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The Lodger
She’s in your home…
Leigh Simons can’t say for sure what made her do it. A moment of madness, perhaps, but when the young, loud and gorgeous waitress at her favorite coffee shop reveals she is homeless, Leigh offers her the empty room in her house.
In your head…
Gina is the perfect lodger; Leigh, lonely and frustrated with her life, becomes infatuated with the woman – her boldness, her zeal. If only Leigh could be more like Gina…
And missing without trace.
So when Leigh returns from a work trip she’s shocked to find Gina missing. Where could the young woman have gone…and why?
Leigh fears that something terrible has happened - why else would Gina leave her?
But as she sets out to find her missing lodger, what Leigh discovers changes everything she knows about Gina….and her own life, too.
Leigh Simons can’t say for sure what made her do it. A moment of madness, perhaps, but when the young, loud and gorgeous waitress at her favorite coffee shop reveals she is homeless, Leigh offers her the empty room in her house.
In your head…
Gina is the perfect lodger; Leigh, lonely and frustrated with her life, becomes infatuated with the woman – her boldness, her zeal. If only Leigh could be more like Gina…
And missing without trace.
So when Leigh returns from a work trip she’s shocked to find Gina missing. Where could the young woman have gone…and why?
Leigh fears that something terrible has happened - why else would Gina leave her?
But as she sets out to find her missing lodger, what Leigh discovers changes everything she knows about Gina….and her own life, too.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2022
About the author
Valerie Keogh
40 books550 followersValerie started to write several years ago. She self-published eight crime novels and one psychological thriller before signing a two book contract with Bookouture in March 2018. The first of these, Secrets Between Us, is available now and the second is due in Feb 2019. She is a registered nurse with a degree in English and a Masters in American Literature. Recently she has given up nursing to concentrate on her writing career.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 385 reviews
October 29, 2022
3.5 rounded up
This is an entertaining psychological thriller. It has a packed plot which keeps you interested and is a glide through easy read. There are plenty of suspects to ponder on along the route to the truth some unexpected twists and turns.The main character of Leigh annoys me from time to time with some of her decisions but nonetheless it keeps you reading on! There are a few things that stretch credulity and one distinct plot hole but at least it wasn’t dull and boring! I would definitely like to read more by this author.
A Kindle Unlimited read.
This is an entertaining psychological thriller. It has a packed plot which keeps you interested and is a glide through easy read. There are plenty of suspects to ponder on along the route to the truth some unexpected twists and turns.The main character of Leigh annoys me from time to time with some of her decisions but nonetheless it keeps you reading on! There are a few things that stretch credulity and one distinct plot hole but at least it wasn’t dull and boring! I would definitely like to read more by this author.
A Kindle Unlimited read.
July 7, 2022
This book was definitely entertaining, although slightly predictable. The story pulled me in immediately. I greatly appreciated the underlying message of empowerment woven throughout the plot. Unexplained occurrences, suspicious behavior and a bizarre disappearance come together to create a suspenseful thriller I thoroughly enjoyed. I look forward to reading more by Valerie Keogh. Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my ARC.
August 2, 2022
THE LODGER is a mystery thriller by Valerie Keogh. Having read and enjoyed four of her stand-alone novels, I was anxious to start her latest novel.
Her Stand-Alone Novels Include:
Exit Five from Charing Cross (2014)
Secrets Between Us (2018)
The Housewife (2019)
The Three Women (2020)
The Perfect Life (2020)
The Deadly Truth (2020)
The Little Lies (2021)
The Lies He Told (2021)
The Couple in the Photograph (2021)
A Taste of Deceit (2022)
The Lodger (2022)
This is my review of The Lodger.
She made a decision, an act of kindness… and one of no return.
Leigh Simon, who works and lives in London in a high-profile job as a commodity trader, goes early to her favorite coffee shop for her usual coffee pickup, and is greeted and served by Gina, the waitress. But Leigh notices a change in character with Gina, and asks her what is wrong. Gina tells her she is homeless and Leigh offers her an empty room in her house.
Gina moves in immediately that night.
A decision that Leigh would come to regret…
Leigh’s boyfriend, Matt, a teacher who works out of town in Salisbury, comes to stay with Leigh on weekends, coming to London for the week to attend some events. But there is a change to their schedule when Leigh has to attend a course out of town the following week.
Gina had confronted Leigh before she left on the course, once Leigh had told her of the changes. Gina did not feel safe in the house with Matt, as she didn’t know him.
So, when Leigh returns from a work trip, she’s shocked to find Gina missing. Where could the young woman have gone…and why?
Leigh fears that something terrible has happened - why else would Gina leave her?
But as she sets out to find her missing lodger, what Leigh discovers changes everything she knows about Gina….and her own life, too.
The mystery storyline develops slowly with information being revealed on a need-to-know basis. The author drags you into the journey.
The Lodger was an interesting read and well worth read. I was interested in finding out what happened to Gina.
Many thanks to the author, Boldwood Books and Netgalley, for my digital copy.
Her Stand-Alone Novels Include:
Exit Five from Charing Cross (2014)
Secrets Between Us (2018)
The Housewife (2019)
The Three Women (2020)
The Perfect Life (2020)
The Deadly Truth (2020)
The Little Lies (2021)
The Lies He Told (2021)
The Couple in the Photograph (2021)
A Taste of Deceit (2022)
The Lodger (2022)
This is my review of The Lodger.
She made a decision, an act of kindness… and one of no return.
Leigh Simon, who works and lives in London in a high-profile job as a commodity trader, goes early to her favorite coffee shop for her usual coffee pickup, and is greeted and served by Gina, the waitress. But Leigh notices a change in character with Gina, and asks her what is wrong. Gina tells her she is homeless and Leigh offers her an empty room in her house.
Gina moves in immediately that night.
A decision that Leigh would come to regret…
Leigh’s boyfriend, Matt, a teacher who works out of town in Salisbury, comes to stay with Leigh on weekends, coming to London for the week to attend some events. But there is a change to their schedule when Leigh has to attend a course out of town the following week.
Gina had confronted Leigh before she left on the course, once Leigh had told her of the changes. Gina did not feel safe in the house with Matt, as she didn’t know him.
So, when Leigh returns from a work trip, she’s shocked to find Gina missing. Where could the young woman have gone…and why?
Leigh fears that something terrible has happened - why else would Gina leave her?
But as she sets out to find her missing lodger, what Leigh discovers changes everything she knows about Gina….and her own life, too.
The mystery storyline develops slowly with information being revealed on a need-to-know basis. The author drags you into the journey.
The Lodger was an interesting read and well worth read. I was interested in finding out what happened to Gina.
Many thanks to the author, Boldwood Books and Netgalley, for my digital copy.
January 12, 2023
I am not a fan of repetitive text and one-dimensional female protagonists with a shortage of brain cells, so this book was not for me.
Author Valerie Keogh recently bedazzled me with "The Trophy Wife" but "The Lodger" was a challenge to finish.
The book dragged and had an ending that was easily predictable.
Yet, it was the book's very last sentence that upped the book's star rating.
I listened to the audiobook and the narration was good but not great.
2 stars rounded up.
Author Valerie Keogh recently bedazzled me with "The Trophy Wife" but "The Lodger" was a challenge to finish.
The book dragged and had an ending that was easily predictable.
Yet, it was the book's very last sentence that upped the book's star rating.
I listened to the audiobook and the narration was good but not great.
2 stars rounded up.
August 2, 2022
This was my first book by Valerie Keogh, and this will not be my last!
A gripping book that has a twisty and sometimes dark plot that keeps those readers guessing!
It took me a while to decide if I liked Leah, her decisions sometimes irked me a little, but gradually I came to appreciate her actions.
And Gina? What an intriguing character! Loved her.
The ending was great too, a little complex but well executed.
A gripping book that has a twisty and sometimes dark plot that keeps those readers guessing!
It took me a while to decide if I liked Leah, her decisions sometimes irked me a little, but gradually I came to appreciate her actions.
And Gina? What an intriguing character! Loved her.
The ending was great too, a little complex but well executed.
February 24, 2023
“A few weeks ago, I thought I knew everything, now I’m doing cartwheels simply to keep us with the twists and turns in my life. Truth seems to have become an optional extra.”
Regret - we’ve all been there. We learn to hate the negative emotion that we feel when we realize that an outcome could have been better if we’d chosen differently. I’ll bet few of us have ever regretted being kind, though. Leigh Simon, the protagonist in this book, will definitely think twice before making another split second decision based on kindness! It was the beginning of the end for her.
When her favourite barista, Gina Henderson, is displaced and frantically looking for somewhere to live, Leigh kindly offers a room in her home until Gina can find something suitable. What could possibly go wrong?
EVERYTHING.
You’ll have to read this expertly executed psychological suspense to find out how Leigh, and everyone she comes close to, suffers as a result of her choice. Author Valerie Keogh explores what happens when vulnerable people make a split second decision from their heart instead of their head.
I was thoroughly creeped out, did a mental list of who had keys to my house, and double-checked the deadbolts on my doors. I don’t think I’ll ever eat quiche again without thinking of this book!
I was gifted this advance copy by Valerie Keogh, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Regret - we’ve all been there. We learn to hate the negative emotion that we feel when we realize that an outcome could have been better if we’d chosen differently. I’ll bet few of us have ever regretted being kind, though. Leigh Simon, the protagonist in this book, will definitely think twice before making another split second decision based on kindness! It was the beginning of the end for her.
When her favourite barista, Gina Henderson, is displaced and frantically looking for somewhere to live, Leigh kindly offers a room in her home until Gina can find something suitable. What could possibly go wrong?
EVERYTHING.
You’ll have to read this expertly executed psychological suspense to find out how Leigh, and everyone she comes close to, suffers as a result of her choice. Author Valerie Keogh explores what happens when vulnerable people make a split second decision from their heart instead of their head.
I was thoroughly creeped out, did a mental list of who had keys to my house, and double-checked the deadbolts on my doors. I don’t think I’ll ever eat quiche again without thinking of this book!
I was gifted this advance copy by Valerie Keogh, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
July 26, 2022
If ever you have thought of having a lodger, be prepared to think again after reading this!
Leigh,in a flush of kindness, offers her spare room to her fav Barista who she thinks she knows fairly well, how wrong she is….that lapse in Leigh’s normal reserved nature will cost, and cost dearly!
What follows is a torrent of nastiness ( I am not going to give away any of it as each event leads to another and the shocks get worse for Leigh and for the reader 😀 ) and Leigh wonders if she is losing her mind, can she trust herself never mind anyone else, it all leads to a grim, dark and brilliant last line ending
I loved it, great writing, believable characters and even though a horrific tale the odd burst of humour ( the Amazon line made me LOL ) that really is the all inclusive option of stories and reading
Read and enjoy and be prepared never to entertain a lodger again…..
My first book by this author and I will be reading more after this!
