The Wrong Family by Ellery A. Kane (Bookouture)

The coldness in Robert’s reply makes Hallie reconsider. When she looks at his stony face, his eyes hard and unflinching as marbles, she sees a stranger. She’s been living in his home, breaking bread at his table. Sleeping down the hall from him and his family. And now, she’s caught up in their dark world. Where photos get burned and tires get slashed and a man ends up dead at the bottom of a ravine. She’s the puppet at the center of it all, with a faceless master pulling the strings.

The story revolves around a web of secrets, as the characters desperately try to bury their pasts. Hallie embarks on a quest to find her long-lost father, diligently sending letters to every Robert Thompson within the correct age range. When she receives notification from Family Ties that they have found a potential match, she eagerly accepts their invitation to visit. As Hallie becomes involved in the family business, she forms a bond with Nick, the talented chef at the family's restaurant by Lake Tahoe. However, trust becomes elusive in a world filled with hidden truths.

Thrillers often prioritize shocking plot twists, sometimes neglecting well-developed characters. However, "The Wrong Family" strikes a perfect balance between the two. Despite its slower pace compared to typical thrillers, the story effectively builds suspense with clever twists, leaving readers on edge until the final reveal. While the ending may be somewhat predictable, it still captivates the reader's attention. Additionally, the inclusion of Hallie's letter responses adds a delightful touch, providing moments of levity amidst the tension.

I found this book less engaging, as it felt somewhat monotonous and reminiscent of young adult novels. The repetition of scenes, particularly between the Thompson house and the Cerulean, became tiresome, leaving me longing for greater diversity in both settings and characters.

Although the plot may be convoluted and less believable, "The Wrong Family" remains an enjoyable read. The characters may lack depth, and their lives may not entirely resonate with reality. Despite these shortcomings, I continued reading with a burning curiosity to see how it all unfolds. The resolution, while not entirely convincing, tied up loose ends. 

Overall, I recommend approaching this book with a grain of salt, as it offers a decent escapade into the world of psychological thrillers.

3/5