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The Lake
Still waters hide dark secrets … A remote Scottish lake
The guests arriving at Carnoustie Castle are expecting discreet luxury, panoramic views, and perhaps a glimpse of one of its infamous ghosts.
No means of escape
When a violent storm severs all contact with the mainland, it’s not the spirits they need to fear…
Trust no one
As the past resurfaces and trust vanishes, it's clear that not everyone will be leaving Carnoustie Castle alive.
Will The Lake give up its secrets, before somebody else dies?
The guests arriving at Carnoustie Castle are expecting discreet luxury, panoramic views, and perhaps a glimpse of one of its infamous ghosts.
No means of escape
When a violent storm severs all contact with the mainland, it’s not the spirits they need to fear…
Trust no one
As the past resurfaces and trust vanishes, it's clear that not everyone will be leaving Carnoustie Castle alive.
Will The Lake give up its secrets, before somebody else dies?
363 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 6, 2025
65 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Cooper
13 books274 followersI am a freelance journalist living in the South of France with my husband and two teenage children. We moved from London in 2009 so that the children could grow up bilingual and we could all ski more, and to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life.
I learned to ski on a school trip when I was 14 and have loved it ever since.
I'm an avid thriller reader and have been since I discovered Agatha Christie as a child.
The Chalet is my first published full-length novel, though I have also written several (unpublished) thrillers for teens and a (what used to be called) chick lit novel set in TV production.
Other than skiing and reading I love travel, theme parks (the pic on this page was taken on a rollercoaster in Spain) and I spend far too much time on social media. Some of my other favourite things include Alan Partridge, sparkly flip flops and salt and vinegar crisps.
I learned to ski on a school trip when I was 14 and have loved it ever since.
I'm an avid thriller reader and have been since I discovered Agatha Christie as a child.
The Chalet is my first published full-length novel, though I have also written several (unpublished) thrillers for teens and a (what used to be called) chick lit novel set in TV production.
Other than skiing and reading I love travel, theme parks (the pic on this page was taken on a rollercoaster in Spain) and I spend far too much time on social media. Some of my other favourite things include Alan Partridge, sparkly flip flops and salt and vinegar crisps.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 11, 2025
4.75 stars
I'm always drawn to a story where people (normally including quite a few characters you'll love to hate) are stranded on an island by a storm and then one by one they're picked off. But this had the added ghostly twist and some great back and forth in terms of the timeline and POVs.
There are a number of characters to get to grips with initially, but once I did, I was completely immersed in the story.
I also loved Silas' chapters detailing some of the possible hauntings. They were done well.
I liked how atmospheric it felt and that I had no idea where it would go next.
And without giving any spoilers, I quite liked that it didn't end the way I expected it to.
Normally it's all resolved and those who were responsible are found out. But that didn't happen here.
And the final few chapters and lines from Tabitha's perspective ended it nicely.
It was tragic at times, yet the present day kept me on the edge of my seat. In fact, I read this within 24 hours and would have happily read it in one sitting, had I had the time.
I've read quite a few of Catherine Cooper's books in the past and I always have a great time with them. I'll definitely be picking up whatever she releases next.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I'm always drawn to a story where people (normally including quite a few characters you'll love to hate) are stranded on an island by a storm and then one by one they're picked off. But this had the added ghostly twist and some great back and forth in terms of the timeline and POVs.
There are a number of characters to get to grips with initially, but once I did, I was completely immersed in the story.
I also loved Silas' chapters detailing some of the possible hauntings. They were done well.
I liked how atmospheric it felt and that I had no idea where it would go next.
And without giving any spoilers, I quite liked that it didn't end the way I expected it to.
Normally it's all resolved and those who were responsible are found out. But that didn't happen here.
And the final few chapters and lines from Tabitha's perspective ended it nicely.
It was tragic at times, yet the present day kept me on the edge of my seat. In fact, I read this within 24 hours and would have happily read it in one sitting, had I had the time.
I've read quite a few of Catherine Cooper's books in the past and I always have a great time with them. I'll definitely be picking up whatever she releases next.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2025
This was a really fun and engrossing read, I flew through it!
Up front, there are some elements to the storyline that feel a little messy - there’s a lot going on, and the storyline at times seems tangential and inconsistent. However, once I got used to this style, I found myself relaxing and really enjoying the ride.
Cooper has an energetic and generous writing style that really sucks you in. There are twists and turns, jumps through time and POV making this a fast paced and addicting read. The story is packed with intrigue - an isolated and historical setting, villains, ghosts and mystics, hidden identities, late night hijinks, love and loss. It pulled me well out of my reading slump, and was just what I needed.
I’d strongly recommend for anyone looking for a fast-paced and engrossing mystery.
Thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
Up front, there are some elements to the storyline that feel a little messy - there’s a lot going on, and the storyline at times seems tangential and inconsistent. However, once I got used to this style, I found myself relaxing and really enjoying the ride.
