The Resident

When I first read the synopsis of this book I knew I just had to read it. It sounded dark, twisted and scary and that is exactly what this book was.

This book was actually very terrifying. Thomas is a ruthless killer who loves the thrill of the hunt. We do see cracks in his facade on occasions but the other voice in Thomas's head allows no remorse or time for reflection. In fact, it just encourages Thomas to do the unthinkable. I loved the concept behind the book; a serial killer on the loose, hiding in people's attics. That thought alone is enough to scare you half to death. What was really interesting was getting to know the residents of those three houses which Thomas had access to. The first, the lovely Elsie, an elderly women living on her own with the aid of carers who visited twice a day. Elsie's and Thomas' relationship was actually very touching. She was the only resident to see Thomas as he entered her house during the early morning hours and it is through Elsie that we see a softer side to Thomas.

The second residents, Jack and Pam, a married couple who argued constantly. It soon became clear that Thomas needed to avoid visiting this house after a close call of nearly getting caught. The last set of residents, Martyn and Colette, a young married couple who were out working most of the day which allowed the perfect opportunity to enter their house. Martyn and Colette soon became Thomas' obsession and the next targets, he would spend hours watching them and waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

I thought this book was very clever and well written. Because the story line was so credible it amped up the fright factor. There were times when I was literally on the edge of my seat. The ending for me was just brilliant, I can honestly say I had no inkling as to what might happen but for me it was the perfect ending. The Resident is a gripping psychological thriller that I couldn't get enough of.

Many thanks to Serpent's Tail for inviting me to join the blog tour and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC.