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La maison de vacances
Mead House. Une maison idyllique dans la campagne anglaise. C'est ici que Lana a passé toutes ses vacances d'été lorsqu'elle était enfant. Jusqu'à cette nuit, dix-sept ans plus tôt, au cours de laquelle sa soeur a été assassinée. Aujourd'hui, Lana revient à Mead House, car sa grand-mère est décédée et elle doit mettre de l'ordre dans ses affaires. En faisant du tri, elle découvre le journal de sa soeur et réalise, en le lisant, que celle-ci dissimulait de sombres secrets. Et surtout, cette lecture la pousse à remettre en question ce qu'elle a vu cette nuit-là. Se serait-elle trompée ? Son témoignage aurait-il envoyé un homme innocent en prison ? S'il n'a pas tué sa soeur, c'est qu'il y a un autre coupable... Quelqu'un qui pourrait agir à nouveau si Lana s'approche trop près de la vérité.
365 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 6, 2023
5265 people are currently reading
25568 people want to read
About the author
Keri Beevis
25 books1,801 followersHi, I'm Keri Beevis, and I'm the author of the bestselling psychological suspense thrillers, Deep Dark Secrets, Dying To Tell, The Sleepover, and The Summer House.
Other titles I've written include Trust No One, Every Little Breath, The People Next Door, and The House in the Woods (previously released as The Boat House).
I am signed with Boldwood Books and my twelfth thriller, Nowhere To Hide is out 2nd April.
You can find out more about me on my website.
https://keribeevis.com/
Other titles I've written include Trust No One, Every Little Breath, The People Next Door, and The House in the Woods (previously released as The Boat House).
I am signed with Boldwood Books and my twelfth thriller, Nowhere To Hide is out 2nd April.
You can find out more about me on my website.
https://keribeevis.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,229 reviews
February 2, 2023
Lana goes back to the house she grew up in after her grandmother died. Her sister was killed 17 years ago, and her killer is in prison. Or is he really?
The book starts out strong with what happened 17 years ago. Beginning with fear is a sure way to hook the reader, and I liked that. After the enticing beginning we slowly meet the people affected by what happened. I liked the main character Lana and her former love Xav. Their story was one of the most interesting aspect of the book. There were different POVs and maybe too many because it was hard for the author to keep her facts straight. I think the author managed to confuse you enough to make it interesting, but sometimes it got irritatingly bewildering. It also felt like there were too many people involved, and when it all was revealed I wasn’t very enthusiastic. The motive felt a bit off and unlikely.
It was an enjoyable read though and I know many readers really liked it, so you might like it more than me.
Thanks to netgalley and boldwood books in exchange for my honest review
The book starts out strong with what happened 17 years ago. Beginning with fear is a sure way to hook the reader, and I liked that. After the enticing beginning we slowly meet the people affected by what happened. I liked the main character Lana and her former love Xav. Their story was one of the most interesting aspect of the book. There were different POVs and maybe too many because it was hard for the author to keep her facts straight. I think the author managed to confuse you enough to make it interesting, but sometimes it got irritatingly bewildering. It also felt like there were too many people involved, and when it all was revealed I wasn’t very enthusiastic. The motive felt a bit off and unlikely.
It was an enjoyable read though and I know many readers really liked it, so you might like it more than me.
Thanks to netgalley and boldwood books in exchange for my honest review
June 20, 2024
Happy first day of summer! You won’t get a light and breezy summer read with this one.
4.5⭐
Publication date ~ March 6, 2023
Page Count ~ 359
Audio length ~ 10 hours 7 minutes
Narrator ~ Shakira Shute
POV ~ multiple 3rd person
Featuring ~ now and 2005, brutal murder, dark secrets, psychological thriller
17 years ago, Camille, was brutally murdered and Lana’s testimony put her boyfriend, Xav’s, brother, Sebastian, away for his murder, which instantly torn them apart. Now Lana heads back to Mead House to clean out her grandma’s things after her sudden death. Twin brother, Ollie, and his new fiance, Elise, join in, but not so willingly.
Who is the mysterious ‘G’? The author expertly gives us quite a few likely suspects. Could it be George ~ the gardener, Greg ~ Ollie’s friend, Graham ~ the vicar, Godfrey ~ the 80 year old greengrocer, AnGus the beloved town doctor, or is Trudy short for Gertrude, maybe, Bree ~ short for Gabriella? Gah, so many options and I loved trying to figure it out. The journey to find out who killed 19 year old, Camille was quite a suspenseful one.
There are a bunch of POV’s to keep track of, but overall, a fantastically executed psychological thriller. If you haven’t read Keri’s work before I highly suggest you do so.
*Thanks to Keri Beevis,Rachel’s Random Resources, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
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4.5⭐
Publication date ~ March 6, 2023
Page Count ~ 359
Audio length ~ 10 hours 7 minutes
Narrator ~ Shakira Shute
POV ~ multiple 3rd person
Featuring ~ now and 2005, brutal murder, dark secrets, psychological thriller
17 years ago, Camille, was brutally murdered and Lana’s testimony put her boyfriend, Xav’s, brother, Sebastian, away for his murder, which instantly torn them apart. Now Lana heads back to Mead House to clean out her grandma’s things after her sudden death. Twin brother, Ollie, and his new fiance, Elise, join in, but not so willingly.
Who is the mysterious ‘G’? The author expertly gives us quite a few likely suspects. Could it be George ~ the gardener, Greg ~ Ollie’s friend, Graham ~ the vicar, Godfrey ~ the 80 year old greengrocer, AnGus the beloved town doctor, or is Trudy short for Gertrude, maybe, Bree ~ short for Gabriella? Gah, so many options and I loved trying to figure it out. The journey to find out who killed 19 year old, Camille was quite a suspenseful one.
There are a bunch of POV’s to keep track of, but overall, a fantastically executed psychological thriller. If you haven’t read Keri’s work before I highly suggest you do so.
*Thanks to Keri Beevis,Rachel’s Random Resources, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
March 4, 2023
The Summer House is a gripping page turner which kept me on my toes and constantly changing my suspect list. WOWZA! This book was fantastic!
Twins, Lana and Ollie, have returned to Mead House after their grandmother's death. They knew going back was going to be difficult. Their grandmother, Kitty, had recently died and the home was also where their older sister, Camille was murdered in the Summer House on the property. Talk about a double whammy. Plus, Ollie has brought along his never-mentioned-before finance who happens to be a major who-know-what. She does not save that drama for her mama; she unleashes it for all to enjoy (or not).
While going through the home getting it ready for sale, Lana finds her sister's hidden journal. As she beings to read, she realizes that her sister had shocking dark secrets. After learning some 'truths' about her sister, Lana begins to question what she saw the night her sister was murdered and if her testimony sent an innocent man to jail. The man in jail, was her then boyfriend’s older brother. Is he innocent as he always claimed? If he didn't kill her sister, then who did?
Wanting to know the truth, Lana being looking for answers....
Talk about juicy! Boy did this book keep me on my toes. There was never a dull moment, the book never loses momentum and becomes even better with each page. This book has a little bit of everything that I enjoy in a book - family dynamics/drama, first love, revenge, secret romance, murder, suspense galore, second chance romance, a great mystery, and an engaging plot. Woohoo!
This book was well written and full of likeable and unlikeable characters. I loved the suspense and the looming danger in the last part of the book. Like the characters, I began to wonder who could be trusted. I was glued to the pages doing my own super sleuthing and finger pointing.
I can't wait to read what Keri Beevis writes next!
Thank you to Boldwood Books 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
Twins, Lana and Ollie, have returned to Mead House after their grandmother's death. They knew going back was going to be difficult. Their grandmother, Kitty, had recently died and the home was also where their older sister, Camille was murdered in the Summer House on the property. Talk about a double whammy. Plus, Ollie has brought along his never-mentioned-before finance who happens to be a major who-know-what. She does not save that drama for her mama; she unleashes it for all to enjoy (or not).
While going through the home getting it ready for sale, Lana finds her sister's hidden journal. As she beings to read, she realizes that her sister had shocking dark secrets. After learning some 'truths' about her sister, Lana begins to question what she saw the night her sister was murdered and if her testimony sent an innocent man to jail. The man in jail, was her then boyfriend’s older brother. Is he innocent as he always claimed? If he didn't kill her sister, then who did?
Wanting to know the truth, Lana being looking for answers....
Talk about juicy! Boy did this book keep me on my toes. There was never a dull moment, the book never loses momentum and becomes even better with each page. This book has a little bit of everything that I enjoy in a book - family dynamics/drama, first love, revenge, secret romance, murder, suspense galore, second chance romance, a great mystery, and an engaging plot. Woohoo!
This book was well written and full of likeable and unlikeable characters. I loved the suspense and the looming danger in the last part of the book. Like the characters, I began to wonder who could be trusted. I was glued to the pages doing my own super sleuthing and finger pointing.
I can't wait to read what Keri Beevis writes next!
Thank you to Boldwood Books 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
March 23, 2023
Lana Hamilton returned to Mead house her grandmothers home where nana Kitty used to greet her as a young child she always had a smile 😃 on her face, but this time she didn’t, now she resides in the family plot in St Andrew’s in the beautiful north Norfolk market town of Holt.
Lana sold her nanas house as she & her brother Ollie didn’t want it , Ollie lived in London & Lana’s life was in Cambridge, but something awful happened in Mead house to their sister Camille who was just 19 years old.
Ollie & Lana were twins they were two years younger& were still finding it hard to cope with what happened to Camille, but as we learn Camille lived a secret life no one knew about she had a journal with secrets she wanted to be kept hidden.
Nana Kittys gardener George Maddox knew what happened all those years earlier what secrets is he hiding?
Sebastian Landry was charged with Camille’s murder but did he do it?
He & Camille we’re together that night.
Ollie’s girlfriend Elise always knew how to pushLanas buttons you can feel the cats claws come out each time when they were together, but when Elise is murdered the stakes get higher there are plenty of secrets, twists & turns throughout this novel, just when I thought I picked out the culprit something else happened, the reveals were jaw dropping to say the least.
I really enjoyed The Summer House by Keri Beevis it was a twisty, compelling family drama I couldn’t put down will be reading more of this author all the stars ⭐️
Lana sold her nanas house as she & her brother Ollie didn’t want it , Ollie lived in London & Lana’s life was in Cambridge, but something awful happened in Mead house to their sister Camille who was just 19 years old.
Ollie & Lana were twins they were two years younger& were still finding it hard to cope with what happened to Camille, but as we learn Camille lived a secret life no one knew about she had a journal with secrets she wanted to be kept hidden.
Nana Kittys gardener George Maddox knew what happened all those years earlier what secrets is he hiding?
Sebastian Landry was charged with Camille’s murder but did he do it?
He & Camille we’re together that night.
Ollie’s girlfriend Elise always knew how to pushLanas buttons you can feel the cats claws come out each time when they were together, but when Elise is murdered the stakes get higher there are plenty of secrets, twists & turns throughout this novel, just when I thought I picked out the culprit something else happened, the reveals were jaw dropping to say the least.
I really enjoyed The Summer House by Keri Beevis it was a twisty, compelling family drama I couldn’t put down will be reading more of this author all the stars ⭐️
January 24, 2023
17 years after the murder of their sister Lana and Ollie return to Mead House to clean it out and sell it after the death of their grandmother.
While in the house Lana finds a hidden diary of her sisters. Her ex boyfriend’s brother who she testified against that’s been locked up for years may be innocent. Many secrets and lies are revealed. This was a great book and was very suspenseful. Thanks NetGalley and Boldwood books for this ARC that will be released March 6, 2023!
While in the house Lana finds a hidden diary of her sisters. Her ex boyfriend’s brother who she testified against that’s been locked up for years may be innocent. Many secrets and lies are revealed. This was a great book and was very suspenseful. Thanks NetGalley and Boldwood books for this ARC that will be released March 6, 2023!
July 16, 2024
EXCERPT: I am scared now. 'I want to stop. I don't like this game.'
Ignoring me, you lean in close, your warm breath against my ear as finally you speak.
'This isn't a game.'
Realisation is followed by horror. Finally I understand just how much trouble I am in.
ABOUT 'THE SUMMER HOUSE': Mead House was once our childhood home.
Despite my fears, I always knew we would have to return to face the demons of our past.
Back to the place where it happened, to where, as carefree teenagers, we lost our elder sister in the most brutal of circumstances.
As executors of our grandmother’s will, my twin brother, Ollie, and I needed to empty the house for resale.
What I didn’t expect to discover was my sister’s secret journal that contained her most private thoughts and shocking dark secrets.
Now I am questioning everything that I saw that night. Did I get it wrong, who I saw?
Did my evidence send an innocent man, my then boyfriend's brother, to jail for the last 17 years?
I know I have no choice. If I want to find answers, I will have to go back to that fateful night my sister died. When she made her last visit to the summer house.
MY THOUGHTS: The Summer House starts out strongly with the murder of Camille in 2005, then moves to the present day when Camille's sister Lana Hamilton returns to Mead House with her brother Ollie to ready it for sale following their grandmother's death.
The story is told from many points of view, some of them unknown characters. This doesn't always work, although some do, but a lot of the revelations are irrelevant and merely 'filler'.
I couldn't really relate to or become invested in any of the characters, although there was one in particular that I loved to hate - Ollie's fiancee, Elise.
The plot, with its myriad of twists, kept me interested until the final 10% of the book when the author seemed to be in a hurry to finish and, all of a sudden, we're being told the story rather than experiencing it as we had earlier.
The author does a great job of muddying the field of suspects, so I never knew quite who to trust.
However, the great denouement was completely OTT, and combined with the change of context ruined what had been a good reading experience.
⭐⭐⭐.1
#TheSummerHouse #NetGalley
I: @keri.beevis @bookandtonic
T: @keribeevis @BoldwoodBooks
#contemporaryfiction #crime #domesticdrama #mystery #romance #thriller
THE AUTHOR: Born in the village of Old Catton, less than a mile from where Anna Sewell was living when she wrote Black Beauty, Keri had a passion for reading and writing from a young age, though her tastes veered more to the macabre.
Today she still lives in Norfolk, along with her two naughty kitties, Ellie and Lola, and a plentiful supply of red wine (her writing fuel), where she writes a comedic lifestyle column for the Iceni Magazine. She loves Hitchcock movies, exploring creepy places, and gets extremely competitive in local pub quizzes. She is also a self-confessed klutz.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Summer House by Keri Beevis for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage
Ignoring me, you lean in close, your warm breath against my ear as finally you speak.
'This isn't a game.'
Realisation is followed by horror. Finally I understand just how much trouble I am in.
ABOUT 'THE SUMMER HOUSE': Mead House was once our childhood home.
Despite my fears, I always knew we would have to return to face the demons of our past.
Back to the place where it happened, to where, as carefree teenagers, we lost our elder sister in the most brutal of circumstances.
As executors of our grandmother’s will, my twin brother, Ollie, and I needed to empty the house for resale.
What I didn’t expect to discover was my sister’s secret journal that contained her most private thoughts and shocking dark secrets.
Now I am questioning everything that I saw that night. Did I get it wrong, who I saw?
Did my evidence send an innocent man, my then boyfriend's brother, to jail for the last 17 years?
I know I have no choice. If I want to find answers, I will have to go back to that fateful night my sister died. When she made her last visit to the summer house.
MY THOUGHTS: The Summer House starts out strongly with the murder of Camille in 2005, then moves to the present day when Camille's sister Lana Hamilton returns to Mead House with her brother Ollie to ready it for sale following their grandmother's death.
The story is told from many points of view, some of them unknown characters. This doesn't always work, although some do, but a lot of the revelations are irrelevant and merely 'filler'.
I couldn't really relate to or become invested in any of the characters, although there was one in particular that I loved to hate - Ollie's fiancee, Elise.
The plot, with its myriad of twists, kept me interested until the final 10% of the book when the author seemed to be in a hurry to finish and, all of a sudden, we're being told the story rather than experiencing it as we had earlier.
The author does a great job of muddying the field of suspects, so I never knew quite who to trust.
However, the great denouement was completely OTT, and combined with the change of context ruined what had been a good reading experience.
⭐⭐⭐.1
#TheSummerHouse #NetGalley
I: @keri.beevis @bookandtonic
T: @keribeevis @BoldwoodBooks
#contemporaryfiction #crime #domesticdrama #mystery #romance #thriller
THE AUTHOR: Born in the village of Old Catton, less than a mile from where Anna Sewell was living when she wrote Black Beauty, Keri had a passion for reading and writing from a young age, though her tastes veered more to the macabre.
Today she still lives in Norfolk, along with her two naughty kitties, Ellie and Lola, and a plentiful supply of red wine (her writing fuel), where she writes a comedic lifestyle column for the Iceni Magazine. She loves Hitchcock movies, exploring creepy places, and gets extremely competitive in local pub quizzes. She is also a self-confessed klutz.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Summer House by Keri Beevis for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage
July 19, 2025
You want a thriller book to grip you right from the start with intrigue & mystery. You want it to keep your attention right until the big plot reveals, and that’s exactly what The Summer House does. The twist was a decent one and ties the story nicely together! Felt like I had to suspend my disbelief a bit that the killer had managed to be so calculated to not be caught. Or maybe it was just sheer luck.
Who was Camille Hamilton’s secret lover?
Lana has returned to her childhood home, Mead House where the brutal murder of her elder sister, Camille, took place in the summer house. Her grandmother, Kitty, recently passed away and she needed to clear out the home for resale.
Amongst the belongings left she finds an old journal of Camille’s which mentions a secret lover that was not her boyfriend at the time, Sebastian, who was jailed for her murder.
Lana was certain that it was Sebastian, her ex-lover Xav’s brother. But now she isn’t so sure. Could an innocent man have been jailed the whole time and also her and Xav’s relationship ruined for nothing?
Was this secret lover responsible for Camille’s murder? Lana is left with more questions than answers, so the race is on towards the truth.
4.5 Stars
Who was Camille Hamilton’s secret lover?
Lana has returned to her childhood home, Mead House where the brutal murder of her elder sister, Camille, took place in the summer house. Her grandmother, Kitty, recently passed away and she needed to clear out the home for resale.
Amongst the belongings left she finds an old journal of Camille’s which mentions a secret lover that was not her boyfriend at the time, Sebastian, who was jailed for her murder.
Lana was certain that it was Sebastian, her ex-lover Xav’s brother. But now she isn’t so sure. Could an innocent man have been jailed the whole time and also her and Xav’s relationship ruined for nothing?
Was this secret lover responsible for Camille’s murder? Lana is left with more questions than answers, so the race is on towards the truth.
4.5 Stars
January 24, 2023
A dark and enticing psychological thriller combined with a Whodunit plus many added secrets,a romance and a brimming with anger revenge…..what more could we want?
‘The Summer House’ was initially built for pleasant relaxing days but had turned into a den of obsession and lust…..and murder…..the culprit had been found and everyone,although it was difficult,had tried to carry on with their lives….however when they are all re united again it seems none of them has forgiven or forgotten and things are not as clear cut as they may have seemed
A tense yet enjoyable read with good non overpowering characters make this another great read from this author,full of suspense and ‘I wonders’ once again found myself needing to know what happened to who and why and how would it end
A powerful intoxicating read
10/10
5 Stars
‘The Summer House’ was initially built for pleasant relaxing days but had turned into a den of obsession and lust…..and murder…..the culprit had been found and everyone,although it was difficult,had tried to carry on with their lives….however when they are all re united again it seems none of them has forgiven or forgotten and things are not as clear cut as they may have seemed
A tense yet enjoyable read with good non overpowering characters make this another great read from this author,full of suspense and ‘I wonders’ once again found myself needing to know what happened to who and why and how would it end
A powerful intoxicating read
10/10
5 Stars
March 2, 2023
Before writing my review, I want to thank NetGalley, Keri Beevis, and Boldwood Books for gifting me the ARC of THE SUMMER HOUSE! It was such a privilege to read this before publication. And I appreciate you trusting me with an honest review.
Another fantastic novel from Keri Beevis! I loved it!! Wonderful character development and fantastically haunting story! I especially liked the relationship between Lana and her brother, Ollie— tenuous in the beginning, but through tragedy, that relationship grew and evolved into what it once had been. And I loved the characters of Lana and Xav, both hurting from the same tragedy, but in very different ways. This book had me reading well past my bedtime, anxiously turning the pages to find out how it would all end!
This book was super suspenseful and wonderfully written. I do love her writing style. Great transitions from the past to present day as we learn, through slow but growing suspense, about the horrific circumstances that have shaped our characters’ present lives. Loved the twists and the subtle clues the author left her readers like breadcrumbs, leading to an incredible reveal and conclusion! Just wow!!
And I have to add I love her dedication to her cats. So incredibly sweet!
Another fantastic novel from Keri Beevis! I loved it!! Wonderful character development and fantastically haunting story! I especially liked the relationship between Lana and her brother, Ollie— tenuous in the beginning, but through tragedy, that relationship grew and evolved into what it once had been. And I loved the characters of Lana and Xav, both hurting from the same tragedy, but in very different ways. This book had me reading well past my bedtime, anxiously turning the pages to find out how it would all end!
