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The Hostess
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Expected 21 Apr 26Don't miss Courtney Psak's next unputdownable thriller, available to pre-order now!
304 pages, Paperback
Expected publication April 21, 2026
37 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Courtney Psak
4 books41 followersCourtney Psak is a New Jersey native who grew up with a passion for reading and writing.
After traveling the world, she settled into New York City where she earned her Masters in Publishing.
She is a member of the National Writers Association and the Women's Fiction Writers Association.
She currently resides in Hoboken with her husband.
She spends her weekends seeking adventure through hiking, skiing and traveling.
Sign up for my newletter here:
https://courtneypsak.substack.com/
After traveling the world, she settled into New York City where she earned her Masters in Publishing.
She is a member of the National Writers Association and the Women's Fiction Writers Association.
She currently resides in Hoboken with her husband.
She spends her weekends seeking adventure through hiking, skiing and traveling.
Sign up for my newletter here:
https://courtneypsak.substack.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
January 31, 2026
This thriller was a slow burn and it took me a while to get interested in the story. The pacing gradually picked up midway through as the plot headed to an unexpected conclusion. Even though the beginning felt a bit slow, I appreciated the surprising twists that I didn't see coming. I enjoyed how the story was told through different POVs as secrets were revealed. Thank you NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for my copy.
November 2, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
From the first chapter, The Hostess lured me in with elegance and unease. What begins as a peaceful Hamptons escape quickly turns into a chilling exploration of trust, envy, and the secrets people hide behind perfect smiles. After a devastating accident, Natalie and her husband retreat to a luxurious rental to start over—but their charming hostess isn’t who she seems. When Natalie discovers a previous guest vanished, their dream getaway spirals into a nightmare of obsession and danger.
This was my first time reading a Courtney Psak psychological thriller. It was an engaging one! Despite the trope having been done with at least ten books I’ve read before, Psak’s The Hostess stood out. What made it different for me was how Psak leaned into the psychological tension rather than relying on cheap thrills. Instead of the typical “creepy house and unhinged host” setup, she built a slow, uneasy sense of trust and fascination between Natalie and Sadie that felt both believable and unnerving. Natalie’s vulnerability after her accident added real emotional weight to the suspense, making her choices feel grounded and human. I also liked how the Hamptons setting wasn’t just for show—it became a reflection of privilege, envy, and the glossy facades people hide behind. My only hang-up was that I figured out who the antagonist was pretty early, but that didn’t lessen how invested I was. Psak’s storytelling is sharp enough to keep you turning the pages anyway.
All in all, The Hostess is a smart, twist-filled psychological thriller that proves even familiar tropes can feel fresh in the right hands. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven suspense with luxurious settings and a steady undercurrent of unease.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
From the first chapter, The Hostess lured me in with elegance and unease. What begins as a peaceful Hamptons escape quickly turns into a chilling exploration of trust, envy, and the secrets people hide behind perfect smiles. After a devastating accident, Natalie and her husband retreat to a luxurious rental to start over—but their charming hostess isn’t who she seems. When Natalie discovers a previous guest vanished, their dream getaway spirals into a nightmare of obsession and danger.
This was my first time reading a Courtney Psak psychological thriller. It was an engaging one! Despite the trope having been done with at least ten books I’ve read before, Psak’s The Hostess stood out. What made it different for me was how Psak leaned into the psychological tension rather than relying on cheap thrills. Instead of the typical “creepy house and unhinged host” setup, she built a slow, uneasy sense of trust and fascination between Natalie and Sadie that felt both believable and unnerving. Natalie’s vulnerability after her accident added real emotional weight to the suspense, making her choices feel grounded and human. I also liked how the Hamptons setting wasn’t just for show—it became a reflection of privilege, envy, and the glossy facades people hide behind. My only hang-up was that I figured out who the antagonist was pretty early, but that didn’t lessen how invested I was. Psak’s storytelling is sharp enough to keep you turning the pages anyway.
All in all, The Hostess is a smart, twist-filled psychological thriller that proves even familiar tropes can feel fresh in the right hands. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven suspense with luxurious settings and a steady undercurrent of unease.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 16, 2026
THE HOSTESS BY COURTNEY PSAK.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
Absolutely loved this story.
It kept me on my toes throughout.
Courtney psak never disapoints.
Bring on the next one
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
Absolutely loved this story.
It kept me on my toes throughout.
Courtney psak never disapoints.
Bring on the next one
January 16, 2026
Another fast paced mystery that keeps you turning the page! Once again, i really enjoy Psaks writing style and i appreciate the multiple povs. She summed this up with no questions going unanswered
February 14, 2026
Before I launch into my review, I would like to say a huge thank you to Courtney Psak, Hodder & Stoughton, and Netgalley for the Advanced Digital Reader Copy of this title. For anyone curious about this title, here is my personal review of the book to help you make up decide whether to delve in. All opinions offered are my own.
I love the ease of reading I get from a Courtney Psak novel, but I have to admit, I wasn’t overwhelmingly in love with this latest offering. That’s not to say I didn’t like it, only that I have come to expect more.
Natalie Copper has had an accident and needs time to recover. Her husband Luke thinks, ‘What could be more perfect than a discounted month-long stay in the Hamptons over summer?’ Nothing, right? Wrong! By the time the couple arrive at Wilson’s guest cottage, it is clear that something odd has happened or is happening. The hostess appears shifty, the host is absent and the cottage itself is haunted by the distant and not too distant past. In this book of secrets and lies, who dies, who deceives, and who survives?
I know there had to be a reason for Luke and Natalie to take a trip, but in retrospect, I find the mystery around what really happened to Natalie somewhat unnecessary. It created, what I thought, was a bit of a thriller mystery around the Coppers, throwing doubt on relationship concerns that played no real integral part to the story. I feel Psak should have either really played up the mystery and created more intensity about the cause of the accident as a bit of a red herring, or omitted it altogether, settling on a series of arguments and the trip being a need for respite and reflection.
Having read Psak novels before, I was expecting more of a twist. Instead, I was pretty certain of the climax and conclusion around the halfway point, which kept me reading to learn if I was right, but took away some of the excitement because there really was no reason to point the finger elsewhere. Sure, I was happy to solve the crime, and point to all the same motivations, but if I compared it to the classics, the book was more Columbo in style than Miss Marple. That is, the criminal is in plain sight and accessible to us as the viewer/reader.
I liked the female characters, and I liked what I saw of the male characters for the story (if not their personalities), but I wish I had seen more of each of them. And that’s it. The story was good, really good, I just wanted a little more of everything to make it great. I’d still pick up another Psak tale, I’ve no doubt I’ll enjoy it and enjoy wearing my detective hat, as will others, especially amateur detectives who need a little more handholding to preempt the case. And if I knew then what I know now, I’d have read this book whilst lounging by a pool, and a glass of prosecco in hand just to feel more at home with the characters.
I love the ease of reading I get from a Courtney Psak novel, but I have to admit, I wasn’t overwhelmingly in love with this latest offering. That’s not to say I didn’t like it, only that I have come to expect more.
Natalie Copper has had an accident and needs time to recover. Her husband Luke thinks, ‘What could be more perfect than a discounted month-long stay in the Hamptons over summer?’ Nothing, right? Wrong! By the time the couple arrive at Wilson’s guest cottage, it is clear that something odd has happened or is happening. The hostess appears shifty, the host is absent and the cottage itself is haunted by the distant and not too distant past. In this book of secrets and lies, who dies, who deceives, and who survives?
I know there had to be a reason for Luke and Natalie to take a trip, but in retrospect, I find the mystery around what really happened to Natalie somewhat unnecessary. It created, what I thought, was a bit of a thriller mystery around the Coppers, throwing doubt on relationship concerns that played no real integral part to the story. I feel Psak should have either really played up the mystery and created more intensity about the cause of the accident as a bit of a red herring, or omitted it altogether, settling on a series of arguments and the trip being a need for respite and reflection.
Having read Psak novels before, I was expecting more of a twist. Instead, I was pretty certain of the climax and conclusion around the halfway point, which kept me reading to learn if I was right, but took away some of the excitement because there really was no reason to point the finger elsewhere. Sure, I was happy to solve the crime, and point to all the same motivations, but if I compared it to the classics, the book was more Columbo in style than Miss Marple. That is, the criminal is in plain sight and accessible to us as the viewer/reader.
I liked the female characters, and I liked what I saw of the male characters for the story (if not their personalities), but I wish I had seen more of each of them. And that’s it. The story was good, really good, I just wanted a little more of everything to make it great. I’d still pick up another Psak tale, I’ve no doubt I’ll enjoy it and enjoy wearing my detective hat, as will others, especially amateur detectives who need a little more handholding to preempt the case. And if I knew then what I know now, I’d have read this book whilst lounging by a pool, and a glass of prosecco in hand just to feel more at home with the characters.
November 18, 2025
From the opening page, Courtney Psak's The Hostess raises a nagging question: what actually goes on behind a flawless smile? This isn't simply another psychological thriller; it transports you to a world where nothing is what it appears, and the border between safe and dangerous is razor-thin. Imagine a stunning Hamptons mansion with glistening windows and manicured grass. Natalie arrives, still reeling from a tragic event, and immediately becomes entangled with Sadie, the estate's bright, wealthy owner who is both secretive and attractive.
I won’t spoil anything, but the plot kicks off when Natalie moves in and starts bonding with Sadie. There’s something magnetic about her, but also something off. Then Natalie hears about a guest who vanished, and suddenly every glance and whispered conversation feels loaded. Who can she really trust? What’s Sadie hiding under that flawless exterior? Psak heightens the suspense by raising concerns about identity, trust, and how far people will go to safeguard their secrets. The estate itself is almost a character, glamorous, a little cold, and definitely hiding shadows in every corner.
At its core, this novel is about vulnerability, hidden truths, and the messy aspect of human interactions. Natalie is the ideal lens for this world; she is tough, curious, and still a little raw from what she has been through. And Sadie? She's unforgettable. It's the way she draws you in without allowing you to get too near. The tension between them is palpable on every page, keeping you guessing about what happens next. Psak knows how to play with appearances and secrets, demonstrating how even the most beautiful places may conceal something sinister.
Psak’s writing is sharp and inviting, with just the right pace to keep your heart pounding without leaving you lost. She balances elegance with a slow, creeping sense of dread, the kind that makes you glance over your shoulder while you read. Her dialogue feels real, and her eye for detail pulls you right into each scene. Sure, a few twists might feel familiar if you’ve read a lot of thrillers, but honestly, the atmosphere and the characters make up for it.
If you like your mysteries served with a side of luxury and unease, The Hostess is for you. It’s perfect for anyone who likes stories where secrets simmer just beneath the surface and strong, complex women take the lead. By the end, you’ll be racing to piece together the puzzle with Natalie, unwilling to step away until you find out what’s really hiding behind that perfect smile.
