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The Perfect Roommate
Two young women. A budding new friendship. They share everything—except their secrets—in a twisting novel of psychological suspense by a Washington Post bestselling author.
I need this girl to like me.
Meadow is a college student, quiet, studious, polite, and desperate for a cheap room to rent. That’s when she meets Lauren, who’s in need of a roommate. Lauren doesn’t require a credit check, a huge deposit, or a long lease. For Meadow, it’s not only a perfect arrangement—she believes that she’s found a new friend in Lauren, who generously takes Meadow under her wing.
Lauren gives Meadow clothes and a makeover, and introduces her to an affable social circle. For the first time on campus, Meadow feels like she belongs. It’s not really surprising. She and Lauren actually have a lot in common. They’re both liars. They both have secrets. But which one is willing to kill to keep her true self hidden?
Revised This edition of The Perfect Roommate includes editorial revisions.
I need this girl to like me.
Meadow is a college student, quiet, studious, polite, and desperate for a cheap room to rent. That’s when she meets Lauren, who’s in need of a roommate. Lauren doesn’t require a credit check, a huge deposit, or a long lease. For Meadow, it’s not only a perfect arrangement—she believes that she’s found a new friend in Lauren, who generously takes Meadow under her wing.
Lauren gives Meadow clothes and a makeover, and introduces her to an affable social circle. For the first time on campus, Meadow feels like she belongs. It’s not really surprising. She and Lauren actually have a lot in common. They’re both liars. They both have secrets. But which one is willing to kill to keep her true self hidden?
Revised This edition of The Perfect Roommate includes editorial revisions.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 19, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,006 reviews
August 24, 2019
"All I needed was a cheap room to rent. I didn't plan this, I swear."
My friends you are in for a WILD ride!!
Over the last 2-3 weeks, I have been having a serious dud of reads and was getting into a book slump. I was thinking about how I wasn't enjoying reading as much due to the disappointing reads I have come across lately. BUT, I should have known Minka would deliver a spicy, epic, and thrilling ride. So, thank you to Minka. ;)
The Perfect Roommate is fast paced addicting read that grabs you by your feet on the first page. I COULD not put this down... literally I drove to Chik-Fil-A to get my man a sandwich and I had my kindle app open on my phone to continue reading (okkk... but I was safe... haha). THIS is the kind of addicting reads that I devour....
I have to say that some authors just have such talent and Minka is definitely one of them. Her writing style is beautiful and the words are delivered effortlessly across the pages.
Characterization is another strong aspect of this novel. Actually on point to a tee... let's be honest. So many twists and turns that will leave your jaw on the floor. You may need some tissues to help alleviate the pain with your jaw open ;).
And... I should have known.... Minka delivers that epic of an ending. Where you're thinking... wait a second.... I thought I had it figured it. NOPE.... BRILLIANTTTT (singing........ )
I can't thank Minka Kent enough for giving me an advanced arc in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 brilliant stars.
Seriously get on this wagon of ahhhhhmazzingnesss... you will not be disappointed!
Publication date: 1/19/18.
My friends you are in for a WILD ride!!
Over the last 2-3 weeks, I have been having a serious dud of reads and was getting into a book slump. I was thinking about how I wasn't enjoying reading as much due to the disappointing reads I have come across lately. BUT, I should have known Minka would deliver a spicy, epic, and thrilling ride. So, thank you to Minka. ;)
The Perfect Roommate is fast paced addicting read that grabs you by your feet on the first page. I COULD not put this down... literally I drove to Chik-Fil-A to get my man a sandwich and I had my kindle app open on my phone to continue reading (okkk... but I was safe... haha). THIS is the kind of addicting reads that I devour....
I have to say that some authors just have such talent and Minka is definitely one of them. Her writing style is beautiful and the words are delivered effortlessly across the pages.
Characterization is another strong aspect of this novel. Actually on point to a tee... let's be honest. So many twists and turns that will leave your jaw on the floor. You may need some tissues to help alleviate the pain with your jaw open ;).
And... I should have known.... Minka delivers that epic of an ending. Where you're thinking... wait a second.... I thought I had it figured it. NOPE.... BRILLIANTTTT (singing........ )
I can't thank Minka Kent enough for giving me an advanced arc in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 brilliant stars.
Seriously get on this wagon of ahhhhhmazzingnesss... you will not be disappointed!
Publication date: 1/19/18.
May 13, 2025
If you’re looking for a super twisty, binge-worthy summer read…look no further!
