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Alex Cross #7
Violets Are Blue
Detective Alex Cross must confront his most terrifying nemesis ever- and his own deepest fears- in this electrifying thriller from the world's #1 bestselling writer.
D.C. Detective Alex Cross has seen a lot of crime scenes. But even he is appalled by the gruesome murders of two joggers in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park-killings that look more like the work of savage beasts than humans. Local police are horrified and even the FBI is baffled.
Then, as Cross is called in to take on the case, the carnage takes off, leaving a trail of bodies across America and sweeping him to Savannah, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Los Angeles as his nemesis, the merciless criminal known as the Mastermind, stalks him, taunts him, and once again, threatens everything he holds dear...
D.C. Detective Alex Cross has seen a lot of crime scenes. But even he is appalled by the gruesome murders of two joggers in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park-killings that look more like the work of savage beasts than humans. Local police are horrified and even the FBI is baffled.
Then, as Cross is called in to take on the case, the carnage takes off, leaving a trail of bodies across America and sweeping him to Savannah, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Los Angeles as his nemesis, the merciless criminal known as the Mastermind, stalks him, taunts him, and once again, threatens everything he holds dear...
416 pages, Hardcover
First published November 19, 2001
2865 people are currently reading
19523 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 1,721 reviews
April 1, 2018
I always enjoy an Alex Cross book. I like his family and I like the way he tries to be a good father to them. It makes a good background for the rest of the action.
And of course there is action aplenty. At last Alex is closing in on his nemesis, the Mastermind. I thought the author made it a bit too obvious who the guilty party was since I guessed quite early on. However Alex did not realise until the last chapter which still made the whole thing very exciting and not a little stressful.
This is a typical James Patterson book with short chapters, constant action, lots of murders and some really nasty villains. He can always be relied upon for an easy and entertaining read!
And of course there is action aplenty. At last Alex is closing in on his nemesis, the Mastermind. I thought the author made it a bit too obvious who the guilty party was since I guessed quite early on. However Alex did not realise until the last chapter which still made the whole thing very exciting and not a little stressful.
This is a typical James Patterson book with short chapters, constant action, lots of murders and some really nasty villains. He can always be relied upon for an easy and entertaining read!
October 10, 2023
I found this book to be slightly underwhelming after the ending of the sixth instalment, instead of focusing on 'The Mastermind' Alex Cross takes on a new case involving vampires - it wasn't a bad plot line and I did enjoy it but it overshadowed what I thought would be the main plot. I also thought this ended too easily and I was a bit disappointed.
I will be continuing with the series, I just hope the books don't start going down hill like they did with 'The Women's Murder Club' I think James Patterson is an amazing writer and creates thrilling plots, but when ghost writers get involved it goes to pot.
Alex Cross is such a lovable character so I can see why this is such a long running series - I have a lot of catching up to do. If you are after a series where each book has something new, but follows the same people and develops their relationships this is one I would look into. It's not groundbreaking stuff but its fast and fun!
I will be continuing with the series, I just hope the books don't start going down hill like they did with 'The Women's Murder Club' I think James Patterson is an amazing writer and creates thrilling plots, but when ghost writers get involved it goes to pot.
Alex Cross is such a lovable character so I can see why this is such a long running series - I have a lot of catching up to do. If you are after a series where each book has something new, but follows the same people and develops their relationships this is one I would look into. It's not groundbreaking stuff but its fast and fun!
April 18, 2018
This was one of my favorite Alex Cross books yet. I loved the vampire crime plot! I’m a fantasy& sci-fi book genre fan so it really excited me to read this one. As for the Mastermind crime plot, I was glad it didn’t extend into further books where Alex would not know who the Mastermind was because I feel like that would have became overdone. The suspense of him finding out was just right, in my opinion. It will be interesting to see where he goes career wise.
My quick & simple overall: An entertaining, one-sitting installment that kept me up till well after midnight so I could finish it.
My quick & simple overall: An entertaining, one-sitting installment that kept me up till well after midnight so I could finish it.
March 29, 2018
When I first read that the Mastermind was back, I was sure that this book wasn't gonna be at all considering the Mastermind's story really didn't interest me in the last book. However I was wrong, The Mastermind was the best aspect of this book.
