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The Apartment
7 hours, 48 minutes
They say every cloud has a silver lining. . .
When Freya Miller is struck by tragedy, losing her husband and her home within a short time, she is burdened with many worries. The main one being where she and her five-year old daughter, Skye, are going to live. A chance meeting with the charismatic Dr. Marsden changes all that. He offers the young mother the most amazing opportunity; an apartment at one of London's most exclusive addresses for a fraction of the market rental cost. It's an offer Freya simply can't refuse. Within a couple of weeks, Freya and Skye are moving into Adder House and meeting the other welcoming residents. They very quickly feel part of the family.
But just when Freya truly believes all her problems are history, a series of strange, unexplained occurrences begin. It leaves Freya with the unshakeable feeling that even when their apartment door is securely locked, she and her daughter are not alone. Freya thought she'd left all her troubles behind her yet she soon realizes there are problems here that are far more terrifying than before.
For behind the doors of Adder House, everything is most definitely not as it seems.
Old secrets refuse to stay buried and someone is determined to keep a terrible past, very much alive.
About the author:
Kim is the million-copy best-selling author of eight standalone psychological crime thrillers. At the age of 40 Kim went back to university and now holds an MA in Creative Writing. Kim is a full-time writer and lives with her husband in Nottingham. She enjoys traveling, eating out, is an avid film fan and most of all, she loves reading across genres.
©2018 K.L. Slater (P)2019 Audible, Ltd
They say every cloud has a silver lining. . .
When Freya Miller is struck by tragedy, losing her husband and her home within a short time, she is burdened with many worries. The main one being where she and her five-year old daughter, Skye, are going to live. A chance meeting with the charismatic Dr. Marsden changes all that. He offers the young mother the most amazing opportunity; an apartment at one of London's most exclusive addresses for a fraction of the market rental cost. It's an offer Freya simply can't refuse. Within a couple of weeks, Freya and Skye are moving into Adder House and meeting the other welcoming residents. They very quickly feel part of the family.
But just when Freya truly believes all her problems are history, a series of strange, unexplained occurrences begin. It leaves Freya with the unshakeable feeling that even when their apartment door is securely locked, she and her daughter are not alone. Freya thought she'd left all her troubles behind her yet she soon realizes there are problems here that are far more terrifying than before.
For behind the doors of Adder House, everything is most definitely not as it seems.
Old secrets refuse to stay buried and someone is determined to keep a terrible past, very much alive.
About the author:
Kim is the million-copy best-selling author of eight standalone psychological crime thrillers. At the age of 40 Kim went back to university and now holds an MA in Creative Writing. Kim is a full-time writer and lives with her husband in Nottingham. She enjoys traveling, eating out, is an avid film fan and most of all, she loves reading across genres.
©2018 K.L. Slater (P)2019 Audible, Ltd
8 pages, Audible Audio
First published April 28, 2020
2616 people are currently reading
11599 people want to read
About the author
K.L. Slater
45 books4,693 followersKim is the number one bestselling author of sixteen psychological crime thrillers. She has sold over two million copies of her books worldwide. She has also written four Carnegie-nominated Young Adult novels as Kim Slater for Macmillan Children’s Books. Kim has an MA in Creative Writing and lives with her husband in a small Nottinghamshire village.
Publishers: Bookouture, Sphere, Grand Central, Audible
Agent: Camilla Bolton at Darley Anderson
Author website: www.KLSlaterAuthor.com
Twitter: @KimLSlater
Facebook: KL Slater Author
Instagram: KLSlaterAuthor
Publishers: Bookouture, Sphere, Grand Central, Audible
Agent: Camilla Bolton at Darley Anderson
Author website: www.KLSlaterAuthor.com
Twitter: @KimLSlater
Facebook: KL Slater Author
Instagram: KLSlaterAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,134 reviews
April 24, 2020
So many plot holes, so many questions, so much stupidity!
I can deal with a ridiculous plot (kind of), but I cannot tolerate reading about a heroine who is portrayed as being dumber than dumb.
Freya grew up in the foster system, has trust issues, but is willing to trust an old man who approaches her in a coffee shop and happens to offer her an apartment way out of her means, but at a price, she can afford because she and her daughter are “the right kind of people.” This didn’t set off any alarms? The fact that something sinister is going on in her apartment is literally thrown in her face over and over again and she can’t figure out something is not right? EYE ROLLS, Please!
I was hoping maybe Freya was extremely intelligent and playing the reader, but unfortunately, her character never found her way out of stupid.
I have no idea where I downloaded this book from or why I even read it, but I wish I could take back the whole experience.
I can deal with a ridiculous plot (kind of), but I cannot tolerate reading about a heroine who is portrayed as being dumber than dumb.
Freya grew up in the foster system, has trust issues, but is willing to trust an old man who approaches her in a coffee shop and happens to offer her an apartment way out of her means, but at a price, she can afford because she and her daughter are “the right kind of people.” This didn’t set off any alarms? The fact that something sinister is going on in her apartment is literally thrown in her face over and over again and she can’t figure out something is not right? EYE ROLLS, Please!
I was hoping maybe Freya was extremely intelligent and playing the reader, but unfortunately, her character never found her way out of stupid.
I have no idea where I downloaded this book from or why I even read it, but I wish I could take back the whole experience.
May 11, 2020
This is another devouring with few bites, finishing at one sit, quick, fast pacing and exciting page-turner!
The formulation is basic: A character suffering from tragic lost feels hopeless as she finds a solution to her problems which is TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE! There are too many neon lights flashing through her walk warning her “RUN AWAY WITHOUT LOOKING BACK!” but here we go: She is trapped, she is gaslighted and now she worries about her own mental health! Is she turning into a paranoid?
Yes. I’m talking about dear Freya, after losing her husband, taking care of her five years of daughter by her own cannot afford a proper apartment till charming Dr. Marsden makes an offer she cannot refuse (I know Godfather’s theme start to ring in your ears! Another alarm bell warns Freya to wear her running shoes ASAP!) But her judgment is already by her despair. She cannot think it clearly. If she refuses to rent Adder house with this very low price, she will live at streets but her daughter and her security always comes first. So she says “yes!”
But let me say that Dr. and Mrs. Marsden likes to involve their tenants’ lives way too much than they expected. And Freya is tougher and braver than I think because she is determined to go as far as she can to find out the truth hiding behind Adder House.
Overall: One of my fastest reads. I was expecting something more soul crushing at the end of the book but it was still pleasing and satisfying. This is not definitely one of my Switzerland-let’s meet in the middle readings but it was not also “wow! It shook me to the cores” kind of book so let’s give 3.5 stars and round them up to 4 stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for sharing this entertaining ARC in exchange my honest review.
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The formulation is basic: A character suffering from tragic lost feels hopeless as she finds a solution to her problems which is TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE! There are too many neon lights flashing through her walk warning her “RUN AWAY WITHOUT LOOKING BACK!” but here we go: She is trapped, she is gaslighted and now she worries about her own mental health! Is she turning into a paranoid?
