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The Woman Downstairs
‘Hi,’ she says, ‘I’m your new neighbour.’ Her smile is bright but her shoulders are tense as she stands on the leafy green Edinburgh street. She seems friendly. But soon I’ll discover her dangerous secret…
On the first day I meet my new neighbour, we share a glass of wine and talk into the night. We swap numbers and I vow to get to know her better. But as I get closer to her, I discover something about her past that changes everything. She isn’t who I thought she was.
Then when I step into her home, my jaw drops. Everything in here is identical to my own flat – every cushion, every picture on the wall.
Except for the knife, covered in blood. My heart pounds in my chest. What has she done? What is she capable of?
I should never have come here. I should never have got close to her. I need to run.
But then I hear a creak outside the door. And I realise, it may be too late…
On the first day I meet my new neighbour, we share a glass of wine and talk into the night. We swap numbers and I vow to get to know her better. But as I get closer to her, I discover something about her past that changes everything. She isn’t who I thought she was.
Then when I step into her home, my jaw drops. Everything in here is identical to my own flat – every cushion, every picture on the wall.
Except for the knife, covered in blood. My heart pounds in my chest. What has she done? What is she capable of?
I should never have come here. I should never have got close to her. I need to run.
But then I hear a creak outside the door. And I realise, it may be too late…
309 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2025
1756 people are currently reading
634 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Kirk
54 books1,834 followersJD Kirk is the pen name of multi-award-winning author, screenwriter, and writer of comics, Barry Hutchison.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
October 29, 2025
This thriller had me continually second-guessing myself. Diane has had it rough. When she meets her downstairs neighbor, Chloe, her life becomes even more complicated. Is Diane a victim of a stalker, or is something more sinister at play? I recommend going into this totally blind. The plot kept me on the edge of my seat, wondering who I could believe in this twisted tale of vengeance, guilt, and retribution. The narrators, Samara MacLaren, Sarah Barron, and David Monteath masterfully bring the characters to life adding emotion and intensity as truths come to light. The conclusion was both shocking and satisfying. Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for my audiobook.
October 9, 2025
2.5 stars rounded up
If you are a fan of Freida McFadden's books, you'll probably going to enjoy this one. I am not one of her fans and, therefore this book wasn't for me.
It felt to me like the author changed his mind two thirds in and changed the characters of the mouse and the cat. More like reversed them. And then we have the now well known twisty ending. Was it a good twist? Yes, I'd say so. Was it a good ending. Not really, in my opinion.
For the most part the book is one of those that drag the story through their short chapters and the only relevant thing is happening in the last sentence of each chapter. It's also a bit repetitive as the author is trying (too?) hard to create this atmosphere of thrill and suspense.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for allowing me to read this book!
If you are a fan of Freida McFadden's books, you'll probably going to enjoy this one. I am not one of her fans and, therefore this book wasn't for me.
It felt to me like the author changed his mind two thirds in and changed the characters of the mouse and the cat. More like reversed them. And then we have the now well known twisty ending. Was it a good twist? Yes, I'd say so. Was it a good ending. Not really, in my opinion.
For the most part the book is one of those that drag the story through their short chapters and the only relevant thing is happening in the last sentence of each chapter. It's also a bit repetitive as the author is trying (too?) hard to create this atmosphere of thrill and suspense.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for allowing me to read this book!
October 4, 2025
I really enjoyed The Woman Downstairs. It gets off and running from the prologue and doesn’t let up til the very end. I appreciated the dark humour that’s jam packed throughout, there were hints all the way through of the final twist yet I still didn’t catch it. We all know how much I love not getting the twist.
Dark, twisty, really funny!
Great writing, excellent narration, zero complaints.
Huge thanks to Bookouture Audio via NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
Dark, twisty, really funny!
Great writing, excellent narration, zero complaints.
Huge thanks to Bookouture Audio via NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
October 20, 2025
Bubble wrap 🤣
October 15, 2025
The best books use the prologue to plant a seed of unease, and The Woman Downstairs does just that. This is a tense, suspenseful, and twisty thriller. The author wastes no time ratcheting up the chaos, ramping up the tension, and concluding with a twist I could not have predicted. This is a fast-paced, quick, and fun read.
Thank you, Netgalley and Bookouture, for the advanced read!
Thank you, Netgalley and Bookouture, for the advanced read!
