It's One Of Us

It's One Of Us is a domestic thriller set in the world of DNA websites and the issues that arise when Park and Olivia, a couple who is struggling with infertility, learn that Park is biologically related to a murderer. (Please see my trigger warning after the book description below)

The issue of infertility is strong in this book but handled with sensitivity and compassion. I appreciate how the issue of nature versus nurture is woven into the story and the author's poignant note at the end of the book where she shares her own infertility struggles with her audience. 

There are a few twists and the use of regularly shifting POVs keeps the pacing high, but I felt the infertility aspects overshadowed the mystery. There is a solid final twist very late in the book, but I was disappointed that the identity of the murderer was revealed so early in the story and that their motivations felt weak. 

Overall, this was a good domestic drama with a side of mystery that tackles the emotional issue of infertility. It was an entertaining and sometimes emotional read that will instigate great discussion within book clubs, but not quite the dark and twisty read I had anticipated. 

Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to MIRA books for the complimentary digital advanced copy of this book which was provided in exchange for my honest review.

My Rating: 3.5 stars

Author: J.T Ellison

Genre: Suspense, Domestic Fiction

Type and Source: eBook from publisher via NetGalley

Publisher: MIRA (Harlequin Trade Publishing)

First Published: February 21, 2023

Book Description from GoodReads: Everybody lies. Even the ones you think you know best of all . . .

 
Olivia Bender designs exquisite home interiors that satisfy the most demanding clients. But her own deepest desire can’t be fulfilled by marble counters or the perfect rug. She desperately  wants to be a mother. Fertility treatments and IVF keep failing. And just when she feels she’s at her lowest point, the police deliver shocking news to Olivia and her husband, Park.
 
DNA results show that the prime suspect in a murder investigation is Park’s son. Olivia is relieved, knowing this is a mistake. Despite their desire, the Benders don’t have any children. Then comes the confession. Many years ago, Park donated sperm to a clinic. He has no idea how many times it was sold—or how many children he has sired.
 
As the murder investigation goes deeper, more terrible truths come to light. With every revelation, Olivia must face the unthinkable. The man she married has fathered a killer. But can she hold that against him when she keeps such dark secrets of her own?
 
This twisting, emotionally layered thriller explores the lies we tell to keep a marriage together--or break each other apart . . .

Trigger Warnings: Infertility, descriptions of a miscarriage