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The Winter Retreat: Silence can be deadly
As I reach Whispering Pines, a haven promising four days of Winter Solstice calm, the snow has just begun to fall.
But I’m not here to hold yoga poses and breathe. I’m here to work. As a drowning single mother, my children’s Christmas depends on the money I’ve been promised.
As the weather worsens and guests stream in, I rush from kettle to cloakroom, pressing warm mugs into cold hands, and tucking blankets around shoulders. Then the door swings open on the last face I want to see – my ex-husband’s new girlfriend, Katina. We lock eyes, shocked, and silently agree to pretend we’re strangers.
The retreat gets underway, and our lines of separation are drawn. The women bask in the sauna and hot tub, drift through sound baths in the main yoga space, and expect perfection. I’m run ragged keeping it that way.
Outside, the snow thickens.
It turns out Katina and I aren’t the only ones bristling. Tensions ripple among staff and guests; small slights sour what should be pleasant meals, and whispered grudges taint the planned activities. The promised serenity is quickly becoming a pressure cooker. Then the unthinkable at a sanctuary like this becomes real.
A body is discovered.
With snow piled high, help can’t get in. Nor can anyone get out. We move the body out of sight and, unbelievably, carry on with the programme. Shocking, yes. Suspicious? Of course not.
Until a second body is found.
Panic tears through Whispering Pines. Accusations fly and fingers point in every direction – until they settle on one person.
Me.
And now, the only way out of this winter retreat is to survive it.
A chilling and claustrophobic psychological thriller about obsession, wavering loyalty and a secret past.
Perfect for fans of Daniel Hurst and Freida McFadden.
But I’m not here to hold yoga poses and breathe. I’m here to work. As a drowning single mother, my children’s Christmas depends on the money I’ve been promised.
As the weather worsens and guests stream in, I rush from kettle to cloakroom, pressing warm mugs into cold hands, and tucking blankets around shoulders. Then the door swings open on the last face I want to see – my ex-husband’s new girlfriend, Katina. We lock eyes, shocked, and silently agree to pretend we’re strangers.
The retreat gets underway, and our lines of separation are drawn. The women bask in the sauna and hot tub, drift through sound baths in the main yoga space, and expect perfection. I’m run ragged keeping it that way.
Outside, the snow thickens.
It turns out Katina and I aren’t the only ones bristling. Tensions ripple among staff and guests; small slights sour what should be pleasant meals, and whispered grudges taint the planned activities. The promised serenity is quickly becoming a pressure cooker. Then the unthinkable at a sanctuary like this becomes real.
A body is discovered.
With snow piled high, help can’t get in. Nor can anyone get out. We move the body out of sight and, unbelievably, carry on with the programme. Shocking, yes. Suspicious? Of course not.
Until a second body is found.
Panic tears through Whispering Pines. Accusations fly and fingers point in every direction – until they settle on one person.
Me.
And now, the only way out of this winter retreat is to survive it.
A chilling and claustrophobic psychological thriller about obsession, wavering loyalty and a secret past.
Perfect for fans of Daniel Hurst and Freida McFadden.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2025
About the author
Maria Frankland
175 books597 followersMaria Frankland has a dubious internet search history and a very worried mother-in-law. However, neither of these things can stop her writing gripping psychological thrillers in which you’ll never find a happy-ever-after.
Her novels are mostly set in Yorkshire where you’ll hear the accent through all her characters. These are people you could live next door to, or closer still… don’t say you haven’t been warned.
Maria’s novels are fast-paced, down to earth and realistic. You never know what’s around the corner…
Find out more about Maria at https://www.mariafrankland.co.uk. Whilst you’re there, you can download your free novella – The Brother-in-Law.
Her novels are mostly set in Yorkshire where you’ll hear the accent through all her characters. These are people you could live next door to, or closer still… don’t say you haven’t been warned.
