Five Nights by Rachel Wolf (Aria & Aries, Head of Zeus )

Five Nights by Rachel Wolf is a captivating thriller that delves into the hidden secrets of a wealthy and influential family during a five-night luxury cruise. The narrative revolves around the Scarmados, a powerful family whose unity begins to crumble when the patriarch decides to embark on this consequential voyage alongside his four adult children. 

Emily and Belle were once inseparable best friends, until an incident three years ago strained their relationship. Currently, Belle is married to Mattia, an older and wealthier man, while Emily, a struggling single mother, faces financial challenges. When Belle extends an invitation for Emily to join them on the inaugural cruise of her husband's cruise liner, they strive to reconcile their lost time. However, Mattia's adult children harbor animosity towards Belle, and as strange occurrences unfold, Emily becomes concerned. Trapped on the ship with no means of escape and with a distant destination ahead, tension rises.

Over the course of five nights, "Five Nights" takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with suspense and intrigue. The characters in the novel are wonderfully deceptive, heightening the air of mystery and suspense. The combination of the opulent setting and the Scarmados family's menacing secrets creates a captivating atmosphere, intensifying the suspense throughout the story. The setting plays a significant role, as it provides a confined and isolated environment where family members must confront their troubled past and the imminent threat posed by the onboard assailant.

While readers need to suspend disbelief, once they immerse themselves in the narrative, they will be thoroughly entertained, as I was. This gripping novel is an excellent choice for a holiday read, offering a compelling storyline. However, I found the connection between Emily and Belle somewhat lacking sincerity, rendering it difficult to relate to. Despite being somewhat implausible, the story had me completely engrossed and reluctant to put it down.

3/5