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The French Illusion #1
The French Illusion
#1 New York Times bestselling author John Grisham delivers a gripping, suspenseful page-turner about a Paris honeymoon gone horribly wrong—and the nightmare that follows.
After Paul and Chelsea Tanner’s fairytale wedding, their future is full of promise. But their honeymoon to Paris takes a dark, shocking turn when they are kidnapped while on a day trip to the French countryside. Who would target them, and why? It turns out this is not the first crime of its kind. The search for clues soon stretches across borders, with the FBI, CIA, and French Intelligence trying to work together to put the pieces of the puzzle together. Struggling to find answers, a young lawyer is recruited to be the bait in an elaborate CIA operation.
Propulsive and surprising, The French Illusion is an unmistakable Grisham thrill ride—gripping and impossible to put down.
After Paul and Chelsea Tanner’s fairytale wedding, their future is full of promise. But their honeymoon to Paris takes a dark, shocking turn when they are kidnapped while on a day trip to the French countryside. Who would target them, and why? It turns out this is not the first crime of its kind. The search for clues soon stretches across borders, with the FBI, CIA, and French Intelligence trying to work together to put the pieces of the puzzle together. Struggling to find answers, a young lawyer is recruited to be the bait in an elaborate CIA operation.
Propulsive and surprising, The French Illusion is an unmistakable Grisham thrill ride—gripping and impossible to put down.
12 pages, Audible Audio
First published September 29, 2026
About the author
John Grisham
484 books94k followersJohn Grisham is the author of more than fifty consecutive #1 bestsellers, which have been translated into nearly fifty languages. His recent books include Framed, Camino Ghosts and The Exchange: After the Firm.
Grisham is a two-time winner of the Harper Lee Prize for Legal Fiction and was honored with the Library of Congress Creative Achievement Award for Fiction.
When he's not writing, Grisham serves on the board of directors of the Innocence Project and of Centurion Ministries, two national organizations dedicated to exonerating those who have been wrongfully convicted. Much of his fiction explores deep-seated problems in our criminal justice system.
John lives on a farm in central Virginia.
Grisham is a two-time winner of the Harper Lee Prize for Legal Fiction and was honored with the Library of Congress Creative Achievement Award for Fiction.
When he's not writing, Grisham serves on the board of directors of the Innocence Project and of Centurion Ministries, two national organizations dedicated to exonerating those who have been wrongfully convicted. Much of his fiction explores deep-seated problems in our criminal justice system.
John lives on a farm in central Virginia.
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Review of advance copy
When I’m not reading legal thrillers, I enjoy espionage and spy stories. As a writer, I have been influenced by Ken Follett, John le Carré, Robert Ludlum and Len Deighton. Many of the elements that make legal thrillers compelling – high stakes, hidden motives, intricate plots, and shady characters – also propel the best espionage fiction. THE FRENCH ILLUSION is my first attempt to follow the craftsmanship of some of the great international suspense novelists.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I can proudly say that for years and years I’ve been devouring John Grisham novels, and every single time I open one of his books, I know I’m about to experience storytelling from one of the true GOATs of modern literature. It’s the same feeling I get whenever I pick up a Stephen King novel—there’s an immediate sense of trust because these authors have consistently set the bar so high that every new release arrives with sky-high expectations attached to it.
Well, this one didn’t just meet those expectations—it grabbed them, threw them into a speeding vehicle, and drove them straight off a cliff.
This breathtaking, hyperventilating, pulse-racing thriller had my heart pounding so hard that I’m convinced it raised my cholesterol levels from stress alone. My anxiety was operating at Olympic levels while reading it, but honestly, who am I to complain? If you want the rush of a truly great thriller, you have to be willing to surrender yourself to the adrenaline.
The story launches at full speed from the very first pages. What begins as a picture-perfect wedding quickly transforms into every parent’s worst nightmare. The Clayburn and Tanner families gather to celebrate the marriage of Chelsea and Paul. The lavish wedding is largely funded by Chelsea’s family, thanks to her father, Dr. Lowell Clayburn, a successful orthopedic surgeon whose smart investments have provided considerable wealth and security.
After the wedding, the newlyweds leave for a dream honeymoon in Paris. Chelsea enthusiastically documents every moment of their romantic getaway on social media, sharing photos, updates, and even snapshots of the spectacular meals they enjoy. Then suddenly… nothing.
No messages.
No photos.
No updates.
Complete silence.
The abrupt disappearance sends alarm bells ringing, and soon the horrifying truth emerges: Chelsea and Paul have been kidnapped by an organized criminal network. The families are contacted separately and ordered to pay enormous ransoms—millions of dollars—in exchange for the safe return of their children.
At first, it appears to be a terrible but straightforward case of international extortion. Pay the money, get the victims back, and try to move on with your lives.
But nothing is ever that simple.
The Clayburns have the financial resources to act quickly, while the Tanners are prepared to sacrifice everything they own, including their home and future security, to save their son. Yet as the investigation unfolds, it becomes frighteningly clear that this is far bigger than a typical kidnapping scheme. Beneath the surface lurks something much darker, more organized, and infinitely more dangerous than anyone initially imagined.
From that moment on, the story becomes an absolutely wild ride.
Every chapter raises the stakes. More agencies become involved. More secrets emerge. More players enter the game. The tension escalates relentlessly, making it nearly impossible to put the book down. The suspense becomes almost unbearable at times, leaving you perched on the edge of your seat, mentally screaming at the pages as events spiral in increasingly shocking directions.
This is intense.
This is nerve-shredding.
This is the kind of thriller that has you checking how many pages remain while simultaneously dreading and needing to know what happens next.
The rescue operation itself is masterfully executed and genuinely jaw-dropping. Every development increases the uncertainty, making you question who can be trusted, who is pulling the strings, and whether the victims will ever truly escape the nightmare surrounding them. The constant sense of danger and unpredictability keeps the pages flying.
One of my absolute favorite sequences in the novel involves the church scene, where everyone waits anxiously as the clock continues ticking toward a crucial moment. The tension in that section was almost unbearable. I could practically feel my pulse speeding up with every passing minute. The various operations carried out by investigators and agents throughout the story were equally gripping and often left my heart lodged somewhere in my throat.
What impressed me most was how effectively the novel balanced its relentless action with genuine emotional weight. The characters aren't simply pieces moving across a thriller chessboard. Their fear, desperation, hope, and determination feel authentic, which makes every twist hit even harder.
Overall, this is a phenomenal thriller packed with escalating tension, nonstop suspense, and enough surprises to keep even seasoned thriller readers guessing. It feels somewhat different from Grisham’s more traditional legal-centered work, yet that willingness to explore new territory pays off beautifully. The cinematic nature of the premise practically begs for a streaming adaptation, and I would happily binge-watch every episode.
Fast-paced, addictive, emotionally engaging, and impossible to put down, this is exactly the kind of thriller that reminds readers why John Grisham remains one of the greatest storytellers working today.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Doubleday Books for sharing this impeccable, action-packed thriller with me in exchange for my honest thoughts, which I was delighted to provide.
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Well, this one didn’t just meet those expectations—it grabbed them, threw them into a speeding vehicle, and drove them straight off a cliff.
This breathtaking, hyperventilating, pulse-racing thriller had my heart pounding so hard that I’m convinced it raised my cholesterol levels from stress alone. My anxiety was operating at Olympic levels while reading it, but honestly, who am I to complain? If you want the rush of a truly great thriller, you have to be willing to surrender yourself to the adrenaline.
The story launches at full speed from the very first pages. What begins as a picture-perfect wedding quickly transforms into every parent’s worst nightmare. The Clayburn and Tanner families gather to celebrate the marriage of Chelsea and Paul. The lavish wedding is largely funded by Chelsea’s family, thanks to her father, Dr. Lowell Clayburn, a successful orthopedic surgeon whose smart investments have provided considerable wealth and security.
After the wedding, the newlyweds leave for a dream honeymoon in Paris. Chelsea enthusiastically documents every moment of their romantic getaway on social media, sharing photos, updates, and even snapshots of the spectacular meals they enjoy. Then suddenly… nothing.
No messages.
No photos.
No updates.
Complete silence.
The abrupt disappearance sends alarm bells ringing, and soon the horrifying truth emerges: Chelsea and Paul have been kidnapped by an organized criminal network. The families are contacted separately and ordered to pay enormous ransoms—millions of dollars—in exchange for the safe return of their children.
At first, it appears to be a terrible but straightforward case of international extortion. Pay the money, get the victims back, and try to move on with your lives.
But nothing is ever that simple.
The Clayburns have the financial resources to act quickly, while the Tanners are prepared to sacrifice everything they own, including their home and future security, to save their son. Yet as the investigation unfolds, it becomes frighteningly clear that this is far bigger than a typical kidnapping scheme. Beneath the surface lurks something much darker, more organized, and infinitely more dangerous than anyone initially imagined.
From that moment on, the story becomes an absolutely wild ride.
Every chapter raises the stakes. More agencies become involved. More secrets emerge. More players enter the game. The tension escalates relentlessly, making it nearly impossible to put the book down. The suspense becomes almost unbearable at times, leaving you perched on the edge of your seat, mentally screaming at the pages as events spiral in increasingly shocking directions.
