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The Lodgers
An uplifting and heart-warming tale of friendship, community and a mystery package…
One house. Three strangers. A second chance at happiness.
Tessa's life as an activist and volunteer worker takes a hit after a fall. At the ripe young age of 69, she's no longer able to live alone and decides to take in two lodgers for free.
After the recent death of his brother, Conn is riddled with grief and determined to make amends. A free room seems too good to be true - until he meets the other lodger.
Chloe arrives at Tessa's house to deliver a package and leaves with a room. But she takes an instant dislike to Conn, who refuses to say where he disappears to at night.
With everyone so busy keeping their own secrets, the mysterious package is forgotten. It's addressed to Tessa's daughter who's been missing for 10 years - and only the contents have the answer to what happened...
'Eithne Shortall mixes humour and tragedy with a deftness reminiscent of Marian Keyes' Irish Times
One house. Three strangers. A second chance at happiness.
Tessa's life as an activist and volunteer worker takes a hit after a fall. At the ripe young age of 69, she's no longer able to live alone and decides to take in two lodgers for free.
After the recent death of his brother, Conn is riddled with grief and determined to make amends. A free room seems too good to be true - until he meets the other lodger.
Chloe arrives at Tessa's house to deliver a package and leaves with a room. But she takes an instant dislike to Conn, who refuses to say where he disappears to at night.
With everyone so busy keeping their own secrets, the mysterious package is forgotten. It's addressed to Tessa's daughter who's been missing for 10 years - and only the contents have the answer to what happened...
'Eithne Shortall mixes humour and tragedy with a deftness reminiscent of Marian Keyes' Irish Times
431 pages, ebook
Published July 27, 2023
81 people are currently reading
557 people want to read
About the author
Eithne Shortall
6 books165 followersEithne Shortall is an author and journalist. Her debut novel, Love in Row 27, was published in June 2017. Her second novel, Grace after Henry, will be published in the UK and Ireland in May 2018 and in the United States in early 2019. She is the chief arts writer with the Irish edition of the Sunday Times newspaper and a regular contributor to RTE Radio.
Eithne was born and grew up in Dublin, Ireland. She studied journalism at Dublin City University and spent four months living in West Virginia. She lived in Paris for a year in her early twenties and vaguely thought about writing. She went to London to write her first novel, Love in Row 27, which is set there. Her follow-up, Grace after Henry, is set in – and is partly a love letter to – Dublin, where she now lives.
Eithne has been a regular contributor to RTE Radio for several years. She has worked as a presenter with RTE, BBC Northern Ireland and she fronted a music series, entitled Ceol ar an Imeall, for TG4.
Love in Row 27 has been sold into 11 territories and nine languages, while Grace after Henry was acquired by Putnam, an imprint of Penguin, in the US in a headline-grabbing deal. NBC Universal has optioned Love in Row 27 for a TV series.
Eithne is an avid cyclist, veracious reader, eater of sweets and lover of radio. Her Mastermind topic would be the life of Lucia Joyce, twentieth century Irish visual art, 1980s teen movies or Dawson’s Creek. It depends on the day.
Eithne was born and grew up in Dublin, Ireland. She studied journalism at Dublin City University and spent four months living in West Virginia. She lived in Paris for a year in her early twenties and vaguely thought about writing. She went to London to write her first novel, Love in Row 27, which is set there. Her follow-up, Grace after Henry, is set in – and is partly a love letter to – Dublin, where she now lives.
Eithne has been a regular contributor to RTE Radio for several years. She has worked as a presenter with RTE, BBC Northern Ireland and she fronted a music series, entitled Ceol ar an Imeall, for TG4.
Love in Row 27 has been sold into 11 territories and nine languages, while Grace after Henry was acquired by Putnam, an imprint of Penguin, in the US in a headline-grabbing deal. NBC Universal has optioned Love in Row 27 for a TV series.
Eithne is an avid cyclist, veracious reader, eater of sweets and lover of radio. Her Mastermind topic would be the life of Lucia Joyce, twentieth century Irish visual art, 1980s teen movies or Dawson’s Creek. It depends on the day.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
October 29, 2023
⭐️ 4.5 ⭐️
Beautifully written by Eithne Shortall, who has a refreshing, engaging writing style that pulled me in from the first page. The setting was so well described that I could visualise it clearly in my mind’s eye.
