The Lodger was an okay historical fiction read. The premise sounded interesting from the blurb, and in some ways it was, but I never really got completely invested in the story, nor in the romance aspect, which seemed a bit thrown in without a lot of page time or development. But, that said, there was nothing wrong with the writing and the pacing was fine. I certainly didn't dislike it; I simply didn't love it. If you are into historical fiction with a bit of a mystery twist, you are sure to find something to appreciate here. It gets 3.5 stars from me.

(As per your preference, I am holding my review until closer to release date. It will go live on my blog and on Goodreads on 3 January at the links provided below, and at that time I will also share on social media.)

A brilliant piece of historical fiction, it is well written with a fantastic cast of well developed characters, a compelling storyline and a perfect era for this book to be set in. It was full of atmosphere and mystery. I loved it.

I could not have enjoyed Helen Scarlett's second novel more. I love novels set just after the First World War, when the world is changing fasst, but London's population is suffering in the aftermath of the devastations of the war, and young women are suddenly again constrainted by the mores of the times. The descriptions of London are atmospheirc. I was very involved in Grace's brave and determined quest to discover the truth about the missing Elizabeth, and the awkward and compelling relationship with the dark, brooding, attractive Tom. They made a great team, and I would love to know what happnes next to them. The story is beautifully written, not a wasted word, the characters are believable and colourful, and there are plenty of twists and turns to make this a real page turner. I entered Grace's world so completely that I could not put the novel down. It is such a clever book - doubly so because it is so easy to read.

When Grace Armstrong's tenant and friend disappears without warning only to be found drowned in the Thames she refuses to believe it is suicide and begins to investigate on her own with the help of her friends.
The book is an easy, light mystery with some interesting twists and turns to keep the pace of a novel perfect for a lazy, relaxing afternoon.

I enjoyed this slow burn of a book, documenting the unravelling of the mystery of a missing lodger. The story takes place after WW1 where Britain are learning to live with loved ones missing from their tables. I found the ending a little unsatisfying, but other than that, a cast of likeable characters and a compelling mystery.

Creepy and compelling!

Thanks so much to NetGalley and the publishers for letting me read this book in exchange for my review.

Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this review copy. A gothic story of loss that captures the reader’s interest from the first pages. I look forward to reading most of the author’s work.

Rating 4.5 🌟
Plot twist: 5 🌟

Beauty written gothic mystery murder novel that will keep you on your toes until the end!

I loved that the world building, it was a huge plus as there is something impeccably sexy and mysterious about London based books! 😍

The storyline was really unique and the plot twists were really well position within the book 📖 👏

This book gave me all the chills, thrills and excitement and defo surprised me! 😮

Elizabeth story really did break my heart 🥲 and was so close to what's happening in the real world that I wouldn't be surprised if it was based on true story 💔

The Lodger is one of the best ghotic novels I've read in 2022 and if you are a fan of mystery, murders and suspense, then this book is for you! ☺