Review by Booklist Review
Fifteen years ago, Greek billionaire Argos Alexander summoned a group of writers to his private island for a retreat. Now they are invited back, and having had varying degrees of success in the publishing world, they bring with them the many resentments that have been simmering. When Argos is found dead, everyone is a suspect. They find themselves trapped with no means of communication--and then they start to die off, one by one. Sound familiar? An excellent riff on And Then There Were None unfolds within a setting steeped in sinister mythology. It's as if Nemesis, the ancient Greek goddess of retribution, has returned and taken control. Two of the writers are classicists, which is convenient in the perilous and labyrinthine search for answers that reveal some awful truths, contemporary and ancient, about Alexander and his island. In the process, Goodman provides an enlightening look at the barbarous way women were perceived in the ancient world, borne out by the ubiquitous rape and murder themes of the myths themselves, and by the fate of female captives taken in wars. An absolutely perfect vacation read. Fans who remember Mary Stewart fondly will be delighted.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Library Journal Review
It was 15 years ago that Maia Gold attended a writers' retreat on the Greek island of Eris, hosted by billionaire Argos Alexander. Despite her father's reservations, Maia traveled to the secluded villa and immersed herself in the program, inspired by the beauty and mythology of the place. She also developed a close friendship with one writer and a promising romance with another. Argos's encouragement gilded the lily, until a betrayal shattered Maia's golden haze. Even though she left the island with a novel that garnered attention and awards, she lost everything else and turned away from writing. Now the same writers receive invitations to return to the island, with Argos dangling fame and fortune for one of the lucky attendees. Everyone has a reason to return. Everyone has wounds from their previous visit. And everyone has a reason to be afraid. VERDICT Goodman's latest (after Return to Wyldcliffe Heights) delivers a mash-up of Greek mythology and Agatha Christie's classic mysteries, to delightful effect. Readers who enjoy Tasha Alexander's Lady Emily series, where a journey into history and culture weaves through a twisty mystery, will find lots to appreciate here.--Julie Ciccarelli
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