The characterisation is spot-on, with a compact cast of down-to-earth, relatable characters. I loved the dynamic between the three main characters: Chloe, Tessa, and the swoonworthy Conn, and the chemistry and witty banter between Chloe and Conn. Chloe is a girl after my own heart. I also loved filterless Malachy, whose observations and comments made me laugh out loud.
The Lodgers is heartwarming, but it also has a poignant side, perfectly balanced out with the humour that runs throughout.
I really enjoyed the sense of community that shone through the character-driven story. It’s a fabulous, uplifting story of belonging, family, friendship, and love.
I'm looking forward to reading more from Eithne Shortall in the future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Beautifully written by Eithne Shortall, who has a refreshing, engaging writing style that pulled me in from the first page. The setting was so well described that I could visualise it clearly in my mind’s eye.
The characterisation is spot-on, with a compact cast of down-to-earth, relatable characters. I loved the dynamic between the three main characters: Chloe, Tessa, and the swoonworthy Conn, and the chemistry and witty banter between Chloe and Conn. Chloe is a girl after my own heart. I also loved filterless Malachy, whose observations and comments made me laugh out loud.
The Lodgers is heartwarming, but it also has a poignant side, perfectly balanced out with the humour that runs throughout.
I really enjoyed the sense of community that shone through the character-driven story. It’s a fabulous, uplifting story of belonging, family, friendship, and love.
I'm looking forward to reading more from Eithne Shortall in the future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
July 26, 2023
Tessa’s under pressure to sell her rambling home.
The Lodgers is absolutely wonderful and I could not have enjoyed it more.
What I so enjoyed about The Lodgers is that the dramatic events that shape the novel and affect the characters so deeply have mainly already occurred but resonate through the rest of their lives in ways Eithne Shortall portrays with incredible humanity, realism and sensitivity. The Lodgers is a book that really touches the heart and it is no exaggeration to say that I have chosen a paragraph towards the end of the book to be read at my funeral – not that I intend that happening just yet!
That might make The Lodgers sound maudlin but that assessment couldn’t be further than the truth. Certainly it considers some darker themes but I laughed aloud on so many occasions, particularly when Malachy was involved, and the story is infused with love, family, a sense of home and belonging that make it completely uplifting and beautiful.
I thought the setting of the book totally enhanced the story because places are minimal and therefore intimate. Most of the action revolves around the community centre and Hope House, making them feel every bit as much characters as the people. There’s a real sense of community and the clear message that we might have individual capacity, but we are stronger together with others.
And what people they are between the pages of The Lodgers. They could not have been more vividly presented, more appealing and more loveable – even (or perhaps especially) the rogues like Reggie. I loved the fact that Tessa is approaching 70 because she embodies the concept that older people are equally as valid as younger ones. I was completely smitten with Conn because he is himself – there’s no great brooding, sullen hero who makes a miraculous change, but rather his personality and the reasons for his actions are gradually uncovered with complete empathy. Chloe, of course, is an absolute star and again a catalyst for both humour and tragedy, illustrating how closely aligned those two concepts can be.
The Lodgers is the kind of book that is effortless to read, totally compelling and completely uplifting and heart-warming. It epitomises light in darkness, and positivity in adversity that restores the reader’s faith in humanity and the world around them. It’s a total tonic for the heart and I adored it.
I have no idea why I haven’t discovered Eithne Shortall’s writing previously, but I’m off to devour everything she’s ever written. I’m an instant fan.
The Lodgers is absolutely wonderful and I could not have enjoyed it more.
What I so enjoyed about The Lodgers is that the dramatic events that shape the novel and affect the characters so deeply have mainly already occurred but resonate through the rest of their lives in ways Eithne Shortall portrays with incredible humanity, realism and sensitivity. The Lodgers is a book that really touches the heart and it is no exaggeration to say that I have chosen a paragraph towards the end of the book to be read at my funeral – not that I intend that happening just yet!
That might make The Lodgers sound maudlin but that assessment couldn’t be further than the truth. Certainly it considers some darker themes but I laughed aloud on so many occasions, particularly when Malachy was involved, and the story is infused with love, family, a sense of home and belonging that make it completely uplifting and beautiful.
I thought the setting of the book totally enhanced the story because places are minimal and therefore intimate. Most of the action revolves around the community centre and Hope House, making them feel every bit as much characters as the people. There’s a real sense of community and the clear message that we might have individual capacity, but we are stronger together with others.
