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The Weekend Retreat
8 hours, 15 minutes
Three couples. Three days. A family getaway to die for.
Every year, the illustrious Van Ness siblings—heirs to a copper fortune—gather at their luxury winery estate for a joint birthday celebration. It's a tradition they've followed nearly all their lives, and now they are back with their significant others for a much-needed weekend of rest and relaxation, away from the public spotlight.
With lavish comforts, gorgeous scenery, and indulgent drinking, the trip should be the perfect escape. But it soon becomes clear that even a remote idyllic getaway can’t keep out the problems simmering in each of their lives. As old tensions are reignited, the three couples are pushed to the edge. Will their secrets destroy them, or will they destroy each other first? And who’s been watching them from beyond the vineyard gates?
When a torrential rainstorm hits, plunging them into darkness, the answers prove all too deadly…
Three couples. Three days. A family getaway to die for.
Every year, the illustrious Van Ness siblings—heirs to a copper fortune—gather at their luxury winery estate for a joint birthday celebration. It's a tradition they've followed nearly all their lives, and now they are back with their significant others for a much-needed weekend of rest and relaxation, away from the public spotlight.
With lavish comforts, gorgeous scenery, and indulgent drinking, the trip should be the perfect escape. But it soon becomes clear that even a remote idyllic getaway can’t keep out the problems simmering in each of their lives. As old tensions are reignited, the three couples are pushed to the edge. Will their secrets destroy them, or will they destroy each other first? And who’s been watching them from beyond the vineyard gates?
When a torrential rainstorm hits, plunging them into darkness, the answers prove all too deadly…
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First published December 26, 2023
370 people are currently reading
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About the author
Tara Laskowski
25 books688 followersTARA LASKOWSKI is the author of the suspense novels The Weekend Retreat, The Mother Next Door, and One Night Gone, which won the Agatha Award, Macavity Award, and the Anthony Award. She also wrote two short story collections, Modern Manners for Your Inner Demons and Bystanders. She has won the Agatha Award and Thriller Award for her short fiction and was the longtime editor of the online flash fiction journal SmokeLong Quarterly. Follow her on Instagram, @TaraLWrites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 905 reviews
February 5, 2024
The Van Ness family's weekend retreat to celebrate the 35th birthday of twins Harper and Richard takes an unexpectedly sour turn, filled with vindictiveness, hatred, unresolved past issues, bottled-up resentments, and emotional breakdowns. Initially, I anticipated reading a claustrophobic whodunit mystery, as the news column in the beginning suggested. You know the formula: a group of people who are related to each other find themselves trapped in a place where the electricity suddenly goes out, a terrible hurricane or some equally sinister natural disaster prevents them from leaving, and an unknown intruder lurks, sending creepy messages.
Eventually, as the pressure mounts, people become more agitated, leading to vengeance and murders. While 'Weekend Retreat' follows this standard trapped-in-place formula, the execution of increasing tension and the mystery surrounding the perpetrator are somewhat overshadowed by the family drama and the deep-seated hatred they hold for each other. Unfortunately, none of the book's characters are as they initially appear. They all wear multiple masks and harbor many secrets, as the author aptly summarizes: 'In the end, you are who you make yourself out to be.' When you delve into the Van Ness family's past and learn about the dynamics of their unhealthy, extremely dysfunctional family, you may understand why three siblings have turned into ruthless, opportunistic individuals. Harper, Richard, and their younger brother Zach are heirs to the copper fortune of a wine empire inherited from their late mother, Katrina Van Ness. Katrina was a smart businesswoman but also a manipulative, dictating mother who may have left a lasting, irreparable imprint on her children's souls. They return to the family estate to celebrate Harper and Richard's joint birthday, organized by Richard's wife, Elle, who acts as if she were Katrina's real daughter due to their long-standing, close relationship, which even Harper's daughter has never had the privilege of experiencing. Zach also brings his new girlfriend, Lauren, to the estate, unaware of what she's getting into. Let's delve deeper into the characters: Harper may be the most selfish, arrogant, and narcissistic character in the book. She oversees an empire of beauty products and is married to Lucas, the owner of a tech startup with his own share of secrets. He feels like an outsider in the family due to their condescending, noble attitude, seeing themselves as above the rest of the world. Richard is a direct, power-oriented, and realistic man who likes to control his family members, while Elle acts as the family's mother figure, trying to bring everyone together. Despite her sincere efforts, her long-standing feud with Harper can push her to the brink, causing her to lose her temper. Zach may come across as the spoiled baby of the family, living in an optimistic bubble to distract himself from the harsh realities of the world. He's also dealing with financial troubles, and his girlfriend, Lauren, a kind and naive small-town girl aspiring to be a writer, holds her own set of secrets. Three couples who genuinely despise each other are forced to spend three days together, with a tragedy looming on the horizon. In this book, what's more important than the identity of the perpetrator is the ugly secrets that family members are hiding. Overall, the identity of the secret guest is predictable, and the slow burn tension can be frustrating because the characters spend most of their time bickering and fighting. Not much earth-shattering occurs in this book, and the characters are largely unlikable. However, I did enjoy the ending, which, while not entirely fair, is undeniably realistic and clever. The setting at the wine estate with its gothic vibes and secret doors intrigued me enough to round up my 3.5 stars to 4. Nevertheless, I wished for more heightened tension and mystery in the book. Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/Graydon House for providing me with this digital review copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
