Unraveling the Dark Threads of Wellness Culture: A Review of The Retreat by Gemma Fairclough
When I first stumbled upon The Retreat as part of Wild Hunt Books’ Northern Weird Project, I couldn’t help but feel a stir of excitement. As someone perpetually fascinated—and often frustrated—by the insidious layers of wellness culture, its blend of mystery and folklore lured me in. The promise of an unsettling narrative woven through blog posts and letters felt like the perfect invitation to explore the darker side of self-improvement in our digital age. Gemma Fairclough not only meets this expectation but crafts something truly haunting.
At its core, The Retreat is a haunting investigation led by Richard, an aficionado of the great outdoors, who finds himself entangled in the mysterious death of his sister, which he suspects is linked to the enigmatic Hartman Retreat. Fairclough deftly immerses readers in a multi-layered narrative, employing an eclectic mix of media—blog posts, interview transcripts, and snippets from old newspapers. This epistolary form invites the reader into Richard’s world while simultaneously blurring the lines between fact and fiction, reality and paranoia. I found myself flipping from one entry to another, much like peeling away layers of an onion, each reveal compelling me further into Richard’s lurking dread.
One of the joys of reading this novella was how each piece of evidence sparked different interpretations. My partner and I embarked on this journey together, and debating the implications of various snippets turned our typically quiet evenings into animated discussions (in contrast to our usual “silent farting competition”). The narrative’s ambiguity keeps you guessing, challenging you to decide what’s genuine and what’s simply a manifestation of Richard’s deteriorating mind.
Fairclough’s writing style is sharp, weaving a tapestry rich in atmosphere and emotion. The depiction of Cumbria’s breathtaking landscapes contrasts sharply with the sinister undertones of the Hartman Retreat. Her love for this beautiful part of the UK is palpable, vividly illustrating how this wellness center stands as a scar upon the land, warping local folklore in the process. This duality creates an eerie sense of place that resonates deeply with readers, leaving a lingering taste of discomfort long after you’ve put the book down.
Though I won’t spoil the ending, I can assure you that the subtle craftsmanship of the plot connects you intimately to the characters and their haunting experiences. It feels like one of those perfectly unsettling tales that sits with you, urging you to question the true nature of wellness and the lengths we go to in seeking it.
The Retreat is compelling and thought-provoking, making it the perfect read for those who enjoy engaging in lively discussions post-reading. If you revel in narratives that blend emotional depth with a touch of the surreal, then this novella deserves a spot on your shelf. It’s a testament to how stories can illuminate the darker corners of contemporary culture while reminding us to tread carefully on the paths of self-discovery.
This introspective dive into a world where wellness and horror converge left me stirred and contemplative. Thanks to Wild Hunt Books for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I wholeheartedly recommend The Retreat for anyone willing to ponder what lurks beneath the surface of our modern quests for well-being.
Discover more about The Retreat (The Northern Weird Project) on GoodReads >>