Caught (Coben novel)

Caught is a 2010 stand-alone thriller novel by American author Harlan Coben. The story centers on Dan Mercer, a high school sports star whose life was derailed by an accusation years prior. Mercer, now a teacher, finds himself under suspicion again when a student, Haley McWaid, accuses him of inappropriate behavior. The accusation ignites a media frenzy fueled by Haley's mother, Wendy Tarrant, a local television news reporter known for her aggressive reporting style and focus on protecting children.

The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, including those of Dan, Wendy, and other characters connected to the case. As Wendy relentlessly pursues Mercer, fueled by her past trauma and belief in Haley's claims, the reader is presented with conflicting accounts and unreliable narrators. Coben masterfully employs twists and turns, leading to a final revelation that exposes hidden connections, secrets, and the true motivations behind the accusation. Themes explored in Caught include the power of media, the dangers of snap judgments, the impact of past trauma on present actions, and the complexities of truth and perception.