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Under Her Roof
It seems too good to be true…
When struggling writer Sebastian finds a room to let in a palatial Hampstead residence he cannot believe his luck. The rent is ridiculously cheap and he immediately feels a connection with his beautiful widowed landlady, Adriana.
It is.
Things take a dark turn when he finds out what happened to the last lodger. Could this be why the house is a fortress of security, and why Adriana seems so fragile? Adriana doesn’t want to talk about the death and sadness that seem to follow her wherever she goes and Sebastian has secrets of his own.
Now someone is watching their every move and there is nowhere to hide.
This house of light becomes a dark nightmare as the threat ramps up - what does the watcher want? And how far will they go to get it?
When struggling writer Sebastian finds a room to let in a palatial Hampstead residence he cannot believe his luck. The rent is ridiculously cheap and he immediately feels a connection with his beautiful widowed landlady, Adriana.
It is.
Things take a dark turn when he finds out what happened to the last lodger. Could this be why the house is a fortress of security, and why Adriana seems so fragile? Adriana doesn’t want to talk about the death and sadness that seem to follow her wherever she goes and Sebastian has secrets of his own.
Now someone is watching their every move and there is nowhere to hide.
This house of light becomes a dark nightmare as the threat ramps up - what does the watcher want? And how far will they go to get it?
400 pages, Paperback
Published June 13, 2024
41 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
About the author
A.A. Chaudhuri
18 books174 followersA.A. Chaudhuri is a former City lawyer turned thriller writer, born and raised in Portsmouth, but who now lives in Surrey with her family. Once a highly ranked British junior tennis player, competing in the national championships and a member of the national squad, she went on to tour the women’s professional satellite circuit as a teenager and achieved a world ranking of 650.
THE SCRIBE (republished in October 2024 as THE LAWYER) and THE ABDUCTION (republished in February 2025 as THE PARTNER), published by LUME BOOKS in July and December 2019, are her first crime book series, plunging readers into London’s glamorous legal world and featuring series’ heroine, Maddy Kramer, fiction’s first female City lawyer amateur sleuth, who teams up with charismatic DCI Jake Carver to solve a gruesome series of murders and a puzzling abduction. THE SCRIBE and THE ABDUCTION were published as audio books by Isis Audio on 1st January and 1st March 2021, both read by David Thorpe.
She has also contributed an original short story THE ENCOUNTER to crime anthology GIVEN IN EVIDENCE published by LUME BOOKS in May 2020, has written many articles and short stories for The Crime Writers’ Association.
Her first psychological thriller with HERA BOOKS, SHE’S MINE, was published in e-book, paperback and audio in August 2021, the second, THE LOYAL FRIEND, was published in all three formats in June 2022 and published in the USA by Canelo US on 20th June 2023. Her third, THE FINAL PARTY, was published in e-book and paperback on May 25th 2023. and released in audiobook on 1st February 2024.
Her fourth psychological thriller - UNDER HER ROOF - was released in e-book, paperback and audio on 13th June 2024. THE SCHOOL GATES will be published on 5th June 2025.
Besides being an avid reader, she enjoys fitness, films, anything Italian and a good margarita!
All of Alex's books have achieved bestseller status on Amazon UK, Amazon US, Amazon Australia and Amazon Canada.
Twitter: A.A. Chaudhuri (@AAChaudhuri) / Twitter
Facebook: A.A. Chaudhuri | Facebook
Instagram: A.A. Chaudhuri (Author) (@a.a.chaudhuri) • Instagram photos and videos
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LinkedIn: A.A. Chaudhuri | LinkedIn
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
May 4, 2024
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, A. A. Chaudhuri, and Hera (Canelo) for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
A long-time fan of A.A. Chaudhuri and her work, I was eager to get my hands on this ARC. Filled with a number of suspenseful moments, the reader is pulled into a piece where nothing is entirely clear. After securing a new place to live, Sebastian finds himself wondering about his new landlady, who is both highly attractive and secretive. The new living situation soon becomes somewhat tense and Sebastian finds himself questioning his choices. As things ramp up, truths emerge that ensures no one is entirely safe or at ease. A.A. Chaudhuri pens another winner with this story!
When Sebastian is seeking a new place to live, he feels that his options are limited. Struggling to make ends meet as a writer, he has been perusing the advertisements in hopes of stumbling upon something decent. When he comes upon a room for rent in a palatial Hamstead home, he feels that it must be a mistake. However, inexpensive rent and some decent solitude await him, as long as he can handle living with his widowed landlady, Adriana. He cannot sign the lease fast enough and is soon preparing to move in.
When Sebastian learns what happened to the previous lodger, his views on the place change drastically. While peaceful in its environs, the house is secured and nothing is left to chance, which is seen when Adriana’s fragility comes to the surface. When Sebastian tries to ask about her past or the time with the previous lodger, Adriana refuses to engage in the topic. Death seems to follow her everywhere, though Adriana refuses to shed any light on it. This leaves Sebastian feeling highly nervous and questioning the secrets.
Sebastian begins to sense that someone is watching the house, particularly those who live inside. While unable to put his finger on it, Sebastian cannot shake the thought that Adriana might be keeping something from him, juts as he is hiding a secret or two of his own. Will Sebastian be able to get to the bottom of things or will he become the next lodger victim in this web of deceit? Chaudhuri does a masterful job with this piece, adding suspense to every page flip.
While I cut my teeth on her legal thrillers, I have come to enjoy and respect A.A. Chaudhuri’s varied writings. She is able to capture the essence of the story in the opening pages of the book and does not let the reader remain in compete control. Her narrative style keeps the story moving and leaves the reader to catch up or be left in the dust. There is a great deal on offer here, with strong storytelling and some building suspense that is only made known as needed. Some characters prove to be just what the reader needs, while others have multiple layers, permitting a psychological chill. The secrets are plentiful, forcing the reader to pay close attention.
Plot points in a story of this genre are essential to the delivery. Chaudhuri does well to keep the reader on point with strong twists and turns throughout the story. The surprises not only keep the characters in line, but provide the reader with some suspense and moments to ‘gasp’ at what is taking place. I can see how Chaudhuri used this effectively and hope that more of her books follow the same rules. I am eager to see what else she has in store for readers in the future.
Kudos, Madam Chaudhuri, for this chilling tale!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A long-time fan of A.A. Chaudhuri and her work, I was eager to get my hands on this ARC. Filled with a number of suspenseful moments, the reader is pulled into a piece where nothing is entirely clear. After securing a new place to live, Sebastian finds himself wondering about his new landlady, who is both highly attractive and secretive. The new living situation soon becomes somewhat tense and Sebastian finds himself questioning his choices. As things ramp up, truths emerge that ensures no one is entirely safe or at ease. A.A. Chaudhuri pens another winner with this story!