Maria’s novels are fast-paced, down to earth and realistic. You never know what’s around the corner…
Find out more about Maria at https://www.mariafrankland.co.uk. Whilst you’re there, you can download your free novella – The Brother-in-Law.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
December 25, 2025
Looking for some holiday reading that packs a punch, I turned to this novel by Maria Frankland, the second holiday-themed thriller of hers I have read this season. Aneka has been struggling to keep it together. The fact that her ex is playing games does not help things at all. When Aneka is given a temporary job at Whispering Pines, a yoga retreat, over the Christmas break, she leaps at the chance for extra money. Aneka is greeted with a cold shoulder when she arrives, forced to build relationships with her temporary coworkers and superior. However, it is the arrival of the guests that really pushes Aneka over the edge. Someone she does not want to see is amongst the group, making things even more awkward. While the snow is kicking up outside, Aneka finds herself clashing with people all around her, kept employed only because of the weather. Soon, tragedy strikes and people end up quite ill. Soon, a body is discovered, seemingly poisoned, which sets things into high gear. As the authorities cannot be contacted due to lines of communication being severed, eyes turn to Aneka as a potential suspect in all of this. Worried that this could all be part of an elaborate game, Aneka must fend for herself before she is locked away for a crime she professes not to have committed. Maria Frankland delivers a decent story that kept me turning pages well into the night.
Christmas is the ideal reading time, no matter what genre interests you. This piece by Maria Frankland was both entertaining and easy to read. Much like the previous piece of hers I read, this one pulled me in from the outset with strong themes and a solid narrative. The story flows well, keeping the reader in the middle of the tense mystery that unfolds. Frankland develops this story that sends the attentive reader on a drawn-out chase, seeking answers while also trying to wrap their head around all that is taking place. Short chapters help push the momentum along and provide a chilling set of revelations that are soon resolved, though there remain many unanswered questions.
Characters are plentiful and presented throughout the piece. Frankland knows how to create those who will appeal to the reader, or at least capture their attention. While I was not completely sold or connected to Aneka, I could feel her plight as the story progressed. The clashes she had with others helped flesh-out the secondary characters and how they fit into the larger mix. I had hoped for more tension, rather than simple clashes between people, as truths came to the surface, but Frankland still kept things moving along and the various characters played their roles with ease.
Surprises emerge at various points of the story, keeping the reader wondering. Those who have a keen interest in mysteries will likely enjoy this piece. Frankland offers up some great twists to keep things from being too predictable, but, again, there was something missing to make this a stunning psychological thriller. I needed more from the killer and the antics that led to death and mayhem. I will look for and read more by Maria Frankland in 2026, as this was a great second holiday thriller I have read this season with her at the helm.
Kudos, Madam Frankland, for a wonderful story that worked well this holiday season.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Christmas is the ideal reading time, no matter what genre interests you. This piece by Maria Frankland was both entertaining and easy to read. Much like the previous piece of hers I read, this one pulled me in from the outset with strong themes and a solid narrative. The story flows well, keeping the reader in the middle of the tense mystery that unfolds. Frankland develops this story that sends the attentive reader on a drawn-out chase, seeking answers while also trying to wrap their head around all that is taking place. Short chapters help push the momentum along and provide a chilling set of revelations that are soon resolved, though there remain many unanswered questions.
Characters are plentiful and presented throughout the piece. Frankland knows how to create those who will appeal to the reader, or at least capture their attention. While I was not completely sold or connected to Aneka, I could feel her plight as the story progressed. The clashes she had with others helped flesh-out the secondary characters and how they fit into the larger mix. I had hoped for more tension, rather than simple clashes between people, as truths came to the surface, but Frankland still kept things moving along and the various characters played their roles with ease.
Surprises emerge at various points of the story, keeping the reader wondering. Those who have a keen interest in mysteries will likely enjoy this piece. Frankland offers up some great twists to keep things from being too predictable, but, again, there was something missing to make this a stunning psychological thriller. I needed more from the killer and the antics that led to death and mayhem. I will look for and read more by Maria Frankland in 2026, as this was a great second holiday thriller I have read this season with her at the helm.
Kudos, Madam Frankland, for a wonderful story that worked well this holiday season.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
November 22, 2025
I am convinced that Maria Frankland sits around and thinks about what she can do to mislead her readers the most. When I tell you this one kept me guessing (as a lot of hers do) but this one shocked me on a new level. When Aneka accepts a quick weekend job at a retreat to earn some uch needed cash, this weekend did not at all go how she suspected it would.
The premise was definitely set for an eerie creepy thriller story, snowstorm, trapped in a secluded area, no cell phone service, and one added bonus - you’re stuck there with your ex-husband’s new girlfriend. I mean what could go wrong? It was obvious that something sinister was lurking, but per usual the reveal was a jaw dropping moment. Overall, an excellent read! 8 books down by this author and I’m not even close to being done yet. I have loved every one that I have read.
