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Women's Murder Club #6
The 6th Target
When a horrifying attack leaves one of the four members of the Women's Murder Club struggling for her life, the others fight to keep a madman behind bars before anyone else is hurt.
And Lindsay Boxer and her new partner in the San Francisco police department run flat-out to stop a series of kidnappings that has electrified the city: children are being plucked off the streets together with their nannies--but the kidnappers aren't demanding ransom. Amid uncertainty and rising panic, Lindsay juggles the possibility of a new love with an unsolvable investigation, and the knowledge that one member of the club could be on the brink of death.
And just when everything appears momentarily under control, the case takes a terrifying turn, putting an entire city in lethal danger. Lindsay must make a choice she never dreamed she'd face--with no certainty that either outcome has more than a prayer of success.
390 pages, Hardcover
First published May 8, 2007
3636 people are currently reading
19189 people want to read
About the author
James Patterson
955 books355k followersOfficial US Site
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,360 reviews
May 26, 2016
I have decided I am a fan of this series. They are all so easy to read and always have sufficiently intriguing mysteries and a nice batch of friendly characters. Add to this short chapters which keep the pages turning , and you have books which are always good to have at hand for when you need something neither heavy nor demanding.
The 6th Target is typical of the series. It has a couple of different police cases going on, one involving a mass murderer and the other child abduction. All four members of the Women's Murder Club are involved to varying degrees although Lyndsey has the most significant role. Much of the story revolves around police work with its necessary failures and successes. Time is also spent in the court room and these chapters are written well.
So a perfect book to read in a doctor's waiting room, on a plane or as light relief between other more onerous books. I am sure James Patterson writes to entertain his readers and he succeeds.
The 6th Target is typical of the series. It has a couple of different police cases going on, one involving a mass murderer and the other child abduction. All four members of the Women's Murder Club are involved to varying degrees although Lyndsey has the most significant role. Much of the story revolves around police work with its necessary failures and successes. Time is also spent in the court room and these chapters are written well.
So a perfect book to read in a doctor's waiting room, on a plane or as light relief between other more onerous books. I am sure James Patterson writes to entertain his readers and he succeeds.
March 1, 2017
Apart from one or two that I haven't totally enjoyed, the Women's Murder Club series are a really good read. This "The 6th Target" written by James Patterson together with Maxine Paetro is a fast moving, edge of your seat thriller in the usual Patterson style, quick tense chapters, an excellent storyline running alongside smaller plots that all come together successfully at the end. Ive collected all these books to the series over the years but just never got round to reading them, I'm glad I've started to now - I really feel like I personally know Lindsay Boxer and the girls and look forward to reading the 7th in the series.
June 10, 2008
I have to keep reading these because I started them...but wow are they getting bad. The latest left it wide open for the 7th book. Also, my bf - a psychatrist took one look at the "Insane" killer and noted it wasn't even described correctly. also, I was left to wonder, if this person was doped up as strongly as he was...how was he still so clever?
I am tried of Lindsey's whinning. I don't buy the friendships between the women, totally falls flat. More then anything, I don't see the appeal of Lindsey's hardly-seen boyfriend Joe...why is she pinning for him again? Beats me. Apparently beats her too since she keeps breaking up with him. Am I supposed to be rooting for them? Whoops, my bad. And again this book had 3 different plots...confusing and frustrating.
I will read 7 just to be done! But I don't expect to like it...
I am tried of Lindsey's whinning. I don't buy the friendships between the women, totally falls flat. More then anything, I don't see the appeal of Lindsey's hardly-seen boyfriend Joe...why is she pinning for him again? Beats me. Apparently beats her too since she keeps breaking up with him. Am I supposed to be rooting for them? Whoops, my bad. And again this book had 3 different plots...confusing and frustrating.
I will read 7 just to be done! But I don't expect to like it...
June 30, 2025
This is a Police Mystery/Suspense, and this book is the 6st book in the Women's Murder Club series. I have read the first five books in this series before picking up this book. I really enjoyed this book, and I feel this is one of my favorite in this series so far. I love the characters, and the storyline was really good. This book it well-written. I am glad that I picked this book up. I listen to the audiobook of this book, and the narrator was really good. I really enjoy listening to the audiobook.
March 1, 2022
In this 6th installment, the Women's Murder Club members all find themselves directly connected to a wave of crimes including murders on a ferry and attacks in an apartment building. There is also a kidnapping of a young girl to solve. Why no ransom note? Lindsay Boxer has a new partner, a new title, and her relationship with Joe is experiencing growing pains. Jump on for the ride. You'll get to spend time in the heads of more than one criminal mind and go to court with Suki. I give it 3.5 out of 5 -- rounding up to 4 stars.
October 25, 2024
Three short stories for the price of one novel!