10/10
5 Stars
Leigh,in a flush of kindness, offers her spare room to her fav Barista who she thinks she knows fairly well, how wrong she is….that lapse in Leigh’s normal reserved nature will cost, and cost dearly!
What follows is a torrent of nastiness ( I am not going to give away any of it as each event leads to another and the shocks get worse for Leigh and for the reader 😀 ) and Leigh wonders if she is losing her mind, can she trust herself never mind anyone else, it all leads to a grim, dark and brilliant last line ending
I loved it, great writing, believable characters and even though a horrific tale the odd burst of humour ( the Amazon line made me LOL ) that really is the all inclusive option of stories and reading
Read and enjoy and be prepared never to entertain a lodger again…..
My first book by this author and I will be reading more after this!
10/10
5 Stars
August 4, 2022
The Lodger by Valerie Keogh begged me to read “just one more paragraph” before turning in for the night. Each time I did, I was rewarded with more questions so it was a continuous cycle! I was so engrossed in Leigh’s story that it was midnight before I knew it.
Her lecherous boss harasses her. She lets her self-absorbed boyfriend take advantage of her. Can life throw more at her? Oh yes. In a moment of weakness, she offers a room in her house to a stranger. And…no good deed goes unpunished.
Her struggles are relatable. Most women have dealt with inappropriate bosses and/or shoddy boyfriends. And it’s so fun to read about the moments they get what they deserve!
Thank you to #valeriekeogh for the #giftedbook and #rachelsrandomresources for the #booktour invite.
#thelodger #blogtour #boldwoodbooks #netgalley #booktourhost #thriller #bookstagrammer #angermanagement #bookreviewer #crimeandcocktailsbookcrew #rachelsrandomresources
#mysteryandthrills #readwithme #bookaddict #thrillersofinstagram #lovebooks #thrillerfiction #bookreviewersofinstagram #lovetoreadbooks#cantstopreading #fortheloveofbooks #honestreview
Her lecherous boss harasses her. She lets her self-absorbed boyfriend take advantage of her. Can life throw more at her? Oh yes. In a moment of weakness, she offers a room in her house to a stranger. And…no good deed goes unpunished.
Her struggles are relatable. Most women have dealt with inappropriate bosses and/or shoddy boyfriends. And it’s so fun to read about the moments they get what they deserve!
Thank you to #valeriekeogh for the #giftedbook and #rachelsrandomresources for the #booktour invite.
#thelodger #blogtour #boldwoodbooks #netgalley #booktourhost #thriller #bookstagrammer #angermanagement #bookreviewer #crimeandcocktailsbookcrew #rachelsrandomresources
#mysteryandthrills #readwithme #bookaddict #thrillersofinstagram #lovebooks #thrillerfiction #bookreviewersofinstagram #lovetoreadbooks#cantstopreading #fortheloveofbooks #honestreview
August 18, 2022
Keogh weaves an elaborate tale. Leigh in trouble at work losing her patience with a lecherous colleague, has to attend an anger management course. Beforehand she invites a lodger, Gina into her home. On return Gina is gone, her boyfriend who was also staying becomes distant and her work colleague goes missing. Leigh becomes embroiled in the results of her week away. This story was intruding to the very end. Unexpected twists keep the story alive and Leigh’s misery and vulnerability as a woman are well described. Definitely not a book to pass by and kept me entertained until the last minute.
June 20, 2022
4,5 ⭐️
Thank you NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Valerie Keogh for letting me read “The Lodger” in exchange for an honest review.
A beautiful woman with a bright yellow piece of luggage walking towards a green door. Dark background with a splash of colour. It’s subtle. Does not scream thriller/mystery, but catches your attention. After reading the book I kind of would have wished for Gina’s Auburn hair with pink streaks. :)
I recently read a book that sounded very similar to this one. So I was excited where the story would take me. But it ended up totally different.
“She is in your home… and in your head”
A spur of the moment decision, out of the good of her heart. Leigh offers struggling barista Gina a place to stay. The two women could not be more different. Gina, young, bubbly and beautiful, Leigh more the reserved kind. While it’s a sweet and noble gesture to offer someone a room to live, not thinking about details like rent, food, her boyfriend and so on, it’s quite naive, so to say. She mentions this to the cops at one point, does every good deed has to be about getting something in return. No. But jeez woman, think first!
Even though Leigh quickly regrets her decision, they get along well at first. Then Gina drops some remarks about things she could not possibly know, or could she? She starts acting weird when Leigh’s partner Matt comes into the picture. Then Gina goes missing…
I liked Gina quite a bit at first, but what is her secret, is she as sweet as she seems? Leigh is the one with a quick temper, but otherwise rather bland, will she develop at all? The stereotypical middle aged woman with her routines, life focusing around work. Matt gave me the creeps right from the start. So not likeable. The type that handles you roughly and then tries to make up for it? Yuck.
I quite much enjoyed the story. The beginning was slow paced and then the action happened bit by bit. And boy, did it happen. I did not know where to turn my head to, what to think. Bloody brilliant. The story was thought through and progressed nicely. The end… yes and no. Think about it, why would you do?? I’ll leave it at that and let you wonder …
Thank you NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Valerie Keogh for letting me read “The Lodger” in exchange for an honest review.
A beautiful woman with a bright yellow piece of luggage walking towards a green door. Dark background with a splash of colour. It’s subtle. Does not scream thriller/mystery, but catches your attention. After reading the book I kind of would have wished for Gina’s Auburn hair with pink streaks. :)
I recently read a book that sounded very similar to this one. So I was excited where the story would take me. But it ended up totally different.
