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The Kingsleys #1
Beneath the Surface
On a weekend voyage, the power-hungry children of an aging billionaire are unprepared for a storm of deceptions in a novel about ruthless family ambition by USA Today bestselling author Kaira Rouda.
You are cordially invited to an overnight voyage on the Splendid Seas.
An invitation to Catalina Island from billionaire CEO Richard Kingsley. For his sons, Ted and John, and their wives, it’s an opportunity to curry favor, gain control of a real estate empire, and secure their family’s futures. For the controlling patriarch, succession is a contest. He and his newest wife won’t make it an easy win.
Then Richard’s estranged live-wire daughter, Sibley, crashes the party. She’s the least of the night’s surprises. As the stakes for the inheritance of the Kingsley legacy are raised, the beautiful waters of the Pacific look more like a menacing illusion.
Let the games begin for a family who has everything money can buy, and has used lies, deception, and more to keep it. This weekend one of them will be crowned heir. One is in line to lose everything. That’s the plan. But in the coming storm, so much can go dangerously wrong.
You are cordially invited to an overnight voyage on the Splendid Seas.
An invitation to Catalina Island from billionaire CEO Richard Kingsley. For his sons, Ted and John, and their wives, it’s an opportunity to curry favor, gain control of a real estate empire, and secure their family’s futures. For the controlling patriarch, succession is a contest. He and his newest wife won’t make it an easy win.
Then Richard’s estranged live-wire daughter, Sibley, crashes the party. She’s the least of the night’s surprises. As the stakes for the inheritance of the Kingsley legacy are raised, the beautiful waters of the Pacific look more like a menacing illusion.
Let the games begin for a family who has everything money can buy, and has used lies, deception, and more to keep it. This weekend one of them will be crowned heir. One is in line to lose everything. That’s the plan. But in the coming storm, so much can go dangerously wrong.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2023
About the author
Kaira Rouda
36 books2,459 followersKaira Rouda is a USA TODAY and Amazon Charts bestselling author of contemporary fiction exploring beneath the surface of seemingly perfect lives. Her suspense novels include BEST DAY EVER, THE FAVORITE DAUGHTER, ALL THE DIFFERENCE, THE NEXT WIFE and SOMEBODY'S HOME. Her next novel, THE WIDOW, is out December 1, 2022.
She lives in Southern California with her family and is at work on her next novel. Connect with her on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest: @KairaRouda; and on Facebook at Kaira Rouda Books.
If you'd like to host Kaira at your book club, please reach out through her website KairaRouda.com
Sign up to receive a monthly email from Kaira with exclusive sales news, book excerpts, sweepstakes, and giveaways at: kairarouda.com/signup/
She lives in Southern California with her family and is at work on her next novel. Connect with her on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest: @KairaRouda; and on Facebook at Kaira Rouda Books.
If you'd like to host Kaira at your book club, please reach out through her website KairaRouda.com
Sign up to receive a monthly email from Kaira with exclusive sales news, book excerpts, sweepstakes, and giveaways at: kairarouda.com/signup/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 299 reviews
May 19, 2023
3.5🌟
Anchors away!⚓
A family get together. A trip to Catalina island on a state of the art yacht! Sounds perfect right!?
Just one small hiccup. Everyone in this family hate each other! Oh yeah…it’s going to be a choppy cruise!
Richard and Serena: the patriarch of the family with bride number four (or perhaps it's five.) LOL! He has things to discuss with his children. They’re not all going to like what he has to say!
John and Rachel: The eldest son who jumps at everything his father says, he can never quite measure up in his wife’s eyes. What lengths does he have to go to in order to win everyone’s approval.
Ted and Paige: The youngest son currently out of the family business but hoping that will change. While Paige is preparing for their lives as empty nesters, how will she now fill her time.
Sibley and Colson: The only daughter, and her highly questionable boyfriend. The black sheep of the family, she likes to create a scene wherever she goes…the yacht included.
As the waves begin to rise so does the tension between these family members!
I am a huge Kaira Rouda fan! But sadly this might be my least favorite of her books so far (most are five star). She always writes unlikeable characters, and that’s ok with me! I expect that from her...and look forward to them. But this cast just didn’t give me the snark I’ve come to expect. They all came off a bit weak instead of the power hungry nasties we love to see.
This is book one of a new series. And I’m not sure I’ll be running to pick up book two. Okay…who am I kidding! It’s Kaira Rouda! Of course I’ll be reading it!🤣
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer
Anchors away!⚓
A family get together. A trip to Catalina island on a state of the art yacht! Sounds perfect right!?
Just one small hiccup. Everyone in this family hate each other! Oh yeah…it’s going to be a choppy cruise!
Richard and Serena: the patriarch of the family with bride number four (or perhaps it's five.) LOL! He has things to discuss with his children. They’re not all going to like what he has to say!
John and Rachel: The eldest son who jumps at everything his father says, he can never quite measure up in his wife’s eyes. What lengths does he have to go to in order to win everyone’s approval.
Ted and Paige: The youngest son currently out of the family business but hoping that will change. While Paige is preparing for their lives as empty nesters, how will she now fill her time.
Sibley and Colson: The only daughter, and her highly questionable boyfriend. The black sheep of the family, she likes to create a scene wherever she goes…the yacht included.
As the waves begin to rise so does the tension between these family members!
I am a huge Kaira Rouda fan! But sadly this might be my least favorite of her books so far (most are five star). She always writes unlikeable characters, and that’s ok with me! I expect that from her...and look forward to them. But this cast just didn’t give me the snark I’ve come to expect. They all came off a bit weak instead of the power hungry nasties we love to see.
This is book one of a new series. And I’m not sure I’ll be running to pick up book two. Okay…who am I kidding! It’s Kaira Rouda! Of course I’ll be reading it!🤣
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer
September 7, 2023
3.5 stars
Juicy family drama. There is not really one likable character in the bunch, but that makes the book more enjoyable!
Mega-billionaire Richard Kingsley has purchased an enormous yacht and has invited his children and their spouses to join him for a weekend sail to Catalina Island. His sons Ted and John each think that they are the perfect candidate to succeed their father at the helm of his business, and they set out to convince Richard of that fact during the trip. Then their sister Sibley arrives, toting her ne'er-do-well boyfriend and wanting to stir up trouble. But each of the people on board, including Richard's wife, have secrets they are keeping and they want the best outcome without spilling those secrets.
