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Retreat: A Novel
A beautiful con artist insinuates herself into a wealthy socialite’s life . . . with deadly consequences, in this serpentine thriller about identity and obsession, from actress, director and bestselling author Krysten Ritter.
Liz Dawson weaves through a crowd with the ease of a tropical breeze, moving seamlessly through elite circles, sparking instant connections and making every new acquaintance feel like an intimate friend. She’s clever, smooth, and confident—qualities that make her a brilliant serial con artist.
Isabelle Beresford is strikingly beautiful, obscenely wealthy, and the new owner of Casa Esmerelda, a fabulous villa on the Mexican coast—attributes that make her the perfect mark. When she offers Liz a job handling the installation of a piece of art in her otherwise vacant home, Liz can’t resist the allure of a beach retreat. She longs for a reset, a chance to finally shed the grip of her addiction to the conning game.
But when Liz, with her lush dark hair and intense green eyes, is mistaken for Isabelle herself, Liz can’t help effortlessly slipping into the socialite’s identity. The transition is so easeful, it almost feels like fate. But just who is Isabelle Beresford really, and why does she seem to have abandoned this stunning life of hers?
As Liz insinuates herself deeper into the dazzling—and deceptive—world of the Punta Mita resort community, she draws closer to the dangers surrounding the real Isabelle. Dangers that may have already ensnared Liz, too. This might not be the con of her life—but the con that ends it.
Liz Dawson weaves through a crowd with the ease of a tropical breeze, moving seamlessly through elite circles, sparking instant connections and making every new acquaintance feel like an intimate friend. She’s clever, smooth, and confident—qualities that make her a brilliant serial con artist.
Isabelle Beresford is strikingly beautiful, obscenely wealthy, and the new owner of Casa Esmerelda, a fabulous villa on the Mexican coast—attributes that make her the perfect mark. When she offers Liz a job handling the installation of a piece of art in her otherwise vacant home, Liz can’t resist the allure of a beach retreat. She longs for a reset, a chance to finally shed the grip of her addiction to the conning game.
But when Liz, with her lush dark hair and intense green eyes, is mistaken for Isabelle herself, Liz can’t help effortlessly slipping into the socialite’s identity. The transition is so easeful, it almost feels like fate. But just who is Isabelle Beresford really, and why does she seem to have abandoned this stunning life of hers?
As Liz insinuates herself deeper into the dazzling—and deceptive—world of the Punta Mita resort community, she draws closer to the dangers surrounding the real Isabelle. Dangers that may have already ensnared Liz, too. This might not be the con of her life—but the con that ends it.
Audible Audio
First published March 25, 2025
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About the author
Krysten Ritter
5 books2,836 followersKRYSTEN RITTER is well known for her starring roles in the award winning Netflix original series, Marvel's Jessica Jones, and cult favorite, Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23, as well as her pivotal role on AMC’s Breaking Bad. Krysten’s work on film includes Big Eyes, Listen Up Philip, Life Happens, Confessions of a Shopaholic and She’s Out of My League. She is the founder of Silent Machine, a production company which aims to highlight complex female protagonists. Ritter and her dog Mikey split their time between New York and Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,454 reviews
March 23, 2025
Oh this book was so much fun to read! I do love a good con story and Retreat is just one big twist and turn after another. A gorgeous setting in Mexico with the rich and beautiful added that extra charm to the story.
Despite what she was doing, I really liked the character of Liz. Yes she was doing some pretty awful things but I could help but want her to get away with it all. The people she was conning were not exactly very likeable after all. I didn’t see any of it coming, although thinking back now I should have!! This job in Mexico is the con of a lifetime and she needs all her tricks and games for it.
If you loved Krysten’s first book Bonfire, then you have to grab Retreat. It is a quick and easy read, very entertaining but quite dark and twisted.
Thanks so much to Little, Brown Book Group UK for my advanced copy to read from NetGalley. Publishes on March 25th.
Despite what she was doing, I really liked the character of Liz. Yes she was doing some pretty awful things but I could help but want her to get away with it all. The people she was conning were not exactly very likeable after all. I didn’t see any of it coming, although thinking back now I should have!! This job in Mexico is the con of a lifetime and she needs all her tricks and games for it.
If you loved Krysten’s first book Bonfire, then you have to grab Retreat. It is a quick and easy read, very entertaining but quite dark and twisted.
Thanks so much to Little, Brown Book Group UK for my advanced copy to read from NetGalley. Publishes on March 25th.
September 10, 2025
Both a quick, easy read and a dark, intoxicating tale of deceit, Krysten Ritter had me in the palm of her hand with her newest novel, Retreat. With a well-written con-artist protagonist and layers upon layers of secrets and lies, this twisty psychological thriller took me on quite the unforgettable ride. After all, thanks to one truly epic game of cat-and-mouse and plenty of rich people behaving badly in an exotic locale, there wasn’t a moment of downtime from beginning to end. Besides, who doesn’t love a bad girl who just might get away with it all?
Speaking of the characters, their souls ran the gamut from morally gray to as black as could be. Despite the various unlikeable personas, I nevertheless found them all uniquely compelling in spite of their over-the-top feel. Alongside a plot that felt original notwithstanding its rather predictable ending, I was sucked in by the slow build-up to the deliciously unhinged climax and conclusion. With a script-flipping twist that was delivered via dual POVs, I was sucked in from the very first word even though I’d figured it out long before the first perfectly timed reveal.
The only pieces to this unputdownable narrative that weren’t exactly a home run were the open-ended conclusion and how I guessed all of the twists. Looking at them both a little closer, I’ve covered the latter already and the former could’ve been my own personal problem. You see, I’m a stickler for having everything wrapped up with a nice, pretty, little bow before I hit the last word. Nonetheless, Ritter pulled off quite the win with a tale so addictive that it had me finishing it in one single sitting—although in hindsight it might be best for suspense/thriller newbies.
All said and done, I was duly impressed by this new escapist read. Perfect for the beach or even just an evening at home, Liz/Isabelle delivered a riveting popcorn thriller in under 300 pages. With a fast pace, suspenseful plot, and oodles of clues amidst the foreboding, I just couldn’t get enough of these chess-like games. Yeah—so I foresaw quite a bit. That still didn’t detract from the characters I loved to hate or the intrigue that grew with each page. So if you’re a fan of Liv Constantine or the con-artist trope, order this book now. After all, it absolutely sizzled in every sense of the word. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS
Liz Dawson weaves through a crowd with the ease of a tropical breeze, moving seamlessly through elite circles, sparking instant connections and making every new acquaintance feel like an intimate friend. She’s clever, smooth, and confident—qualities that make her a brilliant serial con artist.
Isabelle Beresford is strikingly beautiful, obscenely wealthy, and the new owner of Casa Esmerelda, a fabulous villa on the Mexican coast—attributes that make her the perfect mark. When she offers Liz a job handling the installation of a piece of art in her otherwise vacant home, Liz can’t resist the allure of a beach retreat. She longs for a reset, a chance to finally shed the grip of her addiction to the conning game.
But when Liz, with her lush dark hair and intense green eyes, is mistaken for Isabelle herself, Liz can’t help effortlessly slipping into the socialite’s identity. The transition is so easeful, it almost feels like fate. But just who is Isabelle Beresford really, and why does she seem to have abandoned this stunning life of hers?
As Liz insinuates herself deeper into the dazzling—and deceptive—world of the Punta Mita resort community, she draws closer to the dangers surrounding the real Isabelle. Dangers that may have already ensnared Liz, too. This might not be the con of her life—but the con that ends it.
Thank you to Krysten Ritter, Lindsay Jamieson, and Harper Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 25, 2025
Content warning: con artistry, infidelity, violence, stalking, drowning
Speaking of the characters, their souls ran the gamut from morally gray to as black as could be. Despite the various unlikeable personas, I nevertheless found them all uniquely compelling in spite of their over-the-top feel. Alongside a plot that felt original notwithstanding its rather predictable ending, I was sucked in by the slow build-up to the deliciously unhinged climax and conclusion. With a script-flipping twist that was delivered via dual POVs, I was sucked in from the very first word even though I’d figured it out long before the first perfectly timed reveal.
The only pieces to this unputdownable narrative that weren’t exactly a home run were the open-ended conclusion and how I guessed all of the twists. Looking at them both a little closer, I’ve covered the latter already and the former could’ve been my own personal problem. You see, I’m a stickler for having everything wrapped up with a nice, pretty, little bow before I hit the last word. Nonetheless, Ritter pulled off quite the win with a tale so addictive that it had me finishing it in one single sitting—although in hindsight it might be best for suspense/thriller newbies.
All said and done, I was duly impressed by this new escapist read. Perfect for the beach or even just an evening at home, Liz/Isabelle delivered a riveting popcorn thriller in under 300 pages. With a fast pace, suspenseful plot, and oodles of clues amidst the foreboding, I just couldn’t get enough of these chess-like games. Yeah—so I foresaw quite a bit. That still didn’t detract from the characters I loved to hate or the intrigue that grew with each page. So if you’re a fan of Liv Constantine or the con-artist trope, order this book now. After all, it absolutely sizzled in every sense of the word. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS
Liz Dawson weaves through a crowd with the ease of a tropical breeze, moving seamlessly through elite circles, sparking instant connections and making every new acquaintance feel like an intimate friend. She’s clever, smooth, and confident—qualities that make her a brilliant serial con artist.
Isabelle Beresford is strikingly beautiful, obscenely wealthy, and the new owner of Casa Esmerelda, a fabulous villa on the Mexican coast—attributes that make her the perfect mark. When she offers Liz a job handling the installation of a piece of art in her otherwise vacant home, Liz can’t resist the allure of a beach retreat. She longs for a reset, a chance to finally shed the grip of her addiction to the conning game.
But when Liz, with her lush dark hair and intense green eyes, is mistaken for Isabelle herself, Liz can’t help effortlessly slipping into the socialite’s identity. The transition is so easeful, it almost feels like fate. But just who is Isabelle Beresford really, and why does she seem to have abandoned this stunning life of hers?
As Liz insinuates herself deeper into the dazzling—and deceptive—world of the Punta Mita resort community, she draws closer to the dangers surrounding the real Isabelle. Dangers that may have already ensnared Liz, too. This might not be the con of her life—but the con that ends it.
Thank you to Krysten Ritter, Lindsay Jamieson, and Harper Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 25, 2025
Content warning: con artistry, infidelity, violence, stalking, drowning
February 2, 2025
Krysten Ritter’s upcoming thriller, RETREAT, has been on my TBR for awhile now! I didn’t have a chance to read Ritter’s debut Bonfire, but I heard it was great, so I knew that I would prioritize. This one. RETREAT is the perfect cocktail for fans of Liv Constantine and Rachel Koller Croft!
Liz Dawson moves effortlessly through elite circles, charming everyone she meets—a skill that makes her a brilliant con artist. When she’s hired by the glamorous, mysterious Isabelle Beresford to manage an art installation at her Mexican villa, Liz sees a chance for a fresh start. But when Liz is mistaken for Isabelle, she slips into the role with ease, only to discover that the real danger may lie in the life she’s stolen.
I had a total blast with this book, yet I did know exactly how it would play out. It didn’t steer me away at all because Ritter’s writing was compelling, and at times cheeky, which I absolutely loved. Liz is very fun to love to hate, but you can’t help but root for her at the same time. Although I did know what was going to play out, the very end took me for a complete shock. I will definitely read more from Krysten Ritter if she chooses to write in the thriller space in the future.
Liz Dawson moves effortlessly through elite circles, charming everyone she meets—a skill that makes her a brilliant con artist. When she’s hired by the glamorous, mysterious Isabelle Beresford to manage an art installation at her Mexican villa, Liz sees a chance for a fresh start. But when Liz is mistaken for Isabelle, she slips into the role with ease, only to discover that the real danger may lie in the life she’s stolen.
I had a total blast with this book, yet I did know exactly how it would play out. It didn’t steer me away at all because Ritter’s writing was compelling, and at times cheeky, which I absolutely loved. Liz is very fun to love to hate, but you can’t help but root for her at the same time. Although I did know what was going to play out, the very end took me for a complete shock. I will definitely read more from Krysten Ritter if she chooses to write in the thriller space in the future.
May 7, 2025
Man, I wanted this one to end SO much better than it did! Retreat was atmospheric and glitzy, and really did a fine job of portraying wealthy people behaving badly, which is always a treat! I really enjoyed our protagonist, Liz, because she wasn't exactly a great person, nor was she altogether bad. She was complicated and human and I found that endearing. Realistically, anyone with a turbulent childhood such as hers wouldn't come out of it unscathed, and she definitely did not! Why not get ahead in life the only way you know how - Liz is a con man, or con woman, and she's very good at what she does. The question is, will it eventually come back to bite her and be her undoing?
I really enjoyed this popcorn thriller and easily could have read this all in one or two sittings however I took my time with it and soaked it up slowly. Although there were twists galore, I predicted how this one would unravel, for the most part, but I still really enjoyed my reading experience throughout and this was undoubtedly heading towards a five-star rating UNTIL the ending, which left me more annoyed than satisfied. Recently, I've noticed more and more thrillers having ambiguous endings and I'm not a fan - I need certainty, and this book gave me anything but that! I mean, what exactly was that? Some may really enjoy that aspect of the ending, but it dropped this one down just a smidge for me.
Overall, this was a solidly above-average read that really showcased Ritter's talent—I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for anything she writes next
I really enjoyed this popcorn thriller and easily could have read this all in one or two sittings however I took my time with it and soaked it up slowly. Although there were twists galore, I predicted how this one would unravel, for the most part, but I still really enjoyed my reading experience throughout and this was undoubtedly heading towards a five-star rating UNTIL the ending, which left me more annoyed than satisfied. Recently, I've noticed more and more thrillers having ambiguous endings and I'm not a fan - I need certainty, and this book gave me anything but that! I mean, what exactly was that? Some may really enjoy that aspect of the ending, but it dropped this one down just a smidge for me.
Overall, this was a solidly above-average read that really showcased Ritter's talent—I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for anything she writes next
February 27, 2025
first of all - i wish the cowriter's name was bigger on the cover (and featured on the book's page; as of the writing of this review, it is not.) i don't like when a celeb author is given precedence like this and lindsay jamieson's name is so small that i didn't even register it when i picked up the book initially. this kind of colors my opinion of the book overall, but it's not like my opinion was very high in the first place, but i do feel like deducting half a star for it, so this is a 2.5, rounded down.
