essentials in creating an iconic story.
The mixed cast of characters have great chemistry, the plot is interesting, appealing and rich in feeling and the twist is clever.
The bundle of family dynamics and intricate emotions stand out in this supreme story.
Louise made me doubt myself when it came to the twist many times, I thought I’d worked it out then changed my mind, then went back to my original thought, then again changed my mind until all was revealed.
A book that you need to get a hold of and dedicate your time in reading.
June 15, 2024
Great story! This was a page turner with lots of twists and turns. Three sisters have different priorities and responsibilities. One sister is mentally challenged. The two others are somewhat resentful because Mandy has always required more from her parents. After the father passes away unexpectedly, the girls have to help their mom. Toni is married and having a difficult time getting pregnant. When Liv arrives in Melbourne to help her mom, she decides to take Mandy back to Sydney for awhile to give her mom a break. Liv ends up offering Toni her baby since she has never wanted children. Lots of family drama as well as legal problems. Happy, satisfying ending.
February 7, 2024
This book begins on one direction and then turns completely in a different one.
I think all the actions and feelings by all three sisters were validated. Although what Liv did was convoluted and sneaky her intentions were good. I understood Toni’s feelings of dreaming about something for so long and then having to admit the reality was far from the dream.
Mandy proved she was more capable than anyone gave her credit for.
I looked how it was all wrapped up because everyone worked for the benefit of the youngest member. Another strong message is that family doesn’t have to be blood.
Thanks to Bookouture and Boldwood Books for the early read.
I think all the actions and feelings by all three sisters were validated. Although what Liv did was convoluted and sneaky her intentions were good. I understood Toni’s feelings of dreaming about something for so long and then having to admit the reality was far from the dream.
Mandy proved she was more capable than anyone gave her credit for.
I looked how it was all wrapped up because everyone worked for the benefit of the youngest member. Another strong message is that family doesn’t have to be blood.
Thanks to Bookouture and Boldwood Books for the early read.
February 1, 2025
Your sister saved your life. Now will you give her the baby she’s always dreamed of?
I highly recommend this book! I flew through it in two days. It is an emotional read that touches on deep poignant topics that really make you pause and reflect. I love the focus on family and complex familial conflict, and the characters were crafted and presented in such a way that it was easy to envision everything happening and feel their emotions myself.
I highly recommend this book! I flew through it in two days. It is an emotional read that touches on deep poignant topics that really make you pause and reflect. I love the focus on family and complex familial conflict, and the characters were crafted and presented in such a way that it was easy to envision everything happening and feel their emotions myself.
January 24, 2024
This was an excellent book, reminds me quite a bit of Jodi Picoult or similar authors. The themes of family and secrets were well explored through the characters. I enjoyed the setting in Australia as well.
February 18, 2024
I didn’t know which why this book was going to go. You don’t know from one page to the next. That is a good way to keep someone turning the page.
Some parts were far fetched but I enjoyed the majority of it.
3.5 stars
Some parts were far fetched but I enjoyed the majority of it.
3.5 stars
March 17, 2024
Slow at the start. Second half… couldn’t put it down.
April 11, 2024
Really enjoyed this book! Was a quick read! Will be checking out more books by this author.
February 13, 2025
10/10! Such a wild ride! Absolutely never saw the twist coming. An emotional ending. Great read!
April 12, 2024
I picked this up on a whim when Mum and I did an impromptu book club and I had so much fun - most of all when Mum was finishing it and trying to guess what happens. This was very surprising and the twists were so good. It would have got a five star if not for the happy ever after ending. A bit unrealistic in my opinion. This read very much like a Sally Hepworth and I would consider reading this author again in the future.
April 26, 2024
I did not like this book as much as I had expected.
January 8, 2024
"My Sisters Baby" is a story about sisters, one gives the other a kidney during childhood and this sister then repays her sister with a child... I don't want to give too much away about the story as it's a phenomenal book from start to finish! Written with so much emotion that it oozes out of the pages and twists you won't see coming it is a must read!
April 14, 2024
I was looking forward to reading this based on the reviews and the “big twist” near the end. It was very obvious who the real mother was from the beginning and I found the story line to be too far fetched. I thought there was too much happening and found it somewhat difficult to follow how various intricacies fit in with the story line- it almost felt like the author was trying to increase the word count to be honest. I only finished it because I hate not finishing a book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2024
Is it ok to keep secrets from those you claim to love? I’m not sure I like the validation of this, but I did like the way the characters and their relationships were explained even if they were unrealistic at times.
May 1, 2024
An enjoyable read, found it slowing going and had to push through.
Ending was fantastic, good little twist
Ending was fantastic, good little twist
February 13, 2024
TRIGGER WARNING: miscarriage, IVF, adoption, organ donation, brain damage caused by meningitis
Fifteen years ago Toni gave her sister Liv a kidney to save her life. Now Liv offers to give her baby to Toni so that she can have the family she's always dreamed of...
My Sister's Baby is a very emotional family drama novel set in Australia.
Toni, Liv and Mandy are united in their grief after their father's death. Toni and her husband have the additional heartache of having been through several rounds of IVF that ended in miscarriage. The sisters' mum Sara is struggling to cope with Mandy who suffered brain damage after contracting mengingitis as a child.
Liv has always wanted to repay Toni for donating a kidney to her after a car crash and now she has the chance to make her a mother. Toni accepts her sister Liv's baby but finds the reality of a newborn difficult to cope with. Meanwhile Liv fraudulently arranges the birth certificate which lead to her getting blackmailed.
There are some big issues covered in this book. I thought they were handled sensitively and gave a depth to the characters. In particular, my heart went out to Mandy who is aware of her limitations and the burden she is to her family. The book is very thought provoking about the impact disability has on siblings, the sacrifices that are made and the resentment this could cause.
Toni finally has what she has always dreamed of but struggles to adapt. I felt so enraged at her husband's double standards. The author makes many references to Liv's secrets and it is pretty obvious that there is more than just the birth certificate. The ending was predictable but well written and engaging.
My Sister's Baby is a hugely emotional book about family and impossible choices.
Fifteen years ago Toni gave her sister Liv a kidney to save her life. Now Liv offers to give her baby to Toni so that she can have the family she's always dreamed of...
My Sister's Baby is a very emotional family drama novel set in Australia.
Toni, Liv and Mandy are united in their grief after their father's death. Toni and her husband have the additional heartache of having been through several rounds of IVF that ended in miscarriage. The sisters' mum Sara is struggling to cope with Mandy who suffered brain damage after contracting mengingitis as a child.
Liv has always wanted to repay Toni for donating a kidney to her after a car crash and now she has the chance to make her a mother. Toni accepts her sister Liv's baby but finds the reality of a newborn difficult to cope with. Meanwhile Liv fraudulently arranges the birth certificate which lead to her getting blackmailed.
There are some big issues covered in this book. I thought they were handled sensitively and gave a depth to the characters. In particular, my heart went out to Mandy who is aware of her limitations and the burden she is to her family. The book is very thought provoking about the impact disability has on siblings, the sacrifices that are made and the resentment this could cause.
Toni finally has what she has always dreamed of but struggles to adapt. I felt so enraged at her husband's double standards. The author makes many references to Liv's secrets and it is pretty obvious that there is more than just the birth certificate. The ending was predictable but well written and engaging.
My Sister's Baby is a hugely emotional book about family and impossible choices.
February 7, 2024
It’s always a sign of a compelling book when you don’t want to put it down as you’re so eager to discover where the plot line goes next. My Sister’s Baby is a rollercoaster ride of a read which definitely fits into that category!
There’s an obvious trigger warning to be heeded for anyone who may struggle with issues around fertility and trying to conceive, but it’s worth noting that the author handles the topics with tact and insight, showing how emotional and at times, draining, the journey to motherhood can be.
It’s impossible not to feel empathy for all of the characters in some way at different points in the story, as their stories are so vibrant and their personalities so well depicted, that you cannot help but invest in them as a reader. I was especially drawn to Mandy and adored how, despite her ‘challenges’ she was so deftly and positively portrayed. Her journey was undoubtedly the most heart-warming of all.
One of the central themes is the keeping of secrets and I loved the way the author used this to build up intrigue before the final plot twist, which I have to admit I didn’t see coming!
I also enjoyed the Australian setting as the action flitted between Melbourne and Sydney, especially the descriptions of the view from the balconies overlooking the harbour.
The topic of kidney failure and organ donation was also extremely sensitively managed and clearly of personal significance to the author based on the dedication at the start of the book.
A hugely enjoyable read which certainly tugs at the heart strings!
With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.
There’s an obvious trigger warning to be heeded for anyone who may struggle with issues around fertility and trying to conceive, but it’s worth noting that the author handles the topics with tact and insight, showing how emotional and at times, draining, the journey to motherhood can be.
It’s impossible not to feel empathy for all of the characters in some way at different points in the story, as their stories are so vibrant and their personalities so well depicted, that you cannot help but invest in them as a reader. I was especially drawn to Mandy and adored how, despite her ‘challenges’ she was so deftly and positively portrayed. Her journey was undoubtedly the most heart-warming of all.
One of the central themes is the keeping of secrets and I loved the way the author used this to build up intrigue before the final plot twist, which I have to admit I didn’t see coming!
I also enjoyed the Australian setting as the action flitted between Melbourne and Sydney, especially the descriptions of the view from the balconies overlooking the harbour.
The topic of kidney failure and organ donation was also extremely sensitively managed and clearly of personal significance to the author based on the dedication at the start of the book.
A hugely enjoyable read which certainly tugs at the heart strings!
With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.
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