This is intense.
This is nerve-shredding.
This is the kind of thriller that has you checking how many pages remain while simultaneously dreading and needing to know what happens next.
The rescue operation itself is masterfully executed and genuinely jaw-dropping. Every development increases the uncertainty, making you question who can be trusted, who is pulling the strings, and whether the victims will ever truly escape the nightmare surrounding them. The constant sense of danger and unpredictability keeps the pages flying.
One of my absolute favorite sequences in the novel involves the church scene, where everyone waits anxiously as the clock continues ticking toward a crucial moment. The tension in that section was almost unbearable. I could practically feel my pulse speeding up with every passing minute. The various operations carried out by investigators and agents throughout the story were equally gripping and often left my heart lodged somewhere in my throat.
What impressed me most was how effectively the novel balanced its relentless action with genuine emotional weight. The characters aren't simply pieces moving across a thriller chessboard. Their fear, desperation, hope, and determination feel authentic, which makes every twist hit even harder.
Overall, this is a phenomenal thriller packed with escalating tension, nonstop suspense, and enough surprises to keep even seasoned thriller readers guessing. It feels somewhat different from Grisham’s more traditional legal-centered work, yet that willingness to explore new territory pays off beautifully. The cinematic nature of the premise practically begs for a streaming adaptation, and I would happily binge-watch every episode.
Fast-paced, addictive, emotionally engaging, and impossible to put down, this is exactly the kind of thriller that reminds readers why John Grisham remains one of the greatest storytellers working today.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Doubleday Books for sharing this impeccable, action-packed thriller with me in exchange for my honest thoughts, which I was delighted to provide.
medium blog
July 26, 2026
One of those books where you’re completely enthralled the first 75%. The writing isn’t great, but John Grisham has a way of sucking his readers in.
A couple is kidnapped whole honeymooning in Paris. Everything seems perfect, until the husband is taken to a discreet location to god knows where, and the wife is released on a two million dollar ransom.
What comes next is a worldwide race to capture him before it continues to happen again.
The last 25% was one of those “did John Grisham care about writing this book? Why was the ending rushed and uneventful?”
Regardless, it’s a good quick one day read if you like intrigue, international cover ups and a mindless thriller.
Thank you Doubleday for the advanced copy!
A couple is kidnapped whole honeymooning in Paris. Everything seems perfect, until the husband is taken to a discreet location to god knows where, and the wife is released on a two million dollar ransom.
What comes next is a worldwide race to capture him before it continues to happen again.
The last 25% was one of those “did John Grisham care about writing this book? Why was the ending rushed and uneventful?”
Regardless, it’s a good quick one day read if you like intrigue, international cover ups and a mindless thriller.
Thank you Doubleday for the advanced copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The French Illusion is an upcoming John Grisham page-turner. Somewhat straying from his courtroom legal dramas, this one escalates into a multi-agency terrorist investigation involving the FBI, CIA, and French Intelligence. It starts with what should be a lovely honeymoon in Paris for Paul and Chelsea Tanner. But when they are kidnapped and held for ransom money, it quickly spirals into a high-stakes espionage thriller.
At first, it seems as if the young couple will be returned. Chelsea's family pays up, and she is found safely. Yet even after Paul's family follows the same steps in wiring the money, he remains kidnapped and tortured by these unknown forces. Finally, the families resolve to call in the big guys, bringing in the FBI and CIA. Here, we see this is not an isolated incident; two other young couples had been taken in the same pattern within the past three years. All wives were released relatively unharmed, but the husbands remain missing.
Making the connection that each husband had worked for the government, we see that our criminal wants revenge for how the US had treated prisoners. Now that they know the pattern of who the unnamed group is targeting, the CIA recruits a lawyer that formerly worked with interrogations to act as bait. The plan is to fake a marriage and honeymoon to Paris to draw out the perpetrators. The story launches forth in short chapters, rotating setting and characters, culminating to a dramatic end.
This novel was short, though much of it was delegated to the build up. Our lawyer acting in disguise was not introduced into at least half-way through, making it not seem like the central goal of the novel as described in the synopsis. Still, it was gripping to see how all the agencies had to find ways to work together and navigate all the orders of command. More so, we get to see into the lens of our criminal, making the crimes all the more real.
I found that the dialogue in a Grisham book is so distinct. He writes well, using the character's discussions to propel the story. He writes in third person, but this allows him to put forth each character's take on the events. The tension is built as we watch various intelligent people in the US and France race to outsmart intelligent criminals. Though, our ending was a bit lackluster given how anticipatory the buildup was. I did want to see more of the fallout, but Grisham kept it brief. Overall, this was a solid read, worthy for the genre.
Thank you to DoubleDay and NetGalley for this advanced copy!
At first, it seems as if the young couple will be returned. Chelsea's family pays up, and she is found safely. Yet even after Paul's family follows the same steps in wiring the money, he remains kidnapped and tortured by these unknown forces. Finally, the families resolve to call in the big guys, bringing in the FBI and CIA. Here, we see this is not an isolated incident; two other young couples had been taken in the same pattern within the past three years. All wives were released relatively unharmed, but the husbands remain missing.
Making the connection that each husband had worked for the government, we see that our criminal wants revenge for how the US had treated prisoners. Now that they know the pattern of who the unnamed group is targeting, the CIA recruits a lawyer that formerly worked with interrogations to act as bait. The plan is to fake a marriage and honeymoon to Paris to draw out the perpetrators. The story launches forth in short chapters, rotating setting and characters, culminating to a dramatic end.
This novel was short, though much of it was delegated to the build up. Our lawyer acting in disguise was not introduced into at least half-way through, making it not seem like the central goal of the novel as described in the synopsis. Still, it was gripping to see how all the agencies had to find ways to work together and navigate all the orders of command. More so, we get to see into the lens of our criminal, making the crimes all the more real.
I found that the dialogue in a Grisham book is so distinct. He writes well, using the character's discussions to propel the story. He writes in third person, but this allows him to put forth each character's take on the events. The tension is built as we watch various intelligent people in the US and France race to outsmart intelligent criminals. Though, our ending was a bit lackluster given how anticipatory the buildup was. I did want to see more of the fallout, but Grisham kept it brief. Overall, this was a solid read, worthy for the genre.
Thank you to DoubleDay and NetGalley for this advanced copy!
Review of advance copy
While on their honeymoon in France a young American couple is kidnapped. It becomes a nightmare of terror and agony for the victims, and a time of perpetual fear and anxiety for their families. Once the FBI, CIA, and French authorities get involved, a maze of political intrigue, espionage, and clandestine activities ensues.
From the brutal kidnapping at the beginning of this frightening story to the moderately unsurprising ending, the author loaded up the tension and kept me on the edge of my seat with my pulse racing.
There is a brief choppy ending to this propulsive drama that left me wanting more and a slightly different resolution perhaps, but the story itself was mostly gripping and satisfying nonetheless.
Fans of this author and suspenseful thrillers are going to enjoy this book immensely.
From the brutal kidnapping at the beginning of this frightening story to the moderately unsurprising ending, the author loaded up the tension and kept me on the edge of my seat with my pulse racing.
There is a brief choppy ending to this propulsive drama that left me wanting more and a slightly different resolution perhaps, but the story itself was mostly gripping and satisfying nonetheless.
Fans of this author and suspenseful thrillers are going to enjoy this book immensely.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A departure from Grisham’s standard legal thrillers, The French Illusion was instead a high-stakes game of cat-and-mouse that had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. With a globe-hopping manhunt, political intrigue, and international covert operations, it leaned far more into espionage, kidnapping, and conspiracies than courtroom drama. That being said, this John le Carré-meets-The Firm-style story was still quite the wild ride. Thanks to the juxtaposition of a race against the clock and a very procedural-like feel, the book somehow combined action-movie vibes with slow-burning suspense in a way that only the great Mr. Grisham can. You see, he knew just how to turn the screws to keep me emotionally engaged as the s*** hit the fan. Trust me, you’ll be hooked by this whole premise just as much as I was.
I do have to say, though, that it was more of a whydunnit than whodunnit when push comes to shove. Additionally, the anticlimactic ending left me slightly underwhelmed. In spite of this, though, I couldn’t put the book down and easily finished it in under twenty-four hours. Unpredictable, gripping, and dark, I just had to know how it was all going to end. Filled with a bunch of thought-provoking themes such as the consequences of counterterrorism, how social media can be exploited, and the lengths people will go to save someone they love, it had all of Grisham’s typical depth on top of a bit of adrenaline-fueled action. A heart-stopping ride that pulled me in fast, this one deserves to be a movie, no ifs, ands, or buts. After all, the escalating stakes and revenge-fueled scheme was pure popcorn-eating fun. Rating of 4 stars.
