What do you think?
Rate this book
The Skiers
Packed with suspense and guaranteed to keep you guessing! —— Maggie Giles, Award-Winning Author of The Things We Lost and Twisted
Friends want to see you succeed, just never more than them.
In the elite world of professional water skiing, the line between victory and disaster is razor-thin. Willa and Sadie have spent years battling for the top spot, their rivalry fueling headlines and sparking fan debates. But beyond the trophies and sponsorships, their competition is personal—rooted in past betrayals and unspoken truths, plus a complicated love triangle. As they prepare for the most anticipated event of the season, the pressure reaches a breaking point.
Then, tragedy strikes. An explosion shatters the competition, leaving suspicions swirling. Was it a terrible accident—or something far more sinister?
As secrets unravel and tensions mount, Willa and Sadie must confront not only the dangerous undercurrents of their sport but the truth about the people they trust most. Because in a world where ambition rules and the past is never far behind, the most dangerous rivalries aren’t always on the water. In the end, there's a fine line between friends and frenemies.
Perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty and Layne Fargo’s The Favorites, THE SKIERS is a gripping, propulsive novel of competition, obsession, and the price of winning at all costs.
Friends want to see you succeed, just never more than them.
In the elite world of professional water skiing, the line between victory and disaster is razor-thin. Willa and Sadie have spent years battling for the top spot, their rivalry fueling headlines and sparking fan debates. But beyond the trophies and sponsorships, their competition is personal—rooted in past betrayals and unspoken truths, plus a complicated love triangle. As they prepare for the most anticipated event of the season, the pressure reaches a breaking point.
Then, tragedy strikes. An explosion shatters the competition, leaving suspicions swirling. Was it a terrible accident—or something far more sinister?
As secrets unravel and tensions mount, Willa and Sadie must confront not only the dangerous undercurrents of their sport but the truth about the people they trust most. Because in a world where ambition rules and the past is never far behind, the most dangerous rivalries aren’t always on the water. In the end, there's a fine line between friends and frenemies.
Perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty and Layne Fargo’s The Favorites, THE SKIERS is a gripping, propulsive novel of competition, obsession, and the price of winning at all costs.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 13, 2025
17 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
About the author
Jen Craven
9 books129 followersJen Craven is the author of upmarket women's fiction, where one decision changes everything. The author of two historical fiction novels, "Best Years of your Life" is her debut contemporary work. She writes from northwestern Pennsylvania, where she lives with her family.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 21, 2025
Love a good rivalry? A love triangle? Learning about a sport you may not know much about? If you answered yes to any of these questions you don’t want to miss The Skiers.
Friends first and then later rivals, Sadie and Willa are fierce competitors when it comes to waterskiing. As someone who’s familiar with waterskiing generally but not as a sport, I loved learning the nuances of the race and watching these women grow and succeed.
There was so much more than sport to this story. Coming of age, family tensions, developing a self-identity, love, friendship, and the messiness and drama that comes with it all.
I also loved that there’s a bit of mystery aspect to thjs novel. A mystery event takes place and is alluded to through interviews and snips throughout the novel. The culmination is dramatic and tragic.
The Skiers is really well executed. It’s exciting, fast paced, revolves around strong and interesting characters, and has emotional depth. Highly recommend!
Friends first and then later rivals, Sadie and Willa are fierce competitors when it comes to waterskiing. As someone who’s familiar with waterskiing generally but not as a sport, I loved learning the nuances of the race and watching these women grow and succeed.
There was so much more than sport to this story. Coming of age, family tensions, developing a self-identity, love, friendship, and the messiness and drama that comes with it all.
I also loved that there’s a bit of mystery aspect to thjs novel. A mystery event takes place and is alluded to through interviews and snips throughout the novel. The culmination is dramatic and tragic.
The Skiers is really well executed. It’s exciting, fast paced, revolves around strong and interesting characters, and has emotional depth. Highly recommend!
February 17, 2025
Sadie and Willa have been competitive skiers since they were kids, but their rivalry becomes more intense as they reach the peak of their careers. With secrets from their past threatening to derail their success, their friendship is tested as they navigate the cutthroat world of water skiing. As tensions rise and dark secrets are revealed, their season takes a deadly turn that will change their lives forever.
I am new to this author and am excited to explore more of their titles. This is the first time I have delved into a story about water skiers and the competitive environment they thrive in. It is evident that a great deal of planning and research went into crafting this book.
The pace of the book is moderate, making it a perfect read to binge in just one day. The vivid details about the competitive environment truly immerse you in the story, allowing you to understand the unfolding events.
Through the characters of Willa, Sadie, and Baz, we are taken on a journey through their complex and intertwined relationships that have roots in the past. Willa's challenging upbringing contrasts with Sadie's privileged background, leading to a shift in dynamics that feels authentic and believable. The exploration of the competitive history between Sadie's mother and Willa's coach, Roxanne, adds depth to the narrative.
While there are multiple points of view and characters to keep track of, the author does a commendable job of fully developing each character by the halfway point of the book. The writing style may be different from what I am accustomed to, but the gradual build-up to the main event keeps you engaged until the very end. Some parts may feel slightly overexplained, but this is necessary to ensure readers can follow along with the main twist.
If you enjoy stories of multi-generational family drama, competitive sports dynamics, friendships turning into rivalries, and unexpected plot twists, then this book is must-read. You will find yourself immersed in the story, finishing it in a single day, especially on a rainy day.
Thank you, The Pulse and author, for the ARC digital copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am new to this author and am excited to explore more of their titles. This is the first time I have delved into a story about water skiers and the competitive environment they thrive in. It is evident that a great deal of planning and research went into crafting this book.
The pace of the book is moderate, making it a perfect read to binge in just one day. The vivid details about the competitive environment truly immerse you in the story, allowing you to understand the unfolding events.