I won’t spoil anything, but the plot kicks off when Natalie moves in and starts bonding with Sadie. There’s something magnetic about her, but also something off. Then Natalie hears about a guest who vanished, and suddenly every glance and whispered conversation feels loaded. Who can she really trust? What’s Sadie hiding under that flawless exterior? Psak heightens the suspense by raising concerns about identity, trust, and how far people will go to safeguard their secrets. The estate itself is almost a character, glamorous, a little cold, and definitely hiding shadows in every corner.
At its core, this novel is about vulnerability, hidden truths, and the messy aspect of human interactions. Natalie is the ideal lens for this world; she is tough, curious, and still a little raw from what she has been through. And Sadie? She's unforgettable. It's the way she draws you in without allowing you to get too near. The tension between them is palpable on every page, keeping you guessing about what happens next. Psak knows how to play with appearances and secrets, demonstrating how even the most beautiful places may conceal something sinister.
Psak’s writing is sharp and inviting, with just the right pace to keep your heart pounding without leaving you lost. She balances elegance with a slow, creeping sense of dread, the kind that makes you glance over your shoulder while you read. Her dialogue feels real, and her eye for detail pulls you right into each scene. Sure, a few twists might feel familiar if you’ve read a lot of thrillers, but honestly, the atmosphere and the characters make up for it.
If you like your mysteries served with a side of luxury and unease, The Hostess is for you. It’s perfect for anyone who likes stories where secrets simmer just beneath the surface and strong, complex women take the lead. By the end, you’ll be racing to piece together the puzzle with Natalie, unwilling to step away until you find out what’s really hiding behind that perfect smile.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Hodder, and Stoughton for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC read.
I really enjoyed this fast paced psychological thriller titled the Hostess by Courtney Psak.
The book is a story that mostly takes place in the guest house of Sadie and Tom Wilson in the Hamptons. Tom has a past and seems to be struggling. Whole Tom is away for a few days Sadie decides to rent out thier guest house.
Luke and Natalie are the lucky applicants that rent out a guest house in the Hamptoms. The house is placed in a prefect location with a pool and beach within walking distance.
Natalie has not been the same since her accident. She is slowly getting back to work but has alot of unresolved trauma from the accident and her past. Luke thinks this place will be the best place for her to really heal. He doesn't know everything though.
As they are living in the Hamptoms, Luke is working in the city during the week Natalie is left to try and work on herself and ends up making a friend of the house owner. They have so many things in common its almost too god to be true.
One day Natalie finds a image of a woman that looks almost identical to her. What is this woman's story and why is her picture in the guess house? Small things then start to happen after this woman's image is found. Natalie starts to hallucinate with images of her little brother Danny. Someone keeps giving her messages that are not so welcoming. She can't tell her husband or doctor because they think she is doing so well. Is she really having these or is someone trying to mess with her head?
Lots of secrets are kept in the big house and the guest house seems to be the key yo solve and connect it all. Natalie will soon find out that some people have the best of intentions. It's when intentions go too far that can destroy that perfect image you have worked so hard to keep.
Great read with lots of twists and turns.
I would love this book 4.5 🌟!
I really enjoyed this fast paced psychological thriller titled the Hostess by Courtney Psak.
The book is a story that mostly takes place in the guest house of Sadie and Tom Wilson in the Hamptons. Tom has a past and seems to be struggling. Whole Tom is away for a few days Sadie decides to rent out thier guest house.
Luke and Natalie are the lucky applicants that rent out a guest house in the Hamptoms. The house is placed in a prefect location with a pool and beach within walking distance.
Natalie has not been the same since her accident. She is slowly getting back to work but has alot of unresolved trauma from the accident and her past. Luke thinks this place will be the best place for her to really heal. He doesn't know everything though.
As they are living in the Hamptoms, Luke is working in the city during the week Natalie is left to try and work on herself and ends up making a friend of the house owner. They have so many things in common its almost too god to be true.
One day Natalie finds a image of a woman that looks almost identical to her. What is this woman's story and why is her picture in the guess house? Small things then start to happen after this woman's image is found. Natalie starts to hallucinate with images of her little brother Danny. Someone keeps giving her messages that are not so welcoming. She can't tell her husband or doctor because they think she is doing so well. Is she really having these or is someone trying to mess with her head?
Lots of secrets are kept in the big house and the guest house seems to be the key yo solve and connect it all. Natalie will soon find out that some people have the best of intentions. It's when intentions go too far that can destroy that perfect image you have worked so hard to keep.
Great read with lots of twists and turns.
I would love this book 4.5 🌟!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Hostess drew me in straight away with its polished surface and underlying unease. What starts as a fresh start in a luxurious Hamptons rental slowly unravels into something far more unsettling, as Natalie begins to question not just her surroundings, but the people she’s trusting most. After a devastating accident, she’s vulnerable and searching for stability, which makes her connection with the enigmatic hostess, Sadie, feel both compelling and dangerous.
This was my first Courtney Psak thriller, and while the setup isn’t entirely new, the execution stood out. Rather than relying on shock value, Psak leans into psychological tension, building a slow, believable sense of unease. The dynamic between Natalie and Sadie is where the story really shines: layered, uncomfortable, and quietly obsessive. Natalie’s emotional fragility adds real weight to the suspense, making her decisions feel human rather than frustrating.
