The Apartment
by K. L. Slater
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Pub Date 28 Apr 2020 | Archive Date 12 May 2020
Amazon Publishing UK | Thomas & Mercer
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Description
It’s an opportunity she can’t refuse. The woman before her tried…
Freya Miller needs a miracle. In the fallout of her husband’s betrayal, she’s about to lose her family home, and with it the security she craves for her five-year-old daughter, Skye. Adrift and alone, she’s on the verge of despair until a chance meeting with the charismatic Dr Marsden changes everything. He’s seeking a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in a fashionable area of London.
Adder House sounds too good to be true… But Freya really can’t afford to be cynical, and Dr Marsden is adamant she and Skye will be a perfect fit with the other residents.
But Adder House has secrets. Even behind a locked front door, Freya feels as if she’s being watched: objects moving, unfamiliar smells, the blinking light of a concealed camera… and it’s not long before she begins to suspect that her dream home is hiding a nightmarish reality. Was it really chance that led her here—or something unthinkably dark?
As the truth about Adder House starts to unravel, can Freya and Skye get out—or will they be locked in forever?
Revised edition: This edition of The Apartment includes editorial revisions.
A Note From the Publisher
K. L. Slater is the million-copy bestselling author of nine standalone psychological crime thrillers. Kim is a full-time writer. She lives with her husband in Nottingham.
Available Editions
EDITION | Other Format |
ISBN | 9781542023917 |
PRICE | US$15.95 (USD) |
Featured Reviews
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to preview THE APARTMENT BY KL SLATER. Ms. Slater just does not disappoint in her latest thriller. I find she writes for women facing struggles and hardship and finds a way to give the reader some heart palpitations at the same time.
A young woman and her child face homelessness after a failed marriage and she finds an apartment with an offer she can't refuse. Soon things start to get strange - the feeling of being watched and overall spookiness. What is going on and is this a place where she will live or die!
Very good book - recommend - 4 stars.
Wow! Absolutely loved this book! I'm a huge fan of K. L. Slater's books and this one was just as great as all her other books. Just as she is about to lose her family home, Freya is shocked but delighted when a seemingly random encounter with a man leads to Freya and her daughter Skye being offered the chance to rent a stunning apartment at a low cost. Is it really too good to be true? It soon becomes apparent that there is something strange going on and that the house is hiding secrets. Will Freya discover what is going on before something awful happens to them? A fantastic story with a brilliant twist, I also really loved the ending. Totally recommend this book!
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I read this book really fast. The whole story was great, the climax was good, but the ending kind of fizzled out for me. All in all, great book. 3.5 stars out of 5.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater follows Freye and her daughter Skye. They are recently without a home, so when a too-goo-to-be-true apartment becomes available, Freya jumps on it. Adder House is beautiful, and seems welcoming with its quiet tenants. Freya can't shake the feeling that this house is too perfect, as she hears strange noises and knocks. She lets it go, until she gets a sinister warning from the previous tenant's sister. Get out, or something will happen to her. Freya is at a crossroads, but before she can make her decision, the truth comes out.
This book was very entertaining, and I very much enjoyed how it incorporated classic psychology studies. I felt the ending was a bit rushed, and more buildup could add to the tension and suspense. Overall, well written and gripping plot.
Thanks to NetGalley for the chance to read and review!
3.5 stars. Something was missing for me.
I was slightly disappointed by this read which drew me in with the stunning cover. I'd heard of KL Slater before and I know she's quite popular, so I was excited to give The Apartment a go.
Unfortunately I had a few problems with this book. I didn't find any of the characters likeable (not even Skye - oops) and I struggled with the plot working out so neatly. However, it was very atmospheric and I enjoyed the setting very much.
Would I recommend? Maybe, if you're not a very demanding fan of thrillers. But I prefer authors like Shari Lapena and even Gillian Flynn to this writing style. I would, however, love to read more books from this author.
This book was a quick easy read. Although there were a few twists in it the story overall was quite predictable, and not all that suspenseful.
I received an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review
The fuq I just read? Not as well crafted as the author’s other thrillers, but worth reading for the weird factor
Freya’s life is in tatters. Her husband has cheated on her and she’s losing her home. How will she provide a safe place for her daughter? She believes her luck is changing when she finds an affordable apartment rented out by the charming Dr. Marsden. While initially the Apartment seems like a godsend, Freya soon senses something odd about her new home, something that may be worse than anything she ever imagined
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to review this book. If you are in the mood for suspense then you will want to read this book. If you are in mood to be surpised and shocked how the story plays out then by all means read this book. After reading this book you will want to devour every novel written by Slater.
This really wasn't the K L Slater I know and love . I read it quickly and was interested to see how it would conclude but this just didn't do it for me . When Freya is offered an apartment to rent it seems to good to be true , her landlords are beyond strange and she starts hearing whispers about previous tenants that make her very uncomfortable , as she searches for the truth behind Adder house .We get some snippets from a diary and experiments that were being conducted on a young baby and I did figure how it would all tie together .
Not K L Slaters usual high standard in my opinion
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC copy.
K.L. Slater books are always a treat and this one definitely didn't disappoint.
We first meet Freya and daughter Skye while coming to terms with more heartbreak in their lives. After being brought up in foster homes Freya finally finds love, marries and completes her life with little Skye. Then it all goes wrong. Not only does her husband leave her for her friend, breaking their hearts, he later passes away. All alone and losing their home Freya has chance meeting with Dr Marsden in a coffee shop that could finally give them some hope. An invitation to move into the grand Adder House for next to nothing. Is this offer too good to be true or is there something more behind this gesture?
The girls are welcomed into the family spirit at Adder House and finally begin to feel at home but is everything as it seems? Is Freya losing her mind down to all the stress she has been under or is something more sinister at work?
I really didn't see where this was going when I first started reading it but it turned out to be fantastic. I found myself going between sympathy and then frustration with Freya but could see exactly why she was doing what she was doing. The trust issues and red herrings had me guessing to the end.
Highly recommended 5 stars.
K.L Slater never disappoints in her thrillers. Another great book which will keep the reader immersed for a long long time. Difficult to put down as you need to know what happens next. This book may have resulted in my family having to resort to their own cooking one night!
This book kept me turning the pages for hours today! I could not get enough. It sits firmly in the psychological thriller category and I have to reccomend that all fans of the genre read it ASAP.
Seriously, just do it. You won't regret it.
The story follows Freya, a 30-something year old single mother of steel. She and her 5 year old daughter are in financial dire straights and in need of housing. Serendipitously, a kind-hearted Samaritan offers what seems like a deal too good to be true (and it is). Housing has just opened up in the ritzier part of London, and Freya gets to name her price for rent. She decides to not look a gift horse in the mouth and she and her daughter move in within a week.
Let me tell you, this book kept me guessing until the end! It's twisty and engaging, and you really connect with Freya and feel all her anxieties and plight as her situation seems to quickly fly out of control.
There were a couple of times where I felt the narration shifted to a more shallow POV for a moment, but they never lasted for more than a couple of sentences. I also wish the epilogue had showed us more of Freya's life post-Adder House and her new relationship, how the events affected her daughter, that kind of thing.
But really, the book was a joy to read and now I really want to get my hands on the rest of the author's work! And I'm definitely going to be getting a copy of this one for my bookcase (and probably a reread, not gonna lie).
A fast paced psychological thriller on what happens when a recently widowed mother in financial crunch is offered an upscale apartment for a low rent. The author once again captures the reader’s attention with her narrative and suspense till the end. Though it is practically improbable and the ending predictable, the reader would definitely be engrossed to finish it in one go. Recommended.
I love the idea behind this book, it was very unique. However this book was not for me. I kept waiting on something else to happen or a big twist, but it didn’t. It felt very repetitive and slow at times. Also how she acquires the apartment is just weird. Who lets someone move in for free.. huge red flag. Overall, this book was not for me.
The Apartment was another enjoyable read by K. L Slater. Creepy and mysterious, I enjoyed the build up, but felt the ending was a bit rushed.
This is another devouring with few bites, finishing at one sit, quick, fast pacing and exciting page-turner!
The formulation is basic: A character suffering from tragic lost feels hopeless as she finds a solution to her problems which is TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE! There are too many neon lights flashing through her walk warning her “RUN AWAY WITHOUT LOOKING BACK!” but here we go: She is trapped, she is gaslighted and now she worries about her own mental health! Is she turning into a paranoid?
Yes. I’m talking about dear Freya, after losing her husband, taking care of her five years of daughter by her own cannot afford a proper apartment till charming Dr. Marsden makes an offer she cannot refuse (I know Godfather’s theme start to ring in your ears! Another alarm bell warns Freya to wear her running shoes ASAP!)
But her judgment is already by her despair. She cannot think it clearly. If she refuses to rent Adder house with this very low price, she will live at streets but her daughter and her security always comes first. So she says “yes!”
But let me say that Dr. and Mrs. Marsden likes to involve their tenants’ lives way too much than they expected.
And Freya is tougher and braver than I think because she is determined to go as far as she can to find out the truth hiding behind Adder House.
Overall: One of my fastest reads. I was expecting something more soul crushing at the end of the book but it was still pleasing and satisfying. This is not definitely one of my Switzerland-let’s meet in the middle readings but it was not also “wow! It shook me to the cores” kind of book so let’s give 3.5 stars and round them up to 4 stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for sharing this entertaining ARC in exchange my honest review.
I've read enough thrillers to know this: if someone offers you a housing situation that seems too good to be true, it is!! Run! Run!
Freya and her five year old daughter, Skye, are given an opportunity of a lifetime: they're solicited by Dr. Marsden to rent an apartment in an affluent London neighborhood for an amazingly low amount. Freya has just been through a lot: she's a newly single mother, unable to afford the old family home. Dr. Marsden seems like an angel, and the Adder House is beautiful.
But almost immediately, Freya notices that things aren't right: Dr. and Mrs. Marsden are unnaturally involved in their tenants' lives, and unexplained phenomenon happens in the apartment. Soon everyone is suggesting that Freya she's mentally unwell - but is she?
I truly enjoyed this twisty novel about gaslighting (and more!), and the last surprise at the end was one I definitely didn't expect! K.L. Slater always writes memorable thrillers, and this was no exception.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
Outstanding totally unique loved everything about it I thought I had it all worked out but the twists and turns kept comeing keeping me on my toes the ending it out of this world I diddnt see it comeing at all
i so enjoyed this story this author just gets better and better .Freya loses her husband to another women then he dies .she has to sell the house and she has a daughter Skye .she so needs somewhere to live in a café she is offered a home will say no more this story very creepy and addictive I so recommend
Newly single mom Freya is scanning the "classifieds" bulletin board at Starbucks when she is approached by a gentleman who she thinks he just happens to be placing an ad himself on the board for a new vacancy in his apartment building, little does she know that her whole world is about to change.
Freya thought that moving into the Adder House was just what she and her young daughter needed to start over, however, shortly after moving in she begins to second guess her decision. Why does her landlord and his wife keep showing up everywhere she is? Why is the complex so quiet all time, aren't apartment complexes usually louder? Did she really get a 'deal' on this apartment or is there more to the story that the landlord isn't telling her? Is she losing her mind?
K.L. Slater does not disappoint with this book. You will find yourself staying up late in the night with the "just one more chapter" mentality and gasping at the end saying "damn I didn't see that coming". If you like creepy characters and storylines, this book is a must read!!!
The premise of the book was original. However I really didn't get on with the writing style. Was too flowery for a thriller so it list any tension and wad very repetitive. A shame as a good idea but wouldn't read others by the author. Felt the ending was also rushed.
i enjoy this book from K L Slater freya miller and her daughter skye go to live in a beautiful apartment block despite her own misgivings .to be honest the story is a little creepy but without giving too much away it holds your interest until the very end .
When Freya Miller meets a charismatic older gentleman she has had a tough few months. Her and her daughter are alone following her husband moving in with an older woman, her ex-friend. Dr Marsden charms Freya and offers her a too good to be true place to live. When Freya and her young daughter move in they can’t believe their luck at the fabulous apartment in Adder House. The house is made up of apartments, all of which seem to contain a motley bunch of well-meaning but possibly murderous tenet a.
There are some odd characters in the book who are not particularly likeable. Some not completely explained by the end what their role is within the plot. The tale is interspersed with a story told by an unnamed narrator regarding experiments made in a small child many years ago to promote a psychological fear response.
I struggled with the like ability of the characters in this book and found parts of the plot were very uneasy to read. I felt that it had some good parts but some were a little too unbelievable to be true, or maybe the character Freya was just so down on her luck that she was quite taken in. I particularly didn’t like the character Skye as I found that she was not written with much compassion.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this and I would definitely like to read another title by this author.
As with all of the previous books of K L Slater’s that I’ve read, this is a gripping, well researched and original.
However, it was lacking something for me... I felt that it was predictable fairly early on, and although the atmosphere was eerie, it could have been so much creepier.
There is no doubt that this author is extremely talented and I look forward to her future books.
This was a great book, I enjoy reading about the sisters, how different they were in their life choices and personalities but the love was always present, It held my attention to the end.
Freya has sold her house because she has lost her husband. She is not looking forward to living with her five year old daughter in a friends spare room. A chance meeting in a coffee shop with a retired doctor gets her an apartment in an upmarket house for very little rent. She accepts the apartment but she is sure that this must be too good to be true.
A psychological thriller that gave me flashbacks of Rosemary’s Baby.
The tension built from chapter to Chaper and I didn’t not want to put this book down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this read, it was very quick and fast paced and some of the plot twists were really interesting. I loved how creepy the writing was at times, it genuinely did make me sometimes anxious. Some parts of the story were repetitive as I have read them before in other books, but overall the story was entertaining, however I think that reading it in one sitting helped with this, if I read it over a longer period of time it may be less enjoyed. Some parts of the story were to coincidental which made the book less believable at times. Overall, it was a good average book.
Freya and her daughter Skye moved into a deluxe apartment in am old building. It's far better than they could afford, and their good fortune seems to come with a dose of fear. Not everyone in the building is a good person, and after scary things begin to happen, Freya decides to move out. But she can't find Skye.
The author has set out to write a scary and suspenseful novel, and for the most part she succeeds. The ending seems quite hurried given the slower pace of the novel. In order to preserve their creepiness, other characters are not fleshed out. The results are modest.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC.
What a fun book! I absolutely LOVED getting to know Freya and her new neighbors at Adder House. Talk about creeptastic! The story was filled with little twists and turns that kept me guessing all the way through and I LOVED it!! Such a fun book to read!!
Creepy & disturbing, this is a gripping page turner that I highly recommend. I raced through this book in record time, constantly on edge needing to know what was going to happen next!
Nothing more to say except it’s very good, make sure you add it to your list! I rated it a strong 4⭐️.
3-4 stars rounded up.
This is an intriguing novel which keeps you thinking until the end. Freya Millers life is in a state of terrible flux after her husband Lewis left her and subsequently died. She has a five year old daughter Skye to provide for, she has to sell the family home and she’s now financially stretched. She receives an unexpected and welcome offer of a very cut price apartment in stunning Adder House in Kensington and close to Hyde Park Corner. This is a very desirable and expensive part of London and no way could she afford this if she pays market value. Though she feels some twinges of unease the offer is too good to refuse and she’s out of options in reality. So she quells and suppresses any anxiety and moves in with Skye. The story is told by Freya in the present day and backtracks to the story of her husband and is interspersed with a journal from 1902 by Beatrice Barger whose son Douglas is a case study at Johns Hopkins University Hospital in Baltimore. How do these seemingly disparate storylines connect? It’s only towards the end of the book the surprising connection is revealed.
The story is well written, you feel Freya’s loss, the deep love for her daughter and her frissons of anxiety about the house and it’s occupants. There is a good amount of tension and some of the characters convey a real sense of unease. The plot builds well with a growing number of strange events that almost tips Freya over the edge. Freya is likeable and you admire the lengths she goes to in order to discover the truth about Adder House and the people who also live there. The end is a tad convoluted and possibly a bit barking but it’s different and that’s a positive thing!!! I did get a bit fed up of Freya’s overuse of the term ‘poppet’ at the end of every conversation with Skye. I’d have been very happy to have seen a ‘sweetheart’ or even ‘munchkin’ just to ring the changes!!!
Overall, an enjoyable and easy read that keeps you interested.
Ps. Since the story is set in July the cherry tree at Adder House would not have had blossom and made living confetti for Skye. Just saying!!!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the arc.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater started off exciting with the introduction of the main character, Freya, and her encounter with Dr. Marsden in the coffee shop. As I was reading, I knew something sinister was occurring and wanted to shout, “Don’t do it!” I felt I was in for a wild ride. The storyline progressed at a slow burn but did keep my interest, and I wanted to learn more about what was happening and why. However, the ending felt rushed and forced and a bit unbelievable.
I wasn’t a huge fan of many characters, but I did like Freya’s young daughter, Skye, and Freya’s friends. I don’t want to give anything away about the story and mystery, but I was pleasantly surprised with who was responsible for the strange things occurring with Freya and what was happening at Adder House.
Overall, it was a good story, and the writing was solid. I only wish the ending was a little different.
#TheApartment #NetGalley
When Freya and her daughter Skye are given a too good to be true offer to live in a beautiful apartment for next to nothing, Freya can’t resist. She’s newly widowed and struggling. But as soon as they move in the apartment, she notices the other tenants in the building seem “off.” Strange noises are heard and unexplainable things are happening. And it feels like the owners are getting a little too involved into Freyas life. Is she paranoid or is there something sinister going on in this building? The good thing about this book was that it was a quick read and left you wanting to know just WHAT is going on. But I found Freya a little too naive and predictable. Still, as always, an enjoyable, well written book by this author.
K.L Slater is one of my favourite authors and this book didn’t disappoint. She manages to create a perfect psychological thriller that has plenty of twists and turns.
This book was deliciously dark and I devoured it in 1 sitting.
Freya Miller has had some major tragedies in her life in such a short period of time, losing her husband and needing a place to live all while caring for her five year old daughter Skye.
Freya can't believe her luck when she meets Dr. Marsden at Starbucks on Kensington High Street, while she is scanning the bulletin board for places to rent. Dr. Marsden offers her a deal that seems too good to pass up, an apartment at a reasonable price at Adder House, one of London's nicest areas. As the saying goes, if it seems too good to be true....
I had high hopes for this book. When reading the description, it really caught my attention but I didn't love it. It was a very easy read and somewhat enjoyable but I found myself just wanting to get through it to find out how it would all play out.
Thank you to NetGalley for the chance to review this book in exchange for my review.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater was a fast read. Loaded with suspense.
Freya and her daughter Skye (5 years old) move into Adder House after Lewis' (Freya's husband's) death. More than a mansion - it's much too good to be true. The mansion is made up of 5 separate units with five different occupants. Dr. Marsden (the landlord) is quite the gentleman but his wife, Audrey, looks a bit like "Bride of Frankenstein. (Both are in their 60's.) Audrey scares Skye even as she is nice to her. But her looks...and her "demands"...
Along with this developing story is another from many years ago that is quite alarming...
K.L. Slater never disappoints! Great characterization and a very good read! Recommend!
Many Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.
I enjoyed that this was a quick read with a compelling mystery. It was satisfyingly creepy and I couldn't help but keep turning the pages to see how it all panned out.
As much as I did enjoy it, I had to majorly suspend disbelief that the main character could be so impossibly naive, and then again when everything was revealed. I'm also infuriated that we never found out how Freya's husband died!
Overall a fun read but I probably wouldn't recommend it.
This is the creepy tale of Freya and her young daughter moving into a seemingly too good to be true tenancy. They are chosen to live in a smart apartment in Adder House, in a very desirable location, in exchange for a peppercorn rent.
At first it’s great. Freya enjoys the apartment and begins to settle into a new life.
Soon though, things just don’t seem right and there are creepy occurrences in Adder House. The other residents are suspiciously unlike the first impression they gave and slowly Freya begins to feel unnerved.
You have to suspend belief with this one. Why would Freya just move in unquestioningly with a group of strangers? I also found there to be a couple of clunky threads that were unnecessary. For example her husband’s death was unexplained and really didn’t add anything.
On the whole, just going with it and ignoring the unbelievable, I did enjoy this. The author did a great job in ramping up the creepiness and unease. I would recommend it. I read the whole book in a day so must have been hooked!!
I received an advance copy of this from netgalley in return for an honest review.
Absolutely one of my favorite authors!! As soon as I received this ARC I started it and finished it in one day. A great story with a creepy, gothic feel as Freya can't believe her luck when she is offered an apartment in Adder House, a very expensive and exclusive home in London but once she and her young daughter move in they are starting to feel anything but lucky. A very fast-paced and suspenseful read. I highly recommend!
I usually love this author and was excited to see a new one from her.
Was a little unbelievable to me. Didn't draw me in and devour it. Was just an ok read with a ok ending.
3.5 rounded up.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for an early release of this book.
I have read several books by K.L.Slater and they’ve all been good thrillers that are really easy to read - but I think this is the best one yet! When Freya and her daughter Skye move into an apartment that is beyond their means at the behest of a wealthy doctor, odd things seem to start happening ... This book created a real sense of dread and unease - I found myself wanted to read more and more just to solve the mystery of what was going on! My only complaint is that the book was too short - I felt there was scope for more creepy goings on!
I love the writing of Kim Slater and enjoy the consistently high standard of writing. Her books are punchy and instantly grip you normally in my experience are read in one or two sittings. Well yet again that was the case with this one and was instantly pulled in by the creepy psychological thriller that had so many excellent characters and I am sure this will prove to be another best selling novel.
Freya Miller is a single mother who on losing her husband very soon lost her home leaving her and her 5 year old daughter Skye potentially homeless. A strange off chance meeting with a Dr. Marsden gives her fresh hope. He offers Freya an unbelievable opportunity to move into an exclusive house in London at a price she can afford. Very soon Freya and Skye have moved in to the apartment in Adder House and are made to feel very welcome by the other residents.
Is this too good to be true? Freya starts to experience some strange happenings, leaving her feeling uneasy. Freya begins to think that there are some hidden secrets that may affect both her and Skye. for both Adder House and its residence are not as they appear.
I loved this book and thought the characters were excellent. A creepy psychological thriller that keeps you guessing, works for me.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Amazon Publishing for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
So different but so good. The characters were amazing and well developed. Brilliant storyline and kept me entertained.
Well written, great characters and a spooky thriller what more could you ask for? Well I’d like a interesting believable plot please.
The Apartment is pretty great, it’s enjoyable and gripping and all the things I like about reading but it’s just lacking. The plot is like one of those crazy dreams you have where you wake up and think “what’s wrong with my head” but it just didn’t work.
I’m a huge K. L. Slater fan but this let me down a little.
The Apartment by K.L Slater
Thanks @netgalley @klslaterauthor and @amazonpublishing for my arc
Publication date 28th April 2020
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This is by far one of the creepiest books I have ever read. I love K.L Slater and have read and loved everything she has ever written. This book though is in a league of its own. I absolutely raced through it in one night, staying up ridiculously late to finish. Thank goodness it’s the weekend 🙃.
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The book follows Freya who is struggling and at a sudden crossroads in her life following the death of her husband Lewis. She has to sell her family home and find somewhere to live with her young daughter and she has to do it fast. A chance meeting with Dr Marsden in a coffee shop offers Freya and Skye the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to rent an apartment in the prestigious Adder House, owned by the Doctor, at a reasonable rate seems far too good to be true. What happens after Freya and Skye move in? You’ll have to read for yourself. All I can say is be prepared for one hell of a crazy ride. Amazing and dark. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you NetGalley for this advanced copy. I love K.L. Slater. She is my favorite thriller author. The suspense was good, although parts were predictable to me. This seems to be a new plot that a lot of authors are using...someone moves in or housesits, someone is out to get them etc. But I still enjoyed the book and powered through it.
K.L. Slater is the reason I started reading thrillers. This was a good book, but I do feel parts were predictable and it wasn't as good as her previous book. I feel like this is a new plot used by authors and starting to be used too much. however, the book itself was good. the suspense was good, kept me guessing etc.
Amazing story that kept me up reading when I should have been sleeping. Good storyline that kept me interested
If it seems too good to be true... then it probably is...
Freya finds herself as a young widow along with her five year old daughter Skye, facing an uncertain future. As the thought of couch-surfing in her best friend's house looms over her, Freya desperately tries to find a place where she and her daughter can live but even out of work, that isn't an easy task.
She finds herself being approached by a gentleman in a coffee shop whonis conveniently looking for a new tenant in his luxurious apartment building. Freya, thinking there is no way she can afford this is given an offer she simply, cannot refuse...
I devoured this book! I found it to be gripping and suspenseful. I loved the idea behind it and I found myself trying to guess what was going to happen throughout it. This is a great example of a really good suspenseful psychological thriller - they can become so "cut & paste" after you read a lot of them but this was different & it was gloriously nail-biting.
However, it doesn't come without faults. I found it rushed towards the end, it could have benefited being longer - it certainly was pacey enough. Some plot lines were left unexplored and unexplained. How did her husband actually die? Was there more to it? Some of the smaller twists were a little... ridiculous but ok, it's fiction, I'll just go with it. The ending though was what really bothered me, for such a great suspenseful book, why did the ending do me dirty like that?! Plus, I guessed the plot twist (which doesn't really bother me anyway nor take away the enjoyment of the whole book) but honestly, it was the ending that I felt duped by. It was so rushed - this book could easily be a five star book if it wasn't for how it was wrapped up. It was incredibly disappointing.
Saying all of that, I would still highly recommend this book! If you're looking for a quick read which is pacey and gripping then this is the book you're looking for.
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When something seems too good to be true…it usually is! Such is the case in The Apartment by K.L. Slater who introduces us to Freya and her young daughter Skye. Freya is totally down on her luck so when she happens to meet a kind man who offers her a luxury apartment for cheap, she cannot believe it! Things are looking up.
Suddenly Freya is living in a posh place in a beautiful area of town. She is excited for a fresh start after the death of her husband and this place is going to be perfect! Except…things are starting to seem weird. And the people act kind of bizarre. What’s with the sounds coming from the other side of the apartment? And when she hears rumors of a young woman dying in this very same apartment, Freya begins to wonder if maybe this isn’t the best place for her and Skye.
Take a look here:
Freya Miller needs a miracle. In the fallout of her husband’s betrayal, she’s about to lose her family home, and with it the security she craves for her five-year-old daughter, Skye. Adrift and alone, she’s on the verge of despair until a chance meeting with the charismatic Dr Marsden changes everything. He’s seeking a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in a fashionable area of London.
Adder House sounds too good to be true… But Freya really can’t afford to be cynical, and Dr Marsden is adamant she and Skye will be a perfect fit with the other residents.
But Adder House has secrets. Even behind a locked front door, Freya feels as if she’s being watched: objects moving, unfamiliar smells, the blinking light of a concealed camera… and it’s not long before she begins to suspect that her dream home is hiding a nightmarish reality. Was it really chance that led her here—or something unthinkably dark?
As the truth about Adder House starts to unravel, can Freya and Skye get out—or will they be locked in forever?
I was totally hooked from the beginning pages and liked the authors writing style. This is the second book I’ve read by her and will definitely be reading more. Highly recommend, this book is due out on April 28 but she has loads of suspense to choose from in the meantime!
This is my first book of author K.L.slater and certainly won't be my last.
Easily 4 stars.
Freya is a recent widower, and mother of a 5year old girl, Skye. She is struggling financially and emotionally, when, one day, while sitting in a Starbucks, she is approached by Dr. Marsden, who gave her an offer to rent his luxurious apartment for a small price. As expected, the offer is holding hidden mysteries.
I don't know for the other readers but for me, I will categorize it as a cozy thriller. The plot is well written but the ending was a little plain for me.
I will definitely check the other novels by the author.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publishers, for my advance copy to read and give an honest review.
K.L.Slater is one of my favourite authors and to this day I have not read one of her books that I have not loved up until now.
Sadly The Apartment was very slow paced for me and I could not connect with the characters.
I felt this book was not as enticing and thrilling as her previous books and although I have not raced through the book in eagerness I do recommend it as a read.
This is the first book by K L Slater that I have picked up and to be honest, I found it not to my liking. While I did finish the book, I struggled. I wasn't really a fan of the characters, though I envisioned the setting (and loved the sound of "the Palace"). Not my cup of tea. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Okay story, characters are a bit unrealistic and plot stretches the imagination. I did finish it, however, and enjoyed the satisfying ending. Overall a bit too much to swallow so can only award this two stars.
This is the first book I read from the author but I must say that it let me down. I was expecting a lot from this but it's just okay to me. The flow of the story is good. I am so curious as to what really happens in the apartment and that's what help me to push through and read more about it. I also don't like how the author just include a really out of this place Point of View of the past. It definitely confuse me as to who is this Point of View. It's one of the reason the book was off to me.
I also don't like the fact that everything is explained in the end. All at once. I am not really into stories like that because it leaves me unsatisfied. I like plots that slowly explains the situation but still leave a huge revelation at the ending of the book. The ending is meh for me. I am not a huge fan.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer/Amazon Publishing UK
Full review coming soon on my blog https://www.inkly.in
Pretty decent, fast paced, creep inducing dread of a read. Freya and her daughter Skye are desperately seeking a place to live shortly after her POS husband who left her for an older woman dies unexpectedly, which is never actually explained in the book. She receives a too good to be true offer to live in a really posh house for a fraction of what she'd pay elsewhere as she would "be a good fit" according to her new landlord, Dr. Marsden. She slowly begins to think she's losing her mind from there as she hears things, sees flies in her daughter's bedroom, and just feels off in her own home, things moved around, etc. A lot of the story felt implausible, but it still made for a good, scary read.
I’m afraid I struggled with this one,normally I’m a fast reader but it took me quite a while to read it as it just couldn’t keep my attention and I kept breaking off to read other things. It was quite flat and the story never really got going for me unfortunately
I love a good K.L Slater book but this one fell flat for me. I was bored from about 10% in until the end. I wanted to love it because a story about a creepy apartment usually rocks my world.
The characters were so unlikable and I was actually getting so annoyed with Freya. I think the author could have made this MUCH creepier and thrilling.
I wish the author nothing but success and I apologize that this book wasn't for me.
I enjoyed the book but I have read better ones by this author. I felt that the parts where the book went back in time could have been highlighted better and I found the story slightly silly but I do like this author's writing style.
"I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review"
Freya Miller needs a miracle. In the fallout of her husband’s betrayal, she’s about to lose her family home, and with it the security she craves for her five-year-old daughter, Skye. Adrift and alone, she’s on the verge of despair until a chance meeting with the charismatic Dr Marsden changes everything. He’s seeking a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in a fashionable area of London.
Adder House sounds too good to be true… But Freya really can’t afford to be cynical, and Dr Marsden is adamant she and Skye will be a perfect fit with the other residents.
But Adder House has secrets. Even behind a locked front door, Freya feels as if she’s being watched: objects moving, unfamiliar smells, the blinking light of a concealed camera… and it’s not long before she begins to suspect that her dream home is hiding a nightmarish reality. Was it really chance that led her here—or something unthinkably dark?
Okay, I will start with the things I like about this book. Right from the very start it was a suspenseful read and that didn't stop throughout the book. I also found it to be a very quick read and I didn't see the end coming until about the 90% mark and I liked how it ended.
The main issue I had with it was it was too small and because of that it felt key bits happened way to quickly or not described enough. I will go into a couple of spoilers in a second so if you don't want to see them stop reading here.
I am putting a couple of spoilers only so people know what I mean with what I wrote above. One of the issues I noticed is that Skye was having issues at her school but at the end nothing was mentioned about it at all. Another was her "friendship" with Mark came out of the blue and she seemed to trust him way off the bat. I would of loved if the book was a little longer so these issues could of been fixed and they didn't feel so rushed.
I ended up rating it 3.5 stars because I did enjoy it but the issues I mentioned just put a bit of a damper on the whole thing. It would of been a perfect read if things didn't happen so quickly and more detail was put in because the story itself was great.
#TheApartment #NetGalley
Thank you to the Publishers and NetGalley for the ARC, I received in exchange for a fair review.
The Apartment, has a really great story premise behind it. Freya is a single mother, who is getting over both her husband leaving, her for another women, and his sudden death. She is facing finance challenges at this difficult time. Forced to sell their home and find somewhere affordable to live, in London.
When by Chance, she is offered a unbelievable apartment in Kensington , at an affordable price. Something that would normally be out of her range. The owner of the building seems more concerned that the tenants fit in. A chance of a new start.
Strange things start to happen in the apartment. Little things at first, that she cannot put her finger on. With Freya recovering from some pretty significant life events, she is looking for her "safe space". It is believable that she would be willing to over look some misgivings about the apartment. It rings so true.
Freya is likable, and you are routing for her to come good. Your gut tells you there is something wrong, but everything as she experiences is difficult to define. It could go ether way. Is she just suffering from stress or is this actually something that is off. This is what makes this book so great.
Amazing, a really page turner, I read it across two nights. A thriller with a great sense of suspense. It keep's pushing your forward. The plot is gripping. The ending is a climax and surprise. A Complete gem. 4 1/2 Stars.
I love this author all the books are amazing including this one. Will definitely look out for the next book
I just finished this book and loved it. A classic page turner with great characters riding many twists and turns. The story begins with Freya and her daughter, Skye at a crossroads. Her ex husband has died and they have to move. She meets a man in a coffee shop who is looking for a tenant. Long story short they move to a fabulous place called the Adder House. He puts them there rent free and creepy things begin to happen with the tennants, school, the owners. Thank you #netgalley for the Advanced read.
This was a quick read with a cool premise that didn't fully live up to expectations. It centers around Freya, a recently widowed woman raising her 5 year old daughter and struggling financially. She meets the rich and somewhat creepy Dr. Marsden in a coffee shop and he sells her on moving into an apartment in his building for whatever she can afford, even though that area should be far out of her reach of affordability. Once she arrives, creepy things start to happen and she sees that there is a weird dynamic between the tenants of the house. Also, there are tie-backs to a psychological conditioning experiment that happened decades ago, leaving the reader to try to figure out who is pulling out the reference to this experiment and what it has to do with Freya.
I had 2 issues with the execution of the book. One was around Freya's actions in general. How gullible could she be to move into the house in the first place without doing any real research, or question why they were giving her such a great rate. She also apparently couldn't find any history of the house or it's previous inhabitants online, nor could she figure out what was going on with her daughter at school. I was frustrated with her for most of the book. My other issue is that the eventual tie-in of Freya's story to the psychological experiment of the past seemed not only like a stretch, but a loosely woven one at that. It didn't ring true to me and I couldn't figure out why the villain was even doing what they were doing, or how they made the connection to the earlier experiment. The potential was there but that was supposed to be the culmination of the story and it just wasn't clear or well done.
Overall, it was a fast read that had potential but just didn't go where it could have gone with that potential. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Freya Miller has had a horrible year. After losing her husband, Freya's only remaining family is her five year old daughter, Skye - something which is caused by various factors and about which we learn more throughout the book. Now financial concerns have her desperately looking for an apartment they can afford, and they need to move in ASAP. Freya is unemployed so finding an apartment within her means is a challenge. But fate suddenly appears to smile on them when she meets Dr. Marsden who is looking for a new tenant for an apartment at one of London's most exclusive addresses. When he offers to rent it to them for a fraction of the market rental value, Freya can't refuse. Soon Freya and Skye have moved into Adder House, begun making friends and enjoying their new posh residence. It feels like life is taking a turn for the better, finally. But then a number of unsettling things begin happening, both in and out of Adder House, that leave Freya wondering if their "perfect" new home is perhaps far from safe.
The Apartment is a fast-paced psychological suspense novel that easily kept my attention. Despite a relatively small cast of characters there are still plenty of options for suspects.
The book aptly demonstrates that humans can be (and have been) victims of our own progress if we don't place concern for fellow humans at the top of the list. 3.5 Stars
Content Warnings: SPOILER child abuse; psychological experimentation conducted by medical personnel and otherwise END SPOILER
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC. The opinions in this review are honest and my own.
Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy of The Apartment.
I mean... this is KL Slater... Would you expect anything less than at least 4 stars?? I certainly don't anymore. I've read so many of KL Slater's books and have really enjoyed them all!
This book is about an apartment that pretty much falls into the lap of Freya, who is a recent widow needing a place to live for her and her daughter Skye. When Dr. Marsden happens to post an "apartment for rent" flyer on a local bulletin board while Freya is standing in front of said board, it all seems to good to be true. The rent is based off of how good of a fit the tenant is for the apartment building, and not actual cost. Which, once Freya sees the beautiful Adder House, still thinks is too good to be true but moves in anyways. Strange things however start happening throughout the apartment; Skye's toy box is moved, a camera appears in their hallway, and Freya sees tons and tons of flies infested in Skye's room, only to find them all gone once she's gotten Dr. Marsden to come up to the apartment with her. When she tells people throughout the town where she is living, their demeanor changes and they quickly end the conversation.
You'll also read about baby Douglas, aka Little Albert, and the experiments a doctor from 1920 puts him through to instill fear. How does this relate to Freya? Who can she trust? Even her closest friend, Brenna, is starting to question her sanity. While I had a small inkling as to what was going on, I didn't expect who would be responsible... That was a big surprise!
Wow! Didn't see that coming. I enjoyed this one. Quick read. I have read others by this author before and enjoyed them as well. I loved the daughter Skye. My only complaint was the ending. Left me with some unanswered questions. Glad I got a chance to read before the release date!
Let me start by saying that I am usually a huge fan of K.L.Slater, huge! However, this book left me feeling unfulfilled. I think the premise was great, though as I was reading I kept thinking of parallels between the book and something else, a movie or show I had seen at some point that had the same concept. I think what annoyed me the most was the repetitiveness of her worry for her daughter. I get it, I'm a mom myself so I know that of course, your biggest priority and concern is your children's wellbeing but this was non-stop. It was like filler for the book or something.
I thought Slater did a great job making the Marsden's creepy and I honestly didn't see the familial connection coming so that was a nice twist. I enjoyed the book and sped through it as I do with all of her novels, they are truly that good and entertaining, this one just missed the mark for me a bit.
If something sounds too good to be true then chances are it is! I was frustrated with Freya's naievety moving into an apartment with her daughter after meeting a man in a cafe who basically says you only pay what you can afford!
As soon as she moves in she regrets her decision, the residents are all strange and Freya and Skye appear to be in a psychological experiment, it appears a story is building up only to be over as soon as it's begun. I felt a little let down by it as wanted a bit more of story before it culminated.
Good thriller that keep my guessing "who could be doing this". It was a little confusing with the flashbacks, but in the end it all came together.
Thank you Publisher, Author, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this advanced copy.
I loved this!
This is my first book that I've read by this author. I loved the pace of this book and how everything played out!
I loved the characters, I loved the plot and everything! Jack is trying to start over and while he is trying to start over he decides to take on a case so he can discover the truth about the body and the money. So, while jack has all this going on he also is trying to find his biological father.
I loved the story but I wanna know what Jack's decision is! Lol
Great book.
Freya and her daughter Skye are in need of a miracle in finding a cheap apartment. Her husband betrayed her and 5 year old Skye, and now she is to leave her home. A chance meeting gives her the opportunity to take up an amazing apartment in Adder House. But is it too good to be true.
The residents there are a little weird, except for elderly Lily who lives downstairs.
Once she has moved in, Freya's nerves seem to fray even more so, she feels as she is being watched, and strange things are occurring.
She happens upon the sister of a previous tenant who has died unexpectedly. Will Freya be able to work out the mystery and save herself and Skye, or will they get trapped in Adder House?
Great theme of the story, and it kept me thinking and wanting more to happen. Definitely worth reading.
He knew who Freya was when he targeted her at Starbucks and offered her an apartment at Adder House.
He knew that her husband had recently passed away, and that she had a five year old daughter, named Skye.
He knew her “whole sorry tale” and that as a single Mum with limited means, that she would be easy prey.
But WHY does he want them to be the next residents to live on the top floor?
This book was very reminiscent of Riley Sager’s “Lock Every Door” to me...substituting the lovely Adder House for the Bartholomew and its gargoyles.
Both had quirky residents who had to be “approved” prior to move-in, carefully selected for a sinister reason.
I enjoyed the relationship between Freya and her daughter, and was engaged with the story the entire time, as I tried to determine where this tale was going.
But, when it was all said and done, the ending left me wanting...
I didn’t quite buy it.
And, too many other subplots were left with unanswered questions.
So my 4 stars, dropped to 3.
Thank You to NetGalley, Thomas and Mercer and Kim Slater for the digital ARC, I received in exchange for a candid review! This book will be released on
April 28, 2020!
The newest release from K.L. Slate did not disappoint in may ways! This was a quick read for me and one that I did enjoy. The reader is taken on journey with Skye and her Mom Freya... At times it seems as though things are being 'too good to be true' for them.... I enjoyed getting to know the characters and making predictions as to what would happen, and i must admit I was wrong! There are some areas where I wish the author would have dug deeper, but I found the books just as good as others I have read!
Overall I really enjoyed reading this book. As with all of KL Slater's books it's a page-turner and an entertaining thriller. The plot is centred around Freya and her young daughter, Skye, who move into an apartment in Kensington in 'Adder House" after meeting Dr Marsden in a cafe. Their situation gets creepy and it soon becomes apparent that someone is watching them.
As much as I found this book enjoyable to read, I found the plot a little thin in places. There were some obvious people put forward as responsible for all the odd things that start to happen to Freya, and although I was surprised by the reveal of who it was, it lacked the big impact. I also found Freya's reflections on the apartment being too good to be true a bit contrived - of course it was! Anyone in their right mind would have been cautious about the set up.
I've read many of KL Slater's books and this one isn't my favourite. But I'd recommend it for a great read a few hours of escapism in a hard to put down thriller.
This is the second book I have read by K. L. Slater and I enjoyed it just as much as the first one. It is full of suspense with a twist at the end that you won’t see coming. The story is based on a woman called Freya and her daughter Skye. After her husband died, Freya is looking for a fresh start. Out of the blue she is made an offer that sounds perfect for her and her daughter. But is it all it seems ?? Or something more sinister?!
I really ejnoyed this book. Received it via netgalley.com. It was well written and I felt the characters and pacing were very well done. Frey and her daugher Skye move into an apartment in an unbelievable part of town, that they can't afford, and it seems as if their luck has finally changed for the better. Then when things start going wrong, is it bad luck, Freya's nerves/anxiety or is there something behind these events that seem random. I liked how the author used different time points in the story to explain needed backstory. I would definitely recommend this book to people who enjoy thrillers, suspense, and/or mystery. I look forward to reading more from this author!
"They say every cloud has a silver lining....
When Freya Miller is struck by tragedy, losing her husband and her home within a short time, she is burdened with many worries. The main one being where she and her five-year old daughter, Skye, are going to live. A chance meeting with the charismatic Dr Marsden changes all that. He offers the young mother the most amazing opportunity: an apartment at one of London's most exclusive addresses for a fraction of the market rental cost. It's an offer Freya simply can't refuse. Within a couple of weeks, Freya and Skye are moving into Adder House and meeting the other welcoming residents. They very quickly feel part of the family.
But just when Freya truly believes all her problems are history, a series of strange, unexplained occurrences begin. It leaves Freya with the unshakeable feeling that even when their apartment door is securely locked, she and her daughter are not alone. Freya thought she'd left all her troubles behind her, yet she soon realises there are problems here that are far more terrifying than before.
For behind the doors of Adder House, everything is most definitely not as it seems.
Old secrets refuse to stay buried, and someone is determined to keep a terrible past very much alive."
☆☆☆☆.5 rounded up
This was my first time reading KL Slater, and I am glad I did. This was a truly gripping and engaging story, I really felt for Freya and the adorable Skye and found myself hoping that everything was going to work out for them. That their lives were really going to turn around and the suspicions creeping up on Freya as the plot unfolded were unfounded and that everything was going to be ok, even though I knew that , obviously, it wasn't. Excellent character and plot development, and even though It took some time to get to the climax of the story, maybe a little too long (I didnt get any real answers till 70% onto the book), what an ending!! I devoured this in 1 day, and will definitely be reading Slater again. I can recommend this book for any fans of Lisa Jewell and Ruth Ware
Many thanks to netgalley for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review
Any reader of fiction knows that when a character receives an offer which seems too good to be true, it’s exactly that. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise to anybody that when down-on-her-luck Freya and her young daughter Skye are offered a lovely flat at a peppercorn rent by a mysterious man, it soon turns a bit sinister.
Wealthy and a bit creepy Dr and Mrs Marsden (the latter reminded me of a British Emily Gilmore) welcome Freya and Skye to the impressive Adder House (the name itself should have been a clue that danger looms)... but what are their real motivations?
It’s a pretty fun read, although the plot is utterly absurd and the eventual revelations make no sense. Interspersed with Freya’s narrative are snippets from the perspective of an unknown person (written for some inexplicable reason in the second person) and extracts from a 1920 diary. (The writing style of the latter is particularly unconvincing, not least for being written in the currently ubiquitous present tense.) It’s also a bit annoying that we’re led to expect some payoff from the story about Freya’s husband, but in the end this leads absolutely nowhere.
Three stars because it did hold my attention and was actually quite enjoyable, even if the plot has holes you could drive a bus through.
Sometimes we have to be brave enough to give life's surprises a chance.
Thank you netgalley for the ARC.
The plot was good. But the ending was too neat. Also we don't get to know about Freya's husband. Yes, we get titbits of the backstory now and then. But that's it.
Also the experiment on which the story hi yes should have been fleshed out a bit more. The readers don't get to care about Little Douglas. If that plot was explained a bit more it would have been better.
I enjoyed this insightful novel very much. The storyline flows at a great pace, and the characters are well fleshed out. Highly recommended!
I really enjoyed this book and my only complaint is that it was over all too quickly.
Suspense and intrigue all the way, I'll be looking for more books by this author!
.
Interesting book that I had a hard time putting down. Hearing how Freya ended up with the cheap, elaborate apartment first had me scratching my head a bit. Similar to a character in a horror movie that runs into the dark woods, knowing what their fate would be, I felt similar to Freya so willingly eager to move in. Some things are often too good to be true, as was the case in this story. I was a ittle confused on certain parts such as the back story with the dad and feel this could have been better developed but in all a good book that kept my attention and interested to read some of the authors other writings.
Freya and her 5-year-old daughter Skye are on the brink of being homeless.
So when Freya accidentally meets Dr. Marsden, who is seeking a new tenant for his apartment in a fashionable area of London, and is offered a chance to live there for a fraction of what it's worth, she only hesitates briefly.
Little does she know that their meeting was no coincidence and that she was, in fact, carefully chosen to live there.
This was a fantastic and instantly gripping book. The story is told from Freya's perspective and is interspersed with entries from a mysterious person.
I couldn't put the book down and read it in two sittings.
It's a spooky and suspenseful story that has you madly turning the pages to find out how it will end.
The ending was a little disappointing though, as I found the motive too far-fetched. Also, Freya's refusal to question her supposed good luck was hard to believe. Everyone knows that you won't be offered an apartment way beyond your budget without a sinister motive. But putting that aside, it was a very gripping read, and if you're in for a quick and easy read, this book is for you.
Scary, psychological thriller with lots of twists.How far will some people go to justify what they believe in and how strong is a mother's love.
This was an easy enough read and certainly wasn't bad, but I found it a little slight. There were certain details that I would have liked to have known more about. Take the story with the husband. It seems like it's connected, like there's hidden intrigue there, but then there's no payoff. In addition, I thought the ending was rather neat and rushed. I just wish there were more to the book. But if you liked Riley Sager's Lock Every Door, you'll probably like this (and vice versa)l.
Thank you to Netgalley and Amazon UK for supplying this copy for review.
I’ve been waiting a while for this since it was originally an audio book. Another great read. Fab pilot and characterisation that I’ve come to expect from this accomplished author. Only downside is this was quite short!
Thank you to Netgalley for a preview of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The blurb of this book was good.Once time went on in the book I felt that the storyline weakened a bit & the characters were never fully developed .
& the storyline was far fetched. The timehop in the book was introduced with no warning & was slightly confusing.
Parts of the storyline were good & it had a few good twists & turns but I dont think the book lived up to the potential.
I love a good psychological/thriller book. This one started out really good but i felt that it never really got there. Yeah there was a bit of spooky what's going on but nothing that had me thinking WTF. The chapters of the experiment in the 1920s were odd and confused the story for me.
What a mess!!
Freya Miller has moved out of her cheating husband's house with her five year old daughter, Skye, and are now desperate to find a new home and new beginning. Right off the bat they are sitting in a coffee shop and a mysterious doctor says he has a verryyy fancy upscale apartment they can live in (FOR FREE!) just because they fit the 'type of people for the apartment'
"Um okay weird?" were my thoughts, but lets wait for the big twist.... yet nothing came!!
Main character is an idiot and even the plot never got too exciting. The ending was so disappointing I should have #DNF this book, but that is one of my worse pet peeves. I thought this one was going to be way more entertaining.. how disappointing!
*Thank you Netgalley for allowing me an advanced readers copy before publishing date in return for an honest review
The Apartment by K.L. Slater did not live up to my expectations of this author. The writing itself was great, but the story never really took off for me. Not really a thriller in the truest sense.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book! It was a pretty quick psychological thriller. The book captivated me at the beginning, lost me a little in the middle, and reeled me back in near the end. The story line was believable, although the end of it seemed very rushed. All in all, the characters were great and it was a nice read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to the publishers for sharing this one. It was a quick, very suspenseful read, and I enjoyed it, although I found the ending a bit unbelievable. My full review appears on Weekend Notes.
A decent psychological thriller, enjoyed the setting and it was atmospheric. However, I never really took to the characters in this book and the conclusion of the book was pretty flat and somewhat rushed.
I would have preferred a longer epilogue and for the author to go into more detail behind the lead Character Freya’s family background and what she has since done to learn more about her biological family and why she was given up for adoption
Worth adding that this book is a short easy read.
I’d like to thank NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
Okay, wow! I really enjoyed this book! I felt intrigued right away and was actually a bit scared which rarely happens while reading psychological thrillers. The main characters were believable which i think is key in this scenario. I read this right before a trip to Paris where i was renting an apartment so i do feel my experience with this book was heavily swayed by that alone, but i felt the story moved quickly and i really wanted to know what was going to happen.
An interesting read but not for me, Having read all the authors previous books I felt this wasn't up to the usual standard. All felt a bit rushed and strange.
Freya is still learning to cope after the death of her husband and raising her daughter Skye alone. When a chance meeting in a coffee shop offers her the chance to rent a new apartment which in her wildest dreams she should never be able to afford and the chance for a fresh start for her and her daughter is too good to turn down but at the end of the day some things are too good to be true and when strange this start happening Freya questions if the motives of the other residents is really as genuine as it seems and are her and her daughter in danger. This book is a really exciting thriller and I hope someone makes this into a movie at some point because it’s really dark and exciting.
Took a bit to get into this story. The beginning was very long and drawn out. Then the ending moved quickly. It was ok.
Thanks NetGalley.
I enjoyed reading this book and I felt that the story was well executed.
The characters had depth and added a lot to the overall sense of the book and it was very enjoyable to keep turning the pages.
Recently widowed Freya Miller is worried about the future. With limited resources and a 5 year old daughter, she has to sell her house and move school. While going through the classifieds at a Starbucks, she meets Dr Marsden who offers her an apartment.
The offer seems to be too good to be true. Once she moves into the Apartment, she meets the other tenants and soon strange things start happening. Someone is watching her every move. How Freya unravels the truth without losing her mind. Who is actually her friend and who has ulterior motives? How much can one trust strangers? The ending could have been a little better. I thought it just ended in a haste.
Overall an interesting read.
Freya really should have thought about the old saying that if it sounds too good to be true then it probably is before she accepted the offer to live in an apartment in the same house as the mysterious man who had approached her in a cafe. But she desperately needed to find a proper home for her young daughter Skye and anyway, the man's name was Dr Marsden,he was a doctor so she could trust him....right (mmmm, wasn't Harold Shipman a doctor????)
In the beginning everything goes well, Freya and Skye soon settle into their new apartment on the top floor of Adder House and meet the other residents who are all very welcoming. But as time passes, Freya starts to get the unsettling feeling that there is something not right hiding beneath the sheen of perfection and normality that the residents strove so hard to convey. Then Freya started to feel as if she was being followed and began to experience strange and terrifying incidents inside the apartment.
Freya had suffered from mental health issues in the past after the tragic death of her husband. Was she imagining things as almost everyone insisted or was someone playing twisted mind games with Freya and Skye? By trying to do what was right for her daughter, had she instead placed both their lives in danger?
The story is told mostly from the perspective of our main character Freya who was a complex blend of issues and emotions. The hints at a previous history of mental health issues helped to cast doubt on Freya's version of events. I personally had mixed feelings about her,I didn't find her likeable or unlikable but I did think that she came across as quite selfish at times especially during some of her interactions with her daughter. I felt so much empathy for poor Skye, being dragged away from the school that she loved attending and her friends and being thrust into a strange environment where she didn't know anyone. And having a mother who didn't listen and dismissed or trivialised Skye's worries and fears. The other residents of Adder House were a mixed bag of diverse characters, there was the strange, controlling Marsdens, loveable, grandmotherly Lily and emotional Susan and her husband Matthew. Interspersed throughout the story were chapters that were voiced by a character who was obviously devoid of any morals or compassion for their fellow humans. Inserted into these chapters were extracts from the journal of a young wet nurse and chronicled the inhumane experiments that the young nurse's baby son Albert was subjected to in the 1920s. These extracts were chilling and uncomfortable to read at times but what significance did the events in the past have with the events in the present day?
The Apartment is a terrifyingly, realistic tale of how easily a vulnerable mind can be controlled and manipulated without the consent or knowledge of the victim. It is a well written, mesmerising thriller that keeps the reader captivated and frantically turning the pages. The intensity gradually builds as the story unfolds, keeping the reader guessing until the shocking truth is revealed. I love K.L.Slater's thrillers,she is a very talented author who's books are always outstanding, gripping reads. Very very highly recommended
I am a big fan of K.L Slater so I was excited to receive a copy of The Apartment.
Newly widowed Freya Miller is looking for a more affordable home when she meets charismatic Doctor Marsden in a nearby café. When he mentions that there is a new renovated flat in the building that he lives. Adder house is an upmarket building in swanky Kensington and Freya first thinks that she will never be able to live in the place like that. But when she views it, a bit smaller than the other flats in the building and when Doctor Marsden tells her the rent she agrees to move into the flat.
At first her five-year-old Skye is not happy moving into the flat and she doesn’t want to move from her school to a new one. Her friends are a bit dubious of her moving in too. But against all their wishes she tells herself that it will be a new start, a better future for her and her daughter Skye.
When she moves in weird things start to happen and she can hear noises. She is also told that someone that lived in flat died and she goes out to find out what happened at Adder house.
Thank you Bookoutre and NetGalley for a copy of the Apartment. I liked the premise of this creepy intense storyline and it has the usual style I have come to know and love from this author. But I found the excepts of the experiments a bit weird and the ending didn’t wow me like others from this author.
Good solid thriller. A bit reminiscent of Rosemarys Baby and Lock Every Door. I have to admit it kept me hooked but I felt slightly let down by the ending..and I got sooooooo annoyed at Freya! Despite her intuition and alarm bells ringing she goes ahead and moves herself and Skye into this creepy apartment with even creepier residents in the building! Oh I know...it's only a story LOL
Well written with wonderfully atmospheric scenes but somehow the whole lacked something for me. Perhaps it's because this genre has been done over and over. However, I certainly wouldn't dissuade anyone from reading it.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Quite a page turner! I found the storyline quite sinister and I must admit I was somewhat stressed and anxious reading it, I felt convinced something terrible was about to occur, especially with the little girl.
The twists kept me on my toes too.
Oof. I didn't like this book at all. It tried way too hard to be creepy but it really wasn't... someone not having family photos in their apartment does not a bad guy make (eyeroll emoji). The back and forth of the time period was annoying instead of enlightening. And the resolution was so forced. Basically the whole book was forced and it felt like a wasted premise, because the premise was pretty good! Thanks anyway to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy of the book.
The apartment - K.L. Slater
This book is from @netgalley in exchange for a review.
Buddy read with @booksinthebath_reviews41
This book caught my eye straight away on netgalley and I saw a review on Instagram which made me want to read it.
I enjoyed the book, the storyline is good and kept me guessing what was going to happen next.
Although, the ending seemed a little rushed to me.
RATING: ⭐⭐💫 2.5 stars
The Apartment although still a psychological thriller is a bit of a change from Kim Slater's other books i found,but it is every bit as good as her previous books ! Freya Miller along with her daughter Skye finds herself searching for a new home and by chance meets the mysterious Dr Marsden who just so happens to be looking for a tenant for an apartment in his house,Freya jumps at the chance thinking it is the answer to all her problems and her and Skye move in.But unfortunately that is where her problems really start to begin as strange things start to happen which Freya cannot really explain,As with all Kim Slater's books this one doesn't disappoint and once again marks out the fact that Kim is up there with the best when it comes to the psychological thriller genre.Yet another 5 star read from the excellent Kim Slater.
Rating: 2.5 stars
No spoilers but does reveal some things!
This book has a really good premise for a story but kind of fails to reach its potential. I did like the actual plot but it was almost rushed. Like right from the offset everything about Adder House seems a little dodgy and Freya is suspicious, so there isn't really a build up of tension for us, which personally I found to be underwhelming in the end. I think if it was a little less rushed, and it really took its time to for things to get scary, it would have been super thrilling, but I just felt underwhelmed in the end. That being said, I did finish the book, which means it did something right. I am a fan of Slater's work, but not my fave.
I read this in a day and enjoyed the plot. Like others, I found the actions of the main character Freya a little unrealistic at times. I understand that she is vulnerable and had previously had mental health issues but she made some very strange choices regarding her 5 year old daughter. The book started slowly but the pace picked up and I was kept intrigued throughout. I have this 4 stars because I would likely read other books by this author.
Thank you to Netgalley and Amazon for the advanced copy in exchange for a fair review.
This was a good book! I enjoyed it and I tore through it in one day :) Though perhaps not the most original of plots, I thoroughly still enjoyed it and had a fun time reading it! I would highly recommend this book to anyone that needs a compelling read, especially in these uncertain times. For a newbie to thrillers, this would be an especially fun read for sure!
Freya Miller is a single parent to her five year old daughter Skye. She's had a rough time, after the death of her ex husband and she's trying her best to care for Skye. Freya accidentally bumps into retired Dr Marsden in a cafe and he tells her he's there to put a notice up offering a tenancy for an apartment at the well named "Adder House". When Freya sees the apartment she's smitten and she gratefully accepts the offer and moves in. But all is not as it seems, Freya starts to feel uncomfortable when she meets the other residents especially Dr Marsden "wife" Audrey. As time goes on strange noises and bumps in the night start to take their toll on Freya and she begins to think the walls of Adder House hold terrible secrets. The parts of the story I was guessing at the most was the connection between the past and the present. It takes you back to 1920 and that's when you get to meet Beatrice and Little Albert. My guess work was completely wrong and the story comes together with a shocking ending. I really enjoyed getting to no the other characters, and I truly felt I was living in the actual story. It's a book with twists, spooky happenings, creepy doctors and at the heart of the book is beautiful five year old Skye, who makes your heart melt, and all I wanted to do was reach into the pages and give her a great big hug.
This is a highly suspenseful thriller, incredibly creepy and atmospheric. K.L.Slater pulls you in from the beginning and because of her brilliant imagination you just carry on reading until you've read the last twisty ending.
I'd highly recommend, it's an awesome read and I'd give it more than five stars if I could.
Freya is down on her luck. After the death of her husband, she can't quite believe it when a random encounter with a retired doctor leads to herself and her daughter being offered the chance to rent a beatiful apartment at the stunning Adder House cheaply. But it soon becomes obvious that all is not what it seems and a series of events leads Freya to try to work out what exactly is going on before something terrible happens. A great thriller, fantastic storyline with a brilliant twist. I totally recommend this book!
Freya is increasingly worried about her and her daughter Skye’s future. Freya’s ex-husband first had an affair and left, then was tragically killed. Now Freya is solely responsible for her and Lewis’s 5 year old daughter and they cannot afford to stay where they lived as a family of 3.
As if he knew retired Dr, Michael Marsden appears, keen to save the day, offering a flat in a house he owns for whatever price Freya can afford. With no apparent catch...
Once Freya and Skye have moved in, and the honeymoon period is over, Freya begins to feel things aren’t as they seem. Is her own vulnerability (growing up in care, no family support to speak of) causing her to become a little paranoid or should she be trusting those she is doubting? Either it’s the mind of someone in mental health distress or sinister things really are happening in Adder House. Freya needs to make a decision quickly about her and Skye’s future but has she trusted in the wrong person again at the worst possible time.
I did like this story and how it all came together at the end but I didn’t feel the edge of your seat intensity that I do at times with other books. It fell a little short for me as it was a great idea, and Freya’s naivety at the ridiculously cheap rent was a little shocking
Thank you Net Galley and Amazon Publishing for an early copy of The Apartment. Very strange book, it kept me interested but the ending was bizarre. Very fast moving, characters were ok. All in All not one of the greatest books I’ve read.
I’m so disappointed in this book! It could have been so much more. Was quite flat and boring until about 80% in then I really started to enjoy it. Such a shame
3.5 stars
Thanks netgalley for this ARC.
Good idea, good pace, kept me entertained. I didnt like the ending (how it was all put together).
This was quite the page-turner! It grabbed my attention from the beginning and never let it go. Eerie and mysterious plot—you might think you’ve figured it out, but you are likely wrong! There were quite a few surprise twists, especially at the end!
Well that was a little freaky. I’ve always subscribed to the belief that if something seems too good to be true then it isn’t and I think if Freya had of thought like this too this whole story would have ended up very differently. A very interesting but scary read.
There is a saying - if its too good to be true, it most probably is. The story of this thrilling read supports that saying. Imagine sitting in a cafe, down on your luck (for reasons beyond your control) and someone gives you an out to most of your problem. An apartment, with almost no rent, close to everything. This is what happens to Freya and that is the beginning of a thrilling and gripping read that leaves the reader reeling at the end of the book. I didn't see the ending coming, and really thoroughly enjoyed it.
Highly recommended!
After Freya’s husband’s death, she is looking to move to a place more affordable for her and her daughter. At a coffee shop one day, a man basically offers her to live in an apartment in his building for whatever she could afford. Sounds weird right? Also, it was in a fancy area and was way fancier than what she had been seeking. However strange the offer was, Freya moves in. That is when things start getting strange and creepy for Freya and her daughter.
So, this had a good premise, but fell way flat. For one, Freya was absolutely unbelievable as a character - so gullible and risks her daughters safety for a fancy apartment. Second, the conclusion came and was confusing and just ended. Also a lot of questions weren’t answered, such as what happened to her husband. It also was confusing when it switched between the old “research” notes and also the stalker.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
K. L. Slater is an author you can depend upon. Every book I have read by her never disappoints and the Apartment is no different. Fast moving, psychological read.
A totally gripping book that has a real creepy feel to it, with twists that had me hooked. A really enjoyable read.
Thank you for the advance read of this book.
I would give this book a 10/10 - thoroughly enjoyed, it was one of those books that kept me up into the early hours as it was so gripping and I just couldn’t put it down and wanted to find out what happened next. I have read other books by KL Slater and this certainly lived up to the fantastic other books written.
The story is centred around Freya, who has a young daughter Skye, after a turbulent time with her Skye’s father passing away and their family home being sold, Freya finds herself down on luck and about to be made homeless. A chance encounter sees her meet Dr Marsden who coincidentally has an exclusive apartment to rent in an exclusive building in an upmarket area of London and at an unbelievably low cost. Freya’s luck seems to be on the up and she finds herself moving into the new appartement with her very generous landlords on hand to help along the way. It isn’t long before Freya starts to feel uncomfortable and strange things start happening to her and Skye.
The story really is very gripping and the characters are so unique, you feel like you really know them.
If you like a gripping, suspense thriller, this book will not disappoint!
This was a really enjoyable and quick read. I had no idea where the story would go so was hooked on finding out how it ends. Freya and her daughter Skye move into Adder House after a chance meeting with the owner, Dr Marsden. Strange things start to happen and the whole thing becomes really creepy. Is the house safe or has she made a big mistake? I sat up to 1am to find out!
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Freya, a single mother with Skye, her daughter, met Dr Marsden and offered to live in one of his apartment. She won't be able to afford it, but the offer comes as for Freya to pay what she can. Sounds too good to be true? And more of kindness gesture from Dr Marsden which supposedly to make you question everything. What's the agenda behind this? Why Freya?
Thanks Netgalley for an electronic ARC of this book.
I love all of K.L. Slater’s novels and this one definitely did not disappoint! As soon as I hear she had another book coming out I had to read it right away and was so thankful I did! This one is such an amazing thriller and I did not want to stop reading. Go out and read it!
The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a solid psychological thriller that certainly kept me engaged throughout, although I will say that, for me, this one lacked some of the author's usual compelling and meaty substance. I am always anxious to dive into a new thriller from the incomparable Ms Slater, but I would be remiss if I didn't say that I found this one to fall somewhat short, if only because the author has previously raised the bar so very high.
Freya and her young daughter Skye cannot believe their luck when an apartment is offered to them at a ridiculously low rent at a time when Freya is struggling to make ends meet. The offer seems too good to be true and, well, you know how the rest of that line goes. This is a quick, enjoyable read that will hold your interest until the end.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this ARC.
The topic of a haunted/controlled/creepy landlord luxury apartments is pretty common and has been done amazingly before, so I was immediately interested even though I didn’t always enjoy some of the author’s other books. Unfortunately, this book also has the same issue that I had with her other books - the writing style, pace, and the “reveals” are just not interesting or unique enough for the book to be special. With topics like these, in which the reader already knows exactly how the book is going to go(someone offers the struggling main character something they can’t refuse, they can’t believe their luck, the owners are odd, tenants say weird things, they say the main character is the first tenant there but evidence points otherwise, etc, etc.), the writing has to be juicy and special enough for it to pay off, or else it’s no different from tons of other books/film/shows that deal with the very same topic. But the book just felt trite, and I had to force myself to care to go on.
Another personal gripe I have that’s very specific for me is that I don’t enjoy books that feature young children heavily, because it gets annoying with so many storylines of them not doing what we want them to do/getting themselves in danger/putting the main character in a vulnerable position; yet so many of the author’s book feature just that very overdone storyline. Overall, I didn’t really enjoy the book as much as I thought I would.
There are also some errors that I’ve found that will probably get edited before publishing but I thought I’d mention. One notable thing was this:
-Loc 703: The sentence that begins with “We’re not big friends ourselves...” needs to be fixed because the term “under no illusion” doesn’t seem to fit, or at least it’s not what the author thinks it means, because their daughters ARE friends even though MC/Kat are not.
This book is creepy and quick to read; I liked it overall. It reminded me a little bit of Lock Every Door, but less scary.
It’s spooky but not too much. It’s a good book if you want to start reading more eerie and dark books but want to start with something a little lighter.
Freya and her 5-year-old daughter Skye have been through a lot. Freya discovered that her husband was having an affair with her friend; he died soon after. They need a fresh start and when a stranger offers an incredible flat for way less than it’s worth, Freya accepts the offer. They move to one of the apartments in the Adler House.
The residents at the Adler House are very reserved and Freya soon finds out they all act very weird. Dr. and Mrs. Marsden, the couple that own the building, show way too much interest in Freya and Skye, and every other tenant has something weird going on too.
Days go by and Freya notices odd things happening in the apartment. Skye starts talking about the little girl that lived in her room. Freya decides to investigate and talk to the person that lived there before them.
The story develops slowly, with some little creepy bits here and there, but nothing that gave me that “Oh wow!” feeling. Also, the plot of the book could never happen in real life and the ending is kind of absurd. Nevertheless, it was a good read.
I've heard good things about this author so I requested an ARC of this book.
Unfortunately I didn't like it.
The main character is an imbecile, for one.
All the things from the meeting of the Adder house owner to being the “chosen tenant” is ridiculous and she should've known that these kinds of offer that are too good to be true, almost certainly is. But she ignored all the red flags.
It's quite difficult to get into a book if you hate the protagonist, even the daughter is not likable at all and I mostly find kids POV’s in a book adorable. :(
The plot is very promising and original and I was expecting a great read but ended up disappointed. It was confusing and there's a lot of unneeded narration about what's happening around them, it's too blah.
This book was a pretty good read. For me I couldn't like the plot or the characters. And if this book is supposed to be a thriller than this book should have been written differently.
I’d probably give this a 3.5 rather than a 3. It wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t my favourite read of the year. I’d give it 5/5 for utter creepiness though! Terrifying. I found the chapters that were from ‘back in time’ were a little disjointed and confusing, and I was rather unsure on their relevance until the very end. The end seemed a bit rushed? Not an awful lot happening and then boom boom boom at the end.
This book was not from me. I enjoyed the writing, but the plot felt weak. I started The Apartment thinking it would be full of suspense and, from the cover and synopsis, I thought it would give me the chills. But no, nothing happened in the first part of the book, the plot twists were not good, nothings made me gasp or feel afraid of what happened in the building.
Yes, the people from there were weird, which the main character realized from the beginning. I things she is one of those characters in horror movies that you see doing stupid things and you yell at the tv. The fact that she had a daughter, a young kid with her, made me feel like she was irresponsible.
The ending was predictable and the chapters about that doctor gave everything away.
I received this book from NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK in exchange for an honest review.
A brilliant book by a brilliant author. If you can only read one book this year pick this one you won’t be disappointed.
The Apartment by K L Slater
I’m a huge fan of this author but I just didn’t enjoy this book.
It’s about a young single mum Freya and her 5 year old daughter Skye.
Freya is looking for somewhere to live. In her local coffee shop she is looking at the advertisement boards and in comes the creepy Dr Marsden. He tells her he has an apartment for rent but it’s in an expensive and highly exclusive part of London. But Dr Marsden explains that they charge different people different rents and that they want people who bring merit to the house. Freya is desperate and accepts his offer.
That’s when the book got quite boring. The book reminded me of another book I’ve read but a much much more watered down version. As time goes along strange things begin to occur to Freya and things in the apartment begin to happen that are unnerving to the protagonist. So much so that Freya starts to doubt her own sanity in the end. The ending I feel was very rushed and I had already correctly guessed many things about the ending. It only took me two sittings to read as it felt very short and was a very easy read with nothing to really have to keep your mind on or think very hard.
I love K L Slaters books and this won’t put me off reading another one, I just found this one was nowhere near her usual standards and was a disappointing read.
I want to give netgalley a huge thanks for giving me this ARC!
After the death of her ex and the sale of her house Freya and her daughter have no where to go. A mysterious stranger offers them a too good to be true offer, a gorgeous apartment and within her meagre budget.
Too good to be true is usually just that and strange happenings begin to occur.
Is Freya crazy? Or is something sinister happening? And what happened to the previous tenants?
This was suspenseful and had great characters as well as a unique plot. It was well written and not long and drawn out. I highly recommend this book.
The Apartment is KL Slater's newest psychological thriller and it delivers in both psychological and thriller-ish ways! It is a slow burn of a book where we are on the edge because aren't sure what is what and who to trust - and I was waiting for the other shoe to drop.
If you like character driven novels, this one has a slew of characters that will keep you guessing on what they mystery behind everything is but on flip side, there were some character plots that I felt didn't add value to the story and a bit left unfinished. It's not her usual WOW factor but I still enjoyed it 3.5 stars.
Overall, the twist behind this book will stay with me for a bit - its interesting but also very creepy.
Thank you to Netgalley for a review copy!
Note: If you had read Riley Sager's Lock Every Door and enjoyed it, this reminds me of that vibe.
Having never read any of K. L. Slater’s books I have no comparisons to make.. but what a great read.
To me this is one of those easy read books that you can’t put down until it is finished.
“The Apartment” has a good storyline that brings the present in line with the past. What a past !!!
The use of factual information to use as the basis for a book is brilliant and adds a new dimension and gives the book an edge.
The fact that it tied up with psychological studies of the past made this book more interesting and held me through to the end
Finding somewhere decent to live on a budget but finding somewhere amazing to live in one of the best parts of London is a god send and at a price that’s affordable is too good to walk away from. This when the past catches up
This was enthralling and highly recommended. I will read more of K L Slaters books.
If something appears to be too good to be true, it usually is.....And so begin a series of seemingly inexplicable events, culminating in a satisfactory conclusion. The characters and plot are well executed, with just enough menace and tension to make the reader need to know who and why things are as they are. I read this book in two sittings because I was gripped from the start and would highly recommend it! I would like to thank Amazon Publishing UK and Netgalley for this ARK.
I have read many of KL Slaters books, and always enjoy them. She has an easy reading style, and her books are entertaining.
The Apartment was all of the above, but somehow for me was a little lacking. It just didn’t grab me as much as I was expecting it to. The main character wasn’t gritty enough and I found myself getting annoyed with her at times. Other characters weren’t as rounded for me as I would have liked either. A little 2 dimensional. .
However I did enjoy the book, and it was an easy and entertaining read, so I would recommend it for holiday or light escapism. It also wouldn’t put me off KL Slater in the future.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The apartment is a good psychological thriller similar to other KL Slater novels. I wouldve liked to see a section from skyes point of view, she experienced several frightening things and I wonder her thought process was through it all. I would have enjoyed a little more about lily in the end, knowing what exactly happened with Sophie. Overall a good read.
4.5 stars.
I can't remember the last time I read a thriller as good as this. I almost finished it in one sitting. The story is about a wife who loses her husband and is left with her daughter and no money. She is offered an apartment in a desirable and expensive area of London at a fraction of the price. After her and her daughter move in, they notice weird things happening in the apartment, leading her to question her own sanity.
The twists and turns in this book kept me hooked right until the end. The ending was completely unexpected and the flashbacks and journal entries had me wanting to find out what actually happens. This was my first book by K. L. Slater and I will definitely be reading some of her other books.
If you're looking for a fast-paced psychological thriller then this is the book for you. The character development was excellent and the book was generally very easy to read. I struggled to put it down.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book was different than I was expecting, but in a good way. I really enjoyed the premise and I kept being surprised constantly. Very enjoyable! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy in exchange for review.
I've heard so many good thinkg about K.L Slater. This was my first book by her that I've read. I was not disappointed that's for sure. This story was incredibly creepy! So much so I found it hard to put down, as i just needed to find out how it ended. Kept me interested the whole time. And brilliant twists and turns. Will not be the only one I read from this author that's for sure
I really enjoyed this thriller. The characters were interesting and the story held my interest. I found myself so enthralled by the story and finding out what would happen that I read way past when I should have been sleeping.
The ending wasn't really shocking to me but if you don't read a lot of thrillers, it might be surprising to you.
I would recommend this book though even though I had guessed the end because I really enjoyed reading it.
Freya and her daughter need a miracle. Freya's husband unexpectedly died, leaving her with little money and a house she could no longer afford. She meets a seemingly guardian angel at the coffee shop that offers her the top floor apartment in his posh building. Excited for a new chapter, she moves in one week later. The residents are odd, she hears voices, and did someone live there before her? Why was she hand picked to be a resident?
The premise is unique, but sadly, this story left me more questions than answers. There were several things that seemed like they might be important plot points that, by the end, I wondered why the author had included them. Brief storylines that seemed to do nothing to the overall story but just make the book longer. The ending came very suddenly after a lot of build up, and it was quite abrupt and honestly, odd. It is hard to point out inconsistencies without spoiling the story, so I won't say more. Things did not add up. The overall story honestly makes little sense to me.
I enjoyed a new take on the psychological thriller genre, but overall, I don't think that I would recommend this read.
This reminded me of a blend of two books I've read previously (The House Share by Katie Helm and The Girl Before by JP Delaney). The characters are so well described, I actually found my brain wandering to the apartment, so much so that one night when ill, I found myself having a very vivid dream and becoming Freya (anyone else do this?!) I loved the story, the ending and the writing was brilliant. Highly recommend this
Thank you netGalley for the advance copy. Where to start. Freya, a women that has been cheated on by her husband, takes her young daughter to a whole new place to live. A lot of the information I felt was just off for the story line.(like why did her husband die) I seemed to have lost interest in the book mid way. I guess maybe I just wasn't able to connect with Freya and how she would move into a place that had so many early signs of not being a good place to live. I just felt like the book wasn't believable.
This is my second book by KL Slater, and I must say, I am now looking for the rest of them. It definitely kept me on the edge of my seat. The author does a great job of developing the characters so you can really "see" what they look like, yet it isn't an overwhelming amount of detail so that it gets boring. I could easily imagine myself in the mother's shoes, which made it even more riveting. I would highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a great psychological thriller.
What a gripping thriller! Suspensful, and had me trying to read fast to get to the end! A very creepy plot!
#TheApartment #NetGalley
A below average read.
Freya and her daughter Skye are changing house, they're sitting in s restaurant then suddenly a man appears in front of them and showed them his house photos which he's willing to give them on rent, wao what the plot.
But Freya becomes suspicious in her new apartment, someone is watching them, someone is there in their apartment, wao again.
I don't know what the authoress is trying to say with this story but my head started spinning by the end of second chapter. Believe me its not a thriller, at least for me it's not a thriller.
All characters in this book are daff and dumb.
Narration of the story is going with the speed of a snail.
Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for giving me an advance copy.
This is a simple case of the saying "If it sounds too good to be true then it probably is."
Freya is at a point in her life where it seems like one bad thing after another has happened. She's trying to pick up the pieces and provide the best life possible for her 5 year old, Skye. One day she meets Dr. Marsden who gives her an offer that seems like a miracle. An apartment in an upscale neighborhood at a fraction of the cost. Immediately she begins to realize things aren't as it seems. Something isn't right about Adder House but she can't quite put her finger on it but she's determined to get to the bottom of things.
I really enjoyed this book overall. It kept me on the edge of my seat and wanting to know what was going to happen next to Freya and Skye. For me this book is a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. I love the twists and turn of the book and the character development. The ending is the only thing that keeps this from being a perfect 5/5. I felt like the ending fell a little flat for all the build up. It just felt like it was missing something.
Thank you NetGalley, K.L. Slater and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC.
I do love a KL Slater book and this certainly didnt disappoint! I would 100% recommend. I was gripped from the beginning and actually found it quite scary and unnerving. I did almost guess the ending but wasnt certain. Not that I minded. Thoroughly enjoyed this book. 5 stars!
When I first saw The Apartment’s premise what came to mind was Riley Sager’s Lock every door. Both are set in an apartment. Both seem too good to be true. But this is where the similarities end.
Frey Miller is a widow, her husband just died. She and her 5 years old daughter Skye needs to move out of their house. Freya is desperate, so desperate she accepts the offer of a perfect stranger. Dr. Marsden offers the perfect place for Freya, a beautiful place, a place she couldn’t afford but the offer is so good. Is it too good? But they move in. At first it is a dream come true. But then she starts to experience strange things. Noises, like someone is in the flat. Objects are moving. What is really going on? Why are they really there?
I would go crazy in that situation. Strange noises? Not familiar smells? My worst nightmare. So this was a very disturbing book for me. I loved it but felt anxious too which is a weird combination, I know. I love those books which can make me anxious but which make me love them too.
This was my first K.L. Slater book but if her other books are anything like The Apartment, then sign me up. I am a K.L. Slater fan!
Poor Freya! I so felt for her and for Skye too. They have been going through horrible things in their life and instead of good things, other horrible things are happening to them. Freya thinks she is going crazy. It was heart-wrenching to watch her struggle with her own feeling.
The residents of Adder House, nasty bunch of people. It was obvious from the start something is wrong with Dr. Marsden and Audrey Marsden too. They act strange, the doctor is too nice, too caring. Audrey Marsden feels like an ice queen, too perfect, always tip-top.
All in all this was a really great book, I loved the suspense and the twist at the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for my copy.
Rating: 3.5 / 5
**Received ARC from Netgalley for honest review
From start to finish, this managed to keep me interested, which is interesting because it has a few of my usual thriller "no's" included. Namely:
- pathetic protagonist who has a lot of things wrong with her past
- majority of the story is buildup with no substance as to what's happening or really anything to go on
- a "twist" that's really not all that shocking or unpredictable
And yet, despite all these things, I was interested in what happened from start to finish, and for that, this book deserves a rounding up rather than a rounding down.
As to the plot itself, I won't give out any spoilers, but what I will comment on is the main character, Freya, who accounts for 1 star down almost from the get-go. The reasons for this are simple to sum up:
- she's a complete and total pushover
- she's gullible and weak-willed
- she constantly avoids confrontation by making excuses for herself like "it's not the right time because this is in front of my daughter" or "I don't want to leave a bad impression" and it was just annoying to read through this constantly. I mean, if you're a mother who wants to protect your child, then do a good job by being stronger and more assertive, dammit!
- she doesn't question things as much as she should, which leads me to believe that she's also somewhat stupid
All of the above don't exactly make her an endearing character or even positively memorable in any way, but I still got behind her story enough to finish it. I myself prefer strong protagonists, and that's why to all those with like preferences, I'm mentioning here and now that you might not like this protagonist.
As for what's good about the story, ironically enough, I think it's because it gives you so little to go on and you have to figure most of it out by yourself. It's not even a "hidden in shadows" kind of situation, but more a "completely hidden and you have no idea WTF is going on" scenario. If only to satisfy any curiosity you might have, you'll want to read it through to the end and, amazingly, the author does manage to string you along for that long, so it's worth it to check this out.
Again, just be aware that despite my liberally high rating of it, it does have its problems and is nowhere near being perfect. Some books manage to pull off the charm of imperfections though, and K.L. Slater's The Apartment just might be one of them.
Another fabulous read from K. L. Slater! Chilling, creepy & full of suspense. A recently widowed young woman & her young daughter are encountered by a gentleman in a cafe & she's offered an expensive apartment at reduced cost. When she moves in to Adder house, strange things are afoot, they're hearing noises & the other residents seem over friendly to the point of paying their removal fees, arranging schools for her daughter etc. I don't want to ruin this for anyone, so I'll leave it here. Many thanks to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to review this ARC copy in return for my honest review.
I made the mistake of starting this on an evening. Once I started, I became so hooked that I couldn’t put it down until I finished it.
You know the old saying that if something is to good to be true, then it probably is? This is the case for Freya and her daughter Skye. I couldn’t blame her for making the decision to take a stranger up on his offer, especially when the flat is extremely great value for money.
As Freya and her daughter get settled in, I started to feel uncomfortable. You just know something is going to go wrong. In my mind I was giving all the tenants in Adder House the third degree. Were they as they seem at face value or is something sinister lurking underneath?
Obviously you have to read this novel for yourself to see what exactly happens and as to just who is behind the strange going on’s in Freya and Skye’s new home. I loved Freya and Skye’s characters. It always helps when you have characters that are likeable and both of these are. Especially little Skye as she is adorable.
The Apartment is a story I fell straight into and couldn’t get back out of until the conclusion. I was hooked on this suspenseful read that had me frantically turning the pages to see what was going to happen next. It really is an addictive read that has you second guessing everything. Absolutely loved it!
The Apartment may seem common in the world of psychological thriller but what got me very interested is the love a mother have for her child. Freya had such a traumatizing life before Skye but she was able to build a very good relationship with her daughter and will go to the extreme to protect her. The plot was smooth, and I wouldn't have guessed the antagonist of the story so I was surprised to find out. The story is bit slow in the beginning but halfway through it, I cant put it down anymore. I hope there was more action but the characters connection is good. I really love it.
Spooky professor knows more about Freya than he should and offers an apartment at a knock down price, all seems too good to be true? The set up allows you to get the little grey cells working about what could be happening in the background and what will be revealed as the story unwinds. The ending is very much a stretch( in terms of believability, but it is an easy and quick read overall.
KL Slater is back with an addictive novel that’s impossible to put down. Thea lost her husband and is not sure how she’ll be able to provide for her daughter. Then, out of the blue, she finds a wonderful, fancy apartment for a price she can afford. Money-wise, at least. You know the old adage when something seems too good to be true. Thea will find out the hard way that there may be a bigger, hidden price to this bargain. The plot is easy to follow and the novel a quick read. Thea is a sympathetic character, but it was her daughter Skye who won my heart. I did see the final twist coming, but it was still presented in a way that left me satisfied. One of the revelations was a little too outrageous for me, but it was still overall a solid read. Thank you, NetGalley/ Amazon Publishing UK!
K.L. Slater is quickly becoming one of my favorite thriller authors. Her latest, The Apartment, doesn't disappoint. The writing keeps you hooked from the first page and the twists are completely surprising. I could not put this thriller of a book down. Highly recommend!
Thank you netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
I love all of K. L. Slater books and this book is definitely suspenseful and kept me wanting to know more and more. I was surprised by the ending I had no idea how it was going to end and I love books that I can not predict what will happen. I highly recommend this book to any psychological thriller book lovers!
The Apartment- I was unsure about this book in the beginning. It took me some push through to get going. When the other narrative popped up about the journal entry’s I was very confused. I felt like it could of been worded different to let you know. After the first one I understood what was happening but I did have to go back and see what book I was reading.
I really liked Frey’s character you could really see her love and passion for wanting to do what was right for her daughter. I did enjoy the book I would recommend it to a friend. I loved the plot twist at the end with Lily. I honestly thought it was the Doctor and his wife/ sister that we’re in charge and mark some how knew. I loved the ending happy she gay a happy ever after
This book was given to me by Net Galley to read and review with my honest opinion on the book.
Took me a while to get into the story of this novel and I think its due to not being used to reading a novel in first person. That being said this book was great! It has twists in the story line in all the right places that kept me guessing.
The plot was genius; a woman and her young child moving into a new home with new neighbours and some creepy background behind the Apartment they live in. I loved Freya's character purely for the fact she doesn't give up. The ending gave me such a surprise as I had been guessing who was behind all the funny business from the start and was completely wrong.
I think K.L Slater is an absolute brilliant author who deserves so much credit for the books she writes!
When something seems too good to be true it usually is - same could be said for this book! This isn’t the KL Slater I have read before! It was poorly written, unbelievable and really quite boring! I am hoping it’s a blip and she will be back soon!
Absolutely loved this book. My heart raced. I was on the edge of my seat throughout. It was very well written. The plot was simply astounding. Not like any book I’ve read before. You try and figure out the ending but the author was one step ahead. She totally threw me with her ending. Can see this book being a huge hit.
I have read all of K L Slater’s previous novels and have thoroughly enjoyed all of them. The Apartment was no different. Another great read from a talented author.
This has an original theme which was refreshing. Freya Miller has been left without a husband trying to bring up her five-year-old daughter, Skye, in London. A chance meeting with Dr. Marsden in a café leads her to rent what appears to be a ‘too good to be true’ apartment in Kensington.
Adder House is beautiful but Freya soon becomes worried about things happening which seem strange and unusual as well as the ‘Marsden’s’, who live on the ground floor, paying for too much and interfering in her life.
The story is told mainly by Freya as she faces each challenge and she backtracks to give a picture of what happened between her and her husband. Interspersed with this is a journal form 1902 concerning experimentation with a young boy. The vivid connection is made at the end.
A great read and highly recommended. Thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishiing UK and KL Slater for the ARC in return for my honest review.
When something seems too good to be true, question it. This is what my mum always told me.
You know instinctively in this book nothing is as it seems. But the ending seems very hard to believe.
Really enjoyed this novel. intriguing from the off and suspenseful throughout. Hard to tell who to trust, which made all the characters exciting. I did think we'd find out more about how her ex died, but that turned out not to be a plot point so much in the end. But an enjoyable read over all.
I adore K.L slaters style of writing being in the first person and she reminds me so much of Shalini Boland in her style of writing.
The apartment is a number one read for all thriller lovers, After Freya’s husband dies her world and her security is turned upside down, she can no longer afford to live in her home and has to urgently find herself and her young daughter Skye a new home, While in a coffee shops she is approached by a charming Dr Marsden who offers her an opportunity of a lifetime to live in one of the most prestigious areas in London called Adder house, Freya jumps are the opportunity and can’t believe her luck that she has been given a chance to live in such a beautiful building, however she soon realises that Adder house and the quirky residents that live within is not all that is seems, the residents and Adder house itself seems to be hiding secrets some of which could be deadly....
A gripping and addictive read for all. I throughly enjoyed and raced through this in a short period, A big thank you to netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for giving me the opportunity to read this book. A bit slow at the start but then the pace quickened and I could not wait to see what happened next.. A fabulous read with a unique storyline, this book is a must read for anyone who loves suspense!!!
This is the second book I read from this author. Although the plot is very intriguing I didn't find the characters very interesting, maybe because they were not so likable. Anyway it was a good book, but I can’t say it was a page turner.
Thanks to Netgalley for the free ebook to review!
I enjoyed this creepy psychological thriller! I loved the creepy apartment setting. I was wondering how the whole book was going to tie in all together, but I was not expecting the whole psychology aspect and all the weird people who were totally okay watching and experimenting on people.
This one was such a fast and easy read read!
Another great read from KL Slater and the story had me gripped from the start although the ending was a bit of an anti climax, I had all this ideas of who the narrator was and I liked that part of the book as it added to the intrique of the story. I would like to thank the publishers and netgalley for letting me have the book to review and the opinions expressed are entirely my own views and are completely unbiased.
With a stunning cover and interesting blurb, I was excited to receive an eARC of The Apartment. After her estranged husband dies, Freya is on the verge of losing everything. Struggling with the severity of the decisions she must make in order to take care of her five year old daughter, Skye, a chance encounter at a cafe puts her directly in line for an opportunity that seems too good to be true. Dr. Marsden offers her a beautiful apartment in a beautiful house in a beautiful neighborhod--well out of range of what she's able to afford--with the ability to move in less than a week. Strapped and stressed, she agrees, and things get weird.
As a literary subject, I'm a big fan of behavioral experiments as plot devices. Done well, they'll stick with you for years. And while Slater's writing was engaging and effortless, I had a difficult time buying into the narrative frame. The premise of the story relies entirely on her accepting this room, and I still can't see why anyone in her position would ever choose to do so. She doesn't vet Dr. Marsden or the house. She doesn't ask questions. She doesn't consider why someone would strike up a conversation with her and offer a too-good-to-be-true housing situation. She has at least six months' financial ability to find a decent place in the same district before she'd need to consider finding a job, and still she accepts this strange offer without a day to contemplate the irrationality of it. I never got the sense that the stakes were as dire as we were supposed to believe. It's a plot point I just could not get past.
None of the characters were particularly likeable, not something I need in order to enjoy a text, but the responses rubbed me the wrong way. For example, the mother of Skye's best friend completely rips her a new one for not informing her of their plans--in spite the common knowledge of her husband's death and the need to move, this is a HUGE surprise--and refuses to let the daughters associate any longer. I just...what? I'm living in the kindergarten world right now, and while mom circles are tricky to navigate, I cannot even fathom this level of pettiness.
*spoilers* I also had a difficult time with Freya's decisions and lack of common sense to push the plot forward. She acts completely oblivious about the identity of the sender of the mysterious, expensive presents, when pages before--and after--she reflects on the expensive and strange gifts from the Marsdens. For the purpose of introducing doubt alone, she neglects the Very Obvious Thing in front of her in favor of an outlandish connection we had no investment in or any interest in pursuing. This was a misstep for me, because the subplot felt underdeveloped and unnecessary. Additionally, she ignores her gut when several events in the apartment and house warrant suspicion. The one trustworthy voice in the entire plot is an underdeveloped side character who feels more like a device to get to a happy ending.
I didn't give up on the story, though. I was still intrigued by the idea of what the experiment was. *semi spoilers*
Revealed in a series of old journal entries and a strangely-flat culminating confrontation, the experiment is a focus on fear stimuli, stemming from Pavlov's bell. I could be off-base here, but this seemed more common sense to me: that if you introduce something that terrifies a subject, repeatedly and consistently, that subject will undoubtedly develop a Pavolovian response to said stimulus. From countless stories of abuse and PTSD, this didn't at all seem as outrageous as I think we as the audience were supposed to find it, and because of that, I was not left with the "OMG" shock I expected at the beginning.
Overall, this was a quick read with enjoyable writing, but relatively flat characters and conclusion. I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a simple thriller with accessible conflict, but I'm not sure I would re-read this again myself.
Wow! What a twisty psychologically taut thriller! When Freya falls on hard times due to circumstances beyond her control her main priority is to make sure her 5 year old daughter is secure. Part of which is finding an affordable place to live. A tall order in London. So when a Dr. Marsden approaches her at the notice board in a busy coffee shop offering a place that ticks off all the boxes and more, Freya can’t believe what she’s being offered. But the gorgeous apartment in the affluent neighbourhood of Kensington checks out and moving day is imminent. She begins to notice that all the neighbours although well meaning are a bit odd. But Freya must not look a gift horse in the mouth. However when weird things begin to happen such as moved furniture, whispers and rumors start to circulate Freya must look into these odd disturbances. And when the tenants become a bit too focused on her child Skye, Freya must get to the bottom of this gorgeous home turned nightmare before it’s too late for them both.
