Runner by Patrick Lee

A review by Jessica Coles

Runner, the newest novel by Patrick Lee, will not disappoint fans of his previous trilogy, The Breach, Ghost Country and Deep Sky.  Lee has an amazing ability to capture the reader from the first page.  His writing takes ahold and refuses to let go – the only way out is to finish his book.  Runner is a science fiction, mystery, conspiracy novel and crime thriller all wrapped into one.

Lost in thoughts of the ghosts that haunt him, Sam Dryden is on his nightly jog when he is jolted from his reverie by a terrified girl and the men chasing her. As the chase begins, Sam must make decide in an instant whom to believe, whom to help and how far he is willing to aid a stranger while knowing nothing about her.

Thus the story expands to include Rachel.  Rachel knows she must escape from the men chasing her – but why?   She can only remember the last two months.  Before that there is only darkness.  She must find the reasons behind the pursuit and decide whom she can trust without the benefit of knowing anyone – only that someone is trying to kill her and keep her from remembering her past.

Sam and Rachel quickly see the extent of the power behind the men chasing Rachel. Why are so many people willing to risk everything to silence her? What will happen if she does learn of her past? Who is Rachel?  The only thing that is certain is that no one can be trusted – and that she can see inside the minds of those around her…

From small towns to exotic locations and from the desert to space, Sam and Rachel must answer their own questions.  Where is the line between good and evil? Is love a reason to kill?  Is the desire for freedom an excuse to harm others? How can a person know their thoughts are their own?

Patrick Lee will not disappoint any of his fans with this newest novel and addition to his collection. Runner is a nonstop action novel that refuses to be put down until the last page.