Published by William Morrow Genres: Fiction, Gothic, Holiday, Mystery, thriller
Format: ARC, eBook
Peter Swanson has written a gripping and chilling novella that had me turning the pages and wanting more! I loved the Gothic feel of this book with the old manor house with its cold rooms on a wooded estate. The home as well as the cold setting provided atmosphere as did the setting in the Cotswold’s.
Ashley Smith, an American art student in London happily accepted Emma Chapman’s invitation to spend the holiday with her family in the English Countryside. There she will meet Emma’s family, fall for Emma’s brother Adam, and enjoy nights out in the pubs in the village. There she learns she strongly resembles a local murder victim, and that Adam is considered a suspect.
This was a fast absorbing and gripping novella which kept me on my toes, fully invested in the tale and wanting more. I enjoyed Ashley’s diary entries and her interactions with the Chapman family. I liked the fact that I had no clue what was going to happen or how the novella was going to end.
There was a jaw dropping moment that I did not see coming and I love when that happens. Like Ashley, I didn’t know if this was going to be a Gothic mystery, Gothic horror, a Gothic romance, or a Gothic Christmas story set in an English village.
This was so well done. From the dedication of the book to the author’s note, this was a pleasure. Peter Swanson fans are going to enjoy this and those new to Peter Swanson will become fans!
Plus, how about that cover?
#TheChristmasGuest #NetGalley #PeterSwanson #WilliamMorrow
Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.