September 29, 2025
Once again JD Kirk delivers another very entertaining book, it never ceases to amaze me how this author continuously produces quality books with original ideas that take the reader on an exciting journey.
New neighbours can be wonderful but then again, they can also turn our lives up-side-down. Diane is living her life quietly but is unhappy with her looks and a bit fed-up and cynical about her life in Edinburgh. Then Chloe arrives on the scene, moving into the flat below and life dramatically changes. After sharing a glass of wine with Chloe on her first night, and soon their relationship takes both on an extremely dangerous path as Diane finds out more regarding her new friend.
Events occur that are not only strange but quite bazaar, when Diane first visits Chloe’s flat below she is gobsmacked as the flat is an exact replica as her own, down to the ridiculously minute details including the furnishings. Soon there is blood on a knife and Diane’s world as she knows it will never be the same, who is this woman and how has life become so complicated, then again, Chloe should not underestimate Diane either.
A taut and well written and fast paced psychological thriller, The Woman Downstairs is a very entertaining and suspenseful read that no doubt fans of JD Kirk will thoroughly enjoy.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
New neighbours can be wonderful but then again, they can also turn our lives up-side-down. Diane is living her life quietly but is unhappy with her looks and a bit fed-up and cynical about her life in Edinburgh. Then Chloe arrives on the scene, moving into the flat below and life dramatically changes. After sharing a glass of wine with Chloe on her first night, and soon their relationship takes both on an extremely dangerous path as Diane finds out more regarding her new friend.
Events occur that are not only strange but quite bazaar, when Diane first visits Chloe’s flat below she is gobsmacked as the flat is an exact replica as her own, down to the ridiculously minute details including the furnishings. Soon there is blood on a knife and Diane’s world as she knows it will never be the same, who is this woman and how has life become so complicated, then again, Chloe should not underestimate Diane either.
A taut and well written and fast paced psychological thriller, The Woman Downstairs is a very entertaining and suspenseful read that no doubt fans of JD Kirk will thoroughly enjoy.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ | Diane & Chloe stressed me out & I spent a lot of this book not knowing who’s the victim & who’s the villain, who’s the stalker, etc.. the prologue grips you in & creates a level of uncertainty that peaks your interest! When Chloe moves in the apartment downstairs, Diane is immediately drawn to her in a motherly way, as Chloe is giving “damsel in distress”. Soon this duo’s relationship gets very complicated, as Diane begins to question - is Chloe truly a random new neighbor or is she someone with an ulterior motive for entering her life.
The narration in the audiobook was great as both narrators did an amazing job & both were perfect choices to enhance the personalities of Diane & Chloe! Overall a solid read that I enjoyed! Thank you Bookouture, Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for an advanced reader & listening copy.
The narration in the audiobook was great as both narrators did an amazing job & both were perfect choices to enhance the personalities of Diane & Chloe! Overall a solid read that I enjoyed! Thank you Bookouture, Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for an advanced reader & listening copy.
September 28, 2025
Wow! This twisty book full of dark humour is not to be missed!
We meet jaded Diane, trying to live a quiet life , but unhappy with her appearance and everything else. Things go from bad to worse when her young, pretty, charismatic new neighbour, Chloe moves into the basement of Diane's tenement flat in Edinburgh.
The combination of these two women, both with more issues than Vogue is bound to lead to disaster.
A relentless, high-stakes cat-and-mouse game ensues as Chloe infiltrates Diane's world. The question is why? Is Diane's past finally catching up with her?.
I raced through the tension-filled pages, captivated by the relentless pace, with twists and turns abound, the plot getting darker with every chapter.
Despite tackling serious issues, the book is full of genuinely funny moments that made me laugh out loud. The part where Diane is attempting to train 3 new starts and getting them to do role play is hilarious.
To end the drama, Diane issues a stand off. Will either of them come out alive? The conclusion, with a twist I didn't see coming is tied up as neatly as a roll of bubble wrap. Thriller fans, add this to your list!
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.
We meet jaded Diane, trying to live a quiet life , but unhappy with her appearance and everything else. Things go from bad to worse when her young, pretty, charismatic new neighbour, Chloe moves into the basement of Diane's tenement flat in Edinburgh.
The combination of these two women, both with more issues than Vogue is bound to lead to disaster.
A relentless, high-stakes cat-and-mouse game ensues as Chloe infiltrates Diane's world. The question is why? Is Diane's past finally catching up with her?.
I raced through the tension-filled pages, captivated by the relentless pace, with twists and turns abound, the plot getting darker with every chapter.
Despite tackling serious issues, the book is full of genuinely funny moments that made me laugh out loud. The part where Diane is attempting to train 3 new starts and getting them to do role play is hilarious.
To end the drama, Diane issues a stand off. Will either of them come out alive? The conclusion, with a twist I didn't see coming is tied up as neatly as a roll of bubble wrap. Thriller fans, add this to your list!
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.
October 3, 2025
Whoa. What a stunner! The Woman Downstairs is the kind of thriller that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. It’s a wild mix of “Whaaaat?!” and “You did NOT!” - a tangled web of lies, secrets, and jaw-dropping twists that had me laughing one minute and gasping the next.
Told through alternating perspectives, the story follows two women from vastly different worlds: Chloe and Diane. Chloe’s traumatic past fuels her fierce loyalty and determination—she’d move mountains for her family. Diane, meanwhile, is a laid-back thirty-something still figuring out her path. Together, they’re a chaotic duo whose dynamic is as entertaining as it is unpredictable.
What I loved:
❥ 💀 Dark humour that hits just right
❥ 🎯 A perfect ending that ties it all together
❥ ⚡ Fast-paced and wildly entertaining
What didn’t quite work for me:
❥ 🙈 Diane’s naivety was frustrating at times
❥ 🚩 Insta-friendship that felt suspicious from the start
❥ 😬 Some explicit crime scene descriptions were a bit much
Ratings:
Setting : ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Character Building: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Message: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I devoured this book in a single day - it’s that gripping. From the moment Diane replied to Chloe’s text, I was hooked. If you’re into thrillers with a dash of dark comedy and a whole lot of shananigans, this one’s a must-read. Add it to your pile - you won’t regret it.
Big thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture, and author JD Kirk for the ARC. My opinions are my own, and this one? It’s a keeper.
~JaNnA~
Told through alternating perspectives, the story follows two women from vastly different worlds: Chloe and Diane. Chloe’s traumatic past fuels her fierce loyalty and determination—she’d move mountains for her family. Diane, meanwhile, is a laid-back thirty-something still figuring out her path. Together, they’re a chaotic duo whose dynamic is as entertaining as it is unpredictable.
What I loved:
❥ 💀 Dark humour that hits just right
❥ 🎯 A perfect ending that ties it all together
❥ ⚡ Fast-paced and wildly entertaining
What didn’t quite work for me:
❥ 🙈 Diane’s naivety was frustrating at times
❥ 🚩 Insta-friendship that felt suspicious from the start
❥ 😬 Some explicit crime scene descriptions were a bit much
Ratings:
Setting : ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Character Building: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Message: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I devoured this book in a single day - it’s that gripping. From the moment Diane replied to Chloe’s text, I was hooked. If you’re into thrillers with a dash of dark comedy and a whole lot of shananigans, this one’s a must-read. Add it to your pile - you won’t regret it.
Big thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture, and author JD Kirk for the ARC. My opinions are my own, and this one? It’s a keeper.
~JaNnA~
October 8, 2025
I’m really enjoyed the majority of this. Kept me wondering. Had me wanting to know more.
Then the end happened and it took a leap I could not get on board with.
Spoiler:
The duel! What! It felt so jarring and so ridiculous, it ruined it all.
Not for me.
Then the end happened and it took a leap I could not get on board with.
Spoiler:
The duel! What! It felt so jarring and so ridiculous, it ruined it all.
Not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2025
I was so sure I knew where this book was going, but with new perspective came new clarity and I was absolutely wrong. So who is wrong, who is crazy, who is a murderer? perhaps everyone and perhaps no one. In the end, the guilty party was dealt with- with a guillotine sword.
thank you to NetGalley, the author JD Kirk, and Bookouture Audio for my ALC of this audiobook.
thank you to NetGalley, the author JD Kirk, and Bookouture Audio for my ALC of this audiobook.
September 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.75–4 stars)
Huge thanks to Bookouture for the ARC!