Cooper has an energetic and generous writing style that really sucks you in. There are twists and turns, jumps through time and POV making this a fast paced and addicting read. The story is packed with intrigue - an isolated and historical setting, villains, ghosts and mystics, hidden identities, late night hijinks, love and loss. It pulled me well out of my reading slump, and was just what I needed.
I’d strongly recommend for anyone looking for a fast-paced and engrossing mystery.
Thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
September 12, 2025
Wow!! This was amazing!! So many twists I felt on edge! The story telling was through the years so weaved brilliantly it just flowed perfectly.
I really enjoyed it the characters were interesting, the back story was captivating such an unique story I couldn’t put down I read it in just 2 sittings
I was gripped from the started! Was a fantastic read
I really enjoyed it the characters were interesting, the back story was captivating such an unique story I couldn’t put down I read it in just 2 sittings
I was gripped from the started! Was a fantastic read
November 12, 2025
This was a good book to read around Halloween with the creepy castle in the middle of a lake in Scotland with all its ghosts and the Laird of Creaglie and all of its history.
The castle is opened up for the first time to the public to a select group for a ghostly event event but the weather has brought a bad storm, so not all the guests and staff have made it and there's no way for those who have attended to leave.
However after the first death, its not the ghosts they need to be wary of.
There's lots of backstory to the Laird Alistair's history and other members of the past and lots of secrets and twists so
I very much enjoyed the Lake By Catherine Cooper
Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction /HarperCollins for the opportunity to read an advance copy,
The castle is opened up for the first time to the public to a select group for a ghostly event event but the weather has brought a bad storm, so not all the guests and staff have made it and there's no way for those who have attended to leave.
However after the first death, its not the ghosts they need to be wary of.
There's lots of backstory to the Laird Alistair's history and other members of the past and lots of secrets and twists so
I very much enjoyed the Lake By Catherine Cooper
Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction /HarperCollins for the opportunity to read an advance copy,
November 5, 2025
This is a great mystery thriller.
The Creaglie family are very wealthy and Alistair enjoys impressing people with the castle he lives in.
His son Joshua is tasked with bringing in more money, as the castle takes a lot to keep up the maintenance.
He arranges for a few select people to spend a couple of days there and uses the castle’s hauntings as the reason for the event.
When someone is found dead, it sends shockwaves through the group but they can’t leave the castle as the weather is too bad to get them off the island.
We have chapters from Alistair’s past wives and get to learn how several people in the book are all linked.
I really enjoyed this book as it had a few twists and surprises throughout.
Thanks to Harper Collins UK for the opportunity to read this book.
The Creaglie family are very wealthy and Alistair enjoys impressing people with the castle he lives in.
His son Joshua is tasked with bringing in more money, as the castle takes a lot to keep up the maintenance.
He arranges for a few select people to spend a couple of days there and uses the castle’s hauntings as the reason for the event.
When someone is found dead, it sends shockwaves through the group but they can’t leave the castle as the weather is too bad to get them off the island.
We have chapters from Alistair’s past wives and get to learn how several people in the book are all linked.
I really enjoyed this book as it had a few twists and surprises throughout.
Thanks to Harper Collins UK for the opportunity to read this book.
September 11, 2025
I have read all of Catherine Coopers books so have been waiting impatiently to start this one. Wow what can I say it did not disappoint and had me gripped from the first page.
Creaglie Castle in Scotland is beautifully situated next to a remote Scottish lake, although unfortunately when the weather turns there is no way of getting to and from the castle. When the Creaglie family decide to hold a ghost hunting weekend for the public to start to bring in some income things begin to fall apart very quickly.
The characters are well described and I could imagine everyone in the castle with the storm outside. The setting of the castle was just brilliant and really added to the eeriness.
I enjoyed how the chapters were told from different characters perspectives and I also liked how the book took us back in time.
A fantastic read which kept me guessing all the way through the book and brilliantly tied up everything at the end.
Thanks to NetGalley, Catherine Cooper and Harper Collins UK, Harper Fiction for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Creaglie Castle in Scotland is beautifully situated next to a remote Scottish lake, although unfortunately when the weather turns there is no way of getting to and from the castle. When the Creaglie family decide to hold a ghost hunting weekend for the public to start to bring in some income things begin to fall apart very quickly.
The characters are well described and I could imagine everyone in the castle with the storm outside. The setting of the castle was just brilliant and really added to the eeriness.
I enjoyed how the chapters were told from different characters perspectives and I also liked how the book took us back in time.
A fantastic read which kept me guessing all the way through the book and brilliantly tied up everything at the end.
Thanks to NetGalley, Catherine Cooper and Harper Collins UK, Harper Fiction for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
November 11, 2025
The Lake invites readers into the chilling grandeur of a newly restored castle hotel, where luxury and lingering spirits intertwine. As Creaglie Castle prepares for the grand opening of its opulent spa and hotel facilities, a select group of guests are given an exclusive preview — one that quickly descends into a weekend of mystery, fear, and fatal consequences.
What begins as an indulgent stay soon turns sinister. A guided tour is interrupted by unsettling supernatural events, and a séance ends abruptly in chaos and high emotion. When three members of the party meet untimely deaths, it becomes clear that the true danger may lie not with the castle’s ghosts, but with those still very much alive.
Chronological jumps within the narrative give the reader an insight into past and present character perspectives revealing buried secrets, tangled relationships, and long-nurtured plans for revenge.
Cooper is a master of atmospheric suspense. As a reader, you are wrapped in the claustrophobia of the isolated setting and the unease of the characters.
A fantastic book and a reminder that the past is never truly buried, and that the living can be far more dangerous than the dead.
What begins as an indulgent stay soon turns sinister. A guided tour is interrupted by unsettling supernatural events, and a séance ends abruptly in chaos and high emotion. When three members of the party meet untimely deaths, it becomes clear that the true danger may lie not with the castle’s ghosts, but with those still very much alive.
Chronological jumps within the narrative give the reader an insight into past and present character perspectives revealing buried secrets, tangled relationships, and long-nurtured plans for revenge.
Cooper is a master of atmospheric suspense. As a reader, you are wrapped in the claustrophobia of the isolated setting and the unease of the characters.
A fantastic book and a reminder that the past is never truly buried, and that the living can be far more dangerous than the dead.
November 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I love a CC book! Not just because of the colour coordinated covers.
This one is a slow burn and a gripping thriller that had me questioning a lot of characters. I enjoyed the different parts and the back and forth in time.
The only reason why it's not 5 stars is the amount of characters. I admit I got confused and who was who and when all the big reveals started happening, it threw me completely and had to flick back and check some details!
Other than that, a truly enjoyable and creeping thriller with a great setting in the Scottish Highlands at an old castle in the middle of a lake. What's not to love!
I love a CC book! Not just because of the colour coordinated covers.
This one is a slow burn and a gripping thriller that had me questioning a lot of characters. I enjoyed the different parts and the back and forth in time.
The only reason why it's not 5 stars is the amount of characters. I admit I got confused and who was who and when all the big reveals started happening, it threw me completely and had to flick back and check some details!
Other than that, a truly enjoyable and creeping thriller with a great setting in the Scottish Highlands at an old castle in the middle of a lake. What's not to love!
November 2, 2025
A group of guests arrive at Creaglie Castle, expecting a luxury, ghost hunting experience. However a violent storm erupts, disconnecting them with the outside world, and it becomes clear that not everyone will be leaving in one piece.
Ever since The Chalet, I have read and enjoyed all of this author’s books. This one felt slightly different to her other books, with more of a supernatural angle. The story started strongly and I found myself interested in the setting and where it would go. I don’t usually love ghost thrillers, however it was intriguing here and I enjoyed the concept of a ghost tour in an isolated setting. This helped keep up the creepiness and suspense.
Although this started strongly, I found that the pacing slowed around the midpoint and I wasn’t as invested in the storyline, although the ending picked up again. I found that some parts and character’s thoughts were a bit repetitive. I also found that the reader is introduced to a large number of characters, which at times made it a bit confusing, especially when going back and forwards in different timeframes.
Even though I had a few issues with this one, I still found it a solid thriller and it’s worth picking up if you enjoy atmospheric, locked room mysteries with a touch of the supernatural. I will certainly continue to read books by this author. 3.5 stars rounded down. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
Ever since The Chalet, I have read and enjoyed all of this author’s books. This one felt slightly different to her other books, with more of a supernatural angle. The story started strongly and I found myself interested in the setting and where it would go. I don’t usually love ghost thrillers, however it was intriguing here and I enjoyed the concept of a ghost tour in an isolated setting. This helped keep up the creepiness and suspense.
Although this started strongly, I found that the pacing slowed around the midpoint and I wasn’t as invested in the storyline, although the ending picked up again. I found that some parts and character’s thoughts were a bit repetitive. I also found that the reader is introduced to a large number of characters, which at times made it a bit confusing, especially when going back and forwards in different timeframes.
Even though I had a few issues with this one, I still found it a solid thriller and it’s worth picking up if you enjoy atmospheric, locked room mysteries with a touch of the supernatural. I will certainly continue to read books by this author. 3.5 stars rounded down. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
December 30, 2025
3.5* a different kind of thriller for Catherine Cooper and I enjoyed it. This was definitely a more paranormal/supernatural thriller and I liked the isolated setting. dropped down a little as there were multiple perspectives so it was a little messy at times but I enjoyed some of the twists, secrets and mysteries on offer.
December 10, 2025
Audiobook 🎧 good cast but I wanted more ghosts 😂
January 23, 2026
I listened to the audio version of this novel and narrators were wonderful!
