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The Guest Room
You think you’re safe in your home. You’re wrong.
Ever since Steph’s husband walked out after a thirty-year marriage, home hasn’t felt like a safe haven. Her daughter Bea thinks she’s imagining things. But Steph knows that the noises in the night, the open windows she knows she left closed, the strange smell in the kitchen – none of it feels right.
Then her house is broken into, and a young man named Noah helps her fix the front window. He’s fallen on hard times and Steph impulsively offers him a place to stay. At least if he is there, she won’t be home alone.
Before long Noah is living in Bea’s old bedroom, paying rent, and getting his life back on track. Steph’s ex-husband and Bea are furious. But Steph feels secure at last.
Until the strange things start happening once more.
Until it becomes clear someone will stop at nothing to make her never, ever feel safe again.
The most twisty and unputdownable thriller of the year – perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Mark Edwards and Gone Girl.
Ever since Steph’s husband walked out after a thirty-year marriage, home hasn’t felt like a safe haven. Her daughter Bea thinks she’s imagining things. But Steph knows that the noises in the night, the open windows she knows she left closed, the strange smell in the kitchen – none of it feels right.
Then her house is broken into, and a young man named Noah helps her fix the front window. He’s fallen on hard times and Steph impulsively offers him a place to stay. At least if he is there, she won’t be home alone.
Before long Noah is living in Bea’s old bedroom, paying rent, and getting his life back on track. Steph’s ex-husband and Bea are furious. But Steph feels secure at last.
Until the strange things start happening once more.
Until it becomes clear someone will stop at nothing to make her never, ever feel safe again.
The most twisty and unputdownable thriller of the year – perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Mark Edwards and Gone Girl.
290 pages, Paperback
First published January 31, 2022
462 people are currently reading
1527 people want to read
About the author
Rona Halsall
20 books529 followersRona is the #1 best selling author of twisty psychological thrillers and loves to create mayhem in her characters' lives to keep her readers guessing. She lives halfway up a mountain in Snowdonia, North Wales with her three dogs - Maid, Evie and Sandy who are the writing support team.
She is an outdoorsy person, who loves nothing better than stomping up a mountain, and wandering round forests and woodlands while she's plotting her next book. Outside is where the ideas are!
The peak of her writing career was being short-listed for the International Thriller Writers Awards 2024, for THE BIGAMIST. The translation was also shortlisted for an award in Holland.
For the latest news and information on all her books you can check out her website: https://ronahalsall.org/
You can also sign up to her newsletter here:
https://bit.ly/RonaHalsallNews
Also...If you follow her Author page on Amazon, you'll get notifications when a new book is out. You can have a look here:
UK - https://tinyurl.com/yfk4ydyt
US - https://tinyurl.com/26cwfkc7
Go on... hit that Follow button!
She is an outdoorsy person, who loves nothing better than stomping up a mountain, and wandering round forests and woodlands while she's plotting her next book. Outside is where the ideas are!
The peak of her writing career was being short-listed for the International Thriller Writers Awards 2024, for THE BIGAMIST. The translation was also shortlisted for an award in Holland.
For the latest news and information on all her books you can check out her website: https://ronahalsall.org/
You can also sign up to her newsletter here:
https://bit.ly/RonaHalsallNews
Also...If you follow her Author page on Amazon, you'll get notifications when a new book is out. You can have a look here:
UK - https://tinyurl.com/yfk4ydyt
US - https://tinyurl.com/26cwfkc7
Go on... hit that Follow button!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 245 reviews
February 10, 2022
EXCERPT: Steph sniffed the air as she opened the front door, shaking raindrops from her hair.
Cigarette smoke?
She stopped and sniffed again. This time she was sure, the hairs rising on the back of her neck, goosebumps prickling her arms. She lived alone and didn't smoke. Nobody in the family smoked.
Is there somebody in the house?
ABOUT 'THE GUEST ROOM': You think you’re safe in your home. You’re wrong.
Ever since Steph’s husband walked out after a thirty-year marriage, home hasn’t felt like a safe haven. Her daughter Bea thinks she’s imagining things. But Steph knows that the noises in the night, the open windows she knows she left closed, the strange smell in the kitchen – none of it feels right.
Then her house is broken into, and a young man named Noah helps her fix the front window. He’s fallen on hard times and Steph impulsively offers him a place to stay. At least if he is there, she won’t be home alone.
Before long Noah is living in Bea’s old bedroom, paying rent, and getting his life back on track. Steph’s ex-husband and Bea are furious. But Steph feels secure at last.
Until the strange things start happening once more.
Until it becomes clear someone will stop at nothing to make her never, ever feel safe again.
MY THOUGHTS: I abandoned Rona Halsall's The Guest Room at 54%. I started by listening to the audiobook, but I didn't like the narrator, Emma Gregory. Her own speaking voice was perfectly pleasant, but the voices she used for some of the characters, Bea in particular, were forced, unnatural and irritating. So I switched to my Kindle copy and battled on to a little after halfway before I decided to abandon this read, unable to face the thought of picking it up again and grinding on. I was bored by this book.
My comments at the time were: 'Nothing is happening. I don't like any of the characters, I have no connection with them. I just can't understand a mother who hasn't heard from her son since he left to join the armed forces ten years earlier, and who hasn't tried to find him until now. Not my cup of tea.'
I have nothing else to add, other than this book has absolutely nothing in common with anything written by Lisa Jewell at all. The comment on the publicity blurb, 'perfect for the fans of Lisa Jewell' was what initially attracted me, but couldn't be further from the truth.
⭐
#TheGuestRoom #NetGalley
I: @ronahalsall @bookouture
T: @RonaHalsallAuth @Bookouture
#contemporaryfiction
THE AUTHOR: Rona loves a puzzle to solve, so now she writes them... her challenge is to find domestic storylines with twists that keep her readers guessing right to the end.
She has been a bit of a nomad during her adult life, moving around the north of England. Then settled in Snowdonia, North Wales where she brought up her family while working as a business mentor. She now lives on the Isle of Man with her husband and two dogs.
She is an outdoorsy person and loves stomping up a mountain, walking the coastal paths and exploring the wonderful glens and beaches on the Island while she's plotting her next book. She has three children and two step-children who are all grown up and leading varied and interesting lives, which provides plenty of ideas for new stories.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing both a digital and audio ARC of The Guest Room by Rona Halsall 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/...
Cigarette smoke?
She stopped and sniffed again. This time she was sure, the hairs rising on the back of her neck, goosebumps prickling her arms. She lived alone and didn't smoke. Nobody in the family smoked.
Is there somebody in the house?
ABOUT 'THE GUEST ROOM': You think you’re safe in your home. You’re wrong.
Ever since Steph’s husband walked out after a thirty-year marriage, home hasn’t felt like a safe haven. Her daughter Bea thinks she’s imagining things. But Steph knows that the noises in the night, the open windows she knows she left closed, the strange smell in the kitchen – none of it feels right.
Then her house is broken into, and a young man named Noah helps her fix the front window. He’s fallen on hard times and Steph impulsively offers him a place to stay. At least if he is there, she won’t be home alone.
Before long Noah is living in Bea’s old bedroom, paying rent, and getting his life back on track. Steph’s ex-husband and Bea are furious. But Steph feels secure at last.
Until the strange things start happening once more.
Until it becomes clear someone will stop at nothing to make her never, ever feel safe again.
MY THOUGHTS: I abandoned Rona Halsall's The Guest Room at 54%. I started by listening to the audiobook, but I didn't like the narrator, Emma Gregory. Her own speaking voice was perfectly pleasant, but the voices she used for some of the characters, Bea in particular, were forced, unnatural and irritating. So I switched to my Kindle copy and battled on to a little after halfway before I decided to abandon this read, unable to face the thought of picking it up again and grinding on. I was bored by this book.
