Under samme tag

by Sue Watson, Camilla Sofie Petersen (Translator)

Den perfekte familieferie ... eller den perfekte hævn?

Jeg trækker vejret dybt og kører op til den hytte med glasfacade, som min tidligere svigermor Angela har booket i anledning af sin fødselsdag. Jeg havde ikke særlig meget lyst til at tage på forlænget weekend med min eksmand og hans nye kone, men hun insisterede på, at vi – herunder mig og mine børn –  skulle lege lykkelige familier sammen. Det er ikke ligefrem, hvad jeg ville kalde en hyggelig weekend, men Angela har altid været sød ved mig, og børnene er glade. I mellemtiden forsøger jeg at ignorere de snetunge skyer, der samler sig over mig. Det sidste, jeg ønsker, er at sidde fast her.

Så snart Scott og Danni træder ind i hytten, ændrer alt sig. Hun prøver ihærdigt at vise, at hendes ægteskab er perfekt, men da hun skyller endnu et glas vin ned, krakelerer Scotts stramme smil, og jeg genkender hans afsky – et blik, jeg har set alt for ofte.

Angela har altid kaldt mig for den perfekte svigerdatter, og jeg kan ikke lade være med at blive lidt selvtilfreds, når jeg ser den kølige luft mellem hende og Danni. Hvis bare Danni tog hjem, ville det her måske blive den fødselsdag, Angela altid har drømt om.

Men pludselig ringer politiet.

Nogen er blevet dræbt. Og de tror, at vi ved noget.

Mit hjerte banker vildt, mens jeg betragter den tunge sne hobe sig op i vinduet. Vi er fanget i hytten. Der er en morder iblandt os. Og jeg håber, at ingen vil mistænke mig. 

Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Audiobook, Fiction, Mystery Thriller, Christmas, Suspense

313 pages, ebook

First published October 24, 2023

About the author

Sue Watson was a TV Producer at the BBC until she wrote her first book and was hooked.

Now a USA Today bestselling author, Sue has sold almost 2 million books and explores the darker side of life, writing psychological thrillers with big twists. Originally from Manchester, she now lives with her family in leafy Worcestershire where much of her day is spent writing – and procrastinating. Her hobby is eating cake while watching diet and exercise programmes from the sofa, a skill she’s perfected after many years of practice.
For up-to-date offers and news of Sue's latest books, click the 'Follow' button next to her photo on Amazon.

Sue would love to meet you on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/suewatsonbooks
And on Instagram @suewatsonbooks

Reviews

[Kay · Rating 3 out of 5]

A dysfunctional family locked-room winter thriller!🥶❄️

How can you possibly decline an invitation to a matriarch's 75th birthday getaway when she suggests it could be her last?

The birthday/family reunion is at a winter retreat destination, a coastal lodge in Cornwall. Angela's the birthday girl, her son Scott, his new wife and toddler, his ex-wife and their teens, and a cordon bleu chef are there for the celebration.

A bit slow burn but high on drama and jealousy among the wives. It was a tough choice and I couldn't pick which team to root for.

The Lodge has a promising premise and Watson's writing style drew me in from the beginning. I couldn't predict this one and was really surprised with the reveal and twists. Love the snowstorm and that no one could leave! But I wasn't sold on Scott. I don't see any qualities in him to be a good catch.

I would like to try another novel by the author as this was my first. The audiobook by two narrators was a terrific listen.

Thank you Bookouture Audio and Netgalley for the ALC.
Published Oct 24, 2023
9 Hours, 34 Min

[megs_bookrack · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deep, dark secrets and non-stop drama are certainly a family affair in Sue Watson's The Lodge!!!



In this story we follow the Wilson family, who all get called to a weekend getaway at a remote lodge by the matriarch of the family, Angela. It's a complicated dynamic, but Angela is ready to celebrate her 75th-birthday and she wants her whole family there.

Thus, she rents the Lodge and invites her son, Scott, his ex-wife, Fiona, his new wife, Danni, who once played the role of the other woman, and their baby, as well as Scott and Fiona's two teenagers.



Thrown in just for fun is a young woman named Jenna, who claims to be a professional chef. As Danni and Scott react to Jenna's presence though, it's clear she may not be exactly who she's selling herself as.

The story is told mainly through Fiona and Danni's perspectives, but we do get some others in different sections. I found both women's thoughts fascinating from the start and wanted to know more about their lives.

