“This tale of seduction, obsession, and murder will resonate with fans of Patricia Highsmith. The pace is fast, the prose is smooth, and the plot genuinely twisty.”“She felt no remorse for drawing blood. In the context of their relationship, it had its place.” For Max and Laurel, nothing is off limits when they meet in room 553. Their illicit affair is exhilarating, passionate—and dangerous. … exhilarating, passionate—and dangerous.
Driven as much by compulsion as pleasure, Max can’t stop. His mistress is Jesus on the streets, and Satan in the sack. But when things take a sharp and sudden turn for the worse, he finds himself ensnared in a trap of his own making.
Under heavy scrutiny by the police and the media, Max is hailed as a cold and evasive womanizer. He made mistakes, to be sure. But does that make him a killer?
Unnerving and addictive, Room 553 is a vivid and sensual psychological thriller that weaves a story of cruelty, reckless desire, and blind, bloody justice.
Praise for Room 553
“King successfully constructs a teetering house of cards precariously stacked with lies, which threatens to topple at any moment. Suspense lovers will devour this deliciously duplicitous read, which is chock-full of twists, turns, lust, greed, and dishonesty.”
“King writes with a cool detachment and unflinching emotional honesty that takes your breath away.”
“Riveting. King excels at taking the reader to the darkest places in the human psyche.”
“Sharp. Stunning. A suspenseful, downright scary page-turner.”
“King does it again. Another perfect dark pleasure delivered seamlessly.”
“Fierce, and deeply felt.”
“Haunting and compulsive, artsy and edgy. Cancel your plans, because you’ll finish this addictive novel in one sitting.”
“Room 553 pulls you in and doesn’t let go. It’s the perfect gripping thriller.”
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Yoowza…I think this is my favorite book by this author to date. It was SOOOO good. However, another thing about this author’s books is that they are notoriously hard to review. (lol) I can’t really say too much about the plot because anything I say is a potential spoiler. Suffice it to say this isn’t a book you want to miss. It is a twisty, well written, and intriguing phycological thriller whose plot is methodically peeled away layer by layer until you reach its rotten and shocking inner core.
One-click this baby today…you won’t be disappointed!
Let’s just get this over with, Britney’s mind and stories are second to none! Where she comes up with these stories is beyond my comprehension because holy cows….she never ceases to amaze me and her stories are always original and fresh. This one is no exception. She kept me guessing until the very end and kept me turning those pages of an incredibly twisted tale as I had to know what was going to happen next and how this story was going to play out. I did not see it playing out as it did in the last 20 percent when ALL is revealed. The twists and turns and revelations and truths that come to light literally made me stop reading and go “oh my god” and “are you kidding me” and “no freaking way”. Laurel and Max really were two peas in a pod and I strongly feel that what goes around comes around, as Britney shows us in the end it doesn’t really matter who started it, it’s about the end game and who finishes it. Throw James and Nina into the mix and you have the perfect characters to make a story that keeps you on your toes. The setting, the characters, the brilliant writing, all of it makes this book the perfect cocktail for murder….it will take everything you thought you knew and throw it out the proverbial window.
“It’s all about perception, and you have to be careful. Perception can be wrong.”
“I would tell him the truth. Which version of it, well, it depends on how you look at it. After all, what is truth but perception”
The above quotes from Britney King’s brilliant new novel, Room 553, distill the essence of this masterful story of deceit and deception that Ms. King weaves with her adroit and unparalleled wordsmith skills.
The male protagonist is Dr. Max Hastings. Max is the handsome physician of Laurel’s demented and dying father. Max is in a failing marriage and has a reputation for occasional dalliances with other women. Max, as described by Ms. King in her Forward, is a highly educated, very stupid man. Max falls prey to his testosterone-driven ego and makes the all too typical male mistake of under-estimating a beautiful woman. A mistake that irreparably alters his life.
The beautiful and sensual female protagonist, Laurel Dunaway, is also married but her marriage is everything but traditional. Laurel has so many skeletons in her mental closet that the skeletons have overflowed the closet and now occupy a full room of their own in her mind. Laurel is an intelligent and creative woman with many talents, not the least of which is that she is insatiable in the bedroom.
In their preferred location for their assignations, Room 553 of the Belmond Hotel, the sex was always unrestrained and feral. Always anything goes. No safe words were required because nothing was off limits. Hair pulling. Biting, Clawing. Slapping. Grasping. Drawing blood. Private unrestrained lust at its rawest.
Room 553 is written in Britney King’s typical style of alternating the telling of the story in the voices her two protagonists, Max and Laurel. Laurel’s story is told through entries in her journal. Max’s story is told through his interviews with a psychiatrist in prison. Ms. King is yet again masterful in her slowly paced but richly told development of her characters and in each chapter revealing key elements of their backstories. Ms. King carefully and skillfully entices the reader to think and to examine the true nature of her two protagonist and the reality and truth of the story that she is telling.
