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The Landlady
My new home, Rose Cottage, is perfect. The landlady has just one rule: no men. What happens if I break it?
It seemed perfect for me and my five-year-old daughter, Lily — a pretty little cottage on a quiet country farm. Our landlady, Mrs Skinner, greets us with a bone-crushing hug. She seems nice, motherly even. She brings homemade cakes, freshly baked bread, and cheese.
Then came the rule. No male visitors.
I told myself it didn’t matter. We needed somewhere safe. Anywhere was better than the women’s refuge.
But soon there are red flags. Mrs Skinner’s son watches me a little too closely. My lipstick disappears. Lily wakes screaming that there’s a stranger in her room.
And when I ask about the last tenant — the one who vanished, leaving all her furniture behind — Mrs Skinner just smiles, and says she only wants to protect us.
But what happens when I break her rules?
It seemed perfect for me and my five-year-old daughter, Lily — a pretty little cottage on a quiet country farm. Our landlady, Mrs Skinner, greets us with a bone-crushing hug. She seems nice, motherly even. She brings homemade cakes, freshly baked bread, and cheese.
Then came the rule. No male visitors.
I told myself it didn’t matter. We needed somewhere safe. Anywhere was better than the women’s refuge.
But soon there are red flags. Mrs Skinner’s son watches me a little too closely. My lipstick disappears. Lily wakes screaming that there’s a stranger in her room.
And when I ask about the last tenant — the one who vanished, leaving all her furniture behind — Mrs Skinner just smiles, and says she only wants to protect us.
But what happens when I break her rules?
- GenresAudiobook
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2026
About the author
Jane E. James
19 books294 followersInternational best selling author, Jane E James creates chilling reads that appeal to fans of psychological thrillers, mysteries and dark fiction. Jane loves to weave tense and haunting tales that stay in the reader's mind. All her books are standalone novels.
An animal lover, who believes ‘all life is precious’ Jane is a vegan and an animal rights advocate. She lives in the UK with her two cats Hero and Halo, who are sometimes featured in her books.
When she isn't writing (or reading) Jane enjoys living 'the good life' in the Rutland countryside, in a small village close to the town of Stamford, Lincolnshire in the UK; known for its quirky tea shops and cobbled streets.
Although born in Cambridgeshire, she is half Welsh and hopes, one day, to retire to the mountains of South Wales, where she feels closest to her late mother, whose maiden name 'James' is where Jane gets her pen name from. Once there, she plans to adopt and rescue all kinds of animals including donkeys, sheep, chickens and goats.
Rebecca, Carrie, The Woman in Black and Wuthering Heights are among some of Jane's favourite reads.
Visit her website www.janeejames.com or catch up with her on facebook and twitter. But bring Monster Munch and wine...
An animal lover, who believes ‘all life is precious’ Jane is a vegan and an animal rights advocate. She lives in the UK with her two cats Hero and Halo, who are sometimes featured in her books.
When she isn't writing (or reading) Jane enjoys living 'the good life' in the Rutland countryside, in a small village close to the town of Stamford, Lincolnshire in the UK; known for its quirky tea shops and cobbled streets.
Although born in Cambridgeshire, she is half Welsh and hopes, one day, to retire to the mountains of South Wales, where she feels closest to her late mother, whose maiden name 'James' is where Jane gets her pen name from. Once there, she plans to adopt and rescue all kinds of animals including donkeys, sheep, chickens and goats.
Rebecca, Carrie, The Woman in Black and Wuthering Heights are among some of Jane's favourite reads.
Visit her website www.janeejames.com or catch up with her on facebook and twitter. But bring Monster Munch and wine...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
May 12, 2026
after a terrible reading
slump only a good british
domestic dark story could
save, entertain and finally
shock me to my core. ♡
slump only a good british
domestic dark story could
save, entertain and finally
shock me to my core. ♡
May 11, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for the ARC (Advance Readers Copy) of The Landlady by Jane E James. This book certainly had a creepy vibe. It is a bit twisted but the pace is good. It is a decent read but I am not sure I would categorize it as a thriller. There was some tension present and with the creepiness of it, I guess that's where it becomes a thriller. This is my second book by this author. It was well written and the author knows how to keep a reader captivated. Go ahead and give this sinister book a try. The suspense will keep you reading. A 4 star rating from me. #JoffeBooks #JaneEJames
March 29, 2026
The Landlady is a thriller that definitely keeps you tense and, at times, cringing. The premise itself is intriguing — a devout 70‑year‑old Christian landlady and a single mum with a purple pixie cut as her tenant. You can already imagine the chaos, the friction, and the messy love‑hate dynamic that follows. There were also a few side characters who added some fun and colour to the reading experience.
But while the story had potential, I found myself pulled out of the narrative by several discrepancies, especially around Christianity, ADHD, and unclear mental health condition/s. The attempt to include these themes was noticeable, but the execution felt tactless and not well‑researched. Some portrayals came across as insensitive, which made it hard for me to fully enjoy the story.
What I Enjoyed:
• Alternating first‑person POV
• Fast pacing
• Characters that were intriguing enough to keep me reading
What Didn’t Work for Me:
• Surface‑level and sometimes insensitive depictions of Christianity
• Unclear and inaccurate portrayal of mental health
• A premise that could have been stronger with better research and execution
Overall Thoughts:
It’s a decent weekend read if you’re simply trying to hit your reading goals or want something quick with a landlady‑tenant tension and a light thriller twist. I did enjoy parts of it, but I wouldn’t say I’m fully satisfied. The story had promise, but the handling of certain themes held it back for me. A solid premise, but ultimately a 2‑star read for me.
~JaNnA~
But while the story had potential, I found myself pulled out of the narrative by several discrepancies, especially around Christianity, ADHD, and unclear mental health condition/s. The attempt to include these themes was noticeable, but the execution felt tactless and not well‑researched. Some portrayals came across as insensitive, which made it hard for me to fully enjoy the story.
What I Enjoyed:
• Alternating first‑person POV
• Fast pacing
• Characters that were intriguing enough to keep me reading
What Didn’t Work for Me:
• Surface‑level and sometimes insensitive depictions of Christianity
• Unclear and inaccurate portrayal of mental health
• A premise that could have been stronger with better research and execution
Overall Thoughts:
It’s a decent weekend read if you’re simply trying to hit your reading goals or want something quick with a landlady‑tenant tension and a light thriller twist. I did enjoy parts of it, but I wouldn’t say I’m fully satisfied. The story had promise, but the handling of certain themes held it back for me. A solid premise, but ultimately a 2‑star read for me.
