Title: THE GUEST
Author: BA PARIS
ISBN: 97813997140305
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton
Pages: 358
Source: Private Copy
Iris and Gabriel have just got home from a make-or-break holiday. But a shock awaits them. One of their dearest friends, Laure, is in their house – sleeping in their bed, wearing Iris’ clothes, even rearranging the furniture. She has walked out on her husband – and their good friend – Pierre over his confession of an affair.
Iris and Gabriel want to be supportive. But as Laure’s mood becomes more unpredictable, her presence begins to unravel secrets in all their pasts – until things reach breaking point …
Official Summary
02 April 2026
My goodness — I absolutely did not see that ending coming!
This was my third book by B.A. Paris, and I’m really growing to love her writing style, especially her knack for delivering unexpected twists. She has a real talent for introducing seemingly ordinary characters, drawing you into their lives, and then revealing shocking details you never would have imagined.
In The Guest, when Laure arrives unannounced on Iris and Gabriel’s doorstep, they feel obligated to welcome her. After all, they’ve been close friends for years, and they genuinely want to help her through her troubles with Pierre. But what starts as a kind gesture quickly becomes something far more uncomfortable, as Laure begins to overstay her welcome.
I found myself feeling suspicious of Laure quite early on. She insists that Pierre has been unfaithful, yet her story lacks convincing detail. Meanwhile, Pierre’s refusal to engage — even with close friends — adds another layer of intrigue and leaves you questioning what’s really going on.
The novel explores themes of friendship and loyalty, and how far people are willing to go for those they care about. Iris, in particular, is portrayed as incredibly patient and supportive — almost saint-like at times. She’s a fascinating character, though I have to admit, I don’t think I could have shown the same level of patience in her situation!
The final reveal completely caught me off guard, which I loved. It’s always a treat when a thriller genuinely surprises you, and this one delivers. The plot is clever, well-executed, and thoroughly engaging.
This is a gripping and satisfying read that I would highly recommend to fans of psychological thrillers.
Also by BA Paris
THE THERAPIST
When Alice and Leo move into a newly renovated house in The Circle, an exclusive gated community, it is everything they’ve dreamed of. But appearances can be deceptive…
As Alice is getting to know her neighbours, she discovers a devastating secret about her new home and begins to feel a strong connection with the therapist who lived there before.
Alice becomes obsessed with trying to piece together what happened. But no one wants to talk about it. And her neighbours are hiding something…
About the Author
Author bio from the author’s site
B.A. Paris is the New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author of eight novels, including the word-of-mouth hit, Behind Closed Doors, and her latest psychological thriller, When I Kill You.
Over nine million editions of her work have been sold worldwide, and her books have been translated into 41 languages. Her novel, The Breakdown, has been adapted for film under the title Blackwater Lane.
Before becoming an author, B.A. Paris, who spent most of her adult life living in France, worked in finance as a trader before retraining as an English teacher. Today, she writes from her cottage in Hampshire, England.
Thank you for visiting the blog and reading my review. I am still rather new to this author, but I am loving her work. Which is your favourite book? Please leave a comment below. Until next time… Happy Reading!