The plot likewise develops slowly and logically. Other than the deaths that pile up along the way, it is a totally believable story of infidelity and the complications that can result when two individuals in failing marriages scratch a mutually felt itch. In the words of Max, “to me sex is sex. I didn’t ask – and she didn’t tell”.
It is also a cautionary tale of the unintended consequences of lies and deceptions. In the words of Laurel, this is the thing about lies; you start with one and it cascades from there. However, alternatively, in the words of Max, to tell the truth, in some cases, is a dangerous thing to do.
Initially, the story seems simple and straight-forward and the reader thinks that she/he has it figured out. Then the pace quickens and new and totally unexpected revelations makes the reader’s head spin. I can assure you that I didn’t see several of the coming’s that lay ahead for you! Britney King’s storytelling, pacing and her lesson to the reader is analogous to the way that Laurel describes Max’s lovemaking following their first time together. “You don’t get to be in charge here” – he told me as he entered me – slowly at first, and then not slowly at all.” This brilliant story also moves slowly at first, and then not slowly at all. And, Britney King is totally in charge. Like a skilled puppet-mistress, Ms. King knows how to pull your strings!
I, like Max, am a highly educated but very stupid man and I too have made an underestimation. In my reviews of Britney King’s previous two novels, I stated that, first Speak of the Devil and most recently HER were her best books ever. My preconception before reading Room 553 was that while it would no doubt be an excellent book, it would be unrealistic and unfair to expect it to be better. Yet again, Britney King has proved me wrong. Room 553 is her best work yet. She is setting a high standard for whatever book is no doubt already gestating in her fertile and creative mind. Please read this 5+ star psychological thriller. It will be one of, if not the, best book that you read this year.
I received an uncorrected advanced reading copy (ARC) directly from the author in return for an honest review. My review is provided voluntarily.
I read the Foreword to Room 553 by Britney King and laughed out loud thinking, right Britney. Now you know I have to continue reading! OMG!
I didn’t see the direction this was going when I began. In fact, I was a bit disappointed because Britney King writes some fabulous stories and I am usually biting my nails and racing through the pages as soon as I begin. Not so with this psychological thriller. It is more subtle, slowly sucking me in, revealing the characters in starts and stops.
The story bounces between Max’s perspective and Laurel’s journal writings.
The characters, at first I didn’t think much of any of them, but as more of their personalities, sick, perverted personalities, were revealed, I began to think, there isn’t one of them worth redemption. Maybe they will all get what’s coming to them.
Room 553 gets deeper into their twisted world becoming darker, uglier more depraved as the threads are woven together to create surprises and turns that gave me a steady supply of WTFs. That ending…worth a star in itself! Love that Britney King can blow my mind making me think of the book long after I have finished reading it.
Even though I thought Room 553 was too tame for me in the beginning, the little nuggets of goodies started popping up…then, full on, psychological and psychopathic profiles were exposed and I was in my element. But, don’t judge me on my love of reading materials.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Room 553 by Britney King.
See more at http://www.fundinmental.com
Wow this is a fantastic psychological thriller, this grabbed me from the first page. It had me on the edge of my seat, a real page turner. This Author does a fantastic job at bringing you the absolute best and she never fails. Its is absolutely a must read. There are twists and turns that I did not see coming. This is definitely more than a 5 star read. This is told in two different point of views. I was given this read. I was not disappointed in this read. She hit a home run on this read.
Shauna Joesten
This book will really mess with your mind! At first, I was feeling rather sorry for Laurel after all she is trying to help her dad who is in his last stage of dementia and try to help her very controlling husband James, run their business. All that goes out the window one day when Dr. Max Hastings and Laurel have an affair. The more I read this book, the more I was shaking my head going What?! This story will blow your mind—-especially the ending! No way did I see that coming! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Room 553 by Britney King
Let me start off by saying I love the way Ms. King writes and am always curious to what floats through her mind at any given time! I loved this book Room 553! There is enough action and twists that I had no problem keeping my mind focused on this book! Loved the way this story starts and was definitely thrown with the ending, this is a must read for anyone who has a few hours to disappear into Room 553 and is looking for games, mind games and intriguing characters! I was lucky enough to read an ARC copy of this book but also preordered a copy because it is that good! Thank you Britney King and her publishers for putting out another mind blowing book!!
In the last book I read by this author she left me wanting more. Well the more has come and I found it very interesting. The first interesting thing was the Foreword. It certainly isn’t one you would expect but I’ve learned that about this author. Maybe that’s one reason that I keep coming back for more.
