The Boyfriend (2024) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

The book contains mentions of dating, attraction, and physical intimacy common in adult thrillers. While the focus is on the psychological suspense of dating a killer, there are suggestive situations and mentions of hookup culture. Sydney frequently discusses her physical attraction to Tom and their romantic chemistry. There are scenes involving kissing and implied sexual activity that occur off-page or are described with moderate detail. References to dating apps like 'DateNight' include discussions of casual…

Moderate to strong violence is present, including on-page descriptions of stabbings, blood, and the discovery of murder victims. The narrative includes themes of physical restraint, stalking, and the looming threat of the 'perfect' man being a serial killer. Readers will encounter descriptions of bodies being staged or discarded, highlighting the killer's lack of empathy. During the climax, there are descriptions of physical combat, the use of household items as weapons, and significant injuries. The psychological…

Contains frequent use of profanity consistent with adult commercial fiction, including 'f*ck,' 'sh*t,' 'bitch,' and 'asshole.' The 'f-word' is used as an expletive in moments of high stress or anger, as well as in casual conversation between friends. Insults like 'slut' or 'crazy' are occasionally used to describe women within the context of dating conflict. Sydney often uses mild to moderate profanity in her internal monologue when frustrated by her dating life or her job. The dialogue reflects a gritty…

Characters are seen drinking alcohol in social settings, bars, and on dates; there is occasional mention of heavy drinking to cope with stress. Sydney often shares bottles of wine with her friend as they debrief their romantic failures and safety concerns. Cocktails and wine are a staple of the restaurant and bar dates depicted throughout the novel. There are mentions of feeling slightly intoxicated or 'tipsy,' which sometimes impacts a character's awareness of their surroundings. No illicit drug use is central to…

Major themes include betrayal, trust, the dangers of online dating, gaslighting, and the psychological impact of surviving trauma. The narrative heavily focuses on Sydney's vulnerability and her desperation to find 'the one,' which clouds her judgment regarding red flags. The story also explores the 'nice guy' trope and how predators can hide in plain sight by mimicking social cues. Stalking is a pervasive theme, creating a constant sense of unease and violation of privacy for the female characters. Ultimately…