Freida McFadden, a practicing brain physician, has carved a prominent niche as a prolific author, balancing her medical career with a successful writing journey. Known for her psychological thrillers and medical humor novels, McFadden’s bestselling book, The Housemaid, is set to hit cinemas as a highly anticipated film featuring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried, scheduled for release on Boxing Day.
Her latest thriller, The Intruder, released earlier this month, tells a gripping story of survival set in an isolated cabin, and it is already gaining momentum in sales. McFadden shared her excitement for the film adaptation of The Housemaid, declaring, “On an excitement scale of one to 10, I am at about 103.” She reminisced about meeting Sweeney earlier this year, overflowing with joy and gratitude for the opportunity to work with such talented actors.
Reflecting on her writing journey, McFadden noted her humble beginnings, writing a humorous memoir of her medical internship during her child’s nap times. What started as a personal venture has propelled her into the literary limelight, with 31 books published over the last 12 years, many of which have reached The Sunday Times bestseller list. However, the pressures of managing her dual careers led her to cut back on her medical practice, currently dedicating only one day a week to medicine.
Revenge often emerges as a recurring theme in McFadden’s works—a reflection of her belief that while life can be unjust, art allows for the enactment of poetic justice. Her latest novel, The Intruder, addresses the complicated emotions surrounding maternal betrayal, exploring the psychological ramifications of a cruel mother on one’s identity, which she sees as the perfect backdrop for an intriguing story.
While her narratives delve into dark themes, McFadden places significant value on humor, aiming to infuse her thrillers with levity. She enjoys writing engaging dialogue and cliffhanger chapter endings, understanding the reader’s desire to “devour ‘just one more chapter.’” Her passion for writing remains, as she strives to create stories that bring her joy while also connecting with her audience.
Moreover, McFadden emphasizes the importance of self-publishing and promotes the necessity of having confidence in one’s work. She embraces social media as a platform for engagement, expressing her heartfelt appreciation for her readers. With a blend of intellect and creativity, Freida McFadden continues to inspire through her compelling stories and relatable experiences as both a physician and an author.