They're both feeling self-conscious going into the weekend and they're also bringing a lot of preconceived notions in with them. Both are mothers and also have a natural instinct to do whatever they can to protect their children.



When a terrible storm hits and the Wilson family is trapped at the Lodge, with no end in sight, tensions rise to an unbearable level. People begin to break and cracks are revealed amongst the many relationships.

Will anyone make it out of the Lodge unscathed?!



The Lodge was highly addictive and entertaining as all heck. It was actually my first Watson novel, but certainly won't be my last. I look forward to many, many more in the future.

I listened to the audiobook and found the narration to be a perfect fit for the story. It drew me in right away and I felt like I was actually getting to know these characters; hearing their stories told their own way.

I vibed with Fiona immediately, and she continue to be my fave throughout. Although not perfect, I could see where she was coming from and definitely related to some of her feelings and motivations.



This story starts off rather quickly, throwing the Reader right into the enticing set-up, with all of the family coming together at the Lodge. You can tell right away that everyone is keeping secrets, but what are they and how big of a blowout are they going to make when they're revealed?

In addition to the secrets, not a lot of great choices are made either and this definitely adds to the fun of the story. I just love characters making bad decisions.



The drama level just got deeper and deeper too as the story went on and more and more secrets came to light. It was freaking fascinating. I couldn't get enough.

Towards the end, a couple details didn't quite work for me, or felt a little too convenient, but overall, I think this was really well done. A great Winter Weather Thriller!



I definitely recommend this one to anyone who enjoys a dramatic story, particularly with an extended family involved who have a lot of secrets from one another. Also, I recommend this to Readers who enjoy closed-circle mystery/thrillers that feature inclement weather.

Thank you to the publisher, Bookouture Audio, for providing me with a copy to read and review. This was a ton of fun!

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is nothing like a snowy trapped in mystery thriller! I absolutely love them. The Lodge completely fit the bill and did not disappoint! I found it to be chilling, atmospheric, dramatic, gripping, shocking and hard to put down! I loved that I had both the kindle and audiobook version which made for a completely enjoyable reading experience! The narrators of the audiobook were fantastic and did a brilliant job telling the story and doing the voices.

Angela has called her family together to celebrate her 75th birthday! She has chosen a luxury cabin for the venue and has invited not only her son, Scott and his new wife, Danni, and their baby, but his ex-wife, Fiona and their two children. Talk about uncomfortable! Scot cheated on Fiona with Danni and now they are all under one roof! YIKES!

The snow is falling, emotions are flying, the police have arrived, a body has been found and the police have come calling.

I was fully invested in this book from the very first page! I loved the drama, the mystery, the POV's of Fiona, Scott, and Danni, and the snowy environment. The cabin surrounded by snowfall was atmospheric and chilling. I found this book to be gripping, shocking, addictive and so much fun! Sue Watson knows how to pile on the drama and excels at writing dysfunctional families. As the book progressed and I learned more about the characters, I had fun shaking my head at them, their decisions, and actions. Plus, the tension! You could cut the tension in this book with a knife. As I love tension and not knowing who to trust in a book, I was completely blown away by this book. There were also a nice amount of twists and turns along the way with a jaw dropping reveal!

Well written, tense, chilling, atmospheric and addictive!


#TheLodge #NetGalley #SueWatson #Bookouture #Bookouturaudio

Thank you to Bookouture, Bookouture Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.

Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com

[Heather Adores Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐
Genre ~ domestic thriller
Setting ~ Cornwall
Publication date ~ October 24, 2023
Page Count ~ 361 (30 chapters p+e)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 25 minutes
Narrators ~ Tamsin Kennard, Alison Campbell
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ forced proximity, snowed in, infidelity, secrets, lies, references to r@pe

Fiona's ex mother in law has invited her, and her two older teens, to the lodge to celebrate her 75th birthday. She adores Angela and they have remained close after the divorce, but there's one little problem ~ her ex husband, Scott, his new wife, Danni, and their baby, Olivia, will be there, too. Did I mention that Scott left Fiona for Danni after their affair was leaked? Oof, that's sounds like it'll be a great holiday away...not! Add in Jenna, an ex friend of Danni's, and we have a whole cast of unlikable characters.

Let's talk about some these unlikable characters ~ Scott was a real tool and not just because he's a cheater. Can't think of one choice I liked that Fiona made. Danni was insecure and acted quite frantic at times. Jenna was super annoying. And I know it's terrible, but even the baby got on my nerves with her wailing. I didn't mind Angela so much.

Don't even get me started on the police ~ they could have easily solved the case of the hit and run in 16 seconds flat if you ask me. Maybe I have just read too many thrillers or watched too many cop shows.

Overall, the start was slow with cattiness galore, but I did enjoy the whole snowed in, forced proximity premise. It is jam packed with family drama, tension, and jealously to the max! I'm pleased to report that I did not see the murderer coming, so yay!

Narration notes:
Their male voices leave a little to be desired, but overall good. They both showed proper emotion when it was needed.

*Thanks to the author, Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for the audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*

Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter

[Tonya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely one of the best thrillers I have read this year! It’s the perfect atmospheric whodunnit for the season. “Desperate people are dangerous.” This mystery is full of dangerous, desperate people with secrets to hide. Desperation mixed with secrets proves to be deadly in this twisted tale. Sue Watson once again shows that she is the whodunnit queen. I quickly devoured this addictive story of deception and betrayal. I enjoyed discovering how a dream getaway quickly turns into a tragic nightmare. Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for my copy. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Stacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meh..this was mediocre. Was hoping for more.

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Past and present collided, and if we’d listened carefully we might have heard the distant rumblings of a storm coming in from the sea. It scuttled under doors, and slid through windows, bringing with it something so awful, that none of us would ever be the same again.”

Isn’t that writing superb? The whole book is like this - amazing!

Are you interested in an all-expenses paid long weekend at a luxury lodge in Kynance Cove, remote Cornwall?

❓even if it’s hosted by an ex-mother-in-law
❓even if it means that your ex-husband and his mistress-turned-wife are there
❓even if various offspring of various ages are all under the same roof for a long weekend
❓even if it’s a fractured family harbouring secrets and set on revenge

What could possibly go wrong?! The Wilsons are about to find out.

Fiona “plan[s] to slay” - literally or figuratively? You’ll have to read to find out.

Things I loved:
✔️dual POV (ex-wife, mistress-made-wife)
✔️tension, suspense, secrets, unreliable narrator
✔️amazing character development and setting
✔️build-up of the mystery to the inevitable ending
✔️author’s attention to fine details and vivid descriptions
✔️epilogue

Author Sue Watson executed the setting perfectly; atmospheric, vivid, and eerie. I normally get restless with a slow-burn introduction, but Watson’s writing kept me concentrating on her characters and motives.

Kudos to Fiona Wilson for attempting to bridge the gap. I was rooting for her the whole time, even when she appeared to be selfishly putting her feelings above those of her children and ex-mother-in-law. Even when she felt like she might become unhinged. Even then, she kept it together. I don’t know what I’d do if I were in her shoes. I’d remove the rose-coloured glasses, that’s for sure.

“I’ve been wearing the shade of wronged-wife-bitterness for too long, I was ready for something more positive.”

I loved to hate the ‘new wife’ and wanted to backhand the ex-husband! I enjoyed the author’s examination of insecurity, vulnerability, imitation, and doing the right thing. Highlighting the three generations gives readers more insight into the family dynamics and the addition of the non-family member increased the mystery.

This is Watson at the top of her game!

I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[John (LHBC) · Rating 2 out of 5]

From bitter beginnings to dark secrets….

Book Information

“The Lodge” by Sue Watson is a 350-page mystery/thriller with a planned publication date of October 24, 2023. The audio version is narrated by Tamsin Kennard & Alison Campbell. It spans 9 hours and 34 minutes. Thank you to Bookouture Audio for providing me with an advance reader copy of this book for review.

Summary

A couple of days ago, the Wilson family arrived at a grand Lodge perched on a cliff by the sea, hoping for a peaceful reunion. But not everyone was thrilled. The new wife had trust issues, the ex-wife felt jealous, and the mother-in-law was interfering. The husband, caught in the middle, had been keeping a dark secret. It’s a powder keg---and there are plenty of sparks.

My Thoughts

"The Lodge" by Sue Watson is a book that presents a compelling premise with a lot of potential for mystery, suspense, and psychological thrills. However, my reading of the book might be somewhat of an outlier, as many others have reviewed it very favorably. It seems like this is one of those cases where a book just doesn't resonate with everyone, as I didn't enjoy it as much as others did.