It was such a good story! Lots of twists! One big shocker for me in a revelation a little later in the book.
A remote, creepy castle in the middle of a lake. Inclement weather. No cell or landline service. Accidents or perhaps murders?
Great character development!
Certainly a ghost story, but so much more.
All around awesome!!
Loved it!!
It was such a good story! Lots of twists! One big shocker for me in a revelation a little later in the book.
A remote, creepy castle in the middle of a lake. Inclement weather. No cell or landline service. Accidents or perhaps murders?
Great character development!
Certainly a ghost story, but so much more.
All around awesome!!
Loved it!!
January 15, 2026
A good thriller/mystery that's great to enjoy with a nice glass of gin! thoroughly enjoyed this and loved the plot and the little tidbits of family history from Silus's knowledge .
November 20, 2025
Creaglie Castle is a remote castle in the Scottish Highlands, only accessible by boat and has been in the Creaglie family for generations, the current owner being septuagenarian Laird Alistair and his much younger third wife Lady Tabitha, also residing there is his son from his second marriage, Joshua and many ghosts, if you believe everything you hear. The castle requires a lot of upkeep and now that Joshua has taken over the day to day running of it he decides to open it up to the public by hosting 'ghost weekends' where paying guests can live like royalty for a couple of days and see if they can encounter any ethereal beings. The first ten guests have arrived and are looking forward to a luxurious stay and learning about the castle when a storm hits, cutting them off from the mainland, and they soon learn it's not the ghosts they need to be scared of, but those that are very much still alive and nobody can be trusted...
The Lake is the new thriller by this author, told across two timelines, in nine parts and told from the perspectives of various characters, this thriller is set in the ghostly Creaglie Castle, but this isn't about the ghosts and the history of the castle, there's a back story which tells of the Laird's previous wives and their deaths, but nothing is quite as it seems and there are certain guests that want answers and, when tragedy strikes one stormy night, this is when the story really opens up with some unexpected twists and turns that keep you guessing and a somewhat comical ending. An intriguing and enjoyable read with some interesting characters from a new to me author.
I'd like to thank HarperCollins UK and Netgalley for the auto approval, I will post my review on Amazon and Goodreads.
The Lake is the new thriller by this author, told across two timelines, in nine parts and told from the perspectives of various characters, this thriller is set in the ghostly Creaglie Castle, but this isn't about the ghosts and the history of the castle, there's a back story which tells of the Laird's previous wives and their deaths, but nothing is quite as it seems and there are certain guests that want answers and, when tragedy strikes one stormy night, this is when the story really opens up with some unexpected twists and turns that keep you guessing and a somewhat comical ending. An intriguing and enjoyable read with some interesting characters from a new to me author.
I'd like to thank HarperCollins UK and Netgalley for the auto approval, I will post my review on Amazon and Goodreads.
January 1, 2026
Atmospheric, claustrophobically creepy, addictive, compulsive and brilliant are just some of the adjectives that spring to mind about The Lake.
It's definitely another triumph for Catherine Cooper and this is a book I read over the course of an evening.
It is also a book that I was so engrossed in that I jumped when someone wanted to talk to me,, at which point I noticed the weather outside was matching the book, and then I jumped again when something near me went bang.
Turns out books filled with ghosts and raging storms, will make this reader extra jumpy and unsettled.... not sure I want to go to sleep, as I suspect this book could infiltrate my dreams too.
Creaglie Castle is steeped in history and also a large number of unfortunate deaths, and thus tends to be considered rather haunted.
Amongst the view points we get the most intriguing ones of all, some of the stories of the women who were married to the current Laird, Alistair. To say I was not a fan of this Laird would be an understatement.
And during the launch weekend of a new ghost hunting enterprise, there are multiple deaths while the castle is totally cut off, and I certainly hadn't figured out who was going around murdering others.
A completely addictive read, and I'm already curious as to what delights the author will have for us in her next book!
Thank you to HarperCollins and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
It's definitely another triumph for Catherine Cooper and this is a book I read over the course of an evening.
It is also a book that I was so engrossed in that I jumped when someone wanted to talk to me,, at which point I noticed the weather outside was matching the book, and then I jumped again when something near me went bang.
Turns out books filled with ghosts and raging storms, will make this reader extra jumpy and unsettled.... not sure I want to go to sleep, as I suspect this book could infiltrate my dreams too.
Creaglie Castle is steeped in history and also a large number of unfortunate deaths, and thus tends to be considered rather haunted.
Amongst the view points we get the most intriguing ones of all, some of the stories of the women who were married to the current Laird, Alistair. To say I was not a fan of this Laird would be an understatement.
And during the launch weekend of a new ghost hunting enterprise, there are multiple deaths while the castle is totally cut off, and I certainly hadn't figured out who was going around murdering others.
A completely addictive read, and I'm already curious as to what delights the author will have for us in her next book!