Through the characters of Willa, Sadie, and Baz, we are taken on a journey through their complex and intertwined relationships that have roots in the past. Willa's challenging upbringing contrasts with Sadie's privileged background, leading to a shift in dynamics that feels authentic and believable. The exploration of the competitive history between Sadie's mother and Willa's coach, Roxanne, adds depth to the narrative.
While there are multiple points of view and characters to keep track of, the author does a commendable job of fully developing each character by the halfway point of the book. The writing style may be different from what I am accustomed to, but the gradual build-up to the main event keeps you engaged until the very end. Some parts may feel slightly overexplained, but this is necessary to ensure readers can follow along with the main twist.
If you enjoy stories of multi-generational family drama, competitive sports dynamics, friendships turning into rivalries, and unexpected plot twists, then this book is must-read. You will find yourself immersed in the story, finishing it in a single day, especially on a rainy day.
Thank you, The Pulse and author, for the ARC digital copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 7, 2025
I’ve never read a book with professional water skiers before but surprisingly, I was super interested in that aspect. Sadie and Willa have a toxic frenemies relationship and nothing fascinates me more, like will they support each other or sabotage each other? That was the fun of this one for me, I never quite knew what would happen between them but I was totally invested in them as well as Baz, Sadie’s husband. He provided an interesting angle to an already complicated story and I was here for it. You slowly find out about the characters relationship histories as this flips back and forth between past and present and it felt like a bit of a slow burn up until an intense and shocking ending. My first book from the author but definitely not my last, a really engaging and character driven mystery I liked.
March 26, 2025
✨ Rivalries, secrets, and high-stakes competition✨
We are absolutely loving this one over at @thrillerbookloversthepulse—it’s a must read for anyone who craves a suspenseful, character driven drama with bite.
Sadie and Willa have been competing their whole lives, on the water and off. But as they battle for the ultimate title, buried betrayals and forbidden desires threaten to pull them under. This time, winning might cost them everything.
It blends fast paced storytelling with rich character depth and is full of tension, drama, and jaw dropping twists. The Skiers is a must-read.
We are absolutely loving this one over at @thrillerbookloversthepulse—it’s a must read for anyone who craves a suspenseful, character driven drama with bite.
Sadie and Willa have been competing their whole lives, on the water and off. But as they battle for the ultimate title, buried betrayals and forbidden desires threaten to pull them under. This time, winning might cost them everything.
It blends fast paced storytelling with rich character depth and is full of tension, drama, and jaw dropping twists. The Skiers is a must-read.
March 7, 2025
I will fully admit that I love a good thriller; when I saw the blurb for this one, I found myself intrigued and knew I wanted to read it.
If you're looking for a book with more twists and turns than there are ripples in a lake this is the book for you.
From the very first page, I found myself sucked into the world created by this phenomenal author and kept trying to figure out what was happening next and who was actually loyal to who.
With betrayal, longing, euphoria and everything in between the Skiers has something for everyone.
Thank you to Thriller Lovers The Pulse for providing a copy of this e-book; I have voluntarily read and reviewed it, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
If you're looking for a book with more twists and turns than there are ripples in a lake this is the book for you.
From the very first page, I found myself sucked into the world created by this phenomenal author and kept trying to figure out what was happening next and who was actually loyal to who.
With betrayal, longing, euphoria and everything in between the Skiers has something for everyone.
Thank you to Thriller Lovers The Pulse for providing a copy of this e-book; I have voluntarily read and reviewed it, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 21, 2025
Willa and Sadie, two young girls who bond over their shared love for waterskiing, find themselves in a fierce competition for prestigious titles. What begins as a friendly rivalry quickly escalates into a toxic clash fueled by ambition and jealousy. As buried secrets come to light, the stakes rise, leading to a shocking turn of events-someone winds up dead.
The Skiers is a slow-burn mystery that unravels complex female friendships. Craven uses flashbacks to explore Willa and Sadie’s childhood, showing how their bond morphed from innocent camaraderie into a fierce, competitive rivalry. Both characters harbor secrets that could jeopardize their success, adding layers of suspense to the story. Once the secrets began to unravel, I simply couldn't put the book down.
The professional waterskiing world adds an interesting and fresh dimension to the story. I’m completely unfamiliar with the sport, and found this aspect both engaging and eye-opening. Craven's attention to detail about the sport makes it a fascinating backdrop, almost like a character in itself.
Overall, I really enjoyed the blend of suspense, well-developed characters, and unexpected twists that explore the dark side of competition and friendship. Great one to add to your TBR - perfect for a spring break trip!!!
The Skiers is a slow-burn mystery that unravels complex female friendships. Craven uses flashbacks to explore Willa and Sadie’s childhood, showing how their bond morphed from innocent camaraderie into a fierce, competitive rivalry. Both characters harbor secrets that could jeopardize their success, adding layers of suspense to the story. Once the secrets began to unravel, I simply couldn't put the book down.
The professional waterskiing world adds an interesting and fresh dimension to the story. I’m completely unfamiliar with the sport, and found this aspect both engaging and eye-opening. Craven's attention to detail about the sport makes it a fascinating backdrop, almost like a character in itself.
Overall, I really enjoyed the blend of suspense, well-developed characters, and unexpected twists that explore the dark side of competition and friendship. Great one to add to your TBR - perfect for a spring break trip!!!
March 22, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
What a page turner this was! I had no idea water skiing was such a cutthroat sport. I actually knew very little about in general. This entertaining, character driven drama with elements of suspense really drew me in. And made me fall down the rabbit hole of watching slalom videos.
Sadie, Willa and Baz grew up together on water skiing circuit. The story focuses mainly on the complex dynamic between Sadie and Willa, coming from two vastly different worlds, motivated by different things but both driven and competitive.
Took me less than 24 hours to read this one. It’s such a fun mind escape read with multiple timelines and a number of intriguing characters. Though this wasn’t a thriller, the amount of drama, secrets and suspense had me hooked!
Read this if you enjoy
📕 stories about rivalries
📕 intrigue
📕 love triangles
📕 complex, imperfect characters
📕 world of competitive sports
📕 books like The Favorites
Another fun read brought to you by @thrillerbookloverspulse crew! I can’t wait to see what Jen Craven comes up with next.
