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The Couples Retreat
There's nothing more dangerous than someone who remembers who you used to be.
At a secluded beachfront mansion on Kangaroo Island, three wealthy couples gather for a weekend of partying and luxury indulgence. But beneath the glitter and excess, deep rivalries and explosive secrets fester between the old friends.
When they wake to a shocking murder scene, they are gripped first by fear, then by suspicion. With ferry services suspended due to a storm, the survivors and the killer remain trapped on the island together.
Thrust into the biggest case of her fledgling career, rookie police officer Emily Quinn quickly discovers that the locals are mistrustful of outsiders. When her dangerous ex-boyfriend tracks her down, Quinn's past and present collide in spectacular fashion, threatening not only her new life, but the investigation of the most gruesome crime in the island's history.
Set in one of Australia's most beautiful locations, The Couples Retreat is a twisty, compulsive thriller that proves privilege cannot protect you from everything, and no one is as perfect as they seem.
At a secluded beachfront mansion on Kangaroo Island, three wealthy couples gather for a weekend of partying and luxury indulgence. But beneath the glitter and excess, deep rivalries and explosive secrets fester between the old friends.
When they wake to a shocking murder scene, they are gripped first by fear, then by suspicion. With ferry services suspended due to a storm, the survivors and the killer remain trapped on the island together.
Thrust into the biggest case of her fledgling career, rookie police officer Emily Quinn quickly discovers that the locals are mistrustful of outsiders. When her dangerous ex-boyfriend tracks her down, Quinn's past and present collide in spectacular fashion, threatening not only her new life, but the investigation of the most gruesome crime in the island's history.
Set in one of Australia's most beautiful locations, The Couples Retreat is a twisty, compulsive thriller that proves privilege cannot protect you from everything, and no one is as perfect as they seem.
336 pages, Paperback
Published April 14, 2026
About the author
Mercedes Mercier
4 books113 followersMercedes Mercier writes 'just-one-more-page' crime with twisting plots and relatable characters. As well as writing books, Mercedes works in the criminal justice system, providing her unique insight into the world of prisons, crime and offenders.
After a brush with death, Mercedes decided to throw herself into life. She lived overseas, become a black belt in Karate, skydived, and volunteered with animals.
When she doesn't have her nose in her laptop and her mind in a story, she loves to read, travel, try new restaurants, and listen to podcasts (true crime of course).
After a brush with death, Mercedes decided to throw herself into life. She lived overseas, become a black belt in Karate, skydived, and volunteered with animals.
When she doesn't have her nose in her laptop and her mind in a story, she loves to read, travel, try new restaurants, and listen to podcasts (true crime of course).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
April 18, 2026
I love Mercedes Merciers books and it’s is so exciting to have a stand-alone crime book from her, although I would love to see Em again! I wish I had picked up The Couples Retreat earlier in the day, I easily could have read this in one sitting. It is so addictive, with such awful characters.
The setting of Kangaroo Island was perfection, it made me want to go and visit, but maybe not stay at the Reef House! Rookie copy Emily Quinn has moved her for a posting and a fresh start. She soon finds that locals don’t like outsiders but is determined to make this place her home.
The 3 couples, well they were not the nicest were they! Ashley was really the only one with any kind of decency. Money and power had absolutely gone to their heads and made them despicable people. No respect for other people, rude and obnoxious to mention just a few things.
All the characters were hiding something, some dark secrets and pasts that they didn’t want revealed, but these things never stay hidden for long.
An absolute page turner. If you love an isolated location story you are going to love this. It is definitely worth waiting for this book. You have done it again Mercedes 👏
Thank you so much to Penguin Random House Australia for the chance to book early on NetGalley. I am going to need a copy for my shelf. Published on April 14th.
The setting of Kangaroo Island was perfection, it made me want to go and visit, but maybe not stay at the Reef House! Rookie copy Emily Quinn has moved her for a posting and a fresh start. She soon finds that locals don’t like outsiders but is determined to make this place her home.
The 3 couples, well they were not the nicest were they! Ashley was really the only one with any kind of decency. Money and power had absolutely gone to their heads and made them despicable people. No respect for other people, rude and obnoxious to mention just a few things.
All the characters were hiding something, some dark secrets and pasts that they didn’t want revealed, but these things never stay hidden for long.
An absolute page turner. If you love an isolated location story you are going to love this. It is definitely worth waiting for this book. You have done it again Mercedes 👏
Thank you so much to Penguin Random House Australia for the chance to book early on NetGalley. I am going to need a copy for my shelf. Published on April 14th.
August 27, 2026
**3.5 stars**
We begin this novel by learning there is a murder scene in a secluded beachfront mansion on Kangaroo Island; we just don't know who or why. The story is told from two character perspectives, being a guest in the murder house and a young police officer who has just arrived on the island. It becomes quickly clear that most of the people staying in the house are unlikeable and in fact there's only one of the six that seems like a decent person most of the time. I did think a couple of the twists/big reveals were slightly predictable so the shock factor wasn't really high for me but it was still a good read.
Overall: an entertaining enough crime thriller, though I did prefer previous books by this author.
We begin this novel by learning there is a murder scene in a secluded beachfront mansion on Kangaroo Island; we just don't know who or why. The story is told from two character perspectives, being a guest in the murder house and a young police officer who has just arrived on the island. It becomes quickly clear that most of the people staying in the house are unlikeable and in fact there's only one of the six that seems like a decent person most of the time. I did think a couple of the twists/big reveals were slightly predictable so the shock factor wasn't really high for me but it was still a good read.
Overall: an entertaining enough crime thriller, though I did prefer previous books by this author.
April 21, 2026
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
I was so excited to receive an early copy of Mercedes Mercier’s new book, I loved her previous books White Noise and Black Lies.
The Couples Retreat is a fast paced crime read with characters you’ll love to hate and let me tell you it’s addictive!
It was wonderful to read a novel set in the beautiful location of Kangaroo Island in South Australia and it makes me want to go back there for a holiday.
The story is centred around three wealthy couples who arrive at a secluded beachfront holiday mansion named the Reef House for a weekend of indulgence. The men are all old friends from their university days, there’s rivalry and tension between the couples and their friendships appear fragile.
Probationary Constable Emily Quinn is on the ferry on the way to her new job in Kangaroo Island for a new start and once there finds the locals don’t trust outsiders or like the way a lot of the tourists behave on the island.
The couples staying at the Reef House have plenty of secrets between them past and present and mostly are not the nicest people. Together they have a wild and luxurious time partying at the mansion. Their interactions are messy and the other wives are not kind to Ashley the only wife I liked.
They awake to the discovery of a dead body and due to a storm find themselves trapped on the island, Constable Emily Quinn is quickly pulled into the investigation.
I enjoyed the duel perspectives of Ashley and Quinn, a perfectly paced thriller about rich people being bad and plenty of suspects to keep you guessing.
Publication Date 14 April 2026
Publisher Penguin Books Australia
Thank you so much @penguinbooksaus for a copy of the book.
I was so excited to receive an early copy of Mercedes Mercier’s new book, I loved her previous books White Noise and Black Lies.
The Couples Retreat is a fast paced crime read with characters you’ll love to hate and let me tell you it’s addictive!
It was wonderful to read a novel set in the beautiful location of Kangaroo Island in South Australia and it makes me want to go back there for a holiday.
The story is centred around three wealthy couples who arrive at a secluded beachfront holiday mansion named the Reef House for a weekend of indulgence. The men are all old friends from their university days, there’s rivalry and tension between the couples and their friendships appear fragile.
Probationary Constable Emily Quinn is on the ferry on the way to her new job in Kangaroo Island for a new start and once there finds the locals don’t trust outsiders or like the way a lot of the tourists behave on the island.
The couples staying at the Reef House have plenty of secrets between them past and present and mostly are not the nicest people. Together they have a wild and luxurious time partying at the mansion. Their interactions are messy and the other wives are not kind to Ashley the only wife I liked.
They awake to the discovery of a dead body and due to a storm find themselves trapped on the island, Constable Emily Quinn is quickly pulled into the investigation.
I enjoyed the duel perspectives of Ashley and Quinn, a perfectly paced thriller about rich people being bad and plenty of suspects to keep you guessing.
Publication Date 14 April 2026
Publisher Penguin Books Australia
Thank you so much @penguinbooksaus for a copy of the book.
April 20, 2026
The Couples Retreat was an engaging read, but it didn’t quite stand out for me. Having read a few thrillers in this “luxury getaway meets dark secrets” space, this one felt quite familiar in its structure and execution. The group dynamics, underlying tensions, and reveals all worked well, but the story followed a path that was predictable at times.
That said, the highlight for me was the setting. Kangaroo Island added a really strong sense of atmosphere. The isolation, the rugged landscape, and that eerie, cut-off feeling all helped build tension and gave the story a distinct backdrop.
At times, I could really picture this as a TV series or film. The setting and messy friendship dynamics would translate well on screen. Some scenes felt like watching an episode of Married at First Sight, with all the tension, drama, and uncomfortable interactions playing out in real time.
In the end, this was a solid, easy-to-read thriller that kept me turning the pages, but unfortunately, it’s not one that will stick with me. Having said that, I’d be open to reading future releases by Mercier, and if you enjoy destination thrillers with toxic relationships and simmering secrets, this is still worth picking up.
That said, the highlight for me was the setting. Kangaroo Island added a really strong sense of atmosphere. The isolation, the rugged landscape, and that eerie, cut-off feeling all helped build tension and gave the story a distinct backdrop.
At times, I could really picture this as a TV series or film. The setting and messy friendship dynamics would translate well on screen. Some scenes felt like watching an episode of Married at First Sight, with all the tension, drama, and uncomfortable interactions playing out in real time.
In the end, this was a solid, easy-to-read thriller that kept me turning the pages, but unfortunately, it’s not one that will stick with me. Having said that, I’d be open to reading future releases by Mercier, and if you enjoy destination thrillers with toxic relationships and simmering secrets, this is still worth picking up.
