The Butler: A Thriller

From the New York Times-bestselling author: A glamorous French villa. A carefully curated guest list. A body in the pool.

The South of France is stunning, though not without its imperfections, from pickpockets to burglars to the occasional cold-blooded killer. But in his twenty-five years of service, Baxter--with a spotless reputation as a polished, well-mannered butler--has never run into any issues catering to the ultrawealthy. Until now.

Baxter's latest assignment is at Villa Sérénité, where Alec Prescott is hosting a colorful cast of characters, including his ex-wife, his much younger lady friend, and some Hollywood hotshots, after the Cannes Film Festival. But it doesn't take long for a week of sun, wine, and a family birthday celebration to devolve into bickering and backstabbing. And soon, secrets aren't the only thing floating to the surface . . .

When one of the guests is found dead in the villa's glittering pool, the gendarmes turn to the unflappable Baxter to help determine who's responsible. A good butler is expected to see everything and say nothing--but what if he too becomes a target?

Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Podium Publishing
Published: 06/16/2026
ISBN: 9798347009268
Pages: 208
Weight: 0.47lbs
Size: 8.00h x 5.00w x 0.48d

Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 04/20/2026
Kirkus Reviews 03/15/2026
Library Journal 03/01/2026 pg. 87