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The Surf House
WISH YOU WERE HERE? THINK AGAIN…
High on the wave-pounded cliffs, far from the bustling souks of Marrakech, sits The Surf House.
A hidden gem on Morocco’s shores, the house is a sanctuary for the surfers, travellers and dreamers who wash in.
But the idyll is built on something rotten.
And when Bea arrives, relieved to find refuge after a dangerous encounter in a Marrakech alleyway, she soon gets caught in the swell of a deep, dark mystery.
Because another young woman went missing one year ago – and the last place she was sighted was The Surf House.
High on the wave-pounded cliffs, far from the bustling souks of Marrakech, sits The Surf House.
A hidden gem on Morocco’s shores, the house is a sanctuary for the surfers, travellers and dreamers who wash in.
But the idyll is built on something rotten.
And when Bea arrives, relieved to find refuge after a dangerous encounter in a Marrakech alleyway, she soon gets caught in the swell of a deep, dark mystery.
Because another young woman went missing one year ago – and the last place she was sighted was The Surf House.
391 pages, Hardcover
First published February 27, 2025
650 people are currently reading
13775 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Clarke
22 books3,139 followersSunday Times bestseller Lucy Clarke is the author of nine destination thrillers. They include Waterstones Thriller of the Month, The Castaways, Richard and Judy Book Club pick, One of the Girls, and international bestseller, The Hike - and her most recent novel, The Surf House. Lucy's novels have sold over a million copies in the UK alone and are published in more than 25 territories worldwide.
Lucy's thriller, No Escape has been released as a major international show for Paramount+. The Castaways has also been adapted into a five-part thriller for Paramount+ and stars BAFTA award-winner Sheridan Smith. Three further novels by Lucy are currently in development for TV/film.
When Lucy isn't away on research trips (the real reason she loves being an author!), she can be found writing from a beach hut on the south coast of England. She lives with her husband and their two children.
Say hello:
Instagram @lucyclarke_author
Facebook: lucyclarkeauthor
Lucy's thriller, No Escape has been released as a major international show for Paramount+. The Castaways has also been adapted into a five-part thriller for Paramount+ and stars BAFTA award-winner Sheridan Smith. Three further novels by Lucy are currently in development for TV/film.
When Lucy isn't away on research trips (the real reason she loves being an author!), she can be found writing from a beach hut on the south coast of England. She lives with her husband and their two children.
Say hello:
Instagram @lucyclarke_author
Facebook: lucyclarkeauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 841 reviews
July 6, 2025
Equal parts atmospheric, suspenseful, and thought-provoking, The Surf House was both a love letter to surfing and a trip into deep, dark foreboding. Transporting me into the colorful, noisy alleys of the medina and the crashing waves of the surf, Clarke’s newest novel was the definition of a destination thriller in all of its well-written glory. You see, I could feel the water washing over my skin just as the sun beat down on my head. Evocative and mesmerizing, there’s no doubt that this author has a special way with words. Then again, that’s not to say that her ability to craft compelling character studies in each and every persona didn’t match that every step of the way. Well-developed and deep, they each had me in the palm of their hands from beginning to end.
As for the plot of this unputdownable stunner, I was blown away by the plotting as it spun tales within tales. Told via dual timelines and dual POVs, the underlying mystery behind this motley crew kept me firmly on the edge of my seat. After all, it was quite apparent that something had gone down before Bea arrived. Something dark and unsettling that made me want to fly through the pages. Forcing myself to take it one chapter at a time, I inhaled each one of these characters’ backstories as their stories unfolded with unbelievable ease. The Queen of Misdirection with a capital M, Clarke handed out plenty of blind turns that got me but good. And while I might’ve guessed one or two, there were still plenty that had me gasping out loud.
All said and done, from the exotic locale to the complex group dynamics, I was completely blown away by this slow-boiling psychological thriller. With short chapters, (mostly) unguessable truths, and a mystery that felt as realistic as it did grim, this book merely cemented Lucy Clarke as one of my all-time favorite authors. After all, how many writers could interweave an almost women’s lit feel into a pulse-pounding thriller? Visceral and tense yet also poignant and moving, I could put myself into these characters’ shoes with a snap of my fingers. So if you’re looking for a novel to thrill and delight as well as make you think long and hard, grab this one now as it fits that bill to a T. Plus, I guarantee you’ll never guess who the bad guy really is. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
High on the cliffs of Morocco, far from the city lights and the souks, stands The Surf House: a sanctuary for travelers chasing sunshine and waves. But the idyll hides a dark mystery. And when Bea washes in, seeking refuge after a dangerous encounter in Marrakesh, she soon gets caught in the current. A woman her age—who stayed in the same area, walked the same beaches, met the same guests—disappeared one year earlier, vanishing without trace. Somewhere inside The Surf House lies the truth—but there’ll be a price for uncovering it.
Thank you to Lucy Clarke, Atlantic Monthly Press, and NetGalley for my digital and physical copies. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 10, 2025
Content warning: knife violence, attempted sexual assault, blackmail, infidelity, drowning, sex, suicide, mention of: missing person, gun violence
As for the plot of this unputdownable stunner, I was blown away by the plotting as it spun tales within tales. Told via dual timelines and dual POVs, the underlying mystery behind this motley crew kept me firmly on the edge of my seat. After all, it was quite apparent that something had gone down before Bea arrived. Something dark and unsettling that made me want to fly through the pages. Forcing myself to take it one chapter at a time, I inhaled each one of these characters’ backstories as their stories unfolded with unbelievable ease. The Queen of Misdirection with a capital M, Clarke handed out plenty of blind turns that got me but good. And while I might’ve guessed one or two, there were still plenty that had me gasping out loud.
All said and done, from the exotic locale to the complex group dynamics, I was completely blown away by this slow-boiling psychological thriller. With short chapters, (mostly) unguessable truths, and a mystery that felt as realistic as it did grim, this book merely cemented Lucy Clarke as one of my all-time favorite authors. After all, how many writers could interweave an almost women’s lit feel into a pulse-pounding thriller? Visceral and tense yet also poignant and moving, I could put myself into these characters’ shoes with a snap of my fingers. So if you’re looking for a novel to thrill and delight as well as make you think long and hard, grab this one now as it fits that bill to a T. Plus, I guarantee you’ll never guess who the bad guy really is. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
High on the cliffs of Morocco, far from the city lights and the souks, stands The Surf House: a sanctuary for travelers chasing sunshine and waves. But the idyll hides a dark mystery. And when Bea washes in, seeking refuge after a dangerous encounter in Marrakesh, she soon gets caught in the current. A woman her age—who stayed in the same area, walked the same beaches, met the same guests—disappeared one year earlier, vanishing without trace. Somewhere inside The Surf House lies the truth—but there’ll be a price for uncovering it.
Thank you to Lucy Clarke, Atlantic Monthly Press, and NetGalley for my digital and physical copies. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 10, 2025
Content warning: knife violence, attempted sexual assault, blackmail, infidelity, drowning, sex, suicide, mention of: missing person, gun violence
June 2, 2025
Very atmospheric.