What a page turner this was! I had no idea water skiing was such a cutthroat sport. I actually knew very little about in general. This entertaining, character driven drama with elements of suspense really drew me in. And made me fall down the rabbit hole of watching slalom videos.
Sadie, Willa and Baz grew up together on water skiing circuit. The story focuses mainly on the complex dynamic between Sadie and Willa, coming from two vastly different worlds, motivated by different things but both driven and competitive.
Took me less than 24 hours to read this one. It’s such a fun mind escape read with multiple timelines and a number of intriguing characters. Though this wasn’t a thriller, the amount of drama, secrets and suspense had me hooked!
Read this if you enjoy
📕 stories about rivalries
📕 intrigue
📕 love triangles
📕 complex, imperfect characters
📕 world of competitive sports
📕 books like The Favorites
Another fun read brought to you by @thrillerbookloverspulse crew! I can’t wait to see what Jen Craven comes up with next.
Read
March 24, 2025First of all, I had no idea that competitive water skiing existed, I thought it was all having fun while boating🤣 Second of all, I had no idea how intense it could be.
I loved how the story spanned numerous decades, following Sadie, coming from a long legacy in the water skiing world and her fierce life long competitor, Willa. I always love multi timelines, and here we glimpse Sadie's youth, and both her mom's and grandfather’s early days. We also get multi POVs which I doubly enjoy. On top of all that, there is mixed media in the form of news articles and witness statements.
With all those components (multi timelines, multi POVs and mixed media), the Skiers was the absolute best format of writing for me, I absolutely love the variety.
The Skiers is truly an examination of human relationships and highlights the intensity of competitive sports that can extend outside of the competition.
I loved how the story spanned numerous decades, following Sadie, coming from a long legacy in the water skiing world and her fierce life long competitor, Willa. I always love multi timelines, and here we glimpse Sadie's youth, and both her mom's and grandfather’s early days. We also get multi POVs which I doubly enjoy. On top of all that, there is mixed media in the form of news articles and witness statements.
With all those components (multi timelines, multi POVs and mixed media), the Skiers was the absolute best format of writing for me, I absolutely love the variety.
The Skiers is truly an examination of human relationships and highlights the intensity of competitive sports that can extend outside of the competition.
February 22, 2025
I tore through this in just two sittings! Jen Craven masterfully blends drama, high stakes, and scandal to create an utterly binge-worthy read. This time, she throws in the intense world of skiing and fierce competition, and I LOVED it!
If you are a fan of the Favorites, I highly recommend this one!
If you are a fan of the Favorites, I highly recommend this one!
March 13, 2025
Another great suspense read from Jen Craven! This has intrigue, competition, rivalry, and secrets, all set in the world of elite sports. Two friends driven apart by a sport they love.
March 8, 2025
Jen Craven returns following The Day She Vanished, The Baby Left Behind, and Her Daughter with THE SKIERS. Gripping and mesmerizing, intense and twisty—unputdownable!
“Riveting! Craven’s best yet.
Secrets. Betrayal. Murder.
A deadly sports rivalry, ambition, a legacy, friendship, obsession, sacrifice, and a love triangle set against the highly competitive world of professional water skiing with only ONE winner.”
About...
Sadie and Willa have been best friends since childhood and competed against one another on slalom courses in Florida—the two best water skiers.
There was also a guy skier, Baz (the three musketeers) and becomes a bit of a love triange. Sadie came from a privileged background where Willa had a very troublesome childhood. Willa gets a break when her coach Roxanne supports her, when her family was not there for her.
However, the dynamics of their relationships take a dramatic turn. When Baz marries Sadie, Willa and Baz, who were once close, find their bond tested. Then, a tragic accident shatters Baz's world.
Now at age twenty-eight at the peak of their careers, with a significant competition on the horizon, the cutthroat competition heats up and the two best friends are now frenemies. The stakes are high, and there can only be one winner in this intense battle.
Mix in the pressures from the family, coaches, sponsorships, the media, and Sadie's legendary family with strong ties to a mega church, things are INTENSE.
Both sides have secrets. How far will someone go for fame?
No one can foresee this being far from a typical ski season, ending in MURDER. As the story unfolds, a shocking event will change everything, leaving the characters and the readers alike in disbelief and anticipation for what's to come.
My thoughts...
THE SKIIERS is a well-written domestic suspense surrounding the characters, Willa, Sadie, and Baz, with their complex relationship. At the same time, the author brilliantly explores the competitive history between the two gals and another added narrative: Sadie's mom and Willa's coach, Roxanne.
From past to present, a shocking multi-generational family mystery, twisty and a captivating whodunit, exploring how far some will go to reach the top for fame. Topics of toxic relationships, betrayal, secrets, female friendship, ambition, jealousy. sports, competition, fame, family, and self-discovery.
My fourth book by the author, and I enjoy her writing style. This is one of her best! I appreciated the author's note and the well-researched novel showcasing how the pressures of competition can affect families and all those close to them, plus a lot about professional water skiing from the pros.
If you enjoy multi-generational stories of family, friendships that turn into rivalries, and competitive sports dynamics, you will enjoy this one.
Recs...
THE SKIERS is for fans of the author and those who enjoyed Layne Fargo's The Favorites (Ice Skating); Tammy (TL) Greenwood's Still Point (Ballerina); Rachel Kapelke-Dale's The Fortune Seller (Equestrian), The Ingenue (Pianist), and the Ballerinas (Ballet); Allison Buccola's Catch Her When She Falls (Ballet); and Jenni L. Walsh's Ace, Marvel, Spy (Tennis).
Interview...
Stay tuned for my #LitLiftMiniAuthorChat (a part of the #AuthorElevatorSeries collection) with Jen and THE SKIERS, coming pub day (March 13).
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Mar 13, 2025
March Newsletter
March 2025 Must-Read Books
#LitLiftMiniAuthorChat
“Riveting! Craven’s best yet.
