The Family Retreat

'Beautifully written, emotionally intelligent.' Daily Mail

'What separates Thomas' writing from your average domestic drama is its compelling persuasiveness.' Stylist

ONE PERFECT HOLIDAY. ONE SHOCKING ENDING.

When Rob decides the family needs to get away for the summer Jess is not convinced - won't all the things they're escaping be waiting for them on their return? But the kids are thrilled, and before long their idyllic little cottage, the sea air, and the feel of skin sticky from sun-cream, lollies and sand, begins to work its magic. Jess allows herself to sink into the holiday vibes - the family even make holiday friends.

The summer heat intensifies Jess - ever vigilant - unearths a secret, a problem she's sure she can help solve. But things are not always as they seem. The water may look inviting but even the gentlest looking waves can hide the deadliest undercurrents.

As autumn approaches, Jess - and the reader - will come to realise this is going to end in a way no-one could have imagined. . .

Readers are gripped by The Family Retreat:

***** 'What a fantastic read. I could not put it down!'

***** 'A fantastic twist. . . I was completely hooked.'

***** 'The plot was riveting.'

***** 'An absolutely perfect summer read. I honestly couldn't put it down.'

***** 'Read it on the beach, in the bar, en route to the airport, even in the queues at check in & passport control!'



Bev Thomas was a clinical psychologist in the NHS for many years. She currently works as an organisational consultant in mental health and other services. She lives in London with her family. Her debut novel, A Good Enough Mother, was published in 2019.

Endless days on the beach, sundrenched evenings by the BBQ, the perfect holiday? Or the perfect cover.


This unmissable novel will have you utterly gripped until the sun goes down on this family's unforgettable holiday.