This book follows The Mastermind who is back - and he's hot on Alex Cross's trail. His cold, taunting threats leave Alex angry and deeply concerned for his family's safety while he is away from home. Also, Alex teams up with Jamilla Hughes, a savvy woman detective, to investigate two joggers that have been found dead bitten and hung by their feet to drain their blood. Is it vampires?
The Mastermind plot really picked up this time round. It was a gripping compelling read with plenty of twists and turns. I loved and hated his interruptions into Cross' life. Yes it was exciting and so intense but also I really wanted Alex and his family free from harm as I've really grown to love the family.
I didn't like the 'vampire' storyline at all. It wasn't as interesting as the Mastermind and I think it wasn't necessary at all. The two storylines didn't go together at all and I found myself wanting to skip these parts of the book. Don't know what James Patterson was thinking when he wrote this aspect of the book.
Purely worth a read just for the gripping Mastermind plot!
This book follows The Mastermind who is back - and he's hot on Alex Cross's trail. His cold, taunting threats leave Alex angry and deeply concerned for his family's safety while he is away from home. Also, Alex teams up with Jamilla Hughes, a savvy woman detective, to investigate two joggers that have been found dead bitten and hung by their feet to drain their blood. Is it vampires?
The Mastermind plot really picked up this time round. It was a gripping compelling read with plenty of twists and turns. I loved and hated his interruptions into Cross' life. Yes it was exciting and so intense but also I really wanted Alex and his family free from harm as I've really grown to love the family.
I didn't like the 'vampire' storyline at all. It wasn't as interesting as the Mastermind and I think it wasn't necessary at all. The two storylines didn't go together at all and I found myself wanting to skip these parts of the book. Don't know what James Patterson was thinking when he wrote this aspect of the book.
Purely worth a read just for the gripping Mastermind plot!
May 26, 2018
Number 7 in the Alex Cross series.
This is a particularly macabre little story. The highly visible villains are sociopathic, wannabe vampire, brothers. Who, with prosthetic vampire teeth, bite their victims to death and then drain them of their blood. The more important villain, the mastermind, is invisible to everybody including Alex Cross.
Alex, along with help from the FBI, is in hot pursuit of the vampires. As good as Alex is, the brothers always seem to one step ahead. To add to Alex's worries, Alex keeps getting phone calls from the mastermind threatening all sort of sordid revenge on everyone that Alex holds dear.
When the mastermind in revealed, although I saw it coming from a long way off, it was a jaw dropper when it happened.
This is typical James Patterson, short chapters with lots of death and violence.
Nothing much to stretch the brain, just a quick, easy and entertaining read.
Recommended for lovers of murder and mayhem.
This is a particularly macabre little story. The highly visible villains are sociopathic, wannabe vampire, brothers. Who, with prosthetic vampire teeth, bite their victims to death and then drain them of their blood. The more important villain, the mastermind, is invisible to everybody including Alex Cross.
Alex, along with help from the FBI, is in hot pursuit of the vampires. As good as Alex is, the brothers always seem to one step ahead. To add to Alex's worries, Alex keeps getting phone calls from the mastermind threatening all sort of sordid revenge on everyone that Alex holds dear.
When the mastermind in revealed, although I saw it coming from a long way off, it was a jaw dropper when it happened.
This is typical James Patterson, short chapters with lots of death and violence.
Nothing much to stretch the brain, just a quick, easy and entertaining read.
Recommended for lovers of murder and mayhem.
April 20, 2025
I'm finding James Patterson books a bit samey if I'm honest. I do like the short chapters but it's like there isn't much substance to them.
Easy holiday reading I guess.
Four stars.
Easy holiday reading I guess.
Four stars.
June 13, 2020
I enjoyed this book but I was surprised with ending.Soon I will move on to the next one in the series.
December 12, 2016
Alex Cross #7- oh what a disappointment! Not going to trash this series or James Patterson- I really to love the Alex Cross series- all the psycho, crazy, serial , insane, cut up the bodies and send them to you type books- but this one wasn't one of his best... IMO.
Not giving up on this series- I'm late to the party with these books- started from book number 1 and I'll keep on going.... some people may like this story- it just wasn't for me. On to book number 8 in the sometime future!
