Harlan Coben is not only a celebrated crime novelist but also an exceptionally prolific one. The 62-year-old New Jersey writer has authored an astounding 35 books, with many more on the horizon. His novels have sold over 75 million copies across 43 languages, earning numerous accolades. Coben’s works frequently make their way to the screen, exemplified by the recent Netflix release “Missing You,” a gripping mystery-thriller.
Given the surge of Coben adaptations, we’ve compiled a definitive ranking of his TV shows and films. Much like his novels, these adaptations feature suspenseful plots filled with enigmatic characters, romantic entanglements, and mind-bending twists.
Here’s our ranking of the top Harlan Coben shows and films currently available on streaming platforms, listed from lowest to highest.
7. Stay Close (2021) – Netflix
Coben excels at weaving dark secrets into seemingly perfect suburban settings. “Stay Close” explores the lives of a soccer mom, a man catering to fame-obsessed teens, and a detective haunted by an unsolved case. As their hidden truths unfold, the illusion of the ideal American dream begins to shatter. Fans of previous adaptations will find this binge-worthy series a true treat, filled with cliffhangers that promise to keep viewers engaged.
6. No Second Chance (2015) – Prime Video
This adaptation showcases Coben’s imaginative storytelling. The plot centers on Alice, whose life spirals into chaos after she’s shot, her husband murdered, and her infant daughter kidnapped. Overwhelmed and ignored by the police, Alice starts her own investigation, teaming up with friends. The fast-paced narrative is gripping, making it hard to look away.
5. The Stranger (2020) – Netflix
“The Stranger” follows Adam Price, whose world unravels when his wife Corrine vanishes. A mysterious stranger reveals secrets about her, leading Adam to question how well he truly knew his wife. The series artfully maintains suspense, keeping viewers guessing about the characters’ motivations and capabilities.
4. The Innocent (2021) – Netflix
As is typical in Coben’s stories, old mysteries resurface in “The Innocent.” Just as Mateo and his wife Olivia are set to finalize their dream home purchase, a call disrupts their lives, forcing Mateo to confront a past incident where he unintentionally killed someone. The series cleverly revisits past events, adding depth to an already intricate narrative.
3. Fool Me Once (2024) – Netflix
Maya’s life turns upside down following her husband Joe’s murder. Shockingly, two weeks after the funeral, she spots him playing with their child on a nanny cam. Determined to uncover the truth, Maya finds herself entangled with powerful adversaries. This series is packed with unexpected twists, ensuring viewers are always kept on their toes.
2. The Five (2016) – Netflix
“The Five” begins with childhood friends Mark, Pru, Danny, and Slade, whose lives are forever changed after a tragic incident involving Danny’s younger brother, Jesse. Twenty years later, as Danny investigates a murder linked to Jesse’s DNA, tension mounts and secrets unravel in a thrilling exploration of friendship and mystery.
1. Tell No One (2006) – Prime Video
Hailed as the finest adaptation of Coben’s work, “Tell No One” tells a poignant tale of loss and redemption. The story follows Alexandre, who grapples with the murder of his wife Margot eight years earlier. When he receives a cryptic message referencing a private phrase from their past, he uncovers shocking truths about her death. Richly layered and compelling, this film stands out as one of Coben’s most captivating adaptations, boasting an intricate plot and an eclectic soundtrack.
These adaptations reflect Harlan Coben’s talent for crafting thrilling narratives that keep audiences hooked, whether it’s through the pages of his books or on screen.
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