My comments at the time were: 'Nothing is happening. I don't like any of the characters, I have no connection with them. I just can't understand a mother who hasn't heard from her son since he left to join the armed forces ten years earlier, and who hasn't tried to find him until now. Not my cup of tea.'
I have nothing else to add, other than this book has absolutely nothing in common with anything written by Lisa Jewell at all. The comment on the publicity blurb, 'perfect for the fans of Lisa Jewell' was what initially attracted me, but couldn't be further from the truth.
⭐
#TheGuestRoom #NetGalley
I: @ronahalsall @bookouture
T: @RonaHalsallAuth @Bookouture
#contemporaryfiction
THE AUTHOR: Rona loves a puzzle to solve, so now she writes them... her challenge is to find domestic storylines with twists that keep her readers guessing right to the end.
She has been a bit of a nomad during her adult life, moving around the north of England. Then settled in Snowdonia, North Wales where she brought up her family while working as a business mentor. She now lives on the Isle of Man with her husband and two dogs.
She is an outdoorsy person and loves stomping up a mountain, walking the coastal paths and exploring the wonderful glens and beaches on the Island while she's plotting her next book. She has three children and two step-children who are all grown up and leading varied and interesting lives, which provides plenty of ideas for new stories.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing both a digital and audio ARC of The Guest Room by Rona Halsall 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/...
November 25, 2021
3.5 rounded up
Steph reflects on her grown-up children Bea and her son Max who she hasn’t seen for ten years and on her life with ex-husband Andy with whom she is now engaged in a fight to stay in the house that has been her sanctuary for the last thirty years. One evening she returns home from her work at a homeless shelter to find there are clear signs that there has been an intruder. Later, her house is broken into and a young man named Noah helps her to fix the damage. Noah has fallen on hard times and he’s really struggling and Steph impulsively offers him her guestroom. She hopes this will make her feel more secure in her much loved home but will it?
Initially the style of writing seems a bit ploddy but then something clicks into place, the writing become smoother the storyline starts to flow and I connect with it. I very much like the focus on the real plight of the homeless and Noah’s storyline is a very good one to follow. Steph is a very nice woman, she is extremely kind, she’s probably somewhat naive but that’s not necessary a criticism to see the best in people. Her husband Andy is very easy to dislike but examining their broken relationship and understanding more of their complex family dynamics is very interesting and immersive reading. The storyline in places is a bit predictable but that’s not to say I don’t enjoy it as it’s easy to read and I do race through it to get to the truth. The person behind Steph’s issues is not too difficult to figure out but seeing her suspicions flitting from one person to the next until she works it all out is entertaining.
Overall, it’s a novel that contains good twists and turns with constantly changing scenarios and with a good social focus.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bookouture for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Steph reflects on her grown-up children Bea and her son Max who she hasn’t seen for ten years and on her life with ex-husband Andy with whom she is now engaged in a fight to stay in the house that has been her sanctuary for the last thirty years. One evening she returns home from her work at a homeless shelter to find there are clear signs that there has been an intruder. Later, her house is broken into and a young man named Noah helps her to fix the damage. Noah has fallen on hard times and he’s really struggling and Steph impulsively offers him her guestroom. She hopes this will make her feel more secure in her much loved home but will it?
Initially the style of writing seems a bit ploddy but then something clicks into place, the writing become smoother the storyline starts to flow and I connect with it. I very much like the focus on the real plight of the homeless and Noah’s storyline is a very good one to follow. Steph is a very nice woman, she is extremely kind, she’s probably somewhat naive but that’s not necessary a criticism to see the best in people. Her husband Andy is very easy to dislike but examining their broken relationship and understanding more of their complex family dynamics is very interesting and immersive reading. The storyline in places is a bit predictable but that’s not to say I don’t enjoy it as it’s easy to read and I do race through it to get to the truth. The person behind Steph’s issues is not too difficult to figure out but seeing her suspicions flitting from one person to the next until she works it all out is entertaining.
Overall, it’s a novel that contains good twists and turns with constantly changing scenarios and with a good social focus.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bookouture for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
November 20, 2021
Strange things are occurring around Steph’s house. Her husband has walked out on her after 30 years of marriage, and her kids have grown and left home. Now alone for the first time, Steph can’t help but feel like an intruder is messing with her, even spending time in her house. Separate and curious incidents soon blend into a frightening pattern. Steph takes a closer look at those in her life who may wish her harm. She was recently pushed down an escalator and broke her ankle after all.
Desperate for company, and to save her beloved house from her impending divorce, Steph invites a homeless man to lodge with her. A risky and possibly stupid move considering the “incidents” only seem to increase after Noah moves in. Someone is determined to push Steph out of her house. Will she be able to stop the intruder before it’s too late?
The Guest Room is a proper thriller with Halsall pointing the accusatory finger to those closest to Steph. But who would want to harm such a kind woman? The guilty party will send chills up your spine. Get ready for is real treat.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Desperate for company, and to save her beloved house from her impending divorce, Steph invites a homeless man to lodge with her. A risky and possibly stupid move considering the “incidents” only seem to increase after Noah moves in. Someone is determined to push Steph out of her house. Will she be able to stop the intruder before it’s too late?
The Guest Room is a proper thriller with Halsall pointing the accusatory finger to those closest to Steph. But who would want to harm such a kind woman? The guilty party will send chills up your spine. Get ready for is real treat.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 24, 2021
I have read a couple of books of Rona Halsall before, and this book follows a similar style. Overall, it holds the suspense quite well and is fast moving, though there are a few plot limitations.
Steph’s life is at a crossroads, with her husband of 30 years Andy walking out of their marriage. Her son had left home nearly 10 years back and there has been no word from him since long. Her daughter is married to a wealthy man, and is her source of support. Steph is keen to continue in her home which has many memories for her, but it will be difficult as the divorce settlement terms are being discussed. There are a number of strange happenings in the house – noises in the top areas, the TV turning on suddenly, someone throwing a rock breaking the glass in the living room, and paint in the bathroom on the upper level. The motive seems to be to unnerve Steph, and she is puzzled on why & how this could be happening. While she makes calls to the police, she decides to take in a lodger so that she is not alone and this will also help her financially. The incidents continue after the lodger moves in too though.
The suspense holds quite well till about 75% of the book. The pace and build-up are good and is to the credit of the book. The plot is far fetched in many aspects around the characters’ behaviours though.
A good book to relax with.
My rating: 3.75 / 5.
Thanks to Bookouture, Netgalley and the author for a free electronic review copy.
Steph’s life is at a crossroads, with her husband of 30 years Andy walking out of their marriage. Her son had left home nearly 10 years back and there has been no word from him since long. Her daughter is married to a wealthy man, and is her source of support. Steph is keen to continue in her home which has many memories for her, but it will be difficult as the divorce settlement terms are being discussed. There are a number of strange happenings in the house – noises in the top areas, the TV turning on suddenly, someone throwing a rock breaking the glass in the living room, and paint in the bathroom on the upper level. The motive seems to be to unnerve Steph, and she is puzzled on why & how this could be happening. While she makes calls to the police, she decides to take in a lodger so that she is not alone and this will also help her financially. The incidents continue after the lodger moves in too though.
The suspense holds quite well till about 75% of the book. The pace and build-up are good and is to the credit of the book. The plot is far fetched in many aspects around the characters’ behaviours though.
A good book to relax with.
My rating: 3.75 / 5.
Thanks to Bookouture, Netgalley and the author for a free electronic review copy.
