‘Secret Sisters’: Romance novel leaves readers rushed but satisfied

Jayne Ann Krentz has written more than 50 New York Times best-selling novels and this is the first one that I have read. I don't usually read the romance/suspense genre, but the synopsis intrigued me so I gave it a try.

Madeline and Daphne are best friends and spend their days together while Daphne's mom works for Madeline's grandma at the hotel she runs. After a brutal attack on Madeline during a party at the hotel, their lives are forever changed. They have been bound by a secret that will haunt both of them forever.

Madeline and Daphne haven't spoken since that fateful night and now, 18 years later, the past has come back to confront them. When Madeline returns to Washington after her grandmother's death, she comes upon the death of the hotel caretaker. Now she is wondering if these deaths are truly accidental and if they have anything to do with the attack on her many years ago. Madeline must find Daphne and along with her security expert, Jack, they need to get to the truth of what truly happened the night Madeline was attacked.

Krentz is talented at building suspense throughout the story. Nothing goes smoothly for the characters and she works in multiple surprises to keep you guessing. Each twist will leave you suspecting one person over another. While Madeline and Jack investigate loose ends, readers will try to see what clue they are missing. As more and more people are found dead and Madeline and Daphne confront dangerous situations, the novel begins to move quickly. Since I'm not a romance reader, I found the relationships rushed and unrealistic. But, Krentz's would be sure to remind me that an entire romance has to fit in just 300 some pages.

Madeline and Daphne's lives have been shaped by the tragic events 18 years ago. It has affected their choice of work as well as their relationships. Jack also has a tragic past that causes him to have nightmares. Madeline and Jack's past tragedies cause them to put up walls in their relationships but also gives them an understanding of their hesitations. Krentz's characters are well-developed and she handles their emotions with care.

Fans of Krentz will find her latest book thrilling and passionate. The shocking conclusion will have you wondering how you didn't figure it out in the beginning.