19 June 2024

This author has been on my TBR for ages, yet I have only now got round to reading any of her books. I could not believe that I have not read any of her books until now. It seems I have been missing out. *Do Not Disturb* is a pulse-pounding thriller that captivates you from the very first page. The story follows Quinn Alexander, a woman on the run after committing a heinous crime. Her desperate bid for freedom takes an unexpected turn when a snowstorm forces her to seek shelter at the eerie and secluded Baxter Motel.

Quinn’s journey is one fraught with tension and suspense. As she speeds toward the northern border, the fear of being caught looms large. McFadden builds this anxiety, making you feel every heartbeat of Quinn’s panic. Her characterization of Quinn is deep and complex; we see a woman struggling with her actions and the dire consequences that follow. The moral ambiguity of Quinn’s character adds a rich layer to the narrative, prompting you to question what you would do in her place.

The Baxter Motel itself is a character in the story, with its dilapidated structure and sinister atmosphere. The motel’s owner, Nick Baxter, initially appears as a charming figure. However, McFadden gradually peels back the layers to reveal a darker side, keeping you on edge. The mystery of Nick’s ailing wife, perpetually watching from the window of the rundown house nearby, adds another chilling dimension. Her constant presence is both unsettling and intriguing, raising questions about what really goes on behind closed doors at the Baxter Motel.

McFadden’s writing is crisp and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the snow-covered landscape and the claustrophobic interiors of the motel. Her use of descriptive language heightens the sense of isolation and impending doom that permeates the story. The pacing is expertly handled, with tension building steadily as Quinn’s situation becomes more perilous. The author blends psychological thrills with elements of classic horror beautifully. The eerie setting, combined with the psychological unravelling of the characters, creates a compelling read that is hard to put down. The twists and turns keep coming, and just when you think you have figured out the mystery, McFadden throws in another curveball.

*Do Not Disturb* is a gripping thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. McFadden has crafted a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, with well-developed characters and a plot that moves at breakneck speed. If you enjoy suspenseful, atmospheric thrillers with a psychological edge, this book should be at the top of your reading list. Prepare to be hooked from start to finish.