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Alex Cross #33
The House of Cross
The thirty-second instalment in James Patterson's globally bestselling Alex Cross series. It’s time to put the guns down, Detective Cross. Even if you knew the way out of this place, we would catch you.
A serial killer is taking out America’s finest legal minds, and Alex Cross is called to investigate their brutal murders. But during a dangerous mission to track down the killer, his wife, Bree, and best friend, John Sampson, go missing. To save the people he loves most, Cross has only three goals:
Number one: Find Bree and John.
Number two: Escape.
Number three: Survive.
If he fails, there will be no one left in the House of Cross.
A serial killer is taking out America’s finest legal minds, and Alex Cross is called to investigate their brutal murders. But during a dangerous mission to track down the killer, his wife, Bree, and best friend, John Sampson, go missing. To save the people he loves most, Cross has only three goals:
Number one: Find Bree and John.
Number two: Escape.
Number three: Survive.
If he fails, there will be no one left in the House of Cross.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published November 25, 2024
4189 people are currently reading
4976 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 1,043 reviews
May 23, 2025
It is nice to read a novel written by James Patterson. I had forgot how swiftly the pages could turn.
There has been murders and there are new murders happening. Alex and Bree, his wife feel that the Maestro is behind these events. They both have the same goal but are traveling different paths. Alex is teamed with Ned Mahoney and Bree is teamed with John Sampson. Nobody is getting the cooperation they need.
A very well written novel with plenty of action, suspense, deception, frustration and excitement. Characters are believable. The flow is smooth with no lulls in the text. I definitely recommend this to my fellow GR friends. Enjoy your ride on the roller coaster of fun.
There has been murders and there are new murders happening. Alex and Bree, his wife feel that the Maestro is behind these events. They both have the same goal but are traveling different paths. Alex is teamed with Ned Mahoney and Bree is teamed with John Sampson. Nobody is getting the cooperation they need.
A very well written novel with plenty of action, suspense, deception, frustration and excitement. Characters are believable. The flow is smooth with no lulls in the text. I definitely recommend this to my fellow GR friends. Enjoy your ride on the roller coaster of fun.
February 1, 2025
The 33rd book in this series alone and there are so many other books by Patterson out there! It is amazing that the Alex Cross series has stood this test of time but it surely has.
In The House of Cross Alex and FBI agent Mahoney are working hard to catch someone who is methodically assassinating top legal figures. Meanwhile Bree has her own case to work and travels with John Sampson into the Canadian wilderness. When they disappear Alex puts everything aside and goes to find them.
It was fast, action packed and made for excellent reading pleasure. Oddly enough though I was most nervous for NanaMama left behind to care for all the kids. She must be pretty old by now - I think 94 was mentioned so she is doing very well indeed!
I have only read 20 of the books in this series so I still have lots to enjoy. That is a good feeling.
In The House of Cross Alex and FBI agent Mahoney are working hard to catch someone who is methodically assassinating top legal figures. Meanwhile Bree has her own case to work and travels with John Sampson into the Canadian wilderness. When they disappear Alex puts everything aside and goes to find them.
It was fast, action packed and made for excellent reading pleasure. Oddly enough though I was most nervous for NanaMama left behind to care for all the kids. She must be pretty old by now - I think 94 was mentioned so she is doing very well indeed!
I have only read 20 of the books in this series so I still have lots to enjoy. That is a good feeling.
Read
December 8, 2024I’ve been reading James Patterson books for over twenty-five years. During that time, like most of his fans, my favorite character has always been Alex Cross. He was Patterson’s first detective series that helped lay the foundation for his kingdom of several bestselling series and stand-alone novels. For me, Alex has remained a fierce, intellectual knight of moral character and the proper use of action.
I still remember reading the Alex’s first adventure, “Along came a Spider” and almost cried when Alex, then a widower, faced the loss of his new love in an ending twist I would never forget. In the thirty years following, there have been some good (and excellent) adventures and some less-than-stellar outings along the way, but I generally looked forward to the end of each year when another Alex Cross adventure was published.
Now, in 2024, the 33rd book in the series – “The House of Cross” – has been published, and I have completed my coveted reading visit with Detective Cross.
“The House of Cross” begins in December with a new president-elect, Sue Winter, preparing for a January inauguration ceremony and team transition into the White House.
Then a U.S. Court of Appeals system judge in DC is shot to death when arriving at home after work. Days later, a second Appeals judge in San Francisco is stabbed to death while walking to a local restaurant.
Alex Cross gets a call from Ned Mahoney, supervising special agent in charge of high-profile cases, to assist him in the investigation. Before the two can find a link between the two victims, a third murder occurs. This time, a professor at the University of Georgia Law School is also shot to death in his driveway. Cross and Mahoney discover that all three of the deceased were on the president-elect’s highly confidential list of Supreme Court candidates. A list only a few select individuals were even aware of.
