
If I had a pound for every time Freida McFadden made me question everything halfway through a story… I’d probably use it to buy her next book when it comes out in a few months! Here’s my spoiler-free Death Row by Freida McFadden review, let’s talk tension, twists, and trust issues.
Death Row by Freida McFadden Review – Book Synopsis
Death Row by Freida McFadden Review – Quick Summary

Death Row Review – Trigger Warnings, Sensitive Topics and Age Rating
Before we go any further, I always like to include a quick note on sensitive content. Every reader is different, and some themes in this book might be difficult for certain people.
If you prefer to check content warnings before reading, just click below to reveal the list of trigger warnings, sensitive topics and age ratting.
My Thoughts
This short story is part of The Alibis Collection, and as someone who enjoys a far-fetched Freida McFadden story (yes, my guilty pleasure), I was instantly intrigued. Give me Freida, a prison, an unreliable narrator, and a hint of “what really happened?” and I’m fully seated.
Despite its length, Death Row gives you plenty to sit with. It’s a true page-turner, especially if you enjoy stories that feel like peeling an onion, one tense, layered chapter at a time
What I Loved
It’s a fast-paced little story, I’m telling you, once you start, it’s hard to put down until you find out what really happened. I read it in exactly one hour while on the treadmill, so trust me, it’s the perfect way to kill (no pun intended hehehe) some time during your commute, gym session, or any quiet moment in your day.
What Surprised Me
I really liked the premise, it had great potential, and with a little more development, it could’ve gone even deeper. There were moments where I wished the story had more room to explore the characters or build tension just a bit longer. Still, for a short story, it delivers a solid punch and leaves you thinking.
Vibe Check
The vibe is moody, isolated, and claustrophobic, most of the story takes place inside a prison cell. It doesn’t rely on action; it focuses more on psychological tension.
About The Plot Twist
No spoilers, I promise! I’ll just say this: despite all the clues the story gives you, I never saw it coming, and that’s a really good thing. After reading so many books that rely on twists, you kinda start to predict them. But maybe I was too busy judging Talia to notice the clues along the way.
Conclusion
Death Row is a short story that does exactly what it needs to: it hooks you, holds you, and leaves you thinking in the end. If you’re in the mood for a morally layered psychological mystery this one is absolutely worth reading.
After Freida McFadden’s last book The Tenant, I have to admit I wasn’t expecting much from Death Row. But I was pleasantly surprised. Sure, it lacks a bit of depth and development, but overall, it’s a solid short read and a good dose of entertainment.
Let’s Chat!
Have you read Death Row? Did you spot the twist before it landed, or did it catch you off guard like it did me? And what did you make of the ending? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
Just remember no spoilers!