A fast paced, interesting thriller from the great KL Slater. Special thanks to Netgalley and Amazon UK publishing for this exciting ARC.
This book introduces us to Freya and her daughter Skye, who are ready for a fresh new start when they are approached by a stranger offering a great deal on an apartment. The timing is perfect, so you know something more sinister is taking place.
She keeps feeling like she is being constantly watched and followed, but just brushes these feelings off. Odd things start happening, both at Skye's new school and around the apartment.
She meets a construction worker who tells her another single mother used to live in the same apartment and commited suicide, but of course this is no accident. The owners deny it, but she does her own detective work and discovers the awful truth.
This book had the potential to be really scary, but just fell flat as far as suspense. I kept thinking to myself, this better not be about vampires, but let's just say it is about a bunch of mad scientists, literally. I was, however, surprised by who was in charge of the whole operation and why their family got picked to live there.
This was definitely a mind blown, thought provoking psychological thriller. Freya was offered to live in a huge house decked out as apartments for a low rate not knowing what she was getting into. The fear instilled, thinking she’s going crazy, just to find out it all wasn’t real. Freya definitely didn’t know who to trust until it was too late. Definitely would recommend this book. It was a page turner.
Thank you so much for this ARC!
I feel like I absolutely flew through this book - I love that! I was so intrigued to see what was happening inside of Adder House and how the journal entries and experiment were going to tie in to the present day.
Such a great read and I recommend for anyone looking for a fast and interesting read.
I’ve never read anything by this author but the bright cover drew me in. Although this book was a little predictable and didn’t wow me like other thrillers I‘ve read, I look forward to checking out what else she has written. Thank you to Netgalley for the advanced copy!
I am not entirely sure that this book is by the same KL Slater that wrote Liar. The writing style is not the same, and it is just not as engaging as all the other work. The character development is lacking, and its all too convenient to believe. The ending left me disappointed. While this book was entertaining and had a good amount of psychology to it, the ending was rushed. There was a lot more potential with this plot. Wish i could leave a better review since I do love most of this author's work but this one did not cut it.
This book held my interest and a lot of the time, I didn't know where it was going. I enjoyed reading it. The premise is a bit of a stretch but it is a unique subject that in the thousands of books I've read, I haven't encountered before. I didn't really feel vested in the characters though. It was a bit stand offish in that way.
This is the first of K. L Slater's books that I have read, and although I enjoyed the concept of the story, I did find it rather predictable.
Freya and her young daughter Skye find themselves looking for a new home after the passing of Freya's husband Lewis. However, Lewis had left her before his untimely death to move in with his new partner. Freya can no longer afford to keep the house they bought together so has no choice but to sell it. Whilst in a coffee shop, she is approached by an older man - Dr Marsden, who offers her an opportunity she simply cant afford to miss.
And that is how they find themselves living in Adder House, a block of apartments that is filled with quite the array of characters.
From this point, things start to unravel and we find some interesting traits out about the other residents.
Throughout the book we also follow somebody reading from an old diary, the same person who appears to be watching Freya and Skye's every move.
This book was enjoyable enough to read, but I did find I could predict the ending from early on in the story. would however certainly not be deterred from reading other books by this author.
Thank you to Netgalley, Amazon Publishing and K L Slater for my advanced copy of this book for my honest review.
You know the old saying that if something seems too good to be true it probably is? Well that saying completely applies to The Apartment by K.L. Slater. I spent most of the book yelling at Freya in my head and telling her to get out, but no one ever listens.
The Apartment was a slow burn but also fast-paced if that makes sense, and I loved the writing. This was my first K.L. Slater book even though I've been meaning to read her books forever and I'm glad I finally did. I can already tell that I'm bound to love the rest of her novels.
I'm keeping this short because I don't want to give anything away, but if you're looking for a quick, twisty, and suspenseful read I would recommend The Apartment. I was surprised by the ending and overall really enjoyed it all. I will definitely be moving this author's other books up on my TBR now too!
Thank you to the publisher for my advance review copy via NetGalley. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
I really enjoyed this book! A great story line that kept me hooked and excellent main characters. I would highly recommend this book.
K.L Slater does it again! I've been a huge fan of hers every since I read "All the Pretty Girls" and this book was no different.
Freya and her 5 year old have been through a lot lately. She's a single mom who will be losing her home.
Suddenly, Dr. Marsden takes an interest in her and offers her an apartment for a too good to be true low rent.
Dr. Marsden seems to good to be true and of course once she is in the apartment, she begins to suspect things aren't what they seem.
Slater has a knack for great thrillers. This is one that keeps you guessing and actually does have an amazing surprise ending!
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this arc for my free and honest review.
This was a quick and enjoyable read. I enjoyed the suspense and the ending nicely wrapped everything up.
I always enjoy KL Slater books, easy reading, good storyline, lots of twists or 'hooks' as you read. I would say this book is no different. perhaps even more intriguing as the themes were in line with my job as a psychologist. Overall, get reading
I feel like this book had a lot of potential. It was t the creepy, suspenseful, story I had hoped for. While there were moments that I felt like could have built up to more, there weren’t a lot and they never got more intense.
Also, if an offer is too good to be true for an amazing apartment, guys, it is. Don’t fall for it. Half the time it’s haunted, the other half there are crazy people involved. Just saying.
The tie in with the whole Little Albert part I thought could have been done without also. While it did tie it together, it wasn’t particularly necessary to the main story as it could’ve been just a basic experiment. Overall, I’d say 3/5 stars from me.
Everything to love about K.L. Slater can be found right here in this book. It’s teaming with exemplary writing, an engaging storyline, and all the creepy twists and turns you can handle. Her characters are dynamic and hold this depth that makes the reader want to know more. A perfect read for bookclubs everywhere! 5 stars!
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC of #TheApartment, which was read and reviewed voluntarily.
This reminds me so much of another book I read recently (Lock Every Door by Riley Sager)...it was difficult to keep the stories separated.
Keep me wondering what twist would happen and how much strange would continue. Good story but didn't grip at any point.
Single mother Freya Miller is struggling after the betrayal & then death of her husband. Adrift with no money & no job she thanks her lucky stars when she meets Dr. Marsden at a coffee shop. He offers her an affordable apartment in the gorgeous Adder House. It seems to good to be true but she has no options. Soon Freya feels as though she’s being watched, objects are moved & she’s hearing strange sounds. Can she figure this out & escape with her daughter Skye in time?
I liked this book, it’s a really taut novel about paranoia & when do you start listening to your gut instinct? Freya has little options so you can understand why she moves into Adder House so quickly & why it’s hard to just up & leave when she starts noticing odd things. The ending is good, creepy for sure. However I felt there were a couple plot lines that didn’t go anywhere, it seemed like they were going to be more important. I would have liked more explanations on those ones & perhaps the ending was a tad rushed for me. But overall it’s a fast, short thriller that’s definitely worth your time.
Freya is at her lowest point, she has recently lost her husband and is now about to lose her home. She is worried where she and her young daughter Skye will live when she happens to meet a man putting out flyers for an apartment for rent. They start talking and he convinces Freya to come and look at his apartment as he believes that they will be a perfect fit.
When Freya sees the building she loves it, but worries that it is way beyond what she can afford. Dr. Marsden the landlord assures her that he will make the rent affordable. Freya and Skye move in and just as they are settling in, some very disturbing things start happening. Is the Adder House apartment all that it appears to be or are there some terrible hidden secrets behind its beautiful facade.
This mystery thriller is a great read and one that pulls you right into the story and its characters.
Thank you to Netgalley for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I loved this book! Read it all in one day .
A real page turner .
The plot twist is unexpected . This is the first book I’ve read by KL Slater. I will be on the look out now for her other books .
This book was a fairly easy read and difficult to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed the big ‘finale’ but felt some of the characters could have been developed more and that there could have been more hints along the way. There’s a lot that was left fairly unresolved however those things are forgotten due to the dramatic ending.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book ahead of it’s publishing date in exchange for an honest review.
Newly widowed Freya and her five year old daughter Skye move into an apartment in Adder House. It seems too good to be true- a gorgeous building where the rent depends on what you can afford. She doesn’t know it, but Freya was chosen to live there. Soon, things start to happen. Somebody is messing with their lives. Freya is unsure if she is going crazy or if they are all in her head. Did she bring her daughter Skye into danger?
While this was an intriguing read, it was VERY similar to Riley Sager’s Lock Every Door. I think there was a lot of build up to a very quick resolution. I liked the idea of everything as it came to be- it was very believable. I still have questions after finishing it- some pieces felt unresolved.
I read a lot of books of this genre, and this one was in the middle of the pack for me. Not horrible, but nothing to really stand out, either. Some parts were quite improbable, and even though it's fiction, it was a bit hard to swallow. The pace wasn't consistent, so I had a hard time staying engaged at times. The ending left a few things still unanswered. I saw similarities with "Lock Every Door" by Riley Sager, but this author's book paled in comparison to Sager's.
I've never read this author, but I've heard good things. I will consider checking out future books.
The bond between mother and daughter is well defined in this story. The story kicks off softly with a single mom Freya, searching for an apartment. As soon as Freya moves in her new apartment, she notices creepy things around her. Some parts of the story cover extracts of old diary pages. I felt that those extracts didn’t really gel with the main storyline. The language is simple and easy to understand. Overall a entertaining story.
Thank you NetGalley, KL Slater and Amazon Publishing for reader’s copy of this novel. The review is based on my opinion of the book and was not influenced in any way.
Freya is a young, single mother whose husband died recently after leaving her for another woman. To make ends meet she has to sell their family home in London and find a small flat to rent. When an elderly man approaches her in a cafe and offers her an apartment in one of the best parts of London for peppercorn rent she is rightly suspicious but decides to take it. As soon as she moves in, things get very creepy, not least the other residents that she meets. But instead of grabbing her young daughter and running for the hills, she decides to stick it out, even though she is stressed and unhappy and her daughter is having nightmares.
This was quite an entertaining read but overall just felt a bit too contrived for me. I felt the basic premise was stretched pretty thin to fit everything that happened. The relationships between the other residents such that these events could occur unhindered were never clearly explained. Extracts from a 1920s diary and the voice of a person watching Freya and Skye just didn't feel authentic, especially once the identity of the person was revealed. Overall the plot felt very patchy and rushed and not up to K. L. Slater's usual standard.
I really enjoyed this novel. There were definitely some twists and turns throughout. I had some ideas about what would happen but they didn't. I would have liked to have discovered why Lewis died and if this was related to the dr. Certain points were so creepy and sinister. I really liked it. I wasn't expecting Lizzie to be the villian.
I am a huge fan of this author, however I was slightly disappointed with this one. The premise of the story was just too improbable and I couldn't really connect with the plot at all. Also some of the writing was a bit too flowery and read almost like a mills and boon at times. I am so sorry not to be more positive about the book, I will certainly read more from this author, I just felt this one was not up to her usual excellent standard.
If it appears to be too good to be true - it's not.
Freya Miller is scrambling at the beginning of the book. Her husband, who left her for another woman passed away. Freya has sold her home and paid off their combined debt. Now she must find a place for her and her five-year-old daughter, Skye to live. As luck would have it, she is approached by a man, Dr. Marsden in a coffee shop who just happens to have a small apartment for rent. Even better, rent is based on the individual's ability to pay.
Soon Freya and Skye have moved into Adder house and are welcomed by the other residents. But soon, things begin to feel strange. Freya begins to feel as if someone has been in her home, things have been moved, and her landlords make her uneasy.
Although I enjoyed the book, the ending was less than satisfying for me. Plus, this book had me wanting to know more about how Freya's husband died, etc. There were some things that were not resolved- for me that was one of them.
Freya and her daughter Skye are both likable characters and I felt for their plight. There is a rising amount of tension in the book as things begin to become creepier and more sinister. For me, this was a fast, absorbing read until I got to the end. Then I felt a letdown. Something was just missing in this for me.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
I’m a big fan of this author so it was a delight to receive an advanced copy of this book. It definitely hasn’t disappointed and I haven’t been able to put this one down.
This mystery was primarily fueled by the creepiness of Adder House. I found Freya to be annoying and naive, but I couldn't help but want things to be okay for her young daughter Skye.
Though the story was interesting enough to keep me reading, there were so many loose ends floating around that I got distracted. The loose ends were probably meant to be herrings but it turned out more like a muddled mess. It was a 2.5 story rounded up to 3.
The book is justly named as the Apartment seems to be a prominent character in this novel. Strange things start to happen when Freya and her 5 year old daughter move into the apartment. The ending kind of fell flat for me though but I enjoyed the journey.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book.
While this was a pretty good psychological thriller, I wasn't super invested in any of the characters. While most of the plot and story line is believable, the ending felt odd and a bit rushed.
Wow read this as an ARC and it is amazing.
Gripping, nail biting, exciting and I couldn't put it down.
It covers loads of things like Psychology, relationship, friendships and the power within them.
I was so anxious for the main character and her Daughter Skye. The relationship between mum and daughter is pure love, dispite her ex husband threatening to apply for full custody.
Marvelous book and an author I shall be reading more from in future.
I didn’t finish this book, I read a few chapters but nothing made me want to pick it up again. I liked the writing style, it was easy to read, it just didn’t ‘hook me’ as I like to be.
THE APARTMENT
I seem to be on a roll lately reading some fantastic thrillers and The Apartment by KL Slater is no exception.
Single mother with a small child trope has been done before but when it is executed with a strong and unique plot, it refreshers the whole feel of the book.
This book was good, it had the right number of chills and suspense and a classic ‘locked door’ recurrent theme that I really dig. The synopsis draws you in and I will admit the first chapter really gets your blood pumping and you sit back ready to be taken on a rollercoaster of thrills.
Although, some may argue that the MC’s thought process was somewhat ridiculous at times, making stupid moves and doing that classic ‘you have a psycho after you, so you will run into the woods screaming’ attitude – I didn’t once think that. She was a mother and to protect her child her mama instincts kicked. She was pretty epic in my eyes.
I guessed the culprit between the halfway mark, but I didn’t see that ending coming though. The book shifts from a thriller cult narrative to one that concentrates on the rich, their use of power and status. For this, I appreciated how the author injected the issue of social standings between the rich and poor and took this story to a deeper level.
I LOVE Slater’s style of writing. The writing was superb and cleverly constructed to help conceal major plots. It flowed with consistency chapter to chapter offering small snippets of information to put together this crazy puzzle. You will NOT see that ending coming. That I can promise you. I feel conflicted because had the climax been introduced a lot earlier, this would have been a solid 4.5 stars. I don’t like it when I guess.
Another great thriller to add to your stack. Enjoy.
Wow what a brilliant book from this author, in my opinion one of her best. Very well written with believable characters, a fantastic page turner and I just couldn't stop reading.
Well done Kim, I will be recommending this to my Facebook Book Groups and I look forward to your next masterpiece.
Thank you to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this fantastic book.
One of my favourite authors so l was keen to dive into the latest offering l could tell from the start this was more than the usual predator scenario and due to the background given the ex and new partner were prime baddies candidates of course whilst l enjoyed the book very much and the why’s etc lm not 100% on the reasons and the skill required bearing in mind the age of the perpetrator but yes if l can let that go a good read
I really enjoyed this book for the first 4/5ths of it. Then- it became so slogged down and crazy town for the last part! It was very disappointing as I had so enjoyed it. Maybe that’s not the correct expression. This was one scary book! Mainly it was the story of a divorced woman and five year old daughter. They are invited to live in a very posh townhouse for a very small sum. Then things start to happen. No spoilers but it was a scary ride. To me,it just wrapped up too quickly. Thanks to NetGalley for allowing me to read this arc. To other readers, try it!
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! No spoilers. Beyond amazing I enjoyed this book so very much. The characters and storyline were fantastic. The ending I did not see coming Could not put down nor did I want to. Truly Amazing and appreciated the whole story. This is going to be a must read for many many readers. Maybe even a book club pick.
When a woman (Freya) and her daughter move into what they think will be their dream apartment not all is as it seems. Soon strange things begin happening that causes Freya to question the choices she has made about their new home.
This was a gripping read full of twists and turns. I couldn’t put The Apartment down and loved how K. L. Slater tied everything together. Some unexpected revelations keep me wanting more right the way through.
This book was brilliant! This isn't the first K L Slater book I've had the opportunity to read from NetGalley and once again I've been absolutely absorbed in the book.
The Apartment is a story full of twists and turns as we follow the story of Freya and Skye as they come across a once in a lifetime opportunity to move into Adden House in Kensington.
But things aren't as they seem as strange things start to happen and Freya finds herself constantly on her guard and with a knot in her stomach.
For a thriller, this was unique and different, although I feel I guessed the twist a little earlier on than I usually do but that didn't ruin my enjoyment of the book. It was a really quick, pacey and engaging read with short chapters (which always makes a book go faster!) and I will definitely read more from Slater again.
Well, this was a little different... Single parent Freya Miller is struggling. On the verge of losing the home she shares with young daughter Skye, a chance meeting with a Dr Marsden offers her a well needed lifeline. He is looking for a new tenant for a reasonably priced flat let in the house he lives in, she's looking for somewhere affordable to live. But they say to be wary of anything that seems to be too good to be true. Has Freya really fallen on her feet or is there a hidden agenda, something dark, behind Dr Marsden's kind offer? But what choice does she really have...?
Other than this, I recommend you go in to this book as cold as you can. There's a lot going on in and around the moving-in of Freya. There's stuff from the past which is quite shocking to read but quite how it all interconnects is only evident later. Suffice to say that there is enough to keep you on your toes throughout the book, trying to work out what is really going on and who is driving it all.
Characterisation is, shall we just say, interesting. We have whole bunch of secrets, lies and duplicitous behaviour throughout with a smattering of hidden motive thrown in for good measure. All the characters are well drawn and play their parts well. They are an eclectic mix and, along the way, their motives sometimes unclear.
As the action ramped up I was desperate to get to the end, to find out the whole truth. I read the last third pretty much in one sitting, I needed to know what would happen. And when that truth was laid bare I was pretty shocked. Satisfied but left reeling.
All in all a suspenseful read that kept me guessing and second guessing all the way through. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
I received a free copy of The Apartment by K. L. Slater from NetGalley for my honest review.
Freya and her daughter, Skye, are offered a once in a lifetime opportunity. The chance to live in the absolutely beautiful, Adder House. The house is in the middle of London and the rent is very minimal. Freya doesn't hesitate and agrees to move in. Adder House has its secrets though. Freya feels like she is being watched. She also notice things are being moved in her apartment and she is smelling strange smells. What is happening in the Adder house, is it haunted?
Wow! What a great psychological thriller that will totally mess with my mind. I love all of the deliciously dark twists and turns this book takes. A crazy roller coaster ride of a mother’s love, trust, lies and deceit all richly woven into a beautifully told tale.
KL Slater hits it out of the park again
Very highly recommend.!
A creepy, slow burn of a book. You really feel for Freya as she starts to feel like she’s losing her mind, and as the reader you even question yourself also. It has a very “The Truman Show” feel with vibes of not knowing who to trust or who is in on it or not.
A super quick read that keeps you interested. Although mildly predictable, it was hard to put down because you want to know if things are going to escalate at all.
Overall 3.5 stars for me!
The was your usual K.L. Slater Psychological Thriller, it was fast-paced and kept you on the edge of your seat.
There were lots of small twists, and you really start to suspect every character in the book as having an ulterior motive. Everyone seemed a little sinister, and I was even doubting the main characters at one point.
The storyline itself is, as some of the other reviewers have pointed out, a little far-fetched. The initial interaction between Freya and Michael seemed a bit shoe-horned into the story to make sure that Freya and Skye ended up at the apartment. I know this is sort of explained at the end, but it didn’t sit very well throughout the book. Some of the unexplained occurrences again were a little implausible also. However, if you just go with it and read it for what it is, which is a build-up of fear for the main characters and try not to think too much about the logistics, I think it will serve you well.
Although, I read this quite quickly as I wanted to know why things were happening and what the outcome would be I did feel as if it wasn’t K.L. Slater’s best work and I was slightly disappointed by the ending.
We had had scenes in the past, that at first seemed utterly irrelevant but as the story progresses and the ending is uncovered, everything becomes clear. Although clear is probably the wrong word to use as it was all very complicated and a little over convoluted. It could have been simplified if the events in the past hadn’t have been so far back in time and had involved people from the current storyline. So, I ended up reading the last few chapters quite slowly in order to make sure I completely understood who had done what and why.
So, even though there are lots of faults with the book, it is still an enjoyable read. It builds up the anticipation nicely and like I said, I was hooked wanting to know what was going on. I just think the plot was there, but the execution could have been a little better.
I have to be honest, I was really looking forward to reading this book. However I was totally put off at the very beginning by the fact that someone would accept the offer of a flat from a total stranger with pretty much no questions asked. It just didnt seem plausible to me and it stopped me wanting to read any further.
I may well have been having a bad day and missed out on a great read but unfortunately that's where I was.
Another fantastic five star read from this author. Atmospheric, full of tension and suspense. Chilling and very creepy. I read this book in one sitting, sat on the edge of my seat. This read got my heart racing and at times I HAD the chills. A psychological thriller but SO much more. I love the way this author hooks you then slowly reels you in. If you want a book that has you gripped and staying up half the night to finish it, then this is the book for you.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and Netgalley for the ARC.
Thank you to net galley for sending me a copy of this book. I thought that the plot of this book was fantastic but the execution didn’t really make the cut. Unfortunately I didn’t finish reading this book due to the boring nature.
Many thanks for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When Freya and her daughter are offered the chance to move into their dream home, they jump at the chance. After the death of her husband it’s a fresh start for them. But is it too good to be true?
I really enjoyed this, and read quickly. I did find parts of the story infuriating for Freya, which in my eyes is the sign of a good story! Would highly recommend.
This was an atmospheric and page-turning read, with some nicely creepy characters. The ratcheting up of tension was done very well.
I found the explanation for everything a bit hard to take, though. I didn't think this really worked. Still, most psychological thrillers are pretty bizarre, so this wasn't such a problem as to spoil my enjoyment.
Another slight issue was that I didn't feel I got to know the characters very well other than the main two, possibly because it was quite a short book. I would have liked more - which is a good sign!
Words of wisdom say: opportunity only knocks once and then it becomes your choice to open the door or ignore it.
Freya and Dr. Marsden paths cross at a local cafe, and since the meeting, all-stars start to align up for the new widow and her daughter Skye. Beautiful and extremely affordable apartment in a gorgeous victorian Adder House in a center part of London. Moving costs covered. Arrangements for Skye's school are set. The two Miller girls are showered with expensive gifts and attention. Seem too good to be true? That's because it is.
Since the move, the suspicious feeling does not leave Freya's mind. As days go by, she starts to notice strange things - weird noises, objects moved, furniture shifted, odd visions. Adder House is not at all what she imagined it would be, behind its closed doors hide many dark secrets, and Freya's time is running out.
I must say I was quite surprised by the plot. The novel contains not many but a few very good twists, which makes the read very entertaining. Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer publishing house for a free and advanced copy of the novel.
The Apartment is a wonderful psychological thriller with a twist right at the end that I for one did not see coming! This book was a bit of a slow burn for me, it wasn’t one that I personally sat down and binged, but I read a chunk daily and was always intrigued. I just finished and I can still feel my heart thumping in my chest over the last two chapters!
Great read!
*Thank you to the author and publisher for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review*
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher.
This was a slow burn but has a great pace as well. K.L. Slater still holds a strong place in thriller writing as it is revealed in this book. This book held the old saying: when things are too good to be true.....run...LOL..But really, no one ever listens...they keep going until the see the truth. I really recommend this book but I do not want to give too much more because the little teaser is enough to feel spoiler-y. The book had a great ending.
Thank you again!
Freya's husband is dead. That leaves her short of money and having to move with her five year old daughter, Skye.
There isn't much money even with the insurance payment. Hopefully a place to live that is very reasonable will come up. Luckily she runs into the friendly older gentleman. He is just posting a vacancy when he sees her. After describing what he has available, there's no way Freya can say no to this opportunity. They begin moving in.
The people seem friendly if a little odd. But it's time for a new beginning, and Freya and Skye are ready to start their new life.
A truly remarkable book. You can't even imagine what will happen next!
*Thank you to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for allowing me to read this ARC*
After the loss of her husband, Freya Miller and her daughter Skye are offered this amazing opportunity to move into a spectacular apartment. After moving in, Freya starts to get an unsettling feeling about Doctor and Audrey Marsden.
I thought this book was well thought out and well researched. I am a psychology major in school which made me appreciate the work that went into creating this story. I thought the writing flowed nicely, making it an effortless read. I really enjoyed this suspenseful page turner!
A light thriller with plenty of twists, I really enjoyed this one! Just when life has handed her too much to handle, Freya and her daughter are shown a great opportunity to move to the "interesting" Adder House that is split up into apartments. Pretty early on, it is clear that something is off about this place, and the inhabitants. Things at the Adder House are not what they seem, and right up until the end, it's surprising who is behind the scenes and why! A quick read, and difficult to put down!
This novel reminds me of a Scooby-Doo mystery. It is pretty light and not particularly compelling, but it is not a horrible read. It is short, and entertaining, but the characters are flat and pretty unbelievable. Good for a quick read on a rainy day. Thank you NetGalley and publishers for providing an advance copy for review.
You know when you pick up a K.L Slater book that your in for a great read. This book certainly did not disappoint.
Freya Miller and her daughter Skye need to move and move quick. Their house has been sold and the money from a deceased husbands estate estate won’t last forever. While in a coffee shop she meets Dr Marsden. A chance conversion leads to the offer of an apartment in Adder House. Normally a place that would be well out of her budget but she’s offered it at a pittance of a rent.
You hear yourself shouting at Freya to get out but you’re not quite sure why. As the book unfolds you being to understand why!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the arc in return for an honest review
#theapartment #klslater #netgalley
Newly widowed Freya is looking for somewhere to rent for her and her daughter Skye following the sale of her marital home. Meeting a charismatic doctor in a coffee shop, she agrees to go and view an apartment he is looking to rent in an upmarket house in Kensington.
Will this be the answer to her prayers?
Although I didn’t love this book I felt it was an entertaining read but it unfortunately did not live up to KL Slater’s usual standards.
I felt the plot was unbelievable and the ending lacking
Freya and her daughter, Skye, are offered the opportunity of a lifetime. To live in a beautiful house, Adder House, in the centre of London for minimal rent. It’s too good an opportunity to give up so Freya quickly agrees and moves in. But even Adder House has its secrets and quickly Freya feels like she is being watched; strange smells, things being moved, the blink of a camera. As things heighten, will Freya and Skye be able to escape the locked doors of their lives.
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I loved this one. It was fast paced, easy to read and had many twists. I spent ages trying to work out who the bad guys were! The characters, Freya and Skye in particular, were likeable and I found myself cheering Freya on from my sofa.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for this ARC
Freya's husband left her for another woman and subsequently died forcing Freya to sell her house and look for somewhere on a limited budget for her and her 5 year old daughter to live. Whilst in Starbucks she meets Dr. Marsden who seemingly is posting an advert for a flat in Adder House in Kensington at a rent to suit the ideal tenants budget. Freya with very few options views the property and not believing her look takes the flat and rapidly moves in.
It soon becomes apparent that all is not as it seems and her neighbours including the doctor are to say the least "rather odd". Many odd things happen which lead Freya to question her decision but having very few options she remains in the flat. She is told that she is the first occupant of that flat but it soon becomes apparent that this is not true and if something is too good to be true then it probably isn't.
I wasn't entirely surprised by the ending which was a little disappointing as I prefer to be wholly surprised but nevertheless this is a well written book and is well worth the read
I Have not read anything by this author before but I will look to read other books by her.
I would like to thank Netgalley UK and the publishers Thomas and Mercer for allowing me an Arc copy of the book for a fair and unbiased review of the book.
Slater has written many brilliant thrillers , this one included in which she added a creep factor that actually had me debating to continue at points. The mastermind plot behind this story was brilliant!
This was a fun, engaging, and sometimes spooky thriller. I honestly couldn’t figure out the ending! Its length makes it an easy binge read - I finished it in 2 sittings.
Freya is at a seemingly dead-end in her life when the great opportunity which is “the apartment” presents itself. While knowing all seems too good to be true, Freya just wants what is best for her daughter Skye and to give her the life she deserves after so much tragedy.
However, when strange things begin to happen... are heard... are seen... Freya begins to question everything. As the story begins to unravel about how and why Freya and Skye ended up at Adder House, so does Freya’s mind.
A gripping story throughout and it definitely kept me on my toes.
The ending felt a bit rushed in my opinion. A good read regardless though!
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the ARC!
Argh. The concept of this book was great, but it was so repetitive, drawn out and pretty boring. There were some weird characters that made no real sense in the book. One was the ex-husbands mistress. Why did she have such a big role in the book in the beginning and why was she so worried about getting Freya’s ex-husband’s money. I get part of the reason behind it, but so much more could have been written in the book that added more value to the story. The ending of the book came to such an odd abrupt halt, it made the ending super awkward.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for my ARC for my honest review!
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review -
Freya and her daughter Sky are looking for an apartment after her husband dies. She meets Dr. mausden who offers he a great deal on an apartment. She and her daughter love it so decide to take it.
But then - - strange things begin to happen,
What is going on in this house?
Are they safe?
Freya & her daughter have to unfortunately move house after Skye's father and Freya's ex partner passes away. Freya is approached by Dr Marsden and offered a flat in Adder House. Freya accepts and can't believe her luck at first! Everything seems so wonderful, but as time goes on and Freya starts meeting all the residents she finds out things are not as they seem. I enjoyed the book overall but felt the ending was a little rushed. I could relate to Freya and the storyline was enjoyable with plenty of shocks along the way.
This is my second K L Slater book and although I enjoyed it, I felt the previous book I read was better called Little Whispers. It had a good storyline when you get into it but I thought it focused too much on the backstory earlier in the book but the ending was unexpected and really good so I feel that made up somewhat for the lacking in the beginning. I will still look to read more by this author.
Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I thought this was a bit odd at the beginning, very Adam's family like with the settings and characters. as the story progresses it becomes clear something is not right and it doesn't take Einstein to figure out what the residents of the apartment were doing. Slightly scary and creepy. A provocative thriller, slow to pick up but worth the read.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for the advance ecopy.
Freya is a single mom whose husband dies shortly after he left her for someone else. She can't afford her home anymore and an elderly man offers her an apartment and she takes it. Not long after she moves in weird things start to happen. Her daughter Skye starts having nightmares. Everything just starts getting strange. Wasn't a bad read just missing a little something.
So first of all this is a nice, quick and easy read. But because of this I found it really hard to engage with the characters as you don’t get a lot of back story. I also feel like Freya, the main character is so naive and far too open and trusting. I found myself wanting to shout at her all the way through this book. About half way through I already knew what was happening but the only thing I couldn’t predict was who was in on it and what the connections were so that was something that drove me to finish the book and in the end I was shocked as it wasn’t what I had in mind. I just wish the book was a bit longer, I would have loved for relationships to develop further.
I am a really big fan of K. L. Slater and have never once been disappointed by any of her books. This was no exception and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I read it in under a day which is testimony to how gripping the story line was. The book is quite a short one and, like her previous books, has short chapters which I love as they encourage me to read 'just one more' which speeds me through a book at breakneck speed. There was a sense of creepiness and unease throughout the book and characters whose personalities were difficult to gauge, i.e. were they to be trusted or were their motives rather dubious? I was on tenterhooks all the way through wondering just who was behind the bizarre occurrences in Freya and Skye's apartment and the many twists and turns were well executed and unexpected. My only slight disappointment was that we never got to find out how the husband died and I feel this would have rounded up the book even better. I shall be eagerly waiting for K.L. Slater's next edge-of-the-seat book. My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a pre-release copy in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed this book, however I frequently found myself questioning the main characters judgement. The end was exciting, if not a little rushed.
Wow! This pulse-racing book is a quick read with a little super natural feel to it. It certainly has my interest piqued up until its conclusion. 🌟🌟🌟🌟1/2 rating from me! Thank you Netgalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and KL Slater for this awesome book in exchange for an honest review!
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this spooky book
oh my word this book gripped me so much that i read it in a day....couldnt put it down...
when freya life is turned upside down a chance meeting and an offer of a new place to live with cheap rent is to much of an offer to resist....
and from that day on freya life is never the same again.....
its the stuff of nightmares...i am not even sure i will sleep tonight...after reading this one...brilliant though
another author to go on my ever increasing list of authors to look out for
The Apartment from K.L. Slater has a premise that seemed familiar. Similar to Lock Every Door by Riley Sager, a woman moves into a lux apartment and strange things start happening. Noises, things moving around and the apartment building full of strange people doing strange things.
The Apartment, however, features Freya, a single mother of 5-year old Skye. Her husband has died, but not before leaving her for a former friend. Freya meets Dr. Marsden in a coffee shop and he offers the apartment at the top of Adder House. A new neighborhood, a new school, it's a perfect fresh start for Freya and Skye. Until it isn't. Strange packages, flies, furniture being moved....it all starts adding up. Freya meets Mark, a construction worker, who passes along the story of a woman who previously lived in Adder House.....and died in an apparent suicide.
This book moves pretty fast. The conclusion was less than satisfying. It was more confusing than anything. It almost felt rushed, as it there was a page limit and it was being hit before the '1920s' portion of the story could be developed. I wanted more. More about Lily, more about the tall man, more about Dr. Marsden.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
A fantastic book with lots of twists and turns. Easy and quick to read but equally compelling. The characters are well developed and it keeps you guessing throughout. Great read and would love to read more by this author
When something sounds too good to be true - it usually is.
Freya is searching for an affordable apartment for her and her daughter, Sky. A man she meets while getting coffee offers to rent her an amazing apartment in Adder House for whatever she can afford. Freya is hesitant, but agrees to a tour. The building is beautiful, and the apartment is new. Freya and Sky move in and strange things start happening.....
Lots of twists and turns in this book, and I couldn't put it down!
Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK & NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this title.
#TheApartment #NetGalley
Quite thrilling but not that grand. Predictable. The very question was, "who will go to an apartment that was offered to you freely?" Nope.
Freya and her daughter Skye are offered a unique opportunity to live in a wonderful apartment for what she can afford. Things seem to good to be true. After they move in Freya starts to notice little oddities. Is something happening or is Freya just imagining things.
What a quick easy read. With lots of twists and turns to keep,you guessing. I would have rated it five stars but the ending seemed a little rushed.
Excellent psychological thriller that kept me guessing the whole time. The saying of its too good to be true fits this book perfectly. Greys finds herself in a situation where she needs to find a place for her and her daughter to live after the sudden death of her estranged husband. So when a man approaches her in a coffee shop and explains she can lives in a beautiful home for almost next to nothing it is a dream come true... until everything starts going wrong, making Freya feel like she’s losing her mind. The end is one I would not have guessed and tied the story up completely.
Thank you Netgalley for the advanced copy.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3260161451
This is a really gripping page turner! I raced through the story in a couple of sittings, I couldn't wait to get to the end and find out what was really going on. Thanks so much for sharing the review copy, I really enjoyed it.
Do you ever read a book and although you like the main character, you spend most of the time frustrated out of your mind with them? This is my overall feeling after finishing The Apartment, an upcoming psychological thriller by K.L. Slater. As the blurb states, Freya is at her wit's end emotionally and financially after her husband's death, desperately searching for an apartment for her and her five-year-old daughter Skye. One day in a coffee shop she randomly meets Dr. Marsden who is posting a flyer for an available apartment to rent. When he tells Freya about the place and its location, she assures him that it is well above her budget. However, after showing her the beautiful apartment in Adder House, he agrees to a ridiculously low rent that she can afford. You know how they say, if something is too good to be true, then it probably is? This was certainly the case with Freya and her new place at Adder House.
Here is what I enjoyed about this novel. The plot and subplots were unique and interesting. I won't go into the core topic behind everything for fear of spoilers, but you will realize what's going on not far into the novel. I loved K.L. Slater's characterization and how she expertly brought each and every character to life. Whether it was one of the residents or a classmate of Skye's, I was able to vividly picture each character, imagine their voices, and picture their movements - especially when it came to Audrey. Also, kudos to the author for some really creepy moments, especially involving a gift to a classroom and other events that Freya was sure she hadn't done, but then started to doubt herself and wonder.
Unfortunately, I have some real issues with this one. First of all, Freya drove me insane for about 80% of the book. I liked her character overall, but I felt that she turned a blind eye way too frequently. School incidents with Skye, creepy behaviors of the Marsdens and the other residents, cameras in her apartment, and so on. She was lucky enough to have two really good friends that had offered her a place to stay for a while and there were about 1000 times where she should have shoved what she could into some suitcases and high-tailed it out of there - but she didn't. Secondly, I don't feel as if the entire story was wrapped up how it should have been. There were so many questions left unanswered and inconsistencies that never made sense. How did Freya's husband die? What was making Freya randomly fall asleep at the oddest times? Why was her best friend not concerned about the creepy landlord getting her number and calling her about Freya? Why weren't the teachers monitoring the children better on the playground?
So, overall, this was an o.k. read for me. I hung in there without skimming just in case I missed something super exciting and/or important. I liked the premise of The Apartment, but something was missing for me. I'm thinking that this is about a 3-star read for me. It's not bad, but not great.
*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
If something seems too good to be true then it probably is. Freya has had a terrible year, following the loss of her husband, she finds her and 5 year old daughter soon to be homeless. Until she finds herself taking up the opportunity of a lifetime, starting over, living in the nice part of London in a luxurious apartment for an affordable rent with no strings seemingly attached.
I did enjoy this little book, it was easy to read, getting through it in just a few hours however that being said something about the pacing was slightly off for me. Somewhere the suspense just fell a bit flat. The journal entries were jarring and the whole tie in to those was a huge stretch. I felt he red herrings didn’t add anything to the plot either and the ending was rushed and anti-climatic, everything was too neat and tidy. So much potential for something slightly different in the genre but failed to deliver.
You know that old saying if something is too good to be true…That is the entire premise of “The Apartment”. This wasn’t a bad book per se but it just didn’t have a really big thrill factor for me. The premise of the novel really wasn’t anything new and I was able to guess what was going to happen. The ending was a little too touchy-feely for me as well. The best I can say is this isn’t the worst book I’ve read but it certainly isn’t the greatest either.
Thank you to @netgalley and the publishers for granting me this #ARC of The Apartment in exchange for my honest review.
This book definitely has some serious creep factor to it. The story reminded me a lot of Riley Sager’s Lock Every Door. Most of the story takes place in a grand apartment building and has lots of odd happenings throughout. A single mom and daughter are approached by an elderly man in a coffee shop with an offer to move into The Adder house, a prestige apartment building that is way out their price range. After generous persuasions, they agree and from that moment on there is more than meets the eye. The author takes the reader to the past through a journal from an unknown person who is reading from it. This adds an entirely different spook element because it is from the perspective of a person lurking from afar. With lots of twists and turns the story goes from 0-60 pretty quickly. Before I knew it, it was over and I was left with feelings of sadness because I finished it too quickly... I definitely wanted more!!
Bravo to K.L. Slate. r for this fantastically eery tale!!
I LOVED this book. In fact, I think this may be my favorite book of 2020. This was a page-turner from start to finish. Although the premise of the book is quite common for thrillers, this was well done. The main character, Freya, is likable and smart. The secondary characters are creepy, and the way that the author vividly describes the apartment makes you feel like you're there. Thanks for the ARC.
3.5 rounded down.
This was quick and I love quick books. But for some reason I found myself drifting off during some of the chapters and had to go back and reread them. There was one example specifically that made no sense at first. The time swap and alternate story lines weren't consistent enough to make sense for me.
This books is short and easy to forget, sadly. I feel like this could have been written in a day, but I still love KL Slater and I'll still read everything she releases. This was just a no for me.
Intriguing and full of twists. I raced through the pages! The first book that I have read by the author but it definitely will not be the last!
Excellent book I really enjoy KL Slater. The pace is fast and the plot is really tight so I don’t drift and am invested in the characters and the outcomes. I’m an avid reader of psychological fiction and this gave me a very late night that was well worth it! Many thanks!
A sincere thank you to the publisher, author and Netgalley for providing me an ebook copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. This is not my usual genre, I’m more of a crime reader therefore am extremely pleased and grateful for opening up my mind to something totally different.
This book was very much a psychological thriller book which I’ve never read before. No spoilers, however, it had me gripped right up until the end. I am a psychology student so was aware of some of the experiments mentioned throughout however, I had no idea of who the “bad person” was right up until the end. It was a bit weird at times and sometimes uncomfortable to read but worth it in the end. My only complaint is that it ended so abruptly. I don’t think I will ever hear a creaky floorboard the same way again. 3 stars 🌟🌟🌟
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC which I received in exchange for my honest review. The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a quick but satisfying read. While some books build at a slow burn, the foreboding tone is evident from the very first page. You can't help but identify with and root for Freya, a young London mother on her own with her five year old daughter Skye, Readers soon learn that Freya is down on her luck after the death of her unfaithful husband and in need of a second chance. That second chance comes more quickly than she could have imagined. Freya is approached at a coffee shop by a mysterious doctor who is looking for a new tenant for the spectacular Adder House in the Kensington area of London. Although Freya knows she can't afford to live in that area, Doctor Marsden assures her that her finances are not an impediment as his primary consideration is that she be a good fit for the house. This book is a prime example of the old adage that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
In no time at all Freya and Skye find themselves ensconced in the luxurious Adder House, but it soon becomes apparent that nothing is as it appears. The other tenants are a cast of strange characters and various events take place which cause Freya to question her sanity. My fear for Freya and little Skye was palpable and I found myself tearing through the book at lightening speed to find out what happens next!
Unexpectedly, the author intersperses journal entries from the Little Albert experiment, a groundbreaking psychological study conducted in the 1920's into what we now know as classical conditioning. How the events of that experiment and the fate of Freya and Skye are connected are not made clear until the end, but what a terrific reveal it is!
I very much enjoyed this book, my only criticism being that the ending was a bit rushed. Although the author does include an epilogue which gives readers a much needed update on the characters I was still left with some lingering questions.
Overall, I recommend this book and I will be sure to check out other works by this author.
This one held me in. I was intrigued to see what was happening in this strange home - Adder House. I got a little confused at the looking back at journal pages - & how it tied in at the end, was just OK to me - I still was a little confused at the whole thing - what the Dr. was working on... but ya know - I still enjoyed the book & the characters & the little twists. All in all, I enjoyed it.
Really well-done. This books follows the path of Mother/daughter duo Freya & Skye. Freya’s separated husband passed away some months ago, and she needs to find a new place to live with her daughter. Enter the magical Dr Mardsen, who invited the duo to live at Addler House for a “peppercorn rent” (side note: love that phrase). The House is home to many different people, who all seem a bit off. Through flashbacks, fast-pacing, and atmospheric writing, the audience comes to learn that there is something very wrong, and Freya and Skye may be in danger.
There were enough red herrings dropped along the way that I truly had no idea what was happening until about 3/4 of the way through. Great read.
thank you for the opportunity to read this book and I really enjoyed, it was gripping and tense and i couldn't put it down
This was my first time with a K. L. Slater book. I enjoyed this book, I found it a little far fetched at times but still found myself reading more and more... It's a case of if it's to good to be true then it probably is. I found the bud up to be more exciting than the conclusion. All in all an enjoyable read and I would reach for another book by this author.
Another cracker of a book from K.L. Slater, one of my favourite psychological thriller authors!
A single mother Freya and her 5 year old daughter Skye have to move out of their house as it has been sold, Dr Marsden “meets” Freya in a coffee shop and offers her first refusal on an apartment in his house which he has just been let down on. Freya cannot believe her luck especially after everything she has been through, her husband leaving her for a so called friend, him dying leaving her up the swanny!!! There has to be a catch, they will only charge her what she can afford and are aware of her circumstances… alarm bells… WTF
After visiting the top floor apartment, Freya is sold…. And soon moves in…. then things begin to happen…. The house is full of strange characters, Freya feels like she is losing control of her mind….. its hard to say more without giving spoilers but suffice to say, you are in for one hell of a ride… a very quick read but for the reason you will not want to put it down and when the finale happens, it’s a jaw dropping moment, brilliantly twisty and gripping.
I love K.L Slater's writing and this book was no exception It's another skilfully written, compelling read, all the characters are intriguing and the story holds your interest until the end. I had no idea where the story would go and stayed up reading into the early hours to find out. An addictive fast paced read that has you second guessing everything. Brilliant!
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer Publishers for a copy of The Apartment in exchange for an honest review.
Ms. Slater has once again delivered an exciting and brilliant read. I have read her books before and was expecting a great read and I was not disappointed!!! I was hooked in the first paragraph and I could not put the book down. I was shocked to see that I was at the end of the book, I was that tied into the story. The characters are many dimensional and relatable.
Freya Miller has had to sell her home after her husband first left her for another woman and then died suddenly. While in a coffee shop she is approached by the charismatic Dr. Michael Marsden - a man in his mid-sixties. He has an apartment for rent to a person who would be the right fit. Freya and her 5 year-old daughter Skye go to view the apartment in a house that can only be described as a mansion. Freya can't believe her luck at only having to pay £500 for an apartment just steps away from Kensington Palace.
There are 6 apartments in the house. Dr. Marsden and his wife Audrey live on the main floor. In apartment #3 Professor Matthew Woodings lives with his wife Susan - a librarian. Miss Lilian (Lily) Brockley liked in apartment #4. Apartments #2 & #5 have tenants who are "away" at present. There is also an apartment on Freya's top floor but that has no number plate on it. Freya's apartment is tiny compared to the other apartments in the mansion.
As strange things start to happen in her apartment - things are moved about, strange scents linger in the air...... Things are also too good to be true - the moving men are paid for, Skye gets into an elite school.....
Interwoven through the story is the journal of Beatrice Barger and her baby son Dougie. Her story is backed up by the case study diary of Professor John B. Watson of Johns Hopkins University Hospital. How the journal and the case study relate to Freya and Skye makes for a shocking ending.
This book deserves more than 5 stars and I'm eagerly awaiting Ms. Slater's next book!
I’m always equally excited and dubious when I stumble upon new authors. Being the first book I have read by the author K.L Slater, I ventured with trepidation but by no means was I disappointed.
This psychological thriller is simply astounding for many reasons- no cheap gimmicks, plot flaws or predictable endings. Instead this offered suspense and unrelenting tension from the first page to the last.
I feel that Freya was an ‘investable’ character; her troubled past and harrowing circumstances led to a sense of longing, on my part, for her to find some fitting form of solace. Inevitably, the path to finding such peace, leads to a host of eerie and unforgettable events.
I was thoroughly intrigued by this book and hope that other texts written by this author follows this impressive trend... *Hastily adds ‘The Silent Ones’, ‘Blink’ and ‘Liar’ to TBR pile!*
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the opportunity to have access to this ARC.
Single mom Freya Millers is going through a very hard time. Her husband, who had left her for one of her friends, has died, and her dire financial situation has forced her to sell the family home. So she can't believe her luck when she's offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live at the luxurious Adder House. The rent is cheap and, the charming owner, Dr. Marsden, assures her that she and her five-year-old daughter will be a perfect fit with the other residents. And the Marsdens are going above and beyond to make sure Freya and Skye feel welcome and comfortable in their new home. The moving cost is paid for and they're even helping Freya make arrangements for Skye to transfer to a new school. Seems too good to be true? That's because it is.
I really enjoyed this addictive and suspenseful psychological thriller. The writing style is easy and engaging, and the creepy, foreboding atmosphere of the house kept me on the edge of my seat until the shocking twist. Freya and Skye are both likable characters and you can't help but cheer them on and hope that things turn out okay for them. I thought the author did a wonderful job of building the tension and making the reader second guess everything. Is there really something sinister going on at Adder House, or is it all in Freya's mind? I thought the conclusion was satisfying, but I wish we knew what became of little Douglas. How was he affected by what was done to him? I wish the author had answered this question since it played such an important role in the story.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with this twisty psychological thriller and highly recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My thanks, to Amazon Publishing, U.K., K.L.Slater, and Netgalley.
This story was completely immersive. I began reading, and I was well and truly hooked. I'd fall asleep reading this book, and it would follow me into my dreams. I love those kind of stories!. I identified with Freya almost immediately. I understood her relief at thinking she had found a safe place for her and Skye. Then finding out, to her horror, how very mistaken she had been.
This is an author that I intend to read more of.
This is a great thriller! Freya is noticing stuff in her apartment is moved and she is hearing noises or maybe voices... she doesn't know if this place is haunted but she will find the truth out soon. This one will keep to up at night and question the items in your house. Be careful reading this one in the dark. Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to review this book in exchange for an honest review.
Welcome to Adder House a high end building and not at all affordable for Freya and her little daughter Sky.
But somehow the two of them end up living there- a dream coming true?
Strange things seem to happen. Or don't they? Is it imagination or a nightmare?
What a creepy and atmospheric story that lets you guess and double check everything! Everything a lover of psychological thriller wishes for!
Thank you very much for this ARC to the publisher and the author.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. Freya and her daughter need to find a new place to live after the death of her husband. Dr. Marsden meets Freya in a coffeeshop and offers an apartment that sounds too good to be true. You could certainly read this in one sitting. Really good! #theapartment #klslater #april2020
This thriller was definitely a "slow burn." There were lots of little red flags throughout the set up of the story but I wasn't really sure where the book was going. The little red flags helped build the suspense and add to the uneasy feeling I had while reading. I really liked the twist at the end and didn't see it coming. I wish we would have gotten more background on Freya and her husband in the beginning instead of in the middle/end. It was refreshing to have a narrator in a thriller be a functioning adult and not an unreliable narrator with a drinking problem. Overall, this was a good thriller with a good twist. It was quick and enjoyable to read.
This was a great book from the first sentence. Sometimes things are just to good to be true, but when you are desperate with a young child you have to do what you have to do. That is how Freya felt when looking for an affordable place to live for her and her 5 year old daughter Skye after a tragic loss. So how do you know when a good thing is to good to be true? That’s what Freya had to figure out and take a chance on.
It’s a very fast pace story that keeps you on your toes wondering what’s coming next. You will not be disappointed if you decide this is your next read.
Thank you K. L Slater and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I received a free digital copy of The Apartment by K.L. Slater from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
The Apartment is a creepy little psychological thriller following single mother Freya whose husband recently died and is struggling to get by. She meets Dr Marsden in a coffee shop, an elderly man with an offer to live in the beautiful Adder House which is too good to decline. But then things start getting weird.
I really the slow-burn suspense of this novel. I was intrigued from the very beginning and didn't see many of the twists coming. Some parts were a little cheesy for me and I personally don't like it when books mention real things like Starbucks as it kills the vibe a bit, but I liked the story and overall it was an easy entertaining thriller!
I've been a big fan of K.L. Slater's psychological thrillers for a couple of years now, and discovering that a new title is coming out always makes me feel a little giddy inside. I saw The Apartment mentioned last year, but as it was released as an Audible Only title and I don't do audiobooks, I sadly had to pass... Imagine how happy I was when I discovered that the publisher decided to release it in kindle/physical format after all! I've been looking forward to dive in ever since for not one, but two reasons: her psychological thrillers never disappoint and the blurb sounded more than intriguing. And there is no doubt whatsoever that The Apartment is another successful read.
Those who have read a K.L. Slater psychological thriller before will know that it is best to clear your schedule before you start reading one of her stories, because once you have read the first couple of chapters you won't be able to stop. Her writing is engaging and highly addictive; one moment you sit down to start a new story, and the next suddenly hours have passed and you find yourself staring at that final page. The Apartment is no exception, and another excellently written, suspenseful and highly addicting read. The premise of this story is intriguing and both the 1920 flashbacks and the Adder House setting give the story an unique touch. The mysterious Adder House is brilliantly described and really gives the story an ominous feel... It is without doubt the perfect setting and backdrop for Freya's story. The 1920 flashbacks added extra dept to the story and definitely gave you something to think about while trying to unravel the secrets of Adder House as well as discovering what is going on with Freya and Skye.
The building up of suspense is very well handled; more and more things are starting to happen in Freya's life that will start to worry both reader and main character alike. The amount of suspense and plot twists is just right, and while I did guess part of the final reveals quite early on I still had a great time discovering the full truth behind Adder House and its inhabitants. As for the characters... I do confess that I didn't actually find them all that likeable, but their development was solid and realistically done. Especially the psychological reaction to the events happening was intriguing to follow, and it is in fact the psychology element in The Apartment that makes this psychological thriller stand out from other stories. It's an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys the genre and is looking for a couple of hours of guaranteed entertainment.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
I started this book yesterday and finished it within 24 hours. I couldn't put it down!!
The beginning of the book reminded me a little of Lock Every Door, but soon revealed it was different.
A single and widowed mother, Freya and her 5 year old daughter Skye haven't had it easy and Freya jumps at the chance to rent a fabulous apartment in London for a fraction of what the rent should be.
We all know the saying - if its too good to be true it usually is, and this book completely lives up to that saying.
This book is the first of K L Slaters I have read, but after this chilling and gripping read, I will definitely be reading all her other books asap!
I haven't read much by this author but her previous book I really enjoyed. This one wasnt as good but its chilling story is what hooked me. I definitely didnt expect the twists in this story. Really good read.
Thank you Netgalley, the author and publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a quick read for me and I finished it in one sitting. It's about a woman Freya with her 5yr old Skye who has lost her husband and is about to be homeless until a man offers her an apartment in Adder House, a beautiful apartment that's hard to turn down. It's just too good to be true!
Soon Freya starts to feel paranoid and scared, it seems her neighbors are weird and nosy but she knows nothing much of them. We really don't find out what happens to her husband. I think the book could've elaborated more on that.I
I really like K.L. Slater, but this particular book and ending fell A little flat for me. I give it 3 stars and hope to read better books in the future from this author.
A special thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing and K.L. Slater for this ARC for my honest opinion.
Wow! This book was such a pleasant surprise!
I have never read a book by K.L Slater before but after reading this book, I'm very interested in checking out her previous books.
This is a psychological thriller about a woman who is struggling after the death of her husband. She doesn't have much money left and has no where to live, so when one day a man approaches her with the offer of living in a very luxurious appartment, at a smaller rent than it should be, the offer seems too good to be true, but is it?
I loved this book. The main reason I loved it was because it incorporated psychology. A very famous psychology study forms part of the plot of this book. I thought it was incredibly clever and well done.
As a psychology student I was all ready aware of this study, so I could kind of see where the book was going. If you have never heard of the study, you are likely to find it really shocking.
I also really liked the setting of this book. It reminded me a lot of Riley Sager's lock every door. If you enjoyed that book, I think you'll enjoy this one too.
The writing was really engaging. It was really creepy and eerie, had me guessing all the way through.
I loved the short chapters. I finished the whole book in one sitting. It really was a roller coaster of a ride, I just couldn't put it down.
This book was such a good surprise. I highly recommend this book. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author in the future
TW: suicide and violence
OMG WHAT CRAZINESS DID I JUST READ?????!!!!! Wow that is some insane stuff but a very enjoyable read!!!!!!!! This was my first K.L. Slater book and it won't be my last. Freya Miller is a newly single mother down on her luck. Her husband recently passed away and left her and their five yr old daughter to try to figure out how to live in this world without him. Freya has to find them a new place to live and meets a Dr Marsden who seems like the answer to her prayers with his offer of an apartment. Little does Freya know this apartment will turn out to be her worst nightmare. Thank you to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for my honest review
If something appears to be to good to be true, maybe it is.
Freya has been having a difficult time. Her husband left her for someone else, has now died, and now she is forced to sell the house that her daughter Skye and her call home to pay off their combined debt. She is sure where she is going to go and is beyond stressed about the situation. However at a coofee shop, she is approached by a man named Dr. Marsden who offers her an apartment at the Adder House for a rent that she know is way below market value but can easily afford. Dr. Marsden assures her that they work with every tenant on rent as long as they make a great fit to the house. Excited that something is finally going right after so many disappointments, Freya jumps at the opportunity and quickly moves Skye and herself in. It isn't until she is their that she realizes that something isn't right, the house is strange, things in her apartment are being moved, and she keeps hearing these weird sounds coming just beyond her wall.
While I enjoyed the book, I did have a few issues with it. Parts of the story seems dragged out. It almost felt like I kept reading the same thing over and over. While I know this was meant to build the suspense, I wish the author had phrased it differently. The ending also wrapped up super quick. I was not a super impressed with the outcome, but it did explain everything. The two main characters, Freya and Skye were likable. At times I just wanted to shake Freya though. She knew something was wrong, but she never really did anything about it. Overall a good story and a quick read.
Freya Miller and her daughter are looking for a new considering her husband’s death. By some fortunate coincidence, she’s offered a sleek apartment in the heart of London. It’s an offer that’s difficult to refuse in her financial conditions. Is Freya heading for a trap called Adder House? All it might take a yes and everything that she knows will change forever!!!
Freya Miller narrates the story, except for a few instances. Those chapters have a mention of 1920 journal entries in the narration. Freya is raised in foster care thus she has the skill set to survive in rugged conditions. She keeps her head high, despite facing a severe financial crunch and death of her husband.
Slow and steady, the story picks up the pace and the mystery build-ups with elegance. As the chapters progress you navigate through Freya’s life before she turned up at Adder House. The brilliant aspect of the book Slater created a sense of creepiness through her writing. Her writing was addictive.
The book is a depicts of today’s society (can’t say much as it might be a spoiler).
I have always loved her writing and the way she creates a mystery around the narration. She is an expert in creating clever plots. Slater has effectively used her words to convey Freya’s grief, dilemma and her feeling of losing reality.
The only aspect I wished it was different is its ending. It felt it didn’t suit the creepiness that was built at the start of the book.
That brings me to the point that I have read other works by K L. Slater and they are brilliant. This book is delightful but isn’t good as her previous ones. Nevertheless, that doesn’t stop me from reading her books.
The Apartment is an enthralling and addictive read while giving you goosebumps at every turn of a page.
My rating is 3.5 stars.
Thank you, NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the book in exchange for my honest review.
What a read! Fast paced, twisty, gripping... everything you could ask for in a psychological thriller! Read in a day, and Slater is now definitely an author to add to my list!
The Apartment
By: K L Slater
Pub. Date: April 28, 2020
If you are in the mood for a psychological thriller, The Apartment will certainly fit the bill! I found that I enjoyed the pacing of the novel. I liked the main character and appreciated her devotion to protecting her daughter. I was thankful she seemed like a normal mom that makes mistakes but is trying to do her best. The story itself was creepy, thrilling, and the plot twist was good. I was uncertain about the villain for most of the book so, I didn’t just see it ending quite like it did.
✅ Voyeurism
✅ Gaslighting
✅ Fear
✅ Suspicious Death
ALL included in this suspenseful read!
Add it to your TBR, just do it!
If you love authors like Shari Lapena, I think you’ll enjoy this one. It even gave me some Ruth Ware, Turn of the Key vibes.
Overall a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 star read for me. I found it an interesting and fun read.
Thank you to @Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for an advanced copy of the novel for my honest review.
This was a decent thriller about a single mom and her young daughter who serendipitously move into an apartment that seems way too good to be true. The longer they stay there, however, the more mom realizes she may have gotten more than she bargained for. I didn't quite understand how or why things came together at the end, but still a decent, page-turning thriller.
I have read other KL Slater books but this one was not up to par. From reviewer Jayme "- reminiscent of Riley Sagers Lock Every Door." I have to agree 100% just that the location changed to a creepy apartment. SMH
This book had some great, well developed characters so that is why I added a star. The plot also had me to a point until it reminded me of another book (see above), plus it became predictable. I added another star for overall creepiness and premise. This book just didn't get me the whole way through.
A solid 3 stars for effort. Hope the next book is better by this author.
Thanks to author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own unless quoted by another person.
Available: 4/28/20
After the death of her husband, Freya is desperately seeking a new place to live for herself and her young daughter, Skye. A chance encounter with a landlord provides her with the opportunity to move into Adder House. Adder House is completely out of Freya's budget but Dr Marsden, the landlord, insists that money won't be an issue and that the apartment is supposed to be Freya's.
Freya and Skye move in and although things begin to niggle at Freya from the beginning, she ignores those feelings because the apartment is beautiful and her daughter seems to love it there.
But for how long will they feel safe there before things begin to unravel?
The Apartment was my first read by K. L. Slater and it won't be my last. It was a pretty quick thriller and although the narrative was simple, the plot was very interesting and unpredictable. There were a few events that I felt were left unfinished but all in all it was a good read.
I received a free digital copy of The Apartment from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. Sincere thanks to Net Galley and the publishers.
There were several things I enjoyed about this book. The setting was well thought out, creepy and had so much potential, the plot started out quite intriguing. The apartment was like a character in itself.
The other characters, however, felt very flat to me. There was a lack of depth in them as well as their interactions with one another. They did not keep my attention.
The biggest issue I had with the book would be the continuation of the plot. As stated above, it initially caught me right out of the gate. But a quarter of the way through I felt like the main character’s motivations and choices were impossible to understand. The plot got clunky and uninteresting the farther I read. I did finish it in hopes that the ending would redeem itself but even then it did not work for me.
I gave The Apartment 2.5 stars but rated up for the fact that I was interested in it enough to finish.
Woah! Read in a single sitting because I didn't want to put it down, this book is responsible for a really rubbish night's sleep. The characters are well written and you don't know who to believe. At first I thought the story would be a bit pedestrian, predictable and safe (basing this on the blurb and what I predicted would happen) but it so wasn't like that at all. Nothing is as it seems throughout the whole of this book and it's all the better for it. Highly recommended.
This is a book about the old adage, “If something is too good to be true, then it probably is.” Freya a newly widowed mother to Skye, her 5 year old daughter. They have been left in a bind and must sell their house, but Freya has little hopes of finding an apartment to rent with just her tiny allotted amount of money she can spend.
Well, lucky her, she receives an offer she can not refuse! A man in the coffee shop showed her some flyers to his building and it’s the creme de la creme of locations. Surely, she couldn’t afford nothing in that neighborhood. After insistence that money isn’t an object to the owner, he convinces her to take a look.
Of course, the apartment is perfect for her and Skye to start a new life together. But, what about the cost? The landlord gladly accepted her offer and they moved in.
This was a “slow-burner” read. At times it became muddled with possible clues, but didn’t really peek my interest until the very end. There is a twist at the end that is almost shocking. I felt though, it left a little to be desired and didn’t wrap things up in a nice bow.
Always remember when it’s too good to be true...run the other way!
Thanks to #Netgalley and #Amazon Publishing for providing me with a copy of the book for my honest review. #TheApartment
The book is full of very interesting twists. Expected a little more. Many explanations were missing about the characters
I’d like to thank Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read ‘The Apartment’ by K L Slater in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
Freya Miller is a widow with five-year-old daughter Skye and has had to sell her house. During her search for somewhere to rent she looks at a board in a local café and meets Dr Matthew Marsden who has a flat available in Adder House, a mansion he owns in a desirable area of London. As he says she need only pay a peppercorn rent that’s affordable for her, Freya jumps at the chance and very soon moves they move in. But strange events start to happen at Adder House and it isn’t long before Freya feels she’s in the middle of a nightmare.
‘The Apartment’ is a spooky psychological thriller that I found disturbing at times with weird occupants of the house I wasn’t sure could be trusted. The story was gripping with a plot that grew more tense as the story progressed, and together with lots of drama, intrigue and twists and turns I was so involved I read it in twenty-four hours. I was slightly disappointed by the ending which I thought was too rushed but nevertheless this is another excellent story by one of my favourite authors and one I have no hesitation in recommending.
I had requested for a copy of the eARC from Netgalley after reading the description of the story and the very beautiful and intriguing cover. This is the first time that I am reading a book by K L Slater and I must say that I liked th story and will be looking forward to reading more of her works.
The protagonist of this story is Freya Miller, a single mother of Skye, a sweet little girl who loves birds and who loves her school. Freya is in a difficult phase in her life with little savings, at the verge of losing her home, a life of uncertainty and precipitously meets Dr Marsden who gives her the most lovely offer to bring her life back on track. he offers her an apartment in Adder house a mansion in on of the well to do neighbourhoods of London. This was an offer that Freya couldn't possibly refuse as she finds all things are convenient for her and also that Dr Marsden is very gnerous and helping towards her and Skye. the trouble starts when slowly the helpful nature of the landlord's becomes interfering and soon there are some inexplicable events happening in the apartment with no reasonable explanation and giving her sleepless nights.....Whats the reason for these poltergeistic events? Whats the story behind the generous landlord...you will ned to read the story to find out.
The story gets interesting right from the word go. Events occur that compelled me to not keep the story away lest something happen when I am not reading.
There are many characters, a few loving, a few out rightly creepy, a few with seemingly difficult and unexplained behaviour. There are enough red herrings in the story. It is narrated in a third person POV but in between there is a narrative in italics that is from the past and that has some hints about the present occurrences. With so many things happen there is only one story line, no complicated parallel plots to distract the reader.
What didnt work for me was that the story gets over in the last few pages and all the loose ends gets tied up in the end. i would have loved it if the ending was more progressive. Also I still hav a few unanswered questions.
Despite all these I really enjoyed my journey through the story. I also loved the topic that was touched in the end.
I would recommend this book to all those who love to read psychological thrillers.
Disclaimer: I received an e ARC from Netgalley and I thank the author and publishers for making this possible. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Freya Miller and her child Skye are in a bit of a jam as they need to find new living accommodations fast. As they sit in a coffee shop discussing their options, in walks Dr. Marsen who overheard them talking and offers them a very sweet deal. He owns a mansion that he rents out in a very desirable part of town. There is a very small room he could rent to them for a very small price
Of course after looking at it, Freya jumps at the opportunity and moves them both in
Not long after she moves them in, strange things start to happen that make her rethink her decision
Maybe this wasn't the safest place 🤔 for her and her daughter after all.
While reading this I felt it was a slow burn, but I was never bored , I just felt like I didn't know like Freya..must have felt..what in the world is going on?
It is enjoyable and surprising i do recommend this book
Ooooo I'm so happy I read this!
I've always given a lot of importance to writing style and have clear preferences on that matter. However, lately, I seem to favour the actual story over the way it is written. Here we have another first person narrative (which I've stated multiple times that I hate) and I initially thought "oh here we go again", but ended up forgetting about it (mostly) and enjoying this book so much! I don't know if it's a quarantine effect, but I've been dropping some major requirements when it comes to reading.
"The Apartment" is a full on mystery and, although I found the MC to be a bit silly sometimes, we get a few intriguing characters, like the Marsdens. I wish the background of the Adder House residents had been more explored, because they brought a creepy scenario into this book. This is a "I need to know what's happening right now!" kind of book.
I would have read this in one day, had I had more time. To think that I assumed that being in lockdown would grant me plenty of time to read...
Thank you so much, Amazon Publishing UK, for this amazing ARC!
Freya and Skye need a fresh start, but is Adder House too good to be true? Who lives there now, and perhaps more importantly, who lived there before? A page turner with a shocking ending - you won’t be able to put this book down.
"The Apartment" is the first novel I've read by K.L. Slater, and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author! While the premise (a woman moves into an apartment that's too good to be true) was similar to other books, Slater did a great job of ramping up the thrills! The reader feels the terror that Freya, the main character, and her daughter were feeling. I was quickly sucked in to this book, and kept changing my mind about who the "bad guy" was. A very enjoyable read that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys mysteries and thrillers!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Don't you just 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 being surprised by a book?!
I wasn't really expecting to like this one; I DNF a similar story and I just didn't have high hopes. Well I'm happy to admit...I was w͟r͟o͟n͟g͟. As I got further along, this book got 𝚠𝚎𝚒𝚛𝚍. And I 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 weird! The slower parts were balanced with plenty of #whattheheck moments and a twist I didn't fully see coming. 🌴🌴🌴🌴 4/5
thank you to @netgalley and @amazonpublishing for the e-ARC!
This was a slow burn story that I got through quite quickly. I'd been hearing so much about it lately so I pushed it to the top of my TBR List.
It's a creepy psychological thriller, which I usually enjoy. Unfortunately I found slightly predictable and uneventful. I found the dialogue unrealistic especially when it came to the way the daughter spoke to her mother.
It's by no means a bad book, but it was not one of my favourites.
My 2 star review for The Apartment by K.L. Slater
"Freya Miller needs a home for herself and 5 year old daughter Skye after her husband had an affair..
miracle. By chance she meets the charismatic Dr Marsden in a coffee shop who is looking for a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in Adder House in a fashionable area of London.
But Adder House has secrets, and Freya feels as if she’s being watched: objects moving, unfamiliar smells, the blinking light of a concealed camera… and it’s not long before she begins to suspect that her dream home is hiding a nightmarish reality. Was it really chance that led her here—or something unthinkably dark?"
This book was intriguing from the start, but I felt it became a little implausible as time went on and I lost patience with Freya, rather than feeling sympathy for her. I just kept telling her to "pack up and get out if it's that bad!" rather than put herself and daughter through all the strange goings on. Because of this, I wanted the book to hurry up and end, so that I could have the big reveal of what was actually going on behind panelled walls and cameras, and was disappointed with the ending.
I expected more from this Author after her last couple of books, just not to my taste unfortunately.
This is a fantastic read, bringing together the 21st century issues of higher living costs in London, single parenting, and then the haunting and very true psychological experiments on a young child in the 1920’s, that I was aware of due to my counselling training. Great writing, loads of twists, well worth a read. Thank you for letting me review this book.
If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is and Freya definitely found that out. This was a thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I had plenty of theories while reading, but the ending was not something I expected.
I hate to star anything less than three stars but that’s what reviews are for right? Honesty?
I was really hyped up for this one. The title, the premise, everything screamed creepy and ominous right from the get go. As I read the prologue, I couldn’t wait to keep going and find out more.
But as time quickly went on, I realized this wasn’t going to be what I expected.
Yes, there’s a single mother with daughter in tow, looking for a new place to live. And yes they stumble upon a “great opportunity” to live in this grand but tiny creepy apartment in an older big building run by some strange old folks with even stranger tenants.
That’s about as exciting as it got for me. After then halfway mark, nothing was really creepy anymore but more ridiculous. Like how many red flags does one need to protect themselves and their child? And why would you let a stranger run your life like that? No body tells me or my children what to do. It just annoyed me more than anything and I lost count of the eye rolls I gave.
Maybe better luck with the next read.
3.5 stars rounded up. This had such a Lock Every Door vibe to it which I loved! What I didn’t love was how it was very predictable. I wish the ending would have had more of a wow factor but I still did enjoy the book.
Freya Miller needs a miracle. In the fallout of her husband’s betrayal, she’s about to lose her family home, and with it the security she craves for her five-year-old daughter, Skye. Adrift and alone, she’s on the verge of despair until a chance meeting with the charismatic Dr Marsden changes everything. He’s seeking a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in a fashionable area of London.
Adder House sounds too good to be true… But Freya really can’t afford to be cynical, and Dr Marsden is adamant she and Skye will be a perfect fit with the other residents.
But Adder House has secrets. Even behind a locked front door, Freya feels as if she’s being watched: objects moving, unfamiliar smells, the blinking light of a concealed camera… and it’s not long before she begins to suspect that her dream home is hiding a nightmarish reality. Was it really chance that led her here—or something unthinkably dark?
As the truth about Adder House starts to unravel, can Freya and Skye get out—or will they be locked in forever?
I was really disappointed with this book. It had all the makings of a good story, creepy house, weird neighbours, a single mum trying to get over the death of her husband. But it was just flat and a touch boring. So much more could have been made of the strange doctor and his experiments but it was only a small part of this story.
The love story between Freya and the builder was not necessary for the story and I felt it was just in there as filler.
I have read books by this author before and I have loved them, but this one did not hit the mark.
Thank you @netgalley for my gifted copy of “The Apartment” by K.L. Slater in exchange for an honest review. I love a good psychological thriller and this one will have you on the edge of your seat until the very last page! I had a hard time putting this one down!
The Apartment by KL Slater is an interesting suspense story. A recent widow with a young child is given a once in a lifetime chance at a second start. Alone and in sudden financial trouble she is approached with an offer to live in an apartment near Kensington Palace free of charge. The catch may be more than she or her child are willing to pay. I appreciated the psychology and research that went into this story and while I wish the characters were a little better developed I enjoyed reading this book. . I received an ARC of this book, all opinions are my own.
Freya and her daughter are given the chance of a to ove into their dream home. Freya had just lost her husband and her home. She didn't know where she and her five year old daughter, Skye were going to live. But then a chance meeting with the dashing Dr. Marsden turns things around. He offers them an apartment in one of London's exclusive addresses at a reduced rent. How could Freya refuse? But not long after they move into the apartment, strange occurrences start to happen. Freya starts thinking they are ot alone in the apartment.
What a creepy, atmospheric and tense read this is. I was pulled in from the beginning. The plotline has been cleverly constructed. I never saw the end coming. Loved this quick read,
I would like to thank NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and the author K.L. Slater for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
First, I want to thank K.L. Slater, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
K.L. Slater has done it again and written another twisted, mind boggling, jaw dropping book called The Apartment! As always K.L. Writes an incredible storyline that you just have to wonder where does she come up with these unique ideas?
This is one book you will read in a day-as I did. You can’t put it down, it is so good! This book starts off one way but then towards the middle-BAM-the script is switched and your mind is blown. It has an ending I never ever saw coming! Actually, one of the most twisted endings I have ever read. That is a huge compliment as I read a lot!!
Many of the times she took me on a very bumpy rollercoaster ride with my emotions. Some tragic events happened in this book that I could not help feel bad for. Such as the death of Freya’s husband, miscarriages, a suicide, etc.
The Apartment had a very unique cast of characters with all different personalities. The more you read into the book the more you learned how messed up they were. My favorite character was the cutest little girl named Skye. So many times she melted my heart.
I loved many of the character names that were chosen. K.L. Really thought outside of the box. Some of the names were Freya, Skye, etc.
I am a huge fan of the Royals so I loved the references to Prince George and Buckingham Palace.
Thank you to NetGalley and publisher Amazon publishing UK for an advance reader’s copy of this book for an honest review
3 stars ⭐️
I had high expectations when I started this book but it fell a little short , Although the overall premise was quite interesting, the story just made little sense to start off with . Why would Freya be so trusting to accept an offer “ too good to be true” from complete strangers ? I also found it to be quite predictable.
Towards the end the story did start to get a bit more interesting but I found myself just skimming through hr middle of the book, just wanting to find out what happened.
I enjoyed reading this book because of the storyline. It kept me intrigued throughout the book. (I pretty much finished the entire book in a day) Each chapter had me eager to find out what was happening at, "The Apartment."
As to not spoil it for everyone, I’m not going to go in too deep on specifics...
Throughout the book things seemed well put together, aside from the experiment chapters, wondering what is really happing at this apartment that is so strange?? Is Freya loosing her mind after her family dynamic changes? Clearly she is, or is she? What's so strange about the Marsdens? What happened to Sophie and Melissa? As I get to the end, more things are explained and revealed, However...I am still left with several unanswered questions at the end
The main characters of this story are Freya and her five-year-old daughter Skye. Freya and Skye find themselves homeless. Freya is looking on a bulletin board in the local coffee shop for properties to rent when she has a chance meeting with the charismatic Dr. Marsden.
When he tells Freya, he has an apartment to rent in an exclusive part of town she thanks him and tells him that the rent would be well above her budget. Dr. Marsden, however, talks Freya into viewing the beautiful apartment in Adder House, of course, she loves it, and he agrees to set a low rent so that Freya and Skye can move in.
But if something is too good to be true, then it usually is.
The plot and subplots are well thought out, there are some really creepy moments.
Freya feels as if she’s being watched, objects in the apartment are being moved, and strange smells linger. It’s not long before Freya begins to think that her dream home has a dark secret.
This is a creepy psychological thriller that is a very quick read. I did enjoy the book but didn’t think it was as good as her previous novels. I thought the ending was a little predictable and it felt quite rushed.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
I want to say a HUGE thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and author K.L. Slater for providing me with an ARC of this book.
The Apartment follows Freya Miller and her daughter Skye, who are adrift and alone. After her husband’s betrayal and losing her family home, she’s on the brink of despair. That is, until she meets the charismatic Dr. Marsden. He offers Freya a way out in the form of an affordable and good looking flat for rent.
Adder House seems too good to be true… Right? But Freya can’t question it; she has nowhere else to go. Until the secrets start unfolding… Things DO seem too perfect, but also off in some way. What is going on here?
This book was a page turner and kept my interest the whole way through. I also loved how it brought in some classic psychology to the story line. The twist was unexpected, and I enjoyed the ending.
Please be sure to pick up a copy of this book when it comes out on April 28, 2020!
Thank you again to all those listed for the chance to read & review this book!
This is a great read that had me hooked from the first few pages.
Freya is looking for somewhere to live with her five year old daughter, following her husband’s death.
She meets Dr Marsden in a coffee shop and he offers her an apartment in Kensington which sounds too good to be true.
Freya and Skye love it so move in shortly after meeting him, but soon realise there’s something strange going on.
Skye wakes at night from hearing voices and objects are moved round her room. Freya hears noises as well and starts to wonder if she’s going crazy.
Freya looks into the person who lives there before, and what she finds out shocks her to her core.
There’s other residents in the building, but who can Freya trust?
This is a gripping psychological thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. I've previously read K.L. Slater and loved her quick, fast-paced writing. This one fell a little short for me.
Freya and her daughter Skye need a fresh start after her husband has an affair, leaves her then passes away. Enter Dr. Marsden, casually running into Freya at a coffee shop with the opportunity of a lifetime. Freya thinks she's finally turned around her luck, but nothing is that much of a coincidence. Addler House is beautiful and somehow her rent is half of what she expected, which sounds too good to be true, right? Where's the catch?
The catch here sounded an awful lot like Lock Every Door. The entire time I was reading this book, I felt like it was almost a copycat of Lock Every Door. The basics were the exact same, with small differences to set it apart. Lock Every Door was a huge hit for me, this one not so much. Freya was a likeable character, trying to ground herself without uprooting her daughter. Skye was the most likeable character in the book and my heart ached for her throughout the novel. Slater's writing kept up with the fast-paced action I liked from her previous book, Single, but it was just missing a thing or two. The ending felt rushed, with lots of questions left unanswered. When I finished reading, I put the kindle down and said 'what?' because it was so jumbled and all over the place as an ending. I do think this would be a hit for thriller lovers, as it has the elements to be good, but I just couldn't get my head around the same vibes as a book I've already read. Check it out if you want a quick basic thriller.
If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Sometimes though, you just have to swallow your cynicism and hope that it isn't.
After an unfortunate 18 months which saw Freya lose her husband and her home, she is forced to wonder how she will adequately provide for her daughter Skye. With rent prices at a premium and Freya being out of work, she's understandably worried.
Enter Knight-in-Shining-Armour Dr Marsden. A retired doctor who is prepared to rent her a vacant apartment at a fraction of it's market value. No strings attached. Or is there??
This book was gripping, albeit a little uneventful at times, with just enough twists to keep it interesting, topped off with an ending I never saw coming.
Special thanks to Netgalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you @netgalley for my gifted copy of “The Apartment” by K.L. Slater in exchange for an honest review. I love a good psychological thriller and this one will have you on the edge of your seat until the very last page! I had a hard time putting this one down!
Recently widowed, Freya and her five year old daughter Skye think they are in luck when they are offered an apartment in a renovated mansion called Adder house for a very low rent. However, their dream soon begin to feel more like a nightmare when strange things start happening. Soon Freya doesn’t know who to trust or what to believe. Is she really losing her mind or is something more sinister happening?
Freya is down on her luck after her husband’s death. No job, in need of a place to live and trying to help her 5 year old daughter, Skye, adjust to the new changes. Freya gets a surprising offer from a stranger, Dr. Marsden, to move in a swanky new apartment for a fraction of the cost. She and Skye move in and strange things start happening...
What I enjoyed most was the backstory of her husband’s affair, wanted more on that. The lack of common sense was disappointing. It’s very hard for me to get into a story when the main character makes incredibly dumb decisions that put them in direct harm. You have a bad feeling, sneaking suspicions and uneasiness yet move in anyway???
The Apartment ticked all the boxes for me based on the blurb, but I was left a little disappointed with it.
Freya and her daughter, Skye, move to an apartment that seems too good to be true. Its stunning, its dirt cheap and in the heat area in London. It's the fresh start they have been looking for but things start to seem a little off.
The premise intrigued me, but a few chapters in and I felt the book just wants going to live up to my expectations and I wasnt wrong.
It felt rushed, thrown together, with a narrator I often felt frustrated at. The story itself just felt too far fetched and the relationships in the story felt convenient, and not quite believable.
The positives about the book is that it's a quick and easy read. I finished this in pretty much a day. It's a story that draws you in, but dont expect to be bowled over with the storyline.
I would rate it 2.5/5.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for an advanced copy of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What did I just read? So many continuity issues and the most hurried and confusing ending ever.
Beware of things that seem too good to be true. Freya and her young daughter, Skye, need to start over. Reeling from losing her husband and having to sell her home, Freya isn't sure what the future holds for the two of them.
Then she meets Dr. Marsden by chance. Or was it? He offers her the opportunity to live at Adder House, a beautiful home where the residents are carefully selected. Freya would be a fool to say no.
The house holds secrets and Freya quickly begins to question her decision to move in. This book was impossible to put down. It had a lot of twists and turns. Overall I enjoyed it but there were chapters meant to hint at what was going on and I found it confusing. It interrupted the flow of the book. I wasn't a fan of the ending but I find that I'm difficult to please when it comes to the ending of psychological thrillers. I'd definitely recommend this book if you're looking for a page turner. Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the advance copy.
This is a fast-paced psychological thriller about a woman and her five-year-old child finding a new place to live that’s a bit too perfect. What’s really going on in the mansion filled with apartments? And who, if anyone, can they trust? These are the main themes of the book.
As usual, K.L. Slater has written an entertaining story. I was able to guess the identity of the villain way too early, though, and parts of the ending seemed way too over the top. Despite this, I’m sticking with a 4-star rating since The Apartment kept me quickly turning the pages.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC. This review contains my honest, unbiased opinion.
Me again, review below for ‘The Apartment’ and next up and yet another fav author Sue Watson with her soon to be published new book’ The Sister In Lew’
‘The Apartment’ by K.L.Slater published by Amazon Publishing on April 28th in E format but out now on Audible
266 Kindle Flicks
Freya is at her limit, her hubby left her to move in with an older ( not younger, this bugs her ) woman and then he dies, she is short of cash and is now looking for somewhere to rent.....she lives in Acton and is in a cafe in Kensington when a Dr Marsden just happens to be placing an advert for an apartment he has to rent, an apartment in ‘Adder House’ in a salubrious glorious street nearby
Of course its way out of Freya’s reach
But then Dr Marsden tells her he likes to help ‘good causes’ and asks her to say what she can afford and the place is hers
Now in a non book world she would have walked away and known for a fact it was dodgy, but this is the book world and although tentative she accepts
Her and Skye ( her daughter ) move in and its wonderful, until ...... it’s not and when she find out just what the other residents of Adder House are up to she will regret ever speaking to Dr Marsden never mind moving in..
A good quick thriller of a read with spooky characters and a very different back story to the norm, a naive but likeable Freya and a reminder that ‘if it seems too good to be true, it generally is’
8/10
4 Stars
This book was amazing! It grabbed my attention right away. The storyline was extremely suspenseful. The characters were intriguing. The ending a complete surprise!
First of all, thanks NetGalley and K.L.Slater for the advance read opportunity.
I have never read a book by K.L.Slater before so I didn't know what to expect. The book flows very nicely, easy to read. I wanted to keep reading to see what was going to happen. Unfortunately, it never had a big "wow, I cannot believe it" moment for me. It's still a good book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
I enjoy reading psychological thrillers, and The Apartment fit the bill. The creepy characters, the quick pace, and the nearly believable situations were enjoyable. The ending was short on details and a bit too simple to match the rest of the story.
The Apartment- K.L Slater: I devoured this book and thoroughly enjoyed it. It gave me goosebumps and made me constantly feel on edge and always left me wanting more. If I didn’t have a child I definitely would have devoured this book in one sitting. It’s creepy, eery and very chilling. The old saying “something is too good to be true” is the whole main theme of this book.
Freya is a single mother whose husband has recently died after leaving her for another woman. Freya has no choice but to sell her family home and find a small flat to rent with her daughter Skye. An elderly man approaches her in a cafe and offers her an apartment in the better part of London and offers her a too good to be true deal. Freya is very suspicious but accepts his offer. However, things then begin to spiral out of control when weird things start happening around the apartment. Freya begins to hear strange noises, her furniture keeps being moved around during the night etc.
This is the first novel I have ever read by K.L Slater and it definitely won’t be the last. I highly recommend this novel and give it 5⭐️
Brilliant suspenseful thriller connecting the past and present, that kept me engaged and engrossed, well written and gripping about a Freya and her daughter Skye that move into an apartment in Kensington, only to find strange things happening inside it.
Based on a true life case from the 1920’s. The story is interwoven between that era and the present. Highly enjoyable read and recommended.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! This one really was a disappointed.
The description made it sound like it would be the perfect read for me.
I've enjoyed other books by this Author, but sadly this one wasn't enjoyable.
Freya and her daughter Skye, desperately need somewhere to live after life has thrown hurdles in their direction. A chance meeting in a coffee shop gives them an amazing life line. A chance to start afresh. As things start to get stranger, Freya is left questioning her sanity and wondering if she has made a mistake. I have read a number of books by K. L. Slater and can honestly say I have never been disappointed. "The Apartment" can be added to that list. Ms Slater has a talent of bringing her characters to life. Her books are always unique and unlike anything else out there. If you enjoy this one, I can recommend "The Visitor", "Finding Grace" and "Liar" as some of the other great books by this author
Freya is a newly single mom looking for a place to live. While in a coffee shop she meets a man who offers her an apartment in the rich neighborhood for only $500 a month. Great can't refuse the offer and they move in as soon as they can.
Skye is the only child who lives in the complex but the neighbors, especially Lillian doesn't seem to mind. She has treated Skye as a grandchild and helps Freya from time to time babysitting. After a couple of weeks, Freeya starts to feel like the owners are being too evasive. She also hears weird noises and Skye keeps notices things moved around. Michael, the owner assures her she's just an over worked mom and makes Freya second guess herself. Perhaps she really is going crazy. She never did know her parents and grew up in foster care.
I really did enjoy this book. Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for my honest review.
Being home is giving me time to do a lot more of what I love ...read. I sat down with this and finished in one day. I could not put it down, even while making dinner I kept it with me. A real page turner, keeping me on the edge of my seat with an ending I did not see coming. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but I’m most definitely going to read more. A great psychological thriller.
The novel is centred around an interesting premise, exploring human psychology and the limits to which we can be pushed. There is a split narrative between the protagonist, Freya, mother of one, and an unnamed figure, who lurks behind corners and in coffee shops watching her every move, and an interesting textual layer of diary entries from the 1920s, detailing psychological experiments that took place with an eminent doctor at the time.
The old adage, if it seems to good to be true it usually is, is clear from the start of the novel. Freya, whilst not an unsympathetic character, is woefully naive in thinking that there's nothing suspicious about renting a charming apartment in London's swanky Knightsbridge for the princely sum of £500. It's so clear from the start that this is a bad idea that the atmosphere of the house and the growing menace isn't properly executed or particularly gripping, which is a missed opportunity. Old houses provide such fertile ground for eerie and unsettling goings on, which we just don't get a sense of here.
I also found that the secondary narratives were woefully under explored, and the unnamed figure particularly seemed to be there more for style than substance. There were missed opportunities to flesh out concepts, scenes, and in particular, conversations and relationships that develop between the characters, which all seemed to progress at quite a pace towards the latter half of the book, leaving more than a few gaps and unanswered questions.
With thanks to Netgalley and Amazon publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When I'd read the synopsis for this book I was immediately hooked because it soundes similar to Lock Every Door and I really loved that book. Both of them take place at a creepy luxurious house with peculiar neighbours and both of them are dressed in mystery.
The main character, Freya, doesn't have the best time of her life. Her husband, who recently abandoned her and her 5-year old daughter for another woman, died. She doesn't have a job and on top of that she had to sell her house when she doesn't really know where she will move.
Then she gets a too good to be true offer to live in a luxurious house near Kensington Palace and the rent is up to her.
I definitely liked the relationship between Freya and Skye, their moments were adorable and I liked how she took into consideration her daughter's feelings. Skye was absolutely the best and sometimes she felt a little bit older than five years. I also really liked the neighbours because they definitely added to the creepy atmosphere of the place.
The story was definitely a quick read, I felt like I was flying through it but I quickly realised that this is nothing like Lock Every Door. I'm not a pro in mystery thrillers, but this has nothing from the creepy atmosphere and suspense of Lock Every Door. More than half of the book was about Freya's relationship with her husband and about them moving to new house and dealing with changing school and stuff. It was I think 60% when the story picked up and it started to get somewhat spooky but even that felt very confusing and mediocre.
What confused me were the different timelines and different storylines. We get the present, some of Freya's past and then we also get these weird chapter of unknown character who is stalking Skye and who shows us a professor doing experiment on a boy.... I was very confused by this and felt indiferent.
The whole climax wasn't nearly as dramatic as I would like, maybe because the suspense picked up way after the half of the book and it didn't have enough time to really sit with me.
Overall I quite enjoyed the story as such but I definitely wanted something more, at least based on the blurb.
Things were looking better for a struggling single mom when she gets the opportunity to move into a new luxurious apartment with her daughter. But the apartment comes with its own sinister secrets and soon unsettling occurrences start happening.
I finished this book yesterday and was literally blown out by it. This isn't just a regular piece of fiction, it's more than that. The story is wrapped around real events in history, highlighting the horrors of unethical scientific experiments practiced on humans (a minor in this case) in the name of progress of science. I jumped onto google as soon as I finished this book, and was just appalled by it. As they say, truth is stranger than fiction. Much appreciation for the author for writing this, my heart goes out to the victim.
As for the story itself, it's instantly gripping and a very fast read. The sense of creepiness and unsettling keeps on growing with every chapter, and keeps you on your toes throughout. Even though it revolves around a sad event in history, it's not disturbing at all. Highly recommended if you like reading about mad scientists and even if you don't, this makes for a very enjoyable, thrilling read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the eARC.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC
This was definitely a first class read, It kept me on the edge of my seat.
I have to say that the "experiment" made for extremely uncomfortable reading. An excellent idea for a plot though- quite ingenious
Very well written and constructed. I had no issues at all with the text.
The characters were well drawn and I did sympathise with Freya and Skye. I did not guess the ending (I always try not to anyway). This is the first book I have read by this author and it certainly won't be the last= I love the plot development and the writing-5 star read
This is my first KL Slater read. Thank you Netgalley for the intro. An addition into the popular family, domestic suspense genre that is tough to set down. If you enjoy fast paced edge of your seat suspense this is a do not miss. Enjoy.
Sometimes things ARE too good to be true. That's the case here for Freya, and her daughter Skye. A young widow who has lost everything in paying off her husband's debt, she thinks the offer of a place at Adder House is going to solve their problems. Dr. Marsden and his wife seem so nice. Until things start to get creepy. Very creepy. Who is watching them and why? Who wrote the diary? You think you'd pack up and leave but Freya doesn't and you probably wouldn't either because it's a great deal and well, it's not that bad, is it? Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This slowly ups the tension and while some of the subplots feel a tad superfluous, it's a good read - sort of like watching one of those horror movies where you keep telling the heroine to get out of the house.
Freya’s husband leaves her and their daughter, Skye and he dies soon after. With money tight and in desperate need of accommodation for herself and Skye, Freya can’t help but think her luck is in when she’s offered a flat in a large house for little money. They soon move in to Adder House and it’s not long before things start to happen.
It’s a shame Freya didn’t think of the saying ‘ if something is too good to be true then it usually is’!
The Apartment is a fast paced and intense psychological thriller. Adder House comes across as a very creepy house and gave me the shivers. I found myself shaking my head at how naive Freya came across. I loved Freya and Skye’s characters. I was gripped by the story and couldn’t put the book down.
I felt myself being sucked in, unable to put the book down as I watched the hot mess that is Freya, repeatedly and naively ignore blatant red flags. Her desire for something affordable and stable wins out despite the warning signs. The premise of a desperate mother who just wants a place to live, a home for her daughter which turns out too good to be true, was fun.
There were a few minor inconsistencies that stood out to me. The ending felt too neatly wrapped up without explaining certain things. But despite that, this was an enjoyable read. I requested this from Amazon Publishing UK because the premise sounded fun and it was an author I hadn’t read before. But then I undertook the task of scanning all my books into a tracking app, and it turns out I have a book by Slater. I don’t know if this was the best book to introduce me to her writing. This was a good premise, with a few hiccups, but a fun, 3.5-star read.
While this book was described as a psychological thriller, it was more of a horror story in my opinion. I got about 25% through and could not finish. Thank you for the opportunity to review, but it just wasn't for me.
This book is a fast and fun read-perfect for fans of psychological thrillers. It isn't mind-blowing literature to any extent of the imagination, but it is engaging and entertaining, perfect for a day at the beach or a rainy day inside. It is an easy read that readers will devour quickly because they can't wait to find out what happens next.
The premise of the book is pretty simple. Things were looking quite bleak for single-mom Freya and her daughter Skye until they were given an amazing opportunity to live in an upscale apartment for far less than the going rate. But of course, as the saying goes, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Immediately upon moving into Adder House, Freya and Sky begin to notice is is not a ideal as they had hoped it would be.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and K.L. Slater for the opportunity to read this entertaining book. It is my first book by this author, but it will not be my last.
After the untimely death of her husband, Freya and her young daughter Skye are forced to sell their home. Freya is planning to stay with friends until a chance meeting with a stranger at a coffee shop provides her with the opportunity of a lifetime - a luxury apartment at a very low rent rate.
Of course, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. While initially Freya and Skye are enamored with their new home, some of the other residents seem to be hiding something.
There were a few questions left unanswered, and after an entire book building up to the climax, the ending felt a bit rushed.
The book is very fast paced, and the ending a bit predictable, but it is still a fun read.
I read Lock Every Door by Riley Sager a few months ago and this has a similar premise - a too good to be true apartment but something isn't quite right. I felt some parts were predictable but I did enjoy the ending.
Kindly received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
“The Apartment” is a quick, easy, read, with a premise that doesn’t hold up to scrutiny right from the very beginning. No one with Freya’s life experience could possibly be naïve enough to enter into such an agreement, however desperate she is. The ending twist also required much too much suspension of disbelief. I did like the child Skye, and the writing was workmanlike. However I wouldn’t recommend it to a friend.
Its been a while since a book sucked me in to the point where I picked it up one day and finished it the next. But that's exactly what happened with The Apartment. The premise of the book was good and a great basis for a story. Loved this book a lot. Would recommend.
THE APARTMENT by K. L. Slater is the first book that I have read by this author. While various reviews are mixed, this psychological thriller worked for me. Freya Miller’s husband left her for another woman and then died before they divorced. With a five-year-old daughter, Skye, to take care of and no job, she has to sell their small house and find a place to rent. When she runs into an older gentleman at a coffee shop with flyers for an apartment to rent, it seems too good to be true. Adder House has six apartments and the small one on the third floor becomes Freya and Skye’s new home. But is it too good to be true? When little things start happening, is Freya imagining it, or is there more going on in the house?
The prose is nicely descriptive and flows well. I was drawn into Freya’s plight immediately. This is not a hard-core psychological thriller, but it captured my interest and kept it throughout the book. I rooted for Freya and Skye to survive and find happiness. While some of the plot twists were expected, there were others that caught me by surprise.
Overall, this was a suspenseful, well-paced, tense and compulsively readable novel. I look forward to reading more books by this author. I recommend this to those that like psychological thrillers that aren’t on the extreme end of the genre.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and K. L. Slater for a complimentary ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
Recently widowed and in a dire situation, Freya Millers is offered the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live at Adder House, luxurious South Kensington apartments, for inconceivably cheap rent. The landlord, the seemingly charming and philanthropic Dr. Marsden, assures Freya that she and her five-year-old-daughter Skye are perfect tenants for Adder House. However, as soon as they move in, strange things begin to happen. Now, Freya must gauge if these sinister happenings are real or figments of her imagination...
The Apartment opens to a chilling premise, and Slater delivers with smart writing, engaging characters, and a foreboding setting. The atmospheric Adder House is stunningly eerie, with an intriguing backstory that is sure to leave readers on edge. Overall, The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a quick read, fast paced, and perfect for fans new to the genre.
This psychological thriller is about a young woman and her daughter who rent an apartment in an old mansion. The rent is substantially less than market value but while she has some misgivings she takes the rental. She gets some odd looks when she tells people that she resides at Adder House and wonders why. She gradually becomes suspicious of her co-renters especially the owners a brother and sister who had told her they were a married couple. As she learns more about the house and former residents as well as the odd things happening around her she becomes more and more afraid for her and her daughter’s safety and sanity.. the ending is suspenseful.
In a lot of ways I was not finding this book a read filled with much mystery and suspense. At the same time, I could not stop reading it right to the end. So. One-star or five-star.
If something is too good to be true, it probably is. When you are vulnerable and your world is upended by grief, your instincts are dulled and you can be easily taken in by situations you would normally avoid. Freya is a single mother who was recently widowed. She and her daughter Skye had sold their house so quickly they desperately needed a place to stay. Freya had limited financial means, so she has few options of where she can live. One day at a coffee shop Freya is looking at the bulletin board that has rentals posted. While looking a man comes up to her to post a flyer with a rental on it that he is renting out. They chat and he offers her his apartment which is in a posh part of town. He tells her she can rent his apartment for what she can afford. She cannot believe her luck and accepts. Freya and Skye move in and things take a strange twist that you could never imagine. What a twisty creepy story that kept me reading well into the wee hours. I would highly recommend this book!
This reads very similarly to Lock Every Door and so it has a solid base in the creepy apartment building with creepy residents who obviously have a secret agenda in mind. The main character is a good voice who propels the narrative forward well and carries across a sense of naivety and fear. There's a good build-up to the move and the set up with the doctor is great as well, so there's a lot to be said for the 'too good to be true' concept.
I thought that it was a very leisurely read, with some delightful twists that were great for the purposes of this novel, but I also wasn't sure on some plot points. It felt like some things were missing, such as the death of the main character's husband and what precisely the experiments undertaken were.
With that being said, this is still a fast-paced thriller with some interesting ideas behind it. It could have benefitted from not ending so abruptly as well, and the book could have easily been a little longer. However, a nice afternoon read with some thrilling moments and concepts!
Omg this kept me on the edge of my seat. It did freak me out a few times i felt like i was living the nightmare.. It does make you wonder if there are people like this in real life and how you cannot always trust people. The old saying too good to be true
**THIS MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS**
After the death of her husband, Freya is desperate for a new start for her and her daughter sky. So when a fancy apartment at Adder house is offered to her by the mysterious Dr Marsden, how could she refuse? But, all is not as it seems.
This is a super fast paced thriller, the writing style leaves the reader instantly gripped. As soon as Dr Marsden is introduced, the suspense starts to build as you need to know what he is up to.
The descriptive writing builds the perfect creepy atmosphere surrounding the apartment. As a psychology graduate I also really enjoyed all the psychology tie ins surrounding the Little Albert experiments.
The build up throughout is fantastic and keeps you on edge, however, I did feel the ending fell a little bit flat for me. I thought there was a few areas that could have been explored such as Freya's past traumas and the death of her husband.
That being said, this is good suspenseful read that I couldn't put down and would definitely be interested in reading any future work from the author
This psychological thriller was a really quick read for me. I really enjoyed the characters in The Apartment and didn't know which ones to trust or not. The Apartment is told from the point of view of Freya, the main character. She is at times unreliable and you aren't sure to believe her or not. I felt that the ending was rushed but at the same time did not see the ending coming. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick thriller read that keeps you guessing.
Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for this read!
i was given this book by publisher and netgalley for an honest opinion and review.
this is a good psychological thriller. lots of twists and turns and the ending was not what was expected.
it is about a mother and daughter that find a new place to live that just seems a little to perfect but than they move into the apartment and strange things start happening.
i feel like this book was similar to another book i read recently about an apartment where strange things occur.
Although well written, proofread, and copy edited - except for chapter 39 where the name of the school changed for just that one chapter - i wouldn't call this book a "thriller". the first 90% of the book is a very S L O W accent to the actual "excitement" and then, after a brief period of mild excitement, it just falls flat. It was well written but i spent all my reading time waiting for it to get good.
This is a good and snappy thriller which I think will grab people’s attention. The only downside for me is it’s a bit unbelievable and a tad too suspenseful. I am afraid personally I am not a fan . But I can see it’s an easy read and is written well. The story is gripping and it flows very well.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy of this book!
Freya was incredibly frustrating as a character. I don't understand how she's so naive and trusting when she's already been betrayed by her HUSBAND...I spent most of the book rolling my eyes and asking why she was being so foolish. I did not identify with her at all.
There were some mildly creepy elements, but nothing really had me on the edge of my seat. In some places, the writing was a bit confusing so I had to read the same section multiple times. The ending fell flat for me, and I was left with some unanswered questions. I'll still read other books by this author though.
This book was decent. I wasn’t amazed nor was I overly bored. It feels like a premise that we are seeing a lot in recent thrillers of moving into a place that is creepy with weird tenants and many secrets.
I enjoyed this book and found it a real page-turner, but the ending was a disappointment. The author seemed to run out of steam and there was no real tension in the final resolution. A good holiday read, but not as good as some of the author's other books.
Thank you so much to Amazon Publishing UK, K. L. Slater, and Netgalley for letting me fly through this amazing book! It was spooky and eerie and got me in the mood for Halloween (too bad it’s April). I was on the edge of my seat and kept waiting for someone or something to pop out of the walls or ceiling.
This book reminded me a lot of Riley Sager’s Lock Every Door. The setting was an apartment that just happened to come up for rent when a down on her luck woman, Freya, needed it. It seemed too good to be true; cheap rent, an amazing building, and all expenses paid for. Freya wants a better life for her daughter Skye after her father is killed.
I loved all the backstory put into the characters and the small creepy elements that made it a quick and entertaining read. I wasn’t sure where the story was going, as it was creepy from the first page. The book was a psychological thriller, and had a lot of elements of psychology that made me especially interested. As a psychology major, I actually learned a lot about the Little Albert case that was referenced.
I felt like the story-line added a new twist on a classic story. Even though I did guess the ending, I still loved the story and the build-up to get there. In the end, I would give it 4.5-stars and can’t wait to read another book by K. L. Slater!
Average Plot but Nicely Paced
A single mother in financial stress, finds an offer for a luxury apartment that is literally too good to be true. In her current financial state though she can't help but accept the offer. After moving in, strange noises and occurrences start to happen as well as disturbing things from the past occupants come to light that have the mother questioning her decision altogether. Is she going crazy or is something nefarious occurring?
The author provides a simple plot combined with a decent pace that leaves the reader with a relatively entertaining experience. It is a very quick read as well. Additionally, this book is very similar to Riley Sager's "Lock Every Door". Although, I ultimately prefer Sager's book, it created more apprehension and suspense.
I have read several K. L. Slater books and I think they are all very similar to one another in style and pace. Each one is an average plot, average suspense and a quick fast paced read. I generally have rated all of them 3 stars. Even though I don't rate them very high, I still find myself reading her books because I do enjoy the fact I know exactly what I'm getting when I read her books. That I will have a decent quick entertaining read without having to think about it too much. It's nice to have a "go to author" for that reason.
*Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK via NetGalley for access to the digital review copy
A good read for all mystery enthusiasts. Good character development and the plot has some good twists and suspense. A worthwhile read - I could not put this book down till I finished it!
The Apartment by K. L. Slater
**I have received this eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank You!**
Review
This is my first book by K. L. Slater that I have read. This was an engaging book that kept me on my toes through. I thought I knew the ending many times before I was reminded that I knew nothing.
My only gripe is that the ending did feel rushed and I was not left feeling satisfied.
This was a great psychological thriller if that is what you are into.
3 star Review.
I have bought and read many K.L Slater books. This one just was not for me, not a big enough twist or crazy enough ending that made spending all that time reading it worth it.
The Apartment is an easy "read in an afternoon" kind of book and doesn't muck around. At no point was there a slow pace for me: it was short and punchy, with the tension continually ramping up.
I guessed the twist on this one, but by no means did it spoil the experience for me.
Looking forward to exploring the rest of KL Slater's books!
Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
I really don’t know what to make of this book. It started off well, the writing is fairly descriptive and has a nice flow to it. The story follows Freya and her 5 year old daughter Skye. Following the death of Skye’s father they need to move and Freya needs to find a job to support them both. When she’s approached by a stranger in a coffee shop, he offers them a once in a lifetime flat in the posh part of London for minuscule rent. Freya believes this is too good to be true but she can’t turn it down. Not long after moving in strange things begin happening and Freya needs to figure out what is going on and whether their fresh start is in fact too good to be true.
Thrillers are my thing, my go to genre but this story just didn’t pack a punch. I felt like all the elements were correct, creepy setting, weird bunch of characters and some strange happenings but in theory nothing really happened. A few flies and some noises... nothing that was chilling or made me feel a bit spooked. It just felt like the story could have went somewhere and I was waiting and then it just didn’t. I guessed the ending from the moment they moved into Adder House. It’s always the character you least expect and that rung true in this case.
All in all I just wanted, yearned for so much more. I love thrillers that centre around creepy happenings in a flat/house/hotel/cabin whatever like The Turn of the Key and Lock Every Door but this didn’t click with me the same way at all. The ending was entirely rushed and there was no big reveal really just ‘oh here’s the weirdo and here’s your child back unharmed’. The epilogue was also very convenient, they escaped unharmed and now she’s in a new relationship and happy ever after... yawn
I read this book nonstop, and boy it was so good! Creepy but in a good way too! It just goes to show you should always trust your gut when it tells you something is wrong, there was definitely something wrong in this apartment! Will absolutely read more from this author!
I absolutely adore a good thriller, so when I got the opportunity to read this I was immediately excited, it sounded like something I would definitely be interested in. The book follows Freya and her young daughter Skye, who are currently grieving the loss of Lewis, Skye's father who passed away in an accident. Following financial struggles, Freya is approached by a man who offers her a potentially "too good to be true" opportunity to rent a flat in the luxurious Adder House. During their stay in Adder House, strange things begin to happen and Freya's trust in the residents at the house is tested.
What I found interesting in this book is the use of the real-life study of Little Albert in the field of behavioural psychology. As someone who has studied psychology in the past, I was very familiar with this study and was definitely intrigued to see how it would come into play within the plot. However, I'm not entirely sure I ended up liking this style of writing. Knowing that this study was conducted in real life, and the ethical implications of the study, I'm not sure it quite ended up having the payoff I would have liked to have seen. It felt kind of forced and I'm just unconvinced it was necessary as a plot device.
While the plot definitely kept me hooked throughout my reading, it was slow at certain points and felt kind of repetitive at times. It felt kind of like we were going round in circles knowing from the beginning that we weren't to trust the residents of Adder House, and I didn't feel any sort of betrayal or shock at any reveals. Everything remotely shocking came right at the very end of the book and all happened very quickly and honestly just didn't really hit very hard for me, it felt kind of lacklustre and disappointing. I didn't feel entire satisfied at the end and still had some questions about side characters and their actions, and I felt like we needed more of a wrap up than a very short epilogue.
It was a perfectly enjoyable read, but definitely not something I would see myself rereading. As I was reading the book, it felt like it was kind of similar in vibe to Lock Every Door in terms of a person in financial struggle being offered a suspicious opportunity, but Lock Every Door absolutely knocked this idea out of the park and had such shocking twists and turns, and would 100% recommend that book more!
Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK for sending me this book to review!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and K. L. Slater for a free electronic ARC of The Apartment in exchange for an honest review!
The Apartment was my first introduction to K. L. Slater. Unfortunately, this introduction was not great, as this book completely fell flat and did not work for me.
The Apartment follows Freya Miller, and her five-year-old daughter, Skye, as they move into the apartment of their dreams. Located in a super posh area in London, the Adder House is offered to Freya for a fraction of the cost, as she and Skye are just the type of tenants that Dr. Marsden is looking to have live in his beautiful and luxurious building. What Freya believes to be too good to be true, turns out to be just that, as she quickly discovers that the rest of the tenants, are strange and overbearing, hiding secrets, and seem to be watching her everywhere she goes--inside her own unit!
The Apartment was a quick and easy read, but I felt that I was never really able to get into the different characters’ stories. Other than Freya, the characters lacked depth and I found that certain relationships did not develop properly whatsoever. It also seemed strange to me that Freya could be so trusting, and divulge her whole life story to others within two minutes of meeting them.
I’d also like to add that while this book mostly took place in the present, it also featured some journal entries written by Beatrice (who turns out to be Freya’s ancestor) in the early 1900s. These entries focus on some sort of psychological experiment that is re-created (in the present) at Freya’s expense. The connection of these journal entries to both the main character and the ending of the book did not make any sense to me. I felt that the journal entries themselves came out of nowhere and were not transitioned into the story line in the best way. I also found the ending of the book to be really rushed, and as a result, I could not follow it properly.
Overall, I think the premise of the book could have been interesting, but it was not executed properly and I found the entire story to be completely unbelievable.
1.5 stars, rounded up!
https://rebekahreads.ca/the-apartment-by-k-l-slater/
This was a great quick read. I’m a big fan of this author to begin with and they didn’t disappoint. I wasn’t sure where the story was going to go and I was hooked right from the beginning. I would definitely recommend
Well this is certainly different from the usual crime/thriller books I read. I have to say it was very gripping and it did spook me at times.
You just know that Freya isn’t imagining the noises, the flashing red lights, but what we don’t know is why. It was a shame really because the house itself appeared to be beautiful and in different circumstances ideal, but wow it was creepy.
There was a couple of loose ends, who was the man who Audrey was enamoured with? We didn’t find that out and some of the other residents we didn’t get to meet.
All in all, I enjoyed it, it was different. Made a nice change from murder.
My thanks to K L Slater, the publishers and netgalley for the ARC.
"There's something about that place that's just not right. I know you must feel it, too."
I feel it! But Freya is sticking her head in the sand, because she just wants to be happy! Who could blame her? Her husband cheats on her, leaves her, then dies. Now she's broke and jobless with her young daughter, Skye. She just sold her house. Can't she catch a break? In walks Dr. Marsden with the champagne apartment on a platter - at beer budget price. Should she have looked the gift horse in the mouth? (Yes.) But she. just. wants. it. to. work!
But things get weird quickly in THE APARTMENT. Little things that had her (and me!) questioning her sanity. What is really going on? Are her and her daughter in danger?
I really liked this book! It really created a nice concept of place! I could picture Adder House and it's posh neighborhood! Being able to walk to Kensington Palace. I ate that up like bread pudding! Or some other English dessert! I also love a British feeling book - Jane Austen and Harry Potter long ago made me an Anglophile! - and this one definitely fit that bill.
I loved that it involved "Little Albert" - a child in a psychological experiment by Dr. Watson (father of behaviorism) that involved creating fear in a child. I'm pretty sure if you've taken a beginning Psychology course they will have talked about this (Am I right?). Most of the psychological experiments that were conducted in times previous, that we study today in Psychology programs at the college level, were unethical by today's standards. Or really by anyone's normal standards. But "Little Albert's" study always stuck with me as especially cruel, as it involved a child. Anyways, if someone doesn't know that psychology has a weird and dark history - or if they're uninterested in that sort of thing - then I could see where they may not appreciate this book, but to me it was completely up my alley!
And I liked the ending! I guess I'm in the minority on that, but I thought it made perfect sense. I had a couple (minor) questions at the end, I felt didn't get answered, and a couple things I wish hadn't been rushed, thus the 4 instead of 5 stars.
But still, I truly enjoyed this book! I couldn't put it down! It has the suspense amped up making it a quick read! And it had great characters and an entrancing setting!
MY RATING:
Characters: 5
Story: 4
Overall: 4.5
YOU need this book if you're looking for a quick, psychologically thrilling trip to London!
FOLLOW ME (please!) and see more reviews @ www.mamaneedsabook.blogspot.com
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
This is a 3.5 rounded to 4 rating on The Apartment by K. L. Slater The plot line was okay though the first action taken by Freya is one where you are going not only no, but he’ll no, and The Apartment is full of these.
The book, The Apartment, opens up with a woman being observed at a coffee shop by a gentleman, Dr Marsden, while she is perusing the For Rent ads on the local bulletin board.
Frey’s is a recently widowed woman in London with a 5 year old daughter Skye. Her husband, Lewis, had just left her for her good friend and then is dead. She is trying to figure out her next steps. Dr. Marsden offers her a crazy opportunity to rent in the exclusive Kensington area for a ridiculously low cost which is the first hell no moment. Then there several more!
The Apartment to me was not bad, not great and had good twists though I had it figured out pretty quickly.
#TheApartment #netgalley
Have you ever heard the saying "if it seems to good to be true, it probably is"?
Freya Miller is down on her luck. After the unexpected loss of her husband (which we never learn how he died; irrelevant anyhow), Freya must find a new place to live for her and her five-year-old daughter, Skye, before his insurance money runs out. As she's browsing the posted ads for available places to rent, the enigmatic, yet charming Dr. Marsden appears with several brochures for the recently-vacated apartment in his building, the Adder House. This apartment is near the illustrious Kensington Gardens, and is far outside of Freya's price range, but Dr. Marsden assures her that they choose their tenants based upon fit with the rest of the residents, not ability to pay. Brushing off the warnings of her closest friends, Freya and Skye move in within the week but quickly find themselves experiencing odd and downright terrifying things.
This was a phenomenal, tension-building thriller, and I found myself at the edge of my seat wondering what was coming next. Slater painted the deliciously creepy villains, Dr. and Mrs. Marsden, with excellent detail, down to the types of riches that they had in their apartment and their incredibly odd/somewhat disturbing behaviors. I loved the references to a well-known psychologist and his study that was conducted in the 1920's, as I felt that it added a lot of depth to the story. The only thing that I'd change about the novel is the ending. While it provided resolution, I wished that the author would have spent more time detailing the climatic event with Freya and the Marsdens. That being said, this was truly a crazy ride, and I'd recommend it to anyone that enjoys thrillers.
Creepy and twisty! Loved this book and so glad I’ve had the chance to explore more of this author. Thank you so much!!
3.5 Stars Rounded to 4
The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a quick, attention getting thriller. Some things are truly too good to be true as Frieda and her 5 year old daughter Skye find out. While I enjoyed this book, I was a little disappointed in the ending. There are a couple of holes I felt were not filled in. Overall a good book with characters you'll love to either love or hate.
Thank you to Netgallery and Amazon Publishing UK for the free digital copy in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. All opinions are my own.
Amazon review to be posted once published.
I had mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, I liked the premise a lot and found the old psychological writings interspersed with the narrative intriguing. On the other hand, I felt there was too little of that, and too much time spend on everyday aspects of a mother and child who are moving to a new apartment. The beginning of the story moved a bit slowly for my taste, and I felt that a pivotal event/discovery about 50 percent of the way through could have been made earlier in the the book for more suspense.
In retrospect, I think this is a "don't judge a book by its cover" situation. I'm a big fan of B.A. Paris, and the cover of this book was a lot like hers, which put me in mind to expect a fast-paced, high octane type thriller that I was excited to read. Instead, I agree with a previous reviewer that this book was a bit "flowery" and took quite a bit of time to get to the scary part. Ultimately, not a lot happened to the main character and her daughter until the very end, and there just wasn't enough mystery in the previous case to draw me in.
The ending of the book, though, was good, but a little abrupt - I wish I'd seen more hints and details and scariness about what was ultimately happening in the house before the end of the book.
I think if the description and marketing of this book painted it as less of a psychological thriller, or if I had been expecting less of a fast paced book, I might have enjoyed it more if I read it in a different mood. But as a psychological thriller it lacked some action and scariness for me. The author is a good writer, but I would have liked a little more octane.
“The Apartment” is a mildly entertaining, fast read that is competently written with a well-developed main character. However, it fails to deliver on the “thriller” aspect as explained more fully below.
In this book, Freya is desperately trying to find an apartment that she can afford to live in with her 5 year old daughter, Sky, since she must move out of the heavily mortgaged house she recently sold. She had lived in the house with her estranged husband, who moved in with another woman, and then was killed, leaving Freya a very small life insurance policy that will only last her about 6 months. While in a Starbucks searching apartment listings, a Dr. Marsden approaches Freya and offers to rent her an apartment in a house in a wealthy section of Kensington at a very low rate. The offer appears too good to be true, but Freya needs to find something soon and can’t resist the offer. Freya soon learns that her instincts to distrust the generous offer were well founded.
Although the story was competently written in such a way that you sympathize with Freya and somewhat feel her anxiety over the experiences she has at the house, the story nevertheless feels a bit dull. Specifically, a lot of the story is focused on her child care responsibilities (moving her daughter from her old school to a new one, helping her daughter cope with the changes, etc.) which are somewhat tedious. Moreover, nothing that happens at the house is all that scary.
Overall, the book is a quick average read that will keep the reader mildly entertained but does not rise to the level of a “psychological thriller.”
“The Apartment”—K.L. Slater [3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫] This was my first read by this author and I quite enjoyed this fast-paced thriller. Freya Miller has not had much luck recently with the loss of her husband, and she’s about to lose her home and the security it provides for her and her five year old daughter Skye. Worried about what her next move is going to be, she’s in a coffee shop and meets the charismatic Dr. Marsden who offers her an amazing opportunity to live in an affordable apartment in the fancy Adder House in London. He is quite sure that Freya and her daughter will be a great fit there and will get along great with the residents. She thinks this will be a great chance for a fresh start for her and Skye. Freya starts to realize that the Adder House has some secrets. Odd things start occurring and she feels like she is being watched, and her hopes for a promising new start start to become a nightmare. As we learn more of the truth, will Freya and Skye be able to leave the apartment, or will they be trapped there? This book only fell short of 4 stars for me because I was expecting a little more from the ending and I had a few unanswered questions. I would definitely recommend checking out this book if you like a good thriller 👍🏼 *Thank you to @netgalley and @amazonpublishinguk for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review*
A page turner book
About a woman who loses her husband in an accident, but he was leaving her for an older woman.
The wife was selling the house and had to move.
Freya was in a coffee shop and a guy offered her an apartment for cheap rent.
Psychological thriller
Thus was a really good book. It kept my interest, and I totally guessed wrong about some of the characters. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
Although I wanted to keep reading and find out what was going to happen next, I feel there was something missing. I think there needed to be more to the back story. I feel the story ended to quickly with a brief explanation of what was happening in Adder House. I believe this could have been a better story if there was more detail with regards to the other tenants and to the history that led to the current situation at Adder House.
Freya’s life is one hot and complicated mess!
K.L. Slater has an engaging writing style and I became an instant fan after reading “Closer”, which was amazing. I wish I could say that I was as impressed with this one. I’m not sure why, but this one just didn’t do it for me.
I’ve read so many good books lately, maybe my expectations were too high.
<b>My Rating:</b> 3 ⭐️’s
<b>Published:</b> April 28th 2020 by Amazon Publishing UK
<b>Pages:</b> 270
Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and K.L. Slater for this digital ARC, in exchange for my honest opinion!
#MysteryThriller #TheApartment #NetGalley
Freya needs a miracle. Following her husband’s betrayal she’s about to lose her family home and needs some kind of stability and security for her daughter Skye. After meeting Dr Marsden she’s given an opportunity she can’t afford to pass up. A luxurious apartment in a wealthy part of London for peppercorn rent - she’d be a fool to pass that up. Dr Marsden is adamant she’ll be a perfect fit for the property and the other residents but is it all just a little too good to be true?
With a sense of being watched and items moving is this her dream home or the start of a nightmare?
The Apartment was just the kind of psychological thriller to get under your skin that I was craving. In fact I quite simply loved it! Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing Group and the author for the chance to review.
A Real Page Turner...
I was perpetually on the edge of my seat. It was terribly hard to put it down. Even when I had to absolutely put it down to fulfill some personal task, oh, boy oh boy, it occupied my mind, could hardly wait to get back to it. And when I do, I imagine myself feeling like I'm teetering on a precipice. The author is brilliant, it is so well written it made me vacillate between believing and at the same time doubting the heroine, Freya, that she's over imagining things and losing her mind. It was so compelling it constantly made me feel something foreboding and frightful is about to happen, I was in a constant state of comprehension, waiting for something with anxiety and fear. I highly recommend this book, something to take your mind off of fear from the Covid-19 pandemic. It'll save you from being bored quarantining yourself.
This is my first read of this author and it will not be the last. What a great read it is!
3.5 up to 4 stars
Freya's husband left her for another but died before they could get divorced. Freya has to sell their house but with nowhere to go she doesn't know where to take her daughter, Skye to live. Along comes Dr Marsden, Mr too good to be true, with the perfect solution to her problem. From here this creepy psychological drama (not really a thriller for me) moves at a comfortable pace but has a fairly predictable plot. The character development is good enough to make me interested in Freya and Skye's situation but I never felt a real connection. It's well written with just enough tension and suspense to keep me turning the pages, but then it ended and left me thinking "well that was nice, now on to my next book!"
Thank you Amazon Publishing and NetGalley for granting me a copy to read, review and enjoy.
This book is excellent for a bit of escapism.
It’s super easy to read and quite short so it’s punchy and there’s no unnecessary detail or information. It’s well written and for a thriller, it’s comforting in its predictability. This is not a bad thing though, I enjoyed the story and the premise is unusual and it keeps you hooked til the end.
It doesn’t drag on at the end either which I like, sometimes I find myself stopping reading books after the ‘big reveal’ because it’s all a bit extraneous after that but this doesn’t do that!
'The Apartment,' by K.L. Slater, has a fantastic premise that keeps you turning pages despite some literary weaknesses. The main character and her daughter are endearing and believable. The mystery is teased out in a way that you want to find out how it all plays out! Plus, the cast of characters are somewhere between sinister and quirky - seeing how they piece into the puzzle will keep you reading.
The read is easy and quick. If you are prone to skimming it will be simple to keep up with. The ending does play out. However, overall the story has some loose ends that could have been tied up more neatly. The ending was a bit rushed and the explanations a bit too loose for what I like in a thriller. If you are a fan of psychological thrillers you will want to read this one. If this is not your main genre you will probably find those deficits extremely irksome.
Wow. I can’t even begin to describe how enjoyable “The Apartment” by K. L. Slater was. I received an e-mail by NetGalley advertising this psychological thriller and was intrigued, so naturally I had to learn more about it. While reading the summary, I was reminded of one of my favorite Riley Sager books called “Lock Every Door” and immediately requested an eARC. I was thrilled to be approved for this, eager to see the similarities and differences of this story compared to “Lock Every Door.” I had high expectations for this storyline going in to reading it, and I absolutely was not disappointed.
“The Apartment” is about a woman named Freya Miller and her daughter Skye, who are going through a really rough time. Freya’s husband has not only recently left her to be with a former friend of hers, but a few months later he suddenly passes away. After his passing, Freya is about to lose their family home and is desperate for a miracle to swoop in and save them. While visiting her local Starbucks, Freya stumbles upon a chance encounter with a gentleman named Dr. Marsden, who happens to be there putting up rental signs for an apartment that is shockingly affordable in an upscale area of London. Convinced that Adder House is too good to be true, Dr. Marsden insists that Freya and Skye come by that evening to look at the apartment, insisting that they would be the perfect tenants. Not being able to afford passing up such an incredible opportunity, she obliges, falls in love with the apartment and is officially moving in to her new home a week later.
Not long after arriving, Freya begins to realize that there is something dark and mysterious about Adder House and that the residents aren’t exactly who they appear to be. Freya and Skye experience a lot of unexplainable things such as hearing voices and crying, feeling like they’re being watched, furniture being moved, cameras suddenly appearing in the apartment, and much more. As all of this is going on, Freya discovers that just a few months ago, a tragic incident occurred involving a woman and her daughter, who happened to reside in the same apartment prior to Freya moving in. Desperate to leave, Freya is left wondering if her encounter with Dr. Marsden at Starbucks was truly by chance, or completely intentional… Will Freya and Skye be able to escape Adder House? Or will they experience the same fate as the previous tenants…
K. L. Slater is a fantastic storyteller. This is the first book I have read by her and after reading, I can easily see why she is the bestselling author of nine psychological crime thrillers. The story plot and buildup was perfect- I was on the edge of my seat the entire time and could not put the book down, finishing the story within 24 hours. The ending happened pretty suddenly (within the last 3-5% of the book), and while it initially raised several questions for me about what was happening, most of them were answered in the epilogue and I feel that I ended up being left with an appropriate amount of wonder upon the story ending. While I really enjoyed the character development of Freya, the Marsden’s, and Lily, I wish that the Watson’s could’ve had a stronger role in the story- it almost felt like they existed for the sole purpose of being later referenced in one sentence at the end of the story. The only other thing that I would have liked to see at the end of the story would have been more specific details about how Skye was adjusting after her experiences at Adder House, especially since we were able to get that closure for other characters mentioned in the story with similar experiences.
I was pleased that while the initial summary of the story reminded me so much of “Lock Every Door,” overall the storylines were totally different. Without giving any details away, I thoroughly enjoyed the psychology experiments that were referenced in this book and was pleasantly surprised by how they were spun into the story line.
If you love psychological thrillers and are a fan of “Lock Every Door” by Riley Sager, I highly recommend checking out “The Apartment.” Thank you so much to Thomas & Mercer for providing me this eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I look forward to receiving my preordered copy on Pub Day, April 28th!
After her husband betrayal, Freya is in desperate need for a place to live for herself and her five year old daughter Skye.
When she meets Dr. Marsden and he offers her a place at Adder House, it sounds too good to be true. As she settles in, she feels as if the walls have secrets.
Constantly feeling like she is being watched, and after finding a concealed camera, she realizes the home is more a nightmare than a dream.
Because this was a quick read, the characters lacked time to fully develop. The story felt rushed, and the ending seemed confusing to me.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher, for an ARC and the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer/Amazon Publishing, and K.L. Slater for the opportunity to read and review her latest thriller - 4 stars for a quick, entertaining read.
Freya is a single mom to Skye, still reeling from her husband's betrayal and death, and desperate to quickly find an apartment she can afford after selling her home. When a man approaches her in a coffee shop with an offer to rent an apartment near Kensington Palace in a gorgeous building, she is cautious but feels like she has found the answer to all her prayers. But of course some things are really too good to be true!
Another good read by K.L. Slater!
An entertaining and intriguing read.
The reader feels empathy with Freya as the tension mounts up throughout the book.
I still had a couple of questions at the end but generally it was a quick and easy read, an ideal holiday read.
The Apartment by K.L Slater is a 4 star read.
Freya’s husband left her for another woman and died a few months later leaving her a single mother, she needs to sell the family home and look for somewhere affordable for her and her daughter to live, she meets Dr Marsden in a coffee shop and he offers her an apartment to rent in Adder house for a price she can afford. It doesn’t take long for weird things to start to happen and the too good to be true apartment turns into a nightmare.
This is the first book from this author I have read and I really enjoyed it, the characters were well thought out and I really felt like I was in Adder house, I am looking forward to reading more from this author. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book through Netgalley.
This was 4.5 stars, raised to 5. Freya is a recent widow under difficult circumstances. Her husband had left her and their young daughter for her “best” friend. Shortly thereafter he died. She is financially strapped and meets a man in a coffee shop who tells her about a small apartment in a very nice part of London that is available to the right person. After seeing it, she takes the apartment and moves into it with her daughter. From then on, nothing will be the same. Going into the details will lead to many spoilers . All the reader needs to know is that this is a very well written psychological thriller and that it will be a most gripping read for most who like that genre. Thanks to Net Galley and Thomas and Mercer for an ARC for an honest review.
The Apartment: K.L. Slater
Release Date: 4/28/2020
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer
Eerie, captivating, and cinematic; a dark psychological thriller.
Down on her luck, Freya Miller needs some help. After her husbands death, she is unable to keep their home and is searching for a way to give her five-year-old daughter, Skye, the security she needs. After nearly hitting rock bottom, she meets charismatic Dr. Marsden who offers her a lovely apartment, located in an expensive area in London, for a mere $500 monthly. Something is too good to be true. As Freya’s attitude from hope and excitement shifts to paranoia, she starts seeing her apartment for what it truly is: a living nightmare.
The Apartment was a perfectly paced, with slow-burn chapters followed by fast-paced excerpts, that I completely devoured in a day. Genuinely could not put the book down. If you are looking for a quick, suspenseful, and all-consuming read, this is it. ALSO, I was a science major during undergrad and took the MCAT. This book covers a controversial topic that all science majors will be aware of and I was thrilled to see the plot thicken because of it. THRILLED.
Overall, LOVED this book. By far my favorite psychological thriller I’ve read this year. It did give off a bit of ‘Lock Every Door’ vibes but as it progressed, it was clearly different in its entirety.
Along with posting on Net Galley, I will be posting my review to Goodreads, Amazon (when it becomes available), my Instagram (which has over a two thousand book review followers) and my blog. Please find the link to my blog post below. I am very grateful for the opportunity to review such a raw and gritty thriller. All opinions and thoughts are my own. Thank you very much.
Link to Blog Post: https://ifyoucanreadthisdotblog.wordpress.com/2020/04/23/the-apartment-k-l-slater/
Link to Instagram Post: https://www.instagram.com/ifyoucan_read_this/
Link to Goodreads Post: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/112342382-chanel-johnson
Respectfully
Chanel Johnson
This was a great psychological thriller. It reminded me of Rosemary's Baby and Riley Sager's Lock Every Door. This one kept me guessing until the end. I would definitely recommend this one too thriller lovers!
This book had an unsettling vibe from the very beginning. You just knew something wasn't right. I was guessing until the end and while the ending felt a bit rushed, overall I enjoyed the book. The writing was well done and the characters, even the creepier. ones were interesting. It was fairly easy to connect with Freya, a newly single mother, trying to do the best for her daughter. I read this book in less than a day - it's a page turner for sure.
This was my first K.L. Slater book and definitely will not be my last. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the gifted copy in exchange for my unbiased review.
I will be posting the full review for this book on. my blog and will update the link then.
This was a very interesting book, especially in this age of pandemic. I read it in a day, and enjoyed the twist at the end, I feel a bit disappointed that there are quite a few unanswered questions and I had some difficulty with understanding why some tidbits of information were necessary to the story line. I did some research on my own after finishing the book, which is a good thing. I kept thinking that it might make a good "made for tv movie", which is not a compliment or a good thing. I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley.
Wow when I tell you this was a good one. I don't like giving too much away in my review so I'll keep it simple. A woman and her five-year-old daughter get the opportunity of a lifetime to move into this beautiful apartment building for a very limited amount of money. The landlord's not only give them this apartment but other gifts as well. But some things are not right with this house even though it's beautiful and big ... something is going on with the tenants here as well as the landlord. But are Freya and her daughter Skye in danger or if she just being paranoid??... also what I loved about this book is that it references an experiment done by scientists and Doctor many many years ago I don't want to give too much away but the baby was named little Albert. So if anyone is familiar with that experiment this ties in with the book. That's what me this book way different than the other ones that was a really good twist that I never saw coming.
Thank you Angela @readinginhouston for setting up our buddy read with this one!
This psychological thriller was a fun, fast read, but it left me with many unanswered questions.
Freya Miller is the mother of five year old daughter Skye.
After her husband left her for another woman and then died, she must sell the family home to settle their debts.
Now she is desperate to find a new, affordable place to live.
While at a coffee shop, a chance meeting with a charming, but slightly creepy retired doctor, offers an opportunity to live in a high quality apartment at Adder House in Kensington, an exclusive neighborhood. The rent is cheap, an offer that might be too good to be true, but she overcomes her doubts.
After Freya and Skye move in, strange things begin to happen. She meets the eccentric neighbors and becomes unnerved and distraught at the sinister happenings in the house.
The author kept up the tension till the end. Then I felt disappointment at the reveal and thought some of the story lines were left dangling.
Thank you Thomas & Mercer for the e-ARC via NetGalley.
3.5 stars, rounding down to 3 stars.
From the moment Freya Miller meets Dr. Michael Marsden, I had the same feeling I get when watching one of those final girl type movies. My spidey sense was on high alert, much higher than Freya's. She is thinking that today is her lucky day and I am thinking, run! Freya is, unfortunately, intrigued.
Michael offers her an apartment at Adder House, located in an upscale neighborhood and someplace Freya can not afford. Another lucky break, as Michael states the rent is negotiable based on the tenant's financial situation. The only caveat is that the person must be the right tenant, and Michael knows that Freya will be perfect. Did I mention my spidey sense, run Freya!
In the blink of an eye, Freya and her five-year-old daughter Skye are moving from their old house into this new apartment. I think they had about five minutes of peace before their good luck ran out. Skye starts behaving strangely, Freya hears and sees things that may or may not be real, and if Michael seems odd, well the other tenants are not far behind. While Freya starts to question what is going on, she continues to believe there must be something wrong with her, not Adder House. Again Freya, I implore you, run!
But I suppose luck was with me today, as Freya doesn't listen to me. This was a quick read, only 266 pages, and my self isolating, sleepless nights are my new normal self finished The Apartment in a few hours. The characters are well written and if you think you know what is going on, you might, like me, have to think again. A page flipper and I was reminded on Riley Sager's Lock Every Door more than once.
In exchange for an honest review, I received an advance copy from NetGalley. I am sure that this will be billed as a “psychological thriller” and it is much more of one than many I have read in the past. Freya and her daughter Skye get to move into a wonderful apartment. This is good new for them as Freya’s husband has died, after leaving her for another woman, and she is has virtually no money. Of course, weird things happen in the apartment. And there was a suspicious death. And a cute guy. All these things make it a little formulaic for me. It’s not bad, but sometimes I’d just like an unusual ending. Read this book. It’s a nice, light read.
Hmm... I feel like this was an ok book. It was so far out there that I kept thinking, just get the hell out!! It was a bit far fetched for me. You knew something wasn’t right from the get go. Thank you to Netgalley EU for the early read.
The Apartment is the latest thriller from K. L. Slater. The reader quickly learns the direction this story is heading, but there are enough twists and turns to make it an interesting read. I want to thank Net Galley and Amazon Publishing UK for the early copy to review.
Big fan of her books! And who doesn't love a good story about creepy things happening in apartment buildings with odd landlords and weird tenants? When Freya and daughter Skye are offered an incredible deal on an apartment in Adder House, they have no idea what they are in for; Freya quickly becomes paranoid when she senses she's being watched, they hear voices, and Skye's furniture is re-arranged. But of course you'll never guess what's behind it all as the premise involves behavioral studies from the 1920's. Prepare yourself for a wild ride (and don't plan on moving anytime soon if it feels too good to be true)!
What I most enjoyed about this book was all the questions that arose while reading the book. Questions like, what the heck is happening? Why her? Don’t you miss him? Could it be this or that? And at the end, all of those questions where answered. It was a satisfying feeling. I recommend this book for readers who looking for a fast read. If you read many genres and you want to dive back into a thriller, this is a great start. It’s short, tells a story, keeps you questioning, what the hell is going on. This book is a great fast paced book for those looking to read a good puzzle.
A creepy addictive psychological thriller that kept me hooked throughout.
Freya and her daughter Skye are struggling after the death of Freya’s estranged husband. A chance meeting in a coffee shop leads to their luck changing, or has it ?
Dr Marsden invites Freya and Skye to look at an apartment in Adder House. The apartment is great and with a rent reduction being offered can Freya afford to turn it down ?
A week later Freya and Skye love into their new apartment but some of the other residents are a little strange and weird things start to happen. Is it all in Freya’s head due to the stress or is something not quite right with Adder House and it’s inhabitants.
A chance meeting with a local builder cause Freya to be even more concerned but will she discover the truth ?
This is a great psychological thriller with a creepy setting and some very creepy characters. I really loved Freya and Skye and was cheering them on from the very start. If you love psychological thrillers with some added creepiness then this is a real treat !!!!
Thank you to Amazon Publishing and NetGalley for a digital copy of this book.
The Apartment
by K L (Kim) Slater
Freya cannot believe her good fortune. She is graciously offered a lovely apartment in the beautiful Adder House residence in Kensington, just perfect for her and her young daughter, Sophie. When unexplained things begin happening, Freya must decide - is it her stress and anxiety? or is something more sinister going on?
This is truly a page turner, an unrelenting psychological thriller that takes hold of you in the first chapter and doesn’t let up until the epilogue. This was a quick read that will elevate your heartbeat and keep you glued to the story. Easily a one sitting diversion. I debated between a three or four star rating because while I acknowledge the writing and psychological suspense aspects, I really didn’t connect with the characters. The creepy atmosphere and bizarre characters are so disturbing. I almost abandoned the book at 95% but plowed through because I just couldn’t put it down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon publishing for my advanced copy.
Wow!
I’ve never read this author before but I’m glad I have now.
Started and finished in less than a day, absolutely amazing and disturbing.
The literal definition of a page turner, I would urge any thriller fan to read this novel.
Can’t wait to read more of the authors works
The Apartment by K.L.Slater was a good read. Too good to be true or kindness when you need it? That’s what Freya struggled to decide. Things are not as they initially seem to her, nor perhaps as we think either. I had a fair idea of what was going on so no major surprise there but nonetheless the book moved along at a decent pace with enough credible action to keep me reading. A good read but some bits could perhaps have been developed a little more- like the story of the ex husband and others perhaps given more depth with a slower easing of Freya and her daughter into their new and exciting fresh start
I received this copy from netgalley.
I loved it. it is my first book through this author.
I am looking forward to reading more of them
wow what a thriller!!!
So I got the book through NetGalley.com and I am so happy I got to read it before its release.
By the way this book is amazing. I am HERE FOR ALL THE DRAMA!!!!!!! Ok it didn’t have to much drama, it was just so much mystery its wild stuff! I promise I wont spoil it, but for sure this read was straight to the point, and I love that.
This book is about a woman trying to start over with her daughter. She has gone through things in life that you cant even imagine, and now with a daughter of her own, I totally understand why she wants the best for her daughter. Freya is in this vulnerable state, its wild, she is a product of a fostering, her husband left her for someone else and also died recently, she has to get up and make moves with little income, so the offer to live in one of the most well recognized houses was a dream come true for her.
But of course not everything is as it seems. The tenants are weird, her landlords are double weird, she is seeing thing, and her daughter is all over the place with her emotions, its crazy! And the twist is what got ME! I am a sucker for twists, and the twist in this book right here took me to TOWN!!!! Thanks for this amazing read.
This is a difficult book for me to review. I enjoyed the story, but I've heard it before. Having previously read Lock Every Door by Riley Sager, it was nearly impossible for me to read this book or write this review without comparing the two books. I do understand that is extremely unfair to the author, and I am trying my best to leave that out of this review and the rating. There are just too many similarities, from the main characters having lost loved ones and being alone and vulnerable at the time they learn about the apartment, to the apartment rent being too good to be true, to the rich tenants (aside from the main characters) who never discuss the past of the apartment/building, to the foreboding facade, to the old lady tenant being the only trustworthy person in the building.... need I go on?
The Apartment is a slow building story about Freya and her daughter Skye who are down on their luck after Freya's husband/Skye's father has an affair and leaves them, and then ultimately dies shortly after. Freya and Skye are forced to find a new place to live when, with a twist of fate, Dr. Marsden appears and offers Freya an apartment in a wealthy neighborhood for hardly any rent. Freya and Skye accept the offer and move in to the new apartment at Adder House. Once they get settled, things start to get weird. Skye overhears Dr. Marsden mention the little girl who lived in the apartment before she did, while Dr. Marsden told Freya they were the first tenants in that apartment. It later is revealed that there was a tragic accident in relation to Adder House as well, but no one wants to discuss the details.
Freya starts looking into the past of Adder House and its previous tenant to figure out if she and her daughter are safe. She starts hearing noises and voices, things start moving around without Freya or Skye having moved them, and Freya starts seeing strange things as well. Could all of this be the work of her ex-husband's new girlfriend seeking some type of revenge? Could Adder House be haunted? Could Freya just be extremely stressed out from the move and the grief of the last 18 months?
This story starts off interesting enough to keep you turning pages, but nothing of much significance really happened until about 60% through the book. There was a lot of back story into Freya and Skye's lives, and also flashbacks to a doctor and his experiments in the 1920's. It was a little confusing with the 20's flashbacks until about 95% of the way through the book when it is tied into the story, kind of. I felt these flashbacks should have had a bigger part in the story, and should have been resolved more in depth by the end since they happened throughout most of the book.
As much as I felt bad for Freya's character and was hoping everything would work out for her, I also found her wishy-washy and a pushover. For example, in chapter 33, she makes the statement, "....but they will be under no illusions how I feel about it now." Then, the next sentence goes on to say, "He was so contrite and apologetic, in the British fashion. I found myself assuring him 'no harm done' before he left. But that wasn't really a truthful response." So in two sentences she is vowing to stand up for herself, and then doesn't follow through. This is just one example, but it goes on throughout the entire book.
I think the loose ends were tied, but the more I think of certain events in the book, the easier those knots are coming loose. There are at least two events that I feel were not fully resolved that I wish had more of an in-depth finality. I also thought that by the 85% mark, the tension was building and I was waiting for a blow-you-away ending, and instead it was very anticlimactic. I was awfully disappointed in the ending, not just because it felt like a let down, but because overall it seemed unresolved.
I really did enjoy this book until the last 10%. The ending really made a huge impact on my rating for this book. The anticlimactic ending after what seemed to be a long, slow tension building story, coupled with the unresolved aspects just really made it disappointing to finish. I debated for a long time on the rating, and unfortunately, the more I think of some unresolved events the more I have to give this book 3 stars. There was just too much that wasn't tied up tight enough by the end. I would recommend this book to friends, and I am willing to read more by this author. This book unfortunately just missed the mark for me.
I was so looking forward to reading this book and I have really enjoyed books by this author before but there was just something lacking in this and I just can't put my finger on what this is.
It was of course, well written and wasn't a difficult read at all but I just didn't feel as if I could believe it.
If you're looking for another Lock Every Door by Riley Sager...look no further. You've found it.
Well, a much less interesting version, that is.
I struggled and lurched through this story, waiting for something, anything, to happen. At about the 95% mark, we got a little action, but it was so silly, I was forced to bring out my infamous eye-roll.
I suggest reading some of the positive reviews to see if this sounds like a book you may enjoy. For me, it simply didn't work.
Available for sell in the U.S. on April 28th.
Many appreciative thanks to the publisher for my review copy.
The Apartment is another solid thriller from K. L. Slater. It’s a well constructed slow burner that builds to a satisfying climax, which is just unfortunately over too quickly!
After the death of her husband, Freya and her daughter Skye’s lives are upended and they have to move house to maintain some financial stability. Freya thinks her luck has changed when via a chance meeting, she is offered an apartment in an exclusive Kensington building at a price that might literally be too good to be true. As strange events begin to unfold and Freya’s very sanity is pushed to its limits, will she discover the truth about Adder House...and more importantly, will it be in time for her and Skye to escape?
The Apartment is an fun read, which initially trundles along nicely with sprinklings of suspense and action, which gradually build and intensify as the plot develops. Slater builds some strong atmosphere in places and there were certain chapters that I couldn’t consume quickly enough. Freya is a well developed character and I found myself routing for her throughout. Peppered through the narrative are chapters that are written from a mystery point of view, revealing details of a rather unsavoury and very unethical experiment on a baby during the 1920s. These chapters allude to the conclusion, without revealing who is responsible for trying to drive Freya insane. The final reveal was not a revelation I hadn’t seen coming, but the story is neatly wrapped up and I came away satisfied.
My only real critique is that once the unsettling events began to unfold and the pieces of the puzzle started to come together, events wrapped up very quickly and I felt that there could have been more opportunities for heart-pumping action and tension. However, despite this, The Apartment is still a well crafted and enjoyable thriller that is great for a quick read. 3.5 star rating
I keep hearing great things about this book, but I couldn’t even get a quarter of the way through this one. It was so boring that I just couldn’t do it. Maybe I should have kept going, but the story just didn’t hook me. The writing and the characters just seemed blah. If I can’t get into it after 40 pages, I’m out. Such a disappointment by a great author.
I will leave a review on Amazon or B&N on April 28, 2020
The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a psychological thriller, and my first book by this author. Overall I found the book very well written, it started out a little slow at the start but then the pace picked up. As the saying goes if something seems to good to be true, it more than likely is. That certainly was the case in this book. I would recommend this book to those that enjoy a good thriller.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy of the book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Review of eBook
After her husband’s death, Freya Miller needs a new start. She’s sold their house to pay the bills and now she needs somewhere to live with their five-year-old daughter, Skye. But money is tight and Freya has no job. While worrying about what to do, she stops at the local Starbucks coffee shop where she meets Doctor Michael Marsden, a charismatic gentleman posting a flyer about an apartment available for rent.
Despite the fact that the apartments in the exclusive, upscale area around Adder House regularly command a much higher rent, Doctor Marsden tells Freya this one is available at a nominal cost. Finding herself intrigued, she seriously considers taking him up on his offer for her to rent the apartment.
Soon thereafter, Freya pushes aside her initial uneasiness and moves into Adder House with her daughter. But she believes someone is watching her, she hears voices, and she discovers some things moved around in the apartment; all of these episodes serve to intensify Freya’s paranoia. Skye has some difficulties with the move as well, most notably in that it means she will attend a new school, leaving her best friend, Petra, behind. But she hears voices, too, and has nightmares. And yet, Freya cannot seem to find any rational explanation for these events and she writes them off as worry giving way to paranoia or the child’s difficulty in dealing with the sudden changes.
Is Freya becoming overwhelmed by her circumstances and imagining things? Or is there something sinister about the situation in which Freya now finds herself?
Two plots unfold in this quick-read narrative: the story of Freya and Skye and the story of a long-ago research project involving a baby and his mother. The first unfolds in the present-day narrative while a series of journal entries interspersed in the present-day story reveal the backstory of the latter.
Freya has an exasperating tendency to make choices based on her erroneous belief that she is over-reacting or being paranoid. While this might be forgivable once or twice, her continual propensity to ignore that “gut” feeling is certain to frustrate readers. Unfortunately, the too-good-to-be-true situation doesn’t cause her to immediately turn and run; she continues to make cringe-worthy choices, leaving readers to roll their eyes in annoyance.
While Freya and her daughter are believable, well-developed characters, much of the telling of the tale focuses on every-day sorts of things such as traveling to and from school or moving from the house to the apartment. These scenes do little to move story forward and, while well-written, tend to diffuse any building sense of impending catastrophe that readers might feel.
With the other characters lacking strong development, readers remain woefully ignorant about the residents of the South Kensington apartment building. It is clear that everyone is hiding something, but the lack of any real information about these people leaves the reader floundering for some sort of an explanation. Something untoward is occurring at Adder House and, at times, there are strong scenes that successfully build suspense, but the ordinariness of Freya’s everyday life tends to overwhelm these foreboding episodes until late in the telling of the tale.
The ending, while a bit of a believability stretch, does answer most of the questions; however, an inference to Freya’s previous mental illness goes without explanation. More importantly, the elephant in the room [what happened to Lewis] remains unanswered. These are plot points that are certain to leave readers feeling a bit short-changed.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley
#TheApartment #NetGalley
I received an ARC copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for my honest opinion of it. After Freya's ex-husband died, she is desperate to find a new place to live for her and her daughter, Skye, as she can no longer afford her house. She meets an older man in a coffee shop who offers her an apartment that the rent is based on what she can afford. She falls in love with the apartment and it is just too good to be true. After Freya and Skye move in, strange things begin to happen and she soon finds out that a previous tenant died. I really was not impressed with this book at all. I normally love the work by this author but I just felt like when I was finished with it, there were so many parts of the story that were not answered.
Glad to find another great read by the author!!!! Absolutely one of my favorites. I can't wait to dive into more of her stories
Faced with the challenges as a single mother, Freya had to uproot her five year old daughter Skye from the home she grew up in to an apartment across town. The home she lived in with her husband was sold.
At a coffee shop observing flyers for places to rent, Dr. Marsden approaches Freya with a solution. He’s in need of a tenant at the Adder House in which he resides.
Overall:
The prologue was an excellent preview of what’s to come. KL Slater’s words provided just enough information to hook me in. The premise was quite promising leading me to believe I was heading into a ghost story. The cover is absolutely stunning. The title was another leading factor for me wanting to delve into The Apartment.
Imagine my surprise when I realized this is not a ghost story or a haunting. Once I got over my initial shock and disappointment that I wasn’t going to read about this monster house I redirected my focus to the new tenants and there story. When that didn’t seem to be all that inspiring I spent my time investigating all the tenants. What else could I do since that’s the direction Ms. Slater guided me. I got to say I wasn’t not impressed with this direction. I had it in my mind that the Adder House was an entity of its own. I presumed this house would be treated as any other character.
It’s a character driven story focusing on the tenants who inhabit inside the Adder House. I thought the house would be suspicious and creepy not the tenants.
I was slightly taken back by the experiment scenes. The introduction to these scenes was abrupt to the story. These scenes came out of left field and didn’t seem to fit in with the rest of the story, but then again I was so set on this house being haunted.
Its with much regret that I find myself not as invested in this book as I had originally thought. The premise, the title, and the cover were all leading factors, yet the dialogue and direction took a turn I wasn’t planning for. When it was all said and done I wasn’t impressed. The house wasn’t the entity I thought it was going to become. The outcome was anticlimactic.
What would you do if approached by a random stranger in a coffee shop offering you the opportunity to live in a beautiful apartment in an expensive city like London at a ridiculously low rent?? Well, cynical old me would run a mile, wondering what the catch was since such an altruistic offer must be too good to be true. I’m sure many of us would do exactly the same but Freya, reeling from the death of her husband is desperate to make a new start with daughter Skye. Desperation can make you act entirely out of character so I can partly understand why Freya accepts Dr Marsden’s offer, seeing it as her last ray of hope in her otherwise gloomy world. Sounds promising so far.
However I wanted to grab hold of Freya and shake some sense into this woman as from the very beginning you know that this move will not be a good idea at all. She is an immensely irritating character, bemoaning her current status and I found it hard to conjure up any sympathy for her predicament. Alarm bells should have been ringing, alerting her to the strange atmosphere in Adder House, home to Dr Marsden and Audrey Marsden. He is incredibly strange, bestowing gifts on Freya and Skye when they first move into the apartment on the top floor, acting like a knight in shining armour. That didn’t seem likely behaviour at all in my opinion and my gut instinct would have told me be extremely wary. Freya doesn’t seem to possess these skills, all too ready to accept people at face value and quick to accept the hand of friendship, acting with extreme naivety.
Other residents are strangely absent, with Adder House largely silent which does add to the eerie atmosphere and provide some element of tension for the reader, wondering what may befall Freya and Skye whilst they are living here. Apart from a fleeting meeting in the garden with an ethereal like character called Susan and then a more friendly introduction to elderly Lily who takes a shine to Skye, I felt this novel was lacking in characters to provide more of a backstory to past events at Adder House, or perhaps more pertinently, those that do play a part are quite sketchily drawn so that I never felt a had a grasp of their who they were and their relevance to the storyline. The Marsden’s are the only characters that feature heavily, with Audrey an overbearing, rather cool and distant woman whilst the doctor is more of an old school type of gentleman but I liked neither of them.
There is some further tension created when bizarre things happen to Freya and Skye. Noises are heard, the source of which is impossible to detect and there just feels like an extra presence in the apartment with objects not in place where they should be. This is a well used method to induce panic and paranoia, in this instance into the mind of Freya whilst making the reader question what are the darker forces in play here and why is Freya their chosen subject. Whilst I flew through the pages, I didn’t feel there was enough tension created, finding it fairly easy to guess how Freya’s nerves are so put on edge but not the reasons why. In fact I would say not a great deal seems to occur until the very ending when revelations are all very rushed and frankly ridiculous. The author leads us to the conclusion with more insinuation rather than any shock inducing acts. Occasionally there are scenes from the past woven into the present time which of course do connect all these individuals together and odd snippets of conversation about a past tragedy at Adder House do finally make Freya distrust the Marsdens but perhaps a fraction too late??
This was my first time reading a book by this author and on this occasion I have to say I was disappointed and underwhelmed and it didn’t live up to expectation. Maybe it’s just this title and I need to explore others to get a better sense of this author’s style of writing. I’m incredibly appreciative of the chance to read The Apartment in the form of an ARC courtesy of the publisher and Netgalley, just on this occasion sadly it wasn’t for me.
A slightly creepy tale reminding us that if something seems to good to be true, then it usually is!
Freya Miller has lost her husband, she has to sell the family home, she's feeling vulnerable and emotional, and needs a miracle. Just when she's at her lowest, she's approached by a man in a coffee shop, offering her and her daughter Skye, a place to live. An amazing, expensive place in Kensington, for an affordable price!
It seems perfect, but is it? Freya feels watched, things move in her flat, and her landlords are very strange...
To say I was underwhelmed by The Apartment would be an understatement! I struggled to get through it, and had to force myself to read at times, luckily it was a short book! But I probably should have DNFed it really! It was a little bit creepy, but nothing like as scary as it could have been, and the tension and build up, could have been done a lot better!
This book was slow. The plot was repetitive, and seemed to go around in circles. Not much really happened until quite near the end of the book, and even then, I wasn't really shocked! I mean we knew from the start not to trust the other residents?!
I wasn't keen on this being written in the present tense. It was mostly written in the present, but would then jump back into the past, as we read someone's journal. I don't mind that in a book, if its done well, but the flashbacks in this book were confusing and uninteresting to me.
I didn't feel that the characters were well developed, aside from Freya, and even though her character was well fleshed out, I found her quite unlikeable. Her naivety was so ridiculous, that I just couldn't believe it! Who tells complete strangers such personal things about themselves, and lets them take control of their life like that?! The amount of red flags, would have had most people running, the minute they even visited the place! I could however, feel Freya's fear, panic and rising stress levels, as well as her love and protectiveness for Skye, so that was done well.
BUT, why didn't she ever google things on her phone?! Was it me, or did she wait until she got home to search on her laptop each time?! What decade was this meant to be set in? From the start, I was muttering to Freya that she should look into it more before making such a huge decision, but alas no...
The action did start to pick up at about 90% in, but then that ending happened.
After such a slow build up, it unbelievably felt rushed and sudden?! It was so far fetched, silly and pointless, that it was actually laughable. There were so many plotlines and characters that were left hanging! Why include them, if they're not going to go anywhere?! I had many questions after, and it quite annoyed me!
To sum up, The Apartment was boring, ridiculous and disappointing read for me. I haven't read anything else by K.L. Slater, and after this, I am reluctant to do so! I've heard this is reminiscent of Lock Every Door by Riley sager, which I own, but now am not looking forward to reading.
However, this book does have many good reviews, it sadly, just wasn't the one for me.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for my early readers copy, in exchange for an honest review.
This really required a whole lot of suspension of disbelief. Freya, the heroine with a propensity to vomit when under stress, seems unlikely to manage to exist in any situation especially one as complex as the one she finds herself in at "Adder House". Almost every aspect of this story seemed implausible and yet I continued reading it through to its most unlikely conclusion because I was intrigued to see how the author wrapped it up
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer/Amazon Publishing UK for the ARC.
I found this book really intriguing and well paced. I enjoyed the premise of the back story, the ‘Little Albert’ experiment of conditioning and found this very interesting. I think the book had the potential to be longer and go deeper into this experiment and also further with the story of Freya and Skye however I did enjoy the book even if it was over too soon. Elements of the book with the eerie too good to be true apartment did remind me of Riley Sagers, Lock Every Door.
Absolutely loved this book.
Freya and her 5 year old daughter Skye are having to look for somewhere to live on quite a tight budget following the death of her husband.
A chance encounter in a coffee shop.with a landlord looking for a prospective tenant leads Freya to Adder house, a complex which is way out of her league. However the property owner, Dr Marsden goes out of his way to enable Freya to move in. However the saying ' if it seems too good to be true it probably is ' seems to become a reality.
This book was a really easy read with twists and turns that kept me guessing and I would never have predicted the ending. Highly recommend.
The "new abode conspiracy gaslight" kind of theme is one of my favorites so I was eager to read this one. Story moved along well with breadcrumbs along the way keeping the interest. Interesting add in of the "Little Albert" study, which is famous for many reasons, although it gave away early on what was really going on, although that didn't ruin anything. I found this to be a rather easy read, wasn't particularly tense, and for those that don't like the violence and gore there was none here. I didn't feel the characters had a lot of depth, everything was kind of on a superficial level which is why I describe it as an "easy" read - a good book to hold your attention on vacation or kicking back.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read; it was fast-paced, intriguing and totally creepy!
This was a first by this author, for me, and it won’t be the last! The plot left me unnerved and hungry for more.
Freya and her daughter Skye are having to start anew, after losing their husband/dad and that means looking for a new apartment.
Whilst, actively looking for somewhere to live, Freya is offered an opportunity that sounds too good to be true. With an overwhelming need to prove her self-worth, as well as proving her capabilities as a parent, she accepts the offer.
What starts out as a new and exciting chapter in their life, fast becomes terrifying. All of the mysterious occurrences make Freya fearful for her own sanity and safety, as well as her daughter’s wellbeing.
There were times that I had to stop reading, just to savour what I’d read and to go “Oh my God!” The twists and turns kept on coming; they kept me on the edge of my seat, trying to guess what was going to happen next and I wasn’t expecting some of the twists that occurred.
I liked the character of Freya - her wavering boldness and the vulnerability that creeps up on her makes her reaction to the situations unpredictable and leaves the reader questioning how things will turn out for her and Skye.
Slater’s style of writing creates a sense of eerie unease from the beginning and you become so submerged in the story that you start questioning who to trust, as though you’re living through Freya’s experience yourself. It’s a rollercoaster of a read and I recommend that you pick this book up!
It took me awhile to get around to this book. I love the author, but there are very mixed reviews for THE APARTMENT, and some have compared it to Riley Sager’s LOCK EVERY DOOR, which left me feeling a bit underwhelmed. I was pleasantly surprised by this one.
Of course, the initial offer to move into the apartment is too good to be true, so we know something sinister is going on. The question is WHAT.
This is a fast-paced thriller that kept me intrigued throughout. While I may not understand some actions of the characters, I still think K.L. Slater does a great job writing them. The relationship between Freya and her daughter was very well fleshed out. The ending is a bit over the top, but I still consider this another successful entry in Slater’s work. 3.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you to K.L. Slater, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Based upon her previous successes, I expected “The Apartment” by K.L. Slater to be a great read. Unfortunately, this was not the case.
Perhaps it was the choice of using first person tense throughout the book while having more than one character narrate the story. This may have been okay, until one of the evil characters was also telling the story in the same tense. What really jarred was the word “you,” using second person POV to put the reader into the shoes of the antagonist. Jumping into different times and stories as well as the combination of the tense and the additional information presented from a researcher’s notes created a mishmash that at times was frustrating to follow.
What kept me reading was that the majority of the story is told through the eyes of Freya, mother of Skye. Despite the warnings of her friends as well as her own internal feelings, right from the beginning Freya is in denial of the inherent danger. As the story progresses, she recognizes events as strange and begins to question what is happening. This tension increases as the story progresses, and I applaud the author’s skill in this area. This is the book’s five-star element.
The ending, though, is abrupt, and the scene slowed due to an informational dump that could have been presented in the aftermath. Overall, while there is a suspense element it is forced to struggle against the author’s choices of plot and tense. This book might do well with Ms. Slater’s dedicated fans, but it was a middle-of-the-road book for me. I would have rated it a half star lower if not for the excellent handling of Freya’s storytelling. Three stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for a complimentary electronic copy of this title.
A must read! K.L. Slater is one of my favorite authors, and she didn’t disappoint with The Apartment!
This was my first book by the author and I'm not sure what I was expecting but I was pretty underwhelmed by the whole book. While the plot hinted at depth to characters such as Freya, rarely did it go on to explore these so everything felt a bit flat. There was quite a lot that wasn't explained generally and I kept expecting all the ends to be tied up but it almost felt like the author forgot to do so which was frustrating. I also found the appearance of Mark to be quite a strange one, one minute him and Freya are having a five-minute chat and the next, they're besties. Why this relationship wasn't better built into the story, I'm not sure. An easy enough read but too bland for my liking.
Thanks NetGalley for my ARC of this book.
Psychological suspense at its finest. Almost too intense to read without breaks but impossible to put down for long.
When a young widow and single mom is offered an opportunity that seems too good to be true, she can’t resist accepting. But when strange things start to happen she fears for her sanity and her young daughters safety.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
Wow this was brilliant. Totally mesmerising and atmospheric I was transfixed. A well written belter of a book.
Psychological thriller. When Freya and her daughter, Skye, are offered an apartment at a peppercorn rent in Kensington, she can't believe her luck. You know what they say about a bargain being to good to be true. When strange things start happening, she wonders if she's made a mistake.
Somehow this story didn't work for me. It wasn't polished and rounded out. This seemed like a first novel and a bit rushed.
One to borrow from the library rather than to buy
This is a psychological thriller that pulled me in very quickly. This is not a genre I usually read but I really enjoyed it. Thank you to Net Galley for this arc. Very creepy with lots of twists to keep you guessing. If you love a good atmospheric read this is one not to be missed!
I thoroughly enjoyed the book The Apartment, by K L Slater, which was the first book that I have read by this author. A single mother with a bereaved five-year old daughter, is handed a supposed dream come true when she is able to rent an apartment in Adder House. Soon, weird things begin happening that can not be explained. As the story unfolds, Freya fears for her life and that of her daughter, Skye.
Read this book if you want goosebumps!
Thank you to NetGalley and Publisher for an ARC of this book.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I read this book really fast. The story line was ok , but the main character was just dumber than dumb. The ending kind of fizzled out for me and wrapped up a bit too quickly. All in all, this was fast paced, but just ok. 2.5 - 3 stars.
I loved the book Blink (gave it ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) by K.L. Slater so I was excited when The Apartment was up for grabs at NetGalley. This book had me hooked from the very beginning and then the ending ... not sure I understood it. It just left us hanging.... hmmmm... thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
This book caught my attention from the very beginning and I finished it in a weekend. While you have an idea what is going on, you never fully know how the mystery will unfold until the very last chapter. It is a psychological thriller with a bit of horror thrown in.
Having a degree in Psychology, I am familiar with the study referenced in this book. I won't say more, so as not to spoil it for others, but it definitely adds to the story. There is a bit of going back and forth in time in the story without warning, but it is done well.
It is set in London, so if you aren't familiar with that area, it can be a tad confusing as the author does not set the scenes in much detail. I don't like overuse of detail, but this one maybe could have used a little more to visual the scenes.
Overall, this was a great book - an easy read that kept me wanting more. I couldn't put it down.
The story begins with a single mom, Freya and her young daughter Skye, in a coffee shop. Freya is needs a new apartment as her husband recently died and she had to sell their home. She is approached by a distinguished older man who coincidently has a place to rent in a beautiful section of London, an apartment in Adder House.
Freya and Skye move in, but in short order, Freya feels uncomfortable and uneasy due to the hovering of Dr Marsden and Audrey Marsden the tenants who own the building. There are other rather strange, standoffish characters who live in Adder house, but one lovely elderly woman, Lily, befriends Freya and her daughter.
Throughout the book, there are snippets of psychological experiments that are dated several decades in the past and with people who seem to have no relationship to any current people in the book. These are described in the form of a journal.
There are so many coincidences which of course are not and Freya keeps ignoring them. She is insecure because as a foster child, she was always made to feel like she made bad decisions. Unfortunately, she does.
Freya finds out that there was a previous mother and daughter who lived in Adder house although she can’t find record of it. Freya begins to question her own sanity as the book proceeds and all manner of voices, noises and unusual things happen both in and out of the house.
One wonders why she didn’t get out but she has nowhere to go, and little money.
As Freya’s concern increases, she becomes somewhat of a detective and finds out things that make her decide that she and her daughter need to get away.
The many twists and turns in the book surprised me each time. The plot kept the reader guessing right to the end, and it was not believable how the the various characters could have physically carried out their deceptions.
I enjoyed the setting, and could picture the beautiful Adder House with its air of elegance. I found many of characters relatable: a struggling single parent with her child, the sweet little old Lily who loved feeding the birds and growing flowers, the spunky 5 year old Skye, the grim tenants, the Marsdens, and more.
I received the book as an ARC and would recommend it to fans of psychological suspense and mystery. I gave it 3 stars instead of 4 because some incidences are just not believable, particularly at the end. It’s a good beach or weekend read.
This is the first book I’ve read of Kim Slater. I really liked the way she writes and I found I read this quickly which is always a good sign.
I warmed to the main character of Freya who, although she’s been through some tough times recently all she wants is what’s best for her daughter. I didn’t see the ending coming completely but did guess some of it. That didn’t however stop me from enjoying the book and I loved the ending.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for allowing to read this advance copy in return for my honest review.
When Freya Miller was betrayed by her husband she lost everything except her young daughter Skye. She lost her home and needed a roof over their heads. From nowhere she was approached in a coffee shop and offered an apartment in a beautiful area of London by a man she's never met before, at a very low rate. She thought it was too good to be true, and although she accepted for she felt there was no alternative at the time, and it was a wonderful offer, it wasn't too long before she discovered that if something sounds too good to be true, it always is. This tale is gripping. I read it quickly, I was hooked, entirely captivated form the start but I did have to put the book down on a number of occasions to help the sense of foreboding ease. It was a very good read - 4 stars from me!!
This book reminded me a lot of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager. Both books shared a lot of similarities, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing considering I enjoyed both books. This was a fast paced read for me & it definitely helped that the chapters were short. This book wasted no time jumping right into the story and was able to keep me engaged throughout. This book came with lots of twists and turns & kept you guessing about who you could actually trust.
A real nail-biting read
This book was so good. Freya really didn't have many choices to keep moving forward her life with daughter Skye, but, the suspense since they move to Adder House keeps you hooked up until you finish the book. I am voluntarily reviewing this book.
I received an eARC of The Apartment by K.L. Slater from Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
I give this book 4 stars! This book was quite the page-turner, suspenseful enough to keep the reader engaged with the perfect ending. I recommend this book to the suspense/thriller lovers out there!
A really good quick read. This story is a bit predictable but still had enough suspense to keep me reading. I liked the ending. It felt like the right way to end the story.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy.
If a man randomly offers you a fabulous apartment at a steal of a price... There's probably a reason for it.
I enjoyed this thriller, and flew through it. There aren't many surprises in it, and you're basically told from the beginning who the bad guys are. But it makes up for it with a creepy, paranoia-laced atmosphere. Like many horror movies, you'll be yelling at the characters, "get out of there!", but of course if they did there wouldn't be much of a story, eh?
I also have to say, as an American, I loved reading characters with a British voice.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I devoured this book so quickly. It read so quickly and that's because the plot flowed so smoothly. I was not once bored while reading this, which can happen a lot with thrillers. I really liked that this book was creepy. I hate when books sound like they'd be creepy but just end up being cheesy or stereotypical, but this was legitimately creepy. I really loved that we got bits and pieces of other mysterious perspectives as well. The only parts I could have done with out was the 2nd person narration chapters breaks. They just didn't make sense to me when mixed in with the rest of the book. I'm sure I would have liked those snippets a whole lot better if they weren't in 2nd person, but instead either 1st or 3rd.
Now the plot of this book was definitely suspenseful. And the twist at the end was a payoff. I love when I can read a book and payoff is actually worth it. In this case, it was 100% worth it. Throughout the book I was left wondering if everything was happening in the main characters head or if there was actually something suspicious going on. I loved the atmosphere of this and will definitely be reading Slater's backlist soon.
This psychological thriller is a very fast, easy read. Set near Kensington Gardens in London in a gorgeous mansion named the Adder House, the setting is delightful, and the home in this book is almost its own character. The narrator in this novel is likeable, and not "too" unreliable, but just enough to keep the reader on his/her toes and not positive about what's really occurring. I will say the scene in the end of the book where the plot wraps up seems a bit rushed, especially given the slow build-up, however, I really appreciated the epilogue which tied up all of the loose ends. Would absolutely recommend this as a great travel/vacation read!
WOW!! Creepy as hell!
I absolutely loved this book. There were places in the book I could hear the creepy music from The Shining!
A "chanced" meeting in a Starbucks seems like an answer to Freya's problems. An apartment in a beautiful house called Adder House that she would never have been able to afford and hopefully a new start for her and her 5-year-old daughter Skye. (Well, the name of the house should have been a warning to her!)
Then unexplained things start happening. Is Freya imagining all these things or are there more sinister things at play.
Brilliant book and very well written. A very good twist at the end that you don't see coming.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The Apartment⭐️
Freya And her daughter are going to be the very first owners of a new apartment in a fancy, classy neighborhood. Freya is worried the neighbors will realize that they dont belong that they are not quite right but its so beautiful and it will be a great fresh start. But then things start being moved and letters are getting delivered and something really isnt right about this apartment.
It is a slow thriller but moves fast if that makes sense. We get 60% through the book with just a hint of whats to come. But i enjoyed seeing freya daughter transition to a new school and having those mundane moments made it more real. More like the drama could happen because it wasnt nonstop crazy. It was life but with a twist.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing Uk via netgalley for sending me a copy of the Apartment by K L Slater. Available on April 28 2020
All opinions are my own.
Freya Miller and her daughter need a new place to stay. She can no longer afford to remain in their home, so when the opportunity falls in her lap to move to a beautiful apartment, at an unbelievable price, in a great area, she jumps at the chance. Will this move prove to be a good decision? When strange things start happening to Freya, she can’t quite explain it. Has she made a terrible decision? Will she and Skye be able to escape? This was a quick read that I really enjoyed!
When I heard about this book, its premise reminded me a great deal of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager; where I had not enjoyed the latter, I hoped I would enjoy this one!
I actually really liked the main character in this book, which was certainly not the case in Lock Every Door. Here, Freya is a mother who still has common sense and can tell when something is odd or too good to be true. She also has an interesting backstory that makes her relatable. I liked that the story flitted between Freya's past and present. Not only did it give the reader a better picture of her, it also allowed us to see who she used to be before she found herself needing an apartment. If anything, I wanted more of this. I also liked the inclusion of well-known psychological theories. As someone with a background in psychology, I'm always appreciative of tidbits from that field in a novel.
The Cons: What I didn't like
The author decided to mix up styles and use some journal entries to add a different perspective. While I liked some of them because they were told in 3rd person from a new character's perspective and referenced a famous psychological experiment, there were other entries that I hated because I REALLY don't like 2nd person narratives - especially when it isn't done well.
The relationships between all of the tenants was not really explained and that ruined the veracity of the reveal.
The actual reveal was just so hard to believe. Even though I knew the story was going in that direction and I pegged the instigator quite early on, I still think it was too far-fetched and under-developed.
The ending was definitely a let-down in that things were just so messily resolved and convenient. I don't know why authors tend to have all of this hype and build up just to end things on such an anticlimactic note.
Overall, I think I liked this book better than Lock Every Door, at least in that the protagonist was a bit more aware in this novel that things were a bit strange. However, the blend of storytelling format wasn't very well executed and the ending itself was too contrived to be believable. For those reasons, I'm giving this a 2.5/5 stars.
Tragedy has left Freya and her daughter looking for somewhere to live when she gets the perfect offer. An apartment in a good area at the right price. What could possibly go wrong. Freya is about to discover she may have made a big mistake. Something dangerous lurks in Adder House.
What a creepy read this was. I read it in virtually one sitting as the story just hooked me in. This is quite short but it doesnt feel rushed. Its fast paced which fits with the story and doesnt leave me wanting the story to speed up. The plot is clever with some brilliant twists. I had figured out who was behind it before Freya did but I loved the explanation and all the connections. A dark and creepy but brilliant read.
When something seems too good to be true it usually is. And so it is with Freya Miller and her precocious five year old daughter Skye when, during an apparently chance meeting with a Dr. Marsden, they are offered an opportunity (if they are the right people) to move into a posh apartment in Adder House with a rental price tag at a fraction of what it should be. A series of recent events require that she and her daughter relocate from their current apartment, so this is a most fortuitous encounter.
She and her daughter decide to visit and once inside they are both delighted with the charming top floor apartment being offered to them and in which Dr. Marsden assures them they will be the first tenants to reside. After moving in they meet a small group of residents, each with their own problems, eccentricities and psychological obsessions. As a recent widow/single mother, who is toting a load of emotional baggage herself, Freya should be a perfect fit.
THE APARTMENT by K.L. Slater is a modified haunted-house novel where there are no ghosts or rattling chains. Instead it offers the mildest of chills and minimum notes of darkness and madness in this cautionary tale of the perils of being a cash strapped renter who gets a deal on a new place far outside what she should reasonably expect to pay and later coming to regret it.
The evil put forth in this book is mildly creepy but a bit reserved when compared to the writing of authors like Ira Levin, Stephen King or Tom Tryon. 3 1/2 stars
My first KL book. I loved the plot. If you like good suspense you definitely want to read The Apartment!
If you’re a psychology buff like me or just love thrillers, you will LOVE this novel!! Kim is an absolute genius at writing twisty stories that make you go huh!
A huge thanks to Ms Slater, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for allowing me early access to this really good and dark read. This tale comes out in just 2 days, so grab it and let me know your thoughts!
Ever heard of Dr Watson, Little Albert or Pavlov’s experiment with dogs? Psychology is so full of tests and experiments that have forged how we think and feel and even do things. These experiments were really big ones in their days and they explained and showed different things relating to stimuli. Classical Conditioning.
How awesome and cool is it that K.L. Slater took these experiments and wrote a really dark and cool book about the things that go wrong or things that go bump in the night. Want a really nice and cheap apartment? Can you live with being an experiment test subject?
A definite must read! A one-two sitting type read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me a chance to review an advanced copy. This is my first review and I am so excited.
The Apartment by K L Slater was a book I had a hard time putting down. I wanted to know what the heck was going on. I had a pretty good idea due to the “flashback” parts.
I liked the main character, Freya but felt she was a bit too trusting to move into the apartment when you learn that she was a foster kid and distrusting of people. It wasn’t that believable that she would just move into an apartment like that. If it seems to good to be true, then it is.
Skye the daughter was a precocious 5 year old. I liked her interactions with her mom.
The story is based upon a newly single mom who is strapped for cash moving into an apartment that she could never afford. There are strange things happening, noises and such. She feels like she is going crazy. Gaslighting at its finest.
The ending fell a bit flat in my opinion. There was a pretty good buildup, but there could have been some more detail regarding Lily, and Audrey and Dr. Marsden and the other tenants. I feel like some things were left out.
I think the premise of the story was great, loved the setting but felt there were some things missing to make the story even more of a “wow”.
I really appreciate chance to read and review this story.
Freya and her daughter Skye need to move soon because she has sold her house after her husband left her for her friend and then passed away. She is getting close to panic because she has no where to go that she can afford. All that changes when she is in a coffee shop and looking at the board for apartments to rent. A man approaches with a flyer for an apartment and strikes up a conversation with her. Before Freya knows it, she has agreed to move in with an affordable rent in an exclusive part of London. She can't believe her luck!
This book was a quick read. You have to know what is going on in this building with the creepy residents. It kind of has a feel of Rosemary's Baby but with a different plot.
I enjoyed this book and thank Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to read and review this book.
This was a really quick read for me. The book read easily but it just didn’t work that well for me.
Freya is a widowed mother of a five year old named Skye. She is looking for a affordable place to live after she sold her house. Dr. Mars den knows all about Freya and Skye and offers her the apartment for barely anything. It’s a beautiful house and neighborhood with a great school. She moves in and finds all the residents seem a bit odd and weird things start happening in the apartment.
You get little bits of information about her cheating dead husband and the foster care system she was brought up in. You get the feeling that someone is gaslighting her. I just felt that things weren’t fleshed out enough. I wanted to know about her background and her husbands accident.
The end came abruptly and I felt it didn’t really answer the questions I had. I gave this a three star rating. Not bad but could have been better. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me the book in exchange for an honest opinion.
After finishing a somewhat slow historical fiction book, I needed something with a bit (or a bunch) more tension. I chose well. The story follows Freya Miller and her daughter Skye as they are trying to move on with their lives after the death of Lewis, Skye’s father and Freya’s estranged husband. They need to find a new place to live and like a dream come true, a generous offer finds Freya and it sounds too good to be true. They can live at a wonderful address and within their budget, but things start to get weird and Freya begins to question her own sanity. What will happen next?
It was just the story that I needed to reboot my reading streak. It’s a thriller for sure and such a quick read. I couldn’t put it down. I recommend it and lucky for you, it comes out on April 28, 2020. I like stories where the suspense builds and this one builds to a frenetic finale.
*3 1/2 Stars*
"The new person has to be just right. Has to fit in perfectly with the other five residents already living at Adder House."
Too good to be true? Definitely. But Freya feels out of options. After the death of her estranged husband, she has to find somewhere to live with her 5 year old daughter, Skye. This is an opportunity she just can't turn away.
As time goes on, Freya begins to realize just how much things are off at her new apartment. Deceptions, half truths and so much not making sense.
I truly enjoyed the story. I would read more from this author.
When you've hit rock bottom, do you really have a choice to trust a helping hand?
This is the decision Freya faces after her husband leaves her for her friend and then dies, leaving her alone with their five-year-old daughter. Cue the plot. Dr. Marsden just happens to be at the same place at the same time with an apartment to rent just when Freya is seeking one. How coincidental. And, like a blond chick in a horror movie, she pushes caution aside and jumps in head first, or runs up the stairs instead of outside... aka Freya moves into the apartment.
Like all good thrillers, she ignores all of the red flags and feelings in her gut because she just has to believe the best in folks. To find out what Dr. Marsden is up to though, you'll have to read the book!
In the beginning, there are a few chapters that seem quite out of place and I wasn't a fan of them, but it all tied in at the end... Speaking of the end, the whole horror movie plot returned and I wasn't as shocked as I'd have liked.
Overall, worth your time as the writing style is easy and the characters are lovable. I enjoy characters like Freya!
Oh my! I couldn't put this book down. It was both creepy and delightful in turns. It's a superbly written, engaging story of an unlikely heroine that captures your attention and your empathy. The tale was artfully constructed around Freya, a recent widow and her 5 year old daughter. They are unwitting guests in a house of deceit. The plot line moves swiftly along while keeping you guessing. The characters have depth and are delightfully credible. I thoroughly enjoyed this tale.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this for my honest opinion. I’ve heard great things about this author. This was my first KL Slater book and I hate to say I am slightly disappointed. I went in a little blind and had high hopes. I felt as though the book was a little slow until about 70% of the way through. It was a little bit all over the place and I felt as though some characters weren’t talked about enough and it really focused a lot on the main narrator’s past experiences. I wish there was more to this story and the buildup didn’t take that long because the end was pretty good.
I thoroughly enjoyed this gripping, fast paced thriller.
When Freya and her daughter Skye move into an apartment in Adder House, it looks like it will be the fresh start they both desperately need. However, when things start happening that make Freya feel as though she is losing her mind, it might not be the fresh start they needed after all.
This book gripped me right away. The writing was super easy to read and get into. The plot moved at a quick pace, but not so quick that I couldn't keep up.
This is a shorter book, but it doesn't skimp on packing punches.
I have never read any other K.L. Slater books, but I will definitely be looking into her past releases now!
Highly recommend if you are after a quick, pacy thriller.
Huge thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The ending of the book was an interesting twist, but I wasn’t invested in most of the narrative. The characters all fell flat for me and the Little Albert sections seemed like they could’ve been the better story to focus on for the majority of the book, rather than making it a disjointed narrative.
Really good book! It grabbed me from the beginning and I read it in one sitting. It is suspenseful and keeps you reading to find out what is really happening. I highly recommend this book!
This was my first time reading anything from K.L Slater and I am officially a fan of the writing style. I read this book in a day! I couldn't put it down. This is definitely a great psychological thriller and I learned the method used is based on a true story! Highly recommend this one!!
What I enjoyed: The premise was interesting when she tied in the psychological parts! It is similar to lock every door but not in all aspects and these books were probably written about the same time. So comparisons will happen and truly wont be fair.
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What I didn’t: The main character truly is a hot mess. Though understandable why she is having a tough time, it is weird to me that so many thrillers have female characters who ignore the blatantly obvious issues. The ending was a little flat
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Recommend for those who want something quick and breezy in the suspense category!
A horrific psychological thriller that will leave you wondering are you being watched? Wow!! This book took me on quite a trip! K.L. Slater did a masterful job of dropping suspense in all the right places. I couldn't stop reading. I devoured this in one day, and the twist never saw it coming. The most horrifying thing about this book is how realistic it is. A book that will be with me for a long time to come. Don't miss out on this one! Highly recommend if you love psychological thrillers! Available Tuesday 4/28! Thank you Amazon Publishing for the gifted ebook in exchange for my honest review.
This book started off really great. I was really excited to see what was about to happen and could barely put it down.
After a few chapters, it randomly introduced a subplot, which was confusing, and I didn't understand how it related. Therefore, I had a hard time really diving in because I didn't understand the point. At the end, you figure out the reasoning behind the subplot...but it's still a bit unique.
I appreciated how short it is, which I why I originally started reading it (oops). Like I said, it was great at the beginning, drug a little bit in the middle because not much was going on, and then the climax happened very quickly at the very very end.
It was definitely a unique story. I thought I had figured it out what was going to happen in the beginning, and I was very wrong. Regardless, I have not read a suspense novel revolving around this situation, so that was a nice breath of fresh air.
Without giving too much away - it's helpful to know about Psychology.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the ARC, for which I have given an honest and unbiased review*
*Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.* I absolutely loved the first 95% of the book but found the ending a little convoluted and confusing. But not enough to impact by overall rating of the book - four stars. If something is too good to be true... then it probably is. Freya is in a café one day, when she is approached by the charismatic and equally mysterious Dr Marsden, who offers her and her young daughter Skye the opportunity to stay at his stylish building, Adder House in Kensington for minimal rent. Freya jumps at the chance and uproots herself and her daughter and moves in. However, all is not as it seems at Adder House and Freya starts to question whether she has made a bad mistake. An enjoyable and tense read.
Novel that ends abruptly. I really enjoyed the book but I felt that the authors rushes the climax. Things are introduced to the plot that make zero sense.
Title: The Apartment
Author: K. L. Slater
Rating: Four Thrilling Stars
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC in exchange of an honest review from Netgalley, Thomas and Mercer, AmazonPublishing.
A fast-paced page turner that is immensely gripping. You just get hooked to the lives and can't wait to find out what happens next.
The narration is very intriguing. The storyline just doesn't leave the hold over you.
My second read by the author and I'd absolutely read more of hers. I would also recommend if you have the kicks for the suspense.
It's the story of Freya Miller who is a mother of a five year old little girl, Skye. After the betrayal of her husband two years ago and now his death, Freya finds herself amidst financial crisis which she has no idea how she will survive. The money from her late husband's insurance can only last so long and she has to think about something and fast. What she doesn't expect is the miraculous offer by a stranger who meets her at a coffee shop.
But there is something off about the apartment she is offered at a very cheap cost. Or, is the cost too high? The suspense starts when the owner of the Adder House Dr. Marsden starts interfering in all of their personal affairs.
"This is the power of our minds, our dreams. Defying logic and common sense. Our imagination has the power to control us and ultimately destroy us. If we’re willing to let that happen."
The plot continues and the story gets more and more suspenseful. There are certain points where the head starts hearting because Freya acts a bit stupidly and you get frustrated because come on, girl. That's plan stupid. But by then you're too much into the character and just can't give up.
In short, it's a good book for suspence readers. They will enjoy it.
Happy reading to all!! Ⓜ️
I really enjoyed this book, the characters were well written, the storyline was interesting and although there was a twist at the end that I didn’t expect, I felt the ending was slightly rushed. Overall, a good book, that I would recommend, and it would interest me to read more of this author’s books.
Couldn’t put this book down read it in a day it was so easy to read and the story was so scary the saying goes if it it’s too good to be true then it normally is Freya was offered the most wonderful opportunity to make her world better after losing her husband but oh dear what a mistake that was. It grips you from the first page I will definitely read more if this author.
A rather innocent and gullible single mother Freya Miller is trying to bring up her five-year-old daughter, Skye, in London. She has sold her house and by sheer chance she meets a Dr. Marsden in a café who is able to offer her a rather posh flat in Adder House, Kensington.
This flat becomes slightly eerie, with a couple of her fellow tenants hinting at all sorts of a troubled history in her new flat. To me, there were spooky moments but these could have been more dramatic. Is Freya that poor at decision making that keeps her there?
All in all a bit unsatisfactory, with some pages of 'psychobabble' thrown in at various times, with seemingly no connection to Freya's plight?
Thanks to Net Galley and Amazon Publishing for the chance to read and review.
The story was fine. The problem is I was bored. I thought the characters weren't very interesting, and the narrative a little predictable, Worst of all, I hate when a story plays with the idea that something supernatural is happening when it is VERY obvious it isn't actually supernatural.
Rating Break Down
Writing Style: 6/10
Plot: 5/10
Characters: 4/10
Engagement: 6/10
Enjoyment: 6/10
Comprehension: 6/10
Pacing: 6/10
Desire to Reread: 0/10
Special: 0/10
Calculated Rating: 2.48/5
Final Rating: 2/5
Note, each rating is weighted based on personal importance to calculate a final score that is rounded to the nearest half.
