What do you think?
Rate this book
Marguerite by the Lake
From Mary Dixie Carter comes an atmospheric, tense novel about the death of a wealthy garden designer, her lonely widower, and the scrappy young gardener who smoothly steps into her life.
Marguerite Gray is a lifestyle icon known for her garden parties, high-end business ventures, and being the muse behind the famous Serge Kuhnert painting, Marguerite by the Lake. Her presence is overpowering, her taste, legendary. For the last few years, Phoenix has been the gardener on the famed Rosecliff grounds, home of the Gray Marguerite and her husband Geoffrey. Phoenix came from humble beginnings, and now she works hard to craft the landscape that underpins Marguerite’s brand.
When a storm threatens the launch party for Marguerite’s latest book, it’s Phoenix who spots the danger to the guests and rushes to Geoffrey’s side to save him from a falling tree. Geoffrey is grateful—perhaps too grateful. Marguerite is . . . jealous. Phoenix senses the danger of being drawn deeper into their lives but can’t resist the attention, becoming embroiled in an affair that could destroy her career.
But soon after the affair begins Marguerite falls to her death, from the same high point at Rosecliff where she posed for Marguerite by the Lake. Now Phoenix has another secret, one that haunts her even as Geoffrey invites her to move into the manor with him. A secret that Detective Hanna and Marguerite’s daughter—her spitting image—are circling closer and closer to. Phoenix tries to put it all behind her and find her rightful place at Rosecliff. But as every gardener knows, nothing stays buried forever.
Marguerite Gray is a lifestyle icon known for her garden parties, high-end business ventures, and being the muse behind the famous Serge Kuhnert painting, Marguerite by the Lake. Her presence is overpowering, her taste, legendary. For the last few years, Phoenix has been the gardener on the famed Rosecliff grounds, home of the Gray Marguerite and her husband Geoffrey. Phoenix came from humble beginnings, and now she works hard to craft the landscape that underpins Marguerite’s brand.
When a storm threatens the launch party for Marguerite’s latest book, it’s Phoenix who spots the danger to the guests and rushes to Geoffrey’s side to save him from a falling tree. Geoffrey is grateful—perhaps too grateful. Marguerite is . . . jealous. Phoenix senses the danger of being drawn deeper into their lives but can’t resist the attention, becoming embroiled in an affair that could destroy her career.
But soon after the affair begins Marguerite falls to her death, from the same high point at Rosecliff where she posed for Marguerite by the Lake. Now Phoenix has another secret, one that haunts her even as Geoffrey invites her to move into the manor with him. A secret that Detective Hanna and Marguerite’s daughter—her spitting image—are circling closer and closer to. Phoenix tries to put it all behind her and find her rightful place at Rosecliff. But as every gardener knows, nothing stays buried forever.
295 pages, Hardcover
Published May 20, 2025
51 people are currently reading
11298 people want to read
About the author
Mary Dixie Carter
4 books375 followersMary Dixie Carter is the author of the critically acclaimed novel The Photographer and Marguerite by the Lake, coming in May 2025. Her writing has appeared in TIME, The Economist, the San Francisco Chronicle, the Chicago Tribune, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The New York Sun, The New York Observer and other print and online publications. She worked at The Observer for five years, where she served as the publishing director. In addition to writing, she also has a background as a professional actor. Mary Dixie graduated from Harvard with an honors degree in English Literature and holds an MFA in Creative Writing from The New School. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two children.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 364 reviews
July 11, 2025
2.5 stars.
A mysterious and atmospheric eye-roller.
A famous woman falls to her death off a cliff on her property. Her home and property staff are questioned along with her family and neighbours as there is concern that her fall may not have been an accident.
The premise of this book sounded great. A mysterious death on a vast lakeside property. Several questionable suspects. Dark, foreboding atmosphere. However, none of these aspects came together for me.
For one, the reader knows the guilty party from the start which removed any sort of suspense for me. Yes, there were other aspects that needed to be figured out as the storyline continues on, but I wasn’t invested in those details.
I had a few large issues with this plot overall. One main problem for me was that there is an affair that is critical to the storyline that felt completely forced and unbelievable. The affair came out of nowhere for me and didn’t feel “real”. It is a driving force behind the storyline and because I didn’t believe the emotion, romance or motivation behind it, I wasn’t invested or connected to anything surrounding the affair (which is a main plot point ). Another large issue for me was that I didn’t like the main character. Her amateur sleuthing was silly and had me skim reading. So many parts of this story simply didn’t make sense and it was too unrealistic to ignore. What started as a decent story with a lot of potential, turned into a cheesy eye-roller.
You really have to suspend disbelief with this book, which is most often a deal breaker for me. I know this is a “me issue”, as I need to be able to believe the stories I read could “possibly” happen and with this one, it simply was too far fetched. Give it a try and see for yourself!
Thank you to the publisher for my review copy!
A mysterious and atmospheric eye-roller.
A famous woman falls to her death off a cliff on her property. Her home and property staff are questioned along with her family and neighbours as there is concern that her fall may not have been an accident.
The premise of this book sounded great. A mysterious death on a vast lakeside property. Several questionable suspects. Dark, foreboding atmosphere. However, none of these aspects came together for me.
For one, the reader knows the guilty party from the start which removed any sort of suspense for me. Yes, there were other aspects that needed to be figured out as the storyline continues on, but I wasn’t invested in those details.
I had a few large issues with this plot overall. One main problem for me was that there is an affair that is critical to the storyline that felt completely forced and unbelievable. The affair came out of nowhere for me and didn’t feel “real”. It is a driving force behind the storyline and because I didn’t believe the emotion, romance or motivation behind it, I wasn’t invested or connected to anything surrounding the affair (which is a main plot point ). Another large issue for me was that I didn’t like the main character. Her amateur sleuthing was silly and had me skim reading. So many parts of this story simply didn’t make sense and it was too unrealistic to ignore. What started as a decent story with a lot of potential, turned into a cheesy eye-roller.
You really have to suspend disbelief with this book, which is most often a deal breaker for me. I know this is a “me issue”, as I need to be able to believe the stories I read could “possibly” happen and with this one, it simply was too far fetched. Give it a try and see for yourself!
Thank you to the publisher for my review copy!
May 5, 2025
This is a well-written, entertaining, thrilling mystery novel. It has a sympathetic female protagonist, vividly described settings, suspense, jealousy, twists and turns, and an unexpected conclusion. Many thanks to Ms. Carter, St. Martin's Press, and Net Galley, from whom I received an advanced reader copy of this fantastic novel. This is my honest opinion.
July 11, 2025
a thriller that isn't thrilling in any way, shape, or form ... gets one star from me. this gave nothing.
pre read:
in a thriller mood for the first time in forever, fingers crossed this satisfies my craving 🙂↕️
pre read:
in a thriller mood for the first time in forever, fingers crossed this satisfies my craving 🙂↕️
April 6, 2025
Phoenix is a gardener for the Rosecliff grounds and starts an affair with Margeurites husband. Tragedy strikes and Marguerite falls from the cliff.
This was an interesting story that I hated to end.
Thanks NetGalley and St. Martins Press for this eARC that will be published May 2025!
This was an interesting story that I hated to end.
Thanks NetGalley and St. Martins Press for this eARC that will be published May 2025!
May 2, 2025
Alternating timelines that were a little hard to follow. Didn't feel the flow so-to-speak.
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🦋 || Southern Lady Reads YouTube channel coming soon!!
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🦋 || Southern Lady Reads YouTube channel coming soon!!
February 8, 2025
Tense and richly emotional, Marguerite by the Lake is a deep-dive into toxic love and the danger of wanting another person’s life. Carter’s prose shines, hypnotic and lyrical as she paints characters and a setting that pop off the page, but it’s the story’s overarching sense of doom that makes it unputdownable. An engrossing read with an ending that lingers.
March 21, 2025
Phoenix Sullivan is an expert, if unestablished, landscape artist, working for the home influencer Marguerite Gray. Marguerite is the subject of a famous painting and has parlayed that fame into a Martha Stewart-esque home and garden design empire. An affair builds between Phoenix and Marguerite’s husband Geoffrey, who she saves in an accident at their home. She’s not sure if Marguerite knows, but one day they get into an argument and the wealthy Ms. Gray falls to her death from the same cliff where the painting is set.
This story hinges on uncertainty. Tension builds because we’re just not sure of a few things: if Phoenix is responsible for Marguerite’s death, if neighbors saw what happened, if Geoffrey plans to continue the relationship. Carter does a great job infusing the reader’s mind with all the maddening questions inside Phoenix’s head. The poor girl is straight up freaking out on page after page, and we can feel her hair falling out and pounds shed from the anxiety.
The initial incident is set up brilliantly. Action begins on page one with the tree accident, and the aftermath is fraught with all kinds of juicy subtext. From there, various bad situations unfold, ones which Phoenix can’t seem to avoid. The specter of danger and chaos looms throughout. Also, the ghost of Marguerite, haunting Phoenix through the house calls forth the brilliance of Daphne du Maurier’s classic Rebecca. It initiates and intensifies her descent into madness. And that madness was a driving force, a great way to engage the reader. There was even some magical realism going on: the ghost seems to thwart her with strange happenings. Phoenix then feels compelled to keep destroying things to rid herself of her. “Wow, she’s legit crazy,” I thought. And that’s always fun.
However, I thought there were missed opportunities to build excitement. Characters made odd decisions, and tense scenes felt unfinished. There’s clearly a rivalry between Phoenix and Taylor, Marguerite’s lookalike daughter. But Taylor let her off the hook once too often, which I thought was uncharacteristic. Also, I wished the detective was more proactive, as those interrogations also seemed stilted. Finally, I thought we’d learn more about Phoenix’s history. It seemed it would be a major plot point, but there was only a hint of it at the climax.
But all in all, this was a quick and interesting murder-mystery, a solid entry into the psychological thriller genre.
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review. Marguerite by the Lake will be published May 20, 2025.
This story hinges on uncertainty. Tension builds because we’re just not sure of a few things: if Phoenix is responsible for Marguerite’s death, if neighbors saw what happened, if Geoffrey plans to continue the relationship. Carter does a great job infusing the reader’s mind with all the maddening questions inside Phoenix’s head. The poor girl is straight up freaking out on page after page, and we can feel her hair falling out and pounds shed from the anxiety.
The initial incident is set up brilliantly. Action begins on page one with the tree accident, and the aftermath is fraught with all kinds of juicy subtext. From there, various bad situations unfold, ones which Phoenix can’t seem to avoid. The specter of danger and chaos looms throughout. Also, the ghost of Marguerite, haunting Phoenix through the house calls forth the brilliance of Daphne du Maurier’s classic Rebecca. It initiates and intensifies her descent into madness. And that madness was a driving force, a great way to engage the reader. There was even some magical realism going on: the ghost seems to thwart her with strange happenings. Phoenix then feels compelled to keep destroying things to rid herself of her. “Wow, she’s legit crazy,” I thought. And that’s always fun.
However, I thought there were missed opportunities to build excitement. Characters made odd decisions, and tense scenes felt unfinished. There’s clearly a rivalry between Phoenix and Taylor, Marguerite’s lookalike daughter. But Taylor let her off the hook once too often, which I thought was uncharacteristic. Also, I wished the detective was more proactive, as those interrogations also seemed stilted. Finally, I thought we’d learn more about Phoenix’s history. It seemed it would be a major plot point, but there was only a hint of it at the climax.
But all in all, this was a quick and interesting murder-mystery, a solid entry into the psychological thriller genre.
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review. Marguerite by the Lake will be published May 20, 2025.
May 21, 2025
⭐⭐⭐.5 rounded up
Pre-Read Notes:
I don't have many expectations for this one but am wondering about the GR rating, which is a little low. Haven't read reviews yet as I want to see what I think first!
"“Miss Sullivan,” Gilda said. “There’s no one.” She unlocked the door and opened it. “Noooooo!” I screamed. A strong blast of air pushed me back. But then I opened my eyes, and I saw no one was there." p160
Final Review
This is less a thriller than a suspense novel, and it's more a psychological suspense book than a domestic suspense. There's some overlap here, in terms of genre.
I think the rating is a little low for this one but that may be because of the vague genre, honestly. I can see a lot of people picking this one up expecting a thriller (I did!) but the pacing was too slow and steady for a thriller.
With a simplistic story, simplistic characters with little development, and a simple writing style, I found that the suspense layered on thick and kept me turning the pages. I recommend this one for fans of mystery and suspense, psychological themes, and stories about bad marriages. I had fun with this one!
My 3 Favorite Things:
✔️ I like the foil between the fmc (I can never remember names of first person narrators because their names don't get repeated enough) and her brother, Curtis. She seems to empathize with him when she's not thinking things like this: Moments like this one with Curtis made me feel nauseous. Like I was on a roller coaster that I shouldn’t have gotten on. Sometimes I felt like it was my fault the world hadn’t been fair to him . But really, the world wasn’t fair to anyone. Curtis had a chip on his shoulder, and he was always looking for a shortcut. He thought the rules were for suckers. p27 Their relationship is definitely complex, which makes good reading. I want to see more of Curtis for myself, to judge the fmc's judgments. And usually privileged characters who think down on characters who've had it harder than they have see some really growth coming their way. Let's see what happens.
✔️ Mary Dixie Carter is an excellent writer of unlikeable characters. The only character in this book who isn't repulsive is Curtis, the fmc's brother, who doesn't get nearly enough page time. But the fmc is icky and I'm very ready for her to faceplant lol! Seriously I can't stand it how often this character overtly worries about her lack of control, mostly over other people.
✔️ I normally like ambiguous endings but there was too much left unattended in this story. The impression I got by the ending was that...this book wasn't actually about anything. All the elements were so random and didn't come together well.
Notes:
1. Content warnings: cheating, early childhood stress/trauma, falling, gaslighting
Thank you to the author Mary Dixie Carter, publishers Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for an accessible digital arc of MARGUERITE BY THE LAKE. All views are mine.
Pre-Read Notes:
I don't have many expectations for this one but am wondering about the GR rating, which is a little low. Haven't read reviews yet as I want to see what I think first!
"“Miss Sullivan,” Gilda said. “There’s no one.” She unlocked the door and opened it. “Noooooo!” I screamed. A strong blast of air pushed me back. But then I opened my eyes, and I saw no one was there." p160
Final Review
This is less a thriller than a suspense novel, and it's more a psychological suspense book than a domestic suspense. There's some overlap here, in terms of genre.
I think the rating is a little low for this one but that may be because of the vague genre, honestly. I can see a lot of people picking this one up expecting a thriller (I did!) but the pacing was too slow and steady for a thriller.
With a simplistic story, simplistic characters with little development, and a simple writing style, I found that the suspense layered on thick and kept me turning the pages. I recommend this one for fans of mystery and suspense, psychological themes, and stories about bad marriages. I had fun with this one!
My 3 Favorite Things:
✔️ I like the foil between the fmc (I can never remember names of first person narrators because their names don't get repeated enough) and her brother, Curtis. She seems to empathize with him when she's not thinking things like this: Moments like this one with Curtis made me feel nauseous. Like I was on a roller coaster that I shouldn’t have gotten on. Sometimes I felt like it was my fault the world hadn’t been fair to him . But really, the world wasn’t fair to anyone. Curtis had a chip on his shoulder, and he was always looking for a shortcut. He thought the rules were for suckers. p27 Their relationship is definitely complex, which makes good reading. I want to see more of Curtis for myself, to judge the fmc's judgments. And usually privileged characters who think down on characters who've had it harder than they have see some really growth coming their way. Let's see what happens.
✔️ Mary Dixie Carter is an excellent writer of unlikeable characters. The only character in this book who isn't repulsive is Curtis, the fmc's brother, who doesn't get nearly enough page time. But the fmc is icky and I'm very ready for her to faceplant lol! Seriously I can't stand it how often this character overtly worries about her lack of control, mostly over other people.
✔️ I normally like ambiguous endings but there was too much left unattended in this story. The impression I got by the ending was that...this book wasn't actually about anything. All the elements were so random and didn't come together well.
Notes:
1. Content warnings: cheating, early childhood stress/trauma, falling, gaslighting
Thank you to the author Mary Dixie Carter, publishers Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for an accessible digital arc of MARGUERITE BY THE LAKE. All views are mine.
May 22, 2025
Could someone have seen Phoenix on the cliff when Marguerite fell?
Will the police think Phoenix pushed her?
Why didn't Phoenix just tell the truth about what happened?
Phoenix was a master gardener, and she worked for Marguerite Gray and her husband Geoffrey.
Marguerite was a famous home decorating influencer.
Phoenix was jealous of Marguerite because of her status and because she was in love with her husband.
Could she have pushed Marguerite?
Perhaps she pushed her since Phoenix and Geoffrey were having an affair.
If someone found out about the affair, would they be looking at the incident differently?
Uncertainty and a sinister tone abound in this slow moving read.
Give it a try and see if you can figure out what's going on with each character and why Phoenix does what she does.
A bizarre, eerie ending. 4/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Will the police think Phoenix pushed her?
Why didn't Phoenix just tell the truth about what happened?
Phoenix was a master gardener, and she worked for Marguerite Gray and her husband Geoffrey.
Marguerite was a famous home decorating influencer.
Phoenix was jealous of Marguerite because of her status and because she was in love with her husband.
Could she have pushed Marguerite?
Perhaps she pushed her since Phoenix and Geoffrey were having an affair.
If someone found out about the affair, would they be looking at the incident differently?
Uncertainty and a sinister tone abound in this slow moving read.
Give it a try and see if you can figure out what's going on with each character and why Phoenix does what she does.
A bizarre, eerie ending. 4/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 21, 2025
Marguerite By The Lake by Mary Dixie Carter is a book I just could not jive with I always say the end of the book could change my rating and overall feeling of a book, but for the first time in a very long time the end of this one did nothing for me. I didn’t like it I didn’t like Phoenix I thought her And Jeffrey’s relationship came out of nowhere I found her to be self absorbed I got tired of hearing about all the plants and trees etc I mean I get it she loves gardens got it having said that, read it if it sounds like something you would like I myself did not. I don’t even think it all had to do with Phoenix but there was something overall about the book I just didn’t enjoy. #NetGalley, #MyHonestReview, #TheBlindReviewer,
April 11, 2025
This was, quite possibly, the worst book I've ever read.
I don't even know where to start: the cardboard characters, the uninspired plot (with absolutely no subplots), the poor quality writing. It was just a big stinker.
And so, so, SO much telling instead of showing. Practically every scene was summarized (i.e. told). It was so boring. It's like the (possibly apocryphal) Anton Chekhov quote: "Don't tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass." This author really needed to keep such advice in mind.
If I could give this NEGATIVE stars, I would.
Thanks to NetGalley for the free review copy.
I don't even know where to start: the cardboard characters, the uninspired plot (with absolutely no subplots), the poor quality writing. It was just a big stinker.
And so, so, SO much telling instead of showing. Practically every scene was summarized (i.e. told). It was so boring. It's like the (possibly apocryphal) Anton Chekhov quote: "Don't tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass." This author really needed to keep such advice in mind.
If I could give this NEGATIVE stars, I would.
Thanks to NetGalley for the free review copy.
January 11, 2025
2.5 ⭐️ rounded up to 3
Marguerite by the Lake is my first read by Mary Dixie Carter. I was immediately intrigued by the plot and was really excited to dig in to this suspenseful mystery. Sadly, this book just didn’t grab me the way I thought it would. I loved the estate backdrop, the beautifully descriptive writing, and the idea of the story, however, the pacing was pretty slow.
Mary Dixie Carter does a beautiful job of fleshing out the characters in the way that I could literally see them in my mind, but I unfortunately just didn’t like them very much. I also felt as though there was this long, slow build-up, only for it to fall a little flat at the end.
Even though I didn’t enjoy the story very much, I did enjoy the Authors writing style. I’ll look forward to checking out her future books!
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for gifting me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Marguerite by the Lake is my first read by Mary Dixie Carter. I was immediately intrigued by the plot and was really excited to dig in to this suspenseful mystery. Sadly, this book just didn’t grab me the way I thought it would. I loved the estate backdrop, the beautifully descriptive writing, and the idea of the story, however, the pacing was pretty slow.
Mary Dixie Carter does a beautiful job of fleshing out the characters in the way that I could literally see them in my mind, but I unfortunately just didn’t like them very much. I also felt as though there was this long, slow build-up, only for it to fall a little flat at the end.
Even though I didn’t enjoy the story very much, I did enjoy the Authors writing style. I’ll look forward to checking out her future books!
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for gifting me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 4, 2024
A gardeners life is haunted by the power of Marguerite. After saving Geoffrey from a fallen tree during a storm. Phoenix and Geoffrey became close. Marguerite a woman with influence by followers on her gardening platform has inspired others to find growth in landscaping.
…
Having Phoenix’s knowledge thrust Marguerites into a place of recognition eventhough she was not the inspiration behind the project. Every word was Phoenix’s and every plant and tree was chosen by Phoenix. Phoenix wanted recognition for her craft.
…
Stepping into the life of Marguerite came with its own surprises. Mary Dixie Carter showcased a story of obsession and secrets. The story centers around a painting of Marguerite by the Lake. It was like a living breathing thing. The painting was her presence. The landscape became the focal point of the story carrying with it a significant amount of information. Mary Dixie Carter writes an intriguing story about Phoenix’s relationship with Taylor and Geoffrey. The shoes she’s trying to fill were not made for her and between her guilty conscience and Taylor’s constant reminders of who they belong to; navigating a place in a life that was acquired by someone who was established takes incredible strength.
…
Mary Dixie Carter writes a fascinating story about a woman who wanted the life Marguerite had. I was captivated by the unique nature of this story. The deep presence of the trees and flowers really showcased how much they inhabited and consumed the property. A truly spectacular read from cover to cover.
…
Having Phoenix’s knowledge thrust Marguerites into a place of recognition eventhough she was not the inspiration behind the project. Every word was Phoenix’s and every plant and tree was chosen by Phoenix. Phoenix wanted recognition for her craft.
…
Stepping into the life of Marguerite came with its own surprises. Mary Dixie Carter showcased a story of obsession and secrets. The story centers around a painting of Marguerite by the Lake. It was like a living breathing thing. The painting was her presence. The landscape became the focal point of the story carrying with it a significant amount of information. Mary Dixie Carter writes an intriguing story about Phoenix’s relationship with Taylor and Geoffrey. The shoes she’s trying to fill were not made for her and between her guilty conscience and Taylor’s constant reminders of who they belong to; navigating a place in a life that was acquired by someone who was established takes incredible strength.
…
Mary Dixie Carter writes a fascinating story about a woman who wanted the life Marguerite had. I was captivated by the unique nature of this story. The deep presence of the trees and flowers really showcased how much they inhabited and consumed the property. A truly spectacular read from cover to cover.
May 30, 2025
There’s something about a mysterious estate, a beautiful yet troubled woman, and a death that doesn’t feel like an accident … and Marguerite by the Lake totally delivered on that vibe. 🖤🌿
We follow Phoenix, a young gardener who becomes tangled in the life of Marguerite Gray who is rich and entirely unreadable. But when Marguerite dies under suspicious circumstances, everything starts to change. The tension is slow and eerie. The estate setting? GORGEOUS and haunting.
We follow Phoenix, a young gardener who becomes tangled in the life of Marguerite Gray who is rich and entirely unreadable. But when Marguerite dies under suspicious circumstances, everything starts to change. The tension is slow and eerie. The estate setting? GORGEOUS and haunting.
March 10, 2025
This book had potential but fell a little flat for me. It centers primarily on Phoenix, who does gardening and landscaping for a wealthy client when she gets too involved in their lives. When one of them dies, Phoenix swoops in and tries to take over what she thinks she deserves. I felt like this book was more focused on mental health issues than an actual mystery.
It was very difficult to like Phoenix, as many of the things she did just didn’t make sense, and the reader wasn’t given enough of a backstory to understand her motivations. Though it was clear that she was struggling with her mental health, nothing she did endeared me to her. The overall story really wasn’t all that mysterious but still left unanswered questions at the end. I wish I could’ve gotten more background on all of these characters to help me better understand their actions. The ending was abrupt and didn’t answer some of the questions I still had. The setting was done really well and I did feel that I could immerse myself in the surroundings of the house and surrounding gardens.
Overall this one wasn’t really for me, lacking in both mystery and characterization. Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2025
The beginning grasped my attention however the story kind of fell flat. I ended up not loving it as much as I wanted to.
I thought the storyline moved a bit too fast—from Phoenix sleeping with Geoffrey to Marguerite's passing. Phoenix is a bit of a psycho. She’s so attached to Geoffrey and already is very jealous, inserting herself into his life and claiming the house as hers. That felt a bit narcissistic. Geoffrey, on the other hand, is a manipulator.
One thing that bothered me was why was Phoenix ignoring her brother? The lead-up to the text messages from him was so bad. Out of nowhere, he suddenly doesn’t know where she is, as if he had been searching for her and she was hiding from him. It didn’t feel natural. Like there were no indicators. She just was avoiding him. There were a few grammar errors throughout the book, nothing too drastic. Ok, the scene when she goes back to her grandma’s house (after giving Geoffrey the ultimatum), and her brother just randomly shows up. They chat as if he hadn't been trying to get a hold of her for who knows how long. That had me so confused, like, what?
She says her brother doesn’t know where she’s living, but then he tells her she’s in a castle—so clearly, he does know. There’s no explanation for how her brother knows Taylor, either. Also her brothers situation was so unnecessary, like nothing even happened. You would think he'll use it to his advantage but then it just disappeared into thin air.
At this point, it really seems like Phoenix is just insane and delusional. Is the book hinting that she killed her grandma also? Because if so, it did a bad job of it. Then Taylor dies, and no one is investigating it—even though Phoenix was at the crime scene? This book had so many holes to fill. Maybe I'm missing the point in this story or I misinterpreted what I read.
I thought the storyline moved a bit too fast—from Phoenix sleeping with Geoffrey to Marguerite's passing. Phoenix is a bit of a psycho. She’s so attached to Geoffrey and already is very jealous, inserting herself into his life and claiming the house as hers. That felt a bit narcissistic. Geoffrey, on the other hand, is a manipulator.
One thing that bothered me was why was Phoenix ignoring her brother? The lead-up to the text messages from him was so bad. Out of nowhere, he suddenly doesn’t know where she is, as if he had been searching for her and she was hiding from him. It didn’t feel natural. Like there were no indicators. She just was avoiding him. There were a few grammar errors throughout the book, nothing too drastic. Ok, the scene when she goes back to her grandma’s house (after giving Geoffrey the ultimatum), and her brother just randomly shows up. They chat as if he hadn't been trying to get a hold of her for who knows how long. That had me so confused, like, what?
She says her brother doesn’t know where she’s living, but then he tells her she’s in a castle—so clearly, he does know. There’s no explanation for how her brother knows Taylor, either. Also her brothers situation was so unnecessary, like nothing even happened. You would think he'll use it to his advantage but then it just disappeared into thin air.
