Seems like the third book tried to clean house but ended up sweeping the excitement under the rug instead! Unfortunately, this book is the weakest of Seems like the third book tried to clean house but ended up sweeping the excitement under the rug instead! Unfortunately, this book is the weakest of the trilogy. The story lacks compelling elements, and the twists don’t pack the same punch. While the plot has its darker corners, there’s enough humor peppered in to keep things sparkling, and discovering references like pomegranate juice and the turtle felt like unearthing Easter eggs from Freida McFadden’s other books.
“The Housemaid Is Watching” may not sweep you off your feet, but it’s still an enjoyable read, especially if you’re invested in the characters and their journey. The twists might not whip your head back, but they’ll at least raise an eyebrow. And fear not—the mop can stay in the closet; there won’t be a fourth spill. ...more
A cunningly crafted psychological game that flips the script on the classic hunter and hunted narrative, ensnaring you in its icy grip.
In the midst ofA cunningly crafted psychological game that flips the script on the classic hunter and hunted narrative, ensnaring you in its icy grip.
In the midst of a snowstorm, a lone woman faces a choice: accept a ride from a stranger or brave the biting cold alone. Little does she know that this seemingly innocuous decision will thrust her into a blizzard of deceit and peril, blurring the lines between victim and threat.
As the two characters huddle in a roadside motel that reeks of secrets, the plot thickens. A disturbing discovery, the questionable actions of the motel’s owner and guests, and a news report about a missing couple in the area set the scene for a terrifying night. But the true suspense lies in the secrets each stranger guards. Who can be trusted when everyone wears a mask?
Unfortunately, the book’s potential is somewhat undermined by its ending. The ending relies heavily on coincidences and it feels somewhat predictable. A particular grievance is the clichéd triumph of the underdog in a physical confrontation—a trope that strains credulity when the victor lacks the means, motive, and strength.
Despite its conventional ending, "The Stranger" delivers a riveting journey with characters that resonate warmth in a cold, treacherous world. It’s a worthwhile weekend escape for any thriller enthusiast. ...more
What She Knew is a fascinating read that will keep you glued to the pages. Dan Clark crafts a superb domestic thriller that uncovers the hidden and twWhat She Knew is a fascinating read that will keep you glued to the pages. Dan Clark crafts a superb domestic thriller that uncovers the hidden and twisted secrets of a seemingly perfect marriage.
The book is an emotional roller-coaster, with short chapters from Tom’s perspective. The characters are believable and likeable, with motives and emotions that make you care about them. The writing style is smooth and vivid, with descriptions and dialogues that create a tense and suspenseful atmosphere. The twist at the end is foreseeable, but satisfying.
This is my first time reading Dan Clark and I was pleasantly surprised. I’ll be sure to check out more of his books.
What would you do if your son was bullied by a classmate and his family? Would you sit back and watch while the law isn’t on your side, or would you tWhat would you do if your son was bullied by a classmate and his family? Would you sit back and watch while the law isn’t on your side, or would you take matters into your own hands? That is the dilemma faced by the protagonists of The Couple's Revenge, a psychological thriller by Daniel Hurst that explores the dark side of parental love and the consequences of bullying.
This is a roller-coaster ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Daniel Hurst does a great job of portraying the issue of school bullying and its devastating effects on the victims and their families. He also shows the psychological impact of the trauma and the desire for revenge on the main characters. There are some unexpected plot twists that will surprise and satisfy you. The ending is fulfilling and rewarding, as it gives a sense of closure and justice to the story.
However, it has some weaknesses that may lower your enjoyment. The main characters' plan for revenge is quite clumsy and reckless. Their actions are not well-planned and often backfire on them. The ending is also quite unbelievable, as it seems too convenient and unrealistic.
Overall, it is a good thriller that will keep you hooked and entertained. It is not a masterpiece, but it is a fun and quick read. It has a gripping plot, a serious theme, and some satisfying twists. If you are looking for a thrilling and suspenseful book that will make you question how far you would go for your loved ones, you might want to check out The Couple's Revenge by Daniel Hurst....more
Two Stolen Girls by Jeff Stetson and Lauren Street is a thriller novel that follows the investigation of two kidnapping cases that seem to be connecteTwo Stolen Girls by Jeff Stetson and Lauren Street is a thriller novel that follows the investigation of two kidnapping cases that seem to be connected by a mysterious serial kidnapper. The book alternates between the perspectives of the police, the two fathers of the missing girls, the kidnapper, and the victims. The book explores the themes of family, trauma, justice, and survival.
