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Sun Damage
Reminiscent of the works of Patricia Highsmith and Lucy Foley, a compulsive psychological thriller—“the perfect poolside reading” ( Guardian )—involving gorgeous grifters on the loose in the south of France who prey on a group of unsuspecting vacationers . . . and each other. The heat is intense. The secrets are stifling. And there is no escape.
In a tiny village in Provence, nine guests arrive at a luxury holiday home. The visitors know each other well, or at least they think they do. The only stranger among them is Lulu, the young woman catering their stay. But Lulu is not exactly the woman on the video the guests thought they’d hired. Turns out Lulu has plenty to hide—and nowhere to run as the heat rises. In this seemingly idyllic getaway, under the scorching sun, loyalties will be tested, secrets exposed, and tensions pushed to the brink . . . Dripping in intrigue, Sun Damage is a glamorous, witty, and totally riveting story chock full of secrets, lies and . . . more lies.
In a tiny village in Provence, nine guests arrive at a luxury holiday home. The visitors know each other well, or at least they think they do. The only stranger among them is Lulu, the young woman catering their stay. But Lulu is not exactly the woman on the video the guests thought they’d hired. Turns out Lulu has plenty to hide—and nowhere to run as the heat rises. In this seemingly idyllic getaway, under the scorching sun, loyalties will be tested, secrets exposed, and tensions pushed to the brink . . . Dripping in intrigue, Sun Damage is a glamorous, witty, and totally riveting story chock full of secrets, lies and . . . more lies.
368 pages, Paperback
First published June 2, 2022
219 people are currently reading
11898 people want to read
About the author
Sabine Durrant
20 books594 followersSabine Durrant lives in London, England, with her three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 473 reviews
June 7, 2022
4.5 rounded up
Location:-Saint Cecile-sur-Mer, South of France.
Sean and Ali have a new mark in their sights. She's Lulu Fletcher Davies who seems vacuous but Ali's feelings about what they are doing keeps keeps changing and she's not comfortable. Resentment is growing between the pair, Sean keeps pushing, Ali pushes back. Then Sean goes off script.........
This is another utterly absorbing read from the talented Sabine Durrant who always creates excellent psychological thrillers. Ali's personality, her background and feelings are captured vividly. You end up unexpectedly rooting for her as she thinks fast on her feet which I guess has become second nature. The author captures all the moments and different moods with short sharp sentences. All the characters are depicted with clarity so you can easily visualise them. The dynamics are excellent with so much bubbling beneath the surface with some brightly smile through any difficulties. There are so many secrets among them and bucket loads of lies which are often air brushed out.
There are moments of high tension where you could cut the atmosphere with a knife. Ali also holds her breath when some of the characters discuss The Serpent* (though it's never named) and this makes her reflective and angry in turn. The tension rises and falls so you get some moments to relax and then it increases again and it becomes very claustrophobic and at times dangerous as you question who you can trust. It's as if you need to constantly look over your shoulder as if you were in Ali's shoes which is clever writing and a bit uncomfortable! What a way to live! It builds extremely well and there are two great twists at the end which are excellent and very unpredictable. Well played Sabine Durrant!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Hodder and Stoughton for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
*The Serpent is a BBC drama based on the true story of conman and murderer Charles Sobhraj who becomes Interpol's most wanted man.
Location:-Saint Cecile-sur-Mer, South of France.
Sean and Ali have a new mark in their sights. She's Lulu Fletcher Davies who seems vacuous but Ali's feelings about what they are doing keeps keeps changing and she's not comfortable. Resentment is growing between the pair, Sean keeps pushing, Ali pushes back. Then Sean goes off script.........
This is another utterly absorbing read from the talented Sabine Durrant who always creates excellent psychological thrillers. Ali's personality, her background and feelings are captured vividly. You end up unexpectedly rooting for her as she thinks fast on her feet which I guess has become second nature. The author captures all the moments and different moods with short sharp sentences. All the characters are depicted with clarity so you can easily visualise them. The dynamics are excellent with so much bubbling beneath the surface with some brightly smile through any difficulties. There are so many secrets among them and bucket loads of lies which are often air brushed out.
There are moments of high tension where you could cut the atmosphere with a knife. Ali also holds her breath when some of the characters discuss The Serpent* (though it's never named) and this makes her reflective and angry in turn. The tension rises and falls so you get some moments to relax and then it increases again and it becomes very claustrophobic and at times dangerous as you question who you can trust. It's as if you need to constantly look over your shoulder as if you were in Ali's shoes which is clever writing and a bit uncomfortable! What a way to live! It builds extremely well and there are two great twists at the end which are excellent and very unpredictable. Well played Sabine Durrant!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Hodder and Stoughton for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
*The Serpent is a BBC drama based on the true story of conman and murderer Charles Sobhraj who becomes Interpol's most wanted man.
February 5, 2024
Well this was one drawn out book 📖 I must say the premise sounded good no nine friends escape to the south of France 🇫🇷 the friends think they know each other but do they?
Then one of the two con artist goes against the plan of the other they go their separate ways.
This took up to 100 pages to get to the thriller part but was to much of a slow burn 🔥 I wished I had liked it but unfortunately I didn’t 2 🌟 ⭐️.
Then one of the two con artist goes against the plan of the other they go their separate ways.
This took up to 100 pages to get to the thriller part but was to much of a slow burn 🔥 I wished I had liked it but unfortunately I didn’t 2 🌟 ⭐️.
August 7, 2022
A Little Shade.
After reading several five star reviews for this, I was let down a bit by the story.
The games begin when a grifter couple infiltrates a friend circle on vacation.
I’m somewhat easy to redirect and can't usually determine the outcome - but not so here as the plot twists ahead were visible to me. Therefore no surprises.
Read this if you want to feel like you’re on vacation in the south of France - the resort areas sounded dreamy. Also, if you like “sting” type stories like I do, this may suit your tastes.