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Eventually, as the pressure mounts, people become more agitated, leading to vengeance and murders. While 'Weekend Retreat' follows this standard trapped-in-place formula, the execution of increasing tension and the mystery surrounding the perpetrator are somewhat overshadowed by the family drama and the deep-seated hatred they hold for each other. Unfortunately, none of the book's characters are as they initially appear. They all wear multiple masks and harbor many secrets, as the author aptly summarizes: 'In the end, you are who you make yourself out to be.' When you delve into the Van Ness family's past and learn about the dynamics of their unhealthy, extremely dysfunctional family, you may understand why three siblings have turned into ruthless, opportunistic individuals. Harper, Richard, and their younger brother Zach are heirs to the copper fortune of a wine empire inherited from their late mother, Katrina Van Ness. Katrina was a smart businesswoman but also a manipulative, dictating mother who may have left a lasting, irreparable imprint on her children's souls. They return to the family estate to celebrate Harper and Richard's joint birthday, organized by Richard's wife, Elle, who acts as if she were Katrina's real daughter due to their long-standing, close relationship, which even Harper's daughter has never had the privilege of experiencing. Zach also brings his new girlfriend, Lauren, to the estate, unaware of what she's getting into. Let's delve deeper into the characters: Harper may be the most selfish, arrogant, and narcissistic character in the book. She oversees an empire of beauty products and is married to Lucas, the owner of a tech startup with his own share of secrets. He feels like an outsider in the family due to their condescending, noble attitude, seeing themselves as above the rest of the world. Richard is a direct, power-oriented, and realistic man who likes to control his family members, while Elle acts as the family's mother figure, trying to bring everyone together. Despite her sincere efforts, her long-standing feud with Harper can push her to the brink, causing her to lose her temper. Zach may come across as the spoiled baby of the family, living in an optimistic bubble to distract himself from the harsh realities of the world. He's also dealing with financial troubles, and his girlfriend, Lauren, a kind and naive small-town girl aspiring to be a writer, holds her own set of secrets. Three couples who genuinely despise each other are forced to spend three days together, with a tragedy looming on the horizon. In this book, what's more important than the identity of the perpetrator is the ugly secrets that family members are hiding. Overall, the identity of the secret guest is predictable, and the slow burn tension can be frustrating because the characters spend most of their time bickering and fighting. Not much earth-shattering occurs in this book, and the characters are largely unlikable. However, I did enjoy the ending, which, while not entirely fair, is undeniably realistic and clever. The setting at the wine estate with its gothic vibes and secret doors intrigued me enough to round up my 3.5 stars to 4. Nevertheless, I wished for more heightened tension and mystery in the book. Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/Graydon House for providing me with this digital review copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
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January 9, 2024
New to the golden, insulated world of wealth that her boyfriend Zach Van Ness belongs to, Lauren Brady is unsurprisingly nervous to spend the weekend with his siblings and their spouses on the family vineyard estate. As per tradition, every year on Zach’s twin brother and sister’s birthday, they gather together to celebrate. This will be her first encounter with the clan, and, needless to say, she’s rather intimidated.
Arriving at the gates that guard the thousand acre property and its luxurious mansion, Lauren is utterly blown away. As soon as she steps through it’s opulent doors, however, she can sense a sizzling tension. Little does Lauren know, but the house—and the people in it—harbor more secrets and lies than she could ever imagine. Will the weekend bring out the best—or the worst—in this trio of couples?
As the events get underway, each individual seems intent on keeping their personal troubles hidden from view. The stress of doing so, however, is starting to make itself known, with the pressure merely building and building. On top of the small party of six, though, there just might be a party crasher in their midst. And given that there’s an epic storm on the horizon, it’s only a matter of time until chaos ensues. Will they all make it out of this weekend alive? Or are their secrets far more dangerous than even they realized?
I truly love discovering phenomenal new-to-me authors, and Tara Laskowski has shown herself to be a force with The Weekend Retreat. A quick, easy read that centered around devilish lies, unending greed, and scandalous secrets, it was definitely a rocking good time. And for this suspense lover, I couldn’t have fallen harder for both the story and the author behind it.
As for the why to that undying love, the storyline was an undeniable home run. A tale of domestic suspense with a plot line that could rival any box office hit, I was spellbound from the very first word. Despite a somewhat slow burn start, as the secrets and lies began to bubble forth, so too did the foreboding and unease. It even came complete with a storm to end all storms, turning the plot into the quintessential locked room mystery. Add in the shock-inducing twists and the on point atmospheric setting and this was clearly an exemplary hole in one.