Secrets. Betrayal. Murder.
A deadly sports rivalry, ambition, a legacy, friendship, obsession, sacrifice, and a love triangle set against the highly competitive world of professional water skiing with only ONE winner.”
About...
Sadie and Willa have been best friends since childhood and competed against one another on slalom courses in Florida—the two best water skiers.
There was also a guy skier, Baz (the three musketeers) and becomes a bit of a love triange. Sadie came from a privileged background where Willa had a very troublesome childhood. Willa gets a break when her coach Roxanne supports her, when her family was not there for her.
However, the dynamics of their relationships take a dramatic turn. When Baz marries Sadie, Willa and Baz, who were once close, find their bond tested. Then, a tragic accident shatters Baz's world.
Now at age twenty-eight at the peak of their careers, with a significant competition on the horizon, the cutthroat competition heats up and the two best friends are now frenemies. The stakes are high, and there can only be one winner in this intense battle.
Mix in the pressures from the family, coaches, sponsorships, the media, and Sadie's legendary family with strong ties to a mega church, things are INTENSE.
Both sides have secrets. How far will someone go for fame?
No one can foresee this being far from a typical ski season, ending in MURDER. As the story unfolds, a shocking event will change everything, leaving the characters and the readers alike in disbelief and anticipation for what's to come.
My thoughts...
THE SKIIERS is a well-written domestic suspense surrounding the characters, Willa, Sadie, and Baz, with their complex relationship. At the same time, the author brilliantly explores the competitive history between the two gals and another added narrative: Sadie's mom and Willa's coach, Roxanne.
From past to present, a shocking multi-generational family mystery, twisty and a captivating whodunit, exploring how far some will go to reach the top for fame. Topics of toxic relationships, betrayal, secrets, female friendship, ambition, jealousy. sports, competition, fame, family, and self-discovery.
My fourth book by the author, and I enjoy her writing style. This is one of her best! I appreciated the author's note and the well-researched novel showcasing how the pressures of competition can affect families and all those close to them, plus a lot about professional water skiing from the pros.
If you enjoy multi-generational stories of family, friendships that turn into rivalries, and competitive sports dynamics, you will enjoy this one.
Recs...
THE SKIERS is for fans of the author and those who enjoyed Layne Fargo's The Favorites (Ice Skating); Tammy (TL) Greenwood's Still Point (Ballerina); Rachel Kapelke-Dale's The Fortune Seller (Equestrian), The Ingenue (Pianist), and the Ballerinas (Ballet); Allison Buccola's Catch Her When She Falls (Ballet); and Jenni L. Walsh's Ace, Marvel, Spy (Tennis).
Interview...
Stay tuned for my #LitLiftMiniAuthorChat (a part of the #AuthorElevatorSeries collection) with Jen and THE SKIERS, coming pub day (March 13).
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Mar 13, 2025
March Newsletter
March 2025 Must-Read Books
#LitLiftMiniAuthorChat
February 12, 2025
📚 ARC BOOK TOUR BOOK REVIEW 📚
The Skiers By Jev Craven
Publication Date: March 13, 2025
Publisher: Jen Craven
📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
(Rounded Up To 5⭐)
Thank you so much to Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse and Jen Craven for the invitation to be a part of this book tour and for this #gifted e-ARC of the book in exchange for my honest review! It really pulled me in and captivated my attention til the end!
📚MY REVIEW:
The Skiers is a fast-paced domestic thriller set in the world of competitive water skiing, which looks at the complexities of female friendships amidst the power of winning.
Sadie and Willa have both been involved in competitive water skiing since they were kids. When they were younger, they could be childhood friends who cheered one another on. As they got older and with the pressures of the sport weighed on their shoulders, their rivalry became a sort-of legend in the water skiing world. Especially because both Willa and Sadie vied for the affections of Baz (Sebastian), a third childhood friend from the water skiing circuit, who ultimately married Sadie but always carried an unspoken love for Willa over the years.
This book is told in alternating chapters from perspectives of the different characters and over multiple timelines. This created a deeper understanding of the backstory for me, and added depth to the secrets buried in the pasts of all the characters. I loved the fact that this book takes place in the world of competitive water skiing, which is a sport that doesn't receive nearly the media attention and accolades it deserves. And I really loved the fact that the entire book is told while the reader knows that SOMEONE is killed at the last competition of the season -- but we don't learn who dies until the book's end.
If you are a fan of domestic thrillers that include stories and female friendships and the pressures of outdoing one another, this book is for you. And if you liked The Favorites, I think you're going to love The Skiers too. Be sure to grab this one when it is released in March!!
#TheSkiers #JenCravenAuthor #thrillerbookloversthepulse #ARC #thrilleraddict #thrillerlover #sportsthriller #domesticthriller #booklover #bookreviews #bookrecs #bookrecommendations
The Skiers By Jev Craven
Publication Date: March 13, 2025
Publisher: Jen Craven
📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
(Rounded Up To 5⭐)
Thank you so much to Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse and Jen Craven for the invitation to be a part of this book tour and for this #gifted e-ARC of the book in exchange for my honest review! It really pulled me in and captivated my attention til the end!
📚MY REVIEW:
The Skiers is a fast-paced domestic thriller set in the world of competitive water skiing, which looks at the complexities of female friendships amidst the power of winning.
Sadie and Willa have both been involved in competitive water skiing since they were kids. When they were younger, they could be childhood friends who cheered one another on. As they got older and with the pressures of the sport weighed on their shoulders, their rivalry became a sort-of legend in the water skiing world. Especially because both Willa and Sadie vied for the affections of Baz (Sebastian), a third childhood friend from the water skiing circuit, who ultimately married Sadie but always carried an unspoken love for Willa over the years.
This book is told in alternating chapters from perspectives of the different characters and over multiple timelines. This created a deeper understanding of the backstory for me, and added depth to the secrets buried in the pasts of all the characters. I loved the fact that this book takes place in the world of competitive water skiing, which is a sport that doesn't receive nearly the media attention and accolades it deserves. And I really loved the fact that the entire book is told while the reader knows that SOMEONE is killed at the last competition of the season -- but we don't learn who dies until the book's end.
