A Book A Week

Sometimes, a fast-paced, absorbing story is just what the doctor ordered. While I love intricate plots and well-drawn characters, every so often, I crave a book that lets me unwind and dive into pure, effortless escapism. This week, I needed that, and no one delivers on this front quite like James Patterson. His updated take on the classic hero Doc Savage in Murder Island was the perfect, easy page-turner I hoped for.

Professor Brant "Doc" Savage and his girlfriend, Kira Sunlight, think they've found paradise on a secluded island, hoping for a much-needed escape from their crime-fighting exploits. But their peace is short-lived. In a brutal ambush, the two are torn apart and transported to opposite corners of the world. Doc, determined to reunite with Kira, embarks on a relentless quest, traveling across the Brazilian coast, through northern Europe, and into the depths of the Congo jungle. He faces ruthless adversaries along the way and uncovers a sprawling global conspiracy, forcing him back into a world of danger he thought he’d left behind.

In Murder Island, James Patterson and Brian Sitts set out to revitalize the classic action hero Doc Savage, giving him a new series for modern readers. As the second installment, diving in without reading the first book is easy. The story stands well on its own. Doc Savage himself isn’t exactly a nuanced character—he’s the archetype of every action hero rolled into one, with flawless looks, a razor-sharp mind, and an unwavering moral compass. As for the plot, it’s a whirlwind, taking readers to far-flung locations and into over-the-top scenarios. I found myself eagerly flipping pages, hooked by the sheer energy of it all. It’s unapologetically pulp thriller fare, perfect for those looking to escape into fast-paced action. While it’s not the most memorable read, Murder Island never pretends to be anything more than escapist fun—and it delivers precisely that.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 84)