The Review

I really struggled with “The Hunting Party” by Lucy Foley. A fan of her later work, I wanted to give one of her earlier novels a chance when I saw it available now on Libby. I was drawn in by the idea of a thrilling tale of mystery and suspense that takes readers on a gripping journey into the heart of the Scottish wilderness. Set against the backdrop of a luxurious lodge nestled amidst snow-covered mountains, I could not wait to see what secrets, lies, and hidden motives Foley would provide this time.

The novel boasts a diverse cast of characters, each with their own dark pasts and ulterior motives, all brought together for a New Year’s Eve celebration. As tensions rise and tempers flare, the carefully constructed facades of the guests begin to unravel, revealing the darkness lurking beneath.

Foley’s writing is atmospheric and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the harsh and unforgiving landscape. Her skillful use of multiple perspectives keeps readers guessing until the very end, as each chapter unveils new clues and twists in the intricate web of deception.

However, despite its many strengths, “The Hunting Party” suffers from a significant flaw: I literally could not remember the story. While the setting and initial setup are intriguing, the pacing feels sluggish, and the characters fail to leave a lasting impression. It’s easy to find oneself struggling to recall the details of the plot leading up to the climax.

Thankfully, the novel’s final final stretch more than makes up for its earlier shortcomings. As the tension reaches its peak and the truth is finally revealed, Foley’s talent for crafting suspenseful narratives shines through. The resolution is satisfying and unexpected, leaving readers eager for more.

While “The Hunting Party” may not be Foley’s strongest work, it’s is interesting to see how Foley grew into the acclaimed author she is now. Despite its flaws, this book remains a compelling read for fans of psychological thrillers and classic whodunits, showcasing Foley’s potential as a master of suspense.

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Short Review (AKA TLDR)

A group of friends reunites at a remote Scottish lodge for New Year’s Eve, but tensions rise as secrets are revealed and old grudges resurface. When a blizzard traps them with a murderer among them, paranoia sets in, and they must unravel the truth before it’s too late. With multiple perspectives and twists, Foley crafts a slow-build suspenseful whodunit that keeps readers guessing until the not-so-shocking climax.

Not necessarily a disappointment, but one that I really struggled to finish as I wasn’t drawn into the characters nearly as much as Foley’s later novels. I had to battle myself to continue listening and almost gave up on it. The final chapters provided twists but they were easy to call. I wouldn’t recommend this novel unless, like me, you want to get more into Foley’s earlier catalog.