About the Author

M.L. Farb is the author of exciting and inspiring novels for the whole family. Her writing has been compared to CS Lewis, Lloyd Alexander, and Shannon Hale. Each book has the delight of fantasy and the detailed research of historical fiction, with characters who are so believable and complex that the reader feels like they are friends (or enemies). She is a Whitney Award Finalist and SPFBO Semi-Finalist.

Reviews

"It is an exquisite tale of hope and redemption."Onlinebookclub official review
"The author skillfully weaves in themes of perception and misperception, brokenness, healing, masks, isolation, community, and sisterly love."Leila Rose Foreman (H. Halverstadt's Books)
"This book, like a ritual play or the Japanese tea ceremonies it depicts, is an experience that touches all five senses, and the heart as well. It somehow feels both restful and fast-paced, probably because of the delicate, precise prose that's descriptive without tending purple. Farb writes family dynamics well: the complicated relationship between Shi and her eldest sister is realistic, at times heartbreaking, and yet ultimately hopeful."Marie Lewis (Goodreads)
"This story is full of magic and beauty; bright, clever poetry; and the golden thread which binds it all together: love. Go forth, and let this story whisk you away for a time-nourish your soul with beautiful words and memorable characters."Stephanie (Goodreads)
"Poignant and atmospheric, Fourth Sister is a melodic narrative of devotion and deep feeling as well as finding acceptance with yourself and within your family. It would feel absolutely perfect set to a Studio Ghibli soundtrack."Claire (Goodreads)
"I started this book expecting to enjoy a story about a female lead who grew into herself, and while I absolutely did find that in this story, it was the poetry of possibility that the author wove into the words that had me finish the story in one sitting. This was also more of a love story than I had anticipated, though not necessarily "that" kind of love story. Shisei's journey showed her that loving herself and loving others isn't about perfection, it's about seeing the cracks and the flaws and the inconsistencies and loving despite them." Krista Springer (Goodreads)
"Fourth Sister pulls you into a world of Japanese culture and legend in a remarkable way. Every description and dialogue is so authentic that it is like looking into another place and time and immerses you in a world where myths are reality but superstition also abounds." Rick Haws
"I may've literally gasped at times, laughed hard, and even cried at beautiful, soul touching, tender moments. So get ready for the feels - all of them." Caralyn (Goodreads)