If you are a fan of domestic thrillers that include stories and female friendships and the pressures of outdoing one another, this book is for you. And if you liked The Favorites, I think you're going to love The Skiers too. Be sure to grab this one when it is released in March!!
#TheSkiers #JenCravenAuthor #thrillerbookloversthepulse #ARC #thrilleraddict #thrillerlover #sportsthriller #domesticthriller #booklover #bookreviews #bookrecs #bookrecommendations
March 6, 2025
Review of The Skiers by @jencravenauthor
Thank you so much to @thrillerbookloversthepulse and @jencravenauthor for the advanced digital copy of this one. I really enjoyed this book and despite it being a slow burn it was a quick read for me. I really enjoyed actually getting to learn something about water ski skiing and the competition involved with that. I love that the main character lived in Jacksonville because I live there for two years so that was fun for me. I thought the characters and their stories were very interesting and developed very well throughout the book and of course I loved the mystery aspect. This one comes out on March 14 so make sure you get your copy!
Synopsis:
Friends want to see you succeed, just never more than them.
Sadie and Willa have competed against each other on slalom courses in sunny Florida since they were kids. They were the two best skiers then, and they're the two best skiers now. The only thing that's changed is instead of playing Barbies in between runs, they now plot ways to beat the other. Turns out, there's a fine line between friends and frenemies. Now twenty-eight, at the height of their careers and shining an international spotlight on water skiing, the media-and Sadie's legendary family with strong ties to a sketchy mega church-have written the narrative of a rivalry more cutthroat than the sport has ever seen.
It would all be straightforward-who's the better skier?-if only the women didn't carry dark secrets from their pasts, both of which have the potential to thwart everything they've worked for. Add in the fact that Willa has long been in love with Sadie's husband-the third member of their childhood trio-and they're left with a combative season ahead. What no one knows, however, is that it will be far from a typical ski season, because at the end, someone will be dead and their lives will be changed forever.
Thank you so much to @thrillerbookloversthepulse and @jencravenauthor for the advanced digital copy of this one. I really enjoyed this book and despite it being a slow burn it was a quick read for me. I really enjoyed actually getting to learn something about water ski skiing and the competition involved with that. I love that the main character lived in Jacksonville because I live there for two years so that was fun for me. I thought the characters and their stories were very interesting and developed very well throughout the book and of course I loved the mystery aspect. This one comes out on March 14 so make sure you get your copy!
Synopsis:
Friends want to see you succeed, just never more than them.
Sadie and Willa have competed against each other on slalom courses in sunny Florida since they were kids. They were the two best skiers then, and they're the two best skiers now. The only thing that's changed is instead of playing Barbies in between runs, they now plot ways to beat the other. Turns out, there's a fine line between friends and frenemies. Now twenty-eight, at the height of their careers and shining an international spotlight on water skiing, the media-and Sadie's legendary family with strong ties to a sketchy mega church-have written the narrative of a rivalry more cutthroat than the sport has ever seen.
It would all be straightforward-who's the better skier?-if only the women didn't carry dark secrets from their pasts, both of which have the potential to thwart everything they've worked for. Add in the fact that Willa has long been in love with Sadie's husband-the third member of their childhood trio-and they're left with a combative season ahead. What no one knows, however, is that it will be far from a typical ski season, because at the end, someone will be dead and their lives will be changed forever.
March 22, 2025
📚BOOK TOUR📚
🔥THRILLER BOOK LOVERS THE PULSE 🔥
If you're all about female friendships and their wild ups and downs, you're in for a fun ride! Things can get superheated—especially when dark secrets come out, competition flares up, and there's a shared crush in the mix. It can get really intense! Like, explosion-level intense in Jen Craven's new thriller, "The Skiers!"
This is one of the latest thrillers we've been reviewing @thrillerbookloversthepulse, and I'm excited to share my thoughts. You won't want to miss this one!
Sadie, Willa, and Bax are childhood buddies who have shared lots of laughs and memories while they tore it up on the water skiing circuit. Now they’re older, and things have gotten complicated. The sport got more intense, and Bax turned into a heartthrob! Two women are going head-to-head—not just for the trophy but for Bax’s heart. But there can only be one winner. So much drama!
“The Skiers” plunges into a tangled web of character-driven tension, brimming with secrets, lies, and betrayals. While it may not have the breakneck pace I usually crave, the slower rhythm gave me time to sift through the drama and chaos brewed up by some devious characters. Some shady ones are lurking in this story!
I typically don't read thrillers focused on sports, but I love quirky sports that shake things up. With the cold weather lingering, the warmer setting of this book felt like a nice escape.
Thanks to the author, the publisher, and Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse for this ARC. All my opinions are my own and left voluntarily!
#TheSkiers #JenCraven #ThrillerBookLovers #ThePulse #SportsThriller #ARC #capcut #lefttoread #reader #read #honestreview #thriller #bookreviewer #thrillerobsessedbookishclub #lovetoread #lovebooks #booknerd #readaholic #bookstagrammer #booktok #bookish
🔥THRILLER BOOK LOVERS THE PULSE 🔥
If you're all about female friendships and their wild ups and downs, you're in for a fun ride! Things can get superheated—especially when dark secrets come out, competition flares up, and there's a shared crush in the mix. It can get really intense! Like, explosion-level intense in Jen Craven's new thriller, "The Skiers!"
This is one of the latest thrillers we've been reviewing @thrillerbookloversthepulse, and I'm excited to share my thoughts. You won't want to miss this one!
Sadie, Willa, and Bax are childhood buddies who have shared lots of laughs and memories while they tore it up on the water skiing circuit. Now they’re older, and things have gotten complicated. The sport got more intense, and Bax turned into a heartthrob! Two women are going head-to-head—not just for the trophy but for Bax’s heart. But there can only be one winner. So much drama!