Not giving up on this series- I'm late to the party with these books- started from book number 1 and I'll keep on going.... some people may like this story- it just wasn't for me. On to book number 8 in the sometime future!
June 7, 2013
This is my second novel by American author James Patterson. The first Patterson novel I have read is HIDE AND SEEK which I rated two (2) irreplaceable and stinky stars because it failed to court my inner bookworm side. I am a merciful (lol) critique so I decided to give the author another chance. And I must say, he failed me again.
Right now, the efficiency of what Stephen King said about James Patterson's writings during an interview for USA Weekend is starting to sink in me. I quote Stephen King, he referred James Patterson as "a terrible writer [but he's] very successful". And don't forget Patterson being a popular author too. -and just because 'something' is popular does not mean it's good.
Here is the list of major disappointments and irksome instances from the novel:
1. James Patterson uses TOO much common or simple words. Too common that novel became uninteresting and dull. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate the over-rated sayings that go beauty lies in simplicity, but there's always a line between everything that goes too much. There's a fine line between applying the beauty of simplicity and using it excessively.
2. The character's lines are awful. I remember a scene where Alex Cross and a lady detective began to seriously examine a dead body; of all the things Alex Cross would think during that moment is the weather. I mean, I know the novel's genre is mystery but umm, I can't seem to find the connection of the weather to the mystery they're suppose to solve. And it does not stop with that. There are more awful lot.
3. Character's dialogues are overly monotonous. Have you ever read a novel with characters saying the same thing over and over again? Not to mention having a protagonist whose blahs and blahs are exactly the same from every effing chapter?
4. The novel started with a threat to Alex Cross's life. And in the middle of the story it just became an old memory, like it never happened; like James Patterson just accidentally wrote and paste a wrong side of the story in the novel.
5. Lastly, I like Alex Cross because I have a weird detective-fetish (hello Sherlock Holmes! Hoho) but he's the first one who I forced myself to like. lol. I know it's complicated, it's a woman's intuition after all. Hoho.
From this point on, I'll quit reading some of James Patterson's works. I will give him a chance soon, but it might take a while.
Right now, the efficiency of what Stephen King said about James Patterson's writings during an interview for USA Weekend is starting to sink in me. I quote Stephen King, he referred James Patterson as "a terrible writer [but he's] very successful". And don't forget Patterson being a popular author too. -and just because 'something' is popular does not mean it's good.
Here is the list of major disappointments and irksome instances from the novel:
1. James Patterson uses TOO much common or simple words. Too common that novel became uninteresting and dull. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate the over-rated sayings that go beauty lies in simplicity, but there's always a line between everything that goes too much. There's a fine line between applying the beauty of simplicity and using it excessively.
2. The character's lines are awful. I remember a scene where Alex Cross and a lady detective began to seriously examine a dead body; of all the things Alex Cross would think during that moment is the weather. I mean, I know the novel's genre is mystery but umm, I can't seem to find the connection of the weather to the mystery they're suppose to solve. And it does not stop with that. There are more awful lot.
3. Character's dialogues are overly monotonous. Have you ever read a novel with characters saying the same thing over and over again? Not to mention having a protagonist whose blahs and blahs are exactly the same from every effing chapter?
4. The novel started with a threat to Alex Cross's life. And in the middle of the story it just became an old memory, like it never happened; like James Patterson just accidentally wrote and paste a wrong side of the story in the novel.
5. Lastly, I like Alex Cross because I have a weird detective-fetish (hello Sherlock Holmes! Hoho) but he's the first one who I forced myself to like. lol. I know it's complicated, it's a woman's intuition after all. Hoho.
From this point on, I'll quit reading some of James Patterson's works. I will give him a chance soon, but it might take a while.
December 15, 2014
I do enjoy a good Alex Cross book by Patterson. This book had Cross hunting "Vampires". While delving Into the World of "real life Vampires" who drain their victims of blood, Cross is also tormented by the Mastermind who toys with Cross by killing those close to him. Keeping true to form, Patterson has short chapters but constant action. This was a page Turner for me.
March 5, 2022
3.5 stars
The follow up book to its immediate predecessor in the Alex Cross series started out strong and intriguing, lagged in the middle, and then delivered a satisfying ending.
