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The Housemaid Audible Audiobook – Unabridged

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 336,363 ratings
Amazon Charts #4 this week
See all formats and editions

“Welcome to the family,” Nina Winchester says as I shake her elegant, manicured hand. I smile politely, gazing around the marble hallway. Working here is my last chance to start fresh. I can pretend to be whoever I like. But I’ll soon learn that the Winchesters’ secrets are far more dangerous than my own....

Every day I clean the Winchesters’ beautiful house top to bottom. I collect their daughter from school. And I cook a delicious meal for the whole family before heading up to eat alone in my tiny room on the top floor.

I try to ignore how Nina makes a mess just to watch me clean it up. How she tells strange lies about her own daughter. And how her husband, Andrew, seems more broken every day. But as I look into Andrew’s handsome brown eyes, so full of pain, it’s hard not to imagine what it would be like to live Nina’s life. The walk-in closet, the fancy car, the perfect husband.

I only try on one of Nina’s pristine white dresses once. Just to see what it’s like. But she soon finds out...and by the time I realize my attic bedroom door only locks from the outside, it’s far too late.

But I reassure myself: The Winchesters don’t know who I really am.

They don’t know what I’m capable of....

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  1. Book 1 of 3
    The Housemaid
  2. Listening Length
    9 hours and 46 minutes
  3. Author
    Freida McFadden
  4. Narrator
    Lauryn Allman
  5. Audible release date
    April 26, 2022
  6. Language
    English
  7. Publisher
    Hachette UK - Bookouture
  8. ASIN
    B09XRF2SWN
  9. Version
    Unabridged
  10. Program Type
    Audiobook
  11. See all details
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Product details

Listening Length 9 hours and 46 minutes
Author Freida McFadden
Narrator Lauryn Allman
Whispersync for Voice Ready
Audible.com Release Date April 26, 2022
Publisher Hachette UK - Bookouture
Program Type Audiobook
Version Unabridged
Language English
ASIN B09XRF2SWN
Best Sellers Rank #7 in Audible Books & Originals (See Top 100 in Audible Books & Originals)
#1 in Psychological Thrillers (Audible Books & Originals)
#1 in Suspense (Audible Books & Originals)
#3 in Suspense Thrillers

Customer reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
336,363 global ratings

Customers say

Customers find the plot twists well thought out and keep them guessing. They also describe the book as a fast, easy read with well developed characters. Readers also mention that the book is a page turner and enjoy the descriptive plot twist. Opinions are mixed on readability, with some finding it hard to put down and eager to keep reading, while others say it's overhyped and raises expectations too high.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Select to learn more
PlotReading paceEngagementCharacter developmentPlot complexityPage turnerReadabilityHumor
4,288 customers mention "Plot"3,841 positive447 negative

Customers find the plot twists enjoyable, well written, and satisfying. They also appreciate the book's ability to not only shock and surprise, but also delve into the characters' backstories.

"...What truly sets "The Housemaid" apart, however, is its ability to not only shock and surprise but also to delve into the depths of human psychology..." Read more

"I liked this book. It is probably one of the better thrillers/mysteries I've read recently, and I did finish it quite fast...." Read more

"...I won’t spoil it, but boy! These plot twists are really well done...." Read more

"Twists & turns & tension! Interesting characters with backstories full of depth. An easy but captivating read...." Read more

1,423 customers mention "Reading pace"1,195 positive228 negative

Customers find the book fast, easy, and well written. They also say it makes everyday life feel like a blur.

"...The writing style is extremely readable, but don't expect imagery and beautiful language -- this book is very plot-based from start to finish...." Read more

"...Interesting characters with backstories full of depth. An easy but captivating read. 14yo niece & I read in tandem and had a lot of fun doing so!" Read more

"...Easy Read, couldn't put it down." Read more

"...Just when it seemed clear something else turned. Very quick read because you won't want to put it down." Read more

852 customers mention "Engagement"820 positive32 negative

Customers find the book engrossing, entertaining, and captivating. They also say the author has a way of capturing their attention with her writing style and details. Readers also mention that the loved ones add a compelling emotional layer to the narrative.

"...people will go to protect their loved ones adds a compelling emotional layer to the narrative, making the characters and their plights resonate long..." Read more

"If you like suspense, heart thumping, and good twists, this one is good. Easy Read, couldn't put it down." Read more

"OH My GAH, what did I just read? This book is an electrifying start to a series—captivating. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time...." Read more

"...And, then the story flipped again. It was a good read. It kept my interest. But, I can’t say I want to read this author again...." Read more

529 customers mention "Character development"450 positive79 negative

Customers find the characters in the book well developed.

"...From the meticulously crafted plot to the richly developed characters and the haunting atmospheric backdrop, every element of "The Housemaid" is a..." Read more

"Twists & turns & tension! Interesting characters with backstories full of depth. An easy but captivating read...." Read more

"...I read the whole Housemaid series and I really loved how the main characters evolved." Read more

"Overall, an easy read. I appreciated the pace and character development...." Read more

267 customers mention "Plot complexity"192 positive75 negative

Customers find the plot well-thought-out, detailed, and suspenseful. They also say the book flows well and sets up nicely for the sequel. Customers also mention that the proofreading is flawless. Overall, they describe the book as an easy and fascinating mystery that sets up well for the next book.

"...to finish, leaving you breathless and utterly floored by its brilliant execution...." Read more

"...The twists, however, are quite strong. We get a few clues, although I would say that in this book they're actually less subtle than the second one...." Read more

"...that I find the ending with the investigation wayyy tooo convenient and easy. I felt like it could have been better...." Read more

"...The author did a great job of leaving details behind to get you thinking. I read this in 3 days and just could not put it down!" Read more

253 customers mention "Page turner"253 positive0 negative

Customers find the book an easy, fast-paced page turner with good characterization. They also say it's basic and reads in an hour.

"...It's a true page-turner in every sense of the word, a book that will keep you captivated from start to finish, leaving you breathless and utterly..." Read more

"This book I could not put down from the time I started it! A real page turner for sure.The plot twists and turns...." Read more

"...This was such a quick, page turning read & my favorite Freida McFadden book to date." Read more

"This was a real page turner with new directions at every turn. Gives a niggling feeling that it could really happen in our society...." Read more

555 customers mention "Readability"335 positive220 negative

Customers are mixed about the readability. Some find the book hard to put down, easy to get hooked, and eager to keep reading. They also say it leaves them hanging after every chapter. However, some customers feel the book is convenient and easy to read, while others say it's over-hyped.

"This book kept me engaged and eager to keep reading. I am guilty of not reading enough...." Read more

"...n’t like is that I find the ending with the investigation wayyy tooo convenient and easy. I felt like it could have been better...." Read more

"...Well written. Easy to follow. Can't wait to read the sequel!" Read more

"...Easy and fun read." Read more

158 customers mention "Humor"58 positive100 negative

Customers are mixed about the humor. Some find the book hilarious and unexpected, making them smile. They also say the writing style is entertaining and pulls them in. However, other customers find the humor corny, boring, and insane.

"...👀😳Characters: The characters were wacky, unrealistic and insane. However. I will be reading the next book. 😅🤦🏾‍♀️..." Read more

"...Her writing style is so entertaining and pulls you in so much that you can’t put it down...." Read more

"It’s a little cheesy but entertaining! It moves fast which allowed for an easy read." Read more

"...Storyline was interesting but super unrealistic.I may read the next book in the series on my next beach vacation" Read more

Can’t Put it Down!!
5 out of 5 stars
Can’t Put it Down!!
I started reading this in the morning with my coffee and I ended up not going to bed until I finished it! It kept me entrenched in every turn of the page on each and every twist ! Easy to read and brilliant author! This was my first book of hers, and it’s not going to be my last!
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Top reviews from the United States

Victoria Givens
5.0 out of 5 stars A Masterclass in Psychological Suspense - Prepare to Be Utterly Floored
Reviewed in the United States on May 14, 2024
Verified Purchase
Brace yourself, because "The Housemaid" is a novel that will keep you glued to the pages from start to finish, constantly questioning everything you think you know. Just when you believe you've unraveled the twisted narrative, author Freida McFadden pulls the rug out from under you, leaving you breathless and craving more. This book is a true masterclass in psychological suspense that demands to be devoured in a single, uninterrupted sitting.

From the opening chapters, McFadden weaves an intricate web of mystery and deceit, introducing readers to a cast of complex characters and a seemingly idyllic suburban setting that harbors dark secrets beneath its pristine veneer. The story's central figure, the enigmatic housemaid Millie, is a captivating presence, her motivations and allegiances constantly shifting, keeping you guessing about her true nature until the very end.

As the plot unfolds, the tension ratchets up with each turn of the page, as McFadden deftly plants seeds of doubt and suspicion, forcing you to question the reliability of every character's perspective. Just when you think you've pieced together the puzzle, she expertly upends your assumptions, leaving you reeling and eagerly devouring the next twist or revelation.

What truly sets "The Housemaid" apart, however, is its ability to not only shock and surprise but also to delve into the depths of human psychology and the complexities of familial relationships. McFadden's exploration of themes such as trust, loyalty, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their loved ones adds a compelling emotional layer to the narrative, making the characters and their plights resonate long after the final page.

From the meticulously crafted plot to the richly developed characters and the haunting atmospheric backdrop, every element of "The Housemaid" is a testament to McFadden's skill as a writer. She masterfully keeps you off-balance, constantly second-guessing your assumptions and reveling in the delicious uncertainty that permeates every chapter.

In the end, this book is an absolute must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and suspense novels. It's a true page-turner in every sense of the word, a book that will keep you captivated from start to finish, leaving you breathless and utterly floored by its brilliant execution. Do yourself a favor and clear your schedule before diving into "The Housemaid" – because once you start, you won't be able to put it down until the jaw-dropping conclusion.
77 people found this helpful
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Levin Zhao
4.0 out of 5 stars Great Book
Reviewed in the United States on July 19, 2024
Verified Purchase
I liked this book. It is probably one of the better thrillers/mysteries I've read recently, and I did finish it quite fast. The writing style is extremely readable, but don't expect imagery and beautiful language -- this book is very plot-based from start to finish. In the middle, some aspects got a bit repetitive but I guess we needed to have some understanding of Nina, Andrew, and Millie. The book itself also veers off into a bit of romance towards the middle, if you're into that sort of thing this would be a great read, but if not it may get a bit boring. The twists, however, are quite strong. We get a few clues, although I would say that in this book they're actually less subtle than the second one. Definitely didn't expect the ending. For anyone planning on going into this book, you need to know that it's a thriller first, everything else second. The character development is mediocre, especially with Millie (imho), which is why I don't think I could give it any more than 5 stars. Overall, solid, I understand the hype and it's worth the read.

**spoilers**
I didn't really understand all that was going on with Nina's daughter, Cecelia. The whole idea of her being allergic to peanut butter and overall being a brat didn't work that well plotwise, unless she was just meant to be an annoying character all around. I know in Nina's pov she talked about Cecelia always having to be perfect for Andrew, still there was some confusion I had while reading. If someone could clear that up for me that'd be great.
2 people found this helpful
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Angel Nichole
5.0 out of 5 stars Great book!
Reviewed in the United States on June 23, 2024
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I didn’t have high hopes for this series because usually when something is all over social media, it turns out to be bad lol (in my experience) ESPECIALLY BOOKS…
However, my daughter told me it was actually good so I decided to give it a shot. I read a LOT. Usually Mystery/Thriller/horror/and some historical romance and out of the thousands of books I’ve read, this is probably one of my favorite series ever!

The beginning was kind of slow (as with most books) but I was hooked immediately! I finished this one in a day then read the second one the next day! Just started the third one!

I really love the writing style. It’s kind of like a diary style/first person. In this one you start with the housemaid’s point of view then once most of her story is told, it switches to Her boss, Nina’s point of view. Then back to the housemaid etc.

I’ll be completely honest, usually I can figure out a mystery/thriller easily… not with these books! I won’t spoil it, but boy! These plot twists are really well done. The author puts teeny-tiny little hints here and there in the book, but you don’t realize it until the end!

Just wait until you get to the “100 strands of hair” part lol sheesh! Definitely was not expecting it!

All this to say, you should 100% buy this whole series! 5/5 stars!
57 people found this helpful
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Kelly Jaggars
5.0 out of 5 stars Page turner
Reviewed in the United States on July 7, 2024
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This was my first Freida McFadden book and I’m obsessed! Her writing style is so entertaining and pulls you in so much that you can’t put it down. What a fun thriller, I could totally see this as a Lifetime movie, and I mean that as a compliment because I love Lifetime movies. Definitely the fastest I’ve ever finished a book, ever. I can’t wait to read the next Housemaid book and all the other thrillers Freida McFadden has! Check her out!
4 people found this helpful
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Samantha D. Mentzer
4.0 out of 5 stars What a ride
Reviewed in the United States on July 25, 2024
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This book is very well written. I enjoyed the mystery of who was in the attic at the beginning of the book and who put them there. There are so many twists and turns but by the middle of the book you start putting the pieces together. Absolutely kept me on my toes and wanting to read one more chapter.
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Top reviews from other countries

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Maria
5.0 out of 5 stars Te atrapa de principio a fin
Reviewed in Mexico on July 20, 2024
Verified Purchase
Gran autora con un libro que te mantiene en suspenso desde el inicio , no lo dejas hasta que terminas..... ¡buena lectura!
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Mike Elliott
5.0 out of 5 stars Great read
Reviewed in Canada on June 16, 2024
Verified Purchase
My first Frieda McFadden read. This book got me hooked on this author . They are easy reads that you can pick up and put back down and not be lost in the story. Found myself holding my breath !!
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Lore Alcantara
5.0 out of 5 stars MUITO bom, serio. Leia.
Reviewed in Brazil on June 10, 2024
Verified Purchase
Um dos melhores thrillers que ja li na vida. Como leitora assidua de livros dos mais diversos generos, posso dizer com tranquilidade que esse é um dos livros que vai ficar marcado na estante especial da memoria. Eu nao sou muito de recomendar ou avaliar coisas (acho que gosto é igual **, cada um tem o seu) mas ESSE LIVRO eu recomendo pra todas as pessoas que gostam ou que estão começando a ler.
One person found this helpful
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Zoë Pusch
5.0 out of 5 stars Spannend, gerne gelesen
Reviewed in Germany on July 31, 2024
Verified Purchase
Ich habe das Buch geliebt.

Normalerweise sind Thriller nicht so meins.
Durch Booktook habe ich diesem Buch allerdings doch eine Chance gegeben.

Der Schreibstil zog mich ab der ersten Seite in den Bann, der Plottwist hat mich umgehauen.
Ich konnte das Buch kaum zur Seite legen.
Absolute Empfehlung für alle, die einen seichten Thriller suchen!
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Gripping
Reviewed in Spain on July 28, 2024
Verified Purchase
A bit of a slow start but as the plot unravelled, it was twist after twist.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, which I binge read. So, now it’s on to The Housemaid 2.
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