I’ll be honest... by the 40% mark, I was debating whether to keep going or take a break. It wasn’t bad, but it felt slow and I really thought this book was heading in a totally different direction. I told myself I’d push through to 50% and decide… and wow... (clap, clap :D), I’m glad I did.
At around 47%, things really started heating up and suddenly I realized I had it all wrong. From there, it was twist after twist. By 90%, I was hit with another jaw-dropping reveal, and that ending? 👀 Let’s just say, it would be super cool to have a sequel or some short side story :).
What I really liked was how the book kept me guessing. For a good chunk of it, I wasn’t sure who the real villain was: Diane or Chloe. The tension of not knowing, then thinking I had it figured out and then getting completely blindsided again made this such a ride.
Overall: A slower start, but once it takes off, it delivers a tense and addictive psychological thriller.
Huge thanks to Bookouture for the ARC!
I’ll be honest... by the 40% mark, I was debating whether to keep going or take a break. It wasn’t bad, but it felt slow and I really thought this book was heading in a totally different direction. I told myself I’d push through to 50% and decide… and wow... (clap, clap :D), I’m glad I did.
At around 47%, things really started heating up and suddenly I realized I had it all wrong. From there, it was twist after twist. By 90%, I was hit with another jaw-dropping reveal, and that ending? 👀 Let’s just say, it would be super cool to have a sequel or some short side story :).
What I really liked was how the book kept me guessing. For a good chunk of it, I wasn’t sure who the real villain was: Diane or Chloe. The tension of not knowing, then thinking I had it figured out and then getting completely blindsided again made this such a ride.
Overall: A slower start, but once it takes off, it delivers a tense and addictive psychological thriller.
October 16, 2025
I absolutely devoured this story. This is exactly what I want when I'm looking for a thriller. Unreliable narrators are my jam and this was absolute perfection!
where's my next Kirk novel at?! I need more!
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review.
where's my next Kirk novel at?! I need more!
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 2, 2025
Meet Chloe & Dianne the body disposal experts from a deserted Edinburgh. On discovering the body the police take little interest in the matter and our hero's continue. Next up we have the modern day equivalent of pistols at dawn with them both wanting to kill each other, and any weapon you can find at the workplace at 8!. Both survive the ordeal and discover the true guilty party, who they subsequently kill, dispose of the body, and live happily ever after.
This really is so unrealistic that it verges on stupid.
This really is so unrealistic that it verges on stupid.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2025
ALC 4 Stars!
Suspicious Downstairs Neighbor + Crazy Meets Crazy + Revenge + Feminine Rage
The Woman Downstairs follows Diane, who lives a quiet life in her Edinburgh flat. One day a new younger neighbor moves in, Chloe, and at first they seem to hit it off. Until Diane receives a call from Chloe pleading for her assistance with something, and everything changes. Chloe's backstory and motives start to unravel and a traumatic and vengeful past ties both of these women together, and the question readers are left wonder is, "Who will make it out alive?".
This was a fast paced and addictive read. Both women were off their rocker and it was such an entertaining listen. The boyfriend that was involved was a juicy detail I loved, he was such a scummy person. The ending of this book was so shocking and satisfying at the same time. I would love a f0llow up book involving these characters and the havoc they could cause together.
The narrators were great and made it an enjoyable listening experience.
I was sent this book from Netgalley for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Suspicious Downstairs Neighbor + Crazy Meets Crazy + Revenge + Feminine Rage
The Woman Downstairs follows Diane, who lives a quiet life in her Edinburgh flat. One day a new younger neighbor moves in, Chloe, and at first they seem to hit it off. Until Diane receives a call from Chloe pleading for her assistance with something, and everything changes. Chloe's backstory and motives start to unravel and a traumatic and vengeful past ties both of these women together, and the question readers are left wonder is, "Who will make it out alive?".
This was a fast paced and addictive read. Both women were off their rocker and it was such an entertaining listen. The boyfriend that was involved was a juicy detail I loved, he was such a scummy person. The ending of this book was so shocking and satisfying at the same time. I would love a f0llow up book involving these characters and the havoc they could cause together.
The narrators were great and made it an enjoyable listening experience.
I was sent this book from Netgalley for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 11, 2025
A twisty mystery with three narrators, each unreliable in their own way, unwinding a story from the past that unravels lives in the present. Well narrated, with good pacing and a few surprises. The characters seemed a bit shallow, driven by past grudges, or just too sleazy for my taste as friends, but listening to their hot messy lives was entertaining once I got into the rhythm. The description of training new grads for jobs in a call center is hilarious!
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BookoutureAudio, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook #TheWomanDownstairs for review purposes. Publication date: 15 October 2025.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BookoutureAudio, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook #TheWomanDownstairs for review purposes. Publication date: 15 October 2025.
September 29, 2025
thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC!
Oh wow... Umm, what just happened??!
This book was insane! So many twists and turns that we're totally unexpected. First, you think Chloe, Diane's nee downstairs neighbor, is the crazy one, at least until you hear her side of the story and then believe that Diane's actions are what caused that whole mess. So then, you believe Diane is the crazy one. But wait- theres more! Then you find out theyre both after revenge with each other; Chloe Because she believes Diane killed her family in a car wreck, and Diane because Chloe infiltrated her entire life and turn it upside down, even getting Ronan involved to lead her on. But the real kicker? It was Ronan all along! He was the one who caused the wreck that killed Chloe's family and was playing both Diane and Chloe the whole time. I can't say I condone violence, but after what Ronan put both of them through? Yeah, he had it coming.
This book was packed full of shocks and surprises that kept you guessing and begging for more. I will absolutely be reading more of JD's books now!
Oh wow... Umm, what just happened??!
This book was insane! So many twists and turns that we're totally unexpected. First, you think Chloe, Diane's nee downstairs neighbor, is the crazy one, at least until you hear her side of the story and then believe that Diane's actions are what caused that whole mess. So then, you believe Diane is the crazy one. But wait- theres more! Then you find out theyre both after revenge with each other; Chloe Because she believes Diane killed her family in a car wreck, and Diane because Chloe infiltrated her entire life and turn it upside down, even getting Ronan involved to lead her on. But the real kicker? It was Ronan all along! He was the one who caused the wreck that killed Chloe's family and was playing both Diane and Chloe the whole time. I can't say I condone violence, but after what Ronan put both of them through? Yeah, he had it coming.
This book was packed full of shocks and surprises that kept you guessing and begging for more. I will absolutely be reading more of JD's books now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2025
I was literally hooked on this book from page one and I couldnt tear myself away. The suspense, tension, and drama was so addictive and I loved the addition of dark humour throughout. I tried to predict the twists and turns but I just couldn't see them coming. A fast-paced and gripping thriller that definitely delivers.
Thank you to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for this digital ARC.
Thank you to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for this digital ARC.
October 11, 2025
I was hooked on this book from the first chapter. I enjoyed the twists and the way you genuinely did not know who was playing who! The ending was perfect and left it open for the readers imagination. I would highly recommend if you are a fan of Frieda McFadden etc.
Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC.
Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for the ARC.
October 12, 2025
This was a high quality audio book that well narrated and had me hooked from the first word. told from Diana and her new neighbor downstairs chloe. The way it was told mainly from Diana pov made you believe and feel certain things and then i was blown away as Chloe took over and that was just blown away like a red herring. I enjoyed the telling of the past and how it the women of today. I found Diana's on off lover a distraction until we got to the end act. This was full of action from the start and carefully worn as a tail of secrets and revenge and the effect of time and in truth what happens if you start to like the now version of your enemy. I thought he police investigation was a joke but this was really about two women who ease view their past differently but seek to destroy it. This is a 4.5 rounded to 5 for a quick listen that is engaging and so interesting with a twist that blew me away. Thanks netgallery, publisher, author and narrators for this highly recommended audio book.
March 1, 2026
this kept me hooked from page 1. Clever, twisty and actually very funny at points. 4.5
January 23, 2026
2.5 stars. Felt like I was reading an even wackier version of a Freida McFadden thriller. Love the writer and his DCI Logan series, but this was a no-no for me.
September 16, 2025
Creepy, claustrophobic, and hard to put down. J.D. Kirk delivered a dark and twisted thriller.
In The Woman Downstairs, a seemingly friendly new neighbor quickly turns unsettling. What starts as a warm connection takes a dark turn when you discover her apartment is an eerie replica of your own—and inside waits a blood-stained knife. Suddenly, you’re forced to question who she really is and how much danger you’re in.
For me, this was a fast, creepy, and binge-worthy read—the setup of the neighbor with a mirror-image flat was such a chilling and clever hook, and the tension kept me flipping the pages. The atmosphere was claustrophobic and unsettling in the best way, and Kirk’s pacing made it easy to get swept up in the twists. On the downside, some of the reveals felt a little predictable, and a few character motivations could have been expanded on more. Even so, the central mystery was strong enough to carry the story, making it an addictive and entertaining thriller throughout.
Ultimately, The Woman Downstairs delivered an addictive blend of suspense and unease, making it a compelling choice for fans of dark, twist-driven thrillers.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC—I really appreciate the chance to read and share my thoughts.
In The Woman Downstairs, a seemingly friendly new neighbor quickly turns unsettling. What starts as a warm connection takes a dark turn when you discover her apartment is an eerie replica of your own—and inside waits a blood-stained knife. Suddenly, you’re forced to question who she really is and how much danger you’re in.
For me, this was a fast, creepy, and binge-worthy read—the setup of the neighbor with a mirror-image flat was such a chilling and clever hook, and the tension kept me flipping the pages. The atmosphere was claustrophobic and unsettling in the best way, and Kirk’s pacing made it easy to get swept up in the twists. On the downside, some of the reveals felt a little predictable, and a few character motivations could have been expanded on more. Even so, the central mystery was strong enough to carry the story, making it an addictive and entertaining thriller throughout.
Ultimately, The Woman Downstairs delivered an addictive blend of suspense and unease, making it a compelling choice for fans of dark, twist-driven thrillers.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC—I really appreciate the chance to read and share my thoughts.
September 22, 2025
The Woman downstairs by JD Kirk is absolutely everything a lover of psychological thrillers could want and more.
A fast paced and at times jaw dropping read that had me completely hooked.
I thought it was going to be an easy to guess read, but I wasn’t prepared for the constant twists this book provided.
My first read of JD Kirk but won’t be my last. Loved this and so thankful to Netgally and publisher for the ARC - would def recommend this book.
A fast paced and at times jaw dropping read that had me completely hooked.
I thought it was going to be an easy to guess read, but I wasn’t prepared for the constant twists this book provided.
My first read of JD Kirk but won’t be my last. Loved this and so thankful to Netgally and publisher for the ARC - would def recommend this book.
January 17, 2026
Very implausible. A couple of unusual twists. I was hoping for more from this book as I am currently reading the DCI Jack Logan series by this author and really enjoying them.
January 5, 2026
This was dreadful mainly because I’ve read everything this author has written and loved them & have given them all 5 ⭐ This story was just not relatable and the main characters not believable in any shape or form so I’ll avoid any of his stand alone a in the future.
February 7, 2026
TW: Murder, death, death of a parent, death of a sibling, car accident, medical content, blood, swearing, violence, torture, sexual assault, physical abuse, emotional abuse.
‘The Woman Downstairs’ by J.D. Kirk is a book I saw in the shops the other day, and I didn’t buy it then, but when I came home and it was on sale for 99p on Kindle, I had to buy it. Just the title alone had me intrigued, and I won’t lie, it didn’t disappoint.
Diane spots a girl on the street looking for ‘work’, we shall call it. Diane is not impressed, and tells her to go somewhere else, but the girl is actually moving into the house beneath her. Her new neighbour, Chloe, is on the run from her abusive boyfriend, but there’s something off about her. When Chloe calls her for help, Diane goes, and finds herself at the scene of a murder. With her DNA on the evidence, she has no choice but to stay and help. However, she realises after a while that they are not on the same side. Everywhere Diane goes, she finds Chloe: by their bins, in her workplace, in her bed in her parent’s house… she’s always there. Is it a coincidence, or is she being followed?
This book was so good, and well on its way to getting five stars. I loved Diane’s humour, and she’s one of the most entertaining book characters I’ve read in a while. It was such a pleasure to have her as a main character. I also think the plot twist at the end of the book was insane to me. In all of my outlandish theories, Roman being the villain was not one of them. Honestly, when he wasn’t replying, I was so sure that Chloe had killed him. For those who are interested, I thought Diane’s dad was behind the crash - crazy, I know, but it would explain his reactions.
From beginning to end, I was hooked reading this book. There was a lot happening, and I’m not normally a fan of us finding out major plot points halfway through, but I didn’t mind it too much here.
