Themes

In The Housemaid’s Secret, Freida McFadden explores themes of betrayal and deception within the Garrick household. Millie Calloway, the protagonist, uncovers dark truths behind the family's glamour and prosperity. She notices bruises on Mrs. Garrick and hears her cries. This leads Millie to understand that Douglas Garrick is not a devoted husband, which points to domestic abuse and the hidden scars of control in seemingly perfect marriages.

Millie's journey involves identity and empowerment. She evolves from being overshadowed by her past to becoming an advocate for Wendy Garrick. Her efforts to help Wendy escape an abusive relationship demonstrate empowerment in adversity. This underscores the transformative power of taking control of one’s life, despite substantial risks.

Control is a recurring theme as Millie navigates societal and personal constraints. As secrets emerge, McFadden describes how control can be both liberating and confining, influencing characters towards either revelation or downfall.

Narrative technique

In The Housemaid’s Secret, Freida McFadden crafts a narrative that maintains tension through careful pacing. She alternates between rapid developments and slower, suspenseful pauses. The combination of these elements sustains anticipation throughout the narrative. 

McFadden employs multiple perspectives to provide a comprehensive view of events. Shifting viewpoints subverts expectations and adds depth to the plot. This approach immerses readers in the psychological experiences of the characters. The narrative choices enhance the thriller elements, making The Housemaid’s Secret an engaging read.

Quick facts

• The Housemaid's Secret was voted the best thriller in the 2023 Goodreads Awards.

• Millie, the protagonist, is a convicted felon who previously spent a decade in prison for murder after defending a friend.

• The book is part of a series and follows the previous bestseller, The Housemaid.

• A film adaptation of The Housemaid, the first book, is being developed by Lionsgate.

• Author Freida McFadden is a practicing physician specializing in brain injury and a Harvard graduate whose books have been translated into 40 languages.

• The plot involves Millie, now studying social work, working for a wealthy, manipulative couple, the Garricks, in New York.

• The story is praised for its engaging twists, psychological tension, and fast-paced thriller elements with multi-dimensional characters.

• The narrative effectively uses multiple points of view, offering insight into both Millie's and Wendy Garrick's perspectives.

• Wendy Garrick is initially portrayed as a victim but becomes a mastermind orchestrating deception and a murder plot against her husband and Millie.

• The book explores themes of deception, domestic violence, and the moral complexities in people's actions and relationships.

• Security camera footage and carefully orchestrated fake scenarios play crucial roles in unraveling the truth and dramatic plot twists.

• The book maintains its addictive narrative style, often compared to popular thrillers like Gone Girl and The Woman in the Window, and is recognized for being even more engaging than its predecessor.

About the author

Freida McFadden writes psychological thrillers and works as a physician specializing in brain injury. She self-published her first book on Amazon KDP in 2013. This garnered recognition and awards, including the International Thriller Writers Award.

McFadden's series, The Housemaid and The Housemaid's Secret, is noted for intricate plots. Her works have been translated into 40 languages.