While all genres have the good, the bad, and the how-did-this-get-published, this is perhaps most true of the post-apocalyptic/dystopian genre. There are some truly great ones out there. “Escape,” which is the first book in the Haven Series by Tracy Myhre, recently caught my attention. Let me give you the lowdown on it.
Most post-apocalyptic novels grab our attention with “the big moment.” After all, we can’t have a post-apocalypse without an apocalypse. That moment when our mostly-civilized, convenient world tumbles into something that shakes us to the core, even though it’s been talked about, read about, and (for some) planned for to the point that no one should actually be surprised. Yet they are. Readers are expectant, waiting to discover what form of apocalypse the author will take: nukes? EMPs? Pandemic? Asteroid? Brain-eating zombies? Something completely new???
Ms. Myhre chose to begin her work with a quiet girl named Beth who’s walking down a city street being abused by her inner monologue and doing her best to avoid the fact that it’s her birthday. It doesn’t take long to realize that Beth has some issues related to a past trauma that still haunts her. Interesting. It turns out she suffers greatly because she refuses to process this trauma without blaming herself. While this makes her socially awkward, there is something truly endearing about her as well. We also begin to realize that she has an amazing support group of family and friends. I like Beth. But I am already worried about her.
During this birthday she refuses to acknowledge, a man named Ryker walks into her cousin’s diner where Beth washes dishes. He’s dressed well, but his posture indicates a man whose luck needs to change. It’s just about to. As Ryker sits down at the counter, he spots the beautifully disheveled Beth coming out to bus tables; sweaty face, hair in disarray, and wearing a rubber apron. This is not exactly beauty pageant attire. Yet there’s something about the curvy Beth that has Ryker immediately smitten. I’ll leave the rest of this worthy meet-cute for readers to enjoy on their own.
As we get to know Beth and her family in the first few chapters, we realize a few things. First, Beth is bright and funny, but she can’t get beyond that blasted trauma- she doesn’t think she’s worth it. Second, her family is HUGE and very non-traditional. It’s heavily influenced by the core group of former and current Marines that make up the bulk of the family unit. And these guys have dedicated their lives to protecting their family by preparing them for the potential apocalypse. Calling them preppers would understate their level of commitment. They have prepared into a third generation by teaching their spouses and children how to survive, navigate the land, shoot, farm, hunt, hike, and protect themselves. This is one rugged family unit.
It happens in one blinding moment, as it most likely would;, that moment the world changes. Now these people we’ve only just begun to meet and engage with are setting out in any way they can for the place the family has named Haven. This portion of the book is unsettling and confusing, no doubt intentionally so. Some readers may find this disconcerting. But once the action gets rolling, it’s pretty much a non-stop commuter train. It’s fast-paced, intense, and smart. These characters find themselves in all sorts of untenable positions, but they are extremely prepared, and it’s fascinating to read just how much has gone into preparation for a moment everyone hoped would never happen.
The readers are mostly protected from the grittiest details, which is good, because the bad stuff is truly awful. Murder, rape, and torture just seem to be starting points for the ensuing madness, so be prepared for intensely raw and gritty moments. The main antagonists in “Escape” are a group of felons who have escaped prison in the confusion. These may just be some of the nastiest, most wretched characters I’ve ever encountered. They’re rough, unbound by social constructs, or such annoying little things as a conscience. Truly, this group of humanity’s rejects bring a special brand of mayhem to this story. As if that weren’t enough, just know that the author has no problem killing her darlings, so it’s highly likely you’ll lose some characters you’ve grown attached to.
As the storyline turned from character-building to more of the “run for your lives” chaos, I became engrossed. Beth’s extended family has truly prepared everyone as much as they possibly could. The level of preparation, dedication, and intelligence here is mind-boggling. I don’t want to give any of it away—readers should experience the “wow” factor as the author intended. I’m truly impressed with many things here; the family unit (which is nearly a character in itself), the depth and breadth of this plot, and the balance of light to dark. I love the growth we see in Beth as the story progresses, and the determination of Ryker. The myriad of “uncles” were diverse and fun, with Hoss definitely falling into the position of favorite. While angst is high at times, overall there is a sense of hope. These people are strong and fierce.
Only took an apocalypse for her to agree to date him, but he’s not looking a gift horse in the mouth.
“Escape” by Tracy Myhre is a complex undertaking that allows the reader to experience the despicable lows with the occasional highs that highlight this genre. Emotions will run high throughout the story as we get to know the characters more and more. Readers who are uncomfortable with a large cast of characters may find the first portion of the book daunting as the author attempts to connect us with most of the characters. Honestly, there were times early on when I simply couldn’t keep them all straight and it was frustrating. We don’t begin to engage with the majority of characters until they’re running for their lives.
So, what’s my take on “Escape?” Where does it fall on the “great to no-way” spectrum? Readers who don’t mind a massive cast and are able to forego instant gratification as the back-story is built will find a truly amazing post-apocalyptic story that is richly detailed and brilliantly designed. But it will take some patience on the part of the reader in the first portion of the story. So truly, the answer to this question is up to you, the reader. As for me, having made it through to the other side, I can confidently confirm the mastery of this tale, and admit that I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the Haven Series.