“The Skiers” plunges into a tangled web of character-driven tension, brimming with secrets, lies, and betrayals. While it may not have the breakneck pace I usually crave, the slower rhythm gave me time to sift through the drama and chaos brewed up by some devious characters. Some shady ones are lurking in this story!
I typically don't read thrillers focused on sports, but I love quirky sports that shake things up. With the cold weather lingering, the warmer setting of this book felt like a nice escape.
Thanks to the author, the publisher, and Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse for this ARC. All my opinions are my own and left voluntarily!
#TheSkiers #JenCraven #ThrillerBookLovers #ThePulse #SportsThriller #ARC #capcut #lefttoread #reader #read #honestreview #thriller #bookreviewer #thrillerobsessedbookishclub #lovetoread #lovebooks #booknerd #readaholic #bookstagrammer #booktok #bookish
April 1, 2025
Two women. One sport. A rivalry sharper than any slalom turn. Childhood best friends turned fierce competitors, Sadie and Willa have spent their lives racing toward the top of the water-skiing world. But beneath the glossy headlines and international fame, secrets lurk—ones that could destroy their careers and each other. With a tangled past, a love triangle, and a high-stakes season ahead, only one thing is certain: by the time it’s over, someone won’t make it to the finish line.
I can never resist a good female rivalry, and The Skiers delivered with fierce competition, a tangled love triangle, and a mystery that kept me hooked.
Having grown up on the beach, I always saw water skiing as a fun pastime—I had no idea it was such a high-stakes competitive sport. The competition scenes were exhilarating, perfectly capturing the intensity between Sadie and Willa. Their relationship was layered and complex, and I especially loved the flashback chapters showing them as childhood friends. These moments added so much emotional depth, making their present-day rivalry even more compelling.
Jen Craven masterfully wove together multiple timelines, perspectives, and mixed media, building suspense with witness statements that hinted at an inevitable tragedy. The looming question of who dies? kept me flying through the pages, and the ending? Absolutely shocking—nothing like what I expected.
Fast-paced, gripping, and full of drama, The Skiers is an unforgettable story of ambition, friendship, and the fine line between competition and obsession.
Thank you to the author and Thriller Book Lovers: The Pulse for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
I can never resist a good female rivalry, and The Skiers delivered with fierce competition, a tangled love triangle, and a mystery that kept me hooked.
Having grown up on the beach, I always saw water skiing as a fun pastime—I had no idea it was such a high-stakes competitive sport. The competition scenes were exhilarating, perfectly capturing the intensity between Sadie and Willa. Their relationship was layered and complex, and I especially loved the flashback chapters showing them as childhood friends. These moments added so much emotional depth, making their present-day rivalry even more compelling.
Jen Craven masterfully wove together multiple timelines, perspectives, and mixed media, building suspense with witness statements that hinted at an inevitable tragedy. The looming question of who dies? kept me flying through the pages, and the ending? Absolutely shocking—nothing like what I expected.
Fast-paced, gripping, and full of drama, The Skiers is an unforgettable story of ambition, friendship, and the fine line between competition and obsession.
Thank you to the author and Thriller Book Lovers: The Pulse for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 1, 2025
Thank you for a digital copy of this book. The opinions are my own and freely given.
Willa and Sadie grew up together competing in the Slalom Skiing races. They were friends and competitors but as they got older the competition got fiercer. Sadie's mom and grandfather were both world champions and Sadie is set to carry on their legacies. Sadie married the 3rd skiing friend in their group, Baz. And together they were media stars and fan favorites. As the finals grow closer, Willa and Sadie start to show a rift in their friendships. Then there is an accident, and they are all questioned as to where they were and if any of them had a motive.
I initially got this book because I read the words Slalom Skiing, not realizing that it was on the water and not in the sow; however, I did enjoy this story. It makes you think about family and what people will do for the price of fame. The accident wasn't until the end of the book, so it built up a bit of suspense as to what the accident really was and what caused it. There were police interviews with witnesses scattered throughout the book. There is also a time that I thought there was a bit of a cultish feel to this book. This was told from both Willa and Sadie's prospective and in current time and from the beginning of their careers.
Willa and Sadie grew up together competing in the Slalom Skiing races. They were friends and competitors but as they got older the competition got fiercer. Sadie's mom and grandfather were both world champions and Sadie is set to carry on their legacies. Sadie married the 3rd skiing friend in their group, Baz. And together they were media stars and fan favorites. As the finals grow closer, Willa and Sadie start to show a rift in their friendships. Then there is an accident, and they are all questioned as to where they were and if any of them had a motive.
I initially got this book because I read the words Slalom Skiing, not realizing that it was on the water and not in the sow; however, I did enjoy this story. It makes you think about family and what people will do for the price of fame. The accident wasn't until the end of the book, so it built up a bit of suspense as to what the accident really was and what caused it. There were police interviews with witnesses scattered throughout the book. There is also a time that I thought there was a bit of a cultish feel to this book. This was told from both Willa and Sadie's prospective and in current time and from the beginning of their careers.
February 13, 2025
This book asks the question how far will you go to win? It is a story of friendship, competition, and secrets that kept me engaged as I tried to put the pieces together. It is set in the world of competitive water skiing, a world that was interesting and I didn't know existed. Sadie, Willa, and Baz have been friends on the water skiing circuit since they started skiing. Sadie is the golden girl that comes from a long line of champion skiers, Willa is a natural and a success even with her troubled family life, and Baz is the boy that changes the friendship when he chooses to date Sadie. As they grow up the competition becomes intense and the friendships splinter. With friendship and family there are secrets and they are doozies that if revealed could destroy lives. How far will they go to keep winning and the secrets hidden? The story kept me guessing as I tried to figure out what secrets were being kept. I recommend this book to readers that are looking for a thriller centered around a sport.
