Freida McFadden returns with The Housemaid’s Secret, the much-anticipated sequel to her bestselling psychological thriller The Housemaid. With over 1.4 million ratings and a Goodreads Choice Award for Readers’ Favorite Mystery & Thriller (2023), this book has already captured the attention of countless fans. But does it live up to the chilling brilliance of its predecessor?
Plot Overview
Millie, the sharp yet troubled protagonist from The Housemaid, is back- and once again drawn into a house full of secrets. After losing her job, she’s hired by Douglas Garrick, a wealthy tech executive, to clean his luxurious penthouse. The only rule: she must never disturb his wife, Wendy, who is allegedly unwell and confined to a locked bedroom.
At first, it seems like the perfect setup for a fresh start. But soon, Millie hears muffled sobs behind closed doors and notices disturbing signs – blood on Wendy’s nightgowns, bruises that don’t quite add up. When curiosity leads her to open the forbidden door, she uncovers truths that upend everything she thought she knew. What follows is a web of lies, manipulation, and justice – twisted in classic McFadden fashion.
Writing & Pacing
As expected, McFadden’s pacing is brisk and addictive. The book reads fast, making it easy to devour in a single sitting. The short chapters and cliffhanger endings keep the tension high, even when the plot treads familiar ground.
However, the structure mirrors The Housemaid so closely that some twists feel predictable for returning readers. The story once again alternates between two first-person perspectives – Millie and another character – creating that same déjà vu pattern. While effective, it loses some of the surprise factor that made the first book so captivating.
Character Development
Millie’s character feels less grounded this time. Her moral compass wavers, and her relationship with Brock, her boyfriend, borders on frustrating – marked by emotional detachment and repetitive inner monologues. While her instincts as a protector remain, her actions occasionally seem inconsistent or manipulative.
Wendy Garrick, the mysterious wife, is intentionally complex – though for many readers, her narcissistic traits make her difficult to sympathize with. Douglas Garrick, meanwhile, is presented ambiguously, leaving readers unsure of who to trust until the end.
Tone & Style
The tone takes a slightly tongue-in-cheek direction, bordering on dark humor at times. While this adds entertainment value, it also weakens the realism in certain moments, particularly in the early scenes that feel over-the-top or implausible. Some readers might find the dialogue and inner thoughts repetitive or lacking depth, while others will appreciate McFadden’s straightforward storytelling and cinematic flow.
Final Thoughts
The Housemaid’s Secret is best described as a “popcorn thriller” – fast, addictive, and satisfying if you don’t overanalyze the details. It’s a familiar yet enjoyable return to Millie’s world of deceit and danger. Though it doesn’t quite reach the haunting intensity of The Housemaid, it remains a worthy, entertaining sequel that keeps McFadden’s fans turning the pages late into the night.
⭐ Rating: 3.5 / 5
Verdict: If you loved The Housemaid, you’ll find this sequel a fun, if slightly predictable, continuation. Read it for the twists, the tension, and McFadden’s signature blend of domestic drama and psychological suspense.
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