I certainly wouldn't go so far as to say THE 6TH TARGET reaches the level of a breath-taking, spine-chilling thriller! It definitely doesn't! But compared to some of the wretched dreck that the "James Patterson et al" publishing machine has been cranking out in mass quantity of late (The execrable YOU'VE BEEN WARNED comes to mind as a noteworthy example!), THE 6TH TARGET is quite enjoyable and makes for some fun diversionary, if unmemorable, lightweight reading. Of course, this would be especially true for continuing fans of The Women's Murder Club stories.
The plot, or perhaps I should more accurately say, the plots are far from deep. In fact, THE 6TH TARGET is comprised of three short and only moderately intertwined sub-plots each of which might have enough oomph to be turned into a lengthy stand-alone short story or novella.
The first is the story of the apprehension and trial of Fred Brinkley who, under the beguiling orders of the threatening voices he hears in his head, fires six shots at the passengers of a landing ferry, killing four and seriously wounding medical examiner, Claire Washburn. Prosecuting attorney, Yuki Castellano, fellow member of the WMC, is going to do her best to cut him off at the knees and deprive him of the obvious insanity defense.
In the second tale, we see Lindsay Boxer on the trail of a serial kidnapper who targets nannies and children together. But the nannies end up dead and the children simply disappear without a trace. A workmanlike and interesting police procedural sub-plot which involves the white slave trade and the particularly obscene perversion of sexual trafficking in children.
The final, and least interesting tale of the trio, focuses on animal cruelty that escalates to murder but strictly within the confines of the apartment in which the final member of the WMC, reporter Cindy Thomas, hangs her hat at night.
Six workmanlike successes in a row in a series that continues strongly! I'm surprised to say that I'm looking forward to the opportunity to read the next one in the series, 7TH HEAVEN.
Recommended.
Paul Weiss
I certainly wouldn't go so far as to say THE 6TH TARGET reaches the level of a breath-taking, spine-chilling thriller! It definitely doesn't! But compared to some of the wretched dreck that the "James Patterson et al" publishing machine has been cranking out in mass quantity of late (The execrable YOU'VE BEEN WARNED comes to mind as a noteworthy example!), THE 6TH TARGET is quite enjoyable and makes for some fun diversionary, if unmemorable, lightweight reading. Of course, this would be especially true for continuing fans of The Women's Murder Club stories.
The plot, or perhaps I should more accurately say, the plots are far from deep. In fact, THE 6TH TARGET is comprised of three short and only moderately intertwined sub-plots each of which might have enough oomph to be turned into a lengthy stand-alone short story or novella.
The first is the story of the apprehension and trial of Fred Brinkley who, under the beguiling orders of the threatening voices he hears in his head, fires six shots at the passengers of a landing ferry, killing four and seriously wounding medical examiner, Claire Washburn. Prosecuting attorney, Yuki Castellano, fellow member of the WMC, is going to do her best to cut him off at the knees and deprive him of the obvious insanity defense.
In the second tale, we see Lindsay Boxer on the trail of a serial kidnapper who targets nannies and children together. But the nannies end up dead and the children simply disappear without a trace. A workmanlike and interesting police procedural sub-plot which involves the white slave trade and the particularly obscene perversion of sexual trafficking in children.
The final, and least interesting tale of the trio, focuses on animal cruelty that escalates to murder but strictly within the confines of the apartment in which the final member of the WMC, reporter Cindy Thomas, hangs her hat at night.
Six workmanlike successes in a row in a series that continues strongly! I'm surprised to say that I'm looking forward to the opportunity to read the next one in the series, 7TH HEAVEN.
Recommended.
Paul Weiss
November 19, 2019
A trio of crimes in this installment are a shooting spree on a ferry, the abduction of a little girl and her nanny and systemic attacks on tenants in a apartment building. Two of the three directly affect members of the Women's Murder Club, and one has indirect effect.
Mr. Patterson wastes no time in getting the reader engaged.He always starts off at a dead run(pardon the pun), lets the reader regroup briefly then he's off and running again. With short chapters and continuing threads between characters, the stories are for me enjoyable reads. Some are better then others, but they are consistently engaging.
I enjoyed the courtroom drama and was fascinated to see how fine the line can be between mental illness and insanity. Good read.
Mr. Patterson wastes no time in getting the reader engaged.He always starts off at a dead run(pardon the pun), lets the reader regroup briefly then he's off and running again. With short chapters and continuing threads between characters, the stories are for me enjoyable reads. Some are better then others, but they are consistently engaging.
I enjoyed the courtroom drama and was fascinated to see how fine the line can be between mental illness and insanity. Good read.
August 5, 2019
On a bright sunny morning a madman with a gun has made a trip on a ferry boat deadly for four innocent people, one of whom is a young boy. Lindsay Boxer's best friend, Claire and her son William were also caught up in the attack and Claire has been shot in the chest. While Claire fights for her life Lindsay and her new partner, Rich Conklin, pick up the case, and solving this one is personal. Then the shooter inexplicably turns himself in but he's says that he 'didn't mean to hurt anyone', and claims that 'the voices in my head made me do it.' Now it's up to prosecutor Yuki Castellano to prove that not only is the man NOT legally insane, but that he's guilty of murdering four people, attempted murder of a fifth, and recklessly endangering the lives of everyone else on the farry. He has been deemed sane and capable of being tried in court and Yuki is determined to prove that he knew full well what he was doing, that he purposely took aim and starting shooting people, and that he should be found guilty and be punished to the full extent of the law in prison for murder, not in a psychiatric hospital.
At the same time, parents all over the city are terrified when someone begins kidnapping young children and their nannies in full daylight. Then the case takes a terrifying turn when the kidnappers don't contact the families with a ransom demand. With very little to go on, Lindsay and Richie fight to find even the smallest thread of a lead, knowing that time is of the essence, and the clock is ticking.
And, as if things weren't bad enough, people living in Cindy Thomas's apartment building are panic-stricken as someone is killing people at random and no one has any idea who would do such a thing to innocent people.
This is the sixth novel in the Woman's Murder Club series and the books continue to thrill me with the suspenseful story lines while keeping me hooked as to the happenings of the four friends, Lindsay, Claire, Yuki, and Cindy.
The 6th Target is an edge of your seat ride from beginning to end. The brilliant twists in the plot took me completely by surprise and I couldn't foresee what would happen next, only making the tension rise higher and higher. Maxine Paetro masterfully blends the three cases together while adding a few personal romantic sparks among the characters along the way. Even with everything happening it's easy to follow and even though it's the sixth in the series the story lines and crimes remain new and original, the characters are as fresh and interesting as ever. There seems to be endless excitement among the four friends, each one with individual twists that pop up unexpectedly, thus keeping me on the edge of the cliff in anticipation of what the next book, 7th Heaven, has in store.
If you've been following my reviews of this series you'll know that this is the second time I've listened to these audio books. The first time was so long ago that I don't recall very much other than that I loved them and I'm enjoying them as much as I did the first around.
Note - This novel is in audio book fomat. As is always the case, narrator Carolyn McCormick does a seemingly effortless job of bringing the story to life from the written words on the pages. Her enthusiastic story telling is additive and I always have difficulty turning it off.
At the same time, parents all over the city are terrified when someone begins kidnapping young children and their nannies in full daylight. Then the case takes a terrifying turn when the kidnappers don't contact the families with a ransom demand. With very little to go on, Lindsay and Richie fight to find even the smallest thread of a lead, knowing that time is of the essence, and the clock is ticking.
And, as if things weren't bad enough, people living in Cindy Thomas's apartment building are panic-stricken as someone is killing people at random and no one has any idea who would do such a thing to innocent people.
This is the sixth novel in the Woman's Murder Club series and the books continue to thrill me with the suspenseful story lines while keeping me hooked as to the happenings of the four friends, Lindsay, Claire, Yuki, and Cindy.
The 6th Target is an edge of your seat ride from beginning to end. The brilliant twists in the plot took me completely by surprise and I couldn't foresee what would happen next, only making the tension rise higher and higher. Maxine Paetro masterfully blends the three cases together while adding a few personal romantic sparks among the characters along the way. Even with everything happening it's easy to follow and even though it's the sixth in the series the story lines and crimes remain new and original, the characters are as fresh and interesting as ever. There seems to be endless excitement among the four friends, each one with individual twists that pop up unexpectedly, thus keeping me on the edge of the cliff in anticipation of what the next book, 7th Heaven, has in store.
If you've been following my reviews of this series you'll know that this is the second time I've listened to these audio books. The first time was so long ago that I don't recall very much other than that I loved them and I'm enjoying them as much as I did the first around.
Note - This novel is in audio book fomat. As is always the case, narrator Carolyn McCormick does a seemingly effortless job of bringing the story to life from the written words on the pages. Her enthusiastic story telling is additive and I always have difficulty turning it off.
August 23, 2022
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Lindsay is a whiny, unprofessional baby in this one. Listening to her complain about being Lieutenant and asking to drop back down to her previous rank of Sergeant (I mean, just keep playing into that sexist idea that this job is too hard for the little ladies why don't you?) while running around trying to solve a slew of different plot lines (three in this one) that keep intersecting and confusing the story, is exhausting and frustrating.
The friendship/teamwork of the Women's Murder Club has become very odd. I find it fascinating that someone can write these scenes and think, "yes, this is good. I'd like other humans to read this with their eyeballs," and also kind of offensive that someone can write these scenes and think, "yes, this is how real human women speak and behave with one another."
Half of the time, I felt like I was reading a novel written as if Alex Cross was on Saved by the Bell. This series is becoming the after-school special of crime novels.
If you like supreme cheese, go for it.
⭐⭐ | 2 stars
Lindsay is a whiny, unprofessional baby in this one. Listening to her complain about being Lieutenant and asking to drop back down to her previous rank of Sergeant (I mean, just keep playing into that sexist idea that this job is too hard for the little ladies why don't you?) while running around trying to solve a slew of different plot lines (three in this one) that keep intersecting and confusing the story, is exhausting and frustrating.
The friendship/teamwork of the Women's Murder Club has become very odd. I find it fascinating that someone can write these scenes and think, "yes, this is good. I'd like other humans to read this with their eyeballs," and also kind of offensive that someone can write these scenes and think, "yes, this is how real human women speak and behave with one another."
Half of the time, I felt like I was reading a novel written as if Alex Cross was on Saved by the Bell. This series is becoming the after-school special of crime novels.
If you like supreme cheese, go for it.
⭐⭐ | 2 stars
April 23, 2008
I usually enjoy James Paterson's books definitely not for his writing, but at least for his suspensful stories, but The 6th Target fell a little short for me. There was hardly any character development and I felt like he wrote the book just to get another "Best Seller" under his belt. As far as the Women's Murder Club series goes, I have only read the first one, which I really enjoyed. This being the 6th book in the series, I got the impression that James Paterson really has no idea how to write about women. Both his character's inner monologue and dialogue seemed extremely far fetched and almost stupid to me. Parts of the book were gripping and like his others it is a nice fast read, but I just wasn't a big fan. I felt like he started off with a pretty good story and then put no effort into developing his villains. At the end I really feel like he just gave up and wanted to finish the book.
September 9, 2025
Entertaining for sure but it also sheds light on the criminal justice system starting to acknowledge that serious psychotic illnesses are real and the trend towards treatment over jail, especially for nonviolent offenders.
February 15, 2020
I really had to push my way through this one. I just feel he didn't have any passion for this book at all. It was lacking a lot. Yes, I enjoyed one or two things that happened in the book, but for the most part I was bored out of my mind.
July 22, 2023
Sometimes I feel guilty of being slightly unfair to Mr. Patterson's works. But reading this book emphasizes my opinions, as:
- the three sub-plots, Brinkley, Renfew and Tenning are average ones, if not below it
- there is not the faintest idea of humor in all the series
- Lindsay's private life (which interests me less than the yesterday's weather forecast...) proves the heroine to be a dumb person, her visit to Joe's house is quite a pathological case
- all the books contain lousy arrest attempts or escapes from the jail, so you can see how good the knights of the law are.
So, three is the correct number, and I'm, as usual, a very nice person...
- the three sub-plots, Brinkley, Renfew and Tenning are average ones, if not below it
- there is not the faintest idea of humor in all the series
- Lindsay's private life (which interests me less than the yesterday's weather forecast...) proves the heroine to be a dumb person, her visit to Joe's house is quite a pathological case
- all the books contain lousy arrest attempts or escapes from the jail, so you can see how good the knights of the law are.
So, three is the correct number, and I'm, as usual, a very nice person...
April 18, 2020
Not as good as the last episode, but still full of page turning incidents. A man massacres 5 people on a ferry, a heiress is kidnapped in broad daylight, and there's a maniac in Cindy's apartment block! A case or three for the Women's Murder Club to solve! 5 out of 12.
January 11, 2024
Patterson teams up with Paetro again in the 6th book in the Women’s Murder Club series and I don’t blame him! Well written, fast paces and energetic.
At this point I really feel like I know each member of the women’s murder club on personal basis – the book had multiple small plots running alongside the main plot of the story but still remained easy to follow.
“….once told me this thing about brain chemistry, the nub of it being that when you’re feeling good, you can’t ever imagine feeling bad again. And when you’re feeling bad, it’s impossible to imagine a time when you won’t be circling the drain.”
“The Women’s Murder Club was assembled—but why?”
As this is such an easy read it is ideal to read between books that might be a little more complex or time consuming.
The romance for some of the character I found unrealistic and too fake that’s the only reason I aren’t rating it higher.
Overall a great read for speed and suspense.
On to the next!
At this point I really feel like I know each member of the women’s murder club on personal basis – the book had multiple small plots running alongside the main plot of the story but still remained easy to follow.
“….once told me this thing about brain chemistry, the nub of it being that when you’re feeling good, you can’t ever imagine feeling bad again. And when you’re feeling bad, it’s impossible to imagine a time when you won’t be circling the drain.”
“The Women’s Murder Club was assembled—but why?”
As this is such an easy read it is ideal to read between books that might be a little more complex or time consuming.
The romance for some of the character I found unrealistic and too fake that’s the only reason I aren’t rating it higher.
