The House Guest: a gripping debut psychological thriller with a twist that will keep you up all night

Dive into the dark and twisted world of Charlotte Northedge's debut psychological thriller, "The House Guest," a gripping tale of friendship, betrayal, and the secrets hidden beneath the surface of seemingly perfect lives. This paperback edition, published by HarperCollins in 2022, is a compelling read for fans of Sarah Vaughan, Louise Candlish, and Harriet Tyce. Prepare to be captivated by a story that explores the complexities of motherhood, class, aspiration, and the manipulative power dynamics that can fester within close relationships. When Kate, reeling from the disappearance of her sister, seeks solace and connection in the bustling city of London, she unexpectedly finds herself drawn to Della, a charismatic life coach who leads support groups for young women. Della, with her seemingly perfect life and unwavering confidence, takes a keen interest in Kate, offering her guidance and friendship. Kate, desperate for connection, quickly becomes entangled in Della's world, immersing herself in her home, her family, and even her husband. As Kate becomes increasingly enmeshed in Della's life, she begins to notice unsettling inconsistencies and veiled warnings from other members of the support group, whom Kate affectionately dubs "the Janes." Cracks begin to appear in Della's carefully constructed facade, revealing a darker, more manipulative side. Kate realizes she may have stumbled into a dangerous game, where the lines between friend and foe are blurred, and the consequences of betrayal can be devastating. "The House Guest" is a masterfully crafted suspense novel that expertly ratchets up the tension with each passing page. Northedge skillfully explores the fragility of trust and the lengths to which people will go to protect their secrets. The novel delves into the themes of identity, belonging, and the desperate search for validation in a society obsessed with appearances. As Kate uncovers the truth about Della, she is forced to confront her own insecurities and make a difficult choice that could change her life forever. Readers are raving about the novel's intricate plot twists, compelling characters, and its chilling atmosphere. "Good Housekeeping" praises the novel's tense moments and growing sense of unease, while "The Daily Mail" commends Northedge's portrayal of the real insecurities of young women. Gillian McAllister describes it as "dark, smart, and classy." Sarah Perry, the acclaimed author of "The Essex Serpent," highlights the novel's acute observations on class, aspiration, women, and status. "The Observer" notes how the book spirals towards its dark conclusion, wrong-footing the reader at every turn. Erin Kelly calls it "Deliciously dark and totally twisted" . Charlotte Northedge has clearly crafted a thriller that will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about friendship and family. With 352 pages of suspenseful storytelling, "The House Guest" is the perfect read for a cozy night in if you dare. This gripping novel is a must-have for any fan of psychological thrillers and domestic suspense. Prepare to be captivated, disturbed, and ultimately, utterly enthralled by Charlotte Northedge's unforgettable debut. It is sure to keep you up all night. Order your copy today and experience the suspense for yourself!