One by One

From New York Times bestselling author Freida McFadden comes a gripping, darkly twisted thriller that delves deep into the primal fears of survival and trust. In One by One, a seemingly idyllic getaway transforms into a living nightmare for a group of friends.

Claire Matchett envisioned a restful vacation that would serve as an escape from her hectic life filled with work obligations and the challenges of raising young children. She hoped for a chance to mend her strained marriage, anticipating a week full of picturesque hikes through verdant forests, relaxing moments in lavish hot tubs, and the warm camaraderie of close friends. It sounded like paradise.

However, when Claire's minivan breaks down on a desolate dirt road, their planned retreat takes a sinister turn. With no cell reception and nightfall approaching, the group decides to hike the remaining miles to their remote hotel. The forest—initially perceived as a welcoming and tranquil sanctuary—soon reveals its ominous, labyrinthine nature. They find themselves hopelessly lost, with each step deeper uncovering unforeseen perils.

As the hours turn into a harrowing ordeal, the camaraderie wanes and terror sets in. Their situation deteriorates further when members of the group begin to fall victim to mysterious, brutal attacks. Are they being stalked and hunted by a wild animal, or is the predator lurking among them? Trust disintegrates as paranoia mounts, and the lines between friend and foe blur.

In this taut narrative, Freida McFadden masterfully blends suspense and psychological thrills to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The tension is palpable as the group battles the elements, their own fears, and the dark secrets that emerge in their fight for survival. With every turn of the page, the chilling realisation dawns that not everyone will make it out of the woods alive.

One by One is a testament to McFadden's skill in crafting stories that explore the human psyche under pressure. With unexpected twists and a haunting premise, this novel is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and suspenseful mysteries.