Read if you’re a fan of:
- Police procedurals
- Spy thrillers
- A honeymoon gone wrong
- Slow-burning suspense
- Kidnapping plots
- A globe-hopping manhunt
- FBI/CIA investigations
- Cat-and-mouse games
- Political intrigue
- International conspiracies
- Increasingly high stakes
SYNOPSIS:
After Paul and Chelsea Tanner’s fairytale wedding, their future is full of promise. But their honeymoon to Paris takes a dark, shocking turn when they are kidnapped while on a day trip to the French countryside. Who would target them, and why? It turns out this is not the first crime of its kind. The search for clues soon stretches across borders, with the FBI, CIA, and French Intelligence trying to work together to put the pieces of the puzzle together. Struggling to find answers, a young lawyer is recruited to be the bait in an elaborate CIA operation.
Thank you John Grisham and Doubleday Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: September 29, 2026
Content warning: kidnapping, torture, physical abuse, violence, murder, toxic friendship
I do have to say, though, that it was more of a whydunnit than whodunnit when push comes to shove. Additionally, the anticlimactic ending left me slightly underwhelmed. In spite of this, though, I couldn’t put the book down and easily finished it in under twenty-four hours. Unpredictable, gripping, and dark, I just had to know how it was all going to end. Filled with a bunch of thought-provoking themes such as the consequences of counterterrorism, how social media can be exploited, and the lengths people will go to save someone they love, it had all of Grisham’s typical depth on top of a bit of adrenaline-fueled action. A heart-stopping ride that pulled me in fast, this one deserves to be a movie, no ifs, ands, or buts. After all, the escalating stakes and revenge-fueled scheme was pure popcorn-eating fun. Rating of 4 stars.
Read if you’re a fan of:
- Police procedurals
- Spy thrillers
- A honeymoon gone wrong
- Slow-burning suspense
- Kidnapping plots
- A globe-hopping manhunt
- FBI/CIA investigations
- Cat-and-mouse games
- Political intrigue
- International conspiracies
- Increasingly high stakes
SYNOPSIS:
After Paul and Chelsea Tanner’s fairytale wedding, their future is full of promise. But their honeymoon to Paris takes a dark, shocking turn when they are kidnapped while on a day trip to the French countryside. Who would target them, and why? It turns out this is not the first crime of its kind. The search for clues soon stretches across borders, with the FBI, CIA, and French Intelligence trying to work together to put the pieces of the puzzle together. Struggling to find answers, a young lawyer is recruited to be the bait in an elaborate CIA operation.
Thank you John Grisham and Doubleday Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: September 29, 2026
Content warning: kidnapping, torture, physical abuse, violence, murder, toxic friendship
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Let me start with a big trigger warning: there is extensive torture in this story. However, the torture is not there just because. It’s there because it is used to show how deep some political decisions can affect people. It is an important part of the story.
This said, the story starts with two young and happy honeymooners, in Paris. As many Americans do, they stay for their honeymoon in a cosy hotel and go and see the sights every day. Then, they are being kidnapped and held at separate locations. The parents of the couple receive mysterious emails asking for ransom money. One of the couples is quite rich, the other couple not so. Paying the ransom therefore has a different effect on each of the couples. Finally, after paying up, one of the couples gets their child back, unharmed. The other couple not. And then the story goes off at full speed.
It’s political, it’s about money, it’s about the strength of people when they are imprisoned and tortured, it’s about uncertainty but it’s also about love and trust. The pace is fast and it’s hard to put the book down once you start reading. There are many surprises but in the end everything comes together nicely.
This was my first Grisham in a while but I’m already looking forward to the next one.
This said, the story starts with two young and happy honeymooners, in Paris. As many Americans do, they stay for their honeymoon in a cosy hotel and go and see the sights every day. Then, they are being kidnapped and held at separate locations. The parents of the couple receive mysterious emails asking for ransom money. One of the couples is quite rich, the other couple not so. Paying the ransom therefore has a different effect on each of the couples. Finally, after paying up, one of the couples gets their child back, unharmed. The other couple not. And then the story goes off at full speed.
It’s political, it’s about money, it’s about the strength of people when they are imprisoned and tortured, it’s about uncertainty but it’s also about love and trust. The pace is fast and it’s hard to put the book down once you start reading. There are many surprises but in the end everything comes together nicely.
This was my first Grisham in a while but I’m already looking forward to the next one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 rounded to 4 stars
Another great John Grisham novel! 📚
Grisham has really ventured away from his traditional courtroom dramas, and while I definitely miss those stories, I have to admit—I’m enjoying this new direction.
This novel takes readers into a gripping world of kidnapping, government espionage, and the complicated agencies involved behind the scenes. I especially enjoyed how it explored both the strengths and shortcomings of the government and the people working within it.
It was a true page-turner that kept me engaged right through to the end. My only criticism was that the ending felt a little rushed and I would have liked a bit more time to see everything play out.
Overall, though, this was another strong release from Grisham and a thoroughly enjoyable read. Definitely worth picking up if you’re a fan of his—or if you enjoy a good suspenseful thriller!
Thank you to Net Galley and Doubleday Books for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Another great John Grisham novel! 📚
Grisham has really ventured away from his traditional courtroom dramas, and while I definitely miss those stories, I have to admit—I’m enjoying this new direction.
This novel takes readers into a gripping world of kidnapping, government espionage, and the complicated agencies involved behind the scenes. I especially enjoyed how it explored both the strengths and shortcomings of the government and the people working within it.
It was a true page-turner that kept me engaged right through to the end. My only criticism was that the ending felt a little rushed and I would have liked a bit more time to see everything play out.
Overall, though, this was another strong release from Grisham and a thoroughly enjoyable read. Definitely worth picking up if you’re a fan of his—or if you enjoy a good suspenseful thriller!
Thank you to Net Galley and Doubleday Books for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you Doubleday for sending me a free copy!
3.25 stars
Bestselling author John Grisham is back with a new thriller and this one takes us to the City of Love. Paul and Chelsea Tanner are spending their honeymoon in Paris when things take a horrible turn. They are kidnapped and Chelsea’s parents are contacted and told to pay a hefty ransom if they ever want to see their daughter again. The kidnappers are also instructing them to keep quiet. Contacting authorities is not an option if they want Chelsea back.
A simple but effective premise as you automatically feel invested in the characters lives. It’s also the type of scenario in which you can’t help but wonder what you would do in the family’s shoes, facing this nightmare situation. The first half of the story is strong but my interest tapered off a bit as the tale got bigger and bigger. The focus shifted somewhat to other characters and the remainder of the story was more of a mixed bag.
It’s a decent read but I prefer Grisham’s legal thrillers and nonfiction writing over this novel.
3.25 stars
Bestselling author John Grisham is back with a new thriller and this one takes us to the City of Love. Paul and Chelsea Tanner are spending their honeymoon in Paris when things take a horrible turn. They are kidnapped and Chelsea’s parents are contacted and told to pay a hefty ransom if they ever want to see their daughter again. The kidnappers are also instructing them to keep quiet. Contacting authorities is not an option if they want Chelsea back.
A simple but effective premise as you automatically feel invested in the characters lives. It’s also the type of scenario in which you can’t help but wonder what you would do in the family’s shoes, facing this nightmare situation. The first half of the story is strong but my interest tapered off a bit as the tale got bigger and bigger. The focus shifted somewhat to other characters and the remainder of the story was more of a mixed bag.
It’s a decent read but I prefer Grisham’s legal thrillers and nonfiction writing over this novel.
October 3, 2026
Rating: 4 / 5 Stars
The honeymoon is over, and the nightmare has begun.
I enjoyed this book, even though it has a few flaws. It's a fast-paced thriller set in 2016 that completely shifts away from Grisham’s usual courtroom dramas and jumps straight into international espionage. The story opens when an American couple gets kidnapped during their honeymoon in Paris, and what looks like a basic ransom demand quickly turns into a massive mess involving the FBI, CIA, and French intelligence.
The momentum of the kidnapping mystery carries the book and kept me hooked. My main complaint is that the dialogue between the families of the victims feels stiff and unnatural at times. But the pure adrenaline of the plot kept me moving past that.
In the second half, the book introduces a new main character, Stuart Nash, and I thought his backstory was well done. We needed to see how he was recruited, and the extreme, high-stakes operational sacrifices he must make for this assignment add some genuine depth to the story.
Once that setup is out of the way, the story sprints to the finish line. The ending arrives incredibly fast and wraps up in a rapid blur, showing how far the USA government gets pushed to handle a hidden crisis. Even with the rushed finish, the high-stakes trade makes it a very entertaining read.
September 30, 2026
the setup…
Paul and Chelsea Tanner thought a Paris honeymoon would be the perfect finish to the magic of their wedding. But it ended up being the beginning of a nightmare with no end in sight when they get abducted by persons unknown. Authorities are baffled but soon the search includes agents from the FBI, CIA and French Intelligence when they realize this is a pattern and at least two other couples suffered similar fates. They decide to recruit a young lawyer to pose as bait to figure out where the captured Americans are being held and by whom.
the heart of the story…
This isn’t the legal drama I’ve come to expect but so much more. The tension is set early and is relentless as we get the points of view of the captured along with those of family, the agents searching for them and the captors. Nothing is given away and I had no assurance that anything would turn out okay.
the narration…
Michael Beck really stepped up to the challenge of so many voice distinctions and storytelling variations. He kept me highly engaged…and off balance! Grand performance.
the bottom line…
This was crazy with tension and my emotions took a real beating as I became completely invested in the characters and outcome. Grisham proves he’s got more than legal thriller game and has the espionage chops. I wanted more out of the ending, though, as I still have questions. Might there be more coming in this series? Please say yes.