Thank you to HarperCollins and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 6, 2025
Centuries old Creaglie Castle sits high on a Scottish mountain. It’s accessible only by a treacherous, rough ride up a dark, bumpy mountain road and a lake crossing. It’s both luxurious and creepy. What better place to host a “haunted weekend” event? Promises of ghost tours, unworldly experiences and a séance combine with opulent accommodations, gourmet meals and spa treatments to make this a one of a kind event. That it will be, for sure. Only a small group of guests has arrived before a wild storm closes access to the castle. They are welcomed by Alistair, Laird of Creaglie, his son Joshua and Tabitha, his 40 years younger wife. Silas, a professional ghost hunter, is joined by travel writer Ben, a widow seeking to communicate with her dead husband, and several young women. As the storm howls outside, the deaths begin.
Catherine Cooper does not disappoint!. Multiple narrators, different timelines and a delicious plot blending history, ghost stories, emotional abuse, adultery, and murder make The Lake impossible to put down. Put this one at the top of your TBR pile! 5 Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK and Catherine Cooper for this ARC.
Catherine Cooper does not disappoint!. Multiple narrators, different timelines and a delicious plot blending history, ghost stories, emotional abuse, adultery, and murder make The Lake impossible to put down. Put this one at the top of your TBR pile! 5 Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK and Catherine Cooper for this ARC.
September 18, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for an advanced copy in exchange for a review.
You can’t go wrong with a Catherine Cooper thriller, and The Lake is the perfect spooky season read I was hoping for!
The first guests are arriving at the remote Creagly Castle in Scotland for a unique stay, blending history, Laird-like opulence and a bit of ghost hunting!
But when a storm cuts them off from the outside world, unexplained noises are heard in the creepy nursery, and someone dies… the guests begin to wonder if there might be some truth in the stories!
I loved how the book was told from the perspectives of several guests, and also went back in time to introduce the first 2 wives of Alistair, the Laird of Creagly Castle, as well as including Silas the ghost hunter’s voiceovers about the various ghosts thought to haunt the castle, and how they died over the centuries!
A really fun, twisty and spooky read!
You can’t go wrong with a Catherine Cooper thriller, and The Lake is the perfect spooky season read I was hoping for!
The first guests are arriving at the remote Creagly Castle in Scotland for a unique stay, blending history, Laird-like opulence and a bit of ghost hunting!
But when a storm cuts them off from the outside world, unexplained noises are heard in the creepy nursery, and someone dies… the guests begin to wonder if there might be some truth in the stories!
I loved how the book was told from the perspectives of several guests, and also went back in time to introduce the first 2 wives of Alistair, the Laird of Creagly Castle, as well as including Silas the ghost hunter’s voiceovers about the various ghosts thought to haunt the castle, and how they died over the centuries!
A really fun, twisty and spooky read!
December 28, 2025
Take a haunted Scottish castle, isolated on a lake, toss in a raging storm, no phone service, and an assorted group of characters who have gathered for a weekend ghost hunt, and you’ve got the makings of an excellent story. I was sucked in from the first page and more than a little creeped out by the eerie, atmospheric happenings of the first few chapters. Soon after, one of the characters meets an untimely end. Is it an accident or murder?
The story then breaks for glimpses into the past, including the recent past.
Like a spider coaxing a fly into its web, the reader is drawn into the history of Creaglie Castle and the unfortunate people who populated it. I was especially fond of the vignettes sprinkled throughout, from a character who is a professional ghost hunter.
After that, it’s back to the present, where the storylines mesh in surprising and twisty ways. The ending plays our brilliantly, even if it goes down a bit hard (hence 4 stars instead of 5).
The story then breaks for glimpses into the past, including the recent past.
Like a spider coaxing a fly into its web, the reader is drawn into the history of Creaglie Castle and the unfortunate people who populated it. I was especially fond of the vignettes sprinkled throughout, from a character who is a professional ghost hunter.
After that, it’s back to the present, where the storylines mesh in surprising and twisty ways. The ending plays our brilliantly, even if it goes down a bit hard (hence 4 stars instead of 5).
October 24, 2025
Wow. This is a masterpiece, clever and entertaining in all the right places! If you are looking for an utterly gripping read, Catherine Cooper has your covered!
This novel is set in a remote castle in the Scottish highlands, accessible only by boat through a lake. When the castle needs funds to survive, Joshua, heir to the castle, has the idea of inviting paying guests to exclusive ghost hunting retreats to raise funds. The novel starts with the first of these - a weekend that ends with more than one suspicious death. Through multiple timelines and through various perspectives we learn of motives for murder, fascinating lives and supernatural happenings!
All in all a GREAT novel, highly recommended, and one that leaves me sad to have finished it!!
My thanks to NetGalley, author and publisher for the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an advance copy.
