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The Christmas Guest
2 hours, 48 minutes
An American art student in London is invited to join a classmate for the holidays at Starvewood Hall, her family's Cotswold manor house. But behind the holly and pine boughs, secrets are about to unravel, revealing this seemingly charming English village's grim history.
Ashley Smith, an American art student in London for her junior year, was planning on spending Christmas alone, but a last-minute invitation from fellow student Emma Chapman brings her to Starvewood Hall, country residence of the Chapman family. The Cotswold manor house, festooned in pine boughs and crammed with guests for Christmas week, is a dream come true for Ashley. She is mesmerized by the cozy, firelit house, the large family, and the charming village of Clevemoor, but also by Adam Chapman, Emma's aloof and handsome brother.
But Adam is being investigated by the local police over the recent brutal slaying of a girl from the village, and there is a mysterious stranger who haunts the woodland path between Starvewood Hall and the local pub. Ashley begins to wonder what kind of story she is actually inhabiting. Is she in a grand romance? A gothic tale? Or has she wandered into something far more sinister and terrifying than she'd ever imagined?
Over thirty years later the events of that horrific week are revisited, along with a diary from that time. What began in a small English village in 1989 reaches its ghostly conclusion in modern-day New York, many Christmas seasons later.
An American art student in London is invited to join a classmate for the holidays at Starvewood Hall, her family's Cotswold manor house. But behind the holly and pine boughs, secrets are about to unravel, revealing this seemingly charming English village's grim history.
Ashley Smith, an American art student in London for her junior year, was planning on spending Christmas alone, but a last-minute invitation from fellow student Emma Chapman brings her to Starvewood Hall, country residence of the Chapman family. The Cotswold manor house, festooned in pine boughs and crammed with guests for Christmas week, is a dream come true for Ashley. She is mesmerized by the cozy, firelit house, the large family, and the charming village of Clevemoor, but also by Adam Chapman, Emma's aloof and handsome brother.
But Adam is being investigated by the local police over the recent brutal slaying of a girl from the village, and there is a mysterious stranger who haunts the woodland path between Starvewood Hall and the local pub. Ashley begins to wonder what kind of story she is actually inhabiting. Is she in a grand romance? A gothic tale? Or has she wandered into something far more sinister and terrifying than she'd ever imagined?
Over thirty years later the events of that horrific week are revisited, along with a diary from that time. What began in a small English village in 1989 reaches its ghostly conclusion in modern-day New York, many Christmas seasons later.
3 pages, Audible Audio
First published September 28, 2023
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About the author
Peter Swanson
21 books13.1k followersPeter Swanson is the author of six novels including The Kind Worth Killing, winner of the New England Society Book Award, and finalist for the CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger, Her Every Fear, an NPR book of the year, and his most recent thriller, Eight Perfect Murders. His books have been translated into 30 languages, and his stories, poetry, and features have appeared in Asimov’s Science Fiction, The Atlantic Monthly, Measure, The Guardian, The Strand Magazine, and Yankee Magazine.
A graduate of Trinity College, the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and Emerson College, he lives in Somerville, Massachusetts with his wife and cat.
A graduate of Trinity College, the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and Emerson College, he lives in Somerville, Massachusetts with his wife and cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 6,438 reviews
December 13, 2025
Ooh this was such a fun, murderous little Christmas tale!
Ashley Smith has no family to spend the holidays with. So when her classmate Emma Chapman invites her to spend Christmas at Starvewood Hall, she immediately accepts. After all, what could be more delightful than Christmas at an English manor? But soon after she arrives, Ashley begins to suspect everything isn't all jolly and cheer. There is a sinister figure lurking in the woods and an unsolved murder hanging over the family.
I'm always a little hesitant to pick up a novella. Just as you're getting into the story, it's already over. But I found this to be a satisfying little tale. The first half is mostly told through journal entries from the past, while the latter half is set in the present. And for how short this is, there was plenty of entertainment packed in.
I feel like Peter Swanson's books always turn out a little darker than I'd think and so it is with this one. But there's a difference between fun dark and no-fun dark, and his books are always the former. The characters are nasty, the plot eyebrow-raising, and the twists just keep coming.
A lot of books advertise as one-sit reads, but this one really is. My copy is a short 96 pages, and I bumped through it in about two hours. I imagine it would be a fun one to read on actual Christmas day or Christmas Eve, after all the festivities are wrapped up and one's tummy is full of eggnog and good cheer. Then you can crack this open and see how crazy a family can really be during the holidays.
Every year, I have grand plans to read all these festive books during the holiday season. And inevitably, I never make it. So when January rolls around, I admit defeat and relegate the poor pile to next December, when the ignominious cycle repeats. If you're anything like me, let me recommend this book. Not only is it fun and short, but it puts you in the jolly murderous spirit. And hey, when January rolls around, at least you can say you've managed to read one holiday book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
See also, my thoughts on:
The Kind Worth Killing
Nine Lives
~~~~~~~~~~~~
✧ Connect with me ✧ Instagram ✧
Ashley Smith has no family to spend the holidays with. So when her classmate Emma Chapman invites her to spend Christmas at Starvewood Hall, she immediately accepts. After all, what could be more delightful than Christmas at an English manor? But soon after she arrives, Ashley begins to suspect everything isn't all jolly and cheer. There is a sinister figure lurking in the woods and an unsolved murder hanging over the family.
I'm always a little hesitant to pick up a novella. Just as you're getting into the story, it's already over. But I found this to be a satisfying little tale. The first half is mostly told through journal entries from the past, while the latter half is set in the present. And for how short this is, there was plenty of entertainment packed in.
I feel like Peter Swanson's books always turn out a little darker than I'd think and so it is with this one. But there's a difference between fun dark and no-fun dark, and his books are always the former. The characters are nasty, the plot eyebrow-raising, and the twists just keep coming.
A lot of books advertise as one-sit reads, but this one really is. My copy is a short 96 pages, and I bumped through it in about two hours. I imagine it would be a fun one to read on actual Christmas day or Christmas Eve, after all the festivities are wrapped up and one's tummy is full of eggnog and good cheer. Then you can crack this open and see how crazy a family can really be during the holidays.
Every year, I have grand plans to read all these festive books during the holiday season. And inevitably, I never make it. So when January rolls around, I admit defeat and relegate the poor pile to next December, when the ignominious cycle repeats. If you're anything like me, let me recommend this book. Not only is it fun and short, but it puts you in the jolly murderous spirit. And hey, when January rolls around, at least you can say you've managed to read one holiday book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
See also, my thoughts on:
The Kind Worth Killing
Nine Lives
~~~~~~~~~~~~
✧ Connect with me ✧ Instagram ✧
December 25, 2023
My Reviews Can Also Be Found On:
The Storygraph and The Book Review Crew Blog
This was such a refreshingly different Christmas read. I got sucked in right away and read this twisty novella in a single sitting. It was such a great change from all the holiday romances and surprised me in all the best ways. I loved Eight Perfect Murders and Her Every Fear so when I saw that Peter Swanson had a Christmas thriller out I had to have it and sneak it in during the holiday season.
This one is sort of an epistolary story (which I love) because it has plenty of diary entries and I enjoyed those parts of the book the most as that's where the mystery lies. When you get to part two the big twist is revealed and the culprit fesses up. I did not see it coming and I think that's why I enjoyed this so much. This is a very well-thought-out mystery that puts the reader right in the thick of things, it's very atmospheric with the house and the weather as much of the story as anything else and the climax blew me away.
If you enjoy ominous reads with an intelligent plot and characters that are well-fleshed out, you'll enjoy what Swanson has in store. As our main character learns, be careful what you wish for. I really don't understand the 3.64 rating at the time of this review.
