The Big Picture

I could not put this book down. Ben Bradford is masterfully drawn, and I found myself rooting for him even as he goes about covering up his crime. The plot unfurls seamlessly and the suspense builds up in every page. I can't understand why I was able to buy this for $2.50, let alone why it has not yet been made into a major film - or have I missed something? An absolutely fabulous read.

I have read this book several times, every time I am faced with a major choice in my life. I love the way that making choices so often have unintended consequences, and I love how the plot unfurls. I have bought copies for many friends, and they have all loved it too.

It doesn't take much to turn one's life from an idyllic existence to a nightmare. One wrong decision, a stupid action, something spoken out loud on impulse, can bring the wrath of fate tumbling upon you. But the question must be asked, when fate decides to throw a curve ball in your direction, do you face and suffer the consequences, or run and hide, begin a new life and hope against hope that you'll not be found out? This is the basic theme in Kennedy's renowned novel, The Big Picture. Ben Bradford apparently has it all - a partnership in a distinguished Manhattan law firm, a beautiful house in Connecticut, a pretty wife and two small children. He has enough money to spend without any thought about budgeting. As a wannabe photographer, he has a state of the art dark room in his house, over forty thousand dollars worth of camera equipment and the time to pursue this hobby. Despite seemingly having it all, Mr. Bradford is dreadfully unhappy. The relationship with his beautiful wife is on tenterhooks at best, as they haven't slept together for over a year. He suspects she is having an affair, and his suspicions turn out to be true. The actions he takes in response to this infidelity have dire consequences. Ben's life changes forever, but where does it lead, and can he live with himself and achieve some modicum of happiness? The Bid Picture is one of the most original thrillers to come out in years. The reading experience will have your palms in a sweat and your heart racing from the beginning. In spite of the protagonist's actions, Kennedy ensures we have great empathy for the character. We want him to get away with it, but will he get away with it and for what price? For me this book was a pleasurable surprise, as I would have never picked it up unless it was recommended to me. If you want a completely enthralling read that is guaranteed to keep you reading into the dead of night, read The Big Picture - a class act in every way.

Though I've read this book a few months ago I'm just now reviewing it. If you're looking for a fast moving page turner, this is the book for you! Doug Kennedy has you hooked from the opening chapter. Ben & Beth Bradford live in the typical yuppie setting, a big house in Connecticut, a beautiful baby son & all the trappings of wealth. From the beginning it becomes clear that Beth is a cold fish, and whenever Ben tries to talk things over with her she's not interested. Before long Ben realizes she is cheating on him, but with whom? When he finds out, he has a confrontation with this man that will drastically change the course of his life. Ben winds up on the run, changing his identity in the process and the action never lets up. Very highly recommended, along with Kennedy's next novel, The Job.

I purchased this book in hardback when it first came out,and stayed up all night to finish it in one day! I could not put it down. Others complain that the ending was weak, but I found it fairly typical of books such as this one(filled with lots of action, suspense, and plot twists). People say the same thing about John Grisham's novels ( weak ending). However, as a reader of all of Grisham's books, I must say, THE BIG PICTURE really stands out, in a sea of books that all seem to run together lately.(sorry John) I just cannot say enough good things about this book. I can't believe it has not been made into a movie yet. It would be great. My husband, who hates to read, recently listened to it on tape while traveling. He loved it too. He talked about it non-stop when he returned. I am still hoping for a movie, but until then, I may just read it again. It really is THAT good.