A review by sandysmith
The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell

dark emotional mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

It was an easy read for me, and I devoured this book very quickly. Told from 3 seemingly unconnected points of view, which gradually their connection is revealed. It's essentially about 4 children living in a sort of cult and a baby. The adults were really unlikeable either through weakness or just horribly dark. The four children include an abandoned baby inheriting a valuable house in London, Libby (serenity), Phin, Clemence, Henry, and Lucy. All the characters are brilliantly written, giving the reader a ride of emotions. This book should come with trigger warnings as it could be triggering for some. It's a very dark, twisty, engrossing read of betrayal, redemption, and brutal family dynamics. What's not to love? Fab stuff
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