After reading The Housemaid by Freida McFadden, I have to say this is one of the best psychological thrillers I’ve come across recently. This is the second book I’ve read by McFadden, and once again, she did not disappoint! It’s a fast-paced, twisty novel that keeps you hooked from the first chapter until the very end. With its intricate plot and clever twists, this book is an absolute page-turner that deserves all the hype it’s been getting.
Plot Introduction
The story centers on Millie, a maid who works for the almost perfect Winchester family. Outwardly Nina Winchester seems an ideal suburban wifeand mother Yet her latent darkness bubbles over into full view as the story goes on. The beauty of the Winchester home becomes filled with tension and secrets which Millie can’t ignore. As she takes her part within it all – Millie senses that there is definitely something wrong, as Nina’s erratic behavior begins to cause problems even with the Winchester’s own husband/son, Andrew.
What I found so attractive about this novel was the character of Millie. She’s strong, confident, and pure joy to read about. Her sharp instincts and straightforward approach kept the story moving along. Whenever I felt I had figured-out where the plot was headed, McFadden would throw me a curve ball that would drop my jaw to the floor. The twists are simply shocking!
What’s good about this book
This is probably the most captivating part about The Housemaid. With turn after turn, the storyline continuously surprises. Still think you’ve got it figured out? McFadden pulls the rug right out from under your feet just as quickly that feeling comes on. It’s such a well-paced novel as well. You hardly notice time flying when reading it, and that’s no mean feat.
On the other hand, something else outstanding in this book is McFadden’s gradual rachetting up of suspense. From the moment she enters the house, you can feel Millie being oppressed and squeezed down–and with that psychological legerdemain McFadden performs so brilliantly. The relationships between the characters–especially the manipulation and hidden hostility of power struggles between Millie and Nina–are engaging.
The writing style is accessible and easy to read, which is part of what makes it such a fast, enjoyable read. McFadden doesn’t go on too much about the little details; instead, she concentrates on storyline, and this makes for a thrilling experience. Though the style isn’t flowery, it is plot-driven, fitting well with this kind of genre book.
Criticism
Yet everything about this book is not perfect. The character development, especially for Millie, could have been a little deeper. Sometimes she felt more like a vehicle for the story than a fully developed person in her own right. While it was fascinating following her journey, I did find that at times motivations and background were a little thin.
Also, towards the middle, the book veers into romance; this may not be everybody’s cup of tea. If you are reading for intrigue and suspense, these parts may feel a little like off-key notes or slowing down the rhythm. Personally, this didn’t bother me too much but at the same time I can see how some people might find it somewhat extraneous to its main story line.
There was also a lot of confusion about an aspect concerning Nina’s little girl, Cecelia. The character of Cecelia was too inexplicitly rendered to speak clearly about her actions or place in the plot. This doesn’t make any sense and feels false.
Cecelia’s bratty attitude and peanut allergy felt like minor plot plaques that didn’t latch onto the bigger yarn quite as neatly as they could have.
Final Remarks All in all, The Housemaid ratings “psychological suspense full of surprises and top-rate thrills” without question. Reading McFadden is a cup of pleasure, sandal flying. I hadn’t foreseen the finish, which rude as it may sound doesn’t at all detract from this riotously readable book.
A perfect summer read–fast-paced, gripping and filled with surprise endings. Whether you are new to thriller reading or an old hand at picking apart rigged games, The Housemaid is one book that noone can afford to miss!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A 5-star thoroughbred for me deserve it every bit.