This book was super suspenseful and wonderfully written. I do love her writing style. Great transitions from the past to present day as we learn, through slow but growing suspense, about the horrific circumstances that have shaped our characters’ present lives. Loved the twists and the subtle clues the author left her readers like breadcrumbs, leading to an incredible reveal and conclusion! Just wow!!
And I have to add I love her dedication to her cats. So incredibly sweet!
March 12, 2023
Camille Hamilton and her twin brother and sister live with their Grandmother, Kitty, in beautiful Mead House, and here begins the story in 2005… One night Camille is in the Summer House, when her innocent life is cruelly taken away.
Seventeen years later, following the death of their Grandmother, Ollie and Lana are back at Mead House as they prepare for it to be put on the market. Both have moved on and away from Norfolk and neither want to be back at the place that holds such horrific memories for them.
I was straight away on the defence and wondered who was trustworthy, and what was the motive for Camille’s murder?
The case was closed years ago, but was all the evidence at the time really solid enough to convict someone.
A popular family, particularly beautiful Camille, friends were always welcome at Mead house, so again, who could have wanted Camille out of the way.
Could an old journal of Camille’s hold any clues?
I felt for Lana who lost more than her sister that night.
Ollie’s Fiancée (who I disliked immensely,) Elise, is a bit of a tart and is emotionally detached from what’s going on around her, she should be supporting him but she’s doing everything but…
Lana also has other reasons for not wanting to be back, and why are they met with hostility when it was their sister who was cruelly taken from them!
Fractured friendships, lost love, suspicion, secrets, there are more issues and drama going on than just Camille’s death.
The author reeled me in and left me dangling with unanswered questions and a real feeling of terror at times - who the heck is tormenting the twins and not wanting them back in the area after all these years… What are the locals hiding?
Keri Beevis creates such brilliant characters and I really didn’t know whether to like or trust them. Are they genuine or are they narcissistic sociopaths?!
I love scary scenes and wasn’t disappointed. Everything I look for in a book of this genre - this one certainly has it! I got more than I hoped for in twists and turns and the author has added some spectacular red herrings to the mix for good measure.
Never a boring moment, I loved this book, loved how it progressed and the totally unexpected ending!
I highly recommend it!
Seventeen years later, following the death of their Grandmother, Ollie and Lana are back at Mead House as they prepare for it to be put on the market. Both have moved on and away from Norfolk and neither want to be back at the place that holds such horrific memories for them.
I was straight away on the defence and wondered who was trustworthy, and what was the motive for Camille’s murder?
The case was closed years ago, but was all the evidence at the time really solid enough to convict someone.
A popular family, particularly beautiful Camille, friends were always welcome at Mead house, so again, who could have wanted Camille out of the way.
Could an old journal of Camille’s hold any clues?
I felt for Lana who lost more than her sister that night.
Ollie’s Fiancée (who I disliked immensely,) Elise, is a bit of a tart and is emotionally detached from what’s going on around her, she should be supporting him but she’s doing everything but…
Lana also has other reasons for not wanting to be back, and why are they met with hostility when it was their sister who was cruelly taken from them!
Fractured friendships, lost love, suspicion, secrets, there are more issues and drama going on than just Camille’s death.
The author reeled me in and left me dangling with unanswered questions and a real feeling of terror at times - who the heck is tormenting the twins and not wanting them back in the area after all these years… What are the locals hiding?
Keri Beevis creates such brilliant characters and I really didn’t know whether to like or trust them. Are they genuine or are they narcissistic sociopaths?!
I love scary scenes and wasn’t disappointed. Everything I look for in a book of this genre - this one certainly has it! I got more than I hoped for in twists and turns and the author has added some spectacular red herrings to the mix for good measure.
Never a boring moment, I loved this book, loved how it progressed and the totally unexpected ending!
I highly recommend it!
March 1, 2023
4.5 Stars
I stayed up till 2 AM to finish the novel!
Lana and Ollie have returned to the Mead House after the passing of their grandmother. Neither one wanted to return after the brutal murder of their sister, but they needed to clean out the house before putting it up for sale. While cleaning, Lana found her sister's hidden journal. Inside held secrets and maybe even answers to who was truly behind her murder.
It was an engrossing story that I didn't want to put down. There were a few hints and foreshadowing to kind of see where the story was heading. But I love the way the author chose to link everything together. Also, the reveal of G. - mind-blown!
Highly recommend!
***A big thank you to NetGalley, Keri Beevis, and Boldwood Books for graciously sending me the ARC to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
I stayed up till 2 AM to finish the novel!
Lana and Ollie have returned to the Mead House after the passing of their grandmother. Neither one wanted to return after the brutal murder of their sister, but they needed to clean out the house before putting it up for sale. While cleaning, Lana found her sister's hidden journal. Inside held secrets and maybe even answers to who was truly behind her murder.
It was an engrossing story that I didn't want to put down. There were a few hints and foreshadowing to kind of see where the story was heading. But I love the way the author chose to link everything together. Also, the reveal of G. - mind-blown!
Highly recommend!
***A big thank you to NetGalley, Keri Beevis, and Boldwood Books for graciously sending me the ARC to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
July 8, 2023
Man oh man, what a letdown.
From the description and reviews this book sounded like it would be just up my alley, but from as early as a quarter of the way through I found myself struggling to even want to finish. If I was better at letting questions go unanswered, I likely wouldn't have.
Somehow this book manages to be overcomplicated and far too simplistic at the same time. There are way, way too many characters, to a point where it's hard to keep who's who straight at times, and as a result even the main PoV characters wind up flat and uninteresting. Almost nobody's motivations feel realistic, and at times the characters feel outright cartoony.
On the subject of PoV while I'm usually a big fan of mysteries with multiple perspectives, where information is dished out to the audience that only certain people have, this book just does NOT hit that mark at all. While we get multiple points of view throughout the story, only two actually matter to the plot - Lana's, and the murderer's. Everyone else's PoV chapters wind up largely inconsequential, or only serve to frame the information Lana already has or is about to get. It's also impossible to tell whose perspective we're in sometimes, when there are two PoV characters in a scene I often couldn't tell who was narrating until the other character left. A simple header to let you know who's narrating each chapter would have solved this issue, or more differentiation in terms of character voice.
This book is also super weird about sex. There's a heavy implication throughout that Camille died because she likedscary nasty evil kinky sex. That she was somehow corrupted, and doomed as a result. The villain is also framed in very sexual terms -
Speaking more broadly, I found the writing style simplistic and unengaging. There's far too much tell and not enough show, and while some of that is in service of keeping the pace moving, it's aaaaaaaaaalll over the entire book, and both puts me off as a reader and further alienates me from connecting with the characters experience. I'm not generally the person to stop and save quotes, but I had to record one line that actually made me stop in the middle of a page, it was so jarring. "Lana didn't and although she was angry, she was also scared." That's a line I would have been told off for in English class when I was thirteen. It's all tell, tell, tell, and the reader isn't given a single actual insight to Lana's experience of being angry and also scared. "The burning anger and chilling fear whipped wildly inside Lana, a dizzying tornado of emotions causing her to shudder, every hair on her body bristling." There you go, saved you the trouble of coming up with a more emotive line.
