From the bestselling author of The House of Now and Then comes a vividly portrayed story that reveals the darkness of greed and desire where people will stop at nothing to get what they want. No matter the cost…
After a brutal attack and the breakdown of her marriage, life has taught former TV star Remi Lucan that it’s safer to not rely on anyone. Instead, she’s buried herself in Hobart, transforming her dilapidated sandstone house back to its former splendour, and it has been her proudest achievement. Better than her short-lived acting career. Definitely better than being a smile-on-command trophy wife.
But when she runs out of money, her wealthy ex-husband tries to force the sale of the property and Remi realises her only option is to lower her defences and take in tenants.
At first her biggest problem is adjusting to the intrusion of two unlikely housemates, but when a series of ‘accidents’ turns ugly, it becomes clear these incidents are more than pranks. Someone is out to get Remi, and they won’t stop until they destroy her…
Another twisty mystery from the bestselling author of The House of Now and Then.
Buy a copy of A Shadow at the Door here.
Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
Mute the mobile, disconnect the doorbell, clear the house, feed the pets/children and gather an extensive range of snacks and refreshments. From page 1 to 383, prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride of emotions where you only take breaks to refresh, socialise and recirculate the blood flow. Jo Dixon takes you on a dark and enlightening story of desire and greed. Where the twists and turns would make a gymnast gasp. From the get-go, the characters are real and engaging. Many of us have friends or relatives who mirror their quirks, making them more real and alive. I love the in-depth description of “renovator’s dream house” as a metaphor for the characters and their building relationships. I could not put the book down and finished it wanting more. Next task is buying Jo Dixon’s The House of Now and Then and planning a holiday to Tasmania to quench my thirst for the glorious countryside and walks. Brilliant. Mark, SA, 5 Stars
This atmospheric thriller will keep you guessing until the last page. Remi, the main character, is attempting to make a fresh start after her marriage breakdown, settling in Hobart in a house she has renovated herself. However one thing after another goes wrong for Remi and it soon becomes clear these incidents are more than bad luck and someone is out to get her. Is it someone from Remi’s past or one of her new tenants she has been forced to take in to make ends meet? The plot takes you on many twists and turns and the author cleverly misdirects the reader several times. I really couldn’t pick which character was good or evil. I loved the setting of the story and the cold, wintry Tasmanian atmosphere really adds to the mood of the novel, making it the perfect book to curl up on the couch with. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will now be looking up the author’s first novel for my next read. Thanks to Better Reading and Harlequin Australia for the opportunity to preview this novel. Kim, VIC, 5 Stars
This was an absorbing page-turner. A mystery and psychological thriller which combines flashbacks of past events and actions to heighten the whodunnit-ness of the mystery in the present. It allows you to ‘see’ the effect of the psychological impacts those past events and actions have had and makes you suspicious of everyone. Remi is a former actress and divorcee who has renovated a cottage house in Hobart, Tasmania, and supporting herself with narration work, while her ex-husband remained in Sydney with his sparkly new wife, living up the cashed-up glamorous life. He starts pressing her to get rid of the cottage and pay him out. With limited cash flow, she has very few options but to take in boarders, and things just start going wrong in her life, which meant that I suspected everyone: the ex-husband, the new wife, the boarders, the old friend, Remi herself… you name it, they were on ‘my list’. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy sharp writing about revenge, infatuation, loneliness, attention/affection and manipulation which keeps you on your toes and leaves you questioning the motives and ‘mystery’ of everyone, right to the very end. Aotea, QLD, 5 Stars
Jo Dixon’s A Shadow at the Door is an absolutely fantastic whodunit. A brilliantly written novel which is fast-paced and hard to put down. Free up some time to read this great book. Trudy, SA, 5 Stars
Another great book by Jo Dixon. I was engrossed with this pacy story from the first page, and enjoyed getting to know each of the characters. All the while in the background, Jo starts creating the web of intrigue and the various plot twists which keep you wanting to get to the next chapter. Once again, the author uses her home town knowledge to set the story in and amongst idyllic Hobart and Tasmania. I loved this book and think it spans both the chick lit/thriller genre. Great holiday reading to get into over the Xmas break. Hope we don’t have to wait too long for Jo Dixon’s next book. Susanne, WA, 5 Stars
Bravo to Jo Dixon, on an absolute page-turner. Brilliantly written characters with a slow burn that keeps you wanting more, along with amazing twists and turns. A Shadow at the Door will draw you in and ends with a stunning and fast paced climax. Remi, Josephine and Emerson are such beautifully written characters, I will actually miss them. Janine, VIC, 5 Stars
A book to thoroughly enjoy. The main setting being in Hobart, Tasmania was so interesting, and makes you want to go and visit. The plot was really intriguing and kept you on your toes. So many suspects to select from. I certainly felt for Remi and all that she had been through, and could totally understand her feeling for her home that she had put all her energy and love into. This is an excellent book for people who love a who did it, but get to experience the surrounding area. Jan, VIC, 5 Stars
Jo Dixon built suspense from the beginning. The plot built as characters developed and was intriguing til the end! Natalie, QLD, 5 Stars
This was a thoroughly entertaining book with plenty of twists to keep me guessing. The story really captivated my interest and it was hard to put this book down because I wanted to know what was going to happen next. Overall, it was a fantastic ready that I highly recommend. Natalie, NSW, 5 Stars
