Drop Shot

The second Myron Bolitar novel drops sports agent Myron into the chaos of the U.S. Open after a young woman is shot dead outside the stadium. Coben ties the present murder to a six-year-old killing, weaving in mob ties, a corrupt senator, and old money gone rotten. The pacing is genuinely propulsive and the dialogue has the sharp, self-aware wit that became Coben's calling card. Critics praised the plot mechanics and memorable supporting cast — this is the Myron Bolitar series hitting its stride early. The honest caveat is that the violence is graphic and the tonal swings between dark and comic can jar. Adult thriller readers will find a lot to like here. Not recommended for family or faith-sensitive audiences.