And what people they are between the pages of The Lodgers. They could not have been more vividly presented, more appealing and more loveable – even (or perhaps especially) the rogues like Reggie. I loved the fact that Tessa is approaching 70 because she embodies the concept that older people are equally as valid as younger ones. I was completely smitten with Conn because he is himself – there’s no great brooding, sullen hero who makes a miraculous change, but rather his personality and the reasons for his actions are gradually uncovered with complete empathy. Chloe, of course, is an absolute star and again a catalyst for both humour and tragedy, illustrating how closely aligned those two concepts can be.
The Lodgers is the kind of book that is effortless to read, totally compelling and completely uplifting and heart-warming. It epitomises light in darkness, and positivity in adversity that restores the reader’s faith in humanity and the world around them. It’s a total tonic for the heart and I adored it.
I have no idea why I haven’t discovered Eithne Shortall’s writing previously, but I’m off to devour everything she’s ever written. I’m an instant fan.
July 30, 2023
I've been meaning to read Eithne Shortall for a while - I liked the sound of her books - but this is the first one I've actually read. From the start, I knew I was going to really enjoy it.
Tessa, approaching seventy, is determined to retain her independence after experiencing a fall which has limited her mobility and worried her son. He wants her to sell her too-large house; as a compromise, she agrees to take in rent-free lodgers who can be on hand in an emergency.
Said lodgers, Chloe and Conn, each have their own issues - courier Chloe is fleeing her home and mother for reasons which take time to become apparent (though it's not that hard to guess); former lawyer Conn has his own reasons for wanting to live in Tessa's house, and goes out every night for some unspecified purpose (I definitely didn't guess this one, but it's not owl-watching.)
And there's a sad mystery around Tessa's daughter Bea, who disappeared ten years ago and is presumed dead. What's the connection with Muriel, a woman across the Irish Sea in Blackpool, and a misplaced parcel?
Alongside all these mysteries, the local community hall/education centre is threatened with being sold off to a developer, and, led by crusader Tessa, everyone gets involved in the fight to save it. There's a fun collection of hall-users involved in the campaign (Malachy was a treasure, if a rather aggressive one).
It was a lovely read with really engaging characters - I was rooting for Chloe and Conn throughout. Chloe, perhaps more than anyone, really goes on a journey here, but all the characters have their stories, and the ending is satisfying.
Tessa, approaching seventy, is determined to retain her independence after experiencing a fall which has limited her mobility and worried her son. He wants her to sell her too-large house; as a compromise, she agrees to take in rent-free lodgers who can be on hand in an emergency.
Said lodgers, Chloe and Conn, each have their own issues - courier Chloe is fleeing her home and mother for reasons which take time to become apparent (though it's not that hard to guess); former lawyer Conn has his own reasons for wanting to live in Tessa's house, and goes out every night for some unspecified purpose (I definitely didn't guess this one, but it's not owl-watching.)
And there's a sad mystery around Tessa's daughter Bea, who disappeared ten years ago and is presumed dead. What's the connection with Muriel, a woman across the Irish Sea in Blackpool, and a misplaced parcel?
Alongside all these mysteries, the local community hall/education centre is threatened with being sold off to a developer, and, led by crusader Tessa, everyone gets involved in the fight to save it. There's a fun collection of hall-users involved in the campaign (Malachy was a treasure, if a rather aggressive one).
It was a lovely read with really engaging characters - I was rooting for Chloe and Conn throughout. Chloe, perhaps more than anyone, really goes on a journey here, but all the characters have their stories, and the ending is satisfying.
June 13, 2024
This was my bookclub book, I found it a little drawn out but a good summer read.
July 11, 2024
Took me a while to get into it but ultimately this is a truly wonderful book. Beautifully written.
July 27, 2024
I adored this book.
Hugely hopeful and life affirming. Characters with depth that you just can't help falling in love with.
Dialogue that is funny. Dialogue that is touching and tender.
A book I read very quickly because it was so simple to fall into the lives of Tessa Doherty, het two lodgers and the motley crew of all ages, determined to save something precious.
Community centred, compassionate and full of love, there isn't a thing I did not like about this novel.
Highly recommended.
Hugely hopeful and life affirming. Characters with depth that you just can't help falling in love with.
