Book Review: Don’t Let Him In by Lisa Jewell
The moment I picked up Don’t Let Him In, I knew I was in for a thrilling ride. Lisa Jewell’s reputation as a master storyteller precedes her, and given all the buzz surrounding her work, my excitement was palpable. This novel was my first encounter with Jewell’s writing, and I couldn’t have asked for a more immersive experience to dive into the unpredictable waters of her narrative world.
At its heart, Don’t Let Him In is a complex tale woven around three unforgettable characters: Nina, Martha, and Ash. Nina, grappling with the aftermath of her husband’s death, finds solace in the charming Nick Radcliffe. He exudes charisma, making him an alluring presence in her life. However, Ash—Nina’s keenly observant daughter—senses something amiss. Meanwhile, we have Martha, a flower shop owner blissfully unaware that her idyllic life with her husband, Alistair, is beginning to unravel. The way Jewell intricately ties their lives together is just palm-sweatingly brilliant, showcasing how a seemingly perfect façade can hide darker truths beneath.
What I found truly captivating were the diverse perspectives from which the story unfolds. Jewell’s narrative techniques masterfully reveal each character’s background while gradually building tension, leading us to the heart-stopping truths they must confront. There were moments where I couldn’t help but yell internally, “Wake up! See what’s happening!” This natural instinct to protect her characters from the villain’s sinister charm is a testament to Jewell’s exceptional character development.
Speaking of that villain—wow, what an antagonist! Described as deeply ingrained in misogyny, he is crafted as a character that made my blood boil. I found myself wishing for a showdown every single time he appeared on the page. His methodical manipulation and gaslighting tactics were so well-executed that they made me want to toss my e-reader across the room! Jewell has a knack for drawing out this kind of visceral reaction, ensuring that you feel every twist and turn in the story.
The pacing of the book is simply phenomenal. I got so engrossed that I ended up pulling an all-nighter, unable to put it down until the very last page. Each chapter felt like a breadcrumb leading to a shocking reveal that I didn’t see coming. Jewell’s ability to keep readers on their toes is what makes this psychological thriller stand out. I’m still pondering over the chilling echoes of the warning: “don’t let him in”—a phrase that underscores the book’s themes of trust, manipulation, and ultimately, the fight for truth.
This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers with rich character depth and tense narratives. If you find yourself craving stories that explore the complexities of human relationships and the darker sides of charm, then grab your copy! I wholeheartedly recommend jumping into the pages of Don’t Let Him In, available now. Prepare for an experience that will stick with you long after the last page is turned.
Special thanks to Atria and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC of this brilliant work. It’s an exhilarating ride that I honestly can’t stop raving about! Whether you’re a longtime fan of Lisa Jewell or new to her work, this book is bound to leave you breathless and wanting more.
Happy reading! 📚✨
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