I had given up reading Patterson when he started mass producing books at a rate of 5-8 each year, however, I recently won this audio book and, since it was book #3 in a series of which I had read books #1 and #2, I decided to listen to it.
If you are not familiar with the series, NYPD detective, Michael Bennett is widower with 10 adopted children (his wife passed away in book #1 of this series). Bennett is the lead detective who goes head to head in a game of cat and mouse with a serial killer. He is working with and attractive single mother who is an abduction specialist by the name of Emily Parker. In this novel the killer is targeting the children and young adults of the wealthy in NYC. There is never a request for ransom, instead each victim is asked a series of questions, and a wrong answer results in a their death. The killer is a lawyer with a twisted mind, who has a grudge against the wealthy and their conspicuous consumption. He thinks that all of us should be doing more for those people in need, and those who are suffering. After several killings, one of the victims outwits the killer by getting all of the questions right, and she is released.
The audio book is read by (3) individuals ,Bobby Carnavale, Orlagh Cassidy, and John Glover who all do a great job. It's just that the story started out interesting enough, but the end result was disappointing. In case you are curious about the earlier (2) books in this series, they are: Step on a Crack
(UGH), and Run for Your Life
(so so). Overall I would rate this audio book a 3/5 stars.
I only read one James Patterson book, many years ago. Although it was fast-paced and has a decent plot, I thought the characters seemed very one-dimensional. I just didn't like it that much and have never read another, though I've enjoyed some of the movies starring Morgan Freeman!
ReplyDeleteI'm always surprised by how popular he is. I haven't read any of these more recent ones with co-authors. They'd probably be decent audios to pass time in the car.
Sue
I used to be a big Patterson fan, but I have to admit he's wearing a little bit thin. Was the audio abridged?
ReplyDeleteI'm not a big Patterson fan. I just can't imagine that you can write quantity and quality.
ReplyDeleteKathy...this was unabridged.
ReplyDeleteI don't read anything but Alex Cross...I love Alex and will never stop reading him...unless Patterson kills him off!! LOL!!
ReplyDeleteI've always been a bit hesitant to pick up Patterson's books because of the number of books he published in a year. But I'm sorry you didn't enjoy this one much.
ReplyDeleteI'm not a fan at all.
ReplyDeleteI kind of like that he publishes so many each year. I just love his books! Alex Cross is my favorite series. Sometimes I wish he would write 2 for him a year! I do also enjoy the Michael Bennett series. All his books are quick and easy to read.
ReplyDeleteI've given up on Patterson too!
ReplyDelete