The Storygraph and The Book Review Crew Blog
This was such a refreshingly different Christmas read. I got sucked in right away and read this twisty novella in a single sitting. It was such a great change from all the holiday romances and surprised me in all the best ways. I loved Eight Perfect Murders and Her Every Fear so when I saw that Peter Swanson had a Christmas thriller out I had to have it and sneak it in during the holiday season.
This one is sort of an epistolary story (which I love) because it has plenty of diary entries and I enjoyed those parts of the book the most as that's where the mystery lies. When you get to part two the big twist is revealed and the culprit fesses up. I did not see it coming and I think that's why I enjoyed this so much. This is a very well-thought-out mystery that puts the reader right in the thick of things, it's very atmospheric with the house and the weather as much of the story as anything else and the climax blew me away.
If you enjoy ominous reads with an intelligent plot and characters that are well-fleshed out, you'll enjoy what Swanson has in store. As our main character learns, be careful what you wish for. I really don't understand the 3.64 rating at the time of this review.
December 10, 2024
Dedicated to three women who don’t particularly like Christmas, and with a nod to Charles Dickens, this 112 page novella opens in modern day New York, where Ashley Smith is happily spending Christmas Day ALONE.
In Part One, after partaking in her own personal Christmas Day rituals and traditions, Ashley decides to clean out her closet and she finds the diary written by her “younger self” thirty years prior in 1989.
It was the year that Ashley, then an American Art student studying in London, was invited to join fellow student Emma Chapman at her Cotswold Manor House, Starvewood Hall for Christmas week.
The pages are oozing with atmosphere.
Despite being given a freezing cold attic room, she is enjoying drinking mulled wine by the fireplace, playing board games with the many guests at the Manor, and visiting the charming local Pubs. It’s a Christmas week like no other.
And, it doesn’t hurt that Emma’s handsome twin brother, Adam is also home for the holidays.
Even the fact that he is being investigated for the brutal slaying of a girl he dated cannot put a damper on things.
But why exactly did Emma invite Ashley to tag along when they weren’t even close friends?
I immediately felt a sense of foreboding!
I enjoyed the diary entries of this more innocent, hopeful girl, but they will end abruptly on Christmas Eve.
In Part Two, Ashley in the PRESENT day, haunted by her PAST, will have all of the answers of what transpired on December 24, 1989-and she will fill in the blanks for us.
This ISN’T your typical Christmas story, that is joyful, merry and bright. And, you definitely WON’T see it getting adapted for the Hallmark channel, which is probably why I liked it so much! 😉
A buddy read with DeAnn-watch for her review to see if we both enjoyed this one. Since it’s Peter Swanson-you probably can make an educated guess!
NOW AVAILABLE!
Thank You to William Morrow for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
In Part One, after partaking in her own personal Christmas Day rituals and traditions, Ashley decides to clean out her closet and she finds the diary written by her “younger self” thirty years prior in 1989.
It was the year that Ashley, then an American Art student studying in London, was invited to join fellow student Emma Chapman at her Cotswold Manor House, Starvewood Hall for Christmas week.
The pages are oozing with atmosphere.
Despite being given a freezing cold attic room, she is enjoying drinking mulled wine by the fireplace, playing board games with the many guests at the Manor, and visiting the charming local Pubs. It’s a Christmas week like no other.
And, it doesn’t hurt that Emma’s handsome twin brother, Adam is also home for the holidays.
Even the fact that he is being investigated for the brutal slaying of a girl he dated cannot put a damper on things.
But why exactly did Emma invite Ashley to tag along when they weren’t even close friends?
I immediately felt a sense of foreboding!
I enjoyed the diary entries of this more innocent, hopeful girl, but they will end abruptly on Christmas Eve.
In Part Two, Ashley in the PRESENT day, haunted by her PAST, will have all of the answers of what transpired on December 24, 1989-and she will fill in the blanks for us.
This ISN’T your typical Christmas story, that is joyful, merry and bright. And, you definitely WON’T see it getting adapted for the Hallmark channel, which is probably why I liked it so much! 😉
A buddy read with DeAnn-watch for her review to see if we both enjoyed this one. Since it’s Peter Swanson-you probably can make an educated guess!
NOW AVAILABLE!
Thank You to William Morrow for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
November 18, 2023
2.5⭐
Dark Christmas Novella. Better to read than to listen.
Almost DNF. I know...one of my favorite authors. I'm shocked too but I couldn't get into it after a while. I kept the audiobook and thought of trying again but I think I'm going to move on to other books.
Deardiary HarperAudio, your sound effects during the diary were distracting. Who turns a page every five seconds? Ughh...😔 I wouldn't recommend the audiobook. It's also read in British accent and well...IYKYK. 🤦♀️
2h 28m
Dark Christmas Novella. Better to read than to listen.
Almost DNF. I know...one of my favorite authors. I'm shocked too but I couldn't get into it after a while. I kept the audiobook and thought of trying again but I think I'm going to move on to other books.
Dear
2h 28m
October 21, 2023
If, like me, you’ve never found the time to squeeze in a Peter Swanson novel, The Christmas Guest is a great way to sample his work. This 100-page holiday whodunit can be read in a few hours, and it’ll give you a good feel for whether you jive with his writing style.
The first half of the story is told through the 1989 diary entries of an American art student living in London named Ashley Smith, who is invited by classmate Emma Chapman to spend Christmas with her family in Cotswold. Once arrived at the home of the Chapmans, Ashley is not only taken with the cozy manor house but also with Emma’s handsome brother, Adam. Ashley soon wonders what sort of mess she’s gotten herself into, though, when she learns that Adam is a murder suspect and then sees a creepy stranger prowling the woods.
After you read through the diary, the story switches to the present day when Ashley reflects back on the murderous events of 30 years ago. This is when the real games begin, with Swanson throwing in a few twists that you hopefully won’t see coming. I sure didn’t.
I’m even more motivated now to read Swanson. He’s got writing chops, because his diary entries are convincing. I totally believed they were written by a twenty-something female, and this is coming from a reviewer who doesn’t impress easily.
My sincerest appreciation to Peter Swanson, William Morrow, and NetGalley for the digital review copy. All opinions included herein are my own.
The first half of the story is told through the 1989 diary entries of an American art student living in London named Ashley Smith, who is invited by classmate Emma Chapman to spend Christmas with her family in Cotswold. Once arrived at the home of the Chapmans, Ashley is not only taken with the cozy manor house but also with Emma’s handsome brother, Adam. Ashley soon wonders what sort of mess she’s gotten herself into, though, when she learns that Adam is a murder suspect and then sees a creepy stranger prowling the woods.
After you read through the diary, the story switches to the present day when Ashley reflects back on the murderous events of 30 years ago. This is when the real games begin, with Swanson throwing in a few twists that you hopefully won’t see coming. I sure didn’t.
I’m even more motivated now to read Swanson. He’s got writing chops, because his diary entries are convincing. I totally believed they were written by a twenty-something female, and this is coming from a reviewer who doesn’t impress easily.
My sincerest appreciation to Peter Swanson, William Morrow, and NetGalley for the digital review copy. All opinions included herein are my own.
October 17, 2023
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY!
“There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays”…or is there?
The Christmas Guest is a short novella about how the yearly arrival of Christmas can either be a blessing or a curse. In 1989, Ashley Smith, an orphaned American studying in London, goes home for Christmas break with her friend Emma to her London manor home. Told mostly through diary entries about that Christmas, Ashley describes Emma’s strange, cruel family members. However, she finds herself falling for Emma’s handsome brother. Watch out! There is a killer on the loose, and Ashley thinks she saw him!
It would be impossible to say more without spoiling the surprises, but there are several twists that keep the reader intrigued. This short spooky tale is perfect to read in one sitting during Christmas time!
