Think of a Number Summary of John Verdon's Book

Think of a Number by John Verdon: A Gripping Mystery Thriller

Think of a Number by John Verdon is a heart-pounding mystery thriller that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. First published on July 6, 2010, this novel is a masterclass in suspense and intrigue. Set in upstate New York, the story follows retired NYPD homicide investigator Dave Gurney as he is drawn into a chilling serial murder investigation. With captivating characters, a nail-biting plot, and unexpected twists, Think of a Number is a must-read for fans of mystery and thriller genres.

Characters:

- Dave Gurney: The protagonist of the story, Dave Gurney is a retired NYPD homicide investigator who is drawn back into the world of crime-solving when he receives a series of mysterious letters. With a keen sense of intuition and a troubled past, Gurney is a complex character who wrestles with his own demons as he races against time to catch a ruthless killer.
- Madeleine Gurney: Dave's wife, Madeleine, plays a pivotal role in the story. As Dave delves deeper into the investigation, Madeleine becomes his rock, offering support and guidance when he needs it most.
- Mark Mellery: Another key character in the book, Mark Mellery is one of the recipients of the cryptic letters. As the letters become more sinister and threatening, Mark finds himself embroiled in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse with the elusive killer.

Detailed Summary:

Think of a Number opens with Dave Gurney enjoying his retirement in upstate New York with his wife, Madeleine. However, their peaceful life is disrupted when Dave receives a series of mysterious letters that challenge him to think of a number and then predict that number accurately. Intrigued by the letters, Dave soon realizes that they are part of a larger game orchestrated by a cunning serial killer.

As the letters become more threatening and the body count rises, Dave is called in as an investigative consultant to help solve the case. With his sharp investigative skills and intuition, Dave makes breakthroughs that leave the local police in awe. However, as the killer's actions become more sinister and the investigation takes unexpected turns, Dave finds himself facing his own demons and struggling to hold onto his sanity.

As the tension ramps up and the killer's true motives are revealed, Dave must confront the darkest parts of his own past in order to bring the killer to justice. With twists and turns at every corner, Think of a Number is a rollercoaster ride of suspense and thrills that will keep readers guessing until the very end.

Analysis:

Think of a Number is a masterfully crafted thriller that delves into the depths of the human psyche. John Verdon weaves a complex and gripping narrative that explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the nature of evil. Through the character of Dave Gurney, Verdon creates a flawed yet relatable protagonist who must confront his own inner demons in order to solve the case.

The killer in Think of a Number is a chilling and enigmatic figure, whose meticulous planning and attention to detail send shivers down the reader's spine. The cat-and-mouse game between the killer and Dave Gurney is filled with tension and suspense, keeping readers on tenterhooks as the stakes continue to rise.

Overall, Think of a Number is a thrilling and thought-provoking read that will linger in readers' minds long after they have finished the book. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and unexpected twists, this novel is a must-read for fans of the mystery and thriller genres.

Final thoughts

To conclude, Think of a Number by John Verdon is a gripping mystery thriller that will captivate readers from start to finish. With its intricate plot, compelling characters, and tense atmosphere, this novel is a rollercoaster ride of suspense and thrills. If you enjoy stories that keep you guessing until the very end, then Think of a Number is the perfect read for you.

If you found this summary intriguing, I highly recommend purchasing the complete book or listening to the audiobook for the full experience. Dive into the world of Dave Gurney and join him on a heart-pounding journey to catch a cunning killer in Think of a Number.

9780307588920 (ISBN10: 0307588920)