Overall a great read for speed and suspense.
On to the next!
December 13, 2020
I love this series!
Full review to come ...
4 ⭐️
Full review to come ...
4 ⭐️
October 27, 2007
I feel that there is too much going on in this book. It begins with a major shooting, where one of the women in this group gets shot. The trial of this murderer continues throughout the book, while other cases are happening, like some murders at an apartment building, and a kidnapping of little girl (who happens to be someone’s boss’ daughter). Everything is connected, making this a stressful time for the club, but they don’t seem concerned. Everything is treated lightly, never getting too deep into any one part. Patterson just skims these events. Makes me wonder if he wrote it or if Maxine Paetro wrote it. Is this series going to turn into a formula series, like Danielle Steel? Let’s just say that I am very disappointed, and if they continue the series in this manner, I will probably stop reading them. But, on the bright side, they created a T.V. show from these books that is pretty good!
May 15, 2022
القاتل يطرق باب منزل الرقيب التي تتولى التحقيق ويسلم للأصفاد مُعترفاً بجريمة قتل عدد من الأبرياء..
يبدو أن مركز الشرطة مجهول العنوان بالنسبة للقاتل ، كما إنه ليس بانتظارك مُطاردة ، فالرجل سلّم نفسه فماذا تريد بعد...
تنزل الرقيب عن رتبتها إلى ملازم لأنها تثبت جدارتها في القبض على المجرمين في الشارع ولا يليق بها الأعمال المكتبية...مع أنها لم تلقي القبض على أحد...
من المفترض إنها تتولى قضية اختطاف طفلة ، يتم استدعاءها للتحقيق في جرائم قتل في المبنى الذي تقطن فيه صديقتها المُقربة ، اليس من المفترض التركيز على قضية اختطاف الطفلة ومقتل مٌربيتها ؟!..
هنا الجرائم كلها تصل للحل دون أي مجهود يبذل من جانب الشرطة ، ليس هناك تقصي جاد للتفاصيل ولا إثارة للشكوك ولا التقاط للتفاصيل...، كل الإجراءات التي يتم اتخاذها لتدارك الاحداث بطيئة وبليدة...الحظ يحالفهم في الحقيقة بصورة مُستفزة...
النجمة الواحدة للمناورة بين الإدعاء والدفاع في قضية القاتل الذي سلّم نفسه...
يبدو أنه أصبح ليس من السهل أن تنال رواية جريمة إعجابي 😏
يبدو أن مركز الشرطة مجهول العنوان بالنسبة للقاتل ، كما إنه ليس بانتظارك مُطاردة ، فالرجل سلّم نفسه فماذا تريد بعد...
تنزل الرقيب عن رتبتها إلى ملازم لأنها تثبت جدارتها في القبض على المجرمين في الشارع ولا يليق بها الأعمال المكتبية...مع أنها لم تلقي القبض على أحد...
من المفترض إنها تتولى قضية اختطاف طفلة ، يتم استدعاءها للتحقيق في جرائم قتل في المبنى الذي تقطن فيه صديقتها المُقربة ، اليس من المفترض التركيز على قضية اختطاف الطفلة ومقتل مٌربيتها ؟!..
هنا الجرائم كلها تصل للحل دون أي مجهود يبذل من جانب الشرطة ، ليس هناك تقصي جاد للتفاصيل ولا إثارة للشكوك ولا التقاط للتفاصيل...، كل الإجراءات التي يتم اتخاذها لتدارك الاحداث بطيئة وبليدة...الحظ يحالفهم في الحقيقة بصورة مُستفزة...
النجمة الواحدة للمناورة بين الإدعاء والدفاع في قضية القاتل الذي سلّم نفسه...
يبدو أنه أصبح ليس من السهل أن تنال رواية جريمة إعجابي 😏
January 1, 2009
Lindsey (main character) is an idiot! Throughout this whole series I haven't been able to decide if I like her or not and I have finally decided that I don't. I think that is part of the reason it has taken me so long to complete the series. I am half way through this book and I have found myself actually skipping over whole chapters just finish the dang thing. Not like the chapters are long, any one who has read James Patterson before knows that his chapters are only about a page long (seriously). And even with skipping whole chapters I still know exaclty what is going on. This series isn't horrible, but I would only start if there is nothing else to read.
I just noticed that there is a 7th book! Will it ever end?
I decided I don't want to contiue this series after all. In fact I didn't even finish this book, (skipped to the end and read the last couple of chapters). Hope someone else has a better experience with it than I did. It just wasn't worth my time.
I just noticed that there is a 7th book! Will it ever end?
I decided I don't want to contiue this series after all. In fact I didn't even finish this book, (skipped to the end and read the last couple of chapters). Hope someone else has a better experience with it than I did. It just wasn't worth my time.
August 25, 2018
The 6th Target by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro is the 6th book in the Women's Murder Club Mystery series. Medical examiner Claire is shot at a ferry dock shooting, there are unexplained deaths at reporter Cindy's apartment and a young girl is abducted. Fast paced with plenty of action and adventures. Lindsey is demoted on her request and her love life is on and off. I love the friendships and support that the Women's Murder Club provides. An exciting book that keeps you reading to the end and makes you want more.
October 2, 2025
Yet another solid book in the Women's Murder Club series. I plan to keep reading these books all the way through. They're easy, entertaining, interesting reads that have developed a lot from book one until this point in the series; I would imagine that continues.
The cases in "The 6th Target" were all intriguing. I would say that three cases that overlap in timelines but don't overlap in plot were too many, though. When there were two, it made for a good dual storyline, especially the courtroom drama aspect for some variation while another active case is ongoing. The third one ultimately felt inconsequential but had a lot of potential. It could have been saved for another book and built out more.
I also hope for more Claire going forward. She's by far my favorite non-Lindsay member of The Club, and she's been sparse from book 4 until now. Hopefully she gets a bigger role in the next one!
The cases in "The 6th Target" were all intriguing. I would say that three cases that overlap in timelines but don't overlap in plot were too many, though. When there were two, it made for a good dual storyline, especially the courtroom drama aspect for some variation while another active case is ongoing. The third one ultimately felt inconsequential but had a lot of potential. It could have been saved for another book and built out more.
I also hope for more Claire going forward. She's by far my favorite non-Lindsay member of The Club, and she's been sparse from book 4 until now. Hopefully she gets a bigger role in the next one!
July 16, 2020
In the 6th book of the Women’s Murder Club, Lindsay, Cindy, Yuki, and Claire have a lot going on. As usual. Right off the bat, one of the four women is shot on the ferry along with other people in an apparent random shooting. Meanwhile, a serial kidnapper is making their way through the city. And to top things off, something is going on with Lindsay and Joe.
What I like about this series is how reading each book reminds me a little bit of watching an episode of Law & Order: Fast-paced story, unexpected turns, the combination of police work as well as courtroom drama, but not without the occasional cheesy or cringey comment made by a character or two. 😅 Some episodes are better than others and that is also the case with this book series. I will likely move on book 7 at some point.
What I like about this series is how reading each book reminds me a little bit of watching an episode of Law & Order: Fast-paced story, unexpected turns, the combination of police work as well as courtroom drama, but not without the occasional cheesy or cringey comment made by a character or two. 😅 Some episodes are better than others and that is also the case with this book series. I will likely move on book 7 at some point.
October 21, 2025
4 Stars for The 6th Target: Women’s Murder Club, Book 6 (audiobook) by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro read by Carolyn McCormick.
A madman opens fire on a ferry and one of the gals from the murder club ends up in the hospital fighting for her life. The murderer turn himself in to Lindsay and it’s obvious that he’s going to try an insanity plea. Then a little boy is kidnapped and Lindsay and her new partner are on that case trying to figure out who took the child. And what will it take to get him back with his parents.
A madman opens fire on a ferry and one of the gals from the murder club ends up in the hospital fighting for her life. The murderer turn himself in to Lindsay and it’s obvious that he’s going to try an insanity plea. Then a little boy is kidnapped and Lindsay and her new partner are on that case trying to figure out who took the child. And what will it take to get him back with his parents.
October 29, 2023
Started with the sixth book in the series since I won it in a raffle. I may not have read it otherwise. Found the blend of story lines interesting, and will probably read the first in the series some day. I like the strong female main characters, but the one time I remember them all meeting for a 'girls night' was a little annoying and didn't move the story along.
October 28, 2014
I just read another Women’s Murder Club so this is the second one in close order. The last one (4th of July) left me feeling a little iffy about this series – not really that good I thought. I wanted to try another one right away to see if I could just ditch this batch of books on my TBR shelf.
The 6th Target rolls right out with a mass murder on a ferry by a crazy guy. Then, unexpectedly, the crazy guy turns himself in, making me wonder what we are going to do with the rest of the book. The last book turned into a slightly interesting but not exciting story of a trial and I thought this one was going to follow that same path. I was not thrilled. The role of the trial in this book is only slightly more interesting and thankfully shorter. The author seems determined to show that the tabloid realities of Rodney King and O.J. Simpson are not forgotten.
With our prurient interest tested, suddenly, we get shifted into a child kidnapping case with a possible murder which gets our heroine back into the picture. Mostly it is not obvious to me that we are dealing with a heroine rather than a hero except when she is in bed with her boyfriend or pining after him. Other than that, the fact that this is a woman cop is barely discernible. (One of my reasons for selecting this series was the woman cop angle so I am disappointed.)