It's pretty fun to watch rich people behaving badly, and these people are definitely behaving badly. Everyone is lying, cheating, maneuvering, and there is no one to trust. I'm interested to see that this is the first in a new series, because I don't know how many more bad things these people could do! Maybe we'll learn more about their children? This is definitely a soap opera style popcorn thriller. Totally unbelievable, not much depth, but fun to read anyway.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Juicy family drama. There is not really one likable character in the bunch, but that makes the book more enjoyable!
Mega-billionaire Richard Kingsley has purchased an enormous yacht and has invited his children and their spouses to join him for a weekend sail to Catalina Island. His sons Ted and John each think that they are the perfect candidate to succeed their father at the helm of his business, and they set out to convince Richard of that fact during the trip. Then their sister Sibley arrives, toting her ne'er-do-well boyfriend and wanting to stir up trouble. But each of the people on board, including Richard's wife, have secrets they are keeping and they want the best outcome without spilling those secrets.
It's pretty fun to watch rich people behaving badly, and these people are definitely behaving badly. Everyone is lying, cheating, maneuvering, and there is no one to trust. I'm interested to see that this is the first in a new series, because I don't know how many more bad things these people could do! Maybe we'll learn more about their children? This is definitely a soap opera style popcorn thriller. Totally unbelievable, not much depth, but fun to read anyway.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
December 8, 2023
Richard Kingsley, the billionaire CEO of Kingsley Global Enterprises, has called his two sons, Ted and John, and their wives to join him and his fifth wife on their multi-million dollar yacht for a quick getaway to Catalina Island. Always with something up his sleeve, both Kingsley heirs have joined their father in the hopes of securing the top job at the family business once Richard retires. They are, however, well aware that the patriarch of the Kingsley family is prone to playing his children off of one another, turning even this most important decision into a dire game.
Leaving the dock, the two headstrong men start to duke it out right from the start. Everything changes, however, when Richard’s estranged wild child daughter, Sibley, shows up via helicopter. Not to be left out of the fun, she’s determined to be included in any decisions that could mean securing her future. Even if it means upsetting a few delicate egos and getting down and dirty in the mudslinging department.
As the Kingsleys get down to business, however, the changing game board means even more aggressive schemes. After all, if the past is anything to go by, this family will do almost anything to win. And considering that the pot of gold at the end of this weekend is the biggest one yet, it’s no surprise that their plotting is at an all-time high. But just like the approaching storm, not everything is under control. Someone will win and others will lose. Just how far will each go to be the victor?
What a twisted, twisted family! From the very start of this slow burn, wickedly clever suspense novel, Beneath the Surface was a captivating trip into the world of posh people behaving badly. Thrilled by the backstabbing behavior and deftly layered secrets and lies, I knew before they even left the dock that this trip was far from smooth sailing. After all, as this weekend from hell got underway, I was well aware that there was much schadenfreude on the horizon.
The characters, however, were where this story shined. From their first world problems to their constant griping, this to die for cast of unlikeable characters meant one truly dysfunctional family. Were they somewhat over-the-top? Well, yes, but only in the way that the best soap operas happen to be. You know the type—they happen to populate many of Bravo TV’s most popular shows. Tack on the fact that this family was ruthless to their very core and I became hopelessly riveted to discovering all of their most dastardly traits.
As for the plot, it was decidedly less action-packed thriller and more family drama mixed with delicious suspense. And just when I got lulled into a false sense of security, the climax rolled around and threw a big old case of shock and awe into the mix. Following that up was a conclusion that both managed to nicely wrap up the plot with a neat, tiny, little bow, but also left the door wide open for even more delightful disasters in book two, Under the Palms.
The only piece to this addictive read that wasn’t a home run success, though, was how few twists and turns there seemed to be. Perhaps partially down to the fact that it was billed as a thriller, I was expecting, well, more. More intrigue, more shocks to the system, and more action. In hindsight, however, had it been labeled a suspense novel, I would’ve easily been pleased as punch from beginning to end. I guess I was just waiting for the plot to pick up and, when it didn’t, I felt marginally let down.
After closing the cover of this quick, easy read, however, my reverence for Kaira Rouda kicked up yet another notch. The queen of all things scandalous, this book merely raised the bar. I mean, the sibling rivalry, underhanded behavior, and out-and-out good time was one to behold. Besides, this was a dynamite demo of my favorite trope—locked room mystery. So if you’re intrigued by the idea of a rollicking ride of multiple POVs, an ominous setting, and just a bit of snarky humor, this is the book is most definitely for you. Rating of 4 stars.
Trigger warning: fatal heart disease, blackmail, infidelity, mention of: gambling addiction
Leaving the dock, the two headstrong men start to duke it out right from the start. Everything changes, however, when Richard’s estranged wild child daughter, Sibley, shows up via helicopter. Not to be left out of the fun, she’s determined to be included in any decisions that could mean securing her future. Even if it means upsetting a few delicate egos and getting down and dirty in the mudslinging department.
As the Kingsleys get down to business, however, the changing game board means even more aggressive schemes. After all, if the past is anything to go by, this family will do almost anything to win. And considering that the pot of gold at the end of this weekend is the biggest one yet, it’s no surprise that their plotting is at an all-time high. But just like the approaching storm, not everything is under control. Someone will win and others will lose. Just how far will each go to be the victor?
What a twisted, twisted family! From the very start of this slow burn, wickedly clever suspense novel, Beneath the Surface was a captivating trip into the world of posh people behaving badly. Thrilled by the backstabbing behavior and deftly layered secrets and lies, I knew before they even left the dock that this trip was far from smooth sailing. After all, as this weekend from hell got underway, I was well aware that there was much schadenfreude on the horizon.
The characters, however, were where this story shined. From their first world problems to their constant griping, this to die for cast of unlikeable characters meant one truly dysfunctional family. Were they somewhat over-the-top? Well, yes, but only in the way that the best soap operas happen to be. You know the type—they happen to populate many of Bravo TV’s most popular shows. Tack on the fact that this family was ruthless to their very core and I became hopelessly riveted to discovering all of their most dastardly traits.
As for the plot, it was decidedly less action-packed thriller and more family drama mixed with delicious suspense. And just when I got lulled into a false sense of security, the climax rolled around and threw a big old case of shock and awe into the mix. Following that up was a conclusion that both managed to nicely wrap up the plot with a neat, tiny, little bow, but also left the door wide open for even more delightful disasters in book two, Under the Palms.
The only piece to this addictive read that wasn’t a home run success, though, was how few twists and turns there seemed to be. Perhaps partially down to the fact that it was billed as a thriller, I was expecting, well, more. More intrigue, more shocks to the system, and more action. In hindsight, however, had it been labeled a suspense novel, I would’ve easily been pleased as punch from beginning to end. I guess I was just waiting for the plot to pick up and, when it didn’t, I felt marginally let down.
After closing the cover of this quick, easy read, however, my reverence for Kaira Rouda kicked up yet another notch. The queen of all things scandalous, this book merely raised the bar. I mean, the sibling rivalry, underhanded behavior, and out-and-out good time was one to behold. Besides, this was a dynamite demo of my favorite trope—locked room mystery. So if you’re intrigued by the idea of a rollicking ride of multiple POVs, an ominous setting, and just a bit of snarky humor, this is the book is most definitely for you. Rating of 4 stars.
Trigger warning: fatal heart disease, blackmail, infidelity, mention of: gambling addiction
August 30, 2023
Billionaire Richard Kingsley invites his sons, Ted and John, and their wives to join him and his newest young wife on his recently-purchased yacht for a weekend trip to Catalina Island. His offspring suspect that Richard plans to announce his successor during the trip. Let the games begin for a family who has everything money can buy, and has used lies, deception, and more to keep it.
Oh Kaira, you're killing me here! I feel like this author should've turned some of her recent books into novellas. Although not an original premise, this is a pretty good story and I actually enjoyed it more than I thought I would at the beginning. Unfortunately there's far too much repetition or maybe the characters drink so much champagne they forget that they already had that thought! If a lot of the repetitiveness was eliminated, the book might be less than 200 pages but it'd be a more interesting cohesive story and you would feel the tension more.
With a cast of characters you love to hate, a peek into the lifestyles of the rich and famous and of course a nausea-inducing storm at sea, the pages flew by. This is #1 in a series and even though I have no interest in continuing to read about The Kingsleys, I probably will because it's Kaira Rouda after all! 3.5 stars rounded up for that very reason!
My thanks to Thomas & Mercer via Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this novel. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication: September 5, 2023
Oh Kaira, you're killing me here! I feel like this author should've turned some of her recent books into novellas. Although not an original premise, this is a pretty good story and I actually enjoyed it more than I thought I would at the beginning. Unfortunately there's far too much repetition or maybe the characters drink so much champagne they forget that they already had that thought! If a lot of the repetitiveness was eliminated, the book might be less than 200 pages but it'd be a more interesting cohesive story and you would feel the tension more.
With a cast of characters you love to hate, a peek into the lifestyles of the rich and famous and of course a nausea-inducing storm at sea, the pages flew by. This is #1 in a series and even though I have no interest in continuing to read about The Kingsleys, I probably will because it's Kaira Rouda after all! 3.5 stars rounded up for that very reason!
My thanks to Thomas & Mercer via Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this novel. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication: September 5, 2023
January 24, 2024
4 Stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love Kaira Rouda! Her books rarely disappoint d this one is no exception.
When billionaire CEO Richard Kingsley invites his kids and their spouses to join him and his (4th or 5th) wife on his new super yacht, the Splendid Seas, it’s supposed to be a time for fun and relaxation. Or is it?
Someone will be crowned the heir of Kingsley Global Enterprises. The problem is, everyone in this family can’t stand each other. Filled with lies, deception, dysfunctional family drama and serious backstabbing you won’t be bored with this twisted tale. Let the games begin!
Rouda never fails to make you hate EVERY SINGLE character in her books. Seriously, there’s literally nobody to root for. This is why they are so good!
This one is the first in a new series and I’m looking forward to the next!
I love Kaira Rouda! Her books rarely disappoint d this one is no exception.
When billionaire CEO Richard Kingsley invites his kids and their spouses to join him and his (4th or 5th) wife on his new super yacht, the Splendid Seas, it’s supposed to be a time for fun and relaxation. Or is it?
Someone will be crowned the heir of Kingsley Global Enterprises. The problem is, everyone in this family can’t stand each other. Filled with lies, deception, dysfunctional family drama and serious backstabbing you won’t be bored with this twisted tale. Let the games begin!
Rouda never fails to make you hate EVERY SINGLE character in her books. Seriously, there’s literally nobody to root for. This is why they are so good!
This one is the first in a new series and I’m looking forward to the next!
September 20, 2023
This began a bit slowly with the round-robin style of POVs (Paige, Ted, John, Richard, Serena and only 1 chapter for Sibley).
The Kingsleys are a wealthy dysfunctional family. Patriarch Richard has decided to set this viper pit onto the sea for a reunion of sorts and his announcement of who will be succeeding him at the top of his empire. Everyone counts on high stakes but none plans on things turning deadly.
Richard's fifth wife, Serena has secrets. Son Ted and his wife Paige, have secrets. Son John and his wife Rachel, have secrets. They all have piles of lies too so there's a lot going on that kept things fun. The first third was slow in the lead-up to everyone convening for dinner the first night but once that happens and Richard shoots his first salvo, the game is on!
I won't spoil, but I will say that everyone's tea was spilled and the grievances flowed. Only daughter, Sibley arrives in dramatic fashion to do her dirt and reveals being in league with an off-the-stage, Uncle Walter (yes, there's even more stuff going on in the wider family!).
This was a good character study and I look forward to the next installment with this hot mess of a family. In book-likes, this reminded me of Shari LaPena's Not a Happy Family .
Recommended.
The Kingsleys are a wealthy dysfunctional family. Patriarch Richard has decided to set this viper pit onto the sea for a reunion of sorts and his announcement of who will be succeeding him at the top of his empire. Everyone counts on high stakes but none plans on things turning deadly.
Richard's fifth wife, Serena has secrets. Son Ted and his wife Paige, have secrets. Son John and his wife Rachel, have secrets. They all have piles of lies too so there's a lot going on that kept things fun. The first third was slow in the lead-up to everyone convening for dinner the first night but once that happens and Richard shoots his first salvo, the game is on!
