I’m torn with this one, as I loved the idea, the setting and I thought the descriptions of the natural world around the two sisters were excellent. My issue was that Clara, as a character, was incredibly dull and I had no investment in her at all.

It is a real shame as Alexandra Heminsley’s non-fiction books are excellent and have been quite inspirational for me, but this just did not hit the mark at all.

An enjoyable read, well written and entertaining. Hadn't read this author before but would consider reading again.

Alexandra Heminsley’s “Under the Same Stars” offers a poignant and introspective narrative that explores the complexities of family, identity, and self-discovery. While the slow-paced nature of the book may pose a challenge for some readers, its introspective themes and relatable characters contribute to an ultimately satisfying reading experience that deserves its three-star rating.

The story follows the protagonist, Clem, as she navigates a series of challenges that lead her to question her life choices and the direction she’s headed. Heminsley’s writing style is reflective and evocative, capturing the emotional nuances of the characters and their relationships.

The strength of “Under the Same Stars” lies in its exploration of family dynamics and the impact of personal history on one’s identity. The complex relationships Clem has with her family members add depth and authenticity to the narrative. The book delves into the intricacies of sibling relationships, the weight of past decisions, and the search for meaning amidst life’s uncertainties.

The slow pace of the story may be both a strength and a limitation. While it allows readers to immerse themselves in the character’s emotional journey and the contemplative nature of the narrative, it may also lead to moments of less engagement, especially for those seeking a more fast-paced plot.

Clem’s character development is a highlight of the book. Her struggles, doubts, and moments of self-discovery are relatable, making her a character readers can empathize with. Heminsley’s ability to depict Clem’s inner thoughts and emotional turmoil adds depth to her character arc.

While the book’s contemplative nature may appeal to those who appreciate introspective storytelling, readers looking for more action or faster plot progression may find it challenging to stay engaged throughout.

In conclusion, “Under the Same Stars” is a reflective and introspective journey that delves into themes of family, identity, and personal growth. Alexandra Heminsley’s evocative writing and relatable characters create a narrative that resonates with readers on an emotional level. While the slow-paced nature of the book may require patience, those who enjoy reflective storytelling will find a satisfying exploration of life’s complexities. If you’re seeking a book that invites you to contemplate the intricacies of family relationships and personal identity, “Under the Same Stars” is a thought-provoking choice that deserves its three-star rating.

Absolutely loved this book!

The writing style was really good and I look forward to reading any other books from this author in the future :)

So sorry, this was a did not finish for me. The story was too slow paced for me. I'm sure it would be a hit with others but it just wasn't for me.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
The book has a shocking, albeit expected, start with Clara's father suddenly dying, and then the secret is open, perhaps predictably. Then the reader is into the realms of the unknown: a wild, beautiful, unusual setting against a backdrop of discovery about Clara's father and Simon, her boyfriend / father. I thought the revelations about Maggie and her life were interesting and engaging whilst Clara's background might be unbelievable to some readers but resonate with those who have met a manipulative character during their life. I loved every page of this book and the final twists at the end completed the story in a pleasing way. Superb!

Really enjoyed this book. When Clara's father dies she discovers a sister she knew nothing about. The sister lives in a remote part of Norway by choice not wanting to be found. This is the story of how Clara and her sister follow the fraught path to findng out about themselves and each other.
The books feels like it should have been realsied in the winter and I will be tempted to pick it up again in the cold winter nights.
Highly recomend.

Under the Same Stars is a beautiful and poignant read which pulls on the readers heartstrings and is full of emotion that you really feel.

What a beautiful and tender read. I was ‘in’ from the first pages…and adored Clara’s heartbreaking, yet ultimately uplifting, journey of dealing with her grief, self discovery and sisterhood along the way. Perfectly plotted with well developed characters . Loved the Scandi section too…want to move there now! Sweet, endearing and gorgeous read.

If slow paced is your thing you'll enjoy this novel. The settings described were often beautiful but I found the pace a little slow and I didn't fully engage with the characters. I've previously read non fiction by this author and loved it, I would still pick up another title by her.

A very slow ( almost sluggish) story about the dullest girl ever going in search of her equally dull half sister.
Far too much description of things that aren’t interesting of even very valid.

Initially I wasn’t convinced I’d be able to finish this, through no fault of the book, but early events were just a bit too close to home. I’m so glad I carried on though. The relationships that develop through the novel, both between people and with nature, are beautiful to follow through all their twists and turns, just like real life, always feeling real and never contrived. And the landscape was crafted almost as a character in its own right., one that I want to visit even more now. Overall, a tender, thoughtful read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
With thanks to the publisher for the reading copy in advance of publication.