Currently living out of her car, Meadow desperately needs somewhere to call home. She’s trying to work her way through college and nearly on her last leg. So when she notices an ad for a roommate, she jumps at the chance. Finally…Meadow's luck appears to have changed. A beautiful home and roommate! Too good to be true?!
Lauren just happens to need a roommate for the remainder of the semester. So when Meadow answers the ad, it’s perfect! Also majoring in English, she’s quiet, and painfully shy. Maybe Lauren can draw her out of her shell a bit.
Soon, the two are not only roommates but quickly becoming fast friends. That is until Meadow sees something that just doesn’t sit right, well…what’s a girl to do!?💁🏻♀️
Just when you think you’ve figured it out and it’s in the final wrap...BAM!
I’m not sure how it happened but I missed this book when it was originally released in 2018. So when I saw it was being re-released June 10 2025 I jumped at the chance to read it! I am now fully caught up on all Minka Kent’s books and ready for her next! Please hurry!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer
Currently living out of her car, Meadow desperately needs somewhere to call home. She’s trying to work her way through college and nearly on her last leg. So when she notices an ad for a roommate, she jumps at the chance. Finally…Meadow's luck appears to have changed. A beautiful home and roommate! Too good to be true?!
Lauren just happens to need a roommate for the remainder of the semester. So when Meadow answers the ad, it’s perfect! Also majoring in English, she’s quiet, and painfully shy. Maybe Lauren can draw her out of her shell a bit.
Soon, the two are not only roommates but quickly becoming fast friends. That is until Meadow sees something that just doesn’t sit right, well…what’s a girl to do!?💁🏻♀️
Just when you think you’ve figured it out and it’s in the final wrap...BAM!
I’m not sure how it happened but I missed this book when it was originally released in 2018. So when I saw it was being re-released June 10 2025 I jumped at the chance to read it! I am now fully caught up on all Minka Kent’s books and ready for her next! Please hurry!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer
April 27, 2025
♥ My Overall Thoughts ♥
This fictional book is both unsettling and dark! It had me wondering what was going to happen next in the book! I thought that I had figured out what the ending was going to be and I was completely wrong! It was a full on thriller and mystery read, which I loved. I really enjoyed how the story was structured and how it was an easy, fast read. This book is written from the main characters’ point of view and was full of vivid descriptions. This book has diverse characters, both likable and unlikable. It really emphasizes on how fake people can be and how you just really don’t know someone sometimes. This story is relatable to me personally because I have lived with some crazy roommates in the past! The title of this book is what ultimately made me want to read it! I am really glad that I did because I found a new author! I will definitely be reading more books from this author!
♥ Book Synopsis ♥
“The Perfect Roommate” is a story where a woman named Meadow is looking for a place to live and comes across an ad. She goes to the place and these two girls become roommates! As the story progresses, unusual behaviors and things start happening. It becomes more and more dark, tense, eerie and chaotic. The twists happen and left me speechless! Overall, I give this a 4 out of 5 stars rating!
♥ Content Warnings ♥
Content warnings include murder, gun violence, stalking and death.
♥ Who I think would love this book ♥
I would say this book would be ideal for readers who enjoy author Freida McFadden mixed in with the show “Worst Roommate Ever” on Netflix. This book is a one of a kind though, this author’s originality shines bright!
♥ Thank You ♥
Thank you to NetGalley, author Minka Kent and Thomas & Mercer for this digital revised edition reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
And to everyone that reads my reviews, thank you so much! I appreciate each and every one of you!!
♥ Quick Review ♥
✔️ Thriller/Mystery
✔️ Full of twists
✔️ Very Dark
✔️ Short Story (under 300 pages)
✔️ Girl Roommates
✔️ Toxic friendships
》* 。 • ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。° 。 • ˚《
❥ ୨⎯ Connie ⎯୧ ❥
ツ౨ৎ
This fictional book is both unsettling and dark! It had me wondering what was going to happen next in the book! I thought that I had figured out what the ending was going to be and I was completely wrong! It was a full on thriller and mystery read, which I loved. I really enjoyed how the story was structured and how it was an easy, fast read. This book is written from the main characters’ point of view and was full of vivid descriptions. This book has diverse characters, both likable and unlikable. It really emphasizes on how fake people can be and how you just really don’t know someone sometimes. This story is relatable to me personally because I have lived with some crazy roommates in the past! The title of this book is what ultimately made me want to read it! I am really glad that I did because I found a new author! I will definitely be reading more books from this author!
