The Landlady

"The Landlady" is a short story by Roald Dahl that explores themes of trust and deception. It follows a young man named Billy who visits a small town and decides to stay at a bed-and-breakfast run by a seemingly kind landlady. Unusual details about her warmth and the intimate care she shows initially seem charming, but as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that her friendliness masks sinister intentions. The landlady’s quiet, controlling demeanor hints at her darker motivations, making her an intriguing and unsettling character. Overall, she exemplifies how appearances can conceal dangerous secrets.