The Coworker by Freida McFadden

*** Review ***

The Coworker by Freida McFadden is a riveting psychological thriller that plunges readers into the dark underbelly of a corporate workplace. The story revolves around two polar opposite coworkers, Natalie Farrell and Dawn Schiff, whose cubicles sit side by side. Natalie is the quintessential golden girl of the sales team, with her stunning appearance and friendly demeanor, while Dawn is a socially awkward, detail-oriented accountant with a love for turtles. The stage is set for a mind-bending tale of mystery, secrets, and unexpected twists.

At the heart of the tale are two coworkers, Natalie Farrell and Dawn Schiff, who couldn’t be more different. Natalie is the embodiment of success, a top sales representative with her striking appearance and charming manners. In contrast, Dawn is an enigma, a socially awkward accountant with a unique obsession for turtles. Their cubicles, adjacent to each other, become the epicenter of the unfolding drama, pulling readers into a world of mystery and suspense.

From the very first pages, the pacing of the book is relentless. McFadden’s writing style, while slightly different from her previous works, expertly guides the reader through the twists and turns of the narrative. The alternating viewpoints between Dawn and Natalie provide a multifaceted perspective that keeps the audience guessing and engaged. Each chapter peels back another layer of the story, revealing the complex motivations and emotions of the characters.

One of the book’s most striking elements is the portrayal of Dawn, a character hinted to be on the autism spectrum. This depiction adds a layer of depth and authenticity to the story, offering a window into the challenges faced by individuals with similar experiences. Dawn’s struggles with social interactions and her passion for turtles make her a character that readers may alternately sympathize with and find frustrating. It’s this complexity that sets the book apart, allowing it to explore sensitive topics such as bullying and the psychological toll it takes.

As the plot unfolds, the toxic environment within the office becomes increasingly evident. Bullying is a pervasive issue, and secrets connect the characters in unexpected ways. The book delves into the effects of workplace bullying, shedding light on how it can drive individuals to their breaking points. When Dawn goes missing, presumed dead, and Natalie is arrested in connection with her disappearance, the story takes a dramatic turn, leading to a series of revelations that challenge everything the reader thought they knew.

While the recurrent theme of “turtles” may become somewhat overwhelming for some readers, it serves as a unique thread that weaves through the narrative, leaving a lasting impression. McFadden uses this motif to create an incriminating trail, building suspense and anticipation as the plot hurtles toward its explosive conclusion. The ending, in particular, is a masterstroke, a major twist that shatters expectations and solidifies McFadden’s reputation as a skilled storyteller.

In conclusion, The Coworker is a gripping and thought-provoking read, seamlessly blending suspense with nuanced character development. Despite minor gripes, the strengths of the storyline, the relentless pacing, and the unexpected twists make this book a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. Freida McFadden’s ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats, coupled with her exploration of characters like Dawn, ensures that The Coworker is a book that lingers in the mind long after the final page. I eagerly await the opportunity to immerse myself in more of McFadden’s works, eagerly anticipating the next thrilling journey she has in store for her readers.