The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell is a gripping psychological thriller that explores themes of family secrets, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships. The story follows Libby, who, on her twenty-fifth birthday, receives a letter from the trustees of her late parents' estate, leading her to uncover dark truths about her family's past. Set in a grand yet eerie house in London, the narrative intertwines multiple perspectives, revealing the lives of those connected to Libby and the haunting events that transpired within the walls of the family home. This novel is ideal for readers who enjoy suspenseful fiction with rich character development and unexpected twists. Fans of domestic thrillers and psychological mysteries will find themselves captivated by Jewell's storytelling and intricate plot.

Key Points

  • Explores the psychological impact of family secrets and betrayal
  • Features multiple perspectives that reveal interconnected lives
  • Set in a mysterious London house with a dark past
  • Ideal for fans of psychological thrillers and suspenseful fiction
newtopiccyclegrowin
Author:Lisa Jewell
240 pages
Language:English
Type:Novel
History
newtopiccyclegrowin
Author:Lisa Jewell
240 pages
Language:English
Type:Novel
History
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THE
FAMILY
UPSTAIRS
LISAJEWELL
1
Libbypickstheletterupoffthedoormat.Sheturnsitinherhands.Itlooks
veryformal;theenvelopeiscreamincolour,madeofhigh-gradepaper,and
feelsasthoughitmightevenbelinedwithtissue.Thepostalfranksays
‘SmithkinRudd&RoyleSolicitorsChelseaManorStreetSW3’.
Shetakestheletterintothekitchenandsitsitonthetablewhileshefills
thekettleandputsateabaginamug.Libbyisprettysuresheknowswhat’sin
theenvelope.Sheturnedtwenty-fivelastmonth.She’sbeensubconsciously
waitingforthisenvelope.Butnowit’shereshe’snotsureshecanface
openingit.
Shepicksupherphoneandcallshermother.
‘Mum,’shesays.‘It’shere.Theletterfromthetrustees.’
Shehearsasilenceattheotherendoftheline.Shepictureshermuminher
ownkitchen,athousandmilesawayinDénia:pristinewhiteunits,lime-green
colour-coordinatedkitchenaccessories,slidingglassdoorsontoasmall
terracewithadistantviewtotheMediterranean,herphoneheldtoherearin
thecrystal-studdedcasethatshereferstoasherbling.
‘Oh,’shesays.‘Right.Gosh.Haveyouopenedit?’
‘No.Notyet.I’mjusthavingacupofteafirst.’
‘Right,’shesaysagain.Thenshesays,‘ShallIstayontheline?Whileyou
doit?’
‘Yes,’saysLibby.‘Please.’
Shefeelsalittlebreathless,asshesometimesdoeswhenshe’sjustaboutto
standupandgiveasalespresentationatwork,likeshe’shadastrongcoffee.
Shetakestheteabagoutofthemugandsitsdown.Herfingerscaressthe
corneroftheenvelopeandsheinhales.
‘OK,’shesaystohermother,‘I’mdoingit.I’mdoingitrightnow.’
Hermumknowswhat’sinhere.Oratleastshehasanidea,thoughshewas
nevertoldformallywhatwasinthetrust.Itmight,asshehasalwayssaid,be
ateapotandaten-poundnote.
Libbyclearsherthroatandslidesherfingerundertheflap.Shepullsouta
sheetofthickcreampaperandscansitquickly:
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The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell — THE

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FAQs

What is the significance of the rabbit's foot in The Family Upstairs?
The rabbit's foot is found in a box with Serenity Lamb, the baby left behind after the tragic events involving her birth parents. It symbolizes luck and innocence, as it was meant to be a protective charm for Serenity. The presence of the rabbit's foot in the cot suggests a connection to the past and the mystery surrounding her family, as it was tucked in with her blankets when she was discovered by the police.
Who are the main characters in The Family Upstairs?
The main characters include Libby Jones, who inherits the house in Chelsea; Henry Lamb, her birth father; Martina Lamb, her birth mother; and Phin Thomsen, Henry's brother. Other significant characters are Clemency, Phin's sister, and David Thomsen, who exerts control over the household. Each character plays a crucial role in unraveling the complex family dynamics and the dark history of the Lamb family.
What happened to Libby's birth parents in the novel?
Libby's birth parents, Henry and Martina Lamb, are found dead in a suicide pact along with another man in their Chelsea home. The police discover their bodies after a neighbor reports a concern. The circumstances surrounding their deaths are shrouded in mystery, and the article that Libby reads reveals that they were part of a cult, which adds layers to the narrative of their tragic end.
How does Libby discover her true identity in The Family Upstairs?
Libby discovers her true identity through a letter from the trustees of the Henry and Martina Lamb Trust, which she receives on her twenty-fifth birthday. The letter reveals that she is the sole beneficiary of her birth parents' estate, including a house in Chelsea. This revelation prompts her to explore her past, leading to the unearthing of her family's dark secrets.
What role does the house on Cheyne Walk play in the story?
The house on Cheyne Walk serves as the central setting for the unfolding drama in The Family Upstairs. It symbolizes both Libby's heritage and the tragic history of her family. As Libby explores the house, she uncovers its dark past, including the mysterious circumstances of her parents' deaths and the presence of her siblings who have gone missing. The house becomes a character in itself, representing both a legacy and a burden.
What does the note left by Libby's parents reveal?
The note left by Libby's parents, found alongside their bodies, reveals their intention to free themselves from the pain of their lives. It states that their baby, Serenity Lamb, should go to nice people. This note is critical as it not only explains the circumstances of their deaths but also highlights the love and care they had for their child, despite the tragic outcome.
How does the theme of family play out in The Family Upstairs?
The theme of family is central to The Family Upstairs, exploring the complexities of familial bonds, secrets, and the impact of the past on the present. Libby's journey to uncover her identity and the fate of her siblings showcases the deep ties that bind them, even when separated by trauma and loss. The interactions between Libby, her birth parents, and her siblings illustrate the struggle for connection and understanding amidst a backdrop of tragedy.

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