For awhile I was enjoying "Violets Are Blue" as much if not more than the previous read "Roses Are Red". The main case involving vampire-style murders was interesting to me. I found the high-octane nature of the criminals to be a real page turner. Somewhere in the middle though things started to derail a bit. It got repetitive, dragged on, and got too many side stories and random people involved. What started out holding my rapt attention devolved into just an okay read.
I also began to get disappointed in the lack of connection to the previous book. "Roses Are Red" ended on such a great cliffhanger that I expected it to hold more of the story's spotlight. It finally did in the last 70 pages which helped redeem the book overall for me.
There was a lot to like. Alex Cross is a really great character and I love everything about his family, friends, and demeanor. He is a strong protagonist throughout. Some of the side characters added great dialogue as well, and as always the quick pacing of chapters did help keep me engaged even when the story faltered.
Not as good of a read as I had hoped for, but I am thankful that the ending delivered! I'll definitely be reading more Cross novels in the future.
The follow up book to its immediate predecessor in the Alex Cross series started out strong and intriguing, lagged in the middle, and then delivered a satisfying ending.
For awhile I was enjoying "Violets Are Blue" as much if not more than the previous read "Roses Are Red". The main case involving vampire-style murders was interesting to me. I found the high-octane nature of the criminals to be a real page turner. Somewhere in the middle though things started to derail a bit. It got repetitive, dragged on, and got too many side stories and random people involved. What started out holding my rapt attention devolved into just an okay read.
I also began to get disappointed in the lack of connection to the previous book. "Roses Are Red" ended on such a great cliffhanger that I expected it to hold more of the story's spotlight. It finally did in the last 70 pages which helped redeem the book overall for me.
There was a lot to like. Alex Cross is a really great character and I love everything about his family, friends, and demeanor. He is a strong protagonist throughout. Some of the side characters added great dialogue as well, and as always the quick pacing of chapters did help keep me engaged even when the story faltered.
Not as good of a read as I had hoped for, but I am thankful that the ending delivered! I'll definitely be reading more Cross novels in the future.
November 28, 2020
Violets Are Blue gives the old saying, “never trust a wolf dressed in sheep’s clothing” a whole new meaning! Yes, friends! The truth is in the pudding with this one!
Thankfully, Alex Cross is back, and he’s taking a “bite” out of crime! This read gives us everything: sex, vampires (hence my witty reference to “bite,”) and sheer cold blooded murder. Violets Are Blue is yet another brilliant book by the talented Mr. Patterson. Totally deserving of my 5star approval!❤️❤️
Thankfully, Alex Cross is back, and he’s taking a “bite” out of crime! This read gives us everything: sex, vampires (hence my witty reference to “bite,”) and sheer cold blooded murder. Violets Are Blue is yet another brilliant book by the talented Mr. Patterson. Totally deserving of my 5star approval!❤️❤️
June 14, 2025
Alex Cross and Kyle Craig are investigating a series of murders that appear to be done by lunatics that think they’re vampires. A potential new love interest called Jamilla a police detective is introduced. Given Cross’s history with partners she is likely a dead woman walking.
The short chapters make this story easy to read and the first three quarters of the book I enjoyed. Then suddenly confronted with who is the Mastermind the ending seemed abrupt.
SPOILERS AHEAD
Once Alex knows who the Mastermind is and the fact he was on track to be head of the FBI we can only wonder how bad the psyche evaluation must be. Kyle’s family history and fact he was mad should have been apparent. The ending and fight with Alex was s little anticlimactic. However, he is likely to be back in future stories.
The short chapters make this story easy to read and the first three quarters of the book I enjoyed. Then suddenly confronted with who is the Mastermind the ending seemed abrupt.
SPOILERS AHEAD
Once Alex knows who the Mastermind is and the fact he was on track to be head of the FBI we can only wonder how bad the psyche evaluation must be. Kyle’s family history and fact he was mad should have been apparent. The ending and fight with Alex was s little anticlimactic. However, he is likely to be back in future stories.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2022
It seems to me like each book gets more violent and graphic. Violets Are Blue is one long bloody crime scene - just a tad too much even for this fan of dark thrillers. While I enjoyed seeing some of my favorite characters (Alex's family), I can't say the plot line and delivery of this story was entertaining. And I saw where the story was going in regards to the identity of the MasterMind very early on. All the clues were there...it seemed Alex should have figured it out earlier than he did. I guess I'll just say this isn't my favorite of the series. We'll see what the next book brings.
