Book Blurb
In a large house in London’s fashionable Chelsea, a baby is awake in her cot. Well-fed and cared for, she is happily waiting for someone to pick her up. In the kitchen lie three decomposing corpses. Close to them is a hastily scrawled note. They’ve been dead for several days. Who has been looking after the baby? And where did they go? Two entangled families. A house with the darkest of secrets. A compulsive thriller from Lisa Jewell.
Book Review
- Psychological thriller books have grown in popularity owing to their interesting plots, suspenseful nature, study of dark subjects, link to real-life emotions, psychological depth, and capacity to give escapism and an adrenaline rush. These aspects combine to produce a fascinating and addicting reading experience that has captivated readers worldwide.
- In this sense, Lisa Jewell’s “The Family Upstairs” is a riveting psychological thriller introducing Libby Jones, a young lady who suddenly inherits a run-down London home from her biological parents. This abandoned mansion serves as the impetus for revealing a dark and unpleasant past that previously existed within its walls.
- As Libby sets out to repair the estate, she learns about the mysteries of its previous owners, the Lambs, an affluent family embroiled in a dangerous religious cult. The cult upbringing left permanent wounds on the Lamb children—Lucy, Henry, and David—who all face difficult adulthood.
- Libby’s visit brings back bitter memories for the Lamb siblings, who grow sceptical of her identity. The tale takes readers on a thrilling rollercoaster as the past and present clash, driving Libby to race against the clock to discover the truth before it destroys her.
- In the book The Family Upstairs, Lisa Jewell exhibits outstanding narrative skills, creating an atmosphere of tension and foreboding. As readers dive into the inner lives of complicated and believable individuals, the sense of dread grows. The melancholy backdrop of the abandoned home is well depicted with an unsettling charm that captivates readers. This book by Lisa Jewel excels in keeping readers guessing and maintaining suspense. Some story twists, however, may be predicted by seasoned readers of the genre. Furthermore, those looking for a more explosive conclusion may find the finish slightly anticlimactic.
- Nonetheless, The Family Upstairs is a well-crafted psychological thriller that will leave an unforgettable imprint. Lisa Jewell expertly mixes past and current storylines, engaging readers in a terrifying story that remains long after the last page is turned. Fans of dark and twisted reading will find this a compelling addition to their library.
- The intrigue, captivating characters, and vivid location of The Family Upstairs deserve praise. While certain narrative sections are predictable, the overall experience is immensely enjoyable. Lisa Jewell demonstrates her talent as a storyteller in psychological thrillers once more. The Family Upstairs is a must-see for everyone looking for an evocative and scary voyage into the depths of human nature.
Genre: Fiction, Psychological Thriller
Age Group: 18+
Theme:
4/5
Writing Style:
4/5
Storytelling:
4/5
Entertainment Quotient:
5/5
Overall Rating:
5/5
– Swapna Peri