The bestselling author known as Freida McFadden has revealed her real identity as Sara Cohen, a 45-year-old physician specializing in traumatic brain injury. Cohen, who wrote under a pseudonym for over two decades, announced the decision in an April 9 interview with USA Today, citing professional changes as a key factor in her disclosure.
The Housemaid, her 2022 novel, became a global phenomenon, spending 83 weeks on Amazon’s best-seller list and 60 weeks on The New York Times trade paperback list. The book’s success, fueled by platforms like TikTok’s #BookTok and Goodreads, led to a 2025 film adaptation starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried, grossing $400 million worldwide. Cohen’s anonymity was maintained through disguises, including wigs and glasses, to avoid professional complications in her medical career.
Cohen, who has written over 30 bestselling books since 2013, has consistently declined public appearances and book tours, citing fear of exposure. Her decision to go public follows her transition to part-time medical practice, working once or twice a month. Fans had long speculated about her identity, with some recognizing her at events like the film’s New York premiere. Cohen’s reveal comes as more of her works, including The Surrogate Mother, The Tenant, and The Teacher, are set for film adaptations.