In the shocking new thriller from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Run Away, a man whose past is shrouded in mystery must find a missing teenage girl before her disappearance brings about disastrous consequences for her community . . . and the world.
The man known as Wilde is a mystery to everyone, including himself. Decades ago, he was found as a boy living feral in the woods, with no memory of his past. After the police concluded an exhaustive hunt for the child’s family, which was never found, he was turned over to the foster system.
Now, thirty years later, Wilde still doesn’t know where he comes from, and he’s back living in the woods on the outskirts of town, content to be an outcast, comfortable only outdoors, preferably alone, and with few deep connections to other people.
When a local girl goes missing, famous TV lawyer Hester Crimstein–with whom Wilde shares a tragic connection–asks him to use his unique skills to help find her. Meanwhile, a group of ex-military security experts arrive in town, and when another teen disappears, the case’s impact expands far beyond the borders of the peaceful suburb. Wilde must return to the community where he has never fit in, and where the powerful are protected even when they harbor secrets that could destroy the lives of millions . . . secrets that Wilde must uncover before it’s too late.
Wow. Just wow. What a ride this was. The Boy from the Woods is a brilliantly plotted thriller that will keep you turning pages until the final one – you can’t put it down. A number of stories, and themes such as bullying, abuse and justice, are pulled together to a well executed ending. I adored Hester, who has appeared in other books, but finally has a more substantial role. She’s a feisty, heartfelt 70-year old, which is incredibly refreshing to read. Wilde is also a complex and compelling character. These two together make for a great read.
For those diehard Harlan Coben fans, and there are many, you’ll love this book. This is Coben at the top of his game. If you’re new to Coben’s books, you’re in for a real treat. While this can be read as a standalone (so do it now!) you’ll definitely finish it and head straight to the backlist, where you’ll discover the threads and cross references he weaves through all the books. It’s an added layer of fun for those loyal readers. Coben consistently delivers great thrillers. And here is no different. Don’t miss this.
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