What do you think?
Rate this book
Michael Bennett #5
I, Michael Bennett
Police officers shot . . . judges murdered . . . and Detective Michael Bennett is the killer's next target.
Detective Michael Bennett arrests an infamous Mexican crime lord in a deadly chase that leaves Bennett's lifelong friend dead. From jail, the prisoner vows to rain epic violence down upon New York City-and to get revenge on Michael Bennett.
To escape the chaos, Bennett takes his ten kids and their beautiful nanny, Mary Catherine, on a much-needed vacation to his family's cabin near Newburgh, New York. But instead of the calm and happy town he remembers from growing up, they step into a nightmare worse than they could have ever imagined. Newburgh is an inferno of warring gangs, and there's little the police-or Bennett-can do to keep the children safe.
As violence overwhelms the state, Bennett is torn between protecting his hometown and saving New York City. A partner in his investigations, federal prosecutor Tara McLellan, brings him new weapons for the battle-and an attraction that endangers his relationship with Mary Catherine. A no-holds-barred, pedal-to-the-floor, action-packed novel, I, Michael Bennett is James Patterson at his most personal and most thrilling best.
Detective Michael Bennett arrests an infamous Mexican crime lord in a deadly chase that leaves Bennett's lifelong friend dead. From jail, the prisoner vows to rain epic violence down upon New York City-and to get revenge on Michael Bennett.
To escape the chaos, Bennett takes his ten kids and their beautiful nanny, Mary Catherine, on a much-needed vacation to his family's cabin near Newburgh, New York. But instead of the calm and happy town he remembers from growing up, they step into a nightmare worse than they could have ever imagined. Newburgh is an inferno of warring gangs, and there's little the police-or Bennett-can do to keep the children safe.
As violence overwhelms the state, Bennett is torn between protecting his hometown and saving New York City. A partner in his investigations, federal prosecutor Tara McLellan, brings him new weapons for the battle-and an attraction that endangers his relationship with Mary Catherine. A no-holds-barred, pedal-to-the-floor, action-packed novel, I, Michael Bennett is James Patterson at his most personal and most thrilling best.
416 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 9, 2012
2591 people are currently reading
10021 people want to read
About the author
James Patterson
954 books356k 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,809 reviews
January 17, 2020
I have read and really enjoyed books 1 and 2 in this series and somehow contrived to jump a couple and arrive at number 5. I have to admit to feeling a bit let down by this one.
I am accustomed to Patterson novels being unrealistic and that's okay - it is fiction after all. However I, Michael Bennett strays into the farcical and that is just embarrassing. Not all the time of course. There was still a story in there and some nice family stuff with the nanny and the ten kids. The ending is a major cliff hanger and it is not handled very well. In fact it made me feel less like reading the next book than rushing out to get it.
Not a bad book but not a very good one either. Still, I can't win them all!!!
17/1/2020 An accidental reread! I thought it was familiar while I was reading it:) No change in my opinion though. It is still an average book and it is still pretty silly. This time though I will get on to the next book and find out what happens to them all.
I am accustomed to Patterson novels being unrealistic and that's okay - it is fiction after all. However I, Michael Bennett strays into the farcical and that is just embarrassing. Not all the time of course. There was still a story in there and some nice family stuff with the nanny and the ten kids. The ending is a major cliff hanger and it is not handled very well. In fact it made me feel less like reading the next book than rushing out to get it.
Not a bad book but not a very good one either. Still, I can't win them all!!!
17/1/2020 An accidental reread! I thought it was familiar while I was reading it:) No change in my opinion though. It is still an average book and it is still pretty silly. This time though I will get on to the next book and find out what happens to them all.
July 20, 2012
Hated the ending seemed like a ploy. Lacked details and at parts did not seem even plausible. Characters were worse than flawed. Plot too simple just tries too hard and seemed like that of a first time author than a seasoned veteran. Could of done better.
July 23, 2012
I'll say right up front that the ending to I, MICHAEL BENNETT, is horrible. It isn't even a cliffhanger, its just the ending of the chapter. It could of easily occurred fifty pages earlier, and you would have kept reading, because there's more to the story. Disappointing, and a major ripoff, if you bought this book.
And it is kind of sad, because the last three Bennett books have excelled in plotting. They've had a great story at the heart of the novel, and the personal stuff with Bennett's 10 kids and his bumbling romance with nanny Mary Catherine was in the back ground. Unfortunately, in this book, his family takes center stage as Bennett nabs cartel kingpin Manuel Perrine early in the book, then sits around, waiting to testify at the trial.
Sure, stuff happens. Perrine is a drug kingpin with far reaching power, so he unleashes violence evenf from prison. But it is just one action scene after another, with no plot surrounding it.
My advice, skip this one. If the novel had an actual conclusion, it would be tolerable, but since it doesn't, it is just a waste of time.
And it is kind of sad, because the last three Bennett books have excelled in plotting. They've had a great story at the heart of the novel, and the personal stuff with Bennett's 10 kids and his bumbling romance with nanny Mary Catherine was in the back ground. Unfortunately, in this book, his family takes center stage as Bennett nabs cartel kingpin Manuel Perrine early in the book, then sits around, waiting to testify at the trial.
