Fool Me Once (Coben novel)

Fool Me Once is a standalone mystery-thriller novel by American writer Harlan Coben, published in 2016. It follows a former military pilot caught in a twisted story of power, corruption and murder.

Plot
Maya Stern Burkett, a former special operations pilot, is haunted by the violent deaths of her husband Joe and her sister Claire. Set in modern-day New York and New Jersey, the narrative weaves Maya's past with her present. Her husband's murder is believed to be a robbery gone awry, while the murder of her sister is also unresolved. Maya killed some civilians during her military service before her honorable discharge. She discovers footage on her nanny camera showing her supposedly deceased husband interacting with their daughter, Lily. This leads her into a web of deceit and corruption involving her family and the influential Burkett clan. Maya uncovers dark secrets about her husband's past, his family's corrupt dealings, and the lengths they will go to protect their legacy. During a confrontation at the Burkett estate, truths are revealed, allegiances are tested. It turns out that Maya killed her husband because he killed her sister. Her husband’s brother then shoots her dead. The narrative culminates with a reflection on Maya's character, her choices, and the mark she leaves on her family's future, symbolized by the birth of her granddaughter.

Production
Harlan Coben's Fool Me Once was released on March 22, 2016, by Dutton, and available in hardcover, paperback, e-book, and audiobook formats.

Reception
Fool Me Once has received widespread acclaim from critics and readers alike. Kirkus Reviews highlighted the novel's status as a New York Times Bestseller and praised its engaging plot, urging readers to delve into its pages.  The Florida Times-Union regarded it as one of Coben's best works, with particular praise for its suspenseful and captivating storyline. However, some reviews, such as those from Jen Ryland and Debbish, pointed out complexities in character development and certain plot points, while still acknowledging the novel's overall appeal.

Adaptations
The novel has been adapted into an eight part series by Quay Street Productions, adapted by Danny Brocklehurst. It premiered on Netflix on 1 January 2024. The series features Michelle Keegan, Dino Fetscher, Richard Armitage and Joanna Lumley. The series relocated the story from the US to the UK.