When Cathy Connor and Eamonn Docherty are thrown together as children in the East End their fate is sealed. Cathy’s miserable life as a prostitute’s child changes forever when she’s forced into care. The ordeal that follows leaves her with no choice but to run away to Soho, and she learns to survive in the violent heart of London’s underworld. Meanwhile, Eamonn, who fled to New York, has gained a reputation as a ruthless villain. But when their paths cross again, Cathy’s an equal match for Eamonn.
Dive into the gritty and gripping world of Martina Cole's "The Runaway," a thrilling novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. This compelling story follows Cathy Connor and Eamonn Docherty, two lost souls whose lives become intertwined from a young age in the unforgiving landscape of London's East End. Cathy's early life is marred by hardship and neglect. Born to a prostitute, she endures a childhood of poverty and instability. When circumstances force her into care, the subsequent trauma sets her on a path of survival that leads her to the turbulent streets of Soho. There, amidst the violence and corruption of London's underworld, Cathy learns to fend for herself, developing a resilience that will define her future. She navigates a treacherous world, forging alliances and making difficult choices to stay alive. Meanwhile, Eamonn escapes the grim realities of his own life by fleeing to New York. Across the Atlantic, he cultivates a fearsome reputation as a ruthless villain. The allure of power and wealth draws him deeper into the criminal underworld, where he becomes a force to be reckoned with. His past haunts him, but he is determined to rise above his humble beginnings, no matter the cost. Years later, fate brings Cathy and Eamonn back together. They are no longer the vulnerable children they once were. Cathy has transformed into a strong, independent woman, hardened by her experiences and determined to control her own destiny. Eamonn has become a formidable figure, his ambition and ruthlessness tempered by a hidden vulnerability. When their paths cross again, the sparks fly. They find themselves drawn to each other, but their shared history and conflicting loyalties threaten to tear them apart. They are equals now, two survivors who understand the darkness that lies beneath the surface of the human heart. "The Runaway" is a classic Martina Cole novel, filled with her signature blend of gritty realism, compelling characters, and suspenseful plot twists. Set against the backdrop of London's criminal underworld and the glamorous yet dangerous world of New York's elite, this is a story of survival, betrayal, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Cole expertly crafts a narrative that explores the complexities of human relationships, the consequences of violence, and the possibility of redemption. With over 600 pages of heart-pounding action and emotional depth, "The Runaway" is a must-read for fans of crime fiction, thrillers, and strong female characters. Experience the unforgettable story of Cathy and Eamonn as they navigate a world of danger and deceit, where loyalty is a rare commodity and survival is the ultimate prize. Pick up your copy today and get ready for a thrilling ride! This Headline Book Publishing paperback edition, published in 1998, promises an immersive reading experience into the dark heart of Martina Cole's captivating world.