~JaNnA~
May 9, 2026
Oh wow what a read this has been, absolute corker of a story which had my nerves running ultra high. To be honest, I probably shouldn’t have read this in the evening/during the night whilst home alone lols. Not to mention that it is based very near Peterborough which is where I live, gulp.
The story was very well written and literally had me on tender hooks and bated anticipation wondering what was going to happen next, not to mention, who can I trust and who can’t I trust, eek.
I don’t know where Jane gets her ideas from, but she sure as hell knows how to tell a story and to keep her readers captivated.
Just when you think things are going to be okay, you then get that ending, omg. I have no words and even if I did, I wouldn’t say anything as I’d be afraid of spoiling the story for other readers and I certainly wouldn’t want to do that.
So readers out there, all I can say, is if you like a real good tense thriller, then be sure to pick up this book as soon as you can.
The story was very well written and literally had me on tender hooks and bated anticipation wondering what was going to happen next, not to mention, who can I trust and who can’t I trust, eek.
I don’t know where Jane gets her ideas from, but she sure as hell knows how to tell a story and to keep her readers captivated.
Just when you think things are going to be okay, you then get that ending, omg. I have no words and even if I did, I wouldn’t say anything as I’d be afraid of spoiling the story for other readers and I certainly wouldn’t want to do that.
So readers out there, all I can say, is if you like a real good tense thriller, then be sure to pick up this book as soon as you can.
May 10, 2026
This was so bad. Paper thin characters whose motivations made no sense. None of it made sense. It had all the ingredients to be good: creepy neighbours in a remote location, cultish religion, characters keeping secrets or having interesting backgrounds. But it all fell apart. The main character was, at the same time, so insufferable and so insubstantial (her whole personality was veganism, tattoos and piercings, nothing else, no likes or hates, no interests, no nothing) I was rooting for the vilain. At least the vilain and some interesting back story. What a shame the vilain was turned into a stupid nonsensical caricature.
Such a waste of time...
Such a waste of time...
May 7, 2026
Molly and her daughter Lily are trying to rebuild their lives after escaping a volatile relationship, having spent time in a refuge before being offered what feels like a lifeline—a beautiful, remote cottage. Grateful for the chance at a fresh start, Molly believes she has finally found a safe and peaceful home for them both.
Their new landlady, Mrs Skinner, appears warm and welcoming, eager to have them as tenants. Her only rule—that Molly must not have any male visitors staying overnight—is explained as a matter of religious belief. At first, this seems like a small price to pay for such a perfect opportunity.
The story is cleverly structured, alternating between “Landlady” and “Tenant” chapters. This dual perspective works brilliantly, allowing the reader to see both sides of the narrative unfold. The tenant chapters focus on Molly’s hope and determination to create a better life for herself and Lily, while the landlady chapters are deeply unsettling, filled with a creeping sense of dread.
As we learn more about Pearl Skinner, her husband Stan, and their son Viktor, it quickly becomes clear that something is not right within this family. Their beliefs are strange and unorthodox, and the mysterious disappearance of the previous tenant casts a long shadow over Molly and Lily’s new home. From early on, there is a strong sense that they may have stepped into another dangerous situation.
The author builds tension in a very effective and intriguing way, slowly revealing the potential threats while keeping the reader guessing. It’s never entirely clear who poses the greatest danger, which adds to the suspense and unease. You can’t help but question who—if anyone—can be trusted.
As Molly begins to settle in, she also starts a new relationship with a kind and supportive man, offering a glimpse of hope for her future. However, when he suddenly goes missing, the tension escalates even further. Is his disappearance connected to the landlady and her family, or is something else at play?
With its sinister atmosphere, steady build of suspense, and well-placed twists, this story keeps you hooked throughout. It’s a gripping and unsettling read that constantly leaves you questioning what will happen next—and whether Molly and Lily have truly escaped danger, or simply walked into a new one.
Their new landlady, Mrs Skinner, appears warm and welcoming, eager to have them as tenants. Her only rule—that Molly must not have any male visitors staying overnight—is explained as a matter of religious belief. At first, this seems like a small price to pay for such a perfect opportunity.
The story is cleverly structured, alternating between “Landlady” and “Tenant” chapters. This dual perspective works brilliantly, allowing the reader to see both sides of the narrative unfold. The tenant chapters focus on Molly’s hope and determination to create a better life for herself and Lily, while the landlady chapters are deeply unsettling, filled with a creeping sense of dread.
As we learn more about Pearl Skinner, her husband Stan, and their son Viktor, it quickly becomes clear that something is not right within this family. Their beliefs are strange and unorthodox, and the mysterious disappearance of the previous tenant casts a long shadow over Molly and Lily’s new home. From early on, there is a strong sense that they may have stepped into another dangerous situation.
The author builds tension in a very effective and intriguing way, slowly revealing the potential threats while keeping the reader guessing. It’s never entirely clear who poses the greatest danger, which adds to the suspense and unease. You can’t help but question who—if anyone—can be trusted.
As Molly begins to settle in, she also starts a new relationship with a kind and supportive man, offering a glimpse of hope for her future. However, when he suddenly goes missing, the tension escalates even further. Is his disappearance connected to the landlady and her family, or is something else at play?
With its sinister atmosphere, steady build of suspense, and well-placed twists, this story keeps you hooked throughout. It’s a gripping and unsettling read that constantly leaves you questioning what will happen next—and whether Molly and Lily have truly escaped danger, or simply walked into a new one.
Review of advance copy
I'm curled up here with my favourite mug and a biscuit, writing this from the comfort of my own home and goodness, never have I felt more grateful for that simple fact. One of the quiet little joys of being a bookworm is that a brilliant thriller can make you count your blessings. The Landlady by Jane E. James did exactly that. I have never had to deal with renting, unpredictable landlords, or difficult neighbours, and after reading this one I am sending the universe a heartfelt thank you.
Our narrator arrives at Rose Cottage, a pretty little place on a quiet country farm, with her five-year-old daughter Lily tucked close. After time spent in a women's refuge, the pair desperately need a haven, and Mrs Skinner seems to offer just that bone-crushing hugs, homemade cakes, freshly baked bread, and cheese on the doorstep. Warm, motherly, reassuring. My own heart melted a little at that image. It felt like the kind of welcome you'd hope for.
Then comes the rule. No male visitors. Just the one. Reasonable enough, our narrator tells herself, and I found myself nodding along. They needed safety more than they needed anything else. But Jane E. James is far too clever to let cosiness linger for long. A son who watches just a touch too closely. A missing lipstick. And then the thing that made me set my mug down with a proper thud , little Lily waking in the night, screaming that a stranger has been in her room.