Bea is working as a model, and on a shoot in Marrkech, Morocco she has had enough and walks away from the shoot, and decides she is finished with modeling. Wandering around through the markets, she is cornered by some men who want to rob her. Bystander Marnie jumps in to help, but in the process Bea stabs one of the men in the neck. Marnie invites Bea back to the guest house she and her partner run called The Surf House. There, she meets a variety of other guests and long term residents, one of whom is a man who claims his sister Savannah disappeared there a year ago. Bea volunteers to help him try to find out what happened to Savannah, but no one wants to part with secrets.
I immediately felt immersed in the surf culture of Morocco. The setting was incredibly well described and I could picture every part of the experience. I really liked the characters, and their motivations and secrets unfolded steadily as the novel progressed. I was definitely surprised by some of the twists, and yet a couple of others I called early on. Overall it was a successful suspense thriller because it did throw some curve balls I wasn't expecting.
It's not a perfect book, I thought Bea was way too trusting and way too naïve about life for being a world traveling model. The fact that she went just wandering through the market, not paying attention to her surroundings, seemed incredibly unrealistic. However the book needed that setup, so I had to set it aside. I did like the bits about learning how to live in her non-model body, learning how to feed herself properly, etc. which helped to give the story more depth and interest.
If you want a well written, surprising, atmospheric thriller, this is a fantastic choice.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Bea is working as a model, and on a shoot in Marrkech, Morocco she has had enough and walks away from the shoot, and decides she is finished with modeling. Wandering around through the markets, she is cornered by some men who want to rob her. Bystander Marnie jumps in to help, but in the process Bea stabs one of the men in the neck. Marnie invites Bea back to the guest house she and her partner run called The Surf House. There, she meets a variety of other guests and long term residents, one of whom is a man who claims his sister Savannah disappeared there a year ago. Bea volunteers to help him try to find out what happened to Savannah, but no one wants to part with secrets.
I immediately felt immersed in the surf culture of Morocco. The setting was incredibly well described and I could picture every part of the experience. I really liked the characters, and their motivations and secrets unfolded steadily as the novel progressed. I was definitely surprised by some of the twists, and yet a couple of others I called early on. Overall it was a successful suspense thriller because it did throw some curve balls I wasn't expecting.
It's not a perfect book, I thought Bea was way too trusting and way too naïve about life for being a world traveling model. The fact that she went just wandering through the market, not paying attention to her surroundings, seemed incredibly unrealistic. However the book needed that setup, so I had to set it aside. I did like the bits about learning how to live in her non-model body, learning how to feed herself properly, etc. which helped to give the story more depth and interest.
If you want a well written, surprising, atmospheric thriller, this is a fantastic choice.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
December 15, 2024
3.5 rounded up
Bea walks off her modelling assignment in Marrakesh as she’s had enough. Foolishly as it turns out, she wanders around the town and finds herself in a blind alley caught in a horrifying incident which Marnie bravely rescues her from and takes her to the remote Surf House. Will she be safe there from the consequences of what transpires in the alley?
First of all, the Moroccan setting is fabulous and it’s so well described that you feel as if you’re there. The Surf House, the cliff top, the sun, the beach, the waves and of course the surfing and I can understand how that becomes a passion. The unpredictability of the waves and those who seek the thrill of the big ones mirrors what is happening on dry land.
The plot does keep me interested as there are many things going on at the Surf House with plenty of tension between characters, some really fool you and there are things to puzzle over. It becomes apparent that Bea has stepped into a nest of vipers or maybe that should be caught up in a dangerous riptide.
I like Bea she’s a good character and she doesn’t deserve what happens to her, but equally she’s a bit naive and too trusting. As the situation becomes fraught with danger the twists keep coming. Some are good but some are easy to figure out. I’m not 100% convinced by the ending but it’s certainly dramatic and exciting.
Overall, this is an entertaining fast paced read and a rollercoaster atmospheric thriller.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HarperCollins, HarperFiction for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Bea walks off her modelling assignment in Marrakesh as she’s had enough. Foolishly as it turns out, she wanders around the town and finds herself in a blind alley caught in a horrifying incident which Marnie bravely rescues her from and takes her to the remote Surf House. Will she be safe there from the consequences of what transpires in the alley?
First of all, the Moroccan setting is fabulous and it’s so well described that you feel as if you’re there. The Surf House, the cliff top, the sun, the beach, the waves and of course the surfing and I can understand how that becomes a passion. The unpredictability of the waves and those who seek the thrill of the big ones mirrors what is happening on dry land.
The plot does keep me interested as there are many things going on at the Surf House with plenty of tension between characters, some really fool you and there are things to puzzle over. It becomes apparent that Bea has stepped into a nest of vipers or maybe that should be caught up in a dangerous riptide.
I like Bea she’s a good character and she doesn’t deserve what happens to her, but equally she’s a bit naive and too trusting. As the situation becomes fraught with danger the twists keep coming. Some are good but some are easy to figure out. I’m not 100% convinced by the ending but it’s certainly dramatic and exciting.
Overall, this is an entertaining fast paced read and a rollercoaster atmospheric thriller.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HarperCollins, HarperFiction for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
September 8, 2025
Ich wusste, dass ich ein weiteres Buch von Lucy Clarke lesen muss, nachdem "One of the Girls" überraschend zum Highlight wurde - dort habe ich die Female Rage-Momente geliebt, das Buch konnte mich fesseln und mit den Wendungen schockieren, sodass am Ende das Gefühl von "war das genial!!" blieb. "The Surf House" war ähnlich gut umgesetzt: Wir haben einen faszinierenden Cast an Figuren, die eigene Antriebe verfolgen und zum Teil lange undurchschaubar bleiben, außerdem ein atmosphärisches, sommerliches Setting und den angenehmen Schreibstil, der ins Geschehen reinzieht. All das trug dazu bei, dass ich das Buch gerne gelesen habe. Das subjektive Leseerlebnis bei Thrillern ist allerdings (mehr als in anderen Genres) von den finalen Auflösungen abhängig, die ich im Fall von "The Surf House" nahezu alle genau so vorhergesehen habe. Auch wenn ich mich gefreut habe, bei einigen Figuren richtig gelegen zu haben, blieb dementsprechend der Oha-Effekt aus. Im Umkehrschluss war es mir persönlich (für einen Thriller) etwas zu naheliegend - dieses Empfinden ist aber natürlich super individuell. Trotzdem ein gutes Buch, das mich unterhalten hat. Ich möchte mehr von der Autorin lesen!
December 29, 2024
What I love about Lucy Clarke books is that we get to travel the world through the pages. This time we are in Morocco, with Bea and the guests at the Surf House. I really felt that I was there in the markets of Marrakech and on the coast with the surfers. Such beautiful writing had me right there with the characters, a lovely escape.
This was a cast of so many different characters, from all walks of life. I loved that there was a mix here, some more likeable than others. This is a book that was hard to put down, there is always something happening. From corruption to missing travellers, there is always tension and mystery. Mainly told from Bea’s perspective, we learn what has happened at the Surf House a year earlier when Savannah was there, and now with Bea asking questions.
You might think you have it all worked out, but if you have read this author before, you will know that she loves to misdirect you. The ending was shocking and very addictive to read. The perfect summer read, I could not get enough.
Thank you so so much to Harper Collins UK on NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on February 27th, this is a must read for thriller lovers.
