You must read this book at home, alone in the dark! Unless you don't like to be scared! This book is a psychological thriller mixed with a haunted house and I absolutely loved it! I can't believe this is this author's first book. Bravo! So well written and a book I definitely recommend.
#TheStrangerUpstairs #NetGalley

I stayed up far too late, absolutely terrified, yet still reading this book! I simply had to know what happened and the layers upon layers of complexity and mystery made for a great read.

It takes a special kind of person to buy a murder house, and that person is Sarah Slade. Sarah and her husband buy Black Wood House, an infamous murder house where Bill Campbell brutally killed his wife, attempted to kill his daughter, and then committed suicide 40 years ago. None of this deters Sarah, however, who is only thinking of how she can use renovating the house to further boost her social media career and save her marriage.

Sarah’s life may look shiny and perfect on Instagram, but in reality she’s broke, her marriage is failing under the weight of all the secrets between she and her husband, and she’s really counting on the payout from fixing this house to fix everything.

Sarah quickly realizes that things are going to be much harder than originally expected. Her husband is never home anymore, the neighbors don’t want her around, her cat is acting strange, and she’s been getting sick often putting her on thin ice with her job as a counselor. Then she starts finding menacing notes and learns there was one previous owner of Black Wood House that the town has done it’s best to keep quiet, and she disappeared without a trace. Furthermore, whoever is leaving these notes has found out her real identity.. and is going to expose her as the fraud she is.

There’s something seriously wrong with this house, and someone has it out for her. Can Black Wood House be fixed? Or will it drag Sarah down with it..

I quite literally had no idea what was going on with this book at any point, I couldn’t put it down! Sarah was such an unreliable narrator, she really kept me on my toes at every point. The blog posts, newspaper articles, and diary entries really contributed to the book in a fabulous way. The only put downs for me were that Sarah truly doesn’t learn from her mistakes and is destined to be miserable forever with her actions, and that I was so scared for poor Reaper the cat the ENTIRE book. For a debut novel I’m absolutely enamored by Lisa Matlin. I’m very eager for future work from her.

Please read the author’s note! Mental health is such an important journey and it really takes a lot of bravery to speak publicly about one’s own. I admire her for opening up to her readers and find her to be very inspirational.

Thank you to NetGalley, Bantam, and the author for this ARC!
Publication date 9/12/2023

Review for the stranger upstairs

5% into this book I already know multiple people who would love this book. If you enjoy thrillers, mysteries, spooky houses, cats, and a crude sense of humor this book is likely for you. Likely I enjoy all of those things.

25% I thought this was gonna be a thriller but I think it’s gonna be a horror book… but I can’t put it down

50% I’m starting to think this might not be for cat lovers actually… but it’s still for this who are a little twisted inside and find spooky interesting

75% not for cat lovers I repeat not for cat lovers. I have no idea what to believe. I have ideas but I can’t piece them together AND keep reading. I haven’t stopped reading just going straight through

100% okay just kidding it IS safe for cat lovers!! Also wow! 5 stars that was a thriller beginning to end!

Over all thoughts:
Once I got to the end I realized my gut guess on what was happening was right but I dismissed it because no one ever uses the idea and it was also a plot on a tv show I saw so I thought maybe not but it WAS I was surprised but now wonder if she watches the same shows I do or if she’s just really really good! Over all the book was VERY high paced I read it straight through in a matter of hours probably the fastest book I read in WEEKS. Definitely had me second guessing myself but in the end it was perfect. I thought we might could have had a FEW moment to catch our breath but if we had I might have put the book down and not read it straight through. Excellent job.


Summery :
Sara and her husband of three years buy a house no one would touch with a 10 foot pole. A murder suicide happened in this house and the house has never rested. But it seems to be calling for Sara. She plans to renovate and flip the house. Updating her followers as she goes. But will she change this house for the better? Or will this therapist need a session for herself?

