The Christmas Guest was a really quick, easy popcorn thriller. I really wanted to like it but unfortunately, this one was just a miss for me. I felt that there wasn't much character development. Things between the FMC and the MMC moved extremely quickly. Without giving any spoilers, Laura shared information with Nate that you would NEVER share with anyone, let alone someone you've only known for a couple of months. Incredibly unrealistic. The way everything came together felt a little awkward and forced to me. I will definitely read more from this author because I've enjoyed her works in the past, but this one just isn't my favorite.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

I LOVED this book! Sally has done it again, completely consuming my evening. I never get anything done when I start one of her captivating novels.

This was a really enjoyable mix of thriller, romance, suspense, gorgeous setting, holiday cheer, mysterious characters, secrets and murder. The romantic popcorn thriller you will gobble up this Christmas! It was all such good fun.

I liked that it was a romance featuring a couple a little older than you normally see in a romance novel. The mystery surrounding Nate was great, he certainly had something to hide. He was dashing and sexy but had an edge to him. I loved Laura's character. She was realistic and smart, she knew Nate had secrets, but her secret really surprised me. I also liked how loving she was with her son, Charlie, and her dog, Gertie.

The ending was good, sort of a happily ever after, but it's a thriller so there's shades of grey. There's a little shock at the end, but I saw it coming.

Overall, a smart, sexy and utterly addictive story full of suspense. Add to your Christmas TBR immediately! Solid five stars!!!