(Thanks to Random House Audio and Libro.fm for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Paul and Chelsea Tanner thought a Paris honeymoon would be the perfect finish to the magic of their wedding. But it ended up being the beginning of a nightmare with no end in sight when they get abducted by persons unknown. Authorities are baffled but soon the search includes agents from the FBI, CIA and French Intelligence when they realize this is a pattern and at least two other couples suffered similar fates. They decide to recruit a young lawyer to pose as bait to figure out where the captured Americans are being held and by whom.
the heart of the story…
This isn’t the legal drama I’ve come to expect but so much more. The tension is set early and is relentless as we get the points of view of the captured along with those of family, the agents searching for them and the captors. Nothing is given away and I had no assurance that anything would turn out okay.
the narration…
Michael Beck really stepped up to the challenge of so many voice distinctions and storytelling variations. He kept me highly engaged…and off balance! Grand performance.
the bottom line…
This was crazy with tension and my emotions took a real beating as I became completely invested in the characters and outcome. Grisham proves he’s got more than legal thriller game and has the espionage chops. I wanted more out of the ending, though, as I still have questions. Might there be more coming in this series? Please say yes.
(Thanks to Random House Audio and Libro.fm for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"#1 New York Times bestselling author John Grisham delivers a gripping, suspenseful page-turner about a Paris honeymoon gone horribly wrong—and the nightmare that follows."
Paul and Chelsea had a fairytale wedding and head to a dream honeymoon in Paris. A few days into the honeymoon they are kidnapped while on a day trip to the countryside. This isn't the first of its kind. Soon, an elaborate CIA operation is trotting the globe to find the missing honeymooners.
Gripping and propulsive, I couldn't put this down. There isn't a lot of action but the suspense kept me turning the pages until all my questions were answered. Fans of John LaCarre and slow burn spy novels will love this. Highly recommend.
The audiobook performance by Michael Beck (12 hours 13 minutes) is outstanding, bringing all the characters and drama to life.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Doubleday Books, PRH Audio and John Grisham for the gifted advance reader's copy and advance listening copy. All opinions are my own. 📚🎧
Paul and Chelsea had a fairytale wedding and head to a dream honeymoon in Paris. A few days into the honeymoon they are kidnapped while on a day trip to the countryside. This isn't the first of its kind. Soon, an elaborate CIA operation is trotting the globe to find the missing honeymooners.
Gripping and propulsive, I couldn't put this down. There isn't a lot of action but the suspense kept me turning the pages until all my questions were answered. Fans of John LaCarre and slow burn spy novels will love this. Highly recommend.
The audiobook performance by Michael Beck (12 hours 13 minutes) is outstanding, bringing all the characters and drama to life.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Doubleday Books, PRH Audio and John Grisham for the gifted advance reader's copy and advance listening copy. All opinions are my own. 📚🎧
Read
September 22, 2026Unassuming American couples are going to Paris for their perfect honeymoons
And getting kidnapped…..
There seems no rhyme or reason and that its totally random, also weirdly the wives are released the men are not
Then the CIA get involved and recruit a couple to try and find out what is really going on and the action up to another level
Pure JG, easy to read, well written with THRILLER shouting out with caps on
Great read
And getting kidnapped…..
There seems no rhyme or reason and that its totally random, also weirdly the wives are released the men are not
Then the CIA get involved and recruit a couple to try and find out what is really going on and the action up to another level
Pure JG, easy to read, well written with THRILLER shouting out with caps on
Great read
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"In Paris, a tale of espionage unfolds in a high-stakes nightmare. John Grisham steps out of the courtroom and delves into international suspense with The French Illusion—it's a 5-star masterpiece and the ultimate spy thriller of the year!"
If you thought The Law Student prequel was good (a must-listen performed by Michael Beck), just wait until you devour this full-scale international manhunt.
A monumental leap into global suspense. Grisham smoothly strips away the courtroom walls to deliver a relentless, multi-agency rescue mission that forces a young attorney to play civilian bait in a lethal counter-intelligence trap.
The Premise: Newlyweds Paul and Chelsea Tanner take a dream trip to Paris, but their honeymoon turns dark when they are kidnapped on a day trip to the French countryside.
The Investigation: The FBI, the CIA, and French Intelligence join forces as the search for answers crosses international borders.
The Operation: A young lawyer named Stuart Nash (The Laww Student) is recruited to act as bait in a complex CIA operation to catch the kidnappers.
Intro
Stepping dynamically away from his standard American courtroom legal dramas, John Grisham delivers a monumental 5-star milestone with The French Illusion. This book smoothly bridges the gap between traditional legal grit and grand, international espionage. For lifelong fans, it's a breath of fresh air that proves Grisham can craft global suspense just as masterfully as any classic spy novelist.
The Hook
Paul and Chelsea Tanner’s fairytale Paris honeymoon transforms into an absolute nightmare when they are abruptly kidnapped during a day trip to the French countryside; when ransom demands spiral out of control and point to a terrifying pattern of government-targeted abductions, a young lawyer is recruited by the CIA to serve as the ultimate, dangerous bait in an elaborate counter-intelligence trap.
Elevator Pitch
An innocent European honeymoon exposes a dark, geopolitical underworld. When an American couple vanishes in France, a young attorney is pulled from his familiar legal world and thrust into a lethal multi-agency rescue mission, serving as civilian bait for a CIA counter-espionage trap where the lines between justice and survival completely disappear.
Setting
Starts in the romantic yet dangerous backdrop of Paris and the French countryside, before expanding across international borders into high-tech, multi-agency command rooms.
Vibe
High-stakes, propulsive, calculated, and breathless international espionage.
Genre
Espionage Thriller / International Suspense / Legal Fiction.
Themes
Sovereign justice, the psychological toll of deep deception, political retaliation, and the lengths families go to for survival.
Standout Characters
~The Tanner Couple: Paul and Chelsea, whose innocent honeymoon exposes a far larger, deeply unsettling international conspiracy.
~The Recruited Lawyer: Serving as a fascinating continuation of the legal minds we love, this young attorney is thrown straight to the wolves as a civilian asset in a high-stakes CIA operation.
~The Intelligence Agents: A complex, multi-agency coalition of FBI, CIA, and French Intelligence figures navigating a web of hidden motives.
Author Writing Standout
Grisham’s absolute standout feature here is his incredible transition into international spycraft. Influenced by legends like John le Carré and Robert Ludlum, he strips away the slow pacing of a courtroom trial and instead leans heavily into a breathless, multi-agency rescue mission while still keeping the sharp, analytical mind of a lawyer at the center of the trap.
Takeaway
When dealing with international entities, the line between justice and survival completely vanishes; everyone is merely a piece on a much larger, global chessboard.
Title Significance
The title "The French Illusion" perfectly encapsulates the story. The dream of a beautiful, safe European vacation is shattered to reveal a stark, terrifying underworld of geopolitical chess, proving that safety abroad is often just an illusion.
Metaphor
The novel treats international diplomacy and counter-espionage as a highly volatile poker game. Every agency—and every criminal cell—is bluffing with human lives as the chips, forcing the characters to guess who holds the winning hand.
Why You Should Read
If you want to see a master writer completely reinvent his wheelhouse while keeping his signature narrative tension intact, this book delivers an elite, fast-paced thrill ride that you won't be able to put down.
My Thoughts
Seeing Grisham handle the gritty, dark logistics of a multi-national kidnapping case while utilizing a young attorney as a strategic piece of bait is pure genius. It maintains a flawless momentum from the opening snatch to the final, heart-stopping confrontation.
Be sure to check out the prequel, The Law Student (The French Illusion .5) for the background. (My review)
Verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 / 5 Stars
"A monumental leap into global suspense. Grisham smoothly strips away the courtroom walls to deliver a relentless, multi-agency rescue mission that forces a young attorney to play civilian bait in a lethal counter-intelligence trap. Top Books of the Year and accompanied with The Law Student!
Recs or Read-Alikes
~The Associate by John Grisham – For the Vulnerable Lawyer: Features a young attorney thrust into a massive, dangerous corporate and intelligence-level conspiracy where he is used as a pawn.
~The Partner by John Grisham – For the International Manhunt: An exciting, fast-paced thriller about a man who fakes his death and runs away to a foreign country, only to be hunted across international borders.
~The Escape Artist by Brad Meltzer – For the Intelligence Cover-Up: A gripping political and intelligence thriller blending high-level government secrets, sudden danger, and federal agency investigations.
~The Firm by John Grisham – The Ultimate Classic: The classic high-suspense page-turner where an unsuspecting young lawyer gets trapped in a terrifying web far bigger than he ever imagined.
