Riley Sager delivers a gripping psychological thriller that will appeal to readers who enjoy Gothic atmosphere mixed with modern suspense. The story follows Jules Larsen, a broke and desperate young woman who takes a too-good-to-be-true apartment-sitting job at the exclusive Bartholomew building in Manhattan. What starts as a financial lifeline quickly becomes a nightmare as Jules uncovers the sinister truth behind the building's history and its current residents.

This book excels at creating an genuinely unsettling atmosphere. Sager transforms the luxury apartment building into a character itself—claustrophobic, menacing, and filled with secrets. The pacing is expertly handled, with tension building steadily as Jules discovers each new horror. The author skillfully weaves together elements of classic Gothic horror with contemporary thriller sensibilities, creating something that feels both familiar and fresh.

Jules makes for a compelling protagonist—her desperation feels authentic and drives believable decision-making, even when readers might be screaming at her to leave. The supporting cast, including the mysterious building residents and the enigmatic landlord, are well-developed enough to feel real while maintaining an air of menace.

However, the book isn't without weaknesses. The final act relies heavily on coincidences and some plot revelations strain credibility, even by thriller standards. Readers seeking realistic fiction should look elsewhere—this requires a willingness to suspend disbelief. The violence, while not gratuitously detailed, may be too intense for sensitive readers.

The themes of economic desperation, class inequality, and gentrification give the horror elements real-world weight, making this more than just a simple scare-fest. Sager explores how financial vulnerability can trap people in dangerous situations, adding social commentary to the supernatural elements.

This book is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers who don't mind supernatural elements, readers who enjoyed 'Rosemary's Baby' or similar apartment-building horror, and anyone looking for a page-turner with Gothic atmosphere. Skip it if you prefer realistic fiction, dislike supernatural elements, or are sensitive to violence and disturbing themes.