Yes. I’m talking about dear Freya, after losing her husband, taking care of her five years of daughter by her own cannot afford a proper apartment till charming Dr. Marsden makes an offer she cannot refuse (I know Godfather’s theme start to ring in your ears! Another alarm bell warns Freya to wear her running shoes ASAP!) But her judgment is already by her despair. She cannot think it clearly. If she refuses to rent Adder house with this very low price, she will live at streets but her daughter and her security always comes first. So she says “yes!”
But let me say that Dr. and Mrs. Marsden likes to involve their tenants’ lives way too much than they expected. And Freya is tougher and braver than I think because she is determined to go as far as she can to find out the truth hiding behind Adder House.
Overall: One of my fastest reads. I was expecting something more soul crushing at the end of the book but it was still pleasing and satisfying. This is not definitely one of my Switzerland-let’s meet in the middle readings but it was not also “wow! It shook me to the cores” kind of book so let’s give 3.5 stars and round them up to 4 stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for sharing this entertaining ARC in exchange my honest review.
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November 18, 2019
I enjoyed this psychological thriller and the setting of the creepy, atmospheric Adder House Apartments.
The wonderful narrator added tension and drama with some descriptions of strange things happening at the apartment. Some of the residents had a touch of " Adams Family" creepiness to them...
snap,snap
The ending didn't completely work for me, but was entertaining and kept me guessing. Recommend for fans of lighter psychological thrillers and fans of this author.
I purchased this one through Audible.
April 25, 2020
He knew who Freya was when he targeted her at Starbucks and offered her an apartment at Adder House.
He knew that her husband had recently passed away, and that she had a five year old daughter, named Skye.
He knew her “whole sorry tale” and that as a single Mum with limited means, that she would be easy prey.
But WHY does he want them to be the next residents to live on the top floor?
This book was very reminiscent of Riley Sager’s “Lock Every Door” to me...substituting the lovely Adder House for the Bartholomew and its gargoyles.
Both had quirky residents who had to be “approved” prior to move-in, carefully selected for a sinister reason.
I enjoyed the relationship between Freya and her daughter, and was engaged with the story the entire time, as I tried to determine where this tale was going.
But, when it was all said and done, the ending left me wanting...
I didn’t quite buy it.
And, too many other subplots were left with unanswered questions.
2.5 rounded up
Thank You to NetGalley, Thomas and Mercer and Kim Slater for the digital ARC, I received in exchange for a candid review!
This book will be released on April 28, 2020 and can be pre-ordered now!
He knew that her husband had recently passed away, and that she had a five year old daughter, named Skye.
He knew her “whole sorry tale” and that as a single Mum with limited means, that she would be easy prey.
But WHY does he want them to be the next residents to live on the top floor?
This book was very reminiscent of Riley Sager’s “Lock Every Door” to me...substituting the lovely Adder House for the Bartholomew and its gargoyles.
Both had quirky residents who had to be “approved” prior to move-in, carefully selected for a sinister reason.
I enjoyed the relationship between Freya and her daughter, and was engaged with the story the entire time, as I tried to determine where this tale was going.
But, when it was all said and done, the ending left me wanting...
I didn’t quite buy it.
And, too many other subplots were left with unanswered questions.
2.5 rounded up
Thank You to NetGalley, Thomas and Mercer and Kim Slater for the digital ARC, I received in exchange for a candid review!
This book will be released on April 28, 2020 and can be pre-ordered now!
March 21, 2020
If it appears to be too good to be true - it's not.
Freya Miller is scrambling at the beginning of the book. Her husband, who left her for another woman, passed away. Freya has sold her home and paid off their combined debt. Now she must find a place for her and her five-year-old daughter, Skye to live. As luck would have it, she is approached by a man, Dr. Marsden in a coffee shop who just happens to have a small apartment for rent. Even better, rent is based on the individual's ability to pay.
Soon Freya and Skye have moved into Adder house and are welcomed by the other residents. But soon, things begin to feel strange. Freya begins to feel as if someone has been in her home, things have been moved, and her landlords make her uneasy.
Although I enjoyed the book, the ending was less than satisfying for me. Plus, this book had me wanting to know more about how Freya's husband died, etc. There were some things that were not resolved- for me that was one of them.
Freya and her daughter Skye are both likable characters and I felt for their plight. There is a rising amount of tension in the book as things begin to become creepier and more sinister. For me, this was a fast, absorbing read until I got to the end. Then I felt a letdown. Something was just missing in this for me.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Freya Miller is scrambling at the beginning of the book. Her husband, who left her for another woman, passed away. Freya has sold her home and paid off their combined debt. Now she must find a place for her and her five-year-old daughter, Skye to live. As luck would have it, she is approached by a man, Dr. Marsden in a coffee shop who just happens to have a small apartment for rent. Even better, rent is based on the individual's ability to pay.
Soon Freya and Skye have moved into Adder house and are welcomed by the other residents. But soon, things begin to feel strange. Freya begins to feel as if someone has been in her home, things have been moved, and her landlords make her uneasy.
Although I enjoyed the book, the ending was less than satisfying for me. Plus, this book had me wanting to know more about how Freya's husband died, etc. There were some things that were not resolved- for me that was one of them.
Freya and her daughter Skye are both likable characters and I felt for their plight. There is a rising amount of tension in the book as things begin to become creepier and more sinister. For me, this was a fast, absorbing read until I got to the end. Then I felt a letdown. Something was just missing in this for me.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 29, 2020
EXCERPT: 'You said you're living on Palace Gate. Is the building called Adder House?'
'That's right.' I swallow hard. 'I live in a small top floor apartment with my daughter, Skye.'
'Oh God.' Linda's hand flies to her mouth and she squeezes her eyes shut as if she can't bear the pictures that are flooding in. 'This is important, Freya. How did you find out about it, the apartment? How did you know it was up for rent'
'It was totally by chance. I was in -'
'A coffee shop? And Marsden happened to sit at your table by chance? Showed you his rental fliers? Asked if you wanted to view the apartment, despite it being something you could never afford to rent in a million years?'
'Something like that, yes.' I swallow again, wiping my damp palms on my jeans.
'That's exactly what happened to Sophie, and I can assure you that chance had nothing to do with it. Every single word he uttered to you was planned.'
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Freya Miller needs a miracle. In the fallout of her husband’s betrayal, she’s about to lose her family home, and with it the security she craves for her five-year-old daughter, Skye. Adrift and alone, she’s on the verge of despair until a chance meeting with the charismatic Dr Marsden changes everything. He’s seeking a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in a fashionable area of London.
Adder House sounds too good to be true… But Freya really can’t afford to be cynical, and Dr Marsden is adamant she and Skye will be a perfect fit with the other residents.
But Adder House has secrets. Even behind a locked front door, Freya feels as if she’s being watched: objects moving, unfamiliar smells, the blinking light of a concealed camera… and it’s not long before she begins to suspect that her dream home is hiding a nightmarish reality. Was it really chance that led her here—or something unthinkably dark?
As the truth about Adder House starts to unravel, can Freya and Skye get out—or will they be locked in forever?
MY THOUGHTS: We all know that saying about not looking the gift horse in the mouth, but it seems that sometimes we should. But when you're desperate...
Even the name, Adder House, gives me the creeps. Although the apartment house sounds absolutely beautiful, who would want to live in a building named for a snake?
But beautiful as it is, sumptuous, luxurious, it has a past, one that the enigmatic pair of Doctor and Audrey Marsden are unwilling to reveal. Instead they smooth away all obstacles and shower Freya and Skye with generous gifts. What is that other saying, the one about beware of Romans bearing gifts? But when you're desperate...
Only four of the six apartments are currently occupied. Professor and Susan Woodward are tenants of one. He seems nervous, she frail and depressed after a series of miscarriages. The only person who appears remotely normal in the building is the elderly Lily Brockley who takes Freya and Skye under her wing, warning her to 'be careful' of the other tenants without quite explaining why.
I read this book in one sitting. Yes, there are some holes in the plot, and I have not entirely bought into the ending, but Slater kept me entertained and guessing the whole way through. And that, to me, is worth 4 stars.
What next Ms Slater?
😍🙂🤔🤨
'I do like to surround myself with beautiful things. There's so much ugliness in the world . . . so much distrust and focus on negative events, rather than on making peaceful progress so that the world is a better, more informed place for our future generations.'
#TheApartment #NetGalley
The Apartment is due for publication 28 April 2020.
THE AUTHOR: For many years, Kim sent her work out to literary agents and collected an impressive stack of rejection slips. At the age of 40 she went back to Nottingham Trent University and now has an MA in Creative Writing.
Before graduating in 2012, she gained literary agent representation and a book deal. As Kim says, ‘it was a fairytale … at the end of a very long road!’
Kim is a full-time writer and lives in Nottinghamshire with her husband.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Apartment by K.L. Slater for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'That's right.' I swallow hard. 'I live in a small top floor apartment with my daughter, Skye.'
'Oh God.' Linda's hand flies to her mouth and she squeezes her eyes shut as if she can't bear the pictures that are flooding in. 'This is important, Freya. How did you find out about it, the apartment? How did you know it was up for rent'
'It was totally by chance. I was in -'
'A coffee shop? And Marsden happened to sit at your table by chance? Showed you his rental fliers? Asked if you wanted to view the apartment, despite it being something you could never afford to rent in a million years?'
'Something like that, yes.' I swallow again, wiping my damp palms on my jeans.
'That's exactly what happened to Sophie, and I can assure you that chance had nothing to do with it. Every single word he uttered to you was planned.'
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Freya Miller needs a miracle. In the fallout of her husband’s betrayal, she’s about to lose her family home, and with it the security she craves for her five-year-old daughter, Skye. Adrift and alone, she’s on the verge of despair until a chance meeting with the charismatic Dr Marsden changes everything. He’s seeking a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in a fashionable area of London.
Adder House sounds too good to be true… But Freya really can’t afford to be cynical, and Dr Marsden is adamant she and Skye will be a perfect fit with the other residents.
But Adder House has secrets. Even behind a locked front door, Freya feels as if she’s being watched: objects moving, unfamiliar smells, the blinking light of a concealed camera… and it’s not long before she begins to suspect that her dream home is hiding a nightmarish reality. Was it really chance that led her here—or something unthinkably dark?
As the truth about Adder House starts to unravel, can Freya and Skye get out—or will they be locked in forever?
MY THOUGHTS: We all know that saying about not looking the gift horse in the mouth, but it seems that sometimes we should. But when you're desperate...
Even the name, Adder House, gives me the creeps. Although the apartment house sounds absolutely beautiful, who would want to live in a building named for a snake?
But beautiful as it is, sumptuous, luxurious, it has a past, one that the enigmatic pair of Doctor and Audrey Marsden are unwilling to reveal. Instead they smooth away all obstacles and shower Freya and Skye with generous gifts. What is that other saying, the one about beware of Romans bearing gifts? But when you're desperate...
Only four of the six apartments are currently occupied. Professor and Susan Woodward are tenants of one. He seems nervous, she frail and depressed after a series of miscarriages. The only person who appears remotely normal in the building is the elderly Lily Brockley who takes Freya and Skye under her wing, warning her to 'be careful' of the other tenants without quite explaining why.
I read this book in one sitting. Yes, there are some holes in the plot, and I have not entirely bought into the ending, but Slater kept me entertained and guessing the whole way through. And that, to me, is worth 4 stars.
What next Ms Slater?
😍🙂🤔🤨
'I do like to surround myself with beautiful things. There's so much ugliness in the world . . . so much distrust and focus on negative events, rather than on making peaceful progress so that the world is a better, more informed place for our future generations.'
#TheApartment #NetGalley
The Apartment is due for publication 28 April 2020.
THE AUTHOR: For many years, Kim sent her work out to literary agents and collected an impressive stack of rejection slips. At the age of 40 she went back to Nottingham Trent University and now has an MA in Creative Writing.
Before graduating in 2012, she gained literary agent representation and a book deal. As Kim says, ‘it was a fairytale … at the end of a very long road!’
Kim is a full-time writer and lives in Nottinghamshire with her husband.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Apartment by K.L. Slater for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
April 24, 2020
If you're looking for another Lock Every Door by Riley Sager...look no further. You've found it.
Well, a much less interesting version, that is.
I struggled and lurched through this story, waiting for something, anything, to happen. At about the 95% mark, we got a little action, but it was so silly, I was forced to bring out my infamous eye-roll.
I suggest reading some of the positive reviews to see if this sounds like a book you may enjoy. For me, it simply didn't work.
Available in the U.S. on April 28th.
Many appreciative thanks to the publisher for my review copy.
Well, a much less interesting version, that is.
I struggled and lurched through this story, waiting for something, anything, to happen. At about the 95% mark, we got a little action, but it was so silly, I was forced to bring out my infamous eye-roll.
I suggest reading some of the positive reviews to see if this sounds like a book you may enjoy. For me, it simply didn't work.
Available in the U.S. on April 28th.
Many appreciative thanks to the publisher for my review copy.
April 21, 2020
THE APARTMENT by K. L. Slater is the first book that I have read by this author. While various reviews are mixed, this psychological thriller worked for me. Freya Miller’s husband left her for another woman and then died before they divorced. With a five-year-old daughter, Skye, to take care of and no job, she has to sell their small house and find a place to rent. When she runs into an older gentleman at a coffee shop with flyers for an apartment to rent, it seems too good to be true. Adder House has six apartments and the small one on the third floor becomes Freya and Skye’s new home. But is it too good to be true? When little things start happening, is Freya imagining it, or is there more going on in the house?
The prose is nicely descriptive and flows well. I was drawn into Freya’s plight immediately. This is not a hard-core psychological thriller, but it captured my interest and kept it throughout the book. I rooted for Freya and Skye to survive and find happiness. While some of the plot twists were expected, there were others that caught me by surprise.
Overall, this was a suspenseful, well-paced, tense and compulsively readable novel. I look forward to reading more books by this author. I recommend this to those that like psychological thrillers that aren’t on the extreme end of the genre.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and K. L. Slater for a complimentary ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
The prose is nicely descriptive and flows well. I was drawn into Freya’s plight immediately. This is not a hard-core psychological thriller, but it captured my interest and kept it throughout the book. I rooted for Freya and Skye to survive and find happiness. While some of the plot twists were expected, there were others that caught me by surprise.