July 21, 2019
First Read: Slowly getting caught up on the Alex Cross' I've read out of order. This is not my favorite. Seems a lot more gruesome than it needs to be. People are murdered all over the United States. To not be a spoiler will stop. Again, not my favorite.
Second Read: This was a very good Alex Cross book. Been about three year since I've read this book, but I really enjoyed it. Detective Alex Cross must confront his most terrifying nemesis ever--and his own deepest fears--in the electrifying new thriller from the master of suspense, James Patterson.
Alex Cross has never believed in vampires. But when two joggers are found slain in a manner that suggests a macabre ritual, he has to reconsider. Someone believes in vampires enough to have committed a series of bizarre murders that appear to be the work for one. Local police are horrified, and even the FBI is baffled.
Cross takes on the case and plunges into a netherworld of secret clubs and role players, a world ful of poseurs and playactors--and someone demented enough to have crossed the line from dark ritual to real bond. At the same time, a lethel super criminal from Cross's past known as the Mastermind is stalking him, taunting him, and threatening everything he holds dear. Cross has never been closer to defeat, or in greater danger in a shocking conclusion, Alex Cross must survive a deadly confrontation--only to discover at last the awful secret of the Mastermind.
Only a writer of Patterson's star-wattage could have hoodwinked his publisher into bringing out this unlovely mess, which pits forensic psychologist. Good stuff, Highly Recommed.
Second Read: This was a very good Alex Cross book. Been about three year since I've read this book, but I really enjoyed it. Detective Alex Cross must confront his most terrifying nemesis ever--and his own deepest fears--in the electrifying new thriller from the master of suspense, James Patterson.
Alex Cross has never believed in vampires. But when two joggers are found slain in a manner that suggests a macabre ritual, he has to reconsider. Someone believes in vampires enough to have committed a series of bizarre murders that appear to be the work for one. Local police are horrified, and even the FBI is baffled.
Cross takes on the case and plunges into a netherworld of secret clubs and role players, a world ful of poseurs and playactors--and someone demented enough to have crossed the line from dark ritual to real bond. At the same time, a lethel super criminal from Cross's past known as the Mastermind is stalking him, taunting him, and threatening everything he holds dear. Cross has never been closer to defeat, or in greater danger in a shocking conclusion, Alex Cross must survive a deadly confrontation--only to discover at last the awful secret of the Mastermind.
Only a writer of Patterson's star-wattage could have hoodwinked his publisher into bringing out this unlovely mess, which pits forensic psychologist. Good stuff, Highly Recommed.
September 16, 2020
The book before this one ended with a Cliffhanger. Unusual for Patterson, not to solve the case within the book but continue the chase in a second novel. Fortunately I had the sequel at hand (half of my books are in Germany, the other in Austria...so they're not always available right away for me)
New main characters (for this new case) are presented, including 2 vampire-like siblings and 2 guys that reminded me of "Siegfried & Roy", and I'm sure Patterson got his inspiration for them in Las Vegas. Additionally he still has to catch the killer from "Roses are Red". Lots to do for Alex, but at least it prevents him from thinking about his problems in private life too much.
New main characters (for this new case) are presented, including 2 vampire-like siblings and 2 guys that reminded me of "Siegfried & Roy", and I'm sure Patterson got his inspiration for them in Las Vegas. Additionally he still has to catch the killer from "Roses are Red". Lots to do for Alex, but at least it prevents him from thinking about his problems in private life too much.
August 7, 2018
Wild setting, bizarre characters, like an authorial need to work on excitement. Still that nagging sense of less than professional FBI work. Too much repetition, in the text and in the characters. That sense of anger as a driving force, that tenacious never say die spirit, the suspense: great. Glad to seemingly complete a story, but it does add suspense. I’m used to depressed detectives, to constant danger, but this guy could be happier; he has happy moments, but he just tells us, too often. I wish I knew his love for music like I know Heironimus Bosch’s.
