The Guest: A Novel

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 :/

I just finished The Guest by B.A Paris and here are my thoughts.

Iris and Gabriel arrive home from their vacation to find their friend Laure has been staying there in their absence. She has left her husband after he admits to having an affair and having a child with her. They are also friends with Pierre which makes it hard for the couple.

Laure, the longer she stays, the bigger the toll it starts to take on the pair of them. The only reprieve coming from their new neighbors. With them they bring a gardener, a man with a dark past but then again, they all have secrets and as they unravel.... Some are more dangerous than any of them knew.

I was super excited to get an ARC of this one. I thought that the pacing was a bit slow for a psychological thriller and too much time was spent in the past with Gabriel and Iris having Laure for a house guest. It just seemed excessive to me.

I also did not like any of the characters. They were all unlikeable which I am normally OK with in thrillers but this had more of a drama vibe rather than a thriller.

What saved the book? THE ENDING!!! I didn't see it coming. It was like being slammed into space on a catapult! I usually see these things coming but nope!

Short chapters which I loved, I also liked the writing style. As my first book by the author, I would definitely read another. The twists were expertly woven enough to overlook everything else.

3.75 stars rounded to 4

Thank you to @stmartinspress and @netgalley for my gifted copy. OUT NOW!

B.A. Paris is one of my favorite suspense authors and this one did not disappoint. It's basically a story that revolves around two married couples and long-time friends–Iris and Gabriel live in the country and Laure and Pierre who lives in Paris. One day Laure shows up and asks to stay for a while - she and Pierre are having marital issues and she just wants to get away. And there's where the whirlwind starts as we see Laure vastly outstay her welcome and more and more intrigue and mystery come to light about what is really going on in this novel. Everyone is keeping secrets and it all culminates quite late in the pages in an explosive denouement I did not see coming. It's twisted and taut and great fun to follow. If you like unreliable characters, plots that go every which way, and fascinating character studies, I recommend you pick up The Guest.

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!”