There's nothing quite like discovering a new author and wondering why it took you so long to read their writing. Harlan Coben is one of those authors for me. Although I had heard his name praised among thriller enthusiasts for years, I didn't delve into his work until I picked up I Will Find You. That book felt like a summer action movie, brimming with exciting twists and turns, offering the perfect escapism. I was captivated by the novel's setup—an impossible situation that I couldn't wait to see unfold. I promised myself I would read more from Coben, and that time has come with his latest book, Think Twice.
Attorney and ex-professional basketball player Myron Bolitar has just resumed his duties at his agency, representing sports stars and celebrities, when things take an unexpected turn. Two federal agents storm into the office, demanding answers from Myron and his business partner, Win. They are seeking information about Myron's former client, basketball star and coach Greg Downing. The agents relentlessly refuse to accept Myron and Win's assertions that they have no new information. After all, Greg has been dead and buried for the past three years!
The agents present evidence suggesting that Greg may not be as dead as Myron and Win believe. Both had attended his funeral, but this evidence is hard to deny: Greg's DNA was discovered at the scene of the recent murders of Cecelia Callister and her son Clay. Nothing about this situation makes sense, and this newfound evidence only raises more questions. As Myron and Win dig deeper, they uncover a pattern of seemingly related murders. Are they dealing with a resurrected friend and former client, or is this the work of a cunning and nefarious serial killer?
Think Twice is the 12th novel featuring Coben's hero, Myron Bolitar, and the first new installment in 12 years. As this was my first introduction to the character, it took some time to fully grasp the relationships and dynamics among the characters. I've heard there are Easter eggs for longtime readers of the series, but any hidden references or features went entirely over my head. Nevertheless, I was instantly intrigued by the premise of a dead man's forensic evidence showing up at a murder scene.
The opening scene reveals that the killer is framing someone, but Coben keeps the identity and motives of the culprit a mystery. He promised readers wouldn't see the big reveal coming, which was true for me. Like the last Coben novel I read, this one stretches the bounds of believability, but I didn't mind. It was a fun and twisted ride, capturing my attention over several sittings. That said, reading the previous novels first would enhance the experience. While Think Twice can work as a standalone, you may miss details and context that enrich your enjoyment of the story.
For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2024, 51)
I've read a few of Coben's books and found them fast reads and very entertaining. I haven't read any of his Myron Bolitar ones though. The Match is the next Coben book I'm hoping to read.
ReplyDeleteI've seen a few of his Netflix adaptations too, so I'm eager to read more from him!
DeleteOne of my best friends adores Harlan Coben, and I've never picked one up. This might just be a sign I do need to indulge her!
ReplyDeleteThey are fun, popcorn thrillers, so a good time if you go in with the right expectations.
DeleteI really liked Fool Me Once, the one Eleanor gave me last week. Coban could definitely be an author I read in between the heavy stuff. The plots move quickly and are thriller-y enough for me!
ReplyDeleteHis standalone was fun, but I struggled with this series instalment.
DeleteI am shocked to hear you have not read Coben before. He's such a popular thriller author and seems right up your ally. Well, better late than nver.
ReplyDeleteRight? I was definitely overdue!
DeleteGlad you have found another new (to you) author to enjoy, that's always exciting! It's hard to know if books need to be read in order to be enjoyable. It's good that you gave that warning to other readers.
ReplyDeleteI don't know that I'll stick with this series, but I'll definitely read more from him!
DeleteI've heard of this author but haven't read any of his books. This sounds good though.
ReplyDeleteHe's worth a read!
Delete"Think Twice is the 12th novel featuring Coben's hero, Myron Bolitar, and the first new installment in 12 years"
ReplyDeleteYikes! That's a very long wait (I mean, not for you, since this was your first Coben book).
As long as a novel "stretches the bounds of believability" but doesn't go overboard with it (unless it's a supernatural one, of course), I'm OK with it...
I'm all for things getting a little crazy if the story is still fun
DeleteGlad you enjoyed it. I have read this author previously and enjoyed his stories.
ReplyDeleteSo far my experience has been mixed, but I'll definitely read more from him
DeleteI'm curious about how a dead man's DNA showed up at a murder, too! Sounds like an entertaining read despite having to suspend disbelief at times.
ReplyDeleteIt makes for a compelling mystery!
DeleteRead the other ones first, noted
ReplyDeleteThat's how I feel too, when Eleanor bought me one of his recently, since, "Mom, you like murder and ghosts." She knwos me so well. I will definitely look for his books when I get behind on my Goodreads challenge and need to catch up. They're fun, fast reads.
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