I Will Ruin You by Linwood Barclay

In the latest novel from New York Times bestselling author Linwood Barclay, a teacher’s act of heroism inadvertently makes him the target of a dangerous blackmailer who will stop at nothing to get what he wants.

How would you react in a life-or-death situation?

It’s a question everyone asks themselves, but few have to face in real life. English teacher Richard Boyle certainly never thought he would find himself talking down a former student intent on harming others, but when Mark LeDrew shows up at Richard’s school with a bomb strapped to his chest, Richard immediately jumps into action. Thanks to some quick thinking, he averts a major tragedy and is hailed as a hero, but not all the attention focused on him is positive.

Richard’s brief moment in the spotlight puts him in the sights of a deranged blackmailer with a score to settle. The situation rapidly spirals out of control, drawing Richard into a fraught web of salacious accusations and deadly secrets. As he tries to uncover the truth he discovers that there’s something deeply wrong in the town—something that ties together Mark, the blackmailer, and a gang of ruthless drug dealers, and Richard has landed smack in the middle of it. He’s desperate to find a way out, but everyone in his life seems to be hiding something, and trusting the wrong person could cost him everything he loves.

What price will he pay for one good deed?

Paperback, 352 pages

Published May 7, 2024

 by William Morrow Paperbacks

4/5 stars

Canadian author Linwood Barclay's latest novel, I Will Ruin You, was a fun read even though there is serious matter. It’s one of those books where I just shook my head at all the poor decision-making, weird coincidences, and at times comical situations. That being said this was an addicted read to find out what was going on, because honestly, I was stumped with all the hijinks.

I mean this book started off captivating as Richard Boyle prevents what could’ve turned into a major tragic event from happening at his school. He is a hero by most, but not all. Then things start to go sideways. That being said it did only take me a couple days to read this as I was curious and taken off guard for part of the conclusion, but not all.

Barclay is one of my go to authors and he remains in that position as I find his books different, twisty, along with some interesting characters.

This book was part of my 2024 reading off my shelf challenge.