Reviewed by Bryone Peters for Readers' Favorite

The Lodger by Robert E. Kearns is about a recently graduated woman, Alice Foley, who accepts a position in Dublin. The trouble was finding suitable accommodation there. Her friends warned her that it might be a nightmare. Alice struggles for a while but eventually finds an accommodation to her liking. The rental price is cheaper than most other places. She found it curious because it had ample space and was in a desirable location. It ticked all the boxes for her requirements, except for one thing. There was something inexplicably different about the landlord. Regardless, she was thrilled to have found suitable lodgings and ignored any reservations about the place. She invites her mother to come and view her new rental abode. Then, events take an unexpected turn.

The story has a strong vein of psychological terror. The drama and nerve-wracking scenes make it a worthwhile read. The antagonist, the butler, is creepy and bizarre. The writing is good and is perfect for the plot. The build-up to the climax is excellent, and the ending will leave you with a quickened pulse. The best part of the narrative is in the dialogue. The dialogue between Alice and her mother reveals the thoughts of any like-minded individual who might find themselves in such a situation. The mother’s apprehension about the new landlord drives the suspense. The mother’s concerns parallel the concerns of anyone who fears for their child’s wellbeing. The Lodger by Robert E. Kearns will not disappoint readers who enjoy suspense.