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The Perfect Housemate
You let her in. You shouldn’t have…I was so nervous about someone new joining our house share; after everything that happened with my parents, my friends are like my family. Our imperfect but well-loved house is the only place where I can be myself. But when Poppy knocks on our door, blonde hair, wide eyes and a friendly smile, we all agree she’s a perfect fit. I just wish I could shake the feeling that I’ve seen her before…At first, everything runs smoothly. But one day, Poppy arrives home with my housemates in tow. She says she ‘forgot’ to invite me to the movie. My stomach drops. As she sidles up to my friends, I’m gripped by a familiar panic. If Poppy is from my past, will she turn my friends against me? Will she tell them the secret I’ve so carefully buried?I feel like Poppy’s watching my every move. My home used to be the place where I felt most comfortable. But as she places a delicious home-cooked meal in front of me, I don’t even feel safe eating here.I have to find out who she really is, and what she wants.And when I do, will she realise too late which one of us is truly dangerous?
- GenresThriller
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2024
478 people are currently reading
291 people want to read
About the author
Lorna Dounaeva
53 books274 followersLorna Dounaeva is a politics graduate who worked for the British Home Office before turning to crime fiction. She writes dark domestic thrillers and is especially fond of female villains. She lives in the Orkney islands with her Ukrainian husband and his parents, three children, a crafty cat and a happy dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
March 23, 2024
A decent read. Very quick and easily read with alternating POV chapters. June was a rather annoying character at times. Not a lot of redeeming qualities, but of course I think that was the point.
Who the killer was didn’t surprise me. I think it was a pretty forgone conclusion it wasn’t the main suspect.
3 stars and I would honestly give it 3.5 if I had that option.
All in all a decent and engaging read.
Who the killer was didn’t surprise me. I think it was a pretty forgone conclusion it wasn’t the main suspect.
3 stars and I would honestly give it 3.5 if I had that option.
All in all a decent and engaging read.
March 28, 2024
This was a decent read. It kept my attention, and the first half of the book pulled me in. June wasn't loveable, but I feel that her being an unlikeable character fit into the storyline. It was hard to connect with any of the characters. More character development would've assisted with connection to the characters.
There were good twists throughout. There was suspense and buildup to the big reveal towards the end. The big twist was unexpected! Throughout the story, I thought I knew what would happen, but I was wrong. There were a few things I figured out along the way, but that didn't take away from the story for me.
The ending was a let down for me. The storytelling didn't really give "thriller" for me, but overall it kept me engaged and entertained.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
There were good twists throughout. There was suspense and buildup to the big reveal towards the end. The big twist was unexpected! Throughout the story, I thought I knew what would happen, but I was wrong. There were a few things I figured out along the way, but that didn't take away from the story for me.
The ending was a let down for me. The storytelling didn't really give "thriller" for me, but overall it kept me engaged and entertained.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 28, 2024
I love books like this. It starts out fairly straight forward and I think I know what’s next. Then doubt is sown and I begin to wonder who is victimizing whom.
It’s a good twisty tale. I have to say all of the housemates are quirky, even odd. June is OCD about a lot of things and pretty over the top. After reading more I discover June isn't quote so pure and innocent as she tries to radiate.
I did have some of the story figured out but then other parts remained murky.
I’m so glad I never had housemates after reading this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy.
It’s a good twisty tale. I have to say all of the housemates are quirky, even odd. June is OCD about a lot of things and pretty over the top. After reading more I discover June isn't quote so pure and innocent as she tries to radiate.
I did have some of the story figured out but then other parts remained murky.
I’m so glad I never had housemates after reading this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy.
March 11, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this Advanced Reader’s Copy of The Perfect Housemate by Lorna Dounaeva due to be published March 28, 2024.
I had previously read The Wife’s Mistake and loved it so was excited to read this one!
Flick, June, Tamsin, and Kimmy are strapped for funds and are desperate for a new housemate to share the cost. They ready their basement and place an ad. When Poppy answers the ad they agree she is perfect, but June has a feeling she has seen her before. When she starts to “steal” June’s friends from her she really gets suspicious. Is she a friend or an enemy? Is June safe in her own apartment?
This one had me hooked from the beginning – I couldn’t wait to see how the housemate situation turned out. There were lots of twists I didn’t see coming – ending with a shock!
I loved it – highly recommend this one!
#NetGalley #LornaDounaeva #Bookouture #ThePerfectHousemate
I had previously read The Wife’s Mistake and loved it so was excited to read this one!
Flick, June, Tamsin, and Kimmy are strapped for funds and are desperate for a new housemate to share the cost. They ready their basement and place an ad. When Poppy answers the ad they agree she is perfect, but June has a feeling she has seen her before. When she starts to “steal” June’s friends from her she really gets suspicious. Is she a friend or an enemy? Is June safe in her own apartment?
This one had me hooked from the beginning – I couldn’t wait to see how the housemate situation turned out. There were lots of twists I didn’t see coming – ending with a shock!
I loved it – highly recommend this one!
#NetGalley #LornaDounaeva #Bookouture #ThePerfectHousemate
March 17, 2024
** I received this book for free as an arc from NetGalley in return for an honest review.**
June becomes wary when a new addition, Poppy, enters their tightly-knit household. Despite initial reservations, Poppy seamlessly integrates, until suspicions arise when she excludes June from a social outing. Fearing Poppy's potential to reveal a buried secret, June's discomfort intensifies as she senses Poppy's scrutiny. Even within the safety of their home, June feels uneasy, questioning Poppy's intentions. Determined to uncover Poppy's identity and what she really wants, June grapples with the possibility of confronting her own dangerous past. The question arises: which housemate is truly the dangerous one?
Overall score: 4.4/5
Ratings:
1. **Plot and Storytelling:** 4/5 The beginning of "The Housemate" was a slow burn, but once the story kicks into gear, everything starts unraveling at lightning speed, keeping you gripped throughout. Lorna Dounaeva excels in weaving a twisty thriller.
2. **Characterization:** 4/5 For most of the book, these characters frustrated me, making me want to shake them. You're left unsure if you have a reliable narrator, but June’s genuine feelings towards the characters shine through, making them feel authentic.
3. **Writing Style:** 5/5 I absolutely love Lorna Dounaeva's writing style. The story is excellently crafted, perfectly suited for a twisty thriller like this.
4. **Originality:** 4/5 While the beginning might not be particularly unique, the narrative's unraveling and the ending offer a refreshing dose of originality.
5. **Emotional Impact and Resolution:** 5/5 This book had me feeling nervous, paranoid, and scared throughout. The ending wrapped up beautifully, and the bomb dropped at the end left me reeling in the best way possible.
Well, I did receive this as a free book I would spend money on it. I enjoyed it and I could see myself reading it again. I recommend that you pick it up.
If you enjoyed "The Housemate," you might also like "The Wife Upstairs" by Rachel Hawkins. It's a modern psychological thriller that reimagines the classic tale of "Jane Eyre" in a contemporary setting, filled with secrets, lies, and unexpected twists. Like "The Housemate," "The Wife Upstairs" will keep you on the edge of your seat with its gripping storytelling and complex characters.
June becomes wary when a new addition, Poppy, enters their tightly-knit household. Despite initial reservations, Poppy seamlessly integrates, until suspicions arise when she excludes June from a social outing. Fearing Poppy's potential to reveal a buried secret, June's discomfort intensifies as she senses Poppy's scrutiny. Even within the safety of their home, June feels uneasy, questioning Poppy's intentions. Determined to uncover Poppy's identity and what she really wants, June grapples with the possibility of confronting her own dangerous past. The question arises: which housemate is truly the dangerous one?
Overall score: 4.4/5
Ratings:
1. **Plot and Storytelling:** 4/5 The beginning of "The Housemate" was a slow burn, but once the story kicks into gear, everything starts unraveling at lightning speed, keeping you gripped throughout. Lorna Dounaeva excels in weaving a twisty thriller.
2. **Characterization:** 4/5 For most of the book, these characters frustrated me, making me want to shake them. You're left unsure if you have a reliable narrator, but June’s genuine feelings towards the characters shine through, making them feel authentic.
3. **Writing Style:** 5/5 I absolutely love Lorna Dounaeva's writing style. The story is excellently crafted, perfectly suited for a twisty thriller like this.
4. **Originality:** 4/5 While the beginning might not be particularly unique, the narrative's unraveling and the ending offer a refreshing dose of originality.
5. **Emotional Impact and Resolution:** 5/5 This book had me feeling nervous, paranoid, and scared throughout. The ending wrapped up beautifully, and the bomb dropped at the end left me reeling in the best way possible.
Well, I did receive this as a free book I would spend money on it. I enjoyed it and I could see myself reading it again. I recommend that you pick it up.
