Writer Jacob Finch Bonner knows the feeling of being a promising author. His first book was cited in the New York Times Book Review’s “New & Noteworthy” section. While it wasn’t a big seller, he was on his way. And then he wasn’t. The next book that would finally give him the career he craved never happened. So he teaches a writing course at a small college. He’s simply passing the time until he meets a student whose confidence intrigues him. Student Evan Parker doesn’t want his literary help although he’d like assistance in getting an agent. Evan expresses that the plot of his book is a guaranteed hit. Once Jacob learns more about the plot, he has to agree.
Jacob waits and waits for this sure-fire hit to be published but it never comes out. He finds out Evan has died. Jacob decides to take the plot and write the book himself. Plagiarism? Stealing? No way. Jacob convinces himself that there is nothing wrong with writing “his” book as he is simply taking the idea of the plot and making the book his own. It’s done all the time, right? Jacob’s book is a huge success and life is great until he receives an email. “You’re a thief.” Let the cat and mouse game begin.
This enjoyable thriller takes its time at the beginning. We learn more about Jacob and we also get to read excerpts from his bestselling book “Crib”. We wait to find out what that incredible plot twist is that has made it a must-read book. We learn more about Evan and how he developed his story and his book’s “shocking” plot, which is now in Jacob’s book. Will you figure it all out before the end? You might. I did, but it didn’t ruin it for me.
This is my first book from author Jean Hanff Korelitz. I was glued to the HBO series "The Undoing" with Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant, based on her novel “You Should Have Known” and had to read The Plot because of it. I was not disappointed.
Many thanks to Celadon Books, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read The Plot in advance of its publication. The publisher encouraged those with early copies to donate them to one of the many “Little Free Libraries” across the U.S. to pass them forward. Great effort.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Mystery / Thriller.
Publication Date: May 11, 2021.
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