Title: Think of a Number
Author: John Verdon
First published July 6, 2010
418 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780307588920 (ISBN10: 0307588920)
Rating: 3.88
Overview
In John Verdon’s debut novel, Think of a Number, readers are taken on a thrilling journey of suspense and self-discovery. When strange letters arrive in the mail asking recipients to think of a number, retired NYPD investigator Dave Gurney sees it as a diverting puzzle.
But when those who comply find that their random number has been predicted exactly, it ignites a massive serial murder investigation. The killer is baffling, leaving behind rhymes filled with threats and warnings and disappearing into thin air.
As an investigative consultant, Gurney matches wits with his seemingly clairvoyant opponent, but his tragic past and failing marriage threaten to overshadow his success. Facing a whirlwind of menace and destruction, Gurney sees the truth of what he’s become and how his wife’s advice may be the only answer that makes sense.
Think of a Number is a propulsive masterpiece of suspense, immersing readers in the lives of characters so real they seem to leap off the page.
About the Author
John Verdon has had a successful career in executive positions at various advertising firms in Manhattan. However, he shares a commonality with his protagonist as he and his wife recently moved to rural upstate New York.
Editoral Review
Think of a Number by John Verdon is a thrilling page-turner that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Verdon, who is known for his skillful storytelling and intricate plotlines, delivers yet again with this gripping novel that has had readers buzzing since it was first published on July 6, 2010.
Set in the small New York town of White Plains, the novel follows the story of retired homicide detective Dave Gurney as he is pulled out of retirement to solve a perplexing and deadly mystery. Gurney is tasked with investigating a series of bizarre murders that all revolve around a cryptic message sent to the victims: “Think of a Number.”
As Gurney digs deeper into the case, he realizes that he is dealing with a mastermind killer who is always one step ahead of him.
The plot twists and turns as Gurney and his partner, Detective Hardwick, race against time to catch the killer before he strikes again. Verdon’s mastery of plot and character development is on full display in Think of a Number.
He skillfully weaves together different threads of the story, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The characters are fully fleshed out and multi-dimensional, giving readers a glimpse into their inner lives and motivations.
The novel also touches on some deeper themes, such as the nature of good and evil, the power of memory, and the destructive effects of revenge. Verdon explores these themes with nuance and sensitivity, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
The only criticism of the novel is that the pacing can be a bit slow at times, particularly in the middle of the book. However, Verdon’s masterful writing and skillful character development more than make up for any slower sections.
In the end, Think of a Number is a must-read for fans of the crime thriller genre. Verdon’s writing is engaging, his characters are well-drawn, and the plot is full of twists and turns that will keep readers guessing until the very end.
Highly recommended.