On the positive side, the book boasts an engaging premise set in a beautiful and well-thought-out environment. The prose and language used are commendable, and the technical aspects of the writing are well-executed. If you're a fan of books heavy on family dynamics, and unreliable narrators, or enjoy exploring insecure and manipulative characters, you might find this novel appealing. The story is skillfully told through the dual perspectives of the wife and the ex-wife, a narrative technique that effectively propels the plot forward. In the audio version of the book, the two narrators did an excellent job of conveying the story, especially considering the numerous characters involved.

However, there were aspects of the book that I didn't enjoy as much. The first half of the book proved to be quite a challenge to get through. It consisted of pages and pages, as well as chapters and chapters, that portrayed two women as insecure, petty, insulting, bitter, and snide. While character development is crucial, I found this part to be overwhelming and overdone.

In most books, establishing a connection between the reader and the characters is key. Unfortunately, in "The Lodge," that connection didn't happen for me. Instead, I either disliked or grew tired of the characters to the point where I didn't care if they survived the story.

The second half of the story redeemed itself with numerous reveals, twists, turns, and new information, though it did become somewhat repetitive. It transitioned from being twisty to convoluted, and I was frustrated with how even an incompetent police force should have been able to resolve the book's initial conflict in a matter of minutes, thus preventing the issues that arose later in the story.

The ending might come as a shock to some readers, but I had already assumed the identity of the guilty party, even though the specifics around it were somewhat different from what I had initially thought.

Recommendation

While "The Lodge" holds promise with its engaging premise and skillful writing, it may not be a perfect fit for those who struggle with a slow start or have difficulty connecting with the characters. On the other hand, if you're a fan of books that delve deep into family dynamics, employ unreliable narrators, and explore the complexities of insecure and manipulative characters, this novel might just be your cup of tea. Personally, though, it didn't quite hit the mark for me.

Rating

2.5 Snowy Stars

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a book that ends with a question to the reader as this powerful drama of a read does….
To get there we meet this highly dysfunctional family (and others attached to the family ) as they all get together for a powder keg of a weekend to celebrate Angela’s ( the matriarch ) 75th at a sumptuous lodge on the edge of Cornwall
Now to say there are bad feelings,secrets and harbourings of injustice and jealousy between various characters is to understate…and almost immediately any resolve to keep these feelings at bay disappears…..the anticipation of what could happen is brilliantly given to us in the authors usual style and we are there,with them,waiting for it to happen s little by little the tension raises
As always a great thriller from this writer who creates characters you can relate to and get to know quick,I found it interesting my views changed between the 2 main characters everytime it was their highlighted chapter…
Great read with red herrings,twists and massive dilemma's

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book about a family getaway. They go to a lodge. Its meant to make peace and heal the rifts says the mother in law.

There is a new wife, she doesnt fit in and doesnt trust anyone. There is an ex wife who is jealous of the new family. The mother in law cant help herself and gets involved in everything. The son, well hes caught up in the middle of it , but you know what , hes telling everyone lies.

A big argument results, not everyone is here to play happy families.!

I love books about dysfunctional families. This one is all about revenge, resentment and grudges. Its also all about the "who". I didnt guess it and the best part of the book is the ending because all the secrets are revealed.

Sue is one of my go to thriller authors and I highly recommend her.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before writing my review, I want to extend a huge thank you to NetGalley, Sue Watson, and Bookouture for gifting me the ARC of this book! I appreciate you trusting me with an honest review!! It was a privilege to be able to read THE LODGE before publication.

Fans of closed-room mysteries everywhere will want to grab their copy of THE LODGE as soon as they can! The mood it sets with its eerily beautiful wintry backdrop lends itself well to nights bundled in a favorite blanket with your Kindle in one hand and your cup of tea in the other. This book grabbed me right from the prologue, setting the stage for murder, buried secrets, jealousy, and revenge. The Wilson family has come together, for better or for worse, at this idealistic lodge to celebrate the birthday of their matriarch, Angela. With so many clashing personalities and family rivalries forced under the same roof, there is no doubt that this weekend will not end well.

Admittedly, the book was a slow burn, but this only helped build the tension and suspense found within the pages. And we soon learn there is not one mystery, but more to be solved, making us ask questions like who is telling the truth, who has something to hide, and whom can we trust. At the heart of THE LODGE is a dysfunctional family who seems to take "dysfunction" to a whole other level. And to say some of our characters are hiding something is a major understatement. Everyone seems to want to protect himself/herself, but from what and from whom? It becomes clear that no one is who he/she seems and nothing can be taken at face value. As a discerning reader, you begin to wonder what you can safely believe and what you must immediately question.

