Two Sisters    by Mary Hogan Order:  USA  Can William Morrow, 2014 (2014) Softcover, e-Book     Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth Muriel Sullivant worshiped her beautiful sister Pia as well as wishing that she had the same loving relationship with her mother in which Pia gloried. Muriel was the third child in a family that only wanted two children. Muriel hates her given name; and even more so when she discovers that Pia had named her. Of course there is a lot of back story that tells of the trials and tribulations through which Muriel struggled, the story of a dysfunctional family. Not having seen or heard from Pia for quite a while, Muriel answers the phone to realize that Pia is on the other end. Pia wants to visit Muriel and have a talk. Pia arrives, winded from climbing to Muriel's fourth floor walk-up. Pia lives in a lovely home in suburban Connecticut. Pia dresses expensively in style while Muriel is content in old jeans and sweatshirts. Muriel has an entry level job while Pia's husband has a big job in New York City. Pia is married and Muriel can't seem to hold on to a suitor for any length of time. Pia reveals a secret to Muriel while begging her not to tell their mother – a very demanding and selfish woman. Muriel agrees and falls into a period of introspection. She begins to slowly understand her position in the family and why she was treated as an outcast. She also finds herself worrying about Pia, something she would not have done previously. Two Sisters by Mary Hogan is a powerful story about adversity and how to handle the rocks that your world throws at you. Two women from the same family who are worlds apart in their lives and outlooks on life come together for a common cause. These sisters are both strong women in their own way. Mary Hogan also writes children's stories. Two Sisters is her first adult novel. She has made the transition beautifully. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Contemporary books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews