What do you think?
Rate this book
The Doll House
A gripping and addictive psychological thriller, with a romantic spin, that will have you enraptured in suspense until the very end...
Lila was seven when she lost her mother to suicide. Now, seventeen years later, everything seemed to be going well in her ordinary life. That was, until the gifts started.
When Lila returns home from a job interview she finds a seemingly innocent parcel left on her doorstep. Opening it up to find a doll, she puts it away without much thought until her friend Miles noticed the rope and bruises around its neck. Gradually the gifts become increasingly sinister and when they begin to hold meaning only Lila would understand, she realises this is no ordinary stalker.
The gifts reveal secrets from her mother’s dark past, causing Lila to question everything she thought she knew. With threatening gifts and innocent lives hanging in the balance, not to mention the ill-timed love-triangle she is thrown into, Lila’s life begins to unravel quickly and she’s forced to discover the strength within herself and the man she was truly meant to love. But who could possibly be responsible and more importantly, why?
Only one thing was clear.
Lila’s tormenter was not going to stop until he devastated the lives of her and everyone she cared about.
Lila was seven when she lost her mother to suicide. Now, seventeen years later, everything seemed to be going well in her ordinary life. That was, until the gifts started.
When Lila returns home from a job interview she finds a seemingly innocent parcel left on her doorstep. Opening it up to find a doll, she puts it away without much thought until her friend Miles noticed the rope and bruises around its neck. Gradually the gifts become increasingly sinister and when they begin to hold meaning only Lila would understand, she realises this is no ordinary stalker.
The gifts reveal secrets from her mother’s dark past, causing Lila to question everything she thought she knew. With threatening gifts and innocent lives hanging in the balance, not to mention the ill-timed love-triangle she is thrown into, Lila’s life begins to unravel quickly and she’s forced to discover the strength within herself and the man she was truly meant to love. But who could possibly be responsible and more importantly, why?
Only one thing was clear.
Lila’s tormenter was not going to stop until he devastated the lives of her and everyone she cared about.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 4, 2021
4 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 16, 2021
I received a review copy of The Doll House from the author Katie Masterman free of charge. It was my choice to read and review.
This is Katie's first book and for a first book, I was very impressed. I loved the creepiness and unfolding of the mystery, the pacing (not too fast or too slow), the realistic portrayal of relationships and the characters that felt really real, the background info that brings richness to the mystery, and the twists! I am giving it 3 stars because there were writing quirks that stuck out to me and "broke the 4th wall" because I could tell I was reading a debut novel.
This is Katie's first book and for a first book, I was very impressed. I loved the creepiness and unfolding of the mystery, the pacing (not too fast or too slow), the realistic portrayal of relationships and the characters that felt really real, the background info that brings richness to the mystery, and the twists! I am giving it 3 stars because there were writing quirks that stuck out to me and "broke the 4th wall" because I could tell I was reading a debut novel.
April 18, 2021
Book Review: The Doll House by @katiemwriter
Synopsis:
Lila was seven when she lost her mother to suicide. Now, seventeen years later, everything seemed to be going well in her ordinary life. That was, until the gifts started.
Gradually the gifts become increasingly sinister and when they begin to hold meaning only Lila would understand, she realises this is no ordinary stalker. But who could possibly be responsible and more importantly, why?
Review:
As everyone knows, I love a good thriller and this didn’t disappoint! It gripped me throughout and I enjoyed trying to put the pieces together to try and discover who was behind the creepy gifts.
The characters are well developed and you get hooked into their lives, I loved the friendship group and how they protected each other. The awkwardness between gaining feelings for a friend definitely came through really well and I loved the romances!
I liked the mystery aspect behind the novel too and trying to figure out how secrets from the past were intertwined with what was going on. I also enjoyed how the story had Lila dealing with every day life dramas (being stood up, being bored at work) alongside the dolls and creepiness. This definitely made the disturbing parts of the story stand out more and creep me out!
The twists and turns keep you hooked and the ending is fab- I loved how it all tied together and you could see all the clues slot into place.
This is an easy to read, quick paced thriller that I would definitely recommend. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me! #bookreview #bookrecommendations #katiemasterman #thedollhouse
Synopsis:
Lila was seven when she lost her mother to suicide. Now, seventeen years later, everything seemed to be going well in her ordinary life. That was, until the gifts started.
Gradually the gifts become increasingly sinister and when they begin to hold meaning only Lila would understand, she realises this is no ordinary stalker. But who could possibly be responsible and more importantly, why?
Review:
As everyone knows, I love a good thriller and this didn’t disappoint! It gripped me throughout and I enjoyed trying to put the pieces together to try and discover who was behind the creepy gifts.
The characters are well developed and you get hooked into their lives, I loved the friendship group and how they protected each other. The awkwardness between gaining feelings for a friend definitely came through really well and I loved the romances!
I liked the mystery aspect behind the novel too and trying to figure out how secrets from the past were intertwined with what was going on. I also enjoyed how the story had Lila dealing with every day life dramas (being stood up, being bored at work) alongside the dolls and creepiness. This definitely made the disturbing parts of the story stand out more and creep me out!
The twists and turns keep you hooked and the ending is fab- I loved how it all tied together and you could see all the clues slot into place.
This is an easy to read, quick paced thriller that I would definitely recommend. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me! #bookreview #bookrecommendations #katiemasterman #thedollhouse
January 24, 2021
This book has potential to receive 5/5 stars from me, however, I did give it a 4 and I’ll explain why.
The story was amazing, kept me interested all throughout. I love when an author makes room for some romance, even if it’s not the main genre of the book.
I have a few flaws to point out. The main thing for me is the punctuation. There were several sentences run-on sentences throughout the entire book that just makes it difficult to read. If the story line wasn’t go great, I wouldn’t have even finished it.
The next thing is just explaining the events better. Specifically the ending. I don’t want to add spoilers so I’ll explain the best I can. When I read the big twist at the end, I feel that the problem with her mother and his mother weren’t explained very well because I confused the two of them until the last chapter when she was talking to her friends about it. A few of the events that happened in the story seemed rushed to me. For instance, Lila’s relationship with Caleb. They both told each other facts about their life within a few days of knowing each other (from what I gathered) and then were able to just call it off with barely any emotion. However, I did enjoy Lila and Miles’s relationship development. I fell like it was not rushed and very believable.
The only other problem I have with the book is a few factors that seemed unrealistic. For example, when the police were called the first time, they talked very little to the group of friends and did not ask many questions, nor did they even try to collect fingerprints. In real life, that’s the first thing they would’ve done.
All in all, great book, loved the storyline, and a good ending.
The story was amazing, kept me interested all throughout. I love when an author makes room for some romance, even if it’s not the main genre of the book.
I have a few flaws to point out. The main thing for me is the punctuation. There were several sentences run-on sentences throughout the entire book that just makes it difficult to read. If the story line wasn’t go great, I wouldn’t have even finished it.
The next thing is just explaining the events better. Specifically the ending. I don’t want to add spoilers so I’ll explain the best I can. When I read the big twist at the end, I feel that the problem with her mother and his mother weren’t explained very well because I confused the two of them until the last chapter when she was talking to her friends about it. A few of the events that happened in the story seemed rushed to me. For instance, Lila’s relationship with Caleb. They both told each other facts about their life within a few days of knowing each other (from what I gathered) and then were able to just call it off with barely any emotion. However, I did enjoy Lila and Miles’s relationship development. I fell like it was not rushed and very believable.
The only other problem I have with the book is a few factors that seemed unrealistic. For example, when the police were called the first time, they talked very little to the group of friends and did not ask many questions, nor did they even try to collect fingerprints. In real life, that’s the first thing they would’ve done.
All in all, great book, loved the storyline, and a good ending.
February 16, 2021
This book was insane. I read this all in the same day - couldn’t put it down. Love a good thriller. Each chapter kept me so interested, wanting more and needing to find out who was leaving Lila dolls and lavender. Throughout I kept having various theories, trying to decide who I trusted and who I didn’t. The ending shocked me. It was one of those books that sent you into panic and on the edge of your seat.
Some very likeable characters. I really liked Lila and Miles. The romance between them was lovely too.
What a brilliant and gripping read!
Some very likeable characters. I really liked Lila and Miles. The romance between them was lovely too.
What a brilliant and gripping read!
January 16, 2021
Absolutely brilliant story! Couldn’t put this book down from start to finish! Unexpected twists and turns throughout which will keep you hooked! 10/10!!
January 15, 2021
Fantastic book! Gripping from the first page! Definitely worth a read! Lots of twists and unexpected outcomes! 5/5!
January 7, 2021
This book had me gripped from start to finish. It has everything, romance, mystery, excitement. I’m gutted it’s finished and I can’t recommend it highly enough. Perfect to lose yourself in during lockdown!
January 3, 2022
Terror, romance and every other emotion
I finished this book in 2 days, I never wanted to put it down. So many twists and turns and answers I needed.
I'm never normally a huge romance fan, but when it's entwined into a psychological thriller like this, apparently it works great. As a debut author I think it's amazing that Katie has managed to successfully do this.
I loved the characters and enjoyed the friends to lovers situations.
As a book, this one has quite a unique storyline with the right balance of every emotion. For someone who reads a lot of this genre it was very refreshing to read something different and something that did make me shiver and feel creeped out.
My only slight criticism of this book is the lack of fingerprint testing or input from the police investigations to begin with. But the author has a very good knowledge of the psychology world and I found those parts to be very well written (which is perfect considering one thing that really bugs me is when people portray psychology wrong).
A brilliant book besides the few minor typos, which for me were not enough to drop my rating. This is because my rating reflects the ability to captivate a reader with a great storyline and want to read more from them.
I finished this book in 2 days, I never wanted to put it down. So many twists and turns and answers I needed.
I'm never normally a huge romance fan, but when it's entwined into a psychological thriller like this, apparently it works great. As a debut author I think it's amazing that Katie has managed to successfully do this.
I loved the characters and enjoyed the friends to lovers situations.
As a book, this one has quite a unique storyline with the right balance of every emotion. For someone who reads a lot of this genre it was very refreshing to read something different and something that did make me shiver and feel creeped out.
My only slight criticism of this book is the lack of fingerprint testing or input from the police investigations to begin with. But the author has a very good knowledge of the psychology world and I found those parts to be very well written (which is perfect considering one thing that really bugs me is when people portray psychology wrong).
A brilliant book besides the few minor typos, which for me were not enough to drop my rating. This is because my rating reflects the ability to captivate a reader with a great storyline and want to read more from them.
April 25, 2021
I was gripped from the first page! I loved the characters so much especially Lila & Miles. There is a hint of romance in this which I didn't expect but it's fits so well with the rest of the story! But it also is scary, thrilling, gory, you name it!! This book had my heart RACING! I did not predict the ending at all! Which is something I love in a book 🙋🏽♀️
This is one of the best crime books I've read in a while!! I 100% recommend this book to everyone!! ❤️
This is one of the best crime books I've read in a while!! I 100% recommend this book to everyone!! ❤️
January 29, 2023
Good Thriller
I enjoyed this thriller. The characters were likeable, and it was well paced. Actually read this in one evening, which is credit to how engaging the plot was.
I enjoyed this thriller. The characters were likeable, and it was well paced. Actually read this in one evening, which is credit to how engaging the plot was.
February 14, 2021
Lila lebt zusammen mit ihren drei besten Freunden in einer WG. Alles scheint gut zu laufen, sie nimmt einen neuen Job an und trifft auf einen süßen Typen. Doch dann beginnt sie verstörende Geschenke zu erhalten, die sie an einen Teil ihres Lebens erinnern, den sie hinter sich lassen wollte, den Selbstmord ihrer Mutter.
Die Charaktere sich gut ausgearbeitet, vor allem Protagonistin Lila konnte mich mit ihrer nachvollziehbaren Handlungsweise überzeugen.
Auch bei der Handlung gab es die ein oder andere Überraschung und auch, immer wieder muss man seinen Verdacht überdenken und trotzdem kommt das Ende (zumindest für mich) unerwartet.
Der Schreibstil ist auch für nicht Muttersprachler gut zu lesen. Es kommt keine Langeweile auf und man möchte die ganze Zeit wissen wie es weiter geht.
Ich bin wirklich froh darüber, zufällig über den Debütroman von Katie Masterman gestolpert zu sein.
Die Charaktere sich gut ausgearbeitet, vor allem Protagonistin Lila konnte mich mit ihrer nachvollziehbaren Handlungsweise überzeugen.
Auch bei der Handlung gab es die ein oder andere Überraschung und auch, immer wieder muss man seinen Verdacht überdenken und trotzdem kommt das Ende (zumindest für mich) unerwartet.
Der Schreibstil ist auch für nicht Muttersprachler gut zu lesen. Es kommt keine Langeweile auf und man möchte die ganze Zeit wissen wie es weiter geht.
Ich bin wirklich froh darüber, zufällig über den Debütroman von Katie Masterman gestolpert zu sein.