I have been a huge admirer of everything that Alexandra Heminsley has written- from her inspirational running and swimming adventures to her deeply personal Some Body to Love, and have followed her on social media for some time, so when the chance came to read her first fictional novel written under her own name, I jumped at it!

Under The Same Stars is a beautifully told tale of families, parents, siblings and friends, finding out what makes you happy, and having the courage to go for it rather than burying your head in the sand. Clara is 22 and in an unfulfilling job and an abusive relationship (though she can't admit either of these things to herself.) She has always been really close to her father and more estranged from her mother. One Monday morning, her mother rings to tell her that her father has died suddenly -and in the letter he leaves her, he tells Clara that he was married before and had a daughter - Clara has a sister Maggie. This is huge news to Clara who had no idea about any of it.

In his letter, he asks Clara to deliver some photos and letters to Maggie - who lives on an island in north Norway; and so begins Clara's life changing and soul baring trip, as she drops everything and heads to find the sister she always dreamt of.

I remember seeing Alexandra's pictures from her Norwegian travels and marvelling at them - and the book brings back that sense of complete awe at nature and the world around us. I was completely transported to Norway and the island, the remote setting and the ice cold waters.

Its an easy read which makes you question where you are heading and whats important to you. Simply beautiful.

Thanks to Netgalley and Sphere for the chance to read an ARC., I can;t wait to see what she writes next

I really enjoyed this debut novel by Alexandra Heminsley, having previously read her book about swimming 'leap in'. From the very start the reader is routing for Carla, the main character, wanting her life to turn out the best possible way, whatever that might mean but most definitely ditching her boyfriend.. Following her father's unexpected passing, Carla discovers she has a half sister she never knew existed and on her father's wishes, sets about finding her. It's not a smooth road but it's an interesting and enlightening one for them both. Thanks to the publisher, author and Netgalley for the arc.

UNDER THE SAME STARS
BY
ALEXANDRA HEMINSLEY.

Following the death of her father, Clara is struggling to cope. The discovery that she has a half sister who she knew nothing about, sends Clara off on a journey that will change her life.
Clara sets off to meet her sister, on a remote Norwegian island. Once there things aren’t plain sailing, but will the two women find a way to become sisters?

This story is beautifully written, full of heart and has some very raw emotion.
There are some breathtaking descriptions of the book’s setting, which were a delight to read.
The story was a little slow to get going, but overall, Under The Same Stars, is a captivating and truly enjoyable read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Out now - HB, Ebook and Audio.
Paperback- 12/1/23

With thanks to Netgalley and Little Brown Book Group Uk for a digital arc of this title.

I wish I could say nice things about this novel but, I really, really can’t. Neither can I bring myself to say bad things, for one simple reason: I don’t have the strength. This is the dullest novel I have read in a long, long time.

The plot - a young woman, Clara, goes to find a half-sister she has only just found out about on the death of her father on a remote island in Norway - sounds moderately promising but it is handled so strangely coupled with very lumpen characters that reading this requires monumental effort; for at least the last quarter of the novel I began skipping pages in a bid to speed up the pace.

There is endless description about the island and how it doesn’t get dark in summer (get away…), and pages of interiority from Clara which is all show and no tell, which makes for a substantial chunk of the novel where not very much happens. And there are only so many times I can read descriptions of people drinking coffee before I want drink myself to death with meths.

Near the end there is an incident that prolongs Clara’s stay where I found myself thinking “I hope both these characters now die of gangrene.” Sadly, they don’t.

I’ve read all Heminsely’s other non-fiction books which are excellent on her own experiences, but sadly this skill does not transfer to fiction writing.

She is not alone in this, however. There is a growing trend for every media-friendly young woman who’s got a strong online presence and a track record of lifewriting (see also Dolly Alderton and Emma Gannon) to turn to fiction. Turns out that making stuff up is harder than that writing down the feels. Who knew?

This book was quite slow to start, however once I got into the rhythm of the text it was highly enjoyable.

I love the concept of this book. Clara has a lot to think about and deal with not just the Loss of get beloved father but the secret that she has the sister she's always dreamed of.

It's an emotional topic to do with family and I could relate to a lot of the situations.

The scenes and descriptions of the characters are great and you can really picture when the person is like.

This beautiful novel really gets to the crux or difficult family relationships against a stunning Norwegian backdrop. Highly recommend. Thanks NetGalley!

A slow moving story about Clara who is struggling with every day problems and is looking for a new start.
With the suddenly death of her father she comes into information that she has a sister and sets off the find her.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group UK for my e-copy in exchange for a honest review.