Review: The Retreat by J.A. Baker - ARC

The Retreat by J.A. Baker
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Boldwood Books via NetGalley.

In the atmospheric setting of Chamber Cottage, Alec and Peggy find themselves grappling with their troubled pasts and struggling to salvage their troubled marriage. As they seek solace in their new retreat, they become increasingly aware of a sense of being observed. Peggy, already burdened by the scars on her face, experiences heightened paranoia and agoraphobia, seeking refuge within the cottage's protective stone walls. However, her sanctuary is shattered when she learns that her estranged mother is stalking her and Alec, claiming to possess a dangerous secret that threatens Peggy's life. Doubt and uncertainty plague Peggy as she grapples with questions about the origins of her facial scars, the true nature of Alec, and the dark secrets harbored within Chamber Cottage. The story unfolds as Peggy navigates a treacherous path, unsure of whom to trust and where the truth truly lies.

From the very start, the book plunges the reader into a bewildering maze. The initial chapters leave much to be desired in terms of establishing a solid foundation for the story. Instead of captivating the reader, I was very confused. Even at the halfway point, the story remains incoherent, leaving the reader without a sense of direction.

One of the book's major drawbacks lies in the glaring lack of communication between Peggy and Alec. Their inability to convey their thoughts and feelings effectively results in a series of miscommunications and misunderstandings. This recurring theme not only impedes the development of their relationship but also contributes to the overall confusion experienced by the reader.

The ending of the book proves to be the final blow to an already bewildering narrative. The unanswered questions and unresolved plotlines only serve to compound the confusion experienced throughout the book.

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