A Shadow At The Door was a fantastic story of obsession and revenge that kept my attention to the very last page. As the characters developed throughout the story, their personalities shone and their backstories began putting the essential elements of the story into place. I really liked the pace of the book, and the slow realisation that all was not what it seemed. As the puzzle grew, so did my interest, and finding out the full story only added to my enjoyment. This was a fabulous story and one I’ll definitely be recommending. Jodie, WA, 5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The love and friendship of the main characters is inspiring. A combination of romance and thriller, I found it hard to put down. There were many twists in the story line that had me gripped. Dianne, WA, 5 Stars
Remi has been hurt and feels she cannot trust anyone, so she lives alone in a large house in Hobart, Tasmania. She has been busy with the house renovations and soon realises that all the ‘incidents’ that have occurred may be more than just ‘accidents’. She has no money left and bills to pay, including interest on the loan from her ex-husband, and decides to offer the spare bedrooms to tenants. Whilst this is not something Remi imagined she would do – as she is very independent – this ends up being a great decision as friendships develop. However, as more incidents occur, one nearly fatal, Remi finds that she has placed her trust with the wrong person who does not have her best interest at heart. The main character in this book finds her strength in dealing with hardships and is ready to accept and perhaps enjoy what life has in store for her. A Shadow at the Door by Jo Dixon is very entertaining, the characters are interesting and the plot is full of twists. An excellent read. Marie, NSW, 5 Stars
After a near-fatal experience and a failed marriage, Remi has chosen to live on her own in her much loved house. It seems, however, that her preferred lifestyle is at risk after several ‘mishaps’ and financial problems force her to take in tenants, a prospect which fills her with dread. I think Remi is a strong character who has trusted others as she tends to only see the best in people. She has been badly hurt but she rises above all the obstacles and finds peace and contentment. This is a very well-written book with well-defined characters and a strong plot. I enjoyed reading A Shadow at the Door by Jo Dixon. Thank you! Marie, NSW, 5 Stars
A Shadow at the Door by Jo Dixon was sensational. Let me tell you, there are no shadows in this novel, it’s a bright light that highlights captivating character development, beautifully crafted writing and storyline. It sure is a page-turner. It twisted in a very homely feel as Dixon’s setting was familiar. I especially appreciated the pace of the storyline and suspense, that kept me diving amongst the pages till late a night. It’s a read you won’t regret, skilfully crafted, makes you think, feel and wonder what twist is next (often what you didn’t expect). A brilliant read that will capture your thoughts and keep you wanting more. Cathy, QLD, 5 Stars
A twisty mystery set in Tasmania. While I guessed some of the who, I didn’t guess the why completely. In saying that, it did not take away from my enjoyment of this book. It was a fun page-turner. Jessica, NSW, 5 Stars
I loved, loved, loved this book! It was so difficult to put down, but sometimes I had to do boring humdrum tasks! But I kept thinking about it the whole time and I just couldn’t wait to open it up again. Why, oh why can’t I just read for a living, especially if all the books are of this calibre! I had a sense of foreboding almost from the first page, which kept me completely immersed in the story. I despaired at what Remi what was going through… I loved the idea of three very different women sharing a house together, and that each of them brought their own diverse attitude and skills to the plot, and ultimately forged a lifelong friendship. Thank you so much for sending me an advance copy – I will be on the lookout for Jo Dixon’s last book now! Dari, WA, 5 Stars
A great read. The story relates to a former TV star, Remi, who has moved to Hobart to work on a house to restore it. While working on the renovations, she runs out of money. Her ex-husband tries to force Remi to sell her home. This is something that she doesn’t want to do. Trying to raise some money, she reluctantly takes in two tenants. It is a difficult decision for her. As she tries to cope with her new tenants, a series of incidents happen. Someone is out to get her. Remi finds out that you can’t always trust everyone. The story keeps you guessing about what is going to happen next. I enjoyed this book so much. Denise, VIC, 5 Stars
Jo Dixon’s second novel is an engrossing psychological thriller, and, as with her first, strong characters give the reader something to care about. Dixon plays well with the established tropes of the genre. Is it the most likely suspect? The most unlikely? Someone barely noticed by Remi? Is Dixon playing it straight or double bluffing you? Dixon further plays with the reader partway through the novel, when a change of narrative perspective takes suspects off the board. This change also ups the stakes, engaging the reader more strongly with characters other than Remi. The strong characters are an enormous plus for the novel. They’re believable and vivid. The variety of personalities are a realistic mix, and further cements the credibility of the action. You can believe that these people would act this way. The plot isn’t particularly original, and enough clues are dropped – with increasing blatancy – that few readers will be surprised by the reveal. However, for a good bit of the novel we share Remi’s confusion and unhappy suspicions of everyone. I thoroughly enjoyed this. The characters are exceptionally strong, the action well-paced, and the writing style engaging. It all adds up to a very absorbing novel. Lorraine, ACT, 5 Stars
The characters in the book worked well together (even though you would think the housemates didn’t have anything in common). It was really intriguing to see how the living situation played out and the mystery that keeps you guessing to the end. I found it hard to put the book down as I was really enthralled by what was going to happen next and enjoyed the unexpected surprise ending. I’m off to buy Jo’s first book now as I loved her easy-to-read writing style. Would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a mystery. Angela, QLD, 5 Stars
Well, I must say, what an amazing gripping read. From page one to the end, many twists and turns along the way. The author has written this very well. I loved the main character Remi, and all the other characters played their part in the story. I hope you all enjoy it. Denise, QLD, 5 Stars
Remi had it – a blooming career, lots of money and a gorgeous husband until it all came to an end… Moving away to Hobart, she tries to create a life for herself, dedicating her time and effort into renovating a house she fought for from her divorce. Unfortunately for Remi, she starts to run low on money as her paid jobs suddenly start to fizzle out and she’s forced to take in a couple of strangers to help make ends meet and keep her ex husband from taking the home she has made from herself. Things just keep going from bad to worse for Remi but her best friend Luke comes to save the day – could this be a start of a new romance? I absolutely loved this book! I didn’t want to put it down and honestly couldn’t wait until the next time I got to pick it up. It as well-written and kept me at the edge of my seat. I’m looking forward up reading more from Jo Dixon! Frankiie, NSW, 5 Stars
Last year Jo Dixon blew me away with her debut novel The House of Now and Then and without a doubt her second novel lived up to all expectations. I was captivated by this twisty mystery from the moment I began the first page, struggling to put it down as it is one of those books that will keep you guessing until the very end. Set in Tasmania’s capital city of Hobart, the main character Remi has retreated to the sanctuary of a beautiful home that she has renovated following the aftermath of a brutal attack and the breakdown of her marriage. Still tied financially to her ex-husband Simon through the property, he tries to force her to sell. Determined to hold on to the house she takes in some tenants. An adjustment to having people in her space leads to suspicion as series of events start to leave Remi wondering who is out to get her. You will definitely want to clear your schedule the moment you pick this one up. Kate, TAS, 5 Stars
A Shadow at the Door by Jo Dixon was an easy-to-read book, with the story flowing through many different phases in the life of Remi. Remi’s life experiences are so like what many women endure today, who for many reasons choose to create a new life due to the breakdown of a marriage, but their moral support is limited due to lack of friends. She makes life changing decisions that were not planned but survival is her goal and learns who are her true friends. Her life is turned upside down when she decides to take in housemates into her newly renovated home as this was motivated by being financially secure, however other characters had other ideas. Josephine and Emerson, the housemates, supported her in her personal endeavours and shows that you can gain new friends from the most unexpected situations. The author, Jo Dixon, allowed the reader to engage with the characters by having them try to second guess how the story would evolve, but like many books, the reader was unable to know the real villain. Readers will enjoy the unexpected turn of events and that perseverance will allow you to succeed. Denise, QLD, 5 Stars
Shadow at the Door by Jo Dixon is well-written and well worth the read. As part of her divorce agreement, our heroine gets the house, complete with mortgage which has been bought by her ex husband. A clause in the contract states that if the mortgage repayments are not paid on time, the ex-husband can foreclose and sell the property; what could possibly go wrong? A series of seemingly unconnected events mean that finances are suddenly at critical levels. In desperation, she opens her home to a couple of women so she can get help with the mortgage payments through their rental payments, and finds that help comes in surprising ways as they investigate happenings in their ‘own way’. Kept me guessing till the end. An excellent book for those chilly evenings, or those sunny relaxing afternoons. Terry, SA, 5 Stars
I was so happy to be able to read Jo Dixon’s A Shadow at the Door. I am a busy working mum and reading a book usually takes me ages. I had this one knocked over in a weekend it was that good! Refreshingly and accurately based in Hobart (which is my hometown), Jo introduces us to Remi, Josephine and Emerson: three woman who have so little in common and with complex life stories. When they all become unlikely housemates it is amazing to see these flawed characters find their inner strength as they bond over the innate need to survive! This sensational story definitely had a few plot twists that I didn’t expect, but I did not have to work too hard to keep up. I pored through the chapters and was left wanting to know more about Jo’s work at the end. So I have downloaded her previous book The House of Now and Then, which is looking equally as amazing. Definitely give this one a read! You won’t regret it! Michelle, TAS, 5 Stars
This was one of those books you could not put down it kept you guessing right to the end. Thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. Sharon, NSW, 5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this book by Jo Dixon. An easy read full of mystery from early pages to the very end. When Remi found herself needing to top up her income, she invited two complete strangers into her life to share her much loved house. Unfortunately, her former husband Simon had designs on that house, wanting to sell to take a clear profit. He still had hold on the mortgage and that was his connection. Remi struggled initially with her houseguests but over time they formed a very tight and strong friendship. This book, to me, highlights the amazing link people can have as friends. All from very different backgrounds made for an interesting mix of personalities. Also it proved that even though we often think we know other people in our lives very well that can be untrue. Remi had two main people from her past life involved with her and the actions taken by them were very interesting, to say the least. Obsession, greed and an amazing desire that was so controlling was fascinating. I won’t give more detail as I do not want to spoil a future read from anyone. I recommend putting aside a few hours to enjoy this book. Frances, VIC, 5 Stars
A Shadow at the Door by Jo Dixon was just as much of a mystery for the mind as The House of Now and Then. Remi Lucan has split with her husband Simon. Now she is no longer an actress or a trophy wife. She has done a lot of work on her house in Hobart, Tasmania, so has an arrangement where her husband has taken on her mortgage and she is paying him back. When this arrangement is in danger she takes in two tenants, Josephine and Emerson, as a last resort. It is hard enough sharing her house, but then weird things start happening. Once things get dangerous she has to work it out one way or another. She starts to do this with the help of her long time friend Luke and is just starting to relax and imagine a new life when life gets complicated again. There are twists and turns to keep you guessing and supporting characters you feel for in one way or another. Loved the setting which contributed to the atmosphere. Thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Tara, SA, 5 Stars
Jo Dixon’s A Shadow at the Door is a fantastic tale of the lengths people will go to to get what they want. Set in picturesque Hobart in the dark depths of winter, financial issues force newly-divorced Remi to open her home to a couple of lodgers. Jo Dixon leads the reader through twists and turns, but even once I knew how the story plays out, I couldn’t put this book down to learn how it all plays out. Highly recommended! Kate, VIC, 5 Stars
Very good mystery read. I was captivated from early into the book. After the breakdown of her marriage, Remi becomes a recluse and renovates her sandstone house in Hobart. Her ex-husband wants her to sell the house as he gave her a loan and she is struggling to pay it back, so she has to take in housemates this is when the book becomes more interesting. Emerson and Josephine are intriguing characters but a very different. Did not expect the outcome at the end. This book is great. Carmel, NSW, 5 Stars
Intrigue and mystery are all tangled up in this Australian novel. New and old secrets unravel and are discovered. Friendships are tested in this storyline that shows you to trust your instincts along with the power of a good friend. I loved the descriptive writing showcasing Hobart and its natural wonders. I devoured this easy-to-read mystery and absolutely loved the trio of housemates. Yvette, NSW, 5 Stars
Remi is recently divorced and living happily alone until her ex-husband starts wanting money. Remi is struggling to make ends meet so she begrudgingly decides to take in two tenants to help pay the rent. It’s not long before sinister things start happening. Is someone targeting Remi, and just how far are they willing to go? Wow, what a bonanza of a story that had me in its clutches from the start and just kept gripping tighter and tighter. At first I wasn’t sure what was going on and when I worked it out I had to keep reading to discover how it would play out. I love the two tenants; they have different personalities but are both my kind of people. The plot is twisty and dark but somehow fun at the same time. This author knows how to write a page-turning mystery to keep you on your toes. Leanne, QLD, 5 Stars
I loved Jo’s first novel, The House of Now and Then, but enjoyed A Shadow at the Door even more! Remi Lucan takes on two lodgers to alleviate financial pressures arising from her ex-husband. Problems truly begin once these new housemates arrive. Don’t they always? Haha. This was such a page-turner. I couldn’t put it down. It’s filled with twists and turns that kept me guessing and engaged throughout. Jo makes the most of the atmospheric Tasmanian winter. It’s a read that has occupied my thoughts since finishing. I love when my home state of Tasmania features in a book, even better when it’s such a well-written story like this! Ellen, TAS, 5 Stars
Wow! What a humdinger of a book this one is. Absolutely awesome. Remi Lucan is at the centre of the storyline and is renovating her property in Hobart, which she kept from her divorce from ex-husband Simon and she is paying off the money she owes him. Remi has been keeping to herself since her divorce, but with pressure from Simon, and new wife Kayla, for all the money to be repaid, she decides to take in a couple of borders in Josephine and Emerson to help with her money situation. Remi has had a couple of strange unexplained things happen and immediately after the boarders move in, more unexplained events happened more frequently. The final straw is when she is home alone and hears a noise downstairs. She looks out her window to see a person running away from her house right before a fire starts in the basement. Depressed at her lack of luck, Remi is invited away with her friend of twenty years, Luke, and decides to go away for the weekend away. Upon returning, she’s ready to sell her house and move on. But this is when all hell breaks loose. Will definitely be reading The House of Now and Then, the first of Jo’s books. Vicki, VIC, 5 Stars
Don’t begin this book in the afternoon unless you’re a speed reader! I did and that was a block of reading that ended when I finished the book at 3am! Worth it though. The story plots the marriage breakdown of former TV star Remi Lucan, who has buried herself in her new home, and avoiding most people. When she fails to make repayments on the house loan her ex-husband made her, he tries to get her to sell. Her only option to increase her income is to take in boarders. Then bad things begin to happen… and the twists and turns keep you turning those pages. The characters are well-drawn and although flawed, many are likeable. The mystery will keep you engaged to the last page. Loved it. Mara, NSW, 5 Stars
A delightful book set in beautiful Tasmania. Intrigue and romance, always a great combination. Jo Dixon weaves an emotional tale of deceit with the warmth of friendship, support and love. Deb, VIC, 5 Stars
This is a story of an unlikely friendship between three women forced together by circumstances – three women of different ages, with different personalities, and each facing their own personal challenges. I loved the characters and felt the development of their friendship overshadowed the plot, which at times was too predictable. I loved Remi, a strong woman who refuses to give up despite her run of bad luck and an ex-husband who is trying to strip of her of the one thing she loves – the home she has lovingly renovated, and which represents her independence. Quirky Emerson and reliable Josephine are also strong characters prepared to do what it takes to help Remi find a way to save her home and prevent her from making the greatest mistake of her life. A Shadow at the Door is a good reminder of how valuable true friends are. Really enjoyed this book – definitely worth a read. Leigh, QLD, 4 Stars
Right off the bat, let me say that there are definitely not enough twisty mysteries set in Tasmania. The beautiful old sandstone house and all the delights of the city of Hobart feature prominently and I am here for it. A Shadow at the Door follows Remi, owner and renovator of the sandstone home in Hobart that she claimed in her divorce settlement, made possible by a sizeable loan owed to her ex-husband Simon. He is a rich but unpleasant social climber and aspiring entrepreneur. Already stretched financially by the cost of the renovation and a series of seemingly random events that leave her in financial distress, Remi takes on two boarders, the delightful Emerson and the adventurous Josephine, and that’s when the book really kicks off. Danger lurks, mysteries abound, and the story barrels along. The characters are all fleshed out and believable, and the friendship between the women was a highlight. Sure, it’s perhaps not the most original storyline, but it’s a fun, compelling read, perfect for holiday reading. Would recommend. Julie, VIC, 4 Stars
I mostly enjoyed reading this novel and will to read Dixon’s first novel. I loved the setting in Hobart, though I’ll investigate whether there is much movement between Sydney and Hobart. During the Covid-pause, lots of Sydney-(and other-)siders did buy property there, pushing prices past ridiculous. Whilst I am a believer in serendipity, it was almost implausible for two very different women to move in as lodgers and hit it off so well. It was written in an easy style and normally I would have read it in a sitting or two, but life is busy. The pacing was good and I couldn’t wait to keep reading to see what happens next. There are some truly horrid and manipulative people in this world – if you have a feeling something is not right, believe that instinct, not the gaslighter, those who pretend to help, nor the smooth talker. Go for it. You’ll not be disappointed in uncovering the answers. Many thanks to Better Reading and Harlequin for an advanced reading copy. Katie, NSW, 4 Stars
Former actress Remi is experiencing a series of financial setbacks and bad luck and is being forced by her ex-husband Simon, to sell her beloved sandstone cottage in Hobart. She reluctantly takes in some housemates to allow her to hold onto her home, and doesn’t know quite what to expect when Josephine and Emmerson move in. At the same time, her relationship with her close friend Luke may be changing to something more. But are all Remi’s problems just down to bad luck or is someone trying to harm her? Jo Dixon’s second novel, A Shadow at the Door, is just as good, if not better than her first book, The House of Now and Then. This well-written and atmospheric page turner, set in the winter in Tasmania, contains characters that display the best and worst of human nature. Thanks to Better Reading for the opportunity to review this book. Alison, NSW, 4 Stars
A Shadow at the Door is a twisty page-turner by Jo Dixon. Set against a stunning Tasmanian backdrop, the narrative follows protagonist Remi, recently divorced and desperately trying to hold onto the home that she has spent so much time and energy renovating. After taking in two lodgers, unexplained things start occurring that send her life into a spiral and make her question the motives of those around her. A solid domestic thriller with lovely undertones highlighting the strength of female friendships. Sarah, VIC, 4 Stars
A Shadow at the Door by Jo Dixon is a gripping thriller that explores the dark side of greed and desire. With compelling characters and an engaging plot, this book keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Dixon’s storytelling skills shine through as she takes readers on a suspenseful journey filled with secrets and suspense. The theme of greed and desire adds depth to the story, making it a thought-provoking read. What sets A Shadow at the Door apart is its ability to captivate readers with its page-turning plot. Dixon’s exploration of human nature and society’s darker aspects adds complexity to the story, making it more than just a typical thriller. Overall, A Shadow at the Door is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. Jo Dixon’s mastery of storytelling and her ability to keep readers engaged make this book a standout in its genre. Prepare to be enthralled by the mysteries that lie within. Amanda, VIC, 4 Stars
A thrilling crime murder mystery set in Tasmania. The author integrated lots of twists and turns which kept me engaged and enthralled. Rich with descriptions of the Tasmanian landscape it made you feel like that you were right there. The characters were well thought out and it seemed as though everyone was a suspect in trying to sabotage Remi’s life. Highly recommended, a guaranteed great read. Brenda, NSW, 4 Stars
I love a story set in Tasmania and Jo Dixon has created a mystery full of twists without fictionalising her location. With her vivid descriptions of a Hobart winter, Jo takes the reader into Remi’s cottage with cosy fires and glasses of wine. She then transports you out into Salamanca, Hobart waterfront and Battery Point where you need a good jacket to keep warm against the wind the rips up off the Derwent and down from the mountain. As a Tasmanian, Jo Dixon made me crave a Fish Frenzy feast and to take a drive down to Peppermint Bay. Her scene description was spot on and when an author doesn’t change a location that is familiar to many of their readers to suit their story, it adds a deeper level of scene visualisation to the reader. Jo Dixon has created characters with enough mystery surrounding them that everyone is a suspect, and you are left guessing as who it might be trying to sabotage Remi’s life. With secret relationships, revenge and bad deeds there are enough twists to keep you absorbed in the story to try and figure out who is being truthful and who isn’t. So, well done Jo Dixon on your second novel. I haven’t read her debut, The House of Now and Then, but after enjoying this book it will be going on to my list of books to read in 2024. Ally, TAS, 4 Stars
I really enjoyed Jo Dixon’s second novel. The tension built steadily throughout and it had relatable characters. Karlie, SA, 4 Stars
Jo Dixon has written an exciting story that twists and turns taking readers on a thrilling ride. A Shadow at the Door is disturbing in its realism and you come to feel that the main character, Remi is running out of options. The tension builds gradually and I found the book very hard to put down towards the end. The characters and setting (Hobart) were so well-drawn that you felt you were there. Janelle, NSW, 4 Stars
This cryptic mystery is set in Sandy Bay, Hobart, with Remi as the main character. After the breakdown of her marriage, Remi’s ex, Simon, is keen to sell their home, a home Remi has spent considerable time and money to make special and something she is very proud of. Remi, desperate to keep the home, but running out of money, takes in a couple of housemates to help her to keep up with the house payments to Simon, as failure to meet these payments will result in Simon being allowed to sell the home. A few nasty things start to happen in Remi’s life. Is she being paranoid, or are they just coincidences? Could there be someone who hates her enough to do all these things? Could it be her ex? How keen is Simon to sell their home, and what lengths would someone go to ensure this happens? Who is making Remi’s life a misery, and why? There are as many as six possible suspects for the terrible things happening to Remi; throw in some red herrings to misdirect me, and I was kept guessing right to the end. A real page-turner with some good characters. Thanks to @betterreadingau for my advanced copy. Michelle, SA, 4 Stars
An absorbing and twisty tale of revenge and bad deeds. Many moments of hating a certain character, and countlessly doubting others. Jo Dixon writes scheming and manipulating characters believably, making me turn the pages quickly, and with intent. I loved the female friendships depicted here, where Remi, a strong and courageous woman is battling hard to keep her head above water. She’s worked hard to make a beautiful home in Hobart, renovating and creating something special, and now her vindictive ex-husband and his insipid and fake new wife are pressuring her to sell – their greed palpable and popping into her life to reap the rewards of her hard work. She shows moments of strength, but many where she needs to back herself more. A page-turning and hefty domestic thriller set in Tasmania, where the setting was beautiful, in contrast to the evil characters. I NEEDED to know who was behind Remi’s extreme misfortune, she was so undeserving of the twisty and tormented treatment she has been receiving. Josephine and Emerson are interesting and courageous friends, leaving me enjoying this original story and needing to know the outcome. Exciting and palpable, where bitchy, conniving and selfish players wreak havoc. A modern and contemporary whodunnit that convincingly rolls along. Rylee, NSW, 4 Stars
A Shadow at the Door by Jo Dixon is a mystery set in beautiful Hobart, Tasmania. Was impressed by my introduction to Jo Dixon, and thank you Better Reading for this ARC for review. The novel takes you on a journey of love, greed, anticipation and expectation. A mystery with a twist, that picks up speed from Part 3, Defence. The resilience shown by the main character Remi is amazing, considering the number of incidents that befall her over a period of time. It’s amazing how resilient and trusting the human mind can be when there is no explanation, until there is. Definitely worth a read for the twist appeal. Sharon, QLD, 4 Stars
This compelling story of intrigue by Jo Dixon has Remi Lucan struggling to keep her newly renovated home and sanctuary from the clutches of her high flying ex-husband who wants to sell it. Although the very thought of sharing her beloved home with paying house guests fills Remi with dread, she is forced to do just that ‘to keep the wolves at bay’. Adjusting to the loss of her privacy is not the only issue Remi is now forced to deal with, a sequence of unexplained disasters and thefts give cause for Remi to distrust everyone around her. The question then needs to be asked, is someone out to get her? If so, who would go to such lengths and why? An outstanding read of secrecy and intrigue. Karen, NSW, 4 Stars
An enjoyable mystery with a twist I didn’t see coming. Really enjoyed the characters in this book, especially the housemates. Ros, ACT, 4 Stars
A very good read with a great location and likeable and despicable characters. I could see this being made into a TV programme. Julie, ACT, 4 Stars
Thanks to Better Reading for an ARC of this delightful book. I was captivated from the first page, and could visualise the characters and settings as they were so well described. The story is easy to follow and has some twists and turns to keep you guessing. Highly recommend this entertaining read. Keryn, SA, 4 Stars
A Shadow at the Door by Jo Dixon was an enthralling read. The characters are strong and I found the storyline interesting. The setting of Hobart town is fascinating as I have been there several times, so could relate to the area. An intriguing love story that ends in drama. Prudence, TAS, 4 Stars
Set in Tasmania, it is a mystery full of twists. Remi is the target of various forms of attacks, all impacting on her financial situation. She is renovating a house and takes in two female lodgers to assist with money in order to pay back her ex-husband. The friendship that develops between the women is lovely and they pursue investigating who is behind the attacks on Remi. It is a fun read even if I guessed a few of the outcomes. Thank you to Better Reading for the Preview copy, I would recommend this book. Julie, QLD, 4 Stars
A Shadow at the Door was a great read. Believable characters with lively personalities, a good storyline with quirky little twists every now and then to keep you on your toes. Enough suspense to keep you turning the pages and a satisfying ending. Well done Jo Dixon – this book is a winner. Michelle, VIC, 4 Stars
A thrilling novel of obsession and murder, found families and new beginnings. This book introduces us to Remi who experiences a series of terrible events in Hobart, some life-threatening, surrounded my new friends Josephine and Emerson who have moved into her once safe house. They dig into her past life, investigating her ex-husband Simon, his new wife Kayla, and her old dependable friend Luke. But someone is lying and keeping secrets… Great thrills mixed with elements of great friendship. I found it an absolute page-turner! Kristy, NSW, 4 Stars
