Ben Harper, true crime journalist, is about to unravel his most shocking story yet… his own. The day his older brother was murdered was the day Ben Harper’s life changed forever.
In one of the most shocking crimes in national history, Nick and his friend were stabbed to death by two girls their own age. Police called the killings random, a senseless tragedy.
Twenty years on Ben is one of the best true crime journalists in the country. He has left the past behind, thanks to the support of his close-knit hometown community.
But when he learns about a fresh murder case with links to his brother’s death, Ben’s life is turned upside down once more. He soon finds himself caught in a web of lies, one that implicates everyone around him. And on his quest for answers, Ben discovers one very important truth: Everyone has secrets. But some secrets are deadlier than others.
London based author Robert Gold works in sales for a major UK publishing house, and he obviously knows what sells because he’s delivered exactly that in this sensational read. Twelve Secrets is Harlan Coben meets Broadchurch in the paciest thriller you’ll read this year. Prior to writing Twelve Secrets, Robert Gold co-wrote three novels with bestselling author James Patterson. Now, he’s released his first solo novel, and it’s a cracking read.
Twelve Secrets is book #1 in the Ben Harper series, and once you’re finished, you’ll be glad to hear there’s more to come. Ben is a compelling protagonist: he’s a successful true-crime journalist who carries great trauma from childhood. His brother was murdered by two school friends, and the family aftermath of that incident and the subsequent death of his mother has left deep scars. Ben prefers to lay low and not be associated with that past, but his boss is determined that he writes a piece about it for an upcoming anniversary. When another murder takes place, one linked to his brother, Ben’s investigation reveals a myriad of secrets in the small town.
There are a lot of interesting, interconnected characters in this book, with multiple points of view and timelines. Gold’s polished prose pushes the story forward, and the pitch-perfect plotting will keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s a rollercoaster ride that will keep you guessing from start to end.
Twelve Secrets is a tense, addictive read that introduces readers to a great new crime protagonist. I’m looking forward to seeing where Robert Gold takes Ben Harper next.
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