Sure, stuff happens. Perrine is a drug kingpin with far reaching power, so he unleashes violence evenf from prison. But it is just one action scene after another, with no plot surrounding it.
My advice, skip this one. If the novel had an actual conclusion, it would be tolerable, but since it doesn't, it is just a waste of time.
September 10, 2012
WARNING! Many spoilers! Plus: It will save you time reading this book!!! This really stretched my "reality muscle" and made me wonder how dumb one should assume an Irish cop who arrests a Mexican drug lord could possibly be. Throughout this novel, Michael Bennett, whom I have come to love for his dedication to his job AND his family, seems to be playing catch-up with the plot line. First, he seems shocked and amazed that a beautiful, curvaceous Mexican woman can also be a savage killer. Then, he can't understand why his long suffering, on-again-off-again housekeeper/possibly-future-Mrs.Bennett, gets ticked when he is running around with a drop-dead gorgeous childhood friend/prosecuting attorney...especially when she calls him to her posh hotel in the dead of night to "go over your testimony" (wink, wink). Then, to really make you wonder about the drool factor, he seems totally caught off guard when the drug lord puts a hit on his kids FROM PRISON! Now, who has ever heard of anyone putting a hit on someone FROM PRISON?! I still read the whole novel, only to wonder if it would fit in my garbage disposal when, in the last chapter, as the Bennetts are being placed in witness protection, Michael is shocked and surprised that Mary Katherine too has to be placed in protective custody. Let’s see. Drug lord, who does manage to escape (wonder of wonders), knows every one of your kids’ names, knows where you vacation, put a bomb on your street, shot two of your kids, and called your cell phone to threaten to kill you a hundred times, ALSO knows Mary K is your housekeeper/nanny/love interest? Who knew?! Maybe Michael Bennett should go to work for the FBI, CIA, or other alphabet city institutions. He’s brilliant! Let’s get this series back on track and make me only suspend reality and disbelief, not stop up my garbage disposal!
September 1, 2017
I liked this book. It was suspenseful, thrilling, and just felt... dangerous all the way through. In fact, I did initially give it 4 stars. BUT...
You know how you prepare your favorite meal on your best plates? And it's piping hot and fresh? And it's accompanied by a perfectly chilled glass of wine (or mug of beer/coffee/soda - your choice)? You set your plate down and tummy up to the table... pick up your fork... dig in and raise a huge tasty morsel toward your anxious lips... and .....
Then the phone rings.
That's what happens at the end of this book. Or, more precisely, your plate just disappears. I felt like I was left hanging out there not only with zero resolution (which is common for an intended cliffhanger ending) but also without a proper precipice to teeter on.
Of course, I'm going to read the next book. How could I not? But technically, I feel I should boycott it because it left us so high and dry without an adequate or appropriate build-up toward that end.
You know how you prepare your favorite meal on your best plates? And it's piping hot and fresh? And it's accompanied by a perfectly chilled glass of wine (or mug of beer/coffee/soda - your choice)? You set your plate down and tummy up to the table... pick up your fork... dig in and raise a huge tasty morsel toward your anxious lips... and .....
Then the phone rings.
That's what happens at the end of this book. Or, more precisely, your plate just disappears. I felt like I was left hanging out there not only with zero resolution (which is common for an intended cliffhanger ending) but also without a proper precipice to teeter on.
Of course, I'm going to read the next book. How could I not? But technically, I feel I should boycott it because it left us so high and dry without an adequate or appropriate build-up toward that end.
December 4, 2024
⭐️ Synopsis:
Michael Bennet has been put on a task force who’s goal is to take down a powerful drug lord. It all goes to hell and puts Bennet and his family in the sites of a vicious and powerful man. What will happen next?
⭐️ What I think about this book: Were the authors taking T and having a midlife crisis while writing this book? Holy cow did this one go off the rails. We have some fairly gratuitous violence, some real eye rolling theatrics (even for these books), and a whole heck of a lot of white guy stereotyping and lecturing.
It was bad. At one point Seamus gives this monologue saying that gangs are a problem because all of these kids (black kids) don’t have fathers. Yeah. It gets worse. He actually says that women are having kids without Dads,”as a lifestyle choice,” and that “mothers cannot control teenage boys.” To make it even worse he says,”Bill Cosby tried to talk some sense but he was cancelled.” Whooooooweeeeee. So this comment is in reference to the talk Cosby gave about black men needing to literally pull of their pants and stop glorifying being uneducated. Then we all found out about Bill’s bad behavior.
The whole tone of this book was pretty much poison. I feel bad that I actually paid for this book. I have the next three of these books from the library so I guess I will give them a try. Heads up though - this book is awful.
Michael Bennet has been put on a task force who’s goal is to take down a powerful drug lord. It all goes to hell and puts Bennet and his family in the sites of a vicious and powerful man. What will happen next?
⭐️ What I think about this book: Were the authors taking T and having a midlife crisis while writing this book? Holy cow did this one go off the rails. We have some fairly gratuitous violence, some real eye rolling theatrics (even for these books), and a whole heck of a lot of white guy stereotyping and lecturing.
