Book Review: The Boyfriend: A Psychological Thriller by Freida McFadden

If you’re looking for a psychological thriller that makes you want to double-check the locks on your doors and maybe delete your dating apps for good, Freida McFadden’s The Boyfriend (2024) is exactly that brand of chaos.

As a writer known for her “popcorn thriller” style—fast-paced, twisty, and highly addictive—McFadden dives into the modern nightmare of digital dating and the secrets people hide behind a “perfect” profile.

The Premise: Swipe at Your Own Risk

The story follows Sydney, a young woman living in New York who is weary of the dating scene. Her luck seems to change when she meets Tom, a man who is—on paper—the ultimate catch. He’s handsome, successful, and attentive.

However, the narrative is punctuated by a chilling subplot: a serial killer is targeting women in the city, and the murders seem to have a disturbing connection to the victims’ dating lives. As Sydney falls deeper for Tom, the reader is forced to ask the central, pulse-pounding question: Is she dating a soulmate or a psychopath?

Key Strengths

1. The Relatability Factor

McFadden excels at capturing the awkward, often demoralizing reality of modern dating. Sydney’s internal monologue about ghosting, bad first dates, and the pressure to find “the one” feels grounded and authentic, making the eventual slide into horror feel much more personal.

2. Pacing and Structure

The book utilizes McFadden’s signature short chapters and “just one more” hooks. By alternating between Sydney’s perspective and glimpses into the killer’s mind, the tension remains taut. It’s a “one-sitting” read that doesn’t let up.

3. The “Frieda Twist”

Without spoilers, McFadden fans expect a massive 180-degree turn in the final act. The Boyfriend delivers a series of reveals that challenge everything the reader assumes about the characters. While some may find the twists “out there,” they are undeniably entertaining.

The Verdict

The Boyfriend isn’t trying to be high literature; it’s a high-octane, dark, and often fun exploration of the “Stranger Danger” trope updated for the 2020s. It’s perfect for fans of The Housemaid or readers who enjoyed the cat-and-mouse games of You by Caroline Kepnes.

Final Note: If you’re currently in the middle of a “talking stage” with someone new, you might want to wait until you’re safely married before picking this one up.

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