The Guest: A Novel

Hm. 4 stars is higher than this deserves but I was along for the ride. Most of the book felt like a story of a bunch of busy bodies just sticking their noses in other people's business.

The epilogue wrapped everything up but I wish it had been woven into the story along the way instead of a “tada! Here's what actually happened!” 

This book on track to a 3.5 until the epilogue. I love when mysteries like this end are tied with a bow, a play-by-play of the entire novel with reveals of what was really going on along the way. It should have been obvious, but I did not ever expect Iris as the killer and that the reason why is because Pierre was Beth's father. I can see some readers not liking this reveal, but I did probably only because of how well it was illustrated in the epilogue.

A Roller-Coaster of Deceit and Suspense!”


I just finished devouring “The Guest” by B.A. Paris, and let me tell you, it's taken me a day to gather my thoughts because I'm still reeling from the twists and turns. This book left me speechless, and I couldn't predict the ending if my life depended on it. It's not often that I halt everything to finish a book, but yesterday, life took a backseat until I uncovered every last detail. I've already sung its praises to my colleagues, and I'm eager for a Macedonian translation so my mother can join in on the thrill. I might even replay her reading it aloud once more, despite having just finished it myself.

Let me kick things off by declaring my unwavering admiration for B.A. Paris. Ever since “Behind Closed Doors,” she's been a favorite of mine, and “The Guest” only solidifies her brilliance. This psychological thriller is like an irresistible vortex, sucking you in from the get-go.

We're thrust into the lives of Iris and Gabriel as they return from vacation to find an unexpected intruder in their midst. As the summer unfolds, the collision of diverse characters sets off a chain reaction of strained relationships, unveiled secrets, and simmering jealousy and tension.

Paris's character development is superb, evoking a whirlwind of emotions. The rage and frustration practically leap off the pages, making for a gripping roller-coaster ride of feelings. I found myself entangled in a complex web of deceit that only grew more intricate as the story progressed. “The Guest” held me captive until the very last page, refusing to release its grip. Put simply, I couldn't put it down.
Thank you Netgalley for this eArc I truly loved it

First and foremost, thank you to NetGalley for this ARC/ALC copy!

I think there needs to be a new genre for this type of book. This is NOT a thriller, nor a suspense, and barely a mystery. I'd call this a slow burn Domestic Drama. Misrepresenting the genre of a book will only lead to disappointed readers and lower overall reviews, but I will not lay that blame on the author.

In any case, I thought The Guest was okay for what it was, and was planning on giving it a nice 4 stars...until the epilogue. The pacing was a little off throughout the story, but then we hit the end and it's like Paris had a deadline and was forced to write the final 50 pages under duress. Suddenly we were served the most egregious “tell didn't show” info dump I've ever read, and I was SO disappointed. I love twists in the epilogue, but when so little interesting happens in the book proper, and you are then told everything exciting in the last few pages it leaves you deflated. Such a shame, because I'm a fan of BA Paris' other works.

I wanted to love this, but I didn't and i'm sorry :/