♥ Book Synopsis ♥
“The Perfect Roommate” is a story where a woman named Meadow is looking for a place to live and comes across an ad. She goes to the place and these two girls become roommates! As the story progresses, unusual behaviors and things start happening. It becomes more and more dark, tense, eerie and chaotic. The twists happen and left me speechless! Overall, I give this a 4 out of 5 stars rating!
♥ Content Warnings ♥
Content warnings include murder, gun violence, stalking and death.
♥ Who I think would love this book ♥
I would say this book would be ideal for readers who enjoy author Freida McFadden mixed in with the show “Worst Roommate Ever” on Netflix. This book is a one of a kind though, this author’s originality shines bright!
♥ Thank You ♥
Thank you to NetGalley, author Minka Kent and Thomas & Mercer for this digital revised edition reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
And to everyone that reads my reviews, thank you so much! I appreciate each and every one of you!!
♥ Quick Review ♥
✔️ Thriller/Mystery
✔️ Full of twists
✔️ Very Dark
✔️ Short Story (under 300 pages)
✔️ Girl Roommates
✔️ Toxic friendships
》* 。 • ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。° 。 • ˚《
❥ ୨⎯ Connie ⎯୧ ❥
ツ౨ৎ
July 25, 2023
This is engrossing, quick, and relatable—especially to anyone who’s ever been on the outside, trying to fit in.
There is a pattern to Ms. Kent’s writing. The female protagonist envies the other female characters for their hair, manicures, clothes, and money. And she glorifies and idealizes the male characters as handsome good guys. Then the aforementioned characters are exposed as liars, cheaters, murderers, or some combination of those three.
This novel does not break this pattern, but it executes said pattern much better than her previous material.
The author writes Meadow’s anxiety in an extremely accurate manner.
The college girls are also depicted all too realistically.
This book really ratchets up the tension. It’s the fourth I’ve read from this writer, and this is by far the best.
The twists are actually woven in extremely well, though they do seem to come fairly quickly, one after the other.
I was waiting for a “crazy shoe” to drop, as is the case in her other works. But nothing comes that is too outlandish to render this one unbelievable. The loose ends get tied up and I very much enjoyed the ending.
“…Do we ever truly know anyone or are we only seeing what they want us to see?”
There is a pattern to Ms. Kent’s writing. The female protagonist envies the other female characters for their hair, manicures, clothes, and money. And she glorifies and idealizes the male characters as handsome good guys. Then the aforementioned characters are exposed as liars, cheaters, murderers, or some combination of those three.
This novel does not break this pattern, but it executes said pattern much better than her previous material.
The author writes Meadow’s anxiety in an extremely accurate manner.
The college girls are also depicted all too realistically.
This book really ratchets up the tension. It’s the fourth I’ve read from this writer, and this is by far the best.
The twists are actually woven in extremely well, though they do seem to come fairly quickly, one after the other.
I was waiting for a “crazy shoe” to drop, as is the case in her other works. But nothing comes that is too outlandish to render this one unbelievable. The loose ends get tied up and I very much enjoyed the ending.
“…Do we ever truly know anyone or are we only seeing what they want us to see?”
March 9, 2018
3.5-3.75 Stars
"I think people who seem perfect are the ones with the most flaws. They just do a better job at hiding them."
The Perfect Roommate is a fast-paced Mystery/Thriller and the writing was good enough to hold my interest and keep reading it. It was unpredictable and I was wrong about the plot! I mean, I first thought that girl (Meadow) was jealous, but then thought she is obsessed, and then thought nope she’s just crazy! But I was so wrong! The story was totally in another direction!! Just know there isn’t anything such as a perfect life! Creepy, right!?
Told in single POV (Meadow), 1st person. It’s well-written and a quick read but still something was missing! It’s a stand-alone novel. It was my first read by this author but definitely won’t be my last (I really like the writing). Overall, I had a good time with this one and hope you like it as well!
"I think people who seem perfect are the ones with the most flaws. They just do a better job at hiding them."
The Perfect Roommate is a fast-paced Mystery/Thriller and the writing was good enough to hold my interest and keep reading it. It was unpredictable and I was wrong about the plot! I mean, I first thought that girl (Meadow) was jealous, but then thought she is obsessed, and then thought nope she’s just crazy! But I was so wrong! The story was totally in another direction!! Just know there isn’t anything such as a perfect life! Creepy, right!?
Told in single POV (Meadow), 1st person. It’s well-written and a quick read but still something was missing! It’s a stand-alone novel. It was my first read by this author but definitely won’t be my last (I really like the writing). Overall, I had a good time with this one and hope you like it as well!
May 22, 2018
"...Do we ever truly know anyone or are we only seeing what they want us to see?"
