ON THE RUN

Hollywood's action-film formula insists on an explosive shoot-'em-up sequence within the first two minutes, and Iris Johansen obliges. This action/romance, tailor-made for the movies, starts with a bang and doesn't let up until its predictable conclusion. It tells the story of Grace Archer, ex-CIA operative and horse whisperer, and her 8-year-old daughter, on the run from a malevolent force named Marvot. Nicely read by Jennifer Van Dyck, the novel unfolds as believably as possible, given the book's dependence on coincidence and improbability. Still, Van Dyck's lively narration makes kidnapping, sandstorms, buried treasure, murder, and mayhem unfold like an escapist's dream matinee at the local Bijou. Not great literature, but still great fun. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 06]