At this point, it really seems like Phoenix is just insane and delusional. Is the book hinting that she killed her grandma also? Because if so, it did a bad job of it. Then Taylor dies, and no one is investigating it—even though Phoenix was at the crime scene? This book had so many holes to fill. Maybe I'm missing the point in this story or I misinterpreted what I read.
April 25, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: May 20, 2025
“Marguerite by the Lake” is the second novel by Mary Dixie Carter, author of “The Photographer”. A gothic family drama that takes place in a waterfront estate, “Lake” has a great premise, and a beautiful cover, but that is about all it has.
Marguerite Grey is an extremely wealthy lifestyle icon, known for her high-end business ventures and lavish landscapes. While attending one of Marguerite’s lavish garden parties, landscaper Phoenix saves the life of Marguerite’s husband, Geoffrey, by pushing him out of the way of a falling tree, quickly moving Phoenix’s status up from simply hired hand to personal saviour. Until Margeurite dies after a fall from the cliff near her home, a cliff she is very familiar with and knows better than to get to close to, and soon, Phoenix is moving in, taking Margeurite’s place with Geoffrey and the Grey’s beautiful Rosecliff Estate. But Marguerite’s daughter, Taylor, doesn’t take the news well, especially when it’s discovered that her mother may not have been murdered and the last person to see her alive was Phoenix herself.
“Marguerite by the Lake” takes its name from the oil painting that hangs in the living room of Rosecliff Estate, a painting that haunts Phoenix’s waking hours, causing her to feel haunted and stalked by the dead Marguerite. That being said, there really is no paranormal activity in this novel (which is always disappointing) and the feelings and reactions of Phoenix are really just the result of Phoenix’s guilty conscience.
Phoenix is the protagonist, yet I somehow knew very little about her. There is absolutely zero character development in “Lake”, even for the main character. Phoenix starts the story as the landscaper and then begins to infiltrate the Grey household when the lecherous and despicable Geoffrey hits on her at a party. To take it one step further, she continues to feel entitled to a home and a life that she forced herself on and pouts when she doesn’t feel she is being “respected”. Carter provides some family background to Phoenix but it is very bare bones and there isn’t enough there to generate any kind of empathy for her. I wasn’t invested in her story at all and, in fact, the only reason I continued reading because I wanted the daughter, Taylor, to get her revenge.
I left Carter’s “Lake” wanting more. I wanted more about Phoenix (and pretty much all of the characters), and a more free-flowing plot, as opposed to random plot points stuck together arbitrarily without explanation or expansion.
Carter is a new author for me, so perhaps I’m just not a fan of her writing style, as her debut “The Photographer” won many awards, so she clearly has a passionate fan base. I really wanted to like this novel more than I did but I can see the potential.
Expected publication date: May 20, 2025
“Marguerite by the Lake” is the second novel by Mary Dixie Carter, author of “The Photographer”. A gothic family drama that takes place in a waterfront estate, “Lake” has a great premise, and a beautiful cover, but that is about all it has.
Marguerite Grey is an extremely wealthy lifestyle icon, known for her high-end business ventures and lavish landscapes. While attending one of Marguerite’s lavish garden parties, landscaper Phoenix saves the life of Marguerite’s husband, Geoffrey, by pushing him out of the way of a falling tree, quickly moving Phoenix’s status up from simply hired hand to personal saviour. Until Margeurite dies after a fall from the cliff near her home, a cliff she is very familiar with and knows better than to get to close to, and soon, Phoenix is moving in, taking Margeurite’s place with Geoffrey and the Grey’s beautiful Rosecliff Estate. But Marguerite’s daughter, Taylor, doesn’t take the news well, especially when it’s discovered that her mother may not have been murdered and the last person to see her alive was Phoenix herself.
“Marguerite by the Lake” takes its name from the oil painting that hangs in the living room of Rosecliff Estate, a painting that haunts Phoenix’s waking hours, causing her to feel haunted and stalked by the dead Marguerite. That being said, there really is no paranormal activity in this novel (which is always disappointing) and the feelings and reactions of Phoenix are really just the result of Phoenix’s guilty conscience.
Phoenix is the protagonist, yet I somehow knew very little about her. There is absolutely zero character development in “Lake”, even for the main character. Phoenix starts the story as the landscaper and then begins to infiltrate the Grey household when the lecherous and despicable Geoffrey hits on her at a party. To take it one step further, she continues to feel entitled to a home and a life that she forced herself on and pouts when she doesn’t feel she is being “respected”. Carter provides some family background to Phoenix but it is very bare bones and there isn’t enough there to generate any kind of empathy for her. I wasn’t invested in her story at all and, in fact, the only reason I continued reading because I wanted the daughter, Taylor, to get her revenge.
I left Carter’s “Lake” wanting more. I wanted more about Phoenix (and pretty much all of the characters), and a more free-flowing plot, as opposed to random plot points stuck together arbitrarily without explanation or expansion.
Carter is a new author for me, so perhaps I’m just not a fan of her writing style, as her debut “The Photographer” won many awards, so she clearly has a passionate fan base. I really wanted to like this novel more than I did but I can see the potential.
May 20, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Marguerite by the Lake" by Mary Dixie Carter is an absolute page-turner! This quick read had me hooked from start to finish, with its gripping tale of a love triangle that spirals into dark, unexpected territory. The tension builds masterfully, and the twists kept me on the edge of my seat. Carter’s writing style is sharp and engaging, perfectly capturing the complexities of desire, jealousy, and betrayal. If you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller with emotional depth and a chilling conclusion, this is the book for you!
"Marguerite by the Lake" by Mary Dixie Carter is an absolute page-turner! This quick read had me hooked from start to finish, with its gripping tale of a love triangle that spirals into dark, unexpected territory. The tension builds masterfully, and the twists kept me on the edge of my seat. Carter’s writing style is sharp and engaging, perfectly capturing the complexities of desire, jealousy, and betrayal. If you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller with emotional depth and a chilling conclusion, this is the book for you!
March 16, 2025
Book Review: Marguerite By The Lake
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Mary Dixie Carter @marydixiecarter
Publisher: Minotaur Books @minotaur_books
Thank you @netgalley for the ARC and the publisher for my gifted books.
Marguerite Gray is the epitome of high society—an influencer, lifestyle icon, and the face behind the famed Marguerite by the Lake painting. Her lavish Rosecliff estate and perfectly curated image define her legacy. Meanwhile, Phoenix, the estate’s gardener, has spent years shaping the land that underpins Marguerite’s empire. She knows her place—until a fateful storm changes everything.