The dread here is beautifully crafted. It doesn't shout at you; it creeps. Every small detail , the smiling deflection when the previous tenant's name is raised, the furniture left behind as if she simply evaporated lands like a cold drip down the back of your neck. Jane E James writes with an intimate, close tension that makes the cottage walls feel like they are slowly pressing inward.
I rattled through the second half in one breathless sitting, tea going stone cold, biscuit entirely forgotten. The Landlady is the sort of book that burrows under your skin and stays there and if, like me, you have never had to hand over your keys and trust a stranger with your safety and your child's, it will make you feel profoundly, quietly lucky. Highly recommended.
Our narrator arrives at Rose Cottage, a pretty little place on a quiet country farm, with her five-year-old daughter Lily tucked close. After time spent in a women's refuge, the pair desperately need a haven, and Mrs Skinner seems to offer just that bone-crushing hugs, homemade cakes, freshly baked bread, and cheese on the doorstep. Warm, motherly, reassuring. My own heart melted a little at that image. It felt like the kind of welcome you'd hope for.
Then comes the rule. No male visitors. Just the one. Reasonable enough, our narrator tells herself, and I found myself nodding along. They needed safety more than they needed anything else. But Jane E. James is far too clever to let cosiness linger for long. A son who watches just a touch too closely. A missing lipstick. And then the thing that made me set my mug down with a proper thud , little Lily waking in the night, screaming that a stranger has been in her room.
The dread here is beautifully crafted. It doesn't shout at you; it creeps. Every small detail , the smiling deflection when the previous tenant's name is raised, the furniture left behind as if she simply evaporated lands like a cold drip down the back of your neck. Jane E James writes with an intimate, close tension that makes the cottage walls feel like they are slowly pressing inward.
I rattled through the second half in one breathless sitting, tea going stone cold, biscuit entirely forgotten. The Landlady is the sort of book that burrows under your skin and stays there and if, like me, you have never had to hand over your keys and trust a stranger with your safety and your child's, it will make you feel profoundly, quietly lucky. Highly recommended.
March 29, 2026
The Landlady by Jane E. James is marketed as "a totally addictive psychological thriller with a shocking final twist," and while I can see what it was aiming for, that description felt a bit like a stretch for me.
The story centers on Pearl Skinner, the landlady, and her tenant Molly, who moves into a countryside home with her daughter Lily after spending time in a refuge. The setup is immediately intriguing. A fresh start, a seemingly perfect home, and one strict rule: no men are allowed to stay overnight due to Pearl’s religious beliefs. Molly agrees to this condition, though it quickly becomes clear she has no real intention of honoring it.
Without getting into spoilers, I struggled with Molly as a protagonist. I found her difficult to connect with, as many of her decisions came across as impulsive, immature, and at times frustratingly self-serving. More importantly, I often felt she was not acting in her daughter’s best interest, which made it harder to root for her. On the other side, Pearl Skinner is portrayed as deeply religious, though at times her behavior veers into extremes that make her feel more unsettling than sympathetic.
There were elements I did enjoy. The dual POVs of Molly and Pearl added dimension to the story, and the short, quick chapters made it an easy, fast read. It definitely fits the “popcorn thriller” category in terms of pacing and accessibility.
That said, the story as a whole felt somewhat disjointed to me. At times, the writing came across as though we were reading the author’s internal thoughts rather than a fully formed narrative, though that may have been an intentional stylistic choice. Ultimately, the plot never fully pulled me in, and the payoff didn’t quite land the way I had hoped.
I do recognize that I may be in the minority on this one, so I’d encourage others to take my thoughts with a grain of salt. Reading is subjective, and what didn’t work for me may absolutely work for someone else.
Thank you to Jane E. James, Joffe Books, and NetGalley for the ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story centers on Pearl Skinner, the landlady, and her tenant Molly, who moves into a countryside home with her daughter Lily after spending time in a refuge. The setup is immediately intriguing. A fresh start, a seemingly perfect home, and one strict rule: no men are allowed to stay overnight due to Pearl’s religious beliefs. Molly agrees to this condition, though it quickly becomes clear she has no real intention of honoring it.
Without getting into spoilers, I struggled with Molly as a protagonist. I found her difficult to connect with, as many of her decisions came across as impulsive, immature, and at times frustratingly self-serving. More importantly, I often felt she was not acting in her daughter’s best interest, which made it harder to root for her. On the other side, Pearl Skinner is portrayed as deeply religious, though at times her behavior veers into extremes that make her feel more unsettling than sympathetic.
There were elements I did enjoy. The dual POVs of Molly and Pearl added dimension to the story, and the short, quick chapters made it an easy, fast read. It definitely fits the “popcorn thriller” category in terms of pacing and accessibility.
That said, the story as a whole felt somewhat disjointed to me. At times, the writing came across as though we were reading the author’s internal thoughts rather than a fully formed narrative, though that may have been an intentional stylistic choice. Ultimately, the plot never fully pulled me in, and the payoff didn’t quite land the way I had hoped.
I do recognize that I may be in the minority on this one, so I’d encourage others to take my thoughts with a grain of salt. Reading is subjective, and what didn’t work for me may absolutely work for someone else.
Thank you to Jane E. James, Joffe Books, and NetGalley for the ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 7, 2026
3.75/5 (rounded to 4)
The Landlady was my first book by Jane E. James & was a nice introduction to her work.
It centres around Molly who is trying create a better life for herself and her young daughter, Lily. What looks like an idyllic cottage soon turns into anything but, when the intimidating landlady, Pearl immerses herself into every area of their life, with tragic consequences.
Thing that first drew my attention to the book was the cover. Instantly, I needed to know more! Leading on from an intriguing cover, the author does a great job of building tension. There was many times where I found myself thinking “I don’t know if I want to read this at night” because the atmosphere felt so tangible. It felt claustrophobic which is something I always enjoy in a good thriller.
I think that having strong feelings (love/hate) towards characters is the sign of great characterisation. I found myself finding several of the characters in The Landlady repulsive, so I believe this is a strength of the author’s writing.
My favourite thing about The Landlady was the multiple POVs (alternating between “The Landlady” & “The Tenant”). On the whole, I think this worked really well. However, there was a couple of times where there seemed to be gaps in time that weren’t explained & left me going back to double-check I hadn’t missed anything.
