The Housemaid Is Watching by Freida McFadden

The passage you've described outlines a gripping thriller from Freida McFadden, likely from her "Housemaid" series, known for its suspenseful and twisty narratives. Here’s a summary based on the excerpt:

The story follows a protagonist who, with her husband and children, moves into a new home in a quiet suburban neighborhood, aiming to leave behind a troubled past. Initially thrilled with their new life and home, the protagonist becomes wary of their neighbor, Mrs. Lowell, who seems overly friendly but reacts strangely upon seeing the protagonist’s husband.

Despite her reservations, the protagonist accepts an invitation to dinner at the Lowells' home, where she notices their maid's unsettling demeanor, reminiscent of her own past as a housemaid. This encounter adds to her growing unease, compounded by other mysterious occurrences in the neighborhood: a shadowy figure watching them, her husband’s secretive behavior, and a neighbor's ominous warning about the dangers posed by their neighbors.

As the protagonist navigates these unsettling discoveries, she questions whether moving her family was a mistake and begins to fear that her past secrets might not be as buried as she thought. The narrative promises escalating tension, unexpected twists, and a climax that will keep readers on edge.

Overall, Freida McFadden’s thriller appears to blend domestic suspense with psychological intrigue, exploring themes of paranoia, hidden identities, and the darkness lurking beneath suburban tranquility.