5 Friend Trips That Should’ve Been Canceled

These friends thought they were getting away from their problems. Instead, they packed them neatly, rolled them up like beach towels, and hauled them straight into paradise. Honestly, if you have to leave your house to relax, that might be the first red flag.

Let’s talk about five books that prove the real danger is not the remote island or the creepy villa. It is your friends.

Ready to feel better about saying no to that group trip?

Small Gods by Sara Ennis (aka me) A private island. A luxury getaway. A group of women who just want to celebrate their fortieth birthdays. What could go wrong? Have you met men. This is island paradise meets misogynist nightmares. The vibes shift fast from cocktails by the infinity pool to survival instincts kicking in. Ever wonder what happens when the masks come off and not everyone is who they pretended to be?

We Were Never Here by Andrea Bartz Another year, another besties trip, another body-shaped oops. At some point, you have to ask yourself why the annual getaway keeps turning into a true crime podcast. Is this friendship or a slow descent into codependency with scenic photos for Instagram?

The Villa by Rachel Hawkins Sun-soaked Italian villa, weathered brick, perfect Insta lighting. Also the slow unraveling of a friendship that never had solid ground. Have you ever tried relaxing in a house that smells faintly of past murders and present tension? This book answers the question: how many secrets can one vacation rental hold before someone snaps?

The Perfect Escape by Leah Konen Spa weekend, robes, fancy water with fruit floating in it. And then one friend disappears. Not exactly the relaxation package the brochure promised. If someone goes missing before the first massage, do you get a refund or a warning label for your group chat?

The Long Weekend by Gilly Macmillan Remote retreat in the middle of nowhere, no cell service, and enough marital tension to power a small generator. What could possibly go sideways when you trap couples in a cabin with their unresolved issues? Why do people think nature will fix what therapy has been begging them to address?

If you have ever looked at a group trip invitation and felt a full body shiver, trust your instincts. These books prove one thing: travel is fun until you add people you know.