“Olsson’s novel unfolds in conversations between the two sisters. Unputdownable.”- Jane Corry, author of My Husband's Wife and Blood Sisters Linda Olsson’s lyrical imagination placed me right there so that I walked the streets of that Spanish town with the two protagonists, breathing in their air, their hopes and their fears as the mysteries unfolded. This beautifully written novel pinpoints the evasive, unique, poignant (and often painful) relationship between sisters. Ryan Stradal, New York Times bestselling author of Kitchens of the Great Midwest 'A compelling, emotional journey of two estranged sisters who drive each other to confront their deepest vulnerabilities, A Sister In My House is a quiet exploration of the delicacy of love and the resilience of the heart.'- J. This small book leaves its mark and is worth every word. The sparseness and subtleties of her writing lets the reader discover the emotional impact. Her stories don’t have big, full-bodied plots or big “Ah Ha” moments. ( Astrid and Veronika and Sonata for Miriam are equally insightful). I try to read everything Linda Olsson writes. The six day visit from Emma reveals much to the sisters as they begin to see things in a different light-perhaps even understanding.

Maria, however, moved on and into a preciously meaningful relationship, one which set her life on an entirely different path. Complicating matters is the fact that Emma married Maria’s boyfriend, and through the years seems to have a happy, settled life. Olsson delicately exhibits how perceptions of particular events can differ from one person to the next even…or perhaps especially. Emma’s insistence to talk about it unnerves Maria, who, over many years has not been able to put it to rest. As the visit begins, it is clear that some underlying family history during their childhood has disrupted their comfort with one another.

Maria’s sister, Emma has accepted an invitation to visit, even though the invitation is two years old. But underneath it all lies a story of tragedy, estrangement and then, forgiveness. Linda Olsson’s beautiful writing puts you there the sea breezes, the solitude, the aromas of good food. Step into a small quiet Spanish town and into the home of Maria, the narrator of this story.

Astrid and Veronika by Linda Olsson