Deadly Cross: (Alex Cross 28)

Product Information

Can you believe this is the 28th Alex Cross novel? I can't. It seems like only yesterday I was reading Along Came A Spider and although I've maybe missed a few Cross thrillers along the way, I love dipping into this so familiar series and getting my fix of the lovely Cross family. Detective Alex Cross is called to a murder scene in Washington DC and is devastated to discover an old friend amongst the victims. Was an innocent man just put to death? As the executed convict’s family launch a vicious campaign against Cross, his abilities as a detective are called into question. I have read many of James Paterson’s “Alex Cross” books but have completely stopped because there are too many books with his name on them. It is one thing to sponsor or recommend a new author but to have them write and then take credit for their work is just wrong. Reply A precise killer, he always moves under the cover of darkness, flawlessly triggering no alarms, leaving no physical evidence.

James Patterson - Deadly Cross James Patterson - Deadly Cross

The case takes a chilling turn as Cross discovers that two killers, operating in different parts of the country, are working together in a sinister collaboration. These twisted individuals are engaged in a disturbing competition to commit increasingly heinous crimes. Meanwhile, Jezzie Flanagan has risen through the ranks to become the Secret Service’s first-ever female supervisor. The chemistry between Alex and Jezzie is palpable, and the two may not be able to stop themselves from giving in to an affair of passion despite the risks. In hindsight, I realize that I should have searched on “Jamespatterson.com” for a trustworthy source. Reply Deadly Cross is yet another example of James Patterson's ability to enthrall readers in his amazing crime thrillers. The main story follows the shooting of a high profile socialite who also happens to be the Vice Presidents ex-wife and the local school headteacher, with side stories of teenage girls being abducted, raped and murdered and a smaller still storyline of the very rich and famous being shot in the ass! As with all Patterson novels, there is plenty of focus on the crimes but equal time is given to Cross and his family, including his best friend John Sampson. One of the storylines featuring Sampson and his family will definitely mean more if you’ve kept up with the series and/or read the last few books but this book read great as a standalone.I feel like I have grown up with Alex and his family, and they all blend in with the story, whilst finding out more about them all. Of course, as with all Alex Cross novels, there is so much more going on in the characters personal lives, The kids are growing up and the relationships of all the family members is developing. In another aside, there’s some nutcase who is going around shooting DC politicians in the ass (literally) and Bree is having a tough time explaining to Metro Police Commissioner Dennison why, she’s unable to prevent and catch the perpetrator. So in essence, there are three mysteries to solve and Alex Cross is requested to assist in all three by Bree and also the VP – for his ex-wife’s murder. Alex has a personal connection to Kay (the VP’s ex-wife), who he’s known for many years. Kay was not just known for her socialite status, but for also being a conscientious person with a heart of gold! This could be read as a stand-alone book but you’d get more out of it if you’ve been following the series. This is the first Alex Cross novel I have read. I have seen the two films, Kiss the Girls and Along came a Spider. I didn’t realise this was number 28, so I have a lot of books to look forward to reading. A very enjoyable read, lots of characters to get through.

Deadly Cross | James Patterson | 9781780899480 | NetGalley Deadly Cross | James Patterson | 9781780899480 | NetGalley

Alex and FBI agent Ned Mahoney are also helping his wife Bree in her role as chief of detectives and investigating the recent murders and deaths of local girls Meanwhile, Alex, John Sampson and Ned Mahoney are investigating a double homicide. Kay Willingham was a Georgetown socialite, philanthropist, and ex-wife of the sitting vice-president led a public life. Murdered alongside her is Randall Christopher, a respected educator with political ambitions. Avid Alex Cross readers might find the pace of this one slightly slower to previous reads, but it will draw you in just the same! As ever with James Patterson, you will not want to put it down as you become more entwined with each chapter you read.Alex Cross is preparing to resign from the Washington Police Force. He’s enjoying the feeling; not least because the Mastermind is now in prison. And Alex has met a woman, Jamilla Hughes, and he is talking about the future. Then John Sampson shows up at the house, desperate for Alex’s help. Three young military wives have been brutally killed during a ‘girls’ night out’ and Sampson’s friend, a master sergeant at the army base, stands accused. As Cross and Sampson race to prevent another mass murder, their fearsomely armed opponent once again looks skyward. BookShots I wait for new Alex Cross books with a degree of impatience. This one didn't disappoint. There is less of the psychological insight in this one, and more of the dogged police work, but still a great read.