January 28, 2022
“Home should be an anchor, a port in a storm, a refuge, a happy place in which to dwell, a place where we are loved and where we can love.” — Elder Marvin J. Ashton
Steph's home has not felt like a refuge or happy place since her husband of thirty years has left her. He wants to sell their shared home; she wants to stay. But things have been going bump in the night. There are strange sounds, when she tells others, her daughter, Bea thinks her mother is imagining things.
But then closed windows are left open, someone has broken in and Noah, a young man fixes her window and Steph impulsively invited him to live with her. She will safer, wont she? She won't be alone; she will have someone looking out for her. Steph is happy with the arrangement, but her estranged husband and daughter are not. Who can blame them? If a loved one told me that he/she had invited a random person who just did a home repair for them to live with them, I would be upset as well.
This proved to be a fast read for me. Like other reviewers, I figured out whodunit very early on. But I didn't mind as I enjoyed the journey of the culprit being discovered. There are a nice number of twists and turns along the way.
If you are looking for an enjoyable fast read which doesn't disappoint, look no further. This is entertaining, a great escape, and fun to read.
Thank you to Bookouture 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.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Steph's home has not felt like a refuge or happy place since her husband of thirty years has left her. He wants to sell their shared home; she wants to stay. But things have been going bump in the night. There are strange sounds, when she tells others, her daughter, Bea thinks her mother is imagining things.
But then closed windows are left open, someone has broken in and Noah, a young man fixes her window and Steph impulsively invited him to live with her. She will safer, wont she? She won't be alone; she will have someone looking out for her. Steph is happy with the arrangement, but her estranged husband and daughter are not. Who can blame them? If a loved one told me that he/she had invited a random person who just did a home repair for them to live with them, I would be upset as well.
This proved to be a fast read for me. Like other reviewers, I figured out whodunit very early on. But I didn't mind as I enjoyed the journey of the culprit being discovered. There are a nice number of twists and turns along the way.
If you are looking for an enjoyable fast read which doesn't disappoint, look no further. This is entertaining, a great escape, and fun to read.
Thank you to Bookouture 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.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
January 12, 2022
I’ve read and enjoyed four previous books by Rona Halsall but this one was very disappointing.
After 30 years of marriage Steph is living alone in the marital home after husband Andy left having suspected her of having an affair. Her children are grown. Son Max left at 18 and hasn’t been heard of since and daughter Bea has married a wealthy man and lives reasonably close. Steph has never really lived alone and is feeling a little out of sorts. Then a series of incidents occur: and open window upstairs which leads to rain coming in and the carpet being ruined, then a brick through the front window and so on.
Steph suspects any number of people of trying to get her out of her home which Andy wants to sell but she digs her heels in. She is enjoying her new found freedom. Steph works at a homeless shelter and meets a young man, Noah who reminds her of her son Max. Long story short, she invites Noah to stay at her place until he can sort himself out. He is ever so grateful. But the hits keep coming. Until the biggie - one night she wakes up smelling smoke and next thing Noah is carrying her out of her blazing house.
I really didn’t enjoy this book. To put it bluntly, it was boring. None of the characters were that well developed, the plot was thin and the culprit was pretty obvious pretty early on. Steph as a character seemed like a bunch of contradictions and also very weak. Actually none of the characters were particularly likeable but my main issue was that it was awfully predictable. Thankfully, it was also a quick read. Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
After 30 years of marriage Steph is living alone in the marital home after husband Andy left having suspected her of having an affair. Her children are grown. Son Max left at 18 and hasn’t been heard of since and daughter Bea has married a wealthy man and lives reasonably close. Steph has never really lived alone and is feeling a little out of sorts. Then a series of incidents occur: and open window upstairs which leads to rain coming in and the carpet being ruined, then a brick through the front window and so on.
Steph suspects any number of people of trying to get her out of her home which Andy wants to sell but she digs her heels in. She is enjoying her new found freedom. Steph works at a homeless shelter and meets a young man, Noah who reminds her of her son Max. Long story short, she invites Noah to stay at her place until he can sort himself out. He is ever so grateful. But the hits keep coming. Until the biggie - one night she wakes up smelling smoke and next thing Noah is carrying her out of her blazing house.
I really didn’t enjoy this book. To put it bluntly, it was boring. None of the characters were that well developed, the plot was thin and the culprit was pretty obvious pretty early on. Steph as a character seemed like a bunch of contradictions and also very weak. Actually none of the characters were particularly likeable but my main issue was that it was awfully predictable. Thankfully, it was also a quick read. Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
November 17, 2021
A shockingly dark fantastically compelling read
Steph,54,had lost it all,her marriage,career and self worth,slowly she is rebuilding her life and even though started a new job and made new friends is still trying to convince herself she is enjoying her ‘freedom’……but then things start to happen to her and she is convinced she is being targeted,but by who? And why? She decides upon a rash course of action and invites a near stranger into her home to ease her nerves and help her feel more secure……and then her problems really start
I loved Steph,insecurities and all and the way she tried so hard to be happy after she lost everything,at times naive more often though just vulnerable she had no idea was was ‘afoot’
Brilliant characters and a fast paced storyline with yes some great twists and turns makes this everything you could wish for in a psychological thriller and will be for sure one of my favourite and most memorable books of the year
Tense and exciting it is also written in a way to be an enjoyable read where you slip straight into the characters,good and bad,lives and stay with them throughout the story
Loved every page
10/10
5 Stars
Steph,54,had lost it all,her marriage,career and self worth,slowly she is rebuilding her life and even though started a new job and made new friends is still trying to convince herself she is enjoying her ‘freedom’……but then things start to happen to her and she is convinced she is being targeted,but by who? And why? She decides upon a rash course of action and invites a near stranger into her home to ease her nerves and help her feel more secure……and then her problems really start
I loved Steph,insecurities and all and the way she tried so hard to be happy after she lost everything,at times naive more often though just vulnerable she had no idea was was ‘afoot’
Brilliant characters and a fast paced storyline with yes some great twists and turns makes this everything you could wish for in a psychological thriller and will be for sure one of my favourite and most memorable books of the year
Tense and exciting it is also written in a way to be an enjoyable read where you slip straight into the characters,good and bad,lives and stay with them throughout the story
Loved every page
10/10
5 Stars
January 29, 2022
The Guest Room by Rona Halsall is a thriller novel. The story in The Guest Room is one that is told mainly from one point of view but there are a few changes to the point of view along the way.
Steph at one point that she had it all, a loving husband and two wonderful children and their lovely home. However, after thirty years of marriage Steph’s husband wants out and has left their home and her son rushed off to begin his own life in the military without a word and Steph’s daughter has married leaving Steph on her own.
When strange things begin happening around Steph’s home and with some worries of money Steph decides she needs to take in a lodger. When Steph met Noah her reminded her so of her son and with Noah homeless the idea of him moving in sounded like the solution to both their worries.
The Guest Room by Rona Halsall was a fast paced thriller that kept the pages turning after picking this one up. There is plenty of suspicion thrown around to all those close to the protagonist to keep one on their toes although I will admit to figuring out the culprit fairly early on. Still an entertaining read all throughout for me despite figuring things out and definitely stayed engaged until the very end.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Steph at one point that she had it all, a loving husband and two wonderful children and their lovely home. However, after thirty years of marriage Steph’s husband wants out and has left their home and her son rushed off to begin his own life in the military without a word and Steph’s daughter has married leaving Steph on her own.
When strange things begin happening around Steph’s home and with some worries of money Steph decides she needs to take in a lodger. When Steph met Noah her reminded her so of her son and with Noah homeless the idea of him moving in sounded like the solution to both their worries.
