The Retreat

Dive into the chilling suspense of Elisabeth de Mariaffi's *The Retreat*, a psychological thriller that will leave you breathless. This gripping novel, published in 2021 by Mulholland Books, masterfully blends elements of a locked-room mystery with the raw emotional turmoil of domestic noir, creating a reading experience that is both terrifying and deeply affecting. At the heart of the story is Maeve Martin, a retired dancer seeking a fresh start. Fleeing the wreckage of a violent marriage and determined to reignite her passion, Maeve arrives at the High Water Center for the Arts, a secluded lodge nestled in the breathtaking yet unforgiving Rocky Mountains. The retreat promises solitude and creative inspiration, a chance for Maeve to rediscover herself and launch her own dance company. Initially, the isolation and stunning beauty offer a welcome escape from the ghosts of her past. However, Maeve's newfound peace is shattered when a devastating avalanche traps her and six other guests, severing all ties to the outside world. Cut off from power, communication, and any hope of immediate rescue, the group initially finds strength in camaraderie. But as the days bleed into one another and the storm relentlessly rages, tensions begin to simmer beneath the surface. The idyllic retreat quickly transforms into a pressure cooker of suspicion and unease. The situation spirals into a nightmare when the guests begin to die in gruesome and inexplicable ways. As the body count rises, Maeve is forced to confront the chilling reality that a killer lurks among them. She realizes she knows very little about her fellow inmates their pasts, their secrets, their motivations. The locked doors of the retreat offer no protection against the darkness that festers within. De Mariaffi expertly crafts an atmosphere of claustrophobia and paranoia, drawing the reader into Maeve's increasingly desperate struggle for survival. Is the killer a stranger, or someone closer than she thinks? Maeve must unravel the truth before she becomes the next victim, all while battling her own inner demons and the lingering trauma of her past. *The Retreat* is more than just a thriller; it's a profound exploration of trauma, resilience, and the hidden darkness that can reside within us all. De Mariaffi's lyrical prose and keen eye for detail create a vivid and unsettling world that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Fans of Ruth Ware, Lucy Fokley and Simone St James and Tana French will find themselves captivated by this haunting and unforgettable novel. Prepare to be gripped from beginning to end as you unravel the mystery of *The Retreat*. Get your Hardcover copy now!