Synopsis
In The Inmate Freida McFadden stated three rules that her protagonist, Brooke Sullivan has to abide by, as the new nurse practitioner at a maximum-security prison for males:
1) Be courteous to all detainees.
2) Never give out any private details.
3) you should never go too close to the inmates.
Brooke has already breached one of the rules, but no one at the prison knows about it.
Review
If you enjoy reading psychological thrillers, there is a good possibility that you are familiar with the name Freida McFadden, the best-selling author. It should come as no surprise that people are interested in reading her work given the many positive ratings and reviews accrued by her novels on Kindle Unlimited.
Despite the fact that many of her books sounded interesting, I decided to read one of McFadden’s most successful thrillers, “The Inmate.”
The narrative of the novel focuses on Brooke Sullivan, a nurse practitioner who moves to Raker, Washington to begin a new work at a maximum-security prison for male inmates. Even though it’s not her ideal work, she has to take what she can get because there are none other options.
Nobody is aware of the fact that Brooke has a hidden link to Shane Nelson, one of the most dangerous criminals currently incarcerated in the facility. Shane was Brooke’s high school sweetheart. Because of Brooke’s evidence, Shane is currently serving a life sentence in prison for a string of heinous killings, and it was her words that led to his conviction.
As Brooke adjusts to her new employment and navigates her interactions with Shane, her ex-boyfriend, the author deftly weaves in the circumstances that lead to Shane’s arrest and incarceration throughout the narrative. The reader will not know what to expect next because the plot is filled with surprising twists and turns right up until the very conclusion of the book.
It’s important to note that quick-paced and enjoyable books like “The Inmate” have their place in the literary world, despite the fact that some readers might consider the book to be filler.
It is a speedy and enjoyable diversion that provides a reprieve from the pressures and tensions of everyday life. Nevertheless, it is absolutely necessary to switch off your head and take the time to appreciate the experience.
In spite of the fact that the story takes place in a jail, one complaint that might be leveled against the novel is that it doesn’t have a grim or threatening atmosphere. It wouldn’t have made a difference to the atmosphere even if Brooke worked as a nurse in a different town; she could have been a nurse anywhere.
The way in which Brooke is portrayed throughout the book as being continually naive is one of the book’s virtues. It’s not enough for this character to simply be naive or slow; in order for the plot to move forward, it requires that this individual be incredibly naive.
The character of Brooke Sullivan is a prime example of this type of character because she is depicted as the most inept person in the history of the world. It’s just like those characters in advertisements who, rather of driving away in a car, go into a dark shed and hide behind the chainsaws there.
Although it may come out as a criticism, it is in fact a genuine aspect of the character and contributes to the plausibility of the story. Characters in many thrillers are portrayed as otherwise intelligent or competent, yet often make foolish choices that move the storyline along. These choices are often necessary for the story.
The narrative shifts back and forth between the past and the present, and it is recounted from Brooke’s point of view the entire time. I admire Freida’s writing for its readability and the way in which she manages to make the characters and the plot accessible to the reader.
Final Word
Although it’s not exactly a literary classic, this thriller is quite easy to get into and a lot of fun to read. Even while I found the novel to be entertaining, I found myself wishing for more scenes that were set within the jail.
The conclusion took me by surprise, and I had no idea that it was going to go in that path, but I thought the twist was handled really effectively. I make it a point not to dwell too much on potential narrative twists and instead allow the flow of the story to draw me in.
In conclusion, “The Inmate” is a book that is both exhilarating and entertaining to read, and it demonstrates McFadden’s ability to weave a story that is both complex and interesting. Fans of psychological thrillers should give it a try despite the possibility that others won’t enjoy it as much as they would.
If you like reading this book, discover more Freida McFadden books in order.
The Inmate Freida McFadden Buying Options:
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About the Author
Emma Thompson is a passionate bookworm with a deep appreciation for literature across various genres. With a degree in English Literature, she has a keen eye for analyzing and dissecting the intricacies of a book’s themes and writing style.
Emma has been an active reviewer for over five years, sharing her insights and recommendations with fellow readers.
