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Retreat
A beautiful con artist insinuates herself into a wealthy socialite’s life . . . with deadly consequences, in this serpentine thriller about identity and obsession, from actress, director and bestselling author Krysten Ritter.
Liz Dawson weaves through a crowd with the ease of a tropical breeze, moving seamlessly through elite circles, sparking instant connections and making every new acquaintance feel like an intimate friend. She’s clever, smooth, and confident—qualities that make her a brilliant serial con artist.
Isabelle Beresford is strikingly beautiful, obscenely wealthy, and the new owner of Casa Esmerelda, a fabulous villa on the Mexican coast—attributes that make her the perfect mark. When she offers Liz a job handling the installation of a piece of art in her otherwise vacant home, Liz can’t resist the allure of a beach retreat. She longs for a reset, a chance to finally shed the grip of her addiction to the conning game.
But when Liz, with her lush dark hair and intense green eyes, is mistaken for Isabelle herself, Liz can’t help effortlessly slipping into the socialite’s identity. The transition is so easeful, it almost feels like fate. But just who is Isabelle Beresford really, and why does she seem to have abandoned this stunning life of hers?
As Liz insinuates herself deeper into the dazzling—and deceptive—world of the Punta Mita resort community, she draws closer to the dangers surrounding the real Isabelle. Dangers that may have already ensnared Liz, too. This might not be the con of her life—but the con that ends it.
Liz Dawson weaves through a crowd with the ease of a tropical breeze, moving seamlessly through elite circles, sparking instant connections and making every new acquaintance feel like an intimate friend. She’s clever, smooth, and confident—qualities that make her a brilliant serial con artist.
Isabelle Beresford is strikingly beautiful, obscenely wealthy, and the new owner of Casa Esmerelda, a fabulous villa on the Mexican coast—attributes that make her the perfect mark. When she offers Liz a job handling the installation of a piece of art in her otherwise vacant home, Liz can’t resist the allure of a beach retreat. She longs for a reset, a chance to finally shed the grip of her addiction to the conning game.
But when Liz, with her lush dark hair and intense green eyes, is mistaken for Isabelle herself, Liz can’t help effortlessly slipping into the socialite’s identity. The transition is so easeful, it almost feels like fate. But just who is Isabelle Beresford really, and why does she seem to have abandoned this stunning life of hers?
As Liz insinuates herself deeper into the dazzling—and deceptive—world of the Punta Mita resort community, she draws closer to the dangers surrounding the real Isabelle. Dangers that may have already ensnared Liz, too. This might not be the con of her life—but the con that ends it.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published March 25, 2025
495 people are currently reading
41.4k people want to read
About the author
Krysten Ritter
5books2,606followersKRYSTEN RITTER is well known for her starring roles in the award winning Netflix original series, Marvel's Jessica Jones, and cult favorite, Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23, as well as her pivotal role on AMC’s Breaking Bad. Krysten’s work on film includes Big Eyes, Listen Up Philip, Life Happens, Confessions of a Shopaholic and She’s Out of My League. She is the founder of Silent Machine, a production company which aims to highlight complex female protagonists. Ritter and her dog Mikey split their time between New York and Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
March 23, 2025
Oh this book was so much fun to read! I do love a good con story and Retreat is just one big twist and turn after another. A gorgeous setting in Mexico with the rich and beautiful added that extra charm to the story.
Despite what she was doing, I really liked the character of Liz. Yes she was doing some pretty awful things but I could help but want her to get away with it all. The people she was conning were not exactly very likeable after all. I didn’t see any of it coming, although thinking back now I should have!! This job in Mexico is the con of a lifetime and she needs all her tricks and games for it.
If you loved Krysten’s first book Bonfire, then you have to grab Retreat. It is a quick and easy read, very entertaining but quite dark and twisted.
Thanks so much to Little, Brown Book Group UK for my advanced copy to read from NetGalley. Publishes on March 25th.
Despite what she was doing, I really liked the character of Liz. Yes she was doing some pretty awful things but I could help but want her to get away with it all. The people she was conning were not exactly very likeable after all. I didn’t see any of it coming, although thinking back now I should have!! This job in Mexico is the con of a lifetime and she needs all her tricks and games for it.
If you loved Krysten’s first book Bonfire, then you have to grab Retreat. It is a quick and easy read, very entertaining but quite dark and twisted.
Thanks so much to Little, Brown Book Group UK for my advanced copy to read from NetGalley. Publishes on March 25th.