There were a few things that affected my rating of the book. Whilst generally, the characters were well-written, there were several occasions where it felt like their actions didn’t quite fit their nature. There also wasn’t a big twist/climax at the end which is something I usually look for in a thriller. The tension was built really well, so it felt like it fell slightly flat at the end. However, I will say that there was a nice twist in the middle that I didn’t see coming, but made sense in hindsight.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Landlady and I would definitely re-read it in future.
Many thanks to NetGalley & Joffee Books for the ARC. :)
The Landlady was my first book by Jane E. James & was a nice introduction to her work.
It centres around Molly who is trying create a better life for herself and her young daughter, Lily. What looks like an idyllic cottage soon turns into anything but, when the intimidating landlady, Pearl immerses herself into every area of their life, with tragic consequences.
Thing that first drew my attention to the book was the cover. Instantly, I needed to know more! Leading on from an intriguing cover, the author does a great job of building tension. There was many times where I found myself thinking “I don’t know if I want to read this at night” because the atmosphere felt so tangible. It felt claustrophobic which is something I always enjoy in a good thriller.
I think that having strong feelings (love/hate) towards characters is the sign of great characterisation. I found myself finding several of the characters in The Landlady repulsive, so I believe this is a strength of the author’s writing.
My favourite thing about The Landlady was the multiple POVs (alternating between “The Landlady” & “The Tenant”). On the whole, I think this worked really well. However, there was a couple of times where there seemed to be gaps in time that weren’t explained & left me going back to double-check I hadn’t missed anything.
There were a few things that affected my rating of the book. Whilst generally, the characters were well-written, there were several occasions where it felt like their actions didn’t quite fit their nature. There also wasn’t a big twist/climax at the end which is something I usually look for in a thriller. The tension was built really well, so it felt like it fell slightly flat at the end. However, I will say that there was a nice twist in the middle that I didn’t see coming, but made sense in hindsight.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Landlady and I would definitely re-read it in future.
Many thanks to NetGalley & Joffee Books for the ARC. :)
May 9, 2026
I received this free advance reading copy via Netgalley. Thank you to Jane E James and JoffeBooks. This review is being left voluntarily and the opinions are my own.
I'm still processing this one because the closer it got to the end, the wilder the whole thing became and I just need a minute!
We have alll heard of nightmare neighbours but what if your nightmare neighbour was your landlady too? That's exactly what happens to Molly.
When she finds Rose Cottage things seem to finally be looking up. After fleeing an abusive ex and living in a womens refuge with her young daughter, she has finally found a place she can call home....or has she?
Meet The Landlady, Pearl Skinner, who you'd be forgiven for thinking was a sweet older lady. The perfect mother and grandmother figure that Molly is searching for in her and her daughter's lives.
An overzealous religious nut with a very dark side you definitely don't want to cross is probably a more accurate description of Pearl!
This one slowly built up the tension and gave off an air of mystery, leaving you wondering how and when things would unravel. The split Pov of the tenant and the landlady was a great touch and the short chapters really made the story fly.
I was genuinely shocked by the ending and some of the reveals along the way definitely made me gasp!
If you are a fan of Liz Nugent's Lying in Wait, I think you'll like this one!
I'm still processing this one because the closer it got to the end, the wilder the whole thing became and I just need a minute!
We have alll heard of nightmare neighbours but what if your nightmare neighbour was your landlady too? That's exactly what happens to Molly.
When she finds Rose Cottage things seem to finally be looking up. After fleeing an abusive ex and living in a womens refuge with her young daughter, she has finally found a place she can call home....or has she?
Meet The Landlady, Pearl Skinner, who you'd be forgiven for thinking was a sweet older lady. The perfect mother and grandmother figure that Molly is searching for in her and her daughter's lives.
An overzealous religious nut with a very dark side you definitely don't want to cross is probably a more accurate description of Pearl!
This one slowly built up the tension and gave off an air of mystery, leaving you wondering how and when things would unravel. The split Pov of the tenant and the landlady was a great touch and the short chapters really made the story fly.
I was genuinely shocked by the ending and some of the reveals along the way definitely made me gasp!
If you are a fan of Liz Nugent's Lying in Wait, I think you'll like this one!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a fantastic read.
It offered a unique atmosphere that was different from what I initially anticipated, but in the best possible way! The story revolves around a 71-year-old landlady, who has a complex, two-sided personality, and her 84-year-old husband, a solemn man with whom she shares a long, loveless marriage. Together, they have a 40-year-old son, still living at home and exhibiting some rather odd behaviors. Enter Molly Fox, our main female character, and her 5-year-old daughter Lily, who are thrilled to finally secure a charming cottage to rent from the family. However, things aren’t quite as they seem.
The narrative is filled with gripping, edge-of-your-seat moments, and I was hooked from the very first page to the last. The peaceful setting of a farm cottage, nestled within a working farm, contrasts sharply with the dark undercurrents running through the lives of all its inhabitants.
I found the alternating perspectives of the tenant and the landlady to be particularly effective, adding depth and intrigue to the story.
For me, this was a compelling and thought-provoking read that kept me engaged throughout. The tension, the atmosphere, and the complexity of the characters made it a truly memorable experience.
I recieved a free advanced reader copy and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
It offered a unique atmosphere that was different from what I initially anticipated, but in the best possible way! The story revolves around a 71-year-old landlady, who has a complex, two-sided personality, and her 84-year-old husband, a solemn man with whom she shares a long, loveless marriage. Together, they have a 40-year-old son, still living at home and exhibiting some rather odd behaviors. Enter Molly Fox, our main female character, and her 5-year-old daughter Lily, who are thrilled to finally secure a charming cottage to rent from the family. However, things aren’t quite as they seem.
The narrative is filled with gripping, edge-of-your-seat moments, and I was hooked from the very first page to the last. The peaceful setting of a farm cottage, nestled within a working farm, contrasts sharply with the dark undercurrents running through the lives of all its inhabitants.
I found the alternating perspectives of the tenant and the landlady to be particularly effective, adding depth and intrigue to the story.
For me, this was a compelling and thought-provoking read that kept me engaged throughout. The tension, the atmosphere, and the complexity of the characters made it a truly memorable experience.
