The Companion

After surviving a car accident that kills her family, sixteen-year-old Margot accepts a position as a companion at a remote estate in Vermont. Her new role involves keeping company with Laura, the family's younger daughter who is said to be unable to speak due to past trauma. Living with the wealthy Suttons at their mansion, Margot tries to build a new life while helping Laura and processing her own grief. The grand house and its inhabitants present mysteries that become increasingly difficult to ignore, leading Margot to question the true nature of her position. Strange occurrences multiply and tensions rise as Margot discovers unsettling truths about the Sutton family and their isolated estate. She must navigate complex relationships and determine whom she can trust while uncovering long-buried secrets. The Companion explores themes of loss, identity, and psychological manipulation within the framework of a Gothic thriller. The story examines how trauma shapes relationships and raises questions about the boundaries between helping others and losing oneself.

Readers describe this YA thriller as fast-paced and atmospheric, with many finishing it in one or two sittings. The isolated mansion setting and steady build-up of tension kept readers engaged. Liked: - Unpredictable plot twists - Gothic atmosphere and creepy mansion details - Strong character development of the protagonist - Quick pacing that maintains suspense Disliked: - Some found the ending rushed and unsatisfying - Several readers wanted more backstory about secondary characters - A few felt the romantic subplot was unnecessary - Multiple reviews noted plot holes in the final act Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (14,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (1,200+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.4/5 (200+ ratings) "The atmosphere is perfect for a spooky read" - Goodreads reviewer "Great buildup but the ending fell flat" - Amazon reviewer "Kept me guessing until the last chapter" - Barnes & Noble reviewer

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🔖 The story takes place in an AI-controlled smart house, reflecting growing real-world concerns about artificial intelligence and home automation security. 🖋️ Author Katie Alender drew inspiration from her own experience with anxiety and isolation to create the protagonist Margot's emotional journey. 🏛️ The book's setting, a sprawling Victorian mansion, pays homage to classic gothic literature while incorporating modern technology. 📚 The Companion was selected as a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection in 2020. 🎭 The novel explores themes of grief and identity through the unique lens of a teenage girl who assumes another person's life - a modern take on the classic "changeling" narrative.