July 15, 2024
Mellors (Cleopatra and Frankenstein) delves into sibling drama with this frank and soulful offering. The four Blue sisters form a tight bond while sharing a bedroom in the family’s New York City apartment and dealing with their domineering, alcoholic father and aloof mother. They remain close after leaving home, until Nicky, the second youngest, dies at 27. On the first anniversary of Nicky’s death, the surviving sisters learn their parents are selling their childhood home, and reunite at the apartment. Avery, the oldest at 33 and a successful lawyer in London, has taken to hiding her smoking and shoplifting habits from her wife. Thirty-one-year-old Bonnie, a retired boxer, works as a bouncer in Venice Beach, Calif., while former model Lucky, 26, can barely through the day without drinking. As the siblings dredge up old wounds and regrets about Nicky, a kindhearted teacher who lived with all-consuming pain from endometriosis, they’re brought together by their enduring love for one another, even as they judge each other for how their lives have spiraled. Mellors draws each of the characters distinctly, including Nicky, who comes to life via the others’ memories. This story of addiction and grief will resonate with readers. Agents: Mollie Glick and Emily Westcott, CAA.
February 14, 2025
Mellors's (Cleopatra and Frankenstein) compelling tale follows three estranged siblings returning to their family home in New York after the tragic death of their beloved sister, Nicky. Eldest sister Avery is a London-based lawyer who's recovering from a heroin addiction. Middle sister Bonnie, a former boxer, now works as a bouncer in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, the youngest sister, Lucky, is pursuing a modeling career in Paris, but her alcohol- and drug-fueled lifestyle is beginning to take a toll. When their mother informs them that she's selling the family home, the sisters reunite at the apartment. There, they confront the disappointments of their childhood, facing their collective mourning and the secrets of the past. Kit Griffiths narrates, and though her pacing is a bit laborious, she ably embodies each of the sisters. Griffiths excels at capturing the intensity of the sisters' relationships and the sorrow, frustration, and anger that fuel their interactions. VERDICT Mellors crafts a poignant narrative that explores what it means to move on after loss. Considering the weight of grief, sisterhood, and addiction, this powerful listen is recommended for those who enjoyed Claire Lombardo's The Most Fun We Ever Had.--Susan McClellan
Copyright 2025 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
