The Stranger

Harlan Coben
67 pages2-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Adult
Published in 2015

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Book Brief

Harlan Coben

The Stranger

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Horror & Suspense

•

Mystery & Crime Fiction
Setting

Contemporary

Theme
Appearance & Reality

•

Fathers

•

Marriage
First Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Stranger by Harlan Coben follows a man whose life unravels when a stranger reveals a shocking secret about his wife. This revelation leads him on a journey filled with mysterious disappearances and dark truths, ultimately upending his perception of his family and trust in those around him.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Dark

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.0

151,817 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Harlan Coben’s The Stranger is praised for its gripping, fast-paced narrative and intricate plot twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. However, some critics note that character development feels superficial, which might detract from the emotional depth. Overall, it’s a compelling thriller for fans of suspense but may leave those seeking deep character exploration wanting more.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Stranger?

A reader who would enjoy The Stranger by Harlan Coben is likely a fan of fast-paced thrillers with intricate plots and dark secrets. Comparable to Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code or Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl, this book appeals to those who appreciate suspenseful narratives and unexpected twists.

4.0

151,817 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

The protagonist of the story, he is a married father in Cedarfield with a background in law, who becomes entangled in a web of secrets that unravel his perception of his family life.

Adam's wife and a mother devoted to her sons, she is characterized by her ambition and connection to Cedarfield and becomes central to the story’s mystery.

The main antagonist, operating a group that reveals people's secrets for supposedly moral reasons, while maintaining his own anonymity and dark motives.

A neighbor and antagonist who is involved in local sports and harbors financial troubles, presenting a friendly facade that conceals darker actions.

A chief of police with a strong sense of duty pursuing justice, even in unfamiliar circumstances, and becomes an ally in the investigation.

Adam and Corinne's sons who play lacrosse and bring familial elements and emotional stakes to the narrative.

A former NYPD officer with personal motivations driving his extreme actions, working in private security after a disreputable end to his police career.

The loud and competitive lacrosse coach whose actions are influenced by the precarious nature of suburban success and his failing personal circumstances.

A minor supporting character known for faking pregnancies, seeking personal validation through connections formed superficially.

A retired police lieutenant colonel assisting Adam with his investigation, known for his strong connection to his home and dedication to solving cases.

A teacher and professional bodybuilder, she is a neighbor and friend of Corinne’s, representing an aspect of striving for perfectionism in appearance.

Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Horror & Suspense

•

Mystery & Crime Fiction
Setting

Contemporary

Theme
Appearance & Reality

•

Fathers

•

Marriage
First Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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