The Perfect Roommate was no The Memory Watcher. Not even close! But had so many similarities to the latter that sometimes I felt it is the same character speaking.
The beginning was good and intriguing, albeit a bit whine-y, in a “I am poor, she is rich; so I’m good, she is a bitch” kind of way. I didn’t know if someone can’t afford to buy a 2200$ handbag she is considered poor. Or if someone doesn’t like Sushi, she is socially inadequate. Personally I don’t give a rat’s ass for neither.
The narrator mentions several times she doesn’t like liars and thieves, whereas lies and steals more often than not, while making excuses for each incident.
The story-line was poorly done and implausible and changed direction halfway through and dragged on and on.
The Perfect Roommate was no The Memory Watcher. Not even close! But had so many similarities to the latter that sometimes I felt it is the same character speaking.
The beginning was good and intriguing, albeit a bit whine-y, in a “I am poor, she is rich; so I’m good, she is a bitch” kind of way. I didn’t know if someone can’t afford to buy a 2200$ handbag she is considered poor. Or if someone doesn’t like Sushi, she is socially inadequate. Personally I don’t give a rat’s ass for neither.
The narrator mentions several times she doesn’t like liars and thieves, whereas lies and steals more often than not, while making excuses for each incident.
The story-line was poorly done and implausible and changed direction halfway through and dragged on and on.
August 10, 2019
The Perfect Roommate by Minka Kent is a faced past mystery/thriller. I thoroughly enjoyed this one! If you have read The Memory Watcher then you know why I had to get my hands on this!
Meadow is an awkward college student. She’s poor and she is almost forced to live in her until she sees an add for a roommate. Lauren, who posted the ad, is total opposite of Meadow. She’s pretty, rich and has friends. They meet and Lauren decides to rent the room to Meadow and befriends her. Meadow meets all of Lauren’s friends and she’s not so sure who to trust. She tries to ignore the drink prices when they go out.
When Meadow goes to school she sees Lauren doing something she should NOT be doing. Now that meadow knows her secret she is not happy. She is hurt and wondering how Lauren could do what she’s doing! Does she really know her roommate?
Just when you have certain thoughts about characters there’s a huge twist you don’t see coming!
I’d like to thank Minka for an ARC. I recommend 4.5 Stars!
Meadow is an awkward college student. She’s poor and she is almost forced to live in her until she sees an add for a roommate. Lauren, who posted the ad, is total opposite of Meadow. She’s pretty, rich and has friends. They meet and Lauren decides to rent the room to Meadow and befriends her. Meadow meets all of Lauren’s friends and she’s not so sure who to trust. She tries to ignore the drink prices when they go out.
When Meadow goes to school she sees Lauren doing something she should NOT be doing. Now that meadow knows her secret she is not happy. She is hurt and wondering how Lauren could do what she’s doing! Does she really know her roommate?
Just when you have certain thoughts about characters there’s a huge twist you don’t see coming!
I’d like to thank Minka for an ARC. I recommend 4.5 Stars!
August 23, 2019
I really enjoyed this one. Highly recommend to readers that love thrillers.
August 13, 2019
4.5/5
Last year I devoured Kent’s debut, The Memory Watcher and was totally blown away. The Perfect Roommate had all the same elements that I loved and once again I read this in one holding my breath sitting.
This opens with Meadow heading to check out a new place and meeting her potential new roommate, Lauren. Lauren is everything that Meadow isn’t, she’s wealthy, stylish and sophisticated and Meadow is in awe. The sense of uneasiness is palpable right from the beginning, you just know that this won’t end well but at no point did I have things figured out. It’s a twisty, entertaining and fast paced ride that I highly recommend for fans of this genre.
Kent has a writing style that is so smooth and consistent in its intensity, you can’t keep yourself from flying through it desperate to know what in the world is going on! By the time I reached the end I was once again blown away and amazed by Kent’s plotting, bravo!
The Perfect Roommate in three words: Entertaining, Compulsive and Disquieting.
Last year I devoured Kent’s debut, The Memory Watcher and was totally blown away. The Perfect Roommate had all the same elements that I loved and once again I read this in one holding my breath sitting.
This opens with Meadow heading to check out a new place and meeting her potential new roommate, Lauren. Lauren is everything that Meadow isn’t, she’s wealthy, stylish and sophisticated and Meadow is in awe. The sense of uneasiness is palpable right from the beginning, you just know that this won’t end well but at no point did I have things figured out. It’s a twisty, entertaining and fast paced ride that I highly recommend for fans of this genre.