This was a cast of so many different characters, from all walks of life. I loved that there was a mix here, some more likeable than others. This is a book that was hard to put down, there is always something happening. From corruption to missing travellers, there is always tension and mystery. Mainly told from Bea’s perspective, we learn what has happened at the Surf House a year earlier when Savannah was there, and now with Bea asking questions.
You might think you have it all worked out, but if you have read this author before, you will know that she loves to misdirect you. The ending was shocking and very addictive to read. The perfect summer read, I could not get enough.
Thank you so so much to Harper Collins UK on NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on February 27th, this is a must read for thriller lovers.
May 8, 2025
This book is absolutely amazing! I couldn't put it down and just finished reading it. I'm still completely baffled by how complex events were tied together by a single thread.
Lucy Clarke has written a gripping story that takes place primarily in a Moroccan village.
Complex, multifaceted characters and a sympathetic protagonist named Bea are deeply connected:
They are of European and American descent and are passionate surfers, impatiently chasing the next perfect wave. Some of them run an authentic surf house and spend their evenings on the beach with their guests and friends.
Behind all this facade, however, these friends are mainly connected by murder (!).
"The Surf House" is a multifaceted psychological thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Clarke skillfully incorporates twists and turns into short chapters and keeps her readers guessing until the last line.
"Sometimes you have to lie to yourself in order to be able to tolerate yourself."
You'll never guess who the murderer is!! :))
Enjoy reading. A clear recommendation.
Omg and the detail about „We were liars“.. guys guys!! You have to read this thriller!
Many thanks to NetGalley for this wonderful ARC.
Lucy Clarke has written a gripping story that takes place primarily in a Moroccan village.
Complex, multifaceted characters and a sympathetic protagonist named Bea are deeply connected:
They are of European and American descent and are passionate surfers, impatiently chasing the next perfect wave. Some of them run an authentic surf house and spend their evenings on the beach with their guests and friends.
Behind all this facade, however, these friends are mainly connected by murder (!).
"The Surf House" is a multifaceted psychological thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Clarke skillfully incorporates twists and turns into short chapters and keeps her readers guessing until the last line.
"Sometimes you have to lie to yourself in order to be able to tolerate yourself."
You'll never guess who the murderer is!! :))
Enjoy reading. A clear recommendation.
Omg and the detail about „We were liars“.. guys guys!! You have to read this thriller!
Many thanks to NetGalley for this wonderful ARC.
March 27, 2025
Wow, I think I've found my book of the year and it's only January. I've loved every book I've read by Lucy Clarke and this was no exception. The Surf House may be her best yet.
As with all Lucy Clarke's destination thrillers there's a different location - this one is set initially in Marrakech, Morocco and then a surfing area where "The Surf House is based. they are always written so well you can see and feel like you are in the location
Bea is fed up with her modelling assignment and walks off set, not really knowing where she's going and ends up getting mugged in an alleyway. Luckily Marnie steps in to assist and together they manage to escape but not before killing her attacker who is then trying to strangle Marnie. Marnie offers her a place to stay while she gets herself back on her feet at the Surf house, where she helps out running the place to earn her keep and finds she loves the ideal setting. As usual everything is not quite as ideal as it seems when soon after arriving she finds there was a girl Savannah, similar to her own age, who disappeared a year ago. Bea does all she can to find out what happened and where she went and is caught up in corruption and intrigue.
A fabulous twisty book and just when you think you got it all worked out - you haven't!! Absolutely loved this book and my only disappointment was finding I was on the last page with no more left to read. A great destination thriller that takes you on the ride of a lifetime!!
A big thanks to HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and Netgalley for the advance copy. It was a pleasure to read and review this exciting twisty page turner.
As with all Lucy Clarke's destination thrillers there's a different location - this one is set initially in Marrakech, Morocco and then a surfing area where "The Surf House is based. they are always written so well you can see and feel like you are in the location
Bea is fed up with her modelling assignment and walks off set, not really knowing where she's going and ends up getting mugged in an alleyway. Luckily Marnie steps in to assist and together they manage to escape but not before killing her attacker who is then trying to strangle Marnie. Marnie offers her a place to stay while she gets herself back on her feet at the Surf house, where she helps out running the place to earn her keep and finds she loves the ideal setting. As usual everything is not quite as ideal as it seems when soon after arriving she finds there was a girl Savannah, similar to her own age, who disappeared a year ago. Bea does all she can to find out what happened and where she went and is caught up in corruption and intrigue.
A fabulous twisty book and just when you think you got it all worked out - you haven't!! Absolutely loved this book and my only disappointment was finding I was on the last page with no more left to read. A great destination thriller that takes you on the ride of a lifetime!!
A big thanks to HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and Netgalley for the advance copy. It was a pleasure to read and review this exciting twisty page turner.
July 28, 2025
As we know Lucy Clarke is the Queen of destination thrillers. I love how she transports me to wherever she is writing about. I am a big fan of short chapters, and this one has them so thank you. This one has the isolated surf location of Morrocco. I love the beach, so I really connected with this book. In this book we have themes of blackmail, deception and betrayal. I connected to the character of Bea as I felt she was the only one I could trust. You will be questioning all the characters and their motives. We get to know the "why" and " who" in the last 1/4 of the book. The intensity of it all had my inner dialogue going. Great ending. I absolutely love this cover too.
March 5, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
April 19, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins for the digital arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
A destination thriller filled with danger, mystery, blackmail, and secrets. Bea, an unhappy model, is attacked in an alleyway and taken to the Surf House. She quickly forms a friendship with the owner Marnie. Then a new visitor arrives. Seth is looking for his sister Savannah who has been missing for the last year. Her last known location before she went off the grid was the Surf House. Seth asks Bea to help him gather information on Savannah, but no one wants to talk about Savannah’s time there.
I thought I had it all figured out. But that last twist got me.
A destination thriller filled with danger, mystery, blackmail, and secrets. Bea, an unhappy model, is attacked in an alleyway and taken to the Surf House. She quickly forms a friendship with the owner Marnie. Then a new visitor arrives. Seth is looking for his sister Savannah who has been missing for the last year. Her last known location before she went off the grid was the Surf House. Seth asks Bea to help him gather information on Savannah, but no one wants to talk about Savannah’s time there.
I thought I had it all figured out. But that last twist got me.
February 25, 2025
2.5 stars
Despite Lucy Clarke being a hit or miss author for me, whenever she has a new release, I want to read it. Unfortunately this book was one of the misses.
Lets start with what I did like:
I did enjoy the setting of Morocco and it did play a big part of the story so I appreciated that.
This has short chapters, which gets a big thumbs up for me.
I also thought the pacing was good, and despite this being over 400 pages long, it didn't feel overlong.
Now onto the problems I had with it.
The main issue I had was connecting with the FMC Bea. I felt like we never knew who she was, as there was no backstory. It felt like we were just dropped into her life with no explanation as to how she got where she was.
All of the characters lacked depth and and I never once cared about them or the plot.
The mystery in this book also never sparked my interest.
There is also an element of a romantic subplot and I hated that. I never felt the connection between the characters and I have to admit it had me rolling my eyes.
None of the reveals were a surprise to me and it was obvious from the start what was going to happen.
The whole book just felt really flat and dull with a load of unlikeable boring characters.
I'm sorry to say but this ended up being a big disappointment.
Thanks to Harper Collins for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review
Despite Lucy Clarke being a hit or miss author for me, whenever she has a new release, I want to read it. Unfortunately this book was one of the misses.
Lets start with what I did like:
I did enjoy the setting of Morocco and it did play a big part of the story so I appreciated that.
This has short chapters, which gets a big thumbs up for me.
I also thought the pacing was good, and despite this being over 400 pages long, it didn't feel overlong.
Now onto the problems I had with it.
The main issue I had was connecting with the FMC Bea. I felt like we never knew who she was, as there was no backstory. It felt like we were just dropped into her life with no explanation as to how she got where she was.
All of the characters lacked depth and and I never once cared about them or the plot.
The mystery in this book also never sparked my interest.
There is also an element of a romantic subplot and I hated that. I never felt the connection between the characters and I have to admit it had me rolling my eyes.
None of the reveals were a surprise to me and it was obvious from the start what was going to happen.
The whole book just felt really flat and dull with a load of unlikeable boring characters.
I'm sorry to say but this ended up being a big disappointment.
Thanks to Harper Collins for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review
April 25, 2025
had so much potential in the beginning but alas became super boring after initial few chapters
July 11, 2025
3.5 Stars, rounded-up!!
Lucy Clarke has established herself as a destination thriller writer, and The Surf House was very much that! After reading this, I'm definitely going to think twice before I take off on vacation again, especially anywhere near the ocean!
After wrapping up a photoshoot in Morocco, Bea’s world takes a dark turn when she’s cornered in an alley by two men. The encounter turns horrifying, but a local woman named Marnie intervenes, helping her flee to safety. With no belongings and nowhere to go – her bag and money stolen – Bea accepts Marnie’s offer to stay at The Surf House, a bohemian, hostel-like refuge along the coast that caters to both drifters and long-term escapees. Among the guests is Seth, a quiet but intense man whose sister, Savannah, vanished after staying at The Surf House a year ago. Desperate for answers, he asks Bea for help. Despite her hesitation, Bea agrees – partly out of guilt, partly out of necessity. With no passport, no money and no way home, this may be her only chance to regain control of her life. But as she digs deeper into Savannah’s disappearance, Bea starts to suspect that The Surf House may be hiding more than just sun-kissed secrets! Will Bea solve this mystery before she is disappeared, herself?!
I really enjoyed the atmosphere and Moroccan setting of The Surf House - Lucy Clarke has a great way of pulling you into a setting. The characters and the story was compelling enough to keep me turning pages, but as someone who reads A LOT of thrillers, I found the plot highly predictable. I had a good sense of where it was going very early on (one major twist I actually called after the first chapter!), and the twists didn't pack quite the punch I was hoping for. It's one of those books that, while entertaining, doesn't quite deliver the tension or unpredictability seasoned readers might hope for. Despite that, I do believe many will enjoy this - if you're newer to the genre or in the mood for a breezy destination mystery, it's still a solid, enjoyable read.
Even though this particular story didn't fully land for me, I still appreciate Clarke's immersive storytelling and will absolutely continue exploring her escape-style novels!
Lucy Clarke has established herself as a destination thriller writer, and The Surf House was very much that! After reading this, I'm definitely going to think twice before I take off on vacation again, especially anywhere near the ocean!
After wrapping up a photoshoot in Morocco, Bea’s world takes a dark turn when she’s cornered in an alley by two men. The encounter turns horrifying, but a local woman named Marnie intervenes, helping her flee to safety. With no belongings and nowhere to go – her bag and money stolen – Bea accepts Marnie’s offer to stay at The Surf House, a bohemian, hostel-like refuge along the coast that caters to both drifters and long-term escapees. Among the guests is Seth, a quiet but intense man whose sister, Savannah, vanished after staying at The Surf House a year ago. Desperate for answers, he asks Bea for help. Despite her hesitation, Bea agrees – partly out of guilt, partly out of necessity. With no passport, no money and no way home, this may be her only chance to regain control of her life. But as she digs deeper into Savannah’s disappearance, Bea starts to suspect that The Surf House may be hiding more than just sun-kissed secrets! Will Bea solve this mystery before she is disappeared, herself?!
I really enjoyed the atmosphere and Moroccan setting of The Surf House - Lucy Clarke has a great way of pulling you into a setting. The characters and the story was compelling enough to keep me turning pages, but as someone who reads A LOT of thrillers, I found the plot highly predictable. I had a good sense of where it was going very early on (one major twist I actually called after the first chapter!), and the twists didn't pack quite the punch I was hoping for. It's one of those books that, while entertaining, doesn't quite deliver the tension or unpredictability seasoned readers might hope for. Despite that, I do believe many will enjoy this - if you're newer to the genre or in the mood for a breezy destination mystery, it's still a solid, enjoyable read.
Even though this particular story didn't fully land for me, I still appreciate Clarke's immersive storytelling and will absolutely continue exploring her escape-style novels!
May 30, 2025
3.5
I'm a bit torn about this thriller, hence the hedging so far as a rating is concerned.
The Surf House begins with Bea, a model, on a photoshoot in Morocco, finally deciding (mid-shoot) that she's had enough of being told what to do. But the next morning she wakes up not knowing exactly what she does want and as she wanders around Marrakesh she finds herself lost in the medina, being followed by two young men.
Thankfully she is rescued by Marnie, a woman who takes Bea in and gives her a job at The Surf House, the hostel she runs with her partner, Ped. At first Bea feels like this is where she should be but she soon learns that Savannah Hart, another young woman, had gone missing the year before. And as Bea learns more about the inhabitants of The Surf House, the more she wonders what has happened to Savannah and whether she is also in danger.
This is my first Lucy Clarke so I've nothing to compare it with. The Surf House clips along at a good rate, there's a bit too much love in the sand dunes for my liking (let's face it, that stuff gets everywhere) but if you can ignore the nascent romance it's a decent thriller that twists and turns without driving your brain cells potty trying to work out what is going on.
I guess because the thriller genre is not a true whodunnit then they're easier to work out but I was still a bit disappointed to get to the end without one last twist, since I'd worked out the plot around the halfway mark.
However, it is still worth a read. It would make a great summer beach read (again, mind the sand). It certainly kept my interest the majority of the time so I would recommend it as a light summer book.
Thankyou to Netgalley and HarperCollins for the advance review copy.
I'm a bit torn about this thriller, hence the hedging so far as a rating is concerned.
The Surf House begins with Bea, a model, on a photoshoot in Morocco, finally deciding (mid-shoot) that she's had enough of being told what to do. But the next morning she wakes up not knowing exactly what she does want and as she wanders around Marrakesh she finds herself lost in the medina, being followed by two young men.
Thankfully she is rescued by Marnie, a woman who takes Bea in and gives her a job at The Surf House, the hostel she runs with her partner, Ped. At first Bea feels like this is where she should be but she soon learns that Savannah Hart, another young woman, had gone missing the year before. And as Bea learns more about the inhabitants of The Surf House, the more she wonders what has happened to Savannah and whether she is also in danger.
This is my first Lucy Clarke so I've nothing to compare it with. The Surf House clips along at a good rate, there's a bit too much love in the sand dunes for my liking (let's face it, that stuff gets everywhere) but if you can ignore the nascent romance it's a decent thriller that twists and turns without driving your brain cells potty trying to work out what is going on.