It was bad. At one point Seamus gives this monologue saying that gangs are a problem because all of these kids (black kids) don’t have fathers. Yeah. It gets worse. He actually says that women are having kids without Dads,”as a lifestyle choice,” and that “mothers cannot control teenage boys.” To make it even worse he says,”Bill Cosby tried to talk some sense but he was cancelled.” Whooooooweeeeee. So this comment is in reference to the talk Cosby gave about black men needing to literally pull of their pants and stop glorifying being uneducated. Then we all found out about Bill’s bad behavior.
The whole tone of this book was pretty much poison. I feel bad that I actually paid for this book. I have the next three of these books from the library so I guess I will give them a try. Heads up though - this book is awful.
January 29, 2018
This installment of the Michael Bennett series was interesting and emotional but I’m not a fan of reading gang or mob stuff to be honest. However, the family really takes hits in this installment. I did get into the story which I worried about because of the crime plot. I believe this will be a favorite book in the series for many though.
My quick and simple overall: interesting and fast-paced. Written well with a lot of drama.
My quick and simple overall: interesting and fast-paced. Written well with a lot of drama.
December 25, 2017
The Mexican cartel has taken over in New York.....not if Michael Bennett has anything to do with it. This is one of the most crucial , deathly, inhuman story written and by my standards it was good.
Just doing his job, Detective Bennett arrested the drug king, Manuel Perrine, but now has become the target of this kingpins’ wrath. He’s determined to destroy Bennett and his family....no matter what!
It’s so intense that you must read this book. It will leave you in suspense to the next book.
Just doing his job, Detective Bennett arrested the drug king, Manuel Perrine, but now has become the target of this kingpins’ wrath. He’s determined to destroy Bennett and his family....no matter what!
It’s so intense that you must read this book. It will leave you in suspense to the next book.
July 20, 2012
This books is a prime example of why I no longer buy James Patterson's books. I use to buy them all, until about 10 years ago, or so, when Patterson wrote his first "cliffhanger." It was, I believe, an Alex Cross book, where it ended, suddenly, without being resolved. I had purchased that book, and I was pissed! "He's figured out a way to make more money, by insuring you'll have to buy, or borrow, the next one to get the end." That's the day I stopped buying his stuff. He is good enough that I'll take his things from the library to read, but Jim...you lost one sale per book, if that matters to you.
His other big money-making scam is his "co-authors." Right now, I am reading "11th Hour." His name is in big, bold font on the front, and Maxine Paetro's name is smaller, and at the bottom. My theory is that Maxine, and all of his other "co-authors" actually write the books. Then, Patterson's name goes on it to make sure it's a best seller, and he gets money without having to work. He also gets the time of "most prolific writer in history," which is easier, if you are actually writing them.
What do you think?
His other big money-making scam is his "co-authors." Right now, I am reading "11th Hour." His name is in big, bold font on the front, and Maxine Paetro's name is smaller, and at the bottom. My theory is that Maxine, and all of his other "co-authors" actually write the books. Then, Patterson's name goes on it to make sure it's a best seller, and he gets money without having to work. He also gets the time of "most prolific writer in history," which is easier, if you are actually writing them.
What do you think?
March 29, 2013
Shameless money grab!
I have heard about issues with the ending of this book. I thought maybe there were some loose ends or that there was something to look forward for the next book. Sadly, the problems are much, much worse than that. Basically we get half a book, it's almost as if once the authors built up the story they decided to stop there and continue in the next episode. I would almost understand it if this was a gargantuan work and it had to be broken in two parts for publishing reasons, but this book can be read in about four hours, so it is barely a novella. The only explanation is that Patterson is just trying to see how much he can push his readers in an effort to make money. First he decided to have others write the books, then he tried making them shorter and shorter, and now it is time to not even deliver a complete novel. This has to stop!
The worst part is that the story we get is extremely good. The pace is frantic and there is suspense and thrills aplenty. The story of Michael and his huge family, which includes Seamus the priest and Mary Catherine provides for some nice moments and enough drama. Also, the authors do not pull any punches when it's time to shock the readers, and in that vein use some well-crafted villains that you will hate soon enough. If only they had given us the whole novel instead of the first half.
There is not much more to say, now I am convinced. I will not be buying any more Patterson books. I will get them from the library instead so I do not feel ripped off by the author and his writing troupe. I know some people will say that borrowing from the library will still create some demand, but the benefit is much lower, and at least in my case, I will feel less bad when encountering something like this book.
I have heard about issues with the ending of this book. I thought maybe there were some loose ends or that there was something to look forward for the next book. Sadly, the problems are much, much worse than that. Basically we get half a book, it's almost as if once the authors built up the story they decided to stop there and continue in the next episode. I would almost understand it if this was a gargantuan work and it had to be broken in two parts for publishing reasons, but this book can be read in about four hours, so it is barely a novella. The only explanation is that Patterson is just trying to see how much he can push his readers in an effort to make money. First he decided to have others write the books, then he tried making them shorter and shorter, and now it is time to not even deliver a complete novel. This has to stop!
The worst part is that the story we get is extremely good. The pace is frantic and there is suspense and thrills aplenty. The story of Michael and his huge family, which includes Seamus the priest and Mary Catherine provides for some nice moments and enough drama. Also, the authors do not pull any punches when it's time to shock the readers, and in that vein use some well-crafted villains that you will hate soon enough. If only they had given us the whole novel instead of the first half.
There is not much more to say, now I am convinced. I will not be buying any more Patterson books. I will get them from the library instead so I do not feel ripped off by the author and his writing troupe. I know some people will say that borrowing from the library will still create some demand, but the benefit is much lower, and at least in my case, I will feel less bad when encountering something like this book.
November 5, 2012
This is quite possibly the worst "Best Seller" that I have ever read. I gave it one star because the plot was interesting enough that I wanted to finish the book but then "bam" the ultimate ripoff. There is no ending. Obviously there will be a sequel and I am aware that this is a continuing series but to not even attempt to wrap up the main plot. Phooey. The writing was horrible and cliched. Actually the story could have been wrapped up in chapter 2 when Michael Bennett chases down the drug kingpin and has a gun to his head. Then he doesn't shoot. OK, maybe the main character is supposed to be too moral and law abiding to carry that out. NOOOO, he has no trouble killing other people throughout the book. Just stupid. Stupid. Stupid. I feel like writing to James Patterson and demanding he send me $20 just for wasting my time.
April 24, 2018
I thought this was one of the better Michael Bennett Books. They are very touching and have a really good base for a story behind them. Detective Michael Bennett arrests an infamous Mexican crime lord in a deadly chase that leaves Bennett's lifelong friend Hughie McDonough dead. From jail, the prisoner vows to have epic violence down upon New York City--and to get revenge on Michael Bennett.
To escape the chaos, Bennett takes his 10 kids and their most beautiful nanny, Mary Catherine, on a much-needed vacation to his family's cabin near Newburgh, New York. But instead of the calm and happy town he remembers from growing up, they step into a nightmare worse than they ever have imagined. Newburgh is an inferno of warring gangs, and there's little the police--or Bennett can do to keep the children safe. As violence overwhelms the state, Bennett is torn between protecting his hometown and saving New York City. A partner in his investigations, federal prosecutor Tara McLellan, brings him new weapons for the battle--and an attraction that endangers his relationship with Mary Catherine.
There is a lot happening in this book -- A LOT. Keeping track of their family would be very hard. I was touched by the love and concern they have for each other. I really admire Mary Catherine and the challenges she faces with that group. To gather everyone up and send them to a special hidden area in the state of California. As they were keeping everyone safe, Mary Catherine was required to go with them. I admire her very very much. Great Book - highly Recommend.
To escape the chaos, Bennett takes his 10 kids and their most beautiful nanny, Mary Catherine, on a much-needed vacation to his family's cabin near Newburgh, New York. But instead of the calm and happy town he remembers from growing up, they step into a nightmare worse than they ever have imagined. Newburgh is an inferno of warring gangs, and there's little the police--or Bennett can do to keep the children safe. As violence overwhelms the state, Bennett is torn between protecting his hometown and saving New York City. A partner in his investigations, federal prosecutor Tara McLellan, brings him new weapons for the battle--and an attraction that endangers his relationship with Mary Catherine.
There is a lot happening in this book -- A LOT. Keeping track of their family would be very hard. I was touched by the love and concern they have for each other. I really admire Mary Catherine and the challenges she faces with that group. To gather everyone up and send them to a special hidden area in the state of California. As they were keeping everyone safe, Mary Catherine was required to go with them. I admire her very very much. Great Book - highly Recommend.
November 23, 2013
The preparation was intense for the capture of infamous South American criminal Manuel Perrine. Detective Michael Bennett was team leader with his longtime friend, Hughie McDonough as his side-kick and back up. Every department imaginable was involved after information had come through that Perrine would be in New York to see his daughter graduate. The sadistic and vicious killer wouldn’t hesitate to shoot his way out of any situation, so the arrest had to be perfect.
But it wasn’t to be – after things got out of control, police were killed, including Hughie McDonough, and the chase was on. Finally Bennett took him down, arresting Perrine outside Macy’s, but not before there were more deaths. Perrine’s control continued though, even from prison and he threatened vengeance on Michael Bennett and the whole of New York City.
With the build-up to the trial gaining momentum, Bennett took his family to their holiday home near Newburgh. With nanny Mary Catherine, Grandpa Seamus and his ten adopted children, Mike was looking forward to the break away from the stresses of the past few weeks.
But Bennett was shocked to find instead of the peaceful holiday village he remembered, Newburgh had turned into a drug capital with warring gangs everywhere, and the local police department struggling to regain control. And what he discovered rocked him completely. The danger suddenly escalated rapidly – danger from more direction than one. What would he do? Could he protect his family? Evil seemed to be all around…
This latest instalment in the Michael Bennett series was gripping and intense, with a rocking pace that kept me reading until late! I was horrified when the ending came and it wasn’t finished!! But I have the next one so I’ll be picking it up soon. I’m really loving this series as much as the Alex Cross series, and highly recommend them to all mystery/suspense/thriller lovers.
But it wasn’t to be – after things got out of control, police were killed, including Hughie McDonough, and the chase was on. Finally Bennett took him down, arresting Perrine outside Macy’s, but not before there were more deaths. Perrine’s control continued though, even from prison and he threatened vengeance on Michael Bennett and the whole of New York City.
With the build-up to the trial gaining momentum, Bennett took his family to their holiday home near Newburgh. With nanny Mary Catherine, Grandpa Seamus and his ten adopted children, Mike was looking forward to the break away from the stresses of the past few weeks.
But Bennett was shocked to find instead of the peaceful holiday village he remembered, Newburgh had turned into a drug capital with warring gangs everywhere, and the local police department struggling to regain control. And what he discovered rocked him completely. The danger suddenly escalated rapidly – danger from more direction than one. What would he do? Could he protect his family? Evil seemed to be all around…
This latest instalment in the Michael Bennett series was gripping and intense, with a rocking pace that kept me reading until late! I was horrified when the ending came and it wasn’t finished!! But I have the next one so I’ll be picking it up soon. I’m really loving this series as much as the Alex Cross series, and highly recommend them to all mystery/suspense/thriller lovers.
August 2, 2012
The previous books in the Michael Bennett series were all thrilling reads with fast paced plots, but I, Michael Bennett fell short. The series follows Michael Bennett, an Irish-American NYC police officer, who is likeable and different from other popular book detectives because of his large adopted group of ten children, a zany father who is also a priest, and nanny/love interest.
In this book Michael Bennett must take down an international drug Kingpin and the Kingpin's lunatic killer girlfriend. Aside from a gripping moment when his family is in jeopardy, not much actually happens in the story, which also ends quickly and predictably. I will probably still read the next book in the series, but this was a disappointingly simplistic plot that did not leave me wanting more.
In this book Michael Bennett must take down an international drug Kingpin and the Kingpin's lunatic killer girlfriend. Aside from a gripping moment when his family is in jeopardy, not much actually happens in the story, which also ends quickly and predictably. I will probably still read the next book in the series, but this was a disappointingly simplistic plot that did not leave me wanting more.
November 28, 2022
I enjoy reading this series. Detective Michael Bennett is a good Detective and he has a funny personality. Which helps him while he raises 10 kids alone after his wife passed. I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
August 7, 2012
This was the first time I have been disappointed by one of Patterson's books that starts Michael Bennett. It seems are hero is joining arrogant Alex Cross in not really caring about proper procedures or how his rash actions will affect those around him. Bennett is pulled into a major case when the FBI and DEA work with the NYPD to target Perrine, one of the biggest drug lords in America. Perrine is coming to America for some mysterious reason, and if the officials can bring him down, they might help clean up a lot of the crime that is related to the drug industry.
As you can guess, things go terribly wrong and three cops, including good friend and FBI agent Hughie McDonough is killed during the mission. Bennett takes it on as a personal mission (along with Hughie's cousin and Bennett's past lover Tara McLellan) to take down Perrine. The one good thing is that the drug lord is arrested during the mission. The only problem is that Perrine has opted to use drug cartel tactics against American officials. The result is dead judges, police officers, witnesses, and endangered family members.
Bennett even tries to bring his brood of 10 children, nanny (and not-quite girlfriend) Mary Catherine, and grandfather to a family vacation near Newburgh, New York, only to find that the drug situation follows them.
My big problem is that the hero is not supposed to be out for vengeance. He is supposed to be an agent of justice and peace. I really hate it when they sacrifice the hero's ethics and make him no better than the villains, which is really what has really happened here.
I hope they bring back the usual fun and ethical Bennett in the next book, though, I have a feeling that might not happen because the book seems to just sort of stop without really resolving the story.
As you can guess, things go terribly wrong and three cops, including good friend and FBI agent Hughie McDonough is killed during the mission. Bennett takes it on as a personal mission (along with Hughie's cousin and Bennett's past lover Tara McLellan) to take down Perrine. The one good thing is that the drug lord is arrested during the mission. The only problem is that Perrine has opted to use drug cartel tactics against American officials. The result is dead judges, police officers, witnesses, and endangered family members.
Bennett even tries to bring his brood of 10 children, nanny (and not-quite girlfriend) Mary Catherine, and grandfather to a family vacation near Newburgh, New York, only to find that the drug situation follows them.
My big problem is that the hero is not supposed to be out for vengeance. He is supposed to be an agent of justice and peace. I really hate it when they sacrifice the hero's ethics and make him no better than the villains, which is really what has really happened here.
I hope they bring back the usual fun and ethical Bennett in the next book, though, I have a feeling that might not happen because the book seems to just sort of stop without really resolving the story.
July 22, 2012
When a new James Patterson book comes out, it's like Christmas to me. When the book is the next installment of the Michael Bennett series, it's like Christmas, my birthday, and every other holiday of the year put together. I love this New York Detective, his large adopted family, his grandfather, Seamus, the priest, and his nanny, Mary Catherine.
In I, Michael Bennett, Detective Bennett is up against the head of the Mexican drug cartel, a ruthless and mega-rich sociopath. As suspenseful and riveting as the previous books in the series, this one divides the action between New York City and Newburgh, NY, the City nearest the Bennett family's vacation lake house. Like Alex Cross, Detective Bennett often finds himself working with the FBI and U.S. Attorney's office to solve crimes, and that is the case here as well. But IS this particular crime solved? Read the book and find out. You won't be sorry that you did!
In I, Michael Bennett, Detective Bennett is up against the head of the Mexican drug cartel, a ruthless and mega-rich sociopath. As suspenseful and riveting as the previous books in the series, this one divides the action between New York City and Newburgh, NY, the City nearest the Bennett family's vacation lake house. Like Alex Cross, Detective Bennett often finds himself working with the FBI and U.S. Attorney's office to solve crimes, and that is the case here as well. But IS this particular crime solved? Read the book and find out. You won't be sorry that you did!
October 8, 2023
What the fuck!!! You can’t end a book like that. Sooo sooo good. Love this series. Good thing I have the next one in the series ready to go. Holy cats…
July 2, 2013
Having recently read Patterson's Merry Christmas Alex Cross and being extremely disappointed, I had high hopes that this book would be better, and back to the Patterson I've enjoyed so much in the past. I was bitterly disappointed.
This book was spotty, poorly plotted, jumped all over the place and was a blatant 'buy the next book' vehicle.
As I mentioned in my review of Merry Christmas, Alex Cross, Patterson seems to feel a need, suddenly, to proselytize. In Merry Christmas he refers constantly, and nauseatingly, to his 'Lord and Master' and how grateful he is for His presence in his life. I found that exceptionally annoying. It's not something I'd noticed in previous Alex Cross books, and it was an unwelcome addition. I, Michael Bennett seemed to have much the same agenda. The pious, sanctimonious character of Michael Bennett, who has apparently applied for sainthood in adopting ten children (and what agency is going to allow anyone to adopt TEN children??), feels it necessary to push his family values at the reader. This is compounded by the discussion he has with his grandfather, a priest (????), where they lament the loss of family values. They suggest that all children growing up without a father will, inevitably, become gang members and commit heinous crimes. Apparently, the lack of a father figure in every child's life is the sole reason for crime, the world over. And most especially this is the case when the woman 'chooses a life for her child that does not include a father'.
If this book were well written and flowed properly, I could maybe get past this, but it's not. If I wanted to read a book about the failing standards of family values in the world, I'd buy something right wing and dictatorial. I don't. I bought this book expecting something light and a good read.
Patterson seems to have suddenly become ridiculously prolific, and there are suddenly a whole pile of new books of his - I believe I even have another one to read on my Kobo. But if the quality of the writing, and the need to shove right wing rhetoric down the readers throat, is the new style, then I won't be buying or reading any more of Patterson's work.
And before all the good Christians out there get up in arms about 'when did it become offensive to mention God in a book', let me say that I respect your right to your opinion and your religion. I'm simply asking that you respect my right to have an opinion different to yours, and not try to shove Christianity down my throat under the guise of fiction.
This book was spotty, poorly plotted, jumped all over the place and was a blatant 'buy the next book' vehicle.
As I mentioned in my review of Merry Christmas, Alex Cross, Patterson seems to feel a need, suddenly, to proselytize. In Merry Christmas he refers constantly, and nauseatingly, to his 'Lord and Master' and how grateful he is for His presence in his life. I found that exceptionally annoying. It's not something I'd noticed in previous Alex Cross books, and it was an unwelcome addition. I, Michael Bennett seemed to have much the same agenda. The pious, sanctimonious character of Michael Bennett, who has apparently applied for sainthood in adopting ten children (and what agency is going to allow anyone to adopt TEN children??), feels it necessary to push his family values at the reader. This is compounded by the discussion he has with his grandfather, a priest (????), where they lament the loss of family values. They suggest that all children growing up without a father will, inevitably, become gang members and commit heinous crimes. Apparently, the lack of a father figure in every child's life is the sole reason for crime, the world over. And most especially this is the case when the woman 'chooses a life for her child that does not include a father'.
If this book were well written and flowed properly, I could maybe get past this, but it's not. If I wanted to read a book about the failing standards of family values in the world, I'd buy something right wing and dictatorial. I don't. I bought this book expecting something light and a good read.
Patterson seems to have suddenly become ridiculously prolific, and there are suddenly a whole pile of new books of his - I believe I even have another one to read on my Kobo. But if the quality of the writing, and the need to shove right wing rhetoric down the readers throat, is the new style, then I won't be buying or reading any more of Patterson's work.
And before all the good Christians out there get up in arms about 'when did it become offensive to mention God in a book', let me say that I respect your right to your opinion and your religion. I'm simply asking that you respect my right to have an opinion different to yours, and not try to shove Christianity down my throat under the guise of fiction.
August 19, 2019
Books in collaboration with James Patterson are more often miss than hit for me. So I’m pretty surprised that I generally enjoyed this one.
I did not read any of the previous books in this series, which was not a big problem. I think it would be much worse if I read the next one in the series without reading this one. This is because this book ends with a definite cliffhanger. It is also the biggest drawback of the book. I really don't like unfinished stories.
Michael Bennett as the main character is fine. His personality is sometimes a little incoherent but not dramatically. Because I haven't read previous books, I don't know his past. I don't know anything about his deceased wife and the decision to have ten (adopted?) children. It wasn't a big problem but Bennett seems a bit grotesque to me without this knowledge.
The big advantage of the book is a quite fast action. Typical Patterson short chapters work in this case. The storyline is also fine.
I will probably read a book from this series someday. Although not immediately. Even though, as I mentioned, the next book in this series is a continuation of this one.
I did not read any of the previous books in this series, which was not a big problem. I think it would be much worse if I read the next one in the series without reading this one. This is because this book ends with a definite cliffhanger. It is also the biggest drawback of the book. I really don't like unfinished stories.
Michael Bennett as the main character is fine. His personality is sometimes a little incoherent but not dramatically. Because I haven't read previous books, I don't know his past. I don't know anything about his deceased wife and the decision to have ten (adopted?) children. It wasn't a big problem but Bennett seems a bit grotesque to me without this knowledge.
The big advantage of the book is a quite fast action. Typical Patterson short chapters work in this case. The storyline is also fine.
I will probably read a book from this series someday. Although not immediately. Even though, as I mentioned, the next book in this series is a continuation of this one.
August 11, 2012
As critics and readers have slammed most of James Patterson's recent novels, his Michael Bennett series, co-written with Michael Ledwidge, has maintained a level of quality and entertainment that reminds us why he is one of the bestselling authors of all time.
Michael Bennett, a single father of 10, is used to being busy. Ever since he lost his wife to cancer, he has struggled to maintain both his family life and his job of solving high profile crimes for the New York City Police Department. Thankfully, Bennett has the faithful assistance of his priest grandfather, Seamus, and irish nanny, Mary Catherine.
As the Bennett clan prepares for a lengthy summer vacation, Michael is called in to assist his friend in taking down a Mexican drug runner who has entered NYC. The bust has mixed results. While Bennett manages to capture the leader, two officers, including his friend, are killed in the process. Even worse, the drug leader continues to wreak havoc from inside the jail. During an interrogation, Bennett refuses to assist the drug leader, despite a proposed $2.5 million bribe. The leader takes this personally and vows to do everything in his power to destroy Bennett and those close to him.
This novel left me with mixed feelings, mainly due to the complete lack of resolution. Patterson makes no attempt at bringing the story to a close, causing the novel to feel very unfinished. I'm sure the next novel in the series will pick up where this one leaves off, but the lack of even the smallest amount of closure leaves the entire novel completely disjointed. Michael Bennett is easy to care for and is arguably Patterson's strongest character to date. This story focusses less on character development than the previous installments, but having read all of the other novels, I already understood the emotions stakes that the situations held. As far as action is concerned, Patterson expertly walks the line between reality and unbelievable, providing genuine suspense. Overall, I would recommend reading some of the others in this series before picking up this one. Fans of the early Alex Cross novels and vintage Patterson thrillers should enjoy this one as well.
Michael Bennett, a single father of 10, is used to being busy. Ever since he lost his wife to cancer, he has struggled to maintain both his family life and his job of solving high profile crimes for the New York City Police Department. Thankfully, Bennett has the faithful assistance of his priest grandfather, Seamus, and irish nanny, Mary Catherine.
As the Bennett clan prepares for a lengthy summer vacation, Michael is called in to assist his friend in taking down a Mexican drug runner who has entered NYC. The bust has mixed results. While Bennett manages to capture the leader, two officers, including his friend, are killed in the process. Even worse, the drug leader continues to wreak havoc from inside the jail. During an interrogation, Bennett refuses to assist the drug leader, despite a proposed $2.5 million bribe. The leader takes this personally and vows to do everything in his power to destroy Bennett and those close to him.
This novel left me with mixed feelings, mainly due to the complete lack of resolution. Patterson makes no attempt at bringing the story to a close, causing the novel to feel very unfinished. I'm sure the next novel in the series will pick up where this one leaves off, but the lack of even the smallest amount of closure leaves the entire novel completely disjointed. Michael Bennett is easy to care for and is arguably Patterson's strongest character to date. This story focusses less on character development than the previous installments, but having read all of the other novels, I already understood the emotions stakes that the situations held. As far as action is concerned, Patterson expertly walks the line between reality and unbelievable, providing genuine suspense. Overall, I would recommend reading some of the others in this series before picking up this one. Fans of the early Alex Cross novels and vintage Patterson thrillers should enjoy this one as well.
April 1, 2016
This is the 5th installment in the series and the 2nd book I’m reading, and I can’t help but feel I’m missing something. Sure there are flashy and intense scenes created, but they lead nowhere. Characters are introduced, but they get killed too quickly. The Michael Bennett books are exactly like action-packed movies, with a lot of gratuitous violence, car chases, big explosions, well, all the visual effects are there - and - what’s missing is solid story-telling. There’s no time for credible introspection.
Furthermore, the authors attempt to bring humor into it, but it leaves a wry taste after so much violence. And when the authors want to play on the readers’ sentiments; they dedicate a few pages or chapters to Michael Bennett’s 10 adorable adoptive children (now ranging in age from 7 to 16). It’s sappy, I know, but the kids are the magnetic force that will bring the reader (and me) back to the series. Especially how this book ends. Now I have to read the next one because the story’s not finished! (Gasp!) Not by a long shot.
Another thing that is totally immature, unexplained and unsatisfying is Michael Bennett's infantile attitude towards his also very naive nanny, Mary Catherine. What's that about?
Synopsis: Detective Michael Bennett arrests an infamous South American crime lord in a deadly chase that leaves Bennett's lifelong friend Hughie McDonough dead. From jail, the prisoner vows to rain epic violence down upon New York City - and to get revenge on Michael Bennett.
Furthermore, the authors attempt to bring humor into it, but it leaves a wry taste after so much violence. And when the authors want to play on the readers’ sentiments; they dedicate a few pages or chapters to Michael Bennett’s 10 adorable adoptive children (now ranging in age from 7 to 16). It’s sappy, I know, but the kids are the magnetic force that will bring the reader (and me) back to the series. Especially how this book ends. Now I have to read the next one because the story’s not finished! (Gasp!) Not by a long shot.
Another thing that is totally immature, unexplained and unsatisfying is Michael Bennett's infantile attitude towards his also very naive nanny, Mary Catherine. What's that about?
Synopsis: Detective Michael Bennett arrests an infamous South American crime lord in a deadly chase that leaves Bennett's lifelong friend Hughie McDonough dead. From jail, the prisoner vows to rain epic violence down upon New York City - and to get revenge on Michael Bennett.
February 25, 2013
For whatever reason, this is the first book of James Patterson's that I've read. I just never got around to reading anything of his before now. I actually bought this book for my mother-in-law, back at Mother's Day, maybe, or for her birthday. My reasoning for choosing this book (aside from the fact that I know she reads a lot, and she's interested in all sorts of books) was because I thought she'd take interest in the fact that Patterson is such an advocate for young readers. I learned that while taking a Children's Literature class, and since then, my two teenage daughters have read a few of his YA books--and LOVED them! So, even though I'd never read anything of his yet, I bought this for my MIL. She said she found it a bit disturbing, so of course, I was intrigued!
I burned through this book quickly. I am a HUGE fan of Stephen King's writing style, and he'll probably always be my favorite. However, I was greatly pleased with Patterson's writing style. He really pulled me into the story quickly and had me engaged throughout the whole story. I'm not a great lover of series, in general, but I'm going to HAVE to continue on with the Michael Bennett series... and now I'm convinced that Patterson is so gifted, he'll soon become another one of my favorite authors--I plan to read everything of his, which is an exciting adventure! SO HAPPY RIGHT NOW!!!!!
I burned through this book quickly. I am a HUGE fan of Stephen King's writing style, and he'll probably always be my favorite. However, I was greatly pleased with Patterson's writing style. He really pulled me into the story quickly and had me engaged throughout the whole story. I'm not a great lover of series, in general, but I'm going to HAVE to continue on with the Michael Bennett series... and now I'm convinced that Patterson is so gifted, he'll soon become another one of my favorite authors--I plan to read everything of his, which is an exciting adventure! SO HAPPY RIGHT NOW!!!!!
June 21, 2020
I gave this book 4 stars because it was well written and a page turner but I didn’t really enjoy it, there was so much graphic violence over and over, not just a couple of murder but several. Michael arrests a big drug lord and Michael’s friend is killed. To get over the stress Michael takes his family on vacation but trouble follows and the drug wars continue.
June 6, 2023
Fifth book in the Michael Bennett series. I liked where this went at the end and will add a very interesting dynamic in the next book. Also liked that this is the first “big bad” that will be continued into the next book.
June 20, 2019
Pretty good about what I expect from James Patterson.
January 10, 2022
Another good Michael Bennett thriller, although we are left with a cliff hanger at the end.
April 6, 2021
It’s the absolute best “Michael Bennett” book I’ve read and the fifth in the remarkable series.
Much to do about drug lords and cartels and how they recruit teen-age gangs to do their dirty work for them. Very spellbinding as Michael and his family become targets. Excellent writing and the audio version from Audible is superb.
Once again, the family portrait of the widowed detective, his 10 adopted children and the loving nanny, Mary Catherine, lend a sometimes light, sometimes deeply dramatic touch to this story.
Much to do about drug lords and cartels and how they recruit teen-age gangs to do their dirty work for them. Very spellbinding as Michael and his family become targets. Excellent writing and the audio version from Audible is superb.
Once again, the family portrait of the widowed detective, his 10 adopted children and the loving nanny, Mary Catherine, lend a sometimes light, sometimes deeply dramatic touch to this story.
May 26, 2023
It's been like three years since I last read a book from this series and I was bored so I thought why not start reading it again.
Anywho, I agree with what everyone is saying about the ending for this book. The ending wasn't even an actual ending. It was literally just another chapter. Was kind of disappointed in it honestly, since I seen it coming from a mile away not gonna lie but oh well.
Anywho, I agree with what everyone is saying about the ending for this book. The ending wasn't even an actual ending. It was literally just another chapter. Was kind of disappointed in it honestly, since I seen it coming from a mile away not gonna lie but oh well.
February 13, 2019
Michael Bennett is in trouble when a Mexican crime lord is out for revenge. Although James Patterson gets credit for this read, I urge all to check out the real author of this and many of the James Patterson books. I'm not sure of Mr. Patterson even writes any more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,809 reviews