Kent has a writing style that is so smooth and consistent in its intensity, you can’t keep yourself from flying through it desperate to know what in the world is going on! By the time I reached the end I was once again blown away and amazed by Kent’s plotting, bravo!
The Perfect Roommate in three words: Entertaining, Compulsive and Disquieting.
August 23, 2019
After being evicted from her apartment, college student Meadow answers an online ad for a room for rent. She meets Lauren, who is looking for a roommate in order to save some money, and they instantly click - Meadow moves in right away.
As the girls develop a friendship, Meadow can't help but feel like she's finally found a true friend - that is, until she sees Lauren doing something she shouldn't be doing, and her entire opinion of Lauren changes, and Meadow can't help but feel uneasy...
The Perfect Roommate is engaging right from the beginning, and had me hooked from the first page where we are thrown into Meadow's story. Something immediately feels a little off about Meadow and Lauren, but we aren't sure why. This sense of uneasiness continues as Meadow and Lauren's friendship develops, until something happens that changes Meadow's entire opinion of Lauren, and she starts to actively dislike her.
I don't want to say too much about the book or the plot, because I think it's better to go in without knowing too much. What I will say is that even though I had figured out parts of the ending, there were pieces that I hadn't quite put together, so I loved the ending of the book! This book is quick and easy to read, and is perfect for snuggling up with on a weekend, because you'll want to binge the entire thing!
Overall, I loved The Perfect Roommate and would definitely recommend this one to fans of the domestic thriller genre. I rated this one 4/5 stars! I'd like to thank Minka Kent and Ardent PRose for an advanced copy of the book. It was my pleasure to provide an honest review!
As the girls develop a friendship, Meadow can't help but feel like she's finally found a true friend - that is, until she sees Lauren doing something she shouldn't be doing, and her entire opinion of Lauren changes, and Meadow can't help but feel uneasy...
The Perfect Roommate is engaging right from the beginning, and had me hooked from the first page where we are thrown into Meadow's story. Something immediately feels a little off about Meadow and Lauren, but we aren't sure why. This sense of uneasiness continues as Meadow and Lauren's friendship develops, until something happens that changes Meadow's entire opinion of Lauren, and she starts to actively dislike her.
I don't want to say too much about the book or the plot, because I think it's better to go in without knowing too much. What I will say is that even though I had figured out parts of the ending, there were pieces that I hadn't quite put together, so I loved the ending of the book! This book is quick and easy to read, and is perfect for snuggling up with on a weekend, because you'll want to binge the entire thing!
Overall, I loved The Perfect Roommate and would definitely recommend this one to fans of the domestic thriller genre. I rated this one 4/5 stars! I'd like to thank Minka Kent and Ardent PRose for an advanced copy of the book. It was my pleasure to provide an honest review!
July 10, 2025
Wow, this book will make you think twice about who you let into your home, let alone your life! The engrossing plot twists will leave you feeling like you’ve figured it out, only to have the rug pulled out from under you—and I loved every second of it! Meadow, looking for a place to stay while attending college, stumbles upon an ad for a roommate. Lauren, who needs someone to share her space until the end of the semester, seems like the perfect match. When Meadow answers the ad, she’s blown away by the beautiful home and her amazing new roommate—it feels like her luck is finally turning around. Lauren notices Meadow’s shyness and thinks she might be just the person to bring her out of her shell. Soon, they’re not just roommates but fast friends. But one of them is hiding more than they’re letting on. This book was so much fun—it had my head spinning! Just when I thought I had it all figured out, I was completely wrong. A must-read, grippingly dark domestic thriller!
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 3, 2018
I only have one word to describe my thoughts for this book....NOPE!
March 14, 2018
Don't really have too much feedback on this one. I found it to be predictable and was not impressed with Minka Kent's writing. I felt like it kind of had the vibe of a bad lifetime original movie, if that makes sense. I felt like by page 10 I had it figured out and my predictions were for the most part accurate.
One of the things I aim to do when reviewing is to always try to find a positive no matter how disappointed I may be in the book. That being said, I liked the plot twist at the end of this and found it to be a quick an easy read. I can't say I have any overwhelming desire to dive into any of Minka Kent's other books. I was kind of bummed because typically I love the picks for "Suspenseful Clues and Thrilling Reviews" club and this one just did not live up to the others!
One of the things I aim to do when reviewing is to always try to find a positive no matter how disappointed I may be in the book. That being said, I liked the plot twist at the end of this and found it to be a quick an easy read. I can't say I have any overwhelming desire to dive into any of Minka Kent's other books. I was kind of bummed because typically I love the picks for "Suspenseful Clues and Thrilling Reviews" club and this one just did not live up to the others!