3.5/ rounded up
Expected publication date: 10/17/23
Thank you to Edelweiss and William Morrow publishing for the ARC of The Christmas Guest in exchange for an honest review.
“There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays”…or is there?
The Christmas Guest is a short novella about how the yearly arrival of Christmas can either be a blessing or a curse. In 1989, Ashley Smith, an orphaned American studying in London, goes home for Christmas break with her friend Emma to her London manor home. Told mostly through diary entries about that Christmas, Ashley describes Emma’s strange, cruel family members. However, she finds herself falling for Emma’s handsome brother. Watch out! There is a killer on the loose, and Ashley thinks she saw him!
It would be impossible to say more without spoiling the surprises, but there are several twists that keep the reader intrigued. This short spooky tale is perfect to read in one sitting during Christmas time!
3.5/ rounded up
Expected publication date: 10/17/23
Thank you to Edelweiss and William Morrow publishing for the ARC of The Christmas Guest in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2023
I'm a fan of the author, but this wasn't a favorite.
I'm not a huge fan of diary entries and much of the story relies on them to set the stage. I do enjoy a gothic thriller, so the huge rundown manor, Cotswold was my favorite aspect, but something about the mystery and resolution made me feel uncomfortable and it wasn't what I expected and just too dark and macrabre. I also didn't connect with a single character. I imagine if it ever snowed there, it would be black!
It is a short novella, only 112 pages.
Just not my cup of Christmas tea, but I will be in line for the author's next as he usually delivers a worthy read!
Check out other reviews because this one has some big fans!
Thanks NG for my Arc. This one is OUT on October 17, 2023
I'm not a huge fan of diary entries and much of the story relies on them to set the stage. I do enjoy a gothic thriller, so the huge rundown manor, Cotswold was my favorite aspect, but something about the mystery and resolution made me feel uncomfortable and it wasn't what I expected and just too dark and macrabre. I also didn't connect with a single character. I imagine if it ever snowed there, it would be black!
It is a short novella, only 112 pages.
Just not my cup of Christmas tea, but I will be in line for the author's next as he usually delivers a worthy read!
Check out other reviews because this one has some big fans!
Thanks NG for my Arc. This one is OUT on October 17, 2023
December 30, 2023
Podría ser un cuatro estrellas, pero creo que es más justo dejarlo en ....
3 🌞🌞🌞
Un cuento de navidad en forma de thriller por el autor de “Una muerte merecida” y otras novelas similares.
Ashley Smith no tiene con quién pasar la navidad. Está muy lejos de su hogar estadounidense. Así que, cuando su compañera de estudios Emma Chapman la invita a su english cottage a pasar las fiestas con su familia, Ashley no se lo piensa dos veces. Pasar unas auténticas navidades británicas en una campiña le parece un plan de navidades perfectas. Y además, está Adam, el bomboncito hermano de Emma, que parece que se siente atraído hacia ella. Se prometen unas fiestas inolvidables, y en cierta manera lo van a ser, …… para los que sobrevivan a ellas.
La primera parte está narrada en forma de diario por Ashley, en donde va anotando sus intimidades. Son los años 80. La segunda se desarrolla unos treinta años después, y es Emma la que nos cuenta lo que pasó en aquellas navidades, y cómo se ha desarrollado su vida a partir de entonces, y también la de su hermano Adam. Todo ello en poco más de 100 páginas, y con un giro hacia lo siniestro muy del gusto del autor.
Una lectura muy apropiada para las fechas indicadas en la trama, que te lees de una sentada mientras te terminas el ponche o la sidra y te relames con el turrón. Y si hay una humeante chimenea de fondo mejor que mejor. Una novelita para crear ambiente sabiendo que algo va a arruinar las fiestas de esta disfuncional familia típicamente inglesa, con su campiña y sus pubs. Y ya te advierto que no quedarás defraudado.
November 21, 2023
It has been thirty years since Ashley Smith, an American Art History student in London, spent her Christmas holidays at her classmate Emma Chapman’s family home in Clevemoor. Ashley, far from home and with no close family, was excited to have company during the festive season. Ashley is in awe of the Chapmans’ manor home and initially enjoys the company, trips to the local pub and the idyllic village, not to mention the attention she gets from Adam, Emma’s handsome twin brother whose company she particularly enjoys. However, Adam is suspected of having brutally murdered a local girl with whom he is said to have been romantically involved. Ashley also notices some strange occurrences around the house and is a tad confused with her host’s strange behavior. Needless to say, Ashley’s holiday might not be quite as idyllic as it seems.
The first half of the narrative is presented through Ashley's journal entries dating back to 1989 after which we switch to the present day where we get to more about the events from thirty years ago and the aftermath of the same.
The Christmas Guest by Peter Swanson is an exceptionally well-crafted, atmospheric and absorbing read. The setting, gothic tone, complex characters and shocking twists kept me hooked till the very last page. I thoroughly enjoyed this novella and would not hesitate to recommend it to those who enjoy dark, twisty reads.
Many thanks to William Morrow and NetGalley for the digital review copy of this novella. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The Christmas Guest was published on October 17, 2023.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
The first half of the narrative is presented through Ashley's journal entries dating back to 1989 after which we switch to the present day where we get to more about the events from thirty years ago and the aftermath of the same.
The Christmas Guest by Peter Swanson is an exceptionally well-crafted, atmospheric and absorbing read. The setting, gothic tone, complex characters and shocking twists kept me hooked till the very last page. I thoroughly enjoyed this novella and would not hesitate to recommend it to those who enjoy dark, twisty reads.
Many thanks to William Morrow and NetGalley for the digital review copy of this novella. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The Christmas Guest was published on October 17, 2023.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
July 24, 2023
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.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
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.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
August 14, 2023
4+
Well, if that wonderful, evocative, Christmasy cover doesn’t entice you in, then maybe the quality of Peter Swanson’s writing in this novella will. In the present day, a woman in Manhattan clears out her closet on Christmas Day (yes, quite) and comes across a diary from 1989, which, although it turns out to be a murderous year, she knows she won’t be able to stop reading it if she opens it up and takes a peak.
Let’s backtrack to 1989 to find out what’s going on here. American Ashley Smith is studying art history at London University, when she is invited to spend Christmas with fellow student, Emma Chapman and her family. She accepts as she is alone in the world and she doesn’t fancy a lonely Christmas. Emma‘s parents home turns out to be a Cotswolds Manor house, Starvewood Hall and although it’s a bit down at heel ,it’s perfect for Christmas. Even more perfect is Emma‘s twin brother, Adam, a blonde aloof Adonis. Maybe, there will be more on the menu this Christmas other than turkey with all the trimmings?
I really enjoy the way the author tells this as the first half is Ashley‘s diary which captures the personality of a young ingenue who finds herself in the midst of one very weird household. She tries to put a positive spin on the oddities and off notes and you constantly question why she’s there as she is such a fish out of water. Then things start to get really strange, definitely chilling with the added bonus of creepy, Gothic notes which feels a bit dreamlike. Or should that be nightmarish?
The second half reveals coldness that matches the winter temperatures and it’s a gripping read. I do guess part of what transpires, but it doesn’t spoil the “festive“ read. Although it’s a short book, the author does a great job in painting a picture of all the characters and the locations. That house and its inhabitants positively oozes atmosphere. Not necessarily a good one either.
This is a quick, suspenseful, well constructed novel that keeps you immersed. It takes a couple of hours to read so curl by the fire, book in hand, a glass of mulled wine in the other, perhaps a mince pie to keep you going and enjoy the turbulent twisty escapist ride. This would make an excellent Christmas gift for a lover of a mystery thriller.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Faber and Faber for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Well, if that wonderful, evocative, Christmasy cover doesn’t entice you in, then maybe the quality of Peter Swanson’s writing in this novella will. In the present day, a woman in Manhattan clears out her closet on Christmas Day (yes, quite) and comes across a diary from 1989, which, although it turns out to be a murderous year, she knows she won’t be able to stop reading it if she opens it up and takes a peak.