I guess because the thriller genre is not a true whodunnit then they're easier to work out but I was still a bit disappointed to get to the end without one last twist, since I'd worked out the plot around the halfway mark.
However, it is still worth a read. It would make a great summer beach read (again, mind the sand). It certainly kept my interest the majority of the time so I would recommend it as a light summer book.
Thankyou to Netgalley and HarperCollins for the advance review copy.
June 9, 2025
Secrets, sand, and surf collide in "The Surf House" by Lucy Clarke—a sun-drenched thriller that lures you in with the promise of paradise but leaves you wanderlusting for survival. Sometimes when you come the most undone is when you are finally free.
Set high above Morocco’s glittering coast, "The Surf House" follows Bea, who seeks refuge in a remote clifftop escape after a near-death encounter in Marrakesh. But serenity is fleeting. As she settles into the rhythm of waves and whispers, she becomes entangled in the mystery of a woman who vanished from this very same haven a year prior. With its mix of oasis and danger, the story crests into a wave of lies and fallacies, forcing Bea to swim for her life in this sea of deceit. What is real or just a facade? And who can she trust?
This book completely hooked me with its undercurrent of escapism—I was ready to pack my bags and add another stamp to my passport. Clarke paints Morocco with such precision I could practically feel the grit of salt on my skin, the ocean wind in my hair, and the freedom that comes with being nowhere and no one. And obviously, I could feel the sunburn...I am a ginger after all. But I couldn't help but be drawn to this destination. And the characters of course! I loved how the characters—each nursing their own wounds—created community held together by shared exploration, soul-searching, and often times a shared grief. These characters find fellowship with each other and with this place, living firmly in the present.
But not so fast. Not all can be trusted and what do they really know about each other? On closer examination, this community is fragile and just takes one bad apple to rot the core. And we have some bad apples in this story. Clarke reminds us how we can create certain narratives in our minds based on limited information and how that can all crumble with one truth. And everyone keeps secrets for one reason or another but it's the ones that can hide them the best that are the ones to look out for. Hang on to your board because this one is a wild ride.
Side note—Salty the dog is an absolute star! Protect him at all costs.
"The Surf House" is more than a mystery—it’s an atmospheric and addictive escape that pulls you under in the best way. Don't forget to come up for air.
Thank you to Lucy Clarke, Grove Atlantic | Atlantic Monthly Press, & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my authentic review.
Set high above Morocco’s glittering coast, "The Surf House" follows Bea, who seeks refuge in a remote clifftop escape after a near-death encounter in Marrakesh. But serenity is fleeting. As she settles into the rhythm of waves and whispers, she becomes entangled in the mystery of a woman who vanished from this very same haven a year prior. With its mix of oasis and danger, the story crests into a wave of lies and fallacies, forcing Bea to swim for her life in this sea of deceit. What is real or just a facade? And who can she trust?
This book completely hooked me with its undercurrent of escapism—I was ready to pack my bags and add another stamp to my passport. Clarke paints Morocco with such precision I could practically feel the grit of salt on my skin, the ocean wind in my hair, and the freedom that comes with being nowhere and no one. And obviously, I could feel the sunburn...I am a ginger after all. But I couldn't help but be drawn to this destination. And the characters of course! I loved how the characters—each nursing their own wounds—created community held together by shared exploration, soul-searching, and often times a shared grief. These characters find fellowship with each other and with this place, living firmly in the present.
But not so fast. Not all can be trusted and what do they really know about each other? On closer examination, this community is fragile and just takes one bad apple to rot the core. And we have some bad apples in this story. Clarke reminds us how we can create certain narratives in our minds based on limited information and how that can all crumble with one truth. And everyone keeps secrets for one reason or another but it's the ones that can hide them the best that are the ones to look out for. Hang on to your board because this one is a wild ride.
Side note—Salty the dog is an absolute star! Protect him at all costs.
"The Surf House" is more than a mystery—it’s an atmospheric and addictive escape that pulls you under in the best way. Don't forget to come up for air.
Thank you to Lucy Clarke, Grove Atlantic | Atlantic Monthly Press, & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my authentic review.
July 21, 2025
My Quick Takes:
- 3/5 stars
- Language 🤐 strong
- Spice ❤️🔥 cracked/open-door, a few scenes
- Content 🤔 on page death, murder, suicide, attempted rape, infidelity
The twist saved this one, it truly was great. I had an inkling what was happening but there was much more at play than I thought. But, at the end of the day a mid read for me.
It had a bit too much “romance” and not enough thrill for my personal thriller reading preferences. It definitely leans more toward suspense than thriller. I really like the location and setting and plot, just not a fan of some of the themes included throughout.
- 3/5 stars
- Language 🤐 strong
- Spice ❤️🔥 cracked/open-door, a few scenes
- Content 🤔 on page death, murder, suicide, attempted rape, infidelity
The twist saved this one, it truly was great. I had an inkling what was happening but there was much more at play than I thought. But, at the end of the day a mid read for me.
It had a bit too much “romance” and not enough thrill for my personal thriller reading preferences. It definitely leans more toward suspense than thriller. I really like the location and setting and plot, just not a fan of some of the themes included throughout.
December 16, 2025
Bea is a model, trained since her childhood to hide her emotions and do the biding of others. But on a shoot in Morocco she breaks free without a plan and almost looses her life in the process. She is saved by Marnie and moves into her remote beachside guesthouse, working for her until she decides on her next move. But any future plans are halted when the case of a missing girl is brought to her attention and Bea finds much of herself in the lost girl from a year ago, seemingly walking similar footsteps to herself.
This is my fourth Lucy Clarke read and the fourth book of hers to achieve four stars, from me. I find her thrillers solidly written throughout and I become as addicted as discovering the many mysteries as I do getting to know the characters and adventuring along with them.
This was, I believe, my favourite book of hers (so far!) as, despite guessing one of the final reveals, it was such a twisted read and I loved and loathed everyone at one juncture or another. Bea was an incredible main character and I would love to chance to revisit her in another of Clarke's books as I see potential for a series here, akin to (but not plot-wise!) The Housemaid.
This is my fourth Lucy Clarke read and the fourth book of hers to achieve four stars, from me. I find her thrillers solidly written throughout and I become as addicted as discovering the many mysteries as I do getting to know the characters and adventuring along with them.
This was, I believe, my favourite book of hers (so far!) as, despite guessing one of the final reveals, it was such a twisted read and I loved and loathed everyone at one juncture or another. Bea was an incredible main character and I would love to chance to revisit her in another of Clarke's books as I see potential for a series here, akin to (but not plot-wise!) The Housemaid.
April 2, 2025
3.25 / 5.0
This book felt super long winded, I was ecstatic to get my hands on a new Lucy Clarke book, thinking this would be the book that would be 5 stars, complete banger. On the supermarket shelves the book was top 10. After reading this book, it felt boring, tiring and slow for my liking. I found the twist at the end to be standard ‘surprise’ moment but it only added more dullness to the book. It’s a very slow progressing book, there’s not much development it’s a simple plot but it was a tad too boring for my liking. I thought this book would be gripping / thrilling but after 2 days I literally just said ‘ let’s just sit down and finish this book and get it out the way’.