in regards to the book: it's fairly competently written (not sure how much of it is actually ritter), but it's boring. the girl-on-girl misogyny is so cliche and annoying and really ruins the vibe, which i did like at first: what a fun premise, and a well-executed setup. it's just that when we actually start digging into it that nothing really feels like it's happening for so long, and it's hard to believe liz is so incredibly stupid. she's a protagonist that really suffers from that disorder where writers need to dumb down their main character in order for the plot to work, and i hate it. she's introduced as someone so cunning so i don't understand how it takes her so long to work out how Wrong everything is, especially from the moment it gets even worse when the "love interest" is brought into the story and she the 'romance' just drags the story down, and takes up entirely too much page time that could be dedicated to the actual thriller aspects, but instead,
and one last thing:
it's almost impressive how quickly the potential fell apart, but part of me wonders if maybe this is just a way to get this story seen so that it can be adapted, since the description of the lead fits ritter physically so well, and if that's the case... i don't know dude, just write a screenplay next time?? this might have been better as a film. not great, but maybe a little more entertaining
in regards to the book: it's fairly competently written (not sure how much of it is actually ritter), but it's boring. the girl-on-girl misogyny is so cliche and annoying and really ruins the vibe, which i did like at first: what a fun premise, and a well-executed setup. it's just that when we actually start digging into it that nothing really feels like it's happening for so long, and it's hard to believe liz is so incredibly stupid. she's a protagonist that really suffers from that disorder where writers need to dumb down their main character in order for the plot to work, and i hate it. she's introduced as someone so cunning so i don't understand how it takes her so long to work out how Wrong everything is, especially from the moment it gets even worse when the "love interest" is brought into the story and she the 'romance' just drags the story down, and takes up entirely too much page time that could be dedicated to the actual thriller aspects, but instead,
and one last thing:
it's almost impressive how quickly the potential fell apart, but part of me wonders if maybe this is just a way to get this story seen so that it can be adapted, since the description of the lead fits ritter physically so well, and if that's the case... i don't know dude, just write a screenplay next time?? this might have been better as a film. not great, but maybe a little more entertaining
April 5, 2025
I very much enjoyed this! A super fun twist that I LOVED and my jaw dropped. Great pacing, great morally gray characters.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
February 7, 2025
#ad many thanks to @harperbooks for my copy of this book and @netgalley for the ebook.
"Everyone thought they knew you, when really no one knew you at all," (p. 3). ((To be checked against finished copy)
All the stars. I loved every second of this book. The anticipation that everything could go so wrong, at any moment, was palpable! You will feel this one! So buckle up!
Liz is a con woman - it's how she survives. But just as the heat starts closing in and she's thinking about settling into a a more permanent life, the perfect opportunity lands in her lap. A referral from another "client" sends her to a mansion in an exclusive resort/luxury living for six days. The job? Hang some art, make some quick cash, and disappear again. The owners are out of town, and she'll have the place to herself. Easy.
But this life is just a little too perfect for Liz to walk away from.
When she's mistaken for Isabelle Beresford, her near-identical double, Liz does what she does best: she slips into the role. Meet the new Isabelle Beresford.
Only Isabelle's life is far more complicated than Liz ever bargained for. And just as she's getting comfortable in her new identity, the son of her last mark comes knocking - demanding his mother's money back. He's here to hunt Liz down, and his timing couldn't be worse. Things are about to get real.
I loved this book! I can never resist a good con game, and watching a character pretend to be someone they're not while trying not to get caught is always a blast. And when that someone happens to be a filthy rich woman with a beachfront mansion? Even better.
With nonstop action, this one will get your heart racing, make you laugh out loud, and have you cheering for Liz to pull it off. The twists just kept coming and I could not put this book down. Seriously, all the praises from me.
I loved it so much that I immediately ordered the author's previous book. Also, I had no idea the author is a famous actress that l've seen on TV, which made the whole book even more interesting.
But most importantly, this book shattered my expectations and delivered everything I crave in a twisted, mindf*** of a story. Highly recommend
"Everyone thought they knew you, when really no one knew you at all," (p. 3). ((To be checked against finished copy)
All the stars. I loved every second of this book. The anticipation that everything could go so wrong, at any moment, was palpable! You will feel this one! So buckle up!
Liz is a con woman - it's how she survives. But just as the heat starts closing in and she's thinking about settling into a a more permanent life, the perfect opportunity lands in her lap. A referral from another "client" sends her to a mansion in an exclusive resort/luxury living for six days. The job? Hang some art, make some quick cash, and disappear again. The owners are out of town, and she'll have the place to herself. Easy.
But this life is just a little too perfect for Liz to walk away from.
When she's mistaken for Isabelle Beresford, her near-identical double, Liz does what she does best: she slips into the role. Meet the new Isabelle Beresford.
Only Isabelle's life is far more complicated than Liz ever bargained for. And just as she's getting comfortable in her new identity, the son of her last mark comes knocking - demanding his mother's money back. He's here to hunt Liz down, and his timing couldn't be worse. Things are about to get real.
I loved this book! I can never resist a good con game, and watching a character pretend to be someone they're not while trying not to get caught is always a blast. And when that someone happens to be a filthy rich woman with a beachfront mansion? Even better.
With nonstop action, this one will get your heart racing, make you laugh out loud, and have you cheering for Liz to pull it off. The twists just kept coming and I could not put this book down. Seriously, all the praises from me.
I loved it so much that I immediately ordered the author's previous book. Also, I had no idea the author is a famous actress that l've seen on TV, which made the whole book even more interesting.
But most importantly, this book shattered my expectations and delivered everything I crave in a twisted, mindf*** of a story. Highly recommend
September 30, 2025
***3.7*** Rounding it up.
This was a typical “rich bitch, I want your life”, kind of suspense/thriller. At first not a very original plot!
A beautiful (yet poor) femme fatale, wants to become or rather wants to steal the luxurious life of a very rich clueless woman.
As the story develops, we are seeing things are not what it seems. There are twists and turns along the way which some were surprising but some were blatantly obvious to me.
Over all a fun read. To be honest not very original plot but kept my interest going until the end.
Satisfying ending! I will read more from this author in the future.
Happy Reading 🍷
This was a typical “rich bitch, I want your life”, kind of suspense/thriller. At first not a very original plot!
A beautiful (yet poor) femme fatale, wants to become or rather wants to steal the luxurious life of a very rich clueless woman.
As the story develops, we are seeing things are not what it seems. There are twists and turns along the way which some were surprising but some were blatantly obvious to me.
Over all a fun read. To be honest not very original plot but kept my interest going until the end.
Satisfying ending! I will read more from this author in the future.
Happy Reading 🍷
August 19, 2025
I love the art of a beautifully layered con and the minds behind those who live them. Nothing too nefarious, but a financial scandal or a Robin Hood-esque story always catches my attention. Perhaps the hype surrounding these stories, fueled by popular TV adaptations, has heightened my anticipation for them. My heart races, and I feel a rush of anxiety and tension as the perfect con begins to unravel.
Liz has extended her stay in Chicago beyond what her impersonation can sustain. She’s made some cash but has also accumulated a few hefty bills. She needs to get out of town before her situation collapses. Fortunately, she gets the perfect opportunity to deliver and install a valuable piece of art for a wealthy socialite in beautiful Mexico.
However, once she arrives, Liz realizes she bears a striking resemblance to the socialite, allowing her to seamlessly step into her life and start making new friends and connections to enhance her new game. But perhaps we’re not just watching Liz’s game unfold. When she stumbles upon two dead bodies, she realizes she might be in over her head and could be the one being played. She must escape before her past or the authorities catch up to her.
This story was fast-paced and fun. I enjoyed it almost entirely, but the ending felt a bit clichéd. On a positive note, the audio version is short and serves as a great complement to more serious works.
Liz has extended her stay in Chicago beyond what her impersonation can sustain. She’s made some cash but has also accumulated a few hefty bills. She needs to get out of town before her situation collapses. Fortunately, she gets the perfect opportunity to deliver and install a valuable piece of art for a wealthy socialite in beautiful Mexico.
However, once she arrives, Liz realizes she bears a striking resemblance to the socialite, allowing her to seamlessly step into her life and start making new friends and connections to enhance her new game. But perhaps we’re not just watching Liz’s game unfold. When she stumbles upon two dead bodies, she realizes she might be in over her head and could be the one being played. She must escape before her past or the authorities catch up to her.
This story was fast-paced and fun. I enjoyed it almost entirely, but the ending felt a bit clichéd. On a positive note, the audio version is short and serves as a great complement to more serious works.
May 12, 2025
I loved this juicy audiobook, which was beautifully delivered and acted by the author, who is also a well-known actress. The book follows Liz, a con artist, in her chance to jump from small cons to the big time when she is asked to move into a socialite's home - and she suddenly realizes she bears more than a passing resemblance to the woman as she is mistaken for her around town. Little by little, Liz slips into her double's new glamorous life, but what has become of the woman whose identity she has taken? Will she be discovered? Oh, and it doesn't help when Liz stumbles upon two bodies of unfortunate souls who seem to have been killed in a brutal way.
I found this book super fun and addictive, and the narration of the audio book was *chef's kiss*. Ritter is a talented writer and actress. Some have said the conclusion of the book was foreseeable; and that might be true, but it sure was fun getting there, and it had a delicious payoff.
Five stars from me, and as a side note, I'd love to hear more audiobooks narrated by this author!
I found this book super fun and addictive, and the narration of the audio book was *chef's kiss*. Ritter is a talented writer and actress. Some have said the conclusion of the book was foreseeable; and that might be true, but it sure was fun getting there, and it had a delicious payoff.
Five stars from me, and as a side note, I'd love to hear more audiobooks narrated by this author!
July 5, 2025
Nope. I’d like to formally apologize to my brain for those wasted hours.
September 16, 2025
Wow!
Is this a good book?
No!
Did I have fun reading it?
Yes!
Retreat is giving Tubi mysteries energy. Our main character Liz is supposed to be a master con artist who is always 2 steps ahead....
And yet she never picks up on what is actually happening with this plot(it's very obvious) and she meets a guy and she head over hills in love with him and ready to risk it all...after knowing him for 1 WEEK!
Liz is criminally stupid and the bad guy is a mustache-twirling Disney villain.
As I said before this book is not good but it is dumb fun...and i needed that.
Is this a good book?
No!
Did I have fun reading it?
Yes!
Retreat is giving Tubi mysteries energy. Our main character Liz is supposed to be a master con artist who is always 2 steps ahead....
And yet she never picks up on what is actually happening with this plot(it's very obvious) and she meets a guy and she head over hills in love with him and ready to risk it all...after knowing him for 1 WEEK!
Liz is criminally stupid and the bad guy is a mustache-twirling Disney villain.
As I said before this book is not good but it is dumb fun...and i needed that.
March 7, 2025
LOVE me a con artist, rich people doing bad things thriller and Retreat nailed it.
Krysten Ritter, actress in Breaking Bad and Jessica Jones, is a talented thriller author too?! She does it all 👏🏼
So twisty and a bit steamy I simply couldn’t look away. Get this book on your TBR early because it’s the perfect summer thriller!
Krysten Ritter, actress in Breaking Bad and Jessica Jones, is a talented thriller author too?! She does it all 👏🏼
So twisty and a bit steamy I simply couldn’t look away. Get this book on your TBR early because it’s the perfect summer thriller!
April 10, 2025
Liz Dawson is a skilled con artist who takes on a job at a luxurious villa owned by Isabelle Beresford. Liz ends up impersonating Isabelle and getting entangled in dangerous secrets surrounding her real identity. As Liz dives deeper into the persona of Isabelle, she risks her life in a complex web of deception and danger.
Wow! This book is incredibly clever and expertly written. From the moment I started reading, I was completely hooked and couldn't put it down. The main character is skilled yet slightly naive, which may seem like a weakness at first. However, the ending is so unpredictable and intriguing that it completely flips the script. Expect the unexpected!
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and the way the characters were developed throughout the story. While I did manage to guess one of the twists, it still led to a satisfying conclusion. The ending leaves room for a potential sequel, which has me eagerly anticipating more.
Overall, this book is a suspenseful, entertaining, and brilliantly crafted read. If you're a fan of female con artists who keep you on your toes, then this book is must-read. It's the perfect choice for a quick and enjoyable weekend evening escape.
Thank you, Harper for a digital ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow! This book is incredibly clever and expertly written. From the moment I started reading, I was completely hooked and couldn't put it down. The main character is skilled yet slightly naive, which may seem like a weakness at first. However, the ending is so unpredictable and intriguing that it completely flips the script. Expect the unexpected!
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and the way the characters were developed throughout the story. While I did manage to guess one of the twists, it still led to a satisfying conclusion. The ending leaves room for a potential sequel, which has me eagerly anticipating more.
Overall, this book is a suspenseful, entertaining, and brilliantly crafted read. If you're a fan of female con artists who keep you on your toes, then this book is must-read. It's the perfect choice for a quick and enjoyable weekend evening escape.
Thank you, Harper for a digital ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 9, 2025
Well I f*cking loved this book. Liz is a good con artist--manipulative, charming, persuasive--but she needs a break. When wealthy socialite Isabelle offers her a job at her holiday villa in Mexico, she accepts. No cons planned, just a little retreat and break. When someone mistakes Liz for Isabelle, plans change, and Liz can't help but to go along with it. As the con goes on, Liz gets deeper and deeper and starts to wonder if maybe she bit off more than she can chew. Maybe Isabelle was escaping her life for a reason. This was such a fun reading experience! It's easy to digest and follow, but was dark and addicting at the same time. Liz is a well-written protagonist, who while obviously morally grey, you kind of like her and admire her anyway for what she is able to pull off. There are plenty of twists along the way to keep you guessing and there is never a dull moment! I devoured this book because I could not put it down. And the luxury of the wealthy and absurdity of it all is intoxicating and fun. It's fast-paced, suspenseful, addicting--all leading up to a completely unhinged climax! People say they expected it--I did not. I really needed something like this when I picked it up. I loved it! I also think it would make a great movie, or possibly show. Someone should pick this up!
February 12, 2025
You guys!!! This was sooo much fun! It was juicy, sexy, suspenseful and became so unhinged. I loved it! I was thoroughly entertained the entire time. Con stories mixed with obsession are my new jam. The setting of Punta Mita was so wonderfully depicted it transported me right to the beach. You cant help but root for Liz and did I mention the ending…..! Literally jaw dropping. I hope we get another story weaved from this one because HOLY CUCKOO BANANAS! I will most definitely be looking for more Ritter in the future! This got me right out of a slump!
July 29, 2025
Loved the twist in this one. Since I read a ton of mysteries every year, it can be hard for me to find one that doesn’t feel like I’ve already read it, but this one did a good job at having some originality. It was a fun read!
January 6, 2025
3.5/5
Retreat drops Liz Dawson us into the sandy beaches of Punta Mita, where she hopes to lay low. Liz isn’t exactly someone you’d want to be friends with. She’s self-centered, manipulative, and sees people as tools for her schemes. But credit where it’s due- she’s got loads of personality, and honestly, that’s what makes the story fun.
When Liz takes a job at a posh Mexican villa, she plans to behave for once. But then she’s mistaken for her employer, Isabelle, and instead of clearing things up, she plays someone else. What starts as a fun, stolen identity adventure quickly spirals into murder, secrets, and Liz soon realizes she might have conned her way into something she can’t handle.
Now, the twists are pretty predictable but I liked the setting and the atmosphere. And Liz herself. Sure, she’s a terrible person, but her snarky, no-filter narration keeps things interesting.
Retreat isn’t a must-read, but it’s a fun ride.
ARC through NetGalley
Retreat drops Liz Dawson us into the sandy beaches of Punta Mita, where she hopes to lay low. Liz isn’t exactly someone you’d want to be friends with. She’s self-centered, manipulative, and sees people as tools for her schemes. But credit where it’s due- she’s got loads of personality, and honestly, that’s what makes the story fun.
When Liz takes a job at a posh Mexican villa, she plans to behave for once. But then she’s mistaken for her employer, Isabelle, and instead of clearing things up, she plays someone else. What starts as a fun, stolen identity adventure quickly spirals into murder, secrets, and Liz soon realizes she might have conned her way into something she can’t handle.
Now, the twists are pretty predictable but I liked the setting and the atmosphere. And Liz herself. Sure, she’s a terrible person, but her snarky, no-filter narration keeps things interesting.
Retreat isn’t a must-read, but it’s a fun ride.
ARC through NetGalley
March 29, 2025
I. Have. Questions!!!
June 8, 2025
Wildly unrealistic. Wildly entertaining.
April 11, 2025
It pains me immensely to leave a middling review for this one. Ritter is a phenomenal and underrated actress. I wanted to enjoy this book so bad.
Unfortunately, it's equal parts predictable, full of plot holes, and out-of-touch.
The Part III "twist" was telegraphed so openly so early on that it made Liz seem like a complete idiot for not catching on. And then to hold the reader's hand to lead them back through all the clues we "missed"? Ugh. I call that style of storytelling "The Prestige" because that movie was the worst example of removing the magic from a twisty narrative by explaining, in excruciating detail, exactly how the plan was executed AFTER the reader/viewer has already put it all together. (I know The Prestige in a magic trick is a different thing!)
And the plot holes! So much evidence was left behind in these con games, especially digital evidence, but also forensics. Nobody ever got a warrant for the most basic evidence? Also, Liz has to be younger than Isabelle Beresford, so how could she be her doppelganger? Someone mentions that Liz is in her mid-thirties, but Isabelle had been married for 19+ years at that point. The math ain't mathin.
And the descriptions of childhood poverty and neglect were so obviously imagined by writers who've never gone through that kind of hardship and feelings of inadequacy because they lacked parental love, material wealth, and social capital. An early example - the confusion between scholarships and financial aid - you need parental information and signatures on financial aid paperwork, not most scholarship applications.
This was going to be a one star rating, but I bumped it up due to the epilogue. I did see it coming as a possibility, but I thought the book would end on a more obvious route, as all the other twists did.
At any rate, if you like Frieda McFadden - obvious, soapy twists that pretend to be smarter than they are, plus plot holes you could drive a truck through - this book is for you.
This is a review of the audiobook, which was excellently read by the author. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley.
Unfortunately, it's equal parts predictable, full of plot holes, and out-of-touch.
The Part III "twist" was telegraphed so openly so early on that it made Liz seem like a complete idiot for not catching on. And then to hold the reader's hand to lead them back through all the clues we "missed"? Ugh. I call that style of storytelling "The Prestige" because that movie was the worst example of removing the magic from a twisty narrative by explaining, in excruciating detail, exactly how the plan was executed AFTER the reader/viewer has already put it all together. (I know The Prestige in a magic trick is a different thing!)
And the plot holes! So much evidence was left behind in these con games, especially digital evidence, but also forensics. Nobody ever got a warrant for the most basic evidence? Also, Liz has to be younger than Isabelle Beresford, so how could she be her doppelganger? Someone mentions that Liz is in her mid-thirties, but Isabelle had been married for 19+ years at that point. The math ain't mathin.
And the descriptions of childhood poverty and neglect were so obviously imagined by writers who've never gone through that kind of hardship and feelings of inadequacy because they lacked parental love, material wealth, and social capital. An early example - the confusion between scholarships and financial aid - you need parental information and signatures on financial aid paperwork, not most scholarship applications.
This was going to be a one star rating, but I bumped it up due to the epilogue. I did see it coming as a possibility, but I thought the book would end on a more obvious route, as all the other twists did.
At any rate, if you like Frieda McFadden - obvious, soapy twists that pretend to be smarter than they are, plus plot holes you could drive a truck through - this book is for you.
This is a review of the audiobook, which was excellently read by the author. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley.
March 19, 2025
RETREAT is definitely for the fans of sun-soaked, mistaken identity thrillers where all it takes is a couple of lies to steal someone's life... or have it stolen from you. The thriller is a departure from its more grisly, gritty predecessor, BONFIRE. Expect to see the naughty lifestyles of the rich and famous, twists you can't see coming, and an ending that will leave you desperate to find friends who've also read it so you can discuss. Definitely a fun option for the spring!
Thanks to Harper Books for my gifted copy! RETREAT is out now!
Thanks to Harper Books for my gifted copy! RETREAT is out now!
June 17, 2025
I really enjoyed Retreat, a story about a Liz, a woman constantly on the run, fleeing the chaos, grifting, and debt she continues to create. When Liz has an opportunity to take a high paying art installation job for Isabelle Beresford at a private villa in Mexico for the week, she can’t resist. This seems like the perfect escape and not a moment too soon.
What Liz hadn’t counted on was being mistaken for Isabelle herself. But the wealth, access, and opportunities in Isabelle’s life are hard for Liz to resist, and, Isabelle isn’t around. Can Liz keep up the charade and if so, for how long?
Retreat was full of secrets and twists and I really enjoyed the ride! This is a fun, fast-paced thriller and while I would’ve enjoyed it any time of the year, it was an ideal pool/beach read.
What Liz hadn’t counted on was being mistaken for Isabelle herself. But the wealth, access, and opportunities in Isabelle’s life are hard for Liz to resist, and, Isabelle isn’t around. Can Liz keep up the charade and if so, for how long?
Retreat was full of secrets and twists and I really enjoyed the ride! This is a fun, fast-paced thriller and while I would’ve enjoyed it any time of the year, it was an ideal pool/beach read.
April 18, 2025
3.5 rounding down. It’s not that this is a bad book, it’s just uninspired. We have seen this plot a million times and the twist is so glaringly obvious from the start that it becomes boring. I also don’t enjoy reveals that basically say “oh well they did it because they’re a psychopath!” Instead of taking time to develop a real motive. There’s a bit too much of that going on here.
Liz is a conwoman who has landed the best gig - helping the wealthy Isabelle install an art piece in her vacation home in Mexico. However when she gets mistaken for Isabelle, she can’t help but slide into that role and take advantage of that lifestyle. She soon learns that Isabelle’s life may not be the perfect picture she had imagined.
It’s a quick read but it’s just not anything new.
Liz is a conwoman who has landed the best gig - helping the wealthy Isabelle install an art piece in her vacation home in Mexico. However when she gets mistaken for Isabelle, she can’t help but slide into that role and take advantage of that lifestyle. She soon learns that Isabelle’s life may not be the perfect picture she had imagined.
It’s a quick read but it’s just not anything new.
August 5, 2025
i liked this book soooo much until about 75% through. this book kind of moved a little to fast at the end for me... (that being said the ending itself worked for me i think)
liz reminded me a lot neil caffry from white collar. uh yeah that's about all i got on characters lol
the plot wasn't bad? it just also was so obvious from the beginning lmao. and then once the reveal happens it changes in a way that makes me think the author believes we're too dumb to do some inferring.. idk i have so many frustrations with this book tbh. i liked it a lot, until i didn't..
for a while it was giving season 1/2 ish of jane the virgin and it was so exciting but yeah
anywho.. i don't think i would recommend or reread.. idk. ugh i feel bad because like it wasn't BAD, it just was so obvious.
liz reminded me a lot neil caffry from white collar. uh yeah that's about all i got on characters lol
the plot wasn't bad? it just also was so obvious from the beginning lmao. and then once the reveal happens it changes in a way that makes me think the author believes we're too dumb to do some inferring.. idk i have so many frustrations with this book tbh. i liked it a lot, until i didn't..
for a while it was giving season 1/2 ish of jane the virgin and it was so exciting but yeah
anywho.. i don't think i would recommend or reread.. idk. ugh i feel bad because like it wasn't BAD, it just was so obvious.
June 20, 2025
3.5 I thoroughly enjoyed the ride of this suspense thriller—quite an accomplishment as it’s the first book I finished postpartum. If you love unlikable characters, cons and scams, and rich people behaving badly, this one is for you. Sure there are some potential plot holes or questions I had, some of which are warranted and some that might be from my own mental state reading it causing me to miss a few details. But it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. The final twist was a bit of a stretch but the epilogue delivered the kind of ending I really relish. Great on audio read by the actress author!
June 22, 2025
Quick fun read but definitely seemed like a crap ton of domestic thrillers I have read. And I swear the last 3 had such similar plots!!!!!! Like come on I need some variety hehhehehe. But overall decent read for sure.
April 25, 2025
You’ve already read this book at least a dozen times and each one was better than this. 🫣
April 30, 2025
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars!! Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC. This story follows Liz, who is a con artist who's always been good at reinventing herself. When she lands a job working for a wealthy woman named Isabelle at a stunning villa in Mexico, it feels like the perfect escape. But when people start confusing her for Isabelle, Liz decides to benefit from the mix-up.
As she settles into this new role, things get complicated fast. Secrets start to surface, and it’s clear there’s more to Isabelle’s story than Liz bargained for. What starts off as a fresh start turns into something far more dangerous. This story had some twists and is a quick read.
As she settles into this new role, things get complicated fast. Secrets start to surface, and it’s clear there’s more to Isabelle’s story than Liz bargained for. What starts off as a fresh start turns into something far more dangerous. This story had some twists and is a quick read.
April 13, 2025
This was a fast, bingeable thriller. Took me a solid 50-70 pages to get into it but then I was hooked.
Figured out some pieces of it but not all of it. The premise is about a female con artist who is escaping for a week but soon takes the opportunity to impersonate a rich person and live a life of luxury in Mexico.
Figured out some pieces of it but not all of it. The premise is about a female con artist who is escaping for a week but soon takes the opportunity to impersonate a rich person and live a life of luxury in Mexico.
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