Fool Me Once (Coben novel)
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 First edition | |
| Author | Harlan Coben |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Thriller, Mystery, Suspense |
| Publisher | Dutton |
Publication date | March 22, 2016 |
| Media type | Print (Hardback, Paperback), E-book, Audiobook |
| Pages | 400 |
| ISBN | 978-0525955092 |
Fool Me Once is a mystery-thriller by American writer Harlan Coben, known for its intricate plot and narrative turns. It explores the life of Maya, a former military pilot who is thrust into a perplexing situation when she spots her supposedly deceased husband on her nanny cam. This bewildering incident sets the stage for a story filled with suspense, deception, and unexpected twists.[1]
Plot[edit]
Fool Me Once delves into the tumultuous life of Maya Stern Burkett, a former special ops pilot haunted by the violent deaths of her husband Joe and her sister Claire. Set in modern-day New York and New Jersey, the narrative intricately weaves Maya's traumatic past with her intense present. The novel unfolds with Maya grappling with the aftermath of her husband's murder, believed to be a robbery gone awry, while also confronting the unresolved murder of her sister. As Maya navigates this treacherous landscape, she's pulled back into her past, marked by a harrowing incident during her military service which led to her honorable discharge. The story takes a shocking turn when Maya discovers footage on her nanny cam, showing her supposedly deceased husband alive and interacting with their daughter, Lily. This startling revelation propels her into a relentless quest for the truth, drawing her into a web of deceit and corruption involving her own family and the influential Burkett clan. As the layers of the mystery unravel, Maya uncovers dark secrets about her husband's past, his family's corrupt dealings, and the disturbing lengths they will go to protect their legacy. The novel reaches its climax in a gripping confrontation at the Burkett estate, where truths are revealed, allegiances are tested, and Maya makes a profound sacrifice, leaving a lasting impact on those she leaves behind. The narrative culminates in a poignant reflection on the complexity of Maya's character, her choices, and the indelible mark she leaves on her family's future, symbolized by the birth of her granddaughter.[1][2][3]
Production[edit]
Harlan Coben's Fool Me Once was released on March 22, 2016, by Dutton, and available in hardcover, paperback, e-book, and audiobook formats.[1]
Reception[edit]
Fool Me Once has received widespread acclaim from critics and readers alike.[[Kirkus Reviews] highlighted the novel's status as a New York Times Bestseller and praised its engaging plot, urging readers to delve into its pages.[4] The Florida Times-Union regarded it as one of Coben's best works, with particular praise for its suspenseful and captivating storyline.[5] However, some reviews, such as those from Jen Ryland and Debbish, pointed out complexities in character development and certain plot points, while still acknowledging the novel's overall appeal.[6][7]
Adaptations[edit]
The novel has been adapted into an eight part series by Quay Street Productions, adapted by Danny Brocklehurst. It premiered on Netflix on 1 January 2024. The series features Michelle Keegan, Dino Fetscher, Richard Armitage and Joanna Lumley. The series relocated the story from the US to the UK. [1][8][9]
References[edit]
- ^ a b c d Hilton, Nick (January 1, 2024). "Fool Me Once review: Your tolerance for this show will hinge entirely on your ability to switch off your brain". Independent. Retrieved 2024-02-03.
- ^ Rubens, Adah (January 23, 2024). "Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben". eNotes. Retrieved 2024-02-03.
- ^ "Fool Me Once Summary and Study Guide". SuperSummary. Retrieved 2024-02-03.
- ^ "FOOL ME ONCE BY HARLAN COBEN". Kirkus Reviews. January 20, 2016. Retrieved 2024-02-03.
- ^ O'Connell, Tim (April 2, 2016). "Book review: 'Fool Me Once' is Harlan Coben at his best". The Florida Times-Union. Retrieved 2024-02-03.
- ^ "Review of Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben". Jen Ryland Reviews. Retrieved 2024-02-03.
- ^ "Book review: Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben". Debbish. Retrieved 2024-02-03.
- ^ Craig, David (20 February 2023). "Michelle Keegan leads Netflix's Harlan Coben adaptation Fool Me Once". radiotimes.com. Radio Times. Retrieved 2024-02-03.
- ^ "Summary and reviews of Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben". BookBrowse. Retrieved 2024-02-03.