I loved the two alternating POVs between our two female leads, Fiona and Danni--the reader is offered unique perspectives into the thoughts and feelings of the scorned ex-wife and the once mistress/new wife, respectively. Their common denominator is Scott, the cheating husband who acts more like a child than a husband/father, and who becomes less likable as the story progresses. I had a very hard time being sympathetic at all with him. But whether our weekend guests were likable or unlikable, there is no doubt that character development was well done!

About the midway point, the book became almost impossible to put down because the suspense was building, the mysteries were close to being revealed, and I needed answers! And the answers came in the form of bombshells, some so unexpected that I had to do a double-take. It was definitely a twist-filled ending. Loved it! Sue Watson skillfully creates a heart-pounding psychological thriller that will enthrall, engross, and captivate mystery-lovers everywhere!

[Auđur · Rating 3 out of 5]

2,8*

[Louise Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two days ago, the Wilson family checked into the imposing, glass-fronted lodge, surrounded by snow and perched on the edge of a cliff looking out to a grey sea. Not everyone was looking forward to the family get-together. But mother-in-law Angela insisted the winter trip would help heal their rifts.

Fiona had been invited to her ex-mother-in-law Angela to spend a few days with the family as this could be her last birthday (but she won't say why). Fiona's children, Sam and Georgia, her ex-husband Scott and his new wife, Danni, and their young baby, and a woman called Jenna who was invited to be their chef for a weekend at a lodge in Cornwall.

When a book is set in my favourite holiday destination, Cornwall, and it's written by one of my go-to authors, Sue Watson, I'm there, quickly pressing the request button. Everyone seems to have a secret. The story is told from Fiona, Scott, and Danni's perspectives. There's a hit-and-run accident, a murder, they've all been snowed in together, and no one knew who they could trust. With so many twists, my head was spinning. Tension and the attitudes towards each other were rising. The characters are well-developed. This is a really good thriller.

I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #SueWatson in exchange for an honest review.

[exploraDora · Rating 4 out of 5]

When 75-year-old Angela invites her family on a trip for her birthday celebration at a beach resort in Cornwall, suggesting it might be her last, how can they say no? There for the party are Angela's son Scott with his new wife and baby, Scott's ex-wife, their two teenagers, and a private chef Angela hired for the event.

The premise of the book is intriguing, and I enjoyed the writing style. A snowstorm leads to the family being trapped at the lodge, and at some point they receive some disturbing news from the police: a man has been killed nearby. It's unclear at first as to who it could have been, but things start to unravel soon. Someone else ends up dead, and it only gets crazier from there.

At first it seems a bit of a slow burn, but the story is so filled with drama and tension, that I was hooked the whole time. There's also the jealousy between the wives, perfectly told through their own POVs, that at times I didn't know which one to believe or to root for.

There are many twists and turns, some predictable, some truly surprised me. Overall a pleasure to listen to.

Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Landa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put it down!

[Nikki Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my first Sue Watson book. With that, I had high expectations. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t for me.

Angela Watson is about to have her 75th birthday party. She has decided to invite her son and the rest of his family, his current wife, ex wife and her grandchildren out to the lodge. When everyone shows up, an officer appears telling them there has been a murdered body discovered on the road. It can only be one of them who committed this terrible crime. Who is the culprit?

Soon, the snowstorm has locked everyone in, causing intense tension between the wives. The cattiness was a bit silly in parts. Sad thing is, I bet there are tons of real women out there just like this. Most of this plays out as a drama and it dragged quite a bit to be honest. Reading about a family that just constantly bickers was getting on my nerves. I am really relieved to be done with this. Sorry guys, this just wasn’t for me.

I’d like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and Sue Watson for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own. Expected publication date October 24th, 2023
2.5 ⭐️ rounded to 3

[AndiReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Creepy claustrophobic fun!

Angela Wilson requests that her son and his current and ex wife come to a lodge she has rented for her birthday. She is close to her son Scott's ex wife Fiona and would like the whole extended family, including two adult kids and Scott and his new wife's baby in attendance. She surprises the group with a French chef but the chef turns out to be a familiar trouble maker known to all the parties.

As you might guess, as the snow begins to fall, the family members snipe at one another. Ex wife Fiona can't seem to let Scott go, New wife Danni seems to need constant attention and is even appearing paranoid. The French chef is prone to making cutting remarks... and then the police arrive with news that someone was hit on their lane and as their rented lodge is the last on the lane, it seems one of them may be the guilty party.

