(Reviewed by JD Jung)
Phoenix Sullivan loves her work as a gardener. She has the experience of a landscape architect, but not the degree. She especially enjoys working on the gorgeous grounds of Rosecliff, the home and property of Marguerite and Geoffrey Gray. Though she and her crew do all the labor, Marguerite gets all the credit, posting gardening tips on her media feeds.
The beautiful Marguerite is also famous for her style, hosting lavish garden parties and writing books. Additionally, she was the inspiration for the iconic Serge Kuhnert painting, “Marguerite By The Lake”, which hangs in their living room. When the suave Geoffrey comes on to Phoenix, she initially resists…but not for long. In fact, she eventually falls in love with Geoffrey.
Marguerite suspects that something is going on between them, but soon mysteriously falls off the cliff at the edge of the property. Phoenix witnessed it all and fears that she will be a primary suspect for her death. As the police investigate, she learns troubling facts about Geoffrey, Serge, and even her own brother. She meets Marguerite and Geoffery’s adult daughter, Taylor, who has adopted many of her mother’s traits. She wants Phoenix gone. Marguerite had such a strong presence in life, but Phoenix feels it after her death. This is especially true when she is near the painting. Phoenix soon spirals into a psychosis and jealousy towards both Marguerite and Taylor.
Readers will find Marguerite By The Lake a captivating read, as the tension emerges from so many sources and on so many levels. The plot is skillfully structured with surprises at every turn. However. I was disappointed with the abrupt ending. It feels rushed and incomplete. After such a carefully built narrative, more time could have been spent unraveling the possibilities, as it could have gone in so many directions.
That said, I still recommend Marguerite By The Lake for its intriguing plot and complex characters. Though the ending may be wanting, the journey is well worth the read.