Dialogue that is funny. Dialogue that is touching and tender.
A book I read very quickly because it was so simple to fall into the lives of Tessa Doherty, het two lodgers and the motley crew of all ages, determined to save something precious.
Community centred, compassionate and full of love, there isn't a thing I did not like about this novel.
Highly recommended.
December 5, 2023
Loved it at the start, lost momentum.
February 12, 2024
This is a charming wee book. While a tad far-fetched, it doesn't suffer too much from it. I genuinely liked all three of the main characters.
September 26, 2024
A really wholesome read.
April 14, 2025
Ganz am Anfang war ich mir nicht sicher, ob ich das Buch mögen würde, doch ich wurde vom Gegenteil überrascht. Fand das Buch wirklich toll und war immer wieder sehr berührt. Vor alledem ist das Ende sehr schön. Das mit den Selbstmorden von Tessa's Tochter Bea und Conn's Bruder war schrecklich, hätte heulen können. Aber fand schön, wie sie am Ende dennoch ein relativ schönes Leben führen konnten und Conn und Chloe sogar heiraten! Super süße Liebesgeschichte zwischen den beiden auch. Würde das Buch unbedingt weiter empfehlen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2024
5 🌟
Wow! This book was such a feel-good book. The characters were well thought out, and the chemistry between them felt real and genuine. The multiple side stories complimented the main story so well.
Wow! This book was such a feel-good book. The characters were well thought out, and the chemistry between them felt real and genuine. The multiple side stories complimented the main story so well.
January 28, 2024
A good storyline but a little over detailed and long winded by times.
August 14, 2023
I really enjoyed previous books by this author and this one was no different.
Tessa is reluctant to leave her huge family home, despite a recent fall meaning she is not able to get around it as easy.
Chloe is a courier who takes advantage of a lucrative job to escape her difficult home life.
Conn is a former lawyer who is reluctant to tell why he wants the tenancy so much and spend his nights 'owl-watching'.
When our unlikely trio come together in very coincidental circumstances, they could have had no idea the impact they would have on each other and the surrounding community.
This was a lovely read with some great characters who you can't help but root for. Recommended if you are in the mood for a heart-warming tale about what can happen when a community comes together.
Tessa is reluctant to leave her huge family home, despite a recent fall meaning she is not able to get around it as easy.
Chloe is a courier who takes advantage of a lucrative job to escape her difficult home life.
Conn is a former lawyer who is reluctant to tell why he wants the tenancy so much and spend his nights 'owl-watching'.
When our unlikely trio come together in very coincidental circumstances, they could have had no idea the impact they would have on each other and the surrounding community.
This was a lovely read with some great characters who you can't help but root for. Recommended if you are in the mood for a heart-warming tale about what can happen when a community comes together.
July 26, 2024
Firstly, I cannot believe a book went to print with that many spelling mistakes and grammatical errors. Did nobody edit this?!? It was a sweet book, predictable at times but a quick read and nice ending. Liked the community element of it and as always, love a book set in Ireland.
September 24, 2023
My Rating ~ 4.5*
The Lodgers by Eithne Shortall published 27th July with Corvus and is described as ‘an uplifting and heart-warming tale of friendship, community and a mystery package…’
Set primarily in the village of Howth, north of Dublin city, The Lodgers explores the blossoming relationship between three unexpected housemates and how they come to find solace in each other’s company. Tessa is 69-years-old and has lived a very independent life to date. She lives alone following the death of her husband. Her son, Senan, lives not too far away. He is married to Audrey and they have a teenage son, Otis. Senan is a school principal. Tessa’s daughter Bea inexplicably disappeared without a trace ten years ago. leaving a huge gap in her life but volunteering at the local community centre has given Tessa an outlet over the years. Following a fall, Tessa is struggling. Rattling around on her own in the big family home causes much concern for Senan. He thinks the house is too big for Tessa and that she should sell up. But Tessa is firm in her decision. Her home is not for sale.
Tessa has been in denial and, with a little nudge from a close friend, she comes to realise that she does need a helping hand. Managing alone has been a struggle but her stubborn nature led her to believe that she was doing ok, until now. Tessa is a community minded person, an activist and a strong believer in social equality. With the homeless crisis playing on her mind, Tessa makes a decision to invite a lodger into her house. The chosen applicant could give her a helping hand around the place in return for a roof over their head.
