An Unwanted Guest

This was my first novel by Shari Lapena and it did not disappoint. I don't think it was anything magical or extraordinary but it did all the things I want my thriller novels to do- it shocked, excited and took me unawares. I have never had an easier time getting through a novel and I am officially in love with Lapena's writing style and will be reading all her other works as soon as possible. I don't think it was the most shocking or mind blowing thriller ever but it still took me by surprise and I was not able to foresee the ending, even a little bit. Consider me a fan!

An Unwanted Guest by Shari Lapena is about a group of people who get snowed in inside of a beautiful hotel and as people start getting murdered, things transpire and nerves run rampant. This is not my first “locked-in”, murderer amongst them novel and yet it was extremely enjoyable. The plot isn't anything amazing or earth-shattering but the way that the story was delivered, it was more than able to keep my attention for the long haul. It also really helped that I could not guess who the murderer was for the life of me, so I am an instant fan. Also the snowed-in atmosphere aspect of it was very enjoyable.

Further on, the characterization was above average. Because Shari Lapena's writing is very direct and to the point, we weren't able to get as in-depth into the characters as I would have preferred and yet I found all the different individuals fascinating and they didn't aggravate me in the least. Also, I had no problem remembering who was who and that made the reading experience even better. We definitely got a good taste into who all the people were, if not really into their souls or beyond. All in all, not bad.

Thirdly, the writing style was my favorite part of this whole novel. Often, I have a hard time just letting go and escaping into a story because I feel like I have to go back and reread parts of the novel for fear of having missed something crucial because the writing was so complex. Not with this book. On the contrary, I sped through the book like I've never sped through a book before in my life and I was able to finish it in record time for me. I love that Lapena's writing is so direct and to the point and she never beats around the bush. What a treat! I will be picking up her other novels, if only just for that.

In conclusion, this novel was extremely enjoyable to me even if the premise was somewhat predictable and overdone. I wasn't able to guess who the murderer was but maybe other more seasoned thriller readers would be able to. It's not a book that I would undoubtedly recommend to everyone but for people getting into the thriller genre I think it would be more than enjoyable.