When I first picked up 'The Chicken Sisters,' I expected a light, predictable read about a quirky family feud. But boy, was I wrong! This book grabbed me from the first page with its raw, messy portrayal of sisterhood and small-town dynamics.

As someone who grew up in a tight-knit community, I felt the author nailed those complicated relationships where love and resentment coexist. The scenes between Mae and Amanda? Oof. The dialogue was so painfully real it made me cringe – in the best way possible.

What really surprised me was how the reality TV competition backdrop became this brilliant metaphor for how we perform our lives for others. That moment when Sabrina the host orchestrates drama? I found myself yelling at the book like it was an actual reality show!

The pacing does drag in places (I'll admit to skimming some flashbacks), but when the sisters finally have their breakthrough moment? That payoff hit me right in the feels. It's not often a book about fried chicken restaurants makes you reflect on your own family relationships.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely – especially if you've got sisters or complicated family ties. Just be prepared for some deliciously messy emotions served alongside that fictional fried chicken.