Bea, a young model out in Morocco on a photo shoots quits after one day. She leaves her hotel following her gut when she is saved by another women Marnie who helps her avoid a situation that risks Bea’s life. With her bag stolen, she joined Marnie who owns ‘the surf house’ thinking it’s a good place to restart. But someone enters the surf house to be the brother of a missing traveller who stayed at the surf house. As Bea brings to explore further, she learns more about the missing traveller and it’s not all it seems…
Overall, it’s a slow moving book, the plot is slow, the development is slow and the twist at the end didn’t have the ‘surprise factor’. I think it’s an overhyped book that fails to live to its high reviews unfortunately!
This book felt super long winded, I was ecstatic to get my hands on a new Lucy Clarke book, thinking this would be the book that would be 5 stars, complete banger. On the supermarket shelves the book was top 10. After reading this book, it felt boring, tiring and slow for my liking. I found the twist at the end to be standard ‘surprise’ moment but it only added more dullness to the book. It’s a very slow progressing book, there’s not much development it’s a simple plot but it was a tad too boring for my liking. I thought this book would be gripping / thrilling but after 2 days I literally just said ‘ let’s just sit down and finish this book and get it out the way’.
Bea, a young model out in Morocco on a photo shoots quits after one day. She leaves her hotel following her gut when she is saved by another women Marnie who helps her avoid a situation that risks Bea’s life. With her bag stolen, she joined Marnie who owns ‘the surf house’ thinking it’s a good place to restart. But someone enters the surf house to be the brother of a missing traveller who stayed at the surf house. As Bea brings to explore further, she learns more about the missing traveller and it’s not all it seems…
Overall, it’s a slow moving book, the plot is slow, the development is slow and the twist at the end didn’t have the ‘surprise factor’. I think it’s an overhyped book that fails to live to its high reviews unfortunately!
May 7, 2025
Ich bin ein sehr großer Fan von Lucy Clarke‘s Büchern. Auch „The Surf House“ hat mir richtig gut gefallen. Besonders überzeugt hat mich das Urlaubsfeeling, was bereits das Cover ausstrahlt.
Das Cover finde ich sehr hübsch. Es passt optisch zu den anderen zwei Büchern, die alle ähnlich aufgebaut sind. In den Büchern geht es immer um eine Freundesgruppe, die Geheimnisse voreinander haben.
In „The Surf House“ erlebt Protagonistin Bea mehrere schreckliche Ereignisse hintereinander und ist auf der Suche nach ihrer eigenen Identität. Der Schreibstil von Lucy Clarke hat mir sehr gut gefallen. Da ich bereits andere Bücher von ihr gelesen habe, wusste ich, dass ich ihre Erzählweise sehr mag. Ganz toll finde ich auch, ab und zu einen Einblick in die Gedanken der Nebencharaktere zu erhalten.
Die Charaktere finde ich authentisch umgesetzt. Bea ist freundlich, unsicher und naiv. Sie ist in einer Opferrolle, weshalb man schnell mit ihr mitfühlt. Bea hat oft ihre eigenen Bedürfnisse unterdrückt, um in ihrem Modeljob erfolgreich sein zu können. Marnie hingegen ist taff, selbstbewusst und insgesamt das komplette Gegenteil von Bea. Beide Charaktere haben sehr gut miteinander harmoniert. Marnie habe ich mir zu Beginn allerdings ganz anders vorgestellt, als sie im Laufe der Geschichte beschrieben wird. Die Nebencharaktere wurden interessant gestaltet, sodass man nicht wusste, wem Bea vertrauen kann. Außerdem hat Salty als Ruhepool für Bea ganz toll in die Geschichte gepasst.
Die Handlung hat mich zu Beginn direkt gefesselt. Ich konnte schnell mit Bea und Marnie mitfiebern. Nach einigen Seiten hatte ich allerdings das Gefühl, dass die Autorin ihren roten Faden verloren hat. Plötzlich dreht sich alles um Savannah‘s Verschwinden und wie von Zauberhand scheinen sich Bea‘s Probleme aufzulösen. Jedoch hat die Autorin geschickt eine Verbindung zwischen Bea und Savannah aufgebaut, die ich nicht erahnt habe. Leider verrät der Klappentext bereits sehr viel der Geschehnisse, die erst nach der Hälfte des Buches passieren. Daher wusste ich die ganze Zeit beim Lesen, was noch geschieht. Das Ende hat mich zwar überrascht, aber nicht komplett vom Hocker gerissen.
Zusammenfassend handelt es sich bei diesem Buch um einen seichten Thriller mit Urlaubsfeeling. „The Surf House“ hat mich sehr gut unterhalten, trotz kleinem Kritikpunkt bezüglich der Handlung.
Das Cover finde ich sehr hübsch. Es passt optisch zu den anderen zwei Büchern, die alle ähnlich aufgebaut sind. In den Büchern geht es immer um eine Freundesgruppe, die Geheimnisse voreinander haben.
In „The Surf House“ erlebt Protagonistin Bea mehrere schreckliche Ereignisse hintereinander und ist auf der Suche nach ihrer eigenen Identität. Der Schreibstil von Lucy Clarke hat mir sehr gut gefallen. Da ich bereits andere Bücher von ihr gelesen habe, wusste ich, dass ich ihre Erzählweise sehr mag. Ganz toll finde ich auch, ab und zu einen Einblick in die Gedanken der Nebencharaktere zu erhalten.
Die Charaktere finde ich authentisch umgesetzt. Bea ist freundlich, unsicher und naiv. Sie ist in einer Opferrolle, weshalb man schnell mit ihr mitfühlt. Bea hat oft ihre eigenen Bedürfnisse unterdrückt, um in ihrem Modeljob erfolgreich sein zu können. Marnie hingegen ist taff, selbstbewusst und insgesamt das komplette Gegenteil von Bea. Beide Charaktere haben sehr gut miteinander harmoniert. Marnie habe ich mir zu Beginn allerdings ganz anders vorgestellt, als sie im Laufe der Geschichte beschrieben wird. Die Nebencharaktere wurden interessant gestaltet, sodass man nicht wusste, wem Bea vertrauen kann. Außerdem hat Salty als Ruhepool für Bea ganz toll in die Geschichte gepasst.
Die Handlung hat mich zu Beginn direkt gefesselt. Ich konnte schnell mit Bea und Marnie mitfiebern. Nach einigen Seiten hatte ich allerdings das Gefühl, dass die Autorin ihren roten Faden verloren hat. Plötzlich dreht sich alles um Savannah‘s Verschwinden und wie von Zauberhand scheinen sich Bea‘s Probleme aufzulösen. Jedoch hat die Autorin geschickt eine Verbindung zwischen Bea und Savannah aufgebaut, die ich nicht erahnt habe. Leider verrät der Klappentext bereits sehr viel der Geschehnisse, die erst nach der Hälfte des Buches passieren. Daher wusste ich die ganze Zeit beim Lesen, was noch geschieht. Das Ende hat mich zwar überrascht, aber nicht komplett vom Hocker gerissen.
Zusammenfassend handelt es sich bei diesem Buch um einen seichten Thriller mit Urlaubsfeeling. „The Surf House“ hat mich sehr gut unterhalten, trotz kleinem Kritikpunkt bezüglich der Handlung.
