The Housemaid, Week 4

Welcome to the final discussion of The Housemaid.

How did you feel after finishing this book? Did it go the way you thought it would? The whole book was such a crazy ride!

All of the punishments that Andy handed out to Nina were absolutely crazy. I can't believe how long she was able to stay with him. Each one seemed more ridiculous than the last. I don't know how she was able to keep her wits about her through the years. I would have completely lost my mind with all of the stress and anxiety. It surprised me that Enzo and Nina were close. I didn't expect that they would have any sort of relationship with each other. Did you expect that Enzo would be Nina's accomplice? 

Were you surprised that Nina picked Millie specifically because of her past? Could you believe that she hoped that Andy and Millie would get together? It was gratifying to realize that Nina did all of her outlandish actions on purpose and not just because she was unhinged. It didn't make it better that she treated Millie so horribly, but it made me feel a little bit better to realize that she had a reason for acting the way she did. 

What did you think of the revelation that Millie had been in prison for murder? Obviously, she committed the murder to protect a friend, but it seems like she definitely went completely overboard with the paperweight. And, she had other violent episodes throughout her past, so it was obvious that she struggled with anger and aggression. As soon as I found out why Millie had been in prison, I knew she was going to try to attack Andrew. Were you surprised that Nina left pepper spray behind for Millie? I wasn't expecting that. Millie was so cold and calculating once she decided to attack Andrew. Her punishment for him was so gruesome. I actually couldn't believe that he followed through with it. I don't know if I would be able to rip out my own teeth, even if I thought it could potentially save my life. 

I didn't expect Nina to go back to try to help Millie. I didn't think she had that much compassion. I really couldn't believe when she sent Millie away and gave her a chance at escape. I really expected Nina to get arrested. It was crazy that the police officer that showed up at the house was the father of Andrew's former fiancé. That definitely wasn't a very realistic detail, but it made the ending of the book really exciting! What did you think when you read that part? Did you think that was just too convenient? 

At the end of the book, it seems like everyone is happy, and Millie is going to start helping women escape from abusive situations. What do you think about Millie's future? Do you think she should be allowed to be out in society? I'm having a hard time imagining her roaming free and just enacting violent justice wherever she sees fit. That seems really scary. 

What did you think about the book? Were you satisfied by the ending? Do you want to read more books in the series? Would you recommend this book to others? If you liked the book and want to read and watch similar titles, check out this list I created. Make sure to let me know if you check out anything on the list!

Before you go, watch the video below and hear from the stars and director of the movie version. Are you excited to watch the movie? Do you think it will be as exciting as the book? 

Thanks for following along this month! I look forward to hearing all of your thoughts about the book in the comments. I hope you'll come back next month as we read We Were the Lucky Ones.