What do you think?
Rate this book
Командировката
THE BUSINESS TRIP is the gripping, page-turning debut from author Jessie Garcia.
Stephanie and Jasmine have nothing and everything in common. The two women don’t know each other but are on the same plane. Stephanie is on a business trip and Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship. After a few days, they text their friends the same exact messages about the same man—the messages becoming stranger and more erratic.
And then the two women vanish. The texts go silent, the red flags go up, and the panic sets in. When Stephanie and Jasmine are each declared missing and in danger, it begs the questions: Who is Trent McCarthy? What did he do to these women— or what did they do to him?
Twist upon twist, layer upon layer, where nothing is as it seems, THE BUSINESS TRIP takes you on a descent into the depths of a mastermind manipulator. But who is playing who?
Stephanie and Jasmine have nothing and everything in common. The two women don’t know each other but are on the same plane. Stephanie is on a business trip and Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship. After a few days, they text their friends the same exact messages about the same man—the messages becoming stranger and more erratic.
And then the two women vanish. The texts go silent, the red flags go up, and the panic sets in. When Stephanie and Jasmine are each declared missing and in danger, it begs the questions: Who is Trent McCarthy? What did he do to these women— or what did they do to him?
Twist upon twist, layer upon layer, where nothing is as it seems, THE BUSINESS TRIP takes you on a descent into the depths of a mastermind manipulator. But who is playing who?
386 pages, Paperback
First published January 14, 2025
8707 people are currently reading
141863 people want to read
About the author
Jessie Garcia
7 books825 followersJessie Garcia knew she wanted to be a writer or a reporter from about the age of 8. After growing up in Madison, WI she attended college at Boston University, gravitating to television journalism.
Jessie spent over 25 years on the air as a sportscaster and became the sideline reporter for the Green Bay Packers as well as a host of NFL coach's shows. She then got into TV management and now oversees a newsroom of journalists.
Jessie also taught journalism at four universities and produced a documentary on a little-known piece of track and field history.
She has several award-winning non-fiction books out but recently turned to fiction. She has always been drawn to mysteries and thrillers and is excited to be bringing you THE BUSINESS TRIP.
Jessie has two adult sons and lives in Wisconsin with her husband. Their two animals truly rule the house: a savvy cat who simply appeared in the front bushes one day, and a dog who won their hearts at the Humane Society.
Follow her on Instagram at jessiegarcia_author for behind-the-scenes anecdotes.
Jessie spent over 25 years on the air as a sportscaster and became the sideline reporter for the Green Bay Packers as well as a host of NFL coach's shows. She then got into TV management and now oversees a newsroom of journalists.
Jessie also taught journalism at four universities and produced a documentary on a little-known piece of track and field history.
She has several award-winning non-fiction books out but recently turned to fiction. She has always been drawn to mysteries and thrillers and is excited to be bringing you THE BUSINESS TRIP.
Jessie has two adult sons and lives in Wisconsin with her husband. Their two animals truly rule the house: a savvy cat who simply appeared in the front bushes one day, and a dog who won their hearts at the Humane Society.
Follow her on Instagram at jessiegarcia_author for behind-the-scenes anecdotes.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 9,040 reviews
February 8, 2025
First 50%: 4+ stars!
50-90%: 2 stars
Last 10%: 1 star
Overall rating: 2.5 stars
I’m going to keep this short as my rating breakdown clearly shows how I felt about this one. I was intrigued and invested right from the start and enjoyed the tension and suspense until around the halfway point. The story had a lot of potential, but the plot took some ridiculous turns and the twist at the end was an eye-roller.
Anyone who follows my reviews knows that I need to be able to believe the stories I’m reading — yes, even the popcorn thriller, escapism ones like this have to have a thread of believability which this one didn’t.
I’m the outlier with my thoughts so please be sure to read the many favourable reviews before deciding on this.
Audio rating: 4 stars! The audio narrators did a good job and immensely added to my initial connection. I did have fun listening to their presentation of the story.
50-90%: 2 stars
Last 10%: 1 star
Overall rating: 2.5 stars
I’m going to keep this short as my rating breakdown clearly shows how I felt about this one. I was intrigued and invested right from the start and enjoyed the tension and suspense until around the halfway point. The story had a lot of potential, but the plot took some ridiculous turns and the twist at the end was an eye-roller.
Anyone who follows my reviews knows that I need to be able to believe the stories I’m reading — yes, even the popcorn thriller, escapism ones like this have to have a thread of believability which this one didn’t.
I’m the outlier with my thoughts so please be sure to read the many favourable reviews before deciding on this.
Audio rating: 4 stars! The audio narrators did a good job and immensely added to my initial connection. I did have fun listening to their presentation of the story.
January 14, 2025
5 star Audible! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you both LISTEN TO and read books-I highly recommend that you listen to this one, as each character is voiced by a different narrator! Spectacular! I paired my reading 📖 with the Audiobook 🎧 which I love to do and finished in one day!
9 hours 7 minutes at 1.0x , 6 hours 5 minutes at 1.5x, 5 hours 13 minutes at 1.75x
“The Business Trip” really is gripping and binge-worthy as advertised!
But, I am going to be purposely vague in this synopsis as to not spoil anything for you!
Stephanie and Jasmine both board a flight to Denver, and by chance, are assigned to sit together in the SAME row. Stephanie is on a business trip and Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship.
After a few days, each woman is texting their friends and co-workers about meeting the SAME great guy-Trent McCarthy.
And then each woman vanishes at the SAME time.
But this book is not the SAME as any other that you may have read!
It is LAYERED, TWISTY and UNPREDICTABLE!
I guessed NOTHING right! LOVED it! ❤️
VERY CLEVER Jessie Garcia! I can’t wait to see what you come up with next!
A buddy read with DeAnn and MarilynW. Be sure to watch for their always amazing reviews!
This DEBUT is NOW AVAILABLE!
Thank You to both MacMillan Audio and St. Martin’s Press for the gifted ARCs via NetGalley Shelf/NetGalley.
As always, these are my candid thoughts!
If you both LISTEN TO and read books-I highly recommend that you listen to this one, as each character is voiced by a different narrator! Spectacular! I paired my reading 📖 with the Audiobook 🎧 which I love to do and finished in one day!
9 hours 7 minutes at 1.0x , 6 hours 5 minutes at 1.5x, 5 hours 13 minutes at 1.75x
“The Business Trip” really is gripping and binge-worthy as advertised!
But, I am going to be purposely vague in this synopsis as to not spoil anything for you!
Stephanie and Jasmine both board a flight to Denver, and by chance, are assigned to sit together in the SAME row. Stephanie is on a business trip and Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship.
After a few days, each woman is texting their friends and co-workers about meeting the SAME great guy-Trent McCarthy.
And then each woman vanishes at the SAME time.
But this book is not the SAME as any other that you may have read!
It is LAYERED, TWISTY and UNPREDICTABLE!
I guessed NOTHING right! LOVED it! ❤️
VERY CLEVER Jessie Garcia! I can’t wait to see what you come up with next!
A buddy read with DeAnn and MarilynW. Be sure to watch for their always amazing reviews!
This DEBUT is NOW AVAILABLE!
Thank You to both MacMillan Audio and St. Martin’s Press for the gifted ARCs via NetGalley Shelf/NetGalley.
As always, these are my candid thoughts!
February 7, 2025
˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ 3.5 𝕊𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤 ℝ𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕𝕖𝕕 𝕌𝕡 ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗
Jasmine and Stephanie meet on a long flight. Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship, and Stephanie is going to yet another conference for her television newsroom. Although they are far apart on the socioeconomic ladder, they find common ground.
A few days after the flight, they both disappear after apparently meeting the same man. Both are in contact with friends and business associates through texts, but as the texts become more alarming, the fate of the two women comes into question. Who is this mystery man, and what has happened to the two women?
╰┈➤˗ˏˋ A riveting thriller about two women, strangers on the same plane, disappear after sending texts to their friends about the same man. Did the man do something to them? Or did they do something to him?
Told from multiple POVs and numerous text messages, it is quickly apparent that everything is not as it should be. We are led down a winding path of clues as more is revealed about the two women and the mystery man. I was sucked into the story at the beginning as I tried to figure out what was happening.
˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷ I'm going to be very honest. This starts to get a bit far fetched the further you go into the story, but if you enjoyed The Mindfuck series and didn't bat an eyelash - I think you'll be able to suspend enough disbelief to enjoy this one also.
Part of the enjoyment of reading is sometimes believing things that might not necessarily happen once you really start breaking them down. And I'm extra impressed due to it being a debut. The author really pulled me in and held me captive.
The characters aren't exactly very likable but I found myself rooting for them anyway. The pacing was great and I demolished this in two sittings.
˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷ Gripping, exciting and filled with twists and turns! I do think fans of Freida will enjoy this one.
╰┈➤˗ˏˋ Expected Release Date - 01/14/25
⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ Connect with me on Instagram ˗ˏˋ★‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹
✨ Many thanks to NetGalley and my besties Macmillan Audio for gifting me with an advanced audio copy - all thoughts are my own. ✨
Jasmine and Stephanie meet on a long flight. Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship, and Stephanie is going to yet another conference for her television newsroom. Although they are far apart on the socioeconomic ladder, they find common ground.
A few days after the flight, they both disappear after apparently meeting the same man. Both are in contact with friends and business associates through texts, but as the texts become more alarming, the fate of the two women comes into question. Who is this mystery man, and what has happened to the two women?
╰┈➤˗ˏˋ A riveting thriller about two women, strangers on the same plane, disappear after sending texts to their friends about the same man. Did the man do something to them? Or did they do something to him?
Told from multiple POVs and numerous text messages, it is quickly apparent that everything is not as it should be. We are led down a winding path of clues as more is revealed about the two women and the mystery man. I was sucked into the story at the beginning as I tried to figure out what was happening.
˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷ I'm going to be very honest. This starts to get a bit far fetched the further you go into the story, but if you enjoyed The Mindfuck series and didn't bat an eyelash - I think you'll be able to suspend enough disbelief to enjoy this one also.
Part of the enjoyment of reading is sometimes believing things that might not necessarily happen once you really start breaking them down. And I'm extra impressed due to it being a debut. The author really pulled me in and held me captive.
The characters aren't exactly very likable but I found myself rooting for them anyway. The pacing was great and I demolished this in two sittings.
˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷ Gripping, exciting and filled with twists and turns! I do think fans of Freida will enjoy this one.
╰┈➤˗ˏˋ Expected Release Date - 01/14/25
⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ Connect with me on Instagram ˗ˏˋ★‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹
✨ Many thanks to NetGalley and my besties Macmillan Audio for gifting me with an advanced audio copy - all thoughts are my own. ✨
April 4, 2025
Three words can define this book: jaw-dropping, heart-throbbing, riveting! I loved the execution of the "expect the unexpected" theme! The mystery keeps you guessing as the building pressure keeps you on your toes. I honestly kept cursing one of the characters and crossed my fingers so tightly, hoping that person gets what they deserve! That urge forced me to turn the pages faster with my heart in my mouth.
The story revolves around two women who met on a plane and disappeared from the face of the world, possibly both murdered by the same man. The storyline reminds you of “Strangers on a Train” where it takes place on a plane and meets “Morning Show,” but trust me, there’s more to come!
Jasmine comes from poverty and a neglected family, running away from trailer park life and an abusive boyfriend to start a new life. Stephanie is a news director, recently divorced, estranged from her son, a workaholic, a cat woman, and best friends with her neighbor Robert, who shares her passion for musicals. She is sent to a conference in San Diego. The only commonality between them is being seatmates on the plane and vanishing into thin air.
When Robert gets texts from Stephanie saying she will extend her trip one week more to spend more time with a mysterious man called Trent McCarthy she met during the conference, and she keeps texting her news team that she has to take a leave, which is unlike her, it triggers red flags. Interestingly, Jasmine’s high school friend Anna also gets texts from her saying she has met a guy called Trent McCarthy and she will stay at his house.
Then Robert gets an alarming text from Stephanie which raises more suspicions and results in the police breaking into Trent McCarthy’s house and arresting him for the murders of the two women.
How did two women who never met before becoming seatmates on the same flight end up in this situation? Did they become victims of a predator? Or is there something extra fishy about this incident? I guess you have to read to find out! Trust nobody but your instincts.
Overall: I loved the pacing. The last twist was a little far-fetched, but it was still jaw-dropping. The building pressure and climax nearly gave me a heart attack. I only didn’t like the final line the character said, but the conclusion was still satisfying. If you want to read something juicy enough to bite your entire nails and make you keep jumping up and down in your seat as if you’re joining a hot seat contest, this is the best heart-throbbing page-turner you shouldn’t miss!
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for sharing this riveting thriller’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
instagram
facebook
twitter<
The story revolves around two women who met on a plane and disappeared from the face of the world, possibly both murdered by the same man. The storyline reminds you of “Strangers on a Train” where it takes place on a plane and meets “Morning Show,” but trust me, there’s more to come!
Jasmine comes from poverty and a neglected family, running away from trailer park life and an abusive boyfriend to start a new life. Stephanie is a news director, recently divorced, estranged from her son, a workaholic, a cat woman, and best friends with her neighbor Robert, who shares her passion for musicals. She is sent to a conference in San Diego. The only commonality between them is being seatmates on the plane and vanishing into thin air.
When Robert gets texts from Stephanie saying she will extend her trip one week more to spend more time with a mysterious man called Trent McCarthy she met during the conference, and she keeps texting her news team that she has to take a leave, which is unlike her, it triggers red flags. Interestingly, Jasmine’s high school friend Anna also gets texts from her saying she has met a guy called Trent McCarthy and she will stay at his house.
Then Robert gets an alarming text from Stephanie which raises more suspicions and results in the police breaking into Trent McCarthy’s house and arresting him for the murders of the two women.
How did two women who never met before becoming seatmates on the same flight end up in this situation? Did they become victims of a predator? Or is there something extra fishy about this incident? I guess you have to read to find out! Trust nobody but your instincts.
Overall: I loved the pacing. The last twist was a little far-fetched, but it was still jaw-dropping. The building pressure and climax nearly gave me a heart attack. I only didn’t like the final line the character said, but the conclusion was still satisfying. If you want to read something juicy enough to bite your entire nails and make you keep jumping up and down in your seat as if you’re joining a hot seat contest, this is the best heart-throbbing page-turner you shouldn’t miss!
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for sharing this riveting thriller’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
twitter<
October 18, 2024
Stephanie and Jasmine have nothing and everything in common. The two women don’t know each other but are on the same plane. Stephanie is on a business trip and Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship. After a few days, they text their friends the same exact messages about the same man—the messages becoming stranger and more erratic.
And then the two women vanish. The texts go silent, the red flags go up, and the panic sets in. When Stephanie and Jasmine are each declared missing and in danger, it begs the questions: Who is Trent McCarthy? What did he do to these women— or what did they do to him?
In the first half I was liking it, but not loving it. It had a slow burn. I felt like the book was missing something. I then found out that I didn't have a connection to the characters. I was very intrigued though to find out what was going to happen next.
In the second half I loved it I thought it was a great twisty read. I was gobsmacked! I thought I had the whole story figured out and I was wrong. I was so surprised. I thought the plot of the book was very clever and it was a fun read. I was able to have a better connection to the characters in the second half The story became very suspenseful and gripping. The characters are unlikable. Who is Trent McCarthy?
The twist were so good especially the one at the end. My jaw dropped to the floor.
This was a buddy read with Debra! Make sure you check out her review.
I want to thank Netgalley, St Martin's Press
for the copy of this book an exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars!
And then the two women vanish. The texts go silent, the red flags go up, and the panic sets in. When Stephanie and Jasmine are each declared missing and in danger, it begs the questions: Who is Trent McCarthy? What did he do to these women— or what did they do to him?
In the first half I was liking it, but not loving it. It had a slow burn. I felt like the book was missing something. I then found out that I didn't have a connection to the characters. I was very intrigued though to find out what was going to happen next.
In the second half I loved it I thought it was a great twisty read. I was gobsmacked! I thought I had the whole story figured out and I was wrong. I was so surprised. I thought the plot of the book was very clever and it was a fun read. I was able to have a better connection to the characters in the second half The story became very suspenseful and gripping. The characters are unlikable. Who is Trent McCarthy?
The twist were so good especially the one at the end. My jaw dropped to the floor.
This was a buddy read with Debra! Make sure you check out her review.
I want to thank Netgalley, St Martin's Press
for the copy of this book an exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars!
September 12, 2024
3.5🌟
Two women - One flight!
Each board that airplane for different reasons.
Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship.
Stephane is on her way to a conference.
Once their paths cross….🧨
I was drawn in right from the start! The storyline is told from the POV of both women (and a few supporting characters) leading up to the flight. I could not put it down! Any spare minute I would sneak in a chapter or two! Was absolutely gripping, chocked full of suspense! Everything I want in a thriller.
THEN…Que the sound of screeching brakes at the 50% mark as the entire feel of the book changed. Frustratingly, there was too much explanation and not enough action. Much of the story was retold as though the author felt she needed to break-down everything to the reader. But she didn’t…we got it and loved it and wished you would have just run with that.😩
This was a debut thriller, and with the potential I experienced in reading the first half I will definitely be watching for her next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press.
Two women - One flight!
Each board that airplane for different reasons.
Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship.
Stephane is on her way to a conference.
Once their paths cross….🧨
I was drawn in right from the start! The storyline is told from the POV of both women (and a few supporting characters) leading up to the flight. I could not put it down! Any spare minute I would sneak in a chapter or two! Was absolutely gripping, chocked full of suspense! Everything I want in a thriller.
THEN…Que the sound of screeching brakes at the 50% mark as the entire feel of the book changed. Frustratingly, there was too much explanation and not enough action. Much of the story was retold as though the author felt she needed to break-down everything to the reader. But she didn’t…we got it and loved it and wished you would have just run with that.😩
This was a debut thriller, and with the potential I experienced in reading the first half I will definitely be watching for her next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press.
January 1, 2025
There are few things I love more than a great debut, and I’m so happy to end 2024 with one!
If you want the nutshell synopsis, two women board a plane and things go all kinds of sideways when they land. I’d love to leave it at that, because this is one of those books that the less you know the better, but I’ll flesh it out just a tiny bit more.
In Madison, Wisconsin, waitress Jasmine has been secretly plotting an escape from her abusive boyfriend, and has finally saved up enough money to buy a plane ticket to Denver. In the same city, Stephanie is the news director at a local TV station being sent on yet another work trip to a conference in San Diego, with a layover in Denver. As fate would have it, they end up sitting next to each other and talking during their flight, but what happens when they land?
Well, if you’ve heard the saying “fate is a fickle thing” … that sums up the rest of the book pretty perfectly!
I know this is all very vague and intentionally so, because this really is best gone into as blind as possible. I’ll only say that this book will make you rethink ever talking to the stranger next to you!
I loved the full-cast narration for the audiobook, which I listened to while reading on my Kindle. All ten narrators did an excellent job, and I particularly enjoyed the voicing for Jasmine, Stephanie and toxic, “bro” culture a-hole Trent, who I wanted to throat punch every time he spoke.
If you enjoy mystery, intrigue, and suspense with twists and turns that reads like a true crime Dateline episode, this might be fun for you! My only minor ding was a bit too much of an exposition dump at the end on how the perpetrator was caught which I thought could’ve been handled a little better and a kinda ‘meh’ epilogue, but honestly I thought Garcia did a fantastic job and I look forward to seeing what she comes up with next!
Happy New Year everyone!
★★★★ ½
My thanks to St. Martin’s Press, NetGalley and author Jessie Garcia for the digital ARC and Macmillan Audio for the ALC to honestly review. It’s out on January 14, 2025.
If you want the nutshell synopsis, two women board a plane and things go all kinds of sideways when they land. I’d love to leave it at that, because this is one of those books that the less you know the better, but I’ll flesh it out just a tiny bit more.
In Madison, Wisconsin, waitress Jasmine has been secretly plotting an escape from her abusive boyfriend, and has finally saved up enough money to buy a plane ticket to Denver. In the same city, Stephanie is the news director at a local TV station being sent on yet another work trip to a conference in San Diego, with a layover in Denver. As fate would have it, they end up sitting next to each other and talking during their flight, but what happens when they land?
Well, if you’ve heard the saying “fate is a fickle thing” … that sums up the rest of the book pretty perfectly!
I know this is all very vague and intentionally so, because this really is best gone into as blind as possible. I’ll only say that this book will make you rethink ever talking to the stranger next to you!
I loved the full-cast narration for the audiobook, which I listened to while reading on my Kindle. All ten narrators did an excellent job, and I particularly enjoyed the voicing for Jasmine, Stephanie and toxic, “bro” culture a-hole Trent, who I wanted to throat punch every time he spoke.
If you enjoy mystery, intrigue, and suspense with twists and turns that reads like a true crime Dateline episode, this might be fun for you! My only minor ding was a bit too much of an exposition dump at the end on how the perpetrator was caught which I thought could’ve been handled a little better and a kinda ‘meh’ epilogue, but honestly I thought Garcia did a fantastic job and I look forward to seeing what she comes up with next!
Happy New Year everyone!
★★★★ ½
My thanks to St. Martin’s Press, NetGalley and author Jessie Garcia for the digital ARC and Macmillan Audio for the ALC to honestly review. It’s out on January 14, 2025.
January 10, 2025
I LOVED THIS BOOK!! The story twists around on itself so many times that you don’t even realize it’s happening when it’s happening, but everything all matched up and made sense!! SUCH a great thriller 🌟
January 16, 2025
4.5⭐️
Two women from different walks of life – Stephanie Monroe and Jasmine Littleton – cross paths on a flight to Denver- Jasmine hoping for a fresh start and on the run from an abusive partner and Stephanie on her way to attend a conference in San Diego. Seated in the same row, they share casual conversation during the flight. A few days later, each of them is untraceable, and strangely enough, the last few messages Jasmine and Stephanie each sent to their close friends mention being charmed by a man by the name of Trent McCarthy. Coincidence? What happened to these women and how is Trent McCarthy connected to these disappearances? What follows is a complex web of deceit, manipulation and much more.
An entertaining psychological thriller The Business Trip by Jessie Garcia had me frantically turning pages until I got to the very end. The short chapters and consistent pacing with twists, turns, and revelations that shock and awe rendered this an unputdownable read for me. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, she throws in another shocker, proving me wrong time and time again! The narrative is cleverly structured and shared from multiple perspectives spanning the days before, during and after the plane trip, continuing through when the women are discovered to be missing and the immediate aftermath. The narrative does suffer from minor repetition, with more than one character on occasion presenting their version of the same events, but this in no way detracts from the overall reading experience. The author has done an impressive job of weaving a fast-paced, well-rounded and intense narrative that at no point loses its momentum, topping it off with an unpredictable ending.
As for most books in this genre, suspension of disbelief is required to enjoy the ride. I finished this book in one sitting and thoroughly enjoyed the read.
Overall, I found this to be an impressive debut novel, well deserving of the praise it has garnered. I would not hesitate to recommend it to fans of this genre and I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.
Many thanks to St. Martin's Press for the digital ARC via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
Two women from different walks of life – Stephanie Monroe and Jasmine Littleton – cross paths on a flight to Denver- Jasmine hoping for a fresh start and on the run from an abusive partner and Stephanie on her way to attend a conference in San Diego. Seated in the same row, they share casual conversation during the flight. A few days later, each of them is untraceable, and strangely enough, the last few messages Jasmine and Stephanie each sent to their close friends mention being charmed by a man by the name of Trent McCarthy. Coincidence? What happened to these women and how is Trent McCarthy connected to these disappearances? What follows is a complex web of deceit, manipulation and much more.
An entertaining psychological thriller The Business Trip by Jessie Garcia had me frantically turning pages until I got to the very end. The short chapters and consistent pacing with twists, turns, and revelations that shock and awe rendered this an unputdownable read for me. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, she throws in another shocker, proving me wrong time and time again! The narrative is cleverly structured and shared from multiple perspectives spanning the days before, during and after the plane trip, continuing through when the women are discovered to be missing and the immediate aftermath. The narrative does suffer from minor repetition, with more than one character on occasion presenting their version of the same events, but this in no way detracts from the overall reading experience. The author has done an impressive job of weaving a fast-paced, well-rounded and intense narrative that at no point loses its momentum, topping it off with an unpredictable ending.
As for most books in this genre, suspension of disbelief is required to enjoy the ride. I finished this book in one sitting and thoroughly enjoyed the read.
Overall, I found this to be an impressive debut novel, well deserving of the praise it has garnered. I would not hesitate to recommend it to fans of this genre and I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.
Many thanks to St. Martin's Press for the digital ARC via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
January 30, 2025
With a ratcheting pace and an utterly unguessable conclusion, The Business Trip was a quick, easy read from beginning to end. Told via multiple POVs with a round-robin-type style, I was pulled into the storyline right off the bat. And let me tell you, the twists were truly shocking if I do say so myself. So despite a slow burn first half that had me skimming here and there, I found myself racing through the pages hoping to learn what was going on behind the deftly woven veil. You see, this one had such a well-plotted chain of events that it had me marveling at Ms. Garcia’s shrewd, canny brain.
The further into the book that I got, however, the more and more everything seemed to unravel. From the over-the-top feel to the thoroughly unlikeable characters, it was hard to truly believe in the story despite it being incredibly well-layered. Out of all of my irritations, however, the shallow supporting characters—all of whom seemed to get their own POV—and misleading synopsis easily topped my list for this psychological thriller. I mean, it was so far from believable that I didn’t just need to suspend all disbelief, I had to completely detach it from real, non-fictionalized life.
All in all, this book was a definite mixed bag for yours truly. Twisty and mostly unpredictable, I had—on the whole—a good time and even finished it in one sitting after only a handful of hours. So as long as you’re looking for a popcorn thriller versus the hinted at Hitchcockian shocker, this one will definitely be right up your alley. After all, it would be perfect for fans of Kiersten Modglin or Freida McFadden. Just be sure to temper your expectations as the synopsis was certainly far from what was actually revealed in this new debut novel. Rating of 3 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Stephanie and Jasmine have nothing and everything in common. The two women don’t know each other but are on the same plane. Stephanie is on a business trip and Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship. After a few days, they text their friends the same exact messages about the same man—the messages becoming stranger and more erratic.
And then the two women vanish. The texts go silent, the red flags go up, and the panic sets in. When Stephanie and Jasmine are each declared missing and in danger, it begs the questions: Who is Trent McCarthy? What did he do to these women—or what did they do to him?
Thank you to Jessie Garcia, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 14, 2025
Content warning: domestic violence, murder
The further into the book that I got, however, the more and more everything seemed to unravel. From the over-the-top feel to the thoroughly unlikeable characters, it was hard to truly believe in the story despite it being incredibly well-layered. Out of all of my irritations, however, the shallow supporting characters—all of whom seemed to get their own POV—and misleading synopsis easily topped my list for this psychological thriller. I mean, it was so far from believable that I didn’t just need to suspend all disbelief, I had to completely detach it from real, non-fictionalized life.
All in all, this book was a definite mixed bag for yours truly. Twisty and mostly unpredictable, I had—on the whole—a good time and even finished it in one sitting after only a handful of hours. So as long as you’re looking for a popcorn thriller versus the hinted at Hitchcockian shocker, this one will definitely be right up your alley. After all, it would be perfect for fans of Kiersten Modglin or Freida McFadden. Just be sure to temper your expectations as the synopsis was certainly far from what was actually revealed in this new debut novel. Rating of 3 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Stephanie and Jasmine have nothing and everything in common. The two women don’t know each other but are on the same plane. Stephanie is on a business trip and Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship. After a few days, they text their friends the same exact messages about the same man—the messages becoming stranger and more erratic.
And then the two women vanish. The texts go silent, the red flags go up, and the panic sets in. When Stephanie and Jasmine are each declared missing and in danger, it begs the questions: Who is Trent McCarthy? What did he do to these women—or what did they do to him?
Thank you to Jessie Garcia, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 14, 2025
Content warning: domestic violence, murder
December 5, 2025
4⭐
Genre ~ domestic thriller
Setting ~ mostly Georgia, some Wisconsin, some California, some Mexico
Publication date ~ January 14, 2024
Publisher ~ Nacmillan Audio
Est Page Count ~ 352 (44 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 7 minutes
Narrators ~ listed below so it doesn't take too much space up here
POV ~ multiple 1st
Featuring ~ debut fiction, 4 parts, multiple timelines, domestic abuse, murder
This is one that I don't really want to say too much. The plot is fascinatingly clever and well thought out.
Our main characters are Stephanie & Jasmine . We, also, hear from Stephanie's coworkers, Jasmine's boyfriend and friends, and a man named, Trent, which help move the story along to it's shocking conclusion.
Overall, this was a really solid and impressive debut. There was some repetitiveness and I didn't care for the epilogue, but it was fast paced and I was engaged entirely. You'll want to add this one to your TBR for sure.
Narration notes:
Holy guacamole ~ 10 narrators!! They all did a fabulous job.
Andrew Eiden, Dylan Fitzpatrick, Fred Berman, Gail Shalan, Hillary Huber, Jennifer Pickens, John Pirhalla, Kimberly M. Wetherell, Kirby Heyborne, Tim Campbell
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
Genre ~ domestic thriller
Setting ~ mostly Georgia, some Wisconsin, some California, some Mexico
Publication date ~ January 14, 2024
Publisher ~ Nacmillan Audio
Est Page Count ~ 352 (44 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 7 minutes
Narrators ~ listed below so it doesn't take too much space up here
POV ~ multiple 1st
Featuring ~ debut fiction, 4 parts, multiple timelines, domestic abuse, murder
This is one that I don't really want to say too much. The plot is fascinatingly clever and well thought out.
Our main characters are Stephanie & Jasmine . We, also, hear from Stephanie's coworkers, Jasmine's boyfriend and friends, and a man named, Trent, which help move the story along to it's shocking conclusion.
Overall, this was a really solid and impressive debut. There was some repetitiveness and I didn't care for the epilogue, but it was fast paced and I was engaged entirely. You'll want to add this one to your TBR for sure.
Narration notes:
Holy guacamole ~ 10 narrators!! They all did a fabulous job.
Andrew Eiden, Dylan Fitzpatrick, Fred Berman, Gail Shalan, Hillary Huber, Jennifer Pickens, John Pirhalla, Kimberly M. Wetherell, Kirby Heyborne, Tim Campbell
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
February 16, 2025
Jasmine & Stephanie both board the same flight, and sit next to one another. But they couldn’t be more different.
Jasmine is a waitress escaping from an abusive relationship. Stephanie is a well-off business woman on her way to a conference. Both are yearning for a different life.
The plane lands and soon their friends get the same message from both women about a man named Trent. Who is Trent? Then both disappear. Friends and family begin to panic when texts and calls go unanswered and a search is on. The reader is just as clueless as they go on a journey of discovery.
Then midway, the perspective changes as we discover what really happened. What follows is a fun twisty story. The mixed media format (texts, voice messages, multiple POV, etc) as friends and family desperately search for the missing women, worked especially well on audio with a full cast of TEN narrators. This added to the urgency.
Sure you have to suspend a bit of disbelief, but it was fun and the format made it even more fun. This is a terrific debut for fans of twisty thrillers that is anything but formulaic. Just when you think you know what’s going on, you find out you do not! Everything is turned on its head.
An author to watch!
Audio is the way to go with this one, as it greatly enhances the experience.
Jasmine is a waitress escaping from an abusive relationship. Stephanie is a well-off business woman on her way to a conference. Both are yearning for a different life.
The plane lands and soon their friends get the same message from both women about a man named Trent. Who is Trent? Then both disappear. Friends and family begin to panic when texts and calls go unanswered and a search is on. The reader is just as clueless as they go on a journey of discovery.
Then midway, the perspective changes as we discover what really happened. What follows is a fun twisty story. The mixed media format (texts, voice messages, multiple POV, etc) as friends and family desperately search for the missing women, worked especially well on audio with a full cast of TEN narrators. This added to the urgency.
Sure you have to suspend a bit of disbelief, but it was fun and the format made it even more fun. This is a terrific debut for fans of twisty thrillers that is anything but formulaic. Just when you think you know what’s going on, you find out you do not! Everything is turned on its head.
An author to watch!
Audio is the way to go with this one, as it greatly enhances the experience.
January 23, 2025
Two strangers meet on a plane and both their lives take a crazy, unexpected direction. ⬇️ Really love this setting! ✈️
I had the audio which has a cast of 10 fantastic narrators. It really made the novel binge-worthy and quite addictive!
Jessie Garcia is a debut author and she did a few things that surprised me and kept me guessing with a couple of double takes.
It was great to have some characters that I wanted to root for and some I could just recoil at! Someone seems to have gone rogue, someone is acting looney tunes, someone is setting a trap and then there is the person who seems to have "outsmarted" them all! Who, but who?
Fun and twisty, but you may find yourself questioning the plausibility of a thing or two. You know when the story is rolling along and then suddenly you realize, oh, this is happening! 😮🚩
This one came out 1/14/2025
I had the audio which has a cast of 10 fantastic narrators. It really made the novel binge-worthy and quite addictive!
Jessie Garcia is a debut author and she did a few things that surprised me and kept me guessing with a couple of double takes.
It was great to have some characters that I wanted to root for and some I could just recoil at! Someone seems to have gone rogue, someone is acting looney tunes, someone is setting a trap and then there is the person who seems to have "outsmarted" them all! Who, but who?
Fun and twisty, but you may find yourself questioning the plausibility of a thing or two. You know when the story is rolling along and then suddenly you realize, oh, this is happening! 😮🚩
This one came out 1/14/2025
September 17, 2024
Wowza! I was not expecting that! I thought I knew where this book was going; I had my theories and felt I was on the right track. I was not even close! I found The Business Trip to be a shocking and well thought out thriller which kept me on my toes! Ever wonder about the people you meet on planes? Do you talk to the person sitting next to you or avoid all conversation? The Business Trip might have you thinking about that the next time you sit next to a stranger on a plane!
Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship. Stephanie is going on a business trip to attend a conference. Both find themselves sitting next to each other on a plane. They have never met, they have no common connections, but days later each will send out the same text about the same man to those in their lives.
Jessie Garcia has written nonfiction books prior to writing The Business Trip, her first fiction book. I thought she did a terrific job and had my jaw hanging open at one point in this book. There are quite a few twists, turns and revelations which kept my pages turning and had me fully engaged.
I loved how everything unfolded in the second half of the book. Just when I thought I had a grasp on things, Garcia threw in a HUGE twist which blindsided me. I love it when that happens. I thought she did a great job of throwing readers off while building the suspense.
Well thought out, well written, and shocking!
*A wonderful buddy read with Mary Beth. Please read her review as well to see if she enjoyed the journey The Business Trip took us on.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
January 5, 2025
I wish I had listened to my GR friend Jayme and had the audio. I think I would have enjoyed it more. Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC and debut in exchange for my review.
Stephanie and Jasmine meet on a plane. One is a successful business woman working as a news director headed to a conference in San Diego. The other woman is Jasmine, who is running from an abusive relationship, on the means of handouts from friends and stealing.
Their friends receive the exact text messages referring to the same man they have met and then they both vanish. Twisted behaviors, wrongful accusations, and a string of lies will make you even more skeptical about meeting strangers. Some are being played and manipulated while one is a dangerous psycho. I had it all wrong about these unlikable characters.
Stephanie and Jasmine meet on a plane. One is a successful business woman working as a news director headed to a conference in San Diego. The other woman is Jasmine, who is running from an abusive relationship, on the means of handouts from friends and stealing.
Their friends receive the exact text messages referring to the same man they have met and then they both vanish. Twisted behaviors, wrongful accusations, and a string of lies will make you even more skeptical about meeting strangers. Some are being played and manipulated while one is a dangerous psycho. I had it all wrong about these unlikable characters.
February 5, 2025
“The Business Trip”, a debut by Jessie Garcia
2 stars ⭐️⭐️
I wasn’t going to write a review because my dear fellow readers loved this book. But then I thought that I should, after all it is about my experience reading this book, and I understand and accept that we are all allowed to think differently.
So… I do think that it’s a brilliant concept full of terrific Machiavellian ideas and a splendid conclusion, all killed by poor writing.
The writing and the storytelling felt too amateurish for me. Specially knowing that the author is an award-winner in journalism.
I think this book will be widely praised by teenagers or first time readers of this kind of genre.
The dialogues were very weak.
I don’t mind unlikeable characters or unbelievable stories, as long as the writing is gripping and well done.
There were great elements lost in its development.
One particular character was unreal. She started sounding dumb, but later she became a mastermind and a cold blood killer (just because she was envious!) but she couldn’t kill her boyfriend, who was extremely abusive.
Trent’s opinion on gender and mental illness was so unnecessary, even if used to build his character. I won’t be surprised if people start thinking that the author has the same point of view (not in my opinion. Besides, she saved herself with further dialogues).
However, I did appreciate the timeline structure, although the narrative, because of so many POV, was very repetitive.
I hope someone someday will rewrite this story.
Hardcover by St. Martin’s Press: 352 pages
ebook (Kobo): 317 pages (default), 97k words
2 stars ⭐️⭐️
I wasn’t going to write a review because my dear fellow readers loved this book. But then I thought that I should, after all it is about my experience reading this book, and I understand and accept that we are all allowed to think differently.
So… I do think that it’s a brilliant concept full of terrific Machiavellian ideas and a splendid conclusion, all killed by poor writing.
The writing and the storytelling felt too amateurish for me. Specially knowing that the author is an award-winner in journalism.
I think this book will be widely praised by teenagers or first time readers of this kind of genre.
The dialogues were very weak.
I don’t mind unlikeable characters or unbelievable stories, as long as the writing is gripping and well done.
There were great elements lost in its development.
One particular character was unreal. She started sounding dumb, but later she became a mastermind and a cold blood killer (just because she was envious!) but she couldn’t kill her boyfriend, who was extremely abusive.
Trent’s opinion on gender and mental illness was so unnecessary, even if used to build his character. I won’t be surprised if people start thinking that the author has the same point of view (not in my opinion. Besides, she saved herself with further dialogues).
However, I did appreciate the timeline structure, although the narrative, because of so many POV, was very repetitive.
I hope someone someday will rewrite this story.
Hardcover by St. Martin’s Press: 352 pages
ebook (Kobo): 317 pages (default), 97k words
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2025
Two women meet on a flight. Stephanie is a news director heading to a conference in San Diego. Jasmine is escaping an abusive relationship and thinks Denver will be a great place to start over. After talking together through the flight Jasmine comes up with a new plan. One that will guarantee she'll have her perfect beach side cabin in Mexico. Will she be able to execute the perfect crime? You'll have to read this to find out.
Ugh. I almost set this aside in the beginning (wish I had) but then the book started to become more interesting and I was excited to see what tricks Garcia had up her sleeve only to be left feeling really disappointed. I just found it ridiculous how this all played out. A LOT of suspension of disbelief is needed. Also, you can expect a lot of repetition, too.
As far as characters go, Jasmine is completely unlikable. I think the author wanted us to sympathize with her but she was awful and not once did I ever feel sorry for her. Then the character of Trent was introduced and I almost had to stop reading. He's disgusting in every way imaginable. 😡
Then that silly ending really sealed the deal. This was NOT for me. 2 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my complimentary copy.
Ugh. I almost set this aside in the beginning (wish I had) but then the book started to become more interesting and I was excited to see what tricks Garcia had up her sleeve only to be left feeling really disappointed. I just found it ridiculous how this all played out. A LOT of suspension of disbelief is needed. Also, you can expect a lot of repetition, too.
As far as characters go, Jasmine is completely unlikable. I think the author wanted us to sympathize with her but she was awful and not once did I ever feel sorry for her. Then the character of Trent was introduced and I almost had to stop reading. He's disgusting in every way imaginable. 😡
Then that silly ending really sealed the deal. This was NOT for me. 2 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my complimentary copy.
March 11, 2025
Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship by heading onto a plane to Denver. Stephanie is on a business trip to San Diego. They become seatmates on the plane.
But what happens next?
Readers begin to meet other characters through their narrative voices. Friends and colleagues who want to know what is happening, because nothing seems as it is.
Where is Jasmine and why isn’t Stephanie coming home as planned? There are some texts received by both for a while, alluding to a man named Trent McCarthy. Who is he and what does he have to do with Jasmine and Stephanie?
Each chapter will give readers an opportunity to know whose narrative voice is telling the story, and what point of time they are in the story – i.e., the day of the flight, the first day of the conference, going to the hotel, etc. The story will also be told in four parts.
And, one question will mostly likely be circulating in readers minds…
What is really going on here?
This is a fast-paced, page-turning, engrossing, suspenseful mystery, with an unpredictable plot that will keep readers at the edge of their seat. With a twist that could be considered surprising. But as readers are flipping pages looking for answers, when they finally come, it is the ending that falls flat and disappoints.
Other than that dissatisfying ending, this is a really readable story. Buckle-up. Please be seated; and, be sure your seatbelt is fastened securely. Readers are in for quite a trip.
But what happens next?
Readers begin to meet other characters through their narrative voices. Friends and colleagues who want to know what is happening, because nothing seems as it is.
Where is Jasmine and why isn’t Stephanie coming home as planned? There are some texts received by both for a while, alluding to a man named Trent McCarthy. Who is he and what does he have to do with Jasmine and Stephanie?
Each chapter will give readers an opportunity to know whose narrative voice is telling the story, and what point of time they are in the story – i.e., the day of the flight, the first day of the conference, going to the hotel, etc. The story will also be told in four parts.
And, one question will mostly likely be circulating in readers minds…
What is really going on here?
This is a fast-paced, page-turning, engrossing, suspenseful mystery, with an unpredictable plot that will keep readers at the edge of their seat. With a twist that could be considered surprising. But as readers are flipping pages looking for answers, when they finally come, it is the ending that falls flat and disappoints.
Other than that dissatisfying ending, this is a really readable story. Buckle-up. Please be seated; and, be sure your seatbelt is fastened securely. Readers are in for quite a trip.
January 21, 2025
I received a free digital ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Absolute dumbest fucking book I’ve ever read in my life. Completely would never happen in a million years because everything just managed to work so perfectly for jasmine the whole way through. ***So she just is able to check in to the same hotel room that ‘Stephanie’ has already checked into? That’s not how check-ins work and it would show in the system that Stephanie had already checked in.*** And jasmine’s not even an unreliable narrator, because everything is just so stupid. A million useless points of view, all telling and no showing. Absolutely awful writing, sounded like high schoolers talking instead of adult 40 yr old women. Easily one of the worst books of 2024. From about 40% in I was hate-reading, just to see how stupid it would get. Spoiler: it got reeeeeeal stupid, illogical, predictable, and more stupid.
***EDIT: Apparently she just used Stephanie's ID to get into the room. At that point already I was skimming because it was so bad. But, given how terrible the rest of the book was, it made sense from my skimming that the author would do something so stupid. God, this book was awful.
Absolute dumbest fucking book I’ve ever read in my life. Completely would never happen in a million years because everything just managed to work so perfectly for jasmine the whole way through. ***So she just is able to check in to the same hotel room that ‘Stephanie’ has already checked into? That’s not how check-ins work and it would show in the system that Stephanie had already checked in.*** And jasmine’s not even an unreliable narrator, because everything is just so stupid. A million useless points of view, all telling and no showing. Absolutely awful writing, sounded like high schoolers talking instead of adult 40 yr old women. Easily one of the worst books of 2024. From about 40% in I was hate-reading, just to see how stupid it would get. Spoiler: it got reeeeeeal stupid, illogical, predictable, and more stupid.
***EDIT: Apparently she just used Stephanie's ID to get into the room. At that point already I was skimming because it was so bad. But, given how terrible the rest of the book was, it made sense from my skimming that the author would do something so stupid. God, this book was awful.
August 24, 2024
This was….not great. It had its moments where I thought it was going to get really clever! And I did Want to keep reading but that’s where my enthusiasm ended. I had to just get past the amateur writing style and try to embrace the story.
We start by following Jasmine, a bartender dealt a tough hand in life, stuck in an abusive relationship with Glenn. Jasmine decides she’s had enough and wants to leave Glenn in secret. So she starts a plan. Firstly, Jasmine, is AWFUL. Like the most insufferable character, yet I feel like the author was trying to make us root for her? She not only murdered a girl in high school and framed her boyfriend for literally no reason other than “they’re mean and rich”, she then murders a completely innocent woman for zero reason whatsoever. Then frames Trent, another completely innocent man she doesn’t even know. Then we’re supposed to feel bad for her because she thinks they deserved it for being better off in life than she is? It’s a nah for me. If she was fine with killing people why didn’t she kill Glenn, the abusive asshole boyfriend? Instead she acted afraid of him and ran away. Makes no sense.
Don’t even get me started on the amount of pointless POVs we’re given. Random co-workers, the neighbor, another friend from high school. We’re told the story from all these POVs and when the “reveal” happens around the 50% mark, we are told the exact same story from Jasmine’s POV. I could’ve Skipped the last half of the book and just read the epilogue and understood it.
The end knocked this down to a 1 star read for me, with the last reveal being so wildly absurd and thrown together it was laughable.
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
We start by following Jasmine, a bartender dealt a tough hand in life, stuck in an abusive relationship with Glenn. Jasmine decides she’s had enough and wants to leave Glenn in secret. So she starts a plan. Firstly, Jasmine, is AWFUL. Like the most insufferable character, yet I feel like the author was trying to make us root for her? She not only murdered a girl in high school and framed her boyfriend for literally no reason other than “they’re mean and rich”, she then murders a completely innocent woman for zero reason whatsoever. Then frames Trent, another completely innocent man she doesn’t even know. Then we’re supposed to feel bad for her because she thinks they deserved it for being better off in life than she is? It’s a nah for me. If she was fine with killing people why didn’t she kill Glenn, the abusive asshole boyfriend? Instead she acted afraid of him and ran away. Makes no sense.
Don’t even get me started on the amount of pointless POVs we’re given. Random co-workers, the neighbor, another friend from high school. We’re told the story from all these POVs and when the “reveal” happens around the 50% mark, we are told the exact same story from Jasmine’s POV. I could’ve Skipped the last half of the book and just read the epilogue and understood it.
The end knocked this down to a 1 star read for me, with the last reveal being so wildly absurd and thrown together it was laughable.
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2025
Two women, Stephanie and Jasmine, are on the same plane, sitting in the same row, but have never met.
Their circumstances are very different. Stephanie is traveling to a business meeting; Jasmine is escaping from an abusive relationship.
Days later, both women begin texting friends about the same man. The texts become increasingly strange and concerning. Then Stephanie and Jasmine disappear...
The Business Trip is a story I was drawn into immediately and found seriously addictive until Part Three, which began to slow down and feel repetitive, often quoting the same dialogue from previous chapters. I did enjoy the author's creative storyline and the balance of likable and unlikable characters, but I wanted to know more about them. Perhaps giving the characters more depth of backstory would have been better than using so many pages to explain what happened.
I never stopped reading and remained curious about the final denouement. I understand how thrillers can feel over the top, and I am okay with that in this story. What I was looking for and didn't find were reasons why I should root for characters I didn't feel a connection to. For me, the characters are the most essential part of every story.
An immersion read, the audiobook has an entire cast of narrators recounting each character's first-person narrative. It was well done!
The Business Trip is a story I liked, and Jessie Garcia is a creative storyteller and author to watch!
3.25⭐
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio, and Jessie Garcia for a DRC and an ALC through NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Their circumstances are very different. Stephanie is traveling to a business meeting; Jasmine is escaping from an abusive relationship.
Days later, both women begin texting friends about the same man. The texts become increasingly strange and concerning. Then Stephanie and Jasmine disappear...
The Business Trip is a story I was drawn into immediately and found seriously addictive until Part Three, which began to slow down and feel repetitive, often quoting the same dialogue from previous chapters. I did enjoy the author's creative storyline and the balance of likable and unlikable characters, but I wanted to know more about them. Perhaps giving the characters more depth of backstory would have been better than using so many pages to explain what happened.
I never stopped reading and remained curious about the final denouement. I understand how thrillers can feel over the top, and I am okay with that in this story. What I was looking for and didn't find were reasons why I should root for characters I didn't feel a connection to. For me, the characters are the most essential part of every story.
An immersion read, the audiobook has an entire cast of narrators recounting each character's first-person narrative. It was well done!
The Business Trip is a story I liked, and Jessie Garcia is a creative storyteller and author to watch!
3.25⭐
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio, and Jessie Garcia for a DRC and an ALC through NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
January 14, 2025
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY!
Uniquely structured narrative that can be read in one sitting!
My Goodreads friends convinced me to grab the audiobook, even though I already had the physical ARC of The Business Trip. Glad I did, as I raced through this fast-paced thriller!
What really happened on the business trip? Stephanie and Jasmine sit next to each other on a plane. One is fleeing an abusive relationship and the other is on her way to a conference. After texting that they met a man named Trent McCarthy, both women turn up missing. Told in four parts through a plethora of narrators, this cat and mouse game will keep you questioning who is telling the truth. Who is playing who?
This is a great debut novel by Jessie Garcia and I see promise for her in this genre. However, this book is a popcorn thriller containing several over the top and unbelievable twists. The way the author has structured the narrative is what sets it apart from other similar themed books. It also allows for a good amount of repetition, as characters relate their own versions of the same story. While I enjoyed listening to the plot, I don’t think I would have enjoyed it as much if I was reading the print version, so thank you to my Goodreads friends for convincing me to try it!
3.5/5 stars rounded down
Expected publication date: 1/14/25
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC of The Business Trip in exchange for an honest review.
Uniquely structured narrative that can be read in one sitting!
My Goodreads friends convinced me to grab the audiobook, even though I already had the physical ARC of The Business Trip. Glad I did, as I raced through this fast-paced thriller!
What really happened on the business trip? Stephanie and Jasmine sit next to each other on a plane. One is fleeing an abusive relationship and the other is on her way to a conference. After texting that they met a man named Trent McCarthy, both women turn up missing. Told in four parts through a plethora of narrators, this cat and mouse game will keep you questioning who is telling the truth. Who is playing who?
This is a great debut novel by Jessie Garcia and I see promise for her in this genre. However, this book is a popcorn thriller containing several over the top and unbelievable twists. The way the author has structured the narrative is what sets it apart from other similar themed books. It also allows for a good amount of repetition, as characters relate their own versions of the same story. While I enjoyed listening to the plot, I don’t think I would have enjoyed it as much if I was reading the print version, so thank you to my Goodreads friends for convincing me to try it!
3.5/5 stars rounded down
Expected publication date: 1/14/25
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC of The Business Trip in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2025
3.5 Stars
A Full Cast of Narrators: Yes, Please!
The audiobook nails the experience of listening to The Business Trip. A full cast of narrators—TEN narrators. That’s not just a selling point; it’s a game-changer.
When you’re juggling a story with a lot of characters, having distinct voices for each one is a lifesaver. Seriously, each narrator brought so much personality to their character that it was like having a little movie in my ears. This audiobook didn’t just tell the story; it performed it.
A Clever, Twisty Plot That Hooks You
Here’s where the book truly shines: the writing and story structure. It’s clever. The first half introduces us to Stephanie, a business traveler, and Jasmine, a woman fleeing an abusive relationship. They meet on a plane, and a few days later, both start texting their friends and coworkers strange things that seem a little out of character for them. The messages grow stranger, and more unsettling.
Just like the characters’ friends, I found myself frantically trying to piece together what was happening. The sense of mystery and tension builds and red flags are waving wildly.
The Big Reveal: Ambitious, Did it work?
When the second half kicks in, we dive into what actually happened through a couple of other characters. The reveal is clever, no doubt about it. This part of the story does get a bit repetitive at times, but the real strength lies in how all those burning questions are answered through the characters’ points of view.
Believability: A Stumble in the Story
It was hard to buy into the events unfolding the way they did. It stretched my suspension of disbelief a bit thin and lost me. It was hard to recover from that.
That One Character… You Know the One
Let me just say… there was one character that seriously tested my patience. You know the type: over-the-top, stereotypical, and grating. The narrator did a good job embodying the character, but between the writing and their voice, it was a lot. It almost pulled me out of the story… almost. I get that the author was going for a certain type with this character, but it leaned a little too hard into caricature territory.
That said, if you can look past those moments that make you go, "Really?" there’s still so much to enjoy here. The twists, the characters, and the pacing all make it worth sticking around for the ride.
Just maybe brace yourself for that character. You’ll know them when you hear them.
I received an audiobook from the publisher through NetGalley.
A Full Cast of Narrators: Yes, Please!
The audiobook nails the experience of listening to The Business Trip. A full cast of narrators—TEN narrators. That’s not just a selling point; it’s a game-changer.
When you’re juggling a story with a lot of characters, having distinct voices for each one is a lifesaver. Seriously, each narrator brought so much personality to their character that it was like having a little movie in my ears. This audiobook didn’t just tell the story; it performed it.
A Clever, Twisty Plot That Hooks You
Here’s where the book truly shines: the writing and story structure. It’s clever. The first half introduces us to Stephanie, a business traveler, and Jasmine, a woman fleeing an abusive relationship. They meet on a plane, and a few days later, both start texting their friends and coworkers strange things that seem a little out of character for them. The messages grow stranger, and more unsettling.
Just like the characters’ friends, I found myself frantically trying to piece together what was happening. The sense of mystery and tension builds and red flags are waving wildly.
The Big Reveal: Ambitious, Did it work?
When the second half kicks in, we dive into what actually happened through a couple of other characters. The reveal is clever, no doubt about it. This part of the story does get a bit repetitive at times, but the real strength lies in how all those burning questions are answered through the characters’ points of view.
Believability: A Stumble in the Story
It was hard to buy into the events unfolding the way they did. It stretched my suspension of disbelief a bit thin and lost me. It was hard to recover from that.
That One Character… You Know the One
Let me just say… there was one character that seriously tested my patience. You know the type: over-the-top, stereotypical, and grating. The narrator did a good job embodying the character, but between the writing and their voice, it was a lot. It almost pulled me out of the story… almost. I get that the author was going for a certain type with this character, but it leaned a little too hard into caricature territory.
That said, if you can look past those moments that make you go, "Really?" there’s still so much to enjoy here. The twists, the characters, and the pacing all make it worth sticking around for the ride.
Just maybe brace yourself for that character. You’ll know them when you hear them.
I received an audiobook from the publisher through NetGalley.
January 2, 2026
This is an entertaining, well, written, fast paced, psychological thriller. It is gripping and intense, with engaging characters, suspense, twists and turns, and an unexpected conclusion. Many thanks to St. Martin's Press, NetGalley, and Jessie Garcia, from whom I received an advanced reader copy of this outstanding novel. This is my honest opinion.
September 6, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this eARC to read and review. Pub date: January 2025.
I read a lot of books by St Martin's Press and almost always love them. I love mysteries and thrillers as a rule! But I did not love this book.
I disliked the one-dimensional abusive relationship between Jasmine and her boyfriend that the book opens with. I was hopeful when we switched to TV news manager Stephanie's POV, as she seemed a more balanced and nuanced character.
We get some extraneous POVs, including Jasmine's bartender friend, Stephanie's co-workers and neighbor. I hoped those 'normal' characters would add appropriate weight and logic to the book, but no such luck.
By the 50% mark we had learned a lot about Jasmine's history (reveal #1), which made the entire second half of the book unpleasant and stretching credibility in countless ways. Jasmine's character progression as written was so wildly inconsistent I couldn't buy it, and Trent was a caricature. The only reasonable people were Stephanie's work colleagues, but the author didn't write too much about them. And by the last 5-10% we get reveal #2, which stretched credibility even more in ways I can't even write about.
I just learned a term reading another review: hate-reading. I'll modify that term to 'hate-speed-reading,' which is what I did for most of this book. If you are an avid reader who enjoys well crafted characters, plots and logical reveals, I would pass on this, sorry to say. 1.5-stars rounded up for the author pulling together a series of reveals and making a book of them that will be published.
I read a lot of books by St Martin's Press and almost always love them. I love mysteries and thrillers as a rule! But I did not love this book.
I disliked the one-dimensional abusive relationship between Jasmine and her boyfriend that the book opens with. I was hopeful when we switched to TV news manager Stephanie's POV, as she seemed a more balanced and nuanced character.
We get some extraneous POVs, including Jasmine's bartender friend, Stephanie's co-workers and neighbor. I hoped those 'normal' characters would add appropriate weight and logic to the book, but no such luck.
By the 50% mark we had learned a lot about Jasmine's history (reveal #1), which made the entire second half of the book unpleasant and stretching credibility in countless ways. Jasmine's character progression as written was so wildly inconsistent I couldn't buy it, and Trent was a caricature. The only reasonable people were Stephanie's work colleagues, but the author didn't write too much about them. And by the last 5-10% we get reveal #2, which stretched credibility even more in ways I can't even write about.
I just learned a term reading another review: hate-reading. I'll modify that term to 'hate-speed-reading,' which is what I did for most of this book. If you are an avid reader who enjoys well crafted characters, plots and logical reveals, I would pass on this, sorry to say. 1.5-stars rounded up for the author pulling together a series of reveals and making a book of them that will be published.
November 21, 2024
What happens when two ordinary women with nothing (and everything!) in common meet on a plane?
Buckle your seatbelt.
Get set to embark on a gripping and tumultuous journey.
You'll discover a business trip like no other.
Characterizations were strong, pacing was deliriously fast, and twists were plentiful, furious, and gasp-worthy.
The book was unpredictable, unputdownable, and refreshingly different.
I listened to the audiobook read by Andrew Eiden, Dylan Fitzpatrick, Fred Berman, Gail Shalan, Hillary Huber, Jennifer Pickens, John Pirhalla, Kimberly M. Wetherell, Kirby Heyborne, and Tim Campbell.
Full-cast audiobooks are always a treat and the narration by all 10 narrators was absolutely, positively brilliant.
Kudos to author Jessie Garcia for a very, very, very impressive debut.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
One of my besties of 2024.
All the stars!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
February 18, 2025
A gripping debut!
Jasmine is a woman on the run. As a waitress without good family support and in an abusive relationship, her only way to gain freedom is to leave her boyfriend while he sleeps.
Stephanie is a news director. She is divorced and doesn't see her son as much as she would like. She is always working, and thankfully, her neighbor, Robert, can take care of her cat while she flies for work. Stephanie wishes for a change in her life. Yet, she is packing for another work trip. This time, it's a conference in San Diego.
Two things these women have in common: first, they both take a flight to Denver and sit in the same row; second, they both meet a man named Trent McCarthy and then disappear after a few days.
What happened to the women?
"The Business Trip" was full of suspense with an intricate plot. It was full of surprises that made the story shine. The only part I didn't like was the last scene. I think it was unnecessary. I also would have liked to see more of Robert. Nonetheless, this novel was a winner.
Cliffhanger: No
45 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Jasmine is a woman on the run. As a waitress without good family support and in an abusive relationship, her only way to gain freedom is to leave her boyfriend while he sleeps.
Stephanie is a news director. She is divorced and doesn't see her son as much as she would like. She is always working, and thankfully, her neighbor, Robert, can take care of her cat while she flies for work. Stephanie wishes for a change in her life. Yet, she is packing for another work trip. This time, it's a conference in San Diego.
Two things these women have in common: first, they both take a flight to Denver and sit in the same row; second, they both meet a man named Trent McCarthy and then disappear after a few days.
What happened to the women?
"The Business Trip" was full of suspense with an intricate plot. It was full of surprises that made the story shine. The only part I didn't like was the last scene. I think it was unnecessary. I also would have liked to see more of Robert. Nonetheless, this novel was a winner.
Cliffhanger: No
45 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
January 23, 2025
3.5 stars - I added this book strictly due to "FOMO", I admit & I won my copy via a GoodReads Giveaway. But I have to say that I was a bit underwhelmed, overall. I loved the beginning with all the narrators giving us their own POV's into the disappearance of two women on a trip. It became less successful for me when it changed to a single POV who told us what was up, though it redeemed itself with another POV at the end (IYKYK - no spoilers here). It was also quick and easy to read, I appreciate that. Overall, I do think readers who enjoy books like those of Frieda M and the like will find this compelling as well.
May 11, 2025
YOU SPIN ME RIGHT ROUND, BABY RIGHT ROUND
In The Business Trip we are following Stephanie and Jasmine who are complete strangers to each other but end up on the same plane together and both mysteriously go missing. Its now up to their close ones to try and get to the bottom of where both the women are?
Ok Ms Garcia for a debut you did a great job. She set up the premise well for this read and had me engaged ALMOST throughout.
There are so many characters. I mean in the words of DMX there was: Jasmine, Stephanie, Anna, Glenn, Robert, Bruce, Dave, Lucy, Trent and Bill!
You would expect to be confused AF with all these characters to contend with but NOPE, they are all easily memorable and I didn’t find myself being lost or unsure. I will say that some of the characters were not needed and were only there to amp the story up more.
Now this is one of those books that I can’t say too much about as it will ruin it very easily, but it was different, and I couldn’t wait to see where it would end.
A gripe I do have with the story was the author tends to follow the formula of doing a lot of telling instead of showing. There was to much over detailing with what the characters were doing and it was a bit annoying.
The twist was UNEXPECTED! I was very impressed and clapped with glee. BUT the reasoning behind it and the ending was so far fetched and embellished it IRKED the hell out of me! WHY WHY, WHY! I was cringing at the absurdity of it all and wished the author had gone in a different direction.
⋆｡°✩WHAT I LIKED⋆｡°✩
➽ Multiple POVS
➽ Shocking plot twist
➽ My hatred for some unlikeable characters
➽ Suspenseful
⋆｡°✩WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE⋆｡°✩
➽ Suspension of disbelief highly needed for the aftermath
➽ Tell VS Show
➽ A few unnecessary characters
➽ Abrupt ending
All in all, for a debut book it was enjoyable, and I am excited to see what the author comes out with next.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
⋆｡°✩pre read⋆｡°✩
Ok time for another hyped BookTok read!
I hope it delivers and is original!
I have my fingers tightly crossed!
💙💙💙
In The Business Trip we are following Stephanie and Jasmine who are complete strangers to each other but end up on the same plane together and both mysteriously go missing. Its now up to their close ones to try and get to the bottom of where both the women are?
Ok Ms Garcia for a debut you did a great job. She set up the premise well for this read and had me engaged ALMOST throughout.
There are so many characters. I mean in the words of DMX there was: Jasmine, Stephanie, Anna, Glenn, Robert, Bruce, Dave, Lucy, Trent and Bill!
You would expect to be confused AF with all these characters to contend with but NOPE, they are all easily memorable and I didn’t find myself being lost or unsure. I will say that some of the characters were not needed and were only there to amp the story up more.
Now this is one of those books that I can’t say too much about as it will ruin it very easily, but it was different, and I couldn’t wait to see where it would end.
A gripe I do have with the story was the author tends to follow the formula of doing a lot of telling instead of showing. There was to much over detailing with what the characters were doing and it was a bit annoying.
The twist was UNEXPECTED! I was very impressed and clapped with glee. BUT the reasoning behind it and the ending was so far fetched and embellished it IRKED the hell out of me! WHY WHY, WHY! I was cringing at the absurdity of it all and wished the author had gone in a different direction.
⋆｡°✩WHAT I LIKED⋆｡°✩
➽ Multiple POVS
➽ Shocking plot twist
➽ My hatred for some unlikeable characters
➽ Suspenseful
⋆｡°✩WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE⋆｡°✩
➽ Suspension of disbelief highly needed for the aftermath
➽ Tell VS Show
➽ A few unnecessary characters
➽ Abrupt ending
All in all, for a debut book it was enjoyable, and I am excited to see what the author comes out with next.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
⋆｡°✩pre read⋆｡°✩
Ok time for another hyped BookTok read!
I hope it delivers and is original!
I have my fingers tightly crossed!
💙💙💙
January 15, 2025
This aptly titled thriller encompassed various forms of business: official, risky, shady, and perhaps the most important the business of being unputdownable! I was looking for any excuse to throw my headphones 🎧 on and dive back in. 👀 A full cast of narrators that brought their “A” game 👏🏻 had me showing up excited every single time for this one.
Two women from different walks of life take the same ✈️ flight, both send word home that they’ve met a dreamy guy. At first he sounds like a total catch, until the women vanish.
How easy is it to manipulate a situation when people see what they expect to see?
Captivating and gripping I liked how many variables were in play and perspectives from a wide range of characters. It felt like the author was tossing center pieces of a jigsaw while I was assembling the border 🧩 I enjoyed that it required my attention. I LOVE when I have to collect clues along the way. I thought it was brilliant to give side characters a voice that in most novels would’ve barely received a mention. I only figured out fifty percent of the twist so I had a little shock and that made my day! 😍
💫Bravo!!💫
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the Advance Listening Copy for Review. These are my unbiased opinions.
Two women from different walks of life take the same ✈️ flight, both send word home that they’ve met a dreamy guy. At first he sounds like a total catch, until the women vanish.
How easy is it to manipulate a situation when people see what they expect to see?
Captivating and gripping I liked how many variables were in play and perspectives from a wide range of characters. It felt like the author was tossing center pieces of a jigsaw while I was assembling the border 🧩 I enjoyed that it required my attention. I LOVE when I have to collect clues along the way. I thought it was brilliant to give side characters a voice that in most novels would’ve barely received a mention. I only figured out fifty percent of the twist so I had a little shock and that made my day! 😍
💫Bravo!!💫
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the Advance Listening Copy for Review. These are my unbiased opinions.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 9,040 reviews