August 14, 2025
3.5⭐️
Big thanks to NetGalley and Grove Atlantic for the ARC copy. This one is out now!!!
I loved the setting of this one, but unfortunately the pacing felt a bit uneven at times leaving me feeling a little disengaged. While the twists were satisfying, they didn't hit as hard as I expected. The relationships between characters were well-developed but could have used a bit more depth to make the emotional stakes feel more impactful.
Overall, his was a solid read for fans of suspense, but it didn’t quite reach the level of the author’s earlier works for me personally. It’s worth picking up if you enjoy a blend of mystery with a touch of coastal charm though!!
Big thanks to NetGalley and Grove Atlantic for the ARC copy. This one is out now!!!
I loved the setting of this one, but unfortunately the pacing felt a bit uneven at times leaving me feeling a little disengaged. While the twists were satisfying, they didn't hit as hard as I expected. The relationships between characters were well-developed but could have used a bit more depth to make the emotional stakes feel more impactful.
Overall, his was a solid read for fans of suspense, but it didn’t quite reach the level of the author’s earlier works for me personally. It’s worth picking up if you enjoy a blend of mystery with a touch of coastal charm though!!
July 24, 2025
I know post-pandemic especially, we are supposed to endorse that being able to leave your home and property is a desirable thing. But like…a very big part of me still believes it’s not! I’m like a Bartleby in this: I’d prefer not to!
This is why I love Lucy Clarke and why she has become an auto-buy thriller author for me. She writes these beautiful, vividly descriptive novels about women who go on these brave soul-seeking journeys to exotic and adventurous locales. And then everyone encountered in these travels is unhappy and untrustworthy and suspicious and has horrible secrets and it all goes to shit! I’m telling you: STAY HOME.
This book is another classic Lucy Clarke. It has all her hallmarks. Hotties in scenic, atmospheric surroundings? Check. Tendon-twisting, self-bettering, challenging feats of athleticism? Check. Frenemies galore at every angle, and nothing but? Check. Enough sensory detail that you could do a five-sense-grounding exercise right off the page that even your therapist would be proud of? Check.
THANK YOU again, Lucy, for your artful literary validation of my agoraphobic tendencies!
This is why I love Lucy Clarke and why she has become an auto-buy thriller author for me. She writes these beautiful, vividly descriptive novels about women who go on these brave soul-seeking journeys to exotic and adventurous locales. And then everyone encountered in these travels is unhappy and untrustworthy and suspicious and has horrible secrets and it all goes to shit! I’m telling you: STAY HOME.
This book is another classic Lucy Clarke. It has all her hallmarks. Hotties in scenic, atmospheric surroundings? Check. Tendon-twisting, self-bettering, challenging feats of athleticism? Check. Frenemies galore at every angle, and nothing but? Check. Enough sensory detail that you could do a five-sense-grounding exercise right off the page that even your therapist would be proud of? Check.
THANK YOU again, Lucy, for your artful literary validation of my agoraphobic tendencies!
February 11, 2025
Having just watched the TV adaptation of ‘The Castaways’ was keen to read this latest book by the author
It’s a kinda hard review as the story, the characters, the plot and ‘twists’ where all there and the setting in Morocco was beautifully written and having never been before the descriptions would encourage me to!
But there are many more thrilling thrillers that have read and for me it just missed that added ‘thing’ that is needed now to make it stand out in a very busy genre
But there was nothing bad about it and am wondering if it was partly that it just wasn’t ‘Castaways’ that as say was still in my mind and maybe expected something with that intensity and ever changing drama
A hard review as it was for me an ok read but pretty boring to write that 😎
Look forward to the authors next book
It’s a kinda hard review as the story, the characters, the plot and ‘twists’ where all there and the setting in Morocco was beautifully written and having never been before the descriptions would encourage me to!
But there are many more thrilling thrillers that have read and for me it just missed that added ‘thing’ that is needed now to make it stand out in a very busy genre
But there was nothing bad about it and am wondering if it was partly that it just wasn’t ‘Castaways’ that as say was still in my mind and maybe expected something with that intensity and ever changing drama
A hard review as it was for me an ok read but pretty boring to write that 😎
Look forward to the authors next book
March 1, 2025
This is the perfect thriller. It had everything going on. The scenic beach front hostel in Morocco as the setting was amazing.
I felt like I could not put this one down I needed to keep reading to see what was going to happen. Also the last 60 percent has several twists and turns. Once I thought I had it figured out it kept changing up on me.
I could not get enough of this book. I am going to buy all of this authors books now. Such a perfect 5 star for me.
If you like fast paced thrillers, multiple mysteries wrapped up in one story all in the back drop of a gorgeous destination and travel setting then this is absolutely for you.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I felt like I could not put this one down I needed to keep reading to see what was going to happen. Also the last 60 percent has several twists and turns. Once I thought I had it figured out it kept changing up on me.
I could not get enough of this book. I am going to buy all of this authors books now. Such a perfect 5 star for me.
If you like fast paced thrillers, multiple mysteries wrapped up in one story all in the back drop of a gorgeous destination and travel setting then this is absolutely for you.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2025
2 stars
If i'd use one word to describe this book it would be: predictable.
I was not a fan of Bea, the main character. A lot of things did not make sense to me, how people act (like the knife scene...my first instinct when attacked or see someone being attacked would not be to stuck a knife in someone's neck when i am a bystander).
Bea is not second guessing any of her new acquaintances. She is trusting them all to the point of believing that a blackmailer will stop if she pays that sum...What a shock when that doesn't happen.
For a pretty dragged and long book, there were too many scenes of sex that did not add anything to the story. It was another way to prolong what was already a dragged story.
If i'd use one word to describe this book it would be: predictable.
I was not a fan of Bea, the main character. A lot of things did not make sense to me, how people act (like the knife scene...my first instinct when attacked or see someone being attacked would not be to stuck a knife in someone's neck when i am a bystander).
Bea is not second guessing any of her new acquaintances. She is trusting them all to the point of believing that a blackmailer will stop if she pays that sum...What a shock when that doesn't happen.
For a pretty dragged and long book, there were too many scenes of sex that did not add anything to the story. It was another way to prolong what was already a dragged story.
March 28, 2025
A thriller mystery that's very enjoyable. Told from two points of view Bea and Savannah from a year ago who has gone missing. Bea is in Morocco, and the descriptions of the sea view and surf are wonderful. However, the characters are all about physical attributes rather than developing further, but that's the part I struggled with. Other than that, it's fab. It's easy to read, and I was transported to Mallah on the Moroccan coast. It's suspenseful as Bea begins to unravel Savannahs disappearance. Seth, Savanahs brother, arrives, wanting to find out what happened to his sister. No one wants to answer his questions, so Bea is involved, but the local group is shifty and appears to have something to hide. It's hard to write a review without revealing the ending, and the gradual unravelling is enthralling, making it a great read.
June 8, 2025
#ad much love for my finished copy @atlanticcrime #partner
Bea is in Morocco for a photo shoot. The weather is beautiful, the water refreshing. But Bea just doesn’t care to be a model anymore. She isn’t like these girls, this isn’t what she wants out of life. Deciding to leave and head back home to London Bea quits.
