Book # 20 in the Alex Cross series
This is by far one of the better stories in this series. It focuses on Alex who has featured in countless of novels and puts him in the heat of the action once more trying to solve three hot puzzles of a crime at once. This novel is quite captivating and once I opened it, I was immediately hooked and I simply let myself go along with the adventure to see what would come of it. It has been a long time since I was so captivated in an Alex Cross escapade. I am not surprised this one had a spot on the bestsellers list for many weeks. Anyways it gets high marks from me:).
Mr. Patterson shines in managing the many suspenseful moments and expertly switches perspectives again and again, from stalker to killer to Cross. He writes in his usual way, the first person style when Cross is narrating and in the third with his other characters. The plot is written with precision and is neatly wrapped up, definitely attributes of a master storyteller. Mr. Patterson trademark is front and center: short chapters, a nice balance between Cross’s personal and professional lives, intriguing crimes for the protagonist to solve and complex subplots that do not necessary end well. Well rounded characterization and a jaw-dropper of a conclusion leaving the door open for a subsequent installment. I really can say Mr. Patterson’s pen was in tip top shape……
In a nut shell the mystery in this installment is this:
Cross is tasked with investigating two very different sets of serial killings that are taking place in the Washington area.
At the same time, he is targeted by a stalker, an anonymous blogger who seems to have a grudge against the D.C. Police Department in general and Cross in particular, his main goal is to ruin Cross’s life.
Meanwhile, there is a problem at Cross’s home involving his foster child, Ava.
In conclusion, this novel is an electrifying read that held me captive from start to finish.
(Second Edition)
The book is a fast paced thriller designed to get people thinking and talking about where our destiny lies and, where it is dangerous to poke your nose into. Definitely another one of those books not meant for all eyes.
The story is complex with constant twists and addresses what societies around the world hope for and ask from their leaders but rarely obtain: honest and open government one that will not be victim of greedy manipulators.
This quick read is a cat and mouse game that revolves around a plan to bring America crashing to its knees by implementing a clever plot that targets the foundation that support Law and Order and rendering it ineffective to arrest the perpetrators. The plot is chilling and frighteningly plausible. Some events outline in the book may seem far-fetched but even a cynic like me can realize the possibility. Whether one agrees or not with the author’s viewpoints, it is clear where Mr. Clinton stands and he expresses his thoughts quite a bit throughout the pages. We find a fair amount of characters to keep track of and two protagonists to hold our interest. Even is this subject is covered numerous times in thrillers it still has a touch of originality to it, provides plenty of suspense to captivate us and has an added touch of romance to lighten the mood. It is a good novel if you take it for what it is.
On a parting note and after reading reviews on this book it seems the second edition may be the best choice.
I love how Mr. Boyne takes a well-known event gives it a new spin and revives it into a most riveting iconic story of the sea, a sure sign of a very talented story-teller.
In a few words this is what happened to the ill-fated ship: After a long voyage on the high seas and a short stay on a sexy Polynesian paradise, the screw revolted, a mutiny led by Fletcher Christian erupted, the breadfruit-laden Bounty was seized shortly after leaving Otaheite (Tahiti) in April 1789, and the captain, William Bligh, with his followers were set adrift in a boat to fight for their lives. Miraculously the captain led his small screw back to England to a hero’s welcome and the hunt for the mutineers began and those found were rounded up and tried in London.
In this novel, the real –life John Smith, Captain Bligh’s steward, was replaced by John Jacob Turnstile, a fourteen year old street urchin who was given the choice of a year in the goal or taken service aboard the Bounty. Through John Jacob’s (Turnip) eyes we travel from the streets of Port Portmouth to a myriad of adventures. His character is a brilliant creation with a charming sharp sense of humour and the most delightful egotistical narrator.
This book is captivating, it is expertly written to describe with heart the sailing and those aboard the Bounty and with skill guides us during the 48 days the 23 foot launch held the starving men till they reached Timor. It also deals with the sexual frustration of sailors at sea, the root of their mutiny after enjoying the delights of the native women and forced to return to the ship and leave them behind. Mr. Boyne style flows smoothly and allows for the most vivid, fresh images to filter into our mind. Although I have a strong sense that historical record may have been modified to make this story the most enjoyable of fiction.