I won't spoil, but I will say that everyone's tea was spilled and the grievances flowed. Only daughter, Sibley arrives in dramatic fashion to do her dirt and reveals being in league with an off-the-stage, Uncle Walter (yes, there's even more stuff going on in the wider family!).
This was a good character study and I look forward to the next installment with this hot mess of a family. In book-likes, this reminded me of Shari LaPena's Not a Happy Family .
Recommended.
May 22, 2023
Review to come
September 14, 2023
A billionaire and his family on a weekend getaway turns into murder. The children of CEO Richard Kingsley are invited by their father’s new wife to an overnight on their new yacht, the Splendid Seas.
Sons John, Ted and their wives are invited for an overnight. As they arrive they realize there is more to this voyage. They are expecting their dad to name his successor to his company. They each feel they deserve to take over.
One son is still working for the company and the other left the company years ago under suspicious circumstances. Not long after the arrival their estranged step-sister Sibley arrives. She is a firecracker and adds so much to the family dynamics.
This novel is not smooth sailing for this dynamic family. So many deceptions, family feuds, drama and just craziness. I adore this author and I can always count on a delicious novel.
Thank you NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and author Kaira Rouda for this advanced copy. This novel is due out Sept 5, 2023.
Sons John, Ted and their wives are invited for an overnight. As they arrive they realize there is more to this voyage. They are expecting their dad to name his successor to his company. They each feel they deserve to take over.
One son is still working for the company and the other left the company years ago under suspicious circumstances. Not long after the arrival their estranged step-sister Sibley arrives. She is a firecracker and adds so much to the family dynamics.
This novel is not smooth sailing for this dynamic family. So many deceptions, family feuds, drama and just craziness. I adore this author and I can always count on a delicious novel.
Thank you NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and author Kaira Rouda for this advanced copy. This novel is due out Sept 5, 2023.
July 11, 2023
What a great premise for a mystery - a dysfunctional family with greedy offspring on a luxurious yacht with their controlling, billionaire father and his 5th wife for an overnight trip on stormy seas! Why are they all together? Well, their aging father has planned the succession as a contest. One of his children will ‘win’ his empire.
Recommended by many in my Bookstagram feed, this book intrigued me and I was excited to discover a new-to-me author.
I loved having a back seat to the manipulation and conniving behaviour of these adults. At times, I knew more than they did and that added to my enjoyment. The despicable characters were outrageous and I found myself chuckling and gasping at their behaviour. The late ‘arrival’ added to the suspense and kicked my inner sleuth into action.
However, I struggled with the flow and I think it was because I was continually reading different points of view from each of the family. I got a bit frustrated with the repetition that often happens with this style of presentation. I can’t compare this to any of her backlist because this is my introduction. I also struggled with the extra-long lead to the ‘thrill’ - the declaration of the winner - and as a result, I kept putting the book down. Curiosity had me picking it up again because I wanted to see which child ‘won’ his fortune.
This is book one of a new series ‘The Kingsleys’ and I’m certain we haven’t seen all that’s below the surface…yet.
If family drama, unlikeable characters who ditch their morals and exhibit despicable behaviour, and a slow, suspenseful ‘cruise’ to the finish are what you look for in a good book, this one’s for you.
I was gifted this copy by Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Recommended by many in my Bookstagram feed, this book intrigued me and I was excited to discover a new-to-me author.
I loved having a back seat to the manipulation and conniving behaviour of these adults. At times, I knew more than they did and that added to my enjoyment. The despicable characters were outrageous and I found myself chuckling and gasping at their behaviour. The late ‘arrival’ added to the suspense and kicked my inner sleuth into action.
However, I struggled with the flow and I think it was because I was continually reading different points of view from each of the family. I got a bit frustrated with the repetition that often happens with this style of presentation. I can’t compare this to any of her backlist because this is my introduction. I also struggled with the extra-long lead to the ‘thrill’ - the declaration of the winner - and as a result, I kept putting the book down. Curiosity had me picking it up again because I wanted to see which child ‘won’ his fortune.
This is book one of a new series ‘The Kingsleys’ and I’m certain we haven’t seen all that’s below the surface…yet.
If family drama, unlikeable characters who ditch their morals and exhibit despicable behaviour, and a slow, suspenseful ‘cruise’ to the finish are what you look for in a good book, this one’s for you.
I was gifted this copy by Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
March 28, 2023
Another great book by Kaira Rouda. Beneath the Surface is about billionaire CEO Richard Kingsley who invites his sons and their families to join him on his mega yacht to Catalina Island. Over rough seas, they spend a weekend with him trying to figure out who he will make the next CEO when he dies. This book has all the secrets, lies, drama and scandal that goes on with billionaires (or that I think goes on). I loved the story line and Kaira captured it all beautifully. And I especially love the beautiful cover! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review. To be published September 2023.
March 16, 2023
Richard Kingsley is living the life. He is a billionaire and CEO of his family's company. He's had 5 wives and various children. He invites his sons and their wives, Ted and Paige and John and Rachel, on his new yacht for a weekend trip to Catalina Island. They all want to take over the family company since they know Richard is getting ready to retire. None of them care for Richard's latest wife, Serena, and are in for a surprise when their youngest sibling, Sibley, suddenly shows up to join them. Will Richard find the perfect replacement? Are any of his children reliable?
BENEATH THE SURFACE was an engaging read from start to finish. This book is filled with drama, lies and backstabbing. Richard was full of surprises and there are a few twists along the way kept this book interesting. The only likeable character was Paige. I felt sorry for her, but in the end I think she did okay. If you love a good family drama, you will like this book. I am a fan of Kaira Rouda, I think her books are just really fun to read.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
BENEATH THE SURFACE was an engaging read from start to finish. This book is filled with drama, lies and backstabbing. Richard was full of surprises and there are a few twists along the way kept this book interesting. The only likeable character was Paige. I felt sorry for her, but in the end I think she did okay. If you love a good family drama, you will like this book. I am a fan of Kaira Rouda, I think her books are just really fun to read.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
September 24, 2023
This family drama was a gripping and fun thriller. I will say it took me a little bit of time to get into the story since all of the characters were pretty unlivable (by the end I liked Paige, but even she was hard to take in the beginning). That’s not to say the characters weren’t well developed or written because they were but they were awful people. It was fun to watch the secrets and betrayals between them come to light and to watch them all squirm as it happened. Richard has three children by three different wives. As he is getting older he knows he needs to make a decision about who he will leave his huge and lucrative business to so while telling them each he was inviting only them on a trip on his yacht he invite them all to get some true family time together. All families have secrets and sometimes to move past them you need to first dig them up. Overall I gave this one 3.5 stars rounded up because it was very well written.
September 27, 2023
Wealthy People Behaving Very Badly!
BENEATH THE SURFACE has no shortage of characters you’ll love to hate! The Kingsleys are a clan of wealthy family members who will stab anyone in the back to get what they want. Anyone on this short yacht voyage is capable of anything and is not to be trusted.
Kaira Rouda’s writing is riveting. This soap-operaish domestic thriller is no different. It’s fun to watch this dysfunctional family try to destroy each other. The children despise each other and their father has encouraged the hostility. I’m excited to find out what happens next with this wild bunch!
Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing this complimentary ARC through NetGalley. As always, all opinions are my own and left voluntarily.
#BeneaththeSurface #KairaRouda #thomasandmercer #netgalley #justfinished #newrelease #giftedARC #igbookreels #thriller #honestreview #thrillerbooklovers #bookreviewer
BENEATH THE SURFACE has no shortage of characters you’ll love to hate! The Kingsleys are a clan of wealthy family members who will stab anyone in the back to get what they want. Anyone on this short yacht voyage is capable of anything and is not to be trusted.
Kaira Rouda’s writing is riveting. This soap-operaish domestic thriller is no different. It’s fun to watch this dysfunctional family try to destroy each other. The children despise each other and their father has encouraged the hostility. I’m excited to find out what happens next with this wild bunch!
Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing this complimentary ARC through NetGalley. As always, all opinions are my own and left voluntarily.
#BeneaththeSurface #KairaRouda #thomasandmercer #netgalley #justfinished #newrelease #giftedARC #igbookreels #thriller #honestreview #thrillerbooklovers #bookreviewer
April 22, 2024
The queen of scandal and intrigue, Kaira Rouda (favorite author), returns following The Widow with her latest smashing thriller and first in the new series, The Kingsleys— A weekend family voyage to Catalina Island on a mega-yacht with a controlling billionaire father and his power-hungry ruthless children goes bad in the highly entertaining, BENEATH THE SURFACE family drama. When the weather is not the only storm brewing!
HOLLYWOOD: Be sure and check out the Hollywood Deadline News! Beneath the Surface is coming to the screen!
No one does wicked, ruthless, and delicious scandal better than Kaira Rouda! Let the games begin!
Come aboard the Splendid Seas from Newport Beach, California, to Catalina Island—host billionaire CEO Richard Kingsley of Kingsley Global Enterprises, a mega-real estate empire and father of three.
What does the patriarch have in store? What are his succession plans? He has a big announcement to make.
First, the Kingsley family does not get along. So imagine being stuck on Richard's new toy, a 185-foot yacht worth $1.2 billion with this group. There is Captain Bill and a chef. Smooth sailing? Not a chance.
Richard & Serena: The aging father & CEO with his younger 5th bride. What do they have planned? Who will take over Kingsley Global Enterprises? Serena thinks she will be his last wife and their future child, the final heir. (Think again).
John & Rachel: The oldest son (52). He will go to the extreme to do what his father asks. He never relatively measures up in his wife's eyes (a criminal defense lawyer). He is always seeking approval. John thinks soon he will be in charge.
Ted & Paige: The youngest son, not in the family business but hopes to be. They are preparing for an empty nest with teen twin girls soon off to college.
Sibley & Colson: The stepdaughter and the black sheep of the family with her questionable boyfriend.
Curious, the three children want to know the big announcement. All are dying for a powerhouse position and inheritance. Richard hates whiners. You know he will have cameras spying on them. Who will get the best stateroom? Who will win in the end?
Told from POV:
Paige
John
Serena
Richard
Sibley
With fun updates from media, OC SCOOP! Who will be the next president of Kingsley Global Enterprises? Buckle up!
Things do not go as expected. An affair, a murder, a divorce, a break-in, someone goes rogue, and an unexpected, shocking announcement—and we catch up to six months later as we anticipate #2 installment.
What a FUN, wicked voyage with adults misbehaving!
"In one drop of water are found all the secrets of all the oceans." —Khali Gibran
This scandalous, entertaining dysfunctional family drama includes manipulation, betrayal, ruthless & despicable behavior, backbiting, power, ambition, scheming, stealing, blackmail, revenge, affairs, sibling rivalry, gambling debts, lies, secrets, deception, scandal, and no morals. There are more than winds and waves and storms to deal with.
Succession meets The White Lotus! You will be shocked by Richard's choice (loved), and I cannot wait for #2 to see how the new role continues.
Paige was my favorite character! As always, Kaira stirs the action and suspense with the wealthy misbehaving. There is not quite as much dark humor and snark as some of her other books; however, it is highly entertaining.
I am a massive fan of the author, having read all her books. If you have not, I highly recommend all of them. I am looking forward to The Kingsleys, #2 in the series.
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for a gifted ARC for an honest opinion.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Sept 5, 2023
Sept 2023 Must-Read Books
HOLLYWOOD: Be sure and check out the Hollywood Deadline News! Beneath the Surface is coming to the screen!
No one does wicked, ruthless, and delicious scandal better than Kaira Rouda! Let the games begin!
Come aboard the Splendid Seas from Newport Beach, California, to Catalina Island—host billionaire CEO Richard Kingsley of Kingsley Global Enterprises, a mega-real estate empire and father of three.
What does the patriarch have in store? What are his succession plans? He has a big announcement to make.
First, the Kingsley family does not get along. So imagine being stuck on Richard's new toy, a 185-foot yacht worth $1.2 billion with this group. There is Captain Bill and a chef. Smooth sailing? Not a chance.
Richard & Serena: The aging father & CEO with his younger 5th bride. What do they have planned? Who will take over Kingsley Global Enterprises? Serena thinks she will be his last wife and their future child, the final heir. (Think again).
John & Rachel: The oldest son (52). He will go to the extreme to do what his father asks. He never relatively measures up in his wife's eyes (a criminal defense lawyer). He is always seeking approval. John thinks soon he will be in charge.
Ted & Paige: The youngest son, not in the family business but hopes to be. They are preparing for an empty nest with teen twin girls soon off to college.
Sibley & Colson: The stepdaughter and the black sheep of the family with her questionable boyfriend.
Curious, the three children want to know the big announcement. All are dying for a powerhouse position and inheritance. Richard hates whiners. You know he will have cameras spying on them. Who will get the best stateroom? Who will win in the end?
Told from POV:
Paige
John
Serena
Richard
Sibley
With fun updates from media, OC SCOOP! Who will be the next president of Kingsley Global Enterprises? Buckle up!
Things do not go as expected. An affair, a murder, a divorce, a break-in, someone goes rogue, and an unexpected, shocking announcement—and we catch up to six months later as we anticipate #2 installment.
What a FUN, wicked voyage with adults misbehaving!
"In one drop of water are found all the secrets of all the oceans." —Khali Gibran
This scandalous, entertaining dysfunctional family drama includes manipulation, betrayal, ruthless & despicable behavior, backbiting, power, ambition, scheming, stealing, blackmail, revenge, affairs, sibling rivalry, gambling debts, lies, secrets, deception, scandal, and no morals. There are more than winds and waves and storms to deal with.
Succession meets The White Lotus! You will be shocked by Richard's choice (loved), and I cannot wait for #2 to see how the new role continues.
Paige was my favorite character! As always, Kaira stirs the action and suspense with the wealthy misbehaving. There is not quite as much dark humor and snark as some of her other books; however, it is highly entertaining.
I am a massive fan of the author, having read all her books. If you have not, I highly recommend all of them. I am looking forward to The Kingsleys, #2 in the series.
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for a gifted ARC for an honest opinion.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Sept 5, 2023
Sept 2023 Must-Read Books
August 12, 2023
Beneath the Surface is an American family drama featuring the most hideous cast of characters I’ve encountered in a long time. I requested this because I really enjoyed Best Day Ever by this author, and while it seems she usually writes domestic suspense thrillers, which I’ve gone right off, the blurb suggested a change in genre, and I liked the sound of a mystery set on a yacht. Unfortunately I didn’t enjoy it - the only mystery was which one of these revolting people would meet a sticky end, how and why, but by the time this was revealed, I really didn’t care.
Three Kingsley heirs are summoned to their ghastly domineering father’s new luxury superyacht for an overnight trip to Catalina island, each hoping to be announced as his successor at the family company. They and their partners can’t stand each other, or the billionaire’s much younger new wife, but each of them has their own agenda - and one is prepared to kill to get what they want.
This is narrated in clunky first person present from four different perspectives - Paige the neurotic wife of Ted, the charming younger son, Richard the controlling patriarch, Serena his calculating spouse, John the bitter eldest son, and eventually Sibley, the wild-child younger daughter. They’re all obsessed with status and their wealthy-folk problems - principally not having enough money to lord it over everyone else, and they wonder why no one loves them. While I don’t need to like characters to enjoy a book, they do need to have something to make them interesting, but this bunch don’t have a redeeming feature between them: even Paige, who works for a charity, does it to look good not because she actually cares. Their internal monologues are horribly repetitive, and the dialogue so banal I would’ve bailed had this not been an ARC for NetGalley. Nobody gets what they deserve and the ending was most unsatisfying. This appears to be the start of a series but I will not be continuing it. Very disappointing.
Three Kingsley heirs are summoned to their ghastly domineering father’s new luxury superyacht for an overnight trip to Catalina island, each hoping to be announced as his successor at the family company. They and their partners can’t stand each other, or the billionaire’s much younger new wife, but each of them has their own agenda - and one is prepared to kill to get what they want.
This is narrated in clunky first person present from four different perspectives - Paige the neurotic wife of Ted, the charming younger son, Richard the controlling patriarch, Serena his calculating spouse, John the bitter eldest son, and eventually Sibley, the wild-child younger daughter. They’re all obsessed with status and their wealthy-folk problems - principally not having enough money to lord it over everyone else, and they wonder why no one loves them. While I don’t need to like characters to enjoy a book, they do need to have something to make them interesting, but this bunch don’t have a redeeming feature between them: even Paige, who works for a charity, does it to look good not because she actually cares. Their internal monologues are horribly repetitive, and the dialogue so banal I would’ve bailed had this not been an ARC for NetGalley. Nobody gets what they deserve and the ending was most unsatisfying. This appears to be the start of a series but I will not be continuing it. Very disappointing.
Read
February 15, 2024Giving up on this one, unfortunately. I made it 2/3 through but the dialogue is just so irritating to me.
May 17, 2023
4.5 rounded up
Not a likable character in the bunch but I couldn't stop reading. Great twists, some I saw coming and some I missed. Looking forward to the next Kingsleys adventure.
Not a likable character in the bunch but I couldn't stop reading. Great twists, some I saw coming and some I missed. Looking forward to the next Kingsleys adventure.
August 21, 2023
3.5/5
There’s something about the authors books that keep pulling me back year after year even if my ratings of them aren’t the best. I’m not sure what keeps me coming back exactly but something about her style always ends up speaking to me. Maybe it’s because I know what to expect from her, I know I’ll get unlikable characters that are just fun to read about alongside a plot that is total brain candy, they almost feel like taking a break and provide a much needed escape. This time around you get a family of narcissists who hate each other and they’re taking an overnight luxury cruise together. So the setup was fun, I like a locked room style mystery and the cattiness and drama this family provided was entertaining enough. Things did start to feel repetitive fairly quickly but I was interested to see where it would go and I have to say, I was kind of surprised with the direction it took. If you like dramatic stories about bickering families fighting over power and money this one was decent.
There’s something about the authors books that keep pulling me back year after year even if my ratings of them aren’t the best. I’m not sure what keeps me coming back exactly but something about her style always ends up speaking to me. Maybe it’s because I know what to expect from her, I know I’ll get unlikable characters that are just fun to read about alongside a plot that is total brain candy, they almost feel like taking a break and provide a much needed escape. This time around you get a family of narcissists who hate each other and they’re taking an overnight luxury cruise together. So the setup was fun, I like a locked room style mystery and the cattiness and drama this family provided was entertaining enough. Things did start to feel repetitive fairly quickly but I was interested to see where it would go and I have to say, I was kind of surprised with the direction it took. If you like dramatic stories about bickering families fighting over power and money this one was decent.
August 24, 2023
Beneath the Surface by Kaira Rouda. Thanks to @amazonpublishing and @netgalley for the gifted Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Billionaire Richard Kingsley has invited each of this children on his new yacht for a trip to Catalina Island. His children all hate each other but are competing to run his company.
This is a fun fast paced read good for a vacation read, especially if you love family drama with gossip and badly behaved rich people. The first half of the book is getting to know all the characters, so stick with it while you get to know them and their immature ways. It’s definitely a fun read but takes some time to get into.
“Nothing like family togetherness to bring out the worst - I mean, the real - character in a kid.”
Beneath the Surface comes out 9/5.
Billionaire Richard Kingsley has invited each of this children on his new yacht for a trip to Catalina Island. His children all hate each other but are competing to run his company.
This is a fun fast paced read good for a vacation read, especially if you love family drama with gossip and badly behaved rich people. The first half of the book is getting to know all the characters, so stick with it while you get to know them and their immature ways. It’s definitely a fun read but takes some time to get into.
“Nothing like family togetherness to bring out the worst - I mean, the real - character in a kid.”
Beneath the Surface comes out 9/5.
August 2, 2023
This was a book that I was really looking forward to - a family entirely made up of unlikeable people with a heap of secrets sounded right up my alley. Oh how wrong I was! I found the writing to be very simplistic and that the entire story was a case of tell not show. The members of this dysfunctional family immature, entitled, self-obsessed, and would kill their nearest & dearest just to get ahead. I love stories with unlikeable characters, but they’ve got to have some depth to them to make me care. These characters are one-dimensional and the dialogue is wooden, and I was disappointed that the boat didn’t capsize, taking them all out.
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2023
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the copy of Beneath The Surface by Kaira Rouda. The characters are what really stood out in this book. None of them were likable but they were all well-written and had really interesting stories, so there are reasons to dislike them. Most of the book establishes the characters and their backgrounds, so don’t go in expecting a thrill a minute, just let the (twisted) personalities sink in. The part of the book and that reveal came out of the blue for me, so I realize I should have paid more attention to the ‘little things’ happening and what people said. The story was a diabolical and cautionary family tale.
September 19, 2023
Another hit from Kaira Rouda that made my top 5 list of new reads for the month of August. Make sure to catch Kaira's episode on the Killer Author Club -- links to watch at https://killerauthorclub.com/killer-e....
April 4, 2024
This was an intense book filled with family drama, plenty of lies and secrets, and a bunch of interesting and mostly unlikeable characters. We follow the story through the POV of five of the characters, which gives us a slightly better insight into everything that's going on. It was pretty slow throughout most of the book, however there was just enough tension to make it worth continuing. I did feel nothing really happened to make it "thrilling" other than an incident that takes place later in the book. But it did mostly just focus on this incredibly rich man and the drama between him and his family.
September 2, 2023
3.5 Stars
The Kingsley family is over the top rich, headed by Richard, ruthless, loves to show his wealth off and dangles it in front of his children like the prize that it is. Each of his 3 children have issues of their own, many demons to face. Richard is getting older, he invites his children for a weekend on his yacht to figure out his replacement. The fun and games begin.
The family is totally unlikeable, seriously no redeeming value. Seriously though, who doesn’t like unlikeable characters, especially if they get what’s coming to them. This book was not what I expected. The cover led me to think of an ominous, stormy trip with high seas, capsized boat, lifeboats, helicopter rescues. This has more of a Dallas-esq feel to it. Told in 4 voices we see a different perspective and personality of each participant. This family will stop at nothing to get what they believe they so rightfully deserve. A little slow moving at times, one little twist I didn’t see coming. First in a series, not sure I want to get totally vested in a series, but will see Book 2 takes me. I do enjoy this writer’s unsavory characters.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer. This is my honest review.
The Kingsley family is over the top rich, headed by Richard, ruthless, loves to show his wealth off and dangles it in front of his children like the prize that it is. Each of his 3 children have issues of their own, many demons to face. Richard is getting older, he invites his children for a weekend on his yacht to figure out his replacement. The fun and games begin.
The family is totally unlikeable, seriously no redeeming value. Seriously though, who doesn’t like unlikeable characters, especially if they get what’s coming to them. This book was not what I expected. The cover led me to think of an ominous, stormy trip with high seas, capsized boat, lifeboats, helicopter rescues. This has more of a Dallas-esq feel to it. Told in 4 voices we see a different perspective and personality of each participant. This family will stop at nothing to get what they believe they so rightfully deserve. A little slow moving at times, one little twist I didn’t see coming. First in a series, not sure I want to get totally vested in a series, but will see Book 2 takes me. I do enjoy this writer’s unsavory characters.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer. This is my honest review.
March 10, 2023
Holy hell!! Scandalous secrets, devious plot scheming, extremely spoiled brats---Kaira Rouda delivers again! I think I say this in all of my reviews of her books, but Rouda definitely has a talent for portraying unlikeable characters. You just love to hate them. I wanted to jump on to that precious yacht and tell them off with my inner sailor mouth! The behavior between these siblings was very immature and I'm proud to say that I loved every single moment of their tit-for-tat mind games. This book was extremely fast-paced with a slow build of intensity. It took awhile before anything was revealed, but OMG, the secrets!! I guessed at some but there were just so many! I am still reeling from the drama. The ending was bittersweet and I absolutely loved how it all played out. And Beneath the Surface is Book 1? I cannot wait to read Book 2!! Bring it on, Rouda!!
Thank you to the author, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for allowing me to preview this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
Thank you to the author, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for allowing me to preview this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
April 16, 2024
3.5 Stars. Definitely a big ole train wreck you can’t look away from with a cast of the most unlikable characters. Fun but good riddance!
November 21, 2023
While this started slowly, it certainly picked up!
This fun thriller is about wealthy people behaving badly. I personally love all the drama of the super wealthy. There is a full cast of characters you’ll love to hate.
Richard Kingsley has invited his children on his new mega expensive yacht.
Cue - the kids didn’t know their siblings are invited. Richards new, very much younger wife is hosting. Richard has an announcement.
Expect housewives of beverly hills vibes, secrets, betrayal, and lies with this fun popcorn thriller.
Many thanks to @netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced reading copy.
This fun thriller is about wealthy people behaving badly. I personally love all the drama of the super wealthy. There is a full cast of characters you’ll love to hate.
Richard Kingsley has invited his children on his new mega expensive yacht.
Cue - the kids didn’t know their siblings are invited. Richards new, very much younger wife is hosting. Richard has an announcement.
Expect housewives of beverly hills vibes, secrets, betrayal, and lies with this fun popcorn thriller.
Many thanks to @netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced reading copy.
September 5, 2023
Fans of succession will absolutely devour Kaira Rouda's latest novel, Beneath the Surface. Siblings vying for their father's affection (and wealth) while hiding secrets ... but as we know, what lurks beneath always comes to the surface. With multiple perspectives and short chapters, coming in at 269 pages, this is a fast read that will hold your attention!
3.5 stars
Thank you to Amazon for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
3.5 stars
Thank you to Amazon for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
August 15, 2023
PUBLICATION DAY: September 5, 2023
The Kingsley’s have all been invited on a family vacation on the patriarch’s new yacht. An overnight trip to the Catalina Islands - what could go wrong? In a family filled with jealousy, insecurity, and intense competition - well that just about anything can. And when the unpredictable sister unexpectedly joins in the fun, and a storm begins to brew - it’s not just nature who is preparing to unleash their fury.
PROS and CONS:
Family dynamics are key in this fast paced book! And toxic ones only are allowed onboard this yacht. This book was quite repetitive, with characters repeating their motivations quite regularly. But there were bombs to be dropped and lives to be ruined, so it was entertaining to say the least!
READ IT?
If you’re looking for…a super easy read with drama aplenty - then this one’s for you!
3 Stars
The Kingsley’s have all been invited on a family vacation on the patriarch’s new yacht. An overnight trip to the Catalina Islands - what could go wrong? In a family filled with jealousy, insecurity, and intense competition - well that just about anything can. And when the unpredictable sister unexpectedly joins in the fun, and a storm begins to brew - it’s not just nature who is preparing to unleash their fury.
PROS and CONS:
Family dynamics are key in this fast paced book! And toxic ones only are allowed onboard this yacht. This book was quite repetitive, with characters repeating their motivations quite regularly. But there were bombs to be dropped and lives to be ruined, so it was entertaining to say the least!
READ IT?
If you’re looking for…a super easy read with drama aplenty - then this one’s for you!
3 Stars
September 11, 2023
oh Kaira Rouda, what have you done to my soul!!!
Beneath the Surface IS going to be a contender for Book Of The Year.
I was first introduced to Kaira Rouda through our little book corner, "bookstagram" . I hungrily devoured both The Widow and The Next Wife! I finished BOTH of these books in the same day!! To say I became an instant fan, would be an understatement.
When I saw Beneath the Surface, pop up on Netgalley, I knew I just had to have it!
The book fairies were working over time and I lucked out with an approval email and I am so grateful I did as this book is MIND-BLOWING!!!!
I zipped through this book anxious to see what would happen next. As all of Gouda's books are, this one is original and like nothing I have read before.
When you read as many thrillers as I do, they can at times feel like something you have read before, this is not the case with this one.
I was completely lost within the pages and felt as though I held my breath through more than half of it.
This book is sure to be a hit and I am so excited to have been given the opportunity to read and review early in exchange for an honest review! Thank you, Kara Rouda, Thomas & Mercer, and Netgalley for letting me share in the early success of Beneath the Surface.
Check out this teaser :
On a weekend voyage, the power-hungry children of an aging billionaire are unprepared for a storm of deceptions in a novel about ruthless family ambition by USA Today bestselling author Kaira Rouda.
You are cordially invited to an overnight voyage on the Splendid Seas.
An invitation to Catalina Island from billionaire CEO Richard Kingsley. For his sons, Ted and John, and their wives, it’s an opportunity to curry favor, gain control of a real estate empire, and secure their family’s futures. For the controlling patriarch, succession is a contest. He and his newest wife won’t make it an easy win.
Then Richard’s estranged live-wire daughter, Sibley, crashes the party. She’s the least of the night’s surprises. As the stakes for the inheritance of the Kingsley legacy are raised, the beautiful waters of the Pacific look more like a menacing illusion.
Let the games begin for a family who has everything money can buy, and has used lies, deception, and more to keep it. This weekend one of them will be crowned heir. One is in line to lose everything. That’s the plan. But in the coming storm, so much can go dangerously wrong.
Beneath the Surface IS going to be a contender for Book Of The Year.
I was first introduced to Kaira Rouda through our little book corner, "bookstagram" . I hungrily devoured both The Widow and The Next Wife! I finished BOTH of these books in the same day!! To say I became an instant fan, would be an understatement.
When I saw Beneath the Surface, pop up on Netgalley, I knew I just had to have it!
The book fairies were working over time and I lucked out with an approval email and I am so grateful I did as this book is MIND-BLOWING!!!!
I zipped through this book anxious to see what would happen next. As all of Gouda's books are, this one is original and like nothing I have read before.
When you read as many thrillers as I do, they can at times feel like something you have read before, this is not the case with this one.
I was completely lost within the pages and felt as though I held my breath through more than half of it.
This book is sure to be a hit and I am so excited to have been given the opportunity to read and review early in exchange for an honest review! Thank you, Kara Rouda, Thomas & Mercer, and Netgalley for letting me share in the early success of Beneath the Surface.
Check out this teaser :
On a weekend voyage, the power-hungry children of an aging billionaire are unprepared for a storm of deceptions in a novel about ruthless family ambition by USA Today bestselling author Kaira Rouda.
You are cordially invited to an overnight voyage on the Splendid Seas.
An invitation to Catalina Island from billionaire CEO Richard Kingsley. For his sons, Ted and John, and their wives, it’s an opportunity to curry favor, gain control of a real estate empire, and secure their family’s futures. For the controlling patriarch, succession is a contest. He and his newest wife won’t make it an easy win.
Then Richard’s estranged live-wire daughter, Sibley, crashes the party. She’s the least of the night’s surprises. As the stakes for the inheritance of the Kingsley legacy are raised, the beautiful waters of the Pacific look more like a menacing illusion.
Let the games begin for a family who has everything money can buy, and has used lies, deception, and more to keep it. This weekend one of them will be crowned heir. One is in line to lose everything. That’s the plan. But in the coming storm, so much can go dangerously wrong.
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