While Barclay is not new to the psychological thriller genre, this novel (and the others in the series) propel him into a league all his own. Placing the story mere weeks after BROKEN PROMISE, the reader has not yet had time to catch their breath or construct a viable explanation as to what they've just finished reading. With a large cast of characters, the story is able to expand on numerous levels and pushes the narrative boundaries, such that there are numerous plots worth exploring. Barclay sows the seeds for further exploration in the next novel, but also revisits some key aspects to past stories that keep the reader connection and on the ball throughout. Exploring the narrative from Cal Weaver's perspective, as well as that of a passive overseer, the reader gains additional insight in the lead-up to what is sure to be an explosive next novel, where the '23' concept may finally be revealed. Only the attentive reader need indulge, as there are numerous references to the previous pieces, with only a sprinkle of reminiscent breadcrumbs to help the reader along. Novels of this calibre are gifts for the reader, though waiting for the next instalment could drive anyone around the bend! This book is the second in a trilogy. I read the first one, Broken Promise, in August of 2015. I'd kept notes on the first book, but it seems I really didn't need to because they didn't help with this book. Things that should have been remembered were mentioned in this book, and I was very surprised that I recalled them.

ISBN 978-0-385-66957-3. Originally titled 360: A Novel ISBN 978-0-553807950. Part of the Promise Falls series Kudos, Mr. Barclay for such an addictive piece of work. I am hooked and can only hope that you will continue to dazzle and intrigue as you build on this series for your avid fans. With all the action and mysterious crime happening in Promise Falls— Final Assignment, makes its way to the high school with a group of teens and parents --bullying, social media, revenge, murder, and a damaging short story. Cal has a difficult time convincing Chandler's mother, Greta, that this is no job for a private investigator. But, she wants him to find dirt on someone at the school so she can provide them with an incentive to remove the suspension from Chandler's record.I did guess some of the major twists which was a bit of a disappointment because I really like to be surprised. There were enough twists that I didn't predict to keep the story interesting for me. I do wish that all of my questions had been answered. As it stands, I feel like I only received answers to some of my questions. I wouldn't say that the ending was cliffhanger because the main focus of the story was resolved even though a lot of questions do remain.

Normally I find Linwood Barclay novels instantly gripping and fast paced, however while this book was fast paced I never felt completely hooked. That said he is an excellent author and his books are well written with strong characters and well thought out plots and this book has plenty to offer. During the local drive-in's last-ever triple feature, a mysterious explosion topples the screen, killing four people. It's not the only bizarre incident shaking up the New York town of Promise Falls, a popular suicide spot where all lives seem at risk. His cousin Marla is in trouble. after losing her baby during childbirth, Marla is understandably not coping. When dropping off a food parcel from his mother, David finds blood smeared on the front door and Marla curled up with a baby in the bedroom! Essentially, fans of Linwood Barclay will find Broken Promise full of a promising tale of a town that would like to keep its secret... secret. The constant plot twists or whodunnit scenarios help ensure a thrilling roller coaster ride for readers. I promise fans of Barclay will enjoy this broken thrill ride.Barclay’s 2011 thriller, The Accident, has been turned into the six-part television series L’Accident in France, and he adapted his novel Never Saw it Coming for the movie, directed by Gail Harvey and starring Eric Roberts and Emily Hampshire. Several of his other books either have been, or still are, in development for TV and film. Like a less surreal Twin Peaks, this is a compellingly grotesque portrait of the American dream in meltdown. * SUNDAY EXPRESS *