“She is in your home… and in your head”
A spur of the moment decision, out of the good of her heart. Leigh offers struggling barista Gina a place to stay. The two women could not be more different. Gina, young, bubbly and beautiful, Leigh more the reserved kind. While it’s a sweet and noble gesture to offer someone a room to live, not thinking about details like rent, food, her boyfriend and so on, it’s quite naive, so to say. She mentions this to the cops at one point, does every good deed has to be about getting something in return. No. But jeez woman, think first!
Even though Leigh quickly regrets her decision, they get along well at first. Then Gina drops some remarks about things she could not possibly know, or could she? She starts acting weird when Leigh’s partner Matt comes into the picture. Then Gina goes missing…
I liked Gina quite a bit at first, but what is her secret, is she as sweet as she seems? Leigh is the one with a quick temper, but otherwise rather bland, will she develop at all? The stereotypical middle aged woman with her routines, life focusing around work. Matt gave me the creeps right from the start. So not likeable. The type that handles you roughly and then tries to make up for it? Yuck.
I quite much enjoyed the story. The beginning was slow paced and then the action happened bit by bit. And boy, did it happen. I did not know where to turn my head to, what to think. Bloody brilliant. The story was thought through and progressed nicely. The end… yes and no. Think about it, why would you do?? I’ll leave it at that and let you wonder …
November 4, 2022
Can we please move past the unreliable female narrator already? I know it's the "hot thing" in literature since Gone Girl, but it's so played out, predictable and boring at this point.
Valerie Keogh is really hit and miss for me. I've read 5 if her books: Loved 3 of them, hated 2 of them. This is definitely in the hate category.
It started off interesting enough, but went downhill pretty quickly. Leigh is such an unlikable character. For someone so well-educated and successful, she's completely stupid. And I was screaming at her the whole time to grow a backbone, stand up for herself, and -for goodness sake- stop being so naive. *Sigh*
Plus the twist was so OTT, stupid and convoluted, it left me wondering why I even bothered to finish reading this book. Oh well! On to bigger and better books.
Valerie Keogh is really hit and miss for me. I've read 5 if her books: Loved 3 of them, hated 2 of them. This is definitely in the hate category.
It started off interesting enough, but went downhill pretty quickly. Leigh is such an unlikable character. For someone so well-educated and successful, she's completely stupid. And I was screaming at her the whole time to grow a backbone, stand up for herself, and -for goodness sake- stop being so naive. *Sigh*
Plus the twist was so OTT, stupid and convoluted, it left me wondering why I even bothered to finish reading this book. Oh well! On to bigger and better books.
June 25, 2022
Valerie Keogh's book The Lodger is a psychological thriller that embraces the darker side of vulnerability. The story unfolds slowly and is filled with mystery.
Synopsis:
Leigh Simons accepts a lodger named Gina into her home. Gina seems like a wonderful roommate. She has a lively personality and the two get along well. Leigh goes away on business. When she returns home she is shocked to find Gina missing without a trace. Gina's welfare concerns Leigh who is determined to find out if she is in danger. What happened to Gina?
The Lodger is an enjoyable book with a bit slower pace due to the theme. It is definitely worth reading for the interesting context of the story. Keogh includes several unexpected plot twists that kept me flipping pages. I was eager to find out what happened at the end and it blew me away.
The Lodger by Valerie Keogh was my first time reading a book by the talented author. I look forward to reading more of her work. The Lodger is available on August 1st. (3.75 ⭐⭐⭐💫)
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books for allowing me to review this e-book. Your kindness is appreciated.
Synopsis:
Leigh Simons accepts a lodger named Gina into her home. Gina seems like a wonderful roommate. She has a lively personality and the two get along well. Leigh goes away on business. When she returns home she is shocked to find Gina missing without a trace. Gina's welfare concerns Leigh who is determined to find out if she is in danger. What happened to Gina?
The Lodger is an enjoyable book with a bit slower pace due to the theme. It is definitely worth reading for the interesting context of the story. Keogh includes several unexpected plot twists that kept me flipping pages. I was eager to find out what happened at the end and it blew me away.
The Lodger by Valerie Keogh was my first time reading a book by the talented author. I look forward to reading more of her work. The Lodger is available on August 1st. (3.75 ⭐⭐⭐💫)
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books for allowing me to review this e-book. Your kindness is appreciated.
July 8, 2022
I usually love this authors books but unfortunately for me it did not grab me. I think that I must be in the minority as other readers are raving about it. Leigh the main character was so annoying and unable to make changes or stand up for herself. Grow a backbone woman!!!! Leigh takes a lodger, who she feels sorry for and likes her sunny disposition when she collects her morning coffee. Not a good idea but hey ho what do I know. The lodger disappears and Leigh makes it her job to find her lodger Gina who has only been staying for a week. Then it just becomes so surreal and I feel like I am reading a completely different book. Don't get me started on the the abysmal ending. Not one of her better books.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for giving an honest review.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for giving an honest review.
July 3, 2022
Why would you invite a complete stranger into to your home to live?! Leigh Simmons was sympathetic to Gina’s situation, but regretted within minutes! All is fine until Leigh’s luck changes and she goes away to attend a management course. When Leigh returns, Gina disappears. Leigh becomes obsessed and it gets crazy! It’s a slow start and a bit unbelievable, but I couldn’t put it down either! Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for a gifted copy.
October 18, 2022
I found this book quite hard work unfortunately. 75% of it seemed to drag. The last quarter was good when you finally find out what actually happened.
September 20, 2023
DNF at 45% The main character, Leigh, is a complete idiot. After one too many ridiculous actions on her part, I can't continue.
August 4, 2022
This book was incredibly good. It focuses on Leigh Simons and Gina who is homeless until Leigh offers her a place to stay - in Leigh's home. This book was completely enthralling and compelling and I found it hard to stop reading. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Boldwood Books via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Boldwood Books via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
July 11, 2022
Leigh Simons can’t say for sure what made her do it. A moment of madness, perhaps, but when the young, loud and gorgeous waitress at her favorite coffee shop reveals she is homeless, Leigh offers her the empty room in her house.
This is the start of a decision Leigh may find herself regretting but for the reader what a ride, I loved it As with all Valerie Keogh books you are never let down by her strong plots, great characters and twists and turns that keep you reading, I read this in an afternoon as it was so good. It is actually one of my favourite books that I have read this year, so of course highly recommended.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the start of a decision Leigh may find herself regretting but for the reader what a ride, I loved it As with all Valerie Keogh books you are never let down by her strong plots, great characters and twists and turns that keep you reading, I read this in an afternoon as it was so good. It is actually one of my favourite books that I have read this year, so of course highly recommended.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2022
"She is in your home… and in your head."
I've read a couple of books by Valerie Keogh in the past but THE LODGER explores something of the darker side of vulnerability. There is a dark and almost sinister edge to it though throughout I cannot put my finger on it. It's about the genuine kindness of one woman only to be seemingly exploited by another. It's about secrets and deception. It's about smoke and mirrors. And just when you thought you knew everything, in the words of the protagonist herself - "I (the reader) thought I knew everything but I'm now doing cartwheels simply to keep up with the twists and turns...truth seems to have become an optional extra."
On her way to work one morning, Leigh Simons stops at her usual coffee shop where her favourite barista is not her usual bubbly self. Leigh takes sympathy on Gina and in a burst of kindness she offers her spare room to her. But why would you invite a complete stranger to live in your home? Almost immediately she regrets her spontaneity as Gina awaits with her meagre belongings for Leigh's return home that evening. But maybe sharing with this vivacious and vibrant character will bring some much-needed colour to her life. Gina is like a breath of fresh air to Leigh's somewhat stale existence. After all, things haven't been going all that great for her on either the personal or the professional front.
Firstly, boyfriend Matt lives and works in Salisbury. Leigh lives and works in London. Neither will compromise. Matt does come up to London most weekends to spend with her so there is that...isn't there? Secondly, her work as commodities trader is demanding and she doesn't need the leering attentions of any male colleagues. So when a creepy colleague peers, or rather ogles, a minute too long at her cleavage and Leigh calls him out on it, her reaction thus has her hauled into HR with a "please explain". So when she then has to leave for a week-long anger management course, she breaks the news to Gina the morning of her departure who is uncomfortable being left alone with Matt in her absence.
A week later, and after spending the following weekend with Matt is Salisbury, Leigh returns home to London to find Gina has disappeared and all her belongings gone. All that remains is a note simply saying "Sorry" and a fridge full of pre-cooked meals. If she'd simply left, why would she buy all that food and then leave it? It makes no sense.
There are too many unanswered questions but Leigh may wish she never started her search for her...
Soon Leigh hears bumps in the night, creaks on the stairs, disappearing quiches, front doors left wide open...what is happening to her and why? Is someone trying to scare her into silence? Or is she going stark raving mad? And then there is the over friendly, if not slightly creepy, guy she met on the course who tricked reception into giving him her address. And what has any of this got to do with Gina's disappearance? And what has it to do with her?
THE LODGER is a slow burn psychological thriller in which the tension builds gradually. It was not as predictable as I had thought, although I had long foreseen one aspect that no one else (least of all Leigh) saw coming. Leigh was a sweet-natured woman who only wanted to do good deed and then felt she'd been taken advantage of. Gina was a colourful character that we didn't see quite enough of to get a real feel for. And Matt? Well, he gave me the creeps from the start. He was self-obsessed, selfish and cared nothing for anyone but himself.
Although it was slow to start, it did pick up eventually and made for an enjoyable read. It was certainly different and would make one think twice before offering your spare room to a stranger!
And then that ending. That certainly was the coup-de-grace. I'm not sure I could do it, but it was certainly a just outcome that was well executed.
Overall, an engaging read that I couldn't quite put down. Different but didn't disappoint.
I would like to thank #ValerieKeogh, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheLodger in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I've read a couple of books by Valerie Keogh in the past but THE LODGER explores something of the darker side of vulnerability. There is a dark and almost sinister edge to it though throughout I cannot put my finger on it. It's about the genuine kindness of one woman only to be seemingly exploited by another. It's about secrets and deception. It's about smoke and mirrors. And just when you thought you knew everything, in the words of the protagonist herself - "I (the reader) thought I knew everything but I'm now doing cartwheels simply to keep up with the twists and turns...truth seems to have become an optional extra."
On her way to work one morning, Leigh Simons stops at her usual coffee shop where her favourite barista is not her usual bubbly self. Leigh takes sympathy on Gina and in a burst of kindness she offers her spare room to her. But why would you invite a complete stranger to live in your home? Almost immediately she regrets her spontaneity as Gina awaits with her meagre belongings for Leigh's return home that evening. But maybe sharing with this vivacious and vibrant character will bring some much-needed colour to her life. Gina is like a breath of fresh air to Leigh's somewhat stale existence. After all, things haven't been going all that great for her on either the personal or the professional front.
Firstly, boyfriend Matt lives and works in Salisbury. Leigh lives and works in London. Neither will compromise. Matt does come up to London most weekends to spend with her so there is that...isn't there? Secondly, her work as commodities trader is demanding and she doesn't need the leering attentions of any male colleagues. So when a creepy colleague peers, or rather ogles, a minute too long at her cleavage and Leigh calls him out on it, her reaction thus has her hauled into HR with a "please explain". So when she then has to leave for a week-long anger management course, she breaks the news to Gina the morning of her departure who is uncomfortable being left alone with Matt in her absence.
A week later, and after spending the following weekend with Matt is Salisbury, Leigh returns home to London to find Gina has disappeared and all her belongings gone. All that remains is a note simply saying "Sorry" and a fridge full of pre-cooked meals. If she'd simply left, why would she buy all that food and then leave it? It makes no sense.
There are too many unanswered questions but Leigh may wish she never started her search for her...
Soon Leigh hears bumps in the night, creaks on the stairs, disappearing quiches, front doors left wide open...what is happening to her and why? Is someone trying to scare her into silence? Or is she going stark raving mad? And then there is the over friendly, if not slightly creepy, guy she met on the course who tricked reception into giving him her address. And what has any of this got to do with Gina's disappearance? And what has it to do with her?
THE LODGER is a slow burn psychological thriller in which the tension builds gradually. It was not as predictable as I had thought, although I had long foreseen one aspect that no one else (least of all Leigh) saw coming. Leigh was a sweet-natured woman who only wanted to do good deed and then felt she'd been taken advantage of. Gina was a colourful character that we didn't see quite enough of to get a real feel for. And Matt? Well, he gave me the creeps from the start. He was self-obsessed, selfish and cared nothing for anyone but himself.
Although it was slow to start, it did pick up eventually and made for an enjoyable read. It was certainly different and would make one think twice before offering your spare room to a stranger!
And then that ending. That certainly was the coup-de-grace. I'm not sure I could do it, but it was certainly a just outcome that was well executed.
Overall, an engaging read that I couldn't quite put down. Different but didn't disappoint.
I would like to thank #ValerieKeogh, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheLodger in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
August 7, 2022
A deep dive into a world of secrets, where no one is who you think they are, and everyone has something to hide.
Initially, THE LODGER (smashing cover) and the description grabbed my attention, and I immediately purchased the audiobook and e-book. My first book by the author, Valerie Keogh (with a long list of book titles), and I look forward to reading more!
Addictive, relentlessly twisty, and highly entertaining psychological thriller, THE LODGER grabs you from the first page to the deliciously wicked last line! (a good one).
Leigh Simons' life is pretty dull. She is a day trader, not wild about her job, and dislikes her creepy, nasty boss. She is dating a teacher, Matt, who lives in Salisbury (out of town), and he visits her only on weekends.
Leigh likes her coffee and a nearby coffee shop, which she visits often. She likes the bubbly and cherry barista, Gina, who is always upbeat.
However, she notices Gina is not her usual happy self on today's coffee run. After persuading her to take a break, Leigh asks her what is wrong. She explains her roommate is getting married, so she needs to find a new place to live or will be homeless. She cannot afford much on her salary.
Impulsively, Leigh extends an invitation to Gina to move in with her. Leigh inherited the house and has plenty of room and a lovely garden she just installed. She has a spare room, and Gina can be her lodger. Gina accepts graciously and is quite excited and ready to move in immediately.
After Leigh leaves, she starts second-guessing her decision. She does not know this twenty-five-year-old girl, but how bad could it be? She did not check references or is unsure what kind of person she is outside the coffee house.
The only thing is Matt will probably not like it, and she did not discuss it with him first. It is her house, so she can do as she wants. However, Leigh likes her privacy, so she is unsure how this arrangement will turn out.
Gina settles in and is tidy. She also prepares meals and brings home expensive food for Leigh. Leigh does not feel like being chummy. Matt also does not like this lodger situation.
At work, things go from bad to worse when Gina's boss Mr. Ledbetter comes on to her, and she slaps him. Of course, he goes to Human Resources, and now she is in trouble due to her temper. They mandate an anger management class for her out of town for a week.
Now she has to go away for the week for this class and leave her new lodger at the house alone. However, she will not be alone because Matt is coming to stay at her house for the weekend. Oftentimes he comes into the city to go to museums and art shows, but this time she will not be there.
When she tells Gina that she will be away for the weekend and that Matt is staying there, Gina gets very upset. Of course, who could blame her? She does not know this guy and has no lock on her bedroom door. Leigh thinks Gina is overreacting and says it is her house; if she does not like it, she can move out.
When Leigh gets to the course, she meets a guy which is always around. A bit creepy and stalkerish. He is around every day. He seems to come on to her. Something is off with this guy. They also are not allowed to use their cell phones. Then when she leaves the class, she forgets her Kindle, and the class calls and says this man will drop it by, which concerns Leigh.
While Leigh is at the class, she starts worrying about being too harsh with Gina and decides she will apologize and make it up to her once she returns. When she arrives home, Gina is GONE! No site of her. All of her things are gone, cleared out. The only thing left is some food in the refrigerator, which is all expensive stuff.
Where did she go? At first, she is relieved she is gone but then starts worrying about why she left in such a hurry. She left a note saying she was sorry.
Then strange things start happening. Mr. Ledbetter is missing from work. Then Leigh sees a woman's hand in the garden and thinks it may be her lodger. She calls the police but turns out it is a fake hand. What the heck? She then tells the police she is worried something happened to her lodger and wants to file a report. They say she needs to hire a tracer.
There is an investigation, and at first, they think Leigh is crazy, plus she has anger issues. Leigh has already decided she wants to break it off with Matt. He was very rough with sex and aggressive the night before her class, which scared her, plus their relationship was going nowhere.
