Come Easy, Go Easy – Review of James Hadley Chase’s Novel.

“Come Easy – Go Easy” is a classic crime thriller novel by James Hadley Chase that tells the story of Tom Lepski, a small-time crook on the run from the police. Set in a small seaside town in England, the novel explores the dangerous world of organized crime and corruption, with plenty of suspense, action, and tough characters.

The story begins with Tom Lepski fleeing from the scene of a botched robbery. He is being pursued by the police, who are hot on his heels. Tom manages to escape to a small seaside town in England, where he hopes to lay low and evade the law.

Once in the town, Tom meets and falls in love with a beautiful woman named June. June is kind and compassionate, and she sees something in Tom that no one else does. Tom is smitten with her and wants to start a new life with her, away from his criminal past.

However, Tom’s past catches up with him when he is recognized by a local police officer who has been looking for him. Tom is arrested, but he manages to escape and goes on the run once again, with the police hot on his heels. He realizes that he can’t escape his past and must face the consequences of his actions.

As Tom tries to evade the law, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous plot involving a ruthless gangster named Percy, a corrupt police inspector named Rutt, and a beautiful woman named Lorna. Lorna is Percy’s girlfriend, but she may be working for the other side. Tom must use all his street smarts and cunning to survive and outsmart his enemies.

The novel is a classic example of hard-boiled crime fiction, with a complex plot and vivid characters. Tom is a sympathetic protagonist, despite his criminal activities. He is a survivor who has learned to take care of himself in a tough world. June is a kind and compassionate woman who sees the good in Tom and wants to help him. Percy is a ruthless gangster who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Rutt is a corrupt police inspector who is willing to bend the law to suit his own purposes. And Lorna is a beautiful and mysterious woman who may be working for the other side.

One of the strengths of the novel is its well-drawn characters. Each character has their own motivations and desires, and their actions are consistent with their personalities. The novel also explores themes of redemption, love, and loyalty, and the choices that people make when faced with difficult circumstances.

The story is full of suspense and action, with a complex plot that keeps readers guessing until the end. There are plenty of twists and turns, and the action never lets up. The novel is also notable for its descriptions of the seaside town, which is presented as a place of both beauty and danger.

Overall, “Come Easy – Go Easy” is a classic crime thriller that explores the dark and dangerous world of organized crime and corruption. With its complex plot, vivid characters, and suspenseful action, it is a must-read for fans of hard-boiled crime fiction.