If you enjoyed "The Housemate," you might also like "The Wife Upstairs" by Rachel Hawkins. It's a modern psychological thriller that reimagines the classic tale of "Jane Eyre" in a contemporary setting, filled with secrets, lies, and unexpected twists. Like "The Housemate," "The Wife Upstairs" will keep you on the edge of your seat with its gripping storytelling and complex characters.
April 1, 2024
Dounaeva does it again with another brilliant five star worthy read! Trust me when I say you won't want to put it down, it's that good!
If you loved the film Single White Female you'll love The Perfect Housemate. It's dark, disturbing domestic noir and would make the perfect Netflix series binge.
The plot is twisty, compelling, with the suspense and drama in full flow from beginning to end, and the characters could be your housemates!
It's told from multiple POV and someone only known as Creep, with the BIG reveal and their identity being uncovered at the end.
Great book, fab author, both definitely recommendable.
If you loved the film Single White Female you'll love The Perfect Housemate. It's dark, disturbing domestic noir and would make the perfect Netflix series binge.
The plot is twisty, compelling, with the suspense and drama in full flow from beginning to end, and the characters could be your housemates!
It's told from multiple POV and someone only known as Creep, with the BIG reveal and their identity being uncovered at the end.
Great book, fab author, both definitely recommendable.
March 26, 2024
You let her in...you shouldn't have...
A delightful domestic thriller with an air of toxicity that just reels you in. This is a quick and easy read that I devoured in one sitting, despite its rather annoying characters.
June and her housemates - Tamsin, Kimmy and Flick - are struggling to make the rent, pay the bills and feed themselves in their spacious Clapham house. So they decide to advertise for a fifth housemate.
Enter Poppy. Almost at once she falls in love with the house and the basement room they ave prepared for her. June had painted it a sunny yellow that she found welcoming but soon after moving in Poppy had gone over the walls with a deep aubergine colour. The effect was rather creepy but somewhat stunning coupled with the fairy lights she adorned the room with.
It isn't long before strange things begin to happen though everyone thinks that June is just being paranoid as she seems intent on the fact that Poppy has taken an instant dislike to her. From her missing library card to to her stolen bike to her profile being added to random datig sites, June is sure Poppy is behind the incidents. And then when the entire household goes down with gastroenteritis after eating June's beef stew, except Poppy of course who refused to eat it on the grounds she hates mushrooms, June begins to wonder if Poppy had somehow poisoned the stew that made them all ill. But no one wants to hear June's accusations.
Then Kimmy comes home excitedly sporting an engagement ring after her boyfriend Ralph had popped the question. Soon she begins planning her wedding and she insists all the housemates are her bridesmaids. But first, the hen do...which turns out to be a week in Mykonos!
But June won't be going to the Greek island with them because she will have met a fate that will preclude her from the event. But as she hears her housemates start the day and ge ready for their holiday, she tries to alert them to her whereabouts...but will they hear her in time?
OK so most of the characters were pretty annoying and not many had any redeeming qualities. And yet it was pretty clear that the most obvious suspect wasn't the one behind it all. I kind of had it figured out but it still didn't ruin my enjoyment.
An addictive read from the start with several twists to keep you guessing.
I would like to thank #LornaDounaeva, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #ThePerfectHousemate in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
A delightful domestic thriller with an air of toxicity that just reels you in. This is a quick and easy read that I devoured in one sitting, despite its rather annoying characters.
June and her housemates - Tamsin, Kimmy and Flick - are struggling to make the rent, pay the bills and feed themselves in their spacious Clapham house. So they decide to advertise for a fifth housemate.
Enter Poppy. Almost at once she falls in love with the house and the basement room they ave prepared for her. June had painted it a sunny yellow that she found welcoming but soon after moving in Poppy had gone over the walls with a deep aubergine colour. The effect was rather creepy but somewhat stunning coupled with the fairy lights she adorned the room with.
It isn't long before strange things begin to happen though everyone thinks that June is just being paranoid as she seems intent on the fact that Poppy has taken an instant dislike to her. From her missing library card to to her stolen bike to her profile being added to random datig sites, June is sure Poppy is behind the incidents. And then when the entire household goes down with gastroenteritis after eating June's beef stew, except Poppy of course who refused to eat it on the grounds she hates mushrooms, June begins to wonder if Poppy had somehow poisoned the stew that made them all ill. But no one wants to hear June's accusations.
Then Kimmy comes home excitedly sporting an engagement ring after her boyfriend Ralph had popped the question. Soon she begins planning her wedding and she insists all the housemates are her bridesmaids. But first, the hen do...which turns out to be a week in Mykonos!