Max Hastings is a man who constantly thinks. At first introduction he gives a household tip – will have to check it out. He also reveals the significance of the title. In his next scene he did something that totally grossed me out – you may not feel the same. But when you think of his profession it just doesn’t seem something anyone else would do. It’s just a part of who he is.
Laurel Dunaway is honest about things in her life – at least on paper. She writes down what she’s willing to share but you have to wonder what she’s hiding. I think you’ll figure out early on the type of man her husband James is. It does make you wonder how they ever became a couple.
If you haven’t read this author before you’ll quickly realize why she’s good at the psychological thriller. She’s very good at engaging the reader’s mind. She’s also good at creating puzzles that she slowly unravels. In this instance, Laurel will give a helping hand. Sometimes one question gets answered and then another appears. Max is the one that reminds me why I’m terrible when it comes to mysteries.
That becomes a good reason to keep reading. If I were to figure things out before the end I might give up. But having Max and Laurel as our main characters makes it easy to continue turning the pages. Our author was also very good with her secondary characters even though at times they may not have seemed that way. There were several times where I just had to roll my eyes. One of those times when Max’s wife Nina seemed to be in a real snit. Another time was when she gave attitude about her daughter. Then came a scene when she was talking to her husband and I just couldn’t help myself. But there came a time where I decided was going to have to be careful – my eyes will stay that way. If I didn’t have enough of an issue with Nina, then it starts again with Laurel’s husband. He seems to have an issue with compassion.
It wasn’t just the characters that kept my attention but the way the author wrote her story. We get to see Max’s take on what went on. Laurel doesn’t talk to the reader directly but we still get to understand her by what she reveals and by what she doesn’t. Max is the one to give us an ending but not really. He put the period on things but since life goes on maybe it’s just a comma.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Note: This review contains NO spoilers
Room 553 is the first novel I have read from Britney King. It probably won’t be the last either. This is supposed to be a psychological thriller. Well… Guess what!!!???!!! IT IS! I was sucked in at the start, then ended with a “Whoa!!!” With its well developed, complex characters and elaborate world building, Britney King weaved a deeply intricate story filled with crazy twists and turns that kept me guessing until it punched me in the gut with a surprising twist.
Room 553 is told in two POVs, Max and Laurel. Britney King expertly weaves a story of manipulation and deceit as I turned every page reading about her characters’ lives and secrets. I was totally mesmerized with the story as it did a mind loop on me. Wow! I haven’t read many psychological thrillers lately, but Room 553 was an intriguing and addicting read that piqued my interest with its twists and turns.
However, the pace slow to start (but then again, that’s just me), but it did not deter me from reading to the end. And, that is definitely something to get passed. Moreover, Britney King’s brilliant writing drew me in that kept me reading, despite the slow start. So, yah, I would recommend not giving up on reading Room 553. It will definitely throw you for a twisted mind loop… All the way to the end.
Reviewer: Jasmine
Ready for a rollercoaster ride full of twists and turns. I enjoyed reading this story. It kept me glued to the pages trying to figure out” Who Done It ? ” Nina Hastings, wife of Dr. Max Hastings was found deceased by a housekeeper in room #553 of The Belmond Hotel. Who killed Nina ? Why ? I purchased this book and this is my own personal opinion.
Favorite Quotes:
There are a lot of things a woman permits a man to be. Indifferent is not one of them.
The read I get on Dr. Jones is that she’s the type who has ten cats and piles of clutter spread among the excess of belongings she refuses to get rid of.
My words tasted bitter and foreign, like they were coming from someone else’s mouth, someone I didn’t yet know.
My heart leaped so high into my throat that I could have easily opened my mouth and touched it.
My Review:
There is no doubt; Britney King is an evil genius. I’ll just keep my fingers crossed that she limits her substantial talents and devious powers to continue to delight and entertain rather than hiring out for actual crime. The cunning characters in Room 553 were markedly vile yet fatally alluring and intriguing, but as brilliantly devised as they were, it was her unique and clever writing style that ultimately wins the purple championship ribbon. Her well-crafted storylines were magnetic and unflinchingly compelling and quickly lured me into a consuming vortex that had me simultaneously smirking and cringing. I greatly admire her mad skills and covet all her clever arrangements of words. I fear I am irrevocably addicted and have unwittingly consumed her Kool-aid.
Room 553 is definitely a psychological thriller……twisted, unexpected, and nothing is as it seems. I was sucked in at page one and held in its grip until the shocking end. I have to say I loved the ending and thought it was very fitting! I look forward to this authors next book and highly recommend Room 553!
Speechless!
You know what they say about assumptions?
This was the perfect example of why you should never assume anything.
Max is so laid back. He is recounting to Dr. Jones, too a degree, the events that led up to his arrest.
It is a bit eerie how disconnected he seems.
Laurel comes across more clinical yet a tad “touched” (?) as she recounts the same events via a journal.