I did suspect the antagonist fairly early on, but that didn’t stop me from being invested. The atmosphere, character work, and steady creep of tension kept the pages turning regardless. The Hamptons setting also felt purposeful. Glossy, privileged, and masking far more than it reveals.
Overall, The Hostess is a smart, character-driven psychological thriller that proves familiar tropes can still feel fresh in the right hands. A great pick if you enjoy slow-burn suspense, luxurious settings, and secrets simmering just beneath the surface.
This was my first Courtney Psak thriller, and while the setup isn’t entirely new, the execution stood out. Rather than relying on shock value, Psak leans into psychological tension, building a slow, believable sense of unease. The dynamic between Natalie and Sadie is where the story really shines: layered, uncomfortable, and quietly obsessive. Natalie’s emotional fragility adds real weight to the suspense, making her decisions feel human rather than frustrating.
I did suspect the antagonist fairly early on, but that didn’t stop me from being invested. The atmosphere, character work, and steady creep of tension kept the pages turning regardless. The Hamptons setting also felt purposeful. Glossy, privileged, and masking far more than it reveals.
Overall, The Hostess is a smart, character-driven psychological thriller that proves familiar tropes can still feel fresh in the right hands. A great pick if you enjoy slow-burn suspense, luxurious settings, and secrets simmering just beneath the surface.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars
My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC and this review is my honest feedback based on my completing the book.
The Hostess was a solid, unsettling read that sat somewhere between gripping and frustrating for me. The premise immediately pulled me in with an arc that I love to read. A traumatised couple seeking escape, a luxurious Hamptons rental and a magnetic hostess who feels just a little too perfect. That slow sense of something being off is where this book works best.
The atmosphere is the real strength here. Courtney does a fabulous job of creating quiet tension, letting unease creep in through subtle interactions and unanswered questions rather than constant shocks. Sadie is particularly compelling, feels enigmatic and controlled in a way that kept me following her closely, always waiting for the mask to slip. Natalie on the other hand is emotionally fragile and that vulnerability adds to the psychological weight, even if it occasionally slows the pace.
Where the book lost half a star for me was in the pacing and familiarity. Some sections dragged and a few plot beats felt well worn within the domestic thriller space. The twist is clever and unsettling but the emotional punch did not fully land for me.
Moody, tense, and engaging, just not quite as sharp as I hoped.
My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC and this review is my honest feedback based on my completing the book.
The Hostess was a solid, unsettling read that sat somewhere between gripping and frustrating for me. The premise immediately pulled me in with an arc that I love to read. A traumatised couple seeking escape, a luxurious Hamptons rental and a magnetic hostess who feels just a little too perfect. That slow sense of something being off is where this book works best.
The atmosphere is the real strength here. Courtney does a fabulous job of creating quiet tension, letting unease creep in through subtle interactions and unanswered questions rather than constant shocks. Sadie is particularly compelling, feels enigmatic and controlled in a way that kept me following her closely, always waiting for the mask to slip. Natalie on the other hand is emotionally fragile and that vulnerability adds to the psychological weight, even if it occasionally slows the pace.
Where the book lost half a star for me was in the pacing and familiarity. Some sections dragged and a few plot beats felt well worn within the domestic thriller space. The twist is clever and unsettling but the emotional punch did not fully land for me.
Moody, tense, and engaging, just not quite as sharp as I hoped.
February 17, 2026
The Hostess is an intense, drama-filled psychological thriller set at an idyllic Hamptons' estate. Natalie has just survived a terrible accident, and her husband hopes that an escape to the Hamptons will be what she needs in terms of rest and rehabilitation. Fortunately for them, there is a last-minute rental at a gorgeous estate, complete with a private guest house. When Natalie meets the owner of the property, she instantly clicks with Sadie and finds herself hoping that she has just made a new friend. Sadie is confident, beautiful, intelligent, wealthy, and completely put together - or at least that's what it seems. Sadie is definitely hiding her own secrets, including what happened to the previous guest staying at the estate. Soon, Natalie realizes that nothing is what it seems in the Hamptons.
While The Hostess starts a bit slow, it definitely picks up towards the middle of the book. Once the action/drama begins to unfold, I could not put the book down. There were quite a few twists that I did not see coming. With that said, there were a few unrealistic events that seemed just a bit too over the top. The story is told through both Sadie and Natalie's POVs, which I think adds to the overall narration. The ending is satisfying, which is always nice when it comes to thrillers. Even though it starts slow, The Hostess is an overall quick read - perfect for the beach.
While The Hostess starts a bit slow, it definitely picks up towards the middle of the book. Once the action/drama begins to unfold, I could not put the book down. There were quite a few twists that I did not see coming. With that said, there were a few unrealistic events that seemed just a bit too over the top. The story is told through both Sadie and Natalie's POVs, which I think adds to the overall narration. The ending is satisfying, which is always nice when it comes to thrillers. Even though it starts slow, The Hostess is an overall quick read - perfect for the beach.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🖤📚 ARC Review: The Hostess by Courtney Psak
This book was utterly gripping the kind you swear you’ll read “just one more chapter” and suddenly it’s 2 a.m. 😮💨🔥 Just when you think you’ve figured it out… BAM 💥 Courtney Psak pulls the rug out from under you with twists you absolutely did not see coming.
Natalie and her husband escape the city for a much needed reset 🏙️➡️🌿 after a devastating accident. Enter: a gorgeous last-minute rental in the Hamptons 🏡✨ too perfect, too polished, and way too good to be true.
Then there’s Sadie 😌💎beautiful, elegant, wealthy, and magnetic. Natalie is instantly drawn to her… but something feels off. That creeping unease builds fast 🕯️😬, especially when Natalie learns a previous guest vanished without a trace 👀❓
From there? Buckle up.
🔒 Dark secrets
🕶️ Hidden motives
⏳ Mounting tension
🔪 A final twist that hits HARD
This is a deliciously dark, unputdownable thriller that keeps you guessing until the very last page. Fans of twisty psychological suspense this one is a MUST-READ 🖤📖
✨ Will keep you turning pages until the final, killer twist and honestly? That praise is spot on.
🔥 Highly recommend & counting down to Courtney Psak’s next release!
This book was utterly gripping the kind you swear you’ll read “just one more chapter” and suddenly it’s 2 a.m. 😮💨🔥 Just when you think you’ve figured it out… BAM 💥 Courtney Psak pulls the rug out from under you with twists you absolutely did not see coming.
Natalie and her husband escape the city for a much needed reset 🏙️➡️🌿 after a devastating accident. Enter: a gorgeous last-minute rental in the Hamptons 🏡✨ too perfect, too polished, and way too good to be true.
Then there’s Sadie 😌💎beautiful, elegant, wealthy, and magnetic. Natalie is instantly drawn to her… but something feels off. That creeping unease builds fast 🕯️😬, especially when Natalie learns a previous guest vanished without a trace 👀❓
From there? Buckle up.
🔒 Dark secrets
🕶️ Hidden motives
⏳ Mounting tension
🔪 A final twist that hits HARD
This is a deliciously dark, unputdownable thriller that keeps you guessing until the very last page. Fans of twisty psychological suspense this one is a MUST-READ 🖤📖
✨ Will keep you turning pages until the final, killer twist and honestly? That praise is spot on.
🔥 Highly recommend & counting down to Courtney Psak’s next release!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Hostess by Courtney Psak crackles with thriller=y twists and tension. I love how the author layers the plots with meticulous timing and electric undercurrents. Bits and pieces of the characters are likeable and cheerable, though others are not. Count me in for a good isolated luxury house trope any day!
Sadie is a psychiatrist who is healing from trauma and heartache and is in a vulnerable position with her husband in hospital. Her loneliness prompts her to rent out her sumptuous but colourless guesthouse on their property. In her desperation to be liked, she comes on a little strong at times yet reels herself in when she realizes it. Her guests for a month are husband and wife couple, Natalie and Luke. They, too, have experienced trauma and have histories riddled with secrets. Natalie is particularly haunted and when her husband tells her he needs to leave her alone while he works wonders how she will manage. However, she and Sadie become friends. Characters are not who and what they seem, including Sadie's small staff. When her estranged friend arrives, so does another veneer of trouble.
The psychological glimpses into characters' minds fascinated me most. It's always intriguing to read about what makes them tick. I really enjoyed this one, well worth reading.
Sadie is a psychiatrist who is healing from trauma and heartache and is in a vulnerable position with her husband in hospital. Her loneliness prompts her to rent out her sumptuous but colourless guesthouse on their property. In her desperation to be liked, she comes on a little strong at times yet reels herself in when she realizes it. Her guests for a month are husband and wife couple, Natalie and Luke. They, too, have experienced trauma and have histories riddled with secrets. Natalie is particularly haunted and when her husband tells her he needs to leave her alone while he works wonders how she will manage. However, she and Sadie become friends. Characters are not who and what they seem, including Sadie's small staff. When her estranged friend arrives, so does another veneer of trouble.
The psychological glimpses into characters' minds fascinated me most. It's always intriguing to read about what makes them tick. I really enjoyed this one, well worth reading.
February 15, 2026
After surviving a traumatic accident, Natalie escapes to the Hamptons with her husband in search of rest, privacy and something that resembles their old life. Their last-minute rental on an extravagant estate feels like a blessing. The house is stunning, the surroundings peaceful, and the owner, Sadie, seems to embody everything Natalie currently lacks — confidence, composure, wealth and effortless charm. Natalie is quickly captivated by Sadie, and their bond forms with surprising ease. Sadie is welcoming but elusive, open yet carefully guarded leading to a feeling of unease. As Natalie spends more time with her, subtle inconsistencies begin to surface. When she learns that a former guest vanished without explanation, the atmosphere shifts, and the tension begins!
The Hostess is an unnerving psychological thriller that builds tension slowly, tightening so gradually you don’t quite realise how invested you are until you’re completely hooked. The glossy Hamptons backdrop, all wealth and exclusivity, gradually becomes oppressive as secrets begin to surface. The shifting power dynamic between Natalie and Sadie fuels the story just as strongly as the central mystery. This is a slow-burn, stylish thriller that explores power, attraction and the masks people wear.
The Hostess is an unnerving psychological thriller that builds tension slowly, tightening so gradually you don’t quite realise how invested you are until you’re completely hooked. The glossy Hamptons backdrop, all wealth and exclusivity, gradually becomes oppressive as secrets begin to surface. The shifting power dynamic between Natalie and Sadie fuels the story just as strongly as the central mystery. This is a slow-burn, stylish thriller that explores power, attraction and the masks people wear.
November 3, 2025
New to me, author Courtney Psak blew me right out of the water with her chilling domestic suspense, The Hostess. Not knowing what to expect, I went in with an open mind and was immediately sucked in. What awaited me was a story full of secrets, betrayal, lies, and murder.
Natalie and Luke plan a month long getaway after a serious accident left Natalie shaken and unable to get past the trauma. They're hoping the fresh sea air and relaxing atmosphere away from the city will be just what she needs to get over the hurdle. On day one, they meet their hostess, Sadie, and Natalie feels a strong bond with her, even though she senses something isn't quite right with Sadie. As the days progress, strange happenings keep Natalie on edge, and she wonders if this was really a good idea.
This book was so good. Layered with so much tension and drama, it was hard to put it down. The characters were all intriguing and well depicted. It was hard to guess who the guilty party was. The ending was a "didn't see that coming" one that was perfect. I will be checking out more of Courtney's other books.
Thanks to Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the advanced copy
Natalie and Luke plan a month long getaway after a serious accident left Natalie shaken and unable to get past the trauma. They're hoping the fresh sea air and relaxing atmosphere away from the city will be just what she needs to get over the hurdle. On day one, they meet their hostess, Sadie, and Natalie feels a strong bond with her, even though she senses something isn't quite right with Sadie. As the days progress, strange happenings keep Natalie on edge, and she wonders if this was really a good idea.
This book was so good. Layered with so much tension and drama, it was hard to put it down. The characters were all intriguing and well depicted. It was hard to guess who the guilty party was. The ending was a "didn't see that coming" one that was perfect. I will be checking out more of Courtney's other books.
Thanks to Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the advanced copy
January 11, 2026
The Hostess is the second book I’ve read by Courtney, and once again she absolutely delivers on tension. From the very beginning, there’s an underlying sense of unease that keeps you turning pages, never quite sure who—or what—to trust.
It was interesting to see the story unfold through both Natalie and Sadie’s POVs, with present and past narratives. Seeing events from each perspective added depth and allowed the tension to simmer in a really effective way.
The heartbreaking backstories woven into these two characters pasts were particularly well done and you could understand the effect on their adult life.
The ending was satisfying. I loved how the narrative changed and revealed that some of what we thought we knew was completely wrong. Some of it was shocking without feeling forced, and it tied everything together.
If you enjoy psychological suspense with tense character relationships and twists that genuinely catch you off guard, The Hostess is well worth the read. Courtney Psak has quickly become an author I’ll continue to pick up without hesitation.
Thank you Netgalley, the author and publisher for an ARC of this ebook.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
It was interesting to see the story unfold through both Natalie and Sadie’s POVs, with present and past narratives. Seeing events from each perspective added depth and allowed the tension to simmer in a really effective way.
The heartbreaking backstories woven into these two characters pasts were particularly well done and you could understand the effect on their adult life.
The ending was satisfying. I loved how the narrative changed and revealed that some of what we thought we knew was completely wrong. Some of it was shocking without feeling forced, and it tied everything together.
If you enjoy psychological suspense with tense character relationships and twists that genuinely catch you off guard, The Hostess is well worth the read. Courtney Psak has quickly become an author I’ll continue to pick up without hesitation.
Thank you Netgalley, the author and publisher for an ARC of this ebook.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sadie and Tom Wilson are a very wealthy couple who live in the Hamptons. They have a guest house on their property and whilst Tom is away Sadie decides to rent it out. Young married couple Luke and Natalie will benefit from getting away from the city and quickly become Sadie's chosen tenants.
Right from the get go Courtney Psak draws the reader in with a sense of something dark bubbling under the surface, There is an uneasy, tense atmosphere that builds as Natalie becomes more involved with Sadie. Plenty of twists and turns with only very subtle clues as to the perpetrator's identity keeps the reader entertained throughout. With so many secrets any one of the characters could be the guilty party. The final reveal is a twist you are unlikely to see coming.
A compelling and sophisticated psychological thriller that creates suspense with clever and classy writing.
With thanks to NetGalley and Hodder and Stoughton for my advanced reader copy in return for my honest and unbiased review.
Right from the get go Courtney Psak draws the reader in with a sense of something dark bubbling under the surface, There is an uneasy, tense atmosphere that builds as Natalie becomes more involved with Sadie. Plenty of twists and turns with only very subtle clues as to the perpetrator's identity keeps the reader entertained throughout. With so many secrets any one of the characters could be the guilty party. The final reveal is a twist you are unlikely to see coming.
A compelling and sophisticated psychological thriller that creates suspense with clever and classy writing.
With thanks to NetGalley and Hodder and Stoughton for my advanced reader copy in return for my honest and unbiased review.
November 4, 2025
A last-minute escape to the Hamptons. A beautiful estate. A hostess who seems too perfect. From the very first page, The Hostess invites you into a world where luxury masks unease, and every detail hums with quiet tension.
Natalie, recovering from a traumatic accident, hopes for rest and renewal. Instead, she finds herself drawn into a seductive friendship with Sadie—the estate’s enigmatic owner. Psak’s storytelling is sleek and unsettling, with just the right amount of glamour and grit. The mystery unfolds like a whispered warning: what happens when the person offering sanctuary might be the one you need to escape?
This is a thriller that doesn’t rely on loud shocks—it’s all about the slow, elegant unraveling. Perfect for readers who love their suspense with a touch of sophistication and a twist they won’t see coming.
With thanks to Courtney Psak, the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC.
Natalie, recovering from a traumatic accident, hopes for rest and renewal. Instead, she finds herself drawn into a seductive friendship with Sadie—the estate’s enigmatic owner. Psak’s storytelling is sleek and unsettling, with just the right amount of glamour and grit. The mystery unfolds like a whispered warning: what happens when the person offering sanctuary might be the one you need to escape?
This is a thriller that doesn’t rely on loud shocks—it’s all about the slow, elegant unraveling. Perfect for readers who love their suspense with a touch of sophistication and a twist they won’t see coming.
With thanks to Courtney Psak, the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the ARC!
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The Hostess follows the life of Natalie and her husband, Luke, who rented a guest house for a month of stay away from the busy city. But only less than a week through their stay Natalie, who is recovering from an accident, has been seeing/hallucinating her dead brother.
The hostess, Sadie, has her own past/trauma she is recovering from (or not). Through these similarities, the two become somewhat close. But while Natalie is braving her own past, she uncovers a sinister side of her hostess.
Would Natalie fall prey to Sadie or would she be able to put an end to her evil acts?
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I liked the pacing of this book/story and the psychological aspect involved. It was such an eye-opener with its revelations.
PS. I actually have The Tutor in my TBR, so the author is familiar to me. Thus, upon seeing the ARC on NetGalley, I immediately sent a request. Thanks again, NG & H&S!
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The Hostess follows the life of Natalie and her husband, Luke, who rented a guest house for a month of stay away from the busy city. But only less than a week through their stay Natalie, who is recovering from an accident, has been seeing/hallucinating her dead brother.
The hostess, Sadie, has her own past/trauma she is recovering from (or not). Through these similarities, the two become somewhat close. But while Natalie is braving her own past, she uncovers a sinister side of her hostess.
Would Natalie fall prey to Sadie or would she be able to put an end to her evil acts?
-----
I liked the pacing of this book/story and the psychological aspect involved. It was such an eye-opener with its revelations.
PS. I actually have The Tutor in my TBR, so the author is familiar to me. Thus, upon seeing the ARC on NetGalley, I immediately sent a request. Thanks again, NG & H&S!
November 26, 2025
A much needed and greatly-anticipated break in the Hamptons goes terribly wrong for a couple when their last minute stroke of luck in scoring a beautiful rental turns out to be anything but.
Recovering from an accident, the last thing Natalie needs is to discover that the previous occupant of the rental disappeared under mysterious circumstances! And what, if anything, might the elegant and friendly landlady know about that?
The characters are well drawn, but the pacing of the story is a bit all over the place. Recommended for patient readers who don't necessarily expect a thriller book to be extremely eventful throughout.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Recovering from an accident, the last thing Natalie needs is to discover that the previous occupant of the rental disappeared under mysterious circumstances! And what, if anything, might the elegant and friendly landlady know about that?
The characters are well drawn, but the pacing of the story is a bit all over the place. Recommended for patient readers who don't necessarily expect a thriller book to be extremely eventful throughout.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
November 28, 2025
A couple move into a beautiful house in the Hampton at short notice and at a price too good to be true. The hostess Sadie seems welcoming but is hiding something concerning her relationship with husband Tom.
And it is swiftly evident that all is not as it seems in the house. Is someone living there? What is gardener Riley up to? And what has happened to Sadie’s friend Cassie and her son Owen who right up until the new folk arrive had been living in the house.
A reasonably compelling story though there are a lot of these split personality books written from alternative perspectives. Setting is well described and conclusion ultimately satisfying.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hodder and Stoughton for a free copy in exchange for a fair review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Hostess tells a thrilling story about Natalie and Luke. After Natalie suffers a terrible accident, her and Luke look to take some time out in the Hamptons, luckily for them, a short-term rental has just come on the market at an unbelievably reasonable price. Too good to be true, Natalie knew deep down that this was the case. As she begins getting to know the house and the people around it, putting mysterious scenarios down to hallucinations since the accident. Natalie gets to know their perfect hostess Sadie, and she learns not all is as it seems.
This was a great read and kept me gripped from start to finish. My first Courtney Psak read and I would definitely reach for another.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
This was a great read and kept me gripped from start to finish. My first Courtney Psak read and I would definitely reach for another.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
January 13, 2026
This is the second book I’ve read by Courtney Psak, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first.
I found it a very easy read and enjoyed exploring the characters of both Natalie and Sadie with both of their POV’s. Natalie has recently had an accident and her husband finds a holiday rental they can stay at for a month with short notice. As a reader I knew to be suspicious of this! Sadie is very keen to have them over while her husband is ‘away’ and as the book progresses we learn more about her past, and we get to know her friend Cassie who has come back into her life and now disappeared again.
I enjoyed the outcome of this, and the set up that added to the tension!
Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton for inviting me to read this book in exchange for a review.
I found it a very easy read and enjoyed exploring the characters of both Natalie and Sadie with both of their POV’s. Natalie has recently had an accident and her husband finds a holiday rental they can stay at for a month with short notice. As a reader I knew to be suspicious of this! Sadie is very keen to have them over while her husband is ‘away’ and as the book progresses we learn more about her past, and we get to know her friend Cassie who has come back into her life and now disappeared again.
I enjoyed the outcome of this, and the set up that added to the tension!
Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton for inviting me to read this book in exchange for a review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First, thank you Netgalley as well as Hodder & Stoughton for this ARC!
This was actually my second Courtney Psak book, but it will surely not be my last! I have never been in the Hamptons - I am not rich enough - so I did enjoy the story playing there. And it had only two POVs - Natalie, who is dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic accident and Sadie, the owner of the house in the hamptons where Nat and her husband are staying - and just the right pace to keep my glued to the pages. Not to mention, creepy things starting to happen right after Luke, Natalie's husband, is called away due to work, and Natalie starts to wonder if she is really safe in this house with Sadie....
5 stars, very much recommended!
This was actually my second Courtney Psak book, but it will surely not be my last! I have never been in the Hamptons - I am not rich enough - so I did enjoy the story playing there. And it had only two POVs - Natalie, who is dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic accident and Sadie, the owner of the house in the hamptons where Nat and her husband are staying - and just the right pace to keep my glued to the pages. Not to mention, creepy things starting to happen right after Luke, Natalie's husband, is called away due to work, and Natalie starts to wonder if she is really safe in this house with Sadie....
5 stars, very much recommended!
December 5, 2025
This is a book about a young woman recovering from a nasty accident and not knowing what she wants from her life going forward. Her boyfriend surprises her with a month in a luxury house her fears and worries are starting to take over and when she meets the new groundskeeper she starts to fear there is more danger here. When they meet the owner in the house she realises life may finally be turning around as she finds a new friend in the owner of the main house but something is not right here and as things take a dark turn she starts to see that maybe she shouldn’t trust those closest to her. A great dark thriller!
December 10, 2025
I can honestly say this was one of the best books I’ve read this year. It’s an excellent psychological thriller with a gripping plot and an atmospheric setting in the upmarket Hamptons. The characters are exceptionally well developed, especially Natalie. Still recovering mentally after a traumatic accident, she remains strong and compelling throughout the story, and I loved following her journey.
The book keeps you guessing right up until the final twist, which completely took me by surprise.
Courtney Psak’s writing is sharp, immersive, and full of tension. I enjoyed this so much that I’m already looking for more of her books.
An excellent read—highly recommended.
The book keeps you guessing right up until the final twist, which completely took me by surprise.
Courtney Psak’s writing is sharp, immersive, and full of tension. I enjoyed this so much that I’m already looking for more of her books.
An excellent read—highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Full of suspense.
Natalie and her husband Luke rent a luxury lodge in the grounds of a mansion for a month after Natalie is recovering from a tragic accident but you don't find out what the accident was till half way through the book.
The hostess Sadie invites them to dinner, Tom her husband is missing it and suggests he's in a mental hospital but not why, again keeping you in suspense.
Natalie suspects something is wrong but her husband thinks she is too vulnerable and is seeing things.
A page turner that keeps you guessing till the end with a twist at the end.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC and I give my honest review
Natalie and her husband Luke rent a luxury lodge in the grounds of a mansion for a month after Natalie is recovering from a tragic accident but you don't find out what the accident was till half way through the book.
The hostess Sadie invites them to dinner, Tom her husband is missing it and suggests he's in a mental hospital but not why, again keeping you in suspense.
Natalie suspects something is wrong but her husband thinks she is too vulnerable and is seeing things.
A page turner that keeps you guessing till the end with a twist at the end.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC and I give my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC of this book from Hodder & Stoughton via NetGalley in exchange for my honest feedback. I don't think the title really fits the book. Sadie is more of a landlord than a hostess, and the book has equal or more chapters about Natalie than Sadie anyway.
This was more domestic suspense than psychological thriller. I didn't figure out what was happening, which is always a point in favor. However, I did feel it was a bit slow with long sections of not much happening. And I also think none of the characters were quite fully developed. I did enjoy the setting of the luxurious Hamptons.
This was more domestic suspense than psychological thriller. I didn't figure out what was happening, which is always a point in favor. However, I did feel it was a bit slow with long sections of not much happening. And I also think none of the characters were quite fully developed. I did enjoy the setting of the luxurious Hamptons.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I think the title would be better as ‘The Landlady’ or the ‘The Rented Home’ although neither of those are inspiring has to be said but ‘The Hostess’ reminded me of a trolley
Anyway the book is a good solid psychological thriller, once it gets there, not keen on slow burn but it was, there are only so many times things can be repackaged and end up the same however there was a scene to set I just would have liked it set shorter
As say though once we got to the crux of it the book changed furiously and everything that had been alluded to made sense and it was a sharply dark and twisted last few chapters which did make the book worth reading
Anyway the book is a good solid psychological thriller, once it gets there, not keen on slow burn but it was, there are only so many times things can be repackaged and end up the same however there was a scene to set I just would have liked it set shorter
As say though once we got to the crux of it the book changed furiously and everything that had been alluded to made sense and it was a sharply dark and twisted last few chapters which did make the book worth reading
February 15, 2026
Natalie and her husband decide to escape the city for a much-needed break. After suffering from a terrible accident, Natalie needs some time and space to recover. So when they find a gorgeous rental home on an estate in the Hamptons available at the last minute, it seems too good to be true. What we don't know is that both Natalie and Sadie both have secrets that will change their lives. and make them rethink everything they knew. The book started off a little slow but it quickly picked up and I needed to know what was going to happen next. This is the second book I read by Psak and looking forward to what she brings us next.
November 30, 2025
The Hostess was a fun, quick read! I couldn't put it down!
It drew me in from the beginning with the premise, the writing, and the setting. The characters were relatable and real to me with all of their different fears and traumas.
I did predict what happened, but it was satisfying to see how it all played out and didn't ruin anything for me.
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a chilling domestic thriller.
A big thank you to Hodder & Stoughton for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
It drew me in from the beginning with the premise, the writing, and the setting. The characters were relatable and real to me with all of their different fears and traumas.
I did predict what happened, but it was satisfying to see how it all played out and didn't ruin anything for me.
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a chilling domestic thriller.
A big thank you to Hodder & Stoughton for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
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