Conn through chance sees Tessa’s notice in the community centre. Conn’s life is in turmoil. With his younger brother dead, Conn suffers terrible guilt and is trying to amend his ways. Tessa’s generous offer might just provide him with a solution, a way through the darkness in his mind. But he has unanticipated competition.
When Conn arrives at the house he crosses paths with Chloe. Chloe is in disarray. Her life has been challenging and Chloe needs to break away. As a courier, her job requires her to deliver parcels and, as luck would have it, she arrived at Tessa’s to make a delivery on the day of the viewing. Chloe’s appearance puts a little friction into the situation, as she becomes a rival to Conn.
Tessa makes a decision to allow both stay but it’s not without its problems. Conn and Chloe do not see eye-to-eye and the atmosphere between the two of them is palpable. Chloe doesn’t trust Conn and is concerned as to who and what he is. Could he be a drug dealer? Where does he go to late every night?
As the chapters progress, we are provided with snippets of background information about Conn, Chloe and Tessa. Three strangers thrown together in unusual circumstances who somehow manage to communicate and, overtime, develop an unexpected relationship.
Eithne Shortall writes character-driven stories, giving each individual very distinct quirks and personality. There is always at least one identifiable character for every reader, one you can compare with and visualise quite easily. When I read It Could Never Happen Here by Eithne Shortall I immediately warmed to the style and the storyline. There is an understanding of human nature, a sense that she really knows what she is talking about alongside a very refreshing approach. In The Lodgers, Tessa’s altruism is very much reflective of society today, where some folk have offered refuge to immigrants in need. The loss of community and that feeling of isolation are unfortunately all too common in our world today and Eithne Shortall creates a beautiful alternative of what can happen if we all just look up and see what is happening around us.
There are moments of raw heartbreak, pain and grief but there is also compassion and sensitivity throughout. The Lodgers is an uplifting and engaging novel that will leave every reader with a much needed smile on their face.
The Lodgers by Eithne Shortall published 27th July with Corvus and is described as ‘an uplifting and heart-warming tale of friendship, community and a mystery package…’
Set primarily in the village of Howth, north of Dublin city, The Lodgers explores the blossoming relationship between three unexpected housemates and how they come to find solace in each other’s company. Tessa is 69-years-old and has lived a very independent life to date. She lives alone following the death of her husband. Her son, Senan, lives not too far away. He is married to Audrey and they have a teenage son, Otis. Senan is a school principal. Tessa’s daughter Bea inexplicably disappeared without a trace ten years ago. leaving a huge gap in her life but volunteering at the local community centre has given Tessa an outlet over the years. Following a fall, Tessa is struggling. Rattling around on her own in the big family home causes much concern for Senan. He thinks the house is too big for Tessa and that she should sell up. But Tessa is firm in her decision. Her home is not for sale.
Tessa has been in denial and, with a little nudge from a close friend, she comes to realise that she does need a helping hand. Managing alone has been a struggle but her stubborn nature led her to believe that she was doing ok, until now. Tessa is a community minded person, an activist and a strong believer in social equality. With the homeless crisis playing on her mind, Tessa makes a decision to invite a lodger into her house. The chosen applicant could give her a helping hand around the place in return for a roof over their head.
Conn through chance sees Tessa’s notice in the community centre. Conn’s life is in turmoil. With his younger brother dead, Conn suffers terrible guilt and is trying to amend his ways. Tessa’s generous offer might just provide him with a solution, a way through the darkness in his mind. But he has unanticipated competition.
When Conn arrives at the house he crosses paths with Chloe. Chloe is in disarray. Her life has been challenging and Chloe needs to break away. As a courier, her job requires her to deliver parcels and, as luck would have it, she arrived at Tessa’s to make a delivery on the day of the viewing. Chloe’s appearance puts a little friction into the situation, as she becomes a rival to Conn.
Tessa makes a decision to allow both stay but it’s not without its problems. Conn and Chloe do not see eye-to-eye and the atmosphere between the two of them is palpable. Chloe doesn’t trust Conn and is concerned as to who and what he is. Could he be a drug dealer? Where does he go to late every night?
As the chapters progress, we are provided with snippets of background information about Conn, Chloe and Tessa. Three strangers thrown together in unusual circumstances who somehow manage to communicate and, overtime, develop an unexpected relationship.
Eithne Shortall writes character-driven stories, giving each individual very distinct quirks and personality. There is always at least one identifiable character for every reader, one you can compare with and visualise quite easily. When I read It Could Never Happen Here by Eithne Shortall I immediately warmed to the style and the storyline. There is an understanding of human nature, a sense that she really knows what she is talking about alongside a very refreshing approach. In The Lodgers, Tessa’s altruism is very much reflective of society today, where some folk have offered refuge to immigrants in need. The loss of community and that feeling of isolation are unfortunately all too common in our world today and Eithne Shortall creates a beautiful alternative of what can happen if we all just look up and see what is happening around us.
There are moments of raw heartbreak, pain and grief but there is also compassion and sensitivity throughout. The Lodgers is an uplifting and engaging novel that will leave every reader with a much needed smile on their face.
October 26, 2023
An uplifting and easy read.
The Lodgers follows the relationship between three complete strangers, whose time living together will change their lives forever: Tessa, a spirited 69-year-old activist who recently had a fall and fractured her hip, Conn, a mysterious young man devoured by the loss of his younger brother to suicide and Chloe who has lived in the shadows of her controlling and manipulative mother all her life.
Because the scenes' settings are minimal (Hope House and the community center), Shortall has managed to create intimacy and familiarity where the readers can fit in like the rest of the characters. And because there is a wide array of characters, we all can identify with one or two of them, one way or another. The characters Shortall created are all loveable (apart from Paul and Chloe's mother), quirky, rough around the edges at times, and plain but entertaining. They bring life to the story around the main characters with their own experiences of grief, tragedy, struggles, and a lot of humor. There is empathy in all of them, love, anger, frustration but above all, there is friendship and special bonds that will make you cry.
The Lodgers is effortless to read, heart-warming, like an epitome of the power of light in the darkness, of faith in humanity. One of the main themes is family and how you can choose your own family, away from genes and blood. It is about finding your home and feeling like you belong somewhere. This really rang a bell with me as narcissistic parents raised me and their toxic behaviors finally led me no choice but to close the doors, just like Chloe.
Suicide and its ramifications within a family are so well described, yet so simply written, so heart-breaking. Each character deals with the loss and the guilt and the regrets in different ways and the book is about the different stages of grief, how love triumphs in the end in a nurtured environment. There is no right or wrong with how it is dealt with.
Though the themes are quite deep and serious, it is a light-hearted read. Shortall's style is simple, seamless, and well-structured. I really enjoyed it, especially as a transition between books with more intense writing and complicated prose. It is also the kind of book that could help any reader come out of a book hangover or reading slump.
The Lodgers follows the relationship between three complete strangers, whose time living together will change their lives forever: Tessa, a spirited 69-year-old activist who recently had a fall and fractured her hip, Conn, a mysterious young man devoured by the loss of his younger brother to suicide and Chloe who has lived in the shadows of her controlling and manipulative mother all her life.
Because the scenes' settings are minimal (Hope House and the community center), Shortall has managed to create intimacy and familiarity where the readers can fit in like the rest of the characters. And because there is a wide array of characters, we all can identify with one or two of them, one way or another. The characters Shortall created are all loveable (apart from Paul and Chloe's mother), quirky, rough around the edges at times, and plain but entertaining. They bring life to the story around the main characters with their own experiences of grief, tragedy, struggles, and a lot of humor. There is empathy in all of them, love, anger, frustration but above all, there is friendship and special bonds that will make you cry.
The Lodgers is effortless to read, heart-warming, like an epitome of the power of light in the darkness, of faith in humanity. One of the main themes is family and how you can choose your own family, away from genes and blood. It is about finding your home and feeling like you belong somewhere. This really rang a bell with me as narcissistic parents raised me and their toxic behaviors finally led me no choice but to close the doors, just like Chloe.
Suicide and its ramifications within a family are so well described, yet so simply written, so heart-breaking. Each character deals with the loss and the guilt and the regrets in different ways and the book is about the different stages of grief, how love triumphs in the end in a nurtured environment. There is no right or wrong with how it is dealt with.
Though the themes are quite deep and serious, it is a light-hearted read. Shortall's style is simple, seamless, and well-structured. I really enjoyed it, especially as a transition between books with more intense writing and complicated prose. It is also the kind of book that could help any reader come out of a book hangover or reading slump.
April 17, 2023
"You need to stop thinking about yourself as an extension of other people. You're your own person. Remember that."
A heartwarming, sweeping story about the beauty of human connection that is so full of heart and warmth.
Our unlikely trio find themselves brought together in unlikely circumstances, with people they’d likely never speak to each other in their lives before — all of them were so real, their personalities quickly distinguished with unique voices that take their turns telling the story.
I adored Tessa’s dry wit and her strength and Chloe’s hopeful optimism and determination. Conn was a bit prickly, abrasive — but there was definitely something more going on under the surface. Every one of our characters has a secret, something heartbreaking they're running from — but their individual journeys and stories slowly merge together into one as they join together for a common cause to save their community centre which turns into a hilarious, chaotic adventure with a brilliantly eclectic cast of characters.
The story is slow, but well paced — spending plenty of time just being with our trio and watching their lives in their unexpected new home together. The setting was beautiful, invoking a sense of calm and bliss all around, a warm and comforting feeling of home and family.
Cosy, emotional and bittersweet — The Lodgers is the type of story to get lost in.
A heartwarming, sweeping story about the beauty of human connection that is so full of heart and warmth.
Our unlikely trio find themselves brought together in unlikely circumstances, with people they’d likely never speak to each other in their lives before — all of them were so real, their personalities quickly distinguished with unique voices that take their turns telling the story.
I adored Tessa’s dry wit and her strength and Chloe’s hopeful optimism and determination. Conn was a bit prickly, abrasive — but there was definitely something more going on under the surface. Every one of our characters has a secret, something heartbreaking they're running from — but their individual journeys and stories slowly merge together into one as they join together for a common cause to save their community centre which turns into a hilarious, chaotic adventure with a brilliantly eclectic cast of characters.
The story is slow, but well paced — spending plenty of time just being with our trio and watching their lives in their unexpected new home together. The setting was beautiful, invoking a sense of calm and bliss all around, a warm and comforting feeling of home and family.
Cosy, emotional and bittersweet — The Lodgers is the type of story to get lost in.
November 13, 2023
This was a really heartwarming and cute book set against the backdrop of Ireland. Conn, Chloe and Tessa all had there own back stories and important issues they were trying to overcome but they all came together and became great friends whilst helping to change the lives of others and fighting to keep the community centre open. Even though it was all a bit predictable it felt like a really cosy read and it was nice to like all of the characters and have the sense of community which reminded me of the Lido. Tessa was a great character who used the disappearance of her daughter to help drive her on and Conn used the tragic suicide of his brother to try prevent others doing the same even if he had to put his life on hold. Chloe finally got out of her controlling mother and started to thrive and be able to enjoy her life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2023
This was a warm-hearted yet at times soul searching book about three strangers with individual issues who become housemates and also unite with some other local characters (in every sense of the word) in a bid to save the local community hall. Told primarily from the viewpoints of Tessa who takes in two lodgers to give her some support whilst she recovers from a broken hip and of Chloe one of her lodgers who has more issues with her mum than she actually realises. This is a brilliant character read with a slow paced but engaging story, some very heartfelt moments but equally some brilliant humour throughout, all in all it was very original and highly enjoyable. 9/10
June 23, 2023
The Lodgers by Eithne Shortall
Tessa, usually a very active 69 year old, agrees to take in two lodgers, Conn and Chloe, while she is recovering from a fall. As the three fight to save their local community hall, they become vital support for each other and their wider circle of friends.
What a beautiful book! It has everything - fabulous characters, lovely setting, a sprinkling of romance and mystery, poignant, funny.... everything! I absolutely loved it and I'm really sorry to leave them behind - a Netflix adaptation please! Very VERY highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
Tessa, usually a very active 69 year old, agrees to take in two lodgers, Conn and Chloe, while she is recovering from a fall. As the three fight to save their local community hall, they become vital support for each other and their wider circle of friends.
What a beautiful book! It has everything - fabulous characters, lovely setting, a sprinkling of romance and mystery, poignant, funny.... everything! I absolutely loved it and I'm really sorry to leave them behind - a Netflix adaptation please! Very VERY highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
November 6, 2023
This was really lovely. The little mysteries in the storyline kept me coming back. But also, really well written characters. Nobody was black and white, each character felt so human! I wouldn’t be surprised if these people really existed; each thing they did wasn’t just in favour of painting them a “good” or “bad” character. Chloe in particular was so well thought out - her insistence on filling silences just made sense as I read on. After painfully DNF-ing a few book recently, this was just what I needed.