Both their spouses are real pieces of work.
I truly do not want to risk any clues that will give away the answers or reveal any plot lines.
I will say – This is a definite must read!
I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough
Each new breadcrumb, every little reveal ~ either derailed my previous beliefs or reinforced my inability to wrap my thoughts around all the twisted possibilities.
This is an intensely twisted must read!
This talented author is the queen of psychological thrillers, and this one is just as intense and intriguing! Max and Laurel’s story is dark and twisted, as well as filled with lies, suspense, danger, secrets, action, and mind games, all which had me totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner. I cannot wait to read more from this gifted author, and highly recommend for all lovers of this genre.
I don’t think I will ever tire of reading a psychological thriller by Britney King.
I always enjoy the way she starts her books, especially this one with its Forward. Overall I enjoyed this story. These characters and the story line were intense. I am excited to see what Mrs. King comes up with next
When I was reading this book I was thinking how would King throw a twist in this story, what areas of this story do I need to take more notes, thinking that maybe I could decipher how this story would end before I got to that part. Yes I was able to figure out 1 piece of the puzzle, but I literally was not able to see the full picture till it was all laid before me.
Well Mrs. King, well done.
I’ve been wondering lately when I stumbled upon Britney King. I can’t quite recall but I definitely feel as though I’ve developed a bit of an obsession with her books. Really, it seems apt, doesn’t it? I mean, so many of her books concentrate on obsessing over one thing or another. Oh, and Water Under the Bridge is where I found her BTW… if anyone is now curious like I was, I had to look it up.
I enjoy Britney King’s writing style way more than I ever thought I would. She writes in a way that makes me question every little thing. Half the time I’m left wondering if her characters are lying to me or if she’s just that good in making me question things…. I think it’s a bit of both honestly. My favorite thing about King’s writing is how the story develops bit by bit and you’re left wondering what the characters are talking about or how xyz fits with abc. However, as the story gets revealed bit by bit, things start to unravel and then it quickens in pace until everything is left unraveled and at your feet… there’s definitely a bloody, crazy mess at your feet!!
I appreciate the way Britney King seems to take everyday situations and turn them a bit more sinister. Room 553 is her best book yet! Well, out of the ones I have read. I know I have a few older novels to mark off my list. Room 553 is dark and seriously messed up! I loved it!! This is one trip you should definitely take… unless the twists, turns, and loops get to you!! This book is everything and MORE that I’ve come to expect from Britney King!!
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… my opinions.
Another terrific psychological thriller from Britney King. She lets you into the minds of Laurel and Max who are having an affair. Mas also is Laurel’s fathers doctor. Murder and affairs are certainly a theme. This thriller will captivate you and keep you interested from start to finish.
Sexy suspense that I fell in love with!!! Ms. King is new to me, but will no longer be a stranger! Phew, I just could not put this one down! As this is a suspense novel, I will not speak to anything that happens within the walls of Room 553. Loved how Ms. King developed the characters of Max and Laurel. Fantastic writing. I was kept guessing….
Britney King is a master at writing satirical, shocking, and twisted reads. Room 553 is a testament to that and I think many readers are going to devour this crazy ride! I had many ideas as to what was happening in the story (readers don’t really know what’s happening until the brutal end) but found myself shocked even everything was revealed. I wasn’t expecting that are common phrases I had in my head throughout the whole story! Based on all this, I think many readers are going to really enjoy Room 553 and I recommend giving it a try!
I won’t speak of the plot at all because this is the type of book where the buildup and the unknown are paramount to the story. I will say that readers should be aware that while the story may start a little slow it picks up quickly. You will have so many questions and they WILL be revealed it just takes a little time. It’s one of those books where slower pace is necessary for the shocks!
I have been reading Britney King for the past few years and she always manages to disturb me with her books. Where she gets her ideas is beyond me but each and every novel is original and twisty! I love them!!! Therefore, I recommend this book to fans of psychological thrillers!
Britney King
Absolutely brilliant new novel! Early on in reading, you’re introduced to two protagonists, each equally flawed and with complicated lives. A reader unfamiliar with this author could be lulled into thinking this was a straightforward tale of seduction, infidelity and complicated families drama. But…remember, dear reader, this is a Britney King novel and nothing, not one single thing is ever simple, average or as it seems. This extraordinary author intricately crafts, once again, a story that twists, turns and flies at an unimaginable speed to its unbelievable conclusion. At each new twist, I thought, wait…what? And, forgetting who created this story, I continually thought THIS is the big plot turn. And then…no, here comes another new revelation. Because this author is THAT good, I instantly understood that the truth was right there in front of me yet completely camouflaged. This is the eighth book written by Britney King that I’ve devoured. Each time, I think she’s written her best book ever…and then I read the next one. Room 553 is an absolute must read