Disappointingly, I can't think of a single moment of this book I actually enjoyed. The description and reviews had me so excited for this one, and reading it was letdown after letdown. I can't justifiably recommend this to anyone, and I won't be checking out any of this author's other work.
From the description and reviews this book sounded like it would be just up my alley, but from as early as a quarter of the way through I found myself struggling to even want to finish. If I was better at letting questions go unanswered, I likely wouldn't have.
Somehow this book manages to be overcomplicated and far too simplistic at the same time. There are way, way too many characters, to a point where it's hard to keep who's who straight at times, and as a result even the main PoV characters wind up flat and uninteresting. Almost nobody's motivations feel realistic, and at times the characters feel outright cartoony.
On the subject of PoV while I'm usually a big fan of mysteries with multiple perspectives, where information is dished out to the audience that only certain people have, this book just does NOT hit that mark at all. While we get multiple points of view throughout the story, only two actually matter to the plot - Lana's, and the murderer's. Everyone else's PoV chapters wind up largely inconsequential, or only serve to frame the information Lana already has or is about to get. It's also impossible to tell whose perspective we're in sometimes, when there are two PoV characters in a scene I often couldn't tell who was narrating until the other character left. A simple header to let you know who's narrating each chapter would have solved this issue, or more differentiation in terms of character voice.
This book is also super weird about sex. There's a heavy implication throughout that Camille died because she liked
Speaking more broadly, I found the writing style simplistic and unengaging. There's far too much tell and not enough show, and while some of that is in service of keeping the pace moving, it's aaaaaaaaaalll over the entire book, and both puts me off as a reader and further alienates me from connecting with the characters experience. I'm not generally the person to stop and save quotes, but I had to record one line that actually made me stop in the middle of a page, it was so jarring. "Lana didn't and although she was angry, she was also scared." That's a line I would have been told off for in English class when I was thirteen. It's all tell, tell, tell, and the reader isn't given a single actual insight to Lana's experience of being angry and also scared. "The burning anger and chilling fear whipped wildly inside Lana, a dizzying tornado of emotions causing her to shudder, every hair on her body bristling." There you go, saved you the trouble of coming up with a more emotive line.
Disappointingly, I can't think of a single moment of this book I actually enjoyed. The description and reviews had me so excited for this one, and reading it was letdown after letdown. I can't justifiably recommend this to anyone, and I won't be checking out any of this author's other work.
dnf
September 29, 2023I never updated why I put this on the DNF shelf. Simply, I was bored to tears
July 3, 2023
A solid suspense mystery, although I was expecting more of a horror,which led to some disappointment. I was also hoping for more of a gothic flair but it was really just a normal thriller. An audiobook that at times irritated me but kept my attention. The characters were at times annoying and some of the plot elements were OTT
March 6, 2023
Once again Beevis has written a great thriller and I enjoyed it immensely. I have nearly read all of this author’s books and have yet to be disappointed (no pressure there then, Beevis!).
Starting with a flashback to the horrific night that Lana will never forget, Beevis starts the book with a bang. Seeing how Lana’s eldest sister was murdered in the summer house sets the tone for this mystery, as Lana returns to the family home after the death of her grandmother. Faced with the mammoth task of sorting through Mead House with her useless brother, Lana soon discovers a secret journal that belonged to her sister, revealing long-buried secrets. Suddenly, that fateful night doesn’t seem as clear, the perpetrator unknown and threats are made to Lana. Who really was behind Camille’s death? Is the right person in prison for the crime?
What I liked about this story were the gradual clues that readers discover about Camille and her behaviour patterns. She is fondly remembered as being a bit of a wild girl, but the discovery of the journal means that Lana and Ollie see their sister differently. Returning to Mead House after so many years opens up the memories of the disturbing night and I liked how there are random chapters that provide an insight into the real murderer’s thought processes. It’s definitely adds an extra chill to the story.
Like so many of Beevis’s books, there is a thread of romance that weaves through the story. Lana used to have a relationship with Xav… except that since Xav’s brother was imprisoned for Camille’s murder, it’s of no surprise that this relationship has completely disintegrated. Yet, Lana and Xav’s paths increasingly cross and I loved seeing how feelings are rediscovered. This made a great juxtaposition with Ollie and his fiancée, Elise, who I had great pleasure in disliking! I did chuckle about how Lana behaved to her future sister-in-law and think I would have been just as exasperated by Elise’s selfish and demanding ways.
This was a fast-moving thriller that reached a dramatic climax. The flashbacks to 2005 added another element to the story and had me scratching my head even more. With just a few clues from the journal, I found myself suspecting every character whose name could be linked to Camille’s diary and I enjoyed how Beevis’s subterfuge was so effective. Knowing I was unlikely to be accurate in my predictions just made this story more immersive and I relished in reaching the final revelations.
Another satisfying read from Beevis and a great example of great mystery writing. I think there is only one other book that I have yet to read by this author and am certainly confident it will be just as good. If this is a writer you have yet to discover, then get moving and start off with this enjoyable murder mystery.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Starting with a flashback to the horrific night that Lana will never forget, Beevis starts the book with a bang. Seeing how Lana’s eldest sister was murdered in the summer house sets the tone for this mystery, as Lana returns to the family home after the death of her grandmother. Faced with the mammoth task of sorting through Mead House with her useless brother, Lana soon discovers a secret journal that belonged to her sister, revealing long-buried secrets. Suddenly, that fateful night doesn’t seem as clear, the perpetrator unknown and threats are made to Lana. Who really was behind Camille’s death? Is the right person in prison for the crime?
What I liked about this story were the gradual clues that readers discover about Camille and her behaviour patterns. She is fondly remembered as being a bit of a wild girl, but the discovery of the journal means that Lana and Ollie see their sister differently. Returning to Mead House after so many years opens up the memories of the disturbing night and I liked how there are random chapters that provide an insight into the real murderer’s thought processes. It’s definitely adds an extra chill to the story.
Like so many of Beevis’s books, there is a thread of romance that weaves through the story. Lana used to have a relationship with Xav… except that since Xav’s brother was imprisoned for Camille’s murder, it’s of no surprise that this relationship has completely disintegrated. Yet, Lana and Xav’s paths increasingly cross and I loved seeing how feelings are rediscovered. This made a great juxtaposition with Ollie and his fiancée, Elise, who I had great pleasure in disliking! I did chuckle about how Lana behaved to her future sister-in-law and think I would have been just as exasperated by Elise’s selfish and demanding ways.
This was a fast-moving thriller that reached a dramatic climax. The flashbacks to 2005 added another element to the story and had me scratching my head even more. With just a few clues from the journal, I found myself suspecting every character whose name could be linked to Camille’s diary and I enjoyed how Beevis’s subterfuge was so effective. Knowing I was unlikely to be accurate in my predictions just made this story more immersive and I relished in reaching the final revelations.