I could be wrong, but it felt like there was a little bit of sapphic tension between Diane and Chloe? I know there is a big age gap, but that’s what it felt like. In the beginning, I know Chloe was doing it to try and ruin Diane’s life, but during the end credits, I thought there was something else there then too? I could be so wrong about this, but that’s the vibe I was getting.
The thing that let this book down was the fight towards the end. Diane and Chloe fighting at the end was the first and final straw for me. Who thought that would be a good idea? They were both right, it’s both so ridiculous it’s almost laughable. Especially if no one wanted to fight, then what were they doing? That was the only part that I didn’t like. It felt a little bit like filler, as if they were struggling to come up with a reason as to how Diane can remember the accident. I promise, however, that them fighting to the death was not needed for this.
So, would I recommend this book? I would, yeah. Minus the little blip where the fight was going to happen, it was a really good book. Diane was very funny, and I was kept on my toes throughout. A very easy, riveting read.
‘The Woman Downstairs’ by J.D. Kirk is a book I saw in the shops the other day, and I didn’t buy it then, but when I came home and it was on sale for 99p on Kindle, I had to buy it. Just the title alone had me intrigued, and I won’t lie, it didn’t disappoint.
Diane spots a girl on the street looking for ‘work’, we shall call it. Diane is not impressed, and tells her to go somewhere else, but the girl is actually moving into the house beneath her. Her new neighbour, Chloe, is on the run from her abusive boyfriend, but there’s something off about her. When Chloe calls her for help, Diane goes, and finds herself at the scene of a murder. With her DNA on the evidence, she has no choice but to stay and help. However, she realises after a while that they are not on the same side. Everywhere Diane goes, she finds Chloe: by their bins, in her workplace, in her bed in her parent’s house… she’s always there. Is it a coincidence, or is she being followed?
This book was so good, and well on its way to getting five stars. I loved Diane’s humour, and she’s one of the most entertaining book characters I’ve read in a while. It was such a pleasure to have her as a main character. I also think the plot twist at the end of the book was insane to me. In all of my outlandish theories, Roman being the villain was not one of them. Honestly, when he wasn’t replying, I was so sure that Chloe had killed him. For those who are interested, I thought Diane’s dad was behind the crash - crazy, I know, but it would explain his reactions.
From beginning to end, I was hooked reading this book. There was a lot happening, and I’m not normally a fan of us finding out major plot points halfway through, but I didn’t mind it too much here.
I could be wrong, but it felt like there was a little bit of sapphic tension between Diane and Chloe? I know there is a big age gap, but that’s what it felt like. In the beginning, I know Chloe was doing it to try and ruin Diane’s life, but during the end credits, I thought there was something else there then too? I could be so wrong about this, but that’s the vibe I was getting.
The thing that let this book down was the fight towards the end. Diane and Chloe fighting at the end was the first and final straw for me. Who thought that would be a good idea? They were both right, it’s both so ridiculous it’s almost laughable. Especially if no one wanted to fight, then what were they doing? That was the only part that I didn’t like. It felt a little bit like filler, as if they were struggling to come up with a reason as to how Diane can remember the accident. I promise, however, that them fighting to the death was not needed for this.
So, would I recommend this book? I would, yeah. Minus the little blip where the fight was going to happen, it was a really good book. Diane was very funny, and I was kept on my toes throughout. A very easy, riveting read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
A well deserved 4.5 stars for The Woman Downstairs by J.D. Kirk.
As a long-time fan of JD Kirk's books, I knew I was in for a treat. The Woman Downstairs didn't disappoint. Absolutely jam-packed with Kirk's signature humour and wit, balanced perfectly with claustrophobic tension, it had me hooked from the first chapter. I devoured it in two days.
The audiobook features three narrators and I loved how much depth this added! Each voice perfectly suited their character, making it easy to immediately differentiate whose perspective I was listening to. They must've done a decent job because every time I put the audiobook down, my internal monologue continued to have a Scottish accent for the next two hours!
The characters were layered, unpredictable, and messy in the best possible way. Everyone seemed to have something to hide and honestly, I kind of feel like I've developed trust issues as a result of it. The story is constructed in a way that builds this creeping sense of dread throughout, the kind that starts so subtly and escalates so naturally that you almost don't notice it's there until you realise your shoulders have been tense for the last ten minutes.
Admittedly, I did figure out the twist about 75% of the way in but I think that says more about how much I read this genre than it does about the book! Even with my suspicions, I couldn't wait to see how it all played out and the end result was worth waiting for. Everything was tied up in a way that felt satisfying, without seeming too far-fetched.
The Woman Downstairs is beautifully paced, witty, and almost impossible to put down. Yet another solid read from JD Kirk!
📚 Huge thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture, and JD Kirk for the opportunity to read this ARC and provide an honest review!
A well deserved 4.5 stars for The Woman Downstairs by J.D. Kirk.
As a long-time fan of JD Kirk's books, I knew I was in for a treat. The Woman Downstairs didn't disappoint. Absolutely jam-packed with Kirk's signature humour and wit, balanced perfectly with claustrophobic tension, it had me hooked from the first chapter. I devoured it in two days.
The audiobook features three narrators and I loved how much depth this added! Each voice perfectly suited their character, making it easy to immediately differentiate whose perspective I was listening to. They must've done a decent job because every time I put the audiobook down, my internal monologue continued to have a Scottish accent for the next two hours!
The characters were layered, unpredictable, and messy in the best possible way. Everyone seemed to have something to hide and honestly, I kind of feel like I've developed trust issues as a result of it. The story is constructed in a way that builds this creeping sense of dread throughout, the kind that starts so subtly and escalates so naturally that you almost don't notice it's there until you realise your shoulders have been tense for the last ten minutes.
Admittedly, I did figure out the twist about 75% of the way in but I think that says more about how much I read this genre than it does about the book! Even with my suspicions, I couldn't wait to see how it all played out and the end result was worth waiting for. Everything was tied up in a way that felt satisfying, without seeming too far-fetched.
The Woman Downstairs is beautifully paced, witty, and almost impossible to put down. Yet another solid read from JD Kirk!
📚 Huge thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture, and JD Kirk for the opportunity to read this ARC and provide an honest review!
February 21, 2026
Overall, this was a good book. I was hooked from early on, while the plot itself felt a little generic, it was written in a way that made me want to keep turning the pages. It was farfetched from the start, but in an almost believable way that worked for the tone of the story. The twists were interesting, especially the ending, which genuinely surprised me, even if it did lean into “happily ever after.”
The only part that somewhat spoiled it for me was the “duel” near the end. It felt ridiculous and completely unbelievable, and a little unnecessary. I understand that it was meant to be Diane’s moment of realisation, but I think an equally dramatic yet more believable scene could have achieved the same impact.
I appreciate that the story is told from the perspective of two women who are both equally insane in very different ways, but at times it did feel like a bit of a stretch.
Overall, though, it’s a good, easy read.
The only part that somewhat spoiled it for me was the “duel” near the end. It felt ridiculous and completely unbelievable, and a little unnecessary. I understand that it was meant to be Diane’s moment of realisation, but I think an equally dramatic yet more believable scene could have achieved the same impact.
I appreciate that the story is told from the perspective of two women who are both equally insane in very different ways, but at times it did feel like a bit of a stretch.
Overall, though, it’s a good, easy read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the UK publishers for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first JD Kirk book, and I elected to give him a try after seeing DCI Logan series in The Works and then seeing some good reviews for his previous standalone thriller My Daughter is Missing. And im so glad that I did.
I had a rare old time with this book. I'd recommend to anyone who is a fan of Freida McFadden because it had a similar style, being so fast-paced and having twists and turns throughout.
I loved the unreliable Narrator aspect and not knowing who was really the villain until near the end. The ending while not completely shocking was fun and explosive. Some might find it a bit melodramatic, but for me it fit the tone of the entire book and I enjoyed it.
Can't wait to try more from this author now!
This was my first JD Kirk book, and I elected to give him a try after seeing DCI Logan series in The Works and then seeing some good reviews for his previous standalone thriller My Daughter is Missing. And im so glad that I did.
I had a rare old time with this book. I'd recommend to anyone who is a fan of Freida McFadden because it had a similar style, being so fast-paced and having twists and turns throughout.
I loved the unreliable Narrator aspect and not knowing who was really the villain until near the end. The ending while not completely shocking was fun and explosive. Some might find it a bit melodramatic, but for me it fit the tone of the entire book and I enjoyed it.
Can't wait to try more from this author now!
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