May 6, 2025
3.5 - 3.75
After being forced out of her apartment, college student Meadow responds to an online advertisement for a room to rent. She meets Lauren, who is in search of a roommate, and they quickly form a connection. Meadow moves in right away.
As their friendship deepens, Meadow begins to believe she has finally found a true friend, but her perception shifts when she witnesses Lauren engaging in questionable behavior. Minka Kent masterfully crafts suspense in "The Perfect Roommate," as a growing sense of tension develops between the two characters, leading to increasingly chaotic situations. I found the main character, Meadow, to be unlikable, and while I guessed the main twist at thernd, it remained an enjoyable, quick and fun read.
After being forced out of her apartment, college student Meadow responds to an online advertisement for a room to rent. She meets Lauren, who is in search of a roommate, and they quickly form a connection. Meadow moves in right away.
As their friendship deepens, Meadow begins to believe she has finally found a true friend, but her perception shifts when she witnesses Lauren engaging in questionable behavior. Minka Kent masterfully crafts suspense in "The Perfect Roommate," as a growing sense of tension develops between the two characters, leading to increasingly chaotic situations. I found the main character, Meadow, to be unlikable, and while I guessed the main twist at thernd, it remained an enjoyable, quick and fun read.
December 27, 2018
A fun romp into why you should always vet the person you potentially could live with. And if it seems too perfect, it probably is!
An introvert rooms with an extrovert and brings her into her world.. changing the way she dresses, her hair and even (potentially unintentionally) her character. She's blown away at this new world and just wants to fit in. Can't go home - her mom and her many boyfriends are terrible. What's wrong with being a part of a social group for once and getting out there? Too bad there are certain moral boundaries she won't cost and those that do... well, they need to get what's coming to them.
As someone who reads this genre a lot, I wasn't surprised by anything that happened or by the twist. Saw that coming a mile away. HOWEVER, I do enjoy Kent's writing style. Crazy attracts crazy and crazy books attract me.
3.5
This is an absolute binge read and puts you through the paces throughout the chapters. Now someone hand me my string of pearls.
An introvert rooms with an extrovert and brings her into her world.. changing the way she dresses, her hair and even (potentially unintentionally) her character. She's blown away at this new world and just wants to fit in. Can't go home - her mom and her many boyfriends are terrible. What's wrong with being a part of a social group for once and getting out there? Too bad there are certain moral boundaries she won't cost and those that do... well, they need to get what's coming to them.
As someone who reads this genre a lot, I wasn't surprised by anything that happened or by the twist. Saw that coming a mile away. HOWEVER, I do enjoy Kent's writing style. Crazy attracts crazy and crazy books attract me.
3.5
This is an absolute binge read and puts you through the paces throughout the chapters. Now someone hand me my string of pearls.
February 27, 2018
I had high hopes for this book, but I don’t think I enjoyed it. Meadow was confusing to understand and it frustrated me how much she “talked” about being an individual and not being like anyone else, yet morphing into both of her flat mates like it was no big deal. I didn’t find myself warming to any of the characters and I feel like the ending all happened way too fast and was a bit of a “movie” ending
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February 22, 2018Meadow is so crude vulgar and materialistic that I can scarcely believe she’s an English major - never reads a book. Dying of class envy. Loved the ‘Louis clutch’ (not a car part) and the sexy English prof with the ‘signature messenger bag’ too. May not be the worst written selection ever seen, but well down there.
May 12, 2018
Unfortunately this read like a midday tv movie . Annoying characters and quite a silly ending .
December 29, 2018
3.75 rounded up to 4 stars!
The Perfect Roommate is an interesting psychological thriller, that might make you rethink living with a roommate! This is a quick, fast-paced novel that I enjoyed. I really like the author's writing style.. very descriptive and spot-on to today's fads/behaviors/etc. The personalities of the characters are perfectly captured. The suspense and movement of this novel are well done also.
Overall, an enjoyable read. My rating would have been higher, but I did feel that some parts felt fairly predictable. Also, this was my second novel by Minka Kent. I previously read The Memory Watcher, which I thought was excellent, so I think I set the bar a bit high going into this one. Nonetheless, The Perfect Roommate is definitely worth reading, and I will absolutely continue to read more of Kent's work!
The Perfect Roommate is an interesting psychological thriller, that might make you rethink living with a roommate! This is a quick, fast-paced novel that I enjoyed. I really like the author's writing style.. very descriptive and spot-on to today's fads/behaviors/etc. The personalities of the characters are perfectly captured. The suspense and movement of this novel are well done also.
Overall, an enjoyable read. My rating would have been higher, but I did feel that some parts felt fairly predictable. Also, this was my second novel by Minka Kent. I previously read The Memory Watcher, which I thought was excellent, so I think I set the bar a bit high going into this one. Nonetheless, The Perfect Roommate is definitely worth reading, and I will absolutely continue to read more of Kent's work!
July 26, 2019
What a terrific psychological thriller!! Read this right after I read The Memory Watcher, and Minka Kent is now one of my favorite authors. What tricks she plays! Meadow, the narrator of this story, can't believe her luck when she answers an ad for a roommate. Turns out, the person who placed the ad was Lauren, a pretty and popular gal who Meadow recognized from one of her college classes. Meadow, by contrast, is socially awkward and has gone through life pretty much invisible.
Suddenly Meadow is sharing a home with Lauren, who befriends her, gives her beautiful clothes from her closet, and makeup tips, and takes her to her hairstylist for a do-over. For the first time in her life, Meadow has a glamorous friend and is part of the popular crowd. She is thrilled. But all that changes when Meadow discovers something she shouldn't...
I loved this book! It is well written, full of twists, and leaves you truly surprised at the end. Well done – five stars!
Suddenly Meadow is sharing a home with Lauren, who befriends her, gives her beautiful clothes from her closet, and makeup tips, and takes her to her hairstylist for a do-over. For the first time in her life, Meadow has a glamorous friend and is part of the popular crowd. She is thrilled. But all that changes when Meadow discovers something she shouldn't...
I loved this book! It is well written, full of twists, and leaves you truly surprised at the end. Well done – five stars!
August 18, 2025
Loved everything about this book! There’s so much more than just the blurb going on with this one and now that there have been some revisions it is even more perfect! Highly recommend! I thank Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read and review this book.
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May 21, 2018Review to follow
May 30, 2018
This was a fun and quick paced read! It was written so well and really held my interest. There were some twists and turns but then...that. last. sentence. (or I guess 2 sentences lol) Oh my!!! Loved it.
May 2, 2021
What an odd little book we have in The Perfect Roommate.
I loved the quirks and the insight of the awkwardly snarky main character, Meadow. I enjoyed seeing the world through her introverted and jaded eyes. I loved how I was able to envision the apartment, the parents' houses, the campus, all of it. Everything was so vivid and insightful.
But the story and the mysteries it contained seemed so very rushed. When the twists came, I hardly had time to finish the transitioning sentence before the changes were done, wrapped up, accepted and we'd already moved on. It was unsettling and unsatisfying. I wanted more time to savor the drama and give the revelations a chance to take root.
I kept thinking to myself, "Don't blink!"
Minka Kent is a great writer, and I will definitely read anything she writes, but in this one, I wish she'd written MORE. More, so we'd have time to catch up with what was going on, instead of constantly wondering "how'd we already jump to this conclusion?"
I loved the quirks and the insight of the awkwardly snarky main character, Meadow. I enjoyed seeing the world through her introverted and jaded eyes. I loved how I was able to envision the apartment, the parents' houses, the campus, all of it. Everything was so vivid and insightful.
But the story and the mysteries it contained seemed so very rushed. When the twists came, I hardly had time to finish the transitioning sentence before the changes were done, wrapped up, accepted and we'd already moved on. It was unsettling and unsatisfying. I wanted more time to savor the drama and give the revelations a chance to take root.
I kept thinking to myself, "Don't blink!"
Minka Kent is a great writer, and I will definitely read anything she writes, but in this one, I wish she'd written MORE. More, so we'd have time to catch up with what was going on, instead of constantly wondering "how'd we already jump to this conclusion?"
May 19, 2020
The synopsis of "The Perfect Roommate" sounds like it has the potential to be a fun thriller, especially with the lies already starting in the first chapter, but this one should have been a hard pass for me. The first two thirds of the book was filled with an overabundance of basic college issues: finding a roommate, making friends and trying to fit in, relationships and perhaps an illicit affair with a professor for a little spice. The problem was that the thriller aspect didn't really come into play until the last third of the book at which point everything seemed rushed and abbreviated in an already short book.
"Do we ever truly know anyone or are we only seeing what they want us to see?"
This quote from the book perfectly sums up another issue but from the perspective of the author and what she wants the reader to see. The twists and turns mostly seemed to come out of left field in the final section of the book, instead of building throughout, and I felt disappointed with how the red herrings presented earlier were resolved.
