Weekly Book Review: One by One by Freida McFadden 🌲🔪

Six friends. A broken-down minivan. No cell service. And a forest that just keeps getting darker. What was supposed to be a relaxing trip full of hiking and hot tubs turns into a deadly nightmare — because someone in the group isn't who they say they are. 👀

The dual POV between Claire and an anonymous narrator had me questioning everyone, and I genuinely didn't see that ending coming. If you're looking for a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat thriller to devour in a weekend, this one's calling your name.

Drop a 🌲 below if you've read it, did you figure out the killer before the reveal?

#BookTok #FreidaMcFadden #ThrillerBooks #OneByOne #BookRecommendations

4/3 Edited to

... Read moreReading ‘‘One by One’’ truly felt like an immersive experience in suspense storytelling. What struck me most was how McFadden cleverly uses the dual POV technique between Claire and an anonymous narrator to create layers of mystery. Each chapter builds tension as you slowly unravel the personalities and hidden motives of the six friends trapped with no cell service in an eerie forest. This setting—a broken-down minivan and an increasingly darkening forest—makes the isolation palpable. From a personal perspective, I appreciate thrillers that combine character-driven plots with a fast-paced narrative, and this book hit that mark perfectly. The way McFadden misdirects the reader while giving subtle clues keeps you actively engaged rather than passively reading. It’s the kind of story I found hard to put down because I wanted to piece together who everyone really was and anticipate the chilling ending. If you love mysteries that let you play detective, ‘‘One by One’’ offers plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing. The suspenseful atmosphere, coupled with the dynamic between the friends, gives a real sense of dread and urgency. I also liked how the author explores themes of trust, deception, and survival, making the story more than just a typical thriller. For readers who also enjoy discussing their theories and plot predictions, this book is perfect for book clubs or online communities like #BookTok where you can share insights and reactions. Overall, ‘‘One by One’’ is a thrilling weekend read that combines great storytelling craft with a compelling plot that hooks you until the last page.