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The Woods

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2007

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Book Brief

Harlan Coben

The Woods

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Horror & Suspense
Setting

New Jersey • 2000s

Theme
Conflict

Fear

Grief
Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Woods by Harlan Coben follows Paul Copeland, a county prosecutor and father, grappling with a past tragedy involving the disappearance of his sister in the woods. When new evidence surfaces, Paul is drawn into a complex investigation that unearths long-buried secrets and connects with his current life.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Emotional

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Harlan Coben's The Woods is praised for its compelling twists, engaging plot, and well-crafted suspense, drawing readers into a dark tale of secrets and unearthing the past. However, some criticize the character development as lacking depth and the pacing as occasionally uneven. Overall, it's a gripping read for mystery enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Woods?

Fans of suspense and emotional depth will relish Harlan Coben's The Woods. Ideal for those who appreciate gripping mysteries with intricate plots, this book appeals to readers who enjoy works like Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl and Tana French's In the Woods. Coben's deft blend of dark secrets and tension promises a thrilling experience.

Character List

Paul Copeland

The recently appointed Essex County prosecutor with a strong sense of justice and honesty, haunted by his sister's disappearance, and driven by a desire to find her and provide closure for his family.

Paul's former girlfriend and a university professor with a deep love for him, struggling with her past involvement in the Camp PLUS murders and living a solitary life while caring for her father.

Paul's chief investigator known for her exceptional investigative skills, dedication to her career, and loyalty to Paul, although her trust in him wavers due to the Camp PLUS murder case.

Margot Green and Doug Billingham, who were killed during their time at Camp PLUS, with their memories central to the other characters' recollections and the mystery of the story.

A former KGB agent and close family friend, supporting Paul with his vast connections and wealth while carrying a past marked by hardship and regret.

Paul's in-laws, with Greta caring for Paul’s daughter out of family loyalty and Bob entangled in an embezzlement scandal that tests Paul’s morals and sense of justice.

Paul’s parents, whose troubled past and the mystery surrounding his sister’s disappearance significantly influence Paul’s life and choices.

A convicted serial murderer known as the Summer Slasher, whose association with the Camp PLUS murders haunts the storyline and challenges Paul’s pursuit of the truth.

Paul's deceased wife, Jane, remembered for her strength and kindness, and their young daughter, Cara, who reflects Paul's qualities and struggles with her mother’s death.

Lucy’s father, a former free-spirited hippie now living in a rehab facility, whose past decisions and current mental state impact Lucy’s life and the Camp PLUS case.

A young girl entangled in a high-profile legal case, seeking justice and financial security, with her testimony central to one of Paul’s significant legal battles.

Gil's family, who obstruct Paul’s quest for the truth to protect their son and the comfortable life they built after the Camp PLUS incident.

Two detectives initially antagonistic toward Paul due to a murder investigation but later allies, with contrasting approaches that affect their interactions with him.

Defense lawyers for a case against a client of Paul’s, with Flair’s strategic intelligence and Mort’s impulsiveness creating obstacles for Paul during the trial.

An undercover private investigator initially working against Paul, using her charm and intelligence to obtain information and later aligning with a different detective.

A wealthy and influential man determined to protect his son, willing to use his resources and connections to challenge Paul’s integrity and threaten his position.

An adept private detective with a vibrant personality, pivotal in assisting Paul’s investigation and uncovering crucial details related to his case.

A teaching assistant and informant who meddles in Lucy’s life, characterized by his perpetual student status and questionable loyalty.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Horror & Suspense
Setting

New Jersey • 2000s

Theme
Conflict

Fear

Grief
Publication Year

2007

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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