The book has a promising premise that could have been a gripping and suspenseful read. However, the book fails to deliver on its potential due to several flaws. One of the main weaknesses of the book is the slow pace and the lack of plot twists. The first 50 chapters are mostly filled with mundane details and repetitive scenes that do not advance the plot or the character development. After dragging on for most of the book, the plot finally heats up and reaches its conclusion in the last 10 chapters. However, the reader may have already given up on the story or lost their enthusiasm by then.
Another weakness of the book is the lack of depth and originality in the characters and the plot. The book relies on clichés and stereotypes to portray the police, the fathers, the kidnapper, and the girls. The police are portrayed as diligent but inept, the fathers are portrayed as heroic and determined, the kidnapper is portrayed as a psychotic and sadistic man, and the girls are portrayed as kindhearted and helpless victims. The plot is also predictable and simplistic, with no surprises or twists.
Some of the book’s strengths are its descriptive and vivid writing style that creates a realistic and immersive setting and some tense and exciting scenes that capture the reader’s attention and curiosity. It also has a satisfying and hopeful ending that resolves the main conflict and gives closure to the characters and the reader. The book also depicts diverse races, albeit in a clichéd way, such as black being impoverished, white being affluent, Asian having rigid parents, and Mexican being migrants.
Overall, Two Stolen Girls by Jeff Stetson and Lauren Street is a mediocre thriller that could have been much better with more creativity and complexity. This book might appeal to readers who enjoy action-packed stories, but it might disappoint readers who expect more depth and originality. The book deserves a rating of 3 out of 5 stars....more
The Child at My Door by Sam Vickery is a captivating novel that explores the power and the pain of maternal love. It tells the story of Clarissa, who The Child at My Door by Sam Vickery is a captivating novel that explores the power and the pain of maternal love. It tells the story of Clarissa, who is stunned when a little boy shows up at her door, saying he is her grandson. But how is that possible, when her daughter Chloe supposedly died fifteen years ago? Or did she? As Clarissa takes the boy in, she learns that Chloe is not dead, but she is in deep trouble. She has entrusted her son to Clarissa, the only person she can rely on, to keep him safe from a perilous situation. As the story progresses, many questions emerge. What made Chloe flee? What really happened fifteen years ago? Is the disappearance of Clarissa’s daughter and husband related to Jeff, her stalker and sneaky neighbor? Is the boy safe here, or is this a big mistake?
The book starts off slow, with a lot of backstory and exposition, but it picks up the pace after the first 20 chapters. The story takes many unexpected twists and turns, and reveals shocking secrets along the way. I was pleasantly surprised by how unpredictable and intriguing the book was. The book also tackles some serious issues, such as domestic violence, child abuse, and guilt, and shows how they affect the characters and their relationships. Chloe, in particular, is a complex and flawed protagonist, who has to deal with her own demons and regrets. The mystery aspect of the novel is well-crafted and suspenseful, with clues and red herrings sprinkled throughout. The author keeps the reader guessing until the end, with a surprising and satisfying reveal.
However, the book also has some flaws, such as the unrealistic and convenient resolution of some problems, depending on coincidences to advance the plot, such as finding the key to the mystery that was burried for 15 years just by walking on the street and spotting it “on the side of the road”. Just like that.
If you are a fan of psychological thrillers, family dramas, and mysteries, you will love this book. It is a fast-paced and addictive read, that will keep you guessing until the last page. The Child at My Door is a book that you will not want to stop reading, and that you will not forget easily.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review....more
Imagine waking up with a distorted head, unable to move, speak, or remember who you are. That’s the nightmare that Dr. Charly McKenna faces in Brain DImagine waking up with a distorted head, unable to move, speak, or remember who you are. That’s the nightmare that Dr. Charly McKenna faces in Brain Damage by Freida McFadden.
