The Woods by Harlan Coben

"Twenty years ago, four teenagers at summer camp walked into the woods at night. Two were found murdered, and the others were never seen again. Four families had their lives changed forever. Now, two decades later, they are about to change again."

Summertime is mystery time for me. One of life's greatest pleasures for me is sitting on my porch with an intriguing, fast-paced mystery while watching my kids play all day long. Harlan Coben's The Woods fits the bill perfectly. This novel explores the relationship between the past and present and how our actions can have an explosive impact on our future. It also delves into the complex relationships between family members and how the secrets that are kept to guard one another against pain can bring about even more pain.

Harlan Coben is one of my favorite authors for summertime reading when I need a book that doesn't necessarily require too much thought, effort, or emotion on my part. His novels are entertaining, if somewhat formulaic, and are perfect for a fun, fast read.