I recieved a free advanced reader copy and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
May 7, 2026
I enjoyed the story! The story is told from two different points of view, one is the tenant and one is the landlady. The tenant is Molly who has a young daughter. Molly is running from a bad relationship but has a currently new relationship too. She wants to move out of a shelter situation and into a place for her and her daughter. She finds a cottage out in the country for rent. The landlady is the woman of the house on a farm and lives right near the cottage for rent. She has had a traumatic past herself. She has a husband and a grown mentally disabled son that lives with her. She's the type of person that is controlled by her husband but is also one that seeks revenge when things don't go her way. She has rules for the tenant, but the tenant doesn't intend to keep them. Let's just say that things heat up pretty quickly between the tenant and the ladylady. I don't want to spoil the story but let's just say there are deceptions,lies, deaths, twists and turns some of which I didn't see coming. I found the story very entertaining and very suspenseful as to who was going to come out on top between the landlady and the tenant and the cast of other characters. It seems that everyone in the story is quite a bit dysfunctional in some way or the other. Thank you netgalley and Joffe Books for the complimentary copy of the story.
May 10, 2026
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Zooloo's Book Tours.
This is a chilling psychological thriller. Molly moves into Rose Cottage with her daughter Lily, hoping for a fresh start. She doesn't seem to have much in common with her landlady, Pearl, despite her being kind and welcoming. Soon, strange things start to happen and Molly wonders if what she believed to be her dream home could turn out to be a nightmare…
I remembered enjoying a previous book by this author, and I enjoyed this one too. The cottage setting really appealed to me. For me, that always works really well with a thriller; I like the idea of a peaceful place where sinister things could potentially happen.
There were some very interesting characters; Pearl struck me as eccentric and sinister, and she gave me chills from the beginning. Pearl's son was another character who came across this way. Sometimes these types of characters are the most intriguing because you wonder what their true intentions are, or what motivates them. In fact, I was reminded a little bit of Ruth Rendell, and the way she presented some of her characters.
I enjoyed the suspense and atmosphere; this was definitely a page turner and I couldn't put it to one side until I'd finished.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This is a chilling psychological thriller. Molly moves into Rose Cottage with her daughter Lily, hoping for a fresh start. She doesn't seem to have much in common with her landlady, Pearl, despite her being kind and welcoming. Soon, strange things start to happen and Molly wonders if what she believed to be her dream home could turn out to be a nightmare…
I remembered enjoying a previous book by this author, and I enjoyed this one too. The cottage setting really appealed to me. For me, that always works really well with a thriller; I like the idea of a peaceful place where sinister things could potentially happen.
There were some very interesting characters; Pearl struck me as eccentric and sinister, and she gave me chills from the beginning. Pearl's son was another character who came across this way. Sometimes these types of characters are the most intriguing because you wonder what their true intentions are, or what motivates them. In fact, I was reminded a little bit of Ruth Rendell, and the way she presented some of her characters.
I enjoyed the suspense and atmosphere; this was definitely a page turner and I couldn't put it to one side until I'd finished.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It seemed perfect for me and my eight-year-old daughter, Lily a pretty little cottage on a quiet country farm. Our landlady, Mrs Skinner, greets us with a bone-crushing hug. She seems nice, motherly even. She brings homemade cakes, freshly made bread and cheese. Then came the rule. No male visitors. I told myself It didn't matter. We needed somewhere safe. Anywhere where it was better than the woman's refuge. But soon there are red flags. Mrs Skinner's son watches me a little too closely. My lipstick disappears. Lily wakes up screaming that there's a stranger in her room. And when I ask about the last tenant - the one who vanished, leaving all her furniture behind - Mrs Skinner just smiles and says she only wants to protect us.
But what happens when I break the rules?
Molly wants a better life for her and her daughter Lily. Rose cottage feels like it's a safe place for them to live. This is a quick book to read. It's chilling, twisted, intriguing and enjoyable. The pace is steady with a creepy vibe.I wasn't keen on the veganism, I felt it was trying to preach to me.
Published 7th May 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #JaneEJames for my ARC of #TheLandlady in exchange for an honest review.
But what happens when I break the rules?
Molly wants a better life for her and her daughter Lily. Rose cottage feels like it's a safe place for them to live. This is a quick book to read. It's chilling, twisted, intriguing and enjoyable. The pace is steady with a creepy vibe.I wasn't keen on the veganism, I felt it was trying to preach to me.
Published 7th May 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #JaneEJames for my ARC of #TheLandlady in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2026
one twist after another
I must admit, there’s a lot of Pavlovian responses in this book and all of them of a self righteous nature. For instance, vegans insist on the fact that animals are innocent yet they don’t talk about the poor innocent field mice chopped up by the blades of the combine harvester that puts food on their plates. I imagine social media hasn’t thought of that either. The book though, apart from being a lot of self righteous rubbish that vegans like to trot out isn’t bad. There are a good many twists and turns though Milly is not a nice person however much we’re expected to believe she is. In fact, only the ones we’re meant to believe aren’t nice truly might have some redeeming qualities. By the way, there’s no such thing as an empty magnum of champagne. You might have an empty champagne bottle or even a bottle that once contained champagne but it can’t be empty and have champagne in it at the same time. Also, I’m not sure of the law regarding fire extinguishers in rented properties. Both my neighbours are in rented accommodation and neither of them has a fire extinguisher, only smoke alarms. Anyway, apart from such pedantry, it’s a darned good book.
I must admit, there’s a lot of Pavlovian responses in this book and all of them of a self righteous nature. For instance, vegans insist on the fact that animals are innocent yet they don’t talk about the poor innocent field mice chopped up by the blades of the combine harvester that puts food on their plates. I imagine social media hasn’t thought of that either. The book though, apart from being a lot of self righteous rubbish that vegans like to trot out isn’t bad. There are a good many twists and turns though Milly is not a nice person however much we’re expected to believe she is. In fact, only the ones we’re meant to believe aren’t nice truly might have some redeeming qualities. By the way, there’s no such thing as an empty magnum of champagne. You might have an empty champagne bottle or even a bottle that once contained champagne but it can’t be empty and have champagne in it at the same time. Also, I’m not sure of the law regarding fire extinguishers in rented properties. Both my neighbours are in rented accommodation and neither of them has a fire extinguisher, only smoke alarms. Anyway, apart from such pedantry, it’s a darned good book.
May 7, 2026
A brilliant psychological thriller from Jane E James.
Molly is trying to make a better life for herself and young daughter Lilly. After an abusive relationship and the restrictions of the women’s refuge, the offer of a rose fronted
cottage in the quiet countryside seems the answer to her prayers. The perfect place to bring up the little girl and gather her traumatised witts.
