Book Review: Promise Me

Reviewed By: Woodstock - RAM

Promise Me     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon UK PB Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Harlan Coben
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Sports   Private Investigator   Thriller
Series: Myron Bolitar # 8
Dutton 2006

Myron Bolitar, the protagonist of Coben's early series of novels returns in this latest book from the popular author of several stand alone novels.

To the reader's satisfaction, Coben tells his story in "real time." In the six years since the last book featuring Myron, the New Jersey suburbs where Myron and his creator make their home have endured the tragedies of nine/eleven - and the characters in PROMISE ME are no exception. We also catch up on developments in the lives of Myron's friends and associates. Esperanza is now a mother and planning to marry; Big Cyndi remains as eccentric as ever and still someone you want on your side when the chips are down; and Myron's friend Win also returns - with nothing changed in his life and persona.

As the book opens, Myron overhears a conversation between two young girls - the daughters of some of his friends. Somewhat impulsively he solicits a promise from each of them that they will call him if they ever need a ride in a dangerous or threatening situation. The two agree - and within a day or two Myron receives an early morning phone call with a plea for him to meet one of the young women in midtown Manhattan. After he delivers her to her suburban neighborhood, he is confident he did the right thing.

However, the young woman disappears. Myron promises the mother of the missing girl that he will find her. And we are in for a classic Coben pursuit - through suburban neighborhoods and malls; in unsavory sections of New York and New Jersey; with suspicious police officers alternately helping and hindering the search; and with inexplicable coincidences multiplying on every page.

I hope this is not the last Myron Bolitar. After taking a break, Coben is able to bring fresh viewpoints and satisfying development to an old favorite.

Woodstock - RAM

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Woodstock - RAM