Article and Interview by Elise Cooper
The Escape by Lisa Harris brings to life the world of a U.S. Marshal. The book has non-stop action as the Marshals try to figure out the bad guy’s next move, with most of the story about a criminal on the run. Harris does a great job of showing how the Marshals would hunt for an escaped convict and what the criminal does to avoid them.
The story begins with US Marshals Madison James and Jonas Quinn transporting two prisoners across the country on a private small plane. The plane experiences engine trouble and the pilots crash-land in the heart of the Salmon-Challis National Forest. After Madison and Jonas regain consciousness, they find everyone dead except one of the prisoners. To find him they must negotiate the rugged and remote backcountry through Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado. Both the Marshals and the fugitive play a dangerous cat and mouse game to bring him back to justice.
This story is very suspenseful and is an edge of the seat thriller. Readers will not want to put it down so when they start, they should make sure there is plenty of time to finish it in one sitting.
Elise Cooper: Why the US Marshals?
Lisa Harris: I wanted to do something different. I found this occupation really interesting. This is the first book in a new three book series where each book will have a different plot.
EC: Will there be an over-riding arc?
LH: Yes, it will go through all three books. They are trying to find out who killed the heroine’s husband and why is the killer leaving a black rose.
EC: Did you do any research?
LH: I did some on the Internet, spoke with a source, and read a book written by a US Marshal as well as using a lot of imagination. I found that there are so many different aspects to their duties that include witness protection, finding a fugitive, transporting prisoners, and guarding people.
EC: You have the heroine saying she might move to Portland Oregon. Why would anyone want to move there?
LH: LOL. I actually grew up there. Since I wrote the story Seattle and Portland have changed a lot. I do have a lot of good memories, but would not move there at this time, although my roots are on the West Coast.
EC: How would you describe the heroine, Madison?
LH: Strong, vulnerable, determined, focused, patient, and guarded. She reads people well.
EC: How would you describe the hero, Jonas?
LH: He wants to make the world better. He hides his hurt with his work actions. Jonas is a good listener, a loner, and very dedicated.
EC: How would you describe the relationship?
LH: They are able to heal each other from the hurting. Right now, both are taking it very cautiously. Both know what it is like to fall in love and lose that person; although each did it in different ways. She lost her husband, and he had an issue with his girlfriend so neither were looking for a relationship at this time. I want to explore the relationship over a longer period of time. They do have a lot in common and understand each other.
EC: The bad guy had women attracted to him?
LH: Yes-he is very manipulative and charming. These women knew he was accused of doing some bad stuff and had no business in helping him. They felt he offered them something they needed. It is very sad, but definitely a reality.
EC: What about the setting?
LH: I chose a place like Idaho because it is very remote. I actually took that train that was in the story. I wanted to write places they would travel that I know about. I think the places chosen can set the tone including the weather, harsh wilderness, and places they cannot really get help except for those people who lived off the grid.
EC: I like to ask authors about what they write in the book. Did you ever experience harsh turbulence?
LH: Yes, but on a large plane not a small plane.
EC: What about snakes?
LH: I am not afraid of them but would like to avoid them.
EC: What about the food favorites?
LH: I never tried hot dogs with cream cheese but know it is a Seattle cuisine food. I do love clam chowder soup. My dad would bring in crabs from the ocean. I would love it.
EC: What about the TV shows?
LH: I watched all the Castle episodes and my mom is a fan of Gunsmoke.
EC: Can you give a shout out about your next book?
LH: It will be out in July and is titled The Chase. It will continue the backstory on Madison’s husband being killed. The plot has them searching for four bank robbers. I am also working on a novella where Madison and Jonas first met. It can possibly come out the beginning of next year.
EC: THANK YOU!!
Thanks so much for taking the time to interview me about The Escape! Happy reading!