Audiobook, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller

The Boy from the Woods by Harlan Coben

Jonetta | Blue Mood Café

The Boy from the Woods

Famed defense attorney Hester Crimstein becomes concerned when her grandson reaches out to her about a missing classmate. Naomi Pine has disappeared and no one seems to be looking for her. Hester then goes to a man named Wilde for help who has an extraordinary story of his own. Over thirty years ago, he was found in the woods near her home, apparently living there for quite some time. He was only about six or seven years old and didn’t remember his name or how he got there but had established a relationship with Hester’s late son, David. As Wilde probes into the situation, he finds himself drawn to the plight of a young girl who was subjected to bullying and neglect. But, in the process, he also lands himself in the middle of some adult intrigue that may or may not be connected.

I’m a long time fan of the author having finished his Myron Bolitar series and read many of his standalone titles. Hester’s name has appeared in a number of these books so I was beyond excited to see her be a main focus in this book. She opens the story in quintessential Hester style, which hooked me immediately. She’s as witty and funny as I’d imagined her with an equally sharp mind.

While the story tackles a number of issues, including a subtle connection to today’s political environment, it wasn’t overwhelming as they were expertly threaded together, even those seemingly disconnected storylines. Wilde is an enigma who I’m not sure I ever really figured out but I hold him in the same high esteem as Myron Bolitar. I loved the connections to other books, just little things that won’t confuse those unfamiliar with them but will give “aha!” moments to those of us with that history. Steven Weber gave another great performance, especially with his definition of Hester. I only listen to Coben’s books these days because he’s narrating them. This story had everything I was looking for…twisty moves, humor, complicated characters and a gnarly mystery. And, he left the door open for a possible follow up, right? One can hope.

Book Info

  • Release Date: March 17, 2020
  • Narrator: Steven Weber
  • Audio Length: 10 hours, 8 minutes
  • Publisher: Brilliance Audio

 

 

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(Thanks to Brilliance Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)

Published by Jonetta | Blue Mood Café

27 thoughts on “The Boy from the Woods by Harlan Coben”

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  7. I’ve seen this book on many tbrs but haven’t added it to mine yet. It will be my first book by this author, and I’m still a newbie when it comes to thriller/mysteries. I’m also part chicken 🐣 – so I’m hesitant. I tried Karin Slaughter’s The Good Daughter and had to put it down 🙈

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  10. I love this author too. I’ve read all the Myron books but need to read more of his stand alones. I own a couple on audio which Luke Daniels narrated so I’m excited about those. Fantastic review!
    Anne – Books of My Heart

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  13. Great review Jo. I had read mixed reviews of this one, so wasn’t rushing to find it yet. I will see if I can find the audiobook though. I have not listened to any of Coben’s books, but might give this one a try.

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