May 18, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💫 4.5/5 stars
𝙾𝚑 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚏𝚞𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍! 𝙰 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚋𝚢 𝚊 𝚏𝚎𝚕𝚕𝚘𝚠 𝙰𝚍𝚎𝚕𝚊𝚒𝚍𝚎 𝚐𝚊𝚕 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢 𝚋𝚊𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝚂𝙰 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝚕𝚎𝚜𝚜 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚜𝚘𝚕𝚍!
𝙰 𝚝𝚛𝚞𝚕𝚢 𝚒𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚒𝚟𝚎 𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚜𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚏𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚜𝚕𝚘𝚠 𝚋𝚞𝚛𝚗-𝚎𝚜𝚚𝚞𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚛𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚋𝚞𝚒𝚕𝚍𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚋𝚞𝚒𝚕𝚍𝚜 𝚞𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚊𝚜𝚝 𝚏𝚎𝚠 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚜 𝚞𝚗𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚍!
𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚕𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚕𝚎 𝚝𝚠𝚒𝚜𝚝 𝚘𝚗 𝚠𝚑𝚘𝚍𝚞𝚗𝚗𝚒𝚝?!? 𝚆𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚊 𝚗𝚞𝚖𝚋𝚎𝚛 𝚘𝚏 𝚜𝚞𝚜𝚜 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝙸 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝙸 𝚑𝚊𝚍 𝚖𝚢 𝚜𝚞𝚜𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚜 𝚘𝚗 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚋𝚊𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚎 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚋𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚊𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚏𝚎𝚜𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚝 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚘𝚗𝚜!
𝙰 𝚐𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚘 𝚖𝚢 𝙰𝚞𝚜𝚜𝚒𝚎 𝙰𝚙𝚛𝚒𝚕 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚙𝚒𝚕𝚎.
𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄: 𝐈 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 ’𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞’ 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐀𝐋𝐖𝐀𝐘𝐒 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐈 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭)
𝙾𝚑 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚏𝚞𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍! 𝙰 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚋𝚢 𝚊 𝚏𝚎𝚕𝚕𝚘𝚠 𝙰𝚍𝚎𝚕𝚊𝚒𝚍𝚎 𝚐𝚊𝚕 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢 𝚋𝚊𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝚂𝙰 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝚕𝚎𝚜𝚜 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚜𝚘𝚕𝚍!
𝙰 𝚝𝚛𝚞𝚕𝚢 𝚒𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚒𝚟𝚎 𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚜𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚏𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚜𝚕𝚘𝚠 𝚋𝚞𝚛𝚗-𝚎𝚜𝚚𝚞𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚛𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚋𝚞𝚒𝚕𝚍𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚋𝚞𝚒𝚕𝚍𝚜 𝚞𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚊𝚜𝚝 𝚏𝚎𝚠 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚙𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚜 𝚞𝚗𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚍!
𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚕𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚕𝚎 𝚝𝚠𝚒𝚜𝚝 𝚘𝚗 𝚠𝚑𝚘𝚍𝚞𝚗𝚗𝚒𝚝?!? 𝚆𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚊 𝚗𝚞𝚖𝚋𝚎𝚛 𝚘𝚏 𝚜𝚞𝚜𝚜 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝙸 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝙸 𝚑𝚊𝚍 𝚖𝚢 𝚜𝚞𝚜𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚜 𝚘𝚗 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚋𝚊𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚎 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚋𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚊𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚢 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚏𝚎𝚜𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚝 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚘𝚗𝚜!
𝙰 𝚐𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚘 𝚖𝚢 𝙰𝚞𝚜𝚜𝚒𝚎 𝙰𝚙𝚛𝚒𝚕 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚙𝚒𝚕𝚎.
𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄: 𝐈 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 ’𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞’ 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐀𝐋𝐖𝐀𝐘𝐒 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐈 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭)
August 25, 2026
Clever. Twisty. Well plotted.
Love the Kangaroo Island setting.
Love the Kangaroo Island setting.
July 23, 2026
3.5★
Review to follow.
Review to follow.
April 29, 2026
The Couples Retreat is one of those “luxury getaway gone very, very wrong” thrillers — and honestly, a setup like that will absolutely get me every time.
Set at a secluded mansion on Kangaroo Island, the story follows three wealthy couples gathering for a weekend of indulgence, old friendships, and (unsurprisingly) a lot of unresolved tension. When a storm cuts the island off from the mainland and a murder is discovered, things very quickly shift from champagne and passive-aggressive dinners… to suspicion, secrets, and survival.
We also follow rookie cop Emily Quinn, who’s thrown headfirst into the investigation, all while dealing with a complicated past of her own that refuses to stay buried.
This was a slow-burn thriller, but an enjoyable one.
The setting is easily one of the strongest elements of the book. The isolation of Kangaroo Island, the looming storm, and that “you can’t leave even if you want to” feeling all work together to create a really immersive atmosphere. As someone from South Australia, I loved the local references — there’s something so fun about recognising places and thinking, “I KNOW that,” while everything descends into chaos around it.
The group dynamics were another highlight. If you enjoy messy friendships, complicated histories, and that underlying tension where everyone knows something but no one’s saying it — this absolutely delivers. There’s a mix of old money, new money, long-held grudges, and subtle power plays that make even the quieter moments feel loaded. At times it almost felt like watching a reality TV show unfold… just with significantly higher stakes.