Another satisfying read from Beevis and a great example of great mystery writing. I think there is only one other book that I have yet to read by this author and am certainly confident it will be just as good. If this is a writer you have yet to discover, then get moving and start off with this enjoyable murder mystery.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 24, 2023
Mead House has a summer house, a special place in the garden, is a place of secrets.
Holt Norfolk, and Lana Hamilton goes back, her Aunt Kitty now passed away this was her home and Lana and her siblings all spent long school holidays here, her sister Camille's murder in the summer house will never be forgotten, and Lana helped put Sebastian Landry the killer away for what he did, his brother Xavier she lost touch with afterward.
Turning up at the house to get it sorted and emptied for the estate agents she is shocked to find her twin Ollie there with his new Fiancee Elise Gladestone a surprise he had only come to help, but she didn't trust or like his new girlfriend.
After bumping into Xav he still hasn't forgiven her. George Maddox has been tending to the gardens at Mead House. Then she finds Camille's journals.
One sister murdered.
One brother Jailed.
One love betrayed.
This book has it all.
The author has perfectly been spot on with her lay out of the characters for readers to bring them all together in what I see as a unique harrowing story, I could not put it down as we learn the truth of what happened all those years ago there are plenty of twists as we learn the truth, and I love a twisty book coming from twisty minds of killers.
Fantastic that I think will become another best seller in the making.
Readers will love it.
Holt Norfolk, and Lana Hamilton goes back, her Aunt Kitty now passed away this was her home and Lana and her siblings all spent long school holidays here, her sister Camille's murder in the summer house will never be forgotten, and Lana helped put Sebastian Landry the killer away for what he did, his brother Xavier she lost touch with afterward.
Turning up at the house to get it sorted and emptied for the estate agents she is shocked to find her twin Ollie there with his new Fiancee Elise Gladestone a surprise he had only come to help, but she didn't trust or like his new girlfriend.
After bumping into Xav he still hasn't forgiven her. George Maddox has been tending to the gardens at Mead House. Then she finds Camille's journals.
One sister murdered.
One brother Jailed.
One love betrayed.
This book has it all.
The author has perfectly been spot on with her lay out of the characters for readers to bring them all together in what I see as a unique harrowing story, I could not put it down as we learn the truth of what happened all those years ago there are plenty of twists as we learn the truth, and I love a twisty book coming from twisty minds of killers.
Fantastic that I think will become another best seller in the making.
Readers will love it.
February 11, 2023
It’s been 17 years since the death and murder of Lana and Ollie’s sister, Camille. The siblings now have to return back to the home after the passing of their Grandmother. After Lana finds Camille’s journal, secrets are revealed that leaves Lana questioning whether the right person is behind bars and whether she is in danger.
I didn’t want to put this book down. I needed to know what was going to happen next otherwise I found myself thinking about it constantly.
I feel like the ending of this left me with many unanswered questions and felt like it could have been shorted down a lot more than it had been.
Overall, what a fantastic thriller that left me on the edge of my seat.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me this arc!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I didn’t want to put this book down. I needed to know what was going to happen next otherwise I found myself thinking about it constantly.
I feel like the ending of this left me with many unanswered questions and felt like it could have been shorted down a lot more than it had been.
Overall, what a fantastic thriller that left me on the edge of my seat.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me this arc!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 10, 2023
2.5. i’m very conflicted about this book. i don’t like third person point of views so overall this book was hard for me to get into. the plot twist kind of got me but didn’t make my jaw drop i guess. the book was okay and i didn’t hate it…i just don’t love it. idk the characters just were very hard to connect with for me. i also got confused by all of the characters for a little bit. they all have different names and nicknames and i was getting them all mixed up lol might just be because i wasn’t super into the book but i don’t know. definitely not the best thriller i have read.
September 22, 2024
a well structured mystery
with efficient development,
unfortunately more based on
tell than on show, and a little
too romantic for my taste. :x
with efficient development,
unfortunately more based on
tell than on show, and a little
too romantic for my taste. :x
February 25, 2023
This was such an enjoyable and twisty book. I devoured it in a few days. I always enjoy Keri Beevis books and this one was just as good. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
August 14, 2023
Keri Beevis returns following The Sleepover with her latest multi-layered suspense thriller, THE SUMMER HOUSE—a twin sister and brother return to their grandmother's home after her death, and the dark secrets of the past unravel.
As the book opens, it is 2005, and we are privy to some dangerous games. Someone by the initial "G" has written instructions for Camille. She is promiscuous with flaming red hair. The opposite of her sister.
The letter had instructions about what to wear/and not to wear—to meet at THE SUMMER HOUSE, a private part of the garden far from the main house (The Mead House). This was not romance but addiction and obsession. Who is this lover? Or is there something more sinister at play luring her here? Motive?
There is a chair, a blindfold, a red scarf, a heart pendant with a ribbon, and another note. She fears they are going to cross the line. Realization follows; she is strangled and murdered. Her former boyfriend, Sebastian, is charged and in prison.
Flash forward to the present day; Lana Hamilton is returning to Mead House following the recent death of her grandmother, Nana Kitty. She and her twin brother, Ollie, are charged with cleaning the house and putting it on the market for sale. The three had lived with their grandmother after their mother died of cancer.
It was seventeen years since their sister Camille's murder. She was only nineteen, and the twins were two years younger.
During cleanup, Lana discovers some disturbing journals of her sister, leading her to suspect Sebastian was not the murderer.
Next is a series of menacing events—someone knows she is getting too close to learning the truth of that night. The journals are now missing, she gets hit by a car and then drugged and put in her trunk for dead.
Her former boyfriend, Xav, comes to her rescue. No Hamilton is safe with a killer on the loose determined to take down this family in a race against time. Everyone is collateral damage.
While I enjoy Keri Beevis' books and am a big fan, THE SUMMER HOUSE was not my favorite. Yes, there were a lot of twists and red herrings—however, due to the number of characters (way too many), there was not enough overall character development, too much evil and bad things, and not enough balance with the good. I did not care for any of the characters. NO humor.
I understand the author needed the characters for red herrings and was especially creative with the "G" initials to throw you off.
The setup was clever.
The first part pulled me in.
The middle seemed to drag and drag.
The last part was more action-filled for the showdown.
However, the main concern was you need to "suspend your disbelief for the sake of enjoyment."
When the killer is revealed, no way - if you go back to the original event. Also, I did not connect with ANY of the characters. I was not invested in any of them.
They were mainly evil, narcissistic, delusional sociopaths: selfish, with envy, jealousy, greed, and classism. Revenge, obsession, blackmail. Some were disgusting and the actions were over the top bordering on horror.
The only two somewhat likable were Lana and Xav, who were more concerned over Lana's safety and hardly ever talked about getting Sebastian out of prison and the damage to his life. So again a disconnect here.
However, I am looking forward to her next book!
Thank you to #BoldwoodBooks and #NetGalley for a gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 4 Stars
Pub Date: March 6, 2023
As the book opens, it is 2005, and we are privy to some dangerous games. Someone by the initial "G" has written instructions for Camille. She is promiscuous with flaming red hair. The opposite of her sister.
The letter had instructions about what to wear/and not to wear—to meet at THE SUMMER HOUSE, a private part of the garden far from the main house (The Mead House). This was not romance but addiction and obsession. Who is this lover? Or is there something more sinister at play luring her here? Motive?