~Hope Rises by David Baldacci – The International Shadow War: In this explosive continuation of Walter Nash's story, he has shed his former civilian identity to completely embed himself deep within a global criminal empire. It perfectly captures the breathless, multi-agency intelligence tension and dangerous deep-cover operations that make The French Illusion so gripping. (Whereas, Baldacci's Nash Falls compares to Grisham's The Law Student).
Since I am a massive fan of both Grisham and Baldacci, this specific "ordinary guy forced to play an extraordinary global game" formula is exactly why Stuart Nash's trajectory in "The Law Student and The French Illusion" hits so close to home.
Audio 🎧 Standout
The Ultimate Voice of Grisham Returns!
While I reviewed the physical Advance Reading Copy (ARC) for this release, you already know the audio edition is an absolute instant-buy for me! The production brings back the legendary Michael Beck, who is undeniably the definitive voice of John Grisham's audiobooks. As a massive, longtime fan of Beck’s narration, I know firsthand the unmatched dignity, smooth pacing, and deep gravity he brings to Grisham's prose. Hearing him apply his signature style to this international setting is going to be an absolute masterclass. This production goes straight to the top of my audiobook queue!
Special thanks to Doubleday and NetGalley for sharing an advance reading copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Sept 29, 2026
Sept 2026 Must-Read Books
Sept Newsletter
If you thought The Law Student prequel was good (a must-listen performed by Michael Beck), just wait until you devour this full-scale international manhunt.
A monumental leap into global suspense. Grisham smoothly strips away the courtroom walls to deliver a relentless, multi-agency rescue mission that forces a young attorney to play civilian bait in a lethal counter-intelligence trap.
The Premise: Newlyweds Paul and Chelsea Tanner take a dream trip to Paris, but their honeymoon turns dark when they are kidnapped on a day trip to the French countryside.
The Investigation: The FBI, the CIA, and French Intelligence join forces as the search for answers crosses international borders.
The Operation: A young lawyer named Stuart Nash (The Laww Student) is recruited to act as bait in a complex CIA operation to catch the kidnappers.
Intro
Stepping dynamically away from his standard American courtroom legal dramas, John Grisham delivers a monumental 5-star milestone with The French Illusion. This book smoothly bridges the gap between traditional legal grit and grand, international espionage. For lifelong fans, it's a breath of fresh air that proves Grisham can craft global suspense just as masterfully as any classic spy novelist.
The Hook
Paul and Chelsea Tanner’s fairytale Paris honeymoon transforms into an absolute nightmare when they are abruptly kidnapped during a day trip to the French countryside; when ransom demands spiral out of control and point to a terrifying pattern of government-targeted abductions, a young lawyer is recruited by the CIA to serve as the ultimate, dangerous bait in an elaborate counter-intelligence trap.
Elevator Pitch
An innocent European honeymoon exposes a dark, geopolitical underworld. When an American couple vanishes in France, a young attorney is pulled from his familiar legal world and thrust into a lethal multi-agency rescue mission, serving as civilian bait for a CIA counter-espionage trap where the lines between justice and survival completely disappear.
Setting
Starts in the romantic yet dangerous backdrop of Paris and the French countryside, before expanding across international borders into high-tech, multi-agency command rooms.
Vibe
High-stakes, propulsive, calculated, and breathless international espionage.
Genre
Espionage Thriller / International Suspense / Legal Fiction.
Themes
Sovereign justice, the psychological toll of deep deception, political retaliation, and the lengths families go to for survival.
Standout Characters
~The Tanner Couple: Paul and Chelsea, whose innocent honeymoon exposes a far larger, deeply unsettling international conspiracy.
~The Recruited Lawyer: Serving as a fascinating continuation of the legal minds we love, this young attorney is thrown straight to the wolves as a civilian asset in a high-stakes CIA operation.
~The Intelligence Agents: A complex, multi-agency coalition of FBI, CIA, and French Intelligence figures navigating a web of hidden motives.
Author Writing Standout
Grisham’s absolute standout feature here is his incredible transition into international spycraft. Influenced by legends like John le Carré and Robert Ludlum, he strips away the slow pacing of a courtroom trial and instead leans heavily into a breathless, multi-agency rescue mission while still keeping the sharp, analytical mind of a lawyer at the center of the trap.
Takeaway
When dealing with international entities, the line between justice and survival completely vanishes; everyone is merely a piece on a much larger, global chessboard.
Title Significance
The title "The French Illusion" perfectly encapsulates the story. The dream of a beautiful, safe European vacation is shattered to reveal a stark, terrifying underworld of geopolitical chess, proving that safety abroad is often just an illusion.
Metaphor
The novel treats international diplomacy and counter-espionage as a highly volatile poker game. Every agency—and every criminal cell—is bluffing with human lives as the chips, forcing the characters to guess who holds the winning hand.
Why You Should Read
If you want to see a master writer completely reinvent his wheelhouse while keeping his signature narrative tension intact, this book delivers an elite, fast-paced thrill ride that you won't be able to put down.
My Thoughts
Seeing Grisham handle the gritty, dark logistics of a multi-national kidnapping case while utilizing a young attorney as a strategic piece of bait is pure genius. It maintains a flawless momentum from the opening snatch to the final, heart-stopping confrontation.
Be sure to check out the prequel, The Law Student (The French Illusion .5) for the background. (My review)
Verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 / 5 Stars
"A monumental leap into global suspense. Grisham smoothly strips away the courtroom walls to deliver a relentless, multi-agency rescue mission that forces a young attorney to play civilian bait in a lethal counter-intelligence trap. Top Books of the Year and accompanied with The Law Student!
Recs or Read-Alikes
~The Associate by John Grisham – For the Vulnerable Lawyer: Features a young attorney thrust into a massive, dangerous corporate and intelligence-level conspiracy where he is used as a pawn.
~The Partner by John Grisham – For the International Manhunt: An exciting, fast-paced thriller about a man who fakes his death and runs away to a foreign country, only to be hunted across international borders.
~The Escape Artist by Brad Meltzer – For the Intelligence Cover-Up: A gripping political and intelligence thriller blending high-level government secrets, sudden danger, and federal agency investigations.
~The Firm by John Grisham – The Ultimate Classic: The classic high-suspense page-turner where an unsuspecting young lawyer gets trapped in a terrifying web far bigger than he ever imagined.
~Hope Rises by David Baldacci – The International Shadow War: In this explosive continuation of Walter Nash's story, he has shed his former civilian identity to completely embed himself deep within a global criminal empire. It perfectly captures the breathless, multi-agency intelligence tension and dangerous deep-cover operations that make The French Illusion so gripping. (Whereas, Baldacci's Nash Falls compares to Grisham's The Law Student).
Since I am a massive fan of both Grisham and Baldacci, this specific "ordinary guy forced to play an extraordinary global game" formula is exactly why Stuart Nash's trajectory in "The Law Student and The French Illusion" hits so close to home.
Audio 🎧 Standout
The Ultimate Voice of Grisham Returns!
While I reviewed the physical Advance Reading Copy (ARC) for this release, you already know the audio edition is an absolute instant-buy for me! The production brings back the legendary Michael Beck, who is undeniably the definitive voice of John Grisham's audiobooks. As a massive, longtime fan of Beck’s narration, I know firsthand the unmatched dignity, smooth pacing, and deep gravity he brings to Grisham's prose. Hearing him apply his signature style to this international setting is going to be an absolute masterclass. This production goes straight to the top of my audiobook queue!
Special thanks to Doubleday and NetGalley for sharing an advance reading copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Sept 29, 2026
Sept 2026 Must-Read Books
Sept Newsletter
June 23, 2026
When reading The French Illusion by John Grisham, make sure to allow enough time to read the entire thing because you will NOT be able to put it down. It starts out with a couple on their honeymoon, Chelsea and Paul, in Paris, with the Chelsea posting every move on social media. All the places they are eating, all the sites they are seeing, where they are staying. It seems that someone who was not on her friend list was following because they were kidnapped and held for ransom.
Their phones were confiscated and their parents were contacted for ransom money. The kidnappers access Chelsea’s father’s work database so the parents realize it is for real. They were not taken by people who were unsophisticated about the modern world. Chelsea’s father is an orthopedic surgeon so they don’t have a hard time coming up with ransom money. Paul’s parents are not wealthy but they are being asked for a large sum of money and of course, his parents will do anything, sell everything, move heaven and earth to get him back.
Sadly, Chelsea and Paul may not be the only victims.
This novel really makes a reader wonder about all the modern tech that connects everything yet keeps us all apart at the same time. It makes life easier in many ways, more convenient. However, bad actors can use it for their evil purposes, which is never good. This is a cautionary tale at the least but it is another exciting and suspenseful story by the master storyteller. You won’t be able to relax until you know what happens to Chelsea and Paul.
Thank you to Netgalley for the prepublication copy to read and review.
Their phones were confiscated and their parents were contacted for ransom money. The kidnappers access Chelsea’s father’s work database so the parents realize it is for real. They were not taken by people who were unsophisticated about the modern world. Chelsea’s father is an orthopedic surgeon so they don’t have a hard time coming up with ransom money. Paul’s parents are not wealthy but they are being asked for a large sum of money and of course, his parents will do anything, sell everything, move heaven and earth to get him back.