As for the characters, they were simply sublime. An attention-grabbing mix of thoroughly unlikeable and engagingly sympathetic, there were certainly those I was rooting for over the others. But as the multiple POV plot twisted around and around, I felt my allegiances come into question as their dirty laundry came into view. After all, many of these dynamite personas had deep backstories and stunningly good character growth on top of some rather questionable motives.
As I closed the cover on this novel (which had definite The Family Game vibes), I am dumbfounded by the fact that I hadn’t discovered Laskowski before. I mean, the riveting suspense and unguessable premise definitely kept me in awe. Granted, the climax did have a tinge of over-the-top melodrama, but given this dysfunctional family and their out of touch behavior, that was nothing if not to be expected. All I know is, this would make one spectacular TV series or film given the chance. So if you’re like me and have yet to read a book by this author, take this review as your siren’s song to check her out ASAP. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Tara Laskowski, Graydon House Books, and TLC Book Tours for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: December 26, 2023
Scroll down for a potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Trigger warning: infidelity, threatening messages, blackmail, fatal stabbing, fatal fall from a height, death of a sibling
Arriving at the gates that guard the thousand acre property and its luxurious mansion, Lauren is utterly blown away. As soon as she steps through it’s opulent doors, however, she can sense a sizzling tension. Little does Lauren know, but the house—and the people in it—harbor more secrets and lies than she could ever imagine. Will the weekend bring out the best—or the worst—in this trio of couples?
As the events get underway, each individual seems intent on keeping their personal troubles hidden from view. The stress of doing so, however, is starting to make itself known, with the pressure merely building and building. On top of the small party of six, though, there just might be a party crasher in their midst. And given that there’s an epic storm on the horizon, it’s only a matter of time until chaos ensues. Will they all make it out of this weekend alive? Or are their secrets far more dangerous than even they realized?
I truly love discovering phenomenal new-to-me authors, and Tara Laskowski has shown herself to be a force with The Weekend Retreat. A quick, easy read that centered around devilish lies, unending greed, and scandalous secrets, it was definitely a rocking good time. And for this suspense lover, I couldn’t have fallen harder for both the story and the author behind it.
As for the why to that undying love, the storyline was an undeniable home run. A tale of domestic suspense with a plot line that could rival any box office hit, I was spellbound from the very first word. Despite a somewhat slow burn start, as the secrets and lies began to bubble forth, so too did the foreboding and unease. It even came complete with a storm to end all storms, turning the plot into the quintessential locked room mystery. Add in the shock-inducing twists and the on point atmospheric setting and this was clearly an exemplary hole in one.
As for the characters, they were simply sublime. An attention-grabbing mix of thoroughly unlikeable and engagingly sympathetic, there were certainly those I was rooting for over the others. But as the multiple POV plot twisted around and around, I felt my allegiances come into question as their dirty laundry came into view. After all, many of these dynamite personas had deep backstories and stunningly good character growth on top of some rather questionable motives.
As I closed the cover on this novel (which had definite The Family Game vibes), I am dumbfounded by the fact that I hadn’t discovered Laskowski before. I mean, the riveting suspense and unguessable premise definitely kept me in awe. Granted, the climax did have a tinge of over-the-top melodrama, but given this dysfunctional family and their out of touch behavior, that was nothing if not to be expected. All I know is, this would make one spectacular TV series or film given the chance. So if you’re like me and have yet to read a book by this author, take this review as your siren’s song to check her out ASAP. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Tara Laskowski, Graydon House Books, and TLC Book Tours for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: December 26, 2023
Scroll down for a potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Trigger warning: infidelity, threatening messages, blackmail, fatal stabbing, fatal fall from a height, death of a sibling
January 26, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ -NetGalley ARC
Description:
Every year, the illustrious Van Ness siblings, heirs to a copper fortune, gather at their secluded winery estate for a joint birthday celebration. It's a tradition they've followed nearly all their lives, and now they are back with their significant others for a much-needed weekend of rest and relaxation, away from the public spotlight. With lavish comforts, gorgeous scenery, and indulgent drinking, the trip should be the perfect escape. But it soon becomes clear that even a remote idyllic getaway can’t keep out the problems simmering in each of their lives. As old tensions are reignited, the three couples are pushed to the edge. Will their secrets destroy them, or will they destroy each other first? And who’s been watching them from beyond the vineyard gates?
When a torrential rainstorm hits, plunging them into darkness, the answers prove all too deadly…
Review:
This locked room mystery has everything you’d want in a story; suspense, drama and a hard to guess twist. It took me a while to figure out who the party guest was and I didn’t figure out the twist until right before the big reveal. It was atmospheric, taking place during a bad storm. The story is told from multiple POV, so you get a glimpse into each characters life. I highly recommend this!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing and Graydon House for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a review. All thoughts are my own.