I also really enjoyed the dual perspectives. Quinn’s investigation adds a nice layer to the story, especially as she tries to prove herself while navigating a pretty high-pressure situation. Meanwhile, the chapters following the group give you that slow, creeping sense that something is very off long before anything actually happens.
In terms of pacing, this is definitely more of a gradual build. I did appreciate the time spent getting to know the characters and their relationships — it makes the tension and eventual fallout more impactful. That said, by the time the crime occurs, the storm hits, the "whodunnit" is revealed, and everything starts coming together, it does feel like things move quite quickly toward the conclusion. I wouldn’t have minded having a bit more time throughout these components of the book, to allow them to settle a little more.
The twists themselves are solid — perhaps not completely out-of-nowhere shocking, but they fit the story well and align with the themes of privilege, perception, and the idea that no one is quite who they present themselves to be.
Another thing I kept thinking while reading: this would translate so well to screen. The setting, the tension between characters, the contained environment — it has all the makings of a very bingeable TV series or film.
Overall, this is a compelling, easy-to-read thriller that leans into atmosphere, character dynamics, and simmering tension rather than constant action.
If you enjoy secluded settings, toxic friend groups, and a slow unraveling of secrets — this is definitely worth picking up.
And as always, a gentle reminder: if someone invites you to a luxurious, isolated getaway with a group of people who clearly don’t like each other… maaaaaybe just stay home 😂👀
Thank you so much to the team at Penguin for gifting me with a copy of this book 🧡🐧
3.75 ⭐
Set at a secluded mansion on Kangaroo Island, the story follows three wealthy couples gathering for a weekend of indulgence, old friendships, and (unsurprisingly) a lot of unresolved tension. When a storm cuts the island off from the mainland and a murder is discovered, things very quickly shift from champagne and passive-aggressive dinners… to suspicion, secrets, and survival.
We also follow rookie cop Emily Quinn, who’s thrown headfirst into the investigation, all while dealing with a complicated past of her own that refuses to stay buried.
This was a slow-burn thriller, but an enjoyable one.
The setting is easily one of the strongest elements of the book. The isolation of Kangaroo Island, the looming storm, and that “you can’t leave even if you want to” feeling all work together to create a really immersive atmosphere. As someone from South Australia, I loved the local references — there’s something so fun about recognising places and thinking, “I KNOW that,” while everything descends into chaos around it.
The group dynamics were another highlight. If you enjoy messy friendships, complicated histories, and that underlying tension where everyone knows something but no one’s saying it — this absolutely delivers. There’s a mix of old money, new money, long-held grudges, and subtle power plays that make even the quieter moments feel loaded. At times it almost felt like watching a reality TV show unfold… just with significantly higher stakes.
I also really enjoyed the dual perspectives. Quinn’s investigation adds a nice layer to the story, especially as she tries to prove herself while navigating a pretty high-pressure situation. Meanwhile, the chapters following the group give you that slow, creeping sense that something is very off long before anything actually happens.
In terms of pacing, this is definitely more of a gradual build. I did appreciate the time spent getting to know the characters and their relationships — it makes the tension and eventual fallout more impactful. That said, by the time the crime occurs, the storm hits, the "whodunnit" is revealed, and everything starts coming together, it does feel like things move quite quickly toward the conclusion. I wouldn’t have minded having a bit more time throughout these components of the book, to allow them to settle a little more.
The twists themselves are solid — perhaps not completely out-of-nowhere shocking, but they fit the story well and align with the themes of privilege, perception, and the idea that no one is quite who they present themselves to be.
Another thing I kept thinking while reading: this would translate so well to screen. The setting, the tension between characters, the contained environment — it has all the makings of a very bingeable TV series or film.
Overall, this is a compelling, easy-to-read thriller that leans into atmosphere, character dynamics, and simmering tension rather than constant action.
If you enjoy secluded settings, toxic friend groups, and a slow unraveling of secrets — this is definitely worth picking up.
And as always, a gentle reminder: if someone invites you to a luxurious, isolated getaway with a group of people who clearly don’t like each other… maaaaaybe just stay home 😂👀
Thank you so much to the team at Penguin for gifting me with a copy of this book 🧡🐧
3.75 ⭐
July 12, 2026
Good reads really needs to let us us give half stars. This would be a solid 4.5⭐️
Enjoyed this one allot, very easy well paced read. If you love a good mystery/ thriller, highly recommend!
Enjoyed this one allot, very easy well paced read. If you love a good mystery/ thriller, highly recommend!
March 16, 2026
The Couples Retreat is one of those thrillers with a premise that feels familiar but still manages to hit you with emotional layers you didn’t expect. I’ve always loved a secluded‑area setting, and this one absolutely delivered. Kangaroo Island becomes its own character: atmospheric, eerie, and strangely inviting. I’ve never been there myself, but the way the story unfolded made me feel like I’d spent a few tense days tucked away on its rugged coastline.
This is an intense, drama‑soaked thriller featuring the classic entitled university bullies who somehow skate through life without consequences. The friendships are the kind you side‑eye from the start that's fake, fragile, and built on feeding each other’s worst impulses. It’s messy in the way domestic thrillers should be.
What I Enjoyed:
• New beginning trope
• First person narration
• Fast paced
What Didn’t Feel Right:
• People getting away with being an absolute asshole
• Forced plot twists
• A stalker trope that’s starting to feel a little dusty
Breakdown
* Setting: 5⭐️
* Characters: 3⭐️
* Writing: 4⭐️
* Message: 3⭐️
* Overall: 4⭐️
In summary, it’s a solid crime thriller told through two alternating narratives of a police officer desperate for a fresh start and a rags‑to‑riches woman trying to find her footing in a world of luxury, secrets, and betrayal. The drama is delicious, the tension is sharp, and there were definitely a few “wait… what?” moments that kept me flipping pages. Highly recommended for secluded‑setting thriller girlies like me.
Huge thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Random House Australia, and Mercedes Mercier for my advance copy. All thoughts are my own.
~ JaNnA ~
This is an intense, drama‑soaked thriller featuring the classic entitled university bullies who somehow skate through life without consequences. The friendships are the kind you side‑eye from the start that's fake, fragile, and built on feeding each other’s worst impulses. It’s messy in the way domestic thrillers should be.
What I Enjoyed:
• New beginning trope
• First person narration
• Fast paced
What Didn’t Feel Right:
• People getting away with being an absolute asshole
• Forced plot twists
• A stalker trope that’s starting to feel a little dusty
Breakdown
* Setting: 5⭐️
* Characters: 3⭐️
* Writing: 4⭐️
* Message: 3⭐️
* Overall: 4⭐️
In summary, it’s a solid crime thriller told through two alternating narratives of a police officer desperate for a fresh start and a rags‑to‑riches woman trying to find her footing in a world of luxury, secrets, and betrayal. The drama is delicious, the tension is sharp, and there were definitely a few “wait… what?” moments that kept me flipping pages. Highly recommended for secluded‑setting thriller girlies like me.
Huge thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Random House Australia, and Mercedes Mercier for my advance copy. All thoughts are my own.
~ JaNnA ~
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was thrilled to receive an early copy of the upcoming new release by Mercedes Mercier. I loved White Noise and Black Lies, her previous novels, so this one was a highly anticipated read for me.
It did not disappoint! It had me completely engrossed, so much so, I read it inside a day. Topical themes that hit hard combine with an absolute cracker of a twist that I did not even get a hint of prior to its moment of impact.
I really liked Emily Quinn and had to keep reminding myself of how young she was. It's something to think on, mere 20 year olds as new police recruits - an absolute baptism by fire. I'm curious to see if this is just the beginning for Emily Quinn and if there will be more books to come on her.
I highly recommend this one to fans of atmospheric Australian crime fiction. Out mid April!
Thanks to @penguinbooksaus for the copy!
It did not disappoint! It had me completely engrossed, so much so, I read it inside a day. Topical themes that hit hard combine with an absolute cracker of a twist that I did not even get a hint of prior to its moment of impact.
I really liked Emily Quinn and had to keep reminding myself of how young she was. It's something to think on, mere 20 year olds as new police recruits - an absolute baptism by fire. I'm curious to see if this is just the beginning for Emily Quinn and if there will be more books to come on her.
I highly recommend this one to fans of atmospheric Australian crime fiction. Out mid April!
Thanks to @penguinbooksaus for the copy!
April 19, 2026
This would make a really great movie or TV show!
Seriously, Netflix could pick this one up. (Hint hint)
We have a crime thriller with an incredible backdrop (South Australia represent!) and a dual point of view. Quinn and Ash’s differing stories that intertwine made for a really interesting take. No boring bits that’s for sure. I found myself curious as to their connection and couldn’t wait to figure it all out.
The story centres on 3 couples escaping to the stunning Kanagroo Island for a holiday, but it becomes clear pretty quickly that perhaps not all of the people included are friends you would want on your team. Everyone is hiding something, and just when you think you’ve figured them out… you haven’t.
The story flows and I was intrigued the whole time, trying to figure out what was going to happen, and who would be the one doing it.
The last 20% of the story is just full throttle! One minute, it’s calming down and people are talking, then BOOM!!! You proceed to hold your breath till the very end.
I really enjoyed it and I loved that I didn’t guess what was going to happen.
No more as I do not want to spoil.
Mercedes, you queen. Well done!
Seriously, Netflix could pick this one up. (Hint hint)
We have a crime thriller with an incredible backdrop (South Australia represent!) and a dual point of view. Quinn and Ash’s differing stories that intertwine made for a really interesting take. No boring bits that’s for sure. I found myself curious as to their connection and couldn’t wait to figure it all out.
The story centres on 3 couples escaping to the stunning Kanagroo Island for a holiday, but it becomes clear pretty quickly that perhaps not all of the people included are friends you would want on your team. Everyone is hiding something, and just when you think you’ve figured them out… you haven’t.
The story flows and I was intrigued the whole time, trying to figure out what was going to happen, and who would be the one doing it.
The last 20% of the story is just full throttle! One minute, it’s calming down and people are talking, then BOOM!!! You proceed to hold your breath till the very end.
I really enjoyed it and I loved that I didn’t guess what was going to happen.
No more as I do not want to spoil.
Mercedes, you queen. Well done!
April 14, 2026
Another page turner from Mercedes! This time we travel to Kangaroo Island and drop into the lives of the privileged. Three couples, lots of secrets and murders. A rookie policewoman has just been stationed on the island, it’s her first posting, she also has secrets. This was full of suspense, red herrings and mystique. I don’t think Mercedes can write a bad book at all.! 5 stars*. Thank you to PRH for a copy of this great book in exchange for an unbiased review.
June 23, 2026
The Couples Retreat was a fantastic read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was full of suspense, mystery, rich people drama, secrets, lies and murder.
I was hooked immediately, right from the very first page. I honestly couldn't put it down.
I loved Quinn, and Ashley. They were both charismatic, smart, strong, determined, and relatable.
I wasn't really a fan of Kate or Chelsea, and I couldn't stand Hugh and Rupert.
The storyline was compelling, unique, and clever. I liked reading from the two main perspectives of Quinn and Ashley.
The twists were crazy good, I really didn't see them coming at all.
This is the third book I've read from Mercedes Mercier, the first two being: White Noise, and Black Lies, which were also great reads.
I think The Couples Retreat is her best yet.
I look forward to seeing what she comes up with next.
I very highly recommend.
5 stars from me. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
For fans of Lucy Clarke, Clare Mackintosh, Dervla McTiernan, and Ali Lowe.
Thanks to Netgalley, Penguin Random House Australia, and Mercedes Mercier.
I was hooked immediately, right from the very first page. I honestly couldn't put it down.
I loved Quinn, and Ashley. They were both charismatic, smart, strong, determined, and relatable.
I wasn't really a fan of Kate or Chelsea, and I couldn't stand Hugh and Rupert.
The storyline was compelling, unique, and clever. I liked reading from the two main perspectives of Quinn and Ashley.
The twists were crazy good, I really didn't see them coming at all.
This is the third book I've read from Mercedes Mercier, the first two being: White Noise, and Black Lies, which were also great reads.
I think The Couples Retreat is her best yet.
I look forward to seeing what she comes up with next.
I very highly recommend.
5 stars from me. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
For fans of Lucy Clarke, Clare Mackintosh, Dervla McTiernan, and Ali Lowe.
Thanks to Netgalley, Penguin Random House Australia, and Mercedes Mercier.
May 4, 2026
This was the perfect thriller. I couldn’t put it down from start to finish.
The setting drew me into the book and I felt like I was there. The fantastic “Australianisms” really added to the feel of the story and it was magical.
The pacing of the book was perfect, not a dull moment and kept me gripped from start to finish. The characters were exactly what you want, equally likeable and some unlikeable, and added ti the rich texture of the book.
Now I just need to go on holiday so I can read it again!
The setting drew me into the book and I felt like I was there. The fantastic “Australianisms” really added to the feel of the story and it was magical.
The pacing of the book was perfect, not a dull moment and kept me gripped from start to finish. The characters were exactly what you want, equally likeable and some unlikeable, and added ti the rich texture of the book.
Now I just need to go on holiday so I can read it again!
July 6, 2026
I didn’t much like the book. I was heading towards a 2/5 for half the book, because of the cringy dialogue between the rich girls. They sounded like teens rather that 20 somethings.
I know she was setting the characters of the women with the vapid dialogue, which would have been fine, but it went on gor nearly half the book.
The second half of the book was much better.
I know she was setting the characters of the women with the vapid dialogue, which would have been fine, but it went on gor nearly half the book.
The second half of the book was much better.
June 6, 2026
3.75⭐️
August 23, 2026
Easy to read, enjoyable crime thriller set on beautiful Kangaroo Island, with themes of coercive control and toxic friendships.
May 1, 2026
2.75 ⭐️
Audiobook
It was fine.
Enough to keep me listening, but nothing groundbreaking. I think maybe I have murder mystery thriller fatigue, they’re all starting to feel very similar.
Audiobook
It was fine.
Enough to keep me listening, but nothing groundbreaking. I think maybe I have murder mystery thriller fatigue, they’re all starting to feel very similar.
May 1, 2026
immersive and suspenseful, i literally read it all in one sitting. the setting of kangaroo island was perfect, super atmospheric!
although i did basically guess the twist, 'the couple's retreat' was definitely well plotted and was overall a thoroughly enjoyable read
although i did basically guess the twist, 'the couple's retreat' was definitely well plotted and was overall a thoroughly enjoyable read
July 8, 2026
Emily Quinn has just moved to Kangaroo Island for a new job as a Police Officer and to get some distance from her controlling ex. Elsewhere, Ashley is staying at the luxurious Reef House with her husband Nick and his old Uni friends and their wives. Hugh and Rupert are ridiculously wealthy, and Ashley feels like an imposter as her and Nick’s wealth is self-made and newer. But the friends are not living picture perfect lives, and old secrets and rivalries cast a shadow over their trip. When a murder occurs, Emily is thrust into her first big case, and Ashley is left gobsmacked.