Sadly, Chelsea and Paul may not be the only victims.
This novel really makes a reader wonder about all the modern tech that connects everything yet keeps us all apart at the same time. It makes life easier in many ways, more convenient. However, bad actors can use it for their evil purposes, which is never good. This is a cautionary tale at the least but it is another exciting and suspenseful story by the master storyteller. You won’t be able to relax until you know what happens to Chelsea and Paul.
Thank you to Netgalley for the prepublication copy to read and review.
August 31, 2026
More like 3.5 ⭐️. His books get slower and slower the longer he writes. RTC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*** 7/20/26 *** Thank you NetGalley, for another prerelease ARC to read and review!
Grisham's upcoming 9/29/26 thriller release has only a glancing relationship with law through key characters' professions, but stays in the familiar European landscape of his previous book. This was a clever and pretty believable plotline involving international political situations from modern reality, focused on the kidnapping of young American newlyweds from Paris to right a moral wrong that happened in a foreign land. The book is well architected in a linear timeline and separating substories mostly by geography. My biggest issue with the book is the fairly extensive and very graphic torture scenes which I disliked very much, and felt were a bit out of place for a Grisham novel. My only other quibble was the cavalier ending, particularly with the return of the female agent, and the quick bounce-back and lack of concern about his payment for the male recruited agent. Those elements felt unrealistic to me and a little too glib/casual for what they went through. 4 stars.
Grisham's upcoming 9/29/26 thriller release has only a glancing relationship with law through key characters' professions, but stays in the familiar European landscape of his previous book. This was a clever and pretty believable plotline involving international political situations from modern reality, focused on the kidnapping of young American newlyweds from Paris to right a moral wrong that happened in a foreign land. The book is well architected in a linear timeline and separating substories mostly by geography. My biggest issue with the book is the fairly extensive and very graphic torture scenes which I disliked very much, and felt were a bit out of place for a Grisham novel. My only other quibble was the cavalier ending, particularly with the return of the female agent, and the quick bounce-back and lack of concern about his payment for the male recruited agent. Those elements felt unrealistic to me and a little too glib/casual for what they went through. 4 stars.
October 2, 2026
I’ve read all of John Grisham’s legal thrillers over the years and have always been a big fan of his writing, so I was genuinely excited when I heard that he was moving into the world of espionage with The French Illusion. It sounded like an interesting change of direction from an author whose legal thrillers I’ve enjoyed so much.
The story follows a young couple whose honeymoon in France takes a very unexpected and dangerous turn, setting in motion an international investigation involving intelligence agencies and a young lawyer who finds himself drawn into something far bigger than he could have imagined.
There’s plenty here that will be familiar to Grisham fans. His writing is as readable as ever, the story moves along at a good pace, and he has that ability to make you keep turning the pages even when you’re not completely invested in where the story is going.
For me, though, The French Illusion never quite lived up to my expectations. I was particularly interested to see what Grisham would do with an espionage/spy thriller, but ultimately I found myself missing the legal element that I’ve always enjoyed so much in his books. While this is certainly an enjoyable and easy-to-read thriller, it didn’t have quite the same impact on me as his legal novels.
That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy it. There are plenty of twists, intrigue and suspense, and Grisham’s trademark storytelling makes it a very accessible read. I just found myself comparing it to his legal thrillers, and for me, that’s where it fell slightly short.
As a long-time Grisham fan, I’m glad I read it, and I’d certainly recommend it to anyone who enjoys his writing or is looking for a straightforward espionage thriller. Personally, though, I’ll be hoping his next book takes me back to the courtroom.
The story follows a young couple whose honeymoon in France takes a very unexpected and dangerous turn, setting in motion an international investigation involving intelligence agencies and a young lawyer who finds himself drawn into something far bigger than he could have imagined.
There’s plenty here that will be familiar to Grisham fans. His writing is as readable as ever, the story moves along at a good pace, and he has that ability to make you keep turning the pages even when you’re not completely invested in where the story is going.
For me, though, The French Illusion never quite lived up to my expectations. I was particularly interested to see what Grisham would do with an espionage/spy thriller, but ultimately I found myself missing the legal element that I’ve always enjoyed so much in his books. While this is certainly an enjoyable and easy-to-read thriller, it didn’t have quite the same impact on me as his legal novels.
That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy it. There are plenty of twists, intrigue and suspense, and Grisham’s trademark storytelling makes it a very accessible read. I just found myself comparing it to his legal thrillers, and for me, that’s where it fell slightly short.
As a long-time Grisham fan, I’m glad I read it, and I’d certainly recommend it to anyone who enjoys his writing or is looking for a straightforward espionage thriller. Personally, though, I’ll be hoping his next book takes me back to the courtroom.
October 1, 2026
I’ve been a fan of John Grisham for years, so I was excited to see him step outside his usual legal-thriller territory. This time, he takes us into the world of espionage and international terrorism, and I was completely hooked.
The story begins with newlyweds on their honeymoon in Paris who are suddenly kidnapped and separated. What follows is a tense, fast-moving mystery that kept me questioning what was really happening and where the story was headed. As more pieces of the puzzle come together, the situation becomes even more unsettling and honestly, it feels like something that could actually happen which made it all the more suspenseful and scary.
There were plenty of twists and turns, and I found myself wanting to keep reading just to see how everything would unfold. Definitely a different side of Grisham, but one I really enjoyed!
🎙Narrator Spotlight: Michael Beck has a steady, engaging delivery really suited for this suspenseful story. He kept the pace moving and made it easy to stay immersed in the twists and turns. Beck has narrated many of Grisham’s books, and his familiar style felt like a natural fit for this one.
The story begins with newlyweds on their honeymoon in Paris who are suddenly kidnapped and separated. What follows is a tense, fast-moving mystery that kept me questioning what was really happening and where the story was headed. As more pieces of the puzzle come together, the situation becomes even more unsettling and honestly, it feels like something that could actually happen which made it all the more suspenseful and scary.
There were plenty of twists and turns, and I found myself wanting to keep reading just to see how everything would unfold. Definitely a different side of Grisham, but one I really enjoyed!
🎙Narrator Spotlight: Michael Beck has a steady, engaging delivery really suited for this suspenseful story. He kept the pace moving and made it easy to stay immersed in the twists and turns. Beck has narrated many of Grisham’s books, and his familiar style felt like a natural fit for this one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Grisham deviates from the legal thriller genre and delves into international espionage to highlight actions the United States has taken in the fight against terrorism. The French Illusion lays bare some not-so-palatable methods employed by countries, including the United States, in the name of counterterrorism. At times, a disturbing read, it is both informative and frightening.
Paul and Chelsea Tanner are on their honeymoon in Paris when they are abducted and held for ransom. Their parents, who pay the ransom, are told not to contact the police or FBI, but when the kidnappers renege on their promises, all bets are off. The FBI, CIA, and French intelligence get involved. The agencies discover that this is not the first American honeymoon couple to be abducted in Paris; indeed, it has happened two previous times, with similar results. Seeking to find a common bond in the kidnappings, they find that the three men are former military personnel who were deployed when the US was seeking Al-Qaeda terrorists. The CIA decides to send a couple undercover to try and get some leads on the location of the abductees. Carefully chosen, the pair are CIA operative Rae Claire Russo and former JAG lawyer Stuart Nash, who hope to convince the kidnappers that they are the real deal.
This is a suspenseful novel that highlights the moral dilemma faced by countries dealing with terrorism: how to identify the terrorists and what methods are allowed during interrogation. How far is too far? Grisham does a good job of describing the ordeal of the kidnap victims and the motive of the kidnapper, such that I was left pondering whose actions were more justified. There is an e-short, The Law Student, that is a prequel to this book. 4/5 stars.
Thank you, NetGalley and Doubleday, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The publication date is September 29, 2026.
Paul and Chelsea Tanner are on their honeymoon in Paris when they are abducted and held for ransom. Their parents, who pay the ransom, are told not to contact the police or FBI, but when the kidnappers renege on their promises, all bets are off. The FBI, CIA, and French intelligence get involved. The agencies discover that this is not the first American honeymoon couple to be abducted in Paris; indeed, it has happened two previous times, with similar results. Seeking to find a common bond in the kidnappings, they find that the three men are former military personnel who were deployed when the US was seeking Al-Qaeda terrorists. The CIA decides to send a couple undercover to try and get some leads on the location of the abductees. Carefully chosen, the pair are CIA operative Rae Claire Russo and former JAG lawyer Stuart Nash, who hope to convince the kidnappers that they are the real deal.
This is a suspenseful novel that highlights the moral dilemma faced by countries dealing with terrorism: how to identify the terrorists and what methods are allowed during interrogation. How far is too far? Grisham does a good job of describing the ordeal of the kidnap victims and the motive of the kidnapper, such that I was left pondering whose actions were more justified. There is an e-short, The Law Student, that is a prequel to this book. 4/5 stars.
Thank you, NetGalley and Doubleday, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The publication date is September 29, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Paul and Chelsea’s dream honeymoon to Paris is brutally interrupted when they are kidnapped and held for ransom. It is an unimaginable nightmare for them and their families. As numerous international agencies become involved in the search for them, it is revealed that they are not the only young couple to have been kidnapped while honeymooning in Paris.
