Caro has an older sister, she just feels like she is an only child. Hannah, eleven years older, left home eight years ago to go join a convent. When she returns home rather suddenly, and without explanation, things become tense and awkward. Unable to understand her sister or the strange situation that no one seems to want to talk about, Caro starts lying about her sister, and alienates her friends and boyfriend as a result. Until the family is wiling to get to the heart of the issue, nothing is going to get any better.

The Opposite of Hallelujah is a compelling, if at times confusing, story. Caro is a likable and relatable main character, extremely intelligent and academically driven. Her sister is like a ghost in the family, one who is clearly deeply damaged and emotionally unwell. Frustration lies in the fact that the parents do not get help when it is obvious that help is needed. They tiptoe around and do not get serious about the problems in their family until they are completely out of hand. This story centers around religion, and the parish priest is someone that Caro turns to often for guidance. Caro is a somewhat rebellious, if rather typical, teenager--she sneaks out, drinks alcohol, lies, and fights with her parents. Language is graphic though not overly prevalent. The complicated family relationships would make for interesting discussion material, and the relationship in particular between the two sisters is a challenging one, but one that makes much progress over the course of the story. The maturity of subject matter and language make this book more appropriate for a reader over fourteen, rather than the twelve and up recommended by the publisher. Older teen girls looking for a deep and insightful read will enjoy this book.

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