One by One by Freida McFadden

*** Review ***

Freida McFadden’s One by One beckons readers with a promise of suspense and intrigue reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s classic whodunits. The premise is enticing: a group of friends embarks on a seemingly idyllic vacation, only to find themselves stranded in the wilderness, hunted down one by one. While the novel delivers on its suspenseful premise and maintains a gripping pace throughout, it falls short in terms of character depth and the plausibility of its conclusion.

From the outset, McFadden sets the stage for a gripping tale. Claire Matchett, our protagonist, seeks respite from the strains of daily life, hoping for a rejuvenating getaway with friends. However, what begins as a promising retreat quickly spirals into a nightmare as their minivan breaks down, leaving them lost and vulnerable in the woods. The tension mounts steadily as the group faces the chilling realization that their lives are in jeopardy.

McFadden adeptly builds suspense with each chapter, crafting a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The short, punchy chapters propel the story forward, ensuring that the pace never falters. As the body count rises and suspicions mount, the reader is drawn deeper into the mystery, eagerly anticipating the next twist in the tale.

However, despite the novel’s gripping plot, its characters leave much to be desired. Claire, while sympathetic in her struggles, fails to fully engage the reader, and the supporting cast comes across as one-dimensional stereotypes. From the sullen husband to the cold-hearted divorce attorney, the characters lack depth and complexity, making it difficult for readers to invest emotionally in their fates.

Furthermore, the plausibility of the conclusion is called into question. While I am usually willing to suspend disbelief for the sake of a good twist, One by One pushes the boundaries of credibility. The motivations behind the villain’s actions feel contrived, and the revelation of their identity may leave some readers feeling underwhelmed. Despite McFadden’s attempts at misdirection, the ultimate reveal lacks the impact and ingenuity found in her other works.

Despite its flaws, One by One remains a compelling read, thanks to McFadden’s skillful storytelling and knack for building tension. While it may not reach the heights of her other novels, it still offers a thrilling ride for fans of the genre. With its relentless pace and unexpected twists, it’s the perfect choice for a rainy day read or a late-night thriller.

In conclusion, One by One showcases Freida McFadden’s talent for crafting gripping narratives but falls short in terms of character development and plausibility. While it may not be her strongest work, it still offers plenty of suspense and excitement for readers craving a thrilling escape. As I eagerly await McFadden’s next release, I can only hope for a return to form and a more satisfying conclusion.