The House Across the Lake by Riley Sager (Hodder & Stoughton)

Recently widowed actress Casey Fletcher has withdrawn to the serenity of her family's lake cottage in Vermont to escape a string of negative news. She kills time by observing Tom and Katherine Royce, the stylish couple who reside in the home across the lake, through a pair of binoculars while also sipping on many bottles of alcohol. Tom, a wealthy tech inventor, and Katherine, a former model, make for entertaining viewing.

Casey saves Katherine from drowning one day on the lake, and the two form an unlikely relationship. The more they get to know each other—and the longer Casey observes them—it becomes evident that Katherine and Tom's marriage is not as flawless and peaceful as it appears. When Katherine mysteriously vanishes, Casey gets obsessed with discovering what happened to her. In the process, she discovers disturbing, darker truths that transform a story of voyeurism and suspicion into one of guilt, obsession, and how appearances may be deceitful.

Sager's writing style is both descriptive and engaging, painting vivid mental images of the serene yet eerie lake setting. The rich character development allows readers to feel connected with Casey as she struggles to navigate her painful past and budding relationship with her new neighbors.

The pacing of the story is well-managed and the plot unfolds naturally, gradually revealing the twisted secrets and dark history of the characters residing in houses by the lake. Sager's talent for interweaving multiple layers of mystery into one narrative is showcased perfectly in this novel, as it leaves readers constantly guessing until the very end.

The House Across the Lake also touches on relevant social issues such as domestic violence and mental health, which adds depth and realism to this thrilling tale. Readers will find themselves empathizing with the characters' struggles while simultaneously questioning their motives and intentions.

With its atmospheric setting, compelling characters, and unpredictable twists, The House Across The Lake is a suspenseful read that will undoubtedly keep you hooked until you reach its chilling conclusion. 

Fans of Riley Sager's previous works won't be disappointed, and those new to his writing will find this book to be an excellent introduction to his captivating storytelling abilities.

3/5