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The Den
A family estate is to die for in a gripping novel of psychological suspense by the author of Into the Sound.
Nothing brings the four Fox siblings together like their detestable father’s heart attack—and a hefty inheritance to be divided equally. At his deathbed is his oldest daughter, Valerie; her irresponsible sister, Lucy; and their two embattled brothers, Christian and Jeremy. Even the former housekeeper, Marisol, who’s been with the family for forty years, is on watch. All Valerie hopes for is an amicable reunion, despite the damages of the past.
By punishing means, Stefan Fox raised his children to be competitors. The cruel lessons now serve them well in a game of life and death. When it comes to the family fortune, the rules are simple: fewer siblings means a bigger share.
After a suspicious accident, Valerie knows the worst is yet to come—and confiding in the wrong person could be the most dangerous thing she’s ever done.
Nothing brings the four Fox siblings together like their detestable father’s heart attack—and a hefty inheritance to be divided equally. At his deathbed is his oldest daughter, Valerie; her irresponsible sister, Lucy; and their two embattled brothers, Christian and Jeremy. Even the former housekeeper, Marisol, who’s been with the family for forty years, is on watch. All Valerie hopes for is an amicable reunion, despite the damages of the past.
By punishing means, Stefan Fox raised his children to be competitors. The cruel lessons now serve them well in a game of life and death. When it comes to the family fortune, the rules are simple: fewer siblings means a bigger share.
After a suspicious accident, Valerie knows the worst is yet to come—and confiding in the wrong person could be the most dangerous thing she’s ever done.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2022
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4033 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
December 12, 2022
The fox siblings, Christian, Valerie, Jeremy and Lucy have been raised by their father, Stefan to be fierce competitors. When their father collapses at an event honoring their mother, the siblings are asked to attend a meeting to go over the family trust called "The Den". A trust which states that if anything happens to one of the siblings the other siblings get their share.
Each of the children have a backstory which comes into play during the book. The book is told through the POV of several characters one of which was Marian, the woman who worked for the family for years. She and her son, lived on the property and know the families’ secrets.
This was an enjoyable whodunit which was entertaining and fun for me. I had an inkling whodunit early on and even came up with a motive. I was right on one level but there was more at play and was shocked at the full reveal.
This had a nighttime soap feel to it. Some things were a little OTT and predictable but was very enjoyable and a fun whodunit. I enjoy escapism reading and this fit the bill. This family had a lot of drama going on which moved things along and kept me invested. Overall, an entertaining family drama/mystery.
3.5 stars
#TheDen #NetGalley
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer 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
Each of the children have a backstory which comes into play during the book. The book is told through the POV of several characters one of which was Marian, the woman who worked for the family for years. She and her son, lived on the property and know the families’ secrets.
This was an enjoyable whodunit which was entertaining and fun for me. I had an inkling whodunit early on and even came up with a motive. I was right on one level but there was more at play and was shocked at the full reveal.
This had a nighttime soap feel to it. Some things were a little OTT and predictable but was very enjoyable and a fun whodunit. I enjoy escapism reading and this fit the bill. This family had a lot of drama going on which moved things along and kept me invested. Overall, an entertaining family drama/mystery.
3.5 stars
#TheDen #NetGalley
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer 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
October 28, 2022
The Den is the latest family drama thriller from Cara Reinard, due to be published at the end of 2022. I've read and enjoyed a few of the author's previous books, and I was lucky enough to get an early release of this one from NetGalley. I would have bought it anyone as I connect well with the writing style, plot development and character progression in Reinard's work. This is no exception; she's outdone herself with the different personalities in this crazy family. Focused on the 4 adult children of a ruthless business man, the matriarch of the family is suffering from Alzheimer's and in an assisted living facility. She's home for one night on her anniversary, but what happens at the party leads to a lot more disaster. Toss in the mother / son duo who take care of the family, a few husbands, wives and children, and you've got an interesting crowd. The plot has layers, and it might be easy to figure out one or two of them, but truly, this is an onion of betrayal, each person fighting to control The Den, which is the family trust. Why was it changed a month ago? Who is behind this new path of destruction? Clever and witty, the story has lots of merit. I wasn't totally fond of some of the lack of balance in the different stories about each family member, but it was a cohesive book on the whole.