International suspense is not my usual genre of choice, but Grisham is such a talented storyteller that I couldn’t put this riveting narrative down. The fast-paced, short chapters and masterful plot kept me engaged from beginning to end.
While there are some descriptions of torture, if they trigger a warning for you, do what I do and skim over them. The ending did feel a bit abrupt, but after this tense and emotionally charged journey, it was acceptable.
Without giving away any spoilers, this book reminds us that even though they may be unrelated to you in your everyday life, your government’s actions have consequences.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @DoubledayBooks for the DRC.
International suspense is not my usual genre of choice, but Grisham is such a talented storyteller that I couldn’t put this riveting narrative down. The fast-paced, short chapters and masterful plot kept me engaged from beginning to end.
While there are some descriptions of torture, if they trigger a warning for you, do what I do and skim over them. The ending did feel a bit abrupt, but after this tense and emotionally charged journey, it was acceptable.
Without giving away any spoilers, this book reminds us that even though they may be unrelated to you in your everyday life, your government’s actions have consequences.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @DoubledayBooks for the DRC.
October 4, 2026
Paul and Chelsea, newlyweds, are enjoying a Paris honeymoon when they are kidnapped and kept separate from each other. Soon each set of their parents are contacted to pay a $2 million dollar ransom and to not contact the authorities. We learn that over the past three years there is a pattern of kidnapped honeymooners in Paris with the same criminal actions and the exact same ransom demand. In the previous cases the women were released but the men are still missing and all of them have inactive military backgrounds. This is all you need to know going into this pulse pounding thriller as the CIA and FBI struggle to find a trail linking these kidnappings. A trap is set with a decoy couple pretending to be Paris honeymooners in the hopes that it will lead to finding the missing men. This story reads like an action filled screenplay and would be an exciting film or mini series. I enjoyed this complex, suspenseful and engrossing thriller.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, John Grisham and Hodder & Stoughton for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Paul and Chelsea Tanner should be enjoying the start of their new life together. Fresh from their fairytale wedding, they head to Paris for their honeymoon, only for everything to take a terrifying turn when they're brutally kidnapped during a day trip into the French countryside.
As the investigation unfolds, it quickly becomes clear this isn't an isolated crime. The search for answers stretches across borders, bringing the FBI, CIA and French intelligence together in an increasingly complex hunt for those responsible.
This isn't your typical John Grisham legal thriller, but honestly, that's part of what I enjoyed about it. The French Illusion leans more into espionage, kidnapping and international intrigue, with a diverse cast of characters and plenty of moving parts to keep track of.
It's also an incredibly easy book to get through. I read it over just a few days because it held my attention and I always wanted to know where things were heading next. The suspense builds well, and for the most part, the story keeps moving at a good pace.
If I had one criticism, it's that the final 20% felt a little rushed as everything headed towards its conclusion. There were also a few things that felt left open or unresolved, at least in my mind. Whether that's intentional and means this could be the start of a series, I'm not sure, but it definitely left me wondering.
Overall, though, this was a suspenseful and entertaining departure from Grisham's usual legal thrillers. Despite a slightly rushed ending, it kept me hooked and eager to see how everything would play out.
Publication Day 29 September, 2026
#TheFrenchIllusion #JohnGrisham #NetGalley
Paul and Chelsea Tanner should be enjoying the start of their new life together. Fresh from their fairytale wedding, they head to Paris for their honeymoon, only for everything to take a terrifying turn when they're brutally kidnapped during a day trip into the French countryside.
As the investigation unfolds, it quickly becomes clear this isn't an isolated crime. The search for answers stretches across borders, bringing the FBI, CIA and French intelligence together in an increasingly complex hunt for those responsible.
This isn't your typical John Grisham legal thriller, but honestly, that's part of what I enjoyed about it. The French Illusion leans more into espionage, kidnapping and international intrigue, with a diverse cast of characters and plenty of moving parts to keep track of.
It's also an incredibly easy book to get through. I read it over just a few days because it held my attention and I always wanted to know where things were heading next. The suspense builds well, and for the most part, the story keeps moving at a good pace.
If I had one criticism, it's that the final 20% felt a little rushed as everything headed towards its conclusion. There were also a few things that felt left open or unresolved, at least in my mind. Whether that's intentional and means this could be the start of a series, I'm not sure, but it definitely left me wondering.
Overall, though, this was a suspenseful and entertaining departure from Grisham's usual legal thrillers. Despite a slightly rushed ending, it kept me hooked and eager to see how everything would play out.
Publication Day 29 September, 2026
#TheFrenchIllusion #JohnGrisham #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The French Illusion by John Grisham
Believe it or not, I had never read a Grisham novel until this one, so I have nothing to compare it to. The description of the plot of The French Illusion intrigued me, so I decided, why not?
Chelsea and Paul Tanner are newlyweds on their honeymoon in Paris when they are snatched off the street during a day trip. They are separated and literally kept in the dark. Back home, Chelsea’s parents are notified but are told not to notify the Tanners or the FBI – or else! Eventually, the ransom demand arrives for Chelsea. Where is Paul? Is he even alive?
In alternating chapters, readers are privy to Paul’s whereabouts, and we eventually learn of their backgrounds and motives. The Tanners desperately want to see their son again and sacrifice greatly to raise the ransom money, which is loaned to them by Chelsea’s parents. Eventually, the FBI, and ultimately, the CIA, and the French become involved, and from there, the planning becomes quite intricate and dangerous.
I found the first two parts of the book to be quite detailed, overly so, although the chapters are short and for the most part, held my interest. The final section is a whirlwind of planning, training, and action. It seemed rushed and a bit unreal to me. Overall, however, the story was entertaining and held my interest. I kept thinking that it would make a good movie.
I received a digital copy of The French Illusion as an ARC. My thoughts and opinions are my own. Thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday.
4 stars
Believe it or not, I had never read a Grisham novel until this one, so I have nothing to compare it to. The description of the plot of The French Illusion intrigued me, so I decided, why not?
Chelsea and Paul Tanner are newlyweds on their honeymoon in Paris when they are snatched off the street during a day trip. They are separated and literally kept in the dark. Back home, Chelsea’s parents are notified but are told not to notify the Tanners or the FBI – or else! Eventually, the ransom demand arrives for Chelsea. Where is Paul? Is he even alive?
In alternating chapters, readers are privy to Paul’s whereabouts, and we eventually learn of their backgrounds and motives. The Tanners desperately want to see their son again and sacrifice greatly to raise the ransom money, which is loaned to them by Chelsea’s parents. Eventually, the FBI, and ultimately, the CIA, and the French become involved, and from there, the planning becomes quite intricate and dangerous.
I found the first two parts of the book to be quite detailed, overly so, although the chapters are short and for the most part, held my interest. The final section is a whirlwind of planning, training, and action. It seemed rushed and a bit unreal to me. Overall, however, the story was entertaining and held my interest. I kept thinking that it would make a good movie.
I received a digital copy of The French Illusion as an ARC. My thoughts and opinions are my own. Thanks to NetGalley and Doubleday.
4 stars
August 26, 2026
This was awful. I’ll write an actual review later, but it seems to me the author did not care about this book. It could have been a powerful critique of the US treatment of prisoners in Afghanistan and Guantanamo, but no character is 3/4 fleshed out. The parents of the first kidnap victim we encounter and spend a lot of time with initially are GenXers but somehow without any understanding of technology, and their dialogue is unreal and flat.
There is so much toxic male energy in the last half of the book. The ending was rushed—just tacked on.
I think it’s my last Grisham.
There is so much toxic male energy in the last half of the book. The ending was rushed—just tacked on.
I think it’s my last Grisham.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The French Illusion
My first criticism would be the title. No way does it fit the story that follows. It happens in some parts of France, but in other places as well. And it isn’t an illusion; it’s a story of revenge. A better title might be Guantanamo Revenge.
There is a good story, but it gets confusing because it is hard to tell who the main character is, since several characters narrate their parts. I know that’s a popular thing to do, and I have no problem when an author has more than one POV character as long as I can tell who the most important character is.
I wouldn’t have minded if Nabeed had been the main character, or if it should have been Paul and told in third person. There are also two or more places in the story where the same information was given exactly the same way, and that was unnecessary; of course, a good editor can fix that.
The ending also fell flat. Paul and Chelsea started the story, and throughout the book we knew what was happening with them; they should have been the last characters we saw, rather than Rae, Claire, and Stuart, who are going to stay married. Even the rescue of all the men is confusing and lacks excitement.
Maybe Grisham should stick to what he writes well: legal thrillers.
My first criticism would be the title. No way does it fit the story that follows. It happens in some parts of France, but in other places as well. And it isn’t an illusion; it’s a story of revenge. A better title might be Guantanamo Revenge.
There is a good story, but it gets confusing because it is hard to tell who the main character is, since several characters narrate their parts. I know that’s a popular thing to do, and I have no problem when an author has more than one POV character as long as I can tell who the most important character is.