Publication 🗓️: 12.2.25
The premise was definitely set for an eerie creepy thriller story, snowstorm, trapped in a secluded area, no cell phone service, and one added bonus - you’re stuck there with your ex-husband’s new girlfriend. I mean what could go wrong? It was obvious that something sinister was lurking, but per usual the reveal was a jaw dropping moment. Overall, an excellent read! 8 books down by this author and I’m not even close to being done yet. I have loved every one that I have read.
Publication 🗓️: 12.2.25
December 27, 2025
I did enjoy this one, but it took until the 60% point for things to start happening. Very very slow burn. The twist was quite good, and I was compelled to keep reading because I had to find out what the mystery was all about. The ending wasn’t as satisfying as I had hoped, but overall, I’d recommend, especially for Maria Frankland fans like I am!
November 18, 2025
***ARC review***
The Winter Retreat
Author Maria Frankland.
My rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What an incredible suspenseful and shocking psychological thriller.
The Winter Retreat is a truly tense and fast-paced gripping story that had me hooked and kept me engaged and guessing from the start.
Aneka fresh from her divorce from George, with a daughter and son, and Christmas is fast approaching, is flat broke.
No money for food or presents to give her children a Christmas to enjoy, George refusing to give child support, Aneka is desperate and at her wits' end.
When out of the blue Aneka receives a phone call with a long weekend job offer from Vince saying her friend Ruth had recommended her at Whispering Pines a winter retreat lodge, a pamper weekend for paying guests.
After arriving and welcoming the guests, Angela is horrified to find one of them is Katina her Ex's new girlfriend.
Shocked at seeing each other they agree to be strangers.
With the snowstorm that has them trapped, communications down tensions start growing between staff and guests from the first day, Aneka is being run ragged.
A body is discovered after falling ill the previous day, and they can't call for help, they taffy move the body to a locked room, and when another two fall ill, one being the husband of Sienna who runs the winter retreat and also Katina, another death.
From day one some have had it in for Aneka and she is accused and blamed for poisoning them.
This is another brilliantly written thriller by Maria Frankland, the characters are incredible and exciting, no clues who the suspects are, and the ending is totally unexpected.
I absolutely loved The Winter Retreat and was fully engrossed in this compelling novel.
The Winter Retreat
Author Maria Frankland.
My rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What an incredible suspenseful and shocking psychological thriller.
The Winter Retreat is a truly tense and fast-paced gripping story that had me hooked and kept me engaged and guessing from the start.
Aneka fresh from her divorce from George, with a daughter and son, and Christmas is fast approaching, is flat broke.
No money for food or presents to give her children a Christmas to enjoy, George refusing to give child support, Aneka is desperate and at her wits' end.
When out of the blue Aneka receives a phone call with a long weekend job offer from Vince saying her friend Ruth had recommended her at Whispering Pines a winter retreat lodge, a pamper weekend for paying guests.
After arriving and welcoming the guests, Angela is horrified to find one of them is Katina her Ex's new girlfriend.
Shocked at seeing each other they agree to be strangers.
With the snowstorm that has them trapped, communications down tensions start growing between staff and guests from the first day, Aneka is being run ragged.
A body is discovered after falling ill the previous day, and they can't call for help, they taffy move the body to a locked room, and when another two fall ill, one being the husband of Sienna who runs the winter retreat and also Katina, another death.
From day one some have had it in for Aneka and she is accused and blamed for poisoning them.
This is another brilliantly written thriller by Maria Frankland, the characters are incredible and exciting, no clues who the suspects are, and the ending is totally unexpected.
I absolutely loved The Winter Retreat and was fully engrossed in this compelling novel.
December 8, 2025
My only problem with this was the main character was super annoying. Shes down on her luck, cards maxed, NEEDS this job, and yet she spends the whole time complaining she can’t enjoy the amenities or making snarky comments back to the rude guests. Permanent victim type shit
November 16, 2025
Wow!!! Absolutely loved this & Maria is fast becoming my favourite author. Very gripping, few twists throughout & a big one at the end that I really didn't see coming. Would definitely recommend & a great winter read 📚
December 25, 2025
I really wanted to like this one. I loved a locked door mystery, but this was boring and barely a thriller. It took 160 pages for anything substantial to actually happen, which is about 60% of the book. The first 60% was just mean guests at a retreat …. Not thrilling at all.
The ending was okay, but wasn’t great. The reasoning behind it all was kind of lame and didn’t really fit. Probably wouldn’t recommend.
