A powerful little tale

5 stars

Short but sweet, The Winter Guest hangs on the answer to the question, 'what is the worst thing you've ever done'. The entire book takes place over the course of a snowy Christmas eve dinner for Janice and Gerry alone at a posh Irish hotel. They are strangers to each other and decide to eat together with each answering in turn the worst thing they've ever done. 

Beautifully crafty in a, seemingly, simple way, the reader can instantly picture Janice and Gerry as they explore each other over multiple sumptuous courses. Sarah Moss is ever a tricksy writer so nothing can be taken at face value. The big twist is a powerful one and the reader is left impressed and touched by its impact. A quick read, best enjoyed during a dark and stormy night, The Winter Guest has the ability to linger long after the conclusion.