But as she leaves the hotel she has just checked out of she is mugged - forced to stab a man. But then Marnie appears at the perfect time and it’s a good thing because she owns and runs a guesthouse locally, the Surf House. One of the other robbers managed to run off with Bea’s bag which contains her passport and now Bea can’t fly home.
The Surf House by Lucy Clarke is an atmospheric thriller that keeps you glued to the pages, eager to find out where the story is going. Fully enjoyed this one! Lucy Clarke is one of my favs, she has this ability to craft the most amazing and horrendous thrillers. Always with a beautiful backdrop while her characters are put through hell.
I did find some of this story pretty boring which is why this is a 4 star read. But I still loved it.
This book was just as great as her other thrillers - my favs being THE BLUE - retitled NO ESCAPE, THE HIKE, & THE CASTAWAYS. Highly recommended this book and her other books too. I still need to read the other thrillers by her which I plan to do soon.
Bea is in Morocco for a photo shoot. The weather is beautiful, the water refreshing. But Bea just doesn’t care to be a model anymore. She isn’t like these girls, this isn’t what she wants out of life. Deciding to leave and head back home to London Bea quits.
But as she leaves the hotel she has just checked out of she is mugged - forced to stab a man. But then Marnie appears at the perfect time and it’s a good thing because she owns and runs a guesthouse locally, the Surf House. One of the other robbers managed to run off with Bea’s bag which contains her passport and now Bea can’t fly home.
The Surf House by Lucy Clarke is an atmospheric thriller that keeps you glued to the pages, eager to find out where the story is going. Fully enjoyed this one! Lucy Clarke is one of my favs, she has this ability to craft the most amazing and horrendous thrillers. Always with a beautiful backdrop while her characters are put through hell.
I did find some of this story pretty boring which is why this is a 4 star read. But I still loved it.
This book was just as great as her other thrillers - my favs being THE BLUE - retitled NO ESCAPE, THE HIKE, & THE CASTAWAYS. Highly recommended this book and her other books too. I still need to read the other thrillers by her which I plan to do soon.
May 29, 2025
4.25 ⭐️.
I was surprised with how much I loved this book! It is completely addictive with an amazing cast of characters!
Just when I thought I had everything figured out, there would be a plot twist! I really enjoyed how Clarke kept me on the edge of my seat. Highly recommend and executed with perfection! A summer must-read!
I was surprised with how much I loved this book! It is completely addictive with an amazing cast of characters!
Just when I thought I had everything figured out, there would be a plot twist! I really enjoyed how Clarke kept me on the edge of my seat. Highly recommend and executed with perfection! A summer must-read!
March 23, 2025
Lucy Clarke is always reliable for an addictive thriller, and The Surf House is no different.
I loved this book! I got swept away by it immediately, taken to exotic Morocco and the peaceful community inhabited at Mallah, a quiet village great for surfing.
Lead character Bea is likeable, and despite her having an incredible modelling career at her fingertips, her unhappiness and loneliness is apparent.
After a dangerous encounter in Marrakesh, there is a growing tension in the aftermath which puts Bea, and us, on edge throughout the novel. However, it also gives us Marnie. I enjoyed the warm friendship growing between Bea and Marnie, her saviour, who offers her a place to stay when she has nowhere else to turn.
Further drama is added to the mix with the arrival of Seth, who is looking for his sister, Savannah. She stayed at The Surf House a year earlier, but where is she now? When her name is brought up, people start acting a little shifty…
Clarke sets the scene perfectly; I felt fully immersed in the sandy, sun scorched landscape of Morocco. The narrative flits between Bea and Savannah, and I was hooked! I had to see how it all played out.
I will say that though I guessed one aspect of the explosive finale, most of it had my jaw dropping in surprise! Clarke has once again deftly woven together strands of plot to keep things moving towards a very satisfying conclusion.
Lucy Clarke has definitely cemented herself as a must-read for me. The Surf House is the perfect destination thriller, which will have you gripping until the bitter end!
I loved this book! I got swept away by it immediately, taken to exotic Morocco and the peaceful community inhabited at Mallah, a quiet village great for surfing.
Lead character Bea is likeable, and despite her having an incredible modelling career at her fingertips, her unhappiness and loneliness is apparent.
After a dangerous encounter in Marrakesh, there is a growing tension in the aftermath which puts Bea, and us, on edge throughout the novel. However, it also gives us Marnie. I enjoyed the warm friendship growing between Bea and Marnie, her saviour, who offers her a place to stay when she has nowhere else to turn.
Further drama is added to the mix with the arrival of Seth, who is looking for his sister, Savannah. She stayed at The Surf House a year earlier, but where is she now? When her name is brought up, people start acting a little shifty…
Clarke sets the scene perfectly; I felt fully immersed in the sandy, sun scorched landscape of Morocco. The narrative flits between Bea and Savannah, and I was hooked! I had to see how it all played out.
I will say that though I guessed one aspect of the explosive finale, most of it had my jaw dropping in surprise! Clarke has once again deftly woven together strands of plot to keep things moving towards a very satisfying conclusion.
Lucy Clarke has definitely cemented herself as a must-read for me. The Surf House is the perfect destination thriller, which will have you gripping until the bitter end!
February 26, 2025
This book had me completely hooked from the very first page. It’s a perfect mix of suspense, emotional turmoil, and deep mystery. The plot centers around a missing person, a group of people dealing with heavy emotional issues like depression, and a van that drives off into the unknown. The setting of the surf house by the beach adds a haunting, almost eerie vibe to the whole thing. But what really stands out is the underlying tension—the search for answers, the need for freedom, and the desperate desire for something more. The characters are complex, and every time you think you know where it’s going, something unexpected happens.
There were definitely parts of the mystery I saw coming, but that didn’t take away from the experience. Discussing it with my buddyreaders revealed just how much we missed or misinterpreted, which kept the story fresh. And while the ending doesn’t tie up everything neatly, it works really well. That open-ended feeling makes it feel real, like there’s more to come, and that’s something I usually don’t enjoy—but in this case, it was perfect. All in all, this is by far my favorite book from this author, and it’s one I’ll keep thinking about for a long time.
There were definitely parts of the mystery I saw coming, but that didn’t take away from the experience. Discussing it with my buddyreaders revealed just how much we missed or misinterpreted, which kept the story fresh. And while the ending doesn’t tie up everything neatly, it works really well. That open-ended feeling makes it feel real, like there’s more to come, and that’s something I usually don’t enjoy—but in this case, it was perfect. All in all, this is by far my favorite book from this author, and it’s one I’ll keep thinking about for a long time.
October 26, 2025
Oh my goodness, I loved this book so much! What a gem, I started the audio, narrated by Sarah Slimani, and before I knew it, I had stopped all activities and was just devouring this story. Past and present collide in this small seaside town in Marrakech, and Bea is trying to figure it all out, with many that do not want her to. The setting was fantastic, almost a character in and of itself. So many secrets, so many characters are trying to keep things hidden, and I could not get enough. This is my second Lucy Clarke book and both have been 5 stars. I definitely need to read her backlist and also am excited for her new one coming in January!
Thank you to Atlantic Crime #partner for the gifted finished copy to review.
Thank you to Atlantic Crime #partner for the gifted finished copy to review.
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