Freida McFadden has built her reputation as a master of domestic thrillers, and The Wife Upstairs continues that tradition with a story that is both addictive and infuriating in equal measure.
At the heart of the novel is Victoria Barnett, a woman who seemingly has it all until a devastating accident leaves her confined to the upstairs of her home, unable to walk, speak, or care for herself. Her husband Adam hires Sylvia Robinson to help care for her, but what begins as a dream opportunity quickly unravels into something darker. When Sylvia discovers Victoria’s diary hidden in a drawer, she realizes that nothing in this house is as it seems.
The novel shines in its pacing and suspense. From the opening chapters, the tension is palpable, and it is hard not to keep turning the pages just to see how it all unfolds. McFadden has a gift for pulling readers in with shocking revelations and morally complex characters. The addition of Victoria’s diary is especially effective, layering the present-day storyline with haunting glimpses into the past.
That said, this book has divided readers. For some, the female characters come across as frustratingly naïve, ignoring glaring red flags that had me muttering “really?” more than once. Sylvia’s choices, especially her willingness to excuse Adam’s behavior and become entangled with him, make her both maddening and fascinating to watch. It is a risky choice by McFadden, but one that sparks strong reactions.
Another critique that has circulated among readers is the comparison to other popular thrillers. Some feel McFadden borrows too heavily from books like Verity by Colleen Hoover or The Last Mrs. Parrish. While the themes may feel familiar, McFadden puts her own spin on them, focusing less on originality and more on fast-paced drama and entertainment. Depending on what you value most in a thriller, this will either be a drawback or simply part of the ride.
For me, the story started strong and had me fully engaged, especially with the audiobook narration that brought each character vividly to life. However, the ending felt weaker than the build-up. The conclusion leaned into melodrama in a way that left me shaking my head rather than gasping. Still, I cannot deny that I was entertained from start to finish, even when I was frustrated.
The Wife Upstairs is a book that will polarize readers. It is addictive, over the top, and filled with characters you want to yell at. If you are looking for a thriller that keeps you hooked even while it drives you crazy, this one might be for you.