3.5 Stars rounded down.
After reading several five star reviews for this, I was let down a bit by the story.
The games begin when a grifter couple infiltrates a friend circle on vacation.
I’m somewhat easy to redirect and can't usually determine the outcome - but not so here as the plot twists ahead were visible to me. Therefore no surprises.
Read this if you want to feel like you’re on vacation in the south of France - the resort areas sounded dreamy. Also, if you like “sting” type stories like I do, this may suit your tastes.
3.5 Stars rounded down.
December 4, 2023
A great getaway read that had me longing for the beaches!
A beautiful vacation in the south of France. A trip made even better given our two con artists, Sean and Ali, always find a way for someone else to pay for it. But what happens when the partners in crime are at odds. Would they actually go their separate ways? Or is there just too much at stake? Well… you’re about to find out!
This book had everything I was looking for including some block-buster twists! Both cleverly plotted and executed! I will definitely need to find more books from this author.
Thank you to all my Goodreads friends for putting this book on my radar. I wouldn’t have found this one without you all!🥰
I listened to the audio and enjoyed the narration provided by Sofia Zervudachi.
A beautiful vacation in the south of France. A trip made even better given our two con artists, Sean and Ali, always find a way for someone else to pay for it. But what happens when the partners in crime are at odds. Would they actually go their separate ways? Or is there just too much at stake? Well… you’re about to find out!
This book had everything I was looking for including some block-buster twists! Both cleverly plotted and executed! I will definitely need to find more books from this author.
Thank you to all my Goodreads friends for putting this book on my radar. I wouldn’t have found this one without you all!🥰
I listened to the audio and enjoyed the narration provided by Sofia Zervudachi.
August 21, 2022
4.25 Stars
I think the blurb for SUN DAMAGE is purposely vague, so I’m not going to say much about the plot. It’s set in the south of France, my favorite new thriller setting. Two con artists are working the beach resorts there, until things get a bit out of hand. And then…
Is summer gothic suspense a thing? Because that’s how I would describe this book. It’s an absorbing slow-burner with just the right amount of tension. I was really taken in by the rich descriptions of this place, like the yummy food, gorgeous scenery, and the stifling heat. The big twists at the end were brilliant.
I think the blurb for SUN DAMAGE is purposely vague, so I’m not going to say much about the plot. It’s set in the south of France, my favorite new thriller setting. Two con artists are working the beach resorts there, until things get a bit out of hand. And then…
Is summer gothic suspense a thing? Because that’s how I would describe this book. It’s an absorbing slow-burner with just the right amount of tension. I was really taken in by the rich descriptions of this place, like the yummy food, gorgeous scenery, and the stifling heat. The big twists at the end were brilliant.
June 9, 2022
This is an excellent thriller by Sabine Durrant, author of ‘Lie with me’ and ‘Take me in’ which I also enjoyed. This is an excellent read and one of the high points of this years reading so far. Good characters, exciting plot and plenty of tension throughout.
The novel is set in France and follows Ali and Sean who make a living from conning unsuspecting victims out of their hard earned money. I will not say anymore about the actual plot because I don’t want to give anything away. Needless to say there is plenty of thrills and spills along the way in this exciting thriller that is full of suspense.
On finishing the book I instantly started looking for another novel by this author to read.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Hodder and Stoughton for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
The novel is set in France and follows Ali and Sean who make a living from conning unsuspecting victims out of their hard earned money. I will not say anymore about the actual plot because I don’t want to give anything away. Needless to say there is plenty of thrills and spills along the way in this exciting thriller that is full of suspense.
On finishing the book I instantly started looking for another novel by this author to read.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Hodder and Stoughton for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2023
(2.5) Sun Damage has the ‘unlikeable people on a summer holiday’ vibe of Durrant’s hits
Lie With Me
and Take Me In, but it seems to be aiming for something bigger: its character study of an itinerant scammer put me in mind of Skin Deep, albeit without the depth, while the setting and mood make it feel similar to Voyeur. We first meet Ali and her partner in crime Sean on a beach in France, where they attempt to con posh tourist Lulu out of some money. Something goes wrong, and in the sort of ludicrous twist that could only happen in a summer pageturner, Ali agrees to impersonate Lulu and take up her job as a private chef. Only after all this has happened does the plot described in the book’s blurb – the thing about nine people with secrets cooped up at a remote villa – actually come into play. This means there’s really not a lot of room for the rest of the story to be developed properly, and it repeatedly feels like the plot is stalling. There are just too many things happening: the book would’ve been better either as a more detailed portrait of Ali (with things like the cringeworthy romance subplot cut out), or stripped back to its bare bones as a tense, taut thriller. Instead, it’s underdeveloped in every direction, with characters who really shouldn’t be quite so boring, and a cheesy, contrived ending.
June 8, 2022
Sun Damage is quite a hard book to explain without giving away any spoilers. What I can say is that we meet a couple of con artists at the beginning who thrive on travelling the world, conning people out of money. When in France one of their cons goes wrong and one of them flees, taking on the identity of another person, yet always knowing the other will at some point come after them.
The person who flees assumes the role of a live-in chef for a family who is staying at a remote villa in the south of France. But with family and friends coming to stay too, can their identity be kept hidden, especially when one of the guests seems to know them, and will their accomplice find them?
What I loved about Sun Damage is the setting. What a perfect place to set a book as the south of France is a glorious place to stay. The sights, sounds, smells, food, etc all came across perfectly and the dishes that the family eats with have you feeling very hungry.
Whilst the build-up was slow, and the beginning, in my opinion, far too long (I did at one point wonder if the synopsis was right), the tension was ever-present. I felt the pain that our main protagonist felt for their old life, and their con victim, plus how they just wanted to get away and thought that taking on another’s identity was a perfect idea. You are left pondering if their ex-accomplice will show up and when, so every chapter has you wondering if this is the one.
