Incidentals - by Sheila Yasmin Marikar

Book Synopsis

A couple's luxury vacation in the Maldives takes a sinister turn when they're befriended by two strangers in a twisty and darkly comic novel by the author of Friends in Napa.

Sarah and Sam have lost the very spark that brought them together. In an effort to save their marriage, they embark on an anniversary trip to the Maldives where a week at a luxury resort might remind them of why they fell in love. On the plane, they meet Krista and Kevin, a happy older, exceptionally generous couple headed to the same destination and eager to make vacation friends. They could be just the marriage mentors Sarah and Sam need.

But when a dead body is pulled from the crystalline waters only days into the vacation, a dark pall is cast over the sunny coral isles. The official story is a tragic accident. But that doesn't sit right with Sarah, who senses something off. What could these very wealthy, too-fast friends possibly want from a modest couple like them?

The answers could destroy what's left of her marriage. Then again, a murder in the Maldives might be the best thing that ever happened to it.

Review Quotes

"Incidentals is a deeply nuanced, heartfelt, and hilarious portrait of a marriage--disguised as a delicious true crime story and set against the shimmering backdrop of the kind of Maldivian resort we all fantasize about escaping to. Sheila Yasmin Marikar writes with such wit and empathy, you don't know whether to laugh, gasp, or highlight every line. I didn't want this novel to end." --Amy Chozick, New York Times bestselling author of Chasing Hillary

"Incidentals filled the White Lotus-shaped hole in my heart. With an exotic setting in the Maldives, the most luxurious amenities you can imagine, and drama for days, it is truly the perfect escape (minus the murder, of course). Clever, snarky, and edge-of-your-seat entertaining, Incidentals is one of those books that I didn't want to end! I can't wait to see what Marikar does next." --Sara Ochs, author of The Resort

"A one-way ticket to the Maldives, full of vacation fizz and irresistible views, plus marital struggles and a mysterious death. Break out the minibar popcorn--no one does rich people behaving badly with as much intelligence, wit, and heart as Sheila Yasmin Marikar." --Avery Carpenter Forrey, author of Social Engagement

"A couple on the brink of marital collapse embarks on a luxe anniversary trip to the Maldives in an attempt to reconnect and rekindle their romance, only to have a murder thwart their plans. Marikar vividly evokes the postcard setting, from sherbet sunsets to the Indian Ocean's ombré hues--a stark contrast to the sinister events that transpire on the island. Incidentals is a thrilling, deliciously entertaining read that pulls back the curtain on privilege and marriage." --Kristin Vukovic, author of The Cheesemaker's Daughter

"Sheila Yasmin Marikar is the go-to author for stories that provide the perfect escape. Incidentals explores the complicated ways we navigate the relationships with our loved ones, our inspirations, and ultimately, ourselves. This propulsive story is perfect for fans of The White Lotus. Readers everywhere will relish this intriguing mix of marriage and mystery." --Saumya Dave, author of The Guilt Pill

"A novel that flies first-class in wit and glitz yet lands firmly in heart. At once a hilarious commentary on luxury travel and a deft exploration of marriage and self-worth." --Lina Patton, author of The Lake Club