May 10, 2024
4.5 stars technically. It was a beautiful read from start to finish. The characters were complex, yet human with each of their own burdens to reconcile. The book wasn’t too long, yet didn’t meander either. I loved Tessa’s spirit, Chloe’s willingness to open up, and Conn’s wish to mend the past that he couldn’t undo. The setting in Howth was vibrant and interesting. There were a few twists and turns in the novel that I just didn’t see coming, and handled mental health so delicately. I love Eithne Shortalls previous books and the Lodgers was right up there.
September 3, 2023
A gem! A wonderful story about what makes people tick. About friendships, about communities, about what makes a family. There are some serious issues at the centre of this beautiful story but while dealing with them, the author sprinkles some lightheartedness throughout. Wonderful character development. Tessa, Malachy, Maura, Yemi, and of course Chloe and Conn. The reader is not quite sure what might happen next and I didn't anticipate the story end. An engaging, wonderful read.
July 18, 2024
Very enjoyable, with the three main characters inadvertently thrown together and trying to come to terms with their own problems. Tessa and Conn dealing with bereavement and Chloe with her mother’s illness….. Tessa’s circle of friends are a motley crew all invested in the community hall which has in one way or another influenced them all.
A touching and inspiring tale in many ways. A must read!
A touching and inspiring tale in many ways. A must read!
August 7, 2024
A beautiful wholesome and cosy read. The familiar topics of bereavement and grief and the burden/guilt over the loss of loved ones are touched on so perfectly.
‘The world is large and it continues to turn. The sun sets and the moon rises, no matter what befalls us. We do not matter to the existence of many and how liberating that is. But how much joy there is, too, in mattering to a few. The key, I think, is to find the right few.’
‘The world is large and it continues to turn. The sun sets and the moon rises, no matter what befalls us. We do not matter to the existence of many and how liberating that is. But how much joy there is, too, in mattering to a few. The key, I think, is to find the right few.’
December 16, 2024
This one took me longer to finish than I thought it would, but the story is still heartwarming and cozy.
I picked this book up when I was traveling in Ireland a few months ago, wanting to read an Irish author that I hadn't seen in the US. I am very fond of Eithne Shortall, you have a new fan!
Parts of the book were a bit slow and the supporting cast is pretty large, but all in all, I enjoyed this book.
I picked this book up when I was traveling in Ireland a few months ago, wanting to read an Irish author that I hadn't seen in the US. I am very fond of Eithne Shortall, you have a new fan!
Parts of the book were a bit slow and the supporting cast is pretty large, but all in all, I enjoyed this book.
September 17, 2025
Borrowed this as an audiobook from the library, as it was basically the first thing I came across that was available and didn’t sound awful and I needed something to accompany me on a dog walk I was about to head out on. I’m actually really glad I read it. I really got into the story and thought the narrator on the audiobook was a perfect fit for the story. Not my usual choice of book but happy I stumbled across it :)
September 24, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
I liked this a lot! didn’t enjoy it quite as much as “it could never happen here” and at times found the prose a little try hard, but eithne shortall really knows how to write a misleading, yet seamless narrative. I wasn’t sure about this for the first couple pages but it really drew me in and had me finish it fairly quickly in the end!
I liked this a lot! didn’t enjoy it quite as much as “it could never happen here” and at times found the prose a little try hard, but eithne shortall really knows how to write a misleading, yet seamless narrative. I wasn’t sure about this for the first couple pages but it really drew me in and had me finish it fairly quickly in the end!
November 11, 2023
I really wanted to love this book, but I just didn't connect with it. While it's not exactly predictable, it wasn't high on subtlety and I had a reasonable idea of where most (not all!) of the storylines were going short- and long-term, which was disappointing. That being said, I did enjoy it, just not as much/in the same way as I'd hoped.
July 18, 2024
I loved every seconds of it. The found family trope, the kind of small town trope, the subject of grief so well treated, the angst, the romance, the characters that are so perfect in their own unperfections. Eithne Shortall, let’s see what I’m going to read of you next because it is quite possible you will become a very auto buy other for me.
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