Is it the rosy idyll or is it rose tinted spectacles? Things start to sour when her new landlady starts laying down rules. The farmers wife is a staunch Methodist of a cultish sect and tries to impose her beliefs on the young mother. The first rule “ thou shalt noy have male visitors” is broken on the first night and the nightmare begins! The previous tenant has left all her furniture and even her car is abandonned in the barn where Molly wants
to park her old runaround. The mystery disappearance of the previous tenant deepens when she questions her landlady and gets vague brush-offs. Mrs Skinners son is definitely creepy and Molly gets the feeling that he is spying on her and she is fearful to young Lilly with him around.
Twisty and creepy this is a page turner with completely unexpected reveals.
Molly is trying to make a better life for herself and young daughter Lilly. After an abusive relationship and the restrictions of the women’s refuge, the offer of a rose fronted
cottage in the quiet countryside seems the answer to her prayers. The perfect place to bring up the little girl and gather her traumatised witts.
Is it the rosy idyll or is it rose tinted spectacles? Things start to sour when her new landlady starts laying down rules. The farmers wife is a staunch Methodist of a cultish sect and tries to impose her beliefs on the young mother. The first rule “ thou shalt noy have male visitors” is broken on the first night and the nightmare begins! The previous tenant has left all her furniture and even her car is abandonned in the barn where Molly wants
to park her old runaround. The mystery disappearance of the previous tenant deepens when she questions her landlady and gets vague brush-offs. Mrs Skinners son is definitely creepy and Molly gets the feeling that he is spying on her and she is fearful to young Lilly with him around.
Twisty and creepy this is a page turner with completely unexpected reveals.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Landlady is a taut, unsettling little thriller that turns the promise of safety into something far more claustrophobic. Rose Cottage feels like a lifeline at first — a quiet refuge for a mother and her young daughter, wrapped in homemade bread and motherly smiles — until Mrs Skinner’s single rule begins to sour everything around it. No men. No questions. No explanations.
The tension builds beautifully through the small, creeping wrongness: the missing lipstick, the too‑intense gaze of Mrs Skinner’s son, Lily’s terrified midnight screams about a stranger in her room. And always, hovering in the background, the last tenant who vanished without a trace. The narrator’s desperation to keep her daughter safe makes every red flag hit harder, and the cottage’s cozy charm slowly curdles into something watchful and possessive.
It’s a quick, chilling read — atmospheric, twisty, and rooted in that very human fear of trusting the wrong person. A psychological thriller that slips under your skin and stays there.
With thanks to Jane E James, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The tension builds beautifully through the small, creeping wrongness: the missing lipstick, the too‑intense gaze of Mrs Skinner’s son, Lily’s terrified midnight screams about a stranger in her room. And always, hovering in the background, the last tenant who vanished without a trace. The narrator’s desperation to keep her daughter safe makes every red flag hit harder, and the cottage’s cozy charm slowly curdles into something watchful and possessive.
It’s a quick, chilling read — atmospheric, twisty, and rooted in that very human fear of trusting the wrong person. A psychological thriller that slips under your skin and stays there.
With thanks to Jane E James, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
2 stars for me.
New home Rose Cottage,for single mother Molly would be perfect.Her landlady ,Mrs Skinner have just one strict rule-no men.Molly do have new boyfriend,but it should not be bad if he visits,right?
Things are being moved around the cottage,some things disappeared,and Molly is starting to feel unsafe.Once she found out that the last tenant vanished without the trace,it seems that it may be something more sinister going on with Skinner family.Is Molly and her daughter safe at the cottage?
It was a quick and tension filled read.I liked the idea of the story,and was hoping to know about Mrs Skinner past,it left me with few questions.While there was tension and I was curious to find out what is going on,for me both POV were sometimes little chaotic.I could not give a higher rating as I disliked the characters,I found myself rooting only for Liam and Lily. The rest were so unlikable that I was just waiting to finish the story,I guess it was not for me.
Thank you Joffe Books for arc,my review is honest and my own.
New home Rose Cottage,for single mother Molly would be perfect.Her landlady ,Mrs Skinner have just one strict rule-no men.Molly do have new boyfriend,but it should not be bad if he visits,right?
Things are being moved around the cottage,some things disappeared,and Molly is starting to feel unsafe.Once she found out that the last tenant vanished without the trace,it seems that it may be something more sinister going on with Skinner family.Is Molly and her daughter safe at the cottage?
It was a quick and tension filled read.I liked the idea of the story,and was hoping to know about Mrs Skinner past,it left me with few questions.While there was tension and I was curious to find out what is going on,for me both POV were sometimes little chaotic.I could not give a higher rating as I disliked the characters,I found myself rooting only for Liam and Lily. The rest were so unlikable that I was just waiting to finish the story,I guess it was not for me.
Thank you Joffe Books for arc,my review is honest and my own.
March 15, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, author Jane E James and Joffe Publishing for the ARC and opportunity to review this book.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with several intriguing twists that kept the storyline engaging. The psychological elements added an interesting layer to the narrative and helped build tension throughout the book.
However, I did find that certain themes particularly surrounding religion and veganism were emphasized quite heavily at times. In my opinion, these aspects occasionally felt more like preaching than organic parts of the story. While they may have been intended to deepen the psychological exploration of the characters, I felt the same themes could have been portrayed effectively without such a strong emphasis.
Despite this, the novel still offered some compelling moments and twisty elements that will appeal to readers who enjoy psychologically driven stories.
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with several intriguing twists that kept the storyline engaging. The psychological elements added an interesting layer to the narrative and helped build tension throughout the book.
However, I did find that certain themes particularly surrounding religion and veganism were emphasized quite heavily at times. In my opinion, these aspects occasionally felt more like preaching than organic parts of the story. While they may have been intended to deepen the psychological exploration of the characters, I felt the same themes could have been portrayed effectively without such a strong emphasis.
Despite this, the novel still offered some compelling moments and twisty elements that will appeal to readers who enjoy psychologically driven stories.
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Unhinged. This book was thoroughly unhinged. This is the first book I have read by this author, and based on this one I would probably read more. I read it in one sitting, so I was captivated.
I enjoyed the pacing of the book and the description and title definitely led me to believe it would be creepy. The truth is pretty much every character in the book is creepy and weird. The story kept me engaged and guessing until the end. There were a lot of twists.
The one piece that really wasn’t for me as a reader is the veganism and symbolism with meat and rot. I get this is a thriller, and it’s sort of an interesting dynamic being that it’s set on a farm. But at times I felt like I was being preached to and it distracted me from the story. That said, I give it 3.75 stars, rounded to 4. It’s worth a read if you enjoy fast paced thrillers, but don’t expect to like any of the characters.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the pacing of the book and the description and title definitely led me to believe it would be creepy. The truth is pretty much every character in the book is creepy and weird. The story kept me engaged and guessing until the end. There were a lot of twists.
