Shell Games: Unraveling Truths in a Fast-paced Turtle-infused Thriller...……

Book Information

The Coworker, written by Freida McFadden, is a 349-page mystery/thriller with an expected publication date of August 29, 2023. The audio version is Narrated by Alyson Krawchuk and spans 8 hours and 12 minutes. Thank you to Dreamscape Media for providing me with an advance readers copy of this book for review.

Summary

Dawn Schiff stands out as an odd presence among her colleagues at Vixed, a nutritional supplement company, with her social awkwardness, solitude, love for all things turtle, and strict punctuality. When Dawn inexplicably misses work one day, Natalie Farrell, a popular and successful sales representative, is concerned. Soon, Natalie is drawn into an unsettling web of intrigue as she receives an anonymous and disturbing call, revealing that Dawn was not simply an outcast but was instead the target of a sinister plot. As Natalie becomes entwined in a dangerous game of deception, she grapples with the question of who the true victim is, ultimately realizing that Dawn harbored a deep-seated animosity that led to a chilling conclusion: someone's loathing for Dawn was strong enough to result in murder.

My Thoughts

Freida McFadden's "The Coworker" is a skillfully constructed novel that takes readers on a roller coaster ride. With an ever-twisting plot and a pace that doesn't relent, this book will be a popular read for fans of psychological thrillers. As patient as a turtle on its path, 'The Coworker' lures you into its enigmatic world before racing your pulse with its shocking revelations.

At the heart of the story is Dawn, a character who, though never explicitly identified as such, exhibits many traits associated with autism. McFadden's portrayal of those around Dawn offers a thought-provoking exploration of the cruelty and insensitivity often directed at those who are different. Through Dawn's experiences, the novel sheds light on the hurtful impact of teasing and torment, even when seemingly delivered in jest. It serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences that stem from a lack of understanding and empathy in society.

The book's dialogue, while occasionally leaning towards the juvenile, is fitting for the immature nature of the characters in the story. This adds authenticity to their interactions and, which is sometimes annoying, draws readers deeper into their world. The interplay between characters often creates a cat-and-mouse dynamic.

The narrator’s ability to create distinct voices for each character is good, although I found Dawn's portrayal overly stereotypical, exaggerated, and bordering on offensive. As someone familiar with individuals on the autism spectrum, I found her speech patterns exceedingly mechanistic and not true to life. While I acknowledge the difficulty of capturing such nuances through audio alone, I personally found it excessive.

The novel boasts numerous significant plot twists that should surprise many and keep them invested. The uncertainty surrounding the events grows as the book progresses leaving readers unsure of what or who to believe—a hallmark of an effective psychological thriller.

While the story is a roller-coaster of emotions and surprises, the ending might stretch the bounds of believability for some—it did for me. The choices made by the characters in the aftermath of their shared trauma left me questioning the realism of their decisions.

Recommendation

"The Coworker" by Freida McFadden is a well-paced novel that weaves together intricate storytelling with thought-provoking themes. While it excels in many aspects, there are moments where the portrayal of certain characters could be more sensitive or realistic. Nevertheless, the book's ability to keep readers engaged and guessing until the very end is a testament to McFadden's storytelling ability. Recommended.

Rating

3.5 Turtle Stars

This is my favorite Freida McFadden so far. In thrillers, the story has to grab you but the way it is presented to you is just as important. The sequence of events and the way the information is doled out is perfect to keep you guessing in this one (although I did figure out the twist fairly early on). And while the characters weren’t likeable (I don’t think they were supposed to be), I couldn’t help but get caught up in their stories and feel for them. The ending was a little hard to believe but I really enjoyed this story.

Freida McFadden knocks it out of the park again! This one was so good and had me hooked from the beginning! And the twists! I loved it all! Highly recommend this to any thriller lover. The narrator did a great job too and I would definitely recommend the audio version of this one.

Freida never disappoints! I didn’t Natalie from the very beginning of this book. She is a character that you love to hate…and have a hard time believing. I really couldn’t tell whether or not she had anything to do with Dawn’s disappearance. Also, I enjoyed learning about turtles.

Thank you to Dreamscape Media and Netgalley of this ARC audiobook. This is my first Freida McFadden book and I am definitely a fan! It is the perfect mix of suspense and story. I appreciate that the story twists and turns are not obvious. Overall, a really good read!

Another great book by this author. She has a way of drawing me in and not letting go. This one was no different. It was a fast read that I didn't want to put down. I kept trying to put the pieces together and ended up surprised. It was twisty and turny and had me questioning everything. Some empathetic characters and some despicable ones. I had no problem suspending belief at the ending, but then that is what makes the book fun. It made for a juicy book! I listened on audio and I thought the narration was very good as well.

Thank you to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, Freida McFadden and Poisoned Pen Press for an audio arc of The Coworker. This review is wholly my own & may not be reproduced (except quoted synopsis).

“Two women. An office filled with secrets. One terrible crime that can't be taken back

Dawn Schiff is strange. At least, everyone thinks so at Vixed, the nutritional supplement company where Dawn works as an accountant. She never says the right thing. She has no friends. And she is always at her desk at precisely 8:45 a.m.

So when Dawn doesn't show up to the office one morning, her coworker Natalie Farrell—beautiful, popular, top sales rep five years running—is surprised. Then she receives an unsettling, anonymous phone call that changes everything…

It turns out Dawn wasn't just an awkward outsider—she was being targeted by someone close. And now Natalie is irrevocably tied to Dawn as she finds herself caught in a twisted game of cat and mouse that leaves her wondering: who's the real victim?<

But one thing is incredibly clear: somebody hated Dawn Schiff. Enough to kill.”

Freida McFadden has become one of my favorite thriller/suspense/mystery authors. I will blindly read anything with her name on it. I have never been disappointed and The Coworker definitely was not an exception.

I can’t say the things I want to say because they would spoil the ending, so here is my more vague review.

The story was fast paced and an easy listen. I was very invested in the characters and the plot. The main issue at the heart of the story is the horrible bullying of Dawn by Natalie. Bullying is NOT ok.

Just remember that with Freida’s stories, there WILL be a twist so be sure to take everything with a grain of salt as you read. The twist was fabulous and I did not anticipate it. Ahhhh – I want to say so much more, but can’t. Just know that this was a great story and I highly recommend it!

3.5/5 stars

Thank you Dreamscape Media for the advanced listening copy!

Dawn Schiff is pretty strange, and Natalie Farrell has taken notice. They may only be co-workers, but queen bee Natalie can't help but notice when Dawn doesn't show up for work at her usual, exact 8:45 AM. As Natalie starts to track Dawn down, she receives an anonymous and startling phone call that alerts her to the fact this is not just a case of being late to work. Dawn might be in very real danger, and Natalie is somehow the only person doing anything real about it.

This was my first Freida McFadden, and I totally get why her books have been all the rage lately! While I predicted one of the big twists earlier than I would have liked, it was still super shocking to hear and really fun the way it all played out. Dawn was a fascinating character to listen to and Natalie was equal parts compelling and frustrating. The way that the characters in this book were interwoven was sooo clever, often taking me by complete surprise. Only downside to this one was that it felt a little bit rushed and didn't have great flow overall, knocking it down a star for me. But overall, I enjoyed this! If you're looking for a fast-paced read with some fun surprises, this is your book.

Another quick and easy read/listen by Freida McFadden. I love how her books keep me guessing. While this wasn't my favorite story by the author I still enjoyed the audiobook and would recommend to McFadden fans.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you @netgalley for a copy of this audiobook. I DNF'd this at 20%. The synopsis sounded interesting but once I started the book, I just didn't buy it. Who is that concern about a coworker that doesn't show up for work in a day. Just makes no sense.

The narration felt robotic and monotone which lead to flat characters. The obsession with turtles and all the description was just too much.

I have not read anything by Freida McFadden before but will definitely check out her other books now.

Wow, what a story!! It was a rollercoaster...I kept changing my mind about which of the 2 main characters was the crazy/psychopath one and then, boom!! the ending was perfect!

I really enjoyed this audiobook! thanks for this ARC,
Thanks Netgalley, Freida McFadden, and Dreamscape Media.

The Coworker is a mystery/thriller about drama and relationships in the office.

The Primary focus is on the lives of Dawn Schiff, Natalie Farrell, Caleb, and Seth. They work as sales persons at Vixed, a nutrient supplement company. One day Dawn Schiff does not show up for work. Natalie is worried about the girl and goes on a mission to solve the mysterious disappearance of Dawn Schiff. Natalie is getting unusual phone calls while at work with a woman moaning and saying "help me" which leads to her reporting Dawn missing. An investigation is ongoing and then the police focus shifts to Natalie as a person of interest. Does she know more about what really happened to Dawn? Is she responsible for her disappearance? She had made some negative comments to others at work about Dawn.