Thanks to Thriller Book Lovers and the author for providing a copy, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to Thriller Book Lovers and the author for providing a copy, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 21, 2025
Thank you @jencravenauthor for my complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
This well-written (slow burn) narrative provides a compelling exploration of ambition, rivalry, and the intricate bonds of friendship set against the high-stakes backdrop of competitive water skiing.
The story delves into the lives of SADIE and WILLA, two childhood friends turned fierce competitors. The suspense builds as the current ski season progresses, and culminates in a shocking event that irrevocably alters their lives.
SADIE, shaped by her illustrious skiing lineage and her ties to a fanatical mega-church, grapples with a secret that could shatter her world. WILLA, burdened by her family's struggles and a tragic past, offers a compelling contrast to Sadie's privileged life. The dynamic between them is further complicated by BAZ, the object of both women's affections.
Overall, THE SKIERS is a captivating read that examines the darker sides of ambition and the bonds that tie us together. Read this if you enjoy character-driven drama and sports thrillers. This novel is endorsed wholeheartedly by the book enthusiasts at @thrillerbookloversthepulse, and is not to be missed!
This well-written (slow burn) narrative provides a compelling exploration of ambition, rivalry, and the intricate bonds of friendship set against the high-stakes backdrop of competitive water skiing.
The story delves into the lives of SADIE and WILLA, two childhood friends turned fierce competitors. The suspense builds as the current ski season progresses, and culminates in a shocking event that irrevocably alters their lives.
SADIE, shaped by her illustrious skiing lineage and her ties to a fanatical mega-church, grapples with a secret that could shatter her world. WILLA, burdened by her family's struggles and a tragic past, offers a compelling contrast to Sadie's privileged life. The dynamic between them is further complicated by BAZ, the object of both women's affections.
Overall, THE SKIERS is a captivating read that examines the darker sides of ambition and the bonds that tie us together. Read this if you enjoy character-driven drama and sports thrillers. This novel is endorsed wholeheartedly by the book enthusiasts at @thrillerbookloversthepulse, and is not to be missed!
March 2, 2025
Thank you to Jen Craven and the publisher for the ARC!
So, once again, I didn’t read a single thing about this book’s synopsis before I picked it up - so I was expecting a cold, wintery story. I was pleasantly surprised to find this book was set in the world of water skiing, something I knew very little about but it was fun to learn!
Our two FMCs, Sadie and Willa, have skied together since they were children. Only now, instead of playing together in between competitions, as adults, they try to figure out ways to beat each other. Add insult to injury - Willa is also in love with Sadie’s husband. The stakes are just as high off the water as on the water.
I really enjoyed the setting of this story - with water skiing, the story took place primarily on and around the water. I enjoyed learning about the sport and all that came alone with that. As with most sports, there was a lot going on behind the scenes - backhanded dealings that the public didn’t always see.
Told in mutiple points of view, we are taken through the stories of Sadie and Willa, how they grew up together but lived such different lives. Sadie doesn’t love skiing nearly as much as her family pressures her to, and Willa has spent her entire adult life pining over Sadie’s husband. Throughout the story are snippets detailing a character’s death - but readers don’t learn who that character is til closer to the end.
Thrilling, with a fast pace and complex characters, “The Skiers” is a book that kept me guessing all throughout. This one has been fun to discuss with my friends at The Pulse.
“The Skiers” releases March 13, 2025! This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
So, once again, I didn’t read a single thing about this book’s synopsis before I picked it up - so I was expecting a cold, wintery story. I was pleasantly surprised to find this book was set in the world of water skiing, something I knew very little about but it was fun to learn!
Our two FMCs, Sadie and Willa, have skied together since they were children. Only now, instead of playing together in between competitions, as adults, they try to figure out ways to beat each other. Add insult to injury - Willa is also in love with Sadie’s husband. The stakes are just as high off the water as on the water.
I really enjoyed the setting of this story - with water skiing, the story took place primarily on and around the water. I enjoyed learning about the sport and all that came alone with that. As with most sports, there was a lot going on behind the scenes - backhanded dealings that the public didn’t always see.
Told in mutiple points of view, we are taken through the stories of Sadie and Willa, how they grew up together but lived such different lives. Sadie doesn’t love skiing nearly as much as her family pressures her to, and Willa has spent her entire adult life pining over Sadie’s husband. Throughout the story are snippets detailing a character’s death - but readers don’t learn who that character is til closer to the end.
Thrilling, with a fast pace and complex characters, “The Skiers” is a book that kept me guessing all throughout. This one has been fun to discuss with my friends at The Pulse.
“The Skiers” releases March 13, 2025! This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
March 7, 2025
💦 T H R I L L E R B O O K L O V E R S T O U R review 💦 featuring “The Skiers” by Jen Craven!
MY RATING: 🖤🖤🖤🖤/5
Sadie Norcross and Willa Betts have been in competition with one another since they were kids. Their sport of choice is slalom skiing (water skiing) and they are both used to being at the very top.
Sadie comes from a family legacy of water skiers and feels an enormous amount of pressure to stay on top. While Willa comes from nothing and has had to make a name for herself all on her own.
As kids the girls were once the three musketeers with a boy named Baz Tanner and they made a pact to be friends forever. Little did they know back then that rivalry, secrets and loyalty can blur the lines of friendship.
Now at age 28, the women are at the peak of their careers and winning is more cutthroat than ever before. What was once supportive has now turned into sabotage as past secrets start to resurface from within their little circle. This ski season will change their lives forever as Sadie and Willa must face the effects of toxic friendships, the approval of on lookers, ruthless decision making and the pressure to steal the spotlight for good.
Thank you kindly to @jencravenauthor @thrillerbookloversthepulse for my #gifted advanced copy in exchange for my honest review and a spot on this book tour. This book releases on March 13, 2025 and is one you don’t want to miss out on!
MY RATING: 🖤🖤🖤🖤/5
Sadie Norcross and Willa Betts have been in competition with one another since they were kids. Their sport of choice is slalom skiing (water skiing) and they are both used to being at the very top.
Sadie comes from a family legacy of water skiers and feels an enormous amount of pressure to stay on top. While Willa comes from nothing and has had to make a name for herself all on her own.
As kids the girls were once the three musketeers with a boy named Baz Tanner and they made a pact to be friends forever. Little did they know back then that rivalry, secrets and loyalty can blur the lines of friendship.
Now at age 28, the women are at the peak of their careers and winning is more cutthroat than ever before. What was once supportive has now turned into sabotage as past secrets start to resurface from within their little circle. This ski season will change their lives forever as Sadie and Willa must face the effects of toxic friendships, the approval of on lookers, ruthless decision making and the pressure to steal the spotlight for good.
Thank you kindly to @jencravenauthor @thrillerbookloversthepulse for my #gifted advanced copy in exchange for my honest review and a spot on this book tour. This book releases on March 13, 2025 and is one you don’t want to miss out on!
March 11, 2025
I initially expected this book to be about snow skiing and was interested to learn more about competitive water skiing.
This novel is character driven and you learn about the 2 championship water skiers who used to be friends and who are no longer friends. I am not sure I ever understood why they became as adversarial as they ended up.
Though this is billed as a mystery I do not think the mystery is a strong portion of the story. There is not a great deal of tension. However, it did not change that the book was very well written and a very interesting exploration of these women's lives.
This is my first book by this author but I look forward to reading additional things written by her.
This novel is character driven and you learn about the 2 championship water skiers who used to be friends and who are no longer friends. I am not sure I ever understood why they became as adversarial as they ended up.
Though this is billed as a mystery I do not think the mystery is a strong portion of the story. There is not a great deal of tension. However, it did not change that the book was very well written and a very interesting exploration of these women's lives.
This is my first book by this author but I look forward to reading additional things written by her.
March 1, 2025
"The Skiers" presents a compelling and original narrative that draws readers in with its intriguing premise. The character development is notably strong, allowing you to truly connect with the individuals as their stories unfold throughout the non-linear timeline. This structure adds an interesting layer to the journey, keeping you engaged with the intricate details of their lives.
While the story has a mysterious quality, I found myself hoping for a bit more suspense throughout. The tension really picks up in the final quarter of the book, which makes for an exciting conclusion, but I would have loved to experience that level of suspense earlier on as well. Overall, "The Skiers" is a captivating read that skillfully blends character exploration with a dash of mystery.
While the story has a mysterious quality, I found myself hoping for a bit more suspense throughout. The tension really picks up in the final quarter of the book, which makes for an exciting conclusion, but I would have loved to experience that level of suspense earlier on as well. Overall, "The Skiers" is a captivating read that skillfully blends character exploration with a dash of mystery.
March 13, 2025
life long frenemies but make it competitive water skiing with a choking, slow-burn suspense and add in a toxic love triangle. the recipe for a fantastic and unputdownable thriller.
every chapter kept getting better and better especially as the drama heightened and the mystery unraveled with the time hops. this is my first jen craven novel and im so fortunate to have discovered her! incredibly well-written and captivating from the beginning. you won’t be disappointed with this high stakes dramatic thriller that will leave you reeling!
thank you to @thrillerbookloversthepulse and @jencravenauthor for an advanced copy of this e-book in exchange for my honest review.
every chapter kept getting better and better especially as the drama heightened and the mystery unraveled with the time hops. this is my first jen craven novel and im so fortunate to have discovered her! incredibly well-written and captivating from the beginning. you won’t be disappointed with this high stakes dramatic thriller that will leave you reeling!
thank you to @thrillerbookloversthepulse and @jencravenauthor for an advanced copy of this e-book in exchange for my honest review.
January 1, 2025
Another page-turner from Jen Craven that takes readers deep into the high-stakes world of competitive sports, where rivalries, family legacies, and friendships collide. Against the backdrop of adrenaline-fueled waterskiing competitions, past and present intertwine in this compelling story that explores the sting of loss, the thrill of victory, and the emotional turmoil of competing against a former friend. Packed with suspense and guaranteed to keep you guessing, this book is perfect for anyone who knows the challenges of chasing greatness and the sacrifices it demands.
April 5, 2025
If you’re looking for a story that will beckon you to ditch your plans so you can stay in and read, look no further than Jen Craven’s, The Skiers. Gripping and sure to keep you guessing right to the very end. The setting is as immersive as the lake water the skiers fly across yet at the heart of this novel there is a deeply woven story about two women, their friendship, and the forces that fight to keep them apart. If you enjoy stories ripe with secrets, the complexity of ambition, and a rivalry that transcends years, this is one story you won’t want to miss.
September 1, 2025
I know nothing about water skiing, let alone competitive skiing, but I quickly fell into this story about two childhood friend competitors who become rivals on both a professional and a personal front. The characters were well-written and the story was well-paced. I have to admit, I was fooled as to who the villain was, and I’m usually pretty good at figuring out things.
March 15, 2025
So Wonderful
This was such a great book. The story of three people who started out of swimming friends, became rivals along the way, and their life endings were wonderful. Beyond what I imagined.
This was such a great book. The story of three people who started out of swimming friends, became rivals along the way, and their life endings were wonderful. Beyond what I imagined.
March 17, 2025
Exciting, fast-paced, and thrilling! Jen Craven takes the reader deep into the world of competitive waterskiing with multi-faceted characters, love triangles, shady religious leaders, and twists you won't see coming. I loved it!
March 18, 2025
**FULL REVIEW SOON**
For the most part, I enjoyed the book - plotting almost lived up to the hype and, although the ending was a surprise, overall I felt it was short-changed and a bit disappointing.
February 5, 2026
When rivalries go too far
What an intriguing story of competition that releases back generations. Friendships can get pulled apart by the need to win and some secrets are buried deep. This story kept me reading to find an ending I wouldn’t have guessed from the beginning.
What an intriguing story of competition that releases back generations. Friendships can get pulled apart by the need to win and some secrets are buried deep. This story kept me reading to find an ending I wouldn’t have guessed from the beginning.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews