Friends in Napa

2.5 Stars

My First, Amazon First Reads, taste test.

It had so much potential. I wish we had more from Rachel and Anjali. More dialogue talking, thrill, and discovery but we get none of that. It needs better explanations, like we missed all the good drama cause it was off screen. I liked the setting, the wine, and the women coming together.

I would not categorize this book as a mystery or thriller. I needed more action, thrill, mystery, and dialogue.

Book Review: Friends in Napa by Sheila Yasmin Marikar

Rating: 2 Stars

As I delved into “Friends in Napa” by Sheila Yasmin Marikar, I was excited to explore the luxurious world of Napa Valley alongside six old friends reuniting for a weekend getaway. The premise promised a dark comedy brimming with fine wine, simmering tensions, and unexpected twists.

However, my experience with the book left me wanting more.

The story revolves around Raj and Rachel Ranjani, who invite their college pals for a celebratory weekend in their vineyard mansion. What begins as a promising reunion soon unravels into a series of conflicts and hidden agendas, culminating in a shocking turn of events.

While the setting of Napa Valley exudes opulence and sophistication, the pacing of the plot felt sluggish, failing to build suspense effectively. The characters, touted as complex with deep-seated resentments and secrets, fell flat, lacking the depth needed to truly engage me as a reader. As tensions escalated, I found myself detached from their predicaments, unable to fully invest in their fates.

The climax, which should have been a crescendo of suspense and revelation, instead fell short, leaving me underwhelmed and craving a more impactful resolution. Despite the promising premise and the allure of a dark comedy, “Friends in Napa” failed to deliver the gripping narrative I had anticipated.

While the cover art of the book is visually appealing and the synopsis holds great promise, my overall experience with the novel was marred by its slow pace, one-dimensional characters, and lackluster conclusion. As much as I wanted to love this book, it fell short of my expectations. Yet, as with any reading experience, not every book will resonate with every reader, and “Friends in Napa” may find its audience among those seeking a light read set against the backdrop of wine country.

In conclusion, “Friends in Napa” by Sheila Yasmin Marikar may not have been the captivating read I had hoped for, but it serves as a reminder that literary tastes vary widely among readers, and what doesn't resonate with one may well enchant another.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️