I loved Jo’s debut The House of Now and Then and was very excited to get an advanced reading copy of this one. Another atmospheric read set in Hobart, with interesting characters and a house that is central to the plot. The story focuses on Remi, a former TV star who walks away from fame after a viscous attack. After going through a divorce she finds refuge in her home in Hobart which she is renovating. She runs into some financial issues and takes in some boarders. A number of accidents start to happen and Remi begins to realize that they are not coincidental, someone is out to get her. Remi was a really relatable main character. I loved the way her story unfolded – alternating between time periods. There was a range of supporting characters, all quite interesting. I kept changing my mind as to who was being supportive and who was out to get her. I really enjoyed Jo’s writing style and they she gave out a few hints and a few twists along the way. Another solid thriller, can’t wait to see why she comes up with next. Kirsten, ACT, 4 Stars
Things are not going well for Remi as her ex-husband Simon and his new wife Kayla pressure her to sell the house she is taking such pride in renovating. Financial pressures mount as things around her go wrong and so she takes in two lodgers. The scene is set and over the next couple of months, things go from bad to worse. The story has us on the edge of our seats from the first chapter and keeps us there until right near the end. This despite our knowing the who and why of things long before Remi. I loved Jo Dixon’s first novel and I thoroughly enjoyed this second one though I did think of checking my heart rate from time to time. Thanks to Harlequin and Better Reading Australia for my preview copy. Marlies, VIC, 4 Stars
Remi Lucan lives in Tasmania and has spent the last few years lovingly renovating her house – the only asset she managed to keep from her marriage to Simon. As a former actress, and now audiobook narrator, she needed to enter into a financial loan arrangement with her ex to keep the house, and now he and his new wife Kayla, want her to sell it as they want their money. Reluctantly, Remi takes in two tenants because if she defaults on any more repayments, Simon can force the sale of the house. After these tenants move in, a number of incidents take place including a fire which nearly destroys not only a part of the house but could have killed Remi herself. Who is behind these incidents? Surely they are not coincidences. Are these two new tenants out to destroy her? Dixon writes another absorbing thriller that keeps the reader guessing as the plot takes various turns. But it’s not just plot that keeps the reader engaged, but great characterisation full of nuances that propel this narrative towards its inevitable conclusion. The reader cares about these people. A great read. Barbara, SA, 4 Stars
Wow! This is a fast-paced and intriguing novel by Jo Dixon. Thanks to Better Reading and HQ Fiction for an ARC. I really enjoyed the strong female characters, particularly Josephine bringing her wisdom and cool-headedness to the trying circumstances that she, Remi and Emerson find themselves in. I love a twisty mystery and this is a very good one which had me guessing who the villains were for quite some time. Remi is distrustful when she is forced to take a couple of boarders into the home she has renovated with sweat, tears and love. Is she ready to find friendship, romance and a different future? Do yourself a favour and find out by reading this fab book. Karan, VIC, 4 Stars
Another great book by Jo Dixon. Set in Tasmania (again), former TV star Remi Lucan has set her sights on renovating her house in order to get past her broken marriage and a brutal attack. But in order to keep the house and do the renovations she needs to take on tenants. Is this the best thing to do? But when strange things, strange accidents start happening the whole situation turns a bit weird and Remi seems to be in danger. But who is after her, who wants her out of the picture and why? This is an exciting and gripping read that you won’t be able to put down. A book that really revolves around the characters in it, the story evolves and builds, which kept me wanting to turn the page again and again. There were twists and turns; it wasn’t all together predictable and it was intriguing and thrilling to the end. And the ending topped off a great story and didn’t disappoint. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves a good mystery and thriller. Donna, TAS, 4 Stars
A Shadow at the Door is a compelling read. The plot grabs you from the first page, the storyline is interesting and different from the usual. The descriptions were great, painting a picture that made the story more enjoyable. Julie, NSW, 4 Stars
The characters were all engaging and the flow between them was well constructed. Early on in the book, Remi, the main character, describes her ex as a ‘patronising, sanctimonious arsehole’, and I agreed with her most of the way through. I liked the rapport that developed between the housemates and eventually all three of them forge a strong bond of friendship. But things aren’t what they seem… I enjoyed Jo Dixon’s style of writing very much and I was engrossed and engaged with all the characters. Chris, VIC, 4 Stars
This a great read that draws you in early and keeps you both guessing and entertained with lively characters and a few surprise twists. Will read again and again. Highly recommend. Lisa, WA, 4 Stars
The mystery in the book is twisted and I loved it. It is extremely well-written and very entertaining. It is well-paced and easy to keep up with. I could not stop readng this book once I started. An added bonus is that it is set in Tasmania. Joanne, NSW, 4 Stars
Jo Dixon writes a good, entertaining book. This is the story of a woman who has endured much, including the breakdown of her marriage and an attack which ended her career. She is still suffering misfortunes at every turn, and has only one good friend to turn to. There are plenty of twists and turns in this book, much like Jo Dixon’s first book. While it is often possible to pick what is going to happen, the story is well told and fast paced, and easily keeps the interest, so that you have to read just one more chapter, time and time again. Karen, VIC, 4 Stars
Jo’s debut novel was fantastic and this is just as good! An edge of your seat read that keeps you guessing until the end. A strong female cast of very likeable characters – this one is definitely a winner for her second novel. Mark, QLD, 4 Stars
Right from the beginning I was hooked. An easy and quickly progressing story line. Really enjoyable read. Kate, QLD, 4 Stars