Let’s backtrack to 1989 to find out what’s going on here. American Ashley Smith is studying art history at London University, when she is invited to spend Christmas with fellow student, Emma Chapman and her family. She accepts as she is alone in the world and she doesn’t fancy a lonely Christmas. Emma‘s parents home turns out to be a Cotswolds Manor house, Starvewood Hall and although it’s a bit down at heel ,it’s perfect for Christmas. Even more perfect is Emma‘s twin brother, Adam, a blonde aloof Adonis. Maybe, there will be more on the menu this Christmas other than turkey with all the trimmings?
I really enjoy the way the author tells this as the first half is Ashley‘s diary which captures the personality of a young ingenue who finds herself in the midst of one very weird household. She tries to put a positive spin on the oddities and off notes and you constantly question why she’s there as she is such a fish out of water. Then things start to get really strange, definitely chilling with the added bonus of creepy, Gothic notes which feels a bit dreamlike. Or should that be nightmarish?
The second half reveals coldness that matches the winter temperatures and it’s a gripping read. I do guess part of what transpires, but it doesn’t spoil the “festive“ read. Although it’s a short book, the author does a great job in painting a picture of all the characters and the locations. That house and its inhabitants positively oozes atmosphere. Not necessarily a good one either.
This is a quick, suspenseful, well constructed novel that keeps you immersed. It takes a couple of hours to read so curl by the fire, book in hand, a glass of mulled wine in the other, perhaps a mince pie to keep you going and enjoy the turbulent twisty escapist ride. This would make an excellent Christmas gift for a lover of a mystery thriller.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Faber and Faber for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
October 21, 2023
Thank you, Partner @bibliolifestyle @williammorrowbooks 🥰🥰🥰 Pub date was October 17th!! 🥳🥳
Christmas AND @petermswanson ?!!! 🎄 It really doesn’t get any better than this!!
Not ready for a Christmas book yet? 🎄🎄 Ummm… do you really think @petermswanson wrote a sweet as sugar Christmas book??? 😂😂 If you did… think again.😳 No worries thriller lovers!! This is 100% up your alley! A novella at just 96 pages… it packs one heck of a punch! 🥊
Ashley Smith is going to be all alone on Christmas…🎄… an American 🇺🇸 ..far from home.. in college in London…UNTIL… Emma whom she barely knows ..reaches out and invites her to go home with her for Christmas…Awww 🥰..so sweet…
EXCEPT… things go sideways… Ashley thinks she is in for a glorious Christmas tale… or perhaps a romantic romp..although she soon thinks 🤔 perhaps this is more like a gothic nightmare…😳… As her imagination runs wild… she shares her thoughts with us in her journal… Aww thanks Ashley.😘…Let me tell you… does she ever have some thoughts.😂😳😳
Okay… in typical @petermswanson fashion ..this was dark…twisted… heart pounding !!! Of course… he blindsided me once AGAIN… with a fantastic twist!! 🙌🙌 He does it ever single time…🤯🤯🤯 That is why I LOVE his books!!
5 thrilling Christmas stars!! I couldn’t have loved this more! Make your thriller loving hearts ♥️ happy and grab a copy. 😍
Christmas AND @petermswanson ?!!! 🎄 It really doesn’t get any better than this!!
Not ready for a Christmas book yet? 🎄🎄 Ummm… do you really think @petermswanson wrote a sweet as sugar Christmas book??? 😂😂 If you did… think again.😳 No worries thriller lovers!! This is 100% up your alley! A novella at just 96 pages… it packs one heck of a punch! 🥊
Ashley Smith is going to be all alone on Christmas…🎄… an American 🇺🇸 ..far from home.. in college in London…UNTIL… Emma whom she barely knows ..reaches out and invites her to go home with her for Christmas…Awww 🥰..so sweet…
EXCEPT… things go sideways… Ashley thinks she is in for a glorious Christmas tale… or perhaps a romantic romp..although she soon thinks 🤔 perhaps this is more like a gothic nightmare…😳… As her imagination runs wild… she shares her thoughts with us in her journal… Aww thanks Ashley.😘…Let me tell you… does she ever have some thoughts.😂😳😳
Okay… in typical @petermswanson fashion ..this was dark…twisted… heart pounding !!! Of course… he blindsided me once AGAIN… with a fantastic twist!! 🙌🙌 He does it ever single time…🤯🤯🤯 That is why I LOVE his books!!
5 thrilling Christmas stars!! I couldn’t have loved this more! Make your thriller loving hearts ♥️ happy and grab a copy. 😍
December 12, 2023
Short story about an American girl (Ashley) who gets invited by a British classmate (Emma) to spend Christmas at her family's Cotswold manor house for the holiday. Once there, Ashley meets Emma’s brother (Adam) who she gets a crush on. But Adam is being investigated for murder...
The first half of this book was told through Ashley’s diary entries, which I didn’t like, because they weren't very interesting. The second half of the book was told through Emma’s point-of-view. I really didn’t enjoy this book. I didn’t like how things turned out as the story progressed, and it had too many unlikable characters. This book just wasn’t for me.
The first half of this book was told through Ashley’s diary entries, which I didn’t like, because they weren't very interesting. The second half of the book was told through Emma’s point-of-view. I really didn’t enjoy this book. I didn’t like how things turned out as the story progressed, and it had too many unlikable characters. This book just wasn’t for me.
January 23, 2024
The Christmas Guest Narrated by Esther Wane was a creepy gothic thriller that had me guessing right to the end a quick audio just under Two hours twenty eight minutes.
An utterly compelling story told through the POV of AshleySmith through her diary thirty years prior in 1989 prior Ashley was an art student studying in London.
What happens next is a murderous tale with gothic feels throughout Peter Swanson packs a punch with this short audio I loved the narration it set the scene for a thrilling climax recommended.
I would like to thank Libby & my library 📚 for the digital copy.
An utterly compelling story told through the POV of AshleySmith through her diary thirty years prior in 1989 prior Ashley was an art student studying in London.
What happens next is a murderous tale with gothic feels throughout Peter Swanson packs a punch with this short audio I loved the narration it set the scene for a thrilling climax recommended.
I would like to thank Libby & my library 📚 for the digital copy.
January 17, 2026
A crisp, wintry mystery that exceeded my expectations — I went in with none, and came out completely hooked ❄️🕯️🔪
📖 Book: The Christmas Guest
🖋️ Author: Peter Swanson
🌟 Rating: 4.75 ✧
🕯️ Genre: Gothic mystery
🖋️ Summary: Written in diary form, The Christmas Guest follows Ashley Smith, a quiet art student thrilled to be invited to spend Christmas at her glamorous classmate Emma Chapman’s wealthy family estate. Enchanted by the manor, the holiday atmosphere, and especially Emma’s brother Adam (who happens to be under investigation for the murder of a local girl), Ashley is quickly drawn into something far darker than festive charm. As strange incidents pile up, coincidences feel less accidental, and rumors swirl around Adam’s guilt or innocence, Ashley realizes she may be trapped in a situation far more dangerous than she ever imagined… and that it might already be too late to leave ❄️🔪
♡ What I loved most:
• The diary-style format: such a smart, intimate choice. It felt personal and confessional, like uncovering secrets that were never meant to be read 🖋️
• The pacing: absolutely spot-on. No dragging, no filler — every entry moved the story forward with intention
• The length: I loved that it was a short novella. Compact, sharp, and impactful, with not a single wasted page
• The suspense: it kept me guessing the entire time, constantly on edge in that delicious, unsettling way 🔪
• The twist: I had a faint sense that something was coming, but not the full scope of it. The complexity of the reveal was incredibly satisfying 🧠
• The prose: smooth, thoughtful, and elegant without being overwrought. It flowed beautifully and suited the eerie tone perfectly 🖤
───♡─────────────
୨ৎ Overall:
I usually gravitate toward mysteries with a generous side of romance, but this one genuinely surprised me. It pulled me in immediately and held me there until the very last page, never loosening its grip.
