Title: The House Across the Lake
Author: Riley Sager
Source: Pasco County Library System
Publication Date: June 21, 2022
Synopsis: Goodreads
Purchase Link: Amazon

Why did I choose to read this book?

This was a book that I added to my library holds when NetGalley/its publisher rejected my request for a DRC via NetGalley and I still wanted to make sure that I read it. I’ve developed a pretty strong liking for thrillers, which is just me leaning into being a middle-aged basic bitch, and this one sounded AMAZING.

What is this book about?

This book is about doing the right thing even when you probably shouldn’t because other people should be doing the right things but aren’t or wouldn’t if given the chance.

That’s it. That’s the gist.

What is notable about this story?

I loved the main character of this book. Casey Fletcher is hilarious, intriguing, sad, struggling, but rich enough that we don’t have to worry about her basic human needs and can focus solely on whatever her problems are, which are numerous. You’ll find yourself frustrated with her but also rooting for her the entire book. I love that a male author did such a good job writing a female main as a powerful, resourceful woman who can take matters into her own hands.

Was anything not so great?

I have never slammed on the breaks/record scratched harder than when the twist happened in this book. It was like Sager was a thriller author but then wanted to try out being Stephen King for a little bit? As of the writing of this review I have not read any other books by Sager so perhaps this is his “thing” but to be in the last ten percent of a book and suddenly there are supernatural elements??? WHAT? And if it IS his thing, is the suspense gone once you know to keep an eye out for weird shit? I’ll be reading more from him so we’ll see!

What’s the verdict?

I was going to give this book 4 stars on Goodreads until I had to process the supernatural elements after the twist in the last portion of the book, which was so abrupt that I had to drop it to 3 stars. Despite this I am planning to read other books by Sager to see if this is his thing, because I think if I was more familiar with this author’s style I wouldn’t have been so mad about it? So I guess we’ll see! Definitely try this one out, it will keep you on the edge of your seat, for sure!

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