The Guest Room by Rona Halsall was a fast paced thriller that kept the pages turning after picking this one up. There is plenty of suspicion thrown around to all those close to the protagonist to keep one on their toes although I will admit to figuring out the culprit fairly early on. Still an entertaining read all throughout for me despite figuring things out and definitely stayed engaged until the very end.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
March 21, 2022
“Thinking is difficult, that’s why most people judge.” This book talks about judgment of others without knowing the complete story. Steph is a nurturer with a huge heart. Her passion is helping those who have lost their way get back on track. A young homeless man named Noah touches her heart. Reminding her of her estranged son, he quickly becomes the focus of her kindness much to the chagrin of her daughter and husband. Should he be trusted? Are his motives genuine, or is something more sinister at play? This character driven thriller kept me reading late into the night. I was immediately drawn into Steph’s world and was interested in the outcome. The final twist was definitely a surprise. Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy.
January 14, 2022
This synopsis came with a very bold statement: that this is “the most twisty and unputdownable thriller of the year”. I’ve already read a few 2022 thrillers, so I’d say that’s a bit hasty, but it was definitely twisty and hard to put down! Also, I wouldn’t compare it to Gone Girl (in style, plot or feel). I think the synopsis was a bit misleading, but the actual story was definitely good…
Steph’s husband of 30 years, Andy, has just filed for divorce, and her adult kids have moved out of the house, so she now is a single empty-nester. Her daughter, Bea, has made quite the life for herself, but her son, Max, has been estranged for the past ten years. He left one day, saying he was joining the military, and never came back. Steph is all alone in the house she raised her family in, and while her soon-to-be-ex-husband wants to sell the house to split the profits, she wants to stay there. It has all her memories, especially memories of Max.
Bea is constantly begging her mom to come live in her palatial mansion, but Steph wants to stay close to her job. She works for an organization that helps the homeless, and one day, she meets a young man named Noah, who reminds her of her son. He too has left his family, and he’s around the same age as Steph’s son was when he left, so she’s immediately drawn to him. Recently, odd things have been happening to her, and she’s scared of being alone in her large house. When her organization can’t get him housing right away, Steph invites Noah to live with her, much to the anger of her daughter and husband.
At this point, I think most readers will be annoyed by how stupid this idea is. She knows nothing about this guy except for what he’s told her (that he’s a college dropout who disgraced his parents), and he is often edgy and anxious…could he be on drugs? When sketchy kids start coming to Steph’s door looking for him, and she finds packages in his room, she realizes everyone was right. She still feels for his situation, but she has to get him out of her house.
For a lot of the book, I had no idea where it was going, but I really enjoyed the entertaining journey. Steph was a good character, even when you want to shake her to her senses because she’s acting like a cliché helpless woman in a horror movie. Towards the end, I had several ideas about where the story was headed, but then I got to the big twist and it surprised me. Then, there were several more surprises before a fantastic ending. I was originally going to give this 3.5 stars rounded up, but that ending was so good, it deserves to be a solid four star book. This was a really fun one to read!
(Thank you to Bookouture, Rona Halsall, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review.)
Steph’s husband of 30 years, Andy, has just filed for divorce, and her adult kids have moved out of the house, so she now is a single empty-nester. Her daughter, Bea, has made quite the life for herself, but her son, Max, has been estranged for the past ten years. He left one day, saying he was joining the military, and never came back. Steph is all alone in the house she raised her family in, and while her soon-to-be-ex-husband wants to sell the house to split the profits, she wants to stay there. It has all her memories, especially memories of Max.
Bea is constantly begging her mom to come live in her palatial mansion, but Steph wants to stay close to her job. She works for an organization that helps the homeless, and one day, she meets a young man named Noah, who reminds her of her son. He too has left his family, and he’s around the same age as Steph’s son was when he left, so she’s immediately drawn to him. Recently, odd things have been happening to her, and she’s scared of being alone in her large house. When her organization can’t get him housing right away, Steph invites Noah to live with her, much to the anger of her daughter and husband.
At this point, I think most readers will be annoyed by how stupid this idea is. She knows nothing about this guy except for what he’s told her (that he’s a college dropout who disgraced his parents), and he is often edgy and anxious…could he be on drugs? When sketchy kids start coming to Steph’s door looking for him, and she finds packages in his room, she realizes everyone was right. She still feels for his situation, but she has to get him out of her house.
For a lot of the book, I had no idea where it was going, but I really enjoyed the entertaining journey. Steph was a good character, even when you want to shake her to her senses because she’s acting like a cliché helpless woman in a horror movie. Towards the end, I had several ideas about where the story was headed, but then I got to the big twist and it surprised me. Then, there were several more surprises before a fantastic ending. I was originally going to give this 3.5 stars rounded up, but that ending was so good, it deserves to be a solid four star book. This was a really fun one to read!
(Thank you to Bookouture, Rona Halsall, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review.)
January 8, 2022
Ever since Steph's husband walked out after a thirty year marriage, home hasn't felt like a safe haven. Her daughter Bea thinks she's imagining things. But Steph knows that the noises in the night, the open window she left closed, the strange smell in the kitchen - none of it feels right. Then her house is broken into, and a young man named Noah helps her fix the front window. He's fallen on hard times and Steph impulsively offers him a place to stay. At least if he's there, she won't be home alone.
This is one of those books where I think you're better off going into it blind. After Steph's marriage breakup, she takes in a lodger from the homeless shelter where she works. The pace is slow to begin with but it's not long before it picks up. Steph makes some silly choices and my list of suspects kept growing. The characters are well rounded and believable. My only criticism is that i thought the ending was a bit rushed.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #RonaHalsall for my ARC of #TheGuestRoom in exchange for an honest review.
This is one of those books where I think you're better off going into it blind. After Steph's marriage breakup, she takes in a lodger from the homeless shelter where she works. The pace is slow to begin with but it's not long before it picks up. Steph makes some silly choices and my list of suspects kept growing. The characters are well rounded and believable. My only criticism is that i thought the ending was a bit rushed.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #RonaHalsall for my ARC of #TheGuestRoom in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2022
This was a decent read, though I never really connected with the protagonist. The story centers on Steph, whose husband leaves her after a 30 year marriage. Creepy things start happening around the house, so she takes in a lodger to have some company, but MORE creepy things happen and she wonders if she is trusting the wrong people. It was very clear to me from early on who the culprit was, but the story was still fast-paced and I enjoyed how it all played out.
The author did a great job conveying the scariness of the things that were happening and I really felt Steph's fear. However, Steph came off as very naïve and unwilling to stick up for herself and I often felt like I was reading about an elderly person instead of someone in their early 50s. She also makes a decision late in the book that seems so incredibly out of character that I had to go back and read it again to make sure I understood what was happening. I wasn't particularly excited about any of the other characters either, to be honest, but perhaps that was the author's plan in providing some red herrings.
Overall, it was an interesting read but the lack of connection with Steph and the realization of who the "bad guy" was early on didn't make it super memorable for me. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The author did a great job conveying the scariness of the things that were happening and I really felt Steph's fear. However, Steph came off as very naïve and unwilling to stick up for herself and I often felt like I was reading about an elderly person instead of someone in their early 50s. She also makes a decision late in the book that seems so incredibly out of character that I had to go back and read it again to make sure I understood what was happening. I wasn't particularly excited about any of the other characters either, to be honest, but perhaps that was the author's plan in providing some red herrings.
Overall, it was an interesting read but the lack of connection with Steph and the realization of who the "bad guy" was early on didn't make it super memorable for me. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2022
Steph’s husband has left her and she is trying to get her life back together when strange things start to happen in her home. She is convinced that someone is out to frighten her or to do her harm.
Steph works with homeless people and she takes in a young man as a lodger until he finds a permanent home. Her husband and daughter are extremely unhappy about this and tell Steph that she has to tell him to leave.
Lots of suspects in this story to choose from but I guessed the guilty party quite early on.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Steph works with homeless people and she takes in a young man as a lodger until he finds a permanent home. Her husband and daughter are extremely unhappy about this and tell Steph that she has to tell him to leave.