The ending was okay, but wasn’t great. The reasoning behind it all was kind of lame and didn’t really fit. Probably wouldn’t recommend.
January 19, 2026
Kept me guessing! Fabulous read indeed.
November 11, 2025
THE WINTER RETREAT BY THE FABULOUS MARIA FRANKLAND.
Release date set for the 2nd of December 2025.
Its only ever 5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ books from Maria.
Absolutely loved this story.
I really felt so sorry for the main character Aneka from the very beginning.
Maria creats such relatable and interesting and intriguing characters.
One More chapter leads to 7 and 8 more chapters and them pages turn themselves.
I didn't want to put the book down at all and didn't want it to end.
Loved the pacing and the flow.
Once again Mrs Frankland has pulled it out the bag. I honestly don't know how maria continues to knock books out like this so quickly.
Such an amazing and talented writer.
Always going to be one of my most cherished and favourite authors.
Outstanding work once again.
Just Perfection 👏
Release date set for the 2nd of December 2025.
Its only ever 5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ books from Maria.
Absolutely loved this story.
I really felt so sorry for the main character Aneka from the very beginning.
Maria creats such relatable and interesting and intriguing characters.
One More chapter leads to 7 and 8 more chapters and them pages turn themselves.
I didn't want to put the book down at all and didn't want it to end.
Loved the pacing and the flow.
Once again Mrs Frankland has pulled it out the bag. I honestly don't know how maria continues to knock books out like this so quickly.
Such an amazing and talented writer.
Always going to be one of my most cherished and favourite authors.
Outstanding work once again.
Just Perfection 👏
April 1, 2026
2.5 rounded up.
This book was bad. Aneka, the main character is supposed to be this strong single mom, but I didn’t want to listen to her anymore because all she did was whine. Everything in the first few chapters is her working at this retreat and watching the guests do activities and saying things like “if only I could sit in the hot tub with no worries like them for just five minutes.” If got so old. Like, we get it. Poor you.
Every character in this book was unlikeable and the way they ALL were stuck up and all treated Aneka poorly, please. I’ve never, ever met a well-off person who treats help like crap. I’m sure they exist, but not at the sheer volume of every guest and fellow staff member like it does in the book.
The twist? WAS SO STUPID and very bad guy explaining the motive at the end “I then made it my mission to find you and ruin you.”
The ratings on this book are baffling.
There were a couple of things done well. I was heavily engaged. It was a hook you for sure, and it was fast-paced.
It was also a great read for winter as it was atmospheric and made you want to cozy up with a blanket.
However, other than that- I did not like this book.
This book was bad. Aneka, the main character is supposed to be this strong single mom, but I didn’t want to listen to her anymore because all she did was whine. Everything in the first few chapters is her working at this retreat and watching the guests do activities and saying things like “if only I could sit in the hot tub with no worries like them for just five minutes.” If got so old. Like, we get it. Poor you.
Every character in this book was unlikeable and the way they ALL were stuck up and all treated Aneka poorly, please. I’ve never, ever met a well-off person who treats help like crap. I’m sure they exist, but not at the sheer volume of every guest and fellow staff member like it does in the book.
The twist? WAS SO STUPID and very bad guy explaining the motive at the end “I then made it my mission to find you and ruin you.”
The ratings on this book are baffling.
There were a couple of things done well. I was heavily engaged. It was a hook you for sure, and it was fast-paced.
It was also a great read for winter as it was atmospheric and made you want to cozy up with a blanket.
However, other than that- I did not like this book.
January 7, 2026
I must have read a different book cause that was ridiculous and annoying
December 17, 2025
This had all the ingredients for a properly unsettling winter thriller: a snowstorm, total isolation, no phone signal, and the added tension of being trapped with your ex-husband’s new partner. From the outset, it’s clear something is off, and that quiet sense of menace never really lets up. You know a reveal is coming, but when it does, it still lands hard.
The Winter Retreat leans heavily into atmosphere. The setting looks cosy on the surface, but it quickly becomes claustrophobic and uncomfortable, with silence, snow, and nowhere to run. The group dynamic only adds to the unease. No one feels entirely safe, and almost everyone gives off suspicious energy.
Aneka is a compelling lead, doing her best to hold everything together while clearly carrying far more than her fair share. Her motivations felt real, and I found myself rooting for her even when things spiralled. There’s also a strong undercurrent of resentment and revenge running through the story, which gives the tension real bite.
This was a slow burn that steadily tightened its grip, filled with dread, paranoia, and emotional pressure. I’ve read several books by this author now, and this one only reinforced why I keep coming back. A chilling, immersive winter read that left its mark.
The Winter Retreat leans heavily into atmosphere. The setting looks cosy on the surface, but it quickly becomes claustrophobic and uncomfortable, with silence, snow, and nowhere to run. The group dynamic only adds to the unease. No one feels entirely safe, and almost everyone gives off suspicious energy.
Aneka is a compelling lead, doing her best to hold everything together while clearly carrying far more than her fair share. Her motivations felt real, and I found myself rooting for her even when things spiralled. There’s also a strong undercurrent of resentment and revenge running through the story, which gives the tension real bite.
This was a slow burn that steadily tightened its grip, filled with dread, paranoia, and emotional pressure. I’ve read several books by this author now, and this one only reinforced why I keep coming back. A chilling, immersive winter read that left its mark.
November 30, 2025
Maria Frankland has delivered another amazing book with The Winter Retreat. True to her style, she expertly steered the plot in a new direction just when I was certain I had the mystery solved!
Seriously, there’s nothing I wouldn’t read from her! Maria Frankland is easily one of the BEST psychological thriller authors out there. The only true crime is missing an opportunity to read one of her many twisty tales!
***I received an advance reader copy from the author via BookFunnel. All opinions expressed are my own.***
Seriously, there’s nothing I wouldn’t read from her! Maria Frankland is easily one of the BEST psychological thriller authors out there. The only true crime is missing an opportunity to read one of her many twisty tales!
***I received an advance reader copy from the author via BookFunnel. All opinions expressed are my own.***
March 3, 2026
This book was the perfect snowy weather read. I will be honest I thought the main character needed to get her life together and I didnt love the personalities of most of the characters but that helped to play in the twists in the book.
December 4, 2025
Really enjoyed this one thanks to Maria for the copy for being a featured reader in Frankfans
January 4, 2026
I did not expect that twist! I highly recommend! Very fast pace and was not a long read.
March 9, 2026
eh. nothing groundbreaking. the book takes place over a 2 day retreat, which seems more like a week long retreat with all of the details. I did not expect the ending.
December 30, 2025
4.5 stars!! Perfect Christmas/winter mystery! I definitely knew there was a twist coming but it kept me guessing all the way to the end!
November 16, 2025
I was one of the lucky ones to get an advanced copy of The Winter Retreat! As with Maria's other books I read, I loved it! The characters were well developed and varied so it didn't feel like the same thing over and over. The main character bugged me at first, but I loved how she grew throughout the story. The short chapters made it easy to say "one more chapter" until I could barely keep my eyes open! The twist was one I didn't see coming and figured out only when Maria clearly wanted me to right before it was "obvious"!
I just found Maria's books a month or two ago and I can't wait to keep reading more and get caught up on them all!
I just found Maria's books a month or two ago and I can't wait to keep reading more and get caught up on them all!
December 2, 2025
Another amazing book by Maria Frankland! Each book I read is better than the last. This is the perfect winter thriller. Everyone locked in a wellness retreat with a huge storm brewing outside. Will they get out in time for Christmas? Will they get our alive? Don’t miss out on this book.
December 4, 2025
I did enjoy this book for the most part but it took a long time to get to the point.
December 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Winter Retreat by Maria Frankland
Let me tell you: The Winter Retreat grabbed my emotional support nerves and shook them like a snow globe someone was aggressively trying to break. The desperation in this book didn’t just “hit” — it sprinted through my bloodstream like wet, icy snow that slaps the pavement, refuses to melt, and then looks you dead in the eye as if you created winter.
Maria Frankland serves up that perfect near-Christmas vibe — you know, the one where everything looks cozy and magical until you realize the “retreat” is basically isolation cosplay with a side of psychological warfare. There’s snow, there’s silence, there’s that creeping sense that if you go missing, the only witness will be a decorative pinecone.
And the guests? Oh, stunning. Spoiled little snowflakes with personalities sharp enough to make the hairs on your neck pack their bags and leave your body entirely. The kind of people you’d avoid at a holiday party but apparently have to share oxygen with in a secluded lodge.
Aneka, bless her frozen, overburdened soul, is doing absolute Olympic-level emotional gymnastics to give her kids a better life while bad luck clings to her like mold that’s gotten a little too comfortable. And I was right there with her — lurking in the corner like the world’s least helpful ghost, simultaneously wanting to attend the retreat and also wanting to yank her out of it shouting: “Girl, do you NOT feel that murderer-energy floating around here?!”
