Millie – is back! And how! The second book in The Housemaid Series is all set to emulate the success of it’s prequel and better it. The latest book from Freida McFadden sees the return of the two main characters, Millie – the housemaid and her beau Enzo, finding themselves caught in another mystery, another adventure.
What is immediately noticeable about The Housemaid’s Secret is the stark similarity with the first edition in the style of narration & settings that it follows. One of the main characters sitting in a room with the author dropping just enough hints to pique the curiosity of the reader and create an eerie air of suspense and fear. And thereon, it eases into the flashback to the events leading to the present day scenario.
I think, the biggest plus for this book is it’s flurry of twists & turns that never allow your interest to waver for a minute. The author is throughout, one step ahead of the reader. So, just when you might think you can decode the mystery, you are in for a shock. Which also means, we cannot really talk much more about the plot itself without diluting the effect of this engrossing read.
So let us see what all was good in this book. The narrative of the book is interesting and enjoyable. Small little knicks and knacks from the author do a great job in maintaining that air of something not correct or something mysterious round the corner. For instance, that Black Mazda that keeps popping up with it’s identifiable cracked right headlight. It perfectly adds to the tense feel that a thriller should have. Or that repeated mention of the creeping sensation in the back of her neck that someone is watching.
Similarly, the whole character build-up of freaky Wendy almost ghostly – which adds elements of fear or horror – though it may actually make you laugh at points. I was laughing out loud when Millie discovers those blood stains on the sink and clasps her hands over her mouth hah! Funny or fearful, it was damn effective! The whole Douglas-Wendy bit gets you turn page after page!
Next what must be spoken of is the humor element that Freida McFadden so wonderfully weaves into this thriller. Right at the beginning is a most hilarious sequence where the little Olive, who Millie is baby sitting, wouldn’t stop calling her “mama mama mama” hahahah! And result is, she ends up getting fired from that job lol. And just wait and watch as the little Olive makes a return later in the book again to tickle your funny bone.
I absolutely like Millie’s fearless character a lot. As she helps women having issues with their husbands, she is never scared to put her life at stake as she goes about it. As it is said in the book “She is hardcore, believe me – she is dangerous”.
Coming to the writing, the small chapters make the book very readable. A quick & fast paced read with crisp writing that never looses the reader. There is no unnecessary clutter or overpowering detail. Each part of the book is relevant, gripping and free flowing.
Also a plus is the fact that this book lacks the raw cruelty and sadistic sequences of it’s prequel. That to me makes it a better read.
To talk of downsides, if there is one, probably only that there aren’t some real chilling sequences that would scare you to hell as the first part did. But that is more than made up with the galore of twists and turns that keep coming up.
To conclude, The Hosemaid’s Secret is your book if you are looking for a genuine, action packed thriller. I enjoyed every bit of it and really there isn’t anything lacking in it. It is a must pick for thriller & mystery reading fans. Get your copy here -> The Housemaid’s Secret