As the blizzard continues and the police request that they stay put, the house become a literal powderkeg and it's only a matter of time before something or someone explodes!

A lot of unlikely facts create this set up but Watson brings a delightful tension and fear factor in her writing. I loved every minute of it and you will too. My only complaint is that no one mentions what was found in the cupboard!
Grab this book, a drink and a blanket because you won't put it down until you are done! #thelodge #sueswatson #bookouture

[Carrie Shields · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars rounded up.

I love this author and have enjoyed many of her other titles, but THE LODGE just missed the mark for me. The premise was promising...Angela, the ex-mother-in-law invites her son, his current wife Danni and baby, AND her former daughter-in-law Fiona, whom she still favors, along with her two children to spend a weekend in a cozy lodge to celebrate her birthday. Oh, and she ominously adds that it may be her last birthday. Fearing for Angela's health, Fiona reluctantly agrees, even though she is dreading every minute.

First, it took up to the 50% mark for anything to actually happen. Everything was all the petty wrongs that each had done to the other, and the plot just dragged. Then, when things started to happen, EVERYTHING started, and the plot became a mess with some info dumps, which I hate. The writing just didn't sound like the author, and it was hard to connect with any of the characters.

I'll definitely keep reading this author as this is the only book of hers I haven't enjoyed. There are plenty of high reviews, so check this book out for yourself if you're curious. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early read. THE LODGE will publish October 24, 2023.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phoebe and Danny or two women who were both married to Scott phoebe was his first wife and had been married to him for 17 years and they had two kids Sam and Georgette Sams in Uni in Georgette isn’t high school Danny cheated with Scott Owen Phoebe they were both teachers and due to an anonymous Facebook post were called out and this is the catalyst that caused Scott’s divorce to Phoebe and oh yes he and Danny have a little 12 month old baby named Olivia. Scott is an only child to his mother Angela who is turning 75 and when she cryptically says to Danny and Phoebe at separate times that this is possibly her last birthday it gilts both women into acquiescing in agreeing to a family weekend getaway add a beautiful lodge on the coast in Carmel. Both women are insecure when it comes to the other Phoebe couldn’t come to grips with her divorce and still call Scott and they still talk for hours and he comes over and spend time with her and her two kids something Danny cannot stand. Phoebe can’t stand when the kids go over to Scott’s house and spend time over there and she’s jealous of any part Danny plays in her children’s life. It’s so bad the kids don’t even mention anything about what they do when they’re over there. Needless to say they’re all heading up to the coast for a family weekend vacation with grandma Angela. When they all arrive separately they’re shocked to learn Angela invited Jenna hey girl who obviously has a past with Danny and Scott and although Danny‘s dislike of the girl is obvious Scott on the other hand placate her and ask is if she is just a young up start looking for a mentor A roll it seems he is happy to play. She claims to have studied in French corner blue and is going to be the family chef for the weekend but Danny isn’t buying it at all it is clear that Danny knows something about Jenna and what she knows isn’t good. For the most part Danny and her opinion is a relevant to the rest of the family with the exception of Sam and Georgette who clearly care for her but as far as Phoebe Scott and Angela goes whatever they liked about Danny is rubbing off fast it doesn’t help when Phoebe and Scott act like a couple of teenagers throwing pillows at each other threatening tickle contests and sharing inside jokes that don’t include Danny Danny tries to put this all behind her but the more Jenna fawns over Scott in the more Phoebe acts like they’re still together the more Danny unravels. Her outburst and actions are making things uncomfortable especially for Phoebe as soon as Danny arrives Phoebe couldn’t get over how she immediately had the baby to Angela and throughout the night she continuously leaves the baby with whoever will take her but when Jenna access a DNA is losing her mind and she will be more than happy to take care of little Olivia she totally loses the plot and yanks her baby back from Jenna send it happens in front of everyone else. At first Phoebe likes Jenna and thinks she is a wonderful cook something Danny Scoffs at. Phoebe is also worried because Angela seems not to be acting right and after knowing her for almost 20 years Angela says things that takes phoebe by surprise and is worried the older woman is losing her mind. Before it’s over everyone in the family will be in present at the lodge due to an active murder investigation good more than that they seem to have blizzard after blizzard and they’re also snowed in so the Jay of Angeles birthday Danny goes for an early morning walk and never returns Scott is beside himself with grief and worry and Jenna tries to take control and follows Scott around like a shadow by the time police start investigating it’s been days and there’s no way Danny can still be alive not to mention she said she was pregnant again so there is more than her life at stake. I haven’t even told 1/3 of the story there is so much who shot John in this book there is backstabbing double dealing I’m at first I really didn’t like neither lady phoebe nor Danny but ultimately I did root for Phoebe and felt bad for Danny but through it all I did not and still don’t like Jenna… I would’ve given this book 5 stars but there were moments in the book we’re always like “really, no one notices…“ like when Jenna showed up at the lodge dressed exactly like Danny and all her husband could say is that Jenna most admire Danny because flattery is a form of affection… And also how could they have not known who put those post on Facebook but either way despite all that this is one super twisty phenomenal thriller and just like all the books lately just when you think it’s over it’s really not! This author has some really awesome books but I do believe in the lodge she has totally outdone herself and I totally and honestly mean that. It seems lately all the thriller writers have up their game and Sue Watson has definitely proven she cannot only meet it but raise ita couple of notches. I want to thank Bookoucher and Net Galley for my free Ark copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.