January 7, 2017
Vampires! Or are they? Alex Cross encounters a most bizarre case in which the bodies of slain joggers are hung and drained of blood. And not just one case but many of similar circumstances throughout the country. And on top of this, Cross's nemesis, the Mastermind, continues to taunt and stalk. This book is especially captivating to those who have already read Roses Are Red -- I can say no more.
June 14, 2022
Νόμιζα πως οι βρυκόλακες ήταν το χειρότερο που μπορούσε να συμβεί στον Άλεξ Κρος μέχρι που βρέθηκε κι ο εγκέφαλος
April 27, 2020
Alex Cross - book No. 7: Alex Cross works alongside the FBI on the case of vicious murders that include blood draining and hanging by the feet! There are also reports of man and tiger bites! It's just the start of what appears to be some sort of vampire cult. And while all this is going on, The Mastermind continues to harangue and harass Cross. Probably the most gripping story, I've read so far from the best-selling Cross series as the entire Mastermind issue finally comes to some sort of conclusion. 7 out of 12.
September 15, 2020
3.5 rounded up to 4
Alex Cross is a favorite
Alex Cross is a favorite
November 17, 2015
Age Appropriate For: 13 and up
Best for Ages: 13-18
While I had a job this summer, I purchased a couple of books by homeschooled authors that had been on my reading list for a very long time. This one had been on my list almost since I started Homeschooled Authors, and so I bought it.
There is always a bit of trepidation in reading a book by someone so young. Elizabeth Rose was 13 when this book was published, and one would think that the book wouldn’t be that well written. Elizabeth Rose really did an amazing job for her age, and while younger readers will probably get the most out of it, older readers might enjoy it too. The story is told well and the vocabulary is so good that it is easy to forget it was written by someone so young.
Violet is a sweet girl whom many readers will understand. While she is a good girl, she has her share of mistakes and issues that make the book feel real and believable. Her struggles and triumphs are easy to identify with and will be very relatable for readers.
Historically, the book was well researched. The book will introduce readers to the life of American immigrants, the hardships of factories, and the Titanic. I think this would be a great introduction for younger members of the family to this time in history.
Before you hand it to younger readers, there is something of which parents should be aware. Violet, at one point in the story, has thoughts of self-harm. I won’t give any details as it would give away part of the story. The situation was handled in a good way, but younger readers might need parental guidance through that section of the book (chapter 25).
I recommend this book to those who like historical fiction, are interested in immigrants or the Titanic, and who like a well told story.
Best for Ages: 13-18
While I had a job this summer, I purchased a couple of books by homeschooled authors that had been on my reading list for a very long time. This one had been on my list almost since I started Homeschooled Authors, and so I bought it.
There is always a bit of trepidation in reading a book by someone so young. Elizabeth Rose was 13 when this book was published, and one would think that the book wouldn’t be that well written. Elizabeth Rose really did an amazing job for her age, and while younger readers will probably get the most out of it, older readers might enjoy it too. The story is told well and the vocabulary is so good that it is easy to forget it was written by someone so young.
Violet is a sweet girl whom many readers will understand. While she is a good girl, she has her share of mistakes and issues that make the book feel real and believable. Her struggles and triumphs are easy to identify with and will be very relatable for readers.
Historically, the book was well researched. The book will introduce readers to the life of American immigrants, the hardships of factories, and the Titanic. I think this would be a great introduction for younger members of the family to this time in history.
Before you hand it to younger readers, there is something of which parents should be aware. Violet, at one point in the story, has thoughts of self-harm. I won’t give any details as it would give away part of the story. The situation was handled in a good way, but younger readers might need parental guidance through that section of the book (chapter 25).
I recommend this book to those who like historical fiction, are interested in immigrants or the Titanic, and who like a well told story.
June 19, 2008
The bodies of men and women are turning up all over the U.S. showing signs of attack by animal and human teeth. As it turns out, a pair of brothers who just so happen to also be vampires are responsible for the attacks. Known by the FBI for his ability to profile killers better than just about anyone else, Dr. Alex Cross is brought in to investigate and is terrified beyond anything he has ever experienced before in his life. His investigation takes him to San Francisco where he meets and, in typical Cross fashion, develops attractions for a homicide detective named Jamilla Hughes. While the suspense is just as evident in this novel as in any other Patterson book, the story does get a bit freaky. For you to be able to finish this book, you have to believe that there are actually people who think of themselves as vampires. Even though I do believe that, it was still a bit strange to read. The best parts of this book involve Cross's continued hunt for the so-called Mastermind, who continues to stalk him and threaten his well being. Other than that, well... This is probably my least favorite of the Alex Cross series.