And then the revenge… oh yes. Sour, messy, familiar in that way that makes you rethink every time you’ve ever said “I’m fine.” A nice little moral balancing act with teeth.
So yeah: 4 stars. Because this book made me feel everything — dread, hope, paranoia, frostbite-adjacent anxiety — all of it swirling together like emotional slush. Maria pulled me straight into the story and didn’t even offer a warm drink.
The Winter Retreat by Maria Frankland
Let me tell you: The Winter Retreat grabbed my emotional support nerves and shook them like a snow globe someone was aggressively trying to break. The desperation in this book didn’t just “hit” — it sprinted through my bloodstream like wet, icy snow that slaps the pavement, refuses to melt, and then looks you dead in the eye as if you created winter.
Maria Frankland serves up that perfect near-Christmas vibe — you know, the one where everything looks cozy and magical until you realize the “retreat” is basically isolation cosplay with a side of psychological warfare. There’s snow, there’s silence, there’s that creeping sense that if you go missing, the only witness will be a decorative pinecone.
And the guests? Oh, stunning. Spoiled little snowflakes with personalities sharp enough to make the hairs on your neck pack their bags and leave your body entirely. The kind of people you’d avoid at a holiday party but apparently have to share oxygen with in a secluded lodge.
Aneka, bless her frozen, overburdened soul, is doing absolute Olympic-level emotional gymnastics to give her kids a better life while bad luck clings to her like mold that’s gotten a little too comfortable. And I was right there with her — lurking in the corner like the world’s least helpful ghost, simultaneously wanting to attend the retreat and also wanting to yank her out of it shouting: “Girl, do you NOT feel that murderer-energy floating around here?!”
And then the revenge… oh yes. Sour, messy, familiar in that way that makes you rethink every time you’ve ever said “I’m fine.” A nice little moral balancing act with teeth.
So yeah: 4 stars. Because this book made me feel everything — dread, hope, paranoia, frostbite-adjacent anxiety — all of it swirling together like emotional slush. Maria pulled me straight into the story and didn’t even offer a warm drink.
January 5, 2026
i have read a few other books by this author and usually enjoy them. this one takes place right before christmas so it could be considerd to be a holiday psychological thriller. this one is kind of a closed-room, one-by-one they all fall down type of story which takes place in a remote wintry setting since the victims get snowed in and lose reception so they cannot call for help once trouble starts arising.
Aneka, the main female character, takes on an extra job at a fancy yoga retreat to help get some extra money to pay bills and get her children stuff for christmas. unfortunately for her, her ex husband's girlfriend is amongst the guests staying so things are already starting off badly. then, one by one, some of the people there start to get sick, a couple even die. while the build-up to the why takes a bit, the book is fast-paced and stuff is constantly happening, between the current snowed in with a killer storyline, along with a mysterious and tragic backstory from the past that once is revealed, explains why this whole thing occurred. the premise of the story was definitely a retribution one, and i get why the guilty character felt a need for vengence, but they went about it all wrong. what i will say to avoid being too spoilery, you cannot punish someone for something something someone else did. that does not bring back your loved one nor does it actually give punishment to the person you are actually trying to hurt. so i think that the whole reason behind the story was a little messed up. overall, another quick read and definitely worth reading even if it is no longer still the holiday season.
Aneka, the main female character, takes on an extra job at a fancy yoga retreat to help get some extra money to pay bills and get her children stuff for christmas. unfortunately for her, her ex husband's girlfriend is amongst the guests staying so things are already starting off badly. then, one by one, some of the people there start to get sick, a couple even die. while the build-up to the why takes a bit, the book is fast-paced and stuff is constantly happening, between the current snowed in with a killer storyline, along with a mysterious and tragic backstory from the past that once is revealed, explains why this whole thing occurred. the premise of the story was definitely a retribution one, and i get why the guilty character felt a need for vengence, but they went about it all wrong. what i will say to avoid being too spoilery, you cannot punish someone for something something someone else did. that does not bring back your loved one nor does it actually give punishment to the person you are actually trying to hurt. so i think that the whole reason behind the story was a little messed up. overall, another quick read and definitely worth reading even if it is no longer still the holiday season.
February 26, 2026
WOW The Winter Retreat a psychological locked room claustrophobic thriller by Maria Frankland was fast paced and exciting.
Aneka, a single mother of two children, is at her wits end as her ex-husband hasn't paid her any maintenance and she is struggling to put food on the table, even to the point that she is going without. To make matters worse, her ex-husband hasn't paid her any maintenance money and has a new girlfriend.
Christmas is creeping up and she is desperate to ensure her children have a Happy Christmas, even though her bank card was declined in Aldi. Then she receives a phone call saying that she has been recommended for a four day job at a secluded yoga retreat which she takes.
She is shocked at the arrival of her ex-husband's new girlfriend at the retreat and they both try to ignore each other for the duration. Unfortunately, a storm has cut off any communication with the outside, and all the guests and staff are trapped for the duration.
An outbreak of suspected food poisioning erupts and deaths occur and fingers point at Aneka as some catty guests have taken an instant dislike to her.
Lurking in the shadows is an evil soul who is obsessed and harbours a secret from the past.
I felt empathy toward Aneka who despite ill will, strives to survive the accusations and gets on with the task in hand for the sake of giving her children a good Christmas.
Aneka, a single mother of two children, is at her wits end as her ex-husband hasn't paid her any maintenance and she is struggling to put food on the table, even to the point that she is going without. To make matters worse, her ex-husband hasn't paid her any maintenance money and has a new girlfriend.
Christmas is creeping up and she is desperate to ensure her children have a Happy Christmas, even though her bank card was declined in Aldi. Then she receives a phone call saying that she has been recommended for a four day job at a secluded yoga retreat which she takes.
She is shocked at the arrival of her ex-husband's new girlfriend at the retreat and they both try to ignore each other for the duration. Unfortunately, a storm has cut off any communication with the outside, and all the guests and staff are trapped for the duration.
An outbreak of suspected food poisioning erupts and deaths occur and fingers point at Aneka as some catty guests have taken an instant dislike to her.
Lurking in the shadows is an evil soul who is obsessed and harbours a secret from the past.
I felt empathy toward Aneka who despite ill will, strives to survive the accusations and gets on with the task in hand for the sake of giving her children a good Christmas.
November 13, 2025
Another fabulous read by the amazing Maria Frankland! This captivating thriller chilled me in more ways than one as I sat buried under a warm blanket on one of the coldest days of the year (so far) and devoured this new book which releases on 12/2/2025. The opening chapter drew me right in and kept me wanting more! My heart fell for the main character Aneka who only wanted to provide some sort of a Christmas for her two kids despite having no money and no one to turn to until an unexpected last minute opportunity to earn some last minute cash is dropped in her lap. Was it a blessing in disguise? There were a host of different characters- some of which I couldn’t stand and some which I enjoyed and that was the point. Maria is always fabulous with character development and it was interesting to watch these characters unfold as the story came to life. The story pacing was good which created suspense and the tension racketed. The twists were fabulous and the ending…wow! I really never saw that one coming! I was convinced it was someone else! Another 5 star read! Thanks to Maria for advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 17, 2025
I was accepted by Maria Frankland to be a part of the ARC team for The Winter Retreat and below is my honest review.
Well, she’s done it again! Another book that had me hooked from the start and kept me emotionally invested throughout! It was fast paced and gripping the entire time.
The story follows our main character Aneka as she is coming to terms with becoming a single mother and trying to provide the best Christmas for her kids on little money. She receives a call with a job offer which will change her situation for the best.. or will it?
I felt so many different emotions towards the characters, I really like the way they have been written. There was a twist near the end that made my jaw drop, I was absolutely not expecting it!
If you have any content triggers, I advise you to read any trigger warnings beforehand.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a gripping psychological thriller!
Overall, I give this 5 stars!
Thank you Maria for asking me to read and review!
Well, she’s done it again! Another book that had me hooked from the start and kept me emotionally invested throughout! It was fast paced and gripping the entire time.
The story follows our main character Aneka as she is coming to terms with becoming a single mother and trying to provide the best Christmas for her kids on little money. She receives a call with a job offer which will change her situation for the best.. or will it?
I felt so many different emotions towards the characters, I really like the way they have been written. There was a twist near the end that made my jaw drop, I was absolutely not expecting it!
If you have any content triggers, I advise you to read any trigger warnings beforehand.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a gripping psychological thriller!
Overall, I give this 5 stars!
Thank you Maria for asking me to read and review!