A crisp, wintry mystery that exceeded my expectations — I went in with none, and came out completely hooked. Perfect for a chilly evening when you’re craving suspense, secrets, and just a hint of holiday chill lingering in the air ❄️🕯️🔪
xoxo, until the next book 🖋️❄️🕯️
📖 Book: The Christmas Guest
🖋️ Author: Peter Swanson
🌟 Rating: 4.75 ✧
🕯️ Genre: Gothic mystery
🖋️ Summary: Written in diary form, The Christmas Guest follows Ashley Smith, a quiet art student thrilled to be invited to spend Christmas at her glamorous classmate Emma Chapman’s wealthy family estate. Enchanted by the manor, the holiday atmosphere, and especially Emma’s brother Adam (who happens to be under investigation for the murder of a local girl), Ashley is quickly drawn into something far darker than festive charm. As strange incidents pile up, coincidences feel less accidental, and rumors swirl around Adam’s guilt or innocence, Ashley realizes she may be trapped in a situation far more dangerous than she ever imagined… and that it might already be too late to leave ❄️🔪
“Chance of romance: nonexistent. Chance of gothic thriller murder mystery: growing by the minute.”
♡ What I loved most:
• The diary-style format: such a smart, intimate choice. It felt personal and confessional, like uncovering secrets that were never meant to be read 🖋️
• The pacing: absolutely spot-on. No dragging, no filler — every entry moved the story forward with intention
• The length: I loved that it was a short novella. Compact, sharp, and impactful, with not a single wasted page
• The suspense: it kept me guessing the entire time, constantly on edge in that delicious, unsettling way 🔪
• The twist: I had a faint sense that something was coming, but not the full scope of it. The complexity of the reveal was incredibly satisfying 🧠
• The prose: smooth, thoughtful, and elegant without being overwrought. It flowed beautifully and suited the eerie tone perfectly 🖤
───♡─────────────
୨ৎ Overall:
I usually gravitate toward mysteries with a generous side of romance, but this one genuinely surprised me. It pulled me in immediately and held me there until the very last page, never loosening its grip.
A crisp, wintry mystery that exceeded my expectations — I went in with none, and came out completely hooked. Perfect for a chilly evening when you’re craving suspense, secrets, and just a hint of holiday chill lingering in the air ❄️🕯️🔪
xoxo, until the next book 🖋️❄️🕯️
November 11, 2023
Far from her hometown of Sacramento, California, Ashley Smith is a student studying art in the magical city of London. Planning to spend Christmas alone, she’s overjoyed when she’s invited to join her new friend and fellow student, Emma Chapman, at her rambling country manor, Starvewood Hall. With little family of her own, the picturesque gathering of the Chapmans’ near and dear seems like an absolute dream come true.
Gathered around glowing fires and surrounded by Christmas decorations, it’s just like she imagined. And then she meets Emma’s handsome twin brother, Adam. The only worrying fact is that he’s been the epicenter of a months long investigation following the death of a local girl named Joanna. He can’t possibly be involved as he just doesn’t seem the type and Ashley quickly falls for him with nary a second thought.
But then an ominous stranger is seen creeping around the Chapmans’ home and Ashley’s romantic tale seems to veer towards an eerie mystery. Should she be wary of being in the middle of nowhere with a family she barely knows? Or are the locals the ones she should be most afraid of? Then again, it could all be a major misunderstanding that she’s built up in her own mind as the holidays continue to wind closer.
Thirty years later, the rediscovery of her diary brings back the memories of that Christmas from long ago. A tale that had begun an ocean away in an idyllic English village will come to a startling end. Do our memories have a way of turning hazy? Or is time a mysterious polisher of facts? Surely three decades will keep the events far in the past, but what if they have a way of returning?
Both quick and riveting, Peter Swanson’s first novella, The Christmas Guest was a welcome start to the upcoming holiday season. Told in two parts that run the gamut from remembrances to diary entriesdark and chilling tale to say the least. Especially once I got to the game-changing twist that had my jaw firmly on the floor.
The characters were well-written and nicely developed for a ninety page short story. Between the aloof brother and the rather naïve guest, I was fully wrapped up in the retelling of what happened all those years ago. Initially genuine and true, a few morphed with the thoroughly epic twist into personas that had my blood running cold.
By the time I closed the cover on the book, I was astounded by how complete and fully fleshed out this brief visit into Swanson’s brilliant mind felt. Packed full of atmosphere and plenty of gothic vibes, the murder mystery won me over hook, line, and sinker. This is unusual for me as I’m not normal a huge fan of novellas. Mostly due to how incomplete they often feel thanks to their brevity, I was happy to discover that this one nailed it in one despite its length.
All said and done, I really shouldn’t be surprised considering that Swanson has been firmly ensconced on my auto-buy author list for quite some time thanks to my love for everything he’s ever written. Set to hit store shelves on November 1st, be sure to pre-order your copy today. I, for one, don’t think this utterly bingeable story is one to be missed. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Peter Swanson and William Morrow for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DAY: October 17, 2023
👉 Be sure to head to my Amazon Storefront to order. I get a small commission and would love your support!
Trigger warning: NONE
Gathered around glowing fires and surrounded by Christmas decorations, it’s just like she imagined. And then she meets Emma’s handsome twin brother, Adam. The only worrying fact is that he’s been the epicenter of a months long investigation following the death of a local girl named Joanna. He can’t possibly be involved as he just doesn’t seem the type and Ashley quickly falls for him with nary a second thought.
But then an ominous stranger is seen creeping around the Chapmans’ home and Ashley’s romantic tale seems to veer towards an eerie mystery. Should she be wary of being in the middle of nowhere with a family she barely knows? Or are the locals the ones she should be most afraid of? Then again, it could all be a major misunderstanding that she’s built up in her own mind as the holidays continue to wind closer.
Thirty years later, the rediscovery of her diary brings back the memories of that Christmas from long ago. A tale that had begun an ocean away in an idyllic English village will come to a startling end. Do our memories have a way of turning hazy? Or is time a mysterious polisher of facts? Surely three decades will keep the events far in the past, but what if they have a way of returning?
Both quick and riveting, Peter Swanson’s first novella, The Christmas Guest was a welcome start to the upcoming holiday season. Told in two parts that run the gamut from remembrances to diary entriesdark and chilling tale to say the least. Especially once I got to the game-changing twist that had my jaw firmly on the floor.
The characters were well-written and nicely developed for a ninety page short story. Between the aloof brother and the rather naïve guest, I was fully wrapped up in the retelling of what happened all those years ago. Initially genuine and true, a few morphed with the thoroughly epic twist into personas that had my blood running cold.
By the time I closed the cover on the book, I was astounded by how complete and fully fleshed out this brief visit into Swanson’s brilliant mind felt. Packed full of atmosphere and plenty of gothic vibes, the murder mystery won me over hook, line, and sinker. This is unusual for me as I’m not normal a huge fan of novellas. Mostly due to how incomplete they often feel thanks to their brevity, I was happy to discover that this one nailed it in one despite its length.
