A Catskill Eagle, by Robert B. Parker

This book is classic Parker with his hero Spenser joining Hawk to save Susan Silverman from the bad guy.  Parker keeps things moving, always putting obstacles in the way and having the heroes use both smarts and strength to overcome them.

I don't think Parker uses the normal four-part structure in his books.  The goal was set early one--rescue Susan--and after that the plot was a steady progression of events to achieve that goal--rescue Hawk, look for Susan, flee from the authorities, infiltrate training base, rescue Susan, kill boss.

Perhaps one reason I don't put Parker in the category of great literature is that he doesn't use a mid-point plot event which changes things dramatically and forces the main character to make a choice.  The result is that the suspense isn't escalated during the book.

This book was no different than Parker's other books--an enjoyable read, good but not great.