February 2, 2025
Krysten Ritter’s upcoming thriller, RETREAT, has been on my TBR for awhile now! I didn’t have a chance to read Ritter’s debut Bonfire, but I heard it was great, so I knew that I would prioritize. This one. RETREAT is the perfect cocktail for fans of Liv Constantine and Rachel Koller Croft!
Liz Dawson moves effortlessly through elite circles, charming everyone she meets—a skill that makes her a brilliant con artist. When she’s hired by the glamorous, mysterious Isabelle Beresford to manage an art installation at her Mexican villa, Liz sees a chance for a fresh start. But when Liz is mistaken for Isabelle, she slips into the role with ease, only to discover that the real danger may lie in the life she’s stolen.
I had a total blast with this book, yet I did know exactly how it would play out. It didn’t steer me away at all because Ritter’s writing was compelling, and at times cheeky, which I absolutely loved. Liz is very fun to love to hate, but you can’t help but root for her at the same time. Although I did know what was going to play out, the very end took me for a complete shock. I will definitely read more from Krysten Ritter if she chooses to write in the thriller space in the future.
Liz Dawson moves effortlessly through elite circles, charming everyone she meets—a skill that makes her a brilliant con artist. When she’s hired by the glamorous, mysterious Isabelle Beresford to manage an art installation at her Mexican villa, Liz sees a chance for a fresh start. But when Liz is mistaken for Isabelle, she slips into the role with ease, only to discover that the real danger may lie in the life she’s stolen.
I had a total blast with this book, yet I did know exactly how it would play out. It didn’t steer me away at all because Ritter’s writing was compelling, and at times cheeky, which I absolutely loved. Liz is very fun to love to hate, but you can’t help but root for her at the same time. Although I did know what was going to play out, the very end took me for a complete shock. I will definitely read more from Krysten Ritter if she chooses to write in the thriller space in the future.
March 31, 2025
Both a quick, easy read and a dark, intoxicating tale of deceit, Krysten Ritter had me in the palm of her hand with her newest novel, Retreat. With a well-written con-artist protagonist and layers upon layers of secrets and lies, this twisty psychological thriller took me on quite the unforgettable ride. After all, thanks to one truly epic game of cat-and-mouse and plenty of rich people behaving badly in an exotic locale, there wasn’t a moment of downtime from beginning to end. Besides, who doesn’t love a bad girl who just might get away with it all?
Speaking of the characters, their souls ran the gamut from morally gray to as black as could be. Despite the various unlikeable personas, I nevertheless found them all uniquely compelling in spite of their over-the-top feel. Alongside a plot that felt original notwithstanding its rather predictable ending, I was sucked in by the slow build-up to the deliciously unhinged climax and conclusion. With a script-flipping twist that was delivered via dual POVs, I was sucked in from the very first word even though I’d figured it out long before the first perfectly timed reveal.
The only pieces to this unputdownable narrative that weren’t exactly a home run were the open-ended conclusion and how I guessed all of the twists. Looking at them both a little closer, I’ve covered the latter already and the former could’ve been my own personal problem. You see, I’m a stickler for having everything wrapped up with a nice, pretty, little bow before I hit the last word. Nonetheless, Ritter pulled off quite the win with a tale so addictive that it had me finishing it in one single sitting—although in hindsight it might be best for suspense/thriller newbies.
All said and done, I was duly impressed by this new escapist read. Perfect for the beach or even just an evening at home, Liz/Isabelle delivered a riveting popcorn thriller in under 300 pages. With a fast pace, suspenseful plot, and oodles of clues amidst the foreboding, I just couldn’t get enough of these chess-like games. Yeah—so I foresaw quite a bit. That still didn’t detract from the characters I loved to hate or the intrigue that grew with each page. So if you’re a fan of Liv Constantine or the con-artist trope, order this book now. After all, it absolutely sizzled in every sense of the word. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS
Liz Dawson weaves through a crowd with the ease of a tropical breeze, moving seamlessly through elite circles, sparking instant connections and making every new acquaintance feel like an intimate friend. She’s clever, smooth, and confident—qualities that make her a brilliant serial con artist.
Isabelle Beresford is strikingly beautiful, obscenely wealthy, and the new owner of Casa Esmerelda, a fabulous villa on the Mexican coast—attributes that make her the perfect mark. When she offers Liz a job handling the installation of a piece of art in her otherwise vacant home, Liz can’t resist the allure of a beach retreat. She longs for a reset, a chance to finally shed the grip of her addiction to the conning game.