All said and done, I really shouldn’t be surprised considering that Swanson has been firmly ensconced on my auto-buy author list for quite some time thanks to my love for everything he’s ever written. Set to hit store shelves on November 1st, be sure to pre-order your copy today. I, for one, don’t think this utterly bingeable story is one to be missed. Rating of 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Peter Swanson and William Morrow for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DAY: October 17, 2023
👉 Be sure to head to my Amazon Storefront to order. I get a small commission and would love your support!
Trigger warning: NONE
January 22, 2024
The perfect read for the romanticized setting many of us imagine ourselves in at this time of the year. Peter Swanson set out to write a Christmas mystery that captures the elements of a cozy winter read with a British countryside setting, a stately manor house, and the cold, mysterious environs and mood of such a locale.
He succeeded in capturing those elements and as a whole this was intriguing in a quiet, bucolic way. I liked the way the story was told and the crime itself. The characters were rather drab, and the setting could have been made more cozy and Christmasy, but then the elements Swanson set out to incorporate would have been lost among the dressing up of them.
I always appreciate short reads and maybe that contributes to my enjoyment here but I thought the author did a fantastic job creating the murky scene, formulating an inconspicuous killing, divulging a workable motive, and overall crafting a top-notch mystery.
He succeeded in capturing those elements and as a whole this was intriguing in a quiet, bucolic way. I liked the way the story was told and the crime itself. The characters were rather drab, and the setting could have been made more cozy and Christmasy, but then the elements Swanson set out to incorporate would have been lost among the dressing up of them.
I always appreciate short reads and maybe that contributes to my enjoyment here but I thought the author did a fantastic job creating the murky scene, formulating an inconspicuous killing, divulging a workable motive, and overall crafting a top-notch mystery.
October 10, 2024
This short novella begins with a woman narrator taking us through her apartment in present time as she is cleaning out her “closet.” When she comes upon “her” diary of 30 years ago, she decides to sit with it and read through it, until it abruptly stops.
At which point as readers we are also reading a faded newspaper article sharing the destiny of two of the characters.
One…
Being our narrator.
And then…
The reveal.
The confession.
The truth. Of who the narrator is, and what really happened 30 years ago.
But…Why does the narrator insist on taking several pages to figure out whether what is being shared in the diary matches what really happened?
There were murders, and there was a cover-up.
So…Who really did it and why?
But…Readers…Don’t underestimate who the true Christmas Guest really is.
And…What the narrator’s actions did 30 years ago, that had major implications in the present.
Will the narrator be able to redeem herself in the end?
Dark. Suspenseful. Easy-to-read mystery.
At which point as readers we are also reading a faded newspaper article sharing the destiny of two of the characters.
One…
Being our narrator.
And then…
The reveal.
The confession.
The truth. Of who the narrator is, and what really happened 30 years ago.
But…Why does the narrator insist on taking several pages to figure out whether what is being shared in the diary matches what really happened?
There were murders, and there was a cover-up.
So…Who really did it and why?
But…Readers…Don’t underestimate who the true Christmas Guest really is.
And…What the narrator’s actions did 30 years ago, that had major implications in the present.
Will the narrator be able to redeem herself in the end?
Dark. Suspenseful. Easy-to-read mystery.
September 22, 2023
Very quick easy novella that I blasted through in a single evening. While I felt the characters were a little flat and unmemorable, I enjoyed the atmosphere of this spooky countryside thriller. Gothic and unsettling.
December 18, 2025
Ashley Smith, an American student studying in London for a year, is invited by Emma Chapman, a classmate she barely knows, to spend Christmas at her family's country manor. Located in a charming English village, the home is lavishly decorated and filled with family and friends for Christmas week.
Ashley feels as if she's in a dream, then she meets Adam, Emma's swoony brother, and everything begins to feel a little too good to be true. Over thirty years later, what started in that charming English Village in 1989 comes to a haunting conclusion in modern-day New York...
The Christmas Guest is my first attempt at a Peter Swanson story, and this novella was the perfect choice. A mystery-thriller that's well-written, creative, and a fun, twisty tale.
An immersive experience: the audiobook is narrated by Esther Wane, whose dramatic reading of Ashley's 1989 diary entries from her Christmas holiday with the Chapman Family is compelling.
What a clever and entertaining read!
4⭐
Now—I'm ready to read a Swanson novel. Any suggestions on the best place to start?
Ashley feels as if she's in a dream, then she meets Adam, Emma's swoony brother, and everything begins to feel a little too good to be true. Over thirty years later, what started in that charming English Village in 1989 comes to a haunting conclusion in modern-day New York...
The Christmas Guest is my first attempt at a Peter Swanson story, and this novella was the perfect choice. A mystery-thriller that's well-written, creative, and a fun, twisty tale.
An immersive experience: the audiobook is narrated by Esther Wane, whose dramatic reading of Ashley's 1989 diary entries from her Christmas holiday with the Chapman Family is compelling.
What a clever and entertaining read!
4⭐
Now—I'm ready to read a Swanson novel. Any suggestions on the best place to start?
November 3, 2023
3.5 stars, I enjoyed this novella.
In 1989, Ashley is an American studying in London, and instead of spending Christmas alone she finds herself invited to the lavish country estate of wealthy Emma Chapman. While there she meets Emma's swoon-worthy brother Adam. There have been some brutal murders in the village, and although the police have questioned Adam, they don't have any evidence he committed the crimes. In the present day, a woman is reading a journal detailing those past events. What happened all of those years ago?
I love the way this book is told. It seems straightforward, but then everything gets completely turned around and the reader gets to see everything from an entirely different point of view. It's cleverly crafted and the story flows quickly so as to not get bogged down with extraneous details. The novella is the perfect length for this one. If you're looking for a holiday thriller that's just a bit out of the ordinary, don't pass this one up.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
In 1989, Ashley is an American studying in London, and instead of spending Christmas alone she finds herself invited to the lavish country estate of wealthy Emma Chapman. While there she meets Emma's swoon-worthy brother Adam. There have been some brutal murders in the village, and although the police have questioned Adam, they don't have any evidence he committed the crimes. In the present day, a woman is reading a journal detailing those past events. What happened all of those years ago?
I love the way this book is told. It seems straightforward, but then everything gets completely turned around and the reader gets to see everything from an entirely different point of view. It's cleverly crafted and the story flows quickly so as to not get bogged down with extraneous details. The novella is the perfect length for this one. If you're looking for a holiday thriller that's just a bit out of the ordinary, don't pass this one up.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
December 10, 2023
Grab a glass of eggnog, mulled wine, or a hot cocoa if you prefer...and settle in for a quick, thrilling holiday treat!
Peter Swanson is back: this time with a bite-sized Christmas novella that can be read inside of a day, but still manages to tinge the narrative with a trademark twist, an unpredictable narrator, and a bit of 'whodunit' flare!
Our story starts with Ashley, an art student from the US currently spending the year abroad, who can hardly picture a more festive, cozy opportunity: rather than spend the holidays alone, she is invited to a stunning manor home in the Cotswolds, better known as Starvewood Hall. Emma Chapman lives here, and has a feeling that Ashley will fit right in...and that her handsome twin brother, Adam, will be the icing on the Christmas cookie.
At first, Ashley feels like she's stepped into a romantic, winter-y fairytale, as she quickly falls for Adam and ALSO falls in love with the small village of Cleevemoor. However, Ashley soon finds out that the brooding and mysterious object of her adoration is under investigation...for murder. Ashley is even more horrified when she finds out she LOOKS like the girl who was killed...and the chills start multiplyin' when she starts seeing a mysterious stranger in a mask in the woods. Is history doomed to repeat itself? And what genre DOES her story fall in line with...a gothic romance...or a sinister, deadly gothic horror?
