James Patterson helps create teen escapism at its best

Popular detective-series writer James Patterson tones down his normal crime writing and teams up with Maxine Paetro in his latest ''confession'' series for young adults.

The sequel to Confessions of a Murder Suspect continues to follow teenage detective Tandy Angel as she recovers after the murders of her parents.

This time there are three cases to solve, not to mention another one of a more personal nature.

Every two or three chapters Tandy addresses readers with her ''confessions'', whereby she shares her emotions, what she is afraid of or who she is in love with.

Although there are numerous murders, there are not too many gory details. It's teen escapism at its best. Ages 13+.

- Louise Frampton is an ODT communities subeditor.