Book excerpt: A Manhattan woman’s new roommate is a nightmare in this classic psychological thriller that inspired the hit film, Single White Female. Things could be better for computer consultant Allie Jones. With her boyfriend moved out, she needs to find a new way to make rent on her Upper West Side apartment. After placing an ad in the classifieds, she meets Hedra Carlson, a shy, awkward office temp. While Hedra may not be the perfect applicant, she’s the best one Allie can find. As the two adjust to living together, Hedra can barely contain her admiration for Allie. But soon Hedra’s mousey demeanor transforms into something far more menacing. She’s doesn’t just love Allie, she wants to become her . . . “A contemporary horror tale that few readers will be able to put down. . . . An enjoyable diversion.” —Publishers Weekly “Gotham paranoia at its creepiest.” —Kirkus Reviews