February 17, 2021
This was a great read. Fast paced and classic thriller/ revenge twist and turn story. I wasn't a fan of the romance but that's me, there was nothing wrong with that part of the story. I'm just not a romance type of person, and I find it spoils a good gritty thriller. The action & scary parts really stood out for me, I jumped, I winced and I genuinely felt creeped out. These are really well written. For a first novel it's a great read. Well done Katie. My only question is do you have to have another maternity leave & pandemic to write your next book?
September 29, 2021
This is such a fun psychological thriller - if you’re looking for something really entertaining, fast paced, and quick this is it!
Katie Masterman did a really good job of setting up a “who done it” plot, and she gives you the killer right in the beginning but has a lot of twisties to throw you off track which was really really fun. The only thing that was bothersome was the main character Lila makes some really stupid decisions and as the reader that was frustrating to read.
Katie Masterman did a really good job of setting up a “who done it” plot, and she gives you the killer right in the beginning but has a lot of twisties to throw you off track which was really really fun. The only thing that was bothersome was the main character Lila makes some really stupid decisions and as the reader that was frustrating to read.
June 28, 2022
As a debut novel, Katie bloody killed it. I loved this, and it was super twisty and turny. She doesn't get gooey on the romance between characters, but instead, uses those relationships to her advantage as things get tenser as the book goes on.
I think considering Katie wrote this during COVID, with two kids in the house, shows she can the capability to become an incredible author. I'm looking forward to what she does next :)
I think considering Katie wrote this during COVID, with two kids in the house, shows she can the capability to become an incredible author. I'm looking forward to what she does next :)
February 12, 2021
This book has been one of the best ones I’ve ever read. I could not put it down, and to be honest I didn’t want it to end!
The author’s writing is very informative and descriptive, giving you full detail of your imagination!
Would highly recommend if you love a good physiological thriller!
The author’s writing is very informative and descriptive, giving you full detail of your imagination!
Would highly recommend if you love a good physiological thriller!
Read
February 2, 2021Gripping
I was told about this book by my daughter, she thought I would like it , well she was right , well written book , couldn't put it down, good plot right to the end.
I was told about this book by my daughter, she thought I would like it , well she was right , well written book , couldn't put it down, good plot right to the end.
February 4, 2021
A fantastic enthralling read from start to finish, a psychological thriller with a romantic twist which you don't often see in this genre. A brilliant debut novel. A must read.
February 10, 2021
Absolutely amazing!! I couldn't put it down, 100% recommend anyone to read who loves a thriller. The storyline kept me hooked until the very end. Thank you Katie, it was a pleasure to read.
Read
August 9, 2022Trigger & Content Warnings:
Suicide
Murder
Fire
Stalking
Suicide
Murder
Fire
Stalking
October 26, 2021
3.5 stars;
Lila was seven when she lost her mum to suicide. Seventeen years later, she seems to be getting on well with her life, until the dolls start arriving. Doll after doll with suspicious bruising and rope marks, hinting at secrets surrounding her mother’s death.
⚠️ content warnings: suicide, stalking, fire and fire injury, death, murder
This book is very tense and creepy - the author does a brilliant job of writing suspense, that often made me want to keep reading and finish this in one go! I really enjoyed reading the journey that Lila went on to get the answers she craved.
I think that the characterisation could do with some work, why was everyone so attractive, and why was it commented on every time a new character was introduced? From my point of view, this was a little unnecessary!
A really solid debut, and looking forward to reading Katie Masterman’s next book!
Lila was seven when she lost her mum to suicide. Seventeen years later, she seems to be getting on well with her life, until the dolls start arriving. Doll after doll with suspicious bruising and rope marks, hinting at secrets surrounding her mother’s death.
⚠️ content warnings: suicide, stalking, fire and fire injury, death, murder
This book is very tense and creepy - the author does a brilliant job of writing suspense, that often made me want to keep reading and finish this in one go! I really enjoyed reading the journey that Lila went on to get the answers she craved.
I think that the characterisation could do with some work, why was everyone so attractive, and why was it commented on every time a new character was introduced? From my point of view, this was a little unnecessary!
A really solid debut, and looking forward to reading Katie Masterman’s next book!
February 25, 2024
Well the ending was not what I was expecting! Lila is a strong character and I really felt for her especially when you find out who has been send her the gifts that were so relatable to her mother, but weren't her mother. Definitely recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews