The Crash by Freida McFadden

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

If there’s one thing Freida McFadden knows how to do, it’s keep you on the edge of your seat—and The Crash is no exception. This snowbound psychological thriller delivers all the tension, twists, and heart-pounding moments you’d expect from a #1 New York Times bestselling author, with a chilling setting that adds an extra layer of claustrophobic dread.

The Premise:

Tegan is eight months pregnant, alone, and desperate for a fresh start. With her life in shambles, she drives through a blizzard on her way to her brother’s house—but never makes it. After a terrifying car crash leaves her stranded in rural Maine with a broken ankle, things go from bad to worse. A seemingly kind couple rescues her, offering warmth and shelter while the storm rages outside. But as the hours stretch into days, Tegan realizes that this “safe haven” may be more dangerous than the blizzard itself.

What I Loved:

• The Pacing: McFadden doesn’t waste a single moment. From the opening chapter, you’re thrust into Tegan’s nightmare, and the tension only escalates from there. Every chapter ends on a note that practically dares you to stop reading (spoiler: you won’t).

• The Atmosphere: The isolated, snow-covered setting is both haunting and immersive. You can practically feel the chill creeping in as Tegan becomes trapped—not just by the weather, but by something far more sinister.

• The Twists: In classic McFadden style, just when you think you know where things are going… you don’t. The reveals are clever and unpredictable, keeping you guessing until the very last page.

What Fell Short:

• Character Depth: While Tegan’s desperation and maternal instincts are palpable, some of the supporting characters felt a bit underdeveloped. I wanted a deeper dive into their motivations, especially given how pivotal they are to the story’s unraveling.

• The Ending: Without giving anything away, the conclusion ties things up quickly—maybe a little too quickly. After such an intense buildup, I was hoping for a bit more time to sit with the aftermath.

Final Thoughts:

The Crash is a fast-paced, chilling thriller that will have you double-checking your car tires before your next road trip. While some areas could have used a little more depth, it delivers where it counts—suspense, surprises, and that signature Freida McFadden twistiness. If you’re in the mood for a gripping page-turner with a side of snowy terror, this one’s worth the ride.

Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely—especially if you’re a fan of survival thrillers with a psychological twist. Just maybe don’t read it during a snowstorm.