Description:
Every year, the illustrious Van Ness siblings, heirs to a copper fortune, gather at their secluded winery estate for a joint birthday celebration. It's a tradition they've followed nearly all their lives, and now they are back with their significant others for a much-needed weekend of rest and relaxation, away from the public spotlight. With lavish comforts, gorgeous scenery, and indulgent drinking, the trip should be the perfect escape. But it soon becomes clear that even a remote idyllic getaway can’t keep out the problems simmering in each of their lives. As old tensions are reignited, the three couples are pushed to the edge. Will their secrets destroy them, or will they destroy each other first? And who’s been watching them from beyond the vineyard gates?
When a torrential rainstorm hits, plunging them into darkness, the answers prove all too deadly…
Review:
This locked room mystery has everything you’d want in a story; suspense, drama and a hard to guess twist. It took me a while to figure out who the party guest was and I didn’t figure out the twist until right before the big reveal. It was atmospheric, taking place during a bad storm. The story is told from multiple POV, so you get a glimpse into each characters life. I highly recommend this!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing and Graydon House for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a review. All thoughts are my own.
November 16, 2023
Golden boy, Zach Van Ness’s older siblings, Richard and his twin sister Harper, are celebrating their 35th birthday in style - at the luxurious 1000-acre Van Ness Finger Lakes winery home. It’s been a tradition they’ve agreed to maintain even after the recent death of their mother.
Laskowski masterfully sets the scene and contrasts the weather (isolated, dark winery, and storm brewing) with the bright and lavishly decorated home full of revelry. Into this she quietly plants seeds of intrigue, making readers beg to know who dies, who is the mystery guest, what secrets are the siblings hiding and why doesn’t Lauren want anyone to know of her past. The Gilded Age mansion provides the perfect mysterious setting for the unravelling and the Van Ness siblings provide the drama that makes this book so bingeable!
Three things that elevated this book for me:
(1) the structure
(2) the former name of the estate reflects what’s going on behind closed doors - Secret’s Edge.
(3) foreshadowing of the common barn spider wrapping the stink bug in “a silk prison.”
When the thin veneer of perfection is chipped away, readers see what the Van Ness family doesn’t want you to see.
I loved every minute of this tension-filled read! I wish I could read it again for the first time.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, Graydon House, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Laskowski masterfully sets the scene and contrasts the weather (isolated, dark winery, and storm brewing) with the bright and lavishly decorated home full of revelry. Into this she quietly plants seeds of intrigue, making readers beg to know who dies, who is the mystery guest, what secrets are the siblings hiding and why doesn’t Lauren want anyone to know of her past. The Gilded Age mansion provides the perfect mysterious setting for the unravelling and the Van Ness siblings provide the drama that makes this book so bingeable!
Three things that elevated this book for me:
(1) the structure
(2) the former name of the estate reflects what’s going on behind closed doors - Secret’s Edge.
(3) foreshadowing of the common barn spider wrapping the stink bug in “a silk prison.”
When the thin veneer of perfection is chipped away, readers see what the Van Ness family doesn’t want you to see.
I loved every minute of this tension-filled read! I wish I could read it again for the first time.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, Graydon House, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 9, 2024
2.5 ⭐️
November 21, 2023
The Weekend Retreat
Written By Tara Laskowski
Published By Grayson House
Release Date December 26, 2023
When I won this book on Goodreads, I was excited because this is right up my alley as far as the genre goes. The blurb had me salivating and once I received the book, well let me say I was hooked. This has everything needed to provide the reader with a thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end and characters that you cannot trust as far as you can throw them. Or can you?
Every year the Van Ness children get together to celebrate their birthdays with an over the top celebration. And every year it goes off without a hitch. Until this year. There is a new invite this year, Lauren. She is the fiancé of Zach who is an heir to the fortune and she is looking forward to meeting his family……or is she?
The twins will be 35 this year and little do they know that there is something beyond drinking, partying and rest….Old resentments, anger, and vindictiveness prove to be too much for the couples and then throw in a new guest and a terrible storm and someone may be getting more than they bargained for. The twists and turns were extremely well written with a great build up to the suspense that keeps the reader engrossed in the story. The author has an uncanny ability to ensure that she grabs ahold of you and does not let go. Gripping and heart pounding you will not believe the ending…..or will you?
5 stars
Thank you to Goodreads as well as the author and publisher for giving me a copy to read in order for my unbiased and honest review.
Written By Tara Laskowski
Published By Grayson House
Release Date December 26, 2023
When I won this book on Goodreads, I was excited because this is right up my alley as far as the genre goes. The blurb had me salivating and once I received the book, well let me say I was hooked. This has everything needed to provide the reader with a thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end and characters that you cannot trust as far as you can throw them. Or can you?
Every year the Van Ness children get together to celebrate their birthdays with an over the top celebration. And every year it goes off without a hitch. Until this year. There is a new invite this year, Lauren. She is the fiancé of Zach who is an heir to the fortune and she is looking forward to meeting his family……or is she?