After saving Marguerite’s husband, Geoffrey, from a falling tree, Phoenix suddenly finds herself entangled in their marriage. Geoffrey is too grateful, Marguerite is too jealous, and Phoenix—despite her better judgment—gets swept into an affair that threatens her entire future. But when Marguerite falls to her death from the same scenic spot where she once posed for her infamous portrait, Phoenix is left with more than just guilt. As Detective Hanna and Marguerite’s eerily identical daughter begin to investigate, Phoenix must navigate a web of secrets where nothing stays buried forever.
The novel’s premise is intoxicatingly dramatic, blending high society, betrayal, and suspense. However, the execution falters. The pacing drags, weighed down by excessive gardening details that add little to the plot. Phoenix, rather than being a compelling lead, spends most of the book scheming to secure her place at Rosecliff, making her difficult to sympathize with. The characters feel underdeveloped, their decisions often unrealistic, and the writing jumps between scenes without fully fleshing them out. While the setup promises a juicy, high-society thriller, the novel struggles to deliver on its potential.
#TheGardenersSecret #ThrillerReads #DomesticSuspense #BookReview #PsychologicalThriller #DarkFiction #MurderMystery #HighSocietyDrama #WealthAndBetrayal #ReadersOfInstagram #MysteryLovers #BooksToRead #TwistedTales #GothicSuspense #SecretsAndLies #ReadingCommunity #booksofinstagram #bookstagram
.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Mary Dixie Carter @marydixiecarter
Publisher: Minotaur Books @minotaur_books
Thank you @netgalley for the ARC and the publisher for my gifted books.
Marguerite Gray is the epitome of high society—an influencer, lifestyle icon, and the face behind the famed Marguerite by the Lake painting. Her lavish Rosecliff estate and perfectly curated image define her legacy. Meanwhile, Phoenix, the estate’s gardener, has spent years shaping the land that underpins Marguerite’s empire. She knows her place—until a fateful storm changes everything.
After saving Marguerite’s husband, Geoffrey, from a falling tree, Phoenix suddenly finds herself entangled in their marriage. Geoffrey is too grateful, Marguerite is too jealous, and Phoenix—despite her better judgment—gets swept into an affair that threatens her entire future. But when Marguerite falls to her death from the same scenic spot where she once posed for her infamous portrait, Phoenix is left with more than just guilt. As Detective Hanna and Marguerite’s eerily identical daughter begin to investigate, Phoenix must navigate a web of secrets where nothing stays buried forever.
The novel’s premise is intoxicatingly dramatic, blending high society, betrayal, and suspense. However, the execution falters. The pacing drags, weighed down by excessive gardening details that add little to the plot. Phoenix, rather than being a compelling lead, spends most of the book scheming to secure her place at Rosecliff, making her difficult to sympathize with. The characters feel underdeveloped, their decisions often unrealistic, and the writing jumps between scenes without fully fleshing them out. While the setup promises a juicy, high-society thriller, the novel struggles to deliver on its potential.
#TheGardenersSecret #ThrillerReads #DomesticSuspense #BookReview #PsychologicalThriller #DarkFiction #MurderMystery #HighSocietyDrama #WealthAndBetrayal #ReadersOfInstagram #MysteryLovers #BooksToRead #TwistedTales #GothicSuspense #SecretsAndLies #ReadingCommunity #booksofinstagram #bookstagram
.
July 21, 2025
A famous painting, a family to envy with money and power, a gardener that just wants a place in it.
This book is hard to define. It's not really a mystery - we know up front who killed who. It's not really a suspense - it's more of a fever dream. Phoenix is haunted by the previous lady of the house. Phoenix has gained access to the house and the life by having an affair and then killing the wife. So it's hard to feel bad for her, when she feels like she's being haunted and hunted.
It's not really a romance. Jeffery was an unimpressive lead male interest and the attraction and romance is instant and told to the reader. I'm surprised, with all the success I felt like Phoenix had, that she'd go for someone like Jeffery. He was a wet noodle, never standing up for anyone or anything.
It wasn't a suspense or horror. Without a firm footing for the type of story you're reading, I think it's tough to feel pulled in and enjoy it. I found Phoenix frustrating - selfish and inconsistent. Jeffery was lackluster. His daughter Taylor had the more interesting personality but we saw only glimpses of her. The grandma storyline felt injected and didn't seem to go anywhere and the brother just seemed to try to add tension and foreboding, but I don't think he managed to fully land either one.
I just think this one didn't work for me. I started as an e-book and flipped to audio on Spotify. The narrator was good, and I enjoyed the audio more.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
This book is hard to define. It's not really a mystery - we know up front who killed who. It's not really a suspense - it's more of a fever dream. Phoenix is haunted by the previous lady of the house. Phoenix has gained access to the house and the life by having an affair and then killing the wife. So it's hard to feel bad for her, when she feels like she's being haunted and hunted.
It's not really a romance. Jeffery was an unimpressive lead male interest and the attraction and romance is instant and told to the reader. I'm surprised, with all the success I felt like Phoenix had, that she'd go for someone like Jeffery. He was a wet noodle, never standing up for anyone or anything.
It wasn't a suspense or horror. Without a firm footing for the type of story you're reading, I think it's tough to feel pulled in and enjoy it. I found Phoenix frustrating - selfish and inconsistent. Jeffery was lackluster. His daughter Taylor had the more interesting personality but we saw only glimpses of her. The grandma storyline felt injected and didn't seem to go anywhere and the brother just seemed to try to add tension and foreboding, but I don't think he managed to fully land either one.
I just think this one didn't work for me. I started as an e-book and flipped to audio on Spotify. The narrator was good, and I enjoyed the audio more.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
May 31, 2025
2.5/5
It was ok, but I really wanted to like this more than I did. The setup was solid - Phoenix, a young gardener of a rich and powerful couple starts an affair with the husband and the wife tragically dies shortly after. I found the writing good, and the setting was vivid enough to picture the gardens and the drama.
But Phoenix, the main character, felt like a stranger the whole time. I never really understood her or connected with her. Her choices didn’t always make sense, and I wanted more depth, more backstory. The plot also dragged in places, especially in the middle. Some scenes were repetitive, and the tension fizzled out more than it built up.
There were moments that hooked me, especially early on, but overall, it felt like a lot of style with not enough substance. A decent read, but not one I’ll remember for long.
It was ok, but I really wanted to like this more than I did. The setup was solid - Phoenix, a young gardener of a rich and powerful couple starts an affair with the husband and the wife tragically dies shortly after. I found the writing good, and the setting was vivid enough to picture the gardens and the drama.
But Phoenix, the main character, felt like a stranger the whole time. I never really understood her or connected with her. Her choices didn’t always make sense, and I wanted more depth, more backstory. The plot also dragged in places, especially in the middle. Some scenes were repetitive, and the tension fizzled out more than it built up.
There were moments that hooked me, especially early on, but overall, it felt like a lot of style with not enough substance. A decent read, but not one I’ll remember for long.
