Book Review: The Sister Under the Stairs
When I first stumbled upon The Sister Under the Stairs, I felt an irresistible pull to explore its depths. Steena Holmes, known for her previous works like Finding Emma and Saving Abby, has bravely ventured into the dark and complex world of human trafficking in this gripping narrative. As someone who is passionate about stories that tackle real-world issues, I couldn’t let this one slip through the cracks.
The novel centers on Paige, a character burdened by the lingering shadows of her past. Twelve years ago, her twin sister Jessica vanished, leaving Paige with a relentless sense of guilt and a desperate need for answers. She channels her pain into meaningful work with CHILD, an organization fighting against human trafficking. The moment Paige receives a fateful call—the words “I found her” echoing against her hopes—I was instantly drawn into her emotional whirlwind. Her journey is not just about finding Jessica; it’s a fight against the darkness, both within herself and the world around her.
Holmes crafts Paige as an incredibly relatable and empathetic character. From page one, I found myself rooting for her, resonating with her determination and warmth. There’s a poignant moment when Paige interacts with Sam, a little boy with Down’s syndrome, and I couldn’t help but adore his character. He adds a layer of tenderness to the narrative that balances the heaviness of the themes.
The dual narratives—shifting between Paige, Detective Meri Amber, and an unnamed victim—add suspense and depth, weaving together their lives in a delicate dance of fate. The countdown structure, counting back from present day to that fateful day twelve years prior, kept the pacing taut and engaging. Holmes does this with care, crafting chapters that are easy to follow, even as they flit between timelines.
However, I found myself slightly puzzled by the character of Gabrielle, whose outcomes felt unresolved by the end of the novel. This narrative choice, while intriguing, left me with unanswered questions that linger in my mind. The fact that there’s potential for a sequel gives me hope that I might find answers in the future, though I wish they had been explored more fully in this installment.
Holmes not only provides readers with a gripping tale but also sheds light on a deeply troubling societal issue. The names and faces behind human trafficking, often hidden in the shadows, are brought to the forefront in The Sister Under the Stairs. It challenges readers to confront uncomfortable realities, all through the lens of engaging characters and a compelling narrative.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Sister Under the Stairs to anyone looking for a read that melds suspense with genuine emotional depth. Those interested in thrillers with a social conscience or fans of Steena Holmes will find themselves captivated. Personally, this book was more than just a page-turner; it was a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the desperate need for advocacy in today’s world.
In closing, I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment in what promises to be an eye-opening series. If Holmes continues to explore these themes with such authenticity and bravery, I can only imagine the profound impact it will have on readers everywhere.
Discover more about The Sister Under the Stairs on GoodReads >>