Christmas thrillers are rare: most I've seen tend to fall into the 'cozy mystery' category more neatly, with more suspicious behaviors and detective investigations than actual THRILLS...but I have to say, despite a slow start, Swanson broke the mold with this one! Part One is nearly ALL diary entries written by Ashley...and I'll be honest, I feel that for the most part they were a bit long, with very little breaks, and this pacing really bothered me. I didn't necessarily like or dislike the character of Ashley: she just came across EXACTLY as a 20 year old girl, and I can't say I was fascinated by the rehashing of her day-to-day.
BUT THEN Part Two began and I soon realized that all of the minutiae in Part One had a POINT...and that the best was yet to come! Not only does Part Two start off with a bang as The Big Twist is revealed, but what follows is the ramifications of everything that happens in Part One...THIRTY years later! I honestly forgot about the diary entries pretty quickly, and was on the edge of my seat waiting for ALL of the salacious details. I also loved that this novella encapsulated all that is Swanson, but with a bit of a candy cane twist: there was a bit of a surprise, but the events didn't necessarily read OTT, characters that were quickly accessible and MORE than just a bit 'off', and a compelling setting (or in this case two, with the latter being NYC at Christmastime...*happy sigh* 🗽🎄) to help the story breathe.
Swanson said in his author's note that he pictured the reader of this book cleaning up the dishes after a holiday feast, grabbing a beverage, and stealing away to a cozy spot to sneak in just a few pages while the snow swirled in the cold wind outside. And while I may not have waited until the Big Day to pick up this tasty morsel of a book, this is one Christmas Guest ANYONE would be happy to host early!
(And hey, at least it isn't Cousin Eddie!)
😉
4 stars
Peter Swanson is back: this time with a bite-sized Christmas novella that can be read inside of a day, but still manages to tinge the narrative with a trademark twist, an unpredictable narrator, and a bit of 'whodunit' flare!
Our story starts with Ashley, an art student from the US currently spending the year abroad, who can hardly picture a more festive, cozy opportunity: rather than spend the holidays alone, she is invited to a stunning manor home in the Cotswolds, better known as Starvewood Hall. Emma Chapman lives here, and has a feeling that Ashley will fit right in...and that her handsome twin brother, Adam, will be the icing on the Christmas cookie.
At first, Ashley feels like she's stepped into a romantic, winter-y fairytale, as she quickly falls for Adam and ALSO falls in love with the small village of Cleevemoor. However, Ashley soon finds out that the brooding and mysterious object of her adoration is under investigation...for murder. Ashley is even more horrified when she finds out she LOOKS like the girl who was killed...and the chills start multiplyin' when she starts seeing a mysterious stranger in a mask in the woods. Is history doomed to repeat itself? And what genre DOES her story fall in line with...a gothic romance...or a sinister, deadly gothic horror?
Christmas thrillers are rare: most I've seen tend to fall into the 'cozy mystery' category more neatly, with more suspicious behaviors and detective investigations than actual THRILLS...but I have to say, despite a slow start, Swanson broke the mold with this one! Part One is nearly ALL diary entries written by Ashley...and I'll be honest, I feel that for the most part they were a bit long, with very little breaks, and this pacing really bothered me. I didn't necessarily like or dislike the character of Ashley: she just came across EXACTLY as a 20 year old girl, and I can't say I was fascinated by the rehashing of her day-to-day.
BUT THEN Part Two began and I soon realized that all of the minutiae in Part One had a POINT...and that the best was yet to come! Not only does Part Two start off with a bang as The Big Twist is revealed, but what follows is the ramifications of everything that happens in Part One...THIRTY years later! I honestly forgot about the diary entries pretty quickly, and was on the edge of my seat waiting for ALL of the salacious details. I also loved that this novella encapsulated all that is Swanson, but with a bit of a candy cane twist: there was a bit of a surprise, but the events didn't necessarily read OTT, characters that were quickly accessible and MORE than just a bit 'off', and a compelling setting (or in this case two, with the latter being NYC at Christmastime...*happy sigh* 🗽🎄) to help the story breathe.
Swanson said in his author's note that he pictured the reader of this book cleaning up the dishes after a holiday feast, grabbing a beverage, and stealing away to a cozy spot to sneak in just a few pages while the snow swirled in the cold wind outside. And while I may not have waited until the Big Day to pick up this tasty morsel of a book, this is one Christmas Guest ANYONE would be happy to host early!
(And hey, at least it isn't Cousin Eddie!)
😉
4 stars
December 11, 2023
2.5⭐
Genre ~ holiday fiction
Setting ~ England
Publication date ~ October 17, 2023
Est page Count ~ 104 (2 parts)
Audio length ~ 2 hours 48 minutes
Narrator ~ Esther Wane
POV ~ 1st
Featuring ~ diary entries, an attack
The first part is Ashley's diary entries from when she spends Christmas break with her friend Emma's family. She quickly starts crushing on Emma's twin, Adam. Ugh, really? Falling in love with a possible murder suspect in 2 days just cuz he gave you the side eye and a present....blah.
The second part is a reflection back on those events that happened 30 years ago.
So, this was meh for me. I guess I liked the twist and luckily it was super quick, but I wasn't overly wowed. I have a feeling most of the lovers of this one read it and didn't listen because ⤵
Narration notes:
I think Esther did a fine job, but the shuffling pages made it seem like the diary was written on a pocket notebook. Maybe because I was listening at 2.5x, but the swoosh didn't line up with where she was in her sentence, so it was a little distracting.
I absolutely think $11.99 for a 104 page e-book is outrageous.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ holiday fiction
Setting ~ England
Publication date ~ October 17, 2023
Est page Count ~ 104 (2 parts)
Audio length ~ 2 hours 48 minutes
Narrator ~ Esther Wane
POV ~ 1st
Featuring ~ diary entries, an attack
The first part is Ashley's diary entries from when she spends Christmas break with her friend Emma's family. She quickly starts crushing on Emma's twin, Adam. Ugh, really? Falling in love with a possible murder suspect in 2 days just cuz he gave you the side eye and a present....blah.
The second part is a reflection back on those events that happened 30 years ago.
So, this was meh for me. I guess I liked the twist and luckily it was super quick, but I wasn't overly wowed. I have a feeling most of the lovers of this one read it and didn't listen because ⤵
Narration notes:
I think Esther did a fine job, but the shuffling pages made it seem like the diary was written on a pocket notebook. Maybe because I was listening at 2.5x, but the swoosh didn't line up with where she was in her sentence, so it was a little distracting.
I absolutely think $11.99 for a 104 page e-book is outrageous.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
December 20, 2025
Of all the Christmas murder mysteries I’ve ever read, this one is indisputably the most…recent.
A murder most murdery and a mystery most mysterious. A diary most clue-saturated and a Manor most Christmasy. A pub most British and a reference most Dickensian.
I am only dispensing the ‘not my cup of tea’ cliche for regional relevance. Potboiler murder mysteries continue to elude my interest, gothic atmosphere notwithstanding.
A murder most murdery and a mystery most mysterious. A diary most clue-saturated and a Manor most Christmasy. A pub most British and a reference most Dickensian.
I am only dispensing the ‘not my cup of tea’ cliche for regional relevance. Potboiler murder mysteries continue to elude my interest, gothic atmosphere notwithstanding.
October 18, 2023
4 spooky stars! 🥳 yay for novellas & really quick reads!! Swanson really comes through again on this one! This spooky👻 lil’ holiday tale is told in two parts, both of which I enjoyed the format of - the first being mostly epistolatory in nature and the second more of the “reveal”. Enjoyed the Cotswold mansion setting & late 80’s timeframe too!
November 17, 2023
Loved it!
If you like a little murder with your merriment then this is the book for you! 🎄🩸🔪
Ashley Smith is an American student currently living in London. She has tried to convince herself that being alone on Christmas won't be so bad. There are things she can do to pass the time.