This was the perfect one sitting read! Another case of rich people behaving badly, but I enjoyed getting Ashley’s perspective as she wasn’t like the others - she’d worked for what she had. Emily (or Quinn as she’s called) was a great character, who was just trying to move forward with her life. Her ex was creepy as hell, but her best friend Liz was the best! I was quite sad when I discovered who the killer was - so not who I expected it to be! It sounds bad but I didn’t feel any sympathy for the murdered men 😅 this is my first book by this author but I’ll definitely be checking out her others!
This was the perfect one sitting read! Another case of rich people behaving badly, but I enjoyed getting Ashley’s perspective as she wasn’t like the others - she’d worked for what she had. Emily (or Quinn as she’s called) was a great character, who was just trying to move forward with her life. Her ex was creepy as hell, but her best friend Liz was the best! I was quite sad when I discovered who the killer was - so not who I expected it to be! It sounds bad but I didn’t feel any sympathy for the murdered men 😅 this is my first book by this author but I’ll definitely be checking out her others!
June 5, 2026
Loved this and couldn’t put it down. Really enjoyed how the story unravelled in different characters eyes and understanding the group dynamic.
June 20, 2026
3.5/5
June 26, 2026
Some particularly unlikeable characters who I found myself hoping would be the victims in this latest thriller by Mercedes Mercier. I refuse to give spoilers in reviews so let me just say I was satisfied by the crime and I did not expect the outcome, basically the last person I would have picked! Bonus point for being a South Australian author writing about Kangaroo Island. A really entertaining story, not the least bit predictable.
May 4, 2026
Audio.
So cheesy, full of plot holes and quite predictable.
So cheesy, full of plot holes and quite predictable.
August 15, 2026
Nothing says relaxing getaway like a luxury retreat… and murder 🔪😳🍸
Three wealthy couples gather for a luxurious weekend at a secluded beachfront mansion on Kangaroo Island. But beneath the cocktails, old friendships and picture-perfect lives lie toxic relationships, simmering resentments and long-buried secrets. Then they wake to a brutal murder scene and a rookie police officer is on the case!
I absolutely inhaled this book. (I was reading it with cocktails in Fiji 🏝️☀️🍹😅).
This is a gripping, twisty destination thriller packed with old grudges, secrets and characters you'll either love or love to hate. The isolated Kangaroo Island setting added so much atmosphere—having been there myself, I could really picture the rugged coastline.
The tension kept building, the twists kept coming, and I genuinely didn't see the reveal of the killer coming.
If you're looking for a compulsive thriller full of suspicious characters, sharp writing and plenty of "just one more chapter" moments, I'd definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR.
Three wealthy couples gather for a luxurious weekend at a secluded beachfront mansion on Kangaroo Island. But beneath the cocktails, old friendships and picture-perfect lives lie toxic relationships, simmering resentments and long-buried secrets. Then they wake to a brutal murder scene and a rookie police officer is on the case!
I absolutely inhaled this book. (I was reading it with cocktails in Fiji 🏝️☀️🍹😅).
This is a gripping, twisty destination thriller packed with old grudges, secrets and characters you'll either love or love to hate. The isolated Kangaroo Island setting added so much atmosphere—having been there myself, I could really picture the rugged coastline.
The tension kept building, the twists kept coming, and I genuinely didn't see the reveal of the killer coming.
If you're looking for a compulsive thriller full of suspicious characters, sharp writing and plenty of "just one more chapter" moments, I'd definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR.
February 22, 2026
5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vibe check: Secrets and Stalkers, Top Of The Roof Tension
full review ⬇️
It’s been a while between Mercedes reads for me and firstly I’m annoyed at myself for waiting so long. Secondly.. this was SO worth the wait!
Mercedes’ criminal justice background shines through again. Her understanding of policing, procedure and criminal behaviour adds such an authentic edge to the tension.
Set against the stunning, secluded backdrop of Kangaroo Island, The Couples Retreat moves between the perspectives of a new police officer and a wealthy visitor. I loved this structure. At times it felt like reading two separate suspense stories running side by side, layered with that extra spicy tension of not knowing when or how their worlds would eventually collide.
And they collided with a BANG!
This book was full of cliffhangers but that final stretch was absolutely epic with so much happening in such a short space of time (but still perfectly paced). My heart rate was elevated and the pages were flying.
If you’re chasing a thriller that genuinely grips you, keeps you guessing and finishes with an absolute bang, add this to your April release list immediately. And while you’re at it, go back and read Mercedes’ debut Black Lies too, this was another standout for me!
A big thank you to Penguin and NetGalley for this excellent book sneak peek!
Vibe check: Secrets and Stalkers, Top Of The Roof Tension
full review ⬇️
It’s been a while between Mercedes reads for me and firstly I’m annoyed at myself for waiting so long. Secondly.. this was SO worth the wait!
Mercedes’ criminal justice background shines through again. Her understanding of policing, procedure and criminal behaviour adds such an authentic edge to the tension.
Set against the stunning, secluded backdrop of Kangaroo Island, The Couples Retreat moves between the perspectives of a new police officer and a wealthy visitor. I loved this structure. At times it felt like reading two separate suspense stories running side by side, layered with that extra spicy tension of not knowing when or how their worlds would eventually collide.
And they collided with a BANG!
This book was full of cliffhangers but that final stretch was absolutely epic with so much happening in such a short space of time (but still perfectly paced). My heart rate was elevated and the pages were flying.
If you’re chasing a thriller that genuinely grips you, keeps you guessing and finishes with an absolute bang, add this to your April release list immediately. And while you’re at it, go back and read Mercedes’ debut Black Lies too, this was another standout for me!
A big thank you to Penguin and NetGalley for this excellent book sneak peek!
February 25, 2026
This was such an addictive read. As an Aussie girl, I loved the Kangaroo Island setting. It added that extra layer of isolation and atmosphere that made everything feel more intense. I’m always a sucker for a thriller set close to home.
The characters are messy, complicated and at times very unlikeable. The entitlement was next level, but that honestly made it more entertaining. The tension builds really well and there’s this constant undercurrent of secrets and resentment that keeps you hooked.
I did guess who the guilty person was before the big reveal, but that didn’t make the suspense any less thrilling. It was a total page-turner that had me reading late into the night. Overall, a highly enjoyable, well-written thriller that kept me hooked from start to finish.
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Random House Australia for the Arc copy.
The characters are messy, complicated and at times very unlikeable. The entitlement was next level, but that honestly made it more entertaining. The tension builds really well and there’s this constant undercurrent of secrets and resentment that keeps you hooked.
I did guess who the guilty person was before the big reveal, but that didn’t make the suspense any less thrilling. It was a total page-turner that had me reading late into the night. Overall, a highly enjoyable, well-written thriller that kept me hooked from start to finish.
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Random House Australia for the Arc copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Probationary Constable Emily Quinn is on the top deck of the ferry taking her to her new job and life Kangaroo Island, and trying hard not to throw up. When two women invade her space, and all they do is complain and she has no idea the ladies are part of a group who have rented a secluded luxury beachfront mansion. Kate is married to Rupert, Chelsea to Hugh and Ashley to Nick. The three men have been friends since their university days, two come from a wealthy background and make the third feel inferior.
Emily has barely got her feet on dry land when the Senior Sergeant is leaving her to do night shift and man the front desk. Emily discovers the locals don’t trust outsiders or like tourists, because they don’t read signs, damage land and beaches and the money they spend isn't enough compensation. Emily is sent to investigate someone creeping around an old ladies backyard near Paradise Bay and a noise complaint and the nearby Reef House and it’s the snobby people from Adelaide partying and playing loud music.
Towards the end of their stay, a couple of guests wake up to a shocking murder scene, the survivors are sick, scared and call the police. The main suspects are those who didn’t die, the local SAPOL officers have to guard the site until the Major Crime Investigators arrive from Adelaide. But due to a storm, the ferry services are cut and everyone is stuck on the island with a killer and it could be anyone?
I received a copy of The Couples Retreat by Mercedes Mercier from NetGalley and Penguin Random House Australia in exchange for an honest review. Kangaroo Island is the perfect location to set a mild psychological thriller in, it’s isolated, with a rugged coastline and lots of bushland, only accessible via ferry or air and prone to bad weather and both of these are often cancelled.
All of the main characters have secrets, past and present ones, and are trying to escape something or someone. Having money means you have power, and it can make problems and issues disappear or be hushed up and but not everyone can be silenced, bought off and could want revenge.
The narrative is full of the right amount of tension and suspense, different kinds of relationships, including domestic, business, abusive, toxic and mean. Full of many twists and turns I didn’t see coming and it kept me guessing to the end.
I highly recommend, I would refer to the novel a nail-biter and five stars.
Emily has barely got her feet on dry land when the Senior Sergeant is leaving her to do night shift and man the front desk. Emily discovers the locals don’t trust outsiders or like tourists, because they don’t read signs, damage land and beaches and the money they spend isn't enough compensation. Emily is sent to investigate someone creeping around an old ladies backyard near Paradise Bay and a noise complaint and the nearby Reef House and it’s the snobby people from Adelaide partying and playing loud music.
Towards the end of their stay, a couple of guests wake up to a shocking murder scene, the survivors are sick, scared and call the police. The main suspects are those who didn’t die, the local SAPOL officers have to guard the site until the Major Crime Investigators arrive from Adelaide. But due to a storm, the ferry services are cut and everyone is stuck on the island with a killer and it could be anyone?
I received a copy of The Couples Retreat by Mercedes Mercier from NetGalley and Penguin Random House Australia in exchange for an honest review. Kangaroo Island is the perfect location to set a mild psychological thriller in, it’s isolated, with a rugged coastline and lots of bushland, only accessible via ferry or air and prone to bad weather and both of these are often cancelled.
All of the main characters have secrets, past and present ones, and are trying to escape something or someone. Having money means you have power, and it can make problems and issues disappear or be hushed up and but not everyone can be silenced, bought off and could want revenge.
The narrative is full of the right amount of tension and suspense, different kinds of relationships, including domestic, business, abusive, toxic and mean. Full of many twists and turns I didn’t see coming and it kept me guessing to the end.
I highly recommend, I would refer to the novel a nail-biter and five stars.
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