March 19, 2023
Annually, the wealthy, well-respected Fox family holds a party for the charity that was started by the matriarch, Simone. Something that all four children are expected to attend. Valerie, the dedicated, adoring eldest child. Jeremy, the child with a drug addiction past (now thankfully recovered). Christian, the fair haired son who was gifted the sole role in the family financial empire. And finally, Lucinda, both the problem child of the family as well as the youngest. In addition to them is Marian Vega: Simone’s dedicated housekeeper/nanny turned caretaker after the Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Considering their acrimonious relations, though, all Valerie can hope for as they celebrate Simone is that they each put their battle swords aside for the evening.
This year, however, the worst happens when their father, Stefan, collapses in the middle of the party with a massive heart attack. He’s rushed to the hospital while his children (all excluding the ever doting Valerie) are torn between sadness and salivation for what this could mean for them. Especially once they are ordered to attend a meeting concerning their father’s estate at the family attorney’s office the following day.
There they learn that the will they’ve always been told would never include them does exactly that. Appended to the terms, however, is a clause explaining that if any of the siblings were to die prior to their father, their share of the $10 million estate would be equally split amongst the others. Raised to compete by their often callous father, this addition puts them immediately at odds with one another. Because it is quite simple, the fewer of them that there are, the bigger the piece of the pie each would receive. And the game is afoot.
So, when Valerie learns that a suspicious accident has occurred, she knows that the competitor trait indulged by their father has led to the ultimate game: one of life or death to whom the spoils go the victor. But as Valerie explores this new landscape she realizes that every move she makes could be her last. Who will make it the allotted sixty days to receive their share…and who won’t?
Rivaling Reinard’s two previous novels The Den was a modern mystery (with just a touch of both domestic thriller and the paranormal) complete with an Agatha Christie-esque twisted family at the root of the plot. Starting of with a bang, the prologue set the scene for the book in a way that grabbed my attention from the first line and maintained it nearly until the last. It was even wrapped up with a nice, satisfying little bow (always something I particularly appreciate).
Between the siblings, the rather poor excuse for parents, and the self-serving, manipulative housekeeper turned nanny turned caretaker, each character had eccentricities that kept me coming back for more. Even the relationships on display proved to be fruitfully entertaining (especially amongst the siblings as it is one seriously screwed up bunch). No one is free from ridicule and gamesmanship. Not in the Fox family.
All this results in a well-crafted plot filled with blind turns that serve up an unguessable climax (even if it was somewhat over-the-top). Peppered with authentic dialogue and just as many red herrings as there are suspects, the tornado of lies, secrets, animosity, jealousy, and oneupmanship delivered a storyline where the father, even after his heart attack, had the last word. And, despite not even playing an active role in the plot, it was Stefan Foxes’ actions that pitted those who were to inherit in a game of wits. The writing, which was brilliant, was driven by a continuously building ladder of suspense, serving up a thoroughly juicy premise.
If you haven’t read anything by Reinard, I strongly recommend reading not just this one but her first two as well (Sweet Water and Into the Sound, which were both 5 star reads for me). And while The Den wasn’t my favorite by the author, it unquestionably ranks high on my list of family murder mysteries, a definite favorite of mine. Because when you bring family together, you almost always find drama…and the perfect fodder for a mystery/thriller. Rating of 4 stars.
Trigger warning: death of father by heart attack, dementia, racism, classism, homophobia, infidelity, drug overdose, strangulation
This year, however, the worst happens when their father, Stefan, collapses in the middle of the party with a massive heart attack. He’s rushed to the hospital while his children (all excluding the ever doting Valerie) are torn between sadness and salivation for what this could mean for them. Especially once they are ordered to attend a meeting concerning their father’s estate at the family attorney’s office the following day.
There they learn that the will they’ve always been told would never include them does exactly that. Appended to the terms, however, is a clause explaining that if any of the siblings were to die prior to their father, their share of the $10 million estate would be equally split amongst the others. Raised to compete by their often callous father, this addition puts them immediately at odds with one another. Because it is quite simple, the fewer of them that there are, the bigger the piece of the pie each would receive. And the game is afoot.
So, when Valerie learns that a suspicious accident has occurred, she knows that the competitor trait indulged by their father has led to the ultimate game: one of life or death to whom the spoils go the victor. But as Valerie explores this new landscape she realizes that every move she makes could be her last. Who will make it the allotted sixty days to receive their share…and who won’t?
Rivaling Reinard’s two previous novels The Den was a modern mystery (with just a touch of both domestic thriller and the paranormal) complete with an Agatha Christie-esque twisted family at the root of the plot. Starting of with a bang, the prologue set the scene for the book in a way that grabbed my attention from the first line and maintained it nearly until the last. It was even wrapped up with a nice, satisfying little bow (always something I particularly appreciate).
Between the siblings, the rather poor excuse for parents, and the self-serving, manipulative housekeeper turned nanny turned caretaker, each character had eccentricities that kept me coming back for more. Even the relationships on display proved to be fruitfully entertaining (especially amongst the siblings as it is one seriously screwed up bunch). No one is free from ridicule and gamesmanship. Not in the Fox family.
All this results in a well-crafted plot filled with blind turns that serve up an unguessable climax (even if it was somewhat over-the-top). Peppered with authentic dialogue and just as many red herrings as there are suspects, the tornado of lies, secrets, animosity, jealousy, and oneupmanship delivered a storyline where the father, even after his heart attack, had the last word. And, despite not even playing an active role in the plot, it was Stefan Foxes’ actions that pitted those who were to inherit in a game of wits. The writing, which was brilliant, was driven by a continuously building ladder of suspense, serving up a thoroughly juicy premise.
If you haven’t read anything by Reinard, I strongly recommend reading not just this one but her first two as well (Sweet Water and Into the Sound, which were both 5 star reads for me). And while The Den wasn’t my favorite by the author, it unquestionably ranks high on my list of family murder mysteries, a definite favorite of mine. Because when you bring family together, you almost always find drama…and the perfect fodder for a mystery/thriller. Rating of 4 stars.
Trigger warning: death of father by heart attack, dementia, racism, classism, homophobia, infidelity, drug overdose, strangulation
November 30, 2022
This book was just ok for me. The four Fox siblings are reunited after their father has a heart attack. Their inheritance is to be divided amongst them equally however, they all have a target on their backs. The story is told from multiple povs none of whom I liked.
I figured out the who was stalking the siblings pretty easily and the other minor plot twists were just ok.
The Den is available December 13, 2022.
Thank you to netgalley and thomas&mercer for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
I figured out the who was stalking the siblings pretty easily and the other minor plot twists were just ok.
The Den is available December 13, 2022.
Thank you to netgalley and thomas&mercer for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
August 15, 2023
‘Succession’ meets ‘Knives Out’ in this clever, fast-paced, and fun who dun-it thriller!
December 2, 2022
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐
PUBLICATION DAY: December 13, 2022
This is the story of the Fox siblings: Christian, Valerie, Jeremy and Lucinda. Forced to attend a party for their ailing mother, a tragic event occurs and sets off a chain of events that none of the siblings ever saw coming. Christian - the overachiever, Valerie - the caretaker, Jeremy - the druggie and Lucinda - the mess are all forced to spend time together…the reward? A portion of a vast inheritance they thought they had no chance of ever receiving. What will this competition bring out in these siblings? And will they live to see the reward?
PROS and CONS:
Fairly one dimensional characters in this one - but lots of action makes for a very quick read. To me it felt like there were a lot of unrealistic reactions to situations and people, and the characters themselves were almost completely unlikeable (every single one of them). It made it difficult to cheer for an ending when the siblings continued to dig themselves into hole after hole, refusing to give each other a chance. As I said it was a very quick read with a (predictable) good ending.
READ IT?
If you’re looking for…a quick read about inheritance and family drama galore, then this one's for you.
3 Stars
PUBLICATION DAY: December 13, 2022
This is the story of the Fox siblings: Christian, Valerie, Jeremy and Lucinda. Forced to attend a party for their ailing mother, a tragic event occurs and sets off a chain of events that none of the siblings ever saw coming. Christian - the overachiever, Valerie - the caretaker, Jeremy - the druggie and Lucinda - the mess are all forced to spend time together…the reward? A portion of a vast inheritance they thought they had no chance of ever receiving. What will this competition bring out in these siblings? And will they live to see the reward?
PROS and CONS:
Fairly one dimensional characters in this one - but lots of action makes for a very quick read. To me it felt like there were a lot of unrealistic reactions to situations and people, and the characters themselves were almost completely unlikeable (every single one of them). It made it difficult to cheer for an ending when the siblings continued to dig themselves into hole after hole, refusing to give each other a chance. As I said it was a very quick read with a (predictable) good ending.
READ IT?
If you’re looking for…a quick read about inheritance and family drama galore, then this one's for you.
3 Stars
August 4, 2022
The Den by Cara Reinard. Thanks to the author and @thomasandmercer for the gifted signed Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Fox siblings have always been forced to compete with each other, so they don’t get along. Now that they know the details of their father’s will, the competition may deepen as one of the siblings experiences an accident.
If you love deep family mysteries with lots of secrets, here’s a book for you. I loved the siblings and how they were all so different. I also loved their bickering and fighting with each other. They were so mean but I had to admit, it cracked me up.
“You should give up your hunt. They’re foxes after all, and we’re all the chickens, ya see. They’ll always win.”
The Den comes out 12/13.
The Fox siblings have always been forced to compete with each other, so they don’t get along. Now that they know the details of their father’s will, the competition may deepen as one of the siblings experiences an accident.
If you love deep family mysteries with lots of secrets, here’s a book for you. I loved the siblings and how they were all so different. I also loved their bickering and fighting with each other. They were so mean but I had to admit, it cracked me up.
“You should give up your hunt. They’re foxes after all, and we’re all the chickens, ya see. They’ll always win.”
The Den comes out 12/13.
August 13, 2022
This book was just an ok read for me. It centers on the 4 grown Fox children who are being targeted by an unknown assailant after their father is injured and the details of his will, and immense wealth, is revealed. The story is primarily told from the youngest daughter Lucinda’s POV, but you also get chapters from the oldest sister, Valerie, and from their former housekeeper, Marian.
Lots of reviewers were talking about how the characters weren’t likable but that didn’t bother me. The dynamics between them made sense and I could understand where each of them was coming from, even if I didn’t necessarily agree with the decisions they made. The thing that did bother me is that I easily figured out who the villain was early in the book; while there were a couple minor twists, it all turned out pretty much exactly how I expected. I would’ve preferred a little more mystery.
Overall, a decent read that held my interest, but was a little too predictable in my opinion. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Lots of reviewers were talking about how the characters weren’t likable but that didn’t bother me. The dynamics between them made sense and I could understand where each of them was coming from, even if I didn’t necessarily agree with the decisions they made. The thing that did bother me is that I easily figured out who the villain was early in the book; while there were a couple minor twists, it all turned out pretty much exactly how I expected. I would’ve preferred a little more mystery.
Overall, a decent read that held my interest, but was a little too predictable in my opinion. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 11, 2022
2.5⭐
Not the family drama I tend to love nor the popcorn thriller that I'd been craving. Zero thrills, a slog to get through and a total snooze fest with an irritating cast.
I enjoyed the characterization and family dynamics. But while the book tries to paint everyone as a likely suspect with motive, it's very obvious and predictable who the bad guys are. Lucinda was an annoying mess and my least favourite Fox.
This gave me We Are The Brennans (one of my top 2021 reads) vibes, especially the second-chance romance, but had so much less suspense and tension in comparison to a book that isn't even a thriller. The writing was also convoluted at times.
I was prepared to rate this painfully dull novel 2 stars but the last chapter saved it.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer for the Netgalley ARC.
Not the family drama I tend to love nor the popcorn thriller that I'd been craving. Zero thrills, a slog to get through and a total snooze fest with an irritating cast.
I enjoyed the characterization and family dynamics. But while the book tries to paint everyone as a likely suspect with motive, it's very obvious and predictable who the bad guys are. Lucinda was an annoying mess and my least favourite Fox.
This gave me We Are The Brennans (one of my top 2021 reads) vibes, especially the second-chance romance, but had so much less suspense and tension in comparison to a book that isn't even a thriller. The writing was also convoluted at times.
I was prepared to rate this painfully dull novel 2 stars but the last chapter saved it.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer for the Netgalley ARC.
December 6, 2022
I’m always here for some rich people family drama and this one did not disappoint! It gave me total Succession and Dynasty vibes and I relished in the scandalous secrets and twisted family dynamics!
Told from alternating POVs, this one was full of those characters you love to hate. I loved that each one was seemingly hiding something which left me continually guessing where this suspenseful whodunit was going!
It was definitely a wild ride and while I’m not sure that I found the ending entirely shocking, it was still totally bingeable and I absolutely flew through it!
Told from alternating POVs, this one was full of those characters you love to hate. I loved that each one was seemingly hiding something which left me continually guessing where this suspenseful whodunit was going!
It was definitely a wild ride and while I’m not sure that I found the ending entirely shocking, it was still totally bingeable and I absolutely flew through it!
December 8, 2022
this sounded like something right up my alley but it turned out to be just okay for me - a bit overly long, and i never really found the mystery aspect that intriguing, and maybe it’s because of the boring characters.
December 5, 2022
This book was so much fun! Talk about a quirky family...even Dr. Phil would have trouble with these characters! The patriarch dies at his own party and even though he was pretty despicable and his wife has dementia, his grown children are surprised and saddened. And everyone becomes a suspect as there is a clause in the will that has them all able to "split" the family fortune. And more family member die suspiciously and many are suspects. My head was spinning continuously as I read as I believed any one of them could be responsible. This would make a great movie--or series--and I intend to read more of Reinhard in the future!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
January 18, 2023
Don’t go into this book thinking it’s another thriller about family fighting for a fortune. It is, but it’s more then that. It’s about sibling rivalry and getting what’s owed.
The two sisters, Lucinda & Valerie are the main narratives of the book. They are completely different women, who were brought up in the same house, but with different expectations. They clash with each other and their brothers, there is no lack of jealousy and hate. This hate, becomes a fire when millions are up for grabs. Suddenly everyone is at each others throats, and suspicious of everyone. I would have loved to see the brothers narrative added to the story, to make it more rounded. But, even without it the sisters tell the story well.
Someone is picking off the family, one by one. It’s really hard to figure out who it is, and you will think it’s all of them at some point. But the actual killer will throw you. Reinard does the slow trickle of important information, that really hooks you in. Some of it I expected, but most of it were wow moments.
If you want something not scary, and more of a whodunit mystery thriller, I suggest this one. The characters are great, and the end is perfect.
The two sisters, Lucinda & Valerie are the main narratives of the book. They are completely different women, who were brought up in the same house, but with different expectations. They clash with each other and their brothers, there is no lack of jealousy and hate. This hate, becomes a fire when millions are up for grabs. Suddenly everyone is at each others throats, and suspicious of everyone. I would have loved to see the brothers narrative added to the story, to make it more rounded. But, even without it the sisters tell the story well.
Someone is picking off the family, one by one. It’s really hard to figure out who it is, and you will think it’s all of them at some point. But the actual killer will throw you. Reinard does the slow trickle of important information, that really hooks you in. Some of it I expected, but most of it were wow moments.
If you want something not scary, and more of a whodunit mystery thriller, I suggest this one. The characters are great, and the end is perfect.
July 10, 2025
Solid Pittsburgh based thriller
July 15, 2022
4.5 Stars!
This is my first title by Reinhard but I will Certainly be looking for other work she has out. The Den is a fast paced family drama thriller that keeps you on your toes until the very last page! It was very fun trying to figure how The Whodunnit narrative and even having suspicions of who it actually was didn’t ruin the fun for me. Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced e-reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is my first title by Reinhard but I will Certainly be looking for other work she has out. The Den is a fast paced family drama thriller that keeps you on your toes until the very last page! It was very fun trying to figure how The Whodunnit narrative and even having suspicions of who it actually was didn’t ruin the fun for me. Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced e-reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2022
Thank you Brilliance Audio for the ALC and Booksparks, #partner for the advanced copy of The Den in exchange for my honest review.
I was first introduced to Cara Reinhard when I read her last novel, Into the Sound, which I really enjoyed it. So of course I was thrilled to be offered the chance to read and review her next book. I’m always game for a good psychological thriller and this one definitely kept me on my toes!
I loved that this one had a Knives Out vibe to it – that is one of my favorite movies and so anything that has that vibe is immediately appealing to me. Give me any story about dysfunctional families, a will – or in the case here, a recently revised will – and the fact that it seems someone is out to punish this family and I was hooked! This story was so twisted and devious, I didn’t know who to trust and who would even make it out alive.
What I really appreciated with this one is just that the author really took her time to make sure each of the siblings had their own personalities. As someone who comes from a large family – I have six siblings – I loved that the Fox siblings were all so different. I know that I am quite different from my own siblings so I could totally relate to this point.
A family drama steeped in secrets and mystery, this one is quite the wild ride that is easily bingeable. If you like mysteries filled with family dynamics, secrets and drama, definitely give this one a try!
Audio thoughts: This was a fun book to listen to as it had multiple narrators and I thought they all did a fantastic job bringing the story to life. Sarah Beth Pfeifer, Christina Traister and Roxanne Hernandez are all familiar to me and I love the way they voiced their parts. Their pacing was spot on and they made this audiobook quite enjoyable.
You can see all my reviews at: https://www.alwayswithabook.com/
I was first introduced to Cara Reinhard when I read her last novel, Into the Sound, which I really enjoyed it. So of course I was thrilled to be offered the chance to read and review her next book. I’m always game for a good psychological thriller and this one definitely kept me on my toes!
I loved that this one had a Knives Out vibe to it – that is one of my favorite movies and so anything that has that vibe is immediately appealing to me. Give me any story about dysfunctional families, a will – or in the case here, a recently revised will – and the fact that it seems someone is out to punish this family and I was hooked! This story was so twisted and devious, I didn’t know who to trust and who would even make it out alive.
What I really appreciated with this one is just that the author really took her time to make sure each of the siblings had their own personalities. As someone who comes from a large family – I have six siblings – I loved that the Fox siblings were all so different. I know that I am quite different from my own siblings so I could totally relate to this point.
A family drama steeped in secrets and mystery, this one is quite the wild ride that is easily bingeable. If you like mysteries filled with family dynamics, secrets and drama, definitely give this one a try!
Audio thoughts: This was a fun book to listen to as it had multiple narrators and I thought they all did a fantastic job bringing the story to life. Sarah Beth Pfeifer, Christina Traister and Roxanne Hernandez are all familiar to me and I love the way they voiced their parts. Their pacing was spot on and they made this audiobook quite enjoyable.
You can see all my reviews at: https://www.alwayswithabook.com/
October 19, 2022
Stefan Fox has a heart attack one night during an event. Results come in that it was some how connected to mercury poisoning and all the Fox children and even Marisol the the housekeeper are under investigation. The children see the family lawyer and find out that about the huge inheritance they will get if Stefan dies. Valerie, Christian, Lucinda, and Jeremy all have issues and they are very competitive. One by one things begin to happen to each of them. Someone wants that money badly, but who is it and will they win and take it all?
This was the first book I have read by Cara Reinard. THE DEN is full of mystery and suspense. I was not sure what was going on and it was quite a wild ride, I loved the alternating points of view and all the secrets these characters were hiding. I really did enjoy figuring out the mystery and would recommend this book to one to my friends. I always like to read the acknowledgements at the end of a book and will read the author's other novels she suggested to try next.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be shared on my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
This was the first book I have read by Cara Reinard. THE DEN is full of mystery and suspense. I was not sure what was going on and it was quite a wild ride, I loved the alternating points of view and all the secrets these characters were hiding. I really did enjoy figuring out the mystery and would recommend this book to one to my friends. I always like to read the acknowledgements at the end of a book and will read the author's other novels she suggested to try next.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be shared on my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
November 30, 2022
This was a wild and crazy ride! Definitely has Knives Out vibes too it! This family is all sorts of sordid and messed up! I swear whenever money is involved it does not matter whom you love or are related too. The story is told with multiple POVs and jumps some timelines between past and present really giving you a feel for all the dark and twisted things this family is capable of. In doing so, I think the author really kept me on my toes. No one can be trusted here. No one!
I appreciated how all of the siblings were different. It’s always an interesting dynamic to me too see how people turn out and view their childhood when they live together. Their hate for each other had me LOL a few times, as only sibling, fighting can do. I did figure out the “whodunit” but I always like to see the motive behind things so it didn’t ruin it for me. If you like family dynamics, secrets and twisty lies then this one is for you!
3.5 rounded up to 4!
I appreciated how all of the siblings were different. It’s always an interesting dynamic to me too see how people turn out and view their childhood when they live together. Their hate for each other had me LOL a few times, as only sibling, fighting can do. I did figure out the “whodunit” but I always like to see the motive behind things so it didn’t ruin it for me. If you like family dynamics, secrets and twisty lies then this one is for you!
3.5 rounded up to 4!
December 14, 2022
Thank you @booksparks and @carareinard for a gifted copy.
𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙙𝙮𝙨𝙛𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮 𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙖, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙖 𝙍𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙!
The four Fox siblings are brought back together for a gala to honor their ailing mother. All put on by their arrogant and cheating father, Stefan Fox; it seems a bit hypocritical. During the ceremony, Stefan collapses and is rushed to the hospital.
Now, the games begin, well actually, they continue in this family! With the inheritance of the family’s company now hanging in the balance, foul play abounds.
Each sibling plays their own role; the responsible one, the favorite, the addict, and the outcast, and the dynamics between them are volatile! Add a cast of lawyers, caretakers and, let's say, some others who may have a finger in the Fox fortune as well, and you have one twisted, deliciously devious thriller.
𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙙𝙮𝙨𝙛𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮 𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙖, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙖 𝙍𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙙𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙!
The four Fox siblings are brought back together for a gala to honor their ailing mother. All put on by their arrogant and cheating father, Stefan Fox; it seems a bit hypocritical. During the ceremony, Stefan collapses and is rushed to the hospital.
Now, the games begin, well actually, they continue in this family! With the inheritance of the family’s company now hanging in the balance, foul play abounds.
Each sibling plays their own role; the responsible one, the favorite, the addict, and the outcast, and the dynamics between them are volatile! Add a cast of lawyers, caretakers and, let's say, some others who may have a finger in the Fox fortune as well, and you have one twisted, deliciously devious thriller.
November 28, 2022
After a family patriarch has a serious medical episode, his four adult children learn they are to be beneficiaries. However, any of them who die before their father, that inheritance is then split among the remaining kids. After one of the sons ends up murdered, they don’t know who they can trust.
I was expecting more suspense and more thriller vibes! I just didn’t find myself waiting on the edge of my seat like I want in a thriller.
I received my copycat from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was expecting more suspense and more thriller vibes! I just didn’t find myself waiting on the edge of my seat like I want in a thriller.
I received my copycat from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 7, 2024
I read Cara’s book The Wife in the Window and immediately ordered The Den. I love the writing and storytelling and I want more! The Den is about siblings who are dealing with their father’s heartache and sitting beside waiting to see if he’ll recover or if they can cash in on their inheritance. Of course there’s drama, and secrets, and backstabbing…and a few good twists!
November 26, 2022
Ok. This is short but it is a spoiler so I had to label it as so.
I LOVED Maryanne. Everything about how her character is written, the way her story unfolds... she may have been one of the "villains" but I loved her.
Easily the best POV in the book
I LOVED Maryanne. Everything about how her character is written, the way her story unfolds... she may have been one of the "villains" but I loved her.
Easily the best POV in the book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2023
I was very nicely surprised how good this book turned out to be. It was suspenseful and interesting all the way to the end. I really enjoyed learning about each individual sibling, their story and family dynamics but I wish the author gave us a little more details of their past and childhood.
I would recommend it to anyone that likes well written family drama.
Thank you Netgalley, Thomas & Mercer and the author for free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I would recommend it to anyone that likes well written family drama.
Thank you Netgalley, Thomas & Mercer and the author for free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 3, 2025
This is my first book from Cara Reinard and I think I’ll be picking more up.
I’m quite impressed with how she was able to give the vibes of Knives Out and flesh out each sibling.
This was a great read for by the pool on vacation
I’m quite impressed with how she was able to give the vibes of Knives Out and flesh out each sibling.
This was a great read for by the pool on vacation
August 16, 2022
Nothing brings the four Fox siblings together like their detestable father’s heart attack and a hefty inheritance to be divided equally. At his deathbed is his oldest daughter, Valerie; her irresponsible sister, Lucy; and their two embattled brothers, Christian and Jeremy. Even the former housekeeper, Marian, who’s been with the family for forty years, is on watch. All Valerie hopes for is an amicable reunion, despite the damages of the past.
By punishing means, Stefan Fox raised his children to be competitors. The cruel lessons now serve them well in a game of life and death. When it comes to the family fortune, the rules are simple: fewer siblings means a bigger share.
After a suspicious accident, Valerie knows the worst is yet to come and confiding in the wrong person could be the most dangerous thing she’s ever done.
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer
I just reviewed The Den by Cara Reinard. #TheDen #NetGalley
By punishing means, Stefan Fox raised his children to be competitors. The cruel lessons now serve them well in a game of life and death. When it comes to the family fortune, the rules are simple: fewer siblings means a bigger share.
After a suspicious accident, Valerie knows the worst is yet to come and confiding in the wrong person could be the most dangerous thing she’s ever done.
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer
I just reviewed The Den by Cara Reinard. #TheDen #NetGalley
August 24, 2022
[My rating-3.5 stars]
Four siblings, one wealth management firm, a mother suffering from dementia, and a nanny who has seen their all. Strung by troublesome ties and the patriarch Stefan Fox, who gets poisoned, the tale instantly starts on a mysterious note.
💎Good character sketch of the four siblings. You will have animosity towards the patriarch and feel frustrated with the siblings at different levels throughout the story.
💎Quite a few twists, makes it an edgy and fast read.
💎Relationships between all the characters, especially the one between the father and the mother are well painted. It all starts with the parents and their tale is well weaved with the main story so the reader gets a good idea of why certain things are happening.
❌The legal aspect was a little confusing to understand and there are certain discrepancies throughout the story. For example- a character mentions they don't know another character, but in the next instance it is written they do know. Hopefully, it will all be resolved in the final published copy.
*Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.*
Four siblings, one wealth management firm, a mother suffering from dementia, and a nanny who has seen their all. Strung by troublesome ties and the patriarch Stefan Fox, who gets poisoned, the tale instantly starts on a mysterious note.
💎Good character sketch of the four siblings. You will have animosity towards the patriarch and feel frustrated with the siblings at different levels throughout the story.
💎Quite a few twists, makes it an edgy and fast read.
💎Relationships between all the characters, especially the one between the father and the mother are well painted. It all starts with the parents and their tale is well weaved with the main story so the reader gets a good idea of why certain things are happening.
❌The legal aspect was a little confusing to understand and there are certain discrepancies throughout the story. For example- a character mentions they don't know another character, but in the next instance it is written they do know. Hopefully, it will all be resolved in the final published copy.
*Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.*
August 8, 2022
Rating: 3.5 rounded up to 4
- This family drama serves up a hearty dose of intrigue, tension, and twisties. Everyone is a suspect and a potential victim in this story with multiple POV.
- I didn’t particularly like any of the characters, and was able to correctly guess early on how two people were involved in the deception, but I still enjoyed this read.
- The characters felt genuine and each had their own voice & personality, instead of all feeling the same.
- What I appreciated most was that the characters would hint at having some dark secret, and it wasn’t overdone. So many thrillers beat it into your head in every chapter that the character doesn’t want their secret to be revealed. Okay, we get it, we’re not stupid & we don’t forget everything we’ve read when we turn the page. This book was refreshing in the sense that it didn’t do that.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and @Netgalley for an advanced e-reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
- This family drama serves up a hearty dose of intrigue, tension, and twisties. Everyone is a suspect and a potential victim in this story with multiple POV.
- I didn’t particularly like any of the characters, and was able to correctly guess early on how two people were involved in the deception, but I still enjoyed this read.
- The characters felt genuine and each had their own voice & personality, instead of all feeling the same.
- What I appreciated most was that the characters would hint at having some dark secret, and it wasn’t overdone. So many thrillers beat it into your head in every chapter that the character doesn’t want their secret to be revealed. Okay, we get it, we’re not stupid & we don’t forget everything we’ve read when we turn the page. This book was refreshing in the sense that it didn’t do that.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and @Netgalley for an advanced e-reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2022
this sounded like something right up my alley but it turned out to be just okay for me - a bit overly long, and i never really found the mystery aspect that intriguing, and maybe it’s because of the boring characters.
July 31, 2022
Stefan Fox suffers a heart attack during a celebratory dinner for his ailing wife. His four adult children attended the party, mostly in support of their mother, and are now dealing with worst case scenarios in case their father doesn't recover. Lucy is the main narrator of the story, the youngest Fox sibling and the one deemed a troublemaker by her siblings. Valerie is older and seemingly more stable, although is currently dealing with a divorce. Jeremy is the younger of the two brothers, flighty and carefree, while Christian is a copy of his father, cold and distant.
Stefan wasn't too involved in raising his children and when he did get involved, it was to pit them against each other and fight for his approval. And now that they are contemplating his possible death, all they can think about is the large inheritance that awaits them, and how they'd get a larger portion if there were suddenly less siblings to share with...
In typical fashion, family secrets are revealed as the story goes on and as people begin to die. These deaths were pretty unexpected and I was pleasantly surprised. Suddenly, it's not just about what happened to Stefan, but about what's happening to everyone. Not only are the siblings under suspicion, but others who have been close to the Fox family for decades now can't be trusted. These characters were more intriguing at times than the siblings, who aren't exactly likable. But, I enjoyed the story and the ending was satisfying, which is what I expected from this author.
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Stefan wasn't too involved in raising his children and when he did get involved, it was to pit them against each other and fight for his approval. And now that they are contemplating his possible death, all they can think about is the large inheritance that awaits them, and how they'd get a larger portion if there were suddenly less siblings to share with...
In typical fashion, family secrets are revealed as the story goes on and as people begin to die. These deaths were pretty unexpected and I was pleasantly surprised. Suddenly, it's not just about what happened to Stefan, but about what's happening to everyone. Not only are the siblings under suspicion, but others who have been close to the Fox family for decades now can't be trusted. These characters were more intriguing at times than the siblings, who aren't exactly likable. But, I enjoyed the story and the ending was satisfying, which is what I expected from this author.
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July 22, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the copy of The Den. If you’re looking for a great family drama that will keep you guessing, you will love this one. I had a hard time connecting to the writing because I was thrown off by some of the words and phrases used. I also never connected to any of the characters. It made me uncomfortable when the siblings spoke so meanly to each other. I’d like to think most of us don’t always just blurt out everything we are thinking. This book is perfect for someone, it just wasn’t perfect for me.
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