Book Review: Don’t Let Him In by Lisa Jewell
When I first spotted Don’t Let Him In by Lisa Jewell, I felt an electric buzz of anticipation. As a book blogger, I’m always on the lookout for captivating reads that dig deep into the psyche of their characters, and Jewell has long been a name I’ve wanted to explore. The premise hinted at layers of tension and drama intertwined with compelling character dynamics, and I was eager to see what this psychological thriller had in store.
Right from the start, Jewell pulls us into a labyrinth of charm and unease. Nick Radcliffe, with his infectious smile and seemingly perfect demeanor, captures the heart of Nina Swann, a woman reeling from the loss of her husband. But for Nina’s intuitive daughter, Ash, something about Nick feels off—too good to be true. This captivating triangular dance between Nina, Ash, and Nick sets the stage for an exhilarating exploration of trust, vulnerability, and the chilling reality of manipulation.
Then there’s Martha, the soul of a local flower shop, whose life seems picture-perfect with her husband, Alistair, and their adorable infant daughter. But as Alistair’s mysterious absences become increasingly frequent, the veil over their serene existence begins to thin. Jewell expertly paints the domestic life in shades of both comfort and angst, making the reader wonder just how fragile this facade truly is.
Jewell’s prose is nothing short of mesmerizing. With a rhythm that matches the growing tension, she keeps readers leaning in, turning pages late into the night. There were moments when I found myself gripping the book—my heart racing as I desperately wanted the characters to wake up and confront the brewing storm around them. The mastery with which Jewell weaves backstories and motivations is commendable; the breadcrumbs she lays are not just hints, but a trail leading us toward shocking revelations.
And can we talk about the villain? Oh my, what a despicable character Nick is! His deeply ingrained misogyny left me seething, wanting to shout at the pages. Jewell has crafted an evil, calculating antagonist who embodies a brand of manipulation that shakes you to the core. It’s unsettling, but also a testament to her ability to create a character you love to hate.
As for the plot, the way Jewell intertwines the perspectives of Nina, Ash, and Martha is brilliantly executed, leading to an ending that feels both satisfying and gut-wrenching. It’s one of those novels that makes you reflect on the bonds of trust and the shadows that can lurk in the most familiar of faces.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers that keep you on your toes and explore the dark corners of human behavior, Don’t Let Him In is a must-read. It’s a gripping tale that will linger in your thoughts long after you’ve turned the last page. So grab your copy, buckle in, and prepare for a wild ride. I can’t recommend it enough!
A huge thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for the digital advanced reader’s copy. This experience has ignited my passion for Jewell’s work, and I’m excited to dive into her backlist!
Happy reading, everyone! 📚✨
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