Harlen Coben has inserted an author's letter at the begining of this book in which is acknowledges that this was his first novel and warns readers to read his other books first in hopes that Play Dead will not make a "first impression" on any of his readers. Good move Harlen! This novel never should have been offered to readers "as is" at all. I've read and enjoyed several of Coben's books. On Play Dead...I want my money and my time back.Forget this one...let it lie dead. I could not even make it a fun, entertaining read...it is too convoluted and melodramatic.