The Housemaid: Book Club Questions and Discussion Topics

The Housemaid by Freida McFadden is an excellent choice for a book club, especially for fans of psychological thrillers. Its fast-paced plot, shocking twists, and morally complex characters provide plenty of material for discussion. Themes such as power dynamics, manipulation, and ethical boundaries offer deep conversation starters, while the unpredictable ending ensures lively debates about what readers anticipated. The accessible writing style makes it suitable for a wide range of readers, and questions about Millie’s choices, the confined setting, and the characters’ hidden motives make it a compelling pick for group analysis.

20 Book Club Questions for The Housemaid

The Housemaid is a suspenseful psychological thriller filled with twists, secrets, and morally complex characters. It’s the perfect book for sparking engaging conversations about power dynamics, manipulation, and the choices people make in desperate circumstances. Use these thought-provoking questions to delve deeper into the themes, characters, and surprising twists of the novel during your book club discussion.

General Discussion

1. What were your initial impressions of Millie? Did your perspective change as the story progressed?
2. How did you feel about Nina at the start of the book versus at the end?
3. Andrew is presented as charming and kind initially. Were there any clues to his true nature that you picked up on early?
4. Did you suspect Millie had a dark past? How did her backstory influence your view of her actions?
5. What role does Cecelia play in shaping the atmosphere of the Winchester household?

Themes and Symbolism

6. How does the book explore the theme of power and control in relationships?
7. The Winchester house is almost a character in itself. How does the setting contribute to the story’s tension?
8. What does Millie’s small, windowless attic room symbolize in the story?
9. How does the theme of deception play out across different characters?
10. Is Millie a victim, an anti-hero, or something in between?

Plot and Twists

11. Which twist in the story surprised you the most? Why?
12. Did you predict Andrew’s role as the villain? What clues led you to this conclusion (or misled you)?
13. How did you feel about the ending? Was it satisfying or were there loose ends?
14. Were Millie’s actions in the climax justified? Why or why not?
15. If you were Millie, would you have handled the situation differently?

Character Analysis

16. How did your perception of Nina evolve throughout the story?
17. Do you think Millie’s past excuses or explains her actions? Why?
18. How do you interpret Andrew’s ability to manipulate those around him?
19. Were there any minor characters (e.g., Enid) that stood out to you? Why?

Personal Reflection

20. How did the book make you feel about the roles of housemaids or service workers in affluent households? Did it change your perspective on domestic dynamics?

Food Ideas for a The Housemaid Book Club Meeting

To enhance your book club discussion of The Housemaid, consider creating a menu inspired by the opulence of the Winchester family’s lifestyle, balanced with simpler, humble options to reflect Millie’s journey. Here are some creative food ideas:

1. Charcuterie Board: A luxurious spread of cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and crackers, reminiscent of the wealthy Winchester household.
2. Mini Quiches: Sophisticated finger foods that evoke an upscale brunch vibe.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a touch of elegance.
4. Homemade Bread and Butter: Reflect Millie’s modest, resourceful background with simple, wholesome fare.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: A comforting dish that contrasts with the glamour of the Winchesters’ lifestyle.
6. Soup Shots: Small servings of hearty soups, like tomato basil or creamy potato, for a warm, inviting touch.
7. Sugar Cookies in Key Shapes: Symbolize the locked doors and secrets in the Winchester household.
8. Mini Lemon Tarts: Sweet with a tangy edge, much like the layered personalities of the characters.
9. Dark Chocolate Truffles: Represent the rich and dark undertones of the novel.
10. Sparkling Water or Champagne: For a touch of Winchester-style luxury.
11. Iced Tea or Lemonade: A nod to the housemaid’s role in serving refreshing, simple drinks.
12. Themed Cocktails:
    • The Winchester Martini: A classic cocktail with a twist (perhaps a splash of pomegranate for intrigue).
    • Millie’s Revenge: A bold red sangria, representing Millie’s transformation and power shift.

• Use silver platters or elegant serving dishes to reflect the Winchester home’s upscale aesthetic.
• Include small labels with book-inspired names for each dish (e.g., “Secrets Under the Crust” for quiches or “Locked Door Lemon Tarts”).

These food and drink ideas can help set the tone for a memorable and thematic book club meeting.