This novel is set in a remote castle in the Scottish highlands, accessible only by boat through a lake. When the castle needs funds to survive, Joshua, heir to the castle, has the idea of inviting paying guests to exclusive ghost hunting retreats to raise funds. The novel starts with the first of these - a weekend that ends with more than one suspicious death. Through multiple timelines and through various perspectives we learn of motives for murder, fascinating lives and supernatural happenings!
All in all a GREAT novel, highly recommended, and one that leaves me sad to have finished it!!
My thanks to NetGalley, author and publisher for the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an advance copy.
November 2, 2025
Step into the beautiful Scottish Highlands for a ghost-hunting retreat at the newly opened Creaglie Castle.
This atmospheric thriller immediately establishes a tense and unsettling mood. There is a storm outside and the castle, in the middle of a loch, is shut off from the outside world. What's not to love?
Told through shifting timelines and multiple perspectives, the narrative expertly brings past and present together.
As the tension builds, a series of gruesome murders begins, ensuring you are constantly trying to work out how it will all unfold. The characters and atmosphere are expertly illustrated, and the pace so fast that I found myself turning the pages into the wee small hours.
The ending, with its fantastic supernatural edge is tied up as neatly as a bottle of Amaretto wrapped in a bow.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.
This atmospheric thriller immediately establishes a tense and unsettling mood. There is a storm outside and the castle, in the middle of a loch, is shut off from the outside world. What's not to love?
Told through shifting timelines and multiple perspectives, the narrative expertly brings past and present together.
As the tension builds, a series of gruesome murders begins, ensuring you are constantly trying to work out how it will all unfold. The characters and atmosphere are expertly illustrated, and the pace so fast that I found myself turning the pages into the wee small hours.
The ending, with its fantastic supernatural edge is tied up as neatly as a bottle of Amaretto wrapped in a bow.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.
November 6, 2025
Creaglie castle in Scotland has a very mixed history.
Ghosts as are said to roam it's halls and now the past is clashing with the present.
Joshua, the son of the current Laird of Creaglie, Alistair is determined to put on a spectacular show for their first ghost hunting weekend.
The guests have arrived, everything is set for a time of fun and spooky shenanigans.
What they get is a LOT more frightening.
As a storm rages outside and a seance is held long buried family secrets start to rise to the surface.
Then the "accidents" and deaths start to happen.
Who will survive the ghost weekend and will the surrounding lake tell all?
A brilliantly written duel timeline between the past and present, effortlessly weaving the Creaglie family history into one whole story.
A great read and another thrilling novel from Catherine Cooper.
Read her books before and they are always a fun and twisty tale.
Ghosts as are said to roam it's halls and now the past is clashing with the present.
Joshua, the son of the current Laird of Creaglie, Alistair is determined to put on a spectacular show for their first ghost hunting weekend.
The guests have arrived, everything is set for a time of fun and spooky shenanigans.
What they get is a LOT more frightening.
As a storm rages outside and a seance is held long buried family secrets start to rise to the surface.
Then the "accidents" and deaths start to happen.
Who will survive the ghost weekend and will the surrounding lake tell all?
A brilliantly written duel timeline between the past and present, effortlessly weaving the Creaglie family history into one whole story.
A great read and another thrilling novel from Catherine Cooper.
Read her books before and they are always a fun and twisty tale.
September 20, 2025
Atmospheric, twisty, and glamorous. A group of strangers gather at a luxurious Scottish castle, only to find themselves trapped by a storm—and by their secrets. Cooper does a great job building tension, with the eerie setting almost becoming a character itself.
The mystery is fun and the twists land, though with such a large cast some characters feel underdeveloped. The “isolated guests + storm” setup isn’t brand-new, but Cooper adds her own stylish edge.
If you enjoyed The Chalet or The Cruise, this one delivers the same blend of suspense, glamour, and psychological drama.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
📚I was able to read an advanced copy of title thanks to NetGalley, Catherine Cooper and HarperCollins📚
📚All reviews and opinions are entirely my own📚
The mystery is fun and the twists land, though with such a large cast some characters feel underdeveloped. The “isolated guests + storm” setup isn’t brand-new, but Cooper adds her own stylish edge.
If you enjoyed The Chalet or The Cruise, this one delivers the same blend of suspense, glamour, and psychological drama.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
📚I was able to read an advanced copy of title thanks to NetGalley, Catherine Cooper and HarperCollins📚
📚All reviews and opinions are entirely my own📚
September 29, 2025
Review of ‘The Lake’ by Catherine Cooper, due to be published on 6 November 2025 by Harper Collins UK, Harper Fiction.
A haunted castle in the middle of a lake, set up a remote mountain in Scotland. The Creaglie family opening up the family home to paying guests for ghost hunting to help pay for the upkeep. The draw - it’s the most haunted place in Europe - or so the Laird’s son claims.
A story told from multiple points of view, over multiple timelines - tragedy, secrets and murder unfold in this twisty, psychological thriller that had me gripped from page one.
The ghostly goings on were suitably claustrophobic, a real edge of your seat read which makes you feel uncomfortable for the guests at the castle. A recommended spooky season read.
A haunted castle in the middle of a lake, set up a remote mountain in Scotland. The Creaglie family opening up the family home to paying guests for ghost hunting to help pay for the upkeep. The draw - it’s the most haunted place in Europe - or so the Laird’s son claims.
A story told from multiple points of view, over multiple timelines - tragedy, secrets and murder unfold in this twisty, psychological thriller that had me gripped from page one.
The ghostly goings on were suitably claustrophobic, a real edge of your seat read which makes you feel uncomfortable for the guests at the castle. A recommended spooky season read.
November 3, 2025
I literally couldn’t put this down. Set in a Scottish castle on an island in the middle of a loch, the house is said to be one of the most haunted and the family have decided to make advantage of this by launching ghost hunting weekends. Their inaugural weekend is underway, there is a medium a ghost hunter with an online presence, a journalist and some paying guests. Silas the ghost hunter relays some stories relating to the more well known ghost. The storm outside rages, cutting them off from the mainland and removing their only remaining access to the outside, the landline.
Then the Laird falls to his death.
So much happening this has it all, an excellent read and my thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc.
Then the Laird falls to his death.
So much happening this has it all, an excellent read and my thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc.
October 19, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for granting me an ARC of The Lake.
I love Catherine Cooper. I have read all of her books and always enjoy them. This one was no different.
The characters were well written, it was a good length, not drawn out or too rushed. A couple of twists I didn’t see coming! I did find the changing of the storyline to different dates and times a little hard to follow however.
It does have a fair element of the supernatural, I feel it is important to flag this as that may not be everyone’s cup of tea. It isn’t mine really, but I still enjoyed the book. A solid 4 stars.
I love Catherine Cooper. I have read all of her books and always enjoy them. This one was no different.
The characters were well written, it was a good length, not drawn out or too rushed. A couple of twists I didn’t see coming! I did find the changing of the storyline to different dates and times a little hard to follow however.
It does have a fair element of the supernatural, I feel it is important to flag this as that may not be everyone’s cup of tea. It isn’t mine really, but I still enjoyed the book. A solid 4 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2025
First, thank you Netgalley & HarperCollins for this ARC!
I am a huge fan of Catherine Cooper after reading The Chalet, and got myself all the books she'd published until now.
What can I say - The Lake was another great one yet again! It is no secret that I love houses in isolated places, so of course this twisty story was right up in my lane (I also really wish I can visit Scotland myself one day before I am old and grey). Oh, and we also have a medium! And a ghost hunter! And ghosts.... well, maybe? I know spooky season is over already, but please go and read this one! I promise you are not going to regret it!
I am a huge fan of Catherine Cooper after reading The Chalet, and got myself all the books she'd published until now.
What can I say - The Lake was another great one yet again! It is no secret that I love houses in isolated places, so of course this twisty story was right up in my lane (I also really wish I can visit Scotland myself one day before I am old and grey). Oh, and we also have a medium! And a ghost hunter! And ghosts.... well, maybe? I know spooky season is over already, but please go and read this one! I promise you are not going to regret it!
December 5, 2025
All my reviews can be found at damppebbles.com
A group of mostly strangers gather for a weekend of ghost-hunting at the creepy castle, home to the Creaglie family for generations. But the weather takes a turn for the worse, shutting those on the island off from the mainland and from help. They’re stranded with a skeleton staff, and there’s a good chance they won’t all survive the night…
The Lake is a compelling, highly readable psychological thriller/suspense novel from an author I feel I can always trust to deliver. And Cooper delivers in spades with this latest book. The Creaglie family, led by ageing Alistair and his younger wife, Tabitha, need to make some extra money. So Alistair’s son, Joshua, suggests rebranding as a resort specialising in ghost-hunts, with a sideline in letting guests experience being Lord or Lady of the manor. It’s their opening weekend; they’ve got a psychic medium flying in from the US to hold a séance. Everything is in place until abysmal weather disrupts their plans, leaving guests and staff stranded on the shore. Should anything happen, they can neither leave Creaglie Castle nor get help from outside. So when the mangled body of one of the residents is discovered, those present can’t help but feel trapped, isolated and very much alone.
The author does a great job of creating a cast of believable, multi-layered, interesting characters. Some I warmed to over the course of the book. Others, I certainly did NOT. Those others made me increasingly cross. One character in particular made me seethe with anger. How blimmin’ dare they be such a wally! Grr. I do love it when an author writes a character that evokes such a strong reaction in me. That’s one of the reasons I love books as much as I do. There are secrets galore amongst the cast, connections that aren’t common knowledge, all of which keep the reader totally engrossed in the story. I loved the first half of the story set in the present day and couldn’t get enough of the setup. When the timeline took a more historical direction and went into detail about Alistair’s ex-wives, I found my attention drifting a little (only a smidgen!). I was still engrossed, but not to the same degree as the goings-on at the ghost-hunt weekend. The story took quite a different and unexpected turn. But it was still captivating, highly emotional and unsettling reading.
