The Housemaid by Freida McFadden is a title that my niece, Macy, recommended to me. She is an avid reader too and we like to swap recommendations. I also saw readers talk frequently about this book from various book sites I follow. Look at the cover! Who wouldn’t be intrigued by that keyhole and the by-line “from behind closed doors, she sees everything”.
“I never saw it coming.” That’s what I said to myself as I read through part 2 of the book. My guess was way off and that’s what I loved about this 325-page novel.
The storyline was simple. A young girl, Millie, with a troubled past needed a job and became a housemaid to a wealthy family, Nina, the wife, Andrew, her husband, and daughter Cecilia. Millie felt grateful she got the job working for this family. The money was good and they even housed her in their attic room so she was paying no rent. That is until she .…well, I never want to give too much of the plot away so I’ll leave it at that.
I’m excited for you to read this book! Some remarks online said it was too slow until you hit about page 200. I honestly didn’t feel that way. McFadden was setting up the plot twist but maybe if I didn’t hear suggestions of “keep reading”, I would have felt the same. It wasn’t a complicated book because there is only 1 setting and 3 main characters. But the curveball she threw was fabulous!
This is a great choice if you’re looking for a psychological thriller so I’m giving it the green light. If you’ve read my other book reports, I’m not easily frightened by fiction novels. I did gasp more than once while reading it so that should give you an idea of its unexpected revelation. Just make sure your doors are locked when you’re reading it and that you have a key. You’ll understand what I mean by that soon enough.
There is a sequel to this book titled, The Housemaid’s Secret”. I’m usually not a fan of series books but this one was very entertaining so I will be borrowing the next one from my niece. Enjoy! ..and if you do read any of the books I review, please leave me a comment. I’d love to know what you think too! I also would be happy if you share your recommendations. I like having a nice long TBR pile!
