Krysten Ritter’s Novel Transforms Art Scam into a Thrilling Mystery

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — In her latest novel, “Retreat,” actor and author Krysten Ritter crafts a tale of deception and suspense that begins with a charity gala in a Chicago art gallery, where protagonist Liz Dawson, posing as art consultant Elizabeth Hastings, swindles a wealthy philanthropist. What unfolds is a gripping exploration of identity and morality as Liz’s con spirals into a life-threatening mystery.

The narrative kicks off when Liz, looking for her next mark, encounters Mrs. Reed, a sophisticated art collector. With a fabricated sob story about an imaginary Keith Haring painting, Liz gains Mrs. Reed’s trust while simultaneously leaving with her ruby ring. This clever opening hooks readers and sets the stage for Liz’s misadventures.

Ritter’s protagonist depicts a skillful scammer whose life soon unravels as unexpected complications arise. “Liz’s issues come in threes,” Ritter stated, noting how shortly after her con, she faces pressure from Mrs. Reed’s agitated son regarding a nonexistent investment and mounting debts from a hotel where she stayed. Adding to her dilemma is a police inquiry regarding evidence left at a recent crime scene.

Things take a turn when an opportunity arises for Liz to manage an art installation at Casa Esmerelda, a luxurious villa in a Mexican resort. The owners, Oliver and Isabelle Beresford, provide her an ideal getaway while they travel to Bali. Liz throws herself into the glamorous life at Punta Mita, where her demeanor leads some to mistake her for Isabelle.

However, a hiking trip with a newfound friend, Tilly, turns drastic when they stumble upon two corpses. “This is not what I signed up for,” Liz muses, realizing her escapade in paradise is rapidly shifting to a darker reality. As she delves deeper into the mystery surrounding the deaths, Liz’s research morphs into a risky performance of her own.

Her sleuthing skills come into play as she investigates a hidden office, hacks emails, and sifts through layers of deception. As Ritter adeptly builds tension, readers are taken on a thrilling ride through Liz’s moral quandaries. “I let myself get lost in this world,” Ritter said, describing her attachment to Liz’s character.

Despite the compelling story arc, critiques note some clichéd prose and predictable twists. “There’s a big reveal that’s somewhat anticipated,” a review noted, while also emphasizing the engaging narrative and characters. Despite its imperfections, the novel excels in exploring themes of privilege, deceit, and the lengths one will go to for survival.

Ritter’s portrayal of Liz as a flawed yet relatable antihero invites readers to empathize with her struggle as she navigates the treacherous waters of deception, power, and identity. “I wanted readers to root for her, even as she falters,” Ritter said, underlining her intention to create a character reflecting the complexities of real life.

As the story unfolds, the sharp dialogue and vivid descriptions paint a rich picture of the unseen battles fought within the elite circles where Liz operates. The book’s combination of wit and tension demonstrates Ritter’s skill in both acting and writing, leaving readers eager for more of her narrative prowess in future works.