ESCAPE is the third instalment in James Patterson and David Ellis’ series featuring Billy Harney, a Chicago detective who works in an elite unit that focuses exclusively on what are called "heater" cases, those high-publicity crimes that lead the evening news broadcasts.
In the two earlier books, The Black Book and The Red Book, Billy has had to endure the death of his wife, as well as that of his partner, and the imprisonment of his father, also a Chicago police officer. These unfortunate events all play a part in this new book, Escape.
The book will require greater focus and attention since there is no pausing of events, as they unfold simultaneously, and many people are appearing after various stories.
It begins with the Chicago PD searching for a kidnapping victim. The action is high octane, and Patterson and Ellis use the investigation to introduce Billy to readers and give them a thorough tour of the Windy City and its suburbs as well. Interestingly, the authors portray their protagonist as an officer who would make Chicago proud. Hard-working and honest to a fault, he cannot be bought but is willing to circumvent procedures and policies that he believes would prevent justice from being administered.
The cast of villains includes a sadistic sexual predator and an evil billionaire who believes his money can protect him from the criminal justice system. There is also a street gang whose members have infiltrated every aspect of Chicago life. While there are quite a few stereotypes here, the storyline still has some interesting twists, turns and tumbles. In the end, the good guys come out all right and the evil ones have to pay for their crime.
If you are looking for a fast-paced and easy-to-read novel with plenty of twists and turns that will keep you intrigued, then Escape is a good choice. The short chapters, the way all the mysterious parts come together gradually and the charming lead character will hold your attention till the end.
Another one of Patterson and Ellis' joint efforts that offers an exciting read.