Spoilery commentary:

I was very worried about the cat. But the cat lives!! I have several people I think would like this book but if the cat had died I wouldn’t be able to tell any of those. Till number one in books you can off pretty much any characters but the animals better live.
If you’ve read the book then here’s the show it reminded me of as soon as I started. There’s an episode of psych called “here’s lassi “ and the show mimicked the shinning but instead of a real haunting they had gas poisoning that was making them crazy. So when I read old house I assumed it was either a gas or carbon monoxide leak but like I said I DID dismiss this idea when I couldn’t tell if this was a thriller or turning into a true haunting so she definitely made me abandon my rational thinking! I thought there were just enough characters but not overwhelming. At one point I actually thought she didn’t even have a sister but maybe has a split personality and joe was just trying to cope with her being two people and “her sister dying” was actually just a persona she buried. I even thought she was the cat at one point too but then I realized no the cat went to the vet I read ONE book in the last year with DID and now I’m worried that’s gonna be every plot twist!

4.5 ⭐️

Holy moly! I read this in one day. Super fast paced, twisty, and captivating. It’s like a psychological thriller mixed with a haunted house element. It is perfect for fans of Freida McFadden and readers who enjoy unreliable narrators.

The majority of the book is spent inside the FMCs head. There isn’t a TON of dialogue - so it feels like you are experiencing all of the fear and distrust yourself. There is a heavy, heady psychological element to the plot.

I will definitely have a book hangover after this one!

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

This was a fun take on an old trope that managed to surprise me with a twist I didn’t see coming (even though I really should have!!)

I wasn’t a huge fan of the narrative voice of our main character Sarah and even knowing what was going on, I have a hard time cutting her any slack. There felt like there were a lot of underdeveloped areas to the story which leaves it feeling a bit incomplete.

Not a bad book by any means, and may hit that perfect sweet spot for a reader wanting a bit of an unhinged main character.

I received an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

"The Stranger Upstairs” by Lisa Matlin
Publisher: Random House Publishing - Ballantine
Publication Date: September 12, 2023
Many thanks to Netgalley, Random House, and Ballantine for the ARC of this book. All opinions contained below are my own.

What an amazing debut novel by Lisa Matlin! Had me up all night, afraid to close my eyes and wishing I had a night light 😂
Main character, Sarah Slade, is a therapist, social media influencer, and self-help guru. Currently at a lull in her career she decides to boost her social media following by buying a well-known haunted house and documenting the renovations. The house, Black Wood, is itself a character in the novel. Sitting abandoned for 40 years after a gruesome murder/suicide Sarah instantly feels the presence of the home when she moves in. Is she going crazy or is the house and the entire town out to get her? Sarah edges further into paranoia and begins to act erratically. I felt like I was losing my mind alongside Sarah because the book is written so well. Never knowing what details are true or what is imagined the build-up to a possible unreliable narrator is fantastic!
I 100% did not see the ending of this book coming. I was pleasantly surprised, but then the epilogue sealed the deal for me.

**The authors note is worth the read on this one!**

Thank you Random house publishing and Lisa M. Marlin for the ARC of The stranger upstairs.

I enjoyed this thriller from the beginning to the very end. I really did not see where it was going and had so many aha moments only to be shot down and turns out I had no clue how this wild ride would end.

Would you move into a murder house?? After this read I’m changing my view and saying definitely not.

Sarah and her husband Joe buy a house with a sordid past that they plan on renovating and then selling. But as soon as they move in, strange things start occurring, the neighbors shun them, and Sarah starts to hear voices. The Stranger Upstairs doesn’t break any new ground in this genre, and the story tends to drag in the beginning. The pace eventually picks up as Sarah spirals further down, and there’s a backstory forming that helps add to the drama. Overall, it’s a quick read, but Sarah is a difficult character to get behind which made it hard to get invested in the story, but the author does a good job of tying things up and that saves the book. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Thanks to Net Galley and Random House Publishing Group for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

The first 30-35% of this book was really engaging and I was really invested with the story of Sarah Slade. I thought Sarah was a really unlikeable character, but I enjoyed that. I am not sure if the author used any true crimes to inspire her writing, but her mention of a particular location in Canada made me think that maybe she did. I didn’t mind that and it even pushed me to continue reading once the story got a little too predictable.

The last 10-15% kind of lost me with the tropes and twists felt predictable.

Upon reading the author’s note, I can really appreciate the story behind how this book came to be and admire the author’s tenacity in pursuing her passions.

I would be open to reading more of Matlin’s work in the future since this is her debut novel. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy the works of Riley Sager because the ending felt similar to his endings.

The Stranger Upstairs by Lisa M. Matlin

I had such mixed feelings as I read this story. The narration and dialogue seems to be not all there. I was frustrated by the tiny bits that Sarah and her husband Joe said to each other. But then being in Sarah's head is a mess of missing information, too. I wanted to know more and not have it meted out over the entire book. There wasn't enough to hold me to the page.

Then when the house was having workers there I thought maybe we were getting somewhere. There seemed to be something wrong with this old house, where a murder took place long ago. Is it really haunted now or is there another reason for all the squeaking boards and mysterious opening and closing of doors? Surely with workmen there we'll find out something concrete.

But no, we are still in Sarah's muddled mind. Is she an unreliable character? Is she a liar, is she mentally ill? Is she all those things? Once I realized things would just go on without anything for me to grab onto, I was just ready for the story to be over. I know some folks will really enjoy the way the story is told and will get much more out of it than I did so be sure to read other reviews to get other viewpoints.

Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, Bantam and NetGalley for this ARC.

This is a great read for spooky season my friends because it’s going to take you on a whirlwind of a spooky house journey.

Sarah Slade is a therapist and a social media influencer. She decides to buy a house with a haunted and violent past to fix it up and document the journey as her latest social media escapade. Her world starts going dramatically downhill soon after.

You will be questioning her and her sanity; you’ll be questioning your own sanity as the story gets deeper. What exactly happened in this “murder house?” Who is Sarah Slade and what is she hiding? Do any of us know what is going on?

Twisty journey. You get a creepy house, questionable towns-folk, and an untrustworthy narrator. If you’ve given it a read I’d love to know your thoughts!

Thank you to Penguin Random House Publishing Group for the advanced copy of this read.

I recently delved into the pages of Lisa M. Matlin’s mesmerizing debut novel, “The Stranger Upstairs,” and was drawn into a gripping narrative that seamlessly intertwines the allure of a haunted house with the complexities of a protagonist’s hidden past. This gothic psychological thriller truly earned its spot on my reading list, leaving me captivated from beginning to end.

Matlin skillfully weaves a tale around Sarah Slade, a social media influencer yearning for a fresh start amidst the shadows of her own concealed history. The concept of purchasing a murder house for renovation sets the stage for a suspenseful journey where every peeling wallpaper and creaking floorboard holds a secret of its own. As Sarah undertakes the restoration of Black Wood House, I found myself entangled in a web of mystery, constantly questioning the motives and intentions of both the characters and the dwelling itself.

The atmosphere that Matlin creates is nothing short of hauntingly atmospheric. The tension escalates as bizarre accidents befall the builders and unsettling notes begin to appear, shattering Sarah’s illusion of control. The eerie blend of past and present, coupled with the psychological turmoil Sarah experiences, adds a layer of complexity that fans of the genre will surely appreciate.

Matlin’s character development shines through Sarah’s journey of self-discovery. The internal struggles she faces while wrestling with her own secrets, failing marriage, and the growing malevolence within the house, allow readers to empathize with her vulnerabilities. Her determination to unveil the truth despite the mounting odds showcases her resilience, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way.

“The Stranger Upstairs” also excels in its portrayal of the house itself as a character. The carefully crafted descriptions of the bloodstained floor and the ominous attic footsteps serve to heighten the palpable fear that permeates the narrative. As Sarah’s reality becomes increasingly blurred, I was left contemplating the thin line between the supernatural and the psychological, a testament to Matlin’s storytelling prowess.

In conclusion, “The Stranger Upstairs” by Lisa M. Matlin is a compelling debut that skillfully marries the eerie with the enigmatic. With its deftly crafted characters, chilling setting, and a plot that keeps you guessing until the final pages, this book is an immersive experience for fans of psychological thrillers. I found myself both enthralled and unsettled, a testament to Matlin’s ability to create an unforgettable tale. If you’re seeking a read that will leave you questioning the boundaries of reality, this is one you won’t want to miss.

I give it a solid 4/5 stars.

What 👏🏼 an 👏🏼 incredible 👏🏼 DEBUT!!! Are you kidding me? I can’t believe this is a debut. It was incredible. The Stranger Upstairs follows Sarah, an internet influencer who buys a murder house in a small town in Australia. Honestly, gimme any book with a murder house and I’ll read it, but this one was executed with perfection. It was actually really scary (which I love) and gave me nightmares. The only other authors who have successfully given me actual nightmares are Josh Malerman and Stephen King. 😂

This is definitely one of my favorite thrillers of the year.

Read this if you like:
👻 AHS S1: Murder House x Amityville vibes
👻 Being scared
👻 Books about social media influencers
👻 An unreliable narrator
👻 Marriage drama
👻 Creepy woods
👻 Town conspiracies

Would you buy an old house? What if it was a murder house would you still buy it? Well Sarah Slade bought a murder house that has sat vacant for 40 years and it was the right price for Sarah. This 4 star page turning book will have you on your toes until the very end. It was well written and easy to follow. The ending will leave you surprised as well. Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC book and my opinions are my own.

Om my God, The Stranger Upstairs was a wild ride and so so good! Nothing seemed to make sense so naturally I was hooked from start to finish!

Wow, Lisa M. Martin has really written an incredible book and it is her debut novel too. Sarah and Joe buy a murder house because the price is so low for the area. Who wants to live in a house that 4 people have been murdered in? They plan to get sponsors as Sarah is an influencer and quite popular. They will renovate the house and flip it all the while Sarah will keep her adoring fans up to date on the whole process. Well, the house has other ideas! This story has so many twists and turns you will need to be on your toes to keep up. A huge thank you to Penguin Random House and Net Galley for this advance copy. This review is mine and mine alone.

Based on other reviews I'm in the minority where this book didn't keep my attention. The premise behind it is what any great thriller would be but I just could not get into this book.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read and review.

What a mind fck! Excuse my language Netgalley. What did I just read? As soon as you think you know the outcome, BOOM! There's another twist. Such a dark and twisted thriller that will have you at the edge of your seat until the very end.

"The Stranger Upstairs" is a strong debut from Lisa M. Matlin. I love thrillers that take place in creepy old houses with dark pasts and Black Wood House definitely fits the bill. With an unreliable narrator and shady, unlikeable characters, this book is a real page turner. This is the kind of book that you want to read it one sitting because you just can't wait to find out what will happen next. I was continually surprised at every reveal and shocked by the ending. I don't recommend reading this book at night, but if you want to get in the mood for Spooky season, then this is the book for you.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Random House Publishing, and author Lisa M. Matlin for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this fabulous book.

Sarah's intriguing decision revolves around purchasing a notorious "murder house" to meticulously chronicle her experiences through social media. Within both Sarah's persona and the enigmatic house lie concealed mysteries yearning to be unveiled. If you have an affinity for the allure of unreliable narrators or residences safeguarding hidden truths, this narrative will undoubtedly captivate you.

The narrative direction that the author undertook with Sarah's character resonated deeply with me. While her character might not have been intricately layered, I discerned the author's intent and appreciated the deviation from the ubiquitous storylines that saturate modern literature. The originality in the seamless amalgamation of elements lent a distinctive quality, rendering the reading experience thoroughly enjoyable.

Elements that resonated with me include the portrayal of Sarah, interwoven with her vocation as a therapist, and her intricate emotional rapport with the house. The narrative achieved a remarkable level of descriptiveness and atmospheric immersion. And that culminating twist — truly exceptional. The author orchestrated a conclusion that exuded an unconventional ambiance, which contributed significantly to its impact.

Conversely, the supporting characters felt somewhat one-dimensional, relegated to the periphery as subordinate subplots. I yearned for a more profound exploration of the history shared between Sarah and her husband, in addition to delving into the house's intricate past. Typically averse to protracted reads that succumb to verbosity, I surprisingly found myself wishing for a more extensive backstory and narrative exposition. The story's brevity left me wanting, despite my usual preference for succinct narratives. On the whole, the book provided a swift and engrossing reading experience. I am eagerly anticipating further literary offerings from this gifted author.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for granting me access to an advanced copy in exchange for my candid assessment.