But, let’s just see where this goes, OK? The chapters are notably short as in previous books and that in itself does keep things moving along relatively quickly. Several cases vie for attention: the crazy mass murderer, the child kidnapper and the apartment building noise vigilante all have their rambunctious moments of implausibility. And, of course, our heroine’s erstwhile romance.
The cover of this sixth book in the series promises the “toughest case ever” but if the hype is not obvious the follow up seventh book offers the “most terrifying case ever”! These paper backs must scream off the supermarket racks as they are cranked out. I can but wonder if I should commend lead author James Patterson for openly sharing credit with Maxine Paetro who is also listed as a co-author on the cover or castigate him for taking the credit and royalties for a book written by someone else. I can only Google and grin querulously about the relationship of the writers as Patterson is given book jacket kudos and Maxine “lives with her husband in New York.”
I am somewhat embarrassed to admit that I bought several books in the Women’s Murder Club series drawn in by the promised but ultimately disappointing “Women’s” connection. I have now read several and must consign the several remaining to the free library give away rack at the restaurant across the street. I gave my first encounter four stars a couple of years ago, a reprise three stats last week and this most recent offering two stars for its worn and predictable path. Time to make room on my groaning bookshelf for some more noteworthy offerings. Farewell, James Patterson. RIP, Maxine Paetro. I have been ever so gullible and desperate for diversion. But I must raise my sights.
The 6th Target rolls right out with a mass murder on a ferry by a crazy guy. Then, unexpectedly, the crazy guy turns himself in, making me wonder what we are going to do with the rest of the book. The last book turned into a slightly interesting but not exciting story of a trial and I thought this one was going to follow that same path. I was not thrilled. The role of the trial in this book is only slightly more interesting and thankfully shorter. The author seems determined to show that the tabloid realities of Rodney King and O.J. Simpson are not forgotten.
With our prurient interest tested, suddenly, we get shifted into a child kidnapping case with a possible murder which gets our heroine back into the picture. Mostly it is not obvious to me that we are dealing with a heroine rather than a hero except when she is in bed with her boyfriend or pining after him. Other than that, the fact that this is a woman cop is barely discernible. (One of my reasons for selecting this series was the woman cop angle so I am disappointed.)
But, let’s just see where this goes, OK? The chapters are notably short as in previous books and that in itself does keep things moving along relatively quickly. Several cases vie for attention: the crazy mass murderer, the child kidnapper and the apartment building noise vigilante all have their rambunctious moments of implausibility. And, of course, our heroine’s erstwhile romance.
The cover of this sixth book in the series promises the “toughest case ever” but if the hype is not obvious the follow up seventh book offers the “most terrifying case ever”! These paper backs must scream off the supermarket racks as they are cranked out. I can but wonder if I should commend lead author James Patterson for openly sharing credit with Maxine Paetro who is also listed as a co-author on the cover or castigate him for taking the credit and royalties for a book written by someone else. I can only Google and grin querulously about the relationship of the writers as Patterson is given book jacket kudos and Maxine “lives with her husband in New York.”
I am somewhat embarrassed to admit that I bought several books in the Women’s Murder Club series drawn in by the promised but ultimately disappointing “Women’s” connection. I have now read several and must consign the several remaining to the free library give away rack at the restaurant across the street. I gave my first encounter four stars a couple of years ago, a reprise three stats last week and this most recent offering two stars for its worn and predictable path. Time to make room on my groaning bookshelf for some more noteworthy offerings. Farewell, James Patterson. RIP, Maxine Paetro. I have been ever so gullible and desperate for diversion. But I must raise my sights.
May 22, 2014
The Women's Murder Club series was something I started for fun and school purposes, of course. I did not know what I was getting myself into. I had no idea that I would become hooked on his novels. I have read from the very beginning up to mid-book of the twelfth novel in the series. His style of writing has captivated me, and I do not mind. His books are a pleasure to read. They keep you on the edge of your seats, wanting more. You become frustrated more than once because you know things the characters do not. Dramatic irony is common in this series and can be quite infuriating. Nonetheless, it is a part of the excitement that comes along with the novel. Each book in the series is a different roller coaster ride, different crime scenes, different evidence, different tragedies, different love stories, different obstacles, yet the same anxiety and anticipation. It is unreal. James Patterson is one of few authors that has captured my interest long enough to pull through the entire series without a let down. "The 6th Target" gave me a wave of emotions. I absolutely loved the book. I loved how it kept me guessing. Like the rest of the series, you become a detective yourself. You become engaged in the story as if you were a character. I am positive that once you start reading, you will not want to put the book down. I recommend this book to teenagers and adults. Those who love thrillers will fall in love with this series and book, along with Patterson's style of writing. There is a part in the book where Cindy's life becomes endangered, and you're left wondering if she will become a murder victim or live to be a part of the next book. However, I do not want to give spoilers so get yourself a copy and start reading! It will be worth your while!
October 10, 2016
I am loving the Women's Murder Club books, they are easy to read, short chapters, lots of action.
The 6th target sees Claire shot & nearly killed, child abductions & killer stalking the halls of the block of apartments he lives in!
In typical Patterson style, the plots intertwine well, without getting lost & confusing, and the action is 100 mph.
I've read lots of reviews that slate this book & the series, some saying that the characters have gone of tangent & it no longer feels like a women's club as they seem to have stopped solving the crimes together, and that there are too many plots instead of just one main story line.
Each to their own opinion, but I disagree!
Yes there are 2 or 3 plots going on, but that is true to real life and it keeps the book interesting instead of it dragging and trawling over one plot. Yes in this book, the ladies aren't sat together solving the crimes because for 1 Claire was shot and in hospital & 2 it doesn't have to be literally them sat around a table solving crime every book, it would get boring otherwise.
The 6th target sees Claire shot & nearly killed, child abductions & killer stalking the halls of the block of apartments he lives in!
In typical Patterson style, the plots intertwine well, without getting lost & confusing, and the action is 100 mph.
I've read lots of reviews that slate this book & the series, some saying that the characters have gone of tangent & it no longer feels like a women's club as they seem to have stopped solving the crimes together, and that there are too many plots instead of just one main story line.
Each to their own opinion, but I disagree!
Yes there are 2 or 3 plots going on, but that is true to real life and it keeps the book interesting instead of it dragging and trawling over one plot. Yes in this book, the ladies aren't sat together solving the crimes because for 1 Claire was shot and in hospital & 2 it doesn't have to be literally them sat around a table solving crime every book, it would get boring otherwise.
September 20, 2018
I liked these books before. I am getting back into the series. Lindsay Boxer works for the San Fransisco police department and she is now a Sargeant. With her friends Yuki and Claire, they solve crimes. They call themselves the Women's Murder Club. The newest case is a shooting on the Del Norte ferry. The convicted is Fred Brinkley. He shot six people because the voices in his head told him so. Will pleading insanity be in his favor? One of the people shot was Claire and her son, Willie.
April 13, 2024
The pacing was pretty good and featured several different cases.
The trial was good, but it also didn't feel overly realistic.
The issue with Lindsay Boxer and her romance and how she dealt with another character kind of cheapened the entire situation to me.
I loved how the 6th Victim came out and brought a great twist.
4 Stars.
The trial was good, but it also didn't feel overly realistic.
The issue with Lindsay Boxer and her romance and how she dealt with another character kind of cheapened the entire situation to me.
I loved how the 6th Victim came out and brought a great twist.
4 Stars.
March 2, 2009
Book 6 in the series "A Women's Murder Club"
I am totally addicted to this series, all the books are simply fun and entertaining and this one is no exception. In the 6th target we find more than just a page turner with a great plot and many surprises, a real doze of adrenaline for the readers. While we are engrossed in this mystery we get to know a little more about the members of this unusual Club and find ourselves immersed into their different life choices.
This one begins on a ferry boat, when six shots are fired killing four passengers and injuring one of the Club's members. Claire Washburn is now struggling for her life while the others fight to keep a madman behind bars before anyone else is hurt. If you like courtroom scenes the story has the typical exchanges between lawyers, witnesses and the accused. Yuki Castellano presents her first murder case with pizazz.
Meanwhile, San Francisco is plagued with a rash of other bizarre crimes. Children with their nannies are being plucked off the streets seemingly without any motive and Cindy Thomas finds her apartment building under siege by vandals. Amid the rising panic and the excitement, Police Lieutenant Lindsay Boxer juggles her personal life with the investigations.
Can things get more complex than this "Oh yes" thrown in is a touch of romance. This series is getting better and better with each installment.
I am totally addicted to this series, all the books are simply fun and entertaining and this one is no exception. In the 6th target we find more than just a page turner with a great plot and many surprises, a real doze of adrenaline for the readers. While we are engrossed in this mystery we get to know a little more about the members of this unusual Club and find ourselves immersed into their different life choices.
This one begins on a ferry boat, when six shots are fired killing four passengers and injuring one of the Club's members. Claire Washburn is now struggling for her life while the others fight to keep a madman behind bars before anyone else is hurt. If you like courtroom scenes the story has the typical exchanges between lawyers, witnesses and the accused. Yuki Castellano presents her first murder case with pizazz.
Meanwhile, San Francisco is plagued with a rash of other bizarre crimes. Children with their nannies are being plucked off the streets seemingly without any motive and Cindy Thomas finds her apartment building under siege by vandals. Amid the rising panic and the excitement, Police Lieutenant Lindsay Boxer juggles her personal life with the investigations.
Can things get more complex than this "Oh yes" thrown in is a touch of romance. This series is getting better and better with each installment.
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