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Content snapshot
Flag an inaccuracy →What's in this book, at a glance — five things readers want to know before they start.
Violence
A lot
Graphic violence — a serial killer in pursuit; Jim Beckett's crimes; confrontations
Language
Some
Moderate profanity
Sexual Content
Barely any
Mild — some romantic tension between Tess and J
Substance Use
None
No meaningful substance use
Emotional Intensity
A lot
Jim Beckett's psychology — a serial killer who fooled everyone; his obsession with Tess; the fear of what he'll do when he reaches her
What this book is about
Tess Williams married Jim Beckett believing he was a devoted husband and police officer. He was secretly a serial killer. Now he's in prison — and he's escaped. He is coming for Tess and their young daughter. A former Marine turned mercenary named J.T. Dillon is hired to protect her. Lisa Gardner's breakthrough novel — a landmark in the domestic thriller genre.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
A serial killer hunting his wife — sustained, extreme threat
Jim Beckett is psychologically chilling — a master of deception
A child in danger — Tess and her daughter are both targets
Lisa Gardner's breakthrough novel — highly recommended for the series
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