When Sebastian is seeking a new place to live, he feels that his options are limited. Struggling to make ends meet as a writer, he has been perusing the advertisements in hopes of stumbling upon something decent. When he comes upon a room for rent in a palatial Hamstead home, he feels that it must be a mistake. However, inexpensive rent and some decent solitude await him, as long as he can handle living with his widowed landlady, Adriana. He cannot sign the lease fast enough and is soon preparing to move in.
When Sebastian learns what happened to the previous lodger, his views on the place change drastically. While peaceful in its environs, the house is secured and nothing is left to chance, which is seen when Adriana’s fragility comes to the surface. When Sebastian tries to ask about her past or the time with the previous lodger, Adriana refuses to engage in the topic. Death seems to follow her everywhere, though Adriana refuses to shed any light on it. This leaves Sebastian feeling highly nervous and questioning the secrets.
Sebastian begins to sense that someone is watching the house, particularly those who live inside. While unable to put his finger on it, Sebastian cannot shake the thought that Adriana might be keeping something from him, juts as he is hiding a secret or two of his own. Will Sebastian be able to get to the bottom of things or will he become the next lodger victim in this web of deceit? Chaudhuri does a masterful job with this piece, adding suspense to every page flip.
While I cut my teeth on her legal thrillers, I have come to enjoy and respect A.A. Chaudhuri’s varied writings. She is able to capture the essence of the story in the opening pages of the book and does not let the reader remain in compete control. Her narrative style keeps the story moving and leaves the reader to catch up or be left in the dust. There is a great deal on offer here, with strong storytelling and some building suspense that is only made known as needed. Some characters prove to be just what the reader needs, while others have multiple layers, permitting a psychological chill. The secrets are plentiful, forcing the reader to pay close attention.
Plot points in a story of this genre are essential to the delivery. Chaudhuri does well to keep the reader on point with strong twists and turns throughout the story. The surprises not only keep the characters in line, but provide the reader with some suspense and moments to ‘gasp’ at what is taking place. I can see how Chaudhuri used this effectively and hope that more of her books follow the same rules. I am eager to see what else she has in store for readers in the future.
Kudos, Madam Chaudhuri, for this chilling tale!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
September 19, 2024
Budding writer Sebastian Walker rents a room in a gorgeous Hampstead house. It's ridiculously affordable, especially for someone only working part-time, and the conditions the fragile, beautiful, widowed landlady Adriana Wentworth imposes on him don't seem that onerous or impossible to comply with.
The two feel an immediate connection to the other as they both sense a vulnerability in the other, though each has secrets that they're unwilling to share with the other. Seb has something horrible that drove him and his now dead mother away from their home town in Devon, and Adriana is still reeling from both her husband's and lodger's unexpected deaths.
But almost as soon as he moves in, he breaks one of her rules by talking to a neighbour, who implies the previous lodger's death was a bit suspicious. Seb also gets shocking evidence that someone is watching him.
Adriana also receives evidence that Seb is concealing things from her, which leaves her stressed. Author A.A. Chaudhuri also relates, in an earlier time period, the traumatic childhood of a girl named Scarlett.
Chaudhuri creates suspense almost from the opening, which is only ratcheted up when Seb understands that he's under some sort of surveillance. Even before this, one gets the sense right away that something is off about the lodging situation and Adriana's life, and though it takes a while for the author to bring various story threads together into what should have been a shocking reveal, I found myself unsurprised by the many coincidences that underpin this story.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Hera for this ARC in exchange for my review.
The two feel an immediate connection to the other as they both sense a vulnerability in the other, though each has secrets that they're unwilling to share with the other. Seb has something horrible that drove him and his now dead mother away from their home town in Devon, and Adriana is still reeling from both her husband's and lodger's unexpected deaths.
But almost as soon as he moves in, he breaks one of her rules by talking to a neighbour, who implies the previous lodger's death was a bit suspicious. Seb also gets shocking evidence that someone is watching him.
Adriana also receives evidence that Seb is concealing things from her, which leaves her stressed. Author A.A. Chaudhuri also relates, in an earlier time period, the traumatic childhood of a girl named Scarlett.
Chaudhuri creates suspense almost from the opening, which is only ratcheted up when Seb understands that he's under some sort of surveillance. Even before this, one gets the sense right away that something is off about the lodging situation and Adriana's life, and though it takes a while for the author to bring various story threads together into what should have been a shocking reveal, I found myself unsurprised by the many coincidences that underpin this story.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Hera for this ARC in exchange for my review.
June 22, 2024
Oh my gosh. This book hooked me and I couldn’t put it down! There are multiple timelines and multiple points of view? But it honestly didn’t get confusing. There were different formats for the different viewpoints and timelines, along with headers so it was easy to tell where the chapter was taking place and whose viewpoint. Add in that we have a viewpoint from The Watcher? Oh man. This was a great, dark, and twisty thriller.
Seb is looking for a new place. He prefers to keep to himself, but when he sees a room for rent in an amazing place in his price range, he decides to look at it. It’s perfect, and while there are some slightly weird rules, he knows his landlord has a right to her secrets. After all, he has some of his own.
Thank you to Love Book Tours for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
Seb is looking for a new place. He prefers to keep to himself, but when he sees a room for rent in an amazing place in his price range, he decides to look at it. It’s perfect, and while there are some slightly weird rules, he knows his landlord has a right to her secrets. After all, he has some of his own.
Thank you to Love Book Tours for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
September 4, 2024
Mmm, I really liked the idea of this book, but got a bit irritated by ‘the big secret’ chat all the way through. However, after thinking I had predicted the end, I hadn’t! I was quite surprised by the outcome, better than I was expecting!
February 7, 2025
All my reviews can be found at damppebbles.com
Sebastian Walker, a struggling writer, has called upon his best mate’s good nature for long enough. Sebastian knows it’s time to find a place of his own and give Jasper and girlfriend, Rochelle, the space they need. When he sees a room to rent in a grand Hampstead home for minimal rent, he can’t believe his luck. Before long Sebastian has moved in to Serenity House and is getting to know his new, glamourous landlady, who also happens to live in the house. But then Seb discovers the fate of his predecessor and things take a dark turn. His relationship with Adriana deepens, turning physical, only for Seb to start receiving ominous warnings. It seems someone is watching his every move and they’re not afraid to put the pressure on. Seb’s dream house quickly turns into a living nightmare. How far will they go to get what they want? And how many of Seb’s own secrets will be revealed along the way…
Under Her Roof is an intriguing, suspenseful tale full of brooding tension and creeping menace. Sebastian is a likeable, well-written character, although he has plenty of secrets of his own. These secrets hang over him from the start of the book, with the author teasing the reader, dropping hints about a troubled past but not really revealing anything of substance. It’s not until much later in the book that we discover the truth about Sebastian and what a shocker! All tied together beautifully by this talented author. The story is fairly intricate with flashbacks to the past, and told in the present day by both Sebastian, and our glamourous widower, Adriana. The flashbacks don’t really seem to fit with everything else initially. But the further the reader progresses through the story, the more it all starts to slot into place.