But June won't be going to the Greek island with them because she will have met a fate that will preclude her from the event. But as she hears her housemates start the day and ge ready for their holiday, she tries to alert them to her whereabouts...but will they hear her in time?
OK so most of the characters were pretty annoying and not many had any redeeming qualities. And yet it was pretty clear that the most obvious suspect wasn't the one behind it all. I kind of had it figured out but it still didn't ruin my enjoyment.
An addictive read from the start with several twists to keep you guessing.
I would like to thank #LornaDounaeva, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #ThePerfectHousemate in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
February 29, 2024
I need to say that I like this author. I've read some other books by her and enjoyed them. This was going to get an entire different rating until the end of the book. This is really 2.5 stars but I did round up for the rest of the book.
So, we have June living with her housemates in a house. The girls are reviewing the monthly bills and can no longer afford food etc., so the decision is made to take on another roommate. They find Poppy. June is a very neat and tidy person, and is very vocal on what she thinks is right and wrong. She despises the junk food her housemates eat, so she usually cooks for them. Soon after Poppy moves in things begin to change. June feels like Poppy is trying to turn the other girls against her. Before Poppy joined their group, all the girls had been friends for years, one dating back to childhood. June gets to the point where she avoids Poppy as much as possible.
There is a lot of drama in the book. June wants Poppy gone, the other girls don't agree. They're not having an issue with her. And so we read on and on. I will say it was interesting and one part was a bit suspenseful. I have a big issue with the ending. This could have been a 4 or 5 star book with a different ending. Unless there is a sequel, I felt I read all of that for nothing. I simply didn't understand how the author could leave the book on such a dull note.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC. I greatly appreciate it. I honestly don't know if I'd recommend this book, unless I'm missing something. The way it is, I don't recommend it.
So, we have June living with her housemates in a house. The girls are reviewing the monthly bills and can no longer afford food etc., so the decision is made to take on another roommate. They find Poppy. June is a very neat and tidy person, and is very vocal on what she thinks is right and wrong. She despises the junk food her housemates eat, so she usually cooks for them. Soon after Poppy moves in things begin to change. June feels like Poppy is trying to turn the other girls against her. Before Poppy joined their group, all the girls had been friends for years, one dating back to childhood. June gets to the point where she avoids Poppy as much as possible.
There is a lot of drama in the book. June wants Poppy gone, the other girls don't agree. They're not having an issue with her. And so we read on and on. I will say it was interesting and one part was a bit suspenseful. I have a big issue with the ending. This could have been a 4 or 5 star book with a different ending. Unless there is a sequel, I felt I read all of that for nothing. I simply didn't understand how the author could leave the book on such a dull note.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC. I greatly appreciate it. I honestly don't know if I'd recommend this book, unless I'm missing something. The way it is, I don't recommend it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2024
The Perfect Housemate by Lorna Dounaeva was an interesting thriller/suspense novel. It most certainly had all the basic requirements for a thriller. Suspense, mystery, drama, and even a murder.. but for some reason, it just didn’t tick the boxes of a psychological thriller, at least for me.
June and her roommates Kimmy, Flick, and Tamsin decide they need to bring in a 5th roommate to help cover expenses. Poppy, sees their add, and comes to the house. She decides to move in and at first everything seems okay. But soon, Poppy seems to have it out for June, and a rivalry ensues. Just how far does Poppy and June take their pettiness and need for revenge against on another? You’ll have to read to find out.
There is a pretty cool twist at the end of the novel, I definitely didn’t see it coming. However, the ending just didn’t do it for me. Without giving any spoilers, I’ll just say I don’t understand the ending and it had an incredibly subtle end. The only way I think it could make sense is if the author is planning to make a sequel?
All in all, it’s still worth a read, it’s just not “psychologically thrilling” in my opinion.
June and her roommates Kimmy, Flick, and Tamsin decide they need to bring in a 5th roommate to help cover expenses. Poppy, sees their add, and comes to the house. She decides to move in and at first everything seems okay. But soon, Poppy seems to have it out for June, and a rivalry ensues. Just how far does Poppy and June take their pettiness and need for revenge against on another? You’ll have to read to find out.
There is a pretty cool twist at the end of the novel, I definitely didn’t see it coming. However, the ending just didn’t do it for me. Without giving any spoilers, I’ll just say I don’t understand the ending and it had an incredibly subtle end. The only way I think it could make sense is if the author is planning to make a sequel?
All in all, it’s still worth a read, it’s just not “psychologically thrilling” in my opinion.
March 28, 2024
The Perfect Housemate has a very interesting premise. A group of 4 friends are living together and due to some expensive bills, need to add a new roommate to the mix. After a very quick search they found Poppy from the local watering hole. Poppy is kind and the girls love her....except for June who believes Poppy is trying to either take over her friends or ruin her life in some way.
On the surface this book has a lot of twists, short chapters and is very fast paced. These are all things I like, especially when it comes to a thriller. However, this book fell short for me. I think there needed to be some more development in the story in order to really connect to the characters and find it believable. I will say the prologue gave the book a great start and a great hook which I was waiting to get to within the story itself. Unfortunately the story just felt a little abrupt and some portions/storylines were not fully explained or explored and it just left me wanting more. The end of the book was left as a bit of a cliffhanger so for those who like this story, it may mean that there is a part two.
On the surface this book has a lot of twists, short chapters and is very fast paced. These are all things I like, especially when it comes to a thriller. However, this book fell short for me. I think there needed to be some more development in the story in order to really connect to the characters and find it believable. I will say the prologue gave the book a great start and a great hook which I was waiting to get to within the story itself. Unfortunately the story just felt a little abrupt and some portions/storylines were not fully explained or explored and it just left me wanting more. The end of the book was left as a bit of a cliffhanger so for those who like this story, it may mean that there is a part two.
February 18, 2024
Life is expensive. So the best solution you can come up with is sharing with your four best friends. But when money seems to become a problem still, there is only one thing left to do: trying to find an extra housemate who fits in with the rest of the group.
And then you find her. The perfect housemate everybody likes and they can all breath a little easier. But is she really the perfect find? Does she really fit in? They all seem to agree on that except for one person, June.
Weird things start to happen and June is determined to dig deep enough to find out the what and the why.
It's a well know fact that when you start looking, you might discover things you are not best pleased with and those can be rightout dangerous...
Great story about being convinced about something and be proven wrong. You know the saying 'what you see, is what you get'? In this book it's more about 'what you didn't see, is what you get' or 'what you see, is not what you get'. Maybe it sounds like Chinese to your ears, but you will know what I mean when you read the book. :)
I enjoyed it a lot. 5 stars
Thank you
And then you find her. The perfect housemate everybody likes and they can all breath a little easier. But is she really the perfect find? Does she really fit in? They all seem to agree on that except for one person, June.
Weird things start to happen and June is determined to dig deep enough to find out the what and the why.
It's a well know fact that when you start looking, you might discover things you are not best pleased with and those can be rightout dangerous...
Great story about being convinced about something and be proven wrong. You know the saying 'what you see, is what you get'? In this book it's more about 'what you didn't see, is what you get' or 'what you see, is not what you get'. Maybe it sounds like Chinese to your ears, but you will know what I mean when you read the book. :)
I enjoyed it a lot. 5 stars
Thank you
March 28, 2024
Living in the perfect home in a perfect location can June and her friends find a new perfect housemate?
June and her flatmates have been friends for years, they know each other's quirks and rarely fight. When Poppy is invited to be their new roommate June can not shake the feeling that she might be out to get her. She is the only one who sees Poppy for who she really is, or does she? Will June’s past come back to haunt her?
I had to put this book down several times for the pure frustration I shared with June. Most of us have experienced a roommate like Poppy, but what if your other friends didn’t believe you? I thought I had this book pegged out to be another version of “Single White Female” but was then introduced to The Creep. Who is really doing these things to June? As we learn how Poppy and June might be connected from the past we also learn more about June than we originally thought. Is June a reliable narrator, is anyone who they seem?
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
June and her flatmates have been friends for years, they know each other's quirks and rarely fight. When Poppy is invited to be their new roommate June can not shake the feeling that she might be out to get her. She is the only one who sees Poppy for who she really is, or does she? Will June’s past come back to haunt her?
I had to put this book down several times for the pure frustration I shared with June. Most of us have experienced a roommate like Poppy, but what if your other friends didn’t believe you? I thought I had this book pegged out to be another version of “Single White Female” but was then introduced to The Creep. Who is really doing these things to June? As we learn how Poppy and June might be connected from the past we also learn more about June than we originally thought. Is June a reliable narrator, is anyone who they seem?
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
April 3, 2024
"The Perfect Housemate" by Lorna Dounaeva was a twisty 4-star read! The prologue starts with June tied up in her shed while her housemates are leaving on vacation. The story then shifts to the past, showing how June got herself into this situation. We quickly meet her friends Kimmy, Flick, and Tamsin as they search for a new housemate to help offset their expenses. The new housemate is Poppy, a waitress at the local pub, Tipsy Toad. Once Poppy moves in, she is immediately adored by most of the group, while June struggles to become friends.
I really enjoyed this book! It was a quick read that held my interest. The story is told primarily through June’s POV, with a couple of flashbacks to fill in the gaps in the story. In the second half of the book, there are chapters told by other people in the book. There are plenty of twists, some more shocking than others! This is my second book by this author, and I look forward to reading more from her.
Thanks to Bookouture, Lorna Dounaeva, and NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to read this ARC and share my honest review.
I really enjoyed this book! It was a quick read that held my interest. The story is told primarily through June’s POV, with a couple of flashbacks to fill in the gaps in the story. In the second half of the book, there are chapters told by other people in the book. There are plenty of twists, some more shocking than others! This is my second book by this author, and I look forward to reading more from her.
Thanks to Bookouture, Lorna Dounaeva, and NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to read this ARC and share my honest review.
March 4, 2024
Bills are tight for everyone, June and her friends are no exception. When they decide to bring on another roommate to help with the mounting debt, Poppy seems like a logical choice. All of Junes friends are thrilled with the new addition and Poppy soon falls into stride...with everyone except Poppy. As events escalate and the drama thickens June is soon feeling like an outsider in her own home. Is she crazy? Is Poppy seeking to destroy June?
The female "frenemy" toupe is so strong in The Perfect Housemate and I'm here for it. The pacing is fast through most of the book but some character development falls flat at the end. While it is a fun and exciting read I feel like the ending was a bit rushed and on a bit of a cliffhanger. If you're in the mood for a wild, moody, bitch fest to have any semblance of drama in your life (me) this is a book you should pick up!
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookature for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The female "frenemy" toupe is so strong in The Perfect Housemate and I'm here for it. The pacing is fast through most of the book but some character development falls flat at the end. While it is a fun and exciting read I feel like the ending was a bit rushed and on a bit of a cliffhanger. If you're in the mood for a wild, moody, bitch fest to have any semblance of drama in your life (me) this is a book you should pick up!
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookature for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 23, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing this book, with my honest review below.
The Perfect Housemate wasn’t quite a great read for me, but I appreciate a well written thriller, which this was, and it may just be for you.
We are introduced to June who seems well loved by those around her until Poppy joined her roommates and June becomes suspicious that Poppy is turning them against her. That’s especially concerning for her in the case of her best friend, Kimmy. What follows is a little off the wall and a lot curious, as it plays on past and resentments, and I think ultimately a bit too much for me. I did enjoy the twists and again, the writing is excellent, so I’d recommend you pick it up if you’d like to dive into some intrigue!
The Perfect Housemate wasn’t quite a great read for me, but I appreciate a well written thriller, which this was, and it may just be for you.
We are introduced to June who seems well loved by those around her until Poppy joined her roommates and June becomes suspicious that Poppy is turning them against her. That’s especially concerning for her in the case of her best friend, Kimmy. What follows is a little off the wall and a lot curious, as it plays on past and resentments, and I think ultimately a bit too much for me. I did enjoy the twists and again, the writing is excellent, so I’d recommend you pick it up if you’d like to dive into some intrigue!
March 24, 2024
The Perfect Housemate is a domestic thriller and one of my favourite genres. I had not read anything by this author but when I read the blurb for this one it was right up my street. This was to me a completely gripping page turner and one that I was certain that I knew what the outcome was going to be but things don’t alway turn out the way you think or do they ? A superb read packed full of twist and with strong well written characters some of whom you will definitely like more than others. Finishing with to me a perfect ending which had my mind going into overdrive as I processed everything. This was truly a 5⭐️ read for me.
March 25, 2024
The girls are struggling to make ends meet, so they agree to have another housemate to split the cost of things. June is super nervous about adding another housemate to the mix because the rest of them are like family, so when Poppy comes knocking June is dubious.
When Poppy starts inviting the other housemates along to days out and forgetting June, June is worried she’s made a huge mistake in allowing Poppy to move in.
Without giving anything away, this book was a brilliant read that kept me thinking I had it all worked out until the very end, and then incoming twist! Looking forward to reading more books by Lorna Dounaeva
When Poppy starts inviting the other housemates along to days out and forgetting June, June is worried she’s made a huge mistake in allowing Poppy to move in.