April 23, 2025
My finger hovered over the "abandon book" button several times while reading Carter's "Marguerite by the Lake," each adultery scene testing my literary fortitude. Yet beneath my moral discomfort bloomed a persistent curiosity about the characters' fates that ultimately pulled me through to the final page.
Phoenix, the landscaper tending to Rosecliff's grounds, emerged as a study in psychological complexity. Her position cultivating the Gray family's gardens became a perfect metaphor for her character—she nurtured beauty while simultaneously plotting to uproot the very life she tended. Her vulnerability revealed itself in poignant moments when she believed herself "not enough," driving questionable decisions that stemmed from deep-seated insecurities.
The novel's setting unfolded as a sensory masterpiece—gardens bursting with meticulously rendered botanical splendor that I could almost smell from the page. This "magnificent floral feast" created an exquisite juxtaposition against the psychological wilderness of the characters, beauty flourishing alongside deception.
The narrative's middle section, however, began to circle like water around a drain—characters locked in shifting power dynamics while the investigation seemingly spun without forward momentum. The detective's limited presence and absence of perspective contributed significantly to why this read more like character-driven fiction than traditional mystery—the investigation felt peripheral rather than central.
Carter's ambiguous conclusion ultimately asked readers to become co-authors in determining how the story truly ended. This literary strategy left me emotionally uncertain.
2.5 stars rounded up to 3 stars
Thanks, Minotaur Books, for my advance reader's copy for review.
Phoenix, the landscaper tending to Rosecliff's grounds, emerged as a study in psychological complexity. Her position cultivating the Gray family's gardens became a perfect metaphor for her character—she nurtured beauty while simultaneously plotting to uproot the very life she tended. Her vulnerability revealed itself in poignant moments when she believed herself "not enough," driving questionable decisions that stemmed from deep-seated insecurities.
The novel's setting unfolded as a sensory masterpiece—gardens bursting with meticulously rendered botanical splendor that I could almost smell from the page. This "magnificent floral feast" created an exquisite juxtaposition against the psychological wilderness of the characters, beauty flourishing alongside deception.
The narrative's middle section, however, began to circle like water around a drain—characters locked in shifting power dynamics while the investigation seemingly spun without forward momentum. The detective's limited presence and absence of perspective contributed significantly to why this read more like character-driven fiction than traditional mystery—the investigation felt peripheral rather than central.
Carter's ambiguous conclusion ultimately asked readers to become co-authors in determining how the story truly ended. This literary strategy left me emotionally uncertain.
2.5 stars rounded up to 3 stars
Thanks, Minotaur Books, for my advance reader's copy for review.
February 21, 2025
While trying to convey my thoughts about the novel ‘Marguerite by the Lake’, I was compelled to consider any biases I may be harboring. Was there some reason that I found all of the characters unpleasant, to put it kindly. I certainly had read stories prior to this one where there were downright terrible, despicable or morally reprehensible people. This was the first time in memory in which I had found myself not liking and definitely not rooting for the entire cast of characters.
Perhaps I was intolerant toward the vulgar rich. Maybe I am unable to stomach someone with inner thoughts that more often than not begin with ‘I need’ or ‘I deserve’. Perhaps my empathy for someone who has been in close proximity to a traumatic and tragic death evaporates when in I don’t agree with their self-serving actions, questionable choices, and overall moral direction.
Trying to put all this aside, I then attempted to focus on the writing and storytelling. I found the events, follow-ups, tension points, and even a few twists to be interesting. Conversations with the characters, though, caused the story’s pace to stumble. A heated argument sometimes ended abruptly with a sense that the scene was simply abandoned. Other times, an intense interaction would stop seemingly in mid-thought and we’d be on to ‘the next morning…’
Potential for intrigue and suspense but I couldn’t find the meat through all the gristle.
Perhaps I was intolerant toward the vulgar rich. Maybe I am unable to stomach someone with inner thoughts that more often than not begin with ‘I need’ or ‘I deserve’. Perhaps my empathy for someone who has been in close proximity to a traumatic and tragic death evaporates when in I don’t agree with their self-serving actions, questionable choices, and overall moral direction.
Trying to put all this aside, I then attempted to focus on the writing and storytelling. I found the events, follow-ups, tension points, and even a few twists to be interesting. Conversations with the characters, though, caused the story’s pace to stumble. A heated argument sometimes ended abruptly with a sense that the scene was simply abandoned. Other times, an intense interaction would stop seemingly in mid-thought and we’d be on to ‘the next morning…’
Potential for intrigue and suspense but I couldn’t find the meat through all the gristle.
February 15, 2025
Imagine coveting Martha Stewart’s life, home, garden, social media, talent AND husband, and being able to just step into that lifestyle after Martha suddenly dies. That becomes somewhat true for Phoenix, a thirty-something landscape architect who was the gardening talent behind the famous Marguerite Gray’s Instagram photos.
Phoenix Sullivan is just another employee around the Gray’s fabulous Rosecliff estate until she pushes Marguerite’s unhappy husband Geoffrey out of the way when a giant spruce fell during the storm that spoiled a party for Marguerite’s new book. Both Grays suddenly notice Phoenix: Geoffrey is apparently taken with her and craves a relationship; Marguerite becomes cold and seemingly suspicious.
Marguerite is also well-known for a painting done of her in her youth — “Marguerite by the Lake.” I was definitely reminded of “Christina’s World” by Andrew Wyeth (a portrait that hides the secret that Christina is actually paralyzed and crawling towards the farmhouse). This painting portrays Marguerite on a cliff overlooking the lake below — and, sure enough, Marguerite is found dead, having fallen from her frozen-in-time perch.
The book’s POV is Phoenix’s, who finds herself in a “Rebecca” type situation after Marguerite’s suspicious death and Geoffrey’s quick invitation to have Phoenix move into Rosecliff. Phoenix is always trying to avoid that ominous portrait as well as the gossipy staff. She quickly becomes Mrs. deWinter with far less respect. The middle part of the book, although it’s all about mounting dread, does drag and it gets increasingly harder to sympathize with our girl gardener. Phoenix feels haunted and is suspicious of everyone from the Gray’s adult daughter, a housekeeper, the neighbor across the lake, and eventually Geoffrey. I was engrossed until the end, but I’m undecided about the ending. Unfortunately, this morphed into a story where I disliked every character. 3.5 stars
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): NO Geoffrey’s pale blue eyes and Marguerite’s large brown eyes are oft mentioned, but no green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): YES Honestly, this book with a plot involving gardening needs a gardener or horticulturalist to proofread it. There is some knowledgeable stuff (like blue hydrangeas need acidic soil and watering deeply for winter), but there are other misses:
Even though Martha Stewart suggested it once, there is no published scientific research that shows that epsom salts benefit roses. Epsom salts do not contain any of the three major components of most fertilizers—nitrogen, phosphorus or potassium—and therefore would not be a complete fertilizer for roses. It’s an old wives’ tale like coffee grounds.
