Description:

In the latest novel from New York Times bestselling author Linwood Barclay, a teacher’s act of heroism inadvertently makes him the target of a dangerous blackmailer who will stop at nothing to get what he wants.

How would you react in a life-or-death situation?

It’s a question everyone asks themselves, but few have to face in real life. English teacher Richard Boyle certainly never thought he would find himself talking down a former student intent on harming others, but when Mark LeDrew shows up at Richard’s school with a bomb strapped to his chest, Richard immediately jumps into action. Thanks to some quick thinking, he averts a major tragedy and is hailed as a hero, but not all the attention focused on him is positive.

Richard’s brief moment in the spotlight puts him in the sights of a deranged blackmailer with a score to settle. The situation rapidly spirals out of control, drawing Richard into a fraught web of salacious accusations and deadly secrets. As he tries to uncover the truth he discovers that there’s something deeply wrong in the town—something that ties together Mark, the blackmailer, and a gang of ruthless drug dealers, and Richard has landed smack in the middle of it. He’s desperate to find a way out, but everyone in his life seems to be hiding something, and trusting the wrong person could cost him everything he loves.

What price will he pay for one good deed?

Adele’s Review:

This reviewer has been a fan of Linwood Barclay’s books for many years and was pleased to receive an advance copy of I Will Ruin You. Like millions of other readers, I discovered Barclay’s novels in 2007 with No Time For Goodbye, one of the best thrillers I’ve ever read (and have re-read at least three times). I’ve read several of his books since then and enjoyed them all. Barclay’s novels are always compelling and entertaining, and his new release is no exception.

Richard Boyle, the protagonist of I Will Ruin You, is an everyman. He’s a good husband, father, and high school teacher who becomes a hero after thwarting a killer at the school. And that’s when his troubles begin. His hero status makes him the target of some very dangerous people. The subtext of Richard’s story is, “No good deed goes unpunished.”

I found it refreshing to read a thriller about a good man who is likeable and relatable, and who always tries to do the right thing, even when his decisions seem questionable. But right or wrong, Richard’s heart is always in the right place, and this reviewer enjoyed following his perilous journey to reclaim his everyday life. There are twists and turns, and few big surprises along the way, making this book an absorbing, enjoyable read.

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6273140776

Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CGTHB9GT