One By One by Frieda McFadden
by Whitney Buzbee
This book is a page-turner. I found myself not wanting to set the book down and as a result, I read this in just two days. If you are easily triggered, be aware that McFadden does explore topics such as infidelity, suicide and child abuse. There’s definitely some moments in this novel that I am taken aback that there are human beings in this world, who actually treat their children this way and that gives me lots of pause. I found myself speaking to a colleague about this book and making the statement “How does Freida come up with this stuff?” Some incidents related in the novel left me completely shocked and appalled that this could actually occur. This may be McFadden’s attempt to remind us that child abuse continues to exist and needs our attention. The story is mostly told from Claire’s perspective, so we get a very detailed look at her life and her thoughts. Claire’s story line seems very relatable and if you aren’t careful you may find yourself taking sides in this relationship dynamic. I was very intrigued by the relationship dynamic of each couple. It really made me ponder how well do you ever know someone that you’ve known for years? After all, we only know the parts of people that they show us, and nothing more. Do we ever get to fully know someone? What are the secrets close, loved ones are keeping from us? Are they protecting us in doing so? Or should they be transparent and give us the opportunity to decide whether we want to deal with what’s revealed or not? I would have enjoyed this novel even more had Freida allowed the other characters to share their story from their perspective leading up to the hike in the woods. That way, we would have gotten a better understanding of how each character felt about their significant other and a deeper understanding of their relationship dynamic and lives in general. I think that would’ve added some more depth to the plot. Reading Freida McFadden’s novels are becoming my kryptonite because they’re addictive. Like a good streaming series, I just want to continue reading to find out what is going to happen next. At this point, whenever I read a novel penned by McFadden, like Scooby-Doo and the gang, I always try to solve the mystery. However, Freida always manages a plot twist so twisty that it leaves me stunned without fail yet pleased that she did it again. Like… I see what you did there Freids (yes, I’d like to think Freida and I are at that nick-namey level in our relationship). I wouldn’t recommend getting this book before planning a hiking trip though. Admittedly, I may be embarking on a small hiking trip coming up here soon and now I can’t confirm or deny that I may be on the fence. Thanks to this read, the anxiety is real. Freida — this side-eye is for you. You bet your Aunt Fanny, if I do decide to go, I’ll be over preparing for this one. After reading several McFadden novels, I can confidently say her books are easy reads. If you are into suspense, psychological thrillers, mysteries, or just juiciness this is an option for you. I attempted to solve this one and I can proudly say that I somewhat had it figured out. I’m on to you Freida. I’m becoming your neighborhood Nancy Drew over here. Lol.