PJM rhododendrons prefer partial shade over full sun.
Phoenix cuts her finger while pruning roses — who prunes roses without heavy leather gauntlet gloves?
Japanese maples along a sunny driveway? Bad idea for trees that burn easily in the sun.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press/ Minotaur and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
Phoenix Sullivan is just another employee around the Gray’s fabulous Rosecliff estate until she pushes Marguerite’s unhappy husband Geoffrey out of the way when a giant spruce fell during the storm that spoiled a party for Marguerite’s new book. Both Grays suddenly notice Phoenix: Geoffrey is apparently taken with her and craves a relationship; Marguerite becomes cold and seemingly suspicious.
Marguerite is also well-known for a painting done of her in her youth — “Marguerite by the Lake.” I was definitely reminded of “Christina’s World” by Andrew Wyeth (a portrait that hides the secret that Christina is actually paralyzed and crawling towards the farmhouse). This painting portrays Marguerite on a cliff overlooking the lake below — and, sure enough, Marguerite is found dead, having fallen from her frozen-in-time perch.
The book’s POV is Phoenix’s, who finds herself in a “Rebecca” type situation after Marguerite’s suspicious death and Geoffrey’s quick invitation to have Phoenix move into Rosecliff. Phoenix is always trying to avoid that ominous portrait as well as the gossipy staff. She quickly becomes Mrs. deWinter with far less respect. The middle part of the book, although it’s all about mounting dread, does drag and it gets increasingly harder to sympathize with our girl gardener. Phoenix feels haunted and is suspicious of everyone from the Gray’s adult daughter, a housekeeper, the neighbor across the lake, and eventually Geoffrey. I was engrossed until the end, but I’m undecided about the ending. Unfortunately, this morphed into a story where I disliked every character. 3.5 stars
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): NO Geoffrey’s pale blue eyes and Marguerite’s large brown eyes are oft mentioned, but no green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): YES Honestly, this book with a plot involving gardening needs a gardener or horticulturalist to proofread it. There is some knowledgeable stuff (like blue hydrangeas need acidic soil and watering deeply for winter), but there are other misses:
Even though Martha Stewart suggested it once, there is no published scientific research that shows that epsom salts benefit roses. Epsom salts do not contain any of the three major components of most fertilizers—nitrogen, phosphorus or potassium—and therefore would not be a complete fertilizer for roses. It’s an old wives’ tale like coffee grounds.
PJM rhododendrons prefer partial shade over full sun.
Phoenix cuts her finger while pruning roses — who prunes roses without heavy leather gauntlet gloves?
Japanese maples along a sunny driveway? Bad idea for trees that burn easily in the sun.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press/ Minotaur and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
February 27, 2025
This is a fascinating look at wealth and privilege when landscape architect Phoenix saves Geoffrey from a falling tree on his property and of course he is immediately smitten. But then tragedy strikes as his wife Marguerite is permanently removed from the picture. What follows is not predictable but vicariously enjoyable as we watch the cat-and-mouse dance unfold!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
May 23, 2025
Thank you @booksparks #SRC2025, @marydixiecarter, and @minotaur_books for the #gifted copy.
"𝑴𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒇𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆. 𝑰 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒖𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒎𝒑 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒎𝒆. 𝑰𝒕'𝒔 𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒑. 𝑨𝒏𝒚 𝒇𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒓𝒊𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆."
𝘼𝙙𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙏𝘽𝙍 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚...
🌹secrets, secrets, and more secrets
🖌️unlikeable characters
🌹fast-paced suspense
🖌️lifestyle influencers
Welcome to the famed Rosecliff estate, where everyone holds a dark secret. This story gripped me from the very first page to the last. I’m a sucker for characters who slowly unravel, and Phoenix-the FMC-does just that. Her descent into paranoia exposes a deep, unsettling obsession with Rosecliff and those who live within the gardens. I don't think there was a single character I liked in this story, but I loved every second of it!
The writing style was easy to consume and the line spacing throughout made it feel like you were flying through the story. Although the story is around 350 pages, it could easily be read in one sitting.
This is the perfect read for all suspense, mystery, and thriller fans.
"𝑴𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒇𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆. 𝑰 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒖𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒎𝒑 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒎𝒆. 𝑰𝒕'𝒔 𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒑. 𝑨𝒏𝒚 𝒇𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒓𝒊𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆."
𝘼𝙙𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙏𝘽𝙍 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚...
🌹secrets, secrets, and more secrets
🖌️unlikeable characters
🌹fast-paced suspense
🖌️lifestyle influencers
Welcome to the famed Rosecliff estate, where everyone holds a dark secret. This story gripped me from the very first page to the last. I’m a sucker for characters who slowly unravel, and Phoenix-the FMC-does just that. Her descent into paranoia exposes a deep, unsettling obsession with Rosecliff and those who live within the gardens. I don't think there was a single character I liked in this story, but I loved every second of it!
The writing style was easy to consume and the line spacing throughout made it feel like you were flying through the story. Although the story is around 350 pages, it could easily be read in one sitting.
This is the perfect read for all suspense, mystery, and thriller fans.
June 30, 2025
Maybe the worst boo I have ever read. Dark and very unsurprising.
May 13, 2025
MARGUERITE BY THE LAKE was a really good story! I liked how the book started off with a fast pace. I also enjoyed the gardening aspect and how it intertwined with the family. It had some paranormal aspects as well, but nothing crazy or completely unbelievable. It was definitely different from the author's first book and I can say I think her books just keep getting better. I hope she writes some more!
Many thanks to NetGalley Macmillan Audio and St. Martin's Press for my gifted copies.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
Many thanks to NetGalley Macmillan Audio and St. Martin's Press for my gifted copies.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
October 22, 2025
Taut and chilling psychological suspense with shades of Gothic fiction, MARGUERITE BY THE LAKE tells a story of envy, desire, the search for a sense of belonging, and the power women wield over each other’s lives. Both protagonist Phoenix and her employer-turned-obsession Marguerite are unforgettable, as is this book’s setting: a manor at the edge of a precarious cliff, managed by a lifestyle icon who refuses to give it up even in death. I was enthralled, and will be thinking about the stunning ending for a long time.
May 7, 2025
I really did not like this book.
The characters were unlikable, the pacing was way too slow and the plot was just below par for sure. Nothing seemed to happen, and when it did, it felt more like your friend was telling you a story of something that happened than being immersed in the story and being a part of it. The only real descriptions seemed to be around the gardening.
**Thank you NetGalley and St Martin's Press for sending this book for review. All opinions are my own.**
The characters were unlikable, the pacing was way too slow and the plot was just below par for sure. Nothing seemed to happen, and when it did, it felt more like your friend was telling you a story of something that happened than being immersed in the story and being a part of it. The only real descriptions seemed to be around the gardening.
**Thank you NetGalley and St Martin's Press for sending this book for review. All opinions are my own.**
Displaying 1 - 30 of 364 reviews