There is a chair, a blindfold, a red scarf, a heart pendant with a ribbon, and another note. She fears they are going to cross the line. Realization follows; she is strangled and murdered. Her former boyfriend, Sebastian, is charged and in prison.
Flash forward to the present day; Lana Hamilton is returning to Mead House following the recent death of her grandmother, Nana Kitty. She and her twin brother, Ollie, are charged with cleaning the house and putting it on the market for sale. The three had lived with their grandmother after their mother died of cancer.
It was seventeen years since their sister Camille's murder. She was only nineteen, and the twins were two years younger.
Main Characters
The Hamiltons:
Lana: twin
Ollie: twin (London) former best friend of Xav.
Camille: older sister murdered
Nana Kitty: Grandmother of the three and owner of Mead House and The Summer House - Dead (from a fall. Accidental or pushed)?
Xav: former boyfriend of Lana. Artist.
Sebastian: brother of Xav.
Charged with the murder of Camille.
Former boyfriend. In prison.
Lana's testimony put him away.
Joanna: mother.
Supporting characters: All horrible
Elise: fiancee of Ollie
George Maddox: caretaker/gardener
Barney: George's uncle
Derek: George's older stepbrother
Bree: lesbian. Mechanic.
Friend of Sebastian & Xav
The Palmers:
Trudy: daughter. Art gallery owner. Dispised her.
Doc Palmer: Agnus: father to Trudy.
Former doctor. Retired. Stroke/dementia. Disgusting man.
During cleanup, Lana discovers some disturbing journals of her sister, leading her to suspect Sebastian was not the murderer.
Next is a series of menacing events—someone knows she is getting too close to learning the truth of that night. The journals are now missing, she gets hit by a car and then drugged and put in her trunk for dead.
Her former boyfriend, Xav, comes to her rescue. No Hamilton is safe with a killer on the loose determined to take down this family in a race against time. Everyone is collateral damage.
While I enjoy Keri Beevis' books and am a big fan, THE SUMMER HOUSE was not my favorite. Yes, there were a lot of twists and red herrings—however, due to the number of characters (way too many), there was not enough overall character development, too much evil and bad things, and not enough balance with the good. I did not care for any of the characters. NO humor.
I understand the author needed the characters for red herrings and was especially creative with the "G" initials to throw you off.
The setup was clever.
The first part pulled me in.
The middle seemed to drag and drag.
The last part was more action-filled for the showdown.
However, the main concern was you need to "suspend your disbelief for the sake of enjoyment."
When the killer is revealed, no way - if you go back to the original event. Also, I did not connect with ANY of the characters. I was not invested in any of them.
They were mainly evil, narcissistic, delusional sociopaths: selfish, with envy, jealousy, greed, and classism. Revenge, obsession, blackmail. Some were disgusting and the actions were over the top bordering on horror.
The only two somewhat likable were Lana and Xav, who were more concerned over Lana's safety and hardly ever talked about getting Sebastian out of prison and the damage to his life. So again a disconnect here.
However, I am looking forward to her next book!
Thank you to #BoldwoodBooks and #NetGalley for a gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 4 Stars
Pub Date: March 6, 2023
February 14, 2023
Another brilliant book from Keri Beevis.
Lana heads back to Norfolk to sort out her grandmother’s house following her death.
It’s hard for her being back as her sister died in the summer house when she was a teenager.
Lana’s twin brother Ollie also comes back to the house to help and it’s clear the twins are not welcome back here.
Lana was very close to Xav when they were younger but after his brother was imprisoned for her sister’s death, the relationship crumbled.
Lana bumps into Xav when she first gets back and it’s clear he’s not comfortable around her. But when someone tries to run her over, he’s there to help her.
It’s clear someone isn’t happy about Lana and Ollie being back and things soon start to escalate.
This is a gripping psychological thriller that will definitely keep you guessing.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Lana heads back to Norfolk to sort out her grandmother’s house following her death.
It’s hard for her being back as her sister died in the summer house when she was a teenager.
Lana’s twin brother Ollie also comes back to the house to help and it’s clear the twins are not welcome back here.
Lana was very close to Xav when they were younger but after his brother was imprisoned for her sister’s death, the relationship crumbled.
Lana bumps into Xav when she first gets back and it’s clear he’s not comfortable around her. But when someone tries to run her over, he’s there to help her.
It’s clear someone isn’t happy about Lana and Ollie being back and things soon start to escalate.
This is a gripping psychological thriller that will definitely keep you guessing.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
March 9, 2023
The Summer House
By: Keri Beevis
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lana and Ollie’s grandmother dies, and they head to Mead House to clean and sell the home. It’s been 17 years since there sister murder.
Lana finds her sisters diary and questions her past decisions. She helped put away the boy who murdered her sister. He was the brother of her ex-boyfriend.
Secrets, lies and deceit come to the forefront. Get ready for one wild ride.
Thank you Netgalley, Boldwood Books and author Keri Beevis. Available March 6, 2023. #netgalley, #booksconnectus, #bookreview, #bookstagram, #keribeevis, #boldwoodbooks, #stamperlady50
By: Keri Beevis
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lana and Ollie’s grandmother dies, and they head to Mead House to clean and sell the home. It’s been 17 years since there sister murder.
Lana finds her sisters diary and questions her past decisions. She helped put away the boy who murdered her sister. He was the brother of her ex-boyfriend.
Secrets, lies and deceit come to the forefront. Get ready for one wild ride.
Thank you Netgalley, Boldwood Books and author Keri Beevis. Available March 6, 2023. #netgalley, #booksconnectus, #bookreview, #bookstagram, #keribeevis, #boldwoodbooks, #stamperlady50
March 22, 2023
3.5 stars
The Summer House by Keri Beevis is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Boldwood Books and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Lana Hamilton and her twin brother Ollie inherit their grandmother's house. Although their grandmother had raised them, and this had been their home, the twins have built their lives elsewhere. They plan to sell it. After their older sister Camille was murdered here seventeen years ago, they don't have the heart to live at Mead House. Ollie can't even look at the summer house where he found Camille's body. Camille was only nineteen when she died, the twins seventeen, and things changed after that.
Lana has taken six-weeks off from her job as a graphic designer at a magazine, and she's going to use the time to get the house ready for sale.
But there are many things she must face, and one of the main ones is the fact that she was partly responsible for putting Camille's killer behind bars...and the fact that he was her boyfriend's brother. Although Sebastian is still in prison, Lana's old boyfriend Xav has returned to town. The reunion between Lana and Xav does not go as she had hoped.
When Lana finds her sister's secret diary, she realizes there was a lot about her sister she didn't know. She starts to doubt Sebastian's guilt.
My Opinions:
The book was good, and a fast read, but it seemed a little predictable. Although there were a number of twists and a multitude of suspects, I had guessed the perpetrator early on.
The story is told in a couple of time-lines, by multiple characters (not all known). This worked fine, although once or twice it was a little confusing with the unknown narrators.
Overall, the writing was good, and the plot well thought out.
