It has taken me a long time to pick up the sequel to The Family Upstairs which I thoroughly enjoyed last year. This is partially due to reading reviews and I also knew Lisa Jewell usually writes standalones rather than series. As it has been over a year since I read The Family Upstairs, I did find myself very confused at some points as this story is so elaborate.
I think The Family Remains did tie up some loose ends and answer the majority of the questions I was left with after The Family Upstairs. But I also think that it didn't necessarily need a sequel and could have been left unanswered.
The main problem with The Family Remains is that in this sequel there wasn't any mystery to solve. It was essentially a book of the children's backstories. This family Lisa Jewell has created is so fascinating, especially Henry and the depth of his character.
I enjoyed my time reading this book, I always find it so difficult to put Lisa Jewell books down I find them so addicting. This isn't essential reading after The Family Upstairs but I would still recommend it if you have the chance to read it.
⭐⭐⭐ 3/5