Overall, a decent summery thriller that is set in a fab location and keeps you guessing throughout. Suspenseful, thrilling, and twisty.
The person who flees assumes the role of a live-in chef for a family who is staying at a remote villa in the south of France. But with family and friends coming to stay too, can their identity be kept hidden, especially when one of the guests seems to know them, and will their accomplice find them?
What I loved about Sun Damage is the setting. What a perfect place to set a book as the south of France is a glorious place to stay. The sights, sounds, smells, food, etc all came across perfectly and the dishes that the family eats with have you feeling very hungry.
Whilst the build-up was slow, and the beginning, in my opinion, far too long (I did at one point wonder if the synopsis was right), the tension was ever-present. I felt the pain that our main protagonist felt for their old life, and their con victim, plus how they just wanted to get away and thought that taking on another’s identity was a perfect idea. You are left pondering if their ex-accomplice will show up and when, so every chapter has you wondering if this is the one.
Overall, a decent summery thriller that is set in a fab location and keeps you guessing throughout. Suspenseful, thrilling, and twisty.
June 5, 2022
2.5 ⭐️
This had all the makings of a great summer thriller but was a little disappointing.
The premise is great. Sean and Ali are con artists who make a living travelling the world scamming wealthy, unsuspecting types out of significant sums of money. They’re in the South of France when they spot Lulu sitting at a bar and home in on her.
When the scam goes wrong and Ali is forced to flee, she secures a job under false pretences. Will she be able to keep her identity a secret or will her past catch up with her?
The book got off to a good start but stalled about a third in and nothing happened until the last couple of pages. The con was explained in too much detail at times, which had the effect of bogging the story down. There were also a few side stories that came to nothing and felt pretty pointless by the time I’d finished the book. The setting is fabulous (I love a book set in a sunny climate) and the writing is stylish, I’d just have liked a little more pace.
A pedestrian thriller - an oxymoron I know - and while it’s not bad, it’s not one I’d be in a hurry to pack for the holidays. 2.5/5 ⭐️
*Many thanks to the publisher @hodderbooks for an advance copy of this book via @netgalley. As always this is an honest review.*
This had all the makings of a great summer thriller but was a little disappointing.
The premise is great. Sean and Ali are con artists who make a living travelling the world scamming wealthy, unsuspecting types out of significant sums of money. They’re in the South of France when they spot Lulu sitting at a bar and home in on her.
When the scam goes wrong and Ali is forced to flee, she secures a job under false pretences. Will she be able to keep her identity a secret or will her past catch up with her?
The book got off to a good start but stalled about a third in and nothing happened until the last couple of pages. The con was explained in too much detail at times, which had the effect of bogging the story down. There were also a few side stories that came to nothing and felt pretty pointless by the time I’d finished the book. The setting is fabulous (I love a book set in a sunny climate) and the writing is stylish, I’d just have liked a little more pace.
A pedestrian thriller - an oxymoron I know - and while it’s not bad, it’s not one I’d be in a hurry to pack for the holidays. 2.5/5 ⭐️
*Many thanks to the publisher @hodderbooks for an advance copy of this book via @netgalley. As always this is an honest review.*
September 20, 2023
3.5 stars
Slightly over-promised with its thrilling start, fortunately the remaining drama is still somewhat engaging, for the first third of Sun Damage I was completely engrossed by its summery, picturesque European setting, as well as the relentless psychological tension and mind game between all the primary characters (for once a thriller synopsis is not giving anything away, so I'll respect that and be vague in my review). When a pivotal incident finally hit, I was hunkered down and ready for this ride to fully take off... but apparently the book had other plans.
The remaining two thirds of Sun Damage was unexpectedly placid and low stake, confined to a single location when the narrative was suggesting a whirlwind cat and mouse game across Europe. Still, I found Sabine Durrant's writing to be pleasant and the character work solid, hence I was able to finish till the end without feeling like an unavoidable chore, even though the potential for it to be something more unhinged was constantly missed.
Reading Sun Damage actually mirrored my experience with The Villa by Rachel Hawkins in many ways: scenic European setting, suspenseful premise, but in actuality just slightly heightened, gossipy domestic drama in shiny packaging. While the material is objectively decent, I do feel like a victim of a bait and switch with its thriller-skewing marketing (however, if we were being meta—actually fit thematically to this novel). "Reminiscent of the works of Patricia Highsmith" does hold true, but only for the first 30%—embrace this as a decent, inoffensive mystery beach read, but a 5-stars thriller it is not.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated!**
Slightly over-promised with its thrilling start, fortunately the remaining drama is still somewhat engaging, for the first third of Sun Damage I was completely engrossed by its summery, picturesque European setting, as well as the relentless psychological tension and mind game between all the primary characters (for once a thriller synopsis is not giving anything away, so I'll respect that and be vague in my review). When a pivotal incident finally hit, I was hunkered down and ready for this ride to fully take off... but apparently the book had other plans.
The remaining two thirds of Sun Damage was unexpectedly placid and low stake, confined to a single location when the narrative was suggesting a whirlwind cat and mouse game across Europe. Still, I found Sabine Durrant's writing to be pleasant and the character work solid, hence I was able to finish till the end without feeling like an unavoidable chore, even though the potential for it to be something more unhinged was constantly missed.
Reading Sun Damage actually mirrored my experience with The Villa by Rachel Hawkins in many ways: scenic European setting, suspenseful premise, but in actuality just slightly heightened, gossipy domestic drama in shiny packaging. While the material is objectively decent, I do feel like a victim of a bait and switch with its thriller-skewing marketing (however, if we were being meta—actually fit thematically to this novel). "Reminiscent of the works of Patricia Highsmith" does hold true, but only for the first 30%—embrace this as a decent, inoffensive mystery beach read, but a 5-stars thriller it is not.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated!**
September 16, 2023
I've not previously heard of this author.
I was intrigued by the cover, whilst the blurb wasn't giving anything a way.
This really is a perfect summer read with plenty of twists and surprises, so best go in as blind as possible.
The main character Ali makes for an interesting protagonist who the reader inadvertently roots for despite being a con artist.
I really liked the South of France setting too.
I was intrigued by the cover, whilst the blurb wasn't giving anything a way.
This really is a perfect summer read with plenty of twists and surprises, so best go in as blind as possible.
The main character Ali makes for an interesting protagonist who the reader inadvertently roots for despite being a con artist.
I really liked the South of France setting too.
June 26, 2022
It’s roasting hot in Sainte Cecile sur Mer and Sean and Ali have their sights set on Lulu Fletcher Davies, a new tourist in time and the perfect mark. For Sean and Ali are con artists and this is how they make their living. But on this occasion things don’t go quite to plan and Ali ends up doing a runner to a remote villa where she takes on Lulu’s identity & does her utmost to remain undiscovered. But as we all know, secrets don’t often stay secret for long…
I love Sabine Durrant. I think she is such a talented writer, her books are dark and delicious and her style of writing is such that you’re drawn in immediately. This one was no exception - in fact the first part of the book was my favourite. I loved hearing about Sean and Ali’s escapades, Sean was a real piece of work and actually I’d like to have learnt more about him. Saying that though, I also thoroughly enjoyed seeing how Ali managed to pull the wool over the eyes of the guests at the villa. My heart was in my mouth on several occasions wondering if she’d be found out.
Ali is a wonderfully complex character. I felt a mixture of emotions towards her. I disliked her originally but as I got to know her & discovered why she was the way she was I started to empathise with her and admire her spirit. She’s a girl who has had to fight for everything her entire life, nothing has come easy.
Throw in an exotic location, an atmosphere sizzling with heat and tension and a supporting cast who have plenty of secrets of their own and you have the perfect summer read.
Thanks to the Tandem Collective UK for my review copy. Ad/Pr product.
I love Sabine Durrant. I think she is such a talented writer, her books are dark and delicious and her style of writing is such that you’re drawn in immediately. This one was no exception - in fact the first part of the book was my favourite. I loved hearing about Sean and Ali’s escapades, Sean was a real piece of work and actually I’d like to have learnt more about him. Saying that though, I also thoroughly enjoyed seeing how Ali managed to pull the wool over the eyes of the guests at the villa. My heart was in my mouth on several occasions wondering if she’d be found out.
Ali is a wonderfully complex character. I felt a mixture of emotions towards her. I disliked her originally but as I got to know her & discovered why she was the way she was I started to empathise with her and admire her spirit. She’s a girl who has had to fight for everything her entire life, nothing has come easy.
Throw in an exotic location, an atmosphere sizzling with heat and tension and a supporting cast who have plenty of secrets of their own and you have the perfect summer read.
Thanks to the Tandem Collective UK for my review copy. Ad/Pr product.
November 10, 2022
3.5 stars
I liked this but didn't love it. Only because I find it stressful waiting for people to be found out! I'm always cringing in anticipation 🙈
It's a good read though, and I do recommend it if you can handle the cringe-factor.
I liked this but didn't love it. Only because I find it stressful waiting for people to be found out! I'm always cringing in anticipation 🙈
It's a good read though, and I do recommend it if you can handle the cringe-factor.
August 14, 2023
Ali is a result of a traumatic childhood and some unpleasant experiences in the foster system. When still a teen she escapes that life and travels to India, eventually meeting up with small-time grifter Sean. He teaches her the tricks of the trade and together they con the unsuspecting. She has an inborn gift for reading people and puts her talents to nefarious use. Now the two are grifting and drifting through the south of France during a sweltering summer. One of their cons goes tragically wrong which sees Ali on the run.
This novel explores how our early experiences mold our personalities in adulthood. Our protagonist, 'Lulu' is not a bad person, but she has done very bad things. Lulu is not really Lulu of course, this is just a persona Ali has claimed as her own after she reached a point of desperation in her own life.
Secrets and lies permeate the story. Fear too. For 'Lulu' is fearful of not only being found out in her deception, but also of a man who is vengeful and murderous. Meanwhile, the vacationing residents of the villa who hired Lulu have their own secrets, antagonisms, veiled hostilities, and deceptions.
The south of France setting exudes cloying heat, unease, restlessness, and edginess.
I was shocked and wary of the many ways that grifters can prey on the unsuspecting. Ingenious ways to part innocent travellers and others from their money and possessions. Reading this novel will cause me to be much more suspicious and cautious when I travel in future.
Some aspects of the story stretched credibility though. Lulu was hired as a chef and she hardly knew how to cook. She didn't seem too stressed about this - I would have been sweating bullets! And why didn't the affluent family she worked for suspect?
The novel was a slow burn and filled with tension. I did find the ending to be somewhat underwhelming though.
As with all of the novels I've read by this author, the writing keeps you gripped, the characters are convincing, and the setting atmospheric. Themes of duplicity, greed, and exploitation permeate this enjoyable read from Sabine Durrant!
This novel explores how our early experiences mold our personalities in adulthood. Our protagonist, 'Lulu' is not a bad person, but she has done very bad things. Lulu is not really Lulu of course, this is just a persona Ali has claimed as her own after she reached a point of desperation in her own life.
Secrets and lies permeate the story. Fear too. For 'Lulu' is fearful of not only being found out in her deception, but also of a man who is vengeful and murderous. Meanwhile, the vacationing residents of the villa who hired Lulu have their own secrets, antagonisms, veiled hostilities, and deceptions.
The south of France setting exudes cloying heat, unease, restlessness, and edginess.
I was shocked and wary of the many ways that grifters can prey on the unsuspecting. Ingenious ways to part innocent travellers and others from their money and possessions. Reading this novel will cause me to be much more suspicious and cautious when I travel in future.
Some aspects of the story stretched credibility though. Lulu was hired as a chef and she hardly knew how to cook. She didn't seem too stressed about this - I would have been sweating bullets! And why didn't the affluent family she worked for suspect?
The novel was a slow burn and filled with tension. I did find the ending to be somewhat underwhelming though.
As with all of the novels I've read by this author, the writing keeps you gripped, the characters are convincing, and the setting atmospheric. Themes of duplicity, greed, and exploitation permeate this enjoyable read from Sabine Durrant!
dnf
August 23, 2023DNF @30%. I'm bored.
September 20, 2023
Channeling “Ripley” from Patricia Highsmith.
March 21, 2023
I spent a lot of this book thinking that I may have had my fill of female-Ripley knockoffs. I've read more than a few. They are starting to feel a bit like retreads. This one mostly differentiates itself by giving its protagonist a conscience, which is actually kind of annoying because guilt on the page starts to feel very repetitive.
I was getting rather tired of it, frustrated with it, annoyed enough that I might have quit if I hadn't needed an audiobook so much, but then the last bit turned it around and finally got interesting again. It took too long to get interesting again.
The thing is, if you are pretending to be someone else, and you don't actually have any of the qualifications that person has, let's say you take their job as a cook, I do not believe for a single second that the people paying you to cook for them would believe you are a cook and wouldn't fire you. And I spent soooooo long in this book thinking that this was far too absurd to be believable that I struggled to really care all that much while we were in this slower part of the book. The stakes were already much lower, and this was an even bigger flaw than its lack of believability. It's unclear why our protagonist is where she is, why she isn't elsewhere when she has better options available, why she doesn't hightail it out the minute someone is the slightest bit skeptical. And it doesn't matter if anyone believes she is who she says she is when she can just disappear and everything will not be a tragedy, it will be... fine. Anyway. The middle of this book made no sense. The beginning and end were interesting enough to keep me around, though.
I was getting rather tired of it, frustrated with it, annoyed enough that I might have quit if I hadn't needed an audiobook so much, but then the last bit turned it around and finally got interesting again. It took too long to get interesting again.
The thing is, if you are pretending to be someone else, and you don't actually have any of the qualifications that person has, let's say you take their job as a cook, I do not believe for a single second that the people paying you to cook for them would believe you are a cook and wouldn't fire you. And I spent soooooo long in this book thinking that this was far too absurd to be believable that I struggled to really care all that much while we were in this slower part of the book. The stakes were already much lower, and this was an even bigger flaw than its lack of believability. It's unclear why our protagonist is where she is, why she isn't elsewhere when she has better options available, why she doesn't hightail it out the minute someone is the slightest bit skeptical. And it doesn't matter if anyone believes she is who she says she is when she can just disappear and everything will not be a tragedy, it will be... fine. Anyway. The middle of this book made no sense. The beginning and end were interesting enough to keep me around, though.
February 7, 2025
This was a letdown!
What on Earth is that synopsis?! It's misleading. The story is about a woman named Ali, who is a grifter. After a con goes wrong, Ali decides to leave her partner Sean and accepts a job as a chef at a French villa where a group of friends is spending their holidays. But Ali is pretending to be Lulu, the woman she and Sean were scamming, and has to be careful or the guests will find out she's not who she's supposed to be. Also, there's the chance that Sean may be trying to find her, so Ali is constantly looking over her shoulder.
It's possible this sounds promising but the story was quite boring. It was hard to like the characters, especially Ali. For a scammer, she had very little charisma. I did like that Durrant provided Ali's character with a solid, interesting, background, but that was just it.
I also thought that there were many pointless dialogues and details, and there were moments when I couldn't care for what was happening.
This was my first book by Durrant. I had no idea what to expect but I'm not sure if I'll ever pick another book of hers.
What on Earth is that synopsis?! It's misleading. The story is about a woman named Ali, who is a grifter. After a con goes wrong, Ali decides to leave her partner Sean and accepts a job as a chef at a French villa where a group of friends is spending their holidays. But Ali is pretending to be Lulu, the woman she and Sean were scamming, and has to be careful or the guests will find out she's not who she's supposed to be. Also, there's the chance that Sean may be trying to find her, so Ali is constantly looking over her shoulder.
It's possible this sounds promising but the story was quite boring. It was hard to like the characters, especially Ali. For a scammer, she had very little charisma. I did like that Durrant provided Ali's character with a solid, interesting, background, but that was just it.
I also thought that there were many pointless dialogues and details, and there were moments when I couldn't care for what was happening.
This was my first book by Durrant. I had no idea what to expect but I'm not sure if I'll ever pick another book of hers.
April 19, 2023
I first fell in love with Durrant’s writing when I read LIE WITH ME in 2016, loving the way she portrayed her flawed, dysfunctional character and how she conjured up a perfect, atmospheric backdrop for her story.
SUN DAMAGE features similar themes. Just like her 2016’s Paul Morris counterpart, Ali has made a mess of her life and has no qualms about cheating others out of their hard-earned cash. And yet, once I got past the first few chapters, I could not help but feel for her and found myself firmly on her side as the story unfolded. And then there is the delicious setting in the South of France: the cute bougainvillea shrouded houses, sapphire swimming pools, tiny boulangeries selling coffee and tasty pastries, a hot, languid breeze sweeping in from the South. This was armchair travel at its best!
With the same skill she used in LIE WITH ME, the idyllic atmosphere clashed with an escalating threat of tension and danger, keeping me enthralled until the very end. This is all I am willing to say, because SUN DAMAGE is the type of book you best jump into blindly and let it surprise you. I thoroughly enjoyed the audio version of this story, which allowed me to fully immerse myself into the atmosphere (and get my daily step count up by wanting to listen “just a little bit longer” on my walks). A twisty, well-plotted and character driven mystery that makes for the perfect beach or holiday read.