Overall, this was a suspenseful, well-paced, tense and compulsively readable novel. I look forward to reading more books by this author. I recommend this to those that like psychological thrillers that aren’t on the extreme end of the genre.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and K. L. Slater for a complimentary ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
May 16, 2020
THE APARTMENT is a creepy psychological thriller by bestselling author K.L. Slater, author of twelve psychological crime thrillers.
Freya Miller and her five-year old daughter, Skye are in a bad situation. Struck by tragedy, losing her husband and forced to sell the family home for financial reasons, she is on a very tight budget with many worries. So where are they going to live?
A chance meeting in a coffee shop with the alluring Dr. Marsden changes all that. He offers the young mother the most amazing opportunity; an apartment at one of London's most exclusive addresses for a fraction of the going rent. It's an offer Freya simply can't refuse. Within a couple of weeks, Freya and Skye are moving into Adder House and meeting the other welcoming residents. They very quickly feel part of the family.
But is it too good to be true? Freya then starts to notice strange things happening to both of them in their new apartment…Strange sounds, furniture moving around, her daughter hearing voices, and Freya starts to feel uneasy and unsure about her decision to move here.
It always feels as if someone is watching them and they are not alone!
For behind the doors of Adder House, everything is most definitely not as it seems.
Old secrets refuse to stay buried.
I love reading Kim Slater’s novels as I know I am always in for a treat. Again, I was not disappointed. A creepy thriller that will appeal to a wide audience, lots of suspense, with well-developed characters and an engaging plot.
Many thanks to the author, Amazon Publishing UK and Netgalley for my digital copy.
THE APARTMENT published April 28, 2020
Freya Miller and her five-year old daughter, Skye are in a bad situation. Struck by tragedy, losing her husband and forced to sell the family home for financial reasons, she is on a very tight budget with many worries. So where are they going to live?
A chance meeting in a coffee shop with the alluring Dr. Marsden changes all that. He offers the young mother the most amazing opportunity; an apartment at one of London's most exclusive addresses for a fraction of the going rent. It's an offer Freya simply can't refuse. Within a couple of weeks, Freya and Skye are moving into Adder House and meeting the other welcoming residents. They very quickly feel part of the family.
But is it too good to be true? Freya then starts to notice strange things happening to both of them in their new apartment…Strange sounds, furniture moving around, her daughter hearing voices, and Freya starts to feel uneasy and unsure about her decision to move here.
It always feels as if someone is watching them and they are not alone!
For behind the doors of Adder House, everything is most definitely not as it seems.
Old secrets refuse to stay buried.
I love reading Kim Slater’s novels as I know I am always in for a treat. Again, I was not disappointed. A creepy thriller that will appeal to a wide audience, lots of suspense, with well-developed characters and an engaging plot.
Many thanks to the author, Amazon Publishing UK and Netgalley for my digital copy.
THE APARTMENT published April 28, 2020
April 30, 2020
Freya’s life is one hot and complicated mess!
K.L. Slater has an engaging writing style and I became an instant fan after reading “Closer”, which was amazing. I wish I could say that I was as impressed with this one. I’m not sure why, but this one just didn’t do it for me.
I’ve read so many good books lately, maybe my expectations were too high.
My Rating: 3 ⭐️’s
Published: April 28th 2020 by Amazon Publishing UK
Pages: 270
Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and K.L. Slater for this digital ARC, in exchange for my honest opinion!
#MysteryThriller #TheApartment #NetGalley
K.L. Slater has an engaging writing style and I became an instant fan after reading “Closer”, which was amazing. I wish I could say that I was as impressed with this one. I’m not sure why, but this one just didn’t do it for me.
I’ve read so many good books lately, maybe my expectations were too high.
My Rating: 3 ⭐️’s
Published: April 28th 2020 by Amazon Publishing UK
Pages: 270
Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and K.L. Slater for this digital ARC, in exchange for my honest opinion!
#MysteryThriller #TheApartment #NetGalley
April 7, 2020
You know that old saying if something is too good to be true…That is the entire premise of “The Apartment”. This wasn’t a bad book per se but it just didn’t have a really big thrill factor for me. The premise of the novel really wasn’t anything new and I was able to guess what was going to happen. The ending was a little too touchy-feely for me as well. The best I can say is this isn’t the worst book I’ve read but it certainly isn’t the greatest either.
February 25, 2020
3-4 stars rounded up.
This is an intriguing novel which keeps you thinking until the end. Freya Millers life is in a state of terrible flux after her husband Lewis left her and subsequently died. She has a five year old daughter Skye to provide for, she has to sell the family home and she’s now financially stretched. She receives an unexpected and welcome offer of a very cut price apartment in stunning Adder House in Kensington and close to Hyde Park Corner. This is a very desirable and expensive part of London and no way could she afford this if she pays market value. Though she feels some twinges of unease the offer is too good to refuse and she’s out of options in reality. So she quells and suppresses any anxiety and moves in with Skye. The story is told by Freya in the present day and backtracks to the story of her husband and is interspersed with a journal from 1902 by Beatrice Barger whose son Douglas is a case study at Johns Hopkins University Hospital in Baltimore. How do these seemingly disparate storylines connect? It’s only towards the end of the book the surprising connection is revealed.
The story is well written, you feel Freya’s loss, the deep love for her daughter and her frissons of anxiety about the house and it’s occupants. There is a good amount of tension and some of the characters convey a real sense of unease. The plot builds well with a growing number of strange events that almost tips Freya over the edge. Freya is likeable and you admire the lengths she goes to in order to discover the truth about Adder House and the people who also live there. The end is a tad convoluted and possibly a bit barking but it’s different and that’s a positive thing!!! I did get a bit fed up of Freya’s overuse of the term ‘poppet’ at the end of every conversation with Skye. I’d have been very happy to have seen a ‘sweetheart’ or even ‘munchkin’ just to ring the changes!!!
Overall, an enjoyable and easy read that keeps you interested.
Ps. Since the story is set in July the cherry tree at Adder House would not have had blossom and made living confetti for Skye. Just saying!!!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the arc.
This is an intriguing novel which keeps you thinking until the end. Freya Millers life is in a state of terrible flux after her husband Lewis left her and subsequently died. She has a five year old daughter Skye to provide for, she has to sell the family home and she’s now financially stretched. She receives an unexpected and welcome offer of a very cut price apartment in stunning Adder House in Kensington and close to Hyde Park Corner. This is a very desirable and expensive part of London and no way could she afford this if she pays market value. Though she feels some twinges of unease the offer is too good to refuse and she’s out of options in reality. So she quells and suppresses any anxiety and moves in with Skye. The story is told by Freya in the present day and backtracks to the story of her husband and is interspersed with a journal from 1902 by Beatrice Barger whose son Douglas is a case study at Johns Hopkins University Hospital in Baltimore. How do these seemingly disparate storylines connect? It’s only towards the end of the book the surprising connection is revealed.
The story is well written, you feel Freya’s loss, the deep love for her daughter and her frissons of anxiety about the house and it’s occupants. There is a good amount of tension and some of the characters convey a real sense of unease. The plot builds well with a growing number of strange events that almost tips Freya over the edge. Freya is likeable and you admire the lengths she goes to in order to discover the truth about Adder House and the people who also live there. The end is a tad convoluted and possibly a bit barking but it’s different and that’s a positive thing!!! I did get a bit fed up of Freya’s overuse of the term ‘poppet’ at the end of every conversation with Skye. I’d have been very happy to have seen a ‘sweetheart’ or even ‘munchkin’ just to ring the changes!!!
Overall, an enjoyable and easy read that keeps you interested.
Ps. Since the story is set in July the cherry tree at Adder House would not have had blossom and made living confetti for Skye. Just saying!!!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the arc.
February 22, 2020
I love the writing of Kim Slater and enjoy the consistently high standard of writing. Her books are punchy and instantly grip you normally in my experience are read in one or two sittings. Well yet again that was the case with this one and was instantly pulled in by the creepy psychological thriller that had so many excellent characters and I am sure this will prove to be another best selling novel.
Freya Miller is a single mother who on losing her husband very soon lost her home leaving her and her 5 year old daughter Skye potentially homeless. A strange off chance meeting with a Dr. Marsden gives her fresh hope. He offers Freya an unbelievable opportunity to move into an exclusive house in London at a price she can afford. Very soon Freya and Skye have moved in to the apartment in Adder House and are made to feel very welcome by the other residents.
Is this too good to be true? Freya starts to experience some strange happenings, leaving her feeling uneasy. Freya begins to think that there are some hidden secrets that may affect both her and Skye. for both Adder House and its residence are not as they appear.
I loved this book and thought the characters were excellent. A creepy psychological thriller that keeps you guessing, works for me.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Amazon Publishing for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Freya Miller is a single mother who on losing her husband very soon lost her home leaving her and her 5 year old daughter Skye potentially homeless. A strange off chance meeting with a Dr. Marsden gives her fresh hope. He offers Freya an unbelievable opportunity to move into an exclusive house in London at a price she can afford. Very soon Freya and Skye have moved in to the apartment in Adder House and are made to feel very welcome by the other residents.
Is this too good to be true? Freya starts to experience some strange happenings, leaving her feeling uneasy. Freya begins to think that there are some hidden secrets that may affect both her and Skye. for both Adder House and its residence are not as they appear.
I loved this book and thought the characters were excellent. A creepy psychological thriller that keeps you guessing, works for me.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Amazon Publishing for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
March 12, 2020
Freya is a young, single mother whose husband died recently after leaving her for another woman. To make ends meet she has to sell their family home in London and find a small flat to rent. When an elderly man approaches her in a cafe and offers her an apartment in one of the best parts of London for peppercorn rent she is rightly suspicious but decides to take it. As soon as she moves in, things get very creepy, not least the other residents that she meets. But instead of grabbing her young daughter and running for the hills, she decides to stick it out, even though she is stressed and unhappy and her daughter is having nightmares.
This was quite an entertaining read but overall just felt a bit too contrived for me. I felt the basic premise was stretched pretty thin to fit everything that happened. The relationships between the other residents such that these events could occur unhindered were never clearly explained. Extracts from a 1920s diary and the voice of a person watching Freya and Skye just didn't feel authentic, especially once the identity of the person was revealed. Overall the plot felt very patchy and rushed and not up to K. L. Slater's usual standard.
With thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and Netgalley for a digital copy to read
This was quite an entertaining read but overall just felt a bit too contrived for me. I felt the basic premise was stretched pretty thin to fit everything that happened. The relationships between the other residents such that these events could occur unhindered were never clearly explained. Extracts from a 1920s diary and the voice of a person watching Freya and Skye just didn't feel authentic, especially once the identity of the person was revealed. Overall the plot felt very patchy and rushed and not up to K. L. Slater's usual standard.
With thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and Netgalley for a digital copy to read
April 27, 2020
K.L. Slater is another author on my go to list that I don’t even bother with a synopsis anymore as I know I will easily become engaged in whatever new story she has penned. And thankfully The Apartment lived right up to my expectations and was another solid psychological thriller.
Freya Miller is a young newly single mother who has gone through quite a bit in her recent past. Not only did her husband cheat on her and leave her but shortly afterwards before they could divorce he passed away leaving her completely alone in raising their daughter.
Freya hasn’t found work yet and only has a little savings to find herself and her daughter a new place to live. Out of nowhere Freya meets a man who has an apartment for rent in a lovely building in a great neighborhood that all seems way too good to be true. When given a quote on an incredibly low rent Freya can’t pass the opportunity up but after moving in Freya begins to see the opportunity may not have been as good as she thought.
Now I am one that completely enjoys and fast pace thrill ride but dare I say with The Apartment I almost felt as if this one was a little too fast. I couldn’t help but wish the book had been a little bit longer to fully dive into the ominous nature of the story but instead felt as if it were all a bit too rushed into. This was still a great read though that enjoyed and will still be a huge fan of this author.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Freya Miller is a young newly single mother who has gone through quite a bit in her recent past. Not only did her husband cheat on her and leave her but shortly afterwards before they could divorce he passed away leaving her completely alone in raising their daughter.
Freya hasn’t found work yet and only has a little savings to find herself and her daughter a new place to live. Out of nowhere Freya meets a man who has an apartment for rent in a lovely building in a great neighborhood that all seems way too good to be true. When given a quote on an incredibly low rent Freya can’t pass the opportunity up but after moving in Freya begins to see the opportunity may not have been as good as she thought.
Now I am one that completely enjoys and fast pace thrill ride but dare I say with The Apartment I almost felt as if this one was a little too fast. I couldn’t help but wish the book had been a little bit longer to fully dive into the ominous nature of the story but instead felt as if it were all a bit too rushed into. This was still a great read though that enjoyed and will still be a huge fan of this author.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
April 24, 2020
A slightly creepy tale reminding us that if something seems to good to be true, then it usually is!
Freya Miller has lost her husband, she has to sell the family home, she's feeling vulnerable and emotional, and needs a miracle. Just when she's at her lowest, she's approached by a man in a coffee shop, offering her and her daughter Skye, a place to live. An amazing, expensive place in Kensington, for an affordable price!
It seems perfect, but is it? Freya feels watched, things move in her flat, and her landlords are very strange...
To say I was underwhelmed by The Apartment would be an understatement! I struggled to get through it, and had to force myself to read at times, luckily it was a short book! But I probably should have DNFed it really! It was a little bit creepy, but nothing like as scary as it could have been, and the tension and build up, could have been done a lot better!
This book was slow. The plot was repetitive, and seemed to go around in circles. Not much really happened until quite near the end of the book, and even then, I wasn't really shocked! I mean we knew from the start not to trust the other residents?!
I wasn't keen on this being written in the present tense. It was mostly written in the present, but would then jump back into the past, as we read someone's journal. I don't mind that in a book, if its done well, but the flashbacks in this book were confusing and uninteresting to me.
I didn't feel that the characters were well developed, aside from Freya, and even though her character was well fleshed out, I found her quite unlikeable. Her naivety was so ridiculous, that I just couldn't believe it! Who tells complete strangers such personal things about themselves, and lets them take control of their life like that?! The amount of red flags, would have had most people running, the minute they even visited the place! I could however, feel Freya's fear, panic and rising stress levels, as well as her love and protectiveness for Skye, so that was done well.
BUT, why didn't she ever google things on her phone?! Was it me, or did she wait until she got home to search on her laptop each time?! What decade was this meant to be set in? From the start, I was muttering to Freya that she should look into it more before making such a huge decision, but alas no...
The action did start to pick up at about 90% in, but then that ending happened.
After such a slow build up, it unbelievably felt rushed and sudden?! It was so far fetched, silly and pointless, that it was actually laughable. There were so many plotlines and characters that were left hanging! Why include them, if they're not going to go anywhere?! I had many questions after, and it quite annoyed me!
To sum up, The Apartment was boring, ridiculous and disappointing read for me. I haven't read anything else by K.L. Slater, and after this, I am reluctant to do so! I've heard this is reminiscent of Lock Every Door by Riley sager, which I own, but now am not looking forward to reading.
However, this book does have many good reviews, it sadly, just wasn't the one for me.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for my early readers copy, in exchange for an honest review.
Freya Miller has lost her husband, she has to sell the family home, she's feeling vulnerable and emotional, and needs a miracle. Just when she's at her lowest, she's approached by a man in a coffee shop, offering her and her daughter Skye, a place to live. An amazing, expensive place in Kensington, for an affordable price!
It seems perfect, but is it? Freya feels watched, things move in her flat, and her landlords are very strange...
To say I was underwhelmed by The Apartment would be an understatement! I struggled to get through it, and had to force myself to read at times, luckily it was a short book! But I probably should have DNFed it really! It was a little bit creepy, but nothing like as scary as it could have been, and the tension and build up, could have been done a lot better!
This book was slow. The plot was repetitive, and seemed to go around in circles. Not much really happened until quite near the end of the book, and even then, I wasn't really shocked! I mean we knew from the start not to trust the other residents?!
I wasn't keen on this being written in the present tense. It was mostly written in the present, but would then jump back into the past, as we read someone's journal. I don't mind that in a book, if its done well, but the flashbacks in this book were confusing and uninteresting to me.
I didn't feel that the characters were well developed, aside from Freya, and even though her character was well fleshed out, I found her quite unlikeable. Her naivety was so ridiculous, that I just couldn't believe it! Who tells complete strangers such personal things about themselves, and lets them take control of their life like that?! The amount of red flags, would have had most people running, the minute they even visited the place! I could however, feel Freya's fear, panic and rising stress levels, as well as her love and protectiveness for Skye, so that was done well.
BUT, why didn't she ever google things on her phone?! Was it me, or did she wait until she got home to search on her laptop each time?! What decade was this meant to be set in? From the start, I was muttering to Freya that she should look into it more before making such a huge decision, but alas no...
The action did start to pick up at about 90% in, but then that ending happened.
After such a slow build up, it unbelievably felt rushed and sudden?! It was so far fetched, silly and pointless, that it was actually laughable. There were so many plotlines and characters that were left hanging! Why include them, if they're not going to go anywhere?! I had many questions after, and it quite annoyed me!
To sum up, The Apartment was boring, ridiculous and disappointing read for me. I haven't read anything else by K.L. Slater, and after this, I am reluctant to do so! I've heard this is reminiscent of Lock Every Door by Riley sager, which I own, but now am not looking forward to reading.
However, this book does have many good reviews, it sadly, just wasn't the one for me.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for my early readers copy, in exchange for an honest review.
April 21, 2020
AVERAGE PLOT but NICELY PACED!
A single mother in financial stress, finds an offer for a luxury apartment that is literally too good to be true. In her current financial state though she can't help but accept the offer. After moving in, strange noises and occurrences start to happen as well as disturbing things from the past occupants come to light that have the mother questioning her decision altogether. Is she going crazy or is something nefarious occurring?
The author provides a simple plot combined with a decent pace that leaves the reader with a relatively entertaining experience. It is a very quick read as well. Additionally, this book is very similar to Riley Sager's "Lock Every Door". Although, I ultimately prefer Sager's book, it created more apprehension and suspense.
I have read several K. L. Slater books and I think they are all very similar to one another in style and pace. Each one is an average plot, average suspense and a quick fast paced read. I generally have rated all of them 3 stars. Even though I don't rate them very high, I still find myself reading her books because I do enjoy the fact I know exactly what I'm getting when I read her books. That I will have a decent quick entertaining read without having to think about it too much. It's nice to have a "go to author" for that reason.
*Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK via NetGalley for access to the digital review copy!
A single mother in financial stress, finds an offer for a luxury apartment that is literally too good to be true. In her current financial state though she can't help but accept the offer. After moving in, strange noises and occurrences start to happen as well as disturbing things from the past occupants come to light that have the mother questioning her decision altogether. Is she going crazy or is something nefarious occurring?
The author provides a simple plot combined with a decent pace that leaves the reader with a relatively entertaining experience. It is a very quick read as well. Additionally, this book is very similar to Riley Sager's "Lock Every Door". Although, I ultimately prefer Sager's book, it created more apprehension and suspense.
I have read several K. L. Slater books and I think they are all very similar to one another in style and pace. Each one is an average plot, average suspense and a quick fast paced read. I generally have rated all of them 3 stars. Even though I don't rate them very high, I still find myself reading her books because I do enjoy the fact I know exactly what I'm getting when I read her books. That I will have a decent quick entertaining read without having to think about it too much. It's nice to have a "go to author" for that reason.
*Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK via NetGalley for access to the digital review copy!
April 13, 2020
Single mom Freya Millers is going through a very hard time. Her husband, who had left her for one of her friends, has died, and her dire financial situation has forced her to sell the family home. So she can't believe her luck when she's offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live at the luxurious Adder House. The rent is cheap, and the charming owner, Dr. Marsden, assures her that she and her five-year-old daughter will be a perfect fit with the other residents. And the Marsdens are going above and beyond to make sure Freya and Skye feel comfortable and welcome in their new home. The moving cost is paid for and they're even helping Freya make arrangements for Skye to transfer to a new school. Seems too good to be true? That's because it is.
I really enjoyed this addictive and suspenseful psychological thriller. The writing style is easy and engaging, and the creepy, foreboding atmosphere of the house kept me on the edge of my seat until the shocking twist. Freya and Skye are both likable characters and you can't help but cheer them on and hope that things turn out okay for them. I thought the author did a wonderful job of building the tension and making the reader second guess everything. Is there really something sinister going on at Adder House, or is it all in Freya's mind? I thought the conclusion was satisfying, but I wish we knew what became of little Douglas. How was he affected by what was done to him? I wish the author had answered this question since it played such an important role in the story.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with this twisty psychological thriller and highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this addictive and suspenseful psychological thriller. The writing style is easy and engaging, and the creepy, foreboding atmosphere of the house kept me on the edge of my seat until the shocking twist. Freya and Skye are both likable characters and you can't help but cheer them on and hope that things turn out okay for them. I thought the author did a wonderful job of building the tension and making the reader second guess everything. Is there really something sinister going on at Adder House, or is it all in Freya's mind? I thought the conclusion was satisfying, but I wish we knew what became of little Douglas. How was he affected by what was done to him? I wish the author had answered this question since it played such an important role in the story.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with this twisty psychological thriller and highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2020
Freya has sold her house because she has lost her husband. She is not looking forward to living with her five year old daughter in a friends spare room. A chance meeting in a coffee shop with a retired doctor gets her an apartment in an upmarket house for very little rent. She accepts the apartment but she is sure that this must be too good to be true.