Lots of suspects in this story to choose from but I guessed the guilty party quite early on.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2021
It’s always hard to write an opinion about a thriller without telling anything about the story. So most of all, I just write about my feelings about the book. I have to admit that I didn’t like the first few chapters, I felt like this, too, would be just one of many average books that would knit together the usual cliches for thrillers, and add nothing to that. But then the story started to get complicated, there was more and more action, I liked the characters and was excited about what was really going on, who was bad and who was good, and what was the driving force behind their actions. I confess, I soon realized who was behind the many bad things that had happened to Steph. Yet it was exciting to read on because I was curious about the motives for the act and whether it was really the perpetrator I was thinking of. The police work seemed a little strange to me, though I don’t live in England. At my place of residence, the police would certainly not care if I reported that someone was visiting my house without my permission. Maybe they would take such a report seriously if there was already blood. But maybe not even then. So based on that, England seems like a well-functioning country, but I’d rather assume that this detail doesn’t fully reflect reality.
The final conclusion is that it is an exciting and interesting story that maintained the tension to the last pages. I’m sorry this was just the first book from the author’s pen I’ve read so far, I promise I’ll be a faithful follower of the writer after that.
Thanks to Netgalley for allowing me to read this book before its later official publication.
The final conclusion is that it is an exciting and interesting story that maintained the tension to the last pages. I’m sorry this was just the first book from the author’s pen I’ve read so far, I promise I’ll be a faithful follower of the writer after that.
Thanks to Netgalley for allowing me to read this book before its later official publication.
January 29, 2022
This was a really well-written, engaging book but I listened on audio and I struggled with the narrator. The narrator sounds like a warm, grandmotherly older woman who is telling you a story over a cuppa tea, which is a wonderful quality for a voice actor but it just didn’t really work for me with the suspense of this particular novel. I felt like a lot of the plotting was overdramatized by the narrator so it was hard to tell when an actually suspenseful or scary moment was coming. Based on the other fabulous reviews I think I probably would have enjoyed this much more as a physical book to read, and my feelings about the audio narrator may just be personal taste. I’d try another book by this author.
February 6, 2022
3.5 Is It What It Seems Stars
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
This is a tale that seems to be a divorce in progress, things being done to manipulate an outcome the woman doesn't want, and how it all ends up. This is how we start with this layered story.
A long-time marriage in disrepair, two grown children, a daughter who is there for the mom, and a son long separated to the point of no contact for years. A husband who wants the home this woman has lived in for 30 years, sold. This is the only place she knows and doesn't want to sell.
When things start to go amiss, it is obvious someone is trying to get her out of the house...is it the soon-to-be-ex or could it be something more...
The Guest Room
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
This is a tale that seems to be a divorce in progress, things being done to manipulate an outcome the woman doesn't want, and how it all ends up. This is how we start with this layered story.
A long-time marriage in disrepair, two grown children, a daughter who is there for the mom, and a son long separated to the point of no contact for years. A husband who wants the home this woman has lived in for 30 years, sold. This is the only place she knows and doesn't want to sell.
When things start to go amiss, it is obvious someone is trying to get her out of the house...is it the soon-to-be-ex or could it be something more...
The Guest Roomhttps://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
November 15, 2021
This was quite predictable and went exactly as I though it would, but I did enjoy it. Steph is a kind hearted woman that wants to see good in all of us and the world, unfortunately she gets let down. She has always considered family to be so important, but it is in these trying times there are struggles she must face in this area of her life. I don't want to say anymore as I will give parts of the story away. I would read more of this authors books and thank Net Galley and the publisher for a review copy. Three stars
October 5, 2022
Can’t say this surprised me.
I caught on to Bea’s obsessive nature towards her mom right from the start, judging by her reaction to whatever Steph told her and Bea’s tendency to spill everything to Andy in order to create pressure on Steph to move out.
When the past was revealed regarding Bea and Max, it just served as another confirmation of what I already doubted with respect to Bea.
I am mostly annoyed by Steph’s character because everything was so obvious yet she kept doubting other people and never once gave a single thought to how Bea was acting around her.
It didn’t feel like a psychological thriller to me at all because nothing remained a mystery the way the book was written and the characters were really bland as well.
I caught on to Bea’s obsessive nature towards her mom right from the start, judging by her reaction to whatever Steph told her and Bea’s tendency to spill everything to Andy in order to create pressure on Steph to move out.
When the past was revealed regarding Bea and Max, it just served as another confirmation of what I already doubted with respect to Bea.
I am mostly annoyed by Steph’s character because everything was so obvious yet she kept doubting other people and never once gave a single thought to how Bea was acting around her.
It didn’t feel like a psychological thriller to me at all because nothing remained a mystery the way the book was written and the characters were really bland as well.
February 3, 2022
Steph’s been married for thirty years but then her husband, Andy leaves her. She meets Noah who repairs a broken window in her home. He is in need of a place to stay so she takes him in as a lodger, however, Andy is not impressed and neither is Steph's daughter, Bea. Strange things have been happening in the house but Bea believes it's all in Steph's imagination.
The Guest Room was a fantastic read and I felt uneasy with each turn of the page. Even though I managed to figure things out it was still exciting to read on as I was curious about the motive and I could have been wrong! There were twists in the story, and the story touches on issues of homelessness, trust, family dynamics and betrayal. Well worth a read. 😀
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
The Guest Room was a fantastic read and I felt uneasy with each turn of the page. Even though I managed to figure things out it was still exciting to read on as I was curious about the motive and I could have been wrong! There were twists in the story, and the story touches on issues of homelessness, trust, family dynamics and betrayal. Well worth a read. 😀
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 24, 2022
This is a great read.
Steph is trying to find her independence after separating from her husband but she starts to feel unsafe in her home, now she’s on her own.
Initially she thinks it could be her ex damaging her property but with the Police involved, things still keep happening.
Steph makes some decisions that her daughter and ex husband are not happy with, but Steph wants to stand on her own two feet.
Soon events take a frightening turn and Steph’s life is in danger.
I really felt for Steph as she was trying to make things work and stay in her home but someone has other ideas.
This is a gripping psychological thriller that will have you racing through the pages.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Steph is trying to find her independence after separating from her husband but she starts to feel unsafe in her home, now she’s on her own.
Initially she thinks it could be her ex damaging her property but with the Police involved, things still keep happening.
Steph makes some decisions that her daughter and ex husband are not happy with, but Steph wants to stand on her own two feet.
Soon events take a frightening turn and Steph’s life is in danger.
I really felt for Steph as she was trying to make things work and stay in her home but someone has other ideas.
This is a gripping psychological thriller that will have you racing through the pages.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
February 5, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Guest Room' by Rona Halsall.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Rona Halsall, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 31st January 2022.
This is the fourth book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'Her Mother's Lies', The Ex Boyfriend' and 'The Liar's Daughter' and highly recommend them all.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis. I am also a huge fan of Rona's previous books and if this is half as good as her previous books it is sure to be great. It also stated in the synopsis that this book is 'The most twisty and unputdownable thriller of the year – perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Mark Edwards and Gone Girl'. I am a huge fan of 'Gone Girl', Lisa Jewell and Mark Edwards so am looking forward to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 46 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in England 🏴, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonists being Steph. The benefits of third person perspective especially with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
Wow!!!! Well done Rona on another amazing success!!! An absolutely fantastic unputdownable psychological thriller. Extremely well written as are all Rona's books I have previously read with vivid descriptions that absorb you into the storyline.
