The Big Thrill Recommends: THE TRIP by Phoebe Morgan

Book Cover: THE TRIPRecommended by Bonnie Traymore

THE TRIP by Phoebe Morgan is a slow burn thriller set in Thailand that takes readers on a vicarious dream vacation—until the posh adventure takes a dark and deadly turn. Two thirty-something couples set out for their upscale holiday, but their troubles begin almost immediately, foreshadowing what’s to come.

They arrive at their luxury resort in Bangkok after an exhausting flight only to find a traveler’s worst nightmare: their reservation is not on file at the front desk. The attendant can get them in the next day, but they are full for the night.

The four of them are forced to spend a night at a cheap backpacker hostel, including the wealthy Theo and his wife Saskia, who is hiding a dark secret about her past, one that catches up with her later in the novel. Micro-tensions abound, giving the book a foreboding feel, even when nothing appears to be wrong. Lucas, a teacher, is hiding secrets from his wife Holly about their strained financial situation, and it’s clear that both of them envy the wealthier couple. A stranger befriends them at the hostel—and they can’t seem to shake this overly friendly Aussie guy, who starts to get on Lucas’ nerves. This all builds up to a shocking and twisty conclusion, as it becomes clear that none of these individuals knows each other very well, if at all.

THE TRIP is a gripping and provocative page-turner that explores the complexities of human behavior and the tension between friendship, love, and self-interest. The vivid descriptions immerse the reader in a fascinating setting, and fans of vacation thrillers as well as those who enjoy a page-turner beach read will surely love it.

ITW