cover image New York to Dallas

New York to Dallas

J.D. Robb. Putnam, $27.95 (416p) ISBN 978-0-399-15778-3

Bestseller Robb breaks with one tradition in her 34th Eve Dallas novel (after Treachery in Death); "Death" is not part of the title, but otherwise she delivers precisely the kind of rapid-fire thrust and parry action fans expect from the near-future New York Police and Security Dept. homicide lieutenant. Serial rapist/murderer Isaac McQueen (aka "the Collector"), the first major bust of Dallas's when she was a rookie, escapes from New York City's Rikers Island prison complex 12 years into his life sentence and immediately resumes his depredations on young girls. McQueen uses a hostage to force Dallas to travel to Dallas, Tex., the site of her own horrific childhood, where he has prepared surprises for her. Working with the FBI, the Dallas PSD, and husband Roarke, Dallas leads the effort to recapture the wily McQueen. The deadly chess game between Dallas and McQueen plays out against multiple backgrounds, including shocking revelations from Dallas's past and the complex, passionate relationship of Roarke and Dallas. (Sept.)