Would I recommend this book? I would, yes. The Lake is a riveting, engaging and thrilling psychological suspense novel. The characters are strong, the setting is glorious and as much a part of the story as the characters are, and the plot is well-written and well-plotted from start to finish. Told from multiple perspectives across multiple timelines, this book does have a fairly large cast of characters, but it was fairly easy to keep track of who’s who and what their relationships were. Creaglie Castle exudes atmosphere, notching up the creep-factor tenfold. The castle has a long, dark history, which the reader discovers throughout the course of the book. With bucketloads of adultery, secrets, deceit and emotional neglect, fans of engaging psychological dramas will love every moment they spend with this book! Recommended.
A group of mostly strangers gather for a weekend of ghost-hunting at the creepy castle, home to the Creaglie family for generations. But the weather takes a turn for the worse, shutting those on the island off from the mainland and from help. They’re stranded with a skeleton staff, and there’s a good chance they won’t all survive the night…
The Lake is a compelling, highly readable psychological thriller/suspense novel from an author I feel I can always trust to deliver. And Cooper delivers in spades with this latest book. The Creaglie family, led by ageing Alistair and his younger wife, Tabitha, need to make some extra money. So Alistair’s son, Joshua, suggests rebranding as a resort specialising in ghost-hunts, with a sideline in letting guests experience being Lord or Lady of the manor. It’s their opening weekend; they’ve got a psychic medium flying in from the US to hold a séance. Everything is in place until abysmal weather disrupts their plans, leaving guests and staff stranded on the shore. Should anything happen, they can neither leave Creaglie Castle nor get help from outside. So when the mangled body of one of the residents is discovered, those present can’t help but feel trapped, isolated and very much alone.
The author does a great job of creating a cast of believable, multi-layered, interesting characters. Some I warmed to over the course of the book. Others, I certainly did NOT. Those others made me increasingly cross. One character in particular made me seethe with anger. How blimmin’ dare they be such a wally! Grr. I do love it when an author writes a character that evokes such a strong reaction in me. That’s one of the reasons I love books as much as I do. There are secrets galore amongst the cast, connections that aren’t common knowledge, all of which keep the reader totally engrossed in the story. I loved the first half of the story set in the present day and couldn’t get enough of the setup. When the timeline took a more historical direction and went into detail about Alistair’s ex-wives, I found my attention drifting a little (only a smidgen!). I was still engrossed, but not to the same degree as the goings-on at the ghost-hunt weekend. The story took quite a different and unexpected turn. But it was still captivating, highly emotional and unsettling reading.
Would I recommend this book? I would, yes. The Lake is a riveting, engaging and thrilling psychological suspense novel. The characters are strong, the setting is glorious and as much a part of the story as the characters are, and the plot is well-written and well-plotted from start to finish. Told from multiple perspectives across multiple timelines, this book does have a fairly large cast of characters, but it was fairly easy to keep track of who’s who and what their relationships were. Creaglie Castle exudes atmosphere, notching up the creep-factor tenfold. The castle has a long, dark history, which the reader discovers throughout the course of the book. With bucketloads of adultery, secrets, deceit and emotional neglect, fans of engaging psychological dramas will love every moment they spend with this book! Recommended.
September 26, 2025
Told over multiple timelines, from the viewpoints of wildly different characters (which was occasionally slightly confusing, but not enough to detract from my enjoyment), this book was a read that kept you guessing until the very end.
Not to mention, you have adultery, murder, coercive control, conspiracies and ghost hunting woven together in an immensely enjoyable story.
Catherine Cooper has outdone herself with her latest offering.. It gets 4 5 stars. Don't miss this one.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Not to mention, you have adultery, murder, coercive control, conspiracies and ghost hunting woven together in an immensely enjoyable story.
Catherine Cooper has outdone herself with her latest offering.. It gets 4 5 stars. Don't miss this one.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
November 10, 2025
This book had it all, an Agatha Christie type locked room setting, historical fiction, family drama and a ghost story.
The past and present are weaved seamlessly together to tell the story of Creaglie castle and its residents. The plot was brilliant and there are so many reveals throughout that are so satisfying to read. I also loved the cast of characters and the atmospheric setting which definitely adds to the story.
Brilliant book that keeps you turning the page. I would highly recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the advanced copy.
The past and present are weaved seamlessly together to tell the story of Creaglie castle and its residents. The plot was brilliant and there are so many reveals throughout that are so satisfying to read. I also loved the cast of characters and the atmospheric setting which definitely adds to the story.
Brilliant book that keeps you turning the page. I would highly recommend!
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the advanced copy.
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