This is not a book to be casually picked up and read – once you start it has to be gorged on until the very last page. Love, obsession and retribution are at the heart of Remi’s mounting problem’s as she tries to keep her beloved dream house and escape the demands of her ex-husband that it must be sold to repay her debt to him. Just when it seems she might have a clear future without his interference, her life and expectations blow up in front of her. Once I started, I couldn’t put Jo Dixon’s finely crafted tale down and found myself getting closer to Josephine and Emerson, her two share-housemates who refuse to let her down. A great read. Kirsten, WA, 4 Stars
I was hooked from the first chapter. Such an easy read with enough twists to keep you guessing. The characters were relatable. Who doesn’t want to be with friends who look after each other? I loved the character of Josephine. As the story unfolds each character’s layers are peeled back to discover their flaws and strengths. Josephine is an anxious mature lady who is finding it difficult to let her chick leave the nest, so she sets herself challenges to help with her anxiety. As the story is set in Hobart, Josephine climbs Mt Wellington as one of her challenges. Hobart is not Sydney or Melbourne, but it has enough challenges to help Josephine. I found myself relating to the trials of Josephine but was envious of her adventures in Hobart. A Shadow at the Door would make a wonderful TV drama with its relatable characters and awesome backdrop of the city of Hobart. A great read by Jo Dixon. Robyn, QLD, 4 Stars
Hadn’t read or really heard of Jo before, but was pleasantly surprised. A well-plotted suspenseful thriller. Believable relatable characters that kept my interest, was a quick enjoyable read. Christina, WA, 4 Stars
A story about greed, manipulation and human relationships set in the beautiful city of Hobart. Remi has gone from a successful TV star to a trophy wife to an unlucky-in-love home renovator on minimal income. She continues to experience all kinds of bad luck forcing her to take in two strangers as tenants, Emerson and Josephine, to help with her finances and repay her ex-husband, Simon. He has kindly loaned her the money to buy out his share of the house at an interest rate only slightly above the bank’s! As much as she prefers to keep to herself and live alone, if she can’t make the repayments Simon will sell her home, her pride and joy, out from underneath her. She will need to learn to get along with the exuberant Emerson and traveller extraordinaire Josephine if they are to share the same roof. This is a twisty, suspenseful tale that I found difficult to put down the further I got into it. Jodi, QLD, 4 Stars
This book was amazing, truly loved it and found it hard to put down. Jessica, NSW, 4 Stars
I was lucky enough to be sent an advance copy of this book to review, thank you Better Reading! This fast-paced mystery had me hooked right away! Filled with twists and turns, Jo Dixon has managed to capture a story that keeps readers enthralled until the very last page. Kirra, NSW, 3 Stars
An interesting study of relationships. Recommended for readers looking for tension, but not terror. Heidi, VIC, 3 Stars
A tale with many twists and multiple threads. Set in Tasmania, the story follows the lives of women across different generations, who unwittingly become friends and entwined in each other’s challenges. It has intrigue, fun and makes for a good read. Geoff, WA, 3 Stars
Overall, I enjoyed it. I live in Hobart, so really enjoyed reading something set where I live, the descriptions of the city and surrounds were excellent. I enjoyed the portrayal of characters, particularly Em despite her morally questionable moments! Without giving anything away, I enjoyed that the ending wasn’t what you would expect, but still satisfying. Rowena, TAS, 3 Stars
An enjoyable read. Suspenseful twists and plot turns built up to a satisfying conclusion. Elizabeth, NSW, 3 Stars
Set in Hobart, Tasmania the story follows Remi Lucan, who is still reeling from a brutal attack, a career breakdown and the disintegration of her marriage. Remi is a likeable character yet it is apparent from the beginning of the novel that she is quite emotionally vulnerable. The novel is quite long and probably longer than I would have liked given the pacing and plot of the story. I loved the bond between Remi and her two friends. Emma, ACT, 3 Stars
I enjoyed the novel. I liked the characters and I liked that I was kept guessing initially about who was – and wasn’t – a suspect. By the start of the second section of the book I had strong suspicions. Possibly the only small detractor from my enjoyment of the story itself is that it’s a common trope (I don’t want to give any spoilers but ultimately it wasn’t a surprise and has been used in quite a number of suspense thrillers). It was well-paced and although I felt some disappointment at the ultimate outcome, I did enjoy how the novel concluded. It was an easy read and I would read more of Jo Dixon’s work. Yvonne, NSW, 3 Stars
While A Shadow at the Door is well written, I felt that the plot was somewhat predictable, and the characters, although potentially interesting, lacked depth. Nevertheless, it was an easy and enjoyable read. Thanks to the author, Better Reading and HQ Fiction for the ARC. Charlene, WA, 3 Stars
I really enjoyed A Shadow at the Door, and what a treat to be among the first the read it! Jo Dixon writes a delicious twisty domestic drama, with great characters – some truly unlikeable but in a realistic way. I got sucked into the plot and was happy to go along for the ride, even though it was a little predictable – I guessed one of the twists very early on. Still, a good story is a good story and now I want to move to Tasmania and live in Remi’s house. Bonny, QLD, 3 Stars
Jo Dixon’s book, A Shadow at the Door, follows recently divorced Remi Lucan as she tries to stay on top of payments to her ex and renovate her home. As money becomes tight and she faces defaulting, Remi decides to take in two lodgers. Things really begin to unravel for her and she has to work out who wants her to fail. Are her lodgers suspects? What about her ex and his wife? Suspicion and fear take over as things escalate. An easy and enjoyable read with enough twists to keep the reader engaged. I’ll be looking for Dixon’s first book to read now. Thanks to Better Reading and Harlequin for my copy. Annette, ACT, 3 Stars
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