This book would not be for everyone, because it’s as much about a marriage under tension as it is the suspenseful tale of a serial killer in pre-WWI London. Robert and Ellen Bunting are a couple of a certain age who have spent their lives “in service” to a series of high-born families. They managed to put aside enough money to live in their own little London townhouse, but positions have dried up and they’ve hit hard times. They are down to their last few shillings when Mr. Sleuth knocks on their door, responding to a card listing “Rooms to Let.” “The Lodger” gradually takes over their domestic life, first happily as Ellen finds a new purpose in caring for their eccentric tenant, and then miserably as it dawns on both of them what Mr. Sleuth may be up to on his 2 am walks. This story is all psychological suspense, as the two weigh their tendency toward loyalty and service against their duty to society. It’s a fascinating social tension, once you stop waiting for some dramatic climax. I would definitely try another of Lowndes’ books for her social and psychological observation.