The one piece that really wasn’t for me as a reader is the veganism and symbolism with meat and rot. I get this is a thriller, and it’s sort of an interesting dynamic being that it’s set on a farm. But at times I felt like I was being preached to and it distracted me from the story. That said, I give it 3.75 stars, rounded to 4. It’s worth a read if you enjoy fast paced thrillers, but don’t expect to like any of the characters.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have read one or two of Jane’s books before and loved them.
At the start of this book I wasn’t too sure if id like it. The main character, Molly irritated me from the outset. She really was a pathetic individual and frightened of her own shadow. However, as her story unfolds it seems as if her world is filled with menace and as I moved through the book, I could see why she was scared, but then was it a diversion, or did she want to appear that way?
Nobody in this book is how they seem. Pearl is strange, her husband Stan isnt much better, and the twists and turns of each character is very clever. The plot to the book is gripping and I think the only normal character is Halo, the cat.
The ending is perfect, I do wonder if Jane would write a sequel, but thinking about it, I think everything was tied up.
I don’t know what to say before I spoil it for other readers, just that this is one very well thought out novel.
My thanks to Jane, and Joffe Books for the ARC.
At the start of this book I wasn’t too sure if id like it. The main character, Molly irritated me from the outset. She really was a pathetic individual and frightened of her own shadow. However, as her story unfolds it seems as if her world is filled with menace and as I moved through the book, I could see why she was scared, but then was it a diversion, or did she want to appear that way?
Nobody in this book is how they seem. Pearl is strange, her husband Stan isnt much better, and the twists and turns of each character is very clever. The plot to the book is gripping and I think the only normal character is Halo, the cat.
The ending is perfect, I do wonder if Jane would write a sequel, but thinking about it, I think everything was tied up.
I don’t know what to say before I spoil it for other readers, just that this is one very well thought out novel.
My thanks to Jane, and Joffe Books for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A Riveting Read!
Jane E James has done it again with The Landlady!
If you are looking for a psychological thriller that grips you from the first page and refuses to let go, Rose Cottage is waiting for you.
Molly believes she has finally found a sanctuary for herself and her young daughter, Lily, but the idyllic surroundings hide a suffocating reality. Pearl, the seemingly motherly landlady, is far from the protector she appears to be.
Through a dual perspective that heightens the mounting dread, the story unravels a web of misplaced loyalties and genuine madness.
This is a fast paced, tragic journey filled with flawed characters and a sense of isolation that feels entirely too real. I devoured this book in one sitting, completely unprepared for the sharp turns and the ending that I never saw coming. It is a dark, tense read that stays with you long after the final chapter.
My thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
Jane E James has done it again with The Landlady!
If you are looking for a psychological thriller that grips you from the first page and refuses to let go, Rose Cottage is waiting for you.
Molly believes she has finally found a sanctuary for herself and her young daughter, Lily, but the idyllic surroundings hide a suffocating reality. Pearl, the seemingly motherly landlady, is far from the protector she appears to be.
Through a dual perspective that heightens the mounting dread, the story unravels a web of misplaced loyalties and genuine madness.
This is a fast paced, tragic journey filled with flawed characters and a sense of isolation that feels entirely too real. I devoured this book in one sitting, completely unprepared for the sharp turns and the ending that I never saw coming. It is a dark, tense read that stays with you long after the final chapter.
My thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
March 23, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ what in the ever living heck was wrong with everyone in this story 🤣 thank you #netgalley for this insane rollercoaster of a thriller. When I tell you my mouth was wide open the whole last chapter, I’m not kidding! The story follows Molly, a single mom, recently dating a new man, who moved into Rose Cottage. The landlady only has one rule. No men allowed overnight. Molly says there are no men in her life besides her “brother”. The landlady has a son who has some issues named Victor and a terrible husband named Stan. Honestly that whole family is a friggin mess. They are all insanely evil in their own way. They all try to make Mollys life hell. Then her ex returns, her new boyfriend goes missing, the previous occupant of Rose Cottage went missing before Molly moved in and so many weird things happen. It’s a WILD RIDE
May 10, 2026
**Read for a book tour, below is my honest review**
This book was a ride. It had me on edge, it had me angry and it had me cringing!
The setting is an old cottage on a farm in the middle of nowhere, you can’t get anymore eerie than that. Add in a meddling landlady/her family and it’s a very creepy, claustrophobic read.
It’s told through two POVS throughout and you get an additional one at the end which I thought was great. There was a twist that had me shocked, I do love a twist.
The chapters are short and snappy and I really enjoyed the premise. There was times I felt it was a bit cringy and unrealistic but overall, I enjoyed it. It ended on a cliffhanger which I both love but also wished I knew more 😂
If you have any content triggers, I advise you to read any trigger warnings beforehand.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a tense, atmospheric read.
Thank you zooloosbooktours and Jane for letting me be a part of this tour!
I give this 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4 on Amazon and Goodreads)
This book was a ride. It had me on edge, it had me angry and it had me cringing!
The setting is an old cottage on a farm in the middle of nowhere, you can’t get anymore eerie than that. Add in a meddling landlady/her family and it’s a very creepy, claustrophobic read.
It’s told through two POVS throughout and you get an additional one at the end which I thought was great. There was a twist that had me shocked, I do love a twist.
The chapters are short and snappy and I really enjoyed the premise. There was times I felt it was a bit cringy and unrealistic but overall, I enjoyed it. It ended on a cliffhanger which I both love but also wished I knew more 😂
If you have any content triggers, I advise you to read any trigger warnings beforehand.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a tense, atmospheric read.
Thank you zooloosbooktours and Jane for letting me be a part of this tour!
I give this 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4 on Amazon and Goodreads)
May 8, 2026
This book starts slowly, told by alternating chapters of The Tenant and The Landlady.
The Tenant, Molly, is looking for a fresh start after escaping her addict boyfriend, Zak, and moves to Rose Cottage with her daughter, Lily. At first, she really likes her Landlady, Pearl. But soon, strange things start happening, and we realize that nothing is as it seems. Molly is an unreliable narrator, extremely flawed, with many secrets.
The Landlady, Pearl, at first, is excited to have Molly and her daughter in the Cottage. But this family - Pearl and her husband and son - are all kinds of wonky, and they have secrets of their own.