Would I recommend this book? I would, yes. Under Her Roof is a highly intriguing tale that captivates the reader’s attention and keeps you turning the pages late into the night. I couldn’t for the life of me work out who or what was behind the threats. But the big reveal is done so very well, everything positioned perfectly ready for the jaw-dropping twist in the tale. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this book and I’m keen to read more from this author in the not too distant future. Great characters, a killer, unexpected twist and bucketloads of simmering menace. What more could you want? Recommended.
Sebastian Walker, a struggling writer, has called upon his best mate’s good nature for long enough. Sebastian knows it’s time to find a place of his own and give Jasper and girlfriend, Rochelle, the space they need. When he sees a room to rent in a grand Hampstead home for minimal rent, he can’t believe his luck. Before long Sebastian has moved in to Serenity House and is getting to know his new, glamourous landlady, who also happens to live in the house. But then Seb discovers the fate of his predecessor and things take a dark turn. His relationship with Adriana deepens, turning physical, only for Seb to start receiving ominous warnings. It seems someone is watching his every move and they’re not afraid to put the pressure on. Seb’s dream house quickly turns into a living nightmare. How far will they go to get what they want? And how many of Seb’s own secrets will be revealed along the way…
Under Her Roof is an intriguing, suspenseful tale full of brooding tension and creeping menace. Sebastian is a likeable, well-written character, although he has plenty of secrets of his own. These secrets hang over him from the start of the book, with the author teasing the reader, dropping hints about a troubled past but not really revealing anything of substance. It’s not until much later in the book that we discover the truth about Sebastian and what a shocker! All tied together beautifully by this talented author. The story is fairly intricate with flashbacks to the past, and told in the present day by both Sebastian, and our glamourous widower, Adriana. The flashbacks don’t really seem to fit with everything else initially. But the further the reader progresses through the story, the more it all starts to slot into place.
Would I recommend this book? I would, yes. Under Her Roof is a highly intriguing tale that captivates the reader’s attention and keeps you turning the pages late into the night. I couldn’t for the life of me work out who or what was behind the threats. But the big reveal is done so very well, everything positioned perfectly ready for the jaw-dropping twist in the tale. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this book and I’m keen to read more from this author in the not too distant future. Great characters, a killer, unexpected twist and bucketloads of simmering menace. What more could you want? Recommended.
June 19, 2024
Seb is an aspiring writer, currently staying at his friend’s cramped flat in London.
He is searching for a place of his own and he stumbles upon an advert for a house in an affluent part of London. The rent is very cheap, but soon it transpires that Seb would be a lodger, renting a room and sometimes doing an odd job for the landlord.
However, the landlord is actually a landlady: a widowed and beautiful Adriana, who lost her husband to a heart attack.
Adriana has a feeling that someone is constantly watching her and turns her house into a security-tight fortress. Rightly so, as she is hiding a shocking secret.
What she doesn’t know is that Seb has a few secrets tucked up his sleeve, too.
I just love A.A. Chaudhuri. Her psychological thrillers always deliver!
This book was written from the points of view of Seb, Adriana, and the Watcher (as I called him!).
I really enjoyed the plot and the twists and turns that took place. I thought I knew who the Watcher was, but I was deeply mistaken. Never in a million years I’d have guessed the ending.
I definitely recommend this book – I read it in two sittings.
He is searching for a place of his own and he stumbles upon an advert for a house in an affluent part of London. The rent is very cheap, but soon it transpires that Seb would be a lodger, renting a room and sometimes doing an odd job for the landlord.
However, the landlord is actually a landlady: a widowed and beautiful Adriana, who lost her husband to a heart attack.
Adriana has a feeling that someone is constantly watching her and turns her house into a security-tight fortress. Rightly so, as she is hiding a shocking secret.
What she doesn’t know is that Seb has a few secrets tucked up his sleeve, too.
I just love A.A. Chaudhuri. Her psychological thrillers always deliver!
This book was written from the points of view of Seb, Adriana, and the Watcher (as I called him!).
I really enjoyed the plot and the twists and turns that took place. I thought I knew who the Watcher was, but I was deeply mistaken. Never in a million years I’d have guessed the ending.
I definitely recommend this book – I read it in two sittings.
June 15, 2024
Seb is in need of a new place to live in and finds a room in an amazing mansion for a good price. The young and attractive landlady Adriana doesn't really need rental money but does need security and companionship. Her wealthy husband has died and she is scared to live alone. In the background someone knows their secrets keeps them on their toes.
I did like this book, there are a number of twists, some predictable, some unbelievable and some surprising.
I also guessed the main premise from early in the book, but still it was an enjoyable read.
Plot wise I didn't understand Sebs connection to a person he met a few days beforehand.
The tension was good and consistent, but I still found it a hard read. The pacing seemed to ebb and flow.
The complex plot was well thought through and intricate, thank you NetGalley and A.A. Chaudhuri for the ARC.
I did like this book, there are a number of twists, some predictable, some unbelievable and some surprising.
I also guessed the main premise from early in the book, but still it was an enjoyable read.
Plot wise I didn't understand Sebs connection to a person he met a few days beforehand.
The tension was good and consistent, but I still found it a hard read. The pacing seemed to ebb and flow.
The complex plot was well thought through and intricate, thank you NetGalley and A.A. Chaudhuri for the ARC.
June 18, 2024
When struggling writer, Seb, finds a cheap room for rent in a luxurious Hampstead house he worries it is too good to be true. His misgivings aren’t eased by the house’s fortress-like security or the dark circumstances of her last lodger’s tragic ending, but when he meets the mysterious widowed landlady, Adriana, he is put at ease and struck by an instant connection with her. But, what neither of them know is that there is someone watching their every move. What does this watcher want? And do the dark secrets they are both hiding have anything to do with it?