The storyline is chillingly realistic and it kept me on the edge of my seat and then in the edge of my bed until late at night as I just could not out it down!!! I loved that it was seperate into three sections with the Now and Then and the different perspectives ensuring that the reader missed absolutely nothing. There isn't just the one storyline but all the smaller ones which blend in nicely without any confusion but ensuring there's always something going on. I would never have worked out any of the explosive secrets that were planted throughout and I loved the suspense it creates. Well done Rona as I am getting harder and harder to shock but you definitely managed it!! I was captivated throughout and the storyline was absolutely rammed with secrets, loss, love, desceiot, suspense, tension and red herrings all the way up until the very perfect ending.
The characters were also very realistic and well developed. I enjoyed getting to know each of them and loved finding out about their true stories. Eva and Nancy are both very strong women neither of which give up and I do love a book with a strong female lead. I am glad that the storyline went into their background as it showed the reasons they each did what they did along with their character development throughout.
Congratulations Rona on what promises to be another HUGE success and for, yet again, manage to shock me when many fail. This would make an epic movie and I look forward to your next novel.
Overall an addictive, page turning psychological thriller that will shock you.
Genres covered in this book include Mystery, Thriller, Suspense and Psychological Thriller amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of 'The Girl on The Train', Lisa Jewell, 'The Family Upstairs', Mark Edwards, 'Gone Girl' and any fans of Rona Halsall and those who enjoy a surprise twist.
292 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheGuestRoom #Bookouture #RonaHalsall #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@RonaHalsall @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'The Guest Room' by Rona Halsall.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Rona Halsall, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 31st January 2022.
This is the fourth book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'Her Mother's Lies', The Ex Boyfriend' and 'The Liar's Daughter' and highly recommend them all.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis. I am also a huge fan of Rona's previous books and if this is half as good as her previous books it is sure to be great. It also stated in the synopsis that this book is 'The most twisty and unputdownable thriller of the year – perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Mark Edwards and Gone Girl'. I am a huge fan of 'Gone Girl', Lisa Jewell and Mark Edwards so am looking forward to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 46 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in England 🏴, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonists being Steph. The benefits of third person perspective especially with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
Wow!!!! Well done Rona on another amazing success!!! An absolutely fantastic unputdownable psychological thriller. Extremely well written as are all Rona's books I have previously read with vivid descriptions that absorb you into the storyline.
The storyline is chillingly realistic and it kept me on the edge of my seat and then in the edge of my bed until late at night as I just could not out it down!!! I loved that it was seperate into three sections with the Now and Then and the different perspectives ensuring that the reader missed absolutely nothing. There isn't just the one storyline but all the smaller ones which blend in nicely without any confusion but ensuring there's always something going on. I would never have worked out any of the explosive secrets that were planted throughout and I loved the suspense it creates. Well done Rona as I am getting harder and harder to shock but you definitely managed it!! I was captivated throughout and the storyline was absolutely rammed with secrets, loss, love, desceiot, suspense, tension and red herrings all the way up until the very perfect ending.
The characters were also very realistic and well developed. I enjoyed getting to know each of them and loved finding out about their true stories. Eva and Nancy are both very strong women neither of which give up and I do love a book with a strong female lead. I am glad that the storyline went into their background as it showed the reasons they each did what they did along with their character development throughout.
Congratulations Rona on what promises to be another HUGE success and for, yet again, manage to shock me when many fail. This would make an epic movie and I look forward to your next novel.
Overall an addictive, page turning psychological thriller that will shock you.
Genres covered in this book include Mystery, Thriller, Suspense and Psychological Thriller amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of 'The Girl on The Train', Lisa Jewell, 'The Family Upstairs', Mark Edwards, 'Gone Girl' and any fans of Rona Halsall and those who enjoy a surprise twist.
292 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheGuestRoom #Bookouture #RonaHalsall #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@RonaHalsall @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
January 27, 2022
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Rona Halsall's latest compelling thriller #TheGuestRoom.
You think you're safe in your own home...you're wrong.
Steph has always thought she a pretty good life with husband Andy but after almost thirty years together and a multitude of rows fraught with misunderstanding, Andy walks out filing for divorce soon after. Her grown-up children, Bea and Max, have long since flown the coop so, now in her fifties, Steph finds herself living alone for the first time in her life. And she intends to make the most it.
But living alone isn't all it's cracked up to be. For Steph is a nurturer and she thrives on helping others and being there for them. But now she suddenly finds herself on her own and she isn't quite sure what to do with herself. She works at a local homeless shelter where she feels she is most needed...an environment in which Steph thrives. But it doesn't provide the money she needs to take out a mortgage to buy Andy out of his share of the house. And no amount of discussion with Andy will shift her stance on remaining in this house, where all her memories are...not to mention her son Max. What if, after leaving abruptly in the middle of the night ten years ago to join the army, Max finally comes home only to find they've moved? But Andy is intent on selling and finds every opportunity he can to try and change her mind. But Steph is adamant. She is staying.
And then strange things begin to occur. Returning home from work she finds clear signs there has been an intruder. The stale smell of cigarettes. A window left open she knows she had closed. And a cigarette butt on her living room floor. The feeling that someone has been in her home....and yet nothing was taken. The police are called, a report is filed and she is given a crime number. End of. Until a few days later a brick is thrown through her front window. Steph feels uneasy. Someone is trying to frighten her. But who? Andy wants her out but surely he wouldn't stoop to this...would he?
When she stumbles upon young Noah in her shed, she offers him a feed if he helps her board the window until the glazier can come the following morning. Steph recognises Noah from the homeless shelter and having fallen on hard times after dropping out of university, she impulsively offers him a room. He'd be doing her a real favour actually. The security of having someone there will make her feel less vulnerable plus the rent will help her towards taking out the mortgage she needs to pay Andy. However, the problems don't go away but merely increase and Steph is really beginning to feel scared. Who would want to frighten her so much?
A real page-turner, THE GUEST ROOM is a chilling and disturbing read highlighting the vulnerabilities of the main character, Steph. I had to shake my head at some of her impulsive decisions and although I understood her motives they were borne out of naivete and idealism. Not everyone can be taken at face value yet that is just what Steph does. I was sympathetic to her plight even if I wanted to shake her at times.
There is a real sense of foreboding and a creepy atmosphere throughout where the tension is clearly palpable. I was sitting on a knife-edge waiting for the heart-pounding tension to dissipate and yet the twists keep coming. Although there were many suspects, I had two clear ones in my mind as I sifted for clues throughout the debris that was now Steph's life. When the reveal came, it was with a slow build that the reader became suddenly aware at the moment Steph did, though I sat there thinking..."At last the penny drops!!" No, I wasn't surprised but it was indeed a shocking twist...and yet it wasn't even the last one either.
The jaw-dropping twists that pepper throughout make THE GUEST ROOM an engaging and compelling read you won't want to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed it, though I did find the start a little slow with the constant domestic disputes between Steph and Andy. I can't wait to see what Rona has in store for us next!
Perfect for fans of domestic thrillers such as Ruth Heald, Shalini Boland and Lisa Jewell.
I would like to thank #RonaHalsall, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheGuestRoom in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
You think you're safe in your own home...you're wrong.
Steph has always thought she a pretty good life with husband Andy but after almost thirty years together and a multitude of rows fraught with misunderstanding, Andy walks out filing for divorce soon after. Her grown-up children, Bea and Max, have long since flown the coop so, now in her fifties, Steph finds herself living alone for the first time in her life. And she intends to make the most it.
But living alone isn't all it's cracked up to be. For Steph is a nurturer and she thrives on helping others and being there for them. But now she suddenly finds herself on her own and she isn't quite sure what to do with herself. She works at a local homeless shelter where she feels she is most needed...an environment in which Steph thrives. But it doesn't provide the money she needs to take out a mortgage to buy Andy out of his share of the house. And no amount of discussion with Andy will shift her stance on remaining in this house, where all her memories are...not to mention her son Max. What if, after leaving abruptly in the middle of the night ten years ago to join the army, Max finally comes home only to find they've moved? But Andy is intent on selling and finds every opportunity he can to try and change her mind. But Steph is adamant. She is staying.
And then strange things begin to occur. Returning home from work she finds clear signs there has been an intruder. The stale smell of cigarettes. A window left open she knows she had closed. And a cigarette butt on her living room floor. The feeling that someone has been in her home....and yet nothing was taken. The police are called, a report is filed and she is given a crime number. End of. Until a few days later a brick is thrown through her front window. Steph feels uneasy. Someone is trying to frighten her. But who? Andy wants her out but surely he wouldn't stoop to this...would he?
When she stumbles upon young Noah in her shed, she offers him a feed if he helps her board the window until the glazier can come the following morning. Steph recognises Noah from the homeless shelter and having fallen on hard times after dropping out of university, she impulsively offers him a room. He'd be doing her a real favour actually. The security of having someone there will make her feel less vulnerable plus the rent will help her towards taking out the mortgage she needs to pay Andy. However, the problems don't go away but merely increase and Steph is really beginning to feel scared. Who would want to frighten her so much?
A real page-turner, THE GUEST ROOM is a chilling and disturbing read highlighting the vulnerabilities of the main character, Steph. I had to shake my head at some of her impulsive decisions and although I understood her motives they were borne out of naivete and idealism. Not everyone can be taken at face value yet that is just what Steph does. I was sympathetic to her plight even if I wanted to shake her at times.
There is a real sense of foreboding and a creepy atmosphere throughout where the tension is clearly palpable. I was sitting on a knife-edge waiting for the heart-pounding tension to dissipate and yet the twists keep coming. Although there were many suspects, I had two clear ones in my mind as I sifted for clues throughout the debris that was now Steph's life. When the reveal came, it was with a slow build that the reader became suddenly aware at the moment Steph did, though I sat there thinking..."At last the penny drops!!" No, I wasn't surprised but it was indeed a shocking twist...and yet it wasn't even the last one either.
The jaw-dropping twists that pepper throughout make THE GUEST ROOM an engaging and compelling read you won't want to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed it, though I did find the start a little slow with the constant domestic disputes between Steph and Andy. I can't wait to see what Rona has in store for us next!
Perfect for fans of domestic thrillers such as Ruth Heald, Shalini Boland and Lisa Jewell.
I would like to thank #RonaHalsall, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheGuestRoom in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
January 30, 2022
4.5 Stars.
My audible response to the end of this book, "OH MY - WOOOOW"
I did not see the ending of this one coming. I DEFINITELY thought I knew what was going on but I did not - except the pond* thing. I definitely knew that happened. Yikes lol.
If you're a fan of the "British" mystery/thrillers, and authors like Ruth Ware, Clare Mackintosh and Gilly Macmillan, I highly recommend picking this book up. It's amazing.
HMM How to review this without giving anything away...
Steph has lived an ordinary life with her two children and husband for thirty years, until jealousy tears her marriage apart and she's left with a life she doesn't know what to do with. Her children are grown; her son having left his family behind without a word, and her daughter who is enjoying a life of her own. Steph's only things to take care of anymore are herself and the people she works with.
Of course, everyone in her life has opinions on what she should and should not be doing. But Steph decides to put what she wants first. Finally giving herself permission to make decisions based solely on her own needs and wants, without repercussions.
Or so she thinks. It's not too long before someone starts terrorizing her from within her own home..
"You think you’re safe in your home. You’re wrong"
But who could possibly want to come after her like this?
Thank your Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
PS, for anyone wondering, I recommend the audiobook.
My audible response to the end of this book, "OH MY - WOOOOW"
I did not see the ending of this one coming. I DEFINITELY thought I knew what was going on but I did not - except the pond* thing. I definitely knew that happened. Yikes lol.
If you're a fan of the "British" mystery/thrillers, and authors like Ruth Ware, Clare Mackintosh and Gilly Macmillan, I highly recommend picking this book up. It's amazing.
HMM How to review this without giving anything away...
Steph has lived an ordinary life with her two children and husband for thirty years, until jealousy tears her marriage apart and she's left with a life she doesn't know what to do with. Her children are grown; her son having left his family behind without a word, and her daughter who is enjoying a life of her own. Steph's only things to take care of anymore are herself and the people she works with.
Of course, everyone in her life has opinions on what she should and should not be doing. But Steph decides to put what she wants first. Finally giving herself permission to make decisions based solely on her own needs and wants, without repercussions.
Or so she thinks. It's not too long before someone starts terrorizing her from within her own home..
"You think you’re safe in your home. You’re wrong"
But who could possibly want to come after her like this?
Thank your Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
PS, for anyone wondering, I recommend the audiobook.
February 2, 2022
5/5 ⭐️
Yooooo this was so good!!
Remind me never to let anyone lodge in my house and to always keep family v v close.
Yooooo this was so good!!
Remind me never to let anyone lodge in my house and to always keep family v v close.
November 27, 2021
The Guest Room by Rona Halsall
“After you read The Guest Room by Halsall, you might be scared to be home alone! A domestic thriller that checks all of the boxes. Cozy up and clear your calendar for this one!”-Books and Pens on Green Gables
About The Guest Room by Rona Halsall-Steph is trying to find out how to live on her own. She had gone from her parent’s home to where she lives, until recently, with her husband. But, after thirty years of marriage, Andy left her and wants a divorce. She’s still shocked and can’t understand why Andy wouldn’t believe her that she was not involved with her boss. Steph and Andy are both angry and are not communicating well. They had gotten through hard things in their marriage before, like long-term behavior issues with their son Max. And how he terrorized his younger sister, Bea. And, they survived Max leaving ten years ago and not knowing where he was.
Steph realizes she needs to earn more money now that she’s on her own, mainly to keep the house. A friend suggests a renter since she lives alone and has lots of space. This idea comforts Steph as she’s had a few odd things happen lately at her home. Having someone else there would be comforting. When the strange things continue and start to escalate, Steph wonders if Andy is behind it. But he points fingers at someone else. Is Steph too close to the situation to see what is happening?
The Guest Room is a great book! I read it in one enjoyable day! Highly recommended! I’ll look for more by Rona Halsall! I was given this book as an early release to read and review. Thank you!
“After you read The Guest Room by Halsall, you might be scared to be home alone! A domestic thriller that checks all of the boxes. Cozy up and clear your calendar for this one!”-Books and Pens on Green Gables
About The Guest Room by Rona Halsall-Steph is trying to find out how to live on her own. She had gone from her parent’s home to where she lives, until recently, with her husband. But, after thirty years of marriage, Andy left her and wants a divorce. She’s still shocked and can’t understand why Andy wouldn’t believe her that she was not involved with her boss. Steph and Andy are both angry and are not communicating well. They had gotten through hard things in their marriage before, like long-term behavior issues with their son Max. And how he terrorized his younger sister, Bea. And, they survived Max leaving ten years ago and not knowing where he was.
Steph realizes she needs to earn more money now that she’s on her own, mainly to keep the house. A friend suggests a renter since she lives alone and has lots of space. This idea comforts Steph as she’s had a few odd things happen lately at her home. Having someone else there would be comforting. When the strange things continue and start to escalate, Steph wonders if Andy is behind it. But he points fingers at someone else. Is Steph too close to the situation to see what is happening?
The Guest Room is a great book! I read it in one enjoyable day! Highly recommended! I’ll look for more by Rona Halsall! I was given this book as an early release to read and review. Thank you!
November 14, 2021
I couldn’t leave this down until I was finished so thankfully I was off for the weekend so I had no distractions. I must say I always enjoy reading Rona’s books as they keep the reader guessing right to the end. Definitely a five star and more read.