The author does a brilliant job of creating terror, and I had actual goosebumps at times. There are several BIG twists and many smaller ones that kept me turning pages. The thrills and chills just keep on coming - and then - that ending!! 😱 😨
4 🌟
The Tenant, Molly, is looking for a fresh start after escaping her addict boyfriend, Zak, and moves to Rose Cottage with her daughter, Lily. At first, she really likes her Landlady, Pearl. But soon, strange things start happening, and we realize that nothing is as it seems. Molly is an unreliable narrator, extremely flawed, with many secrets.
The Landlady, Pearl, at first, is excited to have Molly and her daughter in the Cottage. But this family - Pearl and her husband and son - are all kinds of wonky, and they have secrets of their own.
The author does a brilliant job of creating terror, and I had actual goosebumps at times. There are several BIG twists and many smaller ones that kept me turning pages. The thrills and chills just keep on coming - and then - that ending!! 😱 😨
4 🌟
May 9, 2026
Past misdeeds catch up with the perpetrators
This is a psychological thriller that certainly had me hooked right up to the end. It was nice quick enjoyable read. In the beginning none of the main adult characters had any redeeming features, though this did change for a few of them by the end of the book. The players are all trying desperately to cover up their past actions, some of which are truly dreadful. The one shining light in the scenario is young Lily, who seems to bring out the best in people however well hidden it is.
The storytelling switches between Tennant and landlady, with the former coming over as a sociopath, whilst the Tennant is a scatterbrain who is very caring about her daughter ,Lily, throughout. The whole thing left me feeling that some people are really all bad and beyond redemption, whilst others can change their ways however well ingrained they are.
This is a psychological thriller that certainly had me hooked right up to the end. It was nice quick enjoyable read. In the beginning none of the main adult characters had any redeeming features, though this did change for a few of them by the end of the book. The players are all trying desperately to cover up their past actions, some of which are truly dreadful. The one shining light in the scenario is young Lily, who seems to bring out the best in people however well hidden it is.
The storytelling switches between Tennant and landlady, with the former coming over as a sociopath, whilst the Tennant is a scatterbrain who is very caring about her daughter ,Lily, throughout. The whole thing left me feeling that some people are really all bad and beyond redemption, whilst others can change their ways however well ingrained they are.
May 9, 2026
From the very first page, The Landlady made me feel uneasy in that quiet, creeping way that just builds and builds. The claustrophobic atmosphere really stayed with me, and there’s a constant sense that something isn’t quite right - I found myself on edge without fully knowing why.
Mrs Skinner is brilliantly written; her overbearing kindness feels more unsettling than comforting, which made every interaction feel tense. I also really felt for Molly and her daughter Lily - their vulnerability adds an emotional edge that pulled me in even more and made everything feel more intense.
The pacing is steady and controlled, allowing the unease to grow naturally before revealing a series of well-placed twists. It’s dark, gripping, and had a few moments that genuinely caught me off guard. A strong pick for anyone who enjoys tense, character-driven psychological thrillers.
Mrs Skinner is brilliantly written; her overbearing kindness feels more unsettling than comforting, which made every interaction feel tense. I also really felt for Molly and her daughter Lily - their vulnerability adds an emotional edge that pulled me in even more and made everything feel more intense.
The pacing is steady and controlled, allowing the unease to grow naturally before revealing a series of well-placed twists. It’s dark, gripping, and had a few moments that genuinely caught me off guard. A strong pick for anyone who enjoys tense, character-driven psychological thrillers.
May 10, 2026
Definitely an edge of your seat kind of thriller. Chapters alternate between the landlady and Molly who is trying to settle in to her new home with her daughter
Rose Cottage sounds lovely but the landlady and her family next door are polar opposites to Molly, it seems.
Mrs Skinner isn't ashamed to reveal her opinions and she's quite honest with us as readers. Things aren't as clear cut for Molly and she's not aware of her landlady's true nature. I think the landlady is a little arrogant though as she also underestimates people around her.
It's a tense read as you know things aren't going to end well at all but there's a lot at play so you still don't know what to expect. I did guess Mr Grey but there is more to that too so it doesn't matter if you work out parts as there's more to come!!
Rose Cottage sounds lovely but the landlady and her family next door are polar opposites to Molly, it seems.
Mrs Skinner isn't ashamed to reveal her opinions and she's quite honest with us as readers. Things aren't as clear cut for Molly and she's not aware of her landlady's true nature. I think the landlady is a little arrogant though as she also underestimates people around her.
It's a tense read as you know things aren't going to end well at all but there's a lot at play so you still don't know what to expect. I did guess Mr Grey but there is more to that too so it doesn't matter if you work out parts as there's more to come!!
May 7, 2026
The Landlady by: Jane E. James and narrated by: Alasdair Simpson, Helen Lloyd and Tamaryn Payne was an excellent book. I was lucky to have the book to read and then the audiobook to listen to and I loved both, as I read the book first and then listened to the audiobook. I loved it, especially as it had short chapters and good strong characters and is told by multiple POV's that will have you entertained all the way through it, especially as it was dark in places, which made me turn the pages over on my kindle quickly to find out what happens next. Superb and so addictive!!! just what you need to be a good read!
I highly recommend this book.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for my ARC.
I highly recommend this book.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for my ARC.
May 8, 2026
Creeping secrets: A twisted thriller
Jane E. James’ “The Landlady” is a complicated and riveting tale of suspense. A word of advice: Listen intently as not to miss anything. I found myself going back a chapter or two several times. Secrets and sinister intentions lurk within Rose Cottage’s quaint walls. Single mom and her five-year-old daughter, Lily, think they've found a safe haven... until the landlady’s one rule: No men. As eerie incidents unfold – a vanished tenant, a too-close son and creeping paranoia – the truth gets darker. With jaw-dropping twists and turns, “The Landlady” kept me wondering. Payne and Simpson's narration is spot-on, making this thriller a gripping listen. I thought it was a bit of an abrupt ending, but all in all, a thrilling ride.
Jane E. James’ “The Landlady” is a complicated and riveting tale of suspense. A word of advice: Listen intently as not to miss anything. I found myself going back a chapter or two several times. Secrets and sinister intentions lurk within Rose Cottage’s quaint walls. Single mom and her five-year-old daughter, Lily, think they've found a safe haven... until the landlady’s one rule: No men. As eerie incidents unfold – a vanished tenant, a too-close son and creeping paranoia – the truth gets darker. With jaw-dropping twists and turns, “The Landlady” kept me wondering. Payne and Simpson's narration is spot-on, making this thriller a gripping listen. I thought it was a bit of an abrupt ending, but all in all, a thrilling ride.
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