The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden Book Review

Haven’t we already read so many psychological thrillers this year? Let me just add a new title to the list. Freida McFadden’s The Boyfriend is a psychological thriller that deftly explores themes of love, obsession, and the often blurry line between passion and peril. Set in Manhattan, the novel combines elements of suspense, crime, and romance, inviting readers into a web of intrigue with its layered plot and dual timelines.

 

The Plot: Intrigue and Complexity

The story’s structure, alternating between “Present Day” and “Before,” creates a compelling narrative rhythm. Sydney’s romantic misadventures in the bustling New York dating scene, including her fateful encounter with the charming yet enigmatic Tom, are interwoven with Tom’s dark and tumultuous teenage years. This approach offers a nuanced exploration of how past traumas shape present identities. The fictional dating app Cynch situates the story firmly in contemporary culture, highlighting both the convenience and the risks of modern dating.

The murder of Sydney’s friend Bonnie serves as the narrative’s inciting incident, unravelling into a series of shocking twists and turns. McFadden skillfully keeps the reader guessing as suspicions shift from character to character. The climactic revelation of Gretchen as the mastermind behind the murders subverts initial assumptions, delivering a satisfying, if unsettling, twist.

 

Strengths: Atmosphere and Thematic Resonance

McFadden excels at creating an atmosphere of suspense and unease. The novel’s urban setting is vividly rendered, capturing the allure and anonymity of city life—a perfect backdrop for a story where trust is scarce and danger lurks in the shadows. Themes of obsession and moral ambiguity are well-explored, particularly through Tom’s backstory, which examines the psychological scars of his youth.

The use of pop culture references and relatable elements, such as dating apps and the challenges of urban romance, grounds the story in reality. These details enhance the relatability of the characters and their predicaments, making their struggles feel authentic and immediate.

Shortcomings: Missed Opportunities for Depth

While The Boyfriend delivers a gripping plot, it falls short in exploring character depth and psychological complexity. Her search for love broadly defines the protagonist, Sydney and encounters with danger. Her emotional journey and internal struggles could have been more richly developed to enhance the reader’s connection to her plight.

Similarly, Tom’s character, though intriguing, lacks a fully fleshed-out arc. His dark impulses and past events are compelling but could have been more thoroughly examined to provide a deeper understanding of his psyche. The novel’s reliance on tropes, such as the “damsel in distress” and the “charming yet dangerous stranger,” occasionally detracts from its originality.

 

While effective in building suspense, the dual-timeline structure risks disjointing the narrative flow. The pacing sometimes feels uneven, with certain revelations rushed while other sections meander. The resolution, too, leaves lingering questions. The ambiguous fates of Tom, Gretchen, and Kevin may frustrate readers who prefer definitive closure.

Situating the Novel Within Contemporary Popular Fiction

McFadden grounds her narrative in modern realities, mainly through the fictional dating app Cynch, which reflects the complexities and risks of online dating. This relatable theme resonates with readers navigating modern romance, while Sydney, the strong yet vulnerable protagonist, embodies the challenges faced by women in today’s dating world. Her encounters with bad dates, harassment, and danger highlight broader societal concerns, making her a figure of resilience and resourcefulness.

 

The novel’s exploration of diverse relationships—platonic, romantic, and familial—adds emotional depth. Sydney’s interactions with friends like Bonnie and Gretchen and her history with ex-boyfriend Jake reveal the intricate layers of human connection. Combined with short, fast-paced chapters and shocking plot twists, The Boyfriend caters to the expectations of contemporary thriller audiences.

 

 

The “New” We Look For

McFadden challenges genre norms by subverting tropes. Instead of a stereotypical “nice guy” or creepy male antagonist, the story positions Gretchen—a female killer with motivations rooted in jealousy and possessiveness—as the true villain. This shift offers a fresh perspective, delving into darker aspects of female relationships and desires. Similarly, blending thriller, romance, and social commentary enriches the narrative, appealing to a broader audience and adding complexity to the plot.

While we can all denounce the dual timeline because it makes reading and engaging with the text difficult, McFadden may have used it well! The dual timeline also juxtaposes Tom’s dark past with the present-day events. His teenage years, marked by obsession and trauma, highlight how formative experiences can shape one’s adult identity, creating a psychologically layered character. However, the ambiguity surrounding Tom’s intentions adds a chilling edge, leaving readers questioning his true nature.

 

 

The Suitable Readers & Better Be Fars

The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden is an ideal read for fans of psychological thrillers who enjoy suspenseful narratives filled with twists and morally ambiguous characters. Its fast-paced structure and dual timelines will captivate readers seeking a gripping and engaging story. Women familiar with the challenges of modern dating culture, particularly those navigating online platforms, will find the themes relatable and thought-provoking. With a strong female protagonist at its core, the novel appeals to those who appreciate narratives featuring resourceful women confronting danger. Additionally, readers who enjoy genre-blending fiction with elements of romance and social commentary will appreciate the multifaceted approach McFadden employs to enrich the story.

Conversely, this novel may not suit everyone. Readers who prefer deeply literary fiction or grounded, realistic crime stories might find their reliance on popular tropes and dramatic twists less appealing. Those who dislike open-ended conclusions could feel dissatisfied with the unresolved fates of certain characters. Sensitive readers should also be cautious, as the story delves into themes of murder, stalking, and psychological manipulation. Additionally, thriller purists might find the inclusion of romantic subplots and social commentary distracting from the central suspense. For such readers, The Boyfriend may not provide the experience they seek.

 

 

Final Verdict: A Captivating Read with Flaws

The Boyfriend is a page-turner that successfully delivers the thrills and twists expected of its genre. Freida McFadden’s ability to craft suspense and surprise is evident, making the novel a satisfying read for fans of psychological thrillers. However, its reliance on familiar tropes and lack of more profound character development may leave some readers yearning for more.

Despite its shortcomings, The Boyfriend is a compelling exploration of love’s darker facets and the consequences of obsession. McFadden’s storytelling prowess shines through, ensuring the novel’s place as an engaging, if imperfect, addition to the thriller genre.

 

Click Here to Get a Copy from Amazon India

 

 

Review by Alka for Thoughtful Critic