The Housemaid is Watching

Red herrings are a common trope in mystery/thriller/suspense novels. What red herrings does McFadden use to divert the audience’s attention? How do the red herrings work in the broader context of the mystery?

Suburban life plays a crucial role in the plot’s development. Explore how the setting of suburban Long Island influences the narrative and the ways that McFadden compares and contrasts suburbia with the city.

Examine Ada’s character development through the lens of the hero’s journey. How does she adhere to the elements of the hero’s journey, and how does she diverge from heroic norms?