A review by readaholicliv
The Teacher by Freida McFadden

challenging dark tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

1.5

 
While I appreciate author Freida McFadden’s distinctive style and talent for generating suspense, I found this particular narrative to be somewhat challenging to engage with overall.  On one hand, a huge strength McFadden has is her capacity to maintain a fast-paced narrative under various circumstances.  From the outset, the story unfolds rapidly, effectively capturing the reader’s attention with numerous unexpected twists throughout. 
 
However, I encountered several aspects to the book that ultimately detracted from my overall enjoyment.  A significant concern for me was the book’s focus on adults in inappropriate relationships and situations with underage teenagers.  This theme proved difficult for me to engage with, and I would have appreciated a more sensitive and nuanced approach.  Had I been aware of the prominence of this theme and how romanticized it was in the narrative prior to reading, I would have reconsidered my choice, despite being a fan of McFadden’s other works. 
 
Additionally, the thematic focus on shoes, particularly heels, was quite pronounced.  Eve’s fascination with high heels seemed excessive and at times overshadowed more significant aspects of the narrative.  While I recognize that this may have been intended to develop her character further, it came across as unrealistic and unnecessary.  I would strongly advise against creating a drinking game based on any time Eve discusses shoes, as it could lead to rapid intoxication and possible alcohol poisoning.  That’s how excess her obsession is. 
 
I noted some logistical inconsistencies within the plot.  Without disclosing any spoilers, the time management of a secondary character seemed inconsistent and implausible for one major scene, leading me to question certain plot elements and their resolutions.  Greater attention to these details could have enhanced the overall coherence of the narrative.  Additionally, I found it puzzling that this character didn’t seek further clarification when certain elements aligned. 
 
Another challenge in “The Teacher” was the writing style employed, which departs from McFadden’s typical approach.  While I value the effort to capture Addie’s perspective as a sixteen-year-old, the execution felt contrived and affected other characters’ perspectives in this dual-perspective narrative.  This, combined with the sensitive and complex themes introduced, resulted in a writing style that seemed inconsistent and forced. 
 
Moreover, connecting with the characters posed another great challenge.  Eve’s obsession with shoes, her insecurities, and her consistent hypocritical behavior made it difficult to relate to her.  Nate, another central character, was unsettling from the start; as the narrative progressed, he also evolved into a less favorable character, and just a major creep.  Addie, despite being a teenager, often came across as whiny and naïve, which made her a frustrating character to follow.  Her behavior sometimes reminded me of a poorly conceived horror movie, where the character calls out “Is anyone there?” while approaching danger instead of fleeing to safety. 
 
I was shocked and disappointed that this was a story Freida McFadden would choose to write, as the themes are incredibly taboo, and the writing feels rather forced and unbecoming of her typical style.  Additionally, the characters were not particularly likable and did not develop any redeeming qualities as the story progressed.  On a positive note, this is not my first Freida McFadden book, so I am fully aware of her tremendous talent as a writer and how captivating her stories typically are. 
 
This particular book, however, fell short on expectations for me in nearly every way. 
 
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