A review by renee_rain
The Retreat by Sarah Pearse

dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No

4.0

This book is a sequel to The Sanotorium. Though I have read it, I didn't realize it was a continuation until after I finished this book. I guess Elim was not memorable for me.

This is a solid mystery/thriller. That being said, there is a lot of information to keep track of. There are three periods of time that occur on the island: a school with traumatic history, an Outward Bound center with a series of murders, and the present at a retreat center. The Leger family has past events that become relevant to the plot. There is a continuation of threats to Elim.

I thoroughly enjoyed the chaos of the book. I had no trouble keeping up with the characters, their relations, and backstories. The explanations of why people did what they did felt believable to me.
Except Jo. I know she was having an affair with Hana's boyfriend, but how can someone callously leave him at an accident like that? What if he could have been saved? Could it have been explained that they had become friends? Though this does provide Maya some clarity.


I plan to read the next book in the series though I really do need closure on some things.
What is going on with the Hayler case? What actually happened to Elim's brother, Sam? Who is threatening Elim? What will happen with Elim's relationship with Will? I wouldn't be sad if it ended. She appears to have a stronger connection with his sister.
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