Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Release Date: February 21st, 2023
Pages: 320
Publisher: Atria Books
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Publisher’s Synopsis:
“The Plot meets Please Join Us in this psychological suspense debut about a young author at an exclusive writer’s retreat that descends into a nightmare.
Alex has all but given up on her dreams of becoming a published author when she receives a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: attend an exclusive, month-long writing retreat at the estate of feminist horror writer Roza Vallo. Even the knowledge that Wren, her former best friend and current rival, is attending doesn’t dampen her excitement.
But when the attendees arrive, Roza drops a bombshell—they must all complete an entire novel from scratch during the next month, and the author of the best one will receive a life-changing seven-figure publishing deal. Determined to win this seemingly impossible contest, Alex buckles down and tries to ignore the strange happenings at the estate, including Roza’s erratic behavior, Wren’s cruel mind games, and the alleged haunting of the mansion itself. But when one of the writers vanishes during a snowstorm, Alex realizes that something very sinister is afoot. With the clock running out, she’s desperate to discover the truth and save herself.
A claustrophobic and propulsive thriller exploring the dark side of friendships and fame, The Writing Retreat is the unputdownable debut novel from a compelling new talent.”
My Review:
I was immediately intrigued by the premise and synopsis of this book. I love stories about writing, reading, publishing, and being an author. It makes me feel instantly connected to the characters.
It was a bit of a slow start for me. It felt like we were meandering through a predictable sequence, but about ten or so chapters in it really started to pick up. I loved the creepy setting, a house with a haunted past. It was so eerie and added another layer of mystery and supernatural feels to the story. The story also speaks on some interesting and relevant topics, and I found the deep dive into the struggles with sexuality and identity to be a highlight.
The ending was just ok for me. Things took some unexpected turns and didn’t feel completely believable to me. It was maybe a little too over the top. I don’t know… things just got a little weird for me but it was still good. Definitely gets points for being dramatic, unique, shocking, and not at all what I thought it would. It is undoubtedly a memorable story if anything.
Even though this particular story itself wasn’t a favorite of mine, I did like the writing style and I would definitely read from this author again. A very good thriller debut and I will be keeping a watch for any new releases from this author. If you love a claustrophobic, suspenseful, and psychological thriller, then you may also enjoy this one. I don’t know that it will be anyone’s favorite read, but it is still a solid four star book and I do see this one being a great starting point for this author to launch with.
Side note… I love this cover! I love how it looks like a book flipping open in the corner, such a fantastic design choice.
Huge thank you to Netgalley and Atria Books for giving me an advanced copy in exchange for my honest feedback. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Disclaimers:
Huge thank you to Netgalley and Atria Books for gifting me an early copy of this amazing story! I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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