The book follows Dr. Charly McKenna, a successful dermatologist who suffers a severe brain injury after a violent attack. She is admitted to a rehab center where she has to relearn basic skills and cope with her memory loss. But as she gradually recovers her past, she realizes that her life was full of secrets, lies, and danger. She also learns that someone confessed to the crime, but she is not sure if he is the real culprit or if there is a bigger scheme behind it. And will they try to silence her again?
Brain Damage is a well-written and engaging book that blends medical facts and fiction to create a realistic and compelling scenario. The author, who is a physician herself, shows the challenges and the triumphs of patients and doctors in a rehab center, with accuracy and empathy. The book has some flaws, such as the lack of depth and development of some of the secondary characters, the predictable plot, the occasional use of clichés and stereotypes, and the convenient and unrealistic resolution of some of the issues. The protagonist’s obsession with good looks and her love-is-blind syndrome are annoying sometimes. The book also relies on lucky breaks to move the story forward, such as the culprit confessed to the protagonist and try to kill her IN PUBLIC?!?...more
John Marrs’ “The Stranger in Her House” is a riveting thriller that masterfully intertwines suspense with a poignant commentary on societal vulnerabilJohn Marrs’ “The Stranger in Her House” is a riveting thriller that masterfully intertwines suspense with a poignant commentary on societal vulnerabilities. The novel opens with Connie, our protagonist, facing a blend of intrigue and apprehension as Paul, a stranger sent to aid her dementia-afflicted mother, Gwen, integrates himself into their lives and community. As Paul’s bond with Gwen strengthens, so do Connie’s doubts, leading to a tense cat-and-mouse dynamic that begs the question: who is the predator, and who is the prey?
Marrs excels in crafting a narrative that is as much about the thrills as it is about the exploration of pressing social issues. The precariousness of those living alone, particularly the elderly and infirm, is laid bare, with Gwen’s condition serving as a stark emblem of how susceptible such individuals are to manipulation. The novel prompts introspection on the mechanisms in place to protect the defenseless and the ethical dilemmas surrounding their care, reminiscent of the unsettling themes in the movie ‘I Care a Lot’.
While the story’s plausibility may occasionally waver, the engrossing plot and Marrs’ fluid storytelling ensure that any skepticism is overshadowed by the urge to unravel the mystery. “The Stranger in Her House” stands as a compelling reminder of the fine line between safeguarding and exploitation, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of trust and deception in the face of vulnerability. ...more
Do You Remember: A Twisty Tale of Memory and Betrayal
Imagine waking up every morning with no memory of who you are, where you are, or who the strangerDo You Remember: A Twisty Tale of Memory and Betrayal
Imagine waking up every morning with no memory of who you are, where you are, or who the stranger in your bed is. That’s the nightmare that Tess Strebel faces in Do You Remember by Freida Mcfadden.
Summary The novel is a compelling and enjoyable psychological thriller that follows Tess Strebel, who thought she had the perfect life with her fiancé Harry Finch. After a romantic proposal and a night of celebration, she wakes up to a shocking reality: a handsome stranger in her bed, a lavish place full of gadgets, and a letter from herself explaining that she had a car accident 10 years ago that erased her memory every morning. The stranger claims to be her husband, Graham Thurman, and tells her they have been married for 4 years. But as Tess tries to adjust to her new situation, she receives a text message warning her not to trust him, and she begins to question everything. She soon realizes that her house is a high-tech prison, and that everyone around her is hiding something. Who is Graham Thurman, and what does he want from her? Who sent her the text message, and why? What really happened 10 years ago, and who is responsible for her memory loss? Tess must find the answers before it’s too late, and before she forgets everything again.
Strengths The novel is a fast-paced and entertaining read, with a clever and unexpected twist at the end, revealing who was behind Tess’s memory loss and why. The reveal is satisfying and makes you smile wickedly and say “Ok Freida you got me again”. The author, who is also a practicing physician, portrays the challenges and emotions of living with memory loss realistically and sensitively. She also explores the themes of identity, love, betrayal, and deception, and how they affect our lives and relationships.
Weaknesses The premise is quite similar to Before I Go to Sleep by S.J. Watson, but it has its own originality and creativity. The storyline is also predictable and cliché, with stereotypical characters such as a beautiful young maid, a shady husband, a jealous best friend, and a did-me-wrong ex-boyfriend.
