A review by eviemayhem
The Stranger Upstairs by Lisa M. Matlin

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

2.5

There were just too many red herrings that the ending had no substance. 

The author gave so many ways for this book to end, but never really tied any of them up. Spoilers below.

From the beginning, you absolutely just hate the main character. She's not a good person, her husband isn't a good person and she tells you that straight up. She's vapid and running from her demons and somehow monetizing the renovation of a murder house seems like a good idea. 

The premise that she restarts her life with her husband and they just go on the run, DESPITE how much of a social media presence she has, is hard to believe. This had all the beginnings of a good murder mystery. Where was the daughter? Where was Amanda? But so many things just DIDN'T make sense. 

How was she getting away with being a therapist? Do they not check credentials in Austrailia?
Why was the whole town conspiring to hide the fact Amanda went missing?
Why was Jeff such a threatening dick bag?
Joe's whole character....just what the fuck.
Wouldn't the main character be well known now since she's A.) Probably all over the news and B.) had a huge social media presence before all this? 
The Epilogue: So was the house actually haunted?

This nearly felt like a choose your own adventure book, honestly. The author wanted to keep you guessing to the point that the resolution felt empty and dissatisfying.


Bright side: It is well written. I look forward to reading what the author writes next, I just wish the ending had made more sense and had been more satisfying. 
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