All things considered, I am still a fan of the author but would recommend "The Stillwater Girls" instead, my favorite of her work that I've read.
"Do we ever truly know anyone or are we only seeing what they want us to see?"
This quote from the book perfectly sums up another issue but from the perspective of the author and what she wants the reader to see. The twists and turns mostly seemed to come out of left field in the final section of the book, instead of building throughout, and I felt disappointed with how the red herrings presented earlier were resolved.
All things considered, I am still a fan of the author but would recommend "The Stillwater Girls" instead, my favorite of her work that I've read.
December 22, 2024
4 Stars- I raced through this book and couldn’t put it down. The characters were so fun to read about. It didn’t get 5 stars because the ending fell a little flat and felt rushed. I’m going to continue with my Minka Kent binge because her writing is so engaging and entertaining!
March 5, 2020
“If I were a super hero , social awkwardness would be my power".
The Perfect Roommate by Minka Kent
Another great read from Minka Kent. This lady knows how to write! I enjoyed every minute of this wild ride.
I should say I was hesitant to read this. Why? Because it is a thriller about roommates. I was afraid it would be like "Single White Female" which I LOATHED and which has the dubious honor of being on my "worst books ever list".
I need not have worried. This was a gripping and fast paced psychological thriller that was as unpredictable any I have read. You will not be able to put it down.
I love how Minka's books always have the ability to surprise. And her characters are so fleshed out. I could not put this one down.
This book also has a modern day Noir component that really makes it stand out from your every day thriller. I am sure I will be reading this one again.
I am adding this author to my "look for more" list of writers as I have now read two books by her and loved both of them.
This is a book that any fan of psychological thrillers really do not want to miss.
The Perfect Roommate by Minka Kent
Another great read from Minka Kent. This lady knows how to write! I enjoyed every minute of this wild ride.
I should say I was hesitant to read this. Why? Because it is a thriller about roommates. I was afraid it would be like "Single White Female" which I LOATHED and which has the dubious honor of being on my "worst books ever list".
I need not have worried. This was a gripping and fast paced psychological thriller that was as unpredictable any I have read. You will not be able to put it down.
I love how Minka's books always have the ability to surprise. And her characters are so fleshed out. I could not put this one down.
This book also has a modern day Noir component that really makes it stand out from your every day thriller. I am sure I will be reading this one again.
I am adding this author to my "look for more" list of writers as I have now read two books by her and loved both of them.
This is a book that any fan of psychological thrillers really do not want to miss.
August 24, 2019
Whomp Whomp! The author definitely has a writing style that draws me in and keeps me awake reading, late into the night. But, just like with The Memory Watcher, I found the ending to be both “hard to buy into” and rushed leaving me less than satisfied in the end. 🤔😕
January 28, 2018
Meadow and Lauren are room mates. At first I wasn't sure what to make of these two. They are so opposite, but then they start to become friends and that's when things start going wrong. Meadow starts to change, and not really for the better. This is a wonderfully written story about how people can change and you never see what is happening before you. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from Hidden Gems.
March 19, 2020
She's my roommate.
I know how she takes her tea, how she organizes her closet.
I know when she goes to bed each night, what she eats for breakfast, the passcode on her phone.
I know she calls her mother on Mondays, takes barre on Thursdays, and meets her friends for drinks on Fridays.
But more important than any of that ... I know what she did.
3.5 stars
This is the second book I've read by Minka Kent, and I wanted to like this as much as I liked When I was You, but this one was not as intriguing. Don't get me wrong, there were quite a few twists and turns, but they just weren't what I was expecting. I think some of my wild theories would have been more interesting.
This ended up being a little too predictable, but I do really like how readable this author's books are, and how relatable her characters are. I get sucked right into them from the beginning. I'm definitely not done with her books yet.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
I know how she takes her tea, how she organizes her closet.
I know when she goes to bed each night, what she eats for breakfast, the passcode on her phone.
I know she calls her mother on Mondays, takes barre on Thursdays, and meets her friends for drinks on Fridays.
But more important than any of that ... I know what she did.
3.5 stars
This is the second book I've read by Minka Kent, and I wanted to like this as much as I liked When I was You, but this one was not as intriguing. Don't get me wrong, there were quite a few twists and turns, but they just weren't what I was expecting. I think some of my wild theories would have been more interesting.
This ended up being a little too predictable, but I do really like how readable this author's books are, and how relatable her characters are. I get sucked right into them from the beginning. I'm definitely not done with her books yet.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
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