The twins will be 35 this year and little do they know that there is something beyond drinking, partying and rest….Old resentments, anger, and vindictiveness prove to be too much for the couples and then throw in a new guest and a terrible storm and someone may be getting more than they bargained for. The twists and turns were extremely well written with a great build up to the suspense that keeps the reader engrossed in the story. The author has an uncanny ability to ensure that she grabs ahold of you and does not let go. Gripping and heart pounding you will not believe the ending…..or will you?
5 stars
Thank you to Goodreads as well as the author and publisher for giving me a copy to read in order for my unbiased and honest review.
October 8, 2023
This was a great one as I happen to love "un-lovable" characters! The Van Ness children (now adults) get together to celebrate birthdays at their lavish winery every year. This year Lauren is invited as she will be newly-engaged to one of the heirs, Zach and is anxious to meet the rest of his siblings. But there's also an un-named "Party Guest" in attendance and it's clear he/she is up to no good. So when there's a huge storm during the party and strange "gifts" begin arriving, tensions rise as the tone becomes ominous. Told from alternating perspectives, the novel has so many twists and turns that I had to take notes! But it's always a treat to never guess the ending and who the "bad guy" is so I thoroughly enjoyed this!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
December 19, 2023
Richard and Harper are throwing a big party celebrating their 35th birthday as they always do surrounded with their other brothers and sisters in their mother’s mansion and vineyard. Everything has changed since their mother passed away and there are lots of secrets everyone has. This is a twisty thriller that has you guessing until the very end. And the nice twist at the end came out of nowhere! This is my first book by this author and I’m looking forward to many more. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release just in time for Christmas next week. All opinions are my own.
April 18, 2024
2.5 Stars
This felt more dysfunctional family drama than mystery-thriller, although there are plenty of secrets to lend toward suspense. I was curious who the identity of “The Party Guest” was, but with limited characters, it’s not hard to figure it out.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
This felt more dysfunctional family drama than mystery-thriller, although there are plenty of secrets to lend toward suspense. I was curious who the identity of “The Party Guest” was, but with limited characters, it’s not hard to figure it out.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
January 23, 2025
Hated it. And I never say “hate” unless I mean it and I really mean it. This book bored the hell out of me… so glad ti be done with it. ✔️👎🏼😝
February 11, 2024
A solid, twisty thriller that will have you glued to the drama of the Van Ness family as they celebrate a joint birthday weekend at the vineyard. Hear Tara talk about the characters, her inspiration, and much more at killerauthorclub.com/killer-episodes.
September 21, 2023
ARC - TBP December 26, 2023
This books follows the wealthy (natch) Van Ness children, twins Harper and Richard and younger brother Zach as they reunite at the family’s winery for the twins’ birthday weekend accompanied by their spouses and significant others. The book is narrated by the females of the group, Harper, Richard’s wife Elle and Lauren, Zach’s girlfriend who is meeting the family for the first time, along with an unnamed “party guest” who obviously wishes the family ill.
This book didn’t work for me. It’s too long by Hal, the male characters are pretty much cyphers (I was a hundred pages in before I could distinguish Richard from Lucas, Harper’s husband), and the mystery aspect is really disappointing. All the characters were unlikeable so I wasn’t the least bit invested in any of their fates. The writer isn’t without talent but it wasn’t used to its best advantage here.
This books follows the wealthy (natch) Van Ness children, twins Harper and Richard and younger brother Zach as they reunite at the family’s winery for the twins’ birthday weekend accompanied by their spouses and significant others. The book is narrated by the females of the group, Harper, Richard’s wife Elle and Lauren, Zach’s girlfriend who is meeting the family for the first time, along with an unnamed “party guest” who obviously wishes the family ill.
This book didn’t work for me. It’s too long by Hal, the male characters are pretty much cyphers (I was a hundred pages in before I could distinguish Richard from Lucas, Harper’s husband), and the mystery aspect is really disappointing. All the characters were unlikeable so I wasn’t the least bit invested in any of their fates. The writer isn’t without talent but it wasn’t used to its best advantage here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2023
An annual birthday party gone wrong.
The Van Ness family is celebrating their annual birthday bash for the twins at their mansion.
This year was no different, except for the death of their mother and the addition of Zach’s soon-to-be fiancé.
But what can go wrong and does go wrong with this year's celebration?
PLENTY!!
Each sibling has some secret.
Who has the worst secret and who will survive the weekend?
And...who is the unidentified guest who seems to be planning some disaster?
A very character-driven novel that has a slow buildup, but once ALL the secrets and conniving characters are revealed you won't be able to turn the pages fast enough to find out what happens. 4/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The Van Ness family is celebrating their annual birthday bash for the twins at their mansion.
This year was no different, except for the death of their mother and the addition of Zach’s soon-to-be fiancé.
But what can go wrong and does go wrong with this year's celebration?
PLENTY!!
Each sibling has some secret.
Who has the worst secret and who will survive the weekend?
And...who is the unidentified guest who seems to be planning some disaster?
A very character-driven novel that has a slow buildup, but once ALL the secrets and conniving characters are revealed you won't be able to turn the pages fast enough to find out what happens. 4/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
January 7, 2024
Oh my, this author knows how to put the fun in dysfunctional! Three siblings, a set of twins and younger brother, return to the family estate to celebrate the twins’ birthdays. Their spouses and/or girlfriend are along, and we quickly see the cracks in all of these relationships, as well as hearing stories of tests their mother would put them through while growing up.
Throw in sabotage, secrets, a monster storm, and an unknown stalker/party “guest”… and you have the makings of a fun story that will keep you guessing. I give the audiobook 4-1/2 stars, but never know how great narration compares to reading the book, so rounded down to 4 stars. Definitely a fun read/listen.
Throw in sabotage, secrets, a monster storm, and an unknown stalker/party “guest”… and you have the makings of a fun story that will keep you guessing. I give the audiobook 4-1/2 stars, but never know how great narration compares to reading the book, so rounded down to 4 stars. Definitely a fun read/listen.
January 14, 2024
I really enjoyed this one, family dramas that are full of unlikeable characters are highly entertaining for me, mostly because they all end up turning on each other and that is always fun to read about. The Van Ness family is gathering at their winery for the adult twins’ 35th birthday party, and this year there is a ‘party guest’ as an additional narrator that is up to no good. A storm blows in only adding to the chaos of this event, and I loved all of it. This is told in multiple POV’s, including the party guest. There were several things going on in here with each of the characters and this can always be difficult when listening via audio. In this case I was grateful for the slow start to get everything sorted so that when the pace picked up I was able to keep up. The audio was great too and I loved this one overall.
Thank you to Graydon House for the digital copy to review.
Thank you to Graydon House for the digital copy to review.
October 30, 2023
The synopsis for this book is very intriguing. The characters, not so much. It was impossible to differentiate between them, so the constant POV switching was not ideal. The beginning lacked suspense, it was very dull and drug on and on. While things did pick up, it wasn’t enough to merit additional stars. This wouldn’t be a read I recommend.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ARC
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ARC
December 24, 2023
Zack and Lauren are going to a birthday day party for his twin brother and sister, Harper and Richard. When they arrive at the gothic vineyard estate troubles arise and tensions in the air.
This was a great creepy read that kept me on the edge of my seat. Thanks NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this ARC that will be released December 26, 2023!
This was a great creepy read that kept me on the edge of my seat. Thanks NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this ARC that will be released December 26, 2023!
December 12, 2023
"All it will take is one simple push to topple their empire over."
I absolutely loved this! I loved Laskowski's last book, The Mother Next Door, so I was definitely interested when I saw this. The retreat trope is big right now and is a bit overdone if you read a lot so I was hoping this would be different and it was! It was a breath of fresh air. It's not really a retreat, it's a birthday party and reunion. It could have had a better name to draw people in.
These characters were beautifully crafted and the descriptions of the vineyard were so vivid that it was a bit atmospheric. I could really see it in mind and with the characters, I found myself thinking "yes, that is so Harper" because they jumped off the pages. Not because they were so lovable but honestly because they weren't. They were flawed, complex, petty and they tell you why and you're waiting at the edge of your seat.
The Van Ness family lost their matriarch and this will be their first time back at the vineyard since she died. It's Richard and Harper's birthday. They're twins and they have one younger brother, Zach. Zach brought his girlfriend Lauren and Richard and Harper are married to Elle and Lucas respectively. So it's 3 couples and I usually don't like any more than 2 narrators but we heard from Harper, Elle, Lauren, and our *mysterious* party guest and I wouldn't have had it any other way.
This family is strained and this weekend is already tough but little do they know, someone is harboring a secret and they want revenge. There's a big storm coming and this will be the perfect time.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read and review!
I absolutely loved this! I loved Laskowski's last book, The Mother Next Door, so I was definitely interested when I saw this. The retreat trope is big right now and is a bit overdone if you read a lot so I was hoping this would be different and it was! It was a breath of fresh air. It's not really a retreat, it's a birthday party and reunion. It could have had a better name to draw people in.
These characters were beautifully crafted and the descriptions of the vineyard were so vivid that it was a bit atmospheric. I could really see it in mind and with the characters, I found myself thinking "yes, that is so Harper" because they jumped off the pages. Not because they were so lovable but honestly because they weren't. They were flawed, complex, petty and they tell you why and you're waiting at the edge of your seat.
The Van Ness family lost their matriarch and this will be their first time back at the vineyard since she died. It's Richard and Harper's birthday. They're twins and they have one younger brother, Zach. Zach brought his girlfriend Lauren and Richard and Harper are married to Elle and Lucas respectively. So it's 3 couples and I usually don't like any more than 2 narrators but we heard from Harper, Elle, Lauren, and our *mysterious* party guest and I wouldn't have had it any other way.
This family is strained and this weekend is already tough but little do they know, someone is harboring a secret and they want revenge. There's a big storm coming and this will be the perfect time.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read and review!
December 27, 2023
#ad I received a gifted advance copy of this book. Many thanks @tlcbooktours #partner
A superb locked-room thriller about a family where everyone has secrets and one person who is determined to expose them at any cost. I love locked-room thrillers and so loved this book!
It’s a fast read with short chapters, but those chapters hold no punches. Action packed, this was a hard one to put down. Excellently written, you’ll be drawn in by the characters and stay for the drama.
Oh and I loved all the twisted games that Mother used to make the children play that now, as adults, they make each other play. Saw the twist coming but it was still grand. A must read for any thriller reader.
A superb locked-room thriller about a family where everyone has secrets and one person who is determined to expose them at any cost. I love locked-room thrillers and so loved this book!
It’s a fast read with short chapters, but those chapters hold no punches. Action packed, this was a hard one to put down. Excellently written, you’ll be drawn in by the characters and stay for the drama.
Oh and I loved all the twisted games that Mother used to make the children play that now, as adults, they make each other play. Saw the twist coming but it was still grand. A must read for any thriller reader.
August 26, 2023
“They will never take you seriously if they see you cry” - the weekend retreat
Why hello, my little chickadees!!!
Are you ready for a book that will keep you guessing until the very end? Characters who come alive within the pages and will have you doubting everything you were once led to believe?
Harper, Richard, Zach, Elle and Lauren all have secrets they want to keep hidden but what happens when someone’s revenge goes a bit too far?
As the secrets begin to reveal themselves you’ll be left with your jaw on the ground.
“Emotions don’t change anything - they just get in the way”
Let me leave you with this little teaser :
A wealthy family's vacation at their lush winery estate becomes a weekend to kill for in this deliciously twisted novel of suspense
Every year, the illustrious Van Ness siblings, heirs to a copper fortune, gather at their secluded winery estate for a joint birthday celebration. It's a tradition they've followed nearly all their lives, and now they are back with their significant others for a much-needed weekend of rest and relaxation, away from the public spotlight.
With lavish comforts, gorgeous scenery, and indulgent drinking, the trip should be the perfect escape. But it soon becomes clear that even a remote idyllic getaway can’t keep out the problems simmering in each of their lives. As old tensions are reignited, the three couples are pushed to the edge. Will their secrets destroy them, or will they destroy each other first? And who’s been watching them from beyond the vineyard gates?
When a torrential rainstorm hits, plunging them into darkness, the answers prove all too deadly…
Why hello, my little chickadees!!!
Are you ready for a book that will keep you guessing until the very end? Characters who come alive within the pages and will have you doubting everything you were once led to believe?
Harper, Richard, Zach, Elle and Lauren all have secrets they want to keep hidden but what happens when someone’s revenge goes a bit too far?
As the secrets begin to reveal themselves you’ll be left with your jaw on the ground.
“Emotions don’t change anything - they just get in the way”
Let me leave you with this little teaser :
A wealthy family's vacation at their lush winery estate becomes a weekend to kill for in this deliciously twisted novel of suspense
Every year, the illustrious Van Ness siblings, heirs to a copper fortune, gather at their secluded winery estate for a joint birthday celebration. It's a tradition they've followed nearly all their lives, and now they are back with their significant others for a much-needed weekend of rest and relaxation, away from the public spotlight.
With lavish comforts, gorgeous scenery, and indulgent drinking, the trip should be the perfect escape. But it soon becomes clear that even a remote idyllic getaway can’t keep out the problems simmering in each of their lives. As old tensions are reignited, the three couples are pushed to the edge. Will their secrets destroy them, or will they destroy each other first? And who’s been watching them from beyond the vineyard gates?
When a torrential rainstorm hits, plunging them into darkness, the answers prove all too deadly…
February 1, 2024
DNF'd characters were unlikable and wasn't enjoying the story
February 6, 2024
I think it's 3,5 and it probably would be even a bit higher if not for the ending. I was so disappointed with it.
Because overall, what's not to like? We get to celebrate a double birthday in an enormous vinery, surrounded by a cast of admirable characters: the self-deluded bitch Harper, her fishy and obnoxious husband Lucas, her spineless twin Richard and his overcompensating whining wife Elle, the youngest sibling a.k.a. spoiled brat Zack and his not-so-truthful girlfriend Lauren plus the ever present shadow of the recently deceased family matron, the formidable hag and mommy from hell Katrina. All these lovely people are maintaining a facade of a respectable family and hate each other with gusto. Lies, questionable morals, more lies, cruel remarks masked as sarcasm, terrible pranks and have I mentioned lies? It's great fun to spy on these dynamics. But then there's this ending, ugh:/
EDIT: I almost forgot to add. This book made me marvel for a hundredth time how much of a genius Agatha Christie was. So many authors nowadays are using ideas and twists she had used once and usually much more brilliantly. The Great Agatha deserves all the love. If you have read "A Murder Is Announced" as well as "The Weekend Retreat" you would probably know what I'm talking about.
