Harlan Coben is an American bestselling author and television host. He attended Amherst College, where he studied political science. However, while in college, he developed an interest in writing. 

After college, Coben began working in the travel industry while writing fiction novels. His breakthrough came with his early novels in the mid-1990s, particularly the Myron Bolitar series, which established him as a major voice in crime fiction. Over time, many of his books were adapted into television shows, expanding his influence beyond print. 

Coben is the host and executive producer of the true-crime documentary series Harlan Coben’s Final Twist on CBS, which premiered in January 2026. It’s the mystery author’s first venture into the true-crime genre. Coben applies his signature narrative style—focused on buried secrets and shocking revelations—to guide viewers through compelling real crime stories, revealing unexpected twists and deeper truths.

Harlan Coben resides in Ridgewood, New Jersey, with his wife, Anne Helen Armstrong, a pediatrician. The couple has four children: Charlotte, Benjamin, Will, and Eve. He maintains a relatively private personal life outside of his public work as a novelist and television personality.