In "The Coworker" by Freida McFadden, Dawn Schiff, an odd and solitary figure at Vixed, a nutritional supplement company, goes missing. Her coworker, Natalie Farrell, is stunned, especially when she learns Dawn was being targeted by someone close. As Natalie delves deeper, she becomes entangled in a dangerous game, realizing that someone despises Dawn enough to warrant murder.
The novel poignantly explores solitude, office politics, and the angst of unwittingly doing wrong. This book captures readers and compels them to continue up to its climax.
McFadden, a bestselling author known for her gripping psychological thrillers and medical humor novels, is a practicing physician specializing in brain injury. Her works have garnered acclaim from major publications.
McFadden's accolades include being selected as one of Amazon Editors' best books, winning the International Thriller Writers Award for best paperback, and earning recognition as a Goodreads Choice Award winner.
With novels translated into over 30 languages, McFadden resides with her family and a black cat in a centuries-old home by the ocean, adding an eerie ambiance to her writing.
According to Brett Milam, the narrative follows Natalie and Dawn, two unlikable characters entangled in a web of deceit and revenge. When Dawn goes missing, suspicion falls on Natalie, leading to a twisted plot involving fabricated emails, framed murder, and buried secrets.
Owing to the speedy narration and sudden turns, the two characters are full of personality flaws, so there is not much to sympathize about. The book delves into bullying, coup, and manipulation, eventually leading to the two antagonists' fatal degeneration.
The reviewer noted that while the narrative generated intrigue and suspense, the characters' lack of redeeming qualities might leave readers with disdain toward them.
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A review by Novel Gossip stated that readers can expect pure entertainment and an addictive storyline when diving into the author's books, known for popcorn thrillers meant to be devoured in a few sittings. Although the reviewer predicted the main twist early on, the novel still delivered smaller surprises that kept the story engaging.
While some aspects may be predictable, the reviewer's overall experience was enjoyable and never boring. This addictive read satisfied the reviewer's craving for brain candy, offering an entertaining escape that leaves readers wanting more.
An article by Alycia Plans articulated that McFadden's novels are known for pulling readers out of reading slumps with their addictive and entertaining plots. Despite some predictability, the reviewer noted that the book delivered engaging twists and turns that kept the story compelling. The narrative follows Natalie and Dawn, revealing a complex web of deception and revenge.
While the characters lacked appeal, and the ending felt rushed, McFadden's writing remained enjoyable. The reviewer recommeded the book for those new to the thriller genre or needing a captivating read.
However, readers should beware of starting it before bed, as the gripping plot twists may keep them awake until the end. The reviewer concluded that "The Coworker" offers an easy entry into the thrilling world of McFadden's novels.
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