Without giving anything away, this book was a brilliant read that kept me thinking I had it all worked out until the very end, and then incoming twist! Looking forward to reading more books by Lorna Dounaeva
March 30, 2024
This one is a gripping page turner. I read it in 2 days, I just couldn’t get enough. It grips you from the beginning and just moves at a steady pace throughout. It’s full of twists and turns and doesn’t let up. You get a mix of likeable and dis-likeable character’s and I have to admit I did find June a little annoying at times but I think that was the point. The author did a great job of building the storyline and the suspense along with both the storyline and characters being really well developed. Really enjoyed this one and it’s definitely one for the TBR list.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review #ThePerfectHousemate
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review #ThePerfectHousemate
April 16, 2024
June and her housemates need a new housemate to help with rent . So they now have Poppy. But things start happening with June and it looks like Poppy has it out for her or is June making things up?I liked the friendships between the women until Poppy shows up. I even like June's new boyfriend.
You will find out why Poppy has it out for June but is she the only one?
I loved this book and was giving it a 4 star until the very end. This is supposed to be a standalone but it was ended with a cliffhanger. That should not ever happen in standalones.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the arc to review.
You will find out why Poppy has it out for June but is she the only one?
I loved this book and was giving it a 4 star until the very end. This is supposed to be a standalone but it was ended with a cliffhanger. That should not ever happen in standalones.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the arc to review.
February 18, 2024
This is a great dark story about friendship and jealously that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When a group of friends realise they need help paying the rent they decide to decorate the basement and rent that out and after interviewing some candidates choose Poppy. She seems perfect but June starts to feel something is not quite right with her and she seems to have it in for her but the others can’t see it and as she starts to move in on taking her friends as well she is desperate to get her to leave but will it be that easy. I won’t spoil this but it’s a great read.
February 23, 2024
#ThePerfectHousemate #NetGalley
Enjoyable
June lives with three girlfriends in London. She has known Tamsin, Kimmy and Flick for a long time. But money is tight and they barely get by. So they decide to rent out the room in the basement. Poppy, a barmaid they’ve met before wants to rent out the room. At first she seems great but then she starts to turn the others against June. Small, petty things at first. But things quickly escalate. Is Poppy out for revenge?
I'm not going to reveal more. Buy this book and read it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me an advance copy.
Enjoyable
June lives with three girlfriends in London. She has known Tamsin, Kimmy and Flick for a long time. But money is tight and they barely get by. So they decide to rent out the room in the basement. Poppy, a barmaid they’ve met before wants to rent out the room. At first she seems great but then she starts to turn the others against June. Small, petty things at first. But things quickly escalate. Is Poppy out for revenge?
I'm not going to reveal more. Buy this book and read it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me an advance copy.
February 25, 2024
June is a hardworking, rule follower, who lives with her best friends whom are family to her. When they decide to bring in a new roommate for financial reasons, June protests the idea, but gives in to her friend’s requests. Fun loving, outgoing Poppy joins the group immediately clashing with June. Is Poppy out for revenge of some sort or is June imagining things? Will her oldest and dearest friends believe her or will they side with Poppy? A fast paced psychological thriller that I couldn’t put down. Exciting plot twist that left me wanting to know more about the characters.
March 6, 2024
June and her housemates were nervous about bringing in another roommate into their shared house. They were like a small family sharing a place where they could relax and be themselves after a long day at work, but rising expenses necessitated their having to bring in another person to share their living expenses. When Poppy answered the ad and visited the house June was taken by her energy and enthusiasm. She had wide expressive eyes and a smile that suggested she would fit in with the group and be a lot of fun to have around. The group agreed and Poppy moved into their newly renovated basement apartment. Despite her relief that they found a suitable new roommate, there was something familiar about Poppy that June couldn’t place, and it wasn’t a good feeling.
Things went well for a while until Poppy began arranging events with the other housemates, leaving June out. She was constantly watching June’s every move. June felt she was in danger and had to find out who Poppy really was and why she was targeting her.
This book is an absolute page turner with twists and turns you could never imagine and an ending that is both explosive and shocking. So, fasten your seat belt and make sure your lights are on because you are in for an amazing ride.
Things went well for a while until Poppy began arranging events with the other housemates, leaving June out. She was constantly watching June’s every move. June felt she was in danger and had to find out who Poppy really was and why she was targeting her.
This book is an absolute page turner with twists and turns you could never imagine and an ending that is both explosive and shocking. So, fasten your seat belt and make sure your lights are on because you are in for an amazing ride.
March 9, 2024
I thought this was a great book. It was full of suspense and surprises with each turn of the page. I enjoyed the progression of June's past and the long term friendship between June and Kimmy. I also really enjoyed the development of the storyline with Poppy and her moving into the house as their new housemate. I loved how the book would switch from past to present to get the full background of all the characters. I would love to read more books by this author and would
recommend this book to all of my friends.
recommend this book to all of my friends.
March 13, 2024
This was a roller coaster! Never a boring moment.
It all starts when some roommates decide to make room for one more. That’s when everything starts to go downhill for June.
We find out some juicy information about the roommates as we navigate chapters, so the reader is always wondering, “Who is doing all of this crazy stuff?”
I liked the dynamic of having several people in one house so it wasn’t easily guessable (at least at first). I liked the quirkiness of June’s character, and her not-so-innocent backstory.
Once some key information is revealed, that’s when I knew who was behind everything. It was pretty obvious, but it was also a little shocking as to what was REALLY going on, as well.
I did not enjoy the last few pages. It seemed weird and unnecessary with everything else (so, so much) that went on in the book.
It all starts when some roommates decide to make room for one more. That’s when everything starts to go downhill for June.
We find out some juicy information about the roommates as we navigate chapters, so the reader is always wondering, “Who is doing all of this crazy stuff?”
I liked the dynamic of having several people in one house so it wasn’t easily guessable (at least at first). I liked the quirkiness of June’s character, and her not-so-innocent backstory.
Once some key information is revealed, that’s when I knew who was behind everything. It was pretty obvious, but it was also a little shocking as to what was REALLY going on, as well.
I did not enjoy the last few pages. It seemed weird and unnecessary with everything else (so, so much) that went on in the book.
March 19, 2024
This book was 'good'. The plot was based on a group of friends couldn't afford their rent so got a housemate. The housemate was playing tricks on the protagonist June. All of these things keep happening and June blames Poppy as she is the new housemate and is the obvious culprit. The story takes a turn that you do not expect and is very well written. There was something about the book that didn't excite me like other thrillers do. I would definitely reccoment reading it. It is fast paced once it gets going and an easy read. I would read more of Lorna Dounaeva's novels for sure!
April 3, 2024
The Perfect Housemate by Lorna Dunaeva is a story full of unexpected twists and turns. June has found her place within her house share until Poppy moves in. Does June know her from somewhere? And when Poppy starts to integrate herself and excludes June, June begins to worry. What secrets do they carry? Told by multiple point of views and with not very likable characters, can we trust the narrators? June wants Poppy gone and believes she is turning the other roommates against her. What is happening and how will it end?
Happy reading!
Happy reading!
April 10, 2024
Flaming wowsers! This book was brilliant.
From the get go, I rooted for June. She’s my type of housemate (if I had to have one). Tidy, quiet, a great cook and considerate. Then, Poppy comes along and introduces a whirlwind of chaos into her life.
I felt June’s heartache as she slowly got pushed out and what came after was a huge sucker punch. Racing through the chapters, I found myself tense and dying to unravel the mystery. The Perfect House Mate is a psych thriller triumph.
That ending… boom!
From the get go, I rooted for June. She’s my type of housemate (if I had to have one). Tidy, quiet, a great cook and considerate. Then, Poppy comes along and introduces a whirlwind of chaos into her life.
I felt June’s heartache as she slowly got pushed out and what came after was a huge sucker punch. Racing through the chapters, I found myself tense and dying to unravel the mystery. The Perfect House Mate is a psych thriller triumph.
That ending… boom!
August 4, 2024
strange and twisty
This novel has so many things going on it almost defies belief. A house full of female housemates, a few of which have some real problems. The addition of another housemate introduces a tangent that becomes increasingly ridiculous. The best thing about this book is the ending because the victimized protagonist, June, gets some good things happening to her.
As with so many I read this one was way over written with endless details about unimportant things. Authors must get paid by the word count.
This novel has so many things going on it almost defies belief. A house full of female housemates, a few of which have some real problems. The addition of another housemate introduces a tangent that becomes increasingly ridiculous. The best thing about this book is the ending because the victimized protagonist, June, gets some good things happening to her.
As with so many I read this one was way over written with endless details about unimportant things. Authors must get paid by the word count.
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