A Demon in My View by Ruth Rendell

The title of this book is taken from a poem by Edgar Allan Poe, Alone, suggesting the solitary themes of isolation and not fitting in. A prelude to what this novel is about.

A respectable middle-aged man lives a quiet life as a bookkeeper and rent collector in a run down part of east London. He keeps himself very much to himself whilst living in a flat in a large house. He has a disturbing secret though - he has murderous urges that he manages to keep under control. This system worked for twenty years until a new tenant moves to the building and threatens his peaceful existence.

This is a chilling and perceptive story that touches on many issues and fears of 1970s England. The social commentary addresses the many protests and strikes that took place, the replacing of old Victorian housing with new council estates, sexism and racism for example. One of the characters is preparing a thesis on criminal psychopathy and there is plenty of material on this subject and it is expertly expressed.

The themes cover many psychological issues such as obsession, inadequacy, family, oppression, relationships and morality, all brought together in a tantalising and disturbing tale. Brilliantly observed, written with skill and atmosphere. One of my favourite and most memorable books.

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Published by Hutchinson on 3 May 1976. Many other editions have been published since.

Winner of the Crime Writers' Award Gold Dagger

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Capital Chronicles: London Through Time ​