The Blog

Under the Palms by Kaira Rouda

May 21, 2024 | Featured Book

ABOUT:

During a weekend retreat, a powerful family plays a dangerous game of dark secrets and cold-blooded ambition in a novel by Kaira Rouda, USA Today bestselling author of Beneath the Surface.

Under the direction of the Kingsleys’ new president, Paige, the family has gathered for a weekend retreat at a luxurious Laguna Beach resort.

Still clinging to the hope of succession are the sons of Richard Kingsley, the family patriarch and CEO: John, the oldest, who’s clawed his way back from a dark tragedy, and Paige’s estranged husband, Ted, the golden boy. When Richard’s ex and his wayward daughter join the fray, Paige finds herself with two fast allies. They know a secret that could shatter the family legacy. Call it leverage, call it revenge, the Kingsley women believe they have the upper hand.

But as the power games begin, greater threats than the howling Santa Ana winds are coming. Because this weekend, amid so much greed and betrayal, no Kingsley is safe. It’s family. Watch your back.

Available now.

PRAISE AND RECOGNITION:

“Rouda keeps the complications coming…Fans of lethal soap operas will be happy to know that a third season is on the way.” Kirkus Reviews

“Kaira Rouda writes with such a fresh, engaging voice—she pulled me into this story from page one! I loved everything about Under the Palms: the secrets, power games, over-the-top luxury and complex characters. If you’re looking for a delicious read, you need to pick up this book!” —Sarah Pekkanen, New York Times bestselling author of House of Glass

“The Kingsleys’ are back and just as devilishly devious as before. Under the Palms is a single-sitting, binge-worthy page-turner. I didn’t think this family’s behavior could get any more appalling, but Kaira Rouda delivers with whip sharp banter and morally gray characters bent on doing their worst, even if it’s murder. For anyone feeling a dry spell after Succession, snap up this book. It’s pure fun.” —Kerry Lonsdale, Wall Street Journal bestselling author

“In Under the Palms, the endlessly entertaining Kaira Rouda has created a high-octane whodunnit as unpredictable as the Santa Ana winds. Rouda brings back the notorious Kingsley crew, dropping them at an exclusive resort with a hidden, dangerous underbelly, tosses in corporate intrigue, plenty of backbiting, and a shocking murder. This heart-stopping page-turner will leave readers begging for more time with the Kingsleys in all their dysfunctional glory.” —Heather Gudenkauf, New York Times bestselling author of The Overnight Guest and Everyone Is Watching

“Calling Hollywood—this is your next big thriller! It’s so much fun to watch rich people behaving badly, and this riveting plot and immersive settings had me turning the pages as fast as I could. But be warned: on the outside, it’s a frothy delicious vacation book, but the wonderful Kaira Rouda also reveals a deep understanding of psychology, business, passion, and power. Not to be missed!” —Hank Phillippi Ryan, USA Today bestselling author of One Wrong Word

“Dive into a riveting tale of power, secrets, and betrayal in Kaira Rouda’s latest novel, where the opulent world of the Kingsley family becomes a battleground for dark ambitions. With Paige, the new president at the helm, the family’s weekend retreat at a luxurious Laguna Beach resort unravels a perilous game. This gripping, propulsive novel is pure entertainment from beginning to end. A delectable read that I couldn’t put down!” —Jean Kwok, New York Times bestselling author of The Leftover Woman

“The Kingsleys are back, once again fighting for control of the family business—and fortune—this time at an exclusive seaside resort. Rouda plops readers into the heart of this dysfunctional family, where the battle for power quickly turns ugly…and darkly comedic. A propulsive, unputdownable tale and an incredibly fun ride.” —Kimberly Belle, internationally bestselling author of The Paris Widow

AUTHOR VISITS:

Author visits with Kaira Rouda are available via Adventures by the Book.