Even though the characters are well developed, neither Natalie nor Dawn are at all likeable, adding to the workplace drama. Natalie is described as beautiful, popular, and loved by all: a perfect Barbie doll. Dawn is the exact opposite. She is often picked on, not popular and is quirky and unorthodox. Her obsession with turtles and how she related everything back to turtles weirded out people around her. The descriptions and behaviors allude that Dawn may be a high functioning person with Autism or Aspergers. Her food must be certain colors, and she must always have and do things in a particular order.

The Coworker is written from Natalie's and Dawn's point of view, and it jumps from the past to present as well. As an audio, The narrator Alyson Krawchuklove used two very distinct voices for Dawn and Natalie making it unmistakeable who was talking.

I thought the twists in this book were good and just when I thought oh okay, then boom another surprise. I enjoyed how Freda McFadden wrapped everything up neatly on the end.

I highly recommend this book for mystery and livers of crime stories.,

I’ve read most of Ms. McFadden books and I have to say she is becoming predictable. A predictable 5 star read that is. Loved the Coworker! Very entertaining with unexpected twist and turns. Narrator did a fantastic job and kept me hooked. Thank you netgalley and publisher for this arc in exchange for an honest review.

Holy heck this was a twisty thriller! Told from two different perspectives, coworkers Dawn and Natalie. I don’t want to give anything away, because you need to listen or read this yourself to get the full effect.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the advance audiobook.

I listened to this via audio and it did not disappoint. The story is of two co-workers and their relationship. One is very popular, slim and gorgeous (Natalie) and the other is slightly introvert, mousy and a little bit odd. (Dawn). When Dawn fails to turn up for work Natalie is concerned and remembering she dropped her home in the past goes to her house to see if she’s ok but all she finds are signs of a struggle and lots of blood. From this point the story develops as each person tells their story in alternate chapters and soon Natalie is facing a bleak future. It is quite hard to review the book without giving any spoilers but as the book delves deeper into characters, we begin to see their flaws and not so nice character traits.

The ending is fantastic and whilst trying to guess the ending of a book (I’m sure I’m not the only one) changed my mind several times.

Okay I will start by saying I am a huge Freida fan. I don’t look up any of her books I just automatically add to cart. I didn’t know what this one was about other than the title.

This one was definitely not my favourite. The writing style felt different. I was not invested whatsoever and found all of the characters very unlikable. I did get a bit more interested at different parts temporarily but it wore off. The twists were fair but I was missing the bingeable and unputdownable feeling her books usually give me.

I also really love turtles but they were a bit excessive in this one. I think that was the point but it was just a lot.

The narrators did a good job and fit the characters well for this story.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this audiobook arc in exchange for an honest review.

I actually really enjoyed this one. freida had quickly become one of my most read Aurora and I'm living for it

The Coworker is well written with a fully developed plotline and interesting characters. The story leaned toward the bizarre for me. While at times sad, I couldn’t quite manage to care for the plight of these characters. I like the author’s writing so I chalk this up to not being the story for me. I will say the robot narration even if intentional was hard to listen to. This is one case when I found the audio did not add to the experience.

If you’re a fan of Freida McFadden I’d recommend giving this one a listen.

I really enjoyed the cat and mouse game here, initially going in one could easily see why someone would want to choke Dawn. She's annoying, rude and, brash. The way she checks her boss, she's lucky she doesn't get fired. Yes, I understand that she is autistic with a super strong level of OCD, but the girl is very brash and rude! As the story folds there are times when you feel sorry for her, but then it flips, and you really don't know who's the bad guy. There are so many thoughts about these characters, and I was hooked. I could not wait to get home today and read the rest of this book, . I literally read it in a day and a half.,and I loved it from start to finish.
It was really a great and satisfying ending! I loved that there was more than one Pov and the narrator did an amazing job bringing these characters off the page. I will definitely be recommending this book and I look forward to reading more by this author. Great plot, great setting, great story and great ending!

Thank you so much for the advanced audiobook of The Coworker by Freida McFadden. I always enjoy a book by Freida McFadden - they are always quick and enjoyable reads. This one was one I did not find predictable so that is a plus for me. I was not familiar with the narrator Alyson Krawchuk but I think that she did an excellent job. I see she's narrated other books for McFadden. I enjoyed this story and liked the changing pov's from Dawn and Natalie both of who are very unreliable narrators. I wasn't sure who to believe and enjoyed the twists throughout being revealed. I would consider this a popcorn type of thriller - its just a fun book to read - nothing serious or earth shattering. As an added bonus - I LOVE the cover - that red shoe !!!