I wouldn’t have minded if Nabeed had been the main character, or if it should have been Paul and told in third person. There are also two or more places in the story where the same information was given exactly the same way, and that was unnecessary; of course, a good editor can fix that.
The ending also fell flat. Paul and Chelsea started the story, and throughout the book we knew what was happening with them; they should have been the last characters we saw, rather than Rae, Claire, and Stuart, who are going to stay married. Even the rescue of all the men is confusing and lacks excitement.
Maybe Grisham should stick to what he writes well: legal thrillers.
June 25, 2026
Thank you to Doubleday and NetGalley for this ARC in return for my unbiased feedback.
3.5 stars. First off, I am gonna give kudos for using the term “boondoggle,” which I haven’t heard forever and had me giggling for days!!
I enjoyed this departure from typical Grisham style. As he ages he seems to be exploring new areas and I applaud him for that. I like this type of storyline/sub-genre. The pacing throughout was a bit uneven … it’d start moving and then slow down again. So it took me about a week to get through, normally I finish a book in 2-4 days.
I enjoyed the second half a lot more, with the addition of the second couple. I was much more interested in their storyline and the last 10% was the best part of the book and I wish that had been more of a focus, it felt somewhat rushed.
Overall solid effort and I hope Grisham explores more novels like this!
3.5 stars. First off, I am gonna give kudos for using the term “boondoggle,” which I haven’t heard forever and had me giggling for days!!
I enjoyed this departure from typical Grisham style. As he ages he seems to be exploring new areas and I applaud him for that. I like this type of storyline/sub-genre. The pacing throughout was a bit uneven … it’d start moving and then slow down again. So it took me about a week to get through, normally I finish a book in 2-4 days.
I enjoyed the second half a lot more, with the addition of the second couple. I was much more interested in their storyline and the last 10% was the best part of the book and I wish that had been more of a focus, it felt somewhat rushed.
Overall solid effort and I hope Grisham explores more novels like this!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Chelsea and Paul really went to Paris thinking their biggest problem would be choosing between another croissant or another glass of wine, and instead they accidentally wandered into the kind of nightmare that makes you want to delete every vacation photo you've ever posted. I spent the first few chapters thinking, "Well that's horrifying," and then somehow it just kept getting worse. These poor people could not catch a single break.
The thing that got me was how fast everyone's lives exploded. One minute both families are still smiling through wedding photos, and the next they're trying to scrape together millions of dollars while being told not to call the authorities. Every parent in this book immediately entered that terrifying mode where they'd sell the house, the car, probably a kidney, if it meant getting their kid back. It stopped feeling like a thriller for a minute and just felt painfully human.
Then the alphabet agencies showed up, and suddenly it was FBI, CIA, French Intelligence, everybody walking into meetings looking exhausted and carrying folders full of increasingly terrible news. I loved how every time someone thought they'd finally figured out what was happening, another piece slid into place and made the whole thing even bigger. It felt like watching one loose thread unravel an entire sweater.
And can we talk about the lawyer who gets recruited to become bait? Sir. Absolutely not. I would have changed my name, moved to another continent, and pretended I'd never heard the word "Paris." Meanwhile this man gets pulled into a plan that sounds like it came from someone who starts every sentence with, "Now hear me out..." Somehow I bought into every ridiculous minute of it because everyone involved was acting like failure simply wasn't an option.
For all the international spy games and operations, the moments that stuck with me were quieter. Chelsea carrying the weight of surviving while Paul was still missing. Families trapped between hope and dread because they couldn't do anything except wait for the phone to ring. There's something especially cruel about not knowing. That uncertainty hangs over everyone long after the action moves somewhere else.
I also appreciated that nobody came across like an untouchable action hero. People made mistakes. Agencies disagreed. Plans changed. Everyone was operating with incomplete information while trying to outthink people who'd been planning this for years. It made the whole thing feel less like a fantasy and more like watching very smart people desperately trying to stay one move behind until they could finally get ahead.
By the end I realized I'd spent the entire book mentally packing a suitcase for absolutely nowhere. Paris can keep its romance for a little while. I'll admire it from my couch, where the most dangerous thing happening is me ordering takeout. This landed at a solid 4 stars because once everything started moving, I kept telling myself "one more chapter," which is always a lie.
Whodunity Award: For Making Me Want to Turn Off Location Services, Delete My Vacation Posts, and Honeymoon Somewhere With Terrible Cell Service
And thank you to Doubleday Books and NetGalley for the ARC. Next time you hand me a romantic trip to Paris, maybe leave out the international kidnapping conspiracy. Actually...don't. Apparently I read those in one sitting.
The thing that got me was how fast everyone's lives exploded. One minute both families are still smiling through wedding photos, and the next they're trying to scrape together millions of dollars while being told not to call the authorities. Every parent in this book immediately entered that terrifying mode where they'd sell the house, the car, probably a kidney, if it meant getting their kid back. It stopped feeling like a thriller for a minute and just felt painfully human.
Then the alphabet agencies showed up, and suddenly it was FBI, CIA, French Intelligence, everybody walking into meetings looking exhausted and carrying folders full of increasingly terrible news. I loved how every time someone thought they'd finally figured out what was happening, another piece slid into place and made the whole thing even bigger. It felt like watching one loose thread unravel an entire sweater.
And can we talk about the lawyer who gets recruited to become bait? Sir. Absolutely not. I would have changed my name, moved to another continent, and pretended I'd never heard the word "Paris." Meanwhile this man gets pulled into a plan that sounds like it came from someone who starts every sentence with, "Now hear me out..." Somehow I bought into every ridiculous minute of it because everyone involved was acting like failure simply wasn't an option.
For all the international spy games and operations, the moments that stuck with me were quieter. Chelsea carrying the weight of surviving while Paul was still missing. Families trapped between hope and dread because they couldn't do anything except wait for the phone to ring. There's something especially cruel about not knowing. That uncertainty hangs over everyone long after the action moves somewhere else.
I also appreciated that nobody came across like an untouchable action hero. People made mistakes. Agencies disagreed. Plans changed. Everyone was operating with incomplete information while trying to outthink people who'd been planning this for years. It made the whole thing feel less like a fantasy and more like watching very smart people desperately trying to stay one move behind until they could finally get ahead.
By the end I realized I'd spent the entire book mentally packing a suitcase for absolutely nowhere. Paris can keep its romance for a little while. I'll admire it from my couch, where the most dangerous thing happening is me ordering takeout. This landed at a solid 4 stars because once everything started moving, I kept telling myself "one more chapter," which is always a lie.
Whodunity Award: For Making Me Want to Turn Off Location Services, Delete My Vacation Posts, and Honeymoon Somewhere With Terrible Cell Service
And thank you to Doubleday Books and NetGalley for the ARC. Next time you hand me a romantic trip to Paris, maybe leave out the international kidnapping conspiracy. Actually...don't. Apparently I read those in one sitting.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Chelsea and Paul Tanner are in Paris enjoying their honeymoon. While traveling in a taxi, they are drugged, kidnapped, separated, and taken to an unknown location. Their parents receive demands for $2 million each to secure their release. The families soon learn that there have been other American couples kidnapped in the same way. The kidnappers have motives beyond merely obtaining ransom money; they seek revenge. But for what? Once the FBI, CIA, and French Intelligence become involved, a very risky plan is devised to rescue the people who have been kidnapped.
John Grisham explores new ground with The French Illusion. This gripping, fast-paced thriller was highly entertaining and difficult to put down.
Many thanks to Doubleday for the gifted advance.
4.25 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
John Grisham explores new ground with The French Illusion. This gripping, fast-paced thriller was highly entertaining and difficult to put down.
Many thanks to Doubleday for the gifted advance.
4.25 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Paul and Chelsea Tanner are enjoying their honeymoon in Paris, and then everything goes wrong. They are kidnapped by terrorists who contact their families, demanding large amounts of money, with the stipulation that they cannot contact the FBI or police, or Paul and Chelsea will die. This is just part of the story. These men have done this before, and one of them is bent on revenge, and every one of the male hostages has been in the U.S. military.
This was a compelling thriller, and a return to the Grisham of old. I was engaged in the story quickly and finished it in less than a day. The plot is more complex than a simple kidnapping, and there are layers to the story. Waterboarding and other tortures are vividly described, pointing to meticulous research. The kidnapping methods are clever, original, and well thought out, and the ending is worth the wait. The thoughts of the characters, especially Paul and the mastermind Nabid, are believable and intriguing. Fans of Grisham and thrillers will like this one. 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5 on sites with no half-star option.
I received a free copy of this book from Doubleday via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
This was a compelling thriller, and a return to the Grisham of old. I was engaged in the story quickly and finished it in less than a day. The plot is more complex than a simple kidnapping, and there are layers to the story. Waterboarding and other tortures are vividly described, pointing to meticulous research. The kidnapping methods are clever, original, and well thought out, and the ending is worth the wait. The thoughts of the characters, especially Paul and the mastermind Nabid, are believable and intriguing. Fans of Grisham and thrillers will like this one. 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5 on sites with no half-star option.
I received a free copy of this book from Doubleday via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
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