But when Liz, with her lush dark hair and intense green eyes, is mistaken for Isabelle herself, Liz can’t help effortlessly slipping into the socialite’s identity. The transition is so easeful, it almost feels like fate. But just who is Isabelle Beresford really, and why does she seem to have abandoned this stunning life of hers?
As Liz insinuates herself deeper into the dazzling—and deceptive—world of the Punta Mita resort community, she draws closer to the dangers surrounding the real Isabelle. Dangers that may have already ensnared Liz, too. This might not be the con of her life—but the con that ends it.
Thank you to Krysten Ritter, Lindsay Jamieson, and Harper Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 25, 2025
Content warning: con artistry, infidelity, violence, stalking, drowning
Speaking of the characters, their souls ran the gamut from morally gray to as black as could be. Despite the various unlikeable personas, I nevertheless found them all uniquely compelling in spite of their over-the-top feel. Alongside a plot that felt original notwithstanding its rather predictable ending, I was sucked in by the slow build-up to the deliciously unhinged climax and conclusion. With a script-flipping twist that was delivered via dual POVs, I was sucked in from the very first word even though I’d figured it out long before the first perfectly timed reveal.
The only pieces to this unputdownable narrative that weren’t exactly a home run were the open-ended conclusion and how I guessed all of the twists. Looking at them both a little closer, I’ve covered the latter already and the former could’ve been my own personal problem. You see, I’m a stickler for having everything wrapped up with a nice, pretty, little bow before I hit the last word. Nonetheless, Ritter pulled off quite the win with a tale so addictive that it had me finishing it in one single sitting—although in hindsight it might be best for suspense/thriller newbies.
All said and done, I was duly impressed by this new escapist read. Perfect for the beach or even just an evening at home, Liz/Isabelle delivered a riveting popcorn thriller in under 300 pages. With a fast pace, suspenseful plot, and oodles of clues amidst the foreboding, I just couldn’t get enough of these chess-like games. Yeah—so I foresaw quite a bit. That still didn’t detract from the characters I loved to hate or the intrigue that grew with each page. So if you’re a fan of Liv Constantine or the con-artist trope, order this book now. After all, it absolutely sizzled in every sense of the word. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS
Liz Dawson weaves through a crowd with the ease of a tropical breeze, moving seamlessly through elite circles, sparking instant connections and making every new acquaintance feel like an intimate friend. She’s clever, smooth, and confident—qualities that make her a brilliant serial con artist.
Isabelle Beresford is strikingly beautiful, obscenely wealthy, and the new owner of Casa Esmerelda, a fabulous villa on the Mexican coast—attributes that make her the perfect mark. When she offers Liz a job handling the installation of a piece of art in her otherwise vacant home, Liz can’t resist the allure of a beach retreat. She longs for a reset, a chance to finally shed the grip of her addiction to the conning game.
But when Liz, with her lush dark hair and intense green eyes, is mistaken for Isabelle herself, Liz can’t help effortlessly slipping into the socialite’s identity. The transition is so easeful, it almost feels like fate. But just who is Isabelle Beresford really, and why does she seem to have abandoned this stunning life of hers?
As Liz insinuates herself deeper into the dazzling—and deceptive—world of the Punta Mita resort community, she draws closer to the dangers surrounding the real Isabelle. Dangers that may have already ensnared Liz, too. This might not be the con of her life—but the con that ends it.
Thank you to Krysten Ritter, Lindsay Jamieson, and Harper Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 25, 2025
Content warning: con artistry, infidelity, violence, stalking, drowning
February 7, 2025
#ad many thanks to @harperbooks for my copy of this book and @netgalley for the ebook.
"Everyone thought they knew you, when really no one knew you at all," (p. 3). ((To be checked against finished copy)
All the stars. I loved every second of this book. The anticipation that everything could go so wrong, at any moment, was palpable! You will feel this one! So buckle up!
Liz is a con woman - it's how she survives. But just as the heat starts closing in and she's thinking about settling into a a more permanent life, the perfect opportunity lands in her lap. A referral from another "client" sends her to a mansion in an exclusive resort/luxury living for six days. The job? Hang some art, make some quick cash, and disappear again. The owners are out of town, and she'll have the place to herself. Easy.
But this life is just a little too perfect for Liz to walk away from.
When she's mistaken for Isabelle Beresford, her near-identical double, Liz does what she does best: she slips into the role. Meet the new Isabelle Beresford.
Only Isabelle's life is far more complicated than Liz ever bargained for. And just as she's getting comfortable in her new identity, the son of her last mark comes knocking - demanding his mother's money back. He's here to hunt Liz down, and his timing couldn't be worse. Things are about to get real.