December 4, 2025
The Winter Retreat is a well-written thriller that defies the typical "desperate survival" tropes of the genre. While the premise centers on being snowed in, the characters aren't overly concerned with the elements, keeping the focus on the interpersonal drama between Aneka and the guests and staff at Whispering Pines. It is a slow burn, with the murders holding off until the 65% mark, but this setup pays off by making the final third of the book feel incredibly fast-paced.
Aneka is a standout protagonist; her struggles as a single mother feel grounded and make her easy to sympathize with. The subtle hints kept me guessing and I was very pleased by the final reveal.
If you are looking for a character-driven story that shifts into high gear for the finale rather than a gritty survival tale, this is a great pick.
Want to see spoilers or trigger warnings? Check out: https://www.spoiltheplot.com/books/th...
Aneka is a standout protagonist; her struggles as a single mother feel grounded and make her easy to sympathize with. The subtle hints kept me guessing and I was very pleased by the final reveal.
If you are looking for a character-driven story that shifts into high gear for the finale rather than a gritty survival tale, this is a great pick.
Want to see spoilers or trigger warnings? Check out: https://www.spoiltheplot.com/books/th...
March 9, 2026
First 100 books of 2026 are finished!
The Winter Retreat by Maria Frankland is a claustrophobic, snowed-in thriller set in a cabin in the woods.
The first part feels more like women’s fiction, highlighting complex relationships: struggling families, mother-daughter dynamics, and the contrast between wealth and entitlement versus endless patience. Some moments were deeply blood-boiling, while others were heartbreaking.
While the story is mainly set in the present, a tragic storyline from 30 years ago runs alongside it, eventually connecting in a way that feels incredibly unfair.
The second half shifts into a murder mystery, showing how easily a narrative can be twisted to fit someone's agenda. The final twist makes everything click, but leaves you with a lingering sadness.
As usual, Maria delivers a fast-paced story with emotional depth and a heart-pounding mystery. 5 snowy stars!
The Winter Retreat by Maria Frankland is a claustrophobic, snowed-in thriller set in a cabin in the woods.
The first part feels more like women’s fiction, highlighting complex relationships: struggling families, mother-daughter dynamics, and the contrast between wealth and entitlement versus endless patience. Some moments were deeply blood-boiling, while others were heartbreaking.
While the story is mainly set in the present, a tragic storyline from 30 years ago runs alongside it, eventually connecting in a way that feels incredibly unfair.
The second half shifts into a murder mystery, showing how easily a narrative can be twisted to fit someone's agenda. The final twist makes everything click, but leaves you with a lingering sadness.
As usual, Maria delivers a fast-paced story with emotional depth and a heart-pounding mystery. 5 snowy stars!
February 1, 2026
Strange buildup to a weird ending.
This is the first book I've read by this author and was very excited at the beginning as it seemed like it was jumping right in to it! I disappointed to find out after that first bit it's a slow burn. Most of the book is listening to these awful women be rude and Aneka continuously whine. The Petty and childish and downright confusing squabbles between Aneka and the other staff/guests gets annoying. So much so that I started to skim read and I hate that.. so much more could have been done with this book. I'm annoyed at the ending alllll that build up for a pathetic ending. It truly seems as if the author was just trying to tie everything up with a little bow to get this book done and out of the way. Since this is the first time I've read from this author, I always give a second chance so here's to hoping she has something better .
This is the first book I've read by this author and was very excited at the beginning as it seemed like it was jumping right in to it! I disappointed to find out after that first bit it's a slow burn. Most of the book is listening to these awful women be rude and Aneka continuously whine. The Petty and childish and downright confusing squabbles between Aneka and the other staff/guests gets annoying. So much so that I started to skim read and I hate that.. so much more could have been done with this book. I'm annoyed at the ending alllll that build up for a pathetic ending. It truly seems as if the author was just trying to tie everything up with a little bow to get this book done and out of the way. Since this is the first time I've read from this author, I always give a second chance so here's to hoping she has something better .
November 10, 2025
I was delighted to be given the opportunity to be an advance reader of The Winter Retreat, and of course it proved to be yet another addictive and fantastic read from Maria Frankland. I was immediately intrigued by the opening chapter and couldn't stop turning the pages from then on. I felt a connection with the main character Aneka right from the beginning and really felt for her and her problems. I hoped that the job offer might be a chance for things to get better for her but had a suspicion that it wouldn't be, and indeed her bad luck seemed to continue! She has a bad feeling but has no idea how bad things are going to get... Full of shocking twists and turns, and a fantastic ending, I can't recommend this book enough!
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