Recommendation I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys thrillers, domestic drama series. It is a perfect holiday read, as it will keep you hooked and intrigued. However, if you are looking for a more innovative and unpredictable story, you might find this book too familiar and cliché.
Inside thinking One thing that puzzled me was why Tess hated pomegranate juice so much. Could it be a symbolic reference to the myth of Persephone, who was kidnapped by Hades and forced to stay in the underworld after eating a pomegranate seed? Or could it be a metaphor for the unbreakable bond of marriage, which Tess was trapped in against her will? Or maybe I am overthinking it and it is just a personal preference of Freida....more
The Wrong Mother is a psychological thriller that follows Faye, a single woman who wants a child, and Rachel, a lonely widow who rents out a roSummary
The Wrong Mother is a psychological thriller that follows Faye, a single woman who wants a child, and Rachel, a lonely widow who rents out a room in her cottage. Faye meets Louis through a co-parenting app, and gives birth to their son, Jake. But Louis turns out to be a different man than she expected, and Faye has to flee with Jake to escape his wrath. She finds shelter in Rachel’s cottage, but Rachel has a secret that links her to Faye’s past, and a plan that threatens Faye and Jake’s lives.
Strengths
The novel is dynamic and engaging, with a back and forth timeline that keeps the reader on edge. The characters have complex and tragic family backgrounds that add depth to the story, and make them somewhat sympathetic, even the antagonist. The novel has a surprising twist that reveals the truth about Faye and Louis’s relationship, and the motive behind Rachel’s actions.
Weaknesses
The novel has a major “irk” in its protagonist, Faye, who is blindly in love with Louis, a snobbish and indifferent man, despite all the warning signs. Her lack of judgment and common sense frustrates me and makes me root for the antagonist. The novel relies on clichés and stereotypes, such as the naive and gullible heroine, the “bad” boyfriend, and the “psychotic” widow.
Recommendation
The novel is a compelling and disturbing exploration of the themes of motherhood, love, family, and revenge. One might enjoy this book if they are looking for a quick and easy read to pass the time or relax. One might hate this book if they can’t tolerate a protagonist who is too trusting and foolish....more
Everyone has secrets. But what if the secret you're keeping is the one that could destroy you? And someone else has it.
That’s the dilemma facing AprilEveryone has secrets. But what if the secret you're keeping is the one that could destroy you? And someone else has it.
That’s the dilemma facing April Masterson, a seemingly perfect housewife and baking influencer. She has a loving husband, a loyal best friend, and a charming new neighbor. But when she starts receiving nasty text messages from someone who knows her secret, she has to find out who it is before they expose her. Who is it? And what do they want?
Want to Know a Secret? is a deliciously twisted psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. It’s full of surprises, suspense, and mouth-watering baking tips. The author, Freida Mcfadden, has a knack for creating complex and realistic characters that you’ll love or hate. She also knows how to craft a clever plot, with subtle clues and red herrings that lead to unexpected revelation. The only flaw is the epilogue, which seems too unbelievable and far-fetched, but that’s a minor quibble for an otherwise satisfying read.
I would recommend this book to anyone who needs a quick fix of psychological thrillers with a touch of humor and baking. Just don't blame me if you start craving brownies after reading it!...more
How far would you go to find your daughter? And what if you didn’t like what you found?
This is the premise of The Girl Outside, a gripping psychologiHow far would you go to find your daughter? And what if you didn’t like what you found?
This is the premise of The Girl Outside, a gripping psychological thriller that explores the secrets and lies that lurk beneath the surface of a seemingly peaceful small town.
Mandy Knox is a single mother who loves her teenage daughter Callie more than anything. But when Callie goes missing one night, Mandy's world is turned upside down. She becomes desperate to find her daughter, but the more she digs, the more she realizes that Callie had a secret life that she kept hidden from her. And she is not the only one. Everyone in the town has something to hide, and some of them will stop at nothing to protect their secrets.
The Girl Outside is a fast-paced and suspenseful read that will keep you hooked until the end. The author creates a dark and tense atmosphere, with vivid descriptions and realistic dialogue. The characters are well-developed and flawed, each with their own backstory and agenda. The plot is full of twists and turns, as it reveals more layers of deception and betrayal in each chapter. The themes are relevant and thought-provoking, as they touch on parenthood, secrets, guilt, and identity.
This is not a book for the faint of heart, as it deals with some disturbing and sensitive topics, such as child abuse, domestic violence, drug addiction, school bullying, kidnapping, etc. The book also contains some graphic and violent scenes that may be triggering for some readers. However, the book also offers some hope and redemption for the characters who try to overcome their demons and find closure.
The only drawback of the book is the ending, which is a bit disappointing and leaves a lot of questions unanswered. The emotional and heart-wrenching message could have been more powerful but it falls short because of the last chapter.
The Girl Outside is a riveting and compelling read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the end. If you are looking for a psychological thriller that will keep you glued to the pages, then you should definitely check out The Girl Outside by James Caine....more
What would you do if someone from your past came back to haunt you and make you pay for your sins? That's the question that Leonie Wilding faces in MaWhat would you do if someone from your past came back to haunt you and make you pay for your sins? That's the question that Leonie Wilding faces in Make Her Pay, a fast-paced and suspenseful psychological thriller by Miranda Rijks.
The novel follows Leonie Wilding, a successful and beautiful woman who has a dark secret. Ten years ago, she was involved in a hit-and-run accident that killed another driver. She fled the scene and never looked back. But now, as her wedding to Markus, the man of her dreams, approaches, someone is out to get her. It's Carrie, the victim, who survived the accident but lost everything. She has been plotting her revenge for years, and she won't stop until Leonie pays for what she did. Leonie must find a way to escape Carrie's wrath, and to deal with the guilt that has been haunting her for a decade.
Make Her Pay by Miranda Rijks is a fast-paced and suspenseful psychological thriller that deals with several issues that will resonate with many readers. One of the main themes of the story is the impact of strict parenting on children. Leonie, one of the main characters, was raised by parents who imposed strict rules on her, which led her to make some poor decisions in her life. The plot also explores the theme of guilt and how it can affect a person’s life. Leonie has been carrying the guilt of a hit-and-run accident for years, and it has taken a toll on her mental health. The story also touches on the theme of revenge and how it can consume a person’s life. Carrie, the victim of the hit-and-run accident, is willing to go to extreme lengths to seek revenge, which adds to the tension and intrigue of the story. She was at the peak of her life with a successful career and a child on the way, but she lost everything after the accident. It is heartbreaking to see how her life has been turned upside down by the accident, and how she is struggling to cope with the aftermath. Carrie deserved a better life, but unfortunately, she was a victim of circumstances beyond her control.
The book has some plot holes and inconsistencies, such as the ease with which Carrie infiltrates Leonie's life, or the lack of police involvement in the case. The book also has a twist at the end, but it is not very surprising or satisfying, as it is hinted at throughout the book.
Overall, Make Her Pay is an enjoyable read for those who like psychological thrillers, but it may not be the best choice for those looking for a unique or unpredictable plot. I would recommend this book to fans of Miranda Rijks, or to readers who like fast-paced and suspenseful stories that deal with guilt, revenge, and secrets....more
The Perfect Son by Freida McFadden is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you hooked until the very end. The story revolves around Erika The Perfect Son by Freida McFadden is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you hooked until the very end. The story revolves around Erika Cass, a mother who has to face the unthinkable: her son Liam is the prime suspect in the disappearance of a high school girl from their neighborhood. Erika has always sensed something off about Liam, but she loves him and wants to protect him. As the police investigation unfolds, Erika uncovers shocking secrets about Liam’s past and his connection to the missing girl. She also has to deal with her own guilt, doubts, and fears. How far will she go to save her son? And what if he is not the perfect son she thought he was?
The Perfect Son is a fast-paced thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The author does a great job of creating suspense and tension throughout the book, as well as developing the characters and their relationships. The plot is full of twists and turns that will surprise you and make you question everything. The ending is satisfying and realistic, without being too predictable or cliché. The Perfect Son is a book that will make you think and feel, and it will stay with you long after you finish reading it. If you are looking for a thrilling and captivating read, I highly recommend The Perfect Son by Freida McFadden. You won’t regret it....more
A woman with multiple sclerosis, who was able to win a cat fight over someone who had 6 hours of strength training almost daily, was quite far-fetchedA woman with multiple sclerosis, who was able to win a cat fight over someone who had 6 hours of strength training almost daily, was quite far-fetched for me. There are other plot holes as well but overall, this book is fast-paced and entertaining enough....more
Wow, what a ride! The Inmate by Freida Mcfadden is a thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The ending is mind-blowing. I never saw theWow, what a ride! The Inmate by Freida Mcfadden is a thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The ending is mind-blowing. I never saw the twists coming, especially the last chapter that made my head explode. ...more
The Wife Upstairs by Freida McFadden is a twisted psychological thriller that explores the dark side of marriage, secrets, and lies.
The Wife Upstairs The Wife Upstairs by Freida McFadden is a twisted psychological thriller that explores the dark side of marriage, secrets, and lies.
The Wife Upstairs by Freida McFadden is a psychological thriller that I have mixed feelings about. It was a fast-paced and suspenseful read, with a lot of twists and turns. The author did a good job of creating complex and flawed characters, and a plot that kept me guessing until the end. The book also touched on some interesting themes, such as the role of women in society, the power of manipulation, and the consequences of lies.
However, I also have to admit, I was not completely satisfied with this book. There were some aspects of the book that I found lacking or unrealistic. For example, I found the diary entries too long, boring, and repetitive. They did not add much to the story, and they only made me lose interest in Victoria’s character. I also found Victoria’s character too trusting and gullible, especially when she ignored the obvious signs of trouble in her relationship. I felt frustrated and impatient to read pages after pages of a sweet love turns to a disaster through a naive point of view, especially when the red flag appeared in the beginning. It’s quite hard to believe that both women could be so easily manipulated and deceived by the same way. The plot was not very original, as it was similar to many other domestic abuse books, but it was still well-executed and engaging....more
The Coworker: A Thrilling Ride of Secrets and Lies If you are looking for a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seatThe Coworker: A Thrilling Ride of Secrets and Lies If you are looking for a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than The Coworker by Freida McFadden. This is a book that will make you question everything you think you know about your colleagues, your friends, and even yourself.
The story follows Natalie Farrell, a successful sales rep at a nutritional supplement company called Vixed. She has it all: a handsome boyfriend, a loyal best friend, and a glamorous lifestyle. But her perfect world is shattered when her coworker, Dawn Schiff, goes missing. Dawn is a strange and awkward accountant who sits next to Natalie in the office. She has no friends, no social skills, and no life outside of work. Natalie barely knows anything about her, except that she is always at her desk at precisely 8:45 a.m. However, as the police investigate the case, Natalie discovers that Dawn was not who she seemed, and that she had a hidden connection to Natalie’s past that could put her in danger. Natalie soon realizes that someone close to her is behind Dawn’s death, and that they are not done with their sinister plan.
The Coworker is a fast-paced and addictive thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. Freida McFadden is a master of creating suspense and intrigue, as well as complex and realistic characters. Natalie is not your typical dumb and naive heroine. She is smart, resourceful, and determined to find out the truth. Dawn, on the other hand, is a fascinating and mysterious character who will surprise you with her hidden depths and motives. She is not just a victim, but a formidable opponent who will challenge Natalie in unexpected ways.
One of the most outstanding aspects of the novel is the way McFadden plays with the reader’s expectations and assumptions. She is a genius in crafting false clues, red herrings, and twists that will shock you and make you rethink everything you read. She also explores the themes of identity, memory, and trust in a compelling and nuanced way. She shows how the past can haunt the present, and how the people we think we know can turn out to be strangers, or worse.
The Coworker is a well-written and engaging psychological thriller that will appeal to fans of suspense, mystery, and drama. The book has a captivating and complex plot, a sympathetic and intriguing protagonist, and a shocking and satisfying ending. The book also explores the dark and hidden aspects of human nature, and how they can lead to violence and tragedy. I would recommend The Coworker to anyone who likes a thrilling and twisty read that will keep them on the edge of their seat....more