Our Holiday by Louise Candlish (HQ)

In "Our Holiday," Louise Candlish masterfully crafts a compelling psychological thriller that delves into the simmering tensions between affluent second-home owners and the local residents of a picturesque coastal town in England. The narrative centers on two families: Charlotte and Perry, who own a clifftop holiday home, and their friends Amy and Linus, recent purchasers of a nearby property. What begins as an idyllic summer retreat quickly unravels into chaos as local resentment towards wealthy outsiders surfaces, leading to acts of vandalism and escalating conflict.

The plot unfolds through a dual timeline, heightening the suspense as readers are gradually introduced to a tragic event involving a summerhouse that plummets off a cliff, revealing a body inside. This central mystery acts as a catalyst for exploring deeper themes of class disparity, entitlement, and the moral complexities inherent in community dynamics. The characters are vividly drawn, each embodying different facets of privilege and desperation. Charlotte emerges as a determined matriarch, while Perry battles personal demons, including a past struggle with alcoholism. Amy and Linus, though seemingly amiable, harbor their own insecurities and ambitions, adding layers to the narrative's tension.

Candlish's writing is engaging and incisive, marked by sharp dialogue and keen observation. She adeptly balances moments of humor with darker themes, employing a satirical lens through which readers can examine the societal issues at play. 

The atmosphere is charged with unease, as the idyllic setting of Pine Ridge starkly contrasts with the underlying animosity between the locals and the holidaymakers. This tension is personified in the character of Robbie, a local leader who incites the community's anger against the newcomers, prompting readers to question the morality of both sides.

The themes explored in "Our Holiday" resonate deeply with contemporary societal issues, particularly the housing crisis and the impact of second homes on local communities. Candlish critiques the social hypocrisy of the privileged with finesse, forcing readers to confront their own biases and assumptions. The narrative raises pertinent questions about the consequences of wealth disparity and the responsibilities that come with privilege. 

The author highlights a global issue: the pressures of heavy tourism and its subsequent impact on housing and community dynamics. Initially, cities grappled with increased movement and congestion, but soon real estate owners and commercial accommodation providers realized the profit potential, leading to a surge in properties offered to tourists. This shift has exacerbated housing issues, leading to protests and local unrest.

The novel is an exploration of human relationships and societal issues, delivered through a thrilling, entertaining, and insightful narrative — a good choice for a summer read.

3/5