3 out of 4 stars
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Escape by Belle Ami is as much a steamy romance novel as it is a tale of espionage. Layla, a Harvard doctoral student, finds herself part of a terrifying abduction while vacationing in Dubai with her boyfriend. The young couple are separated and Layla is sent to prison in Tehran, a terrifying place where conditions are substandard and the threat to Layla’s life is ever present. Luckily, Layla’s father is well connected and with the help of the Israeli prime minister, puts events in motion to save Layla’s life. Cyrus, an Iranian spy with a dark past, is sent to rescue the American student. Cyrus and Layla’s escape from Iran will be far from easy as they must evade their many pursuers and uncover each other’s true intentions.
Escape is a fast paced, erotic thriller; the combination of the two genres makes for an exhilarating and titillating read. Layla’s naivety coupled with Cyrus’ brooding personality and dedication to his job as a spy, keep the reader guessing as to how the unlikely pair will not only get along, but do so while trying to escape from their terrifying predicament. This book is hard to put down; the author keeps the story moving as the pair jump from one frightening situation to the next. Further, the chemistry between Layla and Cyrus is apparent and adds an emotional element to the fast moving story.
The main characters, Layla and Cyrus, were the most enjoyable aspects of Escape. Both character’s had satisfying backstories and agreeable personalities. The tension between the two was not only well developed but also believable. The relationship could easily have read as unrealistic given the imbalance of power between the two; luckily, the author expertly avoids such a stereotype. In addition to the skillful development of the characters, the story was even more enjoyable because each character, even secondary characters, had purpose; none felt trivial or unimportant. This was essential as it aided in making an incredibly shocking twist about Cyrus’ past both plausible and exciting.
Once the main climax is resolved, the novel takes a seemingly domestic turn. Unfortunately, this turn felt predictable and the later parts of the book lacked the tension and anticipation felt throughout the earlier sections. Overall, the ending felt unsatisfying and took away from the climactic events surrounding Layla’s capture and subsequent attempts to escape.
Escape is a fun, fast paced thriller that many readers will enjoy. I rate Escape 3 out of 4 stars. If not for the predictable and lackluster turn towards the end, I would have happily rated this book higher. Fans of erotic thrillers will surely find enjoyment in this book. It is important to note the book contains graphic sexual scenes and may only be appropriate for a mature audience.
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Escape
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