However, Matt is acting strange. Then there is a sexual abuse charge against him. Mr. Ledbetter is missing, and she starts suspecting the crazy man from the class who dropped off her Kindle while she was away.
Do all three of these guys have anything to do with Gina's disappearance? Is Gina a con artist, a victim, or a predator? Is she dead or alive, and who is she? How well does she know Gina and Matt?
Wow, this story got ever stranger as it moved along. Leigh goes from being relieved Gina is gone to ultimately worried about her. What comes next is not what you expect, leading to a satisfying conclusion for a twisty domestic thriller.
A compulsive and chilling exploration of lies, deceit, trust, and obsession. I loved the audiobook narrated by the talented Rose Robinson for a superb performance. I enjoy UK narrators for an engaging listening experience.
With dark secrets and surprising twists, this one’s sure to be a new favorite! For fans of Samantha M. Bailey's Watch Out for Her and B. A. Paris' The Prisoner.
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: Aug 1, 2022
My Rating: 4 Stars ✨✨✨✨
Aug 2022 Must-Read Books
Initially, THE LODGER (smashing cover) and the description grabbed my attention, and I immediately purchased the audiobook and e-book. My first book by the author, Valerie Keogh (with a long list of book titles), and I look forward to reading more!
Addictive, relentlessly twisty, and highly entertaining psychological thriller, THE LODGER grabs you from the first page to the deliciously wicked last line! (a good one).
Leigh Simons' life is pretty dull. She is a day trader, not wild about her job, and dislikes her creepy, nasty boss. She is dating a teacher, Matt, who lives in Salisbury (out of town), and he visits her only on weekends.
Leigh likes her coffee and a nearby coffee shop, which she visits often. She likes the bubbly and cherry barista, Gina, who is always upbeat.
However, she notices Gina is not her usual happy self on today's coffee run. After persuading her to take a break, Leigh asks her what is wrong. She explains her roommate is getting married, so she needs to find a new place to live or will be homeless. She cannot afford much on her salary.
Impulsively, Leigh extends an invitation to Gina to move in with her. Leigh inherited the house and has plenty of room and a lovely garden she just installed. She has a spare room, and Gina can be her lodger. Gina accepts graciously and is quite excited and ready to move in immediately.
After Leigh leaves, she starts second-guessing her decision. She does not know this twenty-five-year-old girl, but how bad could it be? She did not check references or is unsure what kind of person she is outside the coffee house.
The only thing is Matt will probably not like it, and she did not discuss it with him first. It is her house, so she can do as she wants. However, Leigh likes her privacy, so she is unsure how this arrangement will turn out.
Gina settles in and is tidy. She also prepares meals and brings home expensive food for Leigh. Leigh does not feel like being chummy. Matt also does not like this lodger situation.
At work, things go from bad to worse when Gina's boss Mr. Ledbetter comes on to her, and she slaps him. Of course, he goes to Human Resources, and now she is in trouble due to her temper. They mandate an anger management class for her out of town for a week.
Now she has to go away for the week for this class and leave her new lodger at the house alone. However, she will not be alone because Matt is coming to stay at her house for the weekend. Oftentimes he comes into the city to go to museums and art shows, but this time she will not be there.
When she tells Gina that she will be away for the weekend and that Matt is staying there, Gina gets very upset. Of course, who could blame her? She does not know this guy and has no lock on her bedroom door. Leigh thinks Gina is overreacting and says it is her house; if she does not like it, she can move out.
When Leigh gets to the course, she meets a guy which is always around. A bit creepy and stalkerish. He is around every day. He seems to come on to her. Something is off with this guy. They also are not allowed to use their cell phones. Then when she leaves the class, she forgets her Kindle, and the class calls and says this man will drop it by, which concerns Leigh.
While Leigh is at the class, she starts worrying about being too harsh with Gina and decides she will apologize and make it up to her once she returns. When she arrives home, Gina is GONE! No site of her. All of her things are gone, cleared out. The only thing left is some food in the refrigerator, which is all expensive stuff.
Where did she go? At first, she is relieved she is gone but then starts worrying about why she left in such a hurry. She left a note saying she was sorry.
Then strange things start happening. Mr. Ledbetter is missing from work. Then Leigh sees a woman's hand in the garden and thinks it may be her lodger. She calls the police but turns out it is a fake hand. What the heck? She then tells the police she is worried something happened to her lodger and wants to file a report. They say she needs to hire a tracer.
There is an investigation, and at first, they think Leigh is crazy, plus she has anger issues. Leigh has already decided she wants to break it off with Matt. He was very rough with sex and aggressive the night before her class, which scared her, plus their relationship was going nowhere.
However, Matt is acting strange. Then there is a sexual abuse charge against him. Mr. Ledbetter is missing, and she starts suspecting the crazy man from the class who dropped off her Kindle while she was away.
Do all three of these guys have anything to do with Gina's disappearance? Is Gina a con artist, a victim, or a predator? Is she dead or alive, and who is she? How well does she know Gina and Matt?
Wow, this story got ever stranger as it moved along. Leigh goes from being relieved Gina is gone to ultimately worried about her. What comes next is not what you expect, leading to a satisfying conclusion for a twisty domestic thriller.
A compulsive and chilling exploration of lies, deceit, trust, and obsession. I loved the audiobook narrated by the talented Rose Robinson for a superb performance. I enjoy UK narrators for an engaging listening experience.
With dark secrets and surprising twists, this one’s sure to be a new favorite! For fans of Samantha M. Bailey's Watch Out for Her and B. A. Paris' The Prisoner.
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: Aug 1, 2022
My Rating: 4 Stars ✨✨✨✨
Aug 2022 Must-Read Books
July 8, 2022
An excellent fast paced thriller which held my interest throughout and kept me on the edge of my seat. Well written, one of my favourite authors and personally I think this was her best book to date.
All the characters were well described and what a great ending, I never guessed.
I can thoroughly recommend this book.
All the characters were well described and what a great ending, I never guessed.
I can thoroughly recommend this book.
July 19, 2022
Well this was an unexpectedly twisty psychological thriller! My first experience of reading a Valerie Keogh book but definitely not my last as I thoroughly enjoyed the gripping and shocking storyline from start to finish. When Leigh makes a split second decision to offer her spare room to a girl who works in her favourite coffee shop, she has no idea that the young woman will suddenly disappear leaving Leigh with many unanswered questions. But she may end up wishing she doesn’t go looking for her…
I liked Leigh from the moment I met her. Kind and generous, she offers her spare room to someone she hardly knows because Gina is homeless plus Leigh also quite fancy’s some company in the house she lives alone in. The male characters weren’t as likeable and I was intrigued as to their intentions! Did any of them have anything to do with Gina’s disappearance? I really couldn’t work out what had happened and I really love it when an author keeps me guessing! In fact, the conclusion when it came was both jaw dropping and shocking and much darker than I had expected but it was the perfect ending to this astonishing tale!
There may be a few triggers here for the more sensitive reader but without giving away the ending I can’t really go into what the triggers are. Just be aware that the narrative delivers some graphic and disturbing scenes as the threads of this addictive storyline come together.
I really enjoyed The Lodger. I couldn’t put it down until I knew what had happened and why and it didn’t disappoint! Looking forward to reading more from Valerie Keogh in the future!
I liked Leigh from the moment I met her. Kind and generous, she offers her spare room to someone she hardly knows because Gina is homeless plus Leigh also quite fancy’s some company in the house she lives alone in. The male characters weren’t as likeable and I was intrigued as to their intentions! Did any of them have anything to do with Gina’s disappearance? I really couldn’t work out what had happened and I really love it when an author keeps me guessing! In fact, the conclusion when it came was both jaw dropping and shocking and much darker than I had expected but it was the perfect ending to this astonishing tale!
There may be a few triggers here for the more sensitive reader but without giving away the ending I can’t really go into what the triggers are. Just be aware that the narrative delivers some graphic and disturbing scenes as the threads of this addictive storyline come together.
I really enjoyed The Lodger. I couldn’t put it down until I knew what had happened and why and it didn’t disappoint! Looking forward to reading more from Valerie Keogh in the future!
September 1, 2023
This book held me in its grip from the first page. I kept saying just one more chapter and before I knew it I was halfway through this amazing read.
Leigh's lecherous boss harasses her and her boyfriend and is always taking advantage of her. To make matters worse in a moment of madness she offers her empty room to the waitress in her favourite coffee shop, Gina moves in that night. A decision that Leigh will sadly regret!!
Gina seems like the perfect housemate, they get on really well but when Leigh goes away on business, upon her return Gina has vanished without a trace. What has happened to her?
I will be definitely looking out for more of this author's books.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
Leigh's lecherous boss harasses her and her boyfriend and is always taking advantage of her. To make matters worse in a moment of madness she offers her empty room to the waitress in her favourite coffee shop, Gina moves in that night. A decision that Leigh will sadly regret!!
Gina seems like the perfect housemate, they get on really well but when Leigh goes away on business, upon her return Gina has vanished without a trace. What has happened to her?
I will be definitely looking out for more of this author's books.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2022
I've read a few books by this author and I do really like her style of writing. I can honestly say I had no idea where this story was going. There were so many twists and turns it kept me flipping the pages, wondering what the heck was going to happen next. The ending was a major surprise! A very entertaining read.
December 29, 2023
Good read! kept me in suspense and constantly wondering 'who done it'! Well written, If you think you have the story wrapped up, before the end, you're very wrong. can't wait to read the authors next book!
August 1, 2022
I raced through this exciting and twisty book. I’ve heard a lot about this author and if this is her standard of writing then I’m definitely going to read more of hers. This book grabbed me straight away and although I was accusing everybody in this book I didn’t really find out until near the end. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
November 1, 2022
Leigh meets barista Gina in a coffee shop. When Gina says she is being made homeless Leigh finds herself offering her a room. As soon as Gina moves in Leigh realises she has made a mistake. Suddenly Gina goes missing when Leigh is away on a work course. Then it becomes obvious someone is coming into the house when Leigh is asleep. Another brilliantly written psycological thriller from Valerie Keogh.
June 24, 2022
This book was nuts! Although Leigh annoyed me immensely (she never ate her food! Something always got in the way, how’d this girl not starve to death?!) but the story was so wild and suspenseful that It didn’t even matter that she was annoying. The plot twists were great and the ending was sooo satisfying! Great read, highly recommend.
December 31, 2022
It had far too much detail in respect of its description of the most mundane tasks and I found the character’s naivety frustrating and annoying. There was a bit of a plot twist but it wasn’t hard to figure out . The dilemma at the end raises some moral debate. I finished the book as it was my last reading challenge of the year , not the best one to finish the year with unfortunately.
January 13, 2023
Intriguing mystery with an interesting start that fell flat in the middle. There were 68 references to coffee and 65 references to wine. I thought the big reveal was appalling. 2.5 stars rounded down.
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