The Hotel – Kit Duffield

Something magical is just what I’ve been looking for. I’ve never felt good enough amongst my husband’s richer friends, but a Valentine’s weekend in a stunning new hotel in Finnish Lapland is our chance to shine. The staff promise perfection by recreating our fondest memories—the happiest moments of our lives.

When we arrive, they play our favourite songs while we sip the champagne from our wedding night.

That evening, we share the dinner from our first date, under a starry sky.

The morning after, I wake alone and find my husband in the swimming pool with another woman.

There are certain memories I would rather forget, but they seem to be coming back to haunt us. My husband promised he would change, but can I trust the man I married?

When a huge storm arrives, I’m trapped. It’s just me, my husband…and our secrets. The power goes down and paradise becomes a nightmare—can we make it out alive? Or will this holiday destroy us both?

Review

It’s the perfect getaway. Will they make it out alive?

A little vacation in a stunning new hotel in Finnish Lapland should be the romantic escape of dreams. 

For Beth, it’s also a chance to finally feel like she belongs among her husband’s wealthy friends. 

For Fletcher, it’s a time to unwind from his job and responsibilities as CEO and recognised phycologist in America.

For Jordy, it’s a perfect opportunity to boast her standing and wealth as an influencer and up her level in social media. 

The hotel staff promises to recreate each guest’s most treasured memories—champagne from their wedding night, dinner from their first date, music from their young days. Everything is personalised and tailored to each guest. 

I loved the opening vibe. The Lapland hotel is atmospheric and immersive—icy landscapes, luxurious details, and a sense of isolation that sets the stage perfectly for a thriller.

The story is told from multiple POVs.

The characterisation was inconsistent, there were moments I connected with the characters, only to be pulled back by sudden changes in tone or behaviour.

The narrative flirts with paranormal elements, but for me, that twist felt out of place and not fleshed out. That said, I appreciated the layers of tension between the characters and the luxurious nature of the setting.

Overall, The Hotel had an excellent premise, a striking setting, and moments of genuine suspense, but the execution didn’t really land for me.

2.5 – 3 ish / 5.

Special thanks to NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing and Brilliance Audio for the ALC!