A Georgian townhouse in London is the setting for this engaging thriller. Steph and Paul Harlow and their daughter Freya live on the top two floors. The first floor is home to Emma. Chris and Vicky live in the basement. When 17 year old Freya goes missing, everyone who lives in the house is questioned. Each one has secrets that are slowly revealed. The story shifts to 25 years ago and the life of Kate and her single mother. When she becomes terrified that her mother’s boyfriend might be dangerous, she enlists the aid of her cousin.
There is a lot to keep track of and it takes a while for all the pieces to fall into place. The multiple points of view shift by chapter and tell each person’s story including the bad choices made in their lives. Everyone turns out to be much more complex than how they originally appear. And what does the story of Kate have to do with the present-day search for Freya? I found The Downstairs Neighbor, which does have some elements that strain credulity, worth the ride. It’s an impressive debut by author Helen Cooper that will keep you guessing.
Rated 3.75 out of 5 stars.
Mystery / Thriller.
Publication Date: February 16, 2021.
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