For a more complete review of this book and others, (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
January 28, 2023
Thank you Keri Beevis, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for allowing me this opportunity to read an advanced readers copy of, “ The Summer House.” Due to be published March 6,2023.
Summary:
17 years after the murder of Lana and Ollie’s sister Camille they have come back to the Mead House to put it on the market following their Nana Kittys recent death. Lana show up to the house to find Ollie and his new fiancé Elise in the house . Lana despises Elise and soon starts to think she’s up to something. While cleaning Camille’s room Lana finds a secret journal talking about the secret relationship of her and another person with the initial G . Why was Camille cheating on Sebastian? Has Lana helped put the wrong person in jail for 17 years? This journal soon reveals many secrets that no one knew about. Finding out what she has Lana goes and tells Xavier what she’s found and he believes her after the journal turns up missing. Lana’s life is in danger so Lana and Xavier need to work fast to try to piece together the past and find out who’s really behind it all .
What I loved:
The story was written really well and I felt like I knew the characters in real life. This book was so good I had to keep reading till I found out what really happened I couldn’t put it down.
What I didn’t like:
The ending definitely left me with so many questions that I need answers to. Like what happens with Lana and Xavier? Does Sebastian forgive Lana for providing information to put him away for 17 years? How long is the real culprit put away for? Does Camille’s secret lover seek forgiveness? So many questions and no answers!
But overall I loved this book and highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good thriller from multiple perspectives. I will definitely be looking forward to reading more books from this author.
I’m leaving this review of my own free will !
#ThesummerHouse
#Secrets
#Thriller
#Murder
Summary:
17 years after the murder of Lana and Ollie’s sister Camille they have come back to the Mead House to put it on the market following their Nana Kittys recent death. Lana show up to the house to find Ollie and his new fiancé Elise in the house . Lana despises Elise and soon starts to think she’s up to something. While cleaning Camille’s room Lana finds a secret journal talking about the secret relationship of her and another person with the initial G . Why was Camille cheating on Sebastian? Has Lana helped put the wrong person in jail for 17 years? This journal soon reveals many secrets that no one knew about. Finding out what she has Lana goes and tells Xavier what she’s found and he believes her after the journal turns up missing. Lana’s life is in danger so Lana and Xavier need to work fast to try to piece together the past and find out who’s really behind it all .
What I loved:
The story was written really well and I felt like I knew the characters in real life. This book was so good I had to keep reading till I found out what really happened I couldn’t put it down.
What I didn’t like:
The ending definitely left me with so many questions that I need answers to. Like what happens with Lana and Xavier? Does Sebastian forgive Lana for providing information to put him away for 17 years? How long is the real culprit put away for? Does Camille’s secret lover seek forgiveness? So many questions and no answers!
But overall I loved this book and highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good thriller from multiple perspectives. I will definitely be looking forward to reading more books from this author.
I’m leaving this review of my own free will !
#ThesummerHouse
#Secrets
#Thriller
#Murder
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2023
A murder occurred 17 years ago at Mead House, staining its memory for twins Lana and Ollie. They had lived there with their older sister Camille when she was brutally tortured and killed. When their grandmother suddenly dies Lana and Ollie are forced back to where it all happened. Lana’s grandmother tried reaching her the day of her death – and something isn’t sitting well with her being back here 17 years later. Someone’s in jail for Camille’s murder but is it the right person? Did Lana's testimony put the wrong person behind bars?
This is a fast-paced thriller that hooks you from the start. With alternating timelines I feel the story gets bogged down just a tad. But, I’ve never been a fan of split timeliness in a story unless they’re done in a creative way – rather than a back and forth. There were also a lot of characters to keep track of. This was another story that needed one of my character cheat-sheets to keep track of them all. The mysterious “G” who could have been any one of the G characters was one thing I did enjoy. Although it meant adding more characters into the story it didn’t feel bogged down in that way.
With all the twist and turns – this book is written in a way that keeps you invested in it. What mysteries would you uncover if you had to clean out your childhood summer house?
I would recommend to anyone who likes psychological thrillers.
I received an ARC version of this book and leave this review of my own accord. Thanks Boldwood and NetGalley.
#NetGalley #TheSummerHouse #Boldwood
This is a fast-paced thriller that hooks you from the start. With alternating timelines I feel the story gets bogged down just a tad. But, I’ve never been a fan of split timeliness in a story unless they’re done in a creative way – rather than a back and forth. There were also a lot of characters to keep track of. This was another story that needed one of my character cheat-sheets to keep track of them all. The mysterious “G” who could have been any one of the G characters was one thing I did enjoy. Although it meant adding more characters into the story it didn’t feel bogged down in that way.
With all the twist and turns – this book is written in a way that keeps you invested in it. What mysteries would you uncover if you had to clean out your childhood summer house?
I would recommend to anyone who likes psychological thrillers.
I received an ARC version of this book and leave this review of my own accord. Thanks Boldwood and NetGalley.
#NetGalley #TheSummerHouse #Boldwood
March 2, 2023
A domestic thriller that kept me reading late into the night I HAD TO KNOW THE TRUTH!!!! Told in two time periods then and now. When the girls were in high school and fifteen years later. Something happened at their senior prom and it changed their lives forever. One of their friends died on that fateful night, but who died? And more importantly were any of the friends responsible??? Gripping, emotional and so much more. Another edge of your seat read from one of my favourite authors.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for giving an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for giving an honest review.
April 23, 2024
The first half of the book started out slow, but the 2nd half was quite good...once everything started to get explained. Lots of characters. Many of the characters were not very likeable, and pretty obnoxious. But I was pulling for Lana.
March 18, 2023
Mead House, the summer house for the Hamilton family, has been holding secrets for seventeen years. Secrets of Camille's death.
This was thrilling and twisty. So many shocking secrets. I did feel a lot was left unsolved, unanswered in the end, but otherwise a darn good mysterious thriller.
This was thrilling and twisty. So many shocking secrets. I did feel a lot was left unsolved, unanswered in the end, but otherwise a darn good mysterious thriller.
July 17, 2024
I don’t know how to explain how I felt about this book. I didn’t hate it. I read it very quickly and I was intrigued enough to finish the book but something was missing and I can’t tell you exactly what that was.
I think how we rate books is so subjective. Because let’s be honest we all have our own favourite authors, subject matters and writing styles but more than that if you’ve just finished a really good book or a really good series you’re likely to be more critical over the next book you read just because you enjoyed the last one so much. I find it so hard to write books like this because I didn’t hate it, I didn’t love it. I wonder if that’s just because I’ve just finished the Monica Arya books and absolutely loves them didn’t mean that I rated this book more harshly?
There was a twist that I didn’t see coming and the book was pacy but it just didn’t seem to be for me.
I think how we rate books is so subjective. Because let’s be honest we all have our own favourite authors, subject matters and writing styles but more than that if you’ve just finished a really good book or a really good series you’re likely to be more critical over the next book you read just because you enjoyed the last one so much. I find it so hard to write books like this because I didn’t hate it, I didn’t love it. I wonder if that’s just because I’ve just finished the Monica Arya books and absolutely loves them didn’t mean that I rated this book more harshly?
There was a twist that I didn’t see coming and the book was pacy but it just didn’t seem to be for me.
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