Author: Freida McFadden
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Rating: 3 out of 5
Pages: 318
Date Started: 13 April 2023
Date Finished: 19 April 2023
After the riveting 'The Housemaid,' I simply had to continue with the series, especially as many fellow readers in book clubs lauded this book as surpassing the first one. The story introduces Douglas Garrick, a man who cautions the housemaid, Millie, not to enter the guest bedroom, citing his wife's severe illness. As Millie takes on the role of cleaning their luxurious penthouse and preparing meals, she can't help but be curious about the woman hidden behind the closed doors. Her concerns deepen as she begins to suspect that something sinister is afoot, evident in the bloodstains on Mrs. Garrick's nightgowns and the muffled sobs emanating from the guest bedroom. When Millie finally crosses the threshold, what she discovers changes the course of her life. The character of Millie is back, and her resolve is as strong as ever. She is compelled to protect Mrs. Garrick while harboring her own secrets. The book keeps readers enthralled as Millie becomes entangled in unexpected twists and a gripping climax. What struck me most about this book is its unpredictability. The story takes an unforeseen turn, keeping the reader on tenterhooks throughout. Millie's character continues to be compelling and relatable, and her interactions with Mrs. Garrick, who is striving to break free from an abusive relationship, add depth and authenticity to the plot. Despite its considerable length, the book maintains a tight grip on the reader's attention. Every character and incident serves a purpose in advancing the story, justifying the extended narrative. However, a drawback is the similarity in writing style to the first book, which lacks any notable surprises. Millie's treatment of Brock also leaves much to be desired, as her lack of respect for him and her seemingly exploitative behavior, knowing she had no intention of continuing the relationship, could be a point of contention for some readers. In conclusion, this book stands as a compelling and engaging read, particularly when considered as part of the series. It offers a solid narrative with unexpected twists, even though it mirrors the writing style of its predecessor. Millie's character and the story's unpredictability make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a gripping literary experience.
Favorite lines from the book:
The last thing I see when I leave the bedroom is Wendy standing over Douglas’s dead body. And she’s smiling.
Beauty is less easily perceived when it’s in an unassuming setting.
They taught me to fish, he’s fond of saying.
