Lock Every Door by Riley Sager
4.5 / 5 Stars
381 Pages
Originally Published in 2019
Finished Reading on June 24, 2024
When I picked up Lock Every Door, I was in the mood for something chilling and atmospheric, and this book delivered on both fronts. Riley Sager’s thrillers always leave me guessing, but this one had me up all night with its twists and turns. I kept thinking, “Would I ever take a job like this?” Spoiler: I wouldn’t, and I’m pretty sure you wouldn’t either after reading this!
“Don’t trust anyone. Trust me on that.”
What I Loved
The setting of the Bartholomew is a character in itself – haunting, mysterious, and utterly captivating. Sager creates an unsettling atmosphere where the walls feel alive, and every creak or whisper heightens the suspense. Jules, the protagonist, is relatable and easy to root for as she navigates a dream job turned nightmare. The pacing is pot on, with twists perfectly spaced to keep you hooked.
“The scariest monsters are the ones that lurk inside our own minds.”
What I Didn’t Love
While the story was engaging, there were a few moments where the plot felt a bit far-fetched, especially toward the end. Some characters could’ve been fleshed out a bit more to add depth, but these were minor issues in an otherwise gripping story.
“Every building has a soul. You just have to find it.”
Final Thoughts
At its core, Lock Every Door explores the cost of ambition and the dangers of ignoring red flags in the pursuit of a better life. Jules’ desperation for stability and success makes her vulnerable to manipulation, a chilling reminder of how greed and power can exploit those who are struggling. The theme of isolation is palpable, both physically in the eerie and empty halls of the Bartholomew and emotionally as Jules navigates her fears without anyone to turn to.
Additionally, Sager delves into the darker aspects of human nature, showing how far people are willing to go for wealth, control, and secrets worth killing for. The book challenges readers to question what they would sacrifice for security and the true cost of trusting the wrong people.
This book is for:
- Fans of atmospheric thrillers with a touch of horror
- Readers who enjoy mysteries with clever twists and unexpected endings
- Anyone who loves a creepy, character-driven setting
Lock Every Door is a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat read that will make you think twice about accepting a job that seems too good to be true. Riley Sager masterfully combines atmosphere, tension, and unexpected reveals to create a story you won’t forget. I’d recommend this to anyone who loves a good thriller with a touch of macabre.
It’s 4.5 / 5 stars from me!
What’s the creepiest setting you’ve ever encountered in a book?