A review by eryncaroline
The Housemaid by Freida McFadden

dark mysterious tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

Book Club has started strong this year! It is incredibly fast-paced, with short chapters that keep you powering through it. I love a mystery that makes you desperate to know more and understand, and this sucks you in from the very first chapter. That "I need to know" feeling propels you through this story. The twists that they advertise on the cover do not disappoint, and I was absolutely shocked. The last 40% of the book keeps you on your toes. Be prepared to read this in one sitting!  

---

Content Warnings

Graphic: Suicide attempt, Physical abuse, Kidnapping, Domestic abuse, Murder, Confinement, Emotional abuse, and Toxic relationship

Moderate: Infidelity, Body shaming, Mental illness, Suicidal thoughts, Forced institutionalization, Fatphobia, Pregnancy, Misogyny, Infertility, Gore, and Death

The confinement and physical/mental abuse in a domestic violence situation are prevalent throughout this book. The fat shaming and comments on one of the character's body, weight and general appearance can be difficult to read.