Wow this was a creepy book! At one point I wasn’t trusting anyone. I enjoyed it and found it hard to put down. I received this from Net Galley for an honest review. 4 stars
This book is fast paced and sucks you right in. I want to know what was going on right from the beginning. You get a lot of red flags right off the bat yet the main character still seems half clueless. This book definitely keeps you wanting more and the main characters, Freya and Skye are extremely likable. However, the roles of some of the other characters seem not plausible. Still, an interesting and suspenseful read. Thank you Netgalley and Amazon publishing UK.
Pretty good, fast paced book. I enjoyed reading it, but the end kind of fizzled out there. Still enjoyable, would recommend it.
2.5 Stars
I really, truly wanted to love this book, but I was a bit underwhelmed.
All of the elements are there. A widowed mother and her daughter being given an opportunity that's all too good to be true. They're offered to live in a gorgeous apartment that they can't afford, while the mom, Freya, gets back on her feet. Strange things start happening and she starts to question her sanity.
Any who, this is my kind of novel, I want creepy, crawly, bizarre happenings, but the wallop that I was expecting wasn't there.
I will definitely check out K.L. Slater's next release.
Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon UK Publishing, and K.L. Slater for providing me with an ARC.
This book was so easy to read. I really enjoyed the quick pace and straightforward writing and managed to finish the book in two days. The characters were all generally interesting with some interesting bits of backstory, but the actual course of events and how they reacted to what happened didn’t make much sense to me. I was confused by how the ending unfolded and how basically every character who acted evil ended up just being a weird pawn in one character’s scheme, and none of it came together with enough substance to really make it work. So for me, it’s a 3 ⭐️ read.
Freya is making lots of changes to her life and her daughter’s. She has found a new apartment in the other side of town that is too nice to resist. The story is well faced and attention grabbing. However the ending is a bit weak and doesn’t tie in as well as I think it should have. It felt luck a rush to the ending .
Thank you to Netgalley, Amazon Publishing UK and the Author, K.L. Slater for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What a thrilling and chilling read.
A definite page turner that almost reminded me of a version of Rosemary's baby in a way.
Once i started it I couldn't put it down.
Oh and a bonus that the main protagonist wore my favorite perfume, Angel by Thierry Mugler!
The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a psychological thriller that, while predictable, is a thoroughly interesting book. I have read a number of Slater's other books and put this one about a half a star below the others for the lack of plot surprise. Otherwise, it was engaging, well written, and I generally liked the main characters. I may have enjoyed it more if the main character were a little more developed. Altogether, an entertaining read.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Talk about an offer you can’t refuse. A single mother in financial distress is offered a low cost luxury apartment for herself and her 6 year old daughter. Then strange things begin to happen. What is it about Adder House and it’s strange residents? Why are Freya and little Skye suddenly beset by perilous happenings? Read K.L. Slater’s thriller to find out what is behind Freya and Skye’s ordeal and if they will survive unscathed. Fast paced and exciting this is an entertaining read!
Ohmygosh!! I enjoyed this book so much I finished it in one day! I was hooked from the beginning and stayed engaged all the way through.
This is such a creepy tale that will keep you jittery long after you’ve switched off your bedside lamp. The apartment was too good an offer to refuse for Freya Miller but as they say, if something looks too good to be true, it probably is. Her husband’s betrayal has led to her losing their family home and she urgently needs to put a roof over her and her daughter Skye’s heads. Dr Marsden seems to be the answer to her prayers offering a low priced apartment in a beautiful area of London. She is suspicious from the off but really can’t look a gift horse in the mouth so she accepts but all too soon her suspicions prove to be correct.
I really enjoyed this read. Once she took up in her new place of residence the eeriness continues right up until the end. I closed the book a number of times to shake off the horrible sense of fear I felt for Freya. It was a very good thriller and kept me guessing up until the end.
I read a lot of books from this genre and what I liked about this was I couldn’t guess where the story was going! Quite an easy read which is good in these strangest of times.
I always enjoy KL Slater’s books, and The Apartment is another great read.
When Freya and her five year old daughter are given the opportunity to move into a beautiful apartment in Adder House in central London at a affordable rent, it sounds too good to be true... Could it be the break that they need, given what has happened to them in recent times? Or will it just add to their misfortune?
The Apartment is such a good book, it is utterly creepy and it had me guessing as to which characters were going to be friends or foes to Freya and her daughter and constantly changing my mind throughout the book! Well done Kim Slater! Another great book!
Thanks to NetGalley for a Kindle copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The start of this book has me hooked. In the end it left me with questions and I did not get that "wow" feeling I get from a great book. The ending felt flat for me. This book sort of reminded me of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager. I kept waiting for something big to happen...but alas. It was a good quick read though. Definitely not sorry I read it.
I love this kind of writing in psychological thrillers; from the start, you sense something is a little off, but like the protagonist, you can't put your finger on just what it is. This book was so well-paced, in fact, that I read it in nearly one sitting.
The one thing that nagged me throughout, especially at the end, was that the plot strongly resembled another thriller that came out last year. Having already read that one, many of the twists weren't surprising at all. I had really high hopes that this one would turn out differently, so I was a little disappointed.
The story hinges on the consequences of implausibly naïve Freya’s decision to accept a generous stranger’s offer to live in his luxury Kensington apartment for peppercorn rent. Elements of the writing contributed at times to an eerie atmosphere, but this was often spoilt by banal dialogue or prosaic explanations from the main protagonist. The book is a short read so easy to finish. Ultimately however, it fell rather flat and the ending was disappointing.
Slater is fierce and ferocious! This book kept me guessing the whole way through - offering plenty of suspenseful twists and turns. This one is not for the feint of heart!
Freya lost everything after her husband so maliciously betrayed her. Losing her home, she wonders where she can possibly go. After accepting an offer for a very, very affordable apartment from a handsome doctor. . she begins to wonder if some things really are too good to be true.
Great book! Deliciously twisty and a delight for psychological thriller fans everywhere! Slater certainly thrills and delights.
Freya is at a really low point in her life when suddenly she is offered a stunning apartment. Can her luck really be changing can she dare to dream of a better future for her and Skye. Freya can it get run if the unease she feels at adder house. Are her fears justified. Really good read I could really get a feel of the emotion that Freya was feeling when things started to happen. The book takes a time to build and to get the reader engaged with the happens at adder house but comes together very quickly at the end
“The Apartment” by K.L.Slater
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ebook
Thanks to Netgalley for giving me an early release Ebook copy! It officially hits the shelves on April 28th!
This was a fast easy read. I read it in two days! I would of liked more suspense and quick punches. The characters were likeable and I was wondering the entire time what was going to happen. The ending was not predictable, but I felt like the thrill part was so short.
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Freya Miller’s estranged husband dies leaving her and her 5 year old daughter Skye behind. She needs to find somewhere to live and an once and a lifetime opportunity presents itself. When she is approached at a local coffee shop by Dr.Marsden about a vacancy at The Adder House she jumps at the opportunity. When unexplainable things start happening in her new apartment her anxiety is in full force. People are starting to question her stress level. Freya feels like someone is watching her. Objects are being moved, she feels lethargic, and there are unexplainable sounds and smells. Then she discovers something about The Adder House history that makes her skin crawl. Is The Adder house really safe? Did she make a mistake by moving her daughter here?
This was an exceptionally good book that moved quickly. Freya, now a single mother with her young daughter need a place to live. She is in dire straits due to her financial situation. She is confronted by a man while looking at a billboard with flyers about apartments to rent when she is approached by a man who offers her an apartment in a beautiful building at such a low cost. Remember, let the buyer be aware that no one gives away anything for free or makes it so affordable without a motive. She accepts but is very cautious. There is something not right at this house. There are flashbacks throughout the book to journals written in the 1920’s about behavioral conditioning on a child with a rat. All I can say is that I didn’t see the twist coming and what a twist this was. If you are a fan of psychological thrillers, then you will enjoy this book. I want to thank Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC I received for a honest review.
The way this was told in first person with Freya narrating everything was exhausting. Rather than letting the story be told and the reader “getting it” as it developed, the author chose to have Freya explain in detail every thought she had. Given the description of the book, the reader knows not to trust the residents, so Freya throwing all logic out the window just makes her seem that much more naive and not smart. It certainly didn’t help build suspense through the majority of the book which would have been a better reader experience. I was also annoyed that the husband plot line that hinted about something happening to him was just left hanging with no resolution in the end. Overall, this book could have been so much better. 2.5 stars.
Thanks to netgalley for the advanced reader copy.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and K.L. Slater for a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.
After the death of her husband, Freya and her 5 year old daughter Skye are searching for a new place to live after being forced to sell the family home. While looking at ads for rentals in a coffee shop, Freya meets Dr. Adler getting ready to post an apartment for lease in a large older home. He convinces Freya to check it out and gives her a great deal on a great home for mother and daughter.
When Freya's friends share concerns about an offer being to good to be true, she pushes their concerns away.
Then, Skye begins to hear voices in her room, strange happenings are taking place in the apartment and Freya is left to decide if she made the right choices for herself and her daughter.
This was the first of K.L. Slater's books for me but, I will be looking for her others. This book kept my attention and kept me up after bedtime to finish it! It was fantastic!
I just struggled with this book. I found it very confusing and difficult to follow as it jumped from a single mother with a young girl, given a beautiful apartment in a beautiful setting, in a desired area of London, to a home invasion in Paris. All of this for a very affordable rent. Something was unsettling about the other tenants and I could anticipate something happening to the small child. It was also a challenge to connect the scenarios and characters.
Maybe it’s the difficult times we are experiencing and the anxiety that has manifested, but I couldn’t deal with it and stopped reading. This could be a read for a different time, and I’ll try to continue when times are better.
My thanks to #Amazon and #NetGalley for the ARC
I got this book yesterday and already finished it! It started out so good. It had just the right amount of suspense and creepiness. I didn't like the flashback/diary chapters because they were kind of sick. Of course it all came together at the end even though some things were never explained. The end was kind of unbelievable to me.
I enjoyed reading this book. It had a good story to it. I liked the variety of characters in it. It was a well written book. I hope to read more books by this author.
This was my first, but definitely not last, KL Slater novel. This one hooked me from the start. The twists were non-stop. I very rarely say this but I honestly did not see the final twist at the end coming.
Review#15 THE APARTMENT by KLSlater and reviewing for Netgalley.
Freya lives with her five year old daughter Skye but has been having a rough time ever since her estranged husband died and he left the house to his mistress. When Freya meets a doctor who has the perfect apartment to offer for rent and at a great price, it seems like things may be looking up, but are they? I absolutely love this author! The story just keeps building and was very hard to put down. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟Five stars
The old adage if something is too good to be true, it probably is, would be fitting for this story. K.L. Slater has written another thriller that fans will fly through in a day or two. The main character, Freya and her young daughter, Skye, are gifted with a magnificent place to live in an exclusive area in London by a generous offer from a stranger. Would you be willing to take it if everything seemed in order? That is the decision Freya grapples with and ultimately agrees to. What seems idyllic at first has Freya questioning her decision.
Even though this was a quick read with a couple of twists I didn't see, the story was one I expected a bit more from. Having finished a previous title by the author for a future publication, I was excited for this one, but ultimately thought it could have used a couple more character details and explanations. If you are a fan of K.L. Slater, I would read it. The author still manages to write a story that will capture your attention.
This title is due for publication on April 28.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #AmazonPublishing for the opportunity to review this title before publication.
Obviously a very popular author going by the amount of titles and volume of reviews for them. So this book is likely to do well. Personally I found it a bit tame. I found the build up of tension very slow. It was a readable enough story developing the relationship between mother Freya and daughter Skye after the death of their husband/father. Financially and socially they are given a solution by Dr Marsden who offers them a flat in fashionable Adder House. But strange things start to happen.
Intersected with present day events are flashes into history and a scientific experiment on a young child. We are invited to make a connection between the two narratives.
One reviewer has called this a ‘gentle drama’ and I would have to agree. Nothing much happens. The writing however is good. The main characters are believable and I wanted to read on. Compared to other thrillers though it is mild. This review will appear on Amazon. Thanks to #Netgalley for a review copy.
Book that I could not put down.For thriller lovers this ones for you so well written tense characters that come alive.K.L.Slater is an author that never fails to engage me in the story.#netgalley#theapartment
The story is engaging. You are drawn in, but the flash backs are strange. When I finished the story I felt like it was too far fetched and the ending tried to wrap everything up too nicely.
I found this book a little slow and confusing at the beginning. But after reading quite a lot of K.L Slater's previous books I knew it would be ramped up quite quickly.
The book was creepy from the outset and that didnt let up. There was clever little bits of suspicion woven throughout and you just knew there would be a clever twist coming. By the time I got to the reveal my heart was beating so quick I felt like I was living the scenario with Freya.
This book ended up being absolutely brilliant and I cant wait for my next installment from this author.
The Apartment is all the things you might want it to be: weird, creepy, full of mystery and what the f is going on. It's quite lovely. Our main character and her daughter seem to fall on good luck and find an apartment that could be too good to be true. Once they move in, lots of strange things seem to happen. Several times the story spins and turns and I really didn't know what was coming next. I've not read a Slater book prior to this one, but consider me a fan now. It's a fairly easy read and as most of my reading time is right before bed, I found myself looking forward to bedtime because I knew what awaited me.
The Apartment publishes 4.28.2020.
5/5 Stars
I was intrigued from the moment I saw the cover. This was my first book by K.L. Slater, The storyline was unique and I was instantly hooked. Slater was so descriptive and I felt like I was transported right to Adder House.
Freya and Skye's world was turned upside down, that is, until the day she stepped in that coffee shop and met Dr. Marsden. Moving into the Adder House seemed like an answer to her prayers. But, shortly after moving in, Freya begins to notice some things seem amiss. Items are moved or missing from her apartment, but she can't recall how. She begins to wonder if this was too good to be true, but it may be too late to turn back. Hooked from page 1, this book had me guessing to the very end.
Thank you to Netgalley, Amazon Publishing UK and to the author, K.L. Slater for my ARC for a honest review
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the opportunity to read The Apartment ahead of the release! The Apartment follows Freya and her daughter Skye as they adjust to a life of new normals after some major life events and changes. It seems like Freya's luck is changing when she is offered the opportunity to move to an amazing apartment and get the fresh start she desperately craves. But as the saying goes, when something seems too good to be true, it often is. The story kept me on my toes as the quirky neighbors are introduced and an unsettling feeling kicks in both for Freya and you as a reader. I enjoyed the story but felt a little bit like once you got to the climax of the drama and learned what was going on, it all happened and was resolved rather quickly and almost too neatly. Still an interesting read and compelling story.
The Apartment was a super quick read that I easily flew through in two sittings. It is one of those suspenseful novels that's only mildly thrilling, with a few twists and turns and a few creepy elements sprinkled throughout. I liked it enough, but there were a few things that weren't quite my favorite.
I thought that the author could have done a lot more with the narrator, Freya's, story. I felt that I couldn't trust her from the start, that something was off about her, that she wasn't being honest with the reader. The deal is that her husband cheated on her and left to live with his new girlfriend, attempted to get custody of their five-year-old daughter, Skye, then tragically died less than a year later, having never divorced her. Consequently, Freya ended up with a small life insurance policy, giving her about six months before she needed to find a new job to support herself and Skye. For some reason, something felt off about Freya the entire time I was reading the book, but ultimately there wasn't a whole lot more to that story. I thought that if Slater had made Freya an unreliable narrator, the story could have been SO much better and more interesting.
Ultimately the ending was twisty and satisfied me. It wasn't quite as exciting as I was hoping it would be, but there were enough surprises and I was furiously flipping pages towards the end of the book, desperate to find out the truth about this apartment building and its residents. I liked the book and found it compelling and can definitely recommend it for a quick and breezy thriller with a twisty ending.
A must read. This book is interesting and intriguing. The characters are strong and well developed. The writing is amazing. I give it 5 stars and a strong recommendation.
I was surprised to like this book as much as I did. I think it has a creepy atmospheric vibe to it that I love. I know it’s totally not the same thing and I may be comparing apples to oranges here, but this book in a way reminded me of Ruth Ware's The Death of Mrs. Westaway. Trespassen House and the Adder House Apartments are both creepy and I love that vibe. The setting almost becomes a character and that was one of my favorite elements of the book. The characters and everything just gave me a sort of Ruth Ware vibe which is a compliment in every sense of the word. So, about this book, I think this is a solid read. I think the author did a great job of building up the tension and the drama. I was guessing throughout the entire book trying to get a sense of what was really going on. I was interested in the story from the jump which is always a good sign. I'm very picky about endings and this one was a little lacking for me. I'm not the type of reader who wants everything wrapped up in a bow, but I just didn't love the ending. However, it didn't take away from my reading experience at all and that's a testament to how much I enjoyed this book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this book. I will be checking out more of the author's work.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this ARC copy of THE APARTMENT.
This story follows the lives of Freya and Skye a sweet mother daughter duo who are in the process of healing from some pretty hefty emotional scars. Part of their journey includes finding a new place to live with a limited budget. It seems like divine chance when Freya meets Dr. Marsden who just happens to have an apartment to rent, but sometimes things really are too good to be true.
I loved the pacing in this story, it is fast moving and keeps you guessing at every turn. This could have been a five star read for me, but I felt there were a few too many lose ends that needed expanded on or tied up. All in all I would recommend and it was a very interesting concept.
All Freya wanted was a decent place to live with her daughter. Newly single she is offered a place that is too good to be true. Why wasn’t she more skeptical? How could she explain the mysterious things going on in her apartment? You will have to read this solid thriller to find out!
I kept reading until finished, kept me reading, very interesting, different, not the usual story. The ending was a bit of a dud, but the majority of the story was very good. I"m not very fond of having a child in a story like this, but it's just a story after all, good read. Thank you!
The Apartment is a psychological thriller that will have you guessing until the end!
After losing her husband and having to sell her house, a young mother, Freya, cannot believe her luck when she finds an amazing apartment to lease. Not only is the apartment in a desirable neighborhood, the rent is at a fraction of the going rate. After Freya and her five-year-old daughter move into their new place, strange things start to happen and she starts to question her sanity.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good thriller. K.L. Slater’s writing is easy to read and captivating.
Freya's a single mom to a five year old girl. She's just sold her home and needs to find an affordable place to live quick. One day she's at a coffee shop when she's approached by an older man who just happens to have the perfect place for her and her daughter. She jumps on the chance at a fresh start. It doesn't take long before she starts experiencing some odd things and she realizes sometimes things may just be too good to be true.
I found this book to be a little slow and it didn't really hold my interest. The plotline was good but was a little too predictable to me.
The Apartment is a creepy thriller with a few twists thrown into the mix. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and could not set it down. I will definitely check out other books by K.L. Skater.
A young single mother and her 5 year old daughter are thrown a lifeline when they're offered the opportunity to move into a gorgeous, up-market apartment in Kensington for a comfortably affordable monthly rent. The house itself is stunning, the neighbours quiet, quirky but friendly and the apartment is ideal for their little family. But if it's too good to be true, it probably is... as Freya soon starts to find out.
While the book is enjoyable and I'm sure will have some readers gripped, for me The Apartment missed the mark. There are plenty of diversions and issues from Freya's own life that make her question what is happening and who is responsible but I felt it was fairly obvious that these weren't genuine possibilities. Adder House is clearly the driving factor of what is happening to Freya and Skye; the reader just doesn't know who or what within the building is responsible.
I was confused by the double narrative in this book; the main narrative is Freya moving in to Adder House and the second is from a mystery person who seems to be following Freya. This mystery person has clearly been watching Freya and Skye for some time and reviewing what is happening with the young mum and her daughter. At the same time, this mystery person is reading back over a report from a 1920's medical research experiment.
I struggled to understand how these two narratives were linked and even when it was eventually revealed I was a bit disappointed. The link is very different to a typical psychological thriller book but rather than being a welcome change, I felt it was a stretch too far in trying to create something the reader would never guess.
I would recommend The Apartment, giving it a middle of the line three stars for a good concept, a good little mystery but without the shocking reveal I expected.
On an aesthetic note, I absolutely love the front cover of The Apartment... that shock of yellow is gorgeous and really makes this book stand out!
Thank you to NetGalley, K. L. Slater and Amazon Publishing UK for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Got a copy of this book from netgalley and I really liked this book. Great story that kept you wondering what really is going on. Felt like it was rushed at the end a little but overall I loved the characters and the excitement towards the end.
This book was surprisingly short and the good thing about that is that you can definitely finish it in a day or two since it is a page-turner. If you want to be creeped out for a night then this could be the book for you.
Unfortunately I felt it too short to really develop the characters completely. Also, the ending seemed very abrupt and I was left with many questions. Although explained at the end, the few journal entries from the past were introduced in a confusing way. The idea is definitely there, I just wish it was explored and thought out a little bit more.
Thank you Netgalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and K.L. Slater for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
For much of this book, I couldn't tell what big reveal the author was leading the reader to. Sometimes that can be off-putting, but I really enjoyed it this time. The plot if this book summed up in one sentence- If something is too good to be true, it probably is. I don't know how I felt about using humans in a real world science/psychology experiment, but the way the author wrote was just so intriguing that I had a hard time putting this one down. 4/5 stars, easily.
From beginning to end, this psychological thriller keeps the reader on the edge of their seat! What's going on at the Adder House? Nothing good, that's for sure. An outstanding read!
I received an ARC of The Apartment by K.L. Slater from NetGalley.
This is a mystery that revolves around a prestigious apartment. A woman, recently widowed, and her 5 year-old daughter, facing financial difficulties, are miraculously invited to move into a tony apartment building by a kind old doctor. They are welcomed with open arms and the rent is incredibly low.
Strange things begin happening. But there is not much of a plot to this book. And there are not many characters. And we don't get to know them too well.
What the author does well in this book is ..... build suspense!
The book is comprised of many short chapters and is a fast read. Every chapter seems to add just one more element of suspense.
The ending was less dramatic than I hoped. But it was an enjoyable read.
I thought this book started out a little strange. Freya’s husband left her and their little girl for another woman, and then he died. This forced Freya into having to sell her house, and find a new place for her and her daughter to live. Freya was in a coffee house looking on the board to see if there was any place for rent, when a man comes over to her acting like he is going to put up a flyer for a place to rent. Interesting coincidence. Freya gets hooked in by the prospect of a place to rent that is within her budget. She thought that the way the rent was negotiated was strange, and after she sees the house where they will be living it even seems stranger to her. The landlords are awfully strange. Freya and Skye don’t particularly like them. The other residents in this house are a little strange as well. Her landlords try to push their decisions onto Freya. I thought it was rather interesting that the story follows a famous psychological behavioral experiment. I thought that Freya needed to speak up for herself instead of letting her landlords walk over the top of her. Freya seemed to be a bit ditzy and paranoid. Toward the end of the book, Freya starts to doubt herself. Instead of thinking about what to do, she freak’s out and almost hurts herself.
I really like K.L. Slater and enjoy her writing. The Apartment was no exception! I was able to plow through this book really quickly due to the way she makes her words flow.
Unfortunately, there were no surprises here for me as I guessed the ending from really early on. I was hoping I would be wrong.
I did like the ending with its neat and tidy bow. All of the loose ends were tied up and explained well.
I will definitely continue to read Slater’s books.
Thanks so much to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Before I started to read the book and got into the story I feared this book may be another one about a woman in her thirties who gradually loses grasp of things and panics more and more.
There are some similarities to my comment but I felt she never really lost the plot. It is very well written and is very well paced. There are twists and unexpected bits and you are never quite sure who is responsible. A very clever ending as the real culprit is revealed even though because of the flashbacks to the 1920s you have some idea what it is all about. A very enjoyable book and well worth reading
This was almost a five. The ending, while not being terrible, brought it down a tiny bit. The entire book had a throwback feel. So many stories of weird groups of old people and creepy houses from the 60s, 70s, and 80s kept coming to mind. Some resemblance to Lock Every Door in there, as well.
Freya and her daughter have had it rough. Her husband left for her best friend and then died suddenly. She is desperate for a place to live when it becomes apparent she will have to sell the house they once shared. Adder House just falls into her lap. Too good to be true...
The residence, the few she even sees, go from sweet to sinister gradually. The pacing is good, though, so this can be read in one good day. The tension is enough to keep it going until the end.
The end. Would have probably been better without my psychology degree. It was just a little ridiculous. Of course, there were some horrendous studies done in the past in the name of psychology. But the reasoning behind it all was just a little bit silly to me.
I finished this book last night and my initial thought was 'Is that it?' Too many things were left unresolved and I think I was expecting a lot more from it.
It was a bit creepy but it lacked real tension and I spent most of the book waiting for something to happen.
I have read and enjoyed several books by K L Slater but I am sorry to say I don't think is up to her usual standard.
Full of red flags and red herrings! A too good to be true offer for a single mam turns out to be just that. I was hooked from the opening, and didn't see the ending coming, I was suspicious of everyone! Really enjoyed this.
This is my first K.L Slater read and I had seen a few people talking about this book so I was very keen to read this.
It follows Freya Miller and her young daughter Skye. Freya’s husband is no longer around and she is losing her family home and needs to find somewhere to live without paying a sky high rent. It soon comes about that she moves into a stylish apartment that she is offered to rent for hardly any money in a posh area of London by a Doctor she bumps into one day.
Once Freya and Skye move in, weird things start happening like hearing strange noises, furniture being moved around overnight and an eerie feeling of being watched. Their dream home soon turns into a nightmare.
This was just an ok read for me. I enjoyed it enough but I just found Freya really frustrating. She seemed too naive and I felt myself getting really wound up with her. Also lets be honest, if you were offered to rent an upmarket apartment by a stranger you bump into one day surely you would be a bit wary. Especially when they say to you that they think you look like the perfect person to live there and you wont have to pay much rent even if its in a fashionable area of London where the rent is sky high. This would surely ring alarm bells and seem too good to be true. I do get that Freya was in a desperate situation but even so her reaction to a few things in the book just annoyed me!
It is a bit of a creepy read with a lot of very odd characters and a clever plot but I had worked out what was going on very early on in the book. I did enjoy the relationship between Freya and Skye and the author kept me interested in the story enough but I just felt like it was quite slow going and I had a lot of unanswered questions by the end. I am sure other readers will like this but it was a bit disappointing for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the ARC. This is published on the 28th April.
Love KL slaters books they always keep me hooked and this one was no different! Couldn’t recommend enough definitely a page turner!
EXCERPT: 'You said you're living on Palace Gate. Is the building called Adder House?'
'That's right.' I swallow hard. 'I live in a small top floor apartment with my daughter, Skye.'
'Oh God.' Linda's hand flies to her mouth and she squeezes her eyes shut as if she can't bear the pictures that are flooding in. 'This is important, Freya. How did you find out about it, the apartment? How did you know it was up for rent'
'It was totally by chance. I was in -'
'A coffee shop? And Marsden happened to sit at your table by chance? Showed you his rental fliers? Asked if you wanted to view the apartment, despite it being something you could never afford to rent in a million years?'
'Something like that, yes.' I swallow again, wiping my damp palms on my jeans.
'That's exactly what happened to Sophie, and I can assure you that chance had nothing to do with it. Every single word he uttered to you was planned.'
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Freya Miller needs a miracle. In the fallout of her husband’s betrayal, she’s about to lose her family home, and with it the security she craves for her five-year-old daughter, Skye. Adrift and alone, she’s on the verge of despair until a chance meeting with the charismatic Dr Marsden changes everything. He’s seeking a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in a fashionable area of London.
Adder House sounds too good to be true… But Freya really can’t afford to be cynical, and Dr Marsden is adamant she and Skye will be a perfect fit with the other residents.
But Adder House has secrets. Even behind a locked front door, Freya feels as if she’s being watched: objects moving, unfamiliar smells, the blinking light of a concealed camera… and it’s not long before she begins to suspect that her dream home is hiding a nightmarish reality. Was it really chance that led her here—or something unthinkably dark?
As the truth about Adder House starts to unravel, can Freya and Skye get out—or will they be locked in forever?
MY THOUGHTS: We all know that saying about not looking the gift horse in the mouth, but it seems that sometimes we should. But when you're desperate...
Even the name, Adder House, gives me the creeps. Although the apartment house sounds absolutely beautiful, who would want to live in a building named for a snake?
But beautiful as it is, sumptuous, luxurious, it has a past, one that the enigmatic pair of Doctor and Audrey Marsden are unwilling to reveal. Instead they smooth away all obstacles and shower Freya and Skye with generous gifts. What is that other saying, the one about beware of Romans bearing gifts? But when you're desperate...
Only four of the six apartments are currently occupied. Professor and Susan Woodward are tenants of one. He seems nervous, she frail and depressed after a series of miscarriages. The only person who appears remotely normal in the building is the elderly Lily Brockley who takes Freya and Skye under her wing, warning her to 'be careful' of the other tenants without quite explaining why.
I read this book in one sitting. Yes, there are some holes in the plot, and I have not entirely bought into the ending, but Slater kept me entertained and guessing the whole way through. And that, to me, is worth 4 stars.
What next Ms Slater?
😍🙂🤔🤨
'I do like to surround myself with beautiful things. There's so much ugliness in the world . . . so much distrust and focus on negative events, rather than on making peaceful progress so that the world is a better, more informed place for our future generations.'
#TheApartment #NetGalley
The Apartment is due for publication 28 April 2020.
THE AUTHOR: For many years, Kim sent her work out to literary agents and collected an impressive stack of rejection slips. At the age of 40 she went back to Nottingham Trent University and now has an MA in Creative Writing.
Before graduating in 2012, she gained literary agent representation and a book deal. As Kim says, ‘it was a fairytale … at the end of a very long road!’
Kim is a full-time writer and lives in Nottinghamshire with her husband.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Apartment by K.L. Slater for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage.
This is the story of a young mother Freya and her 5 year old daughter Skye whose husband has died, and is in dire need. Freya meets Dr Marsden in a cafe who offers her a small apartment in a nice neighborhood for a great rent. Freya and Skye move in and then things happen...
I received this ARC through Net Galley. I enjoyed the book but had the plot figured out fairly early on. Also, I think there were plenty of red flags which made it frustrating that the mother didn't act on her instincts sooner.
I really enjoyed The Apartment. I flew through it - it grabbed my attention and I was immediately invested in Freya and Skye. I wanted the best for Skye, also!! The Adder House is super creepy, the people who live there are even creepier, and you're always wondering what their ulterior motives are. I was fascinated by the fact that it is based on an actual psychological study: the Little Albert experiment. I researched the study after the book. Slater does a great job of staying true to the experiment. I actually felt more educated after reading this one!
I loved this book thank you so much to netgalley for letting me read it.
I was hooked from the very Start as it moves at a quick pace which was really good and very enjoyable and keeps you wanting to know more.
Freya lives with her daughter skye and has had a tough life she was put into care as a young child and never really had any family. But she gets married and has skye but 18 months later that all changes and her husband moves out and then he dies.
So at the start of the book freya and skye are looking to sell there house and start a fresh somewhere new except she does not have a huge amount of money and starts to worry were they will be able to afford but after a chance meeting or is it?, with a Dr Marsden who offers her the chance of an amazing apartment in a fantastic part of town with a very small rent seems too good to be true.
After they move in things start being moved around the apartment and they hear very strange noises should they be worried especially when they hear stories of a young woman who lived here with her daughter but died.
Truly gripping read.
Would highly recommend.
A wonderful, creepy read. I love the slow build-up of suspense, the beautiful but spooky house and its weird residents. It was easy to see how Freya got drawn into living there and her fear and suspicion were brilliantly portrayed. The sections from the 1920s psychological experiments are chilling. If you read a lot of psychological suspense you'll probably guess where the story's going and who's responsible but I still really enjoyed reading it and would recommend it to anyone who loves domestic noir
Freya and her daughter Skye desperately need somewhere new to restart after the death of her husband. A chance encounter in a cafe with Dr.Marsden leads Freya to renting in a posh apartment block. Dr. Marsden is very keen for Freya to stay, so much so that he offers her the apartment at whatever she can afford. But when Freya and Skye start hearing noises and strange things start happening in the apartment, Freya begins to wonder if it was a bad idea to come live at Adder House 🤔
2⭐- Oh dear, I'm afraid this book really didn't do it for me😬 The language was so overly formal in places that it stilted the flow of the story. And unfortunately the story itself was pretty weak. It felt like it was a half baked idea that was thrown together for the sake of it. I wouldn't recommend this read. 🙁
The Apartment is a psychological thriller that keeps you guessing throughout .So well written I found this book very hard to put down . Freya and her daughter Skye are given the opportunity to move into a luxurious apartment in Kensington at a rent she can afford she thinks her luck has changed at last but soon strange things start to happen that begin to frighten her .The story is creepy and atmospheric I loved it and didn't guess the ending .Many thanks to the Publisher the Author and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest review .
Freya Miller has just sold her home and has a short time in which to find another home for herself and her daughter, Skye. At a local Starbucks, she happens to meet Dr. Marsden, who coincidentally has an apartment for rent. She agrees to see the apartment, and decides to take it, as it is a fabulous dwelling for a ridiculously cheap amount of rent. As she moves in, Dr. Marsden and the sophisticated Audrey Marsden are overly solicitous, paying for the movers, and giving Freya and her daughter expensive gifts. As time passes, strange things are happening in the apartment at Adder House. Freya begins to doubt her choice in moving there, but can she run away from such a sweet deal? This book was totally captivating, and was hard to put down. It's a great book for those people who like suspense stories.
I could sum up K.L. Slater’s new thriller, the Apartment, in one word: CREEPY! Is there really anything more unnerving than the feeling of being watched and that you might be losing your mind? That’s exactly what happens to young widow Freya Miller. Freya and her young daughter are desperately trying to reduce expenses by downsizing their living space when Freya has an all-too-convenient coffee shop encounter with Dr. Marsden. Unable to resist the idea of a beautiful apartment in a great neighborhood with first-class schools, Freya and Skye move into Adder House, and that’s where the creepiness factor goes through the roof.
The Apartment is a quick read with a fast-paced storyline that drew me in and made the hair stand up on the back of my neck. It’s one of those books that make you want to scream at Freya not to move into Adder House, because the foreshadowing of something terrible happening is just too great to ignore. I tore through this book, anxious to make sure that Freya and Skye would be safe in the end, desperately wanting to tell Freya that if something seems to good to be true that it probably is! Don’t miss this one!
I wanted to love this book but I couldn’t really get in to it. I think the story line was a little far fetched and I found the ending confusing. It felt a bit rushed and kind of unbelievable.
While I enjoyed this psychological thriller I found it a bit unbelievable. I liked the main character, Freya, but questioned that she would have made some of the decisions she made (1) not getting any background on the mysterious doctor who offered her such a great deal on an apartment; (2) trusting her daughter with a kindly old woman she had only met on a couple of occasions; and (3) going out on a date with a construction worker she had only met once on the street. Also, I felt there were parts of the plot that were not fully developed. That being said, I enjoyed the fast paced writing style and was definitely drawn in quickly. I liked the setting of Kensington and, in particular the creepy Adder House. The ending brought a twist I hadn't anticipated, but I felt it was a bit rushed. I would give this author another chance and read another of her books. Thank you to Net Galley for the advanced copy of this book.
I am grateful for the opportunity to read The Apartment. I could not help but compare it, somewhat unfavorably, to Lock Every Door by Riley Sager.
I will say that while it seemed less developed than the other title, it was a fast read for me and definitely held my attention. I would give it 3.5 stars.
This is a fast read that is full of suspense. It will keep you on the edge of your seat. Thank you Amazon Publishing UK via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I really liked the sound of this book when I read the description. Freya is a single parent to 5 year old Skye. She is in dire financial straits and anticipating having to move in with friends, when she is offered an apartment in a large, elegant house in exchange for a peppercorn rent. But what is the catch? Strange things start to happen once they've moved in, and Freya starts to think she's losing her mind. This was a good read which kept me on the edge of my seat, but I have to admit that I found the denouement a bit too far fetched. Thanks to NetGalley for a preview copy.
Copied to Goodreads.
Freya. along with her young daughter Skye are in dire circumstances. Her husband left her and then died. There was little insurance money and she's having to sell her house and look for a job.
By happenstance, she meets a man who makes her an offer she can't refuse.. an apartment for very low cost, in a mansion. Dr Marsden is a wealthy man seeking a new tenant. Freya has doubts, but when she looks the place over, she can't believe her luck.
Adder House has secrets. Things get moved in her apartment. Her daughter hears voices. It's not long before she begins to suspect that not all is what she was led to believe.
It's a creepy atmospheric story... with a lot of suspense. Goosebumps appear with each page. I liked the unease of the few residents which reminded me of something we've all heard before ... if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. This was a fast read, once started I couldn't put it down.
Many thanks to the author / Amazon Publishing UK / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Apartment in a posh part of London up for rent for at a total bargain - is it too good to be true?
Freya Miller certainly thinks so, but with her horrible luck over the past years, perhaps fortune finally smiled upon her when Dr Marsden offered her and her five-year-old daughter, Skye, to move into Adder House. After suffering her unfaithful husband's sudden death and losing her means of livelihood, the single mother can't believe her own luck; finally it's time to start living. That is, until some weird things start happening...
With this synopsis in mind, I suspected it would either be a spooky supernatural story or a bloody serial killer mystery. It was neither. "The Apartment" is a totally unpredictable story, mainly because it's a lot more mild and less 'horror-movie-like, which makes it actually plausible in real life. I admire authors who can write thrillers as realistic as that.
That being said, the story has a lot less tension than most thrillers, so if you're expecting a fast-paced suspense-packed novel, reach for another one. If, on the other hand, you enjoy thrillers based on real life with historical elements (hint: Little Albert!!), "The Apartment" doesn't disappoint.
*Thank you to the Publisher for a free advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Freya Miller cannot believe her ears when she's offered an affordable apartment in one of Londen's most expensive neighborhood. But she has no choice - she needs to take care of her five year old daughter Freya and start looking for a job. Unnecessary to say that things are not what they seem and Freya needs all her internal strength to save herself and her daughter from a terrible fate.
From the start it is obvious that Adder House is not what it seems; at least, not the inhabitants. The house is wonderful and Skye is immediately taken by the lush garden to play in. She even makes a friend, an old lady named Lily that lives beneath them. This makes Freya happy because after the death of her unfaithful husband the child needs all the friends she can find.
The author combines a nicely flowing writing style with good ideas and knows well how to grab the readers' attention. What I missed in the story was more information about Freya's past and her marriage. Further I was disappointed with the ending; it was just too unlikely and not very well plotted.
Thanks to Netgalley for this digital review copy.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley. This is my first book by K.L. Slater. I found her writing style very easy to read and I was interested/hooked within the first chapter of the book. While I felt like the end of the book wrapped up a little too quickly, I’m giving this book 4 stars as I didn’t figure out the ‘bad guy’, nor the twists and information that were revealed at the end of the book. Before I even reached the halfway point in the book I knew I would need to read to the end in one sitting so I could figure out just what was going on at Adder House! I like it when a book does that to me.
I found myself easily disliking the Marsdens, and I was totally cheering on construction Mark, relieved that he lived. When Freya questioned the strange events and sounds within her apartment, and the information she learned about Sophie, I too questioned what I thought was right and wrong.
'The Apartment' by K. L. Slater is an intriguing book. I was quickly drawn into the lives of the characters from the first page. Very easy to read but with an unusual plot which kept me guessing right to the end but seemed to end rather abruptly. I look forward to reading other novels by this author.
My thanks to Orion Publishing Group and Amazon Publishing UK for allowing me to read and review honestly.
This is a creepy thriller about historical and current psychological experiments. I enjoyed it and was keen to read on. The first approach was so unlikely that I was reading on to find out why the approach was made.
I found it a little farfetched, the main character agreeing to the original proposal and the relationship/trust with the builder which developed so quickly, were difficult to believe, even in fiction.
In spite of this I enjoyed reading the story and there was a twist at the end - although I was already suspicious of the only apparently normal character!
The Apartment is a Rosemary’s Baby type thriller for today’s world. Freya, a young single mother and down on her luck divorcee is sitting in a coffee house when she is approached by Dr. Marsden and offered a chance to look at a new rental in Adder House, an exclusive London building. Remember what you’ve been told about things that look too good to be true…
The apartment is perfection, top floor, no previous tenants, and a view of the shared walled garden. Freya and daughter Skye quickly settle in, taking advantage of the gifted free moving service. While Dr. Marsden and Mrs. Marsden seem overly friendly and involved in Freya and Skye’s lives, the other tenants are more reticent. Freya is drawn to Lily, a supportive older neighbor and Mark, a construction worker on a nearby building project. Meanwhile, the suspense ramps up as Freya either imagines or discovers hidden surveillance and investigates past mysterious happenings in the building. When she finally unravels the truth, it is almost too late.
This novel is so well written that it easy to overlook the parts that are totally unbelievable. Maybe it doesn’t make logical sense but it’s a great read that all suspense fans will have a hard time putting down. Oh, and when you do, the scary parts don’t really go away. 5 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and K. L. Slater for this ARC.
Thanks for the opportunity to read this book. It captured me and I quickly read it in 2 days. While I did enjoy it, I did feel that there could have been a bit more character development. Bits and pieces of the main character were added in sporadically. We never did find out how the husband died, even though it was non-relavant to the story line it still would have been nice to know. Past reflection on the villian's back story was strong. The ending was a bit choppy and could have flowed better. The ending was also no big surprise. Would have preferred "more thriller" in a psychological thriller.
I liked this! This book gave me MAJOR Lock Every Door vibes (by Riley Sager). Very similar plotline with the creepy apartment and creepy tenants - this one just follows a mother and daughter instead of a 20-something-year-old girl. This had a great suspenseful atmosphere, mysterious characters, and a compelling mystery of what was to come. Parts of the ending definitely surprised me, though it did feel rushed. 50 more pages on the back end I think would have helped a lot, but overall I enjoyed the ride that this book took me on.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC copy. I love psychological thrillers and the premise of this sounded really good. I felt that the story line was just trying to achieve too many things and all over the place. Between all of the character relationships there was also the back and forth dialogue between past and present characters and the concept of behavioral programming. I was committed to finishing it but I found myself just wanting to get through it.
I really enjoyed this book. The story was interesting and moved along at a good pace so I did not lose interest. This is the story of Freya and her daughter Skye, they have to find a new place to live and are given the opportunity to live at an upscale residence called Adder House for a fraction of the usual rent. As soon as they move in odd things begin happening and the story begins to unfold. There were a few things about the story that I found very unbelievable which is why I had to rate it 4 stars instead of 5. Without giving too much away there's a point in the story where Freya learns some very upsetting information and then decides to leave her daughter with a neighbor that she's known for maybe a month so that she can relax. I didn't find this believable so it annoyed me. While I did really enjoy the story I did feel that it was a little rushed, there were some parts of the story that I wish had been embellished more. I think this was a missed opportunity by the author to give the story more depth.
However I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good psychological suspense story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a well written psychological thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed. We follow Freya, a down-on-her-luck mother who is in desperate need of a new place to live when an apartment in a decadent mansion is suddenly presented to her. The mansion's owners are more concerned with having the right people living there instead of money so even though it seems too good to be true, Freya moves her and her daughter in immediately. It's a beautiful house but soon Freya is hearing things, her daughter seems unhappy, and the other residents of the house are strange.
This is a definite thriller with you wondering what's going to happen next and all but screaming at the main character to take her daughter and run. The only reason I took off one star is that I felt Freya acted a little unrealistically at first to make the plot work. It quickly got better though and I didn't see that ending coming!
Another great story from K L Slater. Gripping, creepy and claustrophobic. I did think the ending was a bit rushed but still a great book that I highly recommend
This book is definitely one of the creepiest books Ive read. It is a cautionary tale that proves if something is too good to be true it probably is. The story revolves around a young mother Freya. Down on her luck she needs to find more affordable quarters. Being approached in a coffee shop with an offer to live in a mansion apartment for a lowered amount seems to be a windfall but things are not as they should be. Everybody that lives there is odd but one older lady who befriends Freya and her small daughter. What follows is a spine tingling tale that will stay with the reader long after the book is finished. K.L Slater has another hit read.
This was excellent! There were so many twists and turns that you can't put it down! I thought I had it all figured out but I was surprised in the end.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater Reviewed April 27, 2020 ~ 4 Dark & Creepy stars
I like psychological thrillers and the setting of the ‘Adder House’ Apartments sounds perfect!
When I read the description it reminded me a bit of [author: Riley Sager] novel [book: Lock Every Door] totally my kind of dark and creepy novel so was ready for another unrealistic apartment situation.
Freya Miller is a young mother of 5 year -old Skye. Her husband Lewis recently died. Bitter/sweet situation as Lewis was about to leave her. She does have the house and now has some money from the life insurance policy but not nearly enough so has to sell the house and move in with friends.
While getting ready to view the bulletin board for possible rentals a local coffee house, Dr. Marsden sits at her table with rental fliers. Since he noticed she was looking at the bulletin asked if she might want to view the apartment he has for rent, despite it being a place she could never afford. He assures her he is looking for the right tenant and can make adjustments on the rent.
She and her daughter make the visit and cannot believe their eyes. The apartment is on the third floor of ‘Adder House’, a stately mansion located in a fashionable and expensive area in London.
Freya and Skye love the apartment and move in immediately.
Hmmm soon enough strange things are happening (as we knew they would).
Dr. Marsden and his wife seem to be very involved in Freya and Skye’s lives.
Soon a mystery with twists and turns that we psychological thriller fans love!!
My first Kim Slater novel, I look forward to her next one!!!
Want to thank NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for this ARC granted to me in exchange for an honest professional review. Publishing Release Date tomorrow April 28, 2020
‘The Apartment’ by K.L. Slater is a fast-paced, suspenseful thriller which I found to be quite a quick read for me. It follows Freya and her daughter Skye as they move into the Adder House after having to leave their family home.
The storyline flits between Freya and Skye in the present and Beatrice and her son back in 1920. In Beatrice’s timeline, Professor John B. Watson and Rosalie Rayner are conducting the ‘Little Albert’ experiment. This is a psychological experiment on classical conditioning, which actually took place in real life. I found this to be interesting and thought it was very unique that this real experiment was used as part of the plot.
There are a lot of different plot twists throughout ‘The Apartment’ and I think quite a few were red herrings designed to throw the reader off. I was expecting certain things to happen and thought I had figured it all out but it turned out to be unpredictable and there were a lot of moments where I found myself gasping at the truth.
I didn’t LOVE the ending as it was quite abrupt considering there was so much build up throughout the book. However, I’d definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller. I also recommend ‘The Apartment’ if you enjoyed ‘Lock Every Door’ by Riley Sager.
K.L. Slater is another author on my go to list that I don’t even bother with a synopsis anymore as I know I will easily become engaged in whatever new story she has penned. And thankfully The Apartment lived right up to my expectations and was another solid psychological thriller.
Freya Miller is a young newly single mother who has gone through quite a bit in her recent past. Not only did her husband cheat on her and leave her but shortly afterwards before they could divorce he passed away leaving her completely alone in raising their daughter.
Freya hasn’t found work yet and only has a little savings to find herself and her daughter a new place to live. Out of nowhere Freya meets a man who has an apartment for rent in a lovely building in a great neighborhood that all seems way too good to be true. When given a quote on an incredibly low rent Freya can’t pass the opportunity up but after moving in Freya begins to see the opportunity may not have been as good as she thought.
Now I am one that completely enjoys and fast pace thrill ride but dare I say with The Apartment I almost felt as if this one was a little too fast. I couldn’t help but wish the book had been a little bit longer to fully dive into the ominous nature of the story but instead felt as if it were all a bit too rushed into. This was still a great read though that enjoyed and will still be a huge fan of this author.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
When someone is offered something to good to be true, they should listen to their instincts. This is what Freya had to learn the hard way. This book was definitely spooky in a suspense way. I finished this book in one sitting. That is how I know a book is well written when I cannot put it down.
I received a free copy of The Apartment by K. L. Slater from NetGalley for my honest review.
I found The Apartment to be very comparable to other recent thrillers I have read recently. Lately, I've been in somewhat of a book "slump" for lack of a better word, and really needed something to draw me out of that. Honestly, the characters' relationships were a bit rushed for me. Freya was just a little too quick to share her personal life story with perfect strangers and just lacked a lot of common sense, which aggravated me. The atmosphere was very creepy, which I usually enjoy. This book was a lot like Lock Every Door by Riley Sager. I give this book 3 stars.
I had finished this book awhile ago. I needed time to process my thoughts as they were mixed once I had finished. I was torn between feeling like I didn’t really like the book to this book is interesting. It can be both I guess. Let’s move on to why I thought it was interesting. I felt the twist was interesting. The whole reason at the end on why certain actions were done made sense and added to the creep factor. I can respect madness. Okay, on to why I didn’t like it. The story felt like a whole build up and then didn’t quite deliver that whole suspense punch. While I thought the twist was interesting, it just didn’t deliver or have the intended effect I think the author was going for. None of the characters were very likable. Save for maybe one and they were barely in the story. As a whole, this book is an okay read. I will continue to read the author’s work but sadly this one just didn’t do it for me. I give this 3 stars.
The prologue gave away too much. It might have been more entertaining if it were a movie, but as a book, it was boring and predictable. The best part of the book was the main character's relationship with her daughter.
It reminded me of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager, so if you liked that, then you might like this.
Mixed feelings maybe?
I enjoyed the previous two books by the author but this one was a bit odd, to say the least. From the beginning I got a strange vibe of who the doctor is and why is he willing to help a stranger woman and her daughter to stay in one of his apartment for almost free? And then all the things that are happening around the said house and their previous habitants. I couldn’t get closed to any of the characters, unfortunately, maybe a bit of the little girl but that’s it.
Unfortunately, it wasn’t a good book for me.
I was impressed with this psychological thriller.
When Freya and her daughter Skye are desperate to find a new apartment, she happens to meet Dr Marsden who offers her the opportunity to rent a very nice apartment at a low rent. Warning bells should already be ringing for Freya, but she decides not to look a gift horse in the mouth, and she moves in.
The descriptions of Adder House and its inhabitants are well done, and the tension builds steadily as you know something is going to happen, but not what that something is. The house gives off a very creepy vibe, as do the Dr and Mrs Marsden and several other residents.
Freya starts to feel like she is losing control of her life as the Marsden's continue to get very involved in her day to day activities, and those of Skye. Freya starts hearing things in the apartment, seeing things, getting the sense of being watched.
The novel gripped me from the first few pages, and I read it in a day. The ending did wrap up quite quickly, but it was satisfying. I did get some sense of deja vue as I had read J.P. Delaney's "The Girl Before" last year - and there are certainly some parallels to this work, although the main plot points are different.
I would recommend this book to anyone enjoying psychological thrillers.
I'm grateful for Netgalley for sharing this ARC in return for an honest review.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a psychological thriller that from the very first page let's us know there is something sinister afoot. Dr. Michael Marsden is in the coffee shop patiently waiting for Freya to show up so he can accidentally meet her and let her see him post on the bulletin board the apartment for rent in his building eeriely named The Adder House, just like the deadly snake.
He knows Freya is in a vulnerable state what with her almost divorced ex husband suddenly dying and forcing her to sell their house to pay off his debts leaving her and her 5 year old daughter virtually homeless.
I read this quick story in a few hours as the first few pages hooked my thriller loving brain immediately. There where so many red flags that Freya ignored when moving into this perfect apartment from the low rent to the creepy neighbors. I forgave her blindspots as she was a single mom trying to provide for her daughter. However, as the story progresses some plot holes I could not forgive.
Intertwined in the story we are introduced to a journal written in 1902 that later comes together with the current events of the Adder House. However, we never find out the full story of the writer of the journal and I felt cheated by this omission. Also, most thriller fans will figure out the ending before they get to the last page.
The author has an an uncanny ability to creep the reader out even while you get the lane the story is heading down. It is that sort of uncomfortable foreboding when you watch a movie like Rosemary's Baby or the more recent Get Out.
I enjoyed the writing style of this thriller I just wished the details were more fleshed out. I will be reading more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via NetGalley for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
I’m a big fan of K L Slater, and I thought this was a compelling diversion from her usual themes. More spooky and creepy than a twisty complex thriller, although Lucy’s revelation was an astonishing twist towards the end. Alarm bells rang loudly for me when Freya was tempted to move into an opulent apartment for a peppercorn rent, but she was in an invidious situation of potential destitution with a young child to nurture. Beggars can’t be choosy, but I was surprised she didn’t show any concern about the doctor stalking her and the grandiose offer. Perhaps desperation makes you less wary. It was a slow-burning novel not in a derogatory fashion as tension and suspicion build up. Inexplicably strange things start to occur, which spooked me. In her position, I would have run for the hills. It’s the ‘extra’s’ in the novel that intrigued me. For example, experimental psychology. I was never enamoured by the Behaviourist psychological models with their flawed theories. What was so admirably pinpointed was how dangerous such experiments can be if put in the wrong hands. Freya’s fear of insects matched mine. I don’t mind ladybirds or spiders as long as they keep away from me, but I detest most crawlies. I’m terrified of bees and wasps. My antennae detect them up from miles away. One summer, we had flying ants, and I went on lockdown. I was also interested in Skye’s integration into school. Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book is a good mystery, with a sympathetic heroine, and a number of twists and turns to keep it interesting until the culmination. The author has a straight-forward writing style that keeps the story moving without extra turns of phrase. I enjoyed the story and think it will satisfy as a good beach read this summer!
I read a lot of books and I could swear I've read a similar story some time ago by some other author. It's a psychological suspense with gas lighting, creepy landlords and tenants, and something just not right about an old house turned into an apartment building.
Freya, the main character and mother of a young daughter, seems clueless, naive and way too trusting when she jumps at an apartment vacancy offered to her by a complete stranger. Yes, Freya, it is too good to be true. You have a laptop with internet yet you don't know even try to vet and google?
After we finally learn what's going on in the last few pages of the book, it seemed too far-fetched and a bit on the ridiculous side for me to appreciate. Even an attempt at a romantic interest was a bit of an afterthought, with the "hero" character so vague and one-dimensional he seemed to disappear into the storyline.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review.
This book certainly keeps you guessing right up to an ending you did not see coming unless is is upon reflection after the fact. The twists and turns of the plot keep you figuratively on the edge of you seat wondering what will come next. Represents the classic definition of physiological thriller.
I loved the premise of this book and thought that it started strong. I could tell from the beginning that the set up of Dr. Marsden meeting Freya was all wrong, and I enjoyed how she was drawn into what was an obviously very odd situation. I also thought that the little hints that were dropped were going to add up to big things. I was partly right. There were a few bits that kept me guessing up until the end (no spoiler or reveal), but once the set-up was complete, the rest of the book felt rushed. Details were hurried, motives were under-explained, and there were more than a few loose ends (why the set up with the husband with no explanation?). It felt like there was a lot more to the story that could have been told but wasn’t. That was disappointing. Thank you to NetGalley for a digital ARC of this book.
Freya is looking for a new place to live after selling her home.. Most important is to make a good life for her five-year-old daughter, Skye A man approaches her and tells her about an apartment she may be interested in renting. (How did he know she was house hunting?) She rents a beautiful apartment from Dr, Michael Marsden even though it seems too good to be true. Dr. Marsden and his wife are a little strange and make Freya feel uncomfortable. Who is the watcher With camera in hand watching Skye and reading a journal?
Strange occurrences begin to happen that make Freya fear for herself and her daughter. Creepy people living in the apartment, frightening stories about previous tenants all make for a scary tale. Readers will be turning the pages to try and figure out what is going on in this weird place. Even her friends do not believe her fearful stories. It is a mesmerizing read sure to hold everyone's interest.
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC for this mysterious tale.
This was a great thriller. Although i was hoping somewhat of a different outcome, but the story kept you on edge.
Freya and her 5yr old daughter Skye are in the process of almost being homeless. Freya's husband and Skye's dad has recently died,which leaves Freya as a struggling single mom. Freya ends up bumping into a landlord at a coffee shop,putting up an ad for a vacant apartment. Freya thinks the apartment sounds to good to be true.
But soon Freya becomes entangled in the apartment and being able to start fresh in a new place with her daughter. All to soon Freya starts noticing strange things happening. Hearing noises, furtinure being moved around Then noticing someone watching her. It all becomes to much for her, The story starts taking you through creepy situations. Read this with the lights on.
Thank you Netgalley and publisher for this advanced digital ARC in exchange for my review.
The Apartment is like a beautiful grandchild of You by Caroline Kepnes and Lock Every Door by Riley Sager!
Freya, recently widowed, and her daughter, Skye are in search of a new apartment and a fresh start. Fate puts her in contact with Dr. Marsden who owns a beautiful high end apartment building. He offers them a place to stay with rent based on financial ability. It’s a dream come true for Freya and Skye...until mysterious things begin taking place in the apartment. Freya needs to uncover the truth behind the Added House before it’s too late.
I could not put this book down! It was gripping and suspenseful and the writing was so atmospheric! I thought that I had guessed the big reveal early on but I was very wrong! The reason this is a 4 star for me is that i wanted a little bit more information regarding the big reveal. There were a few connections that i felt like I still needed details on in the end. But overall, I was very impressed! If you’re a fan of Lock Every Door and The Turn of the Key, this will be a big hit for you!
I started and finished The Apartment in half a day (thanks quarantine).
To me, it read very similarly to Lock Every Door (another good book if you haven't checked it out). Same premise, same creepy building occupants, sinister backstory, etc.
The back and forth between past and present-day threw me off a couple of times as there was nothing showing the time jump or saying "1920, location", etc. The beginning of the book moved at a pretty good pace. Towards the middle, things started to stall off a little bit, and then suddenly the ending came out of nowhere. I felt like the climax and resolution were really quick and happened without a lot of detail. I would have rather expanded on the ending a bit instead of so much detail in the middle. The new romance, the woman and the wind chimes, etc seemed like little elements added in there that had no huge impact on the rest of the story.
Overall, I'm giving it 4 stars because it was a good, quick read that took my mind off of being stuck home with 3 kids who are climbing the walls. If it were a little less similar to LED and had a more dramatic ending, I would have given it 5 stars.
I received this book from Net Galley for an honest review. A mother is losing her house and needs a place to stay with her young daughter. A chance encounter with a stranger at a coffee shop helps her find the perfect apartment.
I have read a couple other books by this author and this was well written and moved fast. The whole story was good, but ending was a little abrupt.
I would recommend this book- the book is good and worth a read
I compellingly, well written book. Great twists. Page turner! I would definitely recommend this book and I will.
4.5 stars.
Really enjoyed this psychological thriller it was fast paced and not drawn out like others I have read. I also liked the discussion around past psychological experiments found this very interesting and made it stand out to me from other books in this genre. Would highly recommend.
Thankyou to Netgalley for allowing me to read an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
This psychological thriller was a quick easy read. The story overall was quite predictable and not particularly suspenseful. To make it work you have to believe that someone would offer a struggling single parent the most wonderful flat in a very expensive area of London for a peppercorn rent. A red flag that something must be off kilter!
I really struggled with this one. Boring and predictable sorry :( ....".................................................
Big fan of this author, though can’t help but agree with other reviewers that this was a some what predictable read. Still very enjoyable though, would recommend.
The Apartment introduces us to Freya, a widow in desperate need of a cheap place for she and her daughter to move. As she's grabbing a cup of coffee at Starbucks, she meets Dr. Marsden, who just happens to be preparing to pin a To Let/Rent flyer to the bulletin board. What a coincidence, right?! And the apartment just happens to be in an upper-class neighborhood, in a superior school zone, and the rent just happens to be on only what Freya can afford to pay. What could go wrong?
Honestly, I found the entire premise of this story to be pretty preposterous, and the characters were just superficially developed. It's a quick read, and author Slater keeps the plot moving apace, but with no suspenseful twists and turns.. The ending was particularly rushed. I just wasn't buying this one.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for providing me a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars from me. Greta and her daughter Skye have to move out of the family home after her husband dies. As the story unfolds we find out what happened to him and what their relationship was like.
Greta is in a coffee shop one day when Dr Marsden approaches her and instigates a conversation. Within a week Freya and Skye are moving into the apartment. I didn't really think that this was much of a psychological thriller, I didn't feel very much happened to warrant some of the over the top rmotionsghat Freya had. It was ok for a quick read.
Thanks to Netgalley for an early copy in return for an honest review.
The Apartment
Author K.L. Slater
Ebooks.
This book the apartment is heavily inspired by a true event which took place in the 1900's and it was considered one of the bold step taken by psycjologist . Though it opened new roads in the world of emotional psychology but many consider still today the experiments to be a fraud .
Freya and her daughter skye, who is 5 years decides to move to a new place to overcome the tragedy that took place in their life. Skye lost her father and freya her husband.
Freya meets a man who offer her a place to stay, The Adder house. Though small, but the luxurious apartment , rent is low in comparison to other houses in the area. Though the place was very comfortable and neighbors extremely helpful, until series of strange things started happening in the apartment and Freya's conscience starts knocking her mind.
My views:
The apartment is sure a page turner mixed with facts and fiction. It will hook you up till the end.
Language is easy and you will fly through the pages to know the secret behind the Adder House.
The story didnt have too many charecters and therefore made it more engaging and less confusing
Highly recommended .
Thank you #netgalley #AmazonPublicationUK and author #K.L Slater for the ARC.
I read the last 60% of this book with my heart racing, literally thumping out of my chest. It was unputdownable and I was well and truly spooked. That is what I am basing my solid 4 star rating on - for someone who reads a lot of psychological thrillers, one that truly terrifies me must be doing something right. This is only the second novel I have read by K.L. Slater, but I'll now definitely be making more of an effort to read her others. I found The Apartment to be a page-turning, easy-read novel; I was drawn into Freya and Syke's lives from the get-go and right from the very first chapters found myself thinking 'just one more chapter' (until it was midnight, I had finished, and was too creeped out to go to sleep!). The plot was strong and engrossing, with just enough given away throughout to keep you absorbed, but not give everything away; I at least did not completely guess the twists. However, there were a few things that meant this just didn't reach 5 stars for me. Firstly, Freya as the protagonist was not a strong enough character. Freya could be unlikeable and inconsistent whilst still provoking some empathy; this alone was no small feat and did make her feel more real - people are not black or white after all. That said, there was still something lacking and I just could not align her decision-making with her personality: a strong person who was presented as weak at the times that mattered or someone that trusted no one putting her trust in those she had just met. I also felt there were some, if not plot holes, then definitely unanswered questions - especially about Lewis' death, the ending and who truly knew the plan, and other areas I won't share to prevent spoilers. Still, this certainly didn't prevent me for enjoying The Apartment and feeling what I was supposed to - on edge, unsettled and downright scared.
*I received an advance review copy of The Apartment from the publisher through NetGalley.
Meet Freya a single mum to five-year old Skye. She lacks self-confidence, has problems trusting others, has been played for a fool by her rat of a husband, and is on the verge of losing her home. Why then, would she be taken in by a total stranger she meets by Dr Marsden? It doesn't make sense, but then Freya does seem to have more than her share of the Stupidity gene.
The enigmatic, and let's be honest here – weird, Dr Marsden offers Frey an apartment in an exclusive, wealthy part of town. She can't possibly afford it, she protests, but Dr M is very persuasive, insisting that she's a prefect fit and that he can fix it at the right price. What's not to like? So its a done deal and Frey and the precocious Skye – or “poppet” as her mother insists on calling her – move in. But then Things Begin To Happen – oh no, I would never have guessed.
Is this book aimed at the YA market? It certainly reads like it. The author is, apparently, of the opinion that everything needs to be thrown at a story to make it work. No it doesn't. Believable, sympathetic characters would work, as would realistic dialogue and hey, here's a thought – how about about a plot that's not been done hundreds of time before?
This is in there with the pile of Rubbish Books, never to see the light of day again. This is the firstof K L Slater's books I've read. It will be the last.
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to sample this author's writing.
I do always enjoy KL Slater books.
This is well written and a gripping psychological thriller.
A quick read that keeps you on the edge of your seat
While my take on The Apartment isn’t the best, there are plenty of people that really enjoyed this book. If you are on the fence about reading it, I suggest you check out the reviews or just dive in. Maybe my thoughts will help you out.
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Let me first off say the writing is well done, it was an easy read and its a short book. But with that said it was not what I was hoping for. I thought it started out really slow and continued that way. Nothing suspenseful was happening or pulling me in. I actually stopped reading it for a day just to clear my head.
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I didn’t form a connection with any of the characters and that’s unusual for me. I had hoped it would pick up half way through because that happens quite often. The more I read the more predictable I thought it became. And still nothing suspenseful was happening.
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The good news was it finally became somewhat exciting the last 6 chapters of the book. Something was finally happening. To me, that’s an awful long time to wait. I hope you take this review as my opinion. If you still want to read it please do so. You might enjoy it!.
I haven’t read any of Slaters previous books but this one looked interesting so I thought I would give it a try. Freya and Skye are finding themselves in a new situation after the death of Skye’s father, having sold their home they have to find somewhere else to live…in London…with a tiny budget. When a stranger approaches Freya in a coffee shop she finds herself with a delightful apartment in a great area for far less money than it should be. The warning lights should have started there really but, predictably, they are ignored.
The story was fairly predictable throughout, when something seems to be too good to be true it usually is and there are some quite strange occurrences which definitely bring up more and more (ignored) red flags. However, there are some good twists and it’s not all as predictable as it might first seem. Quite a light read that has some moments where you stop and think, in the same situation would you have done the same things or is Freya completely irresponsible? Is she just reacting to her desperate situation?
Overall, I enjoyed this quick read. I would have liked more information on what happened after, it stopped a little short. I would have loved to have seen a much darker ending!
The Apartment is about a single mom and her daughter being chosen to live in a beautiful building with very low rent and quirky neighbors. The storyline was ok, but became a little convoluted with the journal entry flashbacks. I liked the weirdness of the apartment building and the strange cast of characters. I do feel like the book left a lot of unanswered questions and went a bit sideways at the end. It was also a bit difficult to figure out why certain characters behaved in certain ways. I read this with a group of friends, and it seems like we all had the same questions at the end. Overall, this was a decent mystery, although predictable at times.
I’ve read so many thrillers that I usually don’t get freaked out, but this one scared me a bit! (In a good, fun way ;) ) The first half had great pacing, developing the characters really thoughtfully, and I was excited to find out where it was going, how the mystery would unravel. But about three quarters of the way, when things started to come into place, it sped up too fast. I felt the ending was really rushed and left me with a lot of questions. I also realized I don’t love an epilogue! I don’t think you need an epilogue if you’ve finished the story in a satisfactory way. Unless we’re talking about the Harry Potter “19 Years Later” Epilogue, which I LOVE. But I digress ;) Overall, I do think if you’re looking for a quick thriller that’s a bit creepy, I’d give it a read!
Freya Miller, a woman in her thirties with a 5 years old daughter Skye had gone through a lot in past couple of moths; her marriage had fall out due to her husband's betrayal, followed by his sudden death, she's about to lose her family home & with that she has to carry the responsibility of her daughter's safety all alone. .
While the anxiety running all around, she mets a charismatic man who is seeking a new tenant for his super fashionable flat in a good area of London but at a very affordable price. Freya initially refuses to get into that flat but she can't be cynical, deep down inside for her The Adder House is perfect & Dr Mardsen is also adamant she and Skye will be a perfect fit with other residents.
But Adder House has its own secrets. Freya start noticing and feeling weird things like being watched even when the front door is closed, objects shifting, unfamiliar smell, blinking light of a concealed camera and too much of help and interference from Dr & Mrs. Mardsen in her life. As the truth start reveling out she & Skye is caught in a nightmarish reality.
Okay, the story was interesting and the ending was really thrilling and twisty. The books book is written from Freya's point of view and a diary entry by a woman which makes storu more twisty. But the downfall was the in the starting it was too slow and I sometimes even felt sleepy in the middle, I hope instead of just boring stretch some more story was there..
Hmmm, where to begin with this one. The Apartment is a fast-paced read, that I honestly read in one sitting. We follow Freya and her daughter Skye after a traumatic event. Freya is in a dark spot in her life and when a man tells her about an apartment that just opened up and that she sounds like the perfect tenant, she thinks it’s too good to be true. Some strange things start happening at the Adder House, but Freya just keeps pushing those thoughts out of her mind, because she now has a great apartment for her and Skye.
First off, Freya had a rough childhood and doesn’t trust anyone easily, but yet she trusts a strange man who happens to meet her in a coffee shop? Already doesn’t add up. I wanted this to be more of a thriller that gave me goosebumps, but I wasn’t at all scared or shocked. It was just an average read and I guessed the ending way before it happened. I think this needed to be a much longer story full of more detail. I found a lot of plot holes, and things were brought up that weren’t ever explained.
While it was an alright read and the writing does make you want to read more, I just felt like this was an eh read. From the premise of The Apartment, it sounds like a dark sinister book full of twists and turns. While some things were odd and creepy, there was never a huge twist. The ending happened and I wasn’t shocked and was just let down.
This book had a good premise but fell short in parts for me. Some of the characters were unbelievable and unlikeable. That said it was a ok read. I would try another novel from this author though. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to review it.
A gripping, enjoyable novel if a little unbelievable. I would have run for the hills no matter how cash strapped I was,
This was such a great thriller. I highly recommend this to those that love the psychological/domestic thriller genre. It was full of twists and turns and truly a gripping story
Twisty, unexpected read. Thoroughly have enjoyed the first half, will finish the rest as soon as possible! Highly recommend! Can't wait to see what happens next...
I received an ARC of The Apartment in exchange for an honest review. Freya has recently lost her husband and is going through a difficult time financially. So when she is offered the opportunity to move into an apartment in a good neighborhood at a greatly reduced price, it seems too good to pass up. However, there's no such thing as a free lunch and the same could be said of good apartments at reduced prices. Strange things start happening to Freya and her daughter. This was a really quick read, however the whole story was a little bizarre or maybe even just plain silly. The story did keep my interest but the ending just didn't quite make sense.
I'm afraid I'm going to be that person,the one who doesn't agree with most of the reviews.
Throughout the whole book I just wondered at how foolish Freya was... to move into a too good to be true apartment offered to her cut price,by a stranger.
To leave her child with a stranger.
To trust another stranger to come into her home...
Also,I felt like not much happened for the majority of the book... there wasn't enough unsettling things I thought.
Then the ending was fast and over the top.
Most have loved it,it just wasn't my cup of tea
The Apartment was a slow burn but also fast-paced if that makes sense, and I loved the writing. This was my first K.L. Slater book even though I've been meaning to read her books forever and I'm glad I finally did. I can already tell that I'm bound to love the rest of her novels.
I'm keeping this short because I don't want to give anything away, but if you're looking for a quick, twisty, and suspenseful read I would recommend The Apartment. I was surprised by the ending and overall really enjoyed it all. I will definitely be moving this author's other books up on my TBR now too!
Creepy, spooky and suspenful. You know something is off but you just can't put your finger on what it is. You know you shouldn't be reading this at night before bed but you can't put it down. A must read now. One of my favorites this year. Don't pass it up. Happy reading!
Overall, an entertaining read that I finished in 2 days. The author does very well at building suspense and showing the reader all the "red flags" that Freya is so obviously missing. It is enthralling from the beginning, although the ending was a bit far-fetched. I didn't completely understand the motivation for all of the things that happened (don't want to spoil too much) or why the perpetrator did what they did, but it still was a good read.
I've been in the mood lately to read thrillers, and I've enjoyed being absorbed in the twists of these stories. Freya Miller's husband just died while he was in the midst of an affair. She needs to find a new home and a fresh start for her and her daughter. Dr. Marsden approaches her in a coffee shop with an offer that seems too good to be true. She can move into the seemingly out of her price range Adder House at a rate she can afford. Once Freya moves in, weird things start to happen that make her question her sanity. This was a quick read that I finished in a few sittings. I read a large portion of it last night, and I will admit I was slightly spooked. I will say that for most of the book I wanted to keep telling Freya that she really should listen to her gut. I thought things wrapped up a bit quickly in the end, but overall I think it was a solid thriller. If you are looking for an escape then I think this story will transport you and give you something else to worry about!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the review copy.
Reading Goodreads reviews of this novel - ABookwormwithWine's review was PERFECT! I don't know "review etiquette" but girl, you hit this BANG ON with how I felt!
It was an easy, but slow paced suspense that kept me turning the pages and wanting more. It was such an all encompassing story that had me completely invested - I totally wanted to yell at Freya the entire time to GET OUT! Keeping me in the story and trying to figure it all out... I loved it and would highly recommend this for a quick beach-read type of pick.
Thank you so much Amazon Publishing UK & NetGalley for my complimentary eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The Apartment by K. L. Slater was an interesting book to say the least, the story started a bit slow for me personally. I enjoyed the two main characters Freya and Skye Miller and the tragic journey that their life took. I was engaged with the story for the most part; however, I felt like it tool too long to get to the point of the story, which had me loosing interest during the middle of the book. The character development in the story was well written. However, a piece of me feels slightly let down with how the book ended. I felt like it the ending and the whole plot twist was rushed at the end, I wish it was expanded a bit more than a couple of chapters at the end. Im not sure I got the correct closure I was looking for with this novel. However, I do believe the plot of the story was interesting and different from any of mystery/ thriller books I've read before.
After the death of her husband, Freya is looking for someplace new for her and her five-year-old daughter to live; a fresh start. When she’s offered a very nice (and affordable!) flat by a doctor she’s just met, Freya has a hard time believing her good luck. You know that old sayig, “If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is?” That is exactly what happens to Freya, because once she’s moved into the new flat, she starts hearing things, seeing things, and feels as if she might just be losing her mind. This was an easy read, with some situations that might be hard to believe, but it was still a good read. I enjoyed it---will be reading more by this author for sure.
Note: Special thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. Character development was good. The plot was very interesting. Not a lot of typos.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Thomas & Mercer, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Freya Miller worries about providing for her 5-year old daughter Skye now that she is on her own. But a chance meeting with Dr. Michael Marsden seems to be the answer to all her problems. He offers her the opportunity to live in a mansion called Adder House. Yes, it is but one of several apartments within this unique building, and the smallest of them all, but it is exactly what Freya and Skye need.
Skye quickly falls in love with the apartment and her new neighbours. There is a bit of an issue with moving schools and leaving behind her friend Petra, but Skye is adapting much better than Freya had anticipated.
When things start to turn a little crazy, Freya wonders if her mind is just playing tricks on her. Even Skye seems to be acting strange. Is their new home a safe haven, or a house of horrors?
My Opinions:
This was a really fast read, and reminded me a little of Rosemary's Baby.
The pace was good, and as always, Kim Slater delivered suspense really well. I just kept turning those pages. Her characters are great...I could easily relate to Freya, and her predicament. I loved Lily, felt sorry for Susan and the Marsden's were just creepy. And then the plot twisted and I was thrown. Just what a good psychological thriller is supposed to do.
So overall, a creepy, atmospheric fast read that I didn't want to put down.
This was my first Slater book, but it definitely will not be my last. I would consider this one to be a slow burn. I was able to get into the story immediately, but the suspense builds before the twist at the end. One of my favorite horror movie scare tactics is the build-up and the letdown, meaning that the audience is waiting for the scare to happen, and then it doesn’t. The dread that something is not right; however, sticks with the audience and makes them uneasy. This book does precisely that. You know something strange is happening, but you can’t quite put your finger on it. Freya and the reader descend together into fear and uncertainty. It was a thrilling ride! The psychology intertwined throughout the chapters was fascinating, and not something I was used to reading in a thriller. It was a fun element to the reading experience! I really could have read an entire book where Skye is the main character instead of Freya. She was adorable!
I was only iffy about two things. One, Freya, was beyond frustrating at times. There were SO MANY signs that she needed to get the heck out of that apartment and never look back, but she ignored every single one. It was challenging to listen to her excuses over and over again. I guess we wouldn’t have had much of a thriller though if she left! Two, I felt like the ending was a bit rushed. All of a sudden, BAM! You find out what happens, and then a few pages later, it jumps right to six months later. I guess I didn’t find it necessary. I would have rather seen more of an explanation of why. However, these two things did not at all stop me from enjoying every bit of the novel! I read the entire thing in less than 24 hours!
So I am not in the majority, but I did not care for this book. So many plot holes. It drug on and on. I just didn't care for it. I am disappointed bc I thought this was going to be good. Just my opinion, you may love it.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and K. L. Slater for the free Kindle version book.
The Apartment is testament to the saying-"If it sounds too good to be true." Slater lets her reader know from the beginning of the novel that Freya, a single mother in her 30's, has been targeted by Dr. Marsden. He approaches her in a Starbucks on the guise that he is displaying an apartment for rent flyer. Freya and her five year old daughter Skye are the only tenants he wants for the apartment in an elegant building in England near Hyde Park.
He even offers flexibility on the rent. Freya's reservations are forgotten and she and Skye move into Adder House.
The plot moves quickly and is full of suspense. What is happening at Adder House? Who can Freya trust?
The Apartment is a quick read and very entertaining.
WOW. This book is SO GOOD. I couldn’t finish it in one day and it was so good I dreamt about what might have been going on. So many twists and so many people that I thought could be the antagonist and every one of those was wrong! Seriously keeps you guessing until the very end!! Highly recommend!!
Any book about something that seems too good to be true probably is! I loved the twist in this story; my mind was going a completely different direction so I love being shocked! Every person I suspected was wrong and wow that was such a satisfying ending!
I love when flashbacks connect to present day so cleverly that you’re like whoa that’s why this is happening!
My first book by this author but not my last!
Another one of those "i can't put it down, i need to see how this ends" type of book.
From page one this book had my interest...someone offers you an apartment at a dirt cheap price in an upscale place..you KNOW there has to be a catch!!!
Definitely the book you want to keep going with to find out how it ends.
Freya and her daughter get offered a great deal on a nice apartment in a wealthy part of London after her husband dies. Perhaps she should’ve been suspicious of the opportunity falling into her lap, but the situation was perfect. Of course, the landlord was a little too interested in how she lived her life, but that’s to be expected when you live in someone’s converted mansion, right? Nonetheless, things get creepy fast. Is she going crazy or is there actually something to be concerned about? I devoured this book in one day! Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me a copy in exchange for an impartial review.
Unfortunately this was a miss for me. Slow build and then a ridiculous ending. I feel like I wasted a day with this one.
The Apartment is the story of a woman that comes across a too good to be true apartment for rent.
Freya, a widow in financial stress, is approached by Dr. Marsden in a coffee shop and offers her the apartment at a budget friendly price. After she and her daughter, Skye, move in Freya starts to notice strange things about the house and the other tenants.
Overall this book was an easy read with plenty of suspense. I just felt like the story itself was not believable. It also left too many unanswered questions. How did the husband die? Who was the man Aubrey was with? I liked it up until the end.
First time in reading this author with the tidbit that told a bit about story that grabbed my attention. This also fell into what alot of what I had been reading lately also. Freya and Skye take you into this one with that takes you to a flat in London. There is intrigue that catches her right away that the answers build a nightmare. What has happened and can they get away? This is one that pulls you to the edge in finding the answers you seek. Keeps you busy for a minute with a conclusion you finally get too.
Wow!! I was interested from page one and my interest just kept building more and more. Talk about a plot twist ending that you won’t see coming. I can’t wait to read more books by this amazing author. You’re guaranteed to love this one.
I enjoyed the build up of the plot for the majority of the book. I kept asking myself different questions that kept me hooked until the end. Throughout the book I kind of made a connection to what the ending would be but when I finally got to it I wasn’t a huge fan. I just thought it was odd.
Despite that, the writing style was fantastic. I very much enjoyed the book up until the end.
This was a fast and fun read! It was your typical thriller/mystery set up- main character has a tragic loss and feels overwhelmed in life, is looking for a positive change and offered a "too good to be true" scenario, and it all turns bad fast!
Freya and her daughter are looking for a new lease on life after a sad tragedy. They are offered an apartment in a very upscale area of London. Freya thinks it is too good to be true, and boy was she right.
The first half of the book starts a bit slow, but we learn all about Freya and her daughter, Skye, and how they came to be in their current situation. We get flashbacks of life before the tragedy and even a bit of knowledge into Freya's upbringing, which explains why she is skeptical of most people and fiercely protective of her daughter.
We are also introduced to the antagonist, though we don't know who it is. This person is clearly stalking and keeping tabs on the mother-daughter pair. Along with first person snippets of the antagonist's story we get flashbacks to the early 1900's of a cruel experiment involving a child and his reaction to fear...
The second half of the book picks up speed and I was finding myself wanting to read faster and faster to see where exactly this book was going. It suddenly sucked me in and I had to know what the heck was going on at Adder House!
The end was a complete surprise to me. I did not have it figured out at all, though I had my suspicions that not every character was how they presented themselves.
If you are looking for a fun, quick thriller than I highly recommend this book! It was just released today (April 28, 2020) here in the U.S. AND it is currently free with a Kindle Unlimited subscription.
Thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for allowing me the eARC to read and give my honest review. It was a 4 star read!
Happy Reading!
As I have been healing from Covid 19, I have had trouble finding a book that would hold my interest. I was experiencing too much anxiety and too little energy. The Apartment by Karen Slater met my needs.
The Apartment is very skillfully written; it holds the reader’s attention all the way through. Part of the reason for this is the way the plot keeps moving, mostly because the reader gets immediately caught up in this “too good to be true” situation. Freya and her little daughter Skye will soon be homeless because of some unfortunate life circumstances, when they are offered an apartment in the magnificent old Adder House near Kensington Palace.
But nothing seems right from the very beginning, and the suspense fills every page. Freya is a very appealing character as is little Skye. We want the best for them and yet we know that the best isn’t going to happen for them. There is a great deal of suspense, and I had trouble figuring out how all the pieces fit together. Unfortunately, the ending was quite rushed and the pieces did not all get tied up. That was a major disappointment in an otherwise taut thriller.
Interestingly, this book came out first as an Audible exclusive. The paperback and Kindle copies came out today, April 28. The Kindle Unlimited copy is currently free.
This book had a creepy vibe from the first sentence and that vibe continued to the last sentence! The writing is concise and the pace of the creepiness is excellent. There were times I wanted to shout at Freya "can't you see this is too good to be true?!?" and I wanted her to just grab Skye and get out of there! The best part about horror like this is that unlike supernatural monsters, it's something that could happen. Everyone was a suspect - except for the person who actually was. Page-turner of a book!!
Thank you Netgalley, Amazon Publishing U.K. and K. L. Slater.
Awesome thriller written by an awesome writer.
As usual, K. L. Slater does not disappoint. When you pick up this book you cannot put it down.
When something appears to good to be true it usual is.
Enjoy this fast read. 4 stars
The Apartment is the kind of thriller that slowly spikes and builds up your interest with each turning page and leaves you craving for more.It is a wonderfully crafted novel which makes you feel the as if the incidents happening to the characters are really happening to you.
First of all, I loved the writing style. The character development was great. I loved how each chapter ended with a suspicious detail. It really felt as if I was being watched. The creepiness and the weird sounds at Adder House didn't just care and confuse Freya I was genuinely creeped out throughout the entirety of the book, just was the power of the author to get me invested. I was hooked to this books til the end.
SO, why not give it 5 stars.Well, unfortunately the book had a few problems. The plot of the books starts with the death of Freya's husband Lewis. The author gives us a lot of information regarding her relationship wit her husband to the time leading to the death.However, mysteriously, how he died is never fully disclosed.
There were a lot of mysterious events that occurred throughout the course of the story that had no significant impact on the story and seemed unnecessary to me. Although the suspense is built with great detail through the chapters, the ending was a bit meh for me. I expected a more thrilling end to the momentous suspense but only got an explanation with clear logic or reason.
However, I think that the story was beautifully written and would have been brilliant if he ending was up to the mark.
This book was very dry for me. I will could not relate to the book. To me it seems that the book is monotone. If the book is a mystery, I looked for some hint of some mysteriously to pop out at the beginning of the book that would awaken my curiosity to delve more into the book. I didn’t get it. The book didn’t really explain what happened to the father. It didn’t explain why the mother and daughter were being watched. As the mother and daughter moved in the apartment I thought the mystery would pick up then, but no it didn’t. I voluntary reviewed this ARC after receiving a free gifted copy.
Freya is a single mother, recently widowed and looking for a place to live with her five year old daughter. When she's offered an affordable apartment in the lavish Adder House, it seems too good to be true. By the time Freya realizes her mistake in moving there, it might be too late for her and Skye to get out.
I don't have a whole lot to say about this book. It's pretty short, a very quick read, and there isn't a ton of build up. Most of the weird incidents that occur after Freya moves to Adder House are listed in the synopsis, and an alternative perspective throughout the story leads you to the conclusion long before the end of the book. None of the characters and their reactions are realistic, with the exception of Skye who is absolutely adorable.
Honestly, this book isn't terrible, but I wouldn't recommend it to many people. Perhaps if you're a huge fan of British mystery/thrillers, and enjoy books like An Anonymous Girl, this might be your thing. It just didn't work for me, and I probably would have never picked it up if I had noticed it was British beforehand. It's available on Kindle Unlimited right now if you would like to give it a chance.
*Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for providing this ARC for review*
The Apartment
K.L.Slater
★★★
Freya needs a saviour. She is about to lose her family home and she is desperate for some security in her life and more importantly that of her five-year-old daughter, Skye. Her saviour comes in the form of Dr. Marsden, who is offering her a shockingly affordable flat. Weird things begin to happen and Freya is becoming increasingly concerned. As she begins to discover the truth all she can think about is whether she and Skye will be able to make it out.
Another thriller to get lost in! The nature of the twist in this story excited me and gave me a moment to geek out - if you have studied psychology you will like this! I would recommend this book if you are into thrillers. However, I did find that there were a few moments when my attention waned and I felt that the end was slightly rushed - still the overall storyline was interesting!
Thank you to @NetGalley and @AmazonPublishingUK for giving me access to this arc!
Pub date: 28 April 2020 - go and check it out!
An excellent physiological thriller that had me unable to put it down, finishing it within the day!
Freya and her daughter Skye are on their own after the death of her husband, Lucas. She cannot afford to stay in the house she is in and needs somewhere to live. It feels like too good to be true when she meets Dr Marsden in a coffee shop and sees the flyers he is putting about about needing a tenant at Adder House.
She overcomes her doubts and becomes the new tenant in the vacant apartment in a converted house with strange residents!
The book is brilliantly written with twists and turns along the way and makes you suspicious of everyone you meet through the story! I will definitely be looking out for more from this author.
First the cons: a lot of plot holes. No way would a strong independent woman be fooled by a stranger in a coffee shop to go live in his house. And how did the husband die? Why is Kat so angry that Skye is moving away? SO MANY PLOT HOLES. Now the pros: a creepy, old fashioned thriller that will entertain you! An odd twist at the end that is guessable but makes for a good story! Overall a good read. This book was an ARC provided to me by NetGalley and the publishers in return for my honest review.
I received a digital copy of #theapartment from #NetGalley though all opinions are my own.
This book is set in London where a window and her 5 year old daughter are trying to create a new life. She then finds an apartment that seems too good to be true and that's where the mystery begins. For the most part each chapter ends on a cliffhanger though their are a few stories that don't seem to add to the story line. Overall a decent read with a slightly odd ending and a creepy house.
I have read several of K.L Slater’s books, so I actually did a dance for joy when I got the opportunity to review this. I am a huge fan!!
Freya Miller is approached by Dr Michael Marston in a coffee shop, he just so happens to be looking for the “right type of tenant” for his luxury apartment Adder House. Freya coincidently happens to be looking for a place to live with her daughter Skye, as they are losing their family home after the death of her husband. Surely this is too good to be true!!!
When Freya moves in, strange things start to occur and the Marsdons seem to be taking too much of an interest in Freya’s life.
Loved the creepiness of it all. Poor Freya is feeling vulnerable and is not in the right frame of mind to at first see what is happening, but she soon starts to investigate the history of her apartment. You can trust a Dr can’t you?
I read this practically in one sitting. I found myself wanting to shake Freya to wise up!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review
Freya is still reeling from the death of her husband and trying to help her 5-year-old daughter, Skye, accept their loss. Freya can no long afford to stay in their house and needs to rent a place. When she is perusing ads at a Starbucks, a man who introduces himself as Dr. Michael Marsden shows her a flyer he is getting ready to post on the board. He is the landlord for a place called Adder House. He explains that prospective renters are interviewed and if approved, the rent they pay is based upon what they can afford. Thinking it almost too good to be true, she and her daughter tour the place. It is beautiful with a lovely garden.
Soon, Freya finds Marsden and other residents to be strange. In addition, things happen in the apartment that she cannot explain and make her feel unsafe. What is going on here and does she need to go somewhere else?
I had so many questions as I read this book and felt that it just didn’t grab me as a thriller should. It left me disappointed in some ways and found the plot to be weak and just not a book that I enjoyed. I had read and enjoyed another book by this author and hope her next books will be much better.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This is a difficult twice to write as I didn’t love this book. It’s a psychological thriller so right up my street but I just didn’t quite buy the story and found the subject a bit unsettling. Freya is looking for somewhere new to live and finds somewhere to good to be true - and it is. But there’s so many alarm bells that I just didn’t quite buy that she’d have gone along with it. I know KL slater is so popular so it’s maybe just the style that’s not for me. If you’ve read it let me know your thoughts!
I really enjoyed this book, great storyline, easy to read, and keeps you gripped, wanting to keep reading on. I finished this book in a very quick time for me, just showing how good a book it was.
Thoroughly recommend
This was a great read! I enjoyed the quick pace of the story and felt that I fell into the world pretty quickly. It sometimes takes me a few chapters before I really get into the story - but not here! The story is captivating and makes you want to keep reading to figure out what is going on. I couldn’t put it down - and liked the ending too. I would definitely recommend!
Wow what a book. Was a bit unsure to start with as they've been similar stories written, but had me gripped from the first page and not wanting it to end.
Was Freya simply in the right place at the right time? When something seems too good to be true it generally is!
This book is well written and would definitely recommend.
In The Apartment, struggling mother Freya Miller is coping with the loss of her husband and the loss of the house they shared together with their daughter, Skye. After meeting charismatic Dr. Marsden in a coffeeshop, he extends a lease offer to Freya for her and her daughter to move into Adder house at a price that is too good to refuse. Freya can’t believe her luck – but after they move into Adder house, strange occurrences make Freya question her good fortune. Hidden cameras, moving furniture, and inexplicable noises make Freya start questioning her sanity and her daughter’s safety.
This book was just okay for me. I felt that most of the characters were too flat. There was one character (Mark) that was introduced too late in the book and had a single, obvious sole purpose. Other characters served to scare Freya and mold back into the shadows. There were other tropes explored in the book such as the struggling single mother, the creepy house, and the suspicious landlord, but none of the tropes were presented in a way that was fresh and exciting.
However, I do read a lot of suspense novels and at this point, I’m hard to surprise and shock. I think this book would still be enjoyable for someone who isn’t a diehard fan of the genre and is looking for a nice, solid, suspense novel.
I really enjoyed this book! The entire book has such a creepy vibe and it kept me totally on the edge of my seat! The writing was incredibly atmospheric....it definitely allowed me to put myself right into the story and feel the fear and anxiety that the main character was feeling.
The ending tied up a little too neatly in my opinion (in regard to how the characters connected, etc) and the main character definitely made some “WTH is she thinking” decisions, but other than that I absolutely loved the story!
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!!
The Apartment is a quick read, less than 300 pages and I was able to devour this one in two sittings. I’ve never read any K.L. Slater but I’d seen so many of my fellow bookstagrammers talking about it, so I had to check it out.
This one has a lot of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager vibes, however they are completely different stories. I think it’s best to go into this one without knowing too much. All I will say is that if you have any background in psychology like I do, you probably will appreciate this story but also be able to see where it’s going. I know this is vague but I can’t share any more without giving away a major plot point.
This one starts off slow but picks up in the last half. While I enjoyed the ending and thought it was clever, I was hoping for something darker and more sinister. This story plays on something we all learn in Psychology 101 and it was interesting to see how something I learned about while studying my undergrad was executed in fiction.
I recommend The Apartment for those interested in psychological thrillers with a basis on real life history. Also for fans of Lock Every Door, you get similar vibes reading about this apartment building where things just seem off. Obviously Lock Every Door reigns supreme 🤷🏼♀️ but this is still an enjoyable read.
3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
This was a quick read that I finished in less than 24 hours. I keep seeing comparisons to Lock Every Door by Riley Sager, which it did remind me of, but Sager's title is much more fleshed out. Sometimes the trouble with shorter books is that they leave much to be desired. I wish I knew how the husband died, as it featured prominently in the story. I wish Freya's childhood had been explored a little more. The climax in general was abrupt and then concluded. Overall I enjoyed the story and wish there had been more to read. I hardly ever think a book is too short, so that's saying a lot.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author, and publisher for providing an advanced reading copy.
After the loss of her husband, Freya Miller needs a new start for her and her daughter. While browsing ads for apartments in a coffee shop, Freya meets Dr. Marsden who offers her an opportunity that is too good to be true. An apartment called Added House in a fashionable neighborhood in London. Freya can't believe her luck especially because Dr. Marsden is asking for way below what the apartment is worth, but after her and Skye move in, strange things start happening. Freya thinks maybe she's going crazy especially when furniture starts moving and she starts hearing weird noises and seeing strange things. Is it all in her head due to the stress of starting over or is there more to what goes on behind closed doors at Adder House?
I really enjoyed this book. It moved at a quick pace and held my interest the entire way through. One thing I find with a lot of mysteries is that I can figure them out early on, but I could not figure out what was going on at all in this book. The whole cast of characters was mysterious and I couldn't tell who was behind the strange things happening in Freya's apartment. I liked Freya as the protagonist because she had her issues, but cared very much for her daughter and wanted to give her a better life. Although there were times she made me want to scream, I just wanted her and Skye to be okay.
There were some chapters of this book which flashback to a psychologist doing experiments on a young child. Throughout the book I could not figure out what they had to do with Freya and Skye. It does come together at the end, but in my opinion they made the book feel a little disjointed. Also, the ending of the book moved very quickly so make sure you pay extra careful attention or you could get confused. I wish the Epilogue had been longer, but overall I would recommend this book to mystery readers.
Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
I wasn't sure what to expect of this book as have never read anything from this author but I was very pleasantly surprised.
Right from the start , there was a very creepy feel about Adder House and that atmosphere was built up and up.
Really did enjoy it, and looking forward to reading more books from this author.
This book was a super fast and engaging read. I felt like the characters could be developed a little more, but come on, is that what you are really looking for in a thriller? I would have liked more answers to the ex-husband's death for sure. Overall, an enjoyable book.
This book was a quick read...not a lot of intense depth to it. It is a psychological thriller following a woman who has moved into a new apartment. Following the move strange things begin to happen. I easily guessed who the bad guy was. I felt like the story was a bit weak in some places, but was a pleasant and easy read if you don’t want anything real intense.
Things I’ve learned from reading #suspensebooks : If the apartment seems too good to be true - probably best to avoid it entirely 🙈
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I don’t want to give away too much, but I will say that I loved this one and finished it in one night - the main plot premise was somewhat typical, but the underlying theme of scientific experiments and the cruelty of the living beings we use to test our theories was really compelling and gave this an added, deeper boost in terms of your typical suspense/thriller
My thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for a copy of “The Apartment “ for an honest review.
From enjoying previous books by K L Slater I knew that I was in for a good read .
It was a perfect psychological thriller, and even though I guessed elements of the story I found the book hard to put down.I love her style of writing and it was an ideal piece of escapism.
Definitely recommend
This was a pretty darn good book! I didn’t see the twist coming after a slow build of the story. Once it came, I felt like the book was almost over. I would’ve liked to have a little more to fully flesh the story out after the twist; it seemed rushed, The characters were great and very realistic, and the writing was very well done. I definitely like this author’s work, I would happily read them again. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for my free ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
3.5/5
Freya Miller is approached by a mysterious stranger at her local Starbucks with an offer she can't refuse. Put her terrible past behind her, and start fresh in a new apartment with her daughter Skye at 1/3 the price of its usual rent. Pretty quickly strange happenings begin occurring though: Skye thinks she sees people, Freya hears noises, and the neighbors aren't exactly normal. Freya swiftly learns the apartment of her dreams might actually be the stuff of her nightmares.
A fast paced thriller that explores the depths of desperate optimism and fear I devoured this read. The characters of Freya and Skye are incredibly likable and you root for them throughout. Their deep and troubled background keeps you guessing with lots of twists and turns. Slater clearly spent a lot of time creating fully realized characters to place in the world.
However I did have a few issues with the book. There are several subplots that seem like they are just thrown into the pot for no reason. The ending also felt a bit rushed, but the main issue I had with the book were the character's reaction to the situations occurring. You know the saying when life hands you lemons you make lemonade? Well when life hands you a rent controlled apartment you make excuses apparently, which is what Freya does. Throughout the book Freya must make decisions that simply do not make sense to advance the story which can be a bit maddening at times since the character's backgrounds are so painstakingly crafted.
Overall if you're a fan of thrillers with a psychological bent this is right up your alley. It's also an extremely fun and breezy read that I would recommend for a late night thrill. Very similar to Ruth Ware and Gillian Flynn style mysteries. Special thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and K.L. Slater for my copy!
If you like really creepy psychological thrillers, "The Apartment" is the book for you. Freya and her daughter Skye are in desperate need of housing after her husband left them for her best friend and then died, leaving only a small insurance policy, which is going to run out before too many months have passed. A "chance" meeting in a coffee house with Dr. Michael Marsden results in an offer to rent, at a much reduced rate, the top floor apartment of Adder House, which he owns; an apartment she could not possibly afford at market value. After seeing Adder House and the apartment, Freya accepts Mr. Marsden's offer, taking it as a sign that her luck has changed. However, Adder House is not what it seems, with Mr. and Mrs. Marsden's behavior overly generous and at times overly controlling, other tenants that are strange, and a variety of strange happenings. The only seemingly "normal" tenant is Lily Brockley, an elderly woman who bonds with Skye over their mutual interest in birds. Freya has her concerns, but the Marsdens always have an explanation or change the subject when she tries to get more information; moreover, she is overwhelmed by issues involving her daughter and the strange things seemingly happening in her apartment.
Interspersed in the modern day story are passages from a journal in 1920 by a woman who works as a wet nurse at a hospital and has an infant child, Albert. She is pressured into letting Professor Watson, a pre-eminent psychologist, study her son, which involves a social conditioning experiment expanding on the work of Pavlov. There are also recordings from Professor Watson of the sessions with Little Albert and the results of the experiment. The reader gets the impression that something similar is happening to Freya and Skye, but it is unclear exactly who is the perpetrator. In the end, it turns out the situation is even more complex and twisted than the reader likely expects. Well worth the read.
I received a copy of the e-book via NetGalley in exchange for a review.
This book is the epitome of “when something sounds to good to be true it usually is.” Freya Miller, a recently widowed, single mother facing some financial difficulties jumps at an offer of an apartment in a upscale neighborhood of London. She brings with her some baggage in the form of anxiety and other metal issues which are only made worse by the living conditions she encounters at The Apartment. Coupled with her daughter, Skye’s, adjustment problems at her new school, Freya Miller’s life spins out of control. The author has done an excellent job of building suspense, giving the read a thrilling ride and delivering a surprising conclusion to this story.
After her husband's untimely passing, Freya Miller is now facing life as a single mother of a five-year-old girl. She has to sell her home to paid for their debts and now is in desperate need of a new cheap accomodation. (Un)Fortunately, enters Dr. Marsden who turns out has a really affordable new apartment for rent in the majestic Adder House. Rent won´t be a problem for this struggling single mother, when rent is established accordingly to your meager means.
Freya and her daughter Skye move to the apartment in Adder House, looking forward to start their new life and meet the other tenants, but strange things start to happen. First, the constant feeling of being watched, the weird noises and missing toys, then the strange behavior of the Adder House's residents everything keeps pilling up until Freya starts to doubt even her own mind.
This is a physchological thriller that you can read in one sitting, points for that. It has some spooky moments, but for me the start of the book gave to much away and the unease of each event didn't last enough for my taste. The ending left me wanting for more, almost didn't like some characters arcs resolutions.
(My reviews also appear in the Parkersburg News and Sentinel.)
When something seems too good to be true it probably is. Freya's life has been turned upside down in the wake of her husband's affair and accidental death, and she and her young daughter, Skye, are losing their house. A chance meeting with a man at a coffee house brings her the perfect opportunity - a lavish apartment to rent in the perfect part of town for next to nothing. The residents all seem nice, but soon Skye is having some issues and some strange happenings at both home and school are troubling. And then things really take a turn and Freya learns they are not the first single mom and daughter to rent there.
This creepy thriller will have you staying up late reading and begging Freya to leave the house!
This thriller is about a struggling single mother who gets an opportunity to live in "a shockingly affordable flat in a fashionable area of London." And as the lesson goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. I liked that the story was a fast-paced page turner, but I found the whole thing to be a little unbelievable. I figured out whodunit pretty early on as well.
(Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book. The Apartment was just released on April 28, 2020.)
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC.
Unfortunately, I read only 5 chapters and the storyline was rediculous. Too good to be true to have a place to live for free. Freya does nothing to check into this Dr. Marsden.
This book was just plain creepy from the get-go! A single mom with financial problems is approached, apparently "randomly", by a man who has an apartment to rent cheap. When she takes her little girl, Skye, to have a look, she finds it's a beautiful manor that has been divided into apartments. The only drawback seems to be that the other tenants appear to be quite "weird". When I read at one point, "It seems too good to be true", I thought to myself, "Hello!"
You'll have to read it for yourself to find out if I was right.
-I received a digital ARC copy thanks to NetGalley, all thoughts and opinions are my own-
Rating 3.5 stars
This story was a wild ride from start to finish. The story follows our main character Freya, who has just recently become a single mother due to her husband passing away. Though they had been separated for 18 months due to his infidelity. Freya has to move out with her daughter Skye and is approached with a deal she cannot pass up. She moves into an apartment in Adder House which seems to be a deal too good to be true.
They are living in a beautiful apartment in a wealthy part of London for merely £500 a month. But soon things start to take a turn and Freya believes her and her daughter are in danger.
This story had quite the plot twist that I was not expecting. I fully believed that Lily was there to help Freya and Skye but that was not the case. I also believed that Audrey and Dr. Marsden were the culprits of the strange activities but was also surprised to find the truth. Although they aren’t really the “good” guys since they knew fully well what Lily was doing that didn’t know the extent of it.
I felt that this story could’ve been better. I felt it was longer than what was needed. I would have liked to see more of Freya exploring the house in full and slowly putting the pieces together but still keeping Lily as the one to lay it all out for her.
I enjoyed the plot twist a lot, although maybe could’ve done without the chapters in Lily’s perspective (which you don’t know is hers until the end) because even though it made you question who it was I felt that they could’ve gone into more detail or didn’t use it at all
Overall I rated this store 3.5 stars, I found myself when I was reading not able to put it down and wanting to just continue. I enjoyed the plot twist but would’ve liked a few changes.
Thanks again to NetGalley for allowing me to read an ARC copy of this!
I did not enjoy this book. The plot was not structured well. It was a slow build with not much happening. I didn't care about the characters. There were plot holes and the chapters were weirdly structured. The ending was extremely rushed and the reasoning fro Freya's turmoil did not make any sense. Quite frankly, The Apartment was a let down.
This was quite a story! It takes place in London and Freya and her daughter Skye get the offer of a lifetime to live in a beautiful new apartment in a very posh part of London. - and it’s affordable! The novel takes off from the day they move in. This is a very fascinating read!
Everything is not as perfect as it seems...Freya, down on her luck,happens to be in a coffee shop when a mysterious guys offers her an opportunity of a lifetime. Living in a beautiful mansion for little rent? Who would turn down that opportunity. We meet The Adder house and all the "mysterious"occupants living in it. We also see the secrets that this house keeps.
I really liked where this story was going. It had me hooked in the begging and kept me engaged. What was the story behind the creepy Marsden's ? What was the story behind the people living in the house? As the story went on, I started to lose interest. There were a few twists at the end I did not expect, the secret relationships in the house, but the premise behind all the weird happenings did not cut it for me. I wish this book had a different ending.
We meet Freya whose in a pinch at the beginning of the book. Her husband Lewis passed away. She's paid off all their debt and sold the house they had together. Freya and her daughter Skye need to move out ASAP and look for a new place to stay at. While at a coffee shop one day she runs into Dr. Marsden. Low and behold he has an apartment for rent (how convenient huh?). But rent is based on how much you can pay from what you make.....sounds good right? This is where things turn south.
When Freya and Skye move into Adder house strange things start to happen. Things to start moving by themselves, she starts to feel uneasy living there, and let's not forget how creepy her landlord is and the uneasiness he brings to the table. Basically Adder house is not what it seems and with a creepy name like that I wouldn't expect less. The story is filled with twists and turns and lots of tension. I was just as anxious and scared for Freya and Skye as she was. I did however want more of a backstory on Freya's husband's death; left me wanting more. I truly enjoy a good thriller and this one didn't disappoint. Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK, and Thomas and Mercer for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a quick moving, entertaining read. After the death of her husband, Freya is down on her luck and desperate to find an affordable place where her and her young daughter, Skye, can settle in and rebuild their lives. She can’t believe her luck when an older gentleman approaches her in a coffee shop and makes her an offer she cannot refuse. She is charmed and soon agrees to move into the fancy Adder house in the super nice neighbor and super cheap rent. (This is idiotic, folks. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Of course, warning signs start to show and Freya is desperate to discover the true history of the apartment and her hosts...
🏢 This one gave me LOTS of Lock Every Door vibes except that book was way creepier. I mean- at one point Freya loses her shit over a bunch of flies. Never ever move to Oklahoma, darling. 😆
🏢 The chapters were super short and I was able to consume this book in perfectly sized little bites. I can’t be the only one who just adores short chapters!
🏢 The ending worked, but I truly expected something more dramatic and dangerous. It fell pretty flat.
Three and a half stars... rounded up to four! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to Netgalley for this book in return for an honest review!
I loved the idea of this book more than I loved the book. That said, after it finally picked up I did enjoy it. There were no huge surprises. I figured it out too early for there to be any ‘wow factor.’
Although I’ve only read a handful of Miss Slater’s books so far, I’ve liked them all. She’s definitely a talented writer . This book seemed a bit different than those I’ve read , as it’s more of a mystery than thriller or domestic drama? While it was good, it wasn’t my favorite out of those I’ve read. It had quite a confusing start, so it took awhile to get the story straight of who is who and how they connect. Anyhow, this is was a decent read but not great...the writing is worth 3.5 stars.
If you want an excellent K.L. Slater book, I recommend The Silent Ones or Single.
This is my first K L Slater book and I really enjoyed it. I really liked the character of Freya. And Skye was adorable. I felt that I wanted to protect them. There was a good sense of paranoia in this. And the flashback were interesting.
I was expecting an easy-to-read thriller but I didn't enjoy this much. While I understand that you have to suspend your disbelief for a good story, this was just too far-fetched. The main character was ridiculously naive, the dialogue was painfully bad, and the short length made it seem like it had just been churned out by the author.
I enjoyed reading this book. The setting is sooo creepy. It kinda reminds me of Riley Sager's Lock Every Door because of the too good to be true plot. The ending didn't work for me. However, it was a good read. Totally page turner.
The beginning of this book had my full interest. Freya is targeted at Starbucks with an unreal deal to live in the Adder House after just losing her husband and needing to find a new home for her and her 5 year old daughter, Skye.
This book reminded me quite a bit of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager: both had quirky and specific resident who had to be approved prior to moving in, weird and unexplained things occurring in their apartments and of course both of the main characters felt like they were going crazy during their stay at their “perfect new residence”.
I felt like there was a lot of background and build up on the relationship between Freya and Skye and for the most part I enjoyed it since it was keeping me engaged in the story and kept me guessing on what was going to happen next.
It took a while for “the big reveal” to happen and once I hit the end I was just annoyed. The ending left so many questions unanswered and it all seemed so unlikely. Needless to say I wish the ending would’ve been completely different and I probably would’ve enjoyed this book more.
As posted on Goodreads:
I enjoyed this very much. I thought it was a fascinating premise and I eagerly read through to the end, wondering what would happen. I thought the characterization was well done. I'm not entirely sure *everything* worked, but I still was happy I went along for the ride.
Sorry to say I was not enthralled with this book. Characters were underdeveloped. Plot lacked depth. Ended too abruptly. On the bright side it added another book to help me reach my 2020 reading goal!
The Apartment is a creepy slow burn thriller in which we see Frey and her young daughter, Skye, move in to a new apartment that seems too good to be true. They are in the process of flat hunting and Freya by chance meets the charming Dr Marsden who happens to be searching for new tenants for a flat he is letting out. The flat is in a large beautiful house near Kensington Palace and normally Freya wouldn't be able to afford a flat like that but she is offered it at a fantastic price and can't believe her luck. However, once they move in there they meet some odd residents and start to experience some bizarre things.
I was expecting to really enjoy this thriller but for me it was just a little to slow in pace. I was around 75% in to the book before the first bizarre event happened and then around 85% before the story started to become 'thrilling'. And then after that it felt the ending came very fast and felt rushed. So unfortunately this didn't hit the mark for me but others may enjoy the gradual build up.
I had some issues with Freya's relationship with another character, Mark. He was a builder working on a local house and she had spoken to him once in passing but then later started to think of him as reliable and sensible and someone who she could speak to about her troubles at her new apartment. It just seemed an odd way of thinking of someone who she had only very briefly spoken to. I genuinely didn't understand how he suddenly became such a big part of the story when he did.
I did really enjoy the second timeline that appears every so often of a doctor many years ago undertaking what is now a famous psychology experiment and how that became tied in to the current story of Freya and her Daughter. It was definitely a unique aspect to the book and was woven in well.
Overall the book just felt a bit average when I was hoping it would be so much more.
Freya and her young daughter, Skye, just found the perfect place to live after the death of her husband. Things turn out to be too good to be true. The rent in this part of London is dirt cheap for such a posh location. Skye got into a top-notch school with a waitlist. However, things started to go wrong in their life. Skye becomes lethargic, and Freya is starting to see and hear things.
Sometimes life is scarier than any story you might read. The scary experiment that Freya and Skye are in, is quite apparent. However, I don't see a mother who has been through so much in her adolescent life to have not done anything to investigate in that length of time. The story seems to woven Freya's husband's death into something of a mystery and yet it was hardly touched upon. The experiment that was done on Freya and her daughter also do not follow the rule of those that were before them. The story was very enjoyable, but the storyline seems rushed.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this fabulous ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The apartment is a quick read that thriller lovers will devour in one or two sittings. The book follows the main character Freya as she recovers from tragedy and attempts to get her life and her daughter's life back into a positive light. While not overly thriller-like, there are several parts that are so creepy they will make your skin crawl. I held my breath through a lot of this but was sadly disappointed by the ending. It was almost "to clean".
This was a pretty darn good thriller with a heck of a lot of twists, turns, thrill and suspense. Amy and Matt are 2 weeks away from their wedding and Amy is warned in the street by a stranger that she is in danger. Matt appears to have disappeared! She learns Matt is hiding some secrets, but she has some of her own as well. The story is told in Amy and Jess' (her daughter) point of view.
An exciting thriller with a psychological twist. Keeps your interest from beginning to end.
Freya and her daughter, Skye are looking for an apartment she can afford after having to sell her home. While looking at apartment ads posted in a coffee shop she is approached by an elderly gentleman who offers her an apartment too good to refuse. After moving in to this grande house with its strange occupants , strange things begin happening to Freya and she is fearful for her mental health.. Freya and her daughter are befriended by one of the other residents , the only one that does not give her shivers.
Freya learns that another woman and her daughter lived in the house as well and committed Suicide.but this is denied by the other occupants.
She begins to investigate the other woman and then her apartment, with the help of a local construction worker. She finds that she is being mointered,, her daughter who was left with the neighbor who befriended her is missing.
We then see how Freya and her daughter are connected to Dr. Watson's contiversal behavioral experiment many years ago.
I received this book for from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
It is a book that you do not want to put down.
I thoroughly enjoyed this creepy but not too creepy book. It was just the right sort of read for a Quarantine - kept my attention, made me wonder what was going to happen, but didn't freak me out at all. Just sort of a slow burn psychological sinister!
Four creepy little stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for a galley edition of the book for an honest review!
I really enjoyed this book, about a woman and her young daughter who need to find somewhere to live, and by coincidence meet someone who is advertising for an apartment for minimal rent in their large grand London house. Obviously, all is not quite what it seems, and Freya ends up not knowing who to trust, nor what happened to the previous occupants of her apartment, if there were actually any. A great book, where I felt I was losing my mind along with Freya. Highly recommended.
This book felt like "Rosemary's Baby" all over again! When Freya and her daughter Skye get an offer to move into an apartment that seems too good to be true ... it is! While the plot was predictable, it was very much an enjoyable read.
Thank you to the author, Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book! This review was also published on Goodreads.
A young woman, widowed by the death of her estranged husband and left with serious money worries, is offered a 'bargain' deal on a very nice flat in a fancy area of London by an older man she meets in a Starbucks. What could possibly go wrong?
I got a copy of this from Netgalley in return for an honest review. Perhaps they might consider this one a bit TOO honest.
I read this thinking that it was probably a brave first novel, maybe one from a self-published author who was putting in more energy and enthusiasm than talent. I was gobsmacked to discover that K L Slater is a very successful 'bestselling' author with a big back catalogue.
I read a lot of mystery and crime novels and this just didn't push my buttons at all. So little happened and it all felt very 'obvious'. True, I didn't spot the twist, but I'm not sure I even cared by that stage. The entire thing felt a bit flat. There was mild peril but not enough intrigue. And the back-story of the historic abuse of a young boy seemed like a tired plot-device designed to try to pull a rather ragged story together.
It's a quick read and one that won't challenge the average reader and will probably bore those with a history in the genre. Many - including me - will find the delivery of the story in first-person-present tense deeply annoying.
I've loved KL Slater's other books so I was really excited about reading "The Apartment." Unfortunately, after a promising start, it rapidly went downhill, quickly becoming mundane before descending into an ending that was nothing short of ridiculous. I can't go into details about why without spoilers, but let's just say that few characters motives made sense.
On the upside it was a quick read and I did want to know what happened next, so I finished it within a couple of hours.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC without obligation.
Didn't take me long to finish this book. I haven't read many of K L Slater's books but I enjoyed this one. It kept me guessing and was quite scaring in places. Thought the ending was a bit rushed though.
Not, to be honest, my favourite book I've read this month. The book is an easy, flowing read however the plot is basic, obvious and simplistic in its delivery. I have never read a book that had such an obvious plot.
A young widow and her daughter are about to be made homeless when a chance meeting at a local coffee shop offers Freya an opportunity too good to pass up. The opportunity of a beautiful apartment at Adder House, the owner says he just wants to help, but is the opportunity just too good to be true!
Soon after she moves in things start to turn sinister, who can Freya trust what are the mysterious noises coming from the empty apartment opposite and what happened to the girl who used to live in Freya’s apartment?
This was a great psychological thriller that kept me hooked throughout and the ending – well I wasn’t expecting that!
Another good yarn from K.L.Slater. Different to the others, but I was not disappointed. Rather than a thriller, I would call this a mystery as I didn't think it was really shocking - but it held my attention to the end with no problem! Liked the characters and the setting was easily imaginable. Great stuff.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true, right? Freya Miller knows the offer of a luxury apartment is too good to turn down, even if it’s miles from where she and daughter Skye currently live. Yes, they’ll have to uproot their little lives and move across London but it’ll be worth it. But Adder House has secrets, lots of secrets, and you’ll begin to wonder who is telling the truth when a series of unfortunate – and very deliberate – events take place. I read this is one go and was genuinely surprised by the ending – but I am fond of a book that makes me doubt what I’m thinking. A pleasure to read.
A well written, if somewhat, unbelievable creepy tale about a Woman that is given an offer that is too good to be true.
It felt like the writer was in a rush to finish writing this story, leaving many questions unanswered.
The tale was enjoyable, however it was also implausible and unrealistic
The Apartment is an entertaining, fast read. I found myself racing through the pages to get to the end. The main character, Freya, is written superbly and is very well-developed. I really liked her however at times, I did want to shake some sense into her.
I did feel that the ending was wrapped up super quick. I felt that there could have been more opportunities for adrenaline-rushing action and tension. But I won't explain too much and spoil it for others who haven't read it.
Overall a good story and a quick read. I will be reading more from this author.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
If it sounds too good, it probably is. The Apartment is a very fast paced book, that keeps you wondering how it’s going to end, and who is behind all the thing that are going on, the ending got a little frantic, but all and all a good read. Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Creepy, twisted contemporary thriller-I loved it! Everyone dreams of living in the big city in a neighborhood they can’t afford for less money than it should cost. But what if the cost is to your sanity or your children’s safety. Is it worth it? Or are you just imaging things? A woman with no family-a foster child who survived by being tough-loses her husband, twice, when he left her for another woman and then died, and knows she only has about 6 months to find a job, a new place to live and try not to stress her young daughter even more before the insurance money runs out. A chance encounter in a coffee shop leads her to a new life but things get strange and she’s not sure who to trust. This kept me turning the pages and the ending was totally unexpected! Thanks to #netgalley and the publisher for #theapartment to read and review.
This book starts off with Freya and her daughter Skye needing a new place to live. Recently widowed and almost divorced, Freya is a bit out of sorts. When luck has it a place nearby is in need of a tenant. Freya is a little leery at first but soon decides that this apartment is just what her and Skye need to start anew.
Adder House, beautifully decorated and so large. Several apartments in the building and Freya gets to live on the top floor. Way more space than she can afford, but it comes at an affordable price. According to the owners, they just want to have someone that will get along with the other tenants. It's like one big happy family. Or so it seems.
I found this book to be very appealing to my psychological brain. You know from the start that there are parts that seem a bit off. The owners of Adder House are a bit creepy. The tenants are all a bit weird. But for the most part, Freya and Skye seem like they have their own issues and a bit of a nice gesture and cheap rent is exactly what they need.
This is a great psychological thriller. A completely different storyline I wasnt expecting.
But as always, be careful what you wish for.
And if it seems too good to be true it probably is.
I am so lucky to have recieved an advanced reading copy from Netgalley.
Meh… despite boasting an intriguing premise, “The Apartment” was just an okay read for me. As the story unfolded, I found the plot to be more “odd” than mysterious and more “annoying” than engaging. Still, this psychological thriller did have its creepy moments which is what ultimately ushered me forward towards a mediocre ending.
There are a lot of secrets at Adder House... As Freya's life is falling apart and she is being forced to look for a new place to live after her husband dies, a man at a local coffee shop is putting up fliers for an apartment for rent. It seems too good to be true, but Freya with her daughter Skye cannot pass up this opportunity. However, after they move in, strange things begin to happen - odd sounds, things being moved, and secrets between the other tenants.
We also get snippets from an experiment that happened in 1920 that was similar to Pavlov's dog salivating theory. I wasn't sure where this tangent was going, but it was connected well in the end.
This was a pretty fast read, and I was satisfied with the end, although I was expecting a little more. As a psychological thriller this book was more drama than thriller.
Um let’s just say that after reading this I want to love out of my apartment ASAP! This creepy and heart pounding. The main character was a little frustrating at times but I was hooked.
This novel is a poor imitation of Rosemary’s Baby. The similarities are obvious with a few different details. However, this story is much weaker. Impoverished mother newly widowed moves to a luxurious apartment she cannot afford after being offered it by a man who waylays her in a coffee shop. Then the eerie unexplained noises and events begin to happen. Overlaid is another story about brain experiments in the early 1900’s that relate to the present predicament. Hardly believable and the final denouement is thinly explained. Add a late romantic interest and all the buttons were pushed. Not to be included on my recommended list.
This book was not exactly what I expected it to be. A young woman and her daughter move into an apartment where strange things have happened., It was an ok read, but it jumped around some.. The end was somewhat of a surprise.
A totally immersive, psychological thriller that will keep you turning pages deep into the night.
I loved this book! Beautifully written with suspenseful, short chapters. This is my kind of quick read. I must admit I was slightly hesitant as to whether I would fully enjoy this book as I found ‘Little Whispers’ (my first K L Slater novel) a little bit too repetitive for my liking. But this, wow, i was completely absorbed and couldn’t bring myself to stop reading it.
The book travels in a very linear fashion, increasingly subtly in pace towards its climatic end. Peppered throughout the plot are observations from our supposed ‘bad guy’, written passages from an old journal and resulted findings following an experiment. All of which, coupled with the main plot give the story a very vivid texture.
I loved how, in this book, Slater deftly creates a building sense of claustrophobia and fear of the ‘unseen’. As the reader you are presented in first tense everything that the main character, Freya, encounters which comes together for a tense and exhilarating read. Whilst the ending wasn’t the ‘omg!’ experience I was holding out for I was left truly satisfied with my read and swiftly checking through Amazon for more books by K L Slater.
I wish to express my huge thanks to NetGalley for being selected to read this advance copy and best regards to K L Slater and her future publication release - I think this one will be a popular read!
I’m sad to review this book because I usually enjoy K L Slater’s books and was really looking forward to this one. However I was disappointed as the main character was unbelievable. We were told she had had a hard foster care childhood, making her self reliant and tough but the character we met in the book was weak minded, unable to stand up for herself and far too easy to manipulate. I ask you, who would accept a flat, at way under the market rate, from a stranger who thought she and her daughter would be at perfect fit’. Really? I became increasingly irritated by the narrative and felt this book was definitely not up to the author’s usual high standard. Hopefully the next one will be better.
This was an excellent book! It was a quick, fast-paced read, and I enjoyed all the twists and turns. I will look for more by this author, and would recommend this book!
The Apartment had me hooked from the first page. Freya was such a sympathetic character. I appreciated that she did not just accept strange circumstances without questioning and researching. The other tenants in the apartment were very quirky and seemed simply eccentric at first. The psychological twists in this story were pretty disturbing and all I kept thinking was I hope this never really happens to someone! I whole heartedly recommend this book- just don’t start at bedtime.
Starts a tiny bit slow but gathers momentum as you read further. Kept me interested and turning pages well past when I should have been sleeping!
A good, edge of your seat read! Freya Miller has lost her husband and is about to lose her home. With no idea where she and her five-year-old daughter, Skye, will live, she thinks it a miracle when the mysterious Doctor Marsden approaches her in a coffee shop, looking for a new tenant for a flat in an unaffordably posh area of London. To her shock and delight, the rent will be adjusted for her because he feels that she and Skye will fit into life at Adder house perfectly. (Cue the sinister music!)
Certainly there were parts where I had to suspend logic, i.e. the offer, itself, along with Doctor Marsden's statement that having the right occupant was more important than collecting anything near the normal rent. Still, Freya and Skye were likable characters that I rooted for. The pacing was very good, continually pulling you forward into the world of Adder house (which could be seen as another character) as the pervasive feeling of danger built tension. I was reminded of Rosemary's Baby, where you wondered who in that house was as they seemed.
There were two places where I think the book fell short. I really wanted to know more about Freya's husband's death, considering that was an integral part of her story. And I must say that I was disappointed that the ending did not hold up to the rest of the book for me.
All in all, I'm a big fan of thrillers and enjoyed this one.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
A huge thank you to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for letting me read and review this advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis:
Freya has lost her husband and now needs to find a new home quickly for her and her daughter Skye. A chance meeting with Dr Marsden brings Freya the luck she has been needing. He offers her a place to live, in a luxurious setting for a small amount of monthly rent. Moving into Adder house could be the new start she has desperately wanted for her and Skye. This is until strange things begin to happen, Freya never feels truly alone and the resident are not all that they appear to be. Adder house doesn’t bring peace for Freya, it brings danger.
Review:
It was the big yellow door that caught my attention but then after reading the description I just knew I needed to read and review this book, it instantly had me hooked in. After reading the other reviews I could see they were very mixed and I hoped The Apartment wasn’t too good to be true, it wasn’t!
I was both intrigued and creeped out when reading the prologue and meeting Dr Marsden, he seemed very weird and I instantly questioned if he had a hidden agenda because his actions surely couldn’t be just about niceness. I was glad to see my suspicious were correct.
I connected well with both Freya and her daughter Skye. I wanted nothing but happiness for them as it seemed it was what they both deserved. Freya was a strong female lead who carried on despite the obstacles thrown at her and her love towards her daughter was very heart warming.
However, as for the other characters, they were all strange and quite over bearing at times. They made me feel very uncomfortable and wary. They were very over the top and it made me question who actually was genuine out of these and who could be trusted.
As for the story itself, this too made me feel very uncomfortable at times and it seemed to get weirder as it went along. I found some parts were quite difficult to read, especially the flash backs where little Dougie was a part of phycological experiment and what was more shocking for me is that this was based on real events that did happen, an experiment called Little Albert. I didn’t realise this at first but after I was left feeling quite taken a back and it made the story seem all that much creepier.
I found there was a few plot holes and I really hoped they would come together, which most of them did at the end. I also found the flash backs were quite confusing at first and they could have been much clearer which through me off at first but I managed to get my head around these, but I was left wanted answers. I feel the plot holes and the flash backs were the main reason as to why I didn’t give this read the full five stars.
There were many twists and turns which made me wonder if there was a symbolism to Adder House due to the Adder being a snake. Some of these twists and turns were unexpected which I liked as I like to be caught off guard. I also liked the fact that the big revelation did shock me as it is sometimes rare. The build-up was quite big but the ending seemed to be rushed, it was explosive but I just wanted more, such as being told what the after effects were for little Douglas. I would have also liked to have known more about the residents too.
The Apartment was a phycological thriller that did its job, it was very suspenseful and I struggled to put it back down once I had picked it. I really enjoyed the authors writing style.
The Apartment for me was an interesting insight into the world of human conditioning and the effects it can have on adults and young children.
The way the residents of Adder House are written made me feel uneasy and intrigued from the start. The seemingly close knit yet standoffish atmosphere within the house made it clear to me that something dark was happening behind the closed doors of each apartment.
For me this was an easy read and I particularity enjoyed reading the secret on goings of the books mystery villain. I was questioning which character was going to turn out to be the instigator of all the creepy events that happened in ” flat 6 ” and was surprised when the truth was revealed.
The plot twist at the end of this book was well written and the small intricate details that were carefully woven into the big reveal were well thought out and added another layer of creepy to the story.
My only criticism about this book is that the weird events that happened seemed to be fairly small and in my opinion were not as dark as I was anticipating. For me this book was more of a mystery than a psychological thriller.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for my copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own and are in no way influenced by the manner in which I received this book
This review will be posted on my blog ( thetwoquills@wordpress.com ), instagram an my goodreads account on 08/05/2020
I hate to write these reviews but this book was just not good for me. I've really been enjoying thrillers lately so I was very excited to be approved for this one on NetGalley but The Apartment falls trap to my least favorite thriller trope - a dumb woman. I unfortunately had to give this one up.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for my free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Adder House. A gorgeous apartment in an upscale part of town. Rent is based on what you can afford. Moving fees are covered. It sounds exchange good to be true. But is it? After just a few days you begin to feel like things are off. But are they?
Honestly, this book felt like a horror movie where I am screaming at the TV "Don't go in there!" But she goes anyway.
This book was well written. Had some surprises in it I wasn't expecting. But wasn't my favorite.
Thank you #netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I was quite excited to check out The Apartment by K.L. Slater. The synopsis seemed quite exciting and like something that would keep me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Unfortunately, this was not the case. The first 1/3 of the book was incredibly slow and I just felt really disconnected from the characters. On the bright side, around 80% in the book REALLY picked up and I couldn't put it down. I stayed up super late just to find out what happened. I literally had a knot in my stomach waiting to see what would happen next. I don't think I've ever been that emotionally affected by a book before! If the first 80% were as gripping as the last 20% it would have been amazing. Still, I'm glad I checked it out and do plan to look for more books by this author. Thank you to K.L Slater, NetGalley, and Amazon Publishing UK for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
That was a lot of information, just information. I kept waiting for the plot twist, something exciting, it never delivered. The main character, she was dumb...just plain dumb. I mean, c'mon. The "Dr." comes into the coffee shop, gives you the apartment you've been dreaming about for an extreme fraction of the cost? Everyone has told you it was a bad idea, too much of a coincidence, you didn't even feel comfortable there, yet you stay? Way to go.
Not my fav...
Just finished the Apartment, I had an electric version on my phone, was nice to read before bed but found myself going back the next day to re-read. Great book, held my interest to the end.
This is the first novel I have read by K.L Slater and it has encouraged me to read her other novels.
The Apartment is an atmospheric and suspensful thriller following Freya and her daughter Skye as they move into an apartment in Kensington that seems to good to be true. The book definitely held my interest and was well written. I was suspicious of many characters and the twists drew me in and made me want to keep reading.
At less than 300 pages, I feel there was definitely more room for expansion within the story. An extra 100 or so pages could have allowed for some darker scenarios - the events that occur aren't particularly intimidating or scary. The other residents of Adder House were sadly underused. despite having a lot of potential which could have made the story more engrossing and the ending was rather farfetched and disappointing.
However, if you are after an easy, quick and thrilling read and are willing to suspend belief you may enjoy this.
Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the ARC.
With thanks to Netgalley and Amazon publishing uk.
The Apartment by K.L.Slater is a fast paced psychological thriller that doesn't let go. Plenty of twists and turns in this book.
This is the first K L Slater book I have read and overall I enjoyed it.
It was a quick read and an interesting premise although I think the book did suffer from being a bit too short which led to a rushed conclusion and some characters and plot lines not fully explored.
I will definitely read more K L Slater books which I understand are a little longer and may be more rewarding.
Overall I did enjoy this book and similar in style to Mark Edwards.
Thanks for NetGallery for a copy of this book.
The apartment by K.L. Slater had a vibe I really enjoyed on the whole, however this books missed the mark for me. The premise was great- creepy house, random things happening, finding out that there is a tie to a famous psychological study that was trying to be recreated on the down low so that ethics boards were not involved- sound like amazing potential.
The two biggest issues I had with this book were that there was major pacing issues- lots of build up, minor random things happening, and then full speed ahead for the last 75 pages of the book to sum everything up and reveal the reveal. The other issue that I had was the main character making dumb choices even though she is written to have "gut" feelings and knows that something isn't right.
Overall- under whelming but I will continue to read from this author.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK for an advanced readers copy via NetGalley in exchange for and honest review.
KL Slater never disappoints with her books. I read this fabulous read over 2 nights and I was so cross when I couldn't stay awake any longer to finish it. This tells the story of Freya and her little girl Skye. They are struggling a little - Skyes daddy has died and they need to move out of the house they love. Upon a chance meeting they meet Dr Marsden - he is putting up leaflets advertising a room to rent in a gorgeous house - Freya decides to take a look at it - and quickly moves in. This place is beautiful, however the residents are all a little strange - except the lovely Lily who appears to be an outcast in the house.
From here onwards things turn a little weird in the house - to find out you will need to read.
Its highly addictive reading and fast paced. 5* from me!
What would you do if you were desperate to move, short of funds, had a child to support and no job as you are recently divorced and widowed? If a man approached you at the coffee shop with a flyer of the perfect apartment at a price that was so affordable you are in shock, would you go with him to see the place? If you fell in love with the splendor of it and your child loved it, would you move before you even have a chance to tell your friends?
Once you do move in and strange things start happening like hearing voices where there is only a wall,, furniture moved, other apartment dwellers appearing very strange, a "security" camera installed inside your apartment and other happenings that make you question yourself. Would you stay or go?
Over the top drama for me. I prefer books that make my mind question and try to figure situations out rather than exist on fear. There is enough fear in the world now that it was not enjoyable to add more to my life.
Thank you NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest view.
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, or even just psychology, then this book will satisfy you. With a twist I didn’t see coming the book had a satisfying story and ending that leaves me wanting to know more from the characters. You get a true feeling of unease as you go through the grieving and moving process of Freya and makes yourself wonder are things too good to be true.
Thank you Net Galley & the publisher for the ARC of The Apartment .
I have read several books of K.L.Slater & have always enjoyed them. I was excited to read this one but it wasn’t like her other books in my opinion. I felt like it was a strange arrangement to accept a very expensive house to live in for a small amount of rent. I fell like red flags would have gone up for the mother to take gifts & have her daughter accept expensive gifts. She had other options of staying with friends.:That just didn’t work for me. There were twists in this book but took awhile for me to get into it. It was a physiological thriller but not as good as her other books. That being said I would still read more of her books. She is a good author but I felt she has written much better books in my opinion.
Thank you NetGalley and Harper-Collins Publishing for this ARC. It was quick easy read. I enjoyed this psychological thriller about Freya and her daughter, Skye.
I've read several books by K L Slater and really enjoyed them and this latest offering was no exception. Its was a creepy story which I couldn't put down as I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next. It certainly gives truth to the saying that 'If something looks too good yo be true,vthen it probably is'.
The Apartment is a book that proves when you think something is too good to be true that you are probably right. Adder house is full of secrets but will they be revealed before its too late?
A chance meeting in a local coffee shop seems to be the answer to all of Freya Millers concerns. She is about to loose her home and is in desperate need of a miracle. The opportunity to move into shockingly affordable appartment in a well to do area of London is too good to pass by. But once settled in she cant shake the feeling of being watched , weird smells, and strange sounds. Unfortunately for Freya common sense seems to be a little lacking. Even though she is plagued by bad feelings and uneasiness she opts to stay in the Adder house anyway. I spent more time yelling at Freya than I would like to admit... like jeeze woman 😒😒😒. Aside from her obnoxious naivete she was a fairly likeable character.
This was my first time reading any of Slaters novels. Overall this was a very fast paced psychological thriller. I really enjoyed the creepy vibe of the Adder house and its occupants.I must admit I felt like I was reading another adaption of Lock every door. So if you read and enjoyed it then definitely give this book a try as well.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
First, my thanks to Net Galley for giving me the opportunity to read and review. For the most part, I enjoyed this book.. Easy story to read, page turner, well written, and held my interest. New widow Freya meets the mysterious Dr Marsden who invites her to rent this wonderful apartment in his building. Freya readily accepts and moves in with her young daughter Skye. Meets all the mysterious neighbors, but as the story progresses, things don't seem to be what they appear. Sounds are heard, things are moved, and Freya finds out there was a previous tenant who lived in her apartment that committed suicide, which Dr Marsden denies. Freya investigate s more and finds out some things that deeply frightens her and she wants to move as soon as possible. When conclusion is revealed as to the why I found it a bit out there. I also found Freya a bit too trusting to accept Dr Marsden s offer without looking into him a little more. All in all....not a bad book.
An intriguing story about a mother and her young daughter forced to leave their home.. A stranger offers a great opportunity for a new place to live. But is it too good to be true? Kept me guessing until the end.
this author is new to me and I could see why this is a best-selling. oh my God this book was so good it had me on the edge of my seat reading it wondering what was going to happen and who was doing it
Liked but was a bit too under developed. The blurb didn’t really match up with the content and the story was a bit far fetched. At one point I thought it was going to move into a ghostly affair but it didn’t and might have been better if it did. Readable though, and enjoyable.
The Apartment is a tense psychological thriller that had me at the edge of my seat.
Freya Miller is in a cafe when she is approached by Dr Michael Marston. Michael offers her the chance of a lifetime for her and her young daughter Skye. Freya has lost her husband to another woman and then he has died through an accident leaving her with sole care of their daughter, she claims his will which doesn’t come to much and needs to find somewhere to live within budget. Knight in shining armour is Michael as he offers them an apartment in his huge house but for minimal rent ensuring Freya can manage to give Skye a life.
When they’ve moved in things seem to get a bit weird, the people living there are nice but a little weird and then things start happening in their apartment but they seem to be targeted at Skye. Who is doing this and why???
This was a well thought out thriller that I enjoyed from start to finish and has reminded me that I’d things look too good to be true they are!!
I would like to thank Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for this ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book, haven't read any K.L Slater books before.
I liked the build up and how it switched between the main storyline and another.
I found it was a bit predictable and the ending seemed rushed, although it was gripping and I finished it in am enjoyable few hours.
I can't say that any of the characters were particularly likeable but I would look out for future K.L Slater books.
My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the advance copy in return for my honest review.
3.5 Stars
I love to be lead down a path and then have me want to know everything that is going to happen. K.L. Slater did just that.
This tale reminded a bit of a book from decades ago involving an apartment where crazy things were happening but this had a twist which made it current and relateable. With times being difficult for a single mom, not having a place of their own, finding this perfect place out of the blue starts out interest in this thriller.
The writing was fast-paced and I was involved throughout.
Starting out, I was unsure about this book. The main character annoyed me with her constant self-doubt and insecurities, i.e. unnecessary justification for why she would allow her daughter screen time to give herself a break. Alas, this was a minor irritation and I just chalked it off to the specific character, not anything to do with the quality of the book, only my enjoyment.
Then there was some confusion on the part of the way my book was reading, and I believe it had to do with being a galley copy, not the story itself.
Once that was all sorted, the story successfully sucked me in and didn't let go until I "turned" the last page. It was an enjoyable read, albeit quick, and predictable. The parallel story that was being told made it easy to figure out what was happening in the meat of the story, however, that it doesn't mean there aren't unexpected twists.
I would classify this as an indulgent, weekend read, what I call my "comfort food" when it comes to books. The customary foundation, build, and inevitable climax are like a warm bowl of macaroni and cheese. Nothing mind shattering or complex, but absolutely delicious in its simplicity and familiarity.
I received this book from netgalley in exchange for a review.
Freya is a recently widowed mother of a young daughter. She's offered an incredible apartment opportunity, that she accepts, though it seems too good to be true. Once she moves in, she can't escape the feeling she's being watched and followed, and she assumes her late husband's girlfriend is responsible. But odd things start happening in the apartment, and she hears rumors about the previous tenant that give her pause.
Pretty good, though predictable and unbelievable.
I had always wanted to read K.L Slater and thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the ARC.
This book disappointed me, I was intrigued by the blurb the book started off good then seem to drift off with not much happening then got interesting by chapter 40 when Freya finds out the truth about Apartment 6.
This was less then 300 pages so read within a few hours.
The book was an ok quick read, but hasn't put me off reading others by this author
First off, thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me a copy of this book to read!
While founded on an intriguing premise, the story fell flat for me, overall. The main character, despite a background that should have cultivated wariness and distrust, falls too easily into the Adder House accommodations, and regularly dismisses red flags that should have sent her running from the property. (Had she literally nowhere else to go, her actions could have been more believable, but she had the option to stay with Brenna and Viv all along.)
Very little happens to keep the reader engaged, until the climax (which is still underwhelming). Even then, readers are plagued with questions and/or dropped subplots.
1. The story behind the ex-husband's death kept me thinking that Freya had something to with it since he was challenging her for full custody.
2. The frequent descriptions of Audrey had me imagining her as a vampire. I thought her influence at the school would tie into Adder House's mystery somehow; it seemed to carry more weight (blackmail? politics?) than her simply being a school board member.
3. Were the other occupants of Adder House really traveling?
4. Did Skye and Freya ever smooth things over with Kate and Petra?
5. What happened to Douglas after the professor's experiment? (What did the rest of his life look like?)
I don't mind ambiguity at the end of a psychological thriller, but this title left a little too much to the imagination in my opinion.
Skye was my favorite character; the depiction of her was really well done.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this e-arc copy. It was my first book by K.L. Slater and I went in blind with little premise or knowledge of the contents. I liked that it was a fast read and I thought it bode well for the story being told. This book fell flat for me during the ending reveal and also during the moments where tension should have been high. With few descriptive details in scenes, I was left wanting more from this book than what I received. Overall a good read but not one that left a lasting impression.
Freya, a young widowed mother and her young daughter have to move from their family home. In a state of despair, while at a coffee shop, she meets a man who just so happens to have a lovely apartment for rent and his price is...wait for it...whatever she can pay! Is it too good to be true? Of course it is! Because this is a psychological thriller!
The story itself was good- kept me intrigued, but I did find myself saying time and again, ok we get it, the dude is creepy or the place is weird.... move on. There were big portions of the book that I believe should have stricken as repetitive. The fact that Freya never once pulled out her phone to Google the place, the landlord, or anything else about the house she was going to move her daughter into left me more than a little irritated. I find it difficult to feel for/ root for characters that are too dumb to do basic life things, so I found it hard to suspend my disbelief for a good portion of the book.
No spoilers, but the idea behind the whole thing was actually pretty intriguing and I did like the ending, despite aforementioned hangups.
Enjoyed this book. Freya and her daughter Skye have fallen on hard times. An expensive apartment for very little rent is suddenly available to her and Skye. When she takes Dr Marsden up on his offer, her life makes a big change. Thanks netgalley.
When a young mother finds her and her young daughter at the mercy at the hands of a psychologically depraved family they almost lose their lives. This is a twisted tale of people using others to run scientific experiments without their knowledge or consent. It endangers their lives and the lives of others around them. It also shows how far a mother will go to protect her child and what some families are willing to do for each other.
Freya is at the end of her rope. She has been recently widowed by the husband who cheated and left her. She is desperately looking for an apartment she can afford for herself and her young daughter Skye. Freya makes the acquaintance of Dr. Marsden who coincidentally is looking for a tenant in his lovely large home. He explains that the apartment price is not as important to him as finding a tenant that will “fit in” with the rest of the tenants. While a little wary, Freya moves them into the beautiful old house. Right in the beginning things seem very creepy but are easily explained away by the Marsdens. Freya is suspicious but she does not want to admit she may have made a mistake. Things keep getting stranger as the book goes along. It was a good story and well laid out. I was completely surprised at the ending although I wish that it had been drawn out a little more. I did enjoy this book.
Also reviewed at Kobo
Everybody wants to believe in the good of other people unfortunately that belief can get you in trouble. There is really nothing too remarkable about Freya. I would have loved to see a bit more pizazz to her character but maybe that’s not how the author saw her. She just didn’t seem like the sharpest tool in the shed. I thought the story was good if not a bit far fetched but it is fiction we are reading. I did enjoy the story and thought it was a fast read.
I was intrigued by the beginning of the book. Freya and her daughter, Skye, must move out of their home after Freya's husband dies. Dr. Marsden approaches her for her to live in Adder House, but he seems pretty pushy about moving her into the place. Of course, the secrets of Adder House all start coming to light after Skye and Freya move in. The climax was great, but then the ending just didn't do it for me. This is a quick read and thriller lovers may thoroughly enjoy it. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the early copy.
A Dream Apartment Becomes a House of Horrors
Freya is desperate. The husband who betrayed her is dead. She’s had to sell her house and now she and her daughter, Skye, have no place to go. When Dr. Marsden shows her the flier on the apartment he is planning to rent in Adder House, it seems like a miracle.
Marsden tells her she and Skye will be a good fit for the other residents, so the rent will be what she can afford. The apartment is perfect, exactly what she wants, but once she and Skye move in things start to happen. Strange noises and smells are the most innocent. When Freya discovers a security camera in the ceiling, she suspects something is very wrong. Now she wonders if she’s made a terrible mistake.
The novel moves from a fairy tale to creepy. Adder House is described in lavish detail, but from the start Freya thinks something is off. She puts her feelings aside because she needs the apartment and wants it to be perfect for the new start she and Skye need.
Although the story was creepy, it was also rather slow. The strange occurrences build slowly making the end feel rushed. The problems are building, but suddenly the characters are in a full blown disaster.
I enjoyed Freya, but I thought she was very slow to see the evil in the other characters. The saving grace is Skye. A five-year-old, she is delightful and very attuned to the problems, but unable to express them.
I received this book from Net Galley for this review.
This is my first book by K.L. Slater and it will not be my last! What a great read!
Freya and her young daughter Skye have just suffered a great loss and are trying to start anew. Freya has sold her house and must find a new place to live quickly. In comes Dr. Marsden with an offer that sounds too good to be true.... is it? Freya and her daughter end up moving to the upscale, yet affordable Adder House apartments. Strange things start happening and have Freya questioning herself and her decision to move in.
This creepy psychological thriller had me on the edge of my seat throughout. I loved the characters and the writing style of the author. I am looking forward to reading other books by K.L. Slater!
Book Title: The Apartment
Author: K.L.Slater
Genre: Thriller/psychology thriller
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ /5 ⭐
This is my first book by K.L Slater and I am definitely impressed! From the beginning this book made me chase the pages! The very first chapter dragged me into the plot and made me felt “something bad is going to happen and it’s going to be very disturbing”. As I felt, when things started to go wrong I was on the edge to find answers. The story starts with a stranger who met a recently widowed woman at a coffee shop and offered a luxurious apartment for rent for a very little price. The reason behind that cunning generous offer is the remaining story of the entire book. The author made clear of the sufferings of the female lead and the child. When she hopes she is going to be happy in the “new” place, our heart also wants that to happen. But when things going downward whirl, with the characters we too feel mad and sad. And the anonymous POV is giving some pointers about the story, by which we could predict what is going on and that made my heart skipped its beat. I have my mere doubt about a person behind all the troubles but nothing solid. And suddenly when I couldn’t take it anymore the story comes to an end with a great twist! Thanks for that! Great psychological thriller! I recommend it for a one-sitting read!
My thoughts while reading:
This section has some subtle spoilers.
The thing with psychological thrillers is the possibility of its real-time happenings, unlike the haunted stories. And the same made a chill ran down my spine.
One thing that made my heart cry is the way the children being beaten emotionally in every possible way(both Albert & Freya )! Couldn’t bear to read it! To my horror, the “Little Albert” experiment is not a fiction!
I like the way the story ends suddenly! Yes, it felt all of a sudden we came to an end which I appreciate! I would have not liked it if the scenes repeated it’s pattern until Freya became insane!
The climax scenes are one whirlwind of events on which we couldn’t grip on any doubts we have throughout the book about the villain ! the point which Freya doubted about Mark’s arrival, made us doubt her insanity for a second! It’s brilliant!
There is no reasonable explanation given for Dr.Mardsen’s actions. Why should he support and did all these even after the death of Sophie Taylor?
Overall I like this book, definitely a non-putdownable read!
I received this free ARC from #NetGalley and the publisher, and this review is straight from my heart!! HONEST AND UNBIASED.
I have read all of this authors books and loved every one, however, I found this one totally different to all her others and not in a good way! It was extremely far fetched with a very unbelievable storyline but saying that I did finish the book which I don’t normally do if I find the storyline ‘unbelievable’ as I needed to know what happened!! I also noticed there were quite a few typos too
Freya has lost her husband, and as a result she is forced to find a new home for her and her daughter to move to and time is running out to find the right place.
The old adage, "If something is too good to be true, it usually is", definitely applies to the story line. While searching a bulletin board for apartment vacancies at a local coffee shop, the reader is asked to believe that Freya, the mother of 5 year old Skye, is approached by a strange man offering her an apartment on a fabulous estate that just so happens to be in her meager price range. Being as naive as Freya is of course she dismisses any likelihood that something sinister could be ahead and jumps at the opportunity.
Before even settling in it becomes apparent that her new landlords are pushy and controlling. Creepy things begin to happen and even though Freya is unsettled she continues to overlook these episodes make excuses in her own mind.
The plot was predictable, the pace sometimes slow, however I decided to finish until the end to see if things picked up or if there was a surprise waiting for me. Neither happened. In fact, I felt like this would be geared more toward a middle-school aged preteen.
I have not read anything from this author before, and I'm not sure if I would like to give her another chance.
I really had high hopes for this one but it ended up being an average read for me. I didn't want to stop reading merely because I thought the book would get better. The main downside to this was the stupidity of the main character. Red flags were raised often yet she kept making poor choices. I do have another TBR book by this author and I do plan on reading it even though this was a bit of a let down.
Firstly a big thank you to the publishers for approving my request to read on netgalley. Ive recently discovered this author and really need to read all her books. She is a master at writing psychological thrillers!
This was so unique and compelling. Ive been studying psychology for years and there is mention of a classic study so i geeked out somewhat.
Can the offer be too good to be true or is it that Freya and skye have landed on their feet.
Disturbing and chilling as you begin to realise not all is as it seems. Spooky happenings and a feeling your being watched. Who can be trusted and are they safe?
I sped through this as i needed to know what was happening.
I cant recommend enough and im off to read her back catalogue of books.
Thank you Netgalley for providing an arc of this book for an honest review!
I would round this book up to 3.5 stars.
Freya Miller has had a lifetime of unfortunate events and in the midst of grief, must find a new home for her and her 5 year-old daughter Skye. Freya then meets Dr. Michael Marsden and he offers her the chance of a lifetime to live in Adder house, which offers upscale apartments at an affordable price. Freya thinks this opportunity is too good to be true but against the advice of her friends, accepts his offer and moves in to the apartment. Immediately, Freya feels like she is constantly being watched and can tell there is something off about the residents that live in the rest of the apartments. She also begins to experience strange events such as furniture moving, strange voices that appear to be coming from inside her apartment, and visual disturbances. Freya hears scary rumors around town about what happened to the previous tenants. and tries to get to the bottom of what could be happening at Adder house before it's too late for her and Skye.
This book is a fast-paced thriller with some creepy elements mixed in. I really liked the "haunted house" vibes that were in the plot. I also liked the character development of Freya and that there was some backstory of her life, but not an overwhelming amount. It made me question whether she was imagining these creepy events or if they were really happening. Without giving away spoilers, I liked the premise and conclusion of what was going on at Adder house. As a science major, I could relate. For the most part I felt like the book was predictable, except for one twist, but I still really enjoyed it. I read a lot of thrillers and this one had a unique plot.
This book was very different from other books by KL Slater that I've read before however she always has a way of pulling the reader into her story. I found this book to be a little reminiscent of the shining, but much better written. Our main character Freya is on the brink of a total meltdown when she loses her home and her husband. With a young daughter she has no clue what to do when she is offered a new apartment well within her budget. She goes to look at it and it is amazing however much more extravagant than she was expecting. Surprised that this hidden gem is affordable on her modest salary she jumps at the chance and soon Frey
and her five year old daughter Skye are moving in. Frey believes that this is just the fresh start that she was looking for and sets right up on making the place their own. Not long after the two move in however weird things start happening and it becomes obvious that the house is hiding some terrible secrets. Will she be able to figure out what is going on before something terrible happens to her and/or her daughter? The tension in this book was amazing and very well written. The characters while very pleasant gave off a sort of Stepford feeling to them which I greatly enjoyed. I'm very glad that I got the chance to check out this story it wasn't
at all what I was expecting and it was ten times better. I liked how seamlessly the author discussed what happened in the past to bring the characters to where they were and blended it into what was happening in the present. It wasn't jarring at all and it gave nice context to the relationships.I really enjoyed this book even though it took quite a drastic turn from what I was expecting. I'm very glad that I got the chance to check this out. If you haven't read this book already then I highly suggest that you check it out. The ending was not at all what I was expecting it turned an already interesting book up a thousand notches. Great read, this is one that will be recommended for years to come.
Freya Miller is looking for a place to live. How convenient that a man steps up to her and offers her what seems to be too good to be true - an apartment for her and her daughter in a nice area at a price she can afford available right away. Right away things seem to be peculiar at Adder House. Some of the neighbors are quite strange. Strange things begin to happen that are inexplicable. The man, a former doctor wants to install a camera in her apartment. She doesn't agree, but one day she comes home to find it installed. Things just go from bad to worse. How can Freya figure out what's really going on? Will anyone believe her? Why has this man offered her this apartment to spy on her? So many questions and twists that keep you guessing. I really liked this one.
I really did enjoy this book, it is just not one of my favorites. Once I started it, it really did go by fast and I didn't even realize how quickly I was reading through it. I don't want to give away any spoilers but I will say, the beginning and middle I loved but the 2/3 of the way through the book... I started to not be so interested. It is a good read but I hoped for a different ending. Overall, 4 stars and I would recommend!
Wow. This was a creepy, couldn't stop reading, on the end of your seat book!
This book had me full of butterflies and crouched in a ball reading. This would make a great movie.
Psychological thriller for sure. Highly recommend this book!
What happens when your a single mother and desperately need a place to live.
Then its to good to be true someone offers you a place almost rent free.
After moving in all these weird things begin to happen.
Is it just my imagination? Am I just stressed out and imagining everything?
This is an amazing read.
The premise of this book was interesting and kept me reading until I figured out what was going on. The author didn’t give too much away early on to make it obvious.
My only real issue was with the main character. While on the one hand she was likeable, she was also frustrating with her naivety and willingness to trust just about anyone. That made parts of the story seem unrealistic and it caused frustration with the character.
I also found the book to be a little short. Certain areas could have been exploited to add more drama to certain events.
Overall though it was an enjoyable book and I recommend it for a fairly quick read.
I honestly only made it about halfway through this book before getting bored. I think it’s probably the reading slump I’m in so I’m going to buy a copy on release and hopefully get into it at a later date.
A definite to be put on your summer thriller reads. Fast paced couldn’t put down book .Freya and her daughters life have drastically changed , things Re looking up when she gets an offer of an apartment.
I like the psychological aspect with Watson and his experiment. I studied child development and psychology in college so I always found Watson interesting. I did find this book to be slow and boring. The twists were not exciting and the events leading up to the end fell very flat.
After selling her family home Freya and her daughter Skye are looking for their haven. A chance meeting with Michael as he is advertising a newly vacant apartment seems to fall into Freya’s lap. “It’s a very nice apartment, “he agrees, thinking of the distinctly average family home she has just been forced to sell. She’ll be worrying now, of course, about where she and the girl will end up.” Freya decides to take a tour and ends up falling in love with apartment 6. Freya and Skye being to make the apartment their new home and discover their peculiar neighbors. In the back of Freya’s mind, this is all too good to be true.
.
Their haven begins to change as they try to make the apartment their new home. Strange noises, furniture moving on its own and questionable hallucinations, Freya is starting to lose sleep along with the relationship with her daughter. Freya learns the previous tenant was also a mother and daughter that left quickly without warning and has not been heard of again. Taking a chance Freya contacts the sister of the previous tenant to find a stern warning to leave the Adder House as quickly as possible before it changes her as it did her sister.
Although the story was interesting, it did not grab and keep my attention. There are nice plot twists throughout the book that does make you attempt to think what is going to happen next. Slater does a good job describing the Adder House and the peculiar tenants that inhabit it.
Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publisher UK, and K.L Slater for the chance to read this ARC.
Thank you to netgalley.com for the opportunity to read this ARC. It is an easy read and a good book for a little diversion from the 40 years of 2020 we have currently lived. Too many characters and too many plots clutter the story and the majority of the characters are creepy or just unlikable. Even Freya needs a good wake up slap. She has a smart phone, she has a computer, but she uses the former mostly for texting and the latter is an afterthought. I don’t doubt that her daughter Skye is going through a rough time at a new school, but she does her best to make the child’s life miserable and Freya May love her daughter, but in her choice for “posh!” the child is largely ignored. Even her former husband’s actions and death (not a spoiler, it’s introduced in the opening pages) doesn’t elicit any sympathy from the reader. There aren’t any real twists, turns or surprises. The title could use a little work, too. It is unimaginative and how many other books have used ‘The Apartment’ or a very similar title? Yes, there’s an apartment. Given the weakness of the storyline, the title needs some pop or this book will be on the 75% off table 8 weeks after publication.
Ending was anticlimactic. I feel like it was resolved too quickly. Lots of build up for little return. It was engaging enough that I read it through in one sitting.
Not fantastic character development, I never connected to any of them.
This gave me lots of Lock Every Door vibes. Kept me guessing, I couldn’t figure out the end but then looking back I wondered how I missed it.
First time reading a book by K.L.Slater and I am a little torn. The storyline was interesting, almost atmospheric to Rosemary's Baby with the weird house full of strange older tenants. There were some interesting tidbits thrown in and it was a fast read. However, I felt the book was lacking in some storylines. I wish the author had given more history on the 1920s experiment and the subjects involved. I also felt the conclusion was rushed and wish that I knew more how little Skye had been affected. All in all a nice departure from the usual psychological thriller.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an ARC.
Freya feels like her life is in shambles and she can’t hold anything together for her 5 year old daughter. So when they get what seems like the opportunity of a lifetime to move into a glorious new apartment, she must act on it. But then she starts hearing noises and things around the apartment start getting moved around with no explanation and she feels like someone’s watching them constantly. So who’s watching her and her daughter and why??
I’m torn on reviewing this one and I can’t really pinpoint why. It was a fast read (which I love) and I really liked the whole premise of this one. It struck me as a tad different from so many others, but I just didn’t feel it when reading it. The ending was quite interesting for me, but I needed the story to come together more.
Thanks to NetGalley, K.L. Slater and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC!
Have you heard the adage ‘too good to be true’? Sometimes, though, the situation forces you to look past that adage and that little niggling doubt in the bottom of your stomach, hoping against hope that maybe THIS TIME, it really is a good thing happening to you. Freya Miller lost her husband and therefore, her income, which resulted in her losing her home. Now she is searching desperately for somewhere for her and her young daughter to live while she also searches for a job. Enter Dr. Marsden with an awesome opportunity: a small apartment for rent where the rent depends on the person’s ability to pay.
Soon Freya and her daughter Skye relocate to beautiful Adder House. Shortly after that strange things begin to happen. What do you do when you have no where else to turn except a friend’s couch?
I found this to be an enjoyable book. I sympathized with Freya and her daughter because it seemed as if they just could not catch a break. This book will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat as the tension rises, and you begin to wonder just what will happen next. Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity to review this book. K.L. Slater has done it again!
My review is up on my YouTube Channel - spoiler free.
Long story short, this was such a great psychological thriller. I stayed up until 2:55am just to finish it!
An enjoyable if not slightly farfetched plot. If something seems too good to be true it probably is!
Freya is approached in a cafe by Dr Marsden offering her an apartment in a prestigious part of London with a peppercorn rent but what is the true cost of moving in?
An intriguing book that left me with further questions about Freya and her past.
A light psychological thriller!
Strange things happen when a recently widowed Freya and little Skye move to Adder House. Every one they meet is creepy in their own way and its upto Freya to understand what's going on and escape it
This is the first book of this author that I have read and it didn't disappoint. The engaging writing style made it a quick read. Only question will be that why a woman who has already had people break trust, believe when an old man offers her a great place on platter!
Thank you publishers and Netgalley for my copy
I have always been a Slater fan, so I was thrilled to read the latest! The plot revolves around mom Freya and daughter Skye renting a too-good-to-be-true apartment at a too-good-to-be-true price. Is the apartment all that it seems, or is spookiness awaiting them? This thriller was a wild ride. I even found myself holding my breath to see how things would fair for the duo. This book isn't revolutionary in it's content or plot line, but I still really enjoyed it! Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for a copy of this book for an honest review.
This one was not as good as her other books. The story was quite unbelievable after the chance meeting the alarm bells should have been defening. What happened to her husband?
A fantastic story that keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat. This story chronicles the life of a single mother who is given a beautiful apartment in a gorgeous building for a fantastic price, but she quickly realizes that something isn't quite right in her new home.
The characters were very well written and the story moved at a quick pace, I read this book in two sittings. The story reminded me a lot of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager but had it's differences, both are good and both are recommended.
I received this book from NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Apartment is high on creep factor. Reading it kept me on the edge my seat shouting this really is too good to be true. The story is well thought out and I found the past and present delivery to be very useful in moving the plot. The pace was steady and while I didn’t love any of the characters, I think that is due to the stellar writing as I was constantly questioning who could be trusted and who was crazy.
I look forward to future releases by this author.
Thank you Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this psychological thriller The Apartment. This is the first book I've read by this author and after reading it I intend to read more of hers. I like her writing style, the characters are well explained and believable.
The Apartment - Net Galley
Read it in two sittings.
The author's writing is fine but the story was rather dull and predictable. Might have been more intriguing if the main character had been a recently widowed male with a small child who was forced into this situation. Even in 2020, using a female as a gullible victim is still prevalent.
Will definitely be interested in reading any future publications by K.L. Slater.
Thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for allowing me to read an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This book was very similar to one I have previously read so I felt like It was easily predicted. The writing style was good.
Thank you netgalley for an ARC to this book in exchange for an honest review
I really enjoyed this book. I read it in one day. I was so involved with the characters that I felt like I was there. I was so scared and worried for her and I wanted to jump in the book and help her. This is a must read!
The Apartment by K.L. Slater was an easy read and kept me guessing throughout.
Freya Miller is a single mother to Skye and due to some tough circumstances needs to move to a new home. With what she thinks is a very lucky encounter, she meets Dr. Marsden who offers her a look at an apartment in a posh area of London. The apartment is located in a home called Adder House and the accommodations are far nicer than Freya could imagine. Though it seems too rich for her budget, Dr. Marsden offers her a deal because she and Skye are the right fit for the building.
Right away, things seem a little creepy and as more odd circumstances pop up, Freya begins to question whether moving to Adder House was a good move.
I found Freya and Skye to be mostly likeable characters and I liked the pace of the story. The ending could have been better built out in my opinion but overall it was an enjoyable read. I would like to read more by this author.
3.5 Stars rounded to 4
Thank you to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and K.L. Slater for this digital ARC, in exchange for my honest opinion!
I really enjoyed The Apartment, it’s a quick book to read and keeps your interest. The characters are, on the whole, believable and the background stories trickle in as we go. Unfortunately, I felt the climax and end were a little cliched. Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review.
My thanks to Thomas & Mercer Publishers along with NetGalley for supplying this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The basic story of The Apartment is a perfect example of “if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.” From the very first chapter, the cringing begins. Michael Marsden is creepy and Freya is desperate and weak. Obviously, things are going to go off the rails quickly. Unfortunately, Freya’s five-year-old daughter, Skye, is caught up in this mess. Skye seems to be a normal child being manipulated and affected by crazy people including her mother. I had a very difficult time feeling empathy for Freya. In fact, I never did. She has safe options, and she made bad choices from the get-go. If you can feel any sort of empathy for this woman, you might enjoy this story far more than I did.
I read a lot of thrillers. My favorites are those where the good guys and the bad guys are hard to differentiate. The Apartment is too formulaic for me. Without spoiling anything for you, it was pretty clear to me who the ultimate bad guy was. If, like me, you figure this out (or guess this) early on, the rest of the characters seem rather shallow and silly. Why is anyone living in this apartment building no matter the suspiciously cheap rent? Pack up your stuff and move out, already!
There are also a few flashbacks that, I think, are supposed to ramp up the danger factor. They did not work for me. These flashbacks just gave another example of a weak and desperate mother allowing her child to be abused by deranged people. Once you find out who and what is actually behind these manipulations (both the flashbacks and the current story), I hope you understand better than I what exactly the point of the experiments are. To me, it seemed like a very weak scientific endeavor. I guess that is what makes this story even more creepy and frustrating.
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️
This was a good book and it kept me up at night reading. I did feel it was a little confusing at times and perhaps information that was missing that would have helped me to understand the story a little better. I would consider reading more books from this author.
The Apartment starts out with an interesting premise ~ a young mother with a five-year-old daughter has to move thanks to her husband’s infidelity, then death. She is about to lose the family home and while looking at possible rentals, is offered the opportunity of a lifetime – an apartment in a wonderful part of town at a ridiculously low price. The owner tells her he wants the right people in the building, and she fits his criteria. You know how they say ”if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is?”, well that saying works for this story. Lots of weird things are happening, but for some reason Freya doesn’t seem to really understand what is going on. I could not believe anyone would stay under the conditions she was living in as long as she did, just stretched my believability I guess. So, a good start but a pretty lame finish. Thanks to #NetGalley for the opportunity to review this story.
3.5/5 Basically, this is the story of a woman who moves into a house with her daughter and falls victim to some serious gas lighting. The thing that annoys me with gas lighting stories is that the victims always seem particularly dumb and/or gullible. I really wish this book would have gone "all in" as in making the protagonist smarter and having more people "in on it." I liked the premise; I just wanted a more complex plot.
Freya and her daughter move into Adder House, a fancy yet affordable flat in London. But soon after they move in, things start to go wrong. Strange voices disturb her daughter in the night, and their belongings appear to have been moved around. This was my first book by K.L. Slater. Since I loved Lock Every Door by Riley Sager, I was looking for another creepy, too-good-to-be-true apartment story. It was a little outlandish at times, and the bad guys were a bit cartoonish, but I found myself caring about Freya and her daughter and needing to see what happened to them. There were a few loose ends that I wished could’ve been tied up better, but overall it was a fast, enjoyable read. If you liked Lock Every Door, give The Apartment a try.
After her husband leaves her for another woman and ultimately dies in an accident, Freya finds herself and her 5 year old daughter Skye scrambling to find a way to move forward and make ends meet.
When an older gentleman at a café asks for her help in hanging a sign about his apartment for rent, she thinks it might just be meant to be. The Marsden’s seem more than accommodating, reducing the rent and paying for the movers are just the beginning.
The location, the gardens and the house are beyond Freya’s wildest imaginings but things are uncomfortable and the Marsdens seem a little controlling and there is a sense from people that she meets that Adder house might not be the safe haven she has hoped for.
The premise of the story was very interesting. The execution didn’t live up to its potential. There were plenty of breadcrumbs to follow and a few purposeful blind alleys that led to a surprising but not entirely satisfying ending.
I’m torn on how to rate this one. I didn’t love it and I didn’t dislike it. It was a solid, fast-paced read. There is an apartment that is too good to be true for mom, Freya, and her daughter, Skye. Creepy landlords and weird neighbors add to the discomfort in the perfect Adder House. The more tjme passes the more Freya starts to question her sanity as things just don’t add up in the new place. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Thanks to Netgalley and K.L. Slater for the arc.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC of this book.
It was a really fast read which I like but I didn't really engage with Freya which was disappointing as I like to feel attached to the book. I would have expected her to be a little less naive we all know if something is too good to be true it usually is. I didn't feel comfortable with "the experiment " inserts and felt that added little to the overall story. The suspense part however was really well written and an unexpected twist.
Freya has fallen on hard times after the death of her husband and needs somewhere to live. Her and her daughters luck changes when she meets the mysterious Dr. Marsden who offers them an apartment in a very upmarket part of London for next to nothing rent. But as always if something seems too good to be true, that's usually because it is!
This book took my breath away. It had such a deliciously eerie, creepy feeling the whole way through and kept me guessing right until the very last page.
Thank you Netgalley for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
little whispers was the first book i read by this author and i finished it and began this book the exact same day and i inhaled this book adn finished it in like two days (i am late on reviewing) .. I loved how i read two back to back books by the same author and was given two completly different stories. the only thing the two books shared was a family from lower means being thrown into a world when they are now living in luxury.. This story was wayyy better than little whispers and i super did not guess the TA DUM moment. Again i wish it was a bit better developed but it was quite good. I will read another by this author any day. This book stays with you with its creepy value. Another successful book!
While The Apartment had some moments of greatness, the unbelievability of it all made it border on ridiculous in my estimation. I kept reading in the hopes that it would get better, but sadly, the ending felt very contrived and equally as unrealistic. While the entire story was creepy, there were no great aha moments for me, just a struggling woman who couldn’t see what was happening and drug her child right along with her into the nightmares. I’m not sure what would’ve made it better...maybe if the author had taken more time to develop the storyline, it would’ve drawn me in more. The various characters seemed to pop in and out randomly as the situations jumped around. I had such hope that I would like this one...sadly not.
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book! What a spooky thriller. Set In London, Freya and her daughter are lured into living in a high class home apartment for a reduced rate. I was invested in Freya’s story the entire time but the ending was a little too far fetched for me. This one is definitely worth a read and had me hooked all the way until the end.
THE APARTMENT by K. L. Slater is a psychological thriller about a woman and her daughter who move into a new apartment and that’s when her life takes a turn. This novel is set in London so it was fun to read due to all the British colloquialisms. It was also fun to read this book for the mystery aspect. I didn’t find this book particularly thrilling but it was a quick enjoyable read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book was really disappointing. The premise of this book sounded so fascinating and unique, and I had such high hopes for it. But, the execution just fell flat; the characters were dull and uninteresting, there were a tonne of plot holes, it just didn't have the creepiness that I was expecting, and I found myself rushing through it just to get to end.
This book had me gripped from the start. Freya and her daughter Skye are offered a seemingly too good to be true apartment in a stunning building. What uncovers is a plot twist you wouldn't imagine. Great writing that had me wanting more.
Slater sure knows how to write one heck of a thriller! She does an amazing job at setting up the hook in a way that absolutely hooks you and keeps you hooked until she’s reeled you all the way to the end! This book was unputdownable, chilling, thrilling, shocking, and full of twists and turns! It is what you expect in a thriller, but don’t always get! I highly, highly recommend, rather it be your first thriller or millionth! You will not regret picking this up, unless you have plans that make you have to set it down, even for a minute!
Will make sure to buzz it up on all the different platforms! Will use low amazon reviewer number on release date!
This book gripped me from the start and didn’t let up: the plot of the novel is the best thriller I’ve read since girl on the train. I adored it! A perfect book to be sequestered with for a spooky night at home! Finished it in one day! Excellent
Be careful who you rent to. A scary attention grabbing book. Love it, read it in 2 days. Thank you for my copy.
I loved this book, the twist at the end really surprised me. I kept thinking I had guessed what was going on and then was completely blind sighted by the different twists and turns.
I've not read any of the authors books before but I am definitely going to check them out.
A great story which keeps you guessing what is really going on, followed in with some good twists to keep you on your toes.
I have read almost all the books from this author but didn't enjoy this one as others I have read.
Disappointed that we never found out what happened to Freyas husband and the ending was a bit poor.
Oh dear... I do not like when authors write silly women to fulfill plot devices, and that's how this one felt to me. This is ostensibly a book about a women who survived a terrible childhood in foster care, yet she falls for every line every person who presents nicely hands her throughout the story. It's unlikely in the extreme, as are the decisions she makes throughout - decisions that can only be described as representing blatant disregard for her own safety and that of her child. It made it very tough to connect with her - or empathize, when things turned out the way the inevitably did.
Yet for all that, I kept reading. Slater has written an oddly entertaining tale, despite its unlikelihood, its disagreeable and unbelievable characters, and its rather ridiculous revelations. I never put it down, despite feeling like it was ridiculous quite often - which is unusual for me, particularly in the "silly women" genre. I was intrigued enough to see how she would (attempt to) tie it all together to keep going, and that is worth something. If you don't mind suspending disbelief fairly far, and don't mind foolish women, this one does offer an entertaining couple of hours of twisty glimpses into a series of lives that intertwine through a series of unfortunate events...
I usually enjoy books from this author. I DNF because the setup to the action kinda dragged on. Might revisit but for now I'm moving on.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was initially so excited to read this book and in the beginning few chapters I was intrigued, and came up with a few exciting theories. However, as I read on I quickly lost interest. I didn't sympathise with any of the characters, and none of the characters felt fully fleshed out. I was particularly unimpressed with the 'villains' of the story and the end was unsatisfying. While it is an easy read, I definitely rushed to finish it so I could start another book.
A single mother desperate to find a new home jumps at the chance to live in a high-end apartment. Afterward, however, unexplained circumstances make her second-guess her decision. Author K.L. Slater tries to dial up the mystery but misses the mark in The Apartment.
Freya Miller needs a new house. Her husband’s infidelity and then sudden death leave her on a tight budget, and she knows she’ll have to move out of the only home her five-year-old daughter, Skye, has ever known. It seems like the worst position to be in: not being able to afford a new place within a reasonable distance to Skye’s school but also not being able to stay.
When she meets the charming Dr. Michael Marsden in a coffee shop holding fliers for a flat for rent, she thinks it might be a solution. Dr. Marsden insists she and Skye will be the perfect fit for Adder House, but Freya’s worried about the cost. The building sits in one of London’s swanky neighborhoods, the kind of place she doesn’t even see on her daily commute.
When Dr. Marsden tells her how much she’ll actually pay, she knows she can’t let go of the opportunity. After all, as Dr. Marsden explains in an apologetic tone, no telling how many people will vie for the place. Better to sign the lease immediately.
Freya visits the flat and agrees. Within a week, she and Skye are set to move across town. Skye is skeptical, but Freya believes this is the fresh start she’s needed since her husband’s betrayal. Once they arrive at Adder House, though, Freya begins to understand Skye’s skepticism.
Her moving expenses are paid for, Skye is showered with expensive gifts, and the tedious commute to Skye’s old school means moving to the new one in the neighborhood. It’s one of the best in the city, and before Freya can blink the Marsdens get Skye admitted. It’s one thing to be showered with so much unexpected kindness, but Freya is having a hard time understanding why the Marsdens would go out of their way for her.
Then there are the other happenings. Skye insists she heard a child crying, even though Dr. Marsden says Skye is the only child in the building. Freya walks into the flat to discover that a security camera has been installed without her consent. And the other tenants either aren’t around or give Freya goosebumps.
Freya begins to wonder whether the stress of her life is making her go mad. At the same time, Skye’s spirit is waning and the Marsdens are acting even weirder. Now, the dream apartment that Freya couldn’t turn down looks like the place she can’t escape.
Author K.L. Slater does an admirable job of building the mood of the book. Adder House sounds elegant and well built—just the kind of place that forebodes disaster. Within the genre, an upscale London neighborhood is practically begging for creepy affairs.
Slater gives Freya some agency, a welcome change. When asked about allowing a security camera in her apartment, Freya declines. When it shows up anyway, she doesn’t hesitate to take it down and complain about it. Unlike other books where the protagonist just shrugs and accepts strange twists in his/her life, Freya fights back when circumstances don’t make sense.
Unfortunately her disturbed emotional state clouds her judgment. While it’s understandable, the bad choices Freya makes allow for the book to tread predictable paths. If readers can’t guess some plot points, they won’t necessarily be surprised either.
Slater tries to give readers clues through the diary of a secondary character, but the introduction of the diary and that character’s back story come so late in the book that they don’t have the intended impact. The climax and resolution, then, just sound a little off-the-wall. Two characters who seem to have been plotting against Freya suddenly fawn all over her, and readers will find it hard to buy their about-face.
Still, the book is entertaining. Anyone looking for a fast read might like this one. I recommend readers Borrow The Apartment.
This book would get more than 5 stars if that was an option. I was on the edge of my seat toward the end of it and my heart rate was up. I rarely get that invested in the books I read, but I couldn't put it down. You fall in love with the characters and really feel their pain and feel pride for them. I highly recommend this suspense book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 ⠀
⠀
Thank you @netgalley for my gifted copy of this novel. 👏🏼
Freya wants a fresh start. After her horrific year of her husband passing and everything else her and her daughter Skye have been through, all she wants is a chance to start anew. Cue Dr. Marsden, a man who happens to have the dream apartment in Kensington, the perfect neighborhood in the building he owns, Adder House. Everything just seems too good to be true, but for once Freya wants to enjoy this luxury that has happened upon her by chance and immediately moves in. As Freya and her daughter become more settled, discoveries are made about their scarce neighbors in Adder House and strange things start happening in the apartment, such as toys being moved, things going missing, and weird noises coming from next door. At the same time, someone has been following them and keeping a journal regarding a certain experiment...I really enjoyed the concept of this novel and the psychology behind it, however I wish the characters and the backstory of the Marsdens was more developed as when things escalated, I didn’t feel invested enough in the characters to really be surprised. To sum it up: thriller, spooky haunting parts, probably wouldn’t recommend to a friend, not too “thrilling”, deception and family, cute mommy/daughter relationship
Thank you to K. L. Slater, Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for this ARC.
I really wanted to like this book. Freya's character is a bit annoying and aggravating, and the story line felt rushed. I ended up guessing the plot twist midway through the book.
A decent story, but definitely my least favorite KL Slater book.
I love thrillers and mysteries so this one sounded perfect. I would give it a solid 3 stars. The plot was interesting and there were some good tense moments. Freya wasn't fully developed as a character though; her background and personality didn't fit together. Some of the other character reactions were a little over the top - for example, the neighbor/friend who finds out about the move. But I would recommend!
Thanks NetGalley for the copy!
I was so excited to get my hands on a copy of K.L. Slater's new book. The Apartment was a good read but the ending didn't really resonate with me. Freya is a single mum of a little girl named Skye. Fallen upon hard times after her husband dies (it would have been nice to have known how), Freya doesn't realize she is about to make a really bad decision. A man, a doctor named Dr. Marsden, has been stalking Freya. He approaches her with what sounds like the offer of a lifetime. To live at Adder House, a beautifully restored house that has had its rooms made into individual apartments. The book in its entirety has a whole creepy vibe to it. And that's even before you learn that Dr. Marsden wants to install cameras to which Freya promptly insists no. The problem is Dr. and Mrs. Marsden seem so eager to help Freya. And Freya needs all the help she can get. This book was well thought out with a few chapters that were unclear as to how they fit in with the rest of the book. These chapters were easily understood once the whole story came together though. A good book but I was left wanting a bit more at the end.
Thank you to Netgalley, K.L. Slater, and Amazon Publishing UK for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this psychological thriller and the setting of the creepy, atmospheric Adder House Apartments.
The Apartment by K L Slater is a sometimes creepy, suspenseful story of a mother and young daughter who are trying to make a fresh start. They are "randomly" invited to stay in an apartment at the Adder House, where strange things start happening. Who is causing these things to happen? There is a secondary story line being told as well, and it isn't incorporated until the end. The ending wraps everything up, but it is rather rushed, so the reader is left rather confused. This was a fun read, but I'm not sure that I would recommend it. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Another stunning thriller from KL Slater. Atmospheric and tense, I felt myself walking in the MCs shoes. Recommended!
**Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing UK and K.L. Slater for this ARC!!**
This was another enjoyable quick read from K.L. Slater! Freya and her daughter Skye are given an enticing offer by a mysterious stranger to move into a beautiful apartment for a remarkably low price,, but did they actually get a bargain...or more than they bargained for? As always, Slater’s characters feel really real and I loved her adorable daughter Skye! The Adder House gave the whole book a creepy Victorian house of horrors feel, and Freya has to quickly discover the secrets it holds before it’s too late! This is a fun-to-read mystery that I could easily see having a prequel. Looking forward to my next read from K.L. Slater!
I started this book and did not put it down until I finished it. It was an interesting premise and it hooked me from the beginning. I give this a solid four stars for gripping me from the beginning and keeping me interested until the final resolution.
I enjoyed this book, have never read anything by this author before but will look out for other books by same author. I was gripped straightaway in this book, and found it easy reading and couldn’t wait to keep reading
It was a little interesting the first 5 chapters. After that it just became boring. Then the end felt rushed.
I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was very well written and the main character really drew me in and I really cared what happened. Great twist at the end! Would definitely recommend.
My thanks to NetGalley for my free copy in exchange for my review.
When Freya Miller and her daughter Skye are presented with an opportunity to live in a beautiful apartment at Adder House at a shockingly low rent, she cannot believe her luck. With her life in a disarray after her husband's death, this sounds like a miracle, the very thing she needed to turn her life over. Little did she know that the price she will be paying might be her sanity and her freedom. As she attempts to unravel the mysteries of her new abode, Freya is forced to face the dark secrets of the Adder House residents to protect her 5 year old daughter.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater is an gripping and creepy read with good twists and turns. I enjoyed the mystery built up owing to the alternate narration through the eyes of stalker, which gave me some chills. The ending, though not very unpredictable, did take me by surprise on some aspects. The characters of the story lent the mysterious air to the plot, with their outwardly friendly but "cannot place a finger on it" odd behavior.
I did not enjoy it as much as previous K.L. Slater books as this one did not come across as very believable. I found Freya too trusting of everyone, right from when she moves into the beautiful, new apartment being offered in a gorgeous location in less than a week, to when she spills her secrets to one of the residents after knowing her only for a while even after being warned about the past incidents in that place. Also, I did not find the "seemingly" paranormal occurrences at her house very appealing, as it made it somewhat predictable.
K.L. Slater has a way with words, a way of turning them into a gripping story that will undoubtedly leave you mouth open and mind blown. This book is the true definition of “Psychological Thriller” and thrill it does. The characters, the mystery, and the pulse pounding tension of “The Apartment” are unmatched! Can I give this book 6 stars? It is well deserved!
I was drawn to the name of this book. It reminded me of a topic with so much potential and the possibility of promise. Kim Slaters The Apartment lived up to both. This was my first book by this author, it will not be the last. This book is suspenseful with enough twists to keep the reader's interest. I was still trying to pin the responsible party after 85-90% of the book was finished. This is a rarity for me. I found myself becoming involved in the emotions of Freya and since I knew her to be fragile mentally I even began to question what was happening.
I empathized with her plight being betrayed by her husband and finding herself adrift with a young daughter. I do wish she had been portrayed as a stronger role model for her daughter. Who among us has not been tempted when placed in a position where something seems just too good to be true. In Freya’s position, I would have probably taken a chance on the more luxurious and prestigious “Apartment” just as she did.
I would rate this book a 4 out of 5 stars. I would have liked to see a little more development of the characters and frankly, I just wanted more. Thank you, Net Galley and MS. Slater for allowing me to preview this advance copy. I will be reading more of this author's work.
The Adder House....where it's stranger than you think. Freyer and her daughter are looking for an apartment after her husband dies. And a stroke of luck comes with Dr. Marsden when he is looking for a tenant. The House is huge, beautiful and probably cost a fortune...but...the doctors rents it to her for a song. Along with many other things he does for her. Could this be too good to be true?
Thank you #Netgalley for giving me this ARC to read. Slater is an author I didnt know about but I do love a new author here and there. This book did not disappoint me since I read it in 3 days and couldnt wait to find out all about the strange things that happen in Adder House. It was both a sweet story and a strange one, but alas we find out the truth. #fourstars #KindleUnlimited
Reading The Apartment was an immersive read. The choices that the main character, Freya, makes are sometimes questionnable, although this is necessary to the development of the story. Easy and pleasant read, even though there are some loose strings at the end.
Thank you Amazon publisher UK, to the author and to NetGalley for the ARC!
I didn’t finish this book. I read 5 chapters and just couldn’t get interested in the story.. it was very slow and nothing really happened except a few conversations. Those 5 chapters could have been left out entirely and rewritten for maybe 1 chapter.
What's the saying, if something appears too good to be true, it probably is...that's that this book is about. This is the first book I've read by K.L. Slater and I enjoyed it. At times it did seem to drag, and the ending wasn't what I expected and I'm not sure I felt closure. Freya has become a widow and is looking for somewhere for herself and her daughter to live. She is given the chance to live at Adder house, and it appears to be a miracle. But she learns that things are not always as they seem and when things start to get very strange she questions her decision. It was interesting and was a light read. Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This fast-paced thriller has some strong vibes of Riley Sager's Lock Every Door. I really enjoyed how quickly, though, the protagonist realized she was being f*ed with and rectified the issue. The whole book takes place within the span of basically a week, and although it has flashbacks to another time, I appreciated how succinctly the author wrapped up the plot. The characters were a bit one-dimensional with their motivations, but enough creepy vibes to keep you interested. Overall 3 1/2 stars.
The Apartment was a psychological thriller that did indeed keep you on the edge of your seat. I did enjoy that the plot was much different from other books in this genre. It follows the story of a woman and daughter who are in desperate need of a new apartment. They think they found a perfect match, and that's where the story truly takes off. I wish the characters had been developed a bit more, but overall- it was a great story.
Freya and her daughter, Skye suffer a tragedy in their family and have to start over. They conveniently are given very inexpensive housing at the Adder House. Things seem okay at first, but Freya suddenly realize things may not be what they seem.
Overall, this was a good, quick read. I feel like it took awhile to really get into the bulk of the story. I was lost at first when there were flashbacks to Beatrice as their story was randomly dropped in the middle of the book. Definitely an interesting conclusion.
I just reviewed The Apartment by K. L. Slater. #TheApartment #NetGalley
Nothing is going right for Freya Miller. Her husband leaves her and their daughter and then dies in an accident, leaving her financially strapped and forced to sell their home. Finding a decent place to live seems impossible until she is approached by Dr. Marsden. He offers to rent her a beautiful apartment for a fraction of the going rate. How could she say no. Is it really too good to be true?
This is a good psychological thriller with a steady build-up of tension and uneasiness as Freya becomes increasingly disturbed about rumors she hears about Adder House and her experiences in the house. It's a good, fast read and I enjoyed it. I was however disappointed in the ending which was not quite as believable as I would like.
Deliciously creepy! Down on her luck, single mom Frey’s lucks into a new apartment at the fraction of the going rate. Once she moves in, weird things start happening around her and she is wondering if her benefactor could be more sinister.
Never saw the ending coming!
This book was creepy. I loved it. You knew strange things were happening and who (maybe, maybe not) was behind them. I could visualize a movie in my head while reading this book. Once you get into it you are hooked!! Want to be freaked out, read this book!
what i’m talking about:
British author K.L. Slater ventures into whatever subcategory of thrillers is devoted to buildings, hotels, houses, and in this case, The Apartment. We know right upfront by the title that something‘s up when a too good to be true offer gets dropped in Freya Miller’s lap. Facing the loss of her home, the loss of her friends, and the loss of her husband, Freya is not in a position to look a gift horse in the mouth. So she accepts the affordable rent apartment on the top floor of a converted mansion in the extremely affluent Kensington section of London. She’s ready for a fresh start.
Freya has a chance meeting with Dr. Marsden in a coffee shop when she’s looking at ads for rentals on the local bulletin board. He’s looking for just the right tenant. Hand meet glove. It’s interesting to go into a new read already suspicious and looking for clues. The author’s job is that much harder to make us suspend our disbelief. My litmus test for any thriller is if the protagonist is behaving and making choices in a way any other rational adult would, and yes, she did—even going to see the apartment before she accepted. There was nothing wrong with her thought processes. When something felt off, she followed up on her instinct. If she let something go, it was reasonable under the circumstances. So what’s up with the apartment? Is the title even referring to her apartment?
The Apartment is relatively short coming in under 300 pages and reads more like a “slice of life“ than the methodic unfolding of a story. Freya just goes about making the adjustments of moving, unpacking, trying to find her new normal in a new neighborhood with new neighbors, and a new school for her daughter. Nothing happens the first 50% of the book, just background and build up. Slater gives us the information that justifies Freya’s thought processes and lulls us into a sense of comfort before the big reveal. She lets us entertain our own suspects, the most obvious being Dr. Marsden. He feels a little film noir. Totally has a Vincent Price vibe to him. I admit that I pictured Price in the roll of Dr. Marsden, kind of like his character Roderick Usher in the 1960 adaptation of Edgar Allen Poe’s House of Usher.
Seemingly concerned and generous. So what’s the catch? Well, read the book. Rest assured that the ending makes sense and was appropriately foreshadowed, but wasn’t an easy slam dunk so far before last chapters as to make it perfunctory by the time you get there. Add this one to your pile of quick, but absorbing summer pool reads for a change of pace from romances.
My Rating: B, Liked It
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
I am not a stranger to K.L Slater’s novels, having read five of her most recent, including “Little Whispers”, as of yet to be released. I always enjoy Slater’s psychologically gripping novels, some more than others, but they all have that intriguing entertainment value that I have come to expect from the British author of more than twelve novels.
Freya Miller’s recently estranged husband just passed away, and now her and her young daughter, Skye, are given the oppourtunity of a lifetime- to live, practically rent-free, in one of the most luxurious apartments Freya has ever seen. Freya and Skye will get the chance to start a new life, and it is definitely everything Freya has ever dreamed of. Quickly though, Freya begins to become suspicious of her landlords’ behaviours, as the couple seem to be taking an unhealthy interest in her life and the life of her daughter. Than Freya starts hearing and seeing things that no one else sees, and when a local contractor tells her of the mysterious death that occurred at her apartment (that of a young mother), and none of the neighbours will talk about it, Freya’s suspicions quickly morph into fear. Freya needs to leave and take Skye with her but if the rumours are true, than Freya will not be getting of there alive.
This novel was difficult to review. First, we take Freya who, regardless of the fact that she was raised in a variety of foster homes and should have certified trust issues, uproots her daughter and moves into a home at the drop of a dime. She clearly has not heard of the adage “if it’s too good to be true”. The Marsden’s pay her rent, and for Skye’s schooling, and although Freya suggests she is “offended” by the gestures, she doesn’t outright question it until it is too late. Freya was a flawed and human character, who overall, was rather likable but I felt a lot of her behaviours were extremely unbelievable.
For someone with a psychology degree, the story of Little Albert and the psychologist John B. Watson, was all-too-familiar, and I was pleasantly surprised to see it reoccur in this story. However, the twisted familial connections lost me. The fact that only one person was behind the whole thing confused me as well, seeing as the entire apartment complex seemed to follow along complicitly with one person’s delusions, regardless of the detrimental effects on a young child. I find it hard to believe that everyone, regardless of commitments or relationships, would simply go along for the ride.
The story was well told, and I enjoyed the psychological aspect, especially seeing John B. Watson’s work re-enacted in the modern day, but the plot line was unbelievable and that aspect made it hard to follow the story’s flow.
An enjoyable, quick read, but it definitely falls into the genre of fiction, hands down. There is little believability in the story but if you can get past that aspect, you will be in for one hell of a ride.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater
I really enjoyed this book! This book was a quick and easy read, if you had a few hours spare you could read this book in one sitting.
I enjoyed the storyline and was kept guessing until the end, and I liked the characters.
I was very much looking forward to this book based on the description and I love this genre.
This book was almost exactly the same as another book I have just read. Although there is one difference.
I would highly recommend this to someone new to the genre and testing the water.
I flew through the first short chapters then stalled. First, describing plants (no animal in sight) as ‘flora and fauna’ and then introducing us to a cartoon character, the sinister, tragic woman downstairs, who clearly has her haunted eye on the protagonist’s little girl... As the protagonist walks away, I think the woman even wails, ‘I could babysit her for you...’ I just couldn’t continue. This is a fast, pacey, plot rich and no doubt entertaining read. But my disbelief had awakened and was shouting at me to stop. Sorry.
Thank you for giving me the chance to read the Apartment. I read this as a buddy read with a few of my bookstagram buddies. I’ll tell you, it was hard to stop reading at the places we planned. I just wanted to keep going. The beginning of this book is so riveting. The one thing I will say, the main character’s naïveté grew somewhat annoying over time. If any of those things had happened to me, there’s NO way I would have stayed in that apartment. Asking to put a camera inside the entrance to your home? Bye bye. But I guess that wouldn’t make much of a book, would it? Overall it was a riveting read and I appreciated the opportunity to add it to my May TBR.
I flew through this one! A lighter thriller that somehow manages to remain creepy and atmospheric, this story was a little formulaic but I enjoyed it nonetheless. If you’re happy with a story that’s enjoyable without being groundbreaking (like a lot of psych thrillers these days...), then you’ll be pleased with this book. I would recommend this to fans of Ruth Ware, Riley Sager, and J.P Delaney.
This book took me by surprise. It kept me interested throughout the story and I needed to see what was going to happen. I truly enjoyed the pacing of the story and the well written characters. I would recommend this story to all suspense lovers.
A single mother with a five-year-old, a flat for rent that seems too good to be true, creepy fellow-residents...you just know something is very, very wrong. The only things I found a bit hard to take in was the perfect child who never had a tantrum or acted out, and a single parent with a small child going about her day with no sense of where her phone is. No modern parent I know (much less one whose child's father has died about a year ago) will leave the house without their mobile while their 5-year-old is in school.
A gripping, atmospheric book, but I was somewhat disappointed in the rushed ending.
(Review copy from NetGalley)
The story of a single mom and her daughter who are trying to fight their way back from tragedy. Freya gets offered an amazing apartment for an equally amazing rate. It's perfect for her and her five year old Skye. But strange things start. happening once they move in.
This story is a fast paced thriller that keeps you turning pages. I felt the ending was very satisfying. This is an easy read that keeps you guessing through out,.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
After the death of her estranged husband, Freya Miller is forced to sell her home and needs to find somewhere to rent ASAP. While out getting coffee she is approached by a friendly stranger, who happens to have a luxury apartment available to the right kind of tenant. Freya can't resist an opportunity to provide a stable environment for her five year old daughter Skye. But Adder House has its own secrets and soon Freya has a feeling she is being watched. Is Dr Marsden's offer too good to be true?
I binge read The Apartment in one sitting. I had an uneasy feeling from the get go. If someone offers you an apartment in Kensington for $500 a month you know there is something strange going on!
The book is told from two point of view, our protagonist's and also an unknown narrator reading snippets from an old diary. I was keen to see how to two narratives linked together.
This book had everything I enjoy in a thriller, an intriguing premise, fast pace and a shocking twist. However I did predict the twist and there were a lot of similarities between this book and another I have read recently.
3.5/5
Thank you Netgalley for the book.
It was good, but the ending is lacking...
Worth the read though. Freya and her daughter Skye are offered an apartment they cannot afford because they are "a good fit". A lot of red flags that were ignored. Ending wasn't what you are expecting, but not in one of those awesome plot twist type of ways. Overall I still very much enjoyed it and personally think it's worth the read.
I slogged through this book. To me, Freya was naive and really didn't think things through, so anything that happened to her at Adder House was her own fault. The Marsdens were creepy and pushy, and although I'm sure it would have been hard to get out of there, I would have tried if I was Freya (or not even lived there in the first place). I couldn't finish it.
It was a quick, entertaining read, but I found myself having to suspend disbelief a bit too often during this book. I also felt the ending wrapped up a little too quickly and I had a lot of unanswered questions.
* Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This novel by K.L Slater is being released next week and I'm glad I can finally talk about it. This was a very quick read but very enticing. Freya Miller gets the chance of a lifetime to live in a beautiful apartment building, with her daughter, and for very little rent. However, once she arrives, things start happening and it's not at all what she expected. I was a little confused while reading because I really had no clue how this would end. The way it ended, and what happened was even more confusing and took some time to really understand but it was a wild ride. It was very different from anything I've ever read which was very refreshing. The Apartment was well worth the read and I recommend picking it up next week!
If something sounds too good to be true then it probably is. A lesson so true for this tense psychological thriller. A sense of unease begins the story - for the reader as much as the central character - and continues to build right through to the end. The relief for the reader at the very end is almost palpable.
This book was very similar to Lock Every Door by Riley Sager. This book tells the story of Freya and her young daughter, Skye. Freya is a recent widow and is approached in a coffee shop by a man offering her a low-rent place to live in a prominent home in London. She feels that it's too good to be true but accepts the offer anyway and she and Skye move in. After they move in, weird things start happening in her apartment and she hears things. She feels as though she is going crazy and is desperate to find out why these things are happening.
Whew this book was a lot and I felt myself tense as I turned every page. With so many psychological twists and a surprise psychology connection this book takes its readers in a wile ride. Freya and her daughter have had a rough year so when the dream apartment becomes available Freya jumps at the chance to have a fresh start, but that fresh start has strings attached she never saw coming! A great read!
Enjoyed this one! Quick read, well written. Just enough “creep” factor to keep me going. Fast read as well. The plot was captivating. The setting, I could definitely envision as I read page by page. When an author is able to allow me to visualize so clearly, that is part of the enjoyment I receive when reading.
Super appreciative to be introduced to a new author for my shelves. Thank you for the advanced read and opportunity to share my thoughts! I would suggest it to, as it is a quick read you can’t go wrong!
When I say I like psychological thrillers, I didn’t intend it as literal as this book took it. I felt like I was reading content for one of my Neuroscience/Psychology classes in university. This book was extremely short, but nothing pivotal happened until about 85% in. I think that this book could have done without the prologue so at least the author could have used it to her advantage as a plot twist as I was only shocked by one of the plot twists (but it was extremely minor in the grand scheme of things). I had such high expectations for this book, but I was left so disappointed. If you’re really into literal Psychology you might enjoy this rather than reading a textbook, but other than that I don’t really recommend.
I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I gave it three stars, but if I could give half stars it would probably get a 2.5. This felt like a really rushed book with big jumps/holes. Kind of feel like it could have benefited from some more editing/revision work.
This book struggled to hold my attention and interest. I think that the premise of the book is good, but the storyline is sometimes difficult to follow. Moreover, this was a slow build, which I can appreciate, but it caused me to lose focus and motivation to continue reading. It's not the worst book that I have read, but it is far from being one of the best. I LIKED it, I just didn't LOVE it.
I thought this book was phenomenal. I would highly recommend reading this book. K.L Slater has become one my favorite authors.
Just fantastic. Loved this book, couldn't put it down - read in a day (thank goodness for lockdown!). You really get absorbed into feeling for Skye and Freya even if she doesn't always think ahead before making a decision. Is it really to good to be true that she's approached by a random stranger who just happens to be a Dr who is trying to rent out a flat in a beautiful old mansion style house? Definitely she should be listened to get instincts and not moved on there! It just so happens that Freya is trying to sell her house and will need somewhere quickly to move into, coincidence I think not!! All to do with the history of her family and now her and her daughter are in danger, can they get out in time or is it too late?!
I loved the synopsis for this book. The writing was excellent and it was entertaining. I just found it a little predictable. I will be looking forward to reading more from this author, I love her writing.
Thank you to #netgalley for the digital ARC of this book. Talk about psychological thriller, WOW! As I was reading this I just kept having such a sinking feeling that something terrible was going to happen. Something did happen but it was as bad as I was anticipating. The main character Freya Miller had no self esteem and I felt she had trouble making the right decisions. Remember the saying; If it seems to good to be true........she should have listened to her intuition. All in all it was definitely worth reading and I would recommend adding it to your TBR list.
Freya Miller must find a new place to live for her and her 5-year-old daughter, Skye. She is “randomly” approached by Dr. Marsden, who is looking for a tenant and offers her a cheap apartment in the Adder House, located in a very upscale part of London. They move in and soon begin experiencing weird activity: things being moved, feeling like she’s being followed, strange sounds, etc. What has she gotten themselves into?
This synopsis of K. L. Slater’s novel The Apartment had me excited to read this. But, then I felt a little disappointed by it. It’s a pretty fast read and I will say I didn’t quite expect the ending (I probably should have though), but the main character and some of the writing was what made me give this book a 3 star. Freya was written like she was tough as nails and smart, etc, but she didn’t live up to that. Some other things didn’t connect for me either. It had potential but just a little flat.
Thank you NetGalley for this free copy in exchange for an honest review!
The Apartment was my first K.L. Slater novel, and it did not disappoint!
At first this novel reminded me of a Riley Sager novel, but the ending came out of nowhere and shocked me!
Freya and her daughter, Skye, are looking for a cost-effective place to leave after Freya's cheating husband dies. Doctor Marsden approaches Freya at a local coffee shop and offers her a place to live at Adder House, an expensive area at London. What Freya doesn't know, is that Doctor Marsden is seeking her out to live in the vacancy.
Meanwhile, Freya and Skye think living at Adder House is an absolute dream, and even Freya's friends, Brenna and Viv wonder if this is too good to be true.
With her father's death, and the transition to the new area, Skye begins to have a hard time settling into Adder House. Freya focuses on her well-being, and soon discovers that not everything is as it seems at their new home. The other tenants act strange, and it is eerily quiet. Not to mention that things are moved in their home, and Freya begins to feel like she has lost her mind.
An overall edge-of-your-seat novel, it was a quick and enjoyable read! I have been recommending this novel to my colleagues and friends as a perfect summer read!
A quick thriller that draws you in despite the rather obvious holes in the story. Thanks to NetGalley for the entertainment, and I’d recommend this for anyone wanting an easy escapist read.
It’s clear from the outset that there is something weird being set-up. We don’t know exactly what, and there’s a few attempts to divert our attention until the author chooses to make their revelation.
Our main character, Freya, tells us she’s always been used to relying on herself and that she doesn’t trust easily. So, her decision to trust a random stranger who offers her a cheap apartment in a pretty exclusive area of London seems odd. We are told she’s recently widowed,so perhaps this could excuse her seeming lack of judgment.
Misgivings aside, Freya and her daughter move in. Determined to make it work, Freya overlooks the weird things that happen and the strange behaviour of her landlord. She clings to the friendship of the pleasant old lady who lives below them, and who strikes up a friendship of sorts with the young daughter.
From early on we are aware someone is watching these two. This someone has a plan, and we know it’s linked to a past experiment carried out by someone with the same surname as Freya’s new landlord. We’re suspicious, and I was keen to see just when/how the full story would be revealed.
If I’m being entirely honest this probably wouldn’t hold up to close scrutiny, but if you’re prepared to overlook these elements you’ll find plenty here to entertain you.
😊 The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a riveting psychological thriller full of twists. I've now read several books from this remarkable writer and knew I was going to need to read this one as well. Even if I hadn't come across this talented author before, the synopsis would have worked its tempting magic on me, anyway!
This was a proper creepy, suspenseful read! K.L. Slater introduces the reader to single mother Freya Miller who needs a miracle to happen. About to lose her home, brought about by the betrayal of her husband, all she wants is some security for her daughter Skye, now five. On the precipice of total despair, she meets the alluring Dr Marsden who happens to be looking for a tenant for one of his properties in London. Adder House is perfect - the rent is reasonably priced, and the charismatic doctor is sure that Freya and Skye will get on fine with the other residents...
The Apartment is told mostly from the perspective of Freya, interspersed with snippets from the viewpoint of an unknown person and extracts from diary entries. K.L. Slater's writing style was as delightful as ever, often leaving me little surprises as to what was coming next. The reader was not privy to all pieces of information, helping to maintain the high levels of intrigue. The author cannily continued to plant doubts, so I was still struggling to figure out the truth from the lies and ambiguity. The addition of strange incidences happening at the apartments added tension and drama to the proceedings. With no disappointments, this was a cleverly plotted page-turner with many twists leading up to a satisfying conclusion. Harboured secrets, mistrust, mental health, manipulation, deceit, and selfishness all had a place in this fabulous and compulsive thriller.
Even though this was not my favourite book by K.L. Slater, it was still a magnificent read for me and I wholeheartedly recommend it, particularly for psychological thriller aficionados who enjoy a lighter white knuckle read. I'm already looking forward to K.L. Slater's next offering! 😊
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Amazon Publishing UK via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
The story, a psychological thriller, has some interesting moments, but the telling of it is uneven - sometimes rushed, sometimes too drawn out. It's a quick read, but had to many tropes, and was a bit too predictable for me. Freya was very wishy washy, and seemed more a "stock character" than a real protagonist.
This is some combination of a cozy, a mystery, and a thriller. Some moments make me want to live in the world of this book — others leave me utterly creeped out (in a fun, welcome way). I recommend this book if you like a strong narrator, a slow twist of mysteries to unravel, and more than one secret. I’ll be buying a hard copy of this particular book for my shelf!
Really liked this thriller, it was so hard to put down! Great story that kept me guessing until the end! Would definitely recommend!
I was immediately hooked by the premise of The Apartment – it struck me as an original, creepy setup that set itself apart from many of the thrillers that I’ve been picking up recently. I was looking forward to a refreshing change of pace, a unique, suspense-filled plot, and compelling characters with a mysterious background. Unfortunately, this book fell short of my expectations in every single one of these categories.
The overall tone of the book was… bland. I don’t think it’s unreasonable to expect a thriller to be thrilling, but apparently that was too much to ask for this one. There was no air of suspense, and there were so many missed opportunities to introduce compelling characters and twists and turns that would have kept me more engaged. Overall, the tale dragged and was severely lacking in scenes that made my palms sweat and my heart pound. This was due, at least in part, to the glacial pace of the plot.
There were very few tangible plot points throughout the book, and they were separated by pages upon pages of fluff. Had the extraneous detail and unnecessary scenes been eliminated, the same story easily could have been conveyed in the form of a 50 page novella or short story. Consequently, the book read like a few disjointed scenes that were half-heartedly thrown together amidst an excessive amount of filler.
The twists and turns ranged from lackluster to nonexistent. Those that were present were easily predictable, and I foresaw every single one of them with alarming accuracy chapters before they actually occurred. The author had a habit of spoon-feeding readers information, dropping overtly obvious hints to which she continually drew attention. These hints may as well have been written in blinking, neon signs the size of a billboard. This type of reveal within thrillers aggravates me to no end – I prefer more subtle and ambiguous clues that prompt more questions than answers and allow me to arrive at my own conclusions.
Furthermore, the final reveal felt cheap, clunky, and forced. Not all of the puzzle pieces fit together perfectly, resulting in quite a few plot holes that were never addressed. Additionally, genome sequencing played a role in the concluding twist. Two weeks from now, I’ll be receiving my undergraduate degree in genetics, and I couldn’t ignore the glaring genetics inaccuracies (to avoid spoilers, I’ll keep this intentionally vague). These blunders readily could’ve been avoided with some surface-level research, and it’s disappointing that the author didn’t take the time to look into this further or consult an expert in the field.
To compound matters, I felt no investment in the characters or their backstories, which made it even more challenging to continue reading. The protagonist was frustratingly gullible, naive, and oblivious to the incessant warning signs and clues that barraged her from the outset of the book. In one sentence, she was claiming that it took a lot to unnerve her. In the next, she was flustered and beside herself over an odd note being dropped off at her daughter’s school. She failed to use her brain throughout much of the book, then proceeded to act offended when other characters called her out on this.
Ultimately, The Apartment wasn’t for me. Amidst plot holes, yawn-worthy reveals, and countless character inconsistencies, I couldn’t engage with the book. What started as an intriguing premise quickly devolved into a lackluster, trope-ridden disappointment. I was very close to DNFing this book on multiple occasions and struggled to reach the end point. In good conscience, I couldn’t recommend this to thriller aficionados or individuals who are just starting to pick up books within the genre. There are so many incredible thrillers out there, and The Apartment simply can’t compare!
Thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read this captivating thriller! The thought of change can be scary enough, but having to uproot your whole life after the death of a loved one is unimaginable to me. This is how we meet Freya, a newly widowed mother who is struggling to make ends meet for Skye, her daughter. All hope seems lost as she flounders for stability, and the tension is palpable within just a few pages of the novel. Slater does an amazing job at making us care about Freya and Skye right off the bat, and we are as overjoyed as she is when a mysterious landlord finds her and offers her a place at Adder House. Things have a creepy feel to them from the moment Freya sets foot into the beautiful building, and we the readers know there is some type of ulterior motive from the expert way Slater cuts between Freya and a mystery bystander's point of view.
From this bystander we get a taste of the history of some type of experiment that ends up tying into the main story in such a cool and unexpected way. It also adds an extra air of mystery that will keep you up reading just to see how all these little building blocks fit together. I will say that I did not expect the reveal at all; there were many red herrings that were not obviously a ruse, and the varied horrific happenings sprinkled through were so seemingly unconnected that my mind was left swimming in a sea of question marks. You can feel Freya's mind slowly unwind as she not only tries to find out the dark history of Adder house, but also simultaneously keeping on a mask of control as to not worry her daughter or her friends, Brenna and Viv. Selfishly, I have to say I was so excited to see my name in a novel, as it isn't one that pops up much in American literature. I did a dance every time she was mentioned!
All in all, this was the epitome of a psychological thriller. I was questioning my own sanity along with Freya's as I flipped pages (electronically) back and forth to try and see if we were being gaslighted or not by the other characters! The events flowed so seamlessly, and in this time of feeling more secluded from others than ever, the subtle but quick isolation of Freya from everyone and everything she knew and loved was felt as strong as a ton of bricks. You truly root for this woman to succeed while every force around her attempts to drag her down. What a great read just before Mother's Day as it accurately describes the lengths a mom will go to in order to protect her child, mentally and physically. I wholeheartedly recommend this fast-paced read!
Talk about too good to be true!
Offered an apartment way out of her league, Freya has no choice but to accept. I mean, who wouldn’t? I would certainly accept it, especially given the circumstances she was facing.
Once settled in, things seem to take a turn for the strange or is it just Freya’s imagination? Who can she trust with this?
Her best friend seems to be hiding secrets as well but are they detrimental to Freya’s wellbeing?
That’s all I’m going to say about this book. I feel I may have given away too much already.
Grab this book and dive in! You won’t surface until you’ve finished!
Having read previous titles by this author I was looking forward to The Apartment - however, it took a really long time to get into this book and I felt that that setting of the scene versus the main storyline was a little skewed. Its definitely a unique story line but I’m not entirely convinced that it works. I did enjoy the last 10% more than the rest of the book just because I felt the speed of the story ramped up. More could have been done with the love interest as that just seemed to appear and happen.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. I wouldn’t read it again and I’m not sure I’d go as far as to recommend it just on the basis that too much seems out of place for me... who was the subject of the experiment? Why did Skye suddenly change behaviour so extremely? Why does Mark know about surveillance? How did Lily take down Mark? How did Lewis die?
Loved this book, great story with an added twist. Easy to read, fast paced and a likeable, if a little naive main character. Woukd recommend.
Received this from Net Gallery! "The Apartment" is a fast paced story of a failed marriage, a child and starting over! You have different characters that you don't know whether to trust or no? Having to protect her child and having no where else to go what happens now? Very emotional story and you have drama and is someone watching me? K.L. Slater ,I have never read before and she did a good job on this one,will look for more of her stories! Wait till you get to the end!
It immediately drew me in. As I read further in, my mind was whirling at what was going to happen next. It’s been a while that I have read a book that I couldn’t put down. The suspense was intriguing and exciting as the story went on. Highly recommend it.
This is obviously not my first Slater book. I have read several and all of them have a few things in common. They are quick reads that flow along nicely and you want to get to the end to find out what happens. I have read a few books were the "enemy" appears to be a the house or in this case the apartment. I always hope that going in that is not actually the case because I'm not truly into books about ghosts or haunting. Right away I felt for Freya. Her husband was a cheating jerk who ended up dying. She didn't have a lot of options for cheaper housing. As a mother, I could totally empathize with her wanting to provide for her daughter. When she met Dr. Marsden at the coffee shop it was too good to be true and of course it was. I hated how absolutely ridiculous Skye's friend's mother behaved and wanted to cut off their friendship completely because they found out at school that she was moving schools. Once at Adder house all kinds of crazy things started happening and you heard about the past residents. Also you were creeped out by the Marsden family. In the end I gave the book 4 stars instead of 5 because I figured the ending out pretty easily. I will continue to look for all of Slaters books as I enjoy them a lot.
I really liked this book. Being offered an almost too true apartment for cheap rent in a affluent area doesnt ring any alarm bells to start with until creepy things start to happen in the apartment .
Thinking it is Dr Marsden and his strange sister she starts to dig a little and unearths the secrets of the house.
A relatively easy read and enjoyable storyline.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a true psychological thriller set in London. Freya Miller id down on her luck after the death if her estranged husband. She is forced to sell her beloved family home and without a job, she has no idea where she and her 5 year old daughter Skye will live. That is until Dr. Michael Marsden sees her browsing a bulletin board looking for a rental that she can afford. Dr. Marsden tells Freya about how the beautiful Adder House has a vacancy . . . for just the perfect tenant. He is even willing to charge her rent based upon what she is able to pay. This is seems like the perfect opportunity, so Freya and Skye happily move into Adder House and are excited for their life to get better. But, things don't go quite as planned. Freya feels like she is being watched all the time and things begin to move in the apartment. Is Freya still struggling from the death of her husband and the move or is Adder House hiding dark secrets?
Overall, this book was entertaining. It was a very easy and quick read. I really that there is a very real psychological aspect to this novel. I've always found psychology, in particular behavioral conditioning, a fascinating topic so I loved this read!
The Apartment
K L Slater
I absolutely love this author and was looking forward to reading this one (thank you to NetGalley). It did not disappoint, despite being a little unbelievable inasmuch of the gullibility of the main character Freya. The storyline is very dark and tense, it actually reminded me of the book and film Rosemary’s Baby and I became totally caught up in how things were going to conclude. Wow. Didn’t see the twist at the end. A fabulous read.
Wow. What a creepy book. I really felt for Freya, the mother. However I did feel some of her actions were not true to real life. This is a very interesting book and I definitely recommend it
It was OK!
Defiantly not one of her best!
Found it all a bit odd if i'm honest., not as engaging as other books I have read by the same author!
I am a big fan of K L Slater, and although I enjoyed this book I don't feel it is one of her better ones. That said I will continue to read all of her upcoming books.
32 year old Freya's life is at its worse. She lost her husband twice: once because he cheated on her with her best friend and second because he died. Now she has to sell her family home and crash at her friends' house until she can find something decent for her and her daughter Skye to live on. Seriously, take away the husband and the daughter and I feel like I have been in Freya's situation far too many times. One day at a coffeehouse Freya meets a handsome stranger, Dr. Mardsen, who offers Freya a great deal on the most Luxurious apartment complex in London, The Adder House. The price? Whatever she can afford. Why? Because Freya and her daughter are a perfect fit for The Adder House.
I really enjoyed this psychological thriller. It was easy to read and kept me invested throughout the story.
The Apartment gave me all the Rosemary’s Baby vibes with a more modern touch and I was here for it. As an apartment resident myself I love reading about luxurious apartment complexes with a side of sinister: Strange neighbors spying on you, noises on the empty room next door, and objects mysteriously moving around.
As an education major I really enjoyed the psychological part of it *wink*
- little to nothing happens for about 90% of the book.. honestly felt like I was reading a contemporary at some points
- this could have gone so much darker and been so much creepier but nope
- ending & epilogue was a big fat womp from me. so many questions still left unanswered, so little explained, and nothing really felt shocking or surprising. the epilogue felt like something out of a romance novel for whatever reason.
- the chapters we get from the "villain" just felt out of place and not genuine
She’s offered an amazing apartment in a wonderful location for an amazing price just when she needs it most. But, if it sounds too good to be true, then run! Freya doesn’t run and instead is drawn into the secrets of Adder House.
I enjoyed the book for the most part. It was a unique story. It’s biggest downfalls were it read a bit flat and there wasn’t enough suspense built up.
An interesting book. I got all the way through, but would not recommend this novel. Without spoiling the twist, the book relies on some historical occurrences that are rather silly in the context of this particular mystery, and don’t make sense either from the perspective of the villain or from the plot.
A great and, at times, uncomfortable read about a woman, Freya who having lost her husband and her home finally gets a break when she is approached in a coffee shop with an offer she cannot refuse of an amazing apartment at Adder House for her and her daughter. They move in the following week and Freya can't quite believe her luck but then strange and unexplainable things start to happen. She also starts to hear rumours of something horrible happening at Adder House so she decides to find out what.
I devoured this book in 2 days. I just had to know what happened next! I absolutely loved this book. Very well written, engaging and fast paced. I could not put it down! Nice short paragraphs also which I always like.
I would recommend if you want a book this is going to entertain you and keep you guessing!
Love love love this author and yet again she has given us a superb read. It certainly brings home that old adage, it it seems too good to be true, it probably is! The book had me gripped from the first page and I read it in one sitting. It entertained and thrilled in equal measures and the twist at the end was brilliant. I look forward to Ms Slater's next offering.
This book was very entertaining , well written . It took me a little while to get into the story line but I am glad I continued to read because I couldn't put it down .
Psychological thriller as young single mother is offered an amazing apartment for her and her daughter in London. What it comes with is hard for her to figure out, but the drama builds as we see her fear grow. Being spied upon, strange rumors about what else happened in the apartment, and unusual happenings all lead to her terror. This is interspersed with 75 year old notes from a psychology experiment, that eventually yield the secret. The writing keeps the tension up on every page, with almost no letup.
This was my first KL Slater novel and it won't be the last. This apartment followed an out of luck mom who is about to lose her home. At the last second she is given an amazing opportunity to live in an BEAUTIFUL new apartment for free along with her daughter. At first, it is more than they could dream of. While it seems like it was too good to be true, Freya and her daughter take the apartment and are amazed at everything that it has to offer. Slowly but surely things start getting spooky. Are they in the apartment alone? Why does it feel like someone is always there with them? While I found that the plot was a story already told, I was mesmerized by KL Slater's take on this psychological thriller. This was a quick, in one sitting, read that had me gribbed from beginning to end. I did feel that the end was slightly fuzzy and didn't quite answer all of my questions, but it worked.
As a fan of K.L Slater I was excited to read her newest book.
I found the story to be engaging and I wanted to know what was going to happen next however the switching of perspectives was confusing and I didn’t like how that aspect of the book was set out.
I liked how it wrapped up and it kept me guessing throughout, but I did think it was all a little rushed at the end and could have expanded more?
I was quite surprised in how good this book was the author had great storytelling and the characters built up was great as well. Would read more from this author.
Loved this book.
Was a great read from the very start.
Some parts of it were really upsetting but overall it had great back stories and most of the characters were really likeable even though you wouldn't have thought you should like them. Book was very well written and very descriptive.
This was an incredible book. It was a completely different book and had twist and turns until the final end. I enjoyed the main characters and stayed up into the night to finish the book. Another great read by this author.
This thriller kept me reading to the last page. Some of the warnings of danger were a bit obvious (c’mon, this isn’t just a creepy coincidence!), but the narrator was likeable and the mystery was interesting and the writing was great.
*What* was being done to the narrator was obvious but who was doing it (& why!) kept me guessing till the end. I was afraid it was going to be a bit more horror than it ended up being, which is a good thing (I can’t stand a book with harm to children, and this book only hinted at it.)
4 stars because it wasn’t ANAZING, but was a solid fun thriller.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Freya. and her young daughter, Skye find themselves without a place to settle down. Deceived by a cheating husband, who then died, Freya must sell their home and search for a new start.
At a coffee shop, she meets a man who offers an amazing apartment for a very low cost. Better yet, it's in an old mansion. Freya can't believe her luck, although the tenants there are all eerie or quirky.
Several times, we jump into the POV of an antagonist, and from this we know someone has been watching Freya and Skye, and knows quite a bit about them. We learn they are meant to be in Adder House but why?
There are also flashbacks to the early 1900's, and a mother and son's involvement in a cruel experiment testing out a child's reaction to fear. I felt like this was a weaker part of the story and could have been better incorporated.
Adder House has secrets, and is creepy for many reasons, all of which should have made Freya pack up and run after the first few occurrences. I enjoy a book with good introspection and this one did not disappoint. Perhaps in a few of the more fast-paced events, there could have been less.
I read this fast, wanting to know what was going on, who wanted them in Adder House, and why.
Others have said this, too: the ending was a bit rushed to wrap up all of the connections but overall, I enjoyed the book.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to review.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3312693605
I do not agree with the negative reviews. This book was good. I liked the twists in the book & I am not sure what questions people feel were unanswered. Some areas were no 100% closed out in detail but that was not neccessary. The plot was unique & kept you guessing & changing your mind about characters. Quick read.
This review is on Goodreads
K.L. Slater is a new to me author and this is the first book of her’s that I have read. I thought, overall, the story was good. The book was well written and the characters were immediately likable. Honestly, for me, it was the characters that kept me reading. While the story was interesting, I felt like the idea of taking an apartment with no questions asked and the idea that the apartment would only cost what you can afford seems too far fetched to me. Once I got past that part of the plot, the psychological part of this book was intriguing. Like Freya, I too could not figure out what was going on and who to trust and who not to trust. The biggest thing that I did not like about the psychological part of the book was that it was wrapped up way to fast for my liking. I did not feel like there was enough suspense, nor was there enough “start and restarts” of trying to figure out the “who done it.” Once things had started to unravel it was like that was the end of the story and it was finished up quickly. I wish it would have been a little more drawn out. Overall this book was good and I would choose to pick up another book of K.L. Slater‘s.
*2.5 stars round up*
The first 50% of this book had me hooked, I was invested in the characters and desperately wanted to know what was going on with the tenants of the "apartment. I was sadly disappointed with the last 50% of the book, with no real plot development and a flop of an ending. I felt like the author had something going but ultimately rushed through the most pivotal sections.
Thank you to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for a chance to review this arc in exchange of an honest review.
Thank you Net Galley for a copy of this book. I loved the synopsis of the book and the cover reeled me right in - I’m a sucker for a good thriller and thought it would be a lot like Riley Sager’s Lock Every Door. The pacing was a little slower than I imagined and it began to feel like I’d never get to the middle of this story. The big twist was one that I wasn’t expecting but I somewhat feel like it was underwhelming. The plot was fragmented (was her foster care history and her marriage that important to the story?) but I know some people appreciate this type of thriller.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and enthralled for an ARC of this book for an honest review.
This book was easy to read, become a part of and it truly didn't end the way I thought it was going to. It did keep me on the edge of my seat and I truly enjoyed being able to relate to the characters and the story line itself.
I enjoyed this psychological thriller and the setting of the creepy, atmospheric Adder House Apartments. The one problem I had was it was soooo similar to Lock Every Door by Riley Sager.
The book also went a little off the rails for me too. It was so implausible.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of the book for an unbiased review.
I devoured The Apartment in a day! From the moment Freya and Skye move into the Addler building it feels like something sinister is about to happen! As I kept reading the suspense had me hooked and by the end of the book, I found out that everything I thought was going on, was way off and so much better!!!! The suspense due to the strange and scary residents had touches of Rosemary’s baby to it and that just made me to keep reading on and on. Once you pick this up, you won’t stop reading!!
This is a well written book, I liked the characters and was interested to see how the plot pannned out. On baalance I would say I enjoyed reading it. The downside for me was that the story was predictable from the start - not the detail of the plot, which is why the interest was maintained but it was always apparent where the story was going. I was as little dissatisfied with the ending which seemed to be somewhat rushed.
The Apartment is a strange and twisted story. I liked it but found it slow in places, then there is loads of action in the last chapter. I liked the main protagonists Freya and liked the intrigue that come from the different diary entries.
It's almost impossible to write about without giving anything away but I found it an interesting psychological drama.
Super hooky, make you stay up all night sort of read. The rushed ending disappointed me though, I'd have loved this section to be longer and tie up more loose ends.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC copy, all views my own.
I enjoyed this. I especially liked the way I was drawn into the emotional life of the main character. And the although you weren’t in the mind of her daughter, the connection between mother and child was strong and believable. I look forward to more novels by this writer.
3.5 stars. This book hooked me from the get go. I didn’t want to put the book down and read it much faster than I even realized I have the time for. Some of the different timelines and points of view confused me at first, but once I started figuring it out it was fine. The ending felt a little rushed together, but I still enjoyed the read!
Holy heck was this book amazing! If you like psychological thrillers I HIGHLY recommend this one! This one was published a few weeks ago so find it wherever you buy you books! You won’t regret it! Thank @netgalley @klslaterauthor and @amazonpublishing for the advanced copy!
A page turning thriller! This one sucks you in from the beginning and doesn't let go. It's a fun, quick read.
The ending wasn't too tough to figure out, but I didn't mind. I would recommend this one who just wants a fun, escape. It would make a good beach read!
Freya is at her wits end. Her life is in pieces. He husband is dead & she badly needs somewhere for herself & her daughter Skye to live. When she meets Dr Marsden as he is pinning up an advert for a flat it seems heaven sent. The apartment in the luxurious Adder House seems too good to be true & she thinks that they have finally had a stroke of luck- but you know what they say about things that are too good to be true don't you. Before long strange things start to happen. The other tenants are a bit odd & things start happening to make Freya question her sanity. Alongside Freya's story is the account of a young woman & has allowed her son to be used for a scientific experiment many years ago.
This was a good page turner. There were places where suspension of belief became necessary but nevertheless it was a good read. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
Thanks Amazon Publishing, NetGalley & KL Slater for the digital ARC of this book!
Holy cow was this a fantastically twisty book! OMG! I couldn’t quite nail down how everyone was connected. The author did a great job and character building throughout. Once I finally got an idea of where the book was going (took me about 3/4 to start to piece together how it MIGHT go), I couldn’t stop reading. I had to finish it before I went to bed!
This book dives so much more into the psychology aspect than most psychological thrillers do. It’s definitely one I recommend picking up.
This book started out slow and it took me awhile with all the back and forth, but I ended up loving it. I'm definitely glad a stuck with it, because I had no idea what was happening most of the time and it kept me on the edge of my seat. Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read for an honest review.
Ok, I really need to read the synopsis better before picking up a book. As a single mom, this one hit me a little too hard with a sense of fear and dread. The author does her job well!
The story follows a recently widowed mom and her young daughter as they try to find a new place to live. An offer comes along that is too good to be true, and it IS. She gets an amazing opportunity to move into a very exclusive neighborhood in an up-scale building far beyond her means. As you would expect, it comes at a price.
She and her daughter are taken through a series of very disturbing events as her world seems to shrink and even the people she trusts seem to turn on her. The sense of isolation and desperation grows as she tries to figure out what is happening and why her life is suddenly so fraught with fear and unlucky events.
I really enjoyed the slow build of this, along with the character who comes across as very authentic. The author really builds walls around her well, enhancing her isolation with every page. For anyone with trust issues (raises hand) this one is for you!
This one is definitely worth a read! Don't miss it!
This was one if those psychological thrillers that hooks you from the start before building the tension bit by bit towards.....a disappointingly low-key climax. It doesn't really matter though because it's the build up that makes a thriller and that's good enough to overcome any shortcomings at the end.
The plot was simple but gripping involving a luxury apartment complete with creepy neighbours, unexplained happenings and feelings of being watched. These factors combine and build throughout the pages to create a disturbing atmosphere, plenty of suspense and lots to guess at. In particular the interspersion of a mother's journal detailing her son's participation in a psychology experiment in 1902, with the present day account of Freya's residency in the apartment was intriguing. I was kept guessing until the end how these two seemingly disparate storylines connected.
In terms of the ending, the problem was the lack of thrill factor and feeling that it was rushed/incomplete. For example, the role/significance of the apartment's other residents was never explained, and we were left wondering what had happened to the baby and how the experiment may have affected his life.
Also, whilst I liked that the writing style and book is short and punchy - making it an easy, addictive read - it sadly did mean that majority of the characters didn't have the chance to develop properly so it was difficult to understand their behaviours and motives. That said I did enjoy the mother/daughter relationship between Freya and her five-year-old daughter, along with Skye's childhood innocence.
Overall this was an easy, addictive, entertaining read but one I'd recommend for fans of lighter psychological thrillers.
On the surface, The Apartment has a lot in common with Riley Sager's 2019 thriller Lock Every Door: a down-on-her-luck young woman needs a place to live, and is presented with a luxury apartment in a neighborhood she could never afford, with no strings attached! Well, hardly any. Ok, actually huge, disturbing strings attached, but the main character is so desperate that she is willing to overlook a creepy landlord who won’t allow friends in the unit, ever (Sager) or wants to install a security camera INSIDE her apartment (Slater).
I enjoyed both of these books, but The Apartment has a few minor annoyances that knocked it down to 3 stars. First, the main character, Freya, is a mother, so she is making these crazy decisions on behalf of herself and her five-year-old daughter, Skye. To Freya, it seems perfectly plausible that a stranger would approach her at a coffee shop where she is reading leasing fliers and offer her a beautiful apartment at a reduced rent, simply because she seems like “a good fit.” She is similarly unconcerned when the landlord pays all her moving expenses and helps her daughter get into a top school. Is she entitled, desperate, or just too gullible?
Her complete credulity continues when she befriends a local construction worker, a working class hero with a heart of gold, whose chief qualification to be Freya’s friend is that he discouraged another guy from whistling at her on the street. There is also an epistolary subplot, where we read journal entries about a doctor and young nurse in a decades-old experiment, that seems both random and spoiler-y.
Despite these narrative questions, I found The Apartment to be a thriller worth my time. The pacing is excellent, and Freya and Skye are likable characters. I wanted to know how their story ended, even if I didn’t truly believe in the threat of imminent danger, despite Freya’s best efforts to attract it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It was an amazing book, full of twists and really creepy. I couldn't stop reading, even at the end I was biting my nails waiting for the final revelation. Some things are a bit rushed but overall, I really enjoyed it.
I freaking LOVED this book. I literally devoured it in hours. It is a bit of a slow-burner this one, be patient because the pay off is really worth it. The last third of the book was brilliantly done. Twists and turns and more twists, some I had an inkling of towards the end but not all! It really delivers on the surprise factor.
This is my first novel by K L Slater. I know, that is just shameful. I often saw her books on Goodreads and Amazon and know now I need to read them all. Better late than never to discover a great author.
The plotline of this book I found very unique, as someone who has read thousands of books and many in this genre I don't recall anything that fits with this. I find a lot of books in the psychological thriller genre can be so incredibly similar these days. Plots about missing children for example...I needed something fresh and this delivered big time.
The characters are fantastic. I was hooked on all of them. I could picture them in full colour and really feel this would make a fantastic movie or short mini-series. It would transfer well to the screen. The writing is excellent in it's quality and depth and thankfully is not over descriptive nor cliched. I was really impressed. I have got picky in my old age (48) on what makes a good book so a five-star delivery is not giving out flippantly.
So much to like. I was literally glued to the book as it started to share it's secrets and the reveals were exciting and kept coming at me. Just when I thought we had it all wrapped up the author hits you with another one. Boomshanka baby. Gotta love that right?
Highly recommended from me. Don't be dismayed if you find it a tad slow to start. It's laying the foundations of the characters which are so critical to plot and what it finally slams you with. I love the cover too. Grab this one and get stuck in. I will absolutely be picking up and reading more of K L Slater's books. Kudos!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my review copy of The Apartment. All opinions are my own and totally unbiased.
Description: It’s an opportunity she can’t refuse. The woman before her tried...
Freya Miller needs a miracle. In the fallout of her husband’s betrayal, she’s about to lose her family home, and with it the security she craves for her five-year-old daughter, Skye. Adrift and alone, she’s on the verge of despair until a chance meeting with charismatic Dr. Marsden changes everything. He’s seeking a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in a fashionable area of London.
Adder House sounds too good to be true... But Freya really can’t afford to be cynical, and Dr. Marsden is adamant she and Skye will be a perfect fit with the other residents.
But Adder House has secrets. Even behind a locked front door, Freya feels as if she’s being watched: objects moving, unfamiliar smells, the blinking light of a concealed camera... and it’s not long before she begins to suspect that her dream home is hiding a nightmarish reality. Was it really a chance that led her here-or something unthinkably dark?
As the truth about Adder House starts to unravel, can Freya and Skye get out-or will they be locked in forever?
My thoughts: I started “The Apartment” this afternoon and just finished— such a quick read! I just couldn’t put it down. For me, this one had some “Lock Every Door” and “The Girl Before” vibes. I loved how eerie it was! Freya and Skye were faced with some unsettling and questionable situations that immediately sent up red flags. I definitely questioned some of Freya’s decisions. The author did a great job of giving the backstory on Freya, and I adored Skye! I would have liked to have gotten more on some of the other characters and the ending though. Overall, I really liked this one!
I loved this book!! Great story!! 2nd book I have read by this author!! Will read more of her books!! Received this book from Amazon publishing UK from netgally!!
I think I may swear off thrillers. The current formula seems to require that a completely implausible event serve as the premise for the entire story, and that the main character must act irrationally (out of desperation?) to advance the action.
Please give me smart, logical characters who fall into terrifying situations THROUGH NO FAULT OF THEIR OWN, and use a good mind and a good heart, along with some totally kickass courage, to work their way out of it. There. That's my formula.
Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for an advance readers copy.
The Apartment is told from the point of view of Freya Miller, mother to 5-year old Skye. They have had a bad year, to put it mildly, and are urgently looking for somewhere else to live. Up pops Dr Michael Marsden, local house owner with a small third floor apartment available immediately, and well below the going rate for the area. Freya moves in but quickly becomes suspicious and nervous of the Marsden pair and the other tenants.
Objects are being moved around and strange noises can be heard. Other tenants are either downright creepy, crying in corners or overly friendly. What is going on? Who can they trust?
You'll have to read the book to find out, but it is a rollicking read with lots of suspicion and psychological antagonism. There are snippets from an old diary (1920's) which give clues about what's happening, and I was surprised to discover that the fictitious diary was based on a real historical case, complete with accurate (but obviously dramatised) representations of people and places. The plot is a tiny bit over the top towards the end, but never mind, this is fiction after all. There are a few holes I'd have liked to see covered over, and I though the speech patterns and behaviour of daughter Skye were a bit too advanced for her age. Those are minor criticisms. The ending was good - at least for some characters - with a positive outlook for the future.
I would definitely recommend this as an entertaining and engrossing read; it certainly made the time fly past.
I received a free advance copy of this book. I am leaving my honest opinion.
This gripping thriller by K. Slater slowly drew me in. Once immersed in the book, I couldn't put it down.
The ending didn't live up to the rest of the book. The introduction of Mark was disappointing and his character wasn't really necessary.
Also, I was left with questions such as what horrible fate befell Freya"s husband.
All in all it was an exciting read with a disappointing, slapdash ending.
Thank you NetGalley for this copy of The Apartment by K. L. Slater. I haven't read any of her books, but I might look into some of them after this one. I was intrigued by the story and really liked the premise with the creepy factor.
Some of my cons about the book. I found some of the English language a little distracting for me because I didn't always know what she was talking about. I also found a number of typos throughout the book. Getting past those minor things, I had a hard time with the writing in general. It felt like a first book or a first attempt at someone writing a novel. It felt scattered and thrown together and not fully thought out. The main character was a little annoying and I felt myself getting angry with her at various times. I thought there was a little too much unrelated backstory about Freya when more time could have been spent better in other ways.
In a section for cons, but not: the ending fell short for me. For Brenna to say she did some looking into her family history and then not tell us what that was!? I was a little upset. And to through in some family lineage from inside Adder House, but not expand on who was related to whom and how was a little annoying. So while these things were annoying, it might have been fun for some to try to place lineage or come up with their own ideas on who was related to whom and how. But for me, if it was talked about, as a reader I enjoy knowing what the author was thinking when alluding to something instead of having me guess.
Pros: I thought this book was a lot of fun and creepy. I could picture Freya and Skye going through the various situations and I really was rooting for them. I kept hoping it would work out and you could never really tell who was the good guy or bad guy throughout the book. Everyone was a little off and it could have been anyone. I liked the twists at the end and liked how they went ahead to tell how they were doing after the incident (albeit the few things I thought were missing). I loved the creepy elements and I didn't want to put it down. I was eager to see how it ended. I also really liked the short chapters and that it was a quick, fun read.
I am looking forward to trying out more of her books in the future.
Thank you for access to this book. I went into this wanting to love it. But I did not enjoy this as much as I wanted to. I had trouble connecting with the main character and I was not satisfied with the ending. With that being said, this could be a book for someone else, it just wasn't hitting home for me.
Another amazing thriller from K.L. Slater. I enjoyed this book from the first page and this is just the sort of thriller I enjoy.
I was guessing and guessing throughout and at points was genuinely creeped out!
Would definitely recommend this author. Now one of my auto buys.
I read thrillers/suspense the majority of the time. I find because of how many thriller novels I consume, I can normally figure out the twist pretty quickly.
Freya Miller needs a break. Her husband was cheating on her with her best friend and he recently left Freya and his five-year-old daughter, Skye, to move in with his mistress. He shortly died thereafter, leaving Freya with no income and debt. Freya is trying to figure out where they will move as she has to sell their house. She is at a coffee shop one day when she meets a man posting an apartment for rent and he offers it to her. Dr. Marsden allows Freya and Skye to move into Adder House at a discounted rent price because he “thinks they would be the perfect fit”. Freya soon discovers her beautiful new apartment and living situation is not as serendipitous as it seemed.
This novel had many plot holes. I was irritated with Freya as she just seemed to be totally naive. The build-up to the climax was slow and then the ending seemed rushed. There was an interesting subplot but it didn’t connect enough with the main plot for me. Thanks for @netgalley and @amazonpublishing for this ARC.
I have been wanting to read books by this author K. L. Slater, and this was my first. As much as the book was fairly fast paced and suspenseful, I found it quite repetitive, and the ending seemed really rushed. Almost to the point that I feel lots was left out. I found the switch from past to present intriguing, though at times, I wasn't sure what the connection was. Its a quick read, and all in all was an ok read. I think I need to read more by this author to really understand her style of writing, but this book, when compared to other psychological thrillers, it was pretty average.
The Apartment starts off with a very unlikely premise - a chance meeting in a cafe With a mysterious stranger leads to the “too good to be true” offer of an otherwise unaffordable apartment in Kensington. Freya has been dealt some hard knocks in life and is almost completely alone with her daughter. As the story progresses, it also goes back in time to the real events of the psychologist Watson and the subject of his most famous experience to: “Little Albert”. I really enjoyed finding out the connection to the main plot. Disappointed that we didn’t find out what happened to one of the key characters in Freya’s back story - I’m still wondering where that loose end fits in.
When Freya has to sell her home, she has no idea what she is going to do. She can go stay with her dear friend in their spare room with her five year old daughter, but she doesn't really want to impose. When she goes to get coffee, she gets an offer out of nowhere to move into a prestigious area with an extremely affordable apartment. Immediately, things are just not right and her story coincides with a parallel story told along with her's in this book. I thought the overall writing was good, however felt that the story was kind of a mess for me. I thought Freya just seemed weak to me, although this was probably how she ended up in the apartment to begin with. There was a lot of cover story and background story on her that just seemed kind of thrown together. I definitely sensed the ominousness of the situation, but felt that the rationality of what a normal person would do in this situation just made so much of this book implausible for me. Thanks for the ARC, Net Galley.
I really enjoyed this one. Loved the setting of the creepy Adder House and all of the quirky residents living there. Lots of twists and keeps you thinking. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, guess again! Kept me wanting more and was happily surprised there was a little love story tied in too.
I really enjoyed this book, I thought I had it all figured out but boy was I wrong. Freya and her daughter Skye must find a new place to live and fast. Freya was concerned that she wouldn't find a decent place in a good area that she could afford. As luck (or was is luck?) would have it, a seemingly perfect place falls into her lap. She's given the opportunity to live in one of the best areas in a beautiful mansion for practically pennies. The place is beautiful, quite and Skye loves it. Soon after she moves in, Freya starts noticing odd things happening. Odd noises, people talking when she's alone in the apartment, furniture moved around and weird stories about a woman that she was told never lived there. Freya thinks maybe she's losing her mind, is it the stress of the past year catching up with her or something else entirely going on? I loved how this story unfolded and kept you on your toes. With that said, I would have liked to have more information on her ex-husband and what happened with him. The author threw a few breadcrumbs in the story but it didn't feel like it was enough, almost as if the author were trying to give one more reason for things happening without really explaining it fully. Overall, a great read.
3.5 Stars. The author does a great job keeping you on edge and suspicious the entire book. Nothing was too fantastical that it was unbelievable so it keeps the reader engaged. I didn't really care for the connection between the characters and why the entire story was happening but I could see how some readers would love the twist.
I love the writing style of k l slater. Just when you think you know what is what and worked out who is who ....BAM! Everyone you thought could be trusted and what you thought you knew is snatched away. You then have to totally re-evaluate your entire theory where the story is leading.
I particularly enjoyed that the main character was a strong woman, who didn’t crumble under the pressures exuded by the other characters around her.
I really don’t want to give away an excellent plot twist.... but it really is an OMG moment that you simply didn’t see coming, but it was slid in so effortlessly that it was a glass shattering moment where certain things all click into place.
I love how the author leaves things open to your own interpretation too, story lines that you can fill in yourself... what actually happened to the unfaithful husband... did Skye break the paper mache bird?
Excellent read in one sitting can’t put it down book! Loved it!
THE APARTMENT by K.L. Slater was a difficult read for me, I never engaged with the characters, identified with no one and didn't even particularly care for Skye, a precocious child.
Freya has fallen on hard times, her husband left her for an older woman and while living with her, he dies, leaving Freya in debt and alone to raise their child.. After Freya pays off their combined debt she can no longer live in their how and must find a new home for her and her young daughter Skye.. As luck would have it she meets Dr. Mardsen while ordering a coffee and he just happens to have a beautiful apartment available to rent, affordable to her because his tenants pay on a sliding scale. Coincidence? Of course not and how Freya could think it was made the whole story hard for me to swallow.
Freya and Skye move into Addler house and are uneasy from the start. Strange neighbors, strange requests and the Dr. and Mrs. Mardsen are just creepy. Having grown up in foster homes and being street wise Freya could not have possibly fell for all this and it just made the book a difficult read for me.
I persevered, hoping the ending would make the pages worth the read but sadly the ending was a letdown. I had so many questions left unanswered. The book did not ring true for me nor did I connect with any of the characters.
Freya Miler is a single, unemployed mother of 5 year old Sky. Widowed and alone with no family Freya has no idea what will happen now she has been forced to sell the family home. One day whilst sitting in a coffee shop her luck changes as an elderly retired doctor goes to put up his flat to rent leaflets and suggests she comes and takes a look. In under a week she’s moved in and beginning her new live. Once Freya and Sky move into Adder House life begins to unravel, is this wonderful opportunity to live in this beautiful house just too good to be true?or is Freya finally overwhelmed and unable to cope with life?
This book is enthralling and terrifying in equal measures and it kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Another great read by Kim Slater
“If it looks too good to be true, it probably is,” or “Caveat Emptor” might be some appropriate ways to describe the main theme of The Apartment, a new suspense thriller by K.L. Slater. The author of nine previous stand-alone psychological crime novels, this latest work demonstrates how a susceptible a vulnerable person can be to predation by the unscrupulous. It explores the power of denial and how suspension of disbelief can cloud judgement during desperate times. Freya is introduced as a woman who is recovering from the recent death of her estranged husband—facing financial hardship while also attempting to maintain stability for her 5-year-old daughter, Skye. Freya is looking at ads for a new place to live when she is approached by a stranger who is seemingly extending extraordinary kindness with no discernible agenda. Freya jumps at what she thinks is a stroke of good luck and an incredible opportunity, despite her initial reservations. Dr. Marsden’s offer of an upscale apartment (at Adder House) at minimal cost and help with enrolling Skye into a prestigious school seems like a godsend at a most critical time. The fact that their “coincidental” meeting may have been orchestrated does not even occur to Freya, and the reader is left helplessly observing her ensnarement in an elaborate trap. After the move she manages to explain away increasing evidence that someone is trying to manipulate and terrorize her. When she does try to account for the strange noises, privacy intrusions and bizarre behavior of her fellow tenants, it is easily dismissed as being caused by her own reactions to stress. Most of the novel is told from Freya’s point-of-view, with other sections narrated by a stalker whose motivations and connection are initially unclear. The stalker describes historical events that appear to be tangential but are eventually revealed to be integral to the current situation at Adder House. The Apartment is a fast-paced and well-constructed thriller complete with plenty of red herrings and misdirection. The book’s subplot is an interesting addition, with a taste of moralistic speculation that adds rather than distracts from the main storyline. Slater’s existing fans will likely be pleased with this offering, and those new to her writing might be encouraged to seek out earlier works based on its merits.
Thanks to the author, Thomas & Mercer (Amazon Publishing) and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
This is the first book that I have read by KL Slater. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. After a tragic life changing event, Freya is looking for a new place to live. She is approached by Dr. Marsden who has the perfect place for her and her daughter to live. She moves in and finds that there was another little girl that lived in her apartment before, but when she asks, she is told she is the first resident. Strange things happen - voices, furniture being moved, items missing. Is The Apartment to good to be true? You decide! This book is written in the present tense, with inserts of a diary and medical notes from 1920. Thank you netgalley for providing me this ARC.
This book draws you in from the onset . Freya has been down on her luck having experienced many things in the past year but things are looking up when she gets an opportunity of a lifetime for her and daughter but at what cost ? Strange things have her wondering if she made the right decision. This book is well written as it has you wanting to know more , while adding a few things to make you jump . It makes you wonder who can you really trust ? 5 star review for me !
Freya and her daughter are now alone and she needs to find a new place to live. But her finances are almost non existant. While out for coffee she meets Dr, Marsden who lets her know of the apartment that is for rent in is building and goes by your income. Well this building is gorgeous ad she thinks there has been a mistake.
As days go on she feels like she is being watched and things either go missing or get moved. For a time she thinks she is losing her mind. Dr. Marsden's wife acts peculiar as well. No one seems normal in this place and she is told someone died in there but all the residents deny it.
I was engrossed in this book from the beginning and was surprised at the end.
I received this from NetGalley for review.
Thanks to Netgalley for my copy.
Although I am a big fan of this authors work there was something missing in this story. The story lacked authenticity and the characters were unrealistic.
I really enjoyed this mystery/psychological thriller novel. It was similar to a novel I read not too long ago, so I thought that was interesting. I had to keep reading to find out what was going on and what was going to happen!
The Apartment
by K. L. Slater
Amazon Publishing UK
General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers
Pub Date 28 Apr 2020 | Archive Date 12 May 2020
Thanks to Net Galley and Amazon Publishing UK for the ARC of this book. I read a lot of thrillers and K.L. Slater did not disappoint in The Apartment. After a failed marriage a mom and her daughter must find shelter... She is offered a shelter... but is she being watched? Read to find out. This book was a page-turner for me and I will recommend it to our patrons.
Okay.. I have sat on my feelings for a few weeks and I am finally writing my review for The Apartment.
This was a fast paced mysterious story that I was very much drawn to from the second I read the synopsis and I am extremely thankful to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Freya is pretty much out of options for her self and her daughter when she comes across a man with the answer to all of her problems.... The opportunity to live in an amazing flat in London, that she should NOT be able to afford but, somehow the rent is achievable. Dr. Marsden assures Freya that she and her daughter, Skye will fit in so well with the current residents and they would be more than happy to have them as their new tenants.
But, is this serendipitous opportunity really what is seems to be? When something feels like it is too good to be true, is it? Strange things start to happen and Freya can't shake the feeling that something is just "off".
Of course, like many other readers have mentioned, this story gave me instant "Lock Every Door" vibes and I loved the instant ominous, broody, tone that was set through the story, Even during the "happy" moments I could practically hear the creepy cinematic music that would be playing as an undercurrent - letting the reader know something bad was coming.
And then I guess thats where I began to feel some inconsistencies... something felt "off" to me as well, or just like there was something missing. There was this extremely ominous feeling the entire time, and there was very little escalation of the happenings until the final climax... which included some characters that seemed to jump their way into the story/relationship extremely quickly and out of nowhere.
Overall this was an extremely quick and entertaining read - but left me feeling a little "meh" toward the end.
Freya has been bounced around the foster care system her whole life. This has caused some major trust issues that she is trying to deal with. When her husband leaves her for one of her friends, Freya and her daughter, Skye, must sell their house and move to a more affordable place.
While looking for apartments on an ad board in her local coffee shop, she starts talking with a man, Dr. Marsden, who has an apartment that sounds perfect for her and Skye. Maybe too perfect. She cannot afford it, but Dr. Marsden tells her that she shouldn’t worry about the price, as they are looking for a tenant who is “just right”, not the money.
After Freya and Skye look at the apartment, they decided that this would be their new home. But after they move in strange things start to Freya. She hears cries coming from her daughter’s room when her daughter is at school; she hears sounds coming from the apartment next to her’s, but no one lives there. The other tenants seem a little off, as do Dr. Marsden and Audrey Marsden - the managers of the apartment complex. Is Freya going crazy or is something evil happening?
I liked this book, but I didn’t love it. The POV changed for different parts of the story. This usually doesn’t bother me, but in this novel, it did. The prologue was in the third person; the main story was in first person, and then some parts were written like a Choose Your Own Adventure book (for no better way to explain).
The story of Freya is of a person who grew up in the foster care system. Her husband cheated on her; he moved out of their house with the women he cheated with, did not get a divorce, and then he died. All of this, for anyone, would have built significant trust issues, but not for Freya. She meets a stranger in the coffee shop who tells her of an apartment he has and that she shouldn’t worry about the price as they are looking for someone who is “just right”.
The other part of the trust issue Freya has is that she seems to trust the new people in her apartment complex more than she trusts the friends she has known for years and who her daughter calls Auntie. When strange things start to happen, Freya wants to tell her best friend, Brenna, but then pushes it down and goes on with her life. Not to mention anything that may concern her.
There also seems to be a disconnect concerning the time Freya lives in Adder House. From what I can tell, she has lived at Adder House for less than two months (maybe even less than one). They didn't have most of their boxes unpacked. During this time, maybe four or five unusual things have happened, but nothing to drive someone crazy in such a short time. But for Freya, she is about to lose it.
As I was reading, I could feel Freya get more involved with the people around her, but it was too quick. The connections she made around Adder House (although she questioned them a lot), seemed rushed. The friends she knew, I felt she tossed aside too quickly. A true best friend would be there for you in thick and thin.
With all that said, I thought the book was okay, but parts of the story felt rushed.
DISCLAIMER: I received an advance copy of The Apartment from the publisher through NetGalley for the purposes of writing a review.
#The Apartment #NetGalley
Freya thinks she has fallen on her feet when she is offered an upmarket flat to rent In Adder House for a pittance. Her life couldn’t have been worse recently so she decides to grab this opportunity and moves in with her daughter. Who are the mysterious Dr and Audrey Marsden living downstairs and who occupied the apartment where Freya and her daughter now live? An intriguing mystery if not a little unbelievable
The Apartment was kind of what I expected but not in a good way. When you read as much in the thriller genre as I do, there isn't much that I haven't seen, so I had an idea of what I was going to get from this book. That said, I was really hoping for more, and it had the potential to be more. So, yes, it is predictable, but there are so many other things that could've made this story stand out from the crowd - the characters, the creepy vibe, the wow factor in the conclusion. And it comes up short all the way around. I get that Freya needed to be a certain way for the story to work, but she's just unbelievably naive. Considering her background, her actions are contradictory at best, and the story relied on her being way too slow-witted to be believed. Then we have the creepy vibe that could've been there. Sadly, that was completely missing in this one. And the conclusion? Well, I just didn't buy it. None of it. Plus, we have unanswered questions that were just another irritation in a whole book of irritations. In the end, I think it's safe to say that this one definitely was not for me.
What an exciting read! Freya and Skye should consider themselves so lucky to get this opportunity to move into a fancy building in Kensington after the death of husband/father Lewis, who Freya was in the process of divorcing since he cheated on her with one of her good friends.
Freya gets a weird vibe off of the landlords, the tenants, the building and the apartment from the get go but, instead of following her instincts, she blames those feelings on stress and the move. Like I always say: ALWAYS listen to that inner voice!
This book had the perfect combination of ingredients for an exciting psychological thriller: a fancy building, a upscale London neighborhood, mystery, suspense, psychology, psychological experiments, friendship, motherhood. Not a single time did I feel the urge to skip through pages. I kept wanting to find out what was going to happen next.
I highly recommend it! A satisfying and quick summer read.
Thank you so much Net Galley and the publisher for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was hooked from the beginning; author did a great job developing the characters and the scene. I was able to visualize the people and the area in which it took place. I have read other books with similar storyline, but the twists on the characters at the end is what made this storyline different from the others I read. I did lose interest mid way thru but once I got thru it, I ended up enjoying it and the ending.
Disclaimer: Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy of this book. I have been sent a copy of this book for review purposes. This has not influenced or affected my opinions in this review.
The Apartment for me was a quick and enjoyable read. It is filled with twists and turns and an element of suspense. However, I did feel like with some of the twists and turns in this book they were quite predictable. I was shocked at the way this book played out. Nevertheless, if you’re a fan of thrillers and crime, you will enjoy this book!
*4 stars*
3.5/5
Quality of writing: 3
Plot development: 3
Pace: 5
Characters: 3
Enjoyability: 3
Ease of reading: 4
Freya Miller needs a miracle. When an opportunity to live in Adder House drops in her lap, Freya sees it as a new start for her and her daughter Skye. But Added House sounds too good to be true. House is filled with secrets and odd residents, but is Freya just paranoid or someone's watching her every move?
The Apartment moves fast. Sat down and BOOM I've read 100 pages. That being said I don't know if I'd call this a thriller. It didn't keep me on my toes. The ending seemed a bit rushed, some plot points - forgotten. Don't get me wrong The Apartment isn't bad. I actually really enjoyed it. The plot isn't too complicated, characters didn't make me cringe and short chapters are always a plus.
Great for rainy evenings. All you need is a blanket and a glass of wine.
The Apartment, by K.L. Slater, was a very fast paced book. It was easy to get into and kept my attention the entire time. I had so many thoughts about what was going on, but couldn’t quite connect all the dots until the very end. Throughout the entire book, I had the feeling of someone watching me. I can’t even imagine being in Freya’s position!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for this electronic ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I noticed this author's name in the past, and since she has excellent reviews, I decided to try one of her books.
K.L.Slater does a great job setting the mood for this story. From the very beginning, I had a feeling that there was a lot going on that would be revealed, and much of it would be disturbing. I was definitely right about that! The main character seems so easily led astray that I wasn't surprised when she signed up for what really appeared to be to good to true. Slater keeps the books tense atmosphere flowing with the carrot dangling before me that promised more revelations to come.
I definitely would be interested in reading more by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to review this book.
I found this to be a good, quick moving novel. After the death of her soon to be ex husband, Freya and her daughter Skye are in need of a new, more affordable home. A fortuitous meeting with a doctor lands them in a beautiful new apartment near Kensington Palace. But is it all too good to be true?
While I wouldn't necessarily say this book is a thriller, I will say I enjoyed it. I loved that it used a very popular case studied in psychology and used it as an element of history in the novel. I think that was probably my favorite part, and it was well done. It was interesting that the author took that case and made it feel like more than something you read about in a Psychology textbook, but made it about the people.
"The Apartment" was a very quick and easy read (and very relaxing!). I was expecting a few sinister twists and turns but, sadly, this book lacked any real complexities and unpredictable and/or scary aspects. It could have been so much more than what it is (also with glimpses into the past!).
Pretty one-dimensional characters and very weak end. But - such a fast read! Beware: you might get annoyed with the main character and her lack of comprehension of the world she lives in.
With many thanks to the publisher and @NetGalley for providing this book for free in exchange for a fair review.
Enjoyed this book.
Had me guessing throughout.
One of my favourite authors.
Full of suspense. Guessing at each chapter.
Thank you for the opportunity to read it
Summary:
Freya Miller is approached by a man one afternoon named Dr. Marsden who offers her and her daughter an apartment at the fashionable Adder House in an upper class area in London. Freya was close to losing the home she lived in, so this came at the perfect time.
Freya is happy at first but she begins to feel unsure about the new living situation. She is feeling as if she is being watched and feels as if people had been in her apartment after they get back. Freya has to figure out if she’s just being overly worried or if she needs to fear for their safety!
My Thoughts:
This book was suspenseful, but reminded me so much of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager. It is a little slow, but it gets more intense throughout. I still don’t know if it was ever clarified what happened to Freya’s ex-husband though!
I received a free copy of The Apartment from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
3 stars/5 stars
#TheApartment #NetGalley #AmazonPublishingUK
Thank you, NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the opportunity of reading an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
When Freya Miller needs a lucky break, a turn of fortune, suddenly, there in a coffee shop, one arrives.
To be offered an apartment in Kensington, an exclusive part of London after living on a tight budget in Acton, West London seems too good an opportunity to give up. When, on a chance meeting Dr Marsden offers Freya and her daughter Skye, an apartment in Adder House at a rent she can afford, is a fantastic start to a new life she wants for them both.
The previous 18 months has been painful with the loss of her husband, without current employment, is a gift from the gods.
Relocating to the apartment happens so quickly she does not get a chance to go through the typical moving checklist – informing schools, friends etc. That’s when strange, unexpected things start to happen.
Alongside the main story is an account of someone watching her – documenting her, manipulating her moves, while simultaneously reading someone’s journal from 1920.
This book had me on the edge of my seat, full of apprehension to the very last page. One of the best thrillers I’ve read in a long time.
4.75 Stars
When I began reading, I instantly feel in love with the writing and style of this book. It was soooo good and had me flying through the pages (electronically, of course). The writing comes off so smooth, yet it's gripping and exciting at the same time. It's the first book I've read written by K.L. Slater, whom I know is a popular author, and I know I'm going to be reading more books by her from now on. This style is definitely what I love when it comes to books and what I seem to be in the reading mood for at the moment and was exactly what I wanted (no, needed!!!) right now. The style was the perfect amount of creepy, psychological and thrilling, all while leaving you wondering if you're over reacting to every little thing, but knowing deep down that you're probably not.
The Apartment, is mainly told through Freya’s perspective, which heightens the mystery and intensity that the book did so well. You don’t know if what she’s experiencing at certain points within the book, is actually happening or if she’s just an unreliable narrator. This is especially so when things are later mentioned or hinted at, regarding her previous history of mental health, leaving you not knowing who to believe. She even starts to question herself. But there’s still that mystery lingering about and it’s that unknown and needing to discover what’s happening that pushed me through this book. I needed to know what was actually happening and whether you could trust any of the characters. And I mean any of the characters, because I knew that I was going to be betrayed and tried not developing friendships and loyalties.
There are some plot hole when it come to some aspects of this book and especially to Freya's character. He characters switches from being described as strong and not trusting anyone, then the next moment, she is so incredibly naïve. This whole plot actually relies on her being this naïve from the first chapter, which just provides this massive plot hole and goes against her character, her past and how she is constantly being described. This is the major negative and the one thing that did have me irritated, as it was completely contradictory. But, we are also told that she is in a bad place, but it wasn't as though she didn't have options and she kept ignoring some obvious warning signs, for somebody who is meant to distrust everybody, especially when added on the fact the protective instinct of a mother!! This adds to the characters untrustworthiness.
You get introduced to a cluster of different characters within this book and who make up Adder house. The further you go in the book the more you get to know about these characters and the more suspect and creepy they become. Each character is easily identifiable and you get a clear reaction every time one of them is on the page, which shows clear concise writing. What else shows good writing is having a book full of characters that you know have bad motives and that you take an instant dislike to, but you still really enjoy the book. Usually a bad character, or more precisely, a badly written character is enough to put me off a book. Even Freya's character flaws didn't ruin this book for me and at least kept me on my toes as I didn't know what she was going to do.
I, of course, developed my own ideas about what I suspected was happening at Adder House, especially with the inclusion of the diary and tape entries. My head was trying to make connections everywhere that eventually I was left over thinking everything and every action by everyone. I was slowly becoming suspicious of every character and questioning their every action. I even became suspicious of Freya herself at one point. So if you like a good book where you don’t know what’s happening or who to trust, then this is perfect. Especially as it’s set up to be pretty straightforward from the offset. I was 70% of the way through this book and I was still double guessing myself and what I was reading.
Even though the ending went a little where I was expecting it to go to, that doesn’t mean that I didn’t enjoy it. In fact, I probably enjoyed it more so because it all lined up perfectly and it didn’t come as an out of the blue twist, where the author was trying to chuck a load of quick new information at you to make this ending plausible. There were one of two questions I had left at the end of the book, that if I think about I could work out, but it would have been nice to have those answers clarified. Plus, the obvious character plot hole. But again, that didn’t spoil my overall enjoyment of this book and I would even go as far to say that this is one of my favourite reads so far this year!!
Woah! This is a twisted psychological thriller that kept me guessing. It completely took my mind in the wrong direction leaving me with a surprised ending! A must read if you’re looking for a well written thriller without the sex and gore.
I had read some previous reviews that said the plot was too far fetched or unbelievable. I didn’t think so at all. I found it frighteningly believable. If you’re a mom who’s ever struggled financially, you will find this to be a great read!
#NetGalley #TheApartment #KLSlater #GoodReads
This book was easy to read, but I was disappointed at the plot and the ending. So much of it was so stereotypical of a thriller - the seemingly good guy is actually the bad guy, and main character is a frantic mother, etc. I really enjoyed Little Whispers so expected to like this more... I'd give the author another try, but hope for a little more creativity next time.
The Apartment by B.A.Paris is like a thriller and historical fiction go out on a date and find they they compliment each other quite well. Intriguing premise that did not disappoint. Special thanks for the opportunity to read and review this book via NetGalley before it release.
It’s hard to trust anyone, especially for Freya Miller who was raised in the foster care system. When her husband (who is the financial supporter) leaves and then dies unexpectedly she’s forced to make some life altering decisions pretty quickly. But who do you trust? Really, who can we trust at all??? An offer presents itself, looking too good to be true but definitely not dangerous. Certainly not as dangerous as having to possibly move to an area farther away to a more urban area that would have many more safety risks involved. Freya wants to make the best decision for her daughters emotional and physical needs. Putting Skye first, is her main priority
So, she decides she will take it one step at a time. Freya convinces herself that the strange feelings she has are just her own subconscious trying to spook her....after all, sometimes, we’re our own worst enemy, right? Ultimately, Freya uncovers things she can no longer brush aside, but at what cost? I won’t go into other details so as to not spoil the plot for others.....I just hate that, I want to unravel it myself!
I refute another review that raves how ridiculous the premise that an person who is as untrusting as Freya let’s her guard relax with some random stranger she meets. Maybe I’ve just had the benefit of experience that others won’t. Having studied in the field of psychology and had the benefit of working in the mental health field with kids and families in the foster care and state adoptive programs you become more sensitive to accepting and understanding of things that people say doesn’t make sense or isn’t possible. Yes, she has trouble trusting people but she relies on her gut to maker he best decision she can at that specific time. She has doubts but casts them aside because she desperately wants a better life for her daughter. She challenges that it’s possibly her own hesitation that has kept her from connecting with more people over her lifetime. Certainly she questions how and why those she let herself get closest to could betray her so easily (insert husband and ex-friend). I think that EVERYONE can think of at least one time where they made a wrong turn or overlooked some small hesitation because they so badly wanted it to work out or turn around. If you can’t then maybe you don’t have enough heart for the the human condition at all.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an advanced copy of this book.
What an amazing page-turner. A very creepy thriller with a great sense of suspense, gripping plot, very real characters and a superb twist at the end. It’s true what they say, if it’s too good to be true then it usually is…….
This is the first book I have read by K.L. Slater and definitely won’t be the last.
Unfortunately I could not get into this book - it felt too predictable and like I've read too many similar stories before. I found it hard to get invested in the characters and just was never hooked into sitting down and reading it.
Let's do this #Netgalley #netgalleyreview #theapartment #klslater #booksofinstagram a marriage dissolves. You and your child need a new home. An apartment to good to be true is available for you. And that friends is where the story begins. Strangeness occurs. You aren't sure if you are losing your mind. You have such odd feelings. What a strange and wild ride this book is. #bookstagram #bookreview #bookreader
Freya and her daughter Skye have had a rough 18 months, so when a friendly, distinguished gentleman offers them a chance to rent a beautiful apartment in his building, Freya takes it as a sign for the fresh start they both deserve. Once they settle in though, the beauty and opulence of Adder House is not enough to hide a sinister and dark truth.
I really wanted to like this book. I mean it had so many things going for it including a colourful eye catching cover (which gets me every time!), an interesting premise and a best selling author. Unfortunately, just like Freya scoring an amazingly posh apartment for pennies was too good to be true, so was this book. Won't be recommending this one, not even for those lazy summer days.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for providing a digital copy in return for an honest, unbiased review.
Having read a few of this authors books I was really looking forward to reading this. However, as soon as Freya had her chance encounter offering her an apartment for a really low rent, I found it really unbelievable. By the end of the book I was so annoyed with Freya, could a person possibly be so naive and trusting? The end also felt really rushed.
This was a very good book. A real page turning thriller. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy!
This book was a lot more subtle than what I was expecting, I thought there was going to be a lot more 'creepy' things going on. But even though I say this, it still kept me wanting to turn the pages and I still always wanted to know what happened next.. The ending wasn't expected as well, this made the ending so much better than being able to predict it all. I enjoyed how the story unfolded throughout the book and didn't get bored at all while reading this. I will definitely check out other books by K. L. Slater.
This books was different than all the typical “husband / wife did it” books that seem to be popular at the moment. The book kept my interest as the premise is unique, but ultimately It fell quite flat for me. The build up of the experiment seemed to end with a silly ending and it just wrapped up all too perfectly. Overall, I give it two stars as the characters felt flat.
Too good to be true? Desperate and near homeless, Single parent Freya and her 5 year old daughter, Skype accept an offer for a new apartment in an unaffordable neighborhood at a bargain price. The landlord and the other characters in the building are maybe, over accommodating. Unnerving and unusual events begin to occur and Freya begins to realize that things are just not right. In fact,, things are becoming very wrong. I found myself engaged and eager to discover the ending, Some of the plot was over the top and the ending seemed a bit contrived. I would recommend the book for a light, easy read but felt this was not Ms. Slater's strongest book. I thank NetGalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity to read this book in return for my honest review.
THE APARTMENT is a creepy psychological thriller by bestselling author K.L. Slater, author of twelve psychological crime thrillers.
Freya Miller and her five-year old daughter, Skye are in a bad situation. Struck by tragedy, losing her husband and forced to sell the family home for financial reasons, she is on a very tight budget with many worries. So where are they going to live?
A chance meeting in a coffee shop with the alluring Dr. Marsden changes all that. He offers the young mother the most amazing opportunity; an apartment at one of London's most exclusive addresses for a fraction of the going rent. It's an offer Freya simply can't refuse. Within a couple of weeks, Freya and Skye are moving into Adder House and meeting the other welcoming residents. They very quickly feel part of the family.
But is it too good to be true? Freya then starts to notice strange things happening to both of them in their new apartment…Strange sounds, furniture moving around, her daughter hearing voices, and Freya starts to feel uneasy and unsure about her decision to move here.
It always feels as if someone is watching them and they are not alone!
For behind the doors of Adder House, everything is most definitely not as it seems.
Old secrets refuse to stay buried.
I love reading Kim Slater’s novels as I know I am always in for a treat. Again, I was not disappointed. A creepy thriller that will appeal to a wide audience, lots of suspense, with well-developed characters and an engaging plot.
Many thanks to the author, Amazon Publishing UK and Netgalley for my digital copy.
THE APARTMENT published April 28, 2020
I received The Apartment from Net Galley. I thought the premise sounded good and was interested in reading it. Freya, a product of the foster care system, has recently gone through very tough trials—losing her husband, having sold her home, out of work, and having to provide for her 5 year old daughter, Skye. When she’s offered an opportunity by a stranger she meets in a coffee shop to live in an apartment in a stately home for a really low rent, she uproots her daughter from her neighborhood, school, and friends to take advantage of the opportunity. This is the ultimate illustration of “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is”. The owners and inhabitants of the house are a strange group and eerie things begin to happen. The book, for me, felt very contrived and it did not weave together as seamlessly as I would have liked. It was somewhat disjointed and didn’t provide the suspense it could have. The development of Freya’s character, for me, didn’t mesh with the toughness she portrayed early on. She proved to be very naive and, at the core, that’s where the story broke down for me.
I liked the premise of the story. An offer to good to refuse. Freya and her daughter Skye need to find a new place to live. Dr. Marsden offers her an apartment for a fraction of the going rental rates. But when are the costs too much?
This was an easy, fast read. But I wouldn't call it a page-turner. I just never was drawn into the story, I wanted to be but I just wasn't. I give it 3 stars.
Down on her luck in more ways than one, Freya jumps at the opportunity to rent an apartment in an amazing old house, at a fraction of the market rate. Uprooting her daughter for the move, Freya is determined to move on with her life, but soon strange things start happening. That old adage Too good to be true, rings throughout this book. A good quick read. I would have liked more suspense, but I still enjoyed this and found the premise interesting.
Freya Miller is in a very bad position. Her husband has left her and she is about to lose the home that lives in with her five year old daughter, Skye. While trying to figure out what to do, she has a chance meeting with a man that is seeking a new tenant for an apartment in his building. Even though she knows she cannot afford it, she goes to take a look. When told the price of the apartment, she is shocked that she can afford to live in it.
Once she moves in, strange things start happening and she meets up with some of the unusual tenants.
She also meets a man working construction in another building that tells her a story about the woman and child who lived in the apartment before her, even though she was told she was the first tenant to live in the apartment.
This was a great story that kept my interest. I definitely did not see the ending coming. Definitely recommend this story to those who like mysteries.
This novel seemed, to me, front heavy and back light in the sense that the author tried to create a massive buildup and give the reader a hefty background that, in the end, was a bit superfluous to the story and sacrificed the conclusion by making it feel rushed and under explained. Many of the characters were unnecessary and expendable which took away from the efficacy of the story. It was an interesting premise which could have been better explored.
Prepare to read in one sitting!
Freya recently becomes a widow and with all changes in death, she has to move out of her house. But this is a delicate process as she doesn’t want to rattle her 5 year old daughter with so many changes at once. So with the pressure of needing to move soon in order to sell her home, luck happens upon her in a coffee shop of all places. Dr. Marsden gives her an offer she can’t refuse: rent an apartment out of my ginormous mansion but only pay what you can. Sold!
However, it doesn’t take long before Freya starts to feel the hairs on the back of her neck stand up. Why hasn’t she met all the tenants? Why are Dr. Marsden and Mrs. Marsden so intent on involving themselves in their lives? Why is everyone so quiet and timid? Strange things are being moved and touched in her home and Freya starts to question her sanity. What’s real and what isn’t? Who can she trust?
Overall, I found it to be such a quick read as I wasn’t sure what was going to happen. I didn’t foresee the ending but I also was hoping that there would be more substance to the ending. It wasn’t a disappoint but it wasn’t totally satisfying - ya know? But it’s still a read I would recommend!
Although I liked the premise of the story i felt that it could have been written with a little more suspense. The beginning of the story didn't feel very suspenseful, there were some strange things here and there that made you wonder about the house but i felt that things didn't get really suspenseful until chapters 40-51. I enjoyed the epilogue and how everything turned out in the end. I think that with a little rewriting this could be a really good story.
If a stranger approach you, offering a luxurious apartment in Kensington for a very low rent because you are the ‘perfect fit’ tenant, would you take it?
Freya’s life was in a mess. After the death of her husband and losing her family home, she was desperate to get her life back on track for the sake of her daughter Skye. So, when Dr Marsden approach her and offers her a deal that seems too good to let it go, she took it even though she has a doubt.
Adder House looks perfect from outside. But little did she know that Adder House has secrets.
Freya keeps hearing noises in her apartment, but could not trace where it came from. Strange things keep happening like items being moved around and there’s unfamiliar scents. Sometimes she feels like she’s being watched. Could she be imagining all of these?
The author did a good job in creating the sense of creepiness and unease throughout the book. I liked the part where the author uses the actual psychological study; the Little Albert experiment. I searched about the experiment and it was an interesting read. Although I enjoy reading this book, there are some parts that I find unrealistic. The main character Freya can be unlikeable and I get frustrated with her a few times. I keep turning the pages mainly because I want to know what is going on. I'm not sure about the ending though, I was expecting a bit more.
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Many thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Really loved this book. It was one of those books that you dont want to put down. The storyline was fantastic. Would thoroughly recommend and will be keeping an eye out for future books by K.L Slater
This was a fun and creepy read. The premise sounded interesting, if not totally original, but I was willing to give it a try. The book grabbed me from the start. This was a definite page-turner, and I was happy that the chapters were short enough to allow me to read one more chapter (or two, or three) before turning in for the night.
The story had me guessing until the end. I wasn't sure how it would end, or who exactly the bad guys were. I think it would have been more interesting to move the story in a more sinister direction at the point where Freya sees who Brenna has gotten a call from, but over this was a fun story. I was happy with the ending too. Will be checking out other titles from this author.
I have to say I will be looking for more by this author. This story kept me interested and reading until the very end. I was intrigued by the blurb and it didn’t disappoint. You will want to check this out for yourself so make sure it’s on your tbr list.
Thank you so much to K. L. Slater, Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Slater is an excellent writer and she definitely did not disappoint with The Apartment. There were definitely some parts, including the ending, that had me unable to willingly suspend my disbelief. For example, Freya has had an extremely difficult life and I found it hard to believe she would so willingly accept an apartment from a random stranger when most people would see this as a red flag, especially when she has her young daughter to think of. In spite of this, I still found the story as a whole well-written and thrilling. Slater's writing is very immersive and I felt as if I myself was along for this wild, psychological ride.
Freya, recently divorced, has sold her house and urgently needs to find a new place to rent. But money is tight and she is becoming increasingly desperate. So when a brilliant opportunity presents itself at a bargain price she can't quite believe her luck. Within a week she and her 5 year old daughter Skye have re-located an apartment in Adder House, Kensington. The old adage "too good to be true" proves to be accurate as things start to unwind. Neither the fragile old lady in the flat below or the elegant landlord on the ground floor are what they seem and soon Freya is facing confrontation, mystery and inexplicable happenings. Adder House is certainly not where Freya will find peace to start a new life. The question is ,will she survive?
2020
I received a copy of “ The Apartment” from Net Galley to read and review.
Freya is a thirty-ish young woman, recently divorced, recently widowed. She and her five year old daughter are facing a fearful future. Freya has had to sell their house because she could not afford the house payments on what little insurance her ex left her ( he forgot to change the beneficiary), to her delight.
As the book opens, Freya is in a neighborhood coffee shop checking out the notice board, hoping to see if someone has posted an ad of an affordable flat to let. A middle- aged, well- dressed man comes up next to her, and they chat a bit about her need to find an apartment, when he holds out a neatly typed sheet of paper he was about to post showing the words “ Apartment to Let.” It looks beautiful, but too expensive , Freya says, but the man tells her the apartment is small, and the building’s other, mostly older tenants would enjoy having a young family as friends., and that he is very willing to reduce the rent to an manageable rate. After visiting the new place Freya says yes.
What Freya does not know, but we do, thanks to a prologue wherein Mr. Marsden, the landlord, has been watching Freya for weeks, waiting for the moment to meet her and entice her with his smile and gently worded invitation . So while Freya steps guiltlessly into the web, we wonder just what is in store .
By now you might have figured out that the reader is required to suspend credulity while reading. No one can be as naive as Freya. Yes, she is in a jam, yes she is in an emotional down time, and yes, she wants to provide a good home for her daughter, but suspension of suspicion at such amazing good fortune , such a coincidence boggles one’s mind. Freya and Skye move in , happy
at their great find. So happy, so comfortable, so much in danger.
MS. Slater manages her plot well, slowly twisting up the tension. She gives us the landlord Mr. Marsten, and his silver haired, grey eyed , fashionably sleek companion,Audrey. The other tenants are nulls, except for Lily, a kind, grey haired woman who takes a shine to Freya and Skye. Strange things begin to disturb the quiet of the apartment. Noises, missing toys and books, sounds of activity in the vacant apartment next door. With everyone is so kind and helpful , Freya tries to surpass her sense of wrongness.
The author gives teasing glances into what is really happening by interspersing notes from a diary which recount a past psychological experiment. Are Freya, or Skye unwitting, unwilling lab rats.?We know but they do not.
“ The Apartment” is a short, fast and captivating novel. It was certainly entertaining , somewhat like a Lifetime movie of single woman alone and in danger. So once the reader stops wondering how Freya could be so dumb , it is a good thriller. The book is set in London, so expect some local terms. There are also a few, clumsy sentences where one is left to read again for clarity, but since the reader is anxious to see if there is a happy climax to all the tension, that does not matter.
So, three stars for it having a heroine who might have been a bit less naive. Nonetheless, a recommended read , especially on theses long lockdown days. You will enjoy being on the edge of your Lazy Boy easy chair.
What I Loved:
This book was crazy! I really enjoyed the twists that were carefully woven into the story to provide lots of heart-racing moments! I especially enjoyed that we get to read the POV of the antagonist as well as the protagonist. It created an interesting perspective for me as I was reading, and I loved it!
My Synopsis:
Freya Miller is trying to get her life in order after the death of her husband. Without a job, she’s quickly running out of money. She has sold her home and is prepared to temporarily move into a friend’s place when the opportunity of a lifetime falls into her lap.
Dr. Marsden is looking for a new tenant and a coffee shop accidental meeting leads him to believe Freya is just what he is looking for. Freya quickly agrees to this upscale, beautiful apartment for such a ridiculously low rent, she can’t believe her luck.
Freya is soon moved in but doesn’t even get a chance to be happy. Everything seems a little off. Dr. Marsden and Mrs. Marsden seem extremely controlling. They want to install a video camera in her apartment entrance, and they don’t like visitors. The list goes on and on.
The apartment building, Adder House, seems to have a dark history that people won’t tell Freya about. She begins hearing sounds and voices, and things are moved around in their apartment. Freya is starting to think this was too good to be true.
How I Felt:
The plot for The Apartment was so good! I felt like all the pieces fit together perfectly to provide an exciting thriller for the reader. I did guess what was going on but didn’t have all the details figured out. I don’t mind guessing at a thriller, I like to see if I’m right. So, it doesn’t bother me as long as it’s still a good story.
And this was a good story! It was a quick read because of the low page count, but I made it even quicker because I couldn’t put it down! It moved quickly from one scene to the next with so many exciting situations, and I was hooked!
The setting was in Adder House, and it offered a not quite spooky, but a weird living space with odd characters and dark history. I thought the author did a great job describing this location, which was so important because it was such a central part of the story.
I know that the main character, Freya, seems so gullible. She seems blind to the things that seem to obvious to the reader, I’ve seen a lot of reviews that comment on their frustration over her delay to take action, and even her easy agreement in taking the apartment in the first place. The reader, however, gets insight that Freya doesn’t have. Part of the POV for this book is from the “bad guy” in the story. We don’t know who it is for sure, but it is clear that something is wrong. The opening scene makes it clear that Dr. Marsden knew who she was and set up their encounter. So, when you read this, keep in mind all the additional information you have as the reader before you get frustrated with Freya.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. I liked the characters and the plot. I really enjoyed the location of the story as well. This was a fast-paced story that created some excellent suspense.
Content Warnings:
Mental health, suicide, stalking, psychological experiments.
To Read or Not To Read:
I would recommend The Apartment for readers that enjoy a psychological thriller!
I was provided an advanced reader's copy of this book for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Freya has been put through the mill. A young woman whose married life is disrupted by her husband leaving for a woman who was her friend. His later death means that Freya must sell the marital home, up rooting her 5 year old daughter and moving to a different area.
I have read KLSlater before and thoroughly enjoyed the book and was so grateful to #netgalley and Amazon publishing to receive a copy of #theapartment. I will continue to the next book written by KLSlater.
It's a mild psychological thriller but the psychology is so late on in the story.I was bored half way through as I felt the story had a weak character and no real story line However, I continued on and was not surprised by how the story played out......And they all lived happily ever after.
This wanted to be The Turn of the Key or Lock Every Door so badly, but it did not do what it set out to do in my opinion. I do think the premise behind it was quite clever. I remember taking a psychology class in college and we learned about 'little Albert' and the experiments done on him, so it was a really creative idea to kind of give a back story to that whole experiment. But that is the only thing it had going for it, the execution of this was not good.
The entire first half of the book absolutely nothing happened. It was horribly boring, the characters were stale. The entire plot fell apart in the end when I realized there was no actual reason for anything and also no reason for it to be stopped. First of all Lily had what reason to continue the experimentation?? None. It felt like a really cheesy villain trope where they have no real merit for anything they are doing. Nothing was done to her, she had no trauma, it was just because she felt like the experimentation needed to continue on even though probably 99% of society could see how unethical the historical experimentations were. It was ridiculous. Also the fact that she was holding NOTHING over anyone so why couldn't Audrey, Matthew, Dr. Marsden, or Susan have done anything to stop her?? She was an OLD woman for crying out loud....obviously mentally unstable, there was absolutely no reason they couldn't have stopped her. What were they afraid she was going to do? There were no threats to their lives or any kind of repercussion to them stopping her. And in the end all Freya did was push her down he stairs and magically everything ended?? Like the whole family was like, 'oh she's finally dead, we can stop the charade now'. what?!?!?! It all made no sense. There was literally no point to any of this. And frankly, Freya was kind of an idiot...everything that happened was happening too perfectly. She obviously knew something was going on and she stayed anyway. I feel like there were a lot of lose ends and they never got tied up. This book did nothing.
I really enjoyed The Apartment and it was over before I knew it. I got into it really quickly and I couldn’t stop reading to find out what was going to happen. I did get frustrated with the main character, Freya, at times and the story does require you to suspend disbelief at times, but that didn’t bother me at all.
Not a lot particularly happens in the book, but the suspense really builds up and it is very creepy and I changed my mind a couple of times about what I thought was going to happen. The characters and the background to the plot were interesting and I’ll definitely read more by this author.
If it seems too good to be true it usually is and that is the case in The Apartment by K.L. Slater. A young mother, Freya and her young daughter. Skye. must move after her husband's unexpected death. Out of nowhere she is presented with this offer of a great little apartment in an older home. And the price is "just right". However, her neighbors seem to be a little off. Her daughter, Skye, is unhappy in school. And strange things are happening at their home. She is unsure of who to trust and wonders if she can move before things get worse. If psychological thrillers are on your reading lists this one is for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
This book was easy to get straight in to from the start. The story was told from just one perspective, so reading was easy and free flowing. It was gripping throughout, and in places quite creepy. There were several short interjections during the story, giving the reader some background information, and an insight into what was happening.
I guessed who the perpetrator was towards the end, but not in the full entirety. I found the ending unnecessarily convoluted and quite messy, which spoiled it for me a little bit.
The epilogue, although probably not a surprise, was a welcome ending.
The publisher provided me with the opportunity to read this in exchange for providing feedback. (via NetGalley)
Actual review closer to 3.5 stars. Easy enough read and the author writes well. I didn't expect how it played out but it kind of seemed a bit too far fetched for me in some respects. (She HAD to know that apartment was too good to be true!)
This book stayed with me for days after reading it. K. L. Slater never disappoints! At first I was put off thinking that the main character, Freya, while a strong and smart woman, was so naive about the goings on of the new apartment she and her daughter Skye move into. First - she gets the apartment for a song! That should have been her first clue. But then there are the odd tenants, the noises, the landlords strange rules. But then I realized, I'm reading a suspense novel, of course I know something sinister is about to happen. I loved the atmospheric descriptions of Adder House and its occupants. It was also interesting that the story was based around the true story of Little Albert. And of course, there was a great surprise ending!
This started off well but just became to unbelievable for me. The ending seemed so rushed and perfect and wrapped up so quickly. Not for me. Sorry.
This book was just ok for me. I felt that the main character Freya was a bit silly, not really taking the warnings she was given that seriously and it kind of annoyed me!
The twist was ok, I kind of saw it coming though not who the main villain was so that was good.
Overall, a pretty forgetful read but a quick read.
#netgalley
#klslater
Give this book a chance. I have to admit that at first I was not "taken" by this book ... at all. Nearing the end, this story finally started to come together.
Freya, a young mother, had just lost everything she knew in her life ... her marriage, her home ... everything. She was now alone with her daughter, Skye, when an opportunity for a place to live magically seemed to appear. Of course she jumped at the opportunity, only wanting to do what was best for Skye. Strange things started to happen at their new apartment. Were they real? Was she imagining things or was she just overly stressed because of all the newness in her life? The "bad guy" in this story is someone you will not expect ... at all. Talk about a mind bender.
There is nothing I find more annoying in a mystery than an unbelievably dumb main character and that is exactly what you find with Freya in The Apartment. Freya "stumbles across" an opportunity when a strange older man offers her a beautiful under-priced apartment in a posh part of London. ***RED FLAGS*** Looking for a fresh start after selling the dream home she shared with her now dead cheating husband and ignoring her friends' warnings and a thousand other red flags, Freya moves herself and young daughter Skye into the building and immediately odd happenings begin and creepy neighbors emerge. Despite this, Freya stays and ultimately puts herself and her daughter in danger as the dark secrets of the residence slowly unfold. Unfortunately, I could not get behind Freya's gullibility and naivety, especially considering that Freya grew-up in the foster system trusting no one. One would think she would have better street smarts than this. In addition, the plot wasn't believable and there was lots of time wasted on erroneous backstory tangents and red herrings. I kept hoping there would be a crazy twist at then end, but it too was far-fetched and felt rushed and undeveloped. Overall, this was a total flop in my opinion.
Would you take an opportunity that sounded too good to be true? That is the question Freya finds herself considering after a chance encounter leads to her being offered a new apartment. Her world has fallen apart following the death of her ex-husband Lewis. After viewing the apartment, which is being offered to her and her daughter Skye, she sees it as a chance to make a fresh start somewhere beautiful and to her astonishment, affordable.
But things may not be as good as they seem. Strange noises, the prickly sense of being watched, and furniture being moved is all starting to make Freya feel like she is losing her mind.
And who is watching Skye while she plays outside at school? Who is Beatrice and what does she have to do with Freya and Skye?
The inspiration for this story is a psychological experiment carried out by Professor Watson, known as the Little Albert Experiment. An experiment that involved a young child, that was carried out to determine whether fear could be conditioned into an otherwise healthy child. It turns out that the chance encounter Freya had was anything but, and she comes to realise that nothing is as it seems. Is it too late for Freya to escape the apartment and the experiment that she has inadvertently become a part of?
An interesting and unpredictable narrative that kept me guessing all the way.
A quick and easy read. The storyline was ok, twist was ok, but ending felt rushed. To be honest, it was a pretty forgettable read.
This psychological thriller was fun. I liked the tie in to the “little Albert” experiments highlighting a low point of modern psychology. This book was quickly devoured. There were some plot holes And the twists were predictable but in general it was entertaining. The characters were well developed. Freya’s husband has just died and she’s forced to sell their home. Unsure where she and her young daughter will go she bumps into a doctor with an apartment to rent that seems too good to be true. Slowly their new home appears flawed and strange things begin to occur. Will freya figure it out in time?
I was very disappointed in this book as I was hoping for something better. The characters really annoyed me and I didn’t like all the details about nail clippings, which I supposed was a little bit picky. I really struggled with this book and all the way through I was hoping it would start to get better but, unfortunately it didn’t.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
Freya Miller is in need of a miracle. Her husband has left her and their 5 year old daughter, Skye for another woman. Soon after that he dies, leaving no money and Freya is broke and in need of a place to live.
Along comes Dr. Marsden, who just happens to be in the same coffee shop at the same time as Freya. It seems too good to be true, yet he happens to have an available apartment in a building called Adder House in W. London, a rich neighborhood. Freya just cant turn it down, especially when he offers to pay the moving costs.
Adder House turns out to be not what it seems and soon Freya starts feeling uneasy. She feels as though she is being watched and things in the apartment become misplaced. She begins to feel she's made a big mistake. The tenants are strange, and she needs to get out while she can, especially when she finds out what happened to the previous tenant.
The Apartment was interesting but quite far-fetched, I found. Things just went from eerie to ridiculous. I enjoyed other books by the author, so I will definitely continue reading her books.
2 1/2 stars rounded up to 3
1 like
The plot of This book was interesting and made me think of a great thriller movie. I would recommend this book to anyone that likes thriller books.
There is a well known saying - if something seems too good to be true, it usually is.
I struggled to finish this as I couldn’t believe how naive Freya was, verging on annoying and frustratingly stupid at times.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my review.
I read this ARC for an honest review
All thoughts and opinions are mine
Absolutely loved this
Loved the tense writing, the twists and turns in the story
Great characters and story - loved the ending
Freya needs help, and on a fateful day in a random coffee shop, she finds it. Freya and her daughter, Skye, are in need of a place to stay, after Freya's husband up and left her for another woman, leaving her unstable, without a job, and unable to afford their home in London. In walks Dr. Marsden, with a seemingly perfect offer for Freya that she cannot refuse, an apartment in the upscale Adder house, with a shockingly low rent. With slight apprehension, Freya and Skye visit Adder house and fall in love. They move in quickly, despite protests from friends. Soon after, mysterious occurrences and talks of a missing previous tenant make Freya realize she made a huge mistake and needs to get out. But will it be too late to leave?
I liked this book in that it was creepy and different from others that I've read, with a few twists throughout that surprised me. The main character bothered me in that she was so naive and trusting of strangers and didn't ask hardly any questions in her situation. That being said, I think this book is worth reading and I would recommend it to others.
Very enjoyable book with some good twists. Thank you publisher and netgalley for this arc in exchange of an honest review.
A decent thriller about a naive youg mom and her five yearl old daughter. They move into an apartment that smells fishy from the first moment she hears about the place. I would not have enjoyed this novel except that the twist is a good one. Hint, if you are/were a psych major, think Little Albert.
I generally don’t read books that graphically Are outside ty US but this. Book Intrigued me. A widowed woman with a young daughter seeks an apartment she can afford. When a man approaches her in a coffee cafe a with.a offer of a nice flat at a unbelievable price she accepts. But her inner voice tells her it may be too good to be tru. When Peculiar things start to happen she begins to question her arraignment. This is a book that you will not figure out till the end.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a creepy novel that shows if something is too good to be true then it is.
I am a fan of K.L. Slater. If you have not read any of Kim's work, start with her most well-known work, Blink. All of her novels average between 3.69 and 4.00 on Goodreads.
While I did enjoy this fast-reading story, it was not an original one. However, that does not make it inferior to those that have come before. Many reviewers compared this to Riley Sager's Lock Every Door. They both are mysteries involving an apartment building where people have been known to disappear. If Sager's novel had not been released so close to this book, I do not think as many people would make the comparison.
Slater's The Apartment is a slow burn. Many reviewers want instant gratification, instant suspense, instant terrors, etc. Not all books are going slam you in the face. Not all books should.
It is those differences that make this book, and any book, worth reading. You can take the view of Mark Hunter in Pump Up the Volume or you can embrace both the similarities and differences in an author's work.
This is, honest to God, one of the silliest books I've ever read. My kitchen sink has more depth than these characters, there are glaring plot holes, and the writing itself was repetitive and boring. I'm hoping it was part of a novel writing November challenge and that the author hail-maryed it to her publisher because she needed something in a pinch.
Freya and her young daughter, Skye, move into the too good Adder House, which they could never normally afford. Freya questions their good luck (but not too much). She starts to feel as through they are being watched. The Apartment by K.L. Slater is a suspense novel that will keep your attention. I was interested in continuing to read it just to see what the big mystery involving Adder House and its strange occupants. I felt that the ending was a little hokey which is the reason for 3 stars.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book was rather disappointing. It was supposed to be a "psychological thriller" but definitely did not deliver on the promise. The writing was pretty flat, the story quite stupid and unbelievable. Who, in their right mind, would ever accept to move in based on the offer and premises in set out in the book? With a young child? And Freya is terribly annoying. Why on earth is she not looking for a job? Why on earth is she going around sipping coffees and teas, instead of sorting her life out? It is difficult to sympathise with her.
Some parts are enjoyable and I am sure the writer has delivered better books and storylines, but this one is definitely disappointing.
With thanks to Amazon Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
Freya Miller is in a very tight spot. She desperately needs a new apartment for herself and her young son. Just when she has all but given up hope she receives an offer that's too good to believe.
There's your first warning...
A 'chance' meeting with the kindly if slightly odd Dr. Marsden changes everything for Freya.
He offers her the chance to rent a flat in his block for a small rent, way below the going rate for that area.
Despite some obvious misgivings she decides to go ahead.
Odd neighbours, odd occurrences and an all round odd vibe around the apartments set her on edge and threaten to overwhelm her.
She has to get to the bottom of the mystery to save her sanity and her son.
Despite the obvious red flags that were waving from the off this was an enjoyable read, well paced and a nice build up of threat and dread.
Very enjoyable.
A quick read. High creep factor and kind of interesting plot but the execution left something to be desired. There just wasn’t a lot to work with and therefore the book is really short. But I did find it a compelling read even if events took a pretty predictable turn. You could easily read this in a day or two. It’s not bad...just not great. Nowhere near as good as Riley Sager’s Lock Every Door.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this free ebook.
This book started off so good! I was completely lost as to where the story was going. As is usual I got a bit annoyed with the main character who just needed to leave her current situation but didn’t (isn’t that just the way in most thrillers).
Again Slater wraps up all story lines, which I appreciate. I would recommend this book to all those who love a good thriller.
Thank you to Net Galley for the advanced copy for an honest review.
If something looks too good to be true... You know how that goes.... IT PROBABLY IS!! But then again, desperation did make us take stupid decisions. And our talented author Kim Slater wrote another creepy suspense with the apartment watching the main character's every move. Almost as if it were alive.
Freya needed a new place to stay, a push in the right direction by Dr. Marsden got her checking out the apartment and taking it up, even when the gorgeous place was at a minimal rent. Things started happening. Freya needed to escape soon. But would she realize the truth in time before she lost her daughter?
The author described the atmosphere of the house so well that it elucidated a gasp from me at all the right places. The vibe of the book was of waiting... Waiting for things to happen... For the blade in the guillotine to fall... Shoe to drop... Waiting to take a deep breath.
The story seemed familiar, but the journey was so good where each page made me ask - what next? I loved the section when Freya went hunting for the truth, she was quite innovative. The last few pages needed a bit more suspense and better reasoning. But no matter, the book was a delight to read.
The book grabbed my time for afternoon siesta today. I am down with a headache but well worth it!!
Reminiscent of several other thrillers, The Apartment kept my interest but was pretty predictable. Found myself feeling sorry for Skye as her mom, Freya, seems so overwhelmed with all the recent events in her life, I would have enjoyed it more if Freya had been more likable. The plot line was fairly easy to guess at but missed the connection with Audrey and Dr. Marsden at the end. Found myself wondering about the flies. Many thanks to K. L. Slater, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for affording me the opportunity to read The Apartment, published in April.
I really enjoyed the concept of the book more than I did the actual writing. As they often say when a deal looks too good to be true it often is ! Its difficult to review without giving too much away but on balance it really wasn't for me . I know that there are many readers who will enjoy the tension however just a little too far fetched
While I liked the premise of this story line, the actual flow of the story was quite predictable. The twists weren't as twisty as I'd like. This was a very easy book to read and follow along with which can be a plus, but as a reader, I knew where we were going next. There was one twist at the end that I didn't quite see coming, which is why I gave it 3 stars, but overall, everything was expected. The idea behind the story of behavior modification thru psychological testing is intriguing, but I just wish there had been more to it.
This was a creepy read - Freya is approached by a stranger in a cafe who notices she is searching for house listings. Her estranged husband has recently passed away and she need to move quickly due to the sale of their house.
I’m not giving any spoilers when I say that she moved into his apartment in a really posh house - I’d say the title of the book gives that away pretty quickly. Almost straightaway funny going’s on start happening though and she suspects that Dr Marsden and Audrey who own the house may not be all as they seem.
Although I was invested in finding out answers about the apartment, there were many elements of this book that didn’t quite seem answered or to add up to give it a higher rating. Or maybe we were given plenty of red herrings? The atmosphere at the school? Why did the husband start behaving as he did? How did Freya get so friendly with Mark so soon? Why so many references to Freya not being of sound mind?
A psychological thriller in the truest sense. As the timeline moves from modern day to the 1920s, I recognised one of the most famous psychological experiments concerning a baby known as Little Albert.
The story is about a newly-single mother and her five-year-old daughter. As the financial realities hit, it appears as a miracle when a doctor offers them an apartment in his luxury building. Quiet, beautiful and ornate, this new home seems too good to be true. After a while this proves to be the case when little things happen - noises, moved objects and so on - all of which set an uneasy mood for the protagonist.
The story underlines many common fears when we are faced with loss and change. Aspects about meeting new people and fitting in, and worries concerning our children starting new schools and being happy. Loneliness, fear, paranoia and general anxiety are other features plus rebuilding trust when it has recently been broken by someone dear.
Written informally in the first person from the mother's perspective, this book builds up to an exciting ending. Despite the 'confessional' explanation for the events, which is a little unrealistic, the climax ties in with the unethical experiment of the early twentieth century. Suitable for anyone interested in human psychology in its most basic form and anyone who likes a good read, particularly fans of C.L. Taylor. Recommended.
Didn’t really enjoy this book. The plot was hard to get into. I can understand the desperation to find accommodation but it was too unbelievable the way she moved in with her child. I couldn’t get into the story. Sorry not for me
This is the first book I have read by K L Slater. I must say I enjoyed it although she made the main character, Freya seems a bit dumb and clueless. The Apartment was a fun thriller that keeps the suspense building throughout the book with a satisfying ending. I will go back and read more from her.
This is a psychological thriller, and I certainly found it quite chilling. The first meeting between Freya and Dr. Marsden however is rather contrived. When you live in a small house that you have just sold, and you are going to have to rent at the cheap end of the London housing market and out of the blue somebody offers you an apartment in one of the most exclusive London addresses for a peppercorn rent surely you would be wary? As they say, if something sounds too good to be true - it is too good to be true.
That aside, Freya is desperate and accepts the offer, and from the moment she and her young daughter Skye move in things are uncomfortable; Furniture gets moved around in the night, they can hear noises, and talking which seems to be in the apartment; Skye see someone taking photos of her when she is in the new school playground. Then they discover that the apartment has been bugged ... The tension builds, and builds, to a huge crescendo when Freya finally learns the truth, and it is more disturbing than I imagined.
The story is well written, all the characters are finely drawn, none of the people living in Adder House are quite what they seem. It is worth reading.
First of all I would like to say "Thank You" K.L. Slater, the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to read this book.
This is the first time I've read one of K.L. Slater's books. This book was a page turner and it kept my interest throughout the entire book. As each plot unfolded, I wanted to know what was going to happen next. I knew that there was something tied to the initial offer, but just didn't know what which kept me intrigued.
Freya is working to get her and her daughter Skye's life back on track in a short period of time. An opportunity presents itself at the right time and she goes for it. Freya and Skye falls in love with their new life, but then Freya starts to wonder if she's made the best decision for her and her daughter.
How can a person know so much about you, when in her eyes this is your first encounter she's had with the person. Seems crazy, but it can happen. Now when you're presented with some information that you're not aware of could cause you to start questioning everything.
When your back is up against the wall, are you willing to make a decision without doing some research and thinking it through? Sometimes we are in a situation that requires us to move quickly, but we must always look at the situation as a whole to determine if we're making the best decision in the end.
Overall, this was a good book that kept my interest to end. I can't say for sure if I've read many psychological thrillers, but this has peaked my interest to read more of them. I will most definite read another book by K.L. Slater. Awesome Job!
Chilling one to the bone! The grass is always greener on the other side, it seems to good to be true... all those sayings... well that is exactly what they are. Words, no more, no less. Be careful what you wish for. It’s easy to grasp at any lifeline when you feel as if you’re drowning in a turbulent sea. A great read, what I didn’t expect was to feel such disgust at the lengths some go to in the name of science.
Single mum Freya finds herself being offered the opportunity to have an apartment in a building that would be way over her price range, but the landlord offers her a deal she can't refuse.
She thinks she and her daughter Skye will be happy at Adder House but v is not long until strange things start happening.
There were chapters set around psychological tests done in children in the 1920s...didn't know where the plot was going with those chapters, it was all explained by the end but found them a bit distracting.
Thanks to net galley for the opportunity to review this book, this is my honest opinion.
This is the first book I have read by K.L. Slater and I will definitely read more now. This story is a definite page turner! It starts with Freya whose husband first cheats on her, then he passes away. She cannot afford to stay in their home and needs to find a new place for her and her daughter to live. She is in a coffee shop looking at a board of classifieds. An older man approaches her and offers her an apartment in his upscale building. From there thing get down right creepy in this building. Noises, smells, tenants, video camera’s, etc! Even Freya’s start being a little weird. I was so happy to meet Mark, a construction worker that befriends Freya and Skye. The end is a real page turner! Looking forward to reading more books by this author!
Reeling from her husband’s betrayal Freya is desperate for somewhere for herself and daughter Skye to live.
Whilst she is still trying to come to terms with the fallout she meets Dr Marsden who offers her an apartment in Adder House - something that seems too good to be true - usually is.
Freya, low in confidence and fearing they may end up homeless accepts the offer only to discover strange things are happening in Adder House.
I found the story a bit formulaic with few surprises and an ending that I thought was not believable.
I have read several of KL Slater’s book and this would not be one of my favourites.
Creepy and atmospheric novel highlighting "if it seems too good to be true, it probably is". The characters were well formed and relatable. I was surprised at the ending, and thoroughly enjoyed trying to figure it out throughout the book. I will definitely recommend this one and look for more novels by K.L Slater.
I did really enjoy this book but was slightly disappointed at what seemed like a rushed ending. Loved the storyline, the characters and the easy flow of it that made it a page turner. The storyline was somewhat different which gave it more of a dark, suspense feel to it. It deserves the 5 stars but wish the ending was a bit more feathered and dramatic.
Thank you Amazon Publishing and Netgalley.
If you like a good psychological thriller you will like this book. I gave this book 3.5 stars rounded to 4. A lot of ups and downs.
Freya Miller had an opportunity that she couldn't turn down. Freya and her daughter Skye is in need of a new home, A new start after her husband's betrayal. Adder House and the people that live there have all kinds of secrets. Freya soon find out that her dream home is now a nightmare.
This is the second books by K L Slater that I have ready. I can't wait to read more by here
Enjoy
This was a good book, it was quite spooky and you know that all is not at all well as Skye and her Mum are offerred a luxurious apartment, for a fantastic low rent. The old adage "if it seems to be too good to be true, it probably is" springs to mind. They had been through a horrible time, with a marital break up and a bereavement . The opportunity for a fresh start is very enticing. The apartment is is beyond the wildest dreams of them both.
A rather odd collection of residents live in the block and they are all slightly dubious. As time goes on, things change around them and her suspicions gets stronger every day. There are mysterious warnings and no one knows who or what to believe. It appears that Skye is the target of the mysterious happenings.
It is a good read, but I do feel that there are one or two things that are not fully explained and it all seemed to come together in a bit of rush at the end. Just nit-picking really, but it caused me to race through it so it must have been good.
I have read other books by this author and loved them but this one was my lest favorite. It was a good read until the last but the ending seemed quick and hurried.. Freya and her daughter Skye were not real to me and some of the decisions made were not believable.
Thank you Net Galley for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest review.
The Apartment is a creepy (in a good way) throwback to the "don't open that door!" genre. It's a fast, easy read, hard to put down as the tension mounts. The narrator is appealing and relatable, and the settings, in London's posh and not-so-posh neighborhoods, are well realized and add welcome texture.
The repetitive should-I-stay-or-should-I -go became somewhat tedious to my taste, midway through, and deeper examination of some of the compelling issues -- psychological manipulation, grief, single parenting, etc, are given regrettably short shrift.
That quibble aside, The Apartment is well suited for an escapist weekend or vacation read.
I have read several books by this author and they have always had be gripped from the first page. Although I enjoyed this story it wasn’t ‘up there’ with the rest of KL Slater’s usual edge of your seat thrillers. Still a good read, and I would recommend any fan of this author to read it, we all have different tastes after all.
The creepiness factor is high on this one.! An apartment with a very reasonable rent, actually low rent, and few other renters in the building. What could Adder House be hiding? you will have to read the book to find out! I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
I was initially worried it might be too similar in plot to Lock Every Door by Riley Sager, which also features a down on her luck protagonist faced with a too good to be true upscale apartment opportunity, but was pleasantly surprised when this book went in quite a different direction.
The prologue led in with a sense of foreboding that intrigued me to keep reading in order to find out why Freya and her daughter, Skye, had so clearly been targeted and what was ultimately wanted from them. This uneasy atmosphere continued to grow as we were introduced to Adder House and its host of creepy residents.
From the start, there were red flags littered throughout from Freya’s first encounter with Dr. Marsden at Starbucks, her initial tour of Adder House, and each day after. These unsettling details, coupled with warnings to proceed with caution coming from caring and trusted friends (and even strangers on the street) of which Freya is unwilling to take seriously, could be enough for one to write Freya off as incredibly naive—or just plain stupid—but I couldn’t help but feel empathy for her. As a well intentioned widow and mother, she was desperate to make a fresh start for Skye and also for herself.
While the ever-growing, unsettling creep factor is put in place from page one and maintained throughout, I do want to share this book is definitely a slow burn — The action doesn’t really pick up until about 70% of the way through so if you enjoy more of a fast-paced read, this one may not be for you.
Ultimately 3.5/5 stars from me as I found the twist, although interesting, to be fairly predictable and I do like my thrillers to be more in the edge of your seat variety.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the opportunity to check this one out!
K.L Slater has written a great thriller in The Apartment. It was fast paced and had me intrigued on what was going on in the building. If you enjoy closed door thrillers, I would suggest you read this book. Thank you Amazon Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for a honest review.
I honestly didn't enjoy reading "The Apartment" at all. Right from the beginning few chapters the story bored me, leaving me restless in finishing it. I know there was a lot of hype of this book on social media, I couldn't wait to read it. The story drags on till about the middle (chapters 24-26), but then it flatness again, and the ending is as quick as lightning!
This book was good but did not entice me to read this as quickly as I might have done with other books. I am not a fan of narrative in the present tense. Sometimes, that technique works - and I understand why the author started the prologue in the present tense. Such a book like the Apartment - meant to be at once thrilling and disturbing - is also meant to put the reader at the heart of the action. It is just a personal preference of mine that I dislike present-tense narratives, so my review is a bit biased. I feel like the present tense is just missing something. Like we know that everything from the most current word is uncertain (which is the point of the technique, and that readers must discover along with the author and characters). But for me, the book was not that thrilling, and, thus, the present tense did not work.
I was looking for an interesting, suspenseful mystery, and instead I got an abandoned housewife walking around feeling sorry for herself for 266 pages.
Following the death of her husband, Freya has to quickly find a more affordable place to live, and the too-good-to-be-true apartment in Adder House pops up at just the right time. Because this is a mystery, things are not as they seem. However, this book wasn't spooky enough for my taste! None of the suspenseful moments were drawn out or had any tension to them at all. Instead of letting the reader sit in that anxiety, creepy moments were quickly cut short. We just followed Freya around as she felt more and more sorry for herself. There were aspects of the story that were brought up close to the beginning, and then would pop up again much later on without being fully interwoven into the story. It was an incredibly poor and ineffective attempt at foreshadowing.
I did like the aspect of the story set in the past. I thought it set up the present-day events well, and gave just enough information to feel like I had an idea of where the story was going without showing its whole hand. That being said, when the end did happen, I felt let down. Everything was resolved way too quickly for such a messy lead-up. The writing style itself was fine, nothing really to complain about but nothing remarkable either. This book was just sort of disappointing.
This was poorly paced; I’m sure the slow beginning was meant to ratchet up suspense but it mostly dragged for me.
The protagonist is very hard to empathize with, as she made so many poor decisions.
Lastly, the denouement also strained credulity. I know it was meant to be a “twist” but it just seem nonsensical & implausible.
In some ways reminiscent of Rosemary's Baby, this story kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Freya moves herself and her daughter into an apartment in a big old house in a very posh section of London, with a suspiciously low rent and a questionable cast of characters. She doesn't know who to trust but her instincts tell her things aren't quite what they seem, and she is correct.
A good mystery, with enough suspense to keep going till the last few pages and a frightening finish. I enjoyed the suspicions but had difficulty believing Freya Miller could be that gullible to fall for a deal that was too good to be true. Even having trust issues growing up she quickly moved into an apartment that was almost rent free with all the gifts Dr. Marsden provided. She was betrayed by her husband and needed to get out of debt when he passed and found this place for her and her daughter to be ideal. Little did she know the hidden cameras were tracking her daughters every move! Who could she trust ?
I was really looking forward to reading this from the synopsis but I was really disappointed The story is based around a woman looking for a new start with her five year daughter after her husbands affair. Accepting a' too good to be true' offer on an apartment in 'Adder House' in upmarket London Freya and Skye move in. The other residents are weird, the house is creepy and the owners overbearing. Adder House is not what it seems and the more I read the more bored I became. I got more and more exasperated with Freya being so weak and weedy and none of the other characters being believable. Certainly not a book I would recommend. I have really enjoyed other books by Kim Slater but feel let down by this one.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC ecopy for my Kindle.
Whom can you trust? Can you go with your "gut feeling?"
A good suspense novel that took a turn I hadn't expected.
K.L.Slater is a best-selling author and specializes in the genre of psychological thrillers. It is the first novel that I have read, written by Slater. I had heard a lot about this book even before I reviewed it.
Freya Miller and her daughter struggle after the loss of her husband. They come upon an excellent opportunity; to rent an apartment in one of the best areas at a reasonable cost. Sounds too good to be true, right? Do "too good to be true" things always come at a price? Will Freya know what is lurking around the corner? Will their troubles finally end?
Slater sets the stage well: a chance meeting, an excellent offer, and a new journey. Slowly as the excitement of the protagonist wears off, the author lets you know that something is not right. The author teases you with incidents and ties them with several suspects. It is difficult to guess what will happen next, and that is the most exceptional quality of the novel. Thrillers fail the moment a reader can guess the next twist, and Slater has been careful to evade that mistake. She keeps you guessing, but unfortunately at a grueling speed.
However, the author has jam-packed all the action in the last few chapters of the book. As a reader, I thought that the last chapters were rushed, and the plot was unraveling itself at a rapid speed. I wish the book had a consistent pace.
I would rate this book a 4/5. It was a good read, and I would recommend it. It is well-written and keeps you engrossed. If you like thrillers, go for it.
Thank you Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I liked this! There is a bit of artistic licence with this one and you do have to wonder how gullible one woman can be, but if you accept this you can allow yourself to be sucked in. It was a quick and easy read, enjoyable, but without the twists and turns I was mostly hoping for which was a shame.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Suspenseful read, Lots of suspicious creepy characters. Received ARC and found this book to be predictable.
Thank you for an ARC of The Apartment. I’ve heard wonderful things about K.L. Slater’s books and have been wanting to check her out for a while. I was drawn in by the description of this one, but was thrown off by reviews. A lot of them that I saw were from people who had read previous books from the author. They were mostly complaining that it was generic, and that the main character, Freya, was too naive. Basically saying K.L.’s had better books and they were seriously disappointed. However, I find myself thrilled I wasn’t disappointed by it. For my first K.L. book, I think it was a great pick. I definitely will be looking to get my hands on other books from her.
This book focuses on Freya, and her young daughter Skye at the time of loss for both of them. Freya lost her husband, Skye, her father. As the insurance money won’t last long, they also have to give up their home. Freya thinks they’re going to end up crashing at a friends place when lo and behold, she stumbles onto an offer that seems too good to be true. (Spoiler: It is!) A beautiful apartment that should be out of her money limits is open to her. For way less than it’s worth, but Freya doesn’t look a gift horse in the mouth and takes up Dr. Marsden’s offer to move in that weekend. Soon creepy things are happening and Freya thinks it’s just stress, for both her and Skye’s reactions to things. Freya was told she is the first tenant in the apartment but learns that there was a mother/daughter duo here before them. As she begins to uncover information about them and other residents, she becomes suspicious of the Marsdens.
The ending of this book was wonderful, I had no idea that what occurred was gonna happen. I was given a very small inkling of information, but was unsure how to piece it together. I will be recommending this book for anyone who wants a quick, and slightly creepy read.
Okay this book is just creepy. Good read, but creepy.
Freya and her daughter Skye have had a rough time. They have lost the man of the house and are forced to downsize to an apartment.
By chance? They luck into a great apartment with an unbelievable low rent even if the owner is a bit eccentric.
Then it all shifts cock eyed. Interferences into their life. Noises in the night, furniture being moved. The discovery that there had been a woman with a young child in their apartment before them and with a tragic ending...
It is not a long story but it is a scary plotted one. I can imagine that with resources someone could do what is in this book.......
I received this advanced reader copy in exchange for my unbiased opinion
Without giving the plot, I found this book suspenseful, mystifying, and unique. I also found it hard to put aside, and then disappointed when finished. If this author's other books are like this, I will be reading more !
if you're looking for a quick, twisty, and suspenseful read, I would recommend The Apartment. I was surprised by the ending and overall enjoyed reading it, but I spent most of the book yelling at Freya in my head and telling her to get out, but that would've made the plot boring, obviously. lol
A good story that I read really quickly. Well paced with each chapter wanting you to carry on reading rather than put it down. Only criticism I do have is the ease of which Freya accepted the apartment. You’ve heard of the saying ‘Too good to be true’ well that’s certainly the case here but desperate times call for desperate measures I suppose. All in all an enjoyable book.
I admit THE APARTMENT rather slow to heat up. And when it did make me restless it was nearly at the ending which was not enough, at all. The author also introduces to us a real experiment known as Little Albert Experiment in which learning about it makes me feel so sick with those so-called educated people did in an act of discovery.
What I'm reviewing here is more toward the afterthought as to what the author wishes to conclude. I think what she trying to do by giving us past and present situations of similar cases shows us that in our most difficult moment the support from the one closed to us can make a greater effect. Had it not, we'll break and find it unbearable to continue on.
In a sense, I love that by reading the fault that the main character does, we can learn something that we can take note of.
It put in our brain to act with caution when dealing with strangers because some people may not seem as they seem. And that safety always comes first no matter what horrible condition we're in.
Though I don't think it's a welcoming read for those that easily agitated and have trust issues because that is what this book trying to pull from you and so it could trigger paranoid. Regardless that, THE APARTMENT is one twisted read that make you question your mentality by thing that you don't expected to occurred.
This was my first K.L. Slater book and now I'm definitely a fan. I really enjoyed this book. It was suspenseful until the end. I was partially surprised by the ending. I didn't have the story completely figured out. The pace of this story was perfect and the ending was fulfilling. I would definitely recommend this book to other suspense fans.
The Apartment is the story of Freya Miller and her daughter, who are trying to recover from the betrayal of Freya's husband and in the process lose her family home. Freya has a "chance" meeting with a Dr. Marsden, who, when he learns of Freya's housing troubles, offers her a room at the Adder House in London at an unbelievably affordable price. Of course, Freya takes him up on the offer.
And that is where the story starts. Adder House has it's ghosts, strange characters, and oddities: CCTV cameras, things out of order in Freya and Skye's room, and this nagging feeling about Dr. Marsden and the other residents of Adder House. No spoilers here - you have to read the book for yourself and you will not be disappointed.
I like mysteries, but I am not usually a fan of haunted house stories, but when this became available on NetGalley it piqued my interest. This book was a very quick read; I was drawn in from the beginning and finished it over a two day period - I just had to know what was happening. It took me longer to get around to writing the review than to read the book.
I highly recommend reading The Apartment - it is an engrossing, compelling, quick read that kept me guessing to the end when Skye went missing. This is literary entertainment at its finest and I look forward to reading from KL Slater.
The story was okay for me. It was a good plot for the modern day part. The historical part wasn’t interesting to me even though it’s based on something that really happened and tied into the other part of the book in the end. I wasn’t blown away.
I am a big fan of Slater, and always excited for a new book! The Apartment was tense and had me curious from start to finish. I did guess a few twists, but this didn't really take away from the book. Recommended!
I've waited several days to write this review because I wasn't sure how I felt about The Apartment. I needed to let it sink in a bit. Now that I've let the book stew in my head for a while, I'm still not exactly sure.
I read The Apartment in less than 2 days, so it was obviously a page turner for me. I wanted to know what was going to happen! I expected the end to be much creepier..The way that people looked at the house and talked about it made me want a supernatural element thrown in.. There is a logical ending to the book, but I wanted more. The ending wasn't a surprise, and I like being surprised or shocked.
The suspense that led to the end of the book kept me tied to my screen. I enjoyed the characters and the setting very much. It's just that ending that I can't quite get past. So, while this is an enjoyable read, it's not going on my favorites list.
I'm rating it 3.5 stars, but rounding up due to the fact that it kept my attention.
2.5 stars rounded up.
If you’re looking for the slow burn thriller, this is it.
A single mother in a financial stress, finds an offer for a luxury apartment which is to good to be true. K.L. Slater pulls you in right from the beginning. While the pace was a bit slower than my typical thrillers, it was still filled with plenty of twist and turns to keep you turning the page.
Overall, it was a solid 2-3 stars and worth the read. Look forward to reading her other books as well.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in the exchange for an honest review!
Newly divorced and widowed mother, Freya, finds a dream apartment for her and her five year old daughter. Plus, the large apartment is discounted making it affordable for a struggling single mother. What could possibly go wrong? Upon moving into the apartment with her daughter, Freya can't fight a nagging feeling that things aren't what they seem. Is she having another mental breakdown or is there something sinister about the house and the residents who live there?
Let me start by saying this is usually the type of thriller that I devour! I finished this book in 4 days flat. I loved the short chapters because I kept thinking, "oh I'll read one more" or "I can read another one", which would usually turn into 30 more pages. The plot line was not something I'd read about before, and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time when the author was telling the story from Freya's point of view. I knew that someone in the house was messing with her and her daughter, but I didn't understand why.
Enter the one major disappointment of the story. About 25% of the way through the book, a new character's perspective is introduced. You don't learn how the stories connect until about 90% of the way through the book. Usually I enjoy this type of twist and I'm fascinated that I am unable to make the connection between plots, but the way it was introduced made me angry. I didn't understand why the author waited so long to introduce the second plot line and I honestly dreaded reading this part. Unfortunately the second plot line plays a major role in the overall plot, but I was bored with it and disappointed by the anti-climatic ending once the connection was revealed.
Overall, I would give this book a 3.5 or 4 out of 5 stars because I was invested most of the book.
The synopsis of this book sounded pretty great— after the disintegration of her marriage, Freya Miller knows she needs to take charge of her life. While visiting her local coffee shop one morning, she is approached by a stranger, Dr. Marston, who makes her an offer she can’t refuse— a chance to rent an apartment at a price she can afford. But Freya quickly realizes that Adder House holds many secrets. Shortly after moving in, strange things begin to happen, objects are moved, and Freya hears unexplained voices. She begins to wonder whether it was actually a chance encounter that led her to Adder House, or something more sinister.
The Apartment is the perfect example of the saying “If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.” The main character, Freya, seemed to go through life with her eyes closed because she ignored all the red flags around her, while at the same time justifying her ignorance. There were many times that I found myself rolling my eyes for her disregard at what should’ve been a glaring sign. She made one senseless choice after another and it bothered me.
The premise of the book sound thrilling and suspenseful. I found a few reviews that compared it to Riley Sager’s Lock Every Door, which I absolutely LOVED! But other than the book synopsis, the similarities stopped there. I kept waiting for something to happen and for the build up of tension to lead somewhere, but the only place it ever led me was to a disappointing and abrupt ending of the chapter. While The Apartment held so much potential, I found it was actually just 266 pages of confusion because I had absolutely no idea where it was going. The ending was perhaps the most disappointing part of all, and I found it to be absurd and totally implausible.
Overall, I simply was not impressed.
Another great thriller from KL Slater. I've read many books by this author and this one also didn't disappoint. If you enjoy reading psychological thrillers, make this one your next read.
I enjoyed this book, I liked the main character Freya and enjoyed the suspenseful nature. I had a few unanswered questions and I felt like it skipped around a bit but I thought the ending was pretty good. I have seen where some reviewers have said that Freya should have figured things out quicker but I thought the author did a great job writing about how a person might question themselves and their sanity especially when being targeted.
Oh no, this one was unfortunately not a good one for me. I had a lot of hopes going in to this one. However, I think I may have DNF it if I wasn't reading for a publisher. *yikes, sorry*
The concept was great, however there were a lot of plot holes and a lot of things that seemed so obvious to me, but not to the characters.
When the book finally came to its conclusion, I was mildly intrigued by the ending but it didn't wow me. And I was even a psychology major in college so you would think I would appreciate it more (You'll know when you read it.)
Even though I did buy myself a physical copy of this book, I would still like to thank Netgalley and the publishers for also providing me with a copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I was quite
disappointed with this one. The plot was certainly intriguing and I was very interested to find out what was gonna happen, but for me, it was just too slow. Nothing particularly happened to the very end - and I didn't fully buy it honestly. A read that may be enjoyable for some people, but it wasn't for me.
I did feel chills and want to find out how the story panned out, but I felt this book promised more than it delivered. Some parts seemed to be cut short or missing. The creepy house and the Marsdens set a perfect scene for a real terrifying read. But too much was skimmed over, yet a lot of detail on other things - I assumed there was some significance in the attention to Freya always removing her shoes when entering houses. The build up and tension could have been used so much more effectively. Disappointing. #netgalley #theapartment
I love a fast read thriller and this one didn't disappoint! Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for this book. I really enjoyed it and will be on the look out for more book by K.L Slater.
I feel like this is book that kept me somewhat entertained when i was stuck at home reading it, but it won't stay with me very long. It didn't have a lot of action but was more of a slow build up to a far-fetched climax.
I had a hard time getting into this one but once I did, it certainly picked up the pace. Overall an enjoyable read but not my favorite.
Oops missed the cut off date. Will head straight over to Amazon. Sorry. Very good read indeed. Had me gripped from page 1.
This was by far the creepiest book I’ve read in a while, don’t get me wrong, I loved it. I certainly didn’t see the twists coming. I did struggle with a few parts but overall it was fantastic. It was dark and gritty. This was a true psychological thriller. I can’t wait to read more by K. L. Slater.
A different type of book for me, I usually read crime, but this was a refreshing change, a lot of mystery, who are the Marsdens, what are they up too, are they dangerous? I find the story very well written, it keeps you on your toes wondering what’s happening and also what is going to happen.
Definitely worth reading.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to preview THE APARTMENT BY KL SLATER.
I’ m so sorry but I haven’t been able to connect enough with this book. I think it’s a little slow and I can’t emphasize with the character either. . Maybe it is because I expected another thing, so I suppose it’s my fault .
K L Slater is a writer I admire, although this book is very well written, great pacing and twists-a-plenty. I found it too far fetched. Characters that have too good to be true opportunities which we know will come back later to haunt them.
I could only compare this book to a more modern Rosemary's Baby, but less tense, and only got more interesting towards the end.
Unfortunately for me, it was an average read, so I have given it an average score. I will look forward to more from this author in future.
This is a great book. Most definitely a page turner. A true original. I will be reading a lot more books by this author.
Really enjoyed this book, read over two nights and stayed up past midnight... always a good sign. Easy reading, with the tension mounting by the page. The back story of the main character neatly woven through the narrative, with not too much detail; just enough to inform. Highly recommend, thank you for the opportunity to read and review.
Finished reading 'The Apartment' by K.L. Slater and absolutely loved.
The book reminded me so much of 'Lock Every Door' by Riley Sager, with the creepy Adder House, it's equally weird and mysterious residents and an offer that comes with a price.
Our main character, Freya has suffered from tragic loss throughout her life and is looking for a new a start for herself and her daughter Skye thus when she receives an offer to live in the Adder House at a price she can afford, she takes up the opportunity. There are red flags from the very beginning but now Freya is trapped and is starting to feel paranoid as strange things start happening in her apartment.
I found myself flipping through the pages to find out how the story will wrap up. Though I did guess who might be the real villain early on in the story, nonetheless it was very entertaining and thrilling with a satisfying ending.
Overall 3.5 stars.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
Freya and her daughter, Skye, needs a place to live after leaving her husband. To her she had a chance meeting with Dr. Marsden who offers an apartment to her and Skye to live at the Adder House. The Adder House sounds to good to be true because it is! Freya should run to the hills!!
The Adder House holds secrets, things begins to happen, as Freya investigates. This is twisty, suspenseful, and fast paced. Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for an ebook ARC. This is my honest review.
My first KL Slater read, and I'm excited that I now have a new to me author that I can binge. Well thought out plot, interesting characters, and well paced. While it was a bit predictable for me as a reader, it was well written and entirely enjoyable. Recommended it to friends, and it made for some fun discussion. It was great for the past few months during the pandemic. Thanks netgalley for a great book and opportunity to read.
Love thrillers! This one was creepy good! Sometimes it did get too much for me, but then it came back around. Thank you for letting m read this early to share about it with others.
This was alright. A very quick read with a good build-up but a lackluster ending.
Freya and her daughter Skye are in desperate states, about to be homeless when a nice stranger offers them an amazing apartment in Kensington for almost nothing. Freya finds nothing suspicious in this and is grateful and immediately moves in. But almost immediately she starts to get the sense that something is off with that stranger, Dr Mardsen. She quickly moves to trust Lily, a neighbor at Adder House, who bonds with her daughter Skye and offers to babysit.
Soon Freya begins to become paranoid and things move around her daughter's room. Her daughter is having nightmares and hearing voices at night. She says she is being followed at school
We flash back to early experiments involving Little Albert. This to me is one of the more disappointing sections, because the story just drops! The mother takes away her son from the experiment and that's it. And then the experimenter's descendant decides to track down little albert's descendant? It's just so far fetched. With both story lines, in the past and present, it just stops. There's just suddenly a happy ending without any consequences. It's a decent read but nothing great.
I’ve read and thoroughly enjoyed all of Slater’s psychological/domestic thrillers and can move The Apartment close to the top of my favorites. While the initial plot is familiar - young mother and child move to escape the past and start a new life - the narration was interesting and I rooted for them both from the beginning. While not as suspenseful as some others the character development made the unexpected ted twists even more jarring. Thanks for another great addition to the genre!
The Apartment, by K.L. Slater is billed as a thriller, but I found it more generally a horror story. I present-day London, an innocent young widow and her adorable five-year-old daughter are lured into taking an apartment in a building (spoiler alert) run by a coven of insane psychologists (no joke) in order to serve as the subjects of a bizzare and entirely unethical experiment.
In short, not my cup of tea. While very well written and constantly surprising, this book gave me nightmares. If you enjoy dogfights, like to pull the wings off flies and wouldn’t blanch at torturing a five-year-old, you’ll love this book.
This book had me guessing from the beginning as to how it would all turn out. Very suspenseful and surprising. I read it two days
This started off really good, got a little borikg in the middle and the main character was very frustrating, it was a steady read but didnt blow me away
Essentially, newly single mum Freya has had a tough time of things lately, and she’s desperate to turn things around for both herself, and her beloved daughter, Skye. As she is in the process of stressing about having to find somewhere new to live (exorbitant London rents/single-income family), Freya happens to meet the charming Dr Marsden who tells her all about the amazing Adder House.
After a quick look round, a small amount of umming and ahhing, Freya packs up everything she owns and moves to Kensington. Well, who could turn down such an awesome opportunity? Of course, all is not quite as it seems, and Freya soon realizes that if it looks too good to be true, then it probably is.
OK, this was a bad story.
First of all we have a leading lady that is as dull as dishwasher. She’s the most plain, boring, average of people and appears to have very little personality. For some inexplicable reason, much is made of the fact she was brought up in the foster system and therefore has trust issues. Love a good ole cliché.
Despite these trust issues, Freya is prepared to believe a man she’s just met, in a coffee shop, that there’s nothing odd, bizarre or even remotely creepy about him (a) telling her all about the flat he has available to rent in his building (b) letting her live there essentially for free because, well, it’s about finding the right person, isn’t it (c) paying for a whole host of things and interfering in her daughter’s education.
No, Freya, the one with the trust issues, thinks this is all perfectly normal and has no idea something could go wrong.
Then, of course, it starts to go wrong. Apart from, with all due respect, it actually doesn’t. Her biggest, and for the longest time, only issue is that it appears someone might, or might not, have died/committed suicide in or near her apartment. She doesn’t know. But just the idea that someone might have done totally freaks her out!
A couple of weird things happen, but that’s almost by the wayside, barely mentioned – more is made out of the fact that oh no, someone might have died locally, so there is absolutely no tension whatsoever. The creepiest element is old diary entries about a psychological experiment done on a small boy, and that takes up a couple of chapters, and is then pushed to the side.
Finally, with no real build up, a lot of pointlessness, and absolutely no excitement or suspense, the book concludes. I actually got to 95% and thought “you’ve got a lot of tying up to do here, in not a lot of time,” and then boom – here’s a nice ribbon, the end.
For me this read like a good first draft – it needs a lot of work, a few plot holes need ironing out, and more tension needs creating, and then the final edit might be worth more than 2 stars.
The Stars
I was originally going to give this a three, because although I wasn’t hooked or thrilled in anyway, I thought it had promise. After thinking about it some more, I’m actually annoyed by the gaping flaws with it, so have to give it a two.
I love this author but the book was just ok. A lot of hype but the twist fell flat and wasn’t as shocking as what I thought it would be. I still enjoyed the book, but I felt the ending could have been better.
I agree with some of the other reviews that this book was disappointing and quite unbelievable. I did finish reading the book as I have always enjoyed K L Slater’s books and just hope that the next one will be back to her normal best.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
Unfortunately I was unable to finish this book. I made it to 46% and I’m just not enjoying it. I’m not enjoying the storyline and nothing has happened yet. I feel like at 46% something should have happened by now. I’m also finding it really hard to connect to the characters. This is the first book I’ve read by K L Slater and unfortunately I’m not a fan.
Not sure what I expected. I guess another run of the mill haunted house story. But was I ever wrong! This was creeptastic! Unsettling and oh so creepy. Interesting characters and a fantastic story! Thank you so much
The Apartment by K.L. Slater was a chilling slow burn that kept me engaged and reading till the end. At about the ninety percent mark, the action ramped up. There was one big twist that I didn't see coming, which I enjoyed. The book was well written, and I do enjoy British slang. The main character Freya was well developed, but unfortunately, the other characters lacked the same level of development. The Apartment has a simple plotline, and unfortunately, some gaping holes left unfinished aspects as far as character development and, at times, the plotline was a bit unrealistic. A secondary narrator, from a different timeline, woven into the main plot, did make the story more interesting. It also helped to tie the story together a bit in the end.
"You turn back to the very beginning of Beatrice's journal, dated June 1920, and begin to read…"
Freya has found herself at a crossroads in her life, with her husband's death leaving her in a precarious financial situation. She must sell the house where she and her daughter, Skye, are now living. Freya has not had the best childhood growing up in the foster system, which has made her guarded with people. At a chance meeting in a coffee shop, a gentleman, Dr. Marsden, starts a conversation with Freya. The next thing we know, he is offering her an apartment to rent in the building he owns. The Apartment, Adder House, is located in a very posh area of London, and Freya can't believe her luck.
"When it comes to Adder House, I feel…I suppose the word is unworthy, in a way. And yet this has happened, it is real, and we're here."
So, Freya and Skye move into Adder House, and slowly strange things start happening. However, it's just not what is happening in this grand old house, it's the other people who live there that add an element of creepiness to this story.
"Everything I first loved about this place is being swamped by a rapidly growing sense of apprehension."
The Apartment left me wanting more character development, more tension, and more of that all-important ominous, eerie feeling that comes with a great psychological thriller. The ending was just "okay" and wrapped up a little too perfectly for me. I would recommend this book if you are looking for an easy to read light thriller.
* Please note the quotes in my review are subject to change once the book is published. *
** I kindly received this galley by way of NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer, and K.L. Slater. I was not contacted, asked, or required to leave a review. I received no compensation, financial or otherwise. I have voluntarily read this book, and this review is my honest opinion. **
I absolutely loved this book!
Freya and her daughter Skye feel like there luck is in when they are offered to live in Adder House run by Doctor Marsden. Some of Freya’s friends feel like something isn’t quite right which leaves a lingering doubt in the back of Freya’s mind; but as time goes on and Skye builds up a good bond with another of the residents Freya relaxes until she finds out some weird things which have happened in the house.
Doctor Marsden asks some strange requests like can he install cameras in her home which strengthens her doubts about the place.
One night everything comes to a head and a lot of the house secrets are revealed. I didn’t see some of these secrets coming at all and thought other characters were going to be more involved.
I was so happy for Freya and Skye at the end getting a somewhat happy ending after their ordeal in the house.
Freya Miller and her five-year-old daughter, Skye, meet Dr. Marsden in a coffee shop. Freya is going through a rough period in her life and needs a place to live. Dr. Marsden offers her an apartment in a very nice neighborhood at an unbelievably low price. After Freya moves in, she is very uncomfortable with some of the other residents in the apartment house named Adder House. She also has problems with Skye who has to change schools.
This was a fast read, but the creepiness factor increases throughout the book. I thought Freya should have been less trusting of everyone, but of course, there wouldn’t have been a story if she didn’t accept Dr. Marsden’s offer in the first place. There are lots of twists in the story, some expected others totally surprising. Would definitely read another book by K. L. Slater. Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy.
Freya seems to be that type of person who if it wasn't for bad luck she would have no luck at all. As she stops for a rare treat of a PSL at Starbucks she pa rues the message board with hopes of a cheap apartment for her and her daughter. Dr. Marsdan just happens to be there with a listing that sounds too good to be true. Is Freya's luck finally looking up?
This book is set in the neighborhood of Kinsington Palace and as someone who has never been there, the sites are well written to the point that you have no trouble visualizing. Which I found to be both fun and helpful to the story . I did feel that the back-story and the ending were a little rough to follow . The ending even felt disjointed and rushed once we got there. but, I liked the characters and would love to hear more from them in future books maybe.
I think this was overall a good read so give it a try.
So I guess when they say something is too good to be true....you might want to double or triple think about going for it!! Such an interesting read! The characters were complex & there was just enough confusion to keep you interested & wanting to know what exactly was going on. I didn’t end up guessing the full truth so that’s always nice for me, I love being surprised!! I would definitely recommend this one!!
The Apartment By K.L.Slater
Not a very intriguing story though it is quite fast-paced and a very easy read, which is great because I really did want it to end soon as the story did not really fascinate me as much as it made me marvel at the dumbness of people who like in all horror stories instead of screaming their head off and running out happen to get lost in their spooky homes.
The main protagonist Freya is in a tough place both personally as well as financially and just when she is close to becoming homeless a too-good-to-believe offer of a cheap as dirt but fit for kings apartment offer falls into her lap which she takes up.
But soon after weird stuff starts happening around her that makes her question her own sanity and the intentions of those around her.
The plot lacked a punch and the characters were weak too and not just in personality but in the head too.
Just a reminder when you feel spooked out about something it’s best to just not proceed with it.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
Pacey and well written. This author has something other writers don’t have and it’s hard to put your finger on it. I think the writer understands human nature and takes you on a journey. I like the author and look forward to the next book. This book was really enjoyable and you may find yourself sitting up into the night to finish it.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book right up until the end. The ending felt anticlimactic. The plot sounded intriguing and it’s just the sort of story I love to find. A mysterious creepy old house with mysterious creepy characters and a mother and child walking unsuspectingly into the mystery. I had hoped that the story would be more thrilling, that the house would be scarier, that the main character would contribute something towards saving herself or her child, and there would be subtle clues for the reader use to unravel the mystery themselves. Rather, as I was reading I felt like I was hoping for more thrilling events to begin at any moment, and they just didn’t come. Still, I enjoyed the read and I am glad I spent the time.
Sadly, this book was a did not finish for me. I struggled with getting into the storyline. While the plot sounds very interesting, it was just not a book I needed to read.
Thank you NetGalley and Publishers for an advanced reading copy.
I was really looking forward to reading this from the synopsis but I was really disappointed. To say I was underwhelmed by The Apartment would be an understatement!
It was a little bit creepy, but nothing like as scary as it could have been, and the tension and build up, could have been done a lot better!
Not much really happened until quite near the end of the book, and even then, I wasn't really shocked! I mean we knew from the start not to trust the other residents?!
The Apartment was an ok way to pass the time. I wasn’t bored but I did find the last part a bit difficult to swallow. The idea was good and parts of it were creepy; moving to a new flat away from people you know with a young child and then unexplained things begin to happen.
There were things I wanted answering such as how did Freya’s husband die, and so much was made of Skye’s unhappiness at school that I wanted to know at which school did she end up, and was she ok there.
Unfortunately, this psychological thriller doesn't deliver on the suspense. From the beginning meeting between the main character, Freya, and her new landlord, Dr. Marsden, you start to wonder if Freya is very naive or just dumb. An offer of moving into Adder House for extremely low rent would put any sane mother on a hunt to find out more before accepting - however Freya moves in within a week and feels grateful for it. No worry comes from accepting his invitation. Really?
As the story moves on, more and more strange things happen to Freya and her daughter, and I had a hard time deciding if this was a supernatural ghost story or thriller. It almost felt like the book couldn't pick one genre path and stick to it. The whole plot line feels implausible, and therefore it's hard to connect to Freya and become invested in the outcome of the story.
Speaking of the outcome, the ending is almost anti-climactic and I felt let down after finishing the book. The story does wrap-up, but you're left saying, "Well, that's IT?"
Unfortunately, I wouldn't recommend this one. (However, I have read other reader's reviews of The Apartment stating Ms. Slater's other works are better, however, I've never read any myself.)
When the protagonist Freya finds the ultimate rental deal everything looks great. Having suffered some setbacks in her life lately, she is financially stressed and worried about providing a stable atmosphere for her daughter Skye. After moving in, strange happenings makes her question her rental deal. Immediately, one thinks of Rosemary's Baby. Slater does an effective job with building the suspense and questioning what is real or imagined. However, the plot suffers from too much convenience with introduction of additional characters who seem to have it all figured out. And when Slater introduces a subplot that has happened years before, the reader is given too much information.
Thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for this electronic copy.
I received an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I would like to thank the author, publisher and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Overall, I enjoyed this book, but it felt very, very similar to a few other very popular books written over the past few years. The plot was so similar, but the writing wasn't quite there. The thrill factor was gone and there were too many plot lines, too many characters. It has potential, but in the end, I only feel comfortable rating it 2 stars - it was just ok, and I was happy to be done with it and cross it off my TBR.
2.5
This book started out like gang busters but fizzled as the story unraveled. The opening chapters were fantastic, with the author making an innocent meeting in a coffee shop thoroughly creepy and scary.
It made me want to put everything else I'm reading to the side to see what was going to happen next, but unfortunately that intense suspense filled opening slowly faded as things went along.
Too bad.
From a fantastic, suspense-filled start, this book didn’t keep me gripped and slowed down as I continued through it. From a innocent meeting, to the relationship between the two characters unraveling, this had the potential to be a real page turner. Instead it was an enjoyable way to spend a sunny afternoon in the garden. Good, but not great.
I felt like this was an easy read and while I had the overall plot figured out I did NOT see who the “bad guy” was until the end! Suspect everyone.
This was just ok to me.
I felt like it seemed a little to familiar and not a unique enough setting and story line. It wasn't as believable as I would have liked it to be. This was my first book by this author.
4.5 stars. Short, fast-paced and addictive.
I will admit that I went into this book with tempered expectations due to the mixed reviews, but I was immediately hooked. It had a spooky feel to it and I wasn't sure where it was headed. Freya and her daughter Skye move into a new apartment, which seem too good to be true. The landlord is a very generous doctor but he and has wife have a large creep factor. Some other residents seem quite odd as well. Unusual and inexplicable events begin to occurr that cause great stress for Freya and Skye.
I found this book highly entertaining. It was a very fast read, that kept my attention and I felt the conclusion lived up to the anticipation. Sometimes the journey is so good that the conclusion can't live up to it. That wasn't the case here.
The story is a bit far fetched, but not so crazy that the events are impossible (some other reviewers strongly disagree). It also had a psychological component that I found both fascinating and disturbing.
Thank you Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for this digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
i loved this book, set in modern times but with a nod to the past. It kept me hooked to the end. Characters believable and good plot,
If someone offers you a lovely apartment in an upmarket area at a price you can afford, there has to be a catch, right?
Freya is desperate to find somewhere for herself and her daughter to live after the breakdown of her marriage, and is looking at a noticeboard for accommodation when she receives the offer. When she visits, she believes it would be ideal for them both so agrees to move in. The landlord and his sister are welcoming to the point of interfering, and ask to insert a camera in her hallway, but Freya refuses. Only one of the other tenants seems friendly, and nobody will tell her about previous tenants . She then begins to find strange things happening around the apartment, then discovers that something bad happened to the person who lived there before her.
A few twists and turns along the way hold your interest, until the truth is revealed. A gripping read.
This was not the best thriller I have read. It was slow to start and confusing. Two stories being described which relate to each other but not dramatically. Most of the book felt like the introduction and I nearly closed halfway through. The material was solid but not that exciting.
The main character is really presented as naive, accepting the lottery she has won. It felt somewhat implausible to me and I would have really questioned immediately and fact checked. Still she plods on.
The book moves slowly to the point that seemed obvious from the start. The action starts at 90% through the book and then suddenly all is explained and it is over. Now I can go back to my glass of wine.
For me this plot did not work.
Ah this is tough. KL Slater is one of my favourite writers and that's perhaps why I'm been a bit harsh with this. If I'd read this and it was a debut I'd be reasonably hopeful for future books. Because this reads like a first novel and not a fantastic one either. And I've come to expect much more from this author. Whilst readable it almost feels like this was dashed off or even an early abandoned manuscript. The end was predictable and felt very rushed. I'll come back to her books for definite, she's written many fantastic books but this was just a bit underwhelming.
This is the perfect summertime read. Quick, interesting psychological suspense with some great characters.
I enjoyed this book and it definitely had heartstopping moments but it wasn't the best book I have read by the author. To be honest I found it a bit farfetched. Firstly I thought that it was unlikely that any woman would be as naive as Freya. It was a case of if it sounds too good to be true then that is the case. I thought the plot in general was a bit unbelievable so while I was eager to find out what on earth was going on it's not a book I'd read again.
Review posted to Amazon and Goodreads
“Michael can see she is no mood for chatting, but that’s OK, they almost never are.”
Interested yet?
Freya’s life is a bit of a mess, and she desperately needs a place to live with her five-year-old daughter. Enter Dr. Marsden and a seemingly coincidental encounter at a coffee shop. Just like that, all of Freya’s dreams are coming true. Dr. Marsden offers her an apartment in his building, an apartment with a rent that depends on what the tenant can afford.
If you think that sounds like perfectly-percolated perfection, you’d be wrong.
This encounter wasn’t so random. Freya has been studied and chosen, and she soon finds out what comes from spontaneous decisions, and it’s nothing good.
First, if you’ve read Riley Sager’s Lock Every Door, I can tell you that this book feels very similar to that one. Second, will this be a book that you’ll want to shout about from the rooftops? Probably not. Third, it is very much a book that will entertain you. It’s tense, suspenseful, and it has a sinister atmosphere and mood. It will give you those paranoid moments that we all enjoy while reading a thriller. Parts of it worked for me, and parts of it didn’t; however, I still enjoyed my time with it.
If you have some spare time on your hands, give it a try.
Really enjoyed reading The Appartment. A great physiological thriller that keeps you turning the page to see what happens next! Definitely reccomend !
Such an annoying MC! I liked the creepiness of the book, but kept getting distracted by how annoying Freya is. She couldn't make up her mind about anything, so wishy-washy. Her background as a foster kid was referenced many times, to indicate how tough and cynical she was, but I didn't see much of that in the story. I wanted to slap her and tell her to pay attention. The ending ties up into a nice little knot but the climax was very disappointing. I saw how few pages were left and thought, how can they possibly close this out without a cliffhanger? Lots of questions were answered but I didn't like how it was done at all. Sorry, I cannot recommend this book.
K.L. Slater's The Apartment is creepy-good! Freye and her daughter Skye have had a rough few months. An amazing opportunity to move into a fabulous apartment offers just the fresh start they need, until things get creepy. At first, little things seem off, but little things become bigger and more frightening, and soon Freye wonders if she and Skye can get out alive.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I hope you love The Apartment as much as I did.
I’m absolutely obsessed with psychological thrillers at the moment and had high hopes about this book from reading the blurb. I really, really wanted to like this book but I’m just not sure. I feel like it was rushed but also that it was too slow at the same time. It was pretty creepy at parts and the plot twist at the end was a little surprising but I feel that there could’ve been a lot more to this storyline.
I’m giving this book an average rating. There were parts of this book I liked - the characters. But, there were parts I didn’t like - the storyline. I was a little bored with it. I won’t go into the storyline with my thoughts. You can read what the book is about anywhere online. Thank you NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book. #netgalley
The Apartment by K L Slater...
I give this book 4.7 out of 5 stars 🌟....
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REVIEW: Freya is offered a fabulous apartment and as always with these thrillers it is way too good to be true! It starts with little things and she starts to feel uneasy as everybody seems a little strange that lives in the block (cue the eerie characters). Then it all turns very dark and sinister revealing something unpredictable! The story is written from two perspectives... Freya’s and a doctor’s journal entries from the past. I loved discovering this was based on a real life experiment and found it educational as well as creepy.
I do think there could have been more references to creepy goings on and a bit more detail about the doctors crazy experiments in the past as it did fall a bit flat at times.
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Altogether I found this a solid enjoyable, fast paced read and I did not see the ending turning out the way it did....always suspect everyone!
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Thank you to @netgalley, @amazonpublishing and @klslaterauthor for the chance to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review 💛
Just loved this book from the very first page. Fabulous storyline with believable characters who I really felt for. The ending was great and the story flowed perfectly. Easy reading and simply just a great book.
I had high hopes for this one as I've read great things about the author and this book gave me Lock Every Door (Riley Sager) vibes which I loved, but it was a let down to be honest. The writing was good but the plot and characters just didn't hold my interest and I found myself keen to finish this one only so that it was over and read.
Others have read and loved it so maybe it's just me and having read other similar books with better executed plots.Thanks to Net Galley, Amazon Publishing UK and K.L. Slater for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I finished “The Apartment” by K.L Slater rather quickly. It kept me engaged while reading but I have to say, I was left with some questions that were not answered. There were some plot holes and some confusing aspects as well. I did enjoy the the writing style.
This one kept me guessing. Great thriller and who dun-it! Another reason I liked this one was that the protagonist was not a stupid female. She had smarts and protected her daughter. Easy read with twists and turns.
K.L. Slater's latest, The Apartment is filled with suspense and tension as the apartment that seems to answer all of Freya's prayers quickly turns into a nightmare. This book was gripping from the very beginning, with Slater's immersive writing. I would have liked to see a bit more satisfying ending, but overall The Apartment is a fast reading and exciting thriller
I wanted to read The Apartment by K. L. Slater because the synopsis has Lock Every Door by Riley Sager vibes and I loved that book.
Unfortunetely, The Apartment didn't live up to my expectations.
There are inconsistencies all the way from the prologue. For example, it's stated that the previous tenants who lived in the apartment let the owner down, but a couple of paragraphs into the prologue it's said no one lived there before. I thought the owner was playing with the main character, but in the middle of the book I noticed that what the owner said was completely forgotten by the author. Another inconsistency is when a nurse writes in her diary about how what a doctor is doing to her son is not an experiment. But the doctor is applying the classic conditioning theory that was discovered by Pavlov decades earlier.
The main character describes herself as a thug woman that had a very difficult childhood and therefore as trust issues, but everything she does is doubt herself and trust everyone immediately. Also, she is so thug that she is super scared of houseflies.
Every thought, every word and every action the main character does is just stupid.
Overall, this book is a fast read, but it is very predictable, not creepy at all and filled with plotholes and 'what the hell' moments.
Amazon Publishing UK gifted me a digital copy of The Apartment in exchange for an honest review.
Not the right book for me. I'm tired of marital betrayals being used as a plot device. I've never liked it and with the world the way it is now, I especially don't like it. Unfortunately, it seems to used with increasing frequency so much so that it seems impossible to avoid! This normalization of such reprehensible behavior, the "everybody does it", the still a "good parent" garbage - no, not everybody does it, no NOT a good parent. Destroying your marriage and family is NOT good parenting, children need a strong foundation not upheavel. I just don't want to read or watch this kind of stuff. It's apparent popularity baffles me. I wonder is it popular or is it just what is being made available and thus we, the public at large have become number by it?
As you may gather from my rant, this is not my cup of tea. It's a shame because I may have been able to enjoy the story but for the unnecessary addition of Freya's husband's adultery. The story would still have had its impact without it.
Freya Miller is a single mother who after losing her husband is on the verge of losing her home too leaving her and her 5 year old daughter Skye homeless. A strange chance meeting with a Dr. Marsden in a coffee shop gives her fresh hope. He offers Freya an apartment for rent in a great neighborhood at an affordable price which all seems way too good to be true. Very soon Freya starts to experience some strange incidents which makes her think that things might not be as great as they appear.
The Apartment by K. L. Slater is a creepy psychological thriller that keeps you guessing till the very end . A fast paced book with interesting characters which I thoroughly enjoyed though the ending seemed a little rushed
I would like to thank Amazon Publishing UK & NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review.
OK but...something missing and rushed
I did quite enjoy this book and found that I wanted to keep reading and understand the "great mystery" but when nearing the end chapters I found the conclusion so rushed and just missing something unfortunately. It's a shame as I wanted to keep reading until this point.
Thanks to #NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to preview and review #TheApartment
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3380810198
To me this was definitely a page turner. The loss that the main character felt is understandable. She found a way to feel better and get some resolution which went awry. I can definitely relate! The main character worried she is loosing it and the apartment seems like a great solution. When things seem too good to be true they often are.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishing house and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.
I thought the premise of this book seem good, but it had a really hard time holding my attention. I feel like it took me way longer to read this book and it should have, I wanted to be interested in it but I don’t really think I liked it. This book was just not my cup of tea.
Thank you netgalley and publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters were relatable and I felt connected to the main character and what she was going through, especially having a young daughter myself. It's that hope that when things are bad something good will come along, but there's that saying, some things are too good to be true. It's an adage for a good reason and is definitely used in this book. It had a good creepy vibe and was enjoyable through the whole story, I don't recall there being any slow parts actually. I will definitely recommend this book to others. Well done!
This is the first book I've read by this author, and although I quite enjoyed it, I have to say I'm in two minds about this book. On one hand it's an interesting plot, and a gripping read in parts. But on the other hand the plot didn't quite work for me. In the end I couldn't see what the perpetrator hoped to gain, or why others involved simply went along with the person instead of taking firmer action to stop them in their tracks. Hmm.
Anyway, I'd be interested in reading more by this author and have therefore rounded my score up to 4 stars from 3.5.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
Disclaimer: I received this book from Netgally for review purposes.
I was looking forward for this one because it's been getting a lot of buzz and seemed like something that I'd be into. More or less, it worked for me! I enjoyed it.
Books like these have something about them that makes them such quick, light reads. You pick it up and before you know it you're somehow done.
It did leave a bit to be desired but overall I'm not mad at it. The main character Freya had a bit of naive stupidity to her that never really seemed to resolve itself. Her daughter was pretty cute though and one of the more realistic portrayals of children that I've read.
If you want a quick, good thriller I'd recommend this one. If you want something with a little more depth or substance I'd maybe skip this for something else.
The Apartment was an exciting and thrilling read. It was esoteric full of suspense that it was hard to put down. I enjoyed it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
I enjoyed this and have read several by this author. I had no idea of what would happen during the story and it was gripping -I seemed to finish it quickly and enjoyed it. An easy read and I would recommend .
I really liked the premise of this book, but I wish it had been even scarier! The main character and her daughter are very likeable, and the author does an excellent job describing them. So often in books, little kids are just used as comedy, but Skye was a very well developed character for only being five.
There is a saying that sometimes things are too good to be true. For Freya, a widowed mother, the offer of an apartment turns out to be just that. Freya we learn has had a hard life which should have made her stronger and smarter than she lets on. On the brink of losing her home, after her unfaithful husband's death, she meets a stranger in a coffe house who seems to answer her prayers. She and her young daughter are offered the chance to move into a new home (apartment). Once there we meet a strange cast of characters who may be responsible for creepy things happening. Or is Freya responsible? I was really drawn into the story but there were a lot of unresolved questions for me. What happened to Albert? What is up with Janine?
Why did they want custody of Skye? It seems that the story was not complete and needed a little more closure for me. On the upside, I need not have a clue if the real culprit until it was revealed to the main character.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for gifting me a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own
Really enjoyed this book. Steady paced, great characters, I was absorbed throughout. Will be reading more Slater books in the future!
This was a very strange book in terms of it's unbelievability and how it gripped me nevertheless! It tells the story about a single mother and her child who get the offer of a fabulous apartment at a bargain price. Obviously, there is a catch! There are a few strands running through this book in relation to human relationships, but it is a good read.
This boook started out well, but to be honest.... it was a bit far fetched. From the ‘cheap rent’ to the ‘easy way into school’ and even the ending.... unfortunately I just didn’t find it a believable story. I struggled to get through it!
Synopsis: Life takes a very dark turn in Freya’s life, mother of Skye, when she accepts a luring proposal of living in a very lavish, cozy Adder House from a Doctor who’s been waiting to get a chance to casually get Freya’s attention in a coffee shop.
A mother struggling to keep her financial and emotional situation in balance ends up being a lab rat of some elite, mysterious group of people who are literally “Too Good To Be True”.
Characters:
Freya: Broken, Slow-witted mother of a Skye
Skye: Bright, Intelligent daughter of Freya
Brenna & Viv: Friends of Freya
Weak Points:
*Main protagonist of the novel is very Slow-witted & Ignorant Character.
*First half failed to keep the reader interested to read more.
*Plot is not so strong as expected by the looks of name and cover.
Strong Points:
*Cover page and the title of novel attracts the reader to pick up the book.
*Writing style helped to keep the mystery nicely.
* Ending was well written.
Conclusion: Personally, it was my first mystery & thriller read and I would say I had a change of heart to read more books from this genre. Initially, I was very excited about this book but as I went on reading I didn’t feel very hooked, it was kind of slow-paced and I didn’t like Freya’s character at all. But I can say that all in all it was a good read, maybe I was expecting too much from the looks of book cover and the author.
Thank you #netgalley for providing me with the advanced copy of the #TheApartment in exchange for an honest review!!
This book was okay, but it took awhile for me to want to read it. The plot seemed a little far fetched and was hard to keep track of at times.
I honestly wanted to like this. The premise was intriguing. Unfortunately, it fell flat to me. The main character’s decisions were beyond non-sensical. I didn’t care much what happened to her.
The ending was mostly underwhelming. I want to thank Goodreads for the copy.
Freya is in a coffee shop. She is alone. she doesn't know what to do. She can no longer afford to keep her home. If she cannot afford to keep her home, Her biggest concern is her five year old daughter Skye. Enter Dr. Marsden!
A chance meeting at a coffee shop brings relief to Freya in the form of Adder House and an apartment within that is affordable based on her income. How could this have happened. How blessed she is. She hopes her daughter will be as thrilled as she is.
As time moves on, Freya begins to wonder if all is too good to be true. The neighbors seem out of place, a bit strange. Toys and furniture are being moved, no rhyme or reason, and not by Freya nor her daughter Skye. Freya is hearing strange sounds and voices coming from the other side of Skye's bedroom wall. No one lives in the apartment on the other side of Skye's bedroom wall. What is happening? Is Freya going mad? Meanwhile, Skye is dealing with her own troubling circumstances. Something isn't quite right at Adder House. Its reputation proceeds it. Will Freya and Skye make it out alive? I guess you will have to read the book.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really wanted to love this, but for whatever reason it and I just didn't mesh well together. I am going to assume it's related to the characterization, but I am not sure.
This book took me a few tries to get interested. It did have a few interesting plot twists and an unbelievable ending. The writing style was very easy to follow and lead with intrigue throughout.
Definitely makes you stop and wonder who you can really trust in your circle of people!! Thank you to Netgalley for the reading and reviewing opportunity
The Apartment
WOW!! What an incredibly creepy ride.
I absolutely LOVED this book.
First book by this author & I will 100% be riding more.
The entire book feels so densely creepy with an impending sense of doom...it made the hairs on my arms stand up!
Freya is a great character...you understand what she is thinking even when you don't agree with her...and that just shows how well written she is!
The flashbacks are very confusing at first but still so interesting that I very much enjoyed them as the story progressed.
The author also very subtly but powerfully shines a light on mental health & I was very moved by her understanding of the stigma that can be attached to this (my amazing Mum worked in mental health for many years).
I cannot say much more because I don't want to give anything away but it's an amazing read...clever, powerful & intense. Loved it!
Thanks to the author, publisher & Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
An easy read. The author kept you guessing for most of the book, only to be let down in the end. It seemed that much thought was given to the plots build up only to find that it was not leading anywhere, resulting in an abrupt ending.
Another good read from KL Slater. A well thought out plot and interesting characters. While it was a bit predictable for me as a reader, it was well written and entirely enjoyable. The only complaint I have is the ending. I felt as it could have been stronger. I still would recommend this read.
The Apartment was suspenseful and dark.
I appreciated the twists and social commentary.
Sadly the ending itself didn't fully convince me and there were some obvious plot holes.
Nevertheless this psychological thriller was a great, quick page turner !
Another great thriller from K.L. Slater. I really enjoyed the story and found that I couldn’t put it down. I wish that the ending was a little meatier but all in all I really enjoyed it, I just wish it wasn’t wrapped up so quickly.
Thank You for the opportunity to read this book!
I loved the opening prologue, which offered enough intrigue to make me read through the night!
I found this to be a great grippy thriller. It started out with great pace and a few hints to where it could be leading. I love books where you get that hint of stalker-ish behaviour from the start and after the prologue I knew it would be a promising read.
From the first chapter you’re pulled into a web of lies. The various characters are all suspicious and I did guess who the antagonist was but this didn’t spoil the story at all.
I love KL Slater’s style of writing so knew it would only get better with plenty of lines of suspicion.
A great thriller with twists that were unique compared to what I’ve read before.
I think this book was a decent story.
I found myself keen to learn more as the story progressed.
There were elements of psychological and psychiatric experiments which I am very interested in as a topic.
However, I do feel as though the action didn't really begin until 50% of the way through.
Also I feel as though the ending was a little bit underwhelming as other than random exits there was no hint as to what the ending could potentially be, I feel as though more could have been done to really amp up the tension and give him or coercive explanation to the story.
That being said it was an easy read, quite fun, I'm very glad I read it... It was just only okay.
Freya, and her daughter Skye are in need of a place to live, after her husband leaves her for another woman and then dies. She cannot afford her home any longer and the insurance money will not last long either. At a coffee shop one morning, it is kismet when she runs into a man who is getting ready to put up flyers about an apartment he is trying to rent at Adder house in an upscale neighborhood. When she lets him know that she is in the market for an apartment, he offers to show her the one he has available, and when she explains she cannot afford the rest, he lets her know that Adder house is different from other apartment buildings, as it is more important to them to have the right people than have the right amount of money. Despite how strange this all sounds to Freya, she is excited to see the apartment, and cannot believe her luck once she does see it. So, despite reservations expressed by her friends, and her own questions about the situation, she and Skye find themselves in a new beautiful apartment. However.... this apartment may not be as good as it seems....
I like K.L Slater's books, but this one didn't sit as well for me. The character of Freya feels like she is all over the place - strong in moments and a complete wimp in other places. The only person in the building, who seems at all human is Lily, her elderly neighbor who no one else seems to want to give the time of day to. The rest of the characters you meet all seem stilted and either overly friendly, or not friendly enough. Skye is a likeable kid, but it is hard not to question what is going on with her, as the story begins to unfold, and she is struggling in a bunch of different ways. While the book was quite readable and I wanted to learn what happens in the end, I was not fully invested in the book and certainly not invested in the lives of these characters. An easy read if you want a mystery/thriller to take on the beach, but not one of my most recommended books of the year.
The formula of this book is basic i would say, nothing that we haven't seen.. for some reason there a lot of books in this direction this day's.
It was Okay for me, not my favourite but still I enjoyed this book, it was fast reading and mostly held my attention. I liked the creepy setting and the atmosphere of Adder House Apartments.
But in the end i were left with a lot unanswered questions.
Thank You to NetGalley, Thomas and Mercer and Kim Slater for the digital ARC, I received in exchange for a honest review!
A uniquely chilling story as KL Slater puts a couple of spins on the old "if it seems to good to be true" offer. Freya is forced to make decisions quickly which she will live to regret, maybe. The Apartment starts winding the suspense up on the first day in their new home, but Freya really has no place else for her daughter so she's committed to figuring out what is going on. An original spin on an often used back story that will have you turning back the pages to see where you missed the clues. Great read!!
The Apartment was an intriguing story that mostly held my attention. It was a fast, enjoyable read that I finished in a few sittings. I still have a few unanswered questions, but overall I enjoyed this book.
To begin with I couldn’t put this book down however once I’d got over half way through it started to get a little bit tiresome. What could have been a thrilling end just resulted in a very strange situation. Some of it was far fetched and parts of the story such as getting rid of hundreds of flies in a few seconds by opening a window is a bit daft. I liked the main character and her little girl and it did have some potential however the last half let it down for me.
I found this book to be very exciting. Immediately, I realized that KL Slater had a winner with The Apartment. I read with pins and needles…trying to guess what exactly was going on here…knowing that it probably was not going to be anything positive. All of the characters were described very well, I'd know them if I saw them on the street. Freya is a typical single mom...trying to do what's best for her child in a troubled world and trying to trust people. The only thing that messed with me was Audrey's paramour...who was he and was there more of a side story there than just a method to describe the family? I really enjoyed this first book by KL Slater that I have read, and am looking forward to going to her webpage and seeing what else she has written.
What a completely engrossing book! I loved every second of this one. Following Freya and her daughter as they move into a once in a lifetime apartment, we find things aren’t necessarily what they seem.
The unexpected discoveries keep you begging for more!
I received a free ARC copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a story about Freya and her daughter Skye, who after a string of bad things happening to them, find themselves being given the opportunity of a lifetime. To move to a better neighborhood and live in a big house turned into apartments at a price Freya can afford. There are some weird vibes at first amongst the other tenants but once the story gets going I wasn't sure what was going on. Was it a stalker? Something supernatural? One of the other tenants? The chatty construction worker next door? Was Freya losing her mind and having a mental breakdown? This story had me guessing until the end. And then end had me saying, "wait, what"!?
Another great read by KL Slater!
Strange, creepy and somewhat ludicrous but entertaining as hell! This author knows how to write and she pulls me in right away. The descriptions and characters are great, pacing was spot on.
This was a quick read. There aren’t a lot of wasted words. I had a blast looking up all they psychology (experiments) listed and their impacts. Their are some unanswered questions at the end but not too bothered. I can’t wait for the next ride by Slater.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and Amazon Publishing UK for a copy in exchange for a review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it kept me hooked throughout. Was so excited when I was accepted to read this arc and it did not disappoint one bit, full of twists and turns it kept me gripped and I finished it in two sittings.
K L Slater has become one of my favourite authors, and I recommend her work to everyone I can.
Thank you for allowing me to read in return for an honest review
5 stars - perfect summer binge read!
This was an entertaining and quick read. I enjoyed it and was interested the whole time in knowing what was going on. I did think the ending was a little abrupt and I guessed the ending but that wasn't necessarily a bad thing to me. Thank you netgalley for the copy!
The potential for a great psychological thriller is in this story. Unfortunately, the end felt anticlimactic and there were unusual leaps to explain certain happenings.
It is an easy read that toys with becoming quite good. Every time I was tempted to get interested and "lured" into the book, the story would take a slow, drawn-out turn and I lost interest. Interesting enough to finish reading but I was glad it wasn't any longer.
When Freya searches a bulletin board for apartment listing, one seemingly falls into her lap from a kind stranger there at just the right time. She and her daughter move into the almost too-good to be true apartment after the death of her estranged husband. But things might feel off at the new apartment and there are mysteries unfolding each day.
I'd like to thank the publishers via NetGalley for this free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely devoured this book. I was hooked right from the get go! Something seems odd at Adder House, something that Freya can't quite put her finger on, but she is so absorbed in trying to start a new life with her daughter, that she doesn't add up all the oddities and realize that she should get out. The creepiness of this book drew me in. The writing was fast paced and the chapters short and dangling with suspense at the end, which I love in a good thriller. And as a mother, the fear and sick realization that dawns on Freya once she figures out what is going on, really resonated with me. I felt ill once I read what the real reason was the she'd been offered the apartment. A brilliant, quick read!
Freya and her daughter desperately need a place to live. So when Dr Marsden approaches her in a coffee shop and reveals her has a flat to rent, and that he’ll only charge what rent she can afford, Freya jumps at the opportunity. But Adder house has its secrets, and soon Freya is wondering if she’s made a terrible mistake...
I so wanted to like this one, but I just couldn’t get into it! The sections of the book that focused on Freya’s relationship with her daughter were really strong, and I feel like maybe the domestic/family drama side of things is more where Slater’s strengths as an author lie. Unfortunately, the thriller side of things was a bit underwhelming. It just wasn’t believable that Freya would act in the way she did, constantly wondering if something suspicious was going on while it was literally being screamed in her face that yes, something suspicious is going on!
There were parts of this book that were really enjoyable, but I just found the whole thing a bit underwhelming, particularly the ending which was just too far-fetched. There were also quite a few subplots introduced that were then dropped without being fully resolved. Sadly not one I would be able to recommend.
Disclaimer - I was provided with an advance reading copy of this book by NetGalley. This has not affected my review in any way, and all opinions are my own.
Don't know what to say about this one had me going for a loop. First of all it was a steady read it kept my attention when I was able to pick up and read, but the MC (an adult mind you and a mother. I'll get back to that later) didn't make smart decisions. I just don't know how one can be persuaded to change their mind so quickly of concerns by having one little talk with someone with a soothing voice and you forget all logic. I didn't like the fact that she thinks her own DAUGHTER is acting out but she's got evidence that things aren't quite right hence my earlier statement of being a mom if your child isn't in the habit of acting a certain way but starts, really find out why. I know alot of people had issues with the ending, I didn't actually, it ended alright to me. I wish some of the characters had more screen time? Page time? I felt like one in particular I wished would have been introduced early on in the book. I enjoyed this read I just wished the mc would have acted on her instincts a little bit sooner but than we wouldn't have gotten to the bottom of it now would we!
I really liked this book. It kept me thinking and as soon as I thought I had things figured out, a the author presented a twist and I learned I was wrong. Thank you for letting me read this book. I will read more from K.L. Slater.
DNF:
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book. I'm sorry that I won't be able to do that.
I started this book and became bored with it rather quick. I checked reviews to see if others struggled or if it was just a me thing. Comes to find out it wasn't me. I saw that Freya was not a very good heroine, in fact many called her stupid. I can't stand a weak heroine who never grows. I figure it was better to walk away than leave a bad review for a book I know will annoy the living day lights out of me.
This was pretty meh for me also, but I did finish it so it’s not like it was completely terrible. It’s a thriller about a recently divorced mom who moves into a new fancy and very exclusive apartment with her daughter where things just seem too good to be true – and they are. It reminded me a little bit of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager (which I also didn’t like). For both I liked the idea but not so much the execution. I guess it also had Rosemary’s Baby vibes but not as creepy and minus all the horror/devil worship stuff.
The Apartment by K. L. Slayer had a promising start and somewhat unique premise, but as the story went on, all that was lost. It felt like I was reading an outline of a novel. There were brief details told about the characters, so you never really felt connected to them. The same was true of the story, there was nothing to tie things together or make you really care about what was happening.
I have never read any other books by K. L. Slater, so I would definitely be willing to try another one in the future as this one really had potential. I would suggest that you pass on this one, as there are too many fantastic books for you to choose!
This one really kept my interest! Definitely didn’t see the ending!
Read this is in a day and a half! Thanks NetGalley!
This book could have been so much more if the author didn't take so long to get to the point. Hundreds of pages of building suspense then wrapping up the ending in a quick group of pages was a tad disappointing.
I loved this book. It took me a while to sit down and read it, but when I did, I flew trough it. It's such an amazing book. in my opinion. I was engaged with the characters the entire time. I wanted to know what was going on, and what would happen and why. I should have seen the ending coming in a way, but I think it has a good build up where I kept on guessing what was going on in the book. I loved Skye though. She was my favourite character all around. She is so sweet, and I loved her relationship with Freya. I would recommend this book.
I don't have much to say about this book because it was just so...boring.
I was ready to get swept away by some ridiculous thriller, because sometimes that's exactly the kind of book I need. But from the start, this book was just so boring.
I've read other K.L. Slater books and have enjoyed those, this one can be skipped though!
A big thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for the ARC and wanting my honest opinion!
This had me on the edge of my seat and the butterflies in my stomach lol. Nice short chapters, characters were easy to suss out and it had a good flow to it. The whole way through I was feeling nervous for what lay ahead but could never guess what was coming. The ending had me a little scared. Loved it. When Freya needs to find a new home for her and her daughter Skye, the perfect house becomes available but is it too good to be true? Adder House has some secrets and is Freya the next victim
What an thrilling book. I absolutely loved the plot, it was fast paced and just wonderfully executed. One of the best and engaging story that kept hooked up right from the start.
**This book was an ARC given to me in exchange for an honest review**
I had high hopes for "The Apartment," but was ultimately let down. When left in a difficult situation, a magical solution appears in the lap of Freya Miller, thanks to a "chance" encounter with a seemingly innocuous older man--a swanky apartment whose rent adjusts for even the poorest of people? Are those alarm bells I hear or a serious case of tinnitus? Once she and her 5-year-old daughter move in, the alarms only get louder, yet she blissfully ignores them all. It was frustrating and unrealistic. It also felt familiar and reminded me of a similar story called Sliver by Ira Levin (later a movie with the same name).
This book really kept me reading, it reminded me of Riley Sagar's 'Lock Every Door' which I read earlier this year. I found is very moreish and devoured it in a day or two, however, I can help but feel it had quite an abrupt ending, which I was a bit disappointed by. To me it was obvious who the bad guy was going to be, but perhaps thats the similarities. Thanks for letting me read - I still give the book 3 stars because despite the weaker ending it kept me reading and was pacey.
I found this to be an enjoyable and suspenseful read. The story was fast paced and we encounter twists and turns along the way to further keep the reader involved. Even though the story follows a somewhat predictable path, arriving there is suspenseful in the end. The author manages to keep one's attention focused and stimulated throughout, which is key.
I received an invite to request this book, not knowing anything about this author and I was enormously surprised and not disappointed in the least. K.L. Slater has written several books and I'm always searching out for new authors.
I want to thank Net Galley for this advance copy and this is my honest opinion.
This book was a rollercoaster of ups and downs. It brought emotion and nail biting thriller together in a story that will have you wondering who is the crazy one. I do wish the reveal at the end had come a bit earlier to give more resolution and explanation. Overall it was a good book that I would give 3.75 stars
Huge fan of K L Slater, this book did not disappoint! Kept me gripped throughout and on the edge of my seat
I enjoyed this book, although I felt it was a bit contrived.
When something appears to good to be true - it always is.
And I felt that this was the premise of this book.
I've been desperate - but that doesn't make it the right choice.
I guess the premise of this book held so much promise for me - it just didn't pan out
I really enjoyed this psychological thriller! Tons of twists and turns, a few I predicted, but most I did not. I find that the more thrillers you read, you start to be able to figure it all out early on. Much to my surprise I didn’t with this one!
I haven't read anything by this author before but I'm now looking to buy more!
I was gripped within the first few pages. This book really is a good psychological thriller that had me holding my breath through each chapter.
I do love a good story based around a home that has something 'strange' about it. This doesn't let you down and has a really good plot twist.
I really enjoyed this story and will read more from this author.
They say if it sounds to good to be true I probably is! This story takes lots of twists and turns almost none are expected
How much would you allow your landlord to be involved,vex in your life. What would you do if you noticed blatant violations of your privacy? How do you protect yourself and your daughter without appearing crazy. Who can you tell?
Another light read by this author. I enjoyed it every much and would recommend it to a friend
When the comfort of home isn't so comfortable! I couldn't put down this book. The suspense builds as Freya and her daughter move into a new home that seems to good to be true. The ending is a bit abrupt and wraps up too quickly but overall it was a great read. I look forward to reading more from K. L. Slater.
This was my first novel by this author and I enjoyed it very much!
I was completely invested in the characters and was rooting for the main character Freya, who became a single mom due to her husbands affair then untimely death!
I liked how we the reader were given a look at her daily routine and how we came to question some of the shady tenants who shared the estate she rented with her daughter !
I admit that once the story was given the connections from the tenants and Freya I was a little disappointed ! It felt like the ending was rushed and the bow from which it was tied was loose!
Not my favourite ending but still quite an enjoyable ride as I like the world of ghosts !
What can I write about a KL Slater book that hasn't been said already! She's a master at her craft, keeping us readers glued till the very end, right from the word go! One of my favourite authors!
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer!***
I am horribly behind on my NetGalley and author requests, so I am on a mission to get caught up before the end of summer. So expect to see my disclaimer a lot in the next few months.
But on to The Apartment. This was a pretty average thriller, as they go. I can’t say it was great. Neither can I say it was bad. It kept my attention and it was entertaining. I ended up staying up late into the night again because I wanted to see how it ended. I already had a good idea of how it was going to end, but I was interested enough to want to see it through.
The premise of this book is a good one. The offer that’s “too good to be true” is a common theme in thrillers. Naturally it gives all readers those “don’t go into the basement, you idiot!!” kind of vibes. I am okay with that. I don’t mind feeling like a character is making an obviously stupid decision. It wouldn’t be very thrilling if they didn’t, right?
Freya is one of those characters. From the beginning I was screaming at her not to move into that house. I didn’t need anything suspicious to happen, it’s a thriller so I know it’s going to go badly. I do feel that she didn’t entirely respond the way a normal person would early on. That can be problematic because it pulls me out of the story. For example, when your new landlord takes it upon themselves to enroll your child into school. You don’t just be internally mad for a minute and then go to lunch. That’s the reaction of a not-normal person. Eventually though Freya pulled it together and was rightly angry and suspicious.
I felt like more time needed to be spent on this book. The ending was a really good one. Predictable, but good. And it was executed really well. But it stretched reality a little too much for me. All of this took place in less than a week. In order to accomplish what the villain was supposedly trying to accomplish there needed to be much more time invested. Unless Freya was unstable to begin with. But the author took great pains to tell me that she was a strong, capable woman. She dealt with a lot in her life and bounced back. So this needed more time to make me believe that she would lose it that way.
Overall I enjoyed it and it was a pretty good thriller. I wish it was longer and a bit more developed though.
This was a quick-paced psychological thriller with several twists and turns! While I suspected the ending, I never anticipated the full extent of what was happening.
I am giving this a 3.5 rounded to a 4. Struggling single mom Freya thinks she’s been gifted something too good to be true when a seemingly compassionate doctor approaches her in a coffee shop and offers her a room in an elite house that has been modified into an apartment building. He promises her the world. She can live in this fancy apartment in a nice part of town for only what she can afford to pay. On a streak of bad luck this sounds like a dream to Freya. She is eager to move in, and initially dismisses the odd small things that are off about her new living situation. Everything from an overly involved landlord to objects seeming to move around or disappear out of her apartment. When Freya learns that her apartment was previously occupied by a woman who tragically died, Freya decides she needs to get to the bottom of the story with this new home before it becomes too late to get out. Only problem is no one seems to believe her, and she starts to look like a crazy person who is becoming unhinged when placed under too much stress. She can never imagine the horror of the truth behind this seemingly perfect house. This story does a good job of setting that creepy mood early on. That is the strength of the story. The market is saturated with psychological thrillers and this one broods well, but I wasn’t particularly shocked or awed by the finale. The ending ties up nicely and closes up all the storylines. This is a fast read, took me about a day and half to read it, so it is worth the time. Review posted to Goodreads, LibraryThing, Litsy, Facebook, and Amazon.
I love slater. Incredible suspense author. I felt like I was in the flat! When kids are involved I’m usually turned off but this book kept me hooked. I’ll definitely pick up your next book!
I did not finish. I just honestly could not get into the book, I tried several times. It may be me, so if the blurb sounds good, give it a try.
I loved this book I did not see that ending coming another great book from this author I have read quite a few of her books and so far there has not been a bad one thank you for the opportunity to read it
The Apartment by K.L. Slater caught my interest right away. It kept me engrossed throughout the entire book. The characters are dynamic and interesting. It kept me guessing to the end, and I was surprised,!
The apartment was an exciting thriller and a fun read! Very fast passed and intriguing it was enjoyable to the end. I will check out more books from this author!
A recently widowed young mother, essentially homeless, is offered a newly refurbished flat in an up-market converted house in Kensington, for a ridiculously low price, by a stranger she meets in a cafe. Rather than scream and run a mile she accepts. Her friends, educated and worldly, think it’s a bit odd but make no serious attempt to dissuade her. The house is occupied by peculiar people, with strange attitudes but, even when things, centered around her small daughter’s bedroom, start to go bump in the night, she stays on trying to discover the fate of the person who used to live in the apartment. The reader is aware that there is a link to some early behavioural studies, but this doesn’t particularly help the plot. The style is quite naive which might be a deliberate ploy to reinforce the naivety of the heroine and make her actions and reactions more credible.
I really enjoy a quick read, with great pacing, and an amazing page turner of a book under the psychological thriller genre. I enjoyed the characters and the creepy vibe reminiscent of Riley Sager's Lock Every Door.
I enjoyed reading the suspenseful story with a very simple plot that creeped me out, which I enjoyed a lot. I recommend this one for a quick entertaining read.
This one lost me quite a bit. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop (so to speak) and when it did, I was left with a lackluster feeling. While I thought the story line was more refreshing than your standard psychological thriller, the plot itself was lacking. Entertaining but not sure I would read it again nor have it in the top of my recommendation list.
I have always enjoyed Slater books and couldn’t pass on the opportunity to read another title by her. I enjoyed the suspense created by Freya’s move to Adder House. The old mysterious house owners, kind creepy neighbours and secrecy around the house and its previous occupants had me at the edge of my seat. I knew something bad would happen but at the same time, I was so nervous for Freya and her daughter.
While I enjoyed the mystery and do like a good, fast-pace, I thought this one was a bit too farfetched or maybe it moved too fast for me to understand some of the MCs actions. I honestly didn’t understand why Freya was just too trusting from quickly moving to the apartment to accepting invitations and sharing personal details so easily. I know its fiction but I found myself unable to accept her naivety. The ending was also underwhelming for me hence affecting my overall feeling about the book.
I love Slater’s books and other reviewers seem to have enjoyed this one much more than I did so it could just be that I wasn’t in the right mood when I started this one.
the story line was good the characters great as usual. it was all it was promised to be in a story. I loved the characters and how the story just moved right along. Good read. would recommend
Surprisingly, my first book by this author. Really professionally written and kept you guessing throughout. Will certainly be reading more by this author.
Thank you NetGalley for my complimentary copy in return for my honest review.
The Apartment is a psychological thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end. It reminded me of another popular book where a single woman is offered an amazing apartment but it feels like it’s too good to be true. Strange and scary things start happening and you wonder if she’ll make it out alive. The book really held my interest but the end felt kind of rushed. It had an interesting premise but it felt like a rough draft. I gave it 2.5/5 stars
Science experiments gone wrong! Wasn’t quite sure what to expect but it all came together nicely, good read which kept me turning the pages - finished in 2 days, would recommend!
Thank you to the publisher and to Netgalley for the advance copy of this book!
I loved this book. The atmosphere was everything I wanted it to be. A bit creepy and I loved the plot and the twist in the book. I loved the characters in this story. The Apartment is one book I will not forget. It gave me all the feels I was looking for when I started reading this. It reminded me a lot of "Lock Every Door' By Riley Sager. I highly recommend this author. I loved the writing. I will be looking for other works in the future from this author.
It was an easy, but slow paced suspense that kept me turning the pages and wanting more. It was such an all encompassing story that had me completely invested - I totally wanted to yell at Freya the entire time to GET OUT! Keeping me in the story and trying to figure it all out... I loved it and would highly recommend this for a quick beach-read type of pick.
The Apartment grabbed my attention immediately. If it sounds too good to be true, is it? Couldn’t hard work and good luck make good things happen? This is what Freya questions with throughout the book. Don’t good things happen to good people? Freya is good so good things should happen to her.. But can she really trust the kindness of strangers? The Apartment tests all of these theories for Freya Miller who just wants a better life for her and her daughter. This psychological thriller with subtle tones and twists will draw you in.
This book seemingly has all the right elements- a woman in need, an opportunity for her and her daughter to be happy and live rent free in an amazing historic home, and of course, odd neighbors!
There are definitely elements of suspense but it was mostly predictable and I had a suspect from the beginning.
The back and forth psychiatric notes were very odd and I could have done without all of those included plus the back and forth grandparent anecdotes.
This was a barely 2 stars book for me.
I was soo excited about this book. This was my first K.L Slater book so I was not familiar with her style and her ability to write thrillers. I don't think this book was horrible, or bad.. but I just did not find it "Thrilling". There are many elements that do not make sense or were never explained and for that, I can't give it a high score. Plus.. I'm sure many thriller-fans would be able to guess the "twist" very early on.
This book was just okay for me. The main character, Freya, was not consistent with her attitude and actions., and the exposition of the plot was very long and drawn out. The best parts of this book were the very beginning and the very end. I trudged through the middle and made it through to the end, but it was hard to enjoy when so much of the book consisted of Freya waiting and worrying about what she would do to improve her situation.
I did enjoy the story itself- it was very interesting and well thought-out, but the book was much too long in my opinion.
Compelling. I loved the creepiness of Adder House Apartments and was engaged from the start. All is not as it seems.
Many thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.
The Apartment by K. L. Slater
It was very enjoyable read with an exciting premise. Fast paced but the ending was a bit predictable.
3.5 stars
Adder House... is it too good to be true? Or the perfect answer to Freya's fraught prayers?
The Apartment was an absolute page turner and I had a hard time putting it down once the mystery started unfolding. What was happening? Where did the flies go? Was Freya crazy? Who the heck else LIVES there?
However there were parts that just dragged on or could have been wrapped up quicker so I feel it isn't quite a 5 star book.
Overall it's a good quick read and should keep any mystery or KL Slater fan happy!
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for an eARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Freya is going through a tragic time at the start of this story - her husband left her and then passed away, causing Freya and her 5-year-old daughter Skye to sell the family home. Where will they live and how will they get by? An opportunity comes along with she meets the charming Dr. Marsden in a coffee shop - he offers her a beautiful apartment in one of London's most exclusive areas for a fraction of the rent he could get for it. Mother and daughter soon move into Adder House and are welcomed with open arms by the other tenants.
But then Freya starts to notice strange things happening in the new apartment…Strange sounds, furniture moving around, voices - Freya starts to feel uneasy and second guesses her decision to move to Adder House. It feels like their every move is being monitored....
This was a fast-paced thrill ride and I really enjoyed it! I felt like I couldn't wait to turn the page to find out what was going to happen.
Thanks to K.L. Slater, Audible and NetGalley for the ARC.
Thank you, NetGalley for an opportunity to read this book in exchange of an honest review.
What was first that drove to me to read this book was its cover. I am an avid thriller reader and immediately attracted to the books that have doors on their covers. While I can not say that this is my new book of the year I still enjoyed the read. This book was entertaining with incorporated psychology studies which is another plus in my opinion. Good read overall.
I have read every one of this author's books and have enjoyed them all however this one from the outset was unbelievable.
I enjoy K.L. Slater for a fast, easy, psychological read. Unfortunately, I ended up being very disappointed in the outcome. I enjoyed most of the book leading up to the conclusion,, but the motivation behind the antagonists' actions were weak and unbelievable.
Freya Miller has seen some massive ups and downs in her life. She is struggling with her husband's demise and is looking a place to stay when a random man walks up to her in a Starbucks and offers her an apartment on rent. The offer is just too good to be true for a property in one of the nicest pockets of London.
Freya shifts in to the apartment and the story begins to unravel . Her life and that of her child seems to be taken over by the landlords. Do they have any sinister motives in getting Freya into their house or is she just losing her head and reading too much in to their offers of help.
Unfortunately the book did not work very well for me.
This book was amazing! Full of twists which I did not see coming! Highly recommend this book! Thankyou for letting me review this xx
A bit slow at the start but it soon picked up speed and kept me engaged. A story with a great twist ending that will surprise readers of Ms. Slater.
Was unable to finish this one. I just couldn’t get into it. I got to almost half way and I was still meh. I really wanted to like it became the premise was good, but I didn’t care for the execution.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this book, I have previously enjoyed other books by KL Slater, unfortunately I found this one to be just ok, I struggled to get into it and found that it didn’t really hold my interest. It wouldn’t put me off reading another book by this author.
Really enjoyed this book. Perhaps a bit of a slow burner in the middle & then felt it was all over a bit quick at the end.
A really great read that kept me hooked and made me suspicious of everyone. I always find myself getting frustrated with characters who don't run for the hills at the first sign something is wrong but, despite this, I did have a soft spot for Freya and thought she was very likeable.
4 stars
What would you do if you needed to start over. Needed somewhere to live, and someone offered you an offer that seemed too good to be true - $500 a month to live in an absolutely gorgeous apartment mansion. Everything seems creepy from the start. Is it too good to be true? Super creepy quick read. Had me guessing until the end. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Apartment by K L Slater - “Freya Miller needs a miracle. In the fallout of her husband’s betrayal, she’s about to lose her family home, and with it the security she craves for her five-year-old daughter, Skye. Adrift and alone, she’s on the verge of despair until a chance meeting with the charismatic Dr Marsden changes everything. He’s seeking a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in a fashionable area of London.
Adder House sounds too good to be true… But Freya really can’t afford to be cynical, and Dr Marsden is adamant she and Skye will be a perfect fit with the other residents.
But Adder House has secrets. Even behind a locked front door, Freya feels as if she’s being watched: objects moving, unfamiliar smells, the blinking light of a concealed camera… and it’s not long before she begins to suspect that her dream home is hiding a nightmarish reality.”
This was a good psychological thriller and I enjoyed this book very much. It had interesting characters with many twists and turns. There was a surprise ending!! I recommend this book. Thank you to Net Galley for an advanced reader’s copy.
I loved this book! The perfect pacing of suspense led to an intriguing end. The main character, Freya, a mom who moves into an apartment when she is most vulnerable, was very relatable. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to see how it would end!
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for my copy.
I really enjoyed this psychological thriller that kept me guessing the whole time. From the time I started until the end I was immersed into their lives and the story. I couldn’t put it down and plan on reading more of this authors books.
I've enjoyed a few of K.L. Slater's previous books, and The Apartment certainly intrigued me, and kept me guessing until the end. I would say ultimately I felt the conclusion was a little confusing for me, and I wasn't completely sure I understood particular motivations but it was enjoyable enough!
When I first read this book's description, I knew that this book would be right up my alley. I love psychological thrillers, and I had not heard of K.L. Slater before. I love to find new authors.
The book centers around a mother, Freya, and her daughter Skye. They have been going through a challenging time, and when Dr. Marsden offers Freya the apartment of her dreams that fits in her budget, Freya believes that this can be the fresh start that both she and her daughter need.
As with all good psychological thrillers, it becomes clear that this is not going to be the fresh start Freya needed. From mysterious sounds, creepy neighbors, and items moved, Freya is unsure whether Adder House is the problem or she is losing her mind.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book until the very end. It was a slow build, and I was continually trying to keep one step ahead only to realize I was a few steps behind. I enjoyed the narrator switch to understand some of the puzzle pieces, but when it finally came to understand the full situation, I felt a bit let down. Do not get me wrong, the ending had a proper wrap-up, but it was such a slow build for, what seemed like an abrupt ending. The story felt finished, rushed but finished, but still left me with some lingering questions and not the right kind.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The ending didn't completely work for me, but was entertaining and kept me guessing. Recommend for fans of lighter psychological thrillers and fans of this author.
The Apartment by K.L. Slater
Pub Date 04/28/20
Psychological thriller
This is the first book I've read of hers. It was a quick and easy read, kept you on the edge of your seat, just a bit predictable. But I did thoroughly enjoy the book. I will definitely read more of her books.
If it seems to good to be true, it probably is!
Freya and her daughter Skye have to find a new place to live. While Freya is at the local coffee shop looking at the boards to find an apartment to rent. She meets a man who was there tacking up a new rental to the board. They get to talking and he offers to show her the apartment. Things get weird from here, strange these start happening.
I wanted to yell at her to get out....lol
⭐⭐⭐⭐ thank you to the publisher and to #netgalley for the free book.
K.L Slater is new to my auto-buy authors. I love how wicked this book is and at the same time, lovely and powerful. The creepy atmospheric of this book is definitely what I really love. The ending was pleasing and satisfying. The overall performance ot this book is amazing and I can't wait to read more on K.L's psychological thriller world.
What a strange book. Be careful what you wish for - it might come with more than you bargain for. When Freya finds the perfect apartment, at that perfect price, if all seems to good to be true, and it might just be - this is a creepy tale in which a series of incidents make the protagonist question whether in accepting to move into Adder House, she might have put herself and her daughter in jeopardy.
An engaging read, albeit one with a few loose threads.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for the ARC.
Gripping, disturbing, nail biting good! Freya and her daughter Skye move into the supposed perfect apartment.....but things aren’t always as they seem. Devoured within 24 hours and loved it!
I didn't love this one. I was a little disappointed. I usually love K.L. Slater, but this one just didn't do it for me. Her writing style is fantastic, but this story was just a bit...meh...definitely not my favorite.
Not one of the best books I have read from this author but I did not hate it. The story had some really good moments and some left me guessing but I was left feeling confused and did not really understand the ending.
It's not a book I would read again but still very thankful for being able to read the book in advance and there will be people who will love this book just not me I would give it near four stars if I could
Freya and her daughter, Skye, are struggling financially following the desertion and subsequent death of Freya’s husband and she must sell the family home and look for somewhere to rent. Unexpectedly, Freya is thrown a life line when she is offered an apartment in a fashionable part of London at a peppercorn rent. Although suspicious, Freya feels that she must accept the offer. She was right to be suspicious as events unfold which threaten her sanity and Skye’s wellbeing. This is a chilling tale, engagingly told although, arguably, the denouement struggles to live up to its promise.
When a stranger offers to a room in an amazing apartment building for a fraction of the rental price would you accept? Well that’s exactly what Skyes mum did.
At first I thought this book was going to be a real psychological thriller but it failed to deliver. Never really getting off the ground before the predictable ending. Freya is recently windowed yet we never discover how her husband died which I found odd. An easy read with chapters which keep you turning the pages. Worth a read but not a gripping thriller but a simmering mind games novel.
Predictable in parts and also chilling.
I was surprised by the antagonist in the book.
Its a theme that has been covered in part before but i found very interesting and engaging.
Found the main characters very likeable, so when the strange manipulation they start to encounter you feel their trauma, it definitely gives you chills at times. I did identify the main culprit but wasn’t 100% sure so kept my interest peaked, overall a very interesting subject
Fresh out of a divorce, Freya needs a win. That’s why when she finds out about a very affordable flat in London, she and her daughter move in, without hesitation.
When Freya starts to notice things moving, doors shutting, and starts to feel an eerie presence in the apartment, she soon finds out that this is a more sinister place than she thought.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It’s somewhat similar to Riley Sager’s “lock every door,” and I loved that book as well. If you like creepy, slow psychological thrillers, this book is for you!
Freya, mother to Skye, has a brief amount of time to find a new place to live that she can afford. She meets an older man in a cafe who offers to let her stay at the Adder House for a small amount of rent. Soon afterwards, Freya starts becoming suspicious of certain events taking place within their apartment at Adder House as well as with the people of the house.
This book has twists and turns with mysteries to be discovered frequently. Freya discovers details of a former occupant of the Adder House who also had a daughter and met an untimely death. With the help of a handyman she is able to discover her daughter has been spied on and it sends chills through her spine.
While I enjoyed the mysteries and twists in the book, it was not what I would call a psych thriller. A mystery, yes, but not a thriller.
The premise of the book left me with the creeps! The relationships in the book were quite odd. It left me wanting for a better outcome!
Freya has lost her husband twice, once to a another woman and again when he died. Now Freya is a single mom with a 5 yr old daughter Skye and they are about to lose their home. Freya is given the opportunity of a life time when her and Skye are invited to move into Addler House for a fraction of what she should be paying. It is a beautiful home in an affluent neighborhood. Hello, warning bells!! In what universe would that happen! Strange things start to happen in the home and it makes her feel like she is going crazy! Just not my cup of tea! I felt that the storylines were cringeworthy and the ending was no better!
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I really enjoyed this book! The story was face paced enough to want to keep on reading and well written. I would recommend this title as it kept me guessing and I wanted to keep reading. K L Slater writes great stories, and this one didn’t disappoint.
Mark and Steph have been victims of a home invasion in their home. As a way to try and wash away some of the lingering stress this event has caused, they attempt to vacation in a stranger’s apartment in Paris. But some things can’t be washed away.
Mark is a 47 year old who needs a high five to the face with a chair. Steph is the most reasonable character I’ve come across in some time. Unfortunately their love can’t withstand Mark and his slow mental decline.
I’ll give this a thumbs up and a half. I appreciate the tense creeping towards the end. But wanted to punch Mark in the face
This was really creepy but also not all that surprising to me. I enjoyed the writing as I do with all o K.L Slater's books but I wish there was...just a bit more? I don't know what was missing, but the ending felt rushed. I wanted more in the final third of the book in particular.
A relatively quick and easy read that has some twists and suspense but doesn't quite grip in the way others I've read of late.
Per the publisher’s blurb;
It’s an opportunity she can’t refuse. The woman before her tried…
Freya Miller needs a miracle. In the fallout of her husband’s betrayal, she’s about to lose her family home, and with it the security she craves for her five-year-old daughter, Skye. Adrift and alone, she’s on the verge of despair until a chance meeting with the charismatic Dr. Marsden changes everything. He’s seeking a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in a fashionable area of London.
My first thought as I began to read this was, “Rosemary’s Baby ripoff” Creepy old house with neighbors you hardly ever see, an overbearing landlord who always knows your business and seems to practically stalk you...sounded so familiar and I admit parts of it were. I honestly think it's very hard not to be influenced by the classic horror stories, and have some of that influence seep into the story. But Ms. Slater managed to pull the story from the very familiar into an area that was different and even without the spawn of Satan trope, was scary in a way that make-believe monsters could never achieve.
This was very well written and kept me reading till the end...which had a nice little twist you should enjoy.
I received this book free from Amazon Publishing UK, and Netgalley for my honest, unbiased review
Thanks to Netgalley , Thomas and Mercer publishing, and K.L. Slater for this ARC? I love a good psychological thriller. This one was good but it seem to take too long to get to the actual thriller part of the story. What was gonna happen to these characters. The ending was a little bit of a surprise even though I thought that this is going to turn somewhere in the story., this good character is going to turn to bad., which she did.
It was interesting when they had the connection of all the characters at the end. But I think this book could’ve been a little better and a little more thrilling have you gotten to the point maybe a little faster. For that reason 3 1/2 stars
I really loved this book. I thought I had it all figured out until the very end. There were parts of the book that were a little unrealistic. Some of the issues that happened with her daughter that I know most mothers would have handled differently. I have to say it was very suspenseful though and I did enjoy it!
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read this book and review it.
Honestly, I didn’t enjoy this book unfortunately. I really enjoyed the prologue but then found the main character to be a bit wet and damsely. The twist was unexpected but also a bit too far-fetched for my liking.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
Freya Miller and her daughter Skye are give the opportunity they needed at a time they most needed it, but it comes with a price.
I wasn't very drawn in to this book as I couldn't image how anyone could be so gullible and fail to ask any questions about a very important life decision. Freya did the research and asked the questions but only after moving in to the "to good to be true apartment".
I also couldn't understand withholding information from her kid, even if she is only 5. If she asks a question, give her a straight answer or you look bad later. You're not helping by deflecting, you just prolonging her anxiety.
The characters weren't likable, I just couldn't get in to this book.
I haven't read any books by this author before, but I've always heard good things so I thought I'd give it a go. It was an okay psychological thriller, but not much more for me I'm afraid.
Thank you Net Galley & Amazon Publishing UK for this book in exchange for an honest review.
*
In a book like this; the time old adage of 'If it seems too good to be true, it is"
I mean DING DING DING!! The warning bells were going off like crazy. Each chapter had me yelling at Freya to just RUN. Clearly she didn't'; otherwise we wouldn't have this tantalizing tale to read.
*
Freya is a new-ish single mother to 5 year old Skye. How she became single made me feel sad, upset, and slightly vindicated. He husband left her for what was at one point a friend to Freya; and then he died. Not really sure how he died, but one can have their assumptions. Well either way this helped put Freya in the perfect mind frame to be needing a fresh start somewhere. Especially a beautifully sought after apartment somewhere she knew she couldn't afford. A kindly looking man in a coffee shop offers Freya the prayer she didn't know she was asking. Minimum rent, all because she is the perfect fit for their building. 'The Adder House.'
Shortly after moving in odd occurrences start to happen. Freya is becoming more paranoid, and quite frankly unsure if she can trust her memory or anyone she knows how. As the story unravels what you think you know will be a bit different. To say the Adder house made you lose trust in everyone; including yourself would be an understatement.
What length would you go to help your child transition in life after losing a parent? What length would you go to protect the child? Skye is always at the front of Freya's mind, that is until she thinks she's starting to lose it.
*
This was a decent fast-paced psychological thriller. I'd been in a bit of a reading slump and I needed something like this to pull me out of it.
The chapters were short and left you asking questions so I found myself flying through this book, finishing it in one day. There were a few unanswered questions I had at the end leaving me with a couple of lingering thoughts, but overall the book was good. Some seemed a tad predictable but there were enough surprises to hold my interests as well.
I'd recommend this for someone who wants to read something in the vein of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager as this have me very similar vibes!
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this copy of The Apartment by K. L. Slater in exchange for an honest review. It published April 28, 2020
This is a decent psychological thriller that has short chapters and makes it easy to keep reading. Not necessarily the strongest story, but kept me interested from start to finish. Worth reading if you’re interested in non-gory thrillers and want an easier read.
Decent plot and storyline.
Lagging dialogue.
All together a little on the boring side for my taste, but I do believe an older demographic may thoroughly enjoy.
What a book! I love reading K.L. Slater books and have been looking forward to reading this for some time. It did not dissapoint. From start to finish I couldn't put it down. Great read!
Great story about Freya, a young mother who is looking for a new place to live with her five year old daughter, Skye. The offer of a lovely apartment in a very nice area of London, at a discounted price is too-good-to-be-true. What we find in The Apartment, is a wonderful group of characters that live in the Adder House: some nice, some odd and some down right creepy. Then strange things start happening. Reminded me a bit of Rosemary's Baby without all the evil going on. Lots of surprises in this book that kept me turning the pages. Great read. Thanks NetGalley.
The beginning of the novel was enjoyable. It hooked the reader and made you want to keep reading. Then you begin to realize if something sounds to good it probably is. There were so many plot holes left at the end. And the ending so unbelievable. Had really good premise just didn’t deliver. Thank you NetGalley for the arc.
Freya Miller has a five-year-old daughter, Skye, and they need security. Betrayed by her husband and losing her home is just about all she can bear. When she gets what seems like the perfect opportunity she jumps at it, without any clue as to what might happen to her and Skye.
She spies a flat that is easily affordable, Adder House, and ignores her nagging intuition moves in with Skye. Things are eerie from the very start. After all, it is pretty much her only chance at a place to live. The alternative is unthinkable. Imagine her fer and apprehension rising when things move or she has that sickening feeling that she is being watched. And so much more. A living nightmare has begun and Freya just might not have a way out.
This thrilling book by K. L. Slater loosely reminded me of Riley Sager's Lock Every Door. Just like in Sager's book, the building Freya lives in is mysterious, and the other tenants in the building are more than a bit creepy. Also, the protagonist in the other book found herself in grave danger and so did Freya in this book. The other similarity is that the apartment buildings are named. Sager's book it is The Bartholomew, and this book it is The Adder House.
Because I could not stop thinking of the other book I had a lot of difficulty when it came to writing this review, even though I read the other book well over a year ago! I must have put this review aside a half dozen times, and that is quite rare for me not to be able to compose a comprehensive review.
Nonetheless, Slater's book stands on its own merits. The requisite suspense, drama and danger are at every turn for Freya. There are the expected twists and turns and a decent conclusion. Having read other books by Slater, I have to say this one was my least favorite. Perhaps it is because the other book is stuck in my brain. Not sure.
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Really well written with some great, interesting characters. The ending fizzled out a little for me but overall a great read
I received this as an ARC copy. I didn’t love it or hate it, it was okay. It’s a fast read. I didn’t care for any of the characters. The book had no climax for me. As they say, if it’s too good to be true, it is!
I received this copy from NetGalley. The description drew me in. The story focused on a single mother and daughter looking for a new home and life, after the betrayal of her husband. She was given the amazing opportunity to live in a nice flat in a good part of town. Everything seemed too good to be true, until she started to notice something odd about her landlords. The story caught me from the beginning to end. I would have like the ending to go another way.With all the suspense I did feel there was something missing. Overall I did enjoy this book. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read it!
Sadly to say I didnt care for this one. The ending wasnt exciting which I was hoping it to be. I was waiting through the whole story for something exciting to happen but nothing ever did. I pushed my way through it though and kept on reading. I guess I let my self get my hopes up for this one! Some may like it, who knows. Thanks for the opportunity to read this though!
Thank you to #NetGalley for providing #TheApartment to read for an honest review.
I haven't yet had the pleasure to read this author but have heard great things about the high quality of her thrillers. My anticipation for a great thriller was not well met, however. The premise of the story was solid and does make for a great creative story. However, hardly anything happened throughout the book. A few mildly, creepy things here and there, but a lot of time was spent on fluffy events that didn't contribute to the story. I felt like I was watching a Lifetime movie - OK but just not that creepy, scary or thrilling.
Based on other comments I've heard regarding this author, I will try to pick up another of her books at again to see if I can find that spark that others seem to have for this author.
This is the first K.L Slater book I have read, even though i thought I had read a few. So heres the thing did I love the apartment no did i hate it no.
The story begins with the second narrator who has seemed out Freya in a coffee shop offering her to move into an apartment at Adder House at a price that suits her. When Freya encounters Dr Marsdrn 'by chance' it all seems to good to be true as Freya is looking for somewhere to live after selling her home after the death of her husband. When Freya and her daughter skye move into the building things start to get a little wierd. Her neighbours all seem strange, except the lovely old lady Lily Brockley. Freya starts seeing things and hearing things. She is certain are true but she sounds mad. She asks her self near the begin of the novel if something sounds to good to be true it probably is. Never a truer phrase has beec spoken.
So hers the thing Freya is an idiot! I really can't find a more intellectual way to put it. As the lead character telling her story it all just sounds ridiculous. This is whwre I loose complete sympathy with the main character because I doubt many people would of first of all even moved in and secondarily if they did they wouldn't of stayed. To begin with I'm like that is a bit creepy but yeah could she be imagining things. But i didn't emphasis with Freys for very long.
Shes weak hung up on her cheating dead husband. She says she's putting Skye firsrt but it doesn't rsad that way. Her whole demeanor just annoyed me.
The secondary history storyline we get snippets of throughout the book are extremely interesting. Its clearly leading us to understand what is happening to freya honesfly I would of liked more!
Look the book is okay hasn't gripped me. The characters are just all unbelievable and that's what I struggled the most eith. I powered through and finished it. Even the omg plot twist wasn't as crazy as I would of like. I must admit though I found the concept interesting, maybe my interest in psychology.
This book falls under psychological thriller. If you are new to the genre I would recommend yo brek you in. Also if you like pheobe Morgan books this you might enjoy. This is my absolute favourite genre and I must say there qas something lacking. Its an average book which could be improved definately but is still a good read
Mark seems quite nice but again a fleeting rile in the story and yet he seems important i would of liked more there. I just don't know how i feel about thia book as jts sucha quick easy read but its lacking something to keep you gripped m, esp if physiological thrillers are your book of choice.
I give this 2.5 stars like i said very average enjoyable read but slow to the climax, i felt we went into the epilogue and i still needed more from the end scenes.
Thanks netgalley and Thomas and Mercer publishers for the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are mine and mine alone
Sadly I didn't enjoy this book. There were so many plot holes, and so many questions left unanswered. Unfortunately can't recommend
I love the writing style of the author, her easy reading, fast paced twists and turns keep you guessing. I couldn't wait to get to the end to find out.
I felt a real disconnect with this book for some reason. I just couldn’t get away with the main character and felt zero empathy for her. Some of the dialogue fell flat for me as well, like some of the things the characters were saying to one another just felt unrealistic - example Freya’s Mams friend being horrible because they were moving school and hadn’t told them. I didn’t like the flashbacks to Albert and I just wasn’t gripped by the book at all. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and Thomas and Mercer for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Freya accepts a too good to be true offer of an inexplicably affordable luxurious apartment in a desperate moment, exposing herself and her daughter to nefarious landlords. Slater leads the reader on a curving, dipping trail of hidden agendas and friendly facades, reminding us that we are never truly alone and nothing is ever truly private. Fans of Catherine Steadman and T.M. Logan will love the suspense and wicked reveal. I highly recommend this thriller. I was fortunate to receive a copy from the publisher Thomas & Mercer through NetGalley.
I found this novel to be a little lacklustre compared to what I was hoping for. The characters were hard to empathize with (mainly Freya) and the plot was hard to follow. I felt as if I was waiting for the other shoe to drop throughout the entire book and was left with more questions than answers at the end.
If something is too good to be true…you know the rest. That relates exactly to the premise of this book. This wasn’t bad, but it just wasn't very thrilling either. The idea of this novel really wasn’t anything new and I was able to guess what was going to happen. I mean it isn’t the worst book I’ve read but it certainly isn’t the greatest either.
★★★★ 3.5 stars (rounded up)
As an avid fan of Kim Slater, I was naturally excited to read THE APARTMENT and if I were expecting another domestic thriller then I'd be disappointed because this book is a step away from Kim's usual style. It is creepy, atmospheric and tense throughout centred on an illustrious apartment in the affluent and highly expensive area of Kensington in London.
If something seems too good to true then it probably is...
Freya Miller grew up in the foster care system, not knowing or caring who her parents were. To say she has trust issues would be an understatement. Particularly after her husband of a decade leaves her for her best friend. So when he decides to go for full custody of their 5 year old daughter Skye, citing that she needs a more stable environment, Freya is livid but is spared the ordeal when he tragically dies before he can. Now she has to sell the only house Skye knows and find somewhere else to live fast.
So when she is approached by an older man in a coffee shop who then offers her an apartment in his building as a way out of her means, and at a price she is able to afford, Freya hesitates before accepting his kind offer. For me, that would set off alarm bells! I mean, no one would offer something that is so obviously too good to be true without a great big whopping catch attached to it. That's just how life is. No one does anything for nothing. For a start, she knows nothing about this man, Dr Marsden. Is he even a doctor? She googled him but found nothing at all relating to him. Another alarm bell. The fact that the apartment is in Kensington, and a stone's throw away from the home of Prince William and his family, where even the air that you breathe is out of her budget would be yet another red flag. Why would anyone offer her an apartment in such an affluent area for next to nothing? Because she and her daughter are "the right kind of people"? What does that even mean?
Even so, Freya and Skye move in to Adder House (that name alone has me thinking of snakes!) the following weekend with the help of her friends Brenna and Viv. Of course Dr and Mrs Marsden are on hand to help as well and don't seem at all pleased that her friends are there to assist. In fact, the strange elderly couple like to involve themselves in their tenants' lives just a little too much. And there is something a little off about the Dr and Audrey Marsden...a touch of the Addams family about them.
Freya and Skye are no sooner settled when strange things begin to happen. Noises in the walls. Furniture being moved. A camera suddenly installed. Voices from another room. Screams. Buzzing. Scraping. Soon Freya starts to feel trapped as she worries about her mental health and begins to feel paranoid. Is she being gaslighted? Or is there something more sinister hidden in the walls of Adder House?
When she hears whispers of another woman and her daughter having lived there before them and a tragedy that claimed the life of the young mother, Freya starts to wonder what happened to them. But Dr Marsden claims that no one else has lived in their apartment and that they are the first. Is he telling the truth or is he hiding a more sinister truth? One thing is for sure...behind the doors of Adder House NOTHING is as it seems.
And then just as we're getting comfortable, there is a tale from the past. One hundred years ago in 1920, the story of young mother Beatrice and her 11 month old baby son Douglas unfolds in several alternating chapters through a journal and several old recordings from a Professor John Watson detailing the stages of an experiment I found to be, whilst simplistic, somewhat cruel and barbaric. In fact, I was horrified. These chapters added an even more eerie feel to the already creepy story.
As with Kim's books, THE APARTMENT is told in Freya's first person narrative so we get to feel her fear and paranoia building as if it were the reader housed in that creepy apartment. One thing I have discovered is that while they are generally called "flats" in the UK, in the more affluent areas they are referred to as "apartments" for that more upscale feel. And Adder House was definitely that, situated in the extremely wealthy area of Kensington.
With a nice steady pace, THE APARTMENT is an enjoyable quick read I devoured in a matter of hours. The chilling aspect within the pages has you turning them at the speed of light to uncover the truth of what is truly going on.
I love Kim's books and THE APARTMENT is no different, although I must admit the ending left me feeling a little cheated, I guess you could say. It wasn't at all what I expected. Although having said that, I don't know what I expected. I guess a conclusion where everything neatly fell into place as with Kim's other books. The tension was extremely palpable throughout but when it came to the climatic build at the end, I admit to wondering the purpose of it all. Don't get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was an incredibly engaging read. It's just that ending....was a little unbelievable.
Still, THE APARTMENT is a creepy thriller that will appeal to a wide audience. Just don't expect the usual Kim Slater style...because this isn't it.
I would like to thank #KLSlater, #NetGalley and #AmazonPublishingUK for an ARC of #TheApartment in exchange for an honest review.
This psychological thriller was an easy read. I enjoy reading books by this author as I like the style of writing, unfortunately this wasn’t the best book that I’ve read by this author there wasn’t enough suspense throughout, although it still keeps you guessing until the end. I will continue to keep my eye out for more in the future.
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a honest review.
This author is one of my favourites and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to read and review this book whilst I did enjoy this book I felt it wasn't up to the standard of her usual psychological thrillers. It was a good read but not as much suspense as her previous books. 3.5 stars
Great setting populated by intriguing characters... except, unfortunately, the one at the center of the story. As much as I enjoyed that aspect, as well as the dips into history that I genuinely find interesting, I felt frustrated that Freya never seemed quite smart enough to stay ahead of the reader.
This is a scary, all too realistic story. ALthough the heroine seems to make some very dumb mistakes, the
story continues to engage the reader. Reads like a movie in the making.
The Apartment is a thrilling example of something that seems too good to be true turning out to in fact be too good to be true. When Freya Miller is invited to live at Adder House - luxury apartments in a fashionable part of town by a stranger she happens to encounter at a coffee shop - she packs up her daughter and moves in, hoping to escape the recent tragic events she's experienced. Instead, as expected, nothing goes as she hopes, and increasingly unsettling thing begin happening. This book does require a hefty suspension of belief, but if you're willing to do so, it's a really good thriller and very fun to read. I definitely enjoyed it.
*thank you to Netgalley, the fabulously amazingly good author K. L. Slater and Amazon Publishing UK for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
4 stars.
Well...WELL! That was one heck of a read! It made my skin crawl many times which was accompanied by me screaming "get out of there NOW!"
While this book wasn't my top number one favourite from this author, as with basically all of K.L. Slater's books, the ending was not something I had seen coming and I had not even slightly been disappointed. I feel this is an author who's works I can securely lean on, which is a really hard level for authors to get a reader to, but I am comfortable in saying I'm there. I know I am pick up one of her books and not be disappointed.
The story starts off quite quickly and draws you in, which I appreciated. You know the saying, something about how if it seems too good to be true then it probably is. Well...yah! This story proves it.
I'll definitely be not accepting an offers such as the main character got in this book. One amazing apartment for dirt cheap price..?! Yeah girl....turn around and walk away now while you can.
There is one part in this story that still makes me shudder to think about. If that had happened to me...ohh, I'd be looking online quick smart for a new place. I really want to relate this scene to a famous movie but that will give too much away. I guess you will just have to read it because it's definitely worth it!
"Too good to be true" should be the tagline to this book. When an opportunity arises for Freya to move into an apartment in a really nice part of town and in a building that looks like she could never afford it, she takes it. She's trying to provide a good life for her child so of course she will take anything she can that will help her do just that. Of course it is too good to be true. Weird things start happening and Freya believes they aren't safe in this apartment.
Psychological thrillers have become a favorite genre of mine and this book fits the bill (mostly). Some things are obvious as you read the book but there were a few things that kept me guessing until the end. I have a psychology minor so I was very familiar with the Little Albert Experiment and was pleasantly surprised how that was worked into this book.
I'm a huge fan of this author and this one did not disappoint! I had no idea where the story was going and was so surprised by the ending. Definitely had me on the edge of my seat for most of the story! Great read.
I was a bit disappointed with this book to be honest, it was well written with an interesting plot line I think the premise behind it was a little hard to accept. The idea that a single mother would accept this proposition, without serious alarm bells going off, is a little hard to comprehend. There needed to be more jeopardy to the situation to create more of the story.
I have not read any other books by this author but I would not let my disappointment with this plot to prevent me reading them.
The saying if it's too good to be true, then it probably is, is one that has cautioned us from making some bad choices.
In K.L. Slater's book, The Apartment, perhaps Freya should have thought of that before she says yes to a complete stranger with an offer too good to be true.
We first meet 30-something, Freya, mother to fiver year old Skye. Although separated at the time of his death, Freya, now a widow, is unable to afford the family home where she and Skye reside. But just as things look bleak for Freya, a chance encounter at a local Starbucks givers her the opportunity of a lifetime.
Freya meets Dr. Marsden, who tells her of a vacancy in his apartment building, the prestigious Adder House. If you think that sounds too good to be true, wit theres more. How could Freya afford an apartment in the fabulous Adder house in one of the most upscale neighborhoods? Dr. Marsden tells her not to worry, pay what you can afford.
At this point in the story, while the neon flashing light in everyone's mind says "Run, Run very fast and don't look back," Freya thanks Dr. Marsden for the generous off and moves in with Skye.
Soon after moving in, things don't seem right and there are alot of unexplained and creepy occurrences.
Freya can't quite put her finger on it but she becomes suspicious that the once welcoming residents harbor secrets and know more about the previous residents than they are telling.
There are strange noises, creeks and knocks that has Freya unnerved. She must discover the secrets of Adder house before something awful happens to herself and Skye.
K.L. Slater's, The Apartment, picks up speed after Freya moves in the apartment with several twists and turns but the reader must suspend any disbelief in the beginning in order to believe the creepy, suspenseful ending.
The book was a fast-read and I am giving it 3.5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. #NetGalley #TheApartment
Omg I just loved The Apartment I was hooked from the first few pages. If you are looking to rent a property and the price seems too good to be true, maybe there’s a reason for that. Another great book by K L Slater that had me thinking about it long after I had finished reading it with great twists and turns throughout.
After losing her home due to her husband’s betrayal, Freya Miller is desperately in search for a home for herself and her 5-year-old daughter, Skye. Then she meets Dr. Marsden who is seeking a new tenant for a shockingly affordable flat in a great area of London. Freya settles in, but before long she begins to feel something is wrong with the house - she feels as if she’s being watched, objects moving, unfamiliar smells, blinking light of a concealed camera.
The protagonist, Freya, really tested my patience. There were red herrings everywhere that something sinister is going on. Even the way Freya got the house was so obviously foolish. I just cannot stand it when a protagonist is written as so dumb. I felt like screaming at her to not be so foolish!! Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher, Amazon Publishing, for providing me with an ARC of this book.
At first I was a bit sceptical in reading this novel. I couldn't get into the story, but then after the first couple of chapters I couldn't put the book down. Glad I read it.
Freya Miller and her young daughter are in a bad situation. She’s on the brink of losing her home but a chance meeting leads to her being offered a n apartment in a trendy part of London at a ridiculously low rent.!
If something seems too good to be true then it probably is . This is very well written and and cleverly plotted as the secrets of the apartment are gradually revealed. No hesitation in recommending this but one word of warning, I have read something before called “The Girl Before “ which has a plot line not dissimilar to this.
This one is really hard to review. I was absolutely rapt by the story, and couldn't stop reading. I ended up buying the audiobook just so I didn't have to stop while I was doing things.
It seemed somewhat predictable though... but totally still worth the time to read it.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a copy of the ARC.
Fast read and a VERY creepy psychological thriller!! I felt like haunted house music should start playing every time you came near the Adder House!! Can you hear it?? Well, you will when you read this page-turner with a cast of satisfyingly evil villains and a sympathetic (if somewhat naive) heroine. I enjoyed it and definitely recommend it!!
3.5 Stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this ebook.
This was a slow burn but an enjoyable one! I did like the story but seemed a tiny bit far fetched - but it is fiction after all! There were definitely eerie and creepy vibes to this book and I had a few ‘WTF! That’s crazy!’ moments!
Freya and her daughter are offered a to good to be true offer and take it. They move into the Adder House were behing every locked door lies a secret. Freya and her daughter feel like they’re being watched but cannot figure out what is happening! Everyone living at the Adder House is a little creepy and shady. It’s not long after she moves in that she realizes this too good to be true opportunity to live in a beautiful apartment is actually a nightmare.
This book gives new meaning to the term if it's too good to be true, it probably is! I loved how the story unfolded with the glimpse into the experiment happening on little Dougie but felt that the ending was a bit rushed. I also felt it was a bit odd that certain people that were involved in the new experiment were not charged at the end! (trying not to give too much away here)
I enjoyed this book. It was suspenseful and a real page turner. The story was well written and I was anxious to see what was going to happen next. The only downfall I had with the book was I feel if there were unanswered questions that I would have liked to have seen answered in the story.
It's worth taking a look. It's a very good storyline that pulls you in from the beginning. Curiosity makes you want to read more.
I was a little disappointed with this one. Although the story kept my interest, I was not thrilled with the story. I was hoping for a more psychological thriller from Slater, but I think this one fell a little short. I liked the idea of a psychology experiment, but I don't think it was executed in a way where the reader was truly invested. Overall, this was just an okay read for me.
*Thank you to @netgalley and @amazonpublishing for the copy in exchange for an honest review.*
This psychological thriller really started strong for me - and I found myself questioning every character and their motive in the story. Given a once in a life time offer - Freya is given the option of living in Adler for for really good price - something that a single mother could afford.
The Apartment by K. L. Slater was a brilliant book and especially on Audio. I loved it. I love Kim's books they just get better and better and I always look forward reading her books. I was hooked after I started to listen to this book on audio and I highly recommend it.
Big thank you to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Amazing read so many twist and turns it is in my area London addler house is a strange place but you don't really know why untill the end and all in the name of science
I had heard mixed reviews on this one. Some said it felt very similar to Riley Sager's Lock Every Door, but I have not read that one and found myself really able to enjoy this read!
It was a quick-paced thriller. I loved the secrets and the questions and found it compelling from start to finish. My only criticism is that I wished some of the loose ends would have resolved themselves better at the end.
Overall, this was not my favorite thriller but was definitely still enjoyable!
Thank you, Netgalley, for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion!
I have to admit that I was a bit discouraged after reading some of the reviews of this book. So, to be honest, I went into this book with mixed emotions. While there were some plot holes as some reviewers noted and the MC made me want to bang my forehead against the wall multiple times, I have to say that it was an entertaining read. If you are looking for a book that gives you mystery and entertainment and don't mind a bit of head shaking, this book is definitely for you. If naive MCs drive you bonkers, stay away from this book!
There have been a lot of similar books around during the last year where the main character come across an amazing home to rent at very little cost just when their life has become totally out of control and a financial nightmare. I did think that Freya played into their hands and should have found a lot of sinister incidents very weird and worrying despite her eagerness to stay in the lavish apartment. It all did seem quite far fetched, I'm not sure I would have been taken in quite so quickly even if I was desperate, I would have been far more suspicious but then there would have been no story. At times this was a good book, but as I said, for some reason this is a theme that has been explored a few times in different settings.
Freya and her daughter, Skye, are selling their home and having to start over. Freya is trying to figure out what to do when an amazing apartment is offered to her by a stranger in a coffee shop, at a rent she can’t pass up. At first everything seems to be going great, but then things change. Is Freya overreacting and letting her insecurities get the best of her or is there something going on at Adder House? If you liked Riley Sanger’s Lock Every Door this will be another enjoyable read.
Thank you NetGalley, K.L. Slater and Thomas & Mercer for this edition and hearing my honest review. Looking forward to reading more with you
#partner
I enjoyed this read.... it was engaging and kept me pulled in. I look forward to reading more of this author's and appreciate the opportunity to review this one!
Really enjoyed this book. I was engrossed throughout.
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for an arc to review.
The synopsis sounded deliciously creepy, but it just wasn’t the book for me. I had a hard time connecting with the characters past my initial reaction to wanting to read the book. I was all for the if it’s too good to be true it IS to make this a thriller I fell for, but I just felt like the overall plot line had too many holes for me to really enjoy it.
I’m a big fan of thrillers so looked forward to reading this.
Freya is in a cafe feeling down on her luck. Not only has her husband left her for an (older!) woman but he has died and she needs to sell their home and find somewhere else for her and her daughter to live. A distinguished looking man approaches her and says he’s looking for a tenant for his apartment in Adder House.
It seems too good to be true, and it is.
Freya feels like something is off about the residents and she doesn’t feel comfortable in the apartment.
The idea for the plot is interesting but I feel it was quite predictable. I thought the characters could have been better developed, they were a bit two dimensional for me.
I felt like the parts of the plot set in the 1920s just came out of nowhere and it was a bit confusing.
The ending was a bit too cliche and convenient for me and it felt a bit rushed. I would have liked some more tension and suspense.
This is an easy read with nice short chapters.
I liked the bright cover, very eye catching.
2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
I love the writing style of K. L. Slater . Just when you think you know what is what and worked out who is who ....BAM! Everyone you thought could be trusted and what you thought you knew is snatched away. You then have to totally re-evaluate your entire theory where the story is leading.
I particularly enjoyed that the main character was a strong woman, who didn’t crumble under the pressures exuded by the other characters around her.
I really don’t want to give away an excellent plot twist.... but it really is an OMG moment that you simply didn’t see coming, but it was slid in so effortlessly that it was a glass shattering moment where certain things all click into place.
I love how the author leaves things open to your own interpretation too, story lines that you can fill in yourself... what actually happened to the unfaithful husband... did Skye break the paper mache bird?
I actually read back in June, but due to some unforeseen circumstances, I never got around to writing the review. Thankfully, I took a few notes! Here are my pros and cons for The Apartment:
Pros
1. I enjoyed the beginning of the novel. I thought the story was set up well and I was immediately intrigued and drawn in to what was happening.
2. The cast of characters were effectively creepy and mysterious.
3. The Adder House felt like it was a character itself. The unsettling atmosphere was well-developed.
4. I felt bad for the daughter when she had to move away from her friends. For me, that was the most emotional connection I had with the book.
Cons
1. Freya is an intolerably gullible character. She basically ruined this book for me.
2. I lost count of the instances where Freya was presented with actual evidence that something illegal, immoral, or downright sinister was going on she ignored it or reasoned it away.
3. Freya talks about her trust issues, yet she trusts a stranger who offers her an inexpensive apartment in a luxury building out of the blue. Seriously? If it seems too good to be true, then it usually is.
4. The ending was dissatisfying.
Summary
This story has potential to be great. It really does. But there were simply too many unresolved issues, Freya was excessively and unbelievably gullible, and the ending was dissatisfying, so it didn't reach "great" in my opinion. Overall, I thought it was just okay.
Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for a free eARC of this book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I didn't love this book but didn't dislike it either . I liked the writing style and being short chapters made it very easy to read in a couple of sessions. It's a good fast paced thriller but for me it was just a bit cliché and similar to a lot of others in this genre. If you want a quick thriller to get lost in then go for it but I just needed some more depth.
I liked this book and thought it was a quick read, but I would have liked more suspense. Thank you to NetGalley for the digital copy in exchange for this review.
K L Slater is a powerhouse in suspenseful physiological thrillers and The Apartment will leave you holding your breath.
Freya is a recently widowed young woman with a five year old little girl called Skye. Without her husband she is forced to sell her house and look for less expensive accommodation. She is perusing the ads in a local cafe when she meets Dr Marsden who just by chance has a perfect small apartment to let in his house.
If something sounds too good to be true then nine times out of ten it usually is.
What follows is a creepy, scary, nerve tingling thriller with a perfect twist that you won’t see coming.
Great read.
So, this gets a definitely did not love from me.
It’s an odd choice for the author and definitely a departure from her usual style. While that can be fine, and I do think authors have every right to stretch their writing wings, this one just didn’t work for me.
It was a glacially slow read. What was meant as a slow build up of eerie events just read as slow. And the reason behind everything was cartoonish and ridiculous. It was clear early on exactly who was responsible for things and a major reveal was obvious early in the book.
It just didn’t work me.
Still enjoy the author, just not this particular read.
One of my favourite authors I was thrilled to receive this book
It’s such a thrilling book with such bizarre characters and weird things going on you just can’t stop turning the pages
As usual the author draws you in for a magnificent ride of wondering what on Earth with happen next
Highly recommended
Fantastic read, great story, great charecters kept me engaged from beginning to end, couldn't put it down only took a couple of days to read
This was an okay read for me. It seemed like I was reading the same thing over and over, so it was a bit repetitive. I think it had potential, it just didn't quite reach it.
I actually wanted to give this book a 3.5, but unfortunately, NetGalley does not let you do half stars. Is that something that can be fixed? This book falls between three and four stars for me because it starts off well, but does lose the plot somewhere along the way. I know a couple of people who have read this and we all seem to disagree on what the ending means, which sometimes is fun, but other times is frustrating. This is one of the frustrating times. I think this book needed more editing to keep the plot from becoming a mess, but it was a fairly fun ride nonetheless. Very suspenseful and sometimes creepy, which I like. I just wish the main character, Freya, had been better drawn and made decisions that were more consistent with what (little) we know about her. I am very fussy about how female characters are portrayed and this one didn't quite get it right.
I've read a lot of K.L. Slater books, some are brilliant, others can sometimes fall a bit flat. I thought the first half of this was great - the tension was reasonably well built, and I felt concerned for Skye. There were random flashbacks to 1920 and psychological experiments which I didn't particularly enjoy, and I thought these extracts gave too much away.
I'm not sure how believable I found Freya's character. While I totally understand that she wanted to protect Skye and give her everything, she just seemed incredibly naïve and far too trusting.
Because there were only a few characters in the book, I thought the culprit was fairly obvious, though I wasn't totally sure where the book was heading. I found the ending a little abrupt and a bit too convenient. I felt like there were a LOT of questions left unanswered which I found frustrating.
It's a quick and easy read, moments of it might grip you but I think there were too many holes in it for me.
A strange one. A good premise, but the characters let it down. Freya was so frustrating! KL Slater is a good writer, and the plot was handled well, but she has written better books.
I ended up reading this one for a buddy read and everyone quite enjoyed it. It reminded of Lock Every Door but I loved the changes in it and it caught me off guard. I will look for K. L. Slater's books in the future to continue on with whatever they put out next.
This was sadly not the book for me. I did not love the pacing of this book. I would love to try more from this author!
Overall, this was a good book. I liked the characters, although there wasn't much time to get to know them. The setting was great. I felt the ending was quite rushed and just missing something for me, I felt disappointed.
This book is great! Would definitely recommend. Thanks so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
3.5 stars
For most of this book, it was a solid 4+ stars. It was creepy and had me wildly turning pages trying to figure out what was going on and what was going to happen. I absolutely love books that make me feel unsettled, a little (or a lot) scared. I don't like horror and blood and monsters, but I crave the adrenaline high from being creeped out. When all was said and done and things were explained, I just was a bit disappointed. I don't know what I expected to have happen, and the end really is the only explanation that sort of makes sense, but I just felt let down. Maybe it's just me and it was the fact that the suspense was over and that adrenaline went away.
I enjoy this author's writing style but had a hard time getting into this book. Sure, I kept wondering what the catch was with Adder House, but it wasn't until the flashbacks/journal entries were introduced that I felt compelled to keep reading. When the big reveal finally occurred, I didn't feel satisfied because too many things didn't make sense.
Woohoo! Another fab book by this author. I love them! Adder House? Sounds creepy and a bit wrong? Yep. The landlord has been watching Freya and she has no idea. She’s desperate for somewhere to live with her daughter. Too good to be true to be offered somewhere perfect at a really cheap rate?? Oohhhhhh yes!! Read on......you won’t regret it!! 5/5.
Three and a half star rating.
A fantastic apartment in an expensive part of London is offered to Freya and her daughter Skye. What could go wrong? Actually quite a bit! Bit dim, our Freya and she should have known there’s a price for everything. Unnerving and creepy and that’s just the other residents of the block. I liked the gentile but weird atmosphere of the story, you know something will happen but not what. It’s a very quick read, easy to get into with some gasp out loud moments. Not keen on the 40’s stuff nor the unresolved questions such as what happened to Freya’s husband. Great bedtime reading and would make a nice gift too.
Sadly this was not a book for me.
I really liked the premise of the book but I did not love the characters and I was really frustrated by the protagonist.
Exciting and twisty! I enjoyed this book and the story line. Characters were likable. Descriptions were excellent.
I enjoyed this psychological thriller. It was entertaining and kept me guessing but I would say it's definitely in the realm of lighter psychological thrillers. I identified with Freya and her belief that she found a safe place for her and her daughter. Finding out just how wrong she had been was frightening! This book kept me guessing and I would definitely recommend, especially for K.L. Slater fans!
This book gave me chills! I love the plot and all the twists in this book. I like the use of psychology within this book.
We meet the mother and the little girl that have no idea what they’ve gotten themselves into and then we meet the landlords. The wife is absolutely an interesting character and how she likes to test and observe....
It’s a creepy yet fascinating book!
I was so so disappointed with the unbelievable and ridiculous ending to this book. It has started out as a very interesting premise but the ending was a huge letdown. Many frustrating bits to the plot Arne main character Freya was overly naive/ unbelievably ignored the very many obvious ref flags. It went from a 3 star review to only one star and I would not recommend this to friends.
I’ve submitted a fuller review on Goodreads.
Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for an advance copy in return for my honest opinion.
The Apartment by K.L. slater is a psychological thriller based on events in the life of a single mother and her child. At the beginning, she finds herself in a desperate situation financially and, when she gets an offer of an apartment at a much reduced rent, she jumps at it. Thereafter follows a series of strange events and suspicious noises and happenings. It’s quite tense at times but not one of my favourite novels by this author.
My thanks to Netgalley and Thomas and Mercer Publishers for an advanced digital copy of the book.
The Apartment is the first book I’ve read by K.L. Slater. The plot itself felt all too familiar. The main character who is suffering from tragedy is handed a solution to all of her problems. A solution that sounds all too good to be true, which of course, it is. I was interested to learn the truth of the Adder House, so I continued reading up until the end. I conclude that it was an easy, enjoyable read with a good deal of suspense. However, the ending left me wanting more.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I considered this book a great afternoon read-not the best book I have ever read, but I enjoyed it and I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
This was my first novel by the author and I was a little disappointed. A single mother and her daughter are offered an apartment in a posh house and then has several creepy encounters. A naive and immature protagonist plus a silly plot made an easy read but not one to provoke and excite the reader. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc.
Have not had a chance to read this yet, but will keep it on my list for a rainy day! Appreciate being offered the reading copy!
The Apartment by K.L Slater follows the lives of Freya and Skye Miller, mother and daughter who are seeking a fresh start after loosing Lewis, ex husband to Freya but doting father to Skye. Lewis left Freya not long before his death for another women and this totally crashes Freya’s world. Growing up in the care system meant that she had never experienced a real family until Lewis came along.
Freya is literally carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders in the quest for this much needed new life, until one day she is approached totally out of the blue and offered to move into a dream amount for a tiny amount of rent, in a high flying area of London. With much thought, Freya accepts Dr Marsden’s offer and starts a new chapter in Adder House. The residents are very different to the company Freya would usually keep and to add to feeling out of place at Adder house, strange things start to happen, making her question her little family’s safety.
From the minute I picked up this book i was totally drawn in. I thought Freya was easy to get to know, therefore I was able to able to immerse myself right into the story. I thought that Dr Marsden and Audrey Marsden were written so well and I loved the eccentric flare they both added to the story. The scenes where Freya had noticed things had been or when she had the immense feeling she was being watched, happened a lot in the book which kept a high level of suspense throughout the whole book. This book kept me guessing right until the end and was an awesome page turner.
I felt this book was quite a dark read and i felt the same vibes as i get when I am reading anything by Mark Edwards. I would say this was a very similar style of writing. It was easy to follow and not heavy at all for the mind to keep up with, which added to my need to finish it to see what happened. A great ending also. I would recommend this book for anyone who loves psychological thrillers.
Started off strong and I think I was expecting a lot more than I got. The flashbacks also kept taking me out of the story and making lessoned the feeling of dread that I was looking for. Ending was predictable and overall I didn’t enjoy this.
'The Apartment' seems like the ideal new home for Freya and Skye?? But...if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is!
Freya is left reeling from her husband's affair, then his sudden death. She is worried about money, she is worried about being homeless, but more than anything else, she is worried about how all this will affect her five year old daughter, Skye.
Cue...charming Dr Marsden, with his timely offer of surprisingly affordable property to rent in not-so-affordable area of town!
For me alarm bells were ringing, and I must confess to finding Freya unbelievably naïve in accepting such a gift from a complete stranger! After all, I would love someone to pay all my moving costs....
But, cynicism aside, we have to put ourselves in Freya's; grieving, broke and desperate, with a young daughter to care for, perhaps any straws would be worth grasping at!
Adder House, the very name reminiscent of snakes and betrayal, filled with creepy residents, unexplained noises and strange smells.
Yes, I enjoyed it, but always at the back of my mind as I neared the end and the true fiend was revealed, was the thought that it was all just a little bit *too* far-fetched.
I enjoyed this book, had me intrigued from the start,plenty of twists and turns, look forward to reading more from this author.
The Apartment started off strong but proceeded to fizzle out. I was not a fan of the ending. I also didn’t like how naive she was! I understand she was grieving and broken, but this just seemed sooo naive. It wasn’t a horrible book, but due to the ending my 3 stars went to 2.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this ARC.
Some very exciting parts in this book but also some rather silly unbelievable parts, but on the whole I did enjoy!
Can an apartment make you crazy? The unusual sounds, occurrences and people make you want to hide under a blanket while you read about Adder House.
Freya falls into an amazing deal to rent an apartment she shouldn't be able to afford. It feels great until she begins noticing some things that seem off, such as a strange sound or an item out of place. Each of these are insignificant in themselves, of no consequence., and easily explained away. Carelessness or inattentiveness are plaguing Freya. Yet, when other things begin to occur, they add up to be potentially significant.
This is a wonderful book that gave me the chills. It has just enough credence in the occurrences to be slightly reminiscent of 'Dial M for Murder."
A must read! Then read it again -- this time with the lights on.
I received an ARC from Thomas & Mercer through NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion or rating of this book. I am voluntarily submitting this review and am under no obligation to do so.
Creepy but unbelievable. I mean, who would think that an apartment so nice would be available at "any price feasible for the tenant"??? I just couldn't get into this one.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for providing me with the opportunity to read and review this book.
2.5 stars
This review contains spoilers.
When I read the synopsis of this book, I was worried that the story would be derivative and unoriginal. There were many times as I was reading that I felt that prediction was right. The cliffhangers and suspense felt a bit amateur and formulaic. As the story wrapped up, I found myself thinking that it might have been better as a novella; there were so many unimportant details and loose ends that were not tied up (like, how did Freya’s ex-husband die? Why was that even a story line?) The end was a bit less disappointing, but several explanations did not make sense. If Little Albert was her relation, wouldn’t she be more, not less, likely to “scare easy,” based on the experiment with Little Albert? Also, Brenna was a psychologist who, at one point, was studying the relevance of past studies, and also, she was suspiciously getting calls from Audrey-- shouldn’t these have had a more interesting impact?
Quality of this felt super poor and I struggled through this one. The 'twists' were too obvious and the character development was lacking.
I really loved this book in a new to me author. The characters and location really and to the story. I can't wait to read the next one. This book keeps you guessing until the end.
Unfortunately, this book suffers from being too similar to a book I didn't like. While it was slightly unnerving, I think the book tried to do too much that it didn't end up achieving.
Meeting Dr. Marsden in the coffee shop just when she was looking for a new place to live felt like a happy coincidence to Freya Miller, and the apartment he had available was stunning. After her husband’s betrayal and subsequent death, Freya felt very alone, but knew she had to keep it together for her five-year-old daughter’s sake. Skye seemed to be managing, but after having grown up in the foster system, Freya was terrified Skye would feel as lost as she had, and she was determined to get them into a stable and secure environment. Early on, though, there were some things about Adder House that were unsettling, but Freya brushed away her concerns and carried on. Where else could she rent an apartment in Kensington for the price offered?
In some ways, I can relate to Freya, having been a single mom, of a five-year-old daughter, and losing my job soon after buying a house. The uncertainties of not knowing if you would be able to stay in your new home, wondering where you would go if not…I understand that fear. However, I don’t think I would have accepted an offer of an apartment, way below market value, from a stranger, no matter how wonderful the area was. The Apartment plays on the reader’s insecurities, the feeling of being observed in a society where everyone has a camera, and the inability to control the observation. I didn’t find the storyline to be terrifying, but it definitely gave me the creeps.
I found this book a bit tough to get through because it wasn't as gripping as the hype around it. The premise is there, but the execution failed the reader. House swapping had such potential.
I loved this spooky psychological thriller! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading! It gave me Lock Every Door vibes because the main character, Freya, had the opportunity to move into an apartment rent-free. However, once she moves in she realizes the building is super creepy with objects moving, unfamiliar smells, the blinking light of a concealed camera, etc. This as an excellent psychological thriller set in a creepy apartment and it kept me guessing all the way up to the end!
Loved this book. It had me looking over my shoulder all the time. A fantastic plot with an amazing twist.
3.5 stars
This is my first K.L. Slater read, and it won’t be my last!
The Apartment was a quick read. For the most part I really enjoyed it, but I did feel like it was almost obvious what was going to happen. Thankfully this didn’t ruin the book for me, I liked how the story played out. Although Freya lead a bit of a boring life, the things going on around her were a bit more interesting.
Overall I thought the plot was good and interesting and the book was well written. If you like psychological thrillers this may be the book for you!
Great book! Couldn’t wait to read it, and it didn’t disappoint! Grabbed my attention within the first two chapters, and then I didn’t want to put it down. Excellent character development - I think that every reader will find a character to whom they relate. I enjoy books where there is character development, and then also a surprise, and this book provided both! Looking forward to reading more from this author!
Unfortunately, I had to DNF this one. At around 25% I still found myself extremely disconnected with the characters while the plot feeling reminiscent of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager. I did not rate this book since I did not finish it.
This book was creepy with a whole host of intriguing characters. Sometimes I felt the main character was a bit naïve or that when things sound too good to be true they probably are, but all the guessing throughout the book I didn’t expect the ending! Loved the description of the old house, I could really see it clearly and feel it’s uneasiness, and I flew through the pages!
Great book! Very well written, fantastic storyline and loved the characters as well. Will be reading more by KL Slater
I enjoyed this book the creepy setting was an added plus to this story. A complete page-turner for sure.
Moved at a decent pace, kept my interest and was entertaining till the end. I’d recommend if you’re looking for a new read.
Delightful! I so enjoyed this book. I couldn’t wait to get to the end and it kept me up one night reading!
This was a new to me author who I'm now a big fan of. It was a little slow at the beginning. Though the mystery was intriguing to keep you reading. Then it hit it's stride and it took off. I have now gone back and read two more of her books.
I highly recommend
The Apartment by K. L. Slater
This book moved along at an ok pace, there was an interesting storyline but really couldn't like any of the characters as some of the things Freya fell for were just to unbelievable in my mind...still it was ok....thank you Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this and leave my opinion.
This book was a struggle for me as the plot was painstakingly slow, I found it hard to connect with the main character and fought hard to sympathize with her. Unfortunately I threw in the towel and did not finish it.
I've read quite a few books about vulnerable women being offered dream homes at low rents. It's definitely becoming a thing, so the bar's going to go up pretty high. The main character is very sympathetic, but the big reveal is rather anticlimactic. Also there's a subplot about the protagonist's dead estranged husband that could have had a lot more juice.
I had never encountered this author before. I am not sure if she is published in the US. I found the book suspenseful and enjoyed the main characters relationship with her daughter and her travels around London but the plot took several turns into complete contrivance. This limited my enjoyment of the book.
Freya Miller is desperate to give her daughter Skye the security she deserves, the security that was torn away from them both after Freya's divorce. A chance meeting with a respectable, older doctor in a coffee shop opens a world of possibility to Freya. Dr, Marsen invites Freya and Skye to fill the open apartment in his fancy building .in a ritzy neighborhood. Freya jumps at the opportunity, but finds herself on edge soon after move in. She' grows concerned about their safety, the neighbors, and what happens to the tenants before her.
This was a little wacky from the beginning. It all felt incredibly set up, and unbelievable at multiple turns. I felt for Freya though, and would have turned a blind eye as well, only focusing on the good parts of the once in a lifetime offer. The end reveal (therefore the whole story) was absolutely wild, and I had to suspend belief to really get on board. This was entertaining, but I don't think it will stick with me for any positive reasons.
I thought it was a slow burner but also a great book which I enjoyed it thoroughly, a great storyline and plenty of twists and turns , highly recommend it to others 😊
Freya. and her young daughter, Skye find themselves without a place to settle down. Deceived by a cheating husband, who then died, Freya must sell their home and search for a new start. At a coffee shop, she meets a man who offers an amazing apartment for a very low cost. From here on it gets to be a very creepy and a very thrilling read. This is a page turner for sure! I enjoyed it tremendously.
Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth, or should you? Do you question the value of a gift? Or refuse something that’s too good to be true?
Freya was given an opportunity she couldn’t refuse, even though it made her uncomfortable at the time. Maybe she should have gone with her gut instinct, however when you’re desperate and vulnerable you throw caution to the wind, you become reckless. Freya was in survival mode for her daughter, Skye, and herself so she didn’t consider the consequences of her actions at the time.
This is another great, quick moving, page turning and exciting read! There was an unnatural atmosphere throughout the read, which gripped me from the very first page.
Freya needed to find somewhere affordable to live quickly. She bumps into Dr Marsden. We all trust Drs now don’t we? Who happens to have an apartment to rent at a very affordable price, in a very desirable Kensington postcode....
When Freya visits the apartment it is visually perfect, and yet there was something odd about it that troubled her but she was not able to put her finger on it. However, she couldn’t resist and even though her friends were concerned, she still went ahead and moved in, desperately wanting to make a new start, not believing her luck.
Slater keeps you thinking, it’s a well thought out plot and lots of things happen, which kept me pensive whilst I was trying to fathom out what Freya was experiencing.... Freya starts to question her own mental health as lots of strange things happen and there’s most definitely something odd about the other residents at Adder House. And, what happened to the previous tenant? Something Freya didn’t let go of as she wanted to find out the truth as well as uncover the secrets hidden within Adder’s four walls.
I don’t want to go into too much detail as the end is quite interesting, I thought it was a great ending, some didn’t, however you need to pick up the book to find out for yourself.
Definitely a recommend from me.
Thank you Amazon Publishing UK, NetGalley and K L Slater for this ARC provided in exchange for my unbiased review.
I go though periods where I devour psychological thrillers one after another. This book brought a new author onto my radar and we will be spending lots of sleepless nights together in the future.
Betrayal. Check.
Despair. Check.
A savior that just might be to-good-to-be-true. Check. (And aren’t they all?)
Then the plot thickens with a new horrific reality full of mystery, creeps, thrills, chills and struggle.
This book checked all my boxes and robbed me of sleep in favor of reading until my eyes watered and burned. So worth it.
Ms. Slater, I look forward to spending many more sleepless nights with you!
I really enjoyed this thriller. It was very exciting with a twist I didn’t see coming! It was a real page turner and very well written.
This follows Freya and her daughter Skye as they’re working to get back on their feet after their lives are uprooted suddenly.
They’re offered an incredible apartment to rent for cheap. Seems too good to be true...
This was creepy, tense, slow going, yet picks up speed towards the end. I finished this in one sitting listening to it on audiobook on 2x speed.
The twist wasn’t what I was expecting, and wasn’t necessarily my favorite type of twist, but it works for the story line and made it interesting!
Great book, great story and I read this really but, sorry there is a but the ending sort of fizzled out a bit for me. A good book but I want to give 3.5 stars so that is why I have only given 3.
Not super believable. There were some plot points in this one that were a little hard to swallow. I would say that the tension that the author was trying to create felt real and picked my heart rate up for some time. Good as a popcorn read.
I was able to read this book thanks to NetGalley. I really enjoyed the story and it was a quick paced thriller. This one was really suspenseful with lots of twists and turns. I will be recommending it to family and friends snd will be looking for more from this author in the future. Thanks again for the opportunity to read this book.
A modern day thriller, a single mother trying to protect herself and her daughter from the big bad world. A benefactor, comes to the rescue with an offer that appears good to be true, but also too good to refuse.
A maze of a house is populated by sinister characters, and as paranoia grows and coincidences follow one after another there seems to be no one to trust.
Suspense grows page after page, the pace is perfect, and the end, when it comes, brings thankful release.
I could write a book as long as The Apartment itself listing all of the plot holes, plot convenience and logical inconsistencies that this book consists of. It was so pointless and juvenile that I wouldn't be surprised to learn it had been written by a pre-teen. I'm embarrassed for the author and anyone who thinks that it constitutes a good psychological thriller.
The Apartment is categorically the most poorly written book I've ever read.
0* out of 5
I enjoyed this psychological thriller and the creepy setting. The ending wasn't my favorite but was still entertaining and I couldn't predict how it would all turn out. I recommend this for fans of psychological thrillers and fans of this author.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was a mediocre read for me. It definitely did not grip me but it also did not bore me nor did I dislike enough not to finish it.
The plot was predictable and I am a huge fan of a good twist so I was a little disappointed.
I didn’t warm to the characters and my opinion did not change whilst reading.
I had questions at the end of the book and just felt that it was quite disappointing all roung.
I enjoyed this psychological thriller. The ending wasn't my favorite but was still entertaining and I couldn't predict how it would turn out. I recommend this for fans of psychological thrillers.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for a review.
Afraid thisd one wasn't for me.
Have read previous publications from this author that have been far superior to this particular one.
No real thrills in this story and all just more than a little bit unbelievable, so afraid it only merits two stars from me.
I wasn't able to get to this book before it was archived, so I downloaded the Audible version because I didn't want to miss out! It was a great listen - the performance especially made the entire plot more intriguing.
I felt so sad for Freya Miller, the book's main character & storyteller. Losing her husband not just to another woman, but ultimately in death, had me sympathizing for her as if she was my own friend. Her daughter was especially adorable. Slater did a great job of making you adore these two so that as the plot thickened & when the climax was reached, you were on the edge of your seat cheering for both of them to come out safely.
I thought the secret of The Apartment - the behavioral research study - was most creative for a psychological thriller. Weaving the home's owners into the fabric of Miller's life, as well as her distant family, was a surprise. I did find the flashbacks to the male behavioral psychologist confusing at first, and it may have been because I did the audio book. But what a great tie-in to wrap up the entire plot! I very much enjoyed the book's final twists as Miller discovered the secrets of Adder House & its dark truth came to light.
This was such a creepy and bizarre read, I couldn't put it down! Although, I was left really wondering how the ex-husband died, because that was a huge plot point of the book that was never really explained. Super great read!
I am currently reading this and am loving it. K L Slater has become my auto-buy author for a thriller.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review.
I enjoyed the ride this book this book took me on. It’s best to read it in the right frame of mind, when you want a light suspense/thriller/whodunit and you don’t want to have to think too hard about it and you’re able to suspend disbelief for quite a while.
My favorite character in the story was Skye, the daughter. Fairly mature for a 5-year-old, I got the sense that she was far more sensible than her own mother while still showing the sweet naïveté and imagination of her age. After all, who doesn’t love a good stuffed unicorn?
Freya, Skye’s mother and the main character, was hard to get on board with. The story is told primarily from her own POV, and she divulges a lot about her own past, her marriage, and the events that lead her to take up residence at Adder House. Yet, by the end of the book, I still felt like a barely knew her. And we never get to find out how her husband died?? I absolutely thought that would factor in to what was happening and was disappointed that it didn’t and it was just...left behind.
The climax toward the end of the novel gave me the answers I wanted, but it just seemed very over-the-top and “this could never happen in REAL life”.....though oddly enough, I’m also sure it probably COULD. Either way, this novel was a good, quick, light mind game that I overall enjoyed.
I can’t believe how fast I read this book! It’s short but it’s so captivating that I didn’t want to put it down. Parts seemed a bit far fetched. But it did keep me on the edge of my seat. I needed to know what was happening. Aspects reminded me of Turn of the Key, Verity and Lock the Door. Though the twist was unexpected. I didn’t see it coming.
Sadly, this wasn’t the gripping psychological thriller I was hoping for. The pacing was entirely too slow for my liking, and I felt myself losing interest the farther I read. It wasn’t until the 80% mark that I became slightly intrigued. I remain hopeful that I’ll enjoy other works by this author, but unfortunately this one missed the mark.
I have never read this author before but I am so very glad I read this book. I got it from NetGalley and I can't thank them enough for sending it to me. You open the book and start reading and you are so hooked you don't want to put it down. So you don't, you just keep reading. This is a riveting book. Thank you for writing such a great book!
Wow. What a ride from start to finish. Fast paced storyline that had me hooked throughout. Another great novel from K L Slater
Captivating read. I could not put it down. This story has so many twists and turns that keep the reader guessing.
This was a good one! A brilliantly creepy story about a mother and daughter that moves into an apartment block with an unknown dark and sinister history. This book had me on the edge of my seat most of the way through and is definitely going on my favourites list of books I've read this year. Really good read :)
This twisted psychological thriller had me hooked from the start. Freya needs a break and when an amazing opportunity presents itself, even though it seems too good to be true, she snaps it up. Soon enough, strange things start to happen and Freya wonders whether she has made a huge mistake. The problem is, she has nowhere left to go.
This is the first novel that I've read by the author and I look forward to reading more of her work, The story will drraw you in from the very start and you won't want to put it down!
Huge thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for the chance to read and review this.
My first read by this author and this psychological thriller kept me turning the pages. It's a slow burn and builds up and the last part of the book is suspenseful and full of twists and turns.....kept me turning the pages. Would love to read more by this author.
This heavily reminded me of Lock Every Door by Riley Sager which is one of my favourite books. This was good, obviously not as good as lock every door but still an okay read. Freya was frustrating at times they way she ignores things that should start alarm bells ringing drove me nuts but she's definitely someone you want everything to work out for and I was rooting for her. The similarities between this and Lock Every Door definitely knocked this down a star as I could tell where it was going. But overall a quick enjoyable read that kept me turning the pages.
Thank you so much to the publishers at netgalley for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
The Apartment is a fast-paced psychological thriller. I was able to finish the entire book within one sitting. There were many twists but most of them ended up being predictable. I liked the build-up towards the end. The climax was awesome too.
I was initially excited by the plot of this book but, but ultimately had to push myself to finish it. The protagonist, Freya, made every poor choice imaginable. I had to suspend belief to follow a story where a woman could be that dumb and continue to put her child in harm's way. The book completely lost the plot when it introduced the premise that eventually led to the ending.
2.5 stars
This book was excellent right up until about 75% of the way through and then it felt rushed. The final chapters felt like a deadline was about to be missed. I genuinely feel like there was a better story to be told....
Absolutely love K L Slater's books and this one does not disappoint. A 'can't put down' book as it draws you in from the very first chapter
3.5 stars out of 5 stars. It was a solid thriller with an interesting plot and ending. I did not the ending as shocking as I hoped but I still enjoyed the read.
I have discovered most of my new favorite writers on NetGalley. K.L Slater is one of them. Her novels are filled with suspense and always keep me guessing until the end. I always end up talking about these books at work or with friends. "The Apartment:" is another example of an amazing read; and totally worth it!
Thanks to #netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. I a a huge fan of K L Slater's books and add this one to the pile of great reads as well. I was hooked from the start with this book. The creepiness and unease I felt whilst reading it were palpable. You just know when things seem too good to be true there is usually something sinister lurking and in The Apartment there are definitely some sinister lurkings. Another addictive read from K L Slater.⭐⭐⭐⭐ #klslater #theapartment #netgalley #tea_sipping_bookworm #goodreads #thestorygraph #litsy #thriller #bookqueen #bookstagram
Amazing book from one of my favorite authors! The plot was full of twists and turns and I was shocked by the ending!
This was a creepy one! I found it to be similar to a story by Riley Sager and enjoyed both. While I did have some questions about the plot and found some parts to a little unrealistic, I really enjoyed the characters and the setting and was rooting for Freya the whole time!
Normally I love K.L Slater's books and devour them quickly and give 5* ratings. This one was ok. Not my favourite though. When Freya and Skye move into an apartment lots of weird things happen. It flicks between their life and something in the past. This becomes clearer towards the end of the story. It was good but not gripping.
If an offer appears to be too good to be true, you might not want to accept it.
Betrayed by her husband, Freya Miller is about to lose her home. She has no clue what she and her five-year-old daughter will do, where they will live, or how they will survive. Then a chance meeting with the charismatic Dr. Marsden changes everything.
He is looking for a new tenant for a flat in an upscale part of London, and he assures her that she and her daughter would be perfect. Not believing her luck yet desperate, Freya accepts.
Little things that don’t make any sense keep happening, but they add up to something Freya doesn’t want to believe: the reactions of people when she tells them she is living in Adder House, rumors of another woman and her daughter living there before, the want of the landlord to install a security camera in her apartment. But why would Dr. Marsden lie to her?
When Freya finally realizes it is time for her and her daughter to leave Adder House, she cannot find her daughter. She has disappeared. Has Freya waited too late?
I knew something bad was going on while I was reading The Apartment, but I couldn’t pin down exactly what it was. I read fast, but I couldn’t read fast enough to keep me happy. When I got to the end, I let out my breath. I had been holding it in anticipation of what was going to happen to Freya and her daughter. The ending was not disappointing.
This book is so creepy. I really loved it. I think this book is particularly scary because I related to the main character in many ways. I highly recommend this book.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Freya had exactly what she had hoped for in life-- a loving husband, a comfortable home, and her daughter Skye. That was until her husband Lewis left her for another woman, her perfectly coiffed best friend Janine. Lewis and Janine quickly move in together, then move in on Skye, threatening to take custody away from Freya but before they can dismantle Freya's life any further, Lewis dies and Freya is forced to move away. Freya has no job and very little in savings so when she is approached by Dr. Marsden about an available apartment in Adder House, his too-good-to-be-true offer is just too good to pass up.
Adder House is the kind of luxurious apartment house Freya could only dream of living in but Dr. Marsden has made it clear that living in Adder House is well within her reach if he believes that Freya and Skye are right for Adder House. Shortly after moving in however, Freya realizes there might have been cause for concern over Dr. Marsden's generous offer. Is Adder House as it appears, or does it hide a more sinister past?
This was a quick and exceptionally entertaining read. Having a dash of dual timelines sprinkled in made the narrative move back and forth rather smoothly without interrupting the suspense building in Freya's new apartment. The twists and turns and red herrings were well placed and well-executed. Definitely a book I would recommend for a cozy weekend read.
This is kinda the book form of Hotel California. When Freya is given the opportunity to live in a nice apartment, how can she turn it down? She and her son move in, and she feels watched and that there is something evil in the building. Can she and her son get out, or will they be there forever?
I enjoyed the relationship between Freya and her daughter. I enjoyed the read and was engaged throughout. However, the ending left me needing to fill the plot holes. The best I can say is this isn’t the worst book I’ve read but it certainly isn’t the greatest either.
Thank You to NetGalley, Thomas and Mercer and Kim Slater for the digital ARC, I received in exchange for a candid review!
An interesting twisty thiller. I haven't read any of this author's books before, but I will do again in future.
K.L. Slater books have been on my list of must haves forever. I have read every single one! This was just as amazing as the rest! Always a must have as soon as they come out!
I’m a huge K.L. Slater fan so naturally I chose this book. The premise was intriguing and there was definitely a suspenseful tone throughout the book as is the case with most of this author’s books. She knows how to engage her reader and keep them interested and on their toes:
This is the type of thriller I loved. I read this pretty quickly as it was a real page Turner of a book. I loved the characters and swapping back to the past timeline.
Kept me guessing until right up to the end of it. Loved it!
I started to read this book last night until i realised i had already read it. Not sure when but it has stuck with me as a twisty turny psychology thriller that is well worth a read.
I thought this story had an okay plot, but I felt like there were so many missing pieces. A lot of unanswered questions and holes. Overall it was decent, but I have enjoyed this authors other books a lot more.
This book was an overall average thriller. The characters were average, the plot not shocking. I enjoyed it, I did not guess the ending exactly but I was not shocked by it. I am glad I read this book although I will not remember this one years from now.
Brilliant read as usual from this author keep up the good work you do
I enjoy reading your novels
This held my imagination storyline kept me wanting to read more and at one point I was finding it hard to put it down as wanted to find out what happened next I recommend this book and author
I love thrillers and K. L Slater is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. I loves this book. It kept me guessing throughout. I can't wait to read more by this author.
*received for free from netgalley for honest review* wow, recently read about that "study" and had no idea it would be in this book so that was cool lol, super creepy story, kinda weird ending but makes sense when you look back so would be a hard one to reread for me, but it was good
The Apartment is a creepy read. The atmospheric writing was chilling. I was originally drawn to the front cover but the plot soon had me hooked and I read it in night. Is Doctor Marsden’s offer altruistic or has Freya made a big mistake. Freya’s vulnerability following the death of her husband and her motherly instinct to protect Skye shone through. It’s a quick read, a must for any thriller fan!
I will be honest and say that I couldn’t put this book down and read it in near enough 2 sittings. This was very fast paced and such a page turner! I enjoyed the narration and feel that added an extra element to the tension and creepiness of the apartments.
The only thing that let this book down for me was the ending unfortunately, it just didn’t satisfy me like I wanted it to!
First of all thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for letting me read this book! It was my first K. L. Slater book and it won't be my last. It was a quick and easy read. . While I didn't think it was super suspenseful, it kept me intrigued. I really enjoyed it.
I did find the characters to be a bit too much some of the time, but overall I liked them. I felt bad for Freya. That poor girl had to go through so much in the book. I think the author did a great job at giving Freya and her daughter a good backstory.
I enjoyed reading this book and loved the plot. It was a great scary read that I brought on vacation!
My first read by this auther.
Imagen your life has fallen apart, your griving from the death of your husband and short of money.
Now imagen a man you have never meet coming up to you in a cafe oftening to help by giving you a place to live with cheap rent in a beautiful flat.
But all aint want it seem, you hear voice and things move and all odd things start to happen you start to question yourself.
Creepy thillier to make you think.
A quick paced thriller that I enjoyed, but too many questions left unanswered at the end. I'm sure this book will be loved by many, for me it was just OK.
I am a sucker for a good mystery! This book was able to be interesting enough during the rest of the book (some books are sooo slow then they suddenly ramp up during the middle/end) but the twist was not one I was expecting. This is important to me in a story because after reading so many types like this, it’s disappointing when the mystery is so predictable. Love this book!
A deliciously intense and twisty thriller you won't soon forget ! I highly recommend ! Opinions are solely my own ! Thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the opportunity to read and review this book ! #Netgalley
#AmazonPublishingUK #TheApartment
A quick, intense and twisty thriller with a twist that I wasn't expecting at all. I was intrigued from the first page and excited to read more.
THE APARTMENT by K.L. Slater started out promising with a premise of a single mom coming across a once in a lifetime perfect opportunity to live in an amazing apartment at an affordable price. Of course we all know that comes at a cost to her, but the book really takes a long time to even give you a hint at what that is. Normally a main character would question odd behaviors and happenings in a new home, especially with a young child, but this one did not seem to be fazed at all. Overall, I finished the book to see how it ended but did not enjoy the twist, there were quite a few plot holes, and I don't think it's one I will be recommending. I will still try another book by the author though because I've heard great things!
This was a read in one sitting kind of book for me. I loved the creepy vibes and although I guessed what was happening around the half way point I was totally wrong on who was doing it.
I loved that this book showed that desperation can make a person act so differently to how they usually would. Dual timelines are a favourite of mine so this book was just what I needed.
I would definitely read from this author again.
The Apartment tells the story of Freya and her daughter, who move into an apartment without really checking the story of the place before renting it. Things get scary are there are rumors about enhancing security, someone getting killed, and other strange facts that might have happened there. The plot leaves the reader anxiously reading to learn what happens, it's thrilling and suspenseful.
Very twisty and well paced, but I was left wanting at the end. I don't need every book tied up with a neat bow but I think thrillers need a definite end and there were a lot of loose ends with this one.
Freya Miller is quite a mess. Right as things seem like they are at their worst, she is approached by a strange man who offers her the opportunity to live in an apartment that seems too good to be true. Things seem a little off from the very beginning, and then it becomes quite clear that things are VERY off and creepy and dangerous. A well paced plot and an enjoyable, quick read.
Freya Miller found the perfect apartment after she was about to lose her family home. Her husband cheated on her and then died unexpectedly, so she needed to step up for her five years old daughter. She met Dr. Marsden on a whim, and they offered her an affordable apartment at Adder House. She wasted no time moving in, but she wondered if things were too good to be true when strange things started to happen within the apartment.
The creepy setup with Dr. Marsden drew me in, but I felt the premise was somewhat predictable as the story progressed. There were many loose plot holes, and the ending was not satisfying as I was expecting. I still thought this was an entertaining and quick read.
Thank you to NetGallery and to Amazon Publishing UK for giving me a copy of this book.
I was left wanting more. Maybe the revised version is better, not sure, but this was an open ended book. I'm not that intrigued anymore to find out. Thank you for the opportunity though!
The Apartment was a middle-of-the-road thriller novel for me. I didn't hate it or love it but I definitely enjoyed my time reading it!
This was an okay book. The main character made quite a few choices that were 🤦♀️. Having a degree in psychology I knew the plot pretty quickly and it honestly was a book I skipped through the last few chapters as I knew already what was going on.
Nothing is to good to be true. And if it is, beware of ulterior motives. Freya was offered an apartment in London for a stupid cheap rent. Seemed perfect since she was a single mom and couldn’t afford her current house. The apartment is owned by a doctor. Why not?! Doctors are trustworthy right ? The dr and his wife divulge themselves into Freya’s life and makes it extreme uncomfortable. Things start to happen in this perfect home yet everyone around her thinks she is the one with mental health problems. That house holds secrets that won’t let anyone unravel
The Apartment is a psychological thriller that in part reminds me of Riley Sager’s work, which can be both a good and bad thing (depending on your experiences with Sager’s books).
Without going into spoiler territory, I will tell you what worked for me and what didn’t.
What worked: The characters and writing style. Although there were some questionable moments by the main character, I did enjoy this story and was hooked just enough to keep moving forward. As a first time reader of Slaters work, I did enjoy her style and would likely check out another book of hers in the future.
What didn’t work: The pace was slow at times (I’d be lying if I didn’t say I wanted a “little” more action) and I was a little underwhelmed by the resolution.
If you like books like Lock Every Door, I would recommend taking this one for a spin, you might just like it!
Last but certainly not least, thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What a ride, absolutely adored this thriller. Definitely kept me on the edge of the seat and worried for main characters. Especially with Skye being so little.
Usually a 2 star book would be a DNF however I did manage to finish The Apartment as it's nicely written and easy to read. Despite this the story just didn't really go anywhere. The 'action' happened in the last 10% of the book and really wasn't that exciting.
Such a gripping read. Bedtime was delayed quite a bit while I finished it off and this is typical when i read the author's books. I just can;t put them down, The characters pull you in, as does the suspense and tension.
This is a creepy with many strange characters. The plot is very clever.
It was very slow paced and I did guess the majority of the twists.
This was so dull. Literally barely anything happened for 90% of the book. there just wasn’t enough to show what the author was trying to convey. And then the last 5/10% was just so anticlimactic and boring that it overall was just such a disappointing read. This is my first K. L. Slater and I think I picked wrong. Having seen reviews I’ll pick up another and chalk this down to a bad egg.
As the old adage goes: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Freya Miller is approached by an elderly doctor in a coffee shop and offered an apartment in his Kensington mansion for a very affordable monthly rent. That should have set off all sorts of alarm bells, right? But Freya and her five-year-old daughter Skye desperately need someplace to live. Eighteen months ago, Freya's husband left her for another woman and then died. She's had to sell their home and needs to vacate it soon. So the 'too good to be true' scenario actually seems like a life-saver. Once moved in though, weird things start to happen.
This is a quick page turner of a read. For some reason, it reminded me of Rosemary's Baby by Ira Levin with the strange assortment of residents living in the building. The character 0f Freya herself didn't always ring true to me. She grew up in the foster care system and described herself as 'quiet but confident...I had a difficult time, but I always remember a sort of strength inside that got me through.' In this situation, she doesn't always seem to be able to draw on that strength when needed.
I received an arc of this novel back in 2020 but it fell through the cracks during those months of distracted reading. I apologize to the author and publisher for the delay. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
So what to say....
I actually quite enjoyed this book, it wasn't as fast paced as some of the books I've read recently BUT it kept me gripped the whole way through!
Just little things here and there actually made me wonder if I was imagining reading what I had read! And the twist at the end, WOW was not expecting the at all!!
I would definitely recommend giving this a read! Certainly kept me on the edge of my seat !
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