3.84k reviews for:

An Unwanted Guest

3.59 AVERAGE

challenging dark mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Not my favorite from Shari lapena…it was okay 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
dark mysterious tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
dark mysterious tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
dark mysterious slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: N/A
dark mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

The setting for this book makes you think you’re in a new version of Clue. Beautiful setting for a weekend of murder. Leaves you wondering up to the last few pages who it could be. The epitome of a page turner.
dark mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

A Unwanted Guest was a truly immersive read, so much so that I experienced it in multiple formats, hard copy, Kindle, and audiobook. The entertainment value was strong enough to sustain my interest throughout, and I found myself completely engaged.

The novel was suspenseful, keeping me questioning at every turn. The atmosphere was beautifully crafted, drawing me into the world Lapena created. The setting and mood played a significant role in shaping the suspense, adding depth to the overall reading experience.

Overall, this was a gripping read that I highly recommend to fans of suspense and atmospheric storytelling.



I truly could not pick out who the killer was in this book... it was so well concealed. As you read, you definitely had your ideas of who it could be but you weren't sure. What was the motive? Especially since everyone was a stranger. Lapena did an excellent job at developing the characters and moving the plot along but keeping a lot concealed.

My only gripe would be that it lacked the depth of The Couple Next Door and things were pretty slow until they suddenly moved exceptionally fast.

I personally love popcorn thrillers- they're quick to read, really intense and you can easily finish them in one sitting which is exactly what I did with An Unwanted Guest.