Play Dead
A gripping thriller from the #1 bestselling creator of hit Netflix show Fool Me Once
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4.1 • 209 Ratings
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- £5.49
Publisher Description
A perfect marriage unravels on their honeymoon in this shocking thriller from the bestselling author and creator of the hit Netflix drama Fool Me Once.
Laura Ayars' perfect world is shattered at a time which should have been the happiest of her life. On her honeymoon, her husband goes for a swim - and never returns. But what has happened to David - can he really be dead?
Whilst struggling to cope with her almost overwhelming grief, Laura is plagued by questions and doubts. Was it an accident? Or suicide?
As events begin to unfold, Laura starts to question David's mysterious disappearance. She begins to uncover a conspiracy which reaches deep into the past, and is now slowly beginning to destroy everyone involved. Someone will do anything to keep Laura away from the awful truth - and she has no idea who she can trust . . .
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Terrible secrets lead basketball star David Baskin to fake his death while honeymooning in the tropics in this manipulative but otherwise engaging first novel. His bereaved bride, supermodel Laura Ayars, not sure that David's drowning was accidental, starts sleuthing--which proves dangerous when somebody begins killing people who may have the answers she wants. Meanwhile, David, fitted out with a new identity and appearance, tries out for his original team, the Boston Celtics, and ``replaces'' himself at his former position. Why he has faked his death is explained in the story's penultimate surprise. But why he risks playing in front of fans who know his style is never addressed. Crucial coincidences abound, such as the love affair of David's brother and Laura's sister--adults who, as kids 30 years before, just happen to have witnessed their parents' worst sins. Coben manufactures tension primarily by keeping key details out of his narrative, a method that eventually wears thin. The resolution comes as a relief, with less of a bang than its buildup promises.
Customer Reviews
Fascinating Twists!
Harlan Coben is a genius author with magic at the end of his pen. Just as I thought this story was becoming predictable he shocks you and reminds you why he is such a great author. 4 stars as there was 1 shock I didn't like however you can't please everybody.
It makes sense now…
Not the ending I was expecting - gripping!
an early novel - not his best
I wish I'd read the rider on this before I bought. This is an early Coben and it shows. The plot is there but the tight writing isn't. It's got rough edges, including a lot of irritating back story at the start, and I wonder why he didn't tighten it up before allowing it to be published. Having said that I finished it.