Freida McFadden’s The Boyfriend starts off in an unusual, slightly disjointed way, leaving the reader wondering what exactly the “before” story is all about. It’s an intriguing hook, even if a bit confusing at first, but trust me, it’s worth sticking with. Soon enough, the narrative unfolds into the story of Sydney Shaw and her quest for a boyfriend—a seemingly ordinary premise that McFadden spins into something entirely unexpected.
Sydney is a compelling character, and her need for companionship feels both genuine and slightly offbeat, making her someone you can’t help but root for even as you question her choices. Then there’s Slug, a character who steals the show in his own way. He’s quirky, relatable, and entirely unforgettable—even if you don’t know a “Slug” in real life, you’ll wish you didn’t.
What really makes The Boyfriend stand out is McFadden’s signature storytelling style. Just when you think you have everything figured out, she throws in a jaw-dropping twist that blindsides you completely. I pride myself on spotting twists, but this one? Absolutely out of left field—and it works brilliantly.
Freida McFadden proves yet again why she’s a must-read author. With her knack for blending humor, suspense, and emotional depth, she keeps you turning the pages until the very end. I guess I’ll be reading her books “till the cows come home” because this one has solidified her place on my permanent TBR list. If you’re looking for a story that’s equal parts entertaining and shocking, The Boyfriend is definitely worth a read.