A review by readwithzayy
The Inmate by Freida McFadden

dark mysterious sad tense medium-paced

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

3.5

The book begins with an intriguing premise: a nurse named Brooke working in a prison has a complicated history with Shane, a charming but dangerous inmate. How did Brooke's testimony contribute to Shane's incarceration? What exactly happened between these mysterious star-crossed lovers? This creates palpable tension and propels the reading experience. The settings for both the characters' past and present are everyday environments depicted with grit, realism, and good period detail, which helps to ground the story. 

However, The Inmate loses grip as, given the central traumatic twist in their history involving violence and betrayal, the current "reconciliation" dynamic strains credibility. 

Overall, it was a nice quick read, but I probably won't read it again.