[Krista (Mrs K Book Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy a Sue Watson story and this one was another I enjoyed.

The Lodge is about a family who have alot of secrets, drama and messed up lives.. i trusted noone, too be honest
So many twists, turns and that last twist had my head spinning.

Sue knows how to write a gripping psychological thriller and if you love reading about family drama then this is a definite must read.

Thanks Bookouture and Netgalley for allowing me to read this completely messed up story for an honest review.

All thoughts and opinions are my own and aren't influenced by anyone else

[Barbara Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Name of Book: The Lodge
Author: Sue Watson
Publisher: Bookouture
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Pub Date: October 24, 2023
My Rating: 4.7 Rounded up
Pages: 288

This is my sixth Sue Watson read The New Wife, The Resort, and The Nursery all earned 5 stars from 'stingy star" me!

Angela Wilson’s 75 Birthday is coming up and she has rented a beautiful glass-fronted Lodge, located on the edge of a cliff looking the sea.
She invited:
• her son Scott
• his current wife Danni and their year old baby Olivia
• her son Scott’s ex-wife Fiona including their two adult children Sam and Georgia.
.
Additionally she surprises the group with Jenna a French chef.
But the chef turns out to be someone both Danni and Scott knows Jenna.
They all work at the same school where Scott is the Headteacher, Danni a teacher and Jenna lab technician.
Danni knows Jenna all too well and questions when she trained as a chef at the ‘Cordon Bleu’.

Two days later a phone call goes out
We’re at The Lodge, the snow is everywhere. We’re trapped. There was an argument last
night… things got
out of hand. Someone went missing in the middle of the night. We think they might be dead’
The missing person is Danni!

In addition to Danni going missing there was a hit-in-run accident where someone Fiona knows dies. At first this story seemed like a basic domestic drama. But I love this author so knew to expect more.
Yep!
The ending had my head spinning.
Our author describes it best in her “A Letter from Sue” she tells us that she was inspired
to write this story while viewing beautiful winter holiday ads; pictures of perfect families in
hot tubs drinking champagne.
She got thinking about a magical winter setting with the whole family on a long weekend. She
got thinking about what if there was a new wife and an ex-wife.
Once she set the stage, she tells us she the characters took over and she sat back allowing
things to get messier and messier.

Oh Yes! Messier is correct!!!

Want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for granting me the pleasure of reading this GREAT early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for October 24, 2023.

[Andrea Pole · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Lodge by Sue Watson is another gripping page-turner from this brilliant author, and I was very reluctant to put it down, even for a moment.

The Wilson family has gathered at the behest of matriarch Angela, who is celebrating her seventy-fifth birthday. To mark the milestone, she has rented a lodge where her son, his ex-wife Fiona and their two children, his new wife Danni, and infant daughter will gather. A surprise guest arrives in the form of Jenna, a chef whose services Angela has employed for the duration of their stay. But as a storm blankets the lodge in snow, tensions begin to boil over among those who are now trapped inside, and secrets will be revealed, the culmination of which none could have predicted.

This is a bit of a slow burner that is told in multiple POVs which, for me, really ratcheted up the tension. Those who are drawn to an Agatha Christie-esque closed room mystery will love this one. 4.5 stars

Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for an ARC.

[Emese · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐ rounded up
Such a nice comfy read for December around the theme of "blocked by the snowstorm in a remote lodge with the strange family members". I really enjoyed this book and felt the shivering cold, really a good fit for December, but the ending was constructed very poorly.