Because overall, what's not to like? We get to celebrate a double birthday in an enormous vinery, surrounded by a cast of admirable characters: the self-deluded bitch Harper, her fishy and obnoxious husband Lucas, her spineless twin Richard and his overcompensating whining wife Elle, the youngest sibling a.k.a. spoiled brat Zack and his not-so-truthful girlfriend Lauren plus the ever present shadow of the recently deceased family matron, the formidable hag and mommy from hell Katrina. All these lovely people are maintaining a facade of a respectable family and hate each other with gusto. Lies, questionable morals, more lies, cruel remarks masked as sarcasm, terrible pranks and have I mentioned lies? It's great fun to spy on these dynamics. But then there's this ending, ugh:/
EDIT: I almost forgot to add. This book made me marvel for a hundredth time how much of a genius Agatha Christie was. So many authors nowadays are using ideas and twists she had used once and usually much more brilliantly. The Great Agatha deserves all the love. If you have read "A Murder Is Announced" as well as "The Weekend Retreat" you would probably know what I'm talking about.
January 17, 2025
Yet another locked room mystery (almost excusively siblings and their dates, this time) that I really enjoyed reading. There’s probably a meaning behind my love of dysfunctional family dramas, but that can be unpacked at another time. The characters are far from being objectively good people. The atmosphere was written perfectly for this kind of mystery, and the manor almost has a Gothic element that only adds colors the plot.
I also think this book does a great job of paying homage to the hero, the con, Agatha Christie — all the more reason to read this book!
I also think this book does a great job of paying homage to the hero, the con, Agatha Christie — all the more reason to read this book!
December 16, 2023
Review coming soon.
September 13, 2024
Genre: Mystery & Thriller/Women’s Fiction
Publisher: Harlequin Trade Publishing
Pub. : 2023
Genre: Mystery & Thriller/Women’s Fiction
Publisher: Harlequin Trade Publishing
Pub. : 2023
“The Weekend Retreat” has a promising notion but fails to deliver. It reads like an over-the-top melodrama. The ultra-rich, middle-aged Van Ness siblings, heirs to a copper wealth, and their significant others meet yearly at their isolated winemaking estate to celebrate their birthdays. There is also an unidentified “Party Guest” in attendance. It’s evident that the “Party Guest” intends to harm the family. The twists were uninteresting. I can only suggest this one if you enjoy soap operas, which can be fun. I just wasn’t in the mood for soap.
Find all my book reviews at:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/list…
https://books6259.wordpress.com/
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/review…
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https://www.amazon.com/
Publisher: Harlequin Trade Publishing
Pub. : 2023
Genre: Mystery & Thriller/Women’s Fiction
Publisher: Harlequin Trade Publishing
Pub. : 2023
“The Weekend Retreat” has a promising notion but fails to deliver. It reads like an over-the-top melodrama. The ultra-rich, middle-aged Van Ness siblings, heirs to a copper wealth, and their significant others meet yearly at their isolated winemaking estate to celebrate their birthdays. There is also an unidentified “Party Guest” in attendance. It’s evident that the “Party Guest” intends to harm the family. The twists were uninteresting. I can only suggest this one if you enjoy soap operas, which can be fun. I just wasn’t in the mood for soap.
Find all my book reviews at:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/list…
https://books6259.wordpress.com/
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/review…
https://www.facebook.com/martie.neesr…
https://www.amazon.com/
January 10, 2024
I really do not enjoy giving bad reviews, but this was probably the most slow burning book I have ever read. I was curious to find out how it ended, so I did listen to the entire thing, whereas normally this would be a DNF for me.
All of the 6 main characters were completely unlikeable. It was hard to differentiate between Elle and Lauren as they seemed like the same character.
If you are an avid “thriller/mystery book” reader, I would not recommend this one. 😞
All of the 6 main characters were completely unlikeable. It was hard to differentiate between Elle and Lauren as they seemed like the same character.
If you are an avid “thriller/mystery book” reader, I would not recommend this one. 😞
October 10, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyable. Grabbed me early on and held my interest. Realistic self-centered characters.
August 17, 2024
I thought this book was okay, it was just hard to really care about any of the characters as they were all lying about something in their lives. The ending was rather predictable.
December 23, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC (Advance Reader Copy of The Weekend Retreat. This book was enjoyable but it did have a tendency to drag through parts when the siblings were bickering with one another constantly throughout the book. I rounded up my stars to 4 but really giving it a 3.5 rating. It was quite predictable but still a good read.
February 6, 2024
Family dynamics are on full display in this domestic suspense. A family of siblings and their significant others meet for a birthday party where a nefarious guest is out to prove a point, putting everyone’s lives in peril. This was a locked room, atmospheric thriller. The setting was similar to several other thrillers I’ve read recently. The plot was ok but I never got swept up in the story. Still, an amusing read.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Graydon House and Tara Laskowski for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Graydon House and Tara Laskowski for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
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