A psychological thriller that gave me flashbacks of Rosemary’s Baby.
The tension built from chapter to Chaper and I didn’t not want to put this book down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
A psychological thriller that gave me flashbacks of Rosemary’s Baby.
The tension built from chapter to Chaper and I didn’t not want to put this book down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2020
I have read several of K.L Slater’s books, so I actually did a dance for joy when I got the opportunity to review this. I am a huge fan!!
Freya Miller is approached by Dr Michael Marston in a coffee shop, he just so happens to be looking for the “right type of tenant” for his luxury apartment Adder House. Freya coincidently happens to be looking for a place to live with her daughter Skye, as they are losing their family home after the death of her husband. Surely this is too good to be true!!!
When Freya moves in, strange things start to occur and the Marsdons seem to be taking too much of an interest in Freya’s life.
Loved the creepiness of it all. Poor Freya is feeling vulnerable and is not in the right frame of mind to at first see what is happening, but she soon starts to investigate the history of her apartment. You can trust a Dr can’t you?
I read this practically in one sitting. I found myself wanting to shake Freya to wise up!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review
Freya Miller is approached by Dr Michael Marston in a coffee shop, he just so happens to be looking for the “right type of tenant” for his luxury apartment Adder House. Freya coincidently happens to be looking for a place to live with her daughter Skye, as they are losing their family home after the death of her husband. Surely this is too good to be true!!!
When Freya moves in, strange things start to occur and the Marsdons seem to be taking too much of an interest in Freya’s life.
Loved the creepiness of it all. Poor Freya is feeling vulnerable and is not in the right frame of mind to at first see what is happening, but she soon starts to investigate the history of her apartment. You can trust a Dr can’t you?
I read this practically in one sitting. I found myself wanting to shake Freya to wise up!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review
April 26, 2020
It took me awhile to get around to this book. I love the author, but there are very mixed reviews for THE APARTMENT, and some have compared it to Riley Sager’s LOCK EVERY DOOR, which left me feeling a bit underwhelmed. I was pleasantly surprised by this one.
Of course, the initial offer to move into the apartment is too good to be true, so we know something sinister is going on. The question is WHAT.
This is a fast-paced thriller that kept me intrigued throughout. While I may not understand some actions of the characters, I still think K.L. Slater does a great job writing them. The relationship between Freya and her daughter was very well fleshed out. The ending is a bit over the top, but I still consider this another successful entry in Slater’s work. 3.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you to K.L. Slater, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Of course, the initial offer to move into the apartment is too good to be true, so we know something sinister is going on. The question is WHAT.
This is a fast-paced thriller that kept me intrigued throughout. While I may not understand some actions of the characters, I still think K.L. Slater does a great job writing them. The relationship between Freya and her daughter was very well fleshed out. The ending is a bit over the top, but I still consider this another successful entry in Slater’s work. 3.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you to K.L. Slater, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2023
I freaking LOVED this book.
I literally devoured it in hours. It is a bit of a slow-burner this one, be patient because the pay off is really worth it. The last third of the book was brilliantly done. Twists and turns and more twists, some I had an inkling of towards the end but not all! It really delivers on the surprise factor.
This is my first novel by K L Slater. I know that is just shameful. I often saw her books on Goodreads and Amazon and know now I need to read them all. Better late than never to discover a great author.
The plotline of this book I found very unique, as someone who has read thousands of books and many in this genre I don't recall anything that fits with this. I find a lot of books in the psychological thriller genre can be so incredibly similar these days. Plots about missing children for example...I needed something fresh and this delivered big time.
The characters are fantastic. I was hooked on all of them. I could picture them in full colour and really feel this would make a fantastic movie or short mini-series. It would transfer well to the screen. The writing is excellent in its quality and depth and thankfully is not over descriptive nor cliched. I was really impressed. I have got picky in my old age (48) on what makes a good book so a five-star delivery is not giving out flippantly.
So much to like. I was literally glued to the book as it started to share its secrets and the reveals were exciting and kept coming at me. Just when I thought we had it all wrapped up the author hits you with another one. Boomshanka baby. Gotta love that right?
Highly recommended from me. Don't be dismayed if you find it a tad slow to start. It's laying the foundations of the characters which are so critical to the plot and what it finally slams you with. I love the cover too. Grab this one and get stuck in. I will absolutely be picking up and reading more of K L Slater's books. Kudos!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my review copy of The Apartment. All opinions are my own and totally unbiased.
I literally devoured it in hours. It is a bit of a slow-burner this one, be patient because the pay off is really worth it. The last third of the book was brilliantly done. Twists and turns and more twists, some I had an inkling of towards the end but not all! It really delivers on the surprise factor.
This is my first novel by K L Slater. I know that is just shameful. I often saw her books on Goodreads and Amazon and know now I need to read them all. Better late than never to discover a great author.
The plotline of this book I found very unique, as someone who has read thousands of books and many in this genre I don't recall anything that fits with this. I find a lot of books in the psychological thriller genre can be so incredibly similar these days. Plots about missing children for example...I needed something fresh and this delivered big time.
The characters are fantastic. I was hooked on all of them. I could picture them in full colour and really feel this would make a fantastic movie or short mini-series. It would transfer well to the screen. The writing is excellent in its quality and depth and thankfully is not over descriptive nor cliched. I was really impressed. I have got picky in my old age (48) on what makes a good book so a five-star delivery is not giving out flippantly.
So much to like. I was literally glued to the book as it started to share its secrets and the reveals were exciting and kept coming at me. Just when I thought we had it all wrapped up the author hits you with another one. Boomshanka baby. Gotta love that right?
Highly recommended from me. Don't be dismayed if you find it a tad slow to start. It's laying the foundations of the characters which are so critical to the plot and what it finally slams you with. I love the cover too. Grab this one and get stuck in. I will absolutely be picking up and reading more of K L Slater's books. Kudos!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my review copy of The Apartment. All opinions are my own and totally unbiased.
April 7, 2020
You know that old saying if something is too good to be true…That is the entire premise of “The Apartment”. This wasn’t a bad book per se but it just didn’t have a really big thrill factor for me. The premise of the novel really wasn’t anything new and I was able to guess what was going to happen. The ending was a little too touchy-feely for me as well. The best I can say is this isn’t the worst book I’ve read but it certainly isn’t the greatest either.
March 24, 2020
You know the old saying that if something seems too good to be true it probably is? Well that saying completely applies to The Apartment by K.L. Slater. I spent most of the book yelling at Freya in my head and telling her to get out, but no one ever listens.
The Apartment was a slow burn but also fast-paced if that makes sense, and I loved the writing. This was my first K.L. Slater book even though I've been meaning to read her books forever and I'm glad I finally did. I can already tell that I'm bound to love the rest of her novels.
I'm keeping this short because I don't want to give anything away, but if you're looking for a quick, twisty, and suspenseful read I would recommend The Apartment. I was surprised by the ending and overall really enjoyed it all. I will definitely be moving this author's other books up on my TBR now too!
Thank you to the publisher for my advance review copy via NetGalley. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
The Apartment was a slow burn but also fast-paced if that makes sense, and I loved the writing. This was my first K.L. Slater book even though I've been meaning to read her books forever and I'm glad I finally did. I can already tell that I'm bound to love the rest of her novels.
I'm keeping this short because I don't want to give anything away, but if you're looking for a quick, twisty, and suspenseful read I would recommend The Apartment. I was surprised by the ending and overall really enjoyed it all. I will definitely be moving this author's other books up on my TBR now too!
Thank you to the publisher for my advance review copy via NetGalley. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
April 28, 2020
The Apartment is an easy "read in an afternoon" kind of book and doesn't muck around. At no point was there a slow pace for me: it was short and punchy, with the tension continually ramping up.
I guessed the twist on this one, but by no means did it spoil the experience for me.
My only problem with the story is how ridiculously unlikely it all seemed. But then, it is a story, not real life, so I shouldn't really complain.
However, I'm looking forward to exploring the rest of KL Slater's books!
3.5 stars rounded down.
I guessed the twist on this one, but by no means did it spoil the experience for me.
My only problem with the story is how ridiculously unlikely it all seemed. But then, it is a story, not real life, so I shouldn't really complain.
However, I'm looking forward to exploring the rest of KL Slater's books!
3.5 stars rounded down.
August 15, 2022
My thanks, to Amazon Publishing, U.K., K.L.Slater, and Netgalley. This story was completely immersive. I began reading, and I was well and truly hooked. I'd fall asleep reading this book, and it would follow me into my dreams. I love those kind of stories!. I identified with Freya almost immediately. I understood her relief at thinking she had found a safe place for her and Skye. Then finding out, to her horror, how very mistaken she had been. This is an author that I intend to read more of.
March 11, 2020
The Apartment, a psychological thriller, was a solid 4 stars. The book centers around main character Freya-a woman with a young daughter that is “down on her luck” after the recent passing of her husband. After a chance meeting with a stranger (Dr. Marsden), she is given a change to live in Adder House-a beautiful apartment building for relatively low rent. Everything seems too good to be true, until it is not. After moving into Adder House, strange occurrences start happening in Freya’s apartment-such as hearing voices and furniture being moved around. Is the apartment building haunted or something more sinister going on?!?! No spoilers but The Apartment is definitely a creepy read and I throughly enjoyed the storyline. A fast paced book that is highly recommend to fans that enjoy fiction, psychological thrillers and darker theme books. Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to review this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2020
The saying if it's too good to be true, then it probably is, is one that has cautioned us from making some bad choices.
In K.L. Slater's book, The Apartment, perhaps Freya should have thought of that before she says yes to a complete stranger with an offer too good to be true.
We first meet 30-something, Freya, mother to fiver year old Skye. Although separated at the time of his death, Freya, now a widow, is unable to afford the family home where she and Skye reside. But just as things look bleak for Freya, a chance encounter at a local Starbucks givers her the opportunity of a lifetime.
Freya meets Dr. Marsden, who tells her of a vacancy in his apartment building, the prestigious Adder House. If you think that sounds too good to be true, wit theres more. How could Freya afford an apartment in the fabulous Adder house in one of the most upscale neighborhoods? Dr. Marsden tells her not to worry, pay what you can afford.
At this point in the story, while the neon flashing light in everyone's mind says "Run, Run very fast and don't look back," Freya thanks Dr. Marsden for the generous off and moves in with Skye.
Soon after moving in, things don't seem right and there are alot of unexplained and creepy occurrences.
Freya can't quite put her finger on it but she becomes suspicious that the once welcoming residents harbor secrets and know more about the previous residents than they are telling.
There are strange noises, creeks and knocks that has Freya unnerved. She must discover the secrets of Adder house before something awful happens to herself and Skye.
K.L. Slater's, The Apartment, picks up speed after Freya moves in the apartment with several twists and turns but the reader must suspend any disbelief in the beginning in order to believe the creepy, suspenseful ending.
The book was a fast-read and I am giving it 3.5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. #NetGalley #TheApartment
March 28, 2020
I’ve seen this book around a lot and was really excited for it but I couldn’t really get in to it. I think the story line was a little far fetched and I found the ending confusing. It’s also a really quick read so the characters didn’t have a chance to develop and the relationships to build properly, it felt a bit rushed.
And don’t even get me started on how trusting and naive Freya is. Ignoring the fact she accepted the apartment in the first place, she’s telling her life story in her first conversations with people which I found really odd, as well as being invited (and accepting) neighbours invitations to come over after saying 2 sentences to each other. I get that’s meant to be welcoming but I found it weird? Maybe that’s just because I’m extremely introverted haha. The whole thing just felt a little too unbelievable to me.
And don’t even get me started on how trusting and naive Freya is. Ignoring the fact she accepted the apartment in the first place, she’s telling her life story in her first conversations with people which I found really odd, as well as being invited (and accepting) neighbours invitations to come over after saying 2 sentences to each other. I get that’s meant to be welcoming but I found it weird? Maybe that’s just because I’m extremely introverted haha. The whole thing just felt a little too unbelievable to me.
April 20, 2020
Freya is at her limit, her hubby left her to move in with an older ( not younger, this bugs her ) woman and then he dies, she is short of cash and is now looking for somewhere to rent.....she lives in Acton and is in a cafe in Kensington when a Dr Marsden just happens to be placing an advert for an apartment he has to rent, an apartment in ‘Adder House’ in a salubrious glorious street nearby
Of course its way out of Freya’s reach
But then Dr Marsden tells her he likes to help ‘good causes’ and asks her to say what she can afford and the place is hers
Now in a non book world she would have walked away and known for a fact it was dodgy, but this is the book world and although tentative she accepts
Her and Skye ( her daughter ) move in and its wonderful, until ...... it’s not and when she find out just what the other residents of Adder House are up to she will regret ever speaking to Dr Marsden never mind moving in..
A good quick thriller of a read with spooky characters and a very different back story to the norm, a naive but likeable Freya and a reminder that ‘if it seems too good to be true, it generally is’
8/10
4 Stars
Of course its way out of Freya’s reach
But then Dr Marsden tells her he likes to help ‘good causes’ and asks her to say what she can afford and the place is hers
Now in a non book world she would have walked away and known for a fact it was dodgy, but this is the book world and although tentative she accepts
Her and Skye ( her daughter ) move in and its wonderful, until ...... it’s not and when she find out just what the other residents of Adder House are up to she will regret ever speaking to Dr Marsden never mind moving in..
A good quick thriller of a read with spooky characters and a very different back story to the norm, a naive but likeable Freya and a reminder that ‘if it seems too good to be true, it generally is’
8/10
4 Stars
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