Plot5⭐ Angela invites her family for a nice holiday long weekend into an off remote lodge to enjoy the weather and each others`company before Christmas. The family consists of her son, her ex-daughter-law, her new daughter-in-law, her 3 grand children and a chef. Everyone is full of secrets and the situation is very suspense due to the fact that the new wife and the old wife needs to spend their time together to please Angela. An investigation was started in the meantime by the local police to clarify a murder in the near of the lodges.

Writing Style 5⭐ page turner - besides the ending

Ending/twist 2⭐ was it really the end?! - I asked my self after completing this one. Such a cheesy, anticipated and unsatisfactory ending, it almost spoiled me the whole book, but it was not able to ruin everything. I still enjoyed all in all:)

Recommended for winter time:)

[Casey · Rating 2 out of 5]

This could have used an editor's touch to make it shine. Lots of run-on sentences with liberal comma usage.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

⚠️ Caution ⚠️ Storm Coming! -Risk to Life- Only travel if necessary. 🚨

Twisty and twisted!

Angela, the matriarch of the family, is getting a little long in the tooth and decides for her birthday this year that she wants the whole family to go stay in a lodge she used to enjoy while she can still enjoy it. Apparently too old to check the weather app, Angela has brought them here in a massive snow storm with slippery and treacherous roads.

The roads are not the only thing slippery and treacherous about this family function though.. This is a *blended* family -and it was blended against Fiona's will because her husband Scotty too Hotty left her for Dannie with a Plannie. So now those two have a young child and this is massively awkward, with Fiona and her grown children all there under the same roof.

They barely get settled when the cops come knocking saying that someone was severely injured in a hit and run down the road. The lack of travel due to the storm casts doubt upon them. Distrust and resentment grows, culminating in one person in the group going missing. Is there time to find them and is it linked to the hit and run? Find out in The Lodge by Sue Watson!

This was a solid story and different from many of the claustrophobic thrillers I've read lately. It was more of a pressure cooker with the strained relationships and unreliable narrators, which can admittedly sometimes make me feel led on, but the twist in the end was ultimately really good.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to listen and review! The narration was fantastic.

[donna backshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Lodge has a clever plot and lots of dark twists, which make it a compelling though outrageous read. If you like shows like Grey's Anatomy where way too much is going on and all the characters have multiple things to hide, you'll find this disaster of a weekend at The Lodge worthy of a read, or listen.

The women of this novel -- Danni, Fiona, Angela and Jenna -- are all complex and interesting, but mostly as unlikable and petty characters. That said, I somehow found myself unable to look away from the disastrous holiday weekend and their particularly neurotic takes on every move every person made in that claustrophobic lodge.

A big thanks to NetGalley for providing me a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

[Aitziber · Rating 3 out of 5]

En una cabaña encerrados una familia de los más peculiar. Todos tienen secretos y se van descubriendo aunque a veces se da muchas vueltas y sobran hojas.
El final bien resuelto pero sin generarme sorpresa

[Lauren Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Wow. That was a slow moving but crazy ride of a read.
I enjoyed the cut off winter setting. Some characters were very easy to dislike and others I liked a lot.
The ending was definitely a surprise I did not expect. I had a feeling there was going to be one last twist at the end but I wasn’t expecting that.
I do wish that the book hadn’t gone from the lodge to a whole year later. It threw me off a bit.
But all around a good, slow moving thriller with complicated people.

[Mike Finn]

I can't remember the last time I set a book aside at the five per cent mark. I've listened to the (short) prologue, one point of view from the ex-wife and one point of view from the new wife and that's enough to let me know that this book isn't for me.

I already know that I'm not going to empathise with either woman but that's not why I'm setting the novel aside. It's the writing that's getting to me.

The interior monologues from the women sound not like a person's thought but like position papers summarising their respective histories and the expectations and concerns about the upcoming weekend. I don't feel that I've met the characters. I feel like I've been given a briefing on who they are so that I can play a murder mystery game.

The audiobook gives each woman a narrator, which is just as well as their language and speech patterns are so close that I wouldn't have known who was speaking.

Then there are small annoyances like have the phrase 'the oncoming snow' repeated often enough for me to notice it in such a short piece of text.

I know I'm just going to get more critical of the prose as the book goes on and that I won't be able to sit back and pretend I'm playing Cluedo, so I'm setting this aside and counting it as a buying error on my part.

[Miriam still reading! HIATUS from GR · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars audio and story