Netflix has kicked off the new year with a gripping addition to its catalogue: the eight-part thriller series 'Run Away', which began streaming on New Year's Day, 1st January. This latest production is the 15th television adaptation of a novel by internationally bestselling crime author Harlan Coben, and early reactions suggest it could rank among his best.
A Desperate Search Turns Deadly
The series centres on Simon, played by James Nesbitt, and his wife, portrayed by Minnie Driver, as parents thrown into nightmare when their daughter Paige (Ellie de Lange) vanishes. A glimmer of hope appears when she is spotted busking in a park, but the situation takes a grim and violent turn when Simon confronts her suspicious boyfriend, Aaron Corval (Thomas Flynn.
The plot thickens when Aaron is later found dead, making Simon the prime suspect in a murder investigation. With Paige missing once more, Simon is forced to fight to clear his name. He enlists the help of private investigator Elena Ravenscroft, brought to life by Ruth Jones, to unravel the deepening mystery.
Meanwhile, Detectives Isaac Fagbenle (Alfred Enoch) and Ruby Todd (Amy Gledhill) are officially on the case, navigating a web of lies and deception.
Praise from Critics and Viewers Alike
Fans of Coben's previous Netflix hits like Fool Me Once will find familiar hallmarks here: nail-biting tension, shocking twists, and clever red herrings. The series has already garnered positive reviews from major publications.
Variety described the show as "mind-bending," noting that "shocking revelations, horrifying cruelty and complex lies engulf the narrative." The review praised the stellar cast and taut pacing for keeping the engaging story on track.
The Independent labelled it satisfying "junk food TV" that delivers thrills in easily digestible portions. The publication highlighted the show's formula of lurching from one twist to another, culminating in a seismic final gut-punch. They also reserved special praise for Nesbitt's central performance, stating he "adds a lacquer of gravitas" with a portrayal haunted by despair yet laced with pitch-black humour.
Audience Reaction and How to Watch
Viewers who have binge-watched the series are equally impressed. On forums like Reddit, one fan called it a "typical [Coben] mystery story with a few plot twists, shocks and red herrings," declaring it perfect for a lazy day. Another stated it was "all I ever want from these Netflix Coben adaptations," while a third hailed it as an "incredible watch."
'Run Away' is available to stream exclusively on Netflix now. For those looking to access Netflix, Sky is currently offering a free subscription with its Sky Stream TV bundles, including its Essential TV plan from £15 a month, which also provides access to other hits like Stranger Things.
With its compelling mystery, strong cast, and the reliable, twist-heavy blueprint of Harlan Coben, 'Run Away' is a strong contender for the top spot on your January watchlist.
