The Beach House by James Patterson, Peter De Jonge (2002)

True to form, this novel by James Patterson and co-author Peter de Jonge is plot-driven suspense at its finest. The sparse, punchy prose and short chapters maintain breakneck momentum throughout. Jack Mullen's younger brother Peter is found dead on a Long Island beach. All the signs point to murder yet the police fail to investigate. Peter died whilst working at a party for the wealthy East Hampton Neubauer family. As Jack tries to see that justice is done, he meets a wall of silence as the criminal justice system protects the wealthy. Finally Jack and his grandfather Mack take the law into their own hands. While the plot steams ahead, Patterson adds an essential warmth to his characters. The relationship between Jack and Mack is fiercely affectionate, and the tragic history of the Mullen family wins our sympathy entirely. Against this, Patterson sets the petulance of the Hamptons wealthy. We are left in no doubt that the working-class Irish Mullens are superior to Long Island's self-indulgent, sexually perverse WASPs. Patterson's plot unfolds with precision. After the intimidation and corruption of the early chapters, we are ready for retribution when it comes. Jack and Mack's 'People's Court' unfolds legal thrills to rival Grisham. The novel's conclusion comes as a catharsis after unbearable violence and injustice. Patterson's social setting is well observed; the tensions between the Hamptons' rich and poor are convincing as Patterson shows the truth behind the cliche of America's 'glitziest zip code'. This is high-octane suspense with a conscience. As ever, Patterson humanises his characters so they stand up to the rigours of his plotting, and with his slick, pacey style he confirms his status as a master of the genre.