I loved this book! I can never resist a good con game, and watching a character pretend to be someone they're not while trying not to get caught is always a blast. And when that someone happens to be a filthy rich woman with a beachfront mansion? Even better.
With nonstop action, this one will get your heart racing, make you laugh out loud, and have you cheering for Liz to pull it off. The twists just kept coming and I could not put this book down. Seriously, all the praises from me.
I loved it so much that I immediately ordered the author's previous book. Also, I had no idea the author is a famous actress that l've seen on TV, which made the whole book even more interesting.
But most importantly, this book shattered my expectations and delivered everything I crave in a twisted, mindf*** of a story. Highly recommend
"Everyone thought they knew you, when really no one knew you at all," (p. 3). ((To be checked against finished copy)
All the stars. I loved every second of this book. The anticipation that everything could go so wrong, at any moment, was palpable! You will feel this one! So buckle up!
Liz is a con woman - it's how she survives. But just as the heat starts closing in and she's thinking about settling into a a more permanent life, the perfect opportunity lands in her lap. A referral from another "client" sends her to a mansion in an exclusive resort/luxury living for six days. The job? Hang some art, make some quick cash, and disappear again. The owners are out of town, and she'll have the place to herself. Easy.
But this life is just a little too perfect for Liz to walk away from.
When she's mistaken for Isabelle Beresford, her near-identical double, Liz does what she does best: she slips into the role. Meet the new Isabelle Beresford.
Only Isabelle's life is far more complicated than Liz ever bargained for. And just as she's getting comfortable in her new identity, the son of her last mark comes knocking - demanding his mother's money back. He's here to hunt Liz down, and his timing couldn't be worse. Things are about to get real.
I loved this book! I can never resist a good con game, and watching a character pretend to be someone they're not while trying not to get caught is always a blast. And when that someone happens to be a filthy rich woman with a beachfront mansion? Even better.
With nonstop action, this one will get your heart racing, make you laugh out loud, and have you cheering for Liz to pull it off. The twists just kept coming and I could not put this book down. Seriously, all the praises from me.
I loved it so much that I immediately ordered the author's previous book. Also, I had no idea the author is a famous actress that l've seen on TV, which made the whole book even more interesting.
But most importantly, this book shattered my expectations and delivered everything I crave in a twisted, mindf*** of a story. Highly recommend
March 7, 2025
LOVE me a con artist, rich people doing bad things thriller and Retreat nailed it.
Krysten Ritter, actress in Breaking Bad and Jessica Jones, is a talented thriller author too?! She does it all 👏🏼
So twisty and a bit steamy I simply couldn’t look away. Get this book on your TBR early because it’s the perfect summer thriller!
Krysten Ritter, actress in Breaking Bad and Jessica Jones, is a talented thriller author too?! She does it all 👏🏼
So twisty and a bit steamy I simply couldn’t look away. Get this book on your TBR early because it’s the perfect summer thriller!
February 12, 2025
You guys!!! This was sooo much fun! It was juicy, sexy, suspenseful and became so unhinged. I loved it! I was thoroughly entertained the entire time. Con stories mixed with obsession are my new jam. The setting of Punta Mita was so wonderfully depicted it transported me right to the beach. You cant help but root for Liz and did I mention the ending�..! Literally jaw dropping. I hope we get another story weaved from this one because HOLY CUCKOO BANANAS! I will most definitely be looking for more Ritter in the future! This got me right out of a slump!
March 27, 2025
3.75 Rating
A skilled con artist poses as an art dealer and slips into the glamorous world of a wealthy beachside community, hoping for a fresh start. But when she’s mistaken for a missing socialite, she finds herself entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and obsession. What begins as a simple con quickly spirals into something far more dangerous—where assuming the wrong identity could cost her everything.
I love con artist mysteries they're so fun! If this was a TV show, I know I would absolutely love it. It felt like a mix of white lotus, the imposters and desperate housewives. I also listed on audio (obsessed with Krysten Ritters voice) I was picturing her playing the role. Susan made me sick to my stomach, her character is the world's worst.
Liz's decisions will have you yelling at the book, I wish there was a little more thrill thrown in to make the tension even more palpable.
Thank you to Harper Collins for an early copy!
A skilled con artist poses as an art dealer and slips into the glamorous world of a wealthy beachside community, hoping for a fresh start. But when she’s mistaken for a missing socialite, she finds herself entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and obsession. What begins as a simple con quickly spirals into something far more dangerous—where assuming the wrong identity could cost her everything.
I love con artist mysteries they're so fun! If this was a TV show, I know I would absolutely love it. It felt like a mix of white lotus, the imposters and desperate housewives. I also listed on audio (obsessed with Krysten Ritters voice) I was picturing her playing the role. Susan made me sick to my stomach, her character is the world's worst.
Liz's decisions will have you yelling at the book, I wish there was a little more thrill thrown in to make the tension even more palpable.
Thank you to Harper Collins for an early copy!
April 2, 2025
Well I f*cking loved this book. Entertaining and unhinged. Full RTC.
March 29, 2025
I. Have. Questions!!!
September 9, 2024
Liz Dawson is a skilled con artist who takes on a job at a luxurious villa owned by Isabelle Beresford. Liz ends up impersonating Isabelle and getting entangled in dangerous secrets surrounding her real identity. As Liz dives deeper into the persona of Isabelle, she risks her life in a complex web of deception and danger.
Wow! This book is incredibly clever and expertly written. From the moment I started reading, I was completely hooked and couldn't put it down. The main character is skilled yet slightly naive, which may seem like a weakness at first. However, the ending is so unpredictable and intriguing that it completely flips the script. Expect the unexpected!
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and the way the characters were developed throughout the story. While I did manage to guess one of the twists, it still led to a satisfying conclusion. The ending leaves room for a potential sequel, which has me eagerly anticipating more.
Overall, this book is a suspenseful, entertaining, and brilliantly crafted read. If you're a fan of female con artists who keep you on your toes, then this book is must-read. It's the perfect choice for a quick and enjoyable weekend evening escape.
Thank you, Harper for a digital ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow! This book is incredibly clever and expertly written. From the moment I started reading, I was completely hooked and couldn't put it down. The main character is skilled yet slightly naive, which may seem like a weakness at first. However, the ending is so unpredictable and intriguing that it completely flips the script. Expect the unexpected!
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and the way the characters were developed throughout the story. While I did manage to guess one of the twists, it still led to a satisfying conclusion. The ending leaves room for a potential sequel, which has me eagerly anticipating more.
Overall, this book is a suspenseful, entertaining, and brilliantly crafted read. If you're a fan of female con artists who keep you on your toes, then this book is must-read. It's the perfect choice for a quick and enjoyable weekend evening escape.
Thank you, Harper for a digital ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 19, 2025
RETREAT is definitely for the fans of sun-soaked, mistaken identity thrillers where all it takes is a couple of lies to steal someone's life... or have it stolen from you. The thriller is a departure from its more grisly, gritty predecessor, BONFIRE. Expect to see the naughty lifestyles of the rich and famous, twists you can't see coming, and an ending that will leave you desperate to find friends who've also read it so you can discuss. Definitely a fun option for the spring!
Thanks to Harper Books for my gifted copy! RETREAT is out now!
Thanks to Harper Books for my gifted copy! RETREAT is out now!
January 6, 2025
3.5/5
Retreat drops Liz Dawson us into the sandy beaches of Punta Mita, where she hopes to lay low. Liz isn’t exactly someone you’d want to be friends with. She’s self-centered, manipulative, and sees people as tools for her schemes. But credit where it’s due- she’s got loads of personality, and honestly, that’s what makes the story fun.
When Liz takes a job at a posh Mexican villa, she plans to behave for once. But then she’s mistaken for her employer, Isabelle, and instead of clearing things up, she plays someone else. What starts as a fun, stolen identity adventure quickly spirals into murder, secrets, and Liz soon realizes she might have conned her way into something she can’t handle.
Now, the twists are pretty predictable but I liked the setting and the atmosphere. And Liz herself. Sure, she’s a terrible person, but her snarky, no-filter narration keeps things interesting.
Retreat isn’t a must-read, but it’s a fun ride.
ARC through NetGalley
Retreat drops Liz Dawson us into the sandy beaches of Punta Mita, where she hopes to lay low. Liz isn’t exactly someone you’d want to be friends with. She’s self-centered, manipulative, and sees people as tools for her schemes. But credit where it’s due- she’s got loads of personality, and honestly, that’s what makes the story fun.
When Liz takes a job at a posh Mexican villa, she plans to behave for once. But then she’s mistaken for her employer, Isabelle, and instead of clearing things up, she plays someone else. What starts as a fun, stolen identity adventure quickly spirals into murder, secrets, and Liz soon realizes she might have conned her way into something she can’t handle.
Now, the twists are pretty predictable but I liked the setting and the atmosphere. And Liz herself. Sure, she’s a terrible person, but her snarky, no-filter narration keeps things interesting.
Retreat isn’t a must-read, but it’s a fun ride.
ARC through NetGalley
March 14, 2025
Retreat by Krysten Ritter. Thanks to @harperbooks for the gifted Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Liz Dawson survives by cons and she’s good at it. Her next mark takes her to a villa in Mexico but when she is mistaken for the mark herself who is no where to be seen, she fits right into the life.
This is a speedy little thriller that would be perfect for a weekend read. It has twists and turns and a look into the wealthy elite. The setting was fun and gave it a White Lotus vibe.
“You don’t see behind the mask. You hadn’t even thought to look.�
Retreat comes out 3/25.
Liz Dawson survives by cons and she’s good at it. Her next mark takes her to a villa in Mexico but when she is mistaken for the mark herself who is no where to be seen, she fits right into the life.
This is a speedy little thriller that would be perfect for a weekend read. It has twists and turns and a look into the wealthy elite. The setting was fun and gave it a White Lotus vibe.
“You don’t see behind the mask. You hadn’t even thought to look.�
Retreat comes out 3/25.
March 6, 2025
What a wild ride! Loved it!
March 19, 2025
Ooh this was a fun ride! Twisty and messy and absolutely diabolical!!
March 27, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
Krysten Ritter has an absolutely brilliant mind. She certainly knows how to write a compelling antihero. Retreat was my first read by Ritter and it was the most satisfying. I was impressed by her raw and skilled writing talent. She wrote an alluring, shocking and sizzling tale of duplicity and desperation; even more, it was a smart, cunning, and sexy depiction of an elite society.
Retreat followed Liz Dawson, a con artist, who went to an expat enclave in Mexico to manage the delivery of a major art piece for a new client, Isabelle. She was enough of a doppelganger that none of Isabelle’s friends and neighbors seemed to have noticed it was not her.
I reveled in this soapy romp of a mystery thriller. Each character appeared to be richly woven with deceit and secrecy. The ambiguity made it hard to ascertain who to trust and what would ultimately transpire. I relished in the flashbacks and the multiple perspectives that were presented in separate parts. This structure worked flawlessly in unraveling the deception between the main protagonist and antagonist. Although this was entwined with essential twists, the twists and turns I expect from this genre, there was one big reveal so big that I didn’t see it coming.
Overall, Krysten Ritter delivered a razor sharp and twisted read. I was absorbed in Retreat with all its twists and turns, questionable characters, identity, obsession, and the allure of the privileged elite. If you like dramatic mystery thrillers about rich people behaving badly, you will most likely devour this sharp and deliciously deceptive one. (Audio)
Krysten Ritter has an absolutely brilliant mind. She certainly knows how to write a compelling antihero. Retreat was my first read by Ritter and it was the most satisfying. I was impressed by her raw and skilled writing talent. She wrote an alluring, shocking and sizzling tale of duplicity and desperation; even more, it was a smart, cunning, and sexy depiction of an elite society.
Retreat followed Liz Dawson, a con artist, who went to an expat enclave in Mexico to manage the delivery of a major art piece for a new client, Isabelle. She was enough of a doppelganger that none of Isabelle’s friends and neighbors seemed to have noticed it was not her.
I reveled in this soapy romp of a mystery thriller. Each character appeared to be richly woven with deceit and secrecy. The ambiguity made it hard to ascertain who to trust and what would ultimately transpire. I relished in the flashbacks and the multiple perspectives that were presented in separate parts. This structure worked flawlessly in unraveling the deception between the main protagonist and antagonist. Although this was entwined with essential twists, the twists and turns I expect from this genre, there was one big reveal so big that I didn’t see it coming.
Overall, Krysten Ritter delivered a razor sharp and twisted read. I was absorbed in Retreat with all its twists and turns, questionable characters, identity, obsession, and the allure of the privileged elite. If you like dramatic mystery thrillers about rich people behaving badly, you will most likely devour this sharp and deliciously deceptive one. (Audio)
March 23, 2025
Thank you to Harper for my gifted copy!
Damn. Retreat was like biting into a crisp red apple. This book was delicious and I devoured it. It was edgy, sexy, unhinged, and riddled with a curious anxiety that kept me on the edge of my seat, fully invested.
This was *exactly* the type of book I needed to read right now, because it was so much fun and helped me escape my weird and convoluted grief. It was all I could think about when I wasn’t reading, and really, that’s all I look for in a book. I want them all to be this good, that the thought of reading it is all consuming. Retreat perfected that.
And the twists! Oh, the twists. Some I saw coming, but it doesn’t mean they were any less satisfying.
I am also a sucker for an ending that is left up to interpretation. It’s maddening! I am a literal thinker, and I love the torture of never definitively knowing what happens. My mind is too busy and too fast to settle on one ending, and that’s what makes books like this stick in my brain. That’s a feat, because I usually forget a book right after I close the back cover. Sorry. ADHD. But I know the absolute unhinged vibe of this book will stick around for a long time.
Damn. Retreat was like biting into a crisp red apple. This book was delicious and I devoured it. It was edgy, sexy, unhinged, and riddled with a curious anxiety that kept me on the edge of my seat, fully invested.
This was *exactly* the type of book I needed to read right now, because it was so much fun and helped me escape my weird and convoluted grief. It was all I could think about when I wasn’t reading, and really, that’s all I look for in a book. I want them all to be this good, that the thought of reading it is all consuming. Retreat perfected that.
And the twists! Oh, the twists. Some I saw coming, but it doesn’t mean they were any less satisfying.
I am also a sucker for an ending that is left up to interpretation. It’s maddening! I am a literal thinker, and I love the torture of never definitively knowing what happens. My mind is too busy and too fast to settle on one ending, and that’s what makes books like this stick in my brain. That’s a feat, because I usually forget a book right after I close the back cover. Sorry. ADHD. But I know the absolute unhinged vibe of this book will stick around for a long time.
March 5, 2025
Retreat by Krysten Ritter was a wild ride! It’s a dark and twisty thriller featuring con artist, Liz Dawson. Liz escapes from her latest con to Punta Mita, Mexico where she’s hired as an art consult for the wealthy Isabelle Beresford. Once Liz arrives at Isabelle’s glamorous villa, she is able to impersonate her and quickly slips into Isabelle’s life. However Liz is soon caught up in the danger surrounding Isabelle and her husband.
I found the first half of the book entertaining and quickly paced. I enjoyed the escapist quality of the luxurious tropical setting. The last half became quite unhinged and included a few predictable twists. The biggest challenge for me was that Liz is not a sympathetic character. Thriller fans looking for a low stakes, entertaining story will enjoy this. 3/5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Books for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own. Pub date: 3/25/25
I found the first half of the book entertaining and quickly paced. I enjoyed the escapist quality of the luxurious tropical setting. The last half became quite unhinged and included a few predictable twists. The biggest challenge for me was that Liz is not a sympathetic character. Thriller fans looking for a low stakes, entertaining story will enjoy this. 3/5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Books for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own. Pub date: 3/25/25
April 2, 2025
Krysten Ritter continues to showcase her talents as a storyteller through Retreat, a twisty, compelling pyscho-thriller that offers unexpected revelations on flawed, but still oddly engrossing characters. I rather loved where it went, which was unexpected and felt much more fresh than you often get in heist reveals, offering intriguing complex mindsets and a look at obsession and darkness in a unique way. Heist stories are hit or miss for me, but I think Retreat will hit with fans and non-fans of the subgenre largely due to its rich material, nature vs. nurture psychology, and character examinations.
The audiobook is also beautifully performed by Ritter and how I would recommend experiencing it. I always feel like anytime an author can bring alive their own words, it's an ideal way to take in the story.
The audiobook is also beautifully performed by Ritter and how I would recommend experiencing it. I always feel like anytime an author can bring alive their own words, it's an ideal way to take in the story.
March 20, 2025
A twisty story about a serial con-woman who finds herself impersonating an heiress only to have the tables turn. When Liz goes from being the imposter to the one being hunted the stakes get higher than ever. This was just an okay read for me. I liked that the author narrated the book (I've always been a fan since her Veronica Mars days) but I found this a bit predictable and the big shock/twist didn't wow me much. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 29, 2025
Even though this book gave me anxiety, it was a fun read! I love a good con artist story, and this one was filled with a lot of twists and turns. Some were easy enough to predict, while others left me questioning how I didn’t see it coming. The story was fast paced, easy to follow, engaging and suspenseful. I was constantly on edge because of how anxious the situations the main character was in made me, and I love when a book can make me feel that way! I really liked the main character, Liz, and I was really rooting for her even though it seemed she had dug herself a hole she wouldn’t be able to get out of.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC! All opinions are my own :)
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC! All opinions are my own :)
March 31, 2025
Get ready for another captivating tale of rich people behaving badly, and this one is a true delight! This sultry thriller is irresistibly entertaining, featuring a con artist protagonist and a compelling antihero, filled with secrets and deception at every turn. While Liz may be morally grey and unlikeable, she draws you in effortlessly. With fewer than 300 pages, this fast-paced, unputdownable read can easily be consumed in a single sitting.
This novel is masterfully plotted, with twists that will leave you reeling! The vibrant setting of a luxurious villa in Mexico provides the perfect backdrop for a perfect escape.
This novel is masterfully plotted, with twists that will leave you reeling! The vibrant setting of a luxurious villa in Mexico provides the perfect backdrop for a perfect escape.
February 20, 2025
Liz Dawson makes her living as a con artist.
Just when her scams are starting to catch up with her, she receives an offer to hang a piece of art in a luxurious vacant villa at an exclusive Mexican resort. This seems like the perfect getaway to vacay on someone else’s dime. Grifting is exhausting and Liz needs a break.
When Liz is mistaken for the woman who hired her however, old habits die hard. Our resourceful impostor takes on the role without a second thought. It’s an opportunity to stretch a week’s respite to a long term gig living life the way she always thought she deserved.
Be careful what you wish for.
Liz may have always been conniving, but she wasn’t evil. She prided herself on never taking what the rich she preyed on couldn’t afford to lose.
The ending was predictable, but it’s a fun ride getting there.
My thanks to HarperCollins and ŷ for the Advance Reader’s Edition of this book.
Just when her scams are starting to catch up with her, she receives an offer to hang a piece of art in a luxurious vacant villa at an exclusive Mexican resort. This seems like the perfect getaway to vacay on someone else’s dime. Grifting is exhausting and Liz needs a break.
When Liz is mistaken for the woman who hired her however, old habits die hard. Our resourceful impostor takes on the role without a second thought. It’s an opportunity to stretch a week’s respite to a long term gig living life the way she always thought she deserved.
Be careful what you wish for.
Liz may have always been conniving, but she wasn’t evil. She prided herself on never taking what the rich she preyed on couldn’t afford to lose.
The ending was predictable, but it’s a fun ride getting there.
My thanks to HarperCollins and ŷ for the Advance Reader’s Edition of this book.
March 14, 2025
“Retreat� by Krysten Ritter is a fun light thriller that takes place in the richly described resorts of Punta Mita, Mexico. The story revolves around a highly manipulative and successful female con artist, who has always had great success with her cons around the super wealthy. She accepts a job to do an art installation in a new home in the resort thinking there is the potential for an even bigger scam. Shockingly, she finds herself caught up in something much bigger when she finds the dead bodies of her employers on a hike!
This is a fun and fast read that is a little predictable but would be great beach read.
Thank you NetGalley and Harper for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 23, 2025
Con artistry, luxury, and a web of deception.
Liz Dawson thought she had the perfect con. But it spiraled into something much darker and deadlier. When she steps into Isabelle Beresford’s gilded world at Punta Mita, she realizes some roles are more dangerous than others.
Krysten Ritter delivered a page turner- dark, devious and completely unhinged.
If you love thrillers with an edge of glamour, danger, and morally grey unhinged characters, this one’s for you!
Liz Dawson thought she had the perfect con. But it spiraled into something much darker and deadlier. When she steps into Isabelle Beresford’s gilded world at Punta Mita, she realizes some roles are more dangerous than others.
Krysten Ritter delivered a page turner- dark, devious and completely unhinged.
If you love thrillers with an edge of glamour, danger, and morally grey unhinged characters, this one’s for you!
March 11, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. What a thriller! I figured out a few things early on but the ending was quite the ride. I’m still thinking about it. Thank you to HarperCollins Publishers and ŷ for the opportunity to read this advanced copy. A must read!
March 12, 2025
Thanks to the publisher, via Edelweiss, for an advance e-galley for honest review.
Liz is a terrible person, and a fantastic character to read about. This book featuring a con artist and some rich people with equally questionable morals, set in an idyllic resort town, has a popcorn pace with complications and bad decisions happening on every page.
Liz is a terrible person, and a fantastic character to read about. This book featuring a con artist and some rich people with equally questionable morals, set in an idyllic resort town, has a popcorn pace with complications and bad decisions happening on every page.
March 12, 2025
What a fun book! I couldn’t put it down!
March 18, 2025
4.5⭐️ This was such a good book about con artists, lies, deceit, murder, drama, and TWISTS!!! Wow! Really enjoyed this one!
March 28, 2025
3.5 rounded up
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