The Writing Retreat by Julia BartzMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Thank you to Booklist for the ARC and the opportunity to review this title.
Thirty-year-old Alex dreams of being a writer. Stuck in a job she hates, Alex jumps at the chance to take part in a writing retreat held at the reclusive Blackbriar estate, home to horror author and feminist icon Roza Vallo. Even the appearance of her former best friend, Wren, doesn’t take away from Alex’s excitement. However, once the retreat begins, Roza throws the attendees quite a curve—they must each complete a novel from scratch, and the writer who produces the best work will get a million-dollar publishing deal. Alex and the other attendees immediately immerse themselves in the challenge, while attempting to ignore the odd happenings that begin to take place at Blackbriar. But when one of the writers disappears, Alex and the others realize there is something nefarious going on. Bartz’s debut is stomach-clenchingly thrilling from beginning to end. Blackbriar and its vivid inhabitants are brought to life by Bartz with consummate skill. Alex is beautifully flawed; readers will connect with her in multiple ways. The plot is psychologically jarring and fast paced, with several surprises that will excite even the most well read mystery aficionado. Highly recommended for fans of authors like Ruth Ware and Riley Sager whose psychological suspense fiction typically features intelligent female leads. Booklist 2023.
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