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452
Novel • Fiction
New Jersey • Contemporary
2003
Adult
18+ years
No Second Chance by Harlan Coben is a 2003 thriller novel about Dr. Marc Seidman, who wakes up in the hospital after being shot to find his wife murdered and his infant daughter kidnapped. As the main suspect, Marc navigates ransom demands, deception, and dangerous confrontations to uncover who is behind the attack, all while trying to rescue his daughter and prove his innocence. The book contains themes of child abduction and sexual abuse.
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Dark
Emotional
Challenging
56,656 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
No Second Chance by Harlan Coben is lauded for its fast-paced and gripping narrative, keeping readers on the edge with its twists and suspense. However, some critics note the plot's occasional predictability and mixed character development. Despite these flaws, the novel generally captivates fans of the thriller genre, delivering a page-turning experience.
Readers who enjoy thrillers with intense suspense and unexpected twists, akin to James Patterson's Kiss the Girls or Lee Child's Jack Reacher series, will find Harlan Coben's No Second Chance riveting. This book appeals to fans of intricate plots, personal vendettas, and high-stakes drama.
56,656 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Rachel Mills
An ex-FBI agent and Marc's college girlfriend, Rachel is both a romantic interest and an ally, finding herself intertwined with events that unfold due to her past and former connection with Marc.
Lenny Marcus
Marc's lawyer and childhood friend, Lenny is dedicated to protecting both himself and his family, often providing legal advice while caught between conflicting loyalties.
Lydia Davis/Larissa Dane
Once a child star, Lydia is a complex character dealing with her own past traumas while playing a significant role in the unfolding events through her interactions with various characters.
Verne Dayton
A character who embodies various "redneck" stereotypes, Verne becomes a moral center and supportive friend to Marc, assisting him with wisdom and actions during their shared quest.
Monica Seidman, née Portman
Marc's wife, Monica is a beautiful woman from a wealthy background with her own complex past, whose actions and their consequences are central to the plot's development.
Dina Levinsky
An old classmate and neighbor to Marc, Dina, who endured a traumatic childhood, provides key insights and assistance, driven by her own past and concern for others.
Edgar Portman
Monica's wealthy father, Edgar is involved financially in the narrative, showcasing both selfishness and a willingness to aid in efforts to resolve the central conflict.
Steven Bacard
An adoption lawyer who becomes deeply entangled in unethical practices, Bacard's decisions and justifications impact many characters around him, shaping part of the core conflict.
Pavel
Katarina’s brother, who becomes involved in human trafficking, creating a complex character whose actions pivot around his entanglement with broader criminal activities.
452
Novel • Fiction
New Jersey • Contemporary
2003
Adult
18+ years
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