January 18, 2022
Love love love this author...and this book did not disappoint. Psychological thriller at it's best!!
March 9, 2022
I started reading this book without any expectations. I just thought I’d read the first few pages, and if I didn’t like it, I’d stop. Only, I got so caught up in the storyline, the characters, and all the eerie things that were happening in Steph’s home that I didn’t realize I’d already finished half the book. I didn’t want to stop reading, but it was late and I had to. But the minute I woke up, I picked it right up and read until I was finished.
Steph’s husband leaves her after almost 30 years of marriage. She’s trying to learn to be happy about living alone. She wants to become independent, and stand up for herself. Her husband wants her to sell the house, but she refuses. They argue about it all the time, but she stands firm, and doesn’t back down.
Then strange things start happening in her home. Things that terrify her, but nothing so serious that the police can help with. At first, anyway.
The way the story unfolds is brilliant. I could feel Steph’s fear and confusion. I could feel her frustration when it seems everyone has an opinion about what she should with her life. I could feel her inner conflict debating if she’s making the right decisions. After 30 years of having someone make most of the decisions for you, it’s hard to trust yourself. These are very relatable issues with many people, and partly why I loved this character so much.
The book takes has a few twists and turns as the story moves along in a way you’ll want to read it all in a day. And even though at one point it becomes clear as to who is doing all this to her, just wait. The twisty ride isn’t over yet. I thought the ending would be a huge disappointment because I like the shock of finding out the mystery person. This book wasn’t a disappointment at all. I loved it from the first page to the last one.
I highly recommend this book. In fact, my sister started started it this morning, and she’s almost finished. It really is a great book with a few (very few) characters you’ll love, and some you’ll hate. But that’s the mark of a great story … hating a fictional character. That’s when you know they seem real.
Steph’s husband leaves her after almost 30 years of marriage. She’s trying to learn to be happy about living alone. She wants to become independent, and stand up for herself. Her husband wants her to sell the house, but she refuses. They argue about it all the time, but she stands firm, and doesn’t back down.
Then strange things start happening in her home. Things that terrify her, but nothing so serious that the police can help with. At first, anyway.
The way the story unfolds is brilliant. I could feel Steph’s fear and confusion. I could feel her frustration when it seems everyone has an opinion about what she should with her life. I could feel her inner conflict debating if she’s making the right decisions. After 30 years of having someone make most of the decisions for you, it’s hard to trust yourself. These are very relatable issues with many people, and partly why I loved this character so much.
The book takes has a few twists and turns as the story moves along in a way you’ll want to read it all in a day. And even though at one point it becomes clear as to who is doing all this to her, just wait. The twisty ride isn’t over yet. I thought the ending would be a huge disappointment because I like the shock of finding out the mystery person. This book wasn’t a disappointment at all. I loved it from the first page to the last one.
I highly recommend this book. In fact, my sister started started it this morning, and she’s almost finished. It really is a great book with a few (very few) characters you’ll love, and some you’ll hate. But that’s the mark of a great story … hating a fictional character. That’s when you know they seem real.
January 31, 2022
Steph and Andy are separated after a long marriage. She worked for a bank for many years but lost her job when they started closing branches. Now, she has taken a job working for a homeless shelter. She loves her job and feels like she is truly helping people. But some anonymous person in her office sent some pictures to her husband of her and her boss discussing business things, and Andy immediately thinks she is having an affair. After denying his allegations, Andy finally moved out.
Steph and Andy are the parents to Max and Bea. Bea is is happily married to a wealthy man and is living a good life. She does not like her mother staying in the house by herself as the neighborhood has deteriorated over the years. But Steph refuses to move. Now, she has to find the money to buy Andy out. Max was always a difficult child and simply left ten years ago saying he was joining the Army. But, he has not been heard from since and this breaks Steph’s heart.
Arriving home one evening, Steph smells cigarette smoke and is sure someone has been in her house. She finds two open windows that she knows she closed and is worried. The police come but find nothing. Her co-worker suggests she take in a lodger for extra money and the security of someone else living in the house.
When Steph meets a young, homeless man named Noah at her office, she is impressed with him. After inviting him to dinner a couple of times, she offers him a room in the house which will, hopefully, add extra protection for her. But even with him there, more things happen and she begins to wonder about some of the things that Noah is doing. Is someone trying to frighten her away from her home?
Oh wow! This book ended with more twists and turns than a winding road. I never would have guessed the ending. Loved it. Enjoy!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Steph and Andy are the parents to Max and Bea. Bea is is happily married to a wealthy man and is living a good life. She does not like her mother staying in the house by herself as the neighborhood has deteriorated over the years. But Steph refuses to move. Now, she has to find the money to buy Andy out. Max was always a difficult child and simply left ten years ago saying he was joining the Army. But, he has not been heard from since and this breaks Steph’s heart.
Arriving home one evening, Steph smells cigarette smoke and is sure someone has been in her house. She finds two open windows that she knows she closed and is worried. The police come but find nothing. Her co-worker suggests she take in a lodger for extra money and the security of someone else living in the house.
When Steph meets a young, homeless man named Noah at her office, she is impressed with him. After inviting him to dinner a couple of times, she offers him a room in the house which will, hopefully, add extra protection for her. But even with him there, more things happen and she begins to wonder about some of the things that Noah is doing. Is someone trying to frighten her away from her home?
Oh wow! This book ended with more twists and turns than a winding road. I never would have guessed the ending. Loved it. Enjoy!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 20, 2022
This book was incredibly thrilling, descriptive and fast paced.
Instantly I felt connected to the main character Steph, the writing was incredibly well descriptive that I instantly found myself feeling tense and scared – mirroring the feelings of Steph.
The story follows Steph, newly single and awaiting a divorce. She is a fabulous character, extremely well written and likeable. She is the salt of the earth type. Wants to help anyone she can and has such a big heart. But unfortunately, this is also a downfall of hers. When weird things keep happening in her home she wonders if someone is trying to scare her out…
Constantly feeling in a state of confusion. Who could be tormenting her?
With each conclusion taking her to the same people, most of those quite close to her, it becomes a scary time. Especially when she finds an attempt on her life… making the confusion ever bigger.
But we never make the right choices in these instances do we. Always go for the easy choice. Even as a reader I felt the same. BUT…
Something inside just hit me.
I knew who it was. Well actually I thought I knew – and it just so happened that I was right!! But it didn’t make me any less shocked by the revelations.
THE BIG TWIST – if you see it coming or not, it will still hit you in the face like a big slap. Because you will never see it coming until it’s right there staring you in the face.
This was such an incredible, fast paced, twisty read. And I would highly recommend to any book lover.
Instantly I felt connected to the main character Steph, the writing was incredibly well descriptive that I instantly found myself feeling tense and scared – mirroring the feelings of Steph.
The story follows Steph, newly single and awaiting a divorce. She is a fabulous character, extremely well written and likeable. She is the salt of the earth type. Wants to help anyone she can and has such a big heart. But unfortunately, this is also a downfall of hers. When weird things keep happening in her home she wonders if someone is trying to scare her out…
Constantly feeling in a state of confusion. Who could be tormenting her?
With each conclusion taking her to the same people, most of those quite close to her, it becomes a scary time. Especially when she finds an attempt on her life… making the confusion ever bigger.
But we never make the right choices in these instances do we. Always go for the easy choice. Even as a reader I felt the same. BUT…
Something inside just hit me.
I knew who it was. Well actually I thought I knew – and it just so happened that I was right!! But it didn’t make me any less shocked by the revelations.
THE BIG TWIST – if you see it coming or not, it will still hit you in the face like a big slap. Because you will never see it coming until it’s right there staring you in the face.
This was such an incredible, fast paced, twisty read. And I would highly recommend to any book lover.
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