Intense, cryptic and suspenseful, Under Her Roof is another jaw-dropping thriller from A. A. Chaudhuri. Sizzling with dark secrets, suspicion and intrigue, I couldn’t put this down and devoured the book quickly. Chaudhuri is a must-read author for me and she gets better with every book. Expertly written and cleverly plotted, this was impossible to predict. My mind raced with theories and suspicions, but I couldn’t see how the many different threads of the story would connect until Chaudhuri skillfully intertwined them, delivering shocking twists that changed everything I thought I knew. Looking back, I can see the breadcrumbs she’d subtly sprinkled throughout the story, but I couldn’t see the full picture until she revealed it. Brava, Ms. Chaudhuri.
The story is told by multiple narrators in multiple timelines and all of the characters are richly drawn, complex and fractured. Adriana and Seb are two of the narrators and while both of them are likeable, we have no idea if they are reliable as they admit they are hiding dark secrets they are terrified of being revealed. No one in this story is completely innocent and an air of suspicion surrounds all of them and the tension radiates from the pages, keeping you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The story’s other narrators’ identities are a mystery that isn’t revealed until the dramatic finale. One of these is the ‘villain’ of the story. The mysterious person watching Adriana and Seb under the cover of looking out for her. This is a dark, sinister and dangerous character who will go to any lengths to ‘help’ Adriana and while there were a number of suspects I had in mind, my mind was blown when their true identity was revealed.
Dark, devious, twisty and unpredictable, Under Her Roof is a high-octane psychological thriller that keeps you guessing until the last page. Once again Ms. Chaudhuri has shown why she is one of the best thriller writers you will read. Highly recommended.
Intense, cryptic and suspenseful, Under Her Roof is another jaw-dropping thriller from A. A. Chaudhuri. Sizzling with dark secrets, suspicion and intrigue, I couldn’t put this down and devoured the book quickly. Chaudhuri is a must-read author for me and she gets better with every book. Expertly written and cleverly plotted, this was impossible to predict. My mind raced with theories and suspicions, but I couldn’t see how the many different threads of the story would connect until Chaudhuri skillfully intertwined them, delivering shocking twists that changed everything I thought I knew. Looking back, I can see the breadcrumbs she’d subtly sprinkled throughout the story, but I couldn’t see the full picture until she revealed it. Brava, Ms. Chaudhuri.
The story is told by multiple narrators in multiple timelines and all of the characters are richly drawn, complex and fractured. Adriana and Seb are two of the narrators and while both of them are likeable, we have no idea if they are reliable as they admit they are hiding dark secrets they are terrified of being revealed. No one in this story is completely innocent and an air of suspicion surrounds all of them and the tension radiates from the pages, keeping you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The story’s other narrators’ identities are a mystery that isn’t revealed until the dramatic finale. One of these is the ‘villain’ of the story. The mysterious person watching Adriana and Seb under the cover of looking out for her. This is a dark, sinister and dangerous character who will go to any lengths to ‘help’ Adriana and while there were a number of suspects I had in mind, my mind was blown when their true identity was revealed.
Dark, devious, twisty and unpredictable, Under Her Roof is a high-octane psychological thriller that keeps you guessing until the last page. Once again Ms. Chaudhuri has shown why she is one of the best thriller writers you will read. Highly recommended.
July 2, 2024
Under Her Roof by A.A. Chaudhuri.
Thank you to Nicola from @nothing.beats.a.good.book for my copy as I was a runner up in her generous giveaway!
Before reading the book, with any thriller, please be mindful of trigger warnings. There are plenty here. Please keep yourself safe and also protect your mental health 🧡💙
Included in the second picture is my baby, Sebastian! I promised you a picture of him, Alex (I hope you don't mind me calling you Alex).
Sebastian is looking for somewhere to rent in the affluent area of Hampstead in North West London. He is shown a palatial property with a very cheap room to rent. He's too keen in sharing the house with the landlord (technically landlady when Max reveals the owner is a woman!) Sebastian is won over and agrees to take the room. He meets Adriana and is moved in by the end of the week. Strange things start happening to both Sebastian and Adriana. Both of them are hiding secrets they would rather not see the light of day. Will they learn each other's secrets? What happens when two very different people meet and live together? Events unfold in the most unexpected ways!!!
Before even opening the book, I loved the artwork. A green door illuminated by a porch light. It felt like it was welcoming me in before I've even opened the book.
It opens with a prologue with unnamed person, told in the first person narriative, sitting in a dock in court on trial, willing someone to come to their aid. A star witness who is remaining elusive. Excellent start. It drew me right in.
The book is mainly written in the first person narriative. There two points of view for the most part. We are told the story mostly from the perspectives of Sebastian 'Seb' Walker and his landlady Adriana Wentworth. The dual POV works really well. Other little bits are thrown in such as the point of view of the mysterious voyeur and third person for Scarlett.
Both main characters were brilliant and I think they compliment each other perfectly. The plot was rich and kept me guessing. Just when I thought I had it all worked out, Alex would throw another curve ball!!! It was a spine chilling, page turning psychological thriller. I hope this does well for you Alex. I thoroughly recommend it. Please make this one your read in 2024!!!!
Thank you to Nicola from @nothing.beats.a.good.book for my copy as I was a runner up in her generous giveaway!
Before reading the book, with any thriller, please be mindful of trigger warnings. There are plenty here. Please keep yourself safe and also protect your mental health 🧡💙
Included in the second picture is my baby, Sebastian! I promised you a picture of him, Alex (I hope you don't mind me calling you Alex).
Sebastian is looking for somewhere to rent in the affluent area of Hampstead in North West London. He is shown a palatial property with a very cheap room to rent. He's too keen in sharing the house with the landlord (technically landlady when Max reveals the owner is a woman!) Sebastian is won over and agrees to take the room. He meets Adriana and is moved in by the end of the week. Strange things start happening to both Sebastian and Adriana. Both of them are hiding secrets they would rather not see the light of day. Will they learn each other's secrets? What happens when two very different people meet and live together? Events unfold in the most unexpected ways!!!
Before even opening the book, I loved the artwork. A green door illuminated by a porch light. It felt like it was welcoming me in before I've even opened the book.
It opens with a prologue with unnamed person, told in the first person narriative, sitting in a dock in court on trial, willing someone to come to their aid. A star witness who is remaining elusive. Excellent start. It drew me right in.
The book is mainly written in the first person narriative. There two points of view for the most part. We are told the story mostly from the perspectives of Sebastian 'Seb' Walker and his landlady Adriana Wentworth. The dual POV works really well. Other little bits are thrown in such as the point of view of the mysterious voyeur and third person for Scarlett.
Both main characters were brilliant and I think they compliment each other perfectly. The plot was rich and kept me guessing. Just when I thought I had it all worked out, Alex would throw another curve ball!!! It was a spine chilling, page turning psychological thriller. I hope this does well for you Alex. I thoroughly recommend it. Please make this one your read in 2024!!!!
May 26, 2024
Under Her Roof is a gripping psychological thriller with a shocking, jaw-dropping ending!
Sebastian Walker is a struggling writer in search of a new place to live. He initially wants his own apartment, but when he comes across a posting for a room for rent in a huge, stunning house, he finds it hard to it pass up. When he meets his landlady, Adriana Wentworth, he is immediately taken by her. Things seem to be going well until he starts receiving threatening emails from an anonymous person. It is clear this person is watching him and Adriana, and even worse, this person is most likely behind both Adriana's last lodger's and childhood therapist's deaths. In the process of finding this mysterious stalker, Seb makes a shocking discovery about his father's death that changes everything.
This psychological thriller is well-written with a good premise. The story itself is average until we get to the end and it takes a dark turn. That's when it got good! Adriana's secrets make the book worth reading! The writing, however, did seem very repetitive. The mention of "my secret"/ "my past" was constant, almost in every chapter. Adriana's use of it was understandable, although still excessive, however Seb stressing Adriana not knowing the real him/ not knowing his secret felt unnecessary, considering his secret was a bit of a letdown and didn't feel like much of a secret at all. I enjoyed the multiple POVs, especially the anonymous POV. It added a dark and sinister feel to the book.
3.5 stars!
Thank you NetGalley, Canelo, and A.A. Chaudhuri for this ARC!
Sebastian Walker is a struggling writer in search of a new place to live. He initially wants his own apartment, but when he comes across a posting for a room for rent in a huge, stunning house, he finds it hard to it pass up. When he meets his landlady, Adriana Wentworth, he is immediately taken by her. Things seem to be going well until he starts receiving threatening emails from an anonymous person. It is clear this person is watching him and Adriana, and even worse, this person is most likely behind both Adriana's last lodger's and childhood therapist's deaths. In the process of finding this mysterious stalker, Seb makes a shocking discovery about his father's death that changes everything.
This psychological thriller is well-written with a good premise. The story itself is average until we get to the end and it takes a dark turn. That's when it got good! Adriana's secrets make the book worth reading! The writing, however, did seem very repetitive. The mention of "my secret"/ "my past" was constant, almost in every chapter. Adriana's use of it was understandable, although still excessive, however Seb stressing Adriana not knowing the real him/ not knowing his secret felt unnecessary, considering his secret was a bit of a letdown and didn't feel like much of a secret at all. I enjoyed the multiple POVs, especially the anonymous POV. It added a dark and sinister feel to the book.
3.5 stars!
Thank you NetGalley, Canelo, and A.A. Chaudhuri for this ARC!
June 2, 2024
A major thank you to Kate at Hera Books for reaching out and sending me an e-copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
Wow. What a book. I went in reading this with very little knowledge of the backstory, and I am so glad I did. From the moment we were introduced to the situation, a widow looking for a lodger, I felt as if deceit was lurking. There were so many things involved that didn't quite sit well with me, and Seb didn't really have a clue what he was letting himself in for.
The dual time narrative didn't make an awful lot of sense to me at the very beginning (this was deliberate, I promise) but those chapters of confusion were well worth it after beginning to puzzle together identities and backstories. I did not know what to think of Adriana the entire narrative, and still, after finishing this novel, my mind is utterly fried. She honestly felt like this untouchable character and I was desperate to find out what made her so alluring to others.
It really wasn't until the last 5% that I really understood the narrative and that it all made sense together, but it was so refreshing to read a narrative that had me on tender hooks until the very end.
Wow. What a book. I went in reading this with very little knowledge of the backstory, and I am so glad I did. From the moment we were introduced to the situation, a widow looking for a lodger, I felt as if deceit was lurking. There were so many things involved that didn't quite sit well with me, and Seb didn't really have a clue what he was letting himself in for.
The dual time narrative didn't make an awful lot of sense to me at the very beginning (this was deliberate, I promise) but those chapters of confusion were well worth it after beginning to puzzle together identities and backstories. I did not know what to think of Adriana the entire narrative, and still, after finishing this novel, my mind is utterly fried. She honestly felt like this untouchable character and I was desperate to find out what made her so alluring to others.
It really wasn't until the last 5% that I really understood the narrative and that it all made sense together, but it was so refreshing to read a narrative that had me on tender hooks until the very end.
June 27, 2024
Seb finds a room to rent in an amazing house. The rent is so cheap it would be silly to pass it up. It's a secure house - so he'll be able to hide away and hopefully keep his secrets. Adriana, his landlady, is hiding her own secrets. Will they all come out when things take a sinister turn? Just who or what is watching them?
This is one of the best pyschological thrillers I've read this year. It had me on the edge of my seat and feeling really creeped out. I just couldn't figure out who it was that was watching them or what their own secrets were. The characters are so well written and you could connect so easily to them. The ending had me doubly shocked - I just didn't see any of it coming and my jaw actually dropped. Brilliant read.
This is one of the best pyschological thrillers I've read this year. It had me on the edge of my seat and feeling really creeped out. I just couldn't figure out who it was that was watching them or what their own secrets were. The characters are so well written and you could connect so easily to them. The ending had me doubly shocked - I just didn't see any of it coming and my jaw actually dropped. Brilliant read.
May 19, 2024
Sebastian, a struggling writer, stumbles upon a room to let in a luxurious Hampstead residence, an opportunity that seems too good to be true, with its ridiculously cheap rent. He instantly feels a connection with his beautiful widowed landlady, Adriana, but his elation is short-lived when he uncovers the disturbing fate of the previous lodger. The house, once a symbol of serenity, transforms into a fortress of security, hinting at the ominous events that have unfolded within its walls. Adriana's fragility and reluctance to discuss the past raise suspicions in Sebastian's mind, who himself harbors secrets of his own. An unseen observer lurks in the shadows, their watchful gaze penetrating the couple's every move. The once idyllic residence descends into a labyrinth of fear and paranoia, as the threat escalates, leaving Sebastian trapped in a nightmare.
This was such a brilliant story and very cleverly written. It captivated me with its intricate plot and concealed twists.
The characters were complex and compelling.
The dual timelines created a dynamic tension, which expertly built anticipation and suspense.
The ultimate revelation, which I didn’t see coming, was both shocking and satisfying.
Thank you A.A. Chaudhuri, NetGalley & the publisher for an early copy.
This was such a brilliant story and very cleverly written. It captivated me with its intricate plot and concealed twists.
The characters were complex and compelling.
The dual timelines created a dynamic tension, which expertly built anticipation and suspense.
The ultimate revelation, which I didn’t see coming, was both shocking and satisfying.
Thank you A.A. Chaudhuri, NetGalley & the publisher for an early copy.
July 1, 2024
I have been patiently waiting for this book since the cover reveal so many months ago and yes, it was worth the wait!!! A.A. Chaudhuri delivers a deliciously dark and twisty read that you will not want you to put down. With multiple points of view and spanning across timelines, Under Her Roof is a rich novel with intriguing characters and a suspenseful storyline that will absolutely keep you guessing until the very end. While never ideal in real life, it is always a guilty pleasure to indulge in an amazing book where you do not know who you can trust the entire time. A beautifully twisted, gripping psychological thriller!
May 9, 2024
Sebastian is looking for a new property and when he sees an ad for lodgings he jumps at the offer of the room. In exchange for minimal rent he may have to do a few things for his Landlady. And when he meets Adriana hes taken slightly aback by some of her rules but decides to sign the clause anyway. What he doesnt understand is that Adriana has a secret and this secret caused her previous tenant to commit suicide. And when Seb starts receiving sinister emails these cause him more concern. This novel is a proper rollercoaster of a ride, tense and unnerving, told mainly from Adriana and Seb's point of view with an unknown voice too. Its ruthless and unnerving and a great read
May 27, 2024
Seb is looking for a flat to rent when Adriana's room for rent appears too good to be true. Perfect location, secure house and privacy for writing, why does it seem too good? The previous lodger had a concerning set of circumstances leading him to no longer require the room. Adriana lost her husband in tragic circumstances and is followed by tragedy wherever she goes. Is Seb to take the room? Both Adriana and Seb have secrets they don't wish to share but could talking about them bring to light more information they both need.
This was a gripping read and draws you in from the first page. I found the writing very descriptive and found it easy to imagine the story and scenarios. I did find it a little stagnant in the middle however, just when you're shocked at a secret reveal, another one comes and another! I couldn't predict what was going to be the final outcome until I reached the last page and the book was complete.
I would definitely recommend this book to others and will be looking at other books by the same author.
This was a gripping read and draws you in from the first page. I found the writing very descriptive and found it easy to imagine the story and scenarios. I did find it a little stagnant in the middle however, just when you're shocked at a secret reveal, another one comes and another! I couldn't predict what was going to be the final outcome until I reached the last page and the book was complete.
I would definitely recommend this book to others and will be looking at other books by the same author.
September 2, 2024
The plot of this story is captivating, unique, and clever, and I really enjoyed the twists and how it all ended. However, I had a hard time with the storytelling. Things moved slowly, mostly because of how repetitive things became and how many times "my past/secrets" were mentioned. I didn't really sense any character development, and the suspense just wasn't there. There were times I skipped a couple of pages and started reading again, and I still knew what was going on. Overall, the book has a ton of potential, but just needs adjustment for a quicker pace and a buildup of suspense.
June 12, 2024
The prologue was so intense but also gave me so many questions, I was so excited to read more and find out exactly what it all meant.
I was desperate to learn more about Seb and his past, the author gives you little tidbits about him that makes you want to read on just get a few more clues and answers.
Adriana was so incredibly guarded but so fascinating, the more I learned about her the more shocked I was.
I think I enjoyed the flashbacks the most because it gets you excited and really thinking about how could it fit in to the current day and why ?.
This is an incredibly twisty, intelligent thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat and it’s the first book I’ve read by this author but it definitely won’t be the last.
I was desperate to learn more about Seb and his past, the author gives you little tidbits about him that makes you want to read on just get a few more clues and answers.
Adriana was so incredibly guarded but so fascinating, the more I learned about her the more shocked I was.
I think I enjoyed the flashbacks the most because it gets you excited and really thinking about how could it fit in to the current day and why ?.
This is an incredibly twisty, intelligent thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat and it’s the first book I’ve read by this author but it definitely won’t be the last.
November 13, 2024
Oh my gosh!!!! I did wonder where this book was going… backwards and forwards past and present…. But when that twist happened… wow… and then they keep coming…I thought I’d sussed it out… no I hadn’t! A great read would
Recommend!
Recommend!
December 14, 2024
I'd say 4.5 but let's be generous and round up. Written very well, but not for those who dislike different timelines and/or perspectives. Enough mysteries and turns to keep you gripped, and whilst I did suspect some of the twists, some were still a surprise
August 26, 2024
Loved the twists and turns in this book and how just when you think you know exactly what’s happened their is something slight you don’t know yet
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2025
2.5
Good start but got a bit bogged down towards the end
Good start but got a bit bogged down towards the end
June 19, 2024
Ooh this was good!
I struggled a little to start with but then as it got further into the book I was hooked.
I did not expect that twist! Oh my gosh! This genuinely kept me guessing the whole way through and I was a little on edge!
Will 100% pick up more of this authors work.
Thank you to Love Books Tours for my copy
I struggled a little to start with but then as it got further into the book I was hooked.
I did not expect that twist! Oh my gosh! This genuinely kept me guessing the whole way through and I was a little on edge!
Will 100% pick up more of this authors work.
Thank you to Love Books Tours for my copy
June 17, 2024
Thanks to #NetGalley and #Hera for the book #UnderHerRoof by #AAChaudhuri. I absolutely loved this book about a woman who is being stalked and is scared to be alone. Adriana has a rough childhood until her parents died in a fire accident and she was sent to live with her aunt and uncle. Since then life has been so much better. Then her husband died 7 years ago and she feels terrible alone. Also, weird things keep happening and she is being stalked by someone. She decided to take in a lodger. The first one didn’t work out but this one seems different. Or is he?
May 1, 2024
Thoroughly engrossing with twists you won't see coming, Under Her Roof is a testament to an author at the height of her powers. This book kept me reading well into the night and I couldn't put it down until I had devoured every last word. Unmissable!
July 27, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed A.A. Chaudhuri's previous novel, The Final Party, when I read it last year and in my review said that although it was the first book I'd read by her, it definitely wouldn't be my last. I didn't hesitate, therefore, when it came to reading Under Her Roof and I'm delighted to say that I wasn't disappointed by this intriguing, twisty psychological thriller.