4.5 stars
*blog* *facebook* *instagram*
SUN DAMAGE features similar themes. Just like her 2016’s Paul Morris counterpart, Ali has made a mess of her life and has no qualms about cheating others out of their hard-earned cash. And yet, once I got past the first few chapters, I could not help but feel for her and found myself firmly on her side as the story unfolded. And then there is the delicious setting in the South of France: the cute bougainvillea shrouded houses, sapphire swimming pools, tiny boulangeries selling coffee and tasty pastries, a hot, languid breeze sweeping in from the South. This was armchair travel at its best!
With the same skill she used in LIE WITH ME, the idyllic atmosphere clashed with an escalating threat of tension and danger, keeping me enthralled until the very end. This is all I am willing to say, because SUN DAMAGE is the type of book you best jump into blindly and let it surprise you. I thoroughly enjoyed the audio version of this story, which allowed me to fully immerse myself into the atmosphere (and get my daily step count up by wanting to listen “just a little bit longer” on my walks). A twisty, well-plotted and character driven mystery that makes for the perfect beach or holiday read.
4.5 stars
*blog* *facebook* *instagram*
November 25, 2024
THE GOOD:
I really enjoyed the first person telling and the voice of our leading lady.
Some lovely locations in France for the setting.
Our heroine is smart, fun, and interesting.
THE BAD:
I can’t say I was “wowed” by the ending, but it was satisfactory enough.
I don’t think the synopsis matches the book. It’s not specifically wrong, but the story is told through Lulu’s eyes, rather than the other characters’ suspicions. Plus, a good third of the book takes place before the big group vacation. And, yes, there are secrets, but it’s not as snipey as it sounds.
CONCLUSION:
Recommended. A fun suspense novel for a day at the beach.
I really enjoyed the first person telling and the voice of our leading lady.
Some lovely locations in France for the setting.
Our heroine is smart, fun, and interesting.
THE BAD:
I can’t say I was “wowed” by the ending, but it was satisfactory enough.
I don’t think the synopsis matches the book. It’s not specifically wrong, but the story is told through Lulu’s eyes, rather than the other characters’ suspicions. Plus, a good third of the book takes place before the big group vacation. And, yes, there are secrets, but it’s not as snipey as it sounds.
CONCLUSION:
Recommended. A fun suspense novel for a day at the beach.
March 10, 2023
I like it! I like it a lot!
The blurb only gives you a premise idea of the story, but Lulu's(not exactly Lulu) background story and how she ended up here are amazing. That is what ties her to the role she is playing here so well. Be it reading people, consciously stepping through the gaps or even portraying to be someone else. There was literally 1% of things I would say were difficult to pass, but everything else was likely woven well.
The thriller is definitely psychological and not very intense. Which made it easy to read and casually enjoy. A good companion for your next beach visit.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Genre: #thriller #mystery
Thank you @this_is_edelweiss @hodderbooks @harpercollins and @sabinedurrant for the digital review copy.
#sabinedurrant #sundamage
The blurb only gives you a premise idea of the story, but Lulu's(not exactly Lulu) background story and how she ended up here are amazing. That is what ties her to the role she is playing here so well. Be it reading people, consciously stepping through the gaps or even portraying to be someone else. There was literally 1% of things I would say were difficult to pass, but everything else was likely woven well.
The thriller is definitely psychological and not very intense. Which made it easy to read and casually enjoy. A good companion for your next beach visit.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Genre: #thriller #mystery
Thank you @this_is_edelweiss @hodderbooks @harpercollins and @sabinedurrant for the digital review copy.
#sabinedurrant #sundamage
June 6, 2022
If you’re looking for an excellent summer read to escape into while you’re lounging by the pool, here it is.
Sabine Durrant is quickly cementing her place as an incredibly solid and reliant voice in the psychological thriller genre. Her novels always seem to take a little bit to get going with that delicious slow-burning vibe to them and the focus is entirely on the characters. This is an author who shows remarkable insight into the human psyche.
All of that can be found in ‘Sun Damage‘. And then some. Our main character is a con artist. She relies heavily on her knowledge of people. The way they act, the way they talk and walk, the things that matter to them, what makes them tick, what they share on social media … ultimately these are all things a good con artist can use. She’s not doing it for kicks. She’s doing it because that’s the only life she knows. Unraveling the secrets of the guests at a remote villa in France may give her the opportunity to escape this life and the person who introduced her to it.
These nine guests may think they know one another pretty well but boy, are they wrong. It was quite a lot of fun discovering their dirty little secrets through the eyes of the main character and wondering how, when or if she’d ever use those skeletons in the closet against them. There’s a constant feeling of suspense, which sizzles off the pages like the heat. I often found myself wishing I could dip into a pool myself and I don’t even swim! There is also this sense of impending doom. Surely someone will pick up on the fact that there is something “off” about her. And then there is her mentor, so to speak, how far will he go to find her? You’ll learn soon enough he’s not exactly someone you want to know.
If you’re familiar with Sabine Durrant’s novels, then you know not to expect an action-packed thrill-a-minute psychological thriller. ‘Sun Damage‘ is an incredibly character driven delight. The pace is spot on, the scene is set remarkably well, and even at times when it felt as if nothing much was happen I was utterly engrossed. Despite not quite knowing if the main character is a reliable narrator and despite realising all of her intentions might not be exactly honourable, I did find myself firmly on her side. Will she be able to leave this life behind?
I realise this review is somewhat on the vague side and I’m even shying away from using names. That is because I’m worried I’ll be giving anything away, and you’ll enjoy this story so much more if you go in entirely blind like I did. Full of suspense, ‘Sun Damage‘ is a fabulously engrossing and compelling novel that I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish. My third outing with Sabine Durrant was yet another success and I very much look forward to whatever she comes up with next.
Sabine Durrant is quickly cementing her place as an incredibly solid and reliant voice in the psychological thriller genre. Her novels always seem to take a little bit to get going with that delicious slow-burning vibe to them and the focus is entirely on the characters. This is an author who shows remarkable insight into the human psyche.
All of that can be found in ‘Sun Damage‘. And then some. Our main character is a con artist. She relies heavily on her knowledge of people. The way they act, the way they talk and walk, the things that matter to them, what makes them tick, what they share on social media … ultimately these are all things a good con artist can use. She’s not doing it for kicks. She’s doing it because that’s the only life she knows. Unraveling the secrets of the guests at a remote villa in France may give her the opportunity to escape this life and the person who introduced her to it.
These nine guests may think they know one another pretty well but boy, are they wrong. It was quite a lot of fun discovering their dirty little secrets through the eyes of the main character and wondering how, when or if she’d ever use those skeletons in the closet against them. There’s a constant feeling of suspense, which sizzles off the pages like the heat. I often found myself wishing I could dip into a pool myself and I don’t even swim! There is also this sense of impending doom. Surely someone will pick up on the fact that there is something “off” about her. And then there is her mentor, so to speak, how far will he go to find her? You’ll learn soon enough he’s not exactly someone you want to know.
If you’re familiar with Sabine Durrant’s novels, then you know not to expect an action-packed thrill-a-minute psychological thriller. ‘Sun Damage‘ is an incredibly character driven delight. The pace is spot on, the scene is set remarkably well, and even at times when it felt as if nothing much was happen I was utterly engrossed. Despite not quite knowing if the main character is a reliable narrator and despite realising all of her intentions might not be exactly honourable, I did find myself firmly on her side. Will she be able to leave this life behind?
I realise this review is somewhat on the vague side and I’m even shying away from using names. That is because I’m worried I’ll be giving anything away, and you’ll enjoy this story so much more if you go in entirely blind like I did. Full of suspense, ‘Sun Damage‘ is a fabulously engrossing and compelling novel that I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish. My third outing with Sabine Durrant was yet another success and I very much look forward to whatever she comes up with next.
July 5, 2022
I always look forward to a new book from this talented author, and Sun Damage lived up to every expectation. It was my final read during my recent holiday in Corfu and the descriptions of the searing heat of the French setting was exquisitely done, especially as the temperatures in Greece soared that week too.
I'm not sure why Sabine Durrant doesn't get as much exposure as other crime fiction authors, her books are intelligently written with characters who the reader will love to hate, and cleverly structured plotting that never fails to impress me.
Ali is a con artist, pure and simple, and she's very good at it. She's teamed up with Sean who also makes his living from manipulating the rich, and a very good source of income it is proving to be, as they polish their tricks, becoming more daring with every scam they pull off.
However, even a con artist can have a heart, and when their latest scam goes seriously wrong, Ali flees. She finds herself working as a live-in cook to a group of wealthy Brits who are holidaying together in the South of France in a large house. How she ends up there is a journey in itself, and a very bumpy one at that. She assumes a different name and identity and within days has become a much relied upon staff member.
Ali is an observer, and she sees just what these people are. She sees their failings, and their deceptions and she remember them all. However, there are other observers there too and Ali needs to be one step ahead in order to keep up her story. Sabine Durrant has such a finesse with character creation, each one of these people have multiple flaws and they are delicately introduced, there's so much depth here.
Can you con a con artist though? This is the main theme of the plot, and when Sean catches up with Ali, she realises that the scam she thought was so awful, was in fact even worse than she could ever have imagined.
Sun Damage sizzles with suspense, it is an excellent look at Brits on holiday, domestic dramas and a first class thriller too. Highly recommended from me.
I'm not sure why Sabine Durrant doesn't get as much exposure as other crime fiction authors, her books are intelligently written with characters who the reader will love to hate, and cleverly structured plotting that never fails to impress me.
Ali is a con artist, pure and simple, and she's very good at it. She's teamed up with Sean who also makes his living from manipulating the rich, and a very good source of income it is proving to be, as they polish their tricks, becoming more daring with every scam they pull off.
However, even a con artist can have a heart, and when their latest scam goes seriously wrong, Ali flees. She finds herself working as a live-in cook to a group of wealthy Brits who are holidaying together in the South of France in a large house. How she ends up there is a journey in itself, and a very bumpy one at that. She assumes a different name and identity and within days has become a much relied upon staff member.
Ali is an observer, and she sees just what these people are. She sees their failings, and their deceptions and she remember them all. However, there are other observers there too and Ali needs to be one step ahead in order to keep up her story. Sabine Durrant has such a finesse with character creation, each one of these people have multiple flaws and they are delicately introduced, there's so much depth here.
Can you con a con artist though? This is the main theme of the plot, and when Sean catches up with Ali, she realises that the scam she thought was so awful, was in fact even worse than she could ever have imagined.
Sun Damage sizzles with suspense, it is an excellent look at Brits on holiday, domestic dramas and a first class thriller too. Highly recommended from me.
June 25, 2023
3.5 / 5
There’s nothing wrong with this book in particular, but it didn’t have anything special or unique about it. I didn’t have any expectations with this book, nor have I read any books from Sabine Durrant.
The book follows Ali (who is mostly in first perspective), and Sean who make a living conning people out. They work together to devise plans and target anyone. Given that they are a two man team, it immediately adds to their credibility luring victims in. This changes when they met Lulu and Ali’s plan changes. I won’t reveal anyone has it would be considered a spoiler, but if you read the first 100 pages of the book and read the blurb you’ll find that it doesn’t match at all. It’s only after 100 pages where it clicks into place. But in general I did find it predictable, I knew what was going to happen and it did exactly that.
That being said I don’t think the book has anything wrong, I just didn’t enjoy it as much because it wasn’t my cup of tea. It’s a slow build up of events that reaches it peak. I found the ending anticlimactic, although the ending is satisfying it was wrapped up pretty quickly, which led me to question why take so long building up the plot and characters for it to end straight away. Overall, I see this as a book I’ll lively forget due to how predictable it was.
There’s nothing wrong with this book in particular, but it didn’t have anything special or unique about it. I didn’t have any expectations with this book, nor have I read any books from Sabine Durrant.
The book follows Ali (who is mostly in first perspective), and Sean who make a living conning people out. They work together to devise plans and target anyone. Given that they are a two man team, it immediately adds to their credibility luring victims in. This changes when they met Lulu and Ali’s plan changes. I won’t reveal anyone has it would be considered a spoiler, but if you read the first 100 pages of the book and read the blurb you’ll find that it doesn’t match at all. It’s only after 100 pages where it clicks into place. But in general I did find it predictable, I knew what was going to happen and it did exactly that.
That being said I don’t think the book has anything wrong, I just didn’t enjoy it as much because it wasn’t my cup of tea. It’s a slow build up of events that reaches it peak. I found the ending anticlimactic, although the ending is satisfying it was wrapped up pretty quickly, which led me to question why take so long building up the plot and characters for it to end straight away. Overall, I see this as a book I’ll lively forget due to how predictable it was.
May 27, 2022
I usually find myself enjoying Sabine Durrant's books and when I saw she had a new release, I jumped at the chance to read it!
This story had me interested from the start, as I wasn't expecting it to be involving con artists (something I don't think I've read about) and so that really made me pay attention.
I found this to be an easy read that flowed very well. The characters were well defined and it was clear throughout who was talking. Sometimes in books with multiple characters they all blur into one, not with this book!
I liked how the story was told from Ali's perspective as I found her to be likeable and engaging.
I did have one slight problem however. Right up until the last third, I felt I wanted more to happen plotwise. Apart from that, this was another great read for me from the fab Sabine Durrant. I will definitely be reading her next novel.
Thanks to Hodder & Stoughton and Netgalley for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review
This story had me interested from the start, as I wasn't expecting it to be involving con artists (something I don't think I've read about) and so that really made me pay attention.
I found this to be an easy read that flowed very well. The characters were well defined and it was clear throughout who was talking. Sometimes in books with multiple characters they all blur into one, not with this book!
I liked how the story was told from Ali's perspective as I found her to be likeable and engaging.
I did have one slight problem however. Right up until the last third, I felt I wanted more to happen plotwise. Apart from that, this was another great read for me from the fab Sabine Durrant. I will definitely be reading her next novel.
Thanks to Hodder & Stoughton and Netgalley for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review
July 15, 2022
Sun Damage is a novel that crackles with suspense. Initially shocking, set in Sainte-Cécile-sur-Mer, South of France, Sabine Durrant serves up a thriller that I couldn't tear my eyes from, even though other activities competed for attention. The tale focuses on Ali, a young woman from a difficult background, who is with conman Sean, travelling around tourist spots, preying on strangers with money. With wonderfully complex characters, the author's writing is stylish and the plot is deliciously dark. A perfect read for the summer, I can't wait to see what comes from Sabine Durrant's pen going forward.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Hodder & Stoughton via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Hodder & Stoughton via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 29, 2024
An enjoyable enough psychological thriller. A likeable writing style and easy to read. I was transported to the villa in the south of France, where 9 people meet all with differing secrets to keep. It's a great poolside read, with enough twists and turns to keep your interest. A well developed female con artist lead, trapped in a relationship with a conman who doesn't want to let her go. Good stuff
July 12, 2023
This is tricky to review without giving too much away so here’s what I think you should know before reading.
From the synopsis: Reminiscent of the works of Patricia Highsmith and Lucy Foley, a compulsive psychological thriller—“the perfect poolside reading” ( Guardian )—involving gorgeous grifters on the loose in the south of France who prey on a group of unsuspecting vacationers . . . and each other. The heat is intense. The secrets are stifling. And there is no escape.
So a perfect summer setting with some glitz and glam, con artists masquerading as people they aren’t and plenty of drama and intrigue. This is the definition of a slow burn with things leading to a sizzling conclusion that was very satisfying and worth the wait for me. It had the vibes of a sophisticated beach read, maybe because of the setting but overall this was a delicious slow burn thriller that I really enjoyed.
From the synopsis: Reminiscent of the works of Patricia Highsmith and Lucy Foley, a compulsive psychological thriller—“the perfect poolside reading” ( Guardian )—involving gorgeous grifters on the loose in the south of France who prey on a group of unsuspecting vacationers . . . and each other. The heat is intense. The secrets are stifling. And there is no escape.
So a perfect summer setting with some glitz and glam, con artists masquerading as people they aren’t and plenty of drama and intrigue. This is the definition of a slow burn with things leading to a sizzling conclusion that was very satisfying and worth the wait for me. It had the vibes of a sophisticated beach read, maybe because of the setting but overall this was a delicious slow burn thriller that I really enjoyed.
February 13, 2024
Like many other readers, I loved the premise of this book and thought it would be something I’d enjoy - the south of France is an awesome setting and the remoteness of the villa was appealing. Unfortunately, I really couldn’t take to the main characters and my dislike intensified with each chapter. I think this one is a read that you’ll either love or, for want of a better word, hate. Sadly I was more the latter.
March 5, 2023
Definitely read Sun Damage poolside this summer. You’ll be swept up in the southern France atmosphere and then captivated by the con-artist turned chef trying to hold the whole plot together.
I received an arc of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Out August 1.
I received an arc of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Out August 1.
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