Out at the pub one night she chats with Emma, another student and sort of friend, and she can't believe it when Emma invites her to spend Christmas week with her family at their Cotswold manor house. Ashley is over the moon in excitement. A real English Christmas experience is more than she could have ever hoped for.
Even better is Emma's brother, Adam. Handsome and charming, Ashley has developed a bit of a crush on him. Will romance be in the air, a kiss under the mistletoe perhaps? Ashley sure does hope so.
But, not everyone or everything is what it seems and I'm going to zip my lips right here! 🤐
I don't want to spoil this novella for any future readers.
Written almost entirely in diary entries worked beautifully here. Who doesn't want to take a peak into the pages of someone's private thoughts? I couldn't get enough. Swanson crafted such a great story that remained concise yet was super fulfilling. Part of me wished it were a little longer but Swanson did everything he needed to do with such a small page count (100 pages, thereabouts). Whether you're a lover of all things Christmas or Bah Humbug the Grinch you'll be rewarded with a fantastic murder-y holiday story! 'Tis the season! 4 stars!
Thank you to Netgalley and William Morrow for my complimentary copy.
If you like a little murder with your merriment then this is the book for you! 🎄🩸🔪
Ashley Smith is an American student currently living in London. She has tried to convince herself that being alone on Christmas won't be so bad. There are things she can do to pass the time.
Out at the pub one night she chats with Emma, another student and sort of friend, and she can't believe it when Emma invites her to spend Christmas week with her family at their Cotswold manor house. Ashley is over the moon in excitement. A real English Christmas experience is more than she could have ever hoped for.
Even better is Emma's brother, Adam. Handsome and charming, Ashley has developed a bit of a crush on him. Will romance be in the air, a kiss under the mistletoe perhaps? Ashley sure does hope so.
But, not everyone or everything is what it seems and I'm going to zip my lips right here! 🤐
I don't want to spoil this novella for any future readers.
Written almost entirely in diary entries worked beautifully here. Who doesn't want to take a peak into the pages of someone's private thoughts? I couldn't get enough. Swanson crafted such a great story that remained concise yet was super fulfilling. Part of me wished it were a little longer but Swanson did everything he needed to do with such a small page count (100 pages, thereabouts). Whether you're a lover of all things Christmas or Bah Humbug the Grinch you'll be rewarded with a fantastic murder-y holiday story! 'Tis the season! 4 stars!
Thank you to Netgalley and William Morrow for my complimentary copy.
August 27, 2023
Wow, I really did not see that second half coming. The Christmas Guest is a dark and suspenseful novella that will keep you guessing … well, right up to around the 60% mark, anyway. This book is fairly unusual in that the mystery is “solved” pretty early on in the beginning of Part Two, and then all that's left is the confession.
I mostly found this novella to be a well-written and entertaining read. I've always particularly enjoyed books written in diary format so the first half was right up my alley. And, while I had a good idea of who Joanna's murderer must've been, I certainly did not see the big twist coming.
Because the big reveal happens well before the end, this book doesn't have a particularly climatic ending. In fact, there's really not much of a climax at all since most of the action takes place between Parts One and Two, and the reader only finds out what went down after the fact. While this normally would be negative for me, in this case it actually kind of works? I thought that the unusual format was a nice switch up from the traditional murder mystery, at any rate.
For such a short story, Peter Swanson does a nice job of fleshing out the characters, plot, and setting, and I really felt as if I was there in the Cotswold manor house with Emma and Adam's dysfunctional family. And, while I'm not quite ready for winter yet (I live in Michigan so please no), it would have been perfect to cuddle up under a blanket and read this book with a snowstorm raging outside.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review.
I mostly found this novella to be a well-written and entertaining read. I've always particularly enjoyed books written in diary format so the first half was right up my alley. And, while I had a good idea of who Joanna's murderer must've been, I certainly did not see the big twist coming.
Because the big reveal happens well before the end, this book doesn't have a particularly climatic ending. In fact, there's really not much of a climax at all since most of the action takes place between Parts One and Two, and the reader only finds out what went down after the fact. While this normally would be negative for me, in this case it actually kind of works? I thought that the unusual format was a nice switch up from the traditional murder mystery, at any rate.
For such a short story, Peter Swanson does a nice job of fleshing out the characters, plot, and setting, and I really felt as if I was there in the Cotswold manor house with Emma and Adam's dysfunctional family. And, while I'm not quite ready for winter yet (I live in Michigan so please no), it would have been perfect to cuddle up under a blanket and read this book with a snowstorm raging outside.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review.
November 21, 2023
Well, this was just a dark novella for sure but not in the typical way.
Told from one POV and then switching to a diary POV, we gather details about the week of a holiday excursion. After the diary ends and we move back to the MC POV, it still reads like a diary. It was just too soft and childlike for me to believe these were an American college students words. It felt very mundane at times with little details and descriptors. It was more an “and then I did this, and then I felt that, and then we went here”. Just not to my personal liking. Also, not much of a mystery unfortunately so that was a let down as it started out that way but the details are just flat out revealed instead of pricing together the puzzle. It honestly felt like I was trudging through mud unfortunately.
2.5 stars rounded up because it kept me somewhat intrigued.
Told from one POV and then switching to a diary POV, we gather details about the week of a holiday excursion. After the diary ends and we move back to the MC POV, it still reads like a diary. It was just too soft and childlike for me to believe these were an American college students words. It felt very mundane at times with little details and descriptors. It was more an “and then I did this, and then I felt that, and then we went here”. Just not to my personal liking. Also, not much of a mystery unfortunately so that was a let down as it started out that way but the details are just flat out revealed instead of pricing together the puzzle. It honestly felt like I was trudging through mud unfortunately.
2.5 stars rounded up because it kept me somewhat intrigued.
December 6, 2024
4+ stars!
A fun, dark, Christmas mystery!
Highly recommend grabbing this thrilling novella to cozy down with during the Christmas holidays. The perfect one-sitting read for thriller lovers!
A fun, dark, Christmas mystery!
Highly recommend grabbing this thrilling novella to cozy down with during the Christmas holidays. The perfect one-sitting read for thriller lovers!
November 13, 2024
since we are in that in between of halloween and christmas, i figured this would be a fun little novella to read since it is a christmas murder tale! this follows the story of an american girl, who is studying abroad, and goes back home with a uk friend to celebrate christmas with her family in a little english village. the story is told in the past via a diary, with a look at the present day, too!
this was a really quick read, with good writing that actually painted a really great atmosphere. i had a good time reading this, but i just don’t know if i ultimately liked the story. maybe because i am hesitant to call this a mystery, because i really did think it was obvious what was going on from the very start. but maybe i just got lucky assuming?
trigger + content warnings: talk of body image / food because of the holidays, smoking, drinking, loss of mother in past (one sentence mention of cancer), murder, blood, abusive parents (verbally + emotionally), mention of loss of grandparents in past, talk of domestic abuse, talk of animal abuse / insinuation of killing animal in past (rabbit), one sentence mention of sexual abuse, self harm, suicide
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this was a really quick read, with good writing that actually painted a really great atmosphere. i had a good time reading this, but i just don’t know if i ultimately liked the story. maybe because i am hesitant to call this a mystery, because i really did think it was obvious what was going on from the very start. but maybe i just got lucky assuming?
trigger + content warnings: talk of body image / food because of the holidays, smoking, drinking, loss of mother in past (one sentence mention of cancer), murder, blood, abusive parents (verbally + emotionally), mention of loss of grandparents in past, talk of domestic abuse, talk of animal abuse / insinuation of killing animal in past (rabbit), one sentence mention of sexual abuse, self harm, suicide
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