I love books with a creeping sense of dread and Under Her Roof certainly delivers on that score. Like The Final Party, readers follow the perspective of a few characters here, although the cast is smaller this time. For the most part, the narrative is shared between Sebastian and Adriana, however, there are also chapters told from the point-of-view of an unknown but clearly malevolent character. Adriana and Sebastian have both obviously been damaged by events from the past and as a result, have taken steps to keep their dark secrets safe. A.A. Chaudhuri ensures they are sympathetic characters throughout but their fear of being exposed means there is always an element of doubt surrounding them too, and because of their guardedness, it does take a while to warm to them.
The start of the book is slower paced, as Sebastian moves into Adriana's beautiful home as her lodger. However slow doesn't equal boring, and as they both start to receive chilling messages from somebody who knows far too much about them, the drip-feeding of tension is expertly handled as Sebastian uncovers unsettling revelations about his new landlady, while Adriana is also given cause to question if she can really trust her instincts about him. Although as readers we are privy to some of the dilemmas facing them, there are still several shocking moments, some of which lead us closer to the truth whereas others are clever misdirections.
As the sense of danger becomes more intense, readers will almost certainly consider what they would do in a similar situation, but even at their most frustrating, Sebastian and Adriana remain believable – we may not agree with the choices they make but we accept the reasoning behind them.
Alongside the main narrative, there are scenes set in the past which gradually help piece all the many parts of this engrossing puzzle together. We learn more about Adriana's tragic backstory at first but eventually the reasons behind Sebastian's actions and the shame he feels is laid bare too, and in both cases, A.A. Chaudhuri's empathetic understanding of guilt and trauma is excellent. I don't want to give anything away about the conclusion, except to say that despite being encouraged to develop theories throughout, I didn't come close to figuring out what was really happening! The exploration of what might drive somebody to such terrible extremes is scarily convincing, and as the various strands are drawn together, it's easy enough to accept even the strange coincidences. There are some dark, harrowing topics examined here but nothing is gratuitous and the worst of the horror is kept off the page.
Under Her Roof is a tautly plotted, nuanced suspense thriller; claustrophobic, gripping and poignantly thought-provoking – I highly recommend it.
I love books with a creeping sense of dread and Under Her Roof certainly delivers on that score. Like The Final Party, readers follow the perspective of a few characters here, although the cast is smaller this time. For the most part, the narrative is shared between Sebastian and Adriana, however, there are also chapters told from the point-of-view of an unknown but clearly malevolent character. Adriana and Sebastian have both obviously been damaged by events from the past and as a result, have taken steps to keep their dark secrets safe. A.A. Chaudhuri ensures they are sympathetic characters throughout but their fear of being exposed means there is always an element of doubt surrounding them too, and because of their guardedness, it does take a while to warm to them.
The start of the book is slower paced, as Sebastian moves into Adriana's beautiful home as her lodger. However slow doesn't equal boring, and as they both start to receive chilling messages from somebody who knows far too much about them, the drip-feeding of tension is expertly handled as Sebastian uncovers unsettling revelations about his new landlady, while Adriana is also given cause to question if she can really trust her instincts about him. Although as readers we are privy to some of the dilemmas facing them, there are still several shocking moments, some of which lead us closer to the truth whereas others are clever misdirections.
As the sense of danger becomes more intense, readers will almost certainly consider what they would do in a similar situation, but even at their most frustrating, Sebastian and Adriana remain believable – we may not agree with the choices they make but we accept the reasoning behind them.
Alongside the main narrative, there are scenes set in the past which gradually help piece all the many parts of this engrossing puzzle together. We learn more about Adriana's tragic backstory at first but eventually the reasons behind Sebastian's actions and the shame he feels is laid bare too, and in both cases, A.A. Chaudhuri's empathetic understanding of guilt and trauma is excellent. I don't want to give anything away about the conclusion, except to say that despite being encouraged to develop theories throughout, I didn't come close to figuring out what was really happening! The exploration of what might drive somebody to such terrible extremes is scarily convincing, and as the various strands are drawn together, it's easy enough to accept even the strange coincidences. There are some dark, harrowing topics examined here but nothing is gratuitous and the worst of the horror is kept off the page.
Under Her Roof is a tautly plotted, nuanced suspense thriller; claustrophobic, gripping and poignantly thought-provoking – I highly recommend it.
June 10, 2024
Aspiring writer Seb longs to able to afford his own pad in Hampstead, but he can never hope to afford the price tag that comes with a home in its leafy environs. His chance comes when he spots an advert for a lodger in swanky house overlooking the heath - the rent is unbelievably cheap, and his prospective landlady, elegant widow Adrianna. is a dream. He has no qualms about moving in straightaway.
Seb spots a kindred soul in Adrianna, as a person who likes to keep her personal life just that, after all he has his secrets too - but there is something strange about her obsession with the strict security measures she has in place around her palatial home, and the house rules he must follow.
When he finds out that the previous lodger died under suspicious circumstances, and that someone is watching their every move, Seb begins to wonder what Adrianna is hiding, and whether there is a chance that his own secrets may be exposed too.
A new A.A. Chaudhuri book is always a treat, and having read every one of her thrillers, I could not wait to get stuck into Under Her Roof. The novel unfurls through the narratives of lodger Seb and landlady Adrianna, two characters who have a lot to hide, interspersed with delicious little snippets from our 'watcher'. As they tell their tales, the action moves back and forth in time to pull you into a devilishly devious plot with threads that twist around each other in a slick display of literary choreography.
The tone begins light, hinting at loneliness, family dysfunction, and relationship heartbreak that evokes sympathy with their situations. However, before long it becomes clear that Seb and Adrianna are being sucked into a dark and sadistic dance, in which someone else is calling the tune, and are forced to play an unwilling part in a performance that you cannot tear you eyes away from. Each move and counter move, each touch and spinning turn is precisely judged by Chaudhuri, and as the unsettling feeling of watching eyes and dark intent steal over you, a discordant tempo begins to beat.
Chaudhuri builds the layers of mystery beautifully through the voices of the characters, and uses sinister emails, text messages, and flashbacks to therapy sessions to ramp up the unsettling vibes. She keeps the secrets of Seb and Adrianna close until the final throes of the piece, leading you gently in a direction that has you convinced you know where the story is going, but when the moment comes for the years of guilt, deceit, and jaw-dropping cruelty to be stripped away, I promise you will be knocked sideways.
This book thrums with themes that echo between the past and the present, and in the threads of the separate histories of Seb and Adrianna, and Chaudhuri uses them all to brilliant effect. I would so love to wax lyrical about them, but the fear of spoilers prevents me, so you will just have to read this creepy gem to discover them for yourselves. Dark, complex, and a joy to devour, this is Chaudhuri at the top of her game!
Seb spots a kindred soul in Adrianna, as a person who likes to keep her personal life just that, after all he has his secrets too - but there is something strange about her obsession with the strict security measures she has in place around her palatial home, and the house rules he must follow.
When he finds out that the previous lodger died under suspicious circumstances, and that someone is watching their every move, Seb begins to wonder what Adrianna is hiding, and whether there is a chance that his own secrets may be exposed too.
A new A.A. Chaudhuri book is always a treat, and having read every one of her thrillers, I could not wait to get stuck into Under Her Roof. The novel unfurls through the narratives of lodger Seb and landlady Adrianna, two characters who have a lot to hide, interspersed with delicious little snippets from our 'watcher'. As they tell their tales, the action moves back and forth in time to pull you into a devilishly devious plot with threads that twist around each other in a slick display of literary choreography.
The tone begins light, hinting at loneliness, family dysfunction, and relationship heartbreak that evokes sympathy with their situations. However, before long it becomes clear that Seb and Adrianna are being sucked into a dark and sadistic dance, in which someone else is calling the tune, and are forced to play an unwilling part in a performance that you cannot tear you eyes away from. Each move and counter move, each touch and spinning turn is precisely judged by Chaudhuri, and as the unsettling feeling of watching eyes and dark intent steal over you, a discordant tempo begins to beat.
Chaudhuri builds the layers of mystery beautifully through the voices of the characters, and uses sinister emails, text messages, and flashbacks to therapy sessions to ramp up the unsettling vibes. She keeps the secrets of Seb and Adrianna close until the final throes of the piece, leading you gently in a direction that has you convinced you know where the story is going, but when the moment comes for the years of guilt, deceit, and jaw-dropping cruelty to be stripped away, I promise you will be knocked sideways.
This book thrums with themes that echo between the past and the present, and in the threads of the separate histories of Seb and Adrianna, and Chaudhuri uses them all to brilliant effect. I would so love to wax lyrical about them, but the fear of spoilers prevents me, so you will just have to read this creepy gem to discover them for yourselves. Dark, complex, and a joy to devour, this is Chaudhuri at the top of her game!
June 25, 2024
Here is my review for Under Her Roof by A A Chaudhuri
This book is a fantastic read and I got into it straight away from the start. Seb is looking for a flat when he sees a room to rent in a six room house at a ridiculously low price. He shows he is interested and is interviewed by the owner's PA before meeting the owner herself. He can’t get over how lovely she is but she is a private person and lost her husband to a heart attack seven years ago. Her last lodger threw himself to his death from the first floor when he was high on drugs and alcohol after a christmas party but unfortunately, Adriana was the person to find his body. As she likes Seb, she offers him the room which he accepts. She then finds out she is being watched and that Seb might be harbouring a secret he hasn’t divulged or that she hasn’t found out yet. It sets the hairs on the back of her neck standing on end and she doesn’t want to involve the police. It’s worrying to her that she is being watched and that they know so much. Who is this person? After Seb has a lovely first evening with Adriana after moving in, he wakes up at 3am, freezing cold and desperate for the toilet. When he gets back, he spots a message on his mobile that worries him and makes him think he’s being watched or that someone is trying to dig into his background or that Jasper has upset something in his digging around whilst looking into Charles’ background. Whatever it is worries him and then he searches around the room looking for cameras that might be spying on him but in the message, it says not to mention to his landlady or he will regret it! What a book, what a read? Full of suspense and tension, this is a great book that is well written. The plotting is excellent and the superb descriptive text explains everything so well. I like the characters as they seem to gel well together although Seb has to curb his feelings for Adriana which is unusual for him to be attracted to a woman so easily. It was easy to read and the writing style just flowed really well. I would like to read more of this author’s work as this is the first book of hers I have read but I have really enjoyed the suspenseful style of writing.
Blurb
It seems too good to be true…
When struggling writer Sebastian finds a room to let in a palatial Hampstead residence he cannot believe his luck. The rent is ridiculously cheap and he immediately feels a connection with his beautiful widowed landlady, Adriana.
It is.
Things take a dark turn when he finds out what happened to the last lodger. Could this be why the house is a fortress of security, and why Adriana seems so fragile? Adriana doesn’t want to talk about the death and sadness that seem to follow her wherever she goes and Sebastian has secrets of his own.
Now someone is watching their every move and there is nowhere to hide.
This house of light becomes a dark nightmare as the threat ramps up - what does the watcher want? And how far will they go to get it?
This book is a fantastic read and I got into it straight away from the start. Seb is looking for a flat when he sees a room to rent in a six room house at a ridiculously low price. He shows he is interested and is interviewed by the owner's PA before meeting the owner herself. He can’t get over how lovely she is but she is a private person and lost her husband to a heart attack seven years ago. Her last lodger threw himself to his death from the first floor when he was high on drugs and alcohol after a christmas party but unfortunately, Adriana was the person to find his body. As she likes Seb, she offers him the room which he accepts. She then finds out she is being watched and that Seb might be harbouring a secret he hasn’t divulged or that she hasn’t found out yet. It sets the hairs on the back of her neck standing on end and she doesn’t want to involve the police. It’s worrying to her that she is being watched and that they know so much. Who is this person? After Seb has a lovely first evening with Adriana after moving in, he wakes up at 3am, freezing cold and desperate for the toilet. When he gets back, he spots a message on his mobile that worries him and makes him think he’s being watched or that someone is trying to dig into his background or that Jasper has upset something in his digging around whilst looking into Charles’ background. Whatever it is worries him and then he searches around the room looking for cameras that might be spying on him but in the message, it says not to mention to his landlady or he will regret it! What a book, what a read? Full of suspense and tension, this is a great book that is well written. The plotting is excellent and the superb descriptive text explains everything so well. I like the characters as they seem to gel well together although Seb has to curb his feelings for Adriana which is unusual for him to be attracted to a woman so easily. It was easy to read and the writing style just flowed really well. I would like to read more of this author’s work as this is the first book of hers I have read but I have really enjoyed the suspenseful style of writing.
Blurb
It seems too good to be true…
When struggling writer Sebastian finds a room to let in a palatial Hampstead residence he cannot believe his luck. The rent is ridiculously cheap and he immediately feels a connection with his beautiful widowed landlady, Adriana.
It is.
Things take a dark turn when he finds out what happened to the last lodger. Could this be why the house is a fortress of security, and why Adriana seems so fragile? Adriana doesn’t want to talk about the death and sadness that seem to follow her wherever she goes and Sebastian has secrets of his own.
Now someone is watching their every move and there is nowhere to hide.
This house of light becomes a dark nightmare as the threat ramps up - what does the watcher want? And how far will they go to get it?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews