How did Harlan Coben and Reese Witherspoon collaborate on this book?

Coben served as the "guy at the keyboard," handling the writing, while Witherspoon provided valuable insights and perspectives, particularly when it came to depicting the female protagonist.

What has the reaction been to the Coben-Witherspoon collaboration?

Early readers have praised the novel's gripping plot and the seamless integration of Coben and Witherspoon's creative visions, noting that the book reflects the unique blend of their talents.

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Bestselling Author and Actress Pen Unputdownable Thriller

Q: What is the new book by Harlan Coben and Reese Witherspoon about?

The new book, titled "Gone Before Goodbye," follows the story of Maggie McCabe, a highly skilled Army combat surgeon who finds herself embroiled in a deadly conspiracy.

25 Oct

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Summary

Longtime friends Reese Witherspoon and Harlan Coben co-write new novel
Coben serves as "guy at the keyboard" while Witherspoon provides female perspective
Book follows skilled Army combat surgeon caught in deadly conspiracy

Bestselling Author and Actress Pen Unputdownable Thriller

In October 2025, bestselling author Harlan Coben and acclaimed actress Reese Witherspoon have joined forces to write a gripping new novel titled "Gone Before Goodbye." The longtime friends, who have been fans of each other's work for over a decade, decided to embark on this collaborative project after Witherspoon pitched Coben a story idea that he found irresistible.

The book follows the story of Maggie McCabe, a highly skilled Army combat surgeon who finds herself caught up in a deadly conspiracy. Coben, who has written over 35 books and worked on various TV series, served as the "guy at the keyboard," while Witherspoon, the founder of the Hello Sunshine media company and an avid bookworm, provided valuable insights and perspectives, particularly when it came to depicting the female protagonist.