October 19, 2025
My favourite Alex Cross book so far. Genuinely gripping and thoroughly gruesome, this one borders on horror.
December 12, 2017
The Mastermind is back.
But this book was kind of boring to me. The same villain returns and another loved one is dead. Violets are Blue opens with Alex walking into the murder scene of his latest romantic and professional partner, FBI agent Betsy Cavalierre. She was murdered by the Mastermind, who was introduced in Roses are Red. Of course he calls Alex to taunt him which of course was predictable.
However, Alex doesn't just have to deal with his old nemesis in this book. Oh no, he has to deal with a pair of killers, Michael and William Alexander, who are teenaged vampires. Yep, this book went there.
Now don't get me wrong, I liked the book it just wasn't my favorite. It was kind of meh and even though it had some twists and turns - I saw most of it coming a mile away. The thing I didn't see coming was Craig, and no, I wont tell you what happened.
I really just hope that the next book will be a lot better.
But this book was kind of boring to me. The same villain returns and another loved one is dead. Violets are Blue opens with Alex walking into the murder scene of his latest romantic and professional partner, FBI agent Betsy Cavalierre. She was murdered by the Mastermind, who was introduced in Roses are Red. Of course he calls Alex to taunt him which of course was predictable.
However, Alex doesn't just have to deal with his old nemesis in this book. Oh no, he has to deal with a pair of killers, Michael and William Alexander, who are teenaged vampires. Yep, this book went there.
Now don't get me wrong, I liked the book it just wasn't my favorite. It was kind of meh and even though it had some twists and turns - I saw most of it coming a mile away. The thing I didn't see coming was Craig, and no, I wont tell you what happened.
I really just hope that the next book will be a lot better.
July 19, 2023
Of all Alex Cross's books, this one is my LEAST favorite. That doesn't mean it was bad, just that it didn't hold up to the scrutiny of the previous 6 novels.
It was essential, but it seemed weird to put the Vampires and Mastermind into the same book, felt kind of disjointed, and I was kind of disappointed by the end of this, as it seems like a lot more could have happened with certain people.
It WAS fun to get to see some past victims, but I wish it would have been more, instead of a shorter, more rushed feeling novel.
Overall, I still love Alex Cross and am ready for book 8.
It was essential, but it seemed weird to put the Vampires and Mastermind into the same book, felt kind of disjointed, and I was kind of disappointed by the end of this, as it seems like a lot more could have happened with certain people.
It WAS fun to get to see some past victims, but I wish it would have been more, instead of a shorter, more rushed feeling novel.
Overall, I still love Alex Cross and am ready for book 8.
February 4, 2009
This will be my last JP book. It seemed like a recap of all the other books and I kept thinking "why can't he come up with some new material??" I've read all the others and didn't need to spend another 8 hours recapping. Yes - there was a new pretty good story but I got hung up on the numerous references to all of the past books.
August 28, 2018
I had to say this was one of my favourite of the Alex Cross series. I found the story creepy and I could totally picture it as a movie. I really like how it went over some of the stuff that happened in the previous books. Still wish I loved this series more than I do but I have hope that it is going to continue to get better and better.
Good Read!
Good Read!
November 22, 2020
I really enjoyed this book in the Alex Cross series. In this episode, Alex travels to San Francisco to help another detective with a series of brutal murders with vampiric overtones. It was really fun to have the story go back and forth with the POV of Alex and the criminals.
February 20, 2025
Another good book in this long Cross series. A big mystery is finally revealed. The biggest mastermind yet! It’s no wonder Patterson is so popular. This book is downright chilling. You MUST start with Along Came A Spider. While technically you could read it standalone, you would miss SO much that becomes more relevant with each new book. As you start this book, it begins in a forest over the Golden Gate Bridge. I was reading this same book in that same forest! What happens in the book, in that forest, gave me goosebumps and almost made me a true believer in the terrors we dream about at night!
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