Posted in Reviews, thriller

The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell

5 Hoots

Haunting. A page turner. I could not put this book down!

When I started reading this book I did not predict at all where it was going to end! The book starts off with Libby turning 25 years old and her finding out the identity of her parents as well as finding out that her inheritance includes a house. Little did she know, but 25 years ago the bodies of 3 people were found in that same house…along with her in a crib.

As you can see, that is a lot for Libby to find out all in one short time. Life changing is probably the more accurate term. But the story doesn’t just focus on her! The perspective actually jumps between her, a woman named Lucy, and a young boy named Henry. While Lucy and Libby’s stories are set in present time, Henry’s takes place in the past. While at first it did not appear that their stories were connected it soon became clear that a secret darkness would connect them forever.

This book left me on the edge of my seat! First off, poor Libby! Her entire world is turned upside down when she found out that her parents did not die how she thought. Then there was Lucy who had 2 children, was homeless, and had a mysterious alert on her phone that said “the baby is 25”. How was she connected to Libby? And finally there was Henry whose life drastically changed when this woman came to live at his house when he was a kid. At first it might seem a little confusing but I promise it will eventually tie together.

It is a little difficult reviewing this book and not giving anything away. Jewell brilliantly wove these three very different people’s stories together in a way that I didn’t expect. I loved the way the book had this dark tone that made you feel a little uneasy. It was shocking to me how one person managed to change the lives of so many people. I don’t think I’m giving away too much with that, but honestly guys holy cow!

Overall, I cannot explain how fantastic this book was. It dealt with very heavy topics and was impossible to put down. With every turn of the page I was sucked in further and further into the twisted darkness of this book. And the twists in this book…oh my goodness! Yes, I figured out one of the twists before it was revealed but there was more to it! Let’s just say there were a few times my jaw dropped. If you are looking for a thriller that will leave you at the edge of your seat look no further!

Author:

I love reading all kinds of books but have no one to share them with....that was until now. My favorite genre's are: Cozy mysteries, Fantasy, Horror, and thrillers.