General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers
HQ
Feb 22 2023
Netgalley
As Bella drops her son off at university, she’s devastated. It’s been the two of them ever since Asher was born. The only thing helping her through is an upcoming week-long wilderness retreat in Sweden, a surprise gift from her sister and Asher.
The lodge is modern and luxurious – but the surrounding forest is foreboding. Named Dead Man’s Forest after the legend of a local bandit left to die inside a wooden coffin, there are rumors that, on quiet nights, you can still hear the scratching of his fingernails against the lid.
When someone begins leaving unsettling notes, and a figure from her past comes back to haunt her, Bella’s unease grows. This certainly isn't the restful retreat she signed up for. And when another guest suddenly disappears, Bella fears she might not make it home alive…
In Jennifer Moore’s “The Wilderness Retreat,” readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery and healing. The protagonist, Sarah, finds herself at a crossroads in her life after a painful divorce. Seeking solace and renewal, she decides to embark on a wilderness retreat.
As Sarah ventures into the remote wilderness, she is initially overwhelmed by the challenges it presents. The physical demands of hiking and camping push her to her limits, and the solitude forces her to confront her inner demons. However, as she immerses herself in the beauty and tranquility of nature, she gradually begins to heal. Through her interactions with the other participants in the retreat, Sarah learns the importance of community and support. She discovers that she is not alone in her struggles and that there are others who understand her pain. Together, they share their stories, offer encouragement, and support each other on their journeys of healing.
One of the most significant turning points in Sarah’s journey comes when she encounters an elderly woman named Mary. Mary shares her own experiences of loss and heartbreak, and she teaches Sarah the power of forgiveness. Sarah realizes that holding on to anger and resentment is only hurting herself, and she begins to let go of the pain that has been holding her back.
As the retreat draws to a close, Sarah returns to her everyday life transformed. She has gained a renewed sense of purpose and hope, and she is ready to face the challenges ahead with newfound strength and resilience. “The Wilderness Retreat” is a powerful and moving story about the healing power of nature and the importance of human connection.Jennifer Moore’s evocative writing and deeply drawn characters create a compelling and unforgettable narrative that will resonate with readers long after they finish reading.