Now it is up to Alex’s analytical expertise to find a diabolical plot to stop a diabolical conspiracy to eliminate future Supreme Court Justices and the only way to find the killer is to figure out why…
At the same time, Alex’s wife Bree, a PI at the Bluestone Group, a top private security firm, is involved in her own investigation along with Alex’s police partner and best friend, John Sampson. Ryan Malcolm, the founder of Paladin, a very successful data mining company doing work with federal security and law enforcement agencies was found dead. The man that they believed was also known as “M” the mysterious leader of Maestro, a vigilante group responsible for many murders involving criminals and members of law enforcement gone bad. Malcolm supposedly died when he crashed his van on a remote Nevada mountain road when looking over ranch land for purchase.
Bree isn’t happy about not knowing whether Malcom was “M” or not. She needs closure, and John is willing to help since he’s on forced PTO from work. While Alex is on the hunt for a killer, Bree and John’s own search for understanding leads them to the scene of the accident, the past, and puts their life in serious peril when an unknown enemy demands they must be stopped or eliminated…
For me, this was one of Patterson’s better books with a couple of caveats that I’ll address after the good stuff. Alex Cross is my favorite mystery/thriller series of his and this one delivered a page turner read. It had Patterson’s usual thriller elements, fast-paced tempo, and lots of dramatic twists and turns from beginning to end. It definitely packed a lot of punches, but what worked best was the tight and focused plotting. There were two mystery plots that moved back and forth smoothly and effortlessly due to Patterson’s crisp, focused, and tight writing style. I also appreciated the secondary storyline involving John’s new relationship and daughter, which provided that special secret sauce inherent in the Cross novels.
However, it’s also time to share a couple of constructive comments. Truth be told, the “M” and Maestro storyline is starting to drag out for me. It’s had some high points, and Patterson has done a pretty entertaining job of peeling the onion slowly and carefully, building the drama and amplifying the tension over several books. However, as much as I like the complexity and storyline development, it needs move faster to a resolution before it overstays its welcome. It’s starting to remind me of Patterson’s pervious Mastermind plotline that was started off strong, built well over several books, but then never seemed to end as the villain kept coming back over and over again like the horror movie characters Freddy and Jason. I hope that this current bad-guy storyline doesn’t fall in that trap.
Too add on that thought, I refer to two specific examples in this book that support that concern. The first is that “M” has a bad-guy underground lair that rivals those from the classic Ian Fleming James Bond novel and movies. I swear it’s so over-the-top sci-fi in design that I expected Blofeld or Dr. No to walk out in support of “M” at some point. Unfortunately, part of me found it to be kind of cheesy. The second (careful of spoilers) is the wimpy ending exchange between Cross and “M” on pages 402 – 403 that left me feeling letdown for all of the reasons listed above. It left me with a rather disappointing feeling that almost overshadowed the really good moments that I enjoyed in this one. Oh well.
Over three decades and 30 books, the character of Alex Cross has stood the test of time pretty well. He’s hunted many serial killers and life-threatening situations. His biggest strengths have been understanding the minds of others while doing his best to keep his family safe. Cross has grown and changed in many ways, but his ethical and moral compass has remained true and strong, a prime example and model for doing good, no matter what the situation is. Some of his adventures have been really good, some okay, and a few not so great, but that’s par for the course.
For me, Alex Cross still shines bright most of the time, and it looks like Patterson is moving towards a final showdown with his most popular character and his never-ending fight to bring down “M” and Maestro vigilante group…
I only hope it doesn’t jump the proverbial shark…
I still remember reading the Alex’s first adventure, “Along came a Spider” and almost cried when Alex, then a widower, faced the loss of his new love in an ending twist I would never forget. In the thirty years following, there have been some good (and excellent) adventures and some less-than-stellar outings along the way, but I generally looked forward to the end of each year when another Alex Cross adventure was published.
Now, in 2024, the 33rd book in the series – “The House of Cross” – has been published, and I have completed my coveted reading visit with Detective Cross.
“The House of Cross” begins in December with a new president-elect, Sue Winter, preparing for a January inauguration ceremony and team transition into the White House.
Then a U.S. Court of Appeals system judge in DC is shot to death when arriving at home after work. Days later, a second Appeals judge in San Francisco is stabbed to death while walking to a local restaurant.
Alex Cross gets a call from Ned Mahoney, supervising special agent in charge of high-profile cases, to assist him in the investigation. Before the two can find a link between the two victims, a third murder occurs. This time, a professor at the University of Georgia Law School is also shot to death in his driveway. Cross and Mahoney discover that all three of the deceased were on the president-elect’s highly confidential list of Supreme Court candidates. A list only a few select individuals were even aware of.
Now it is up to Alex’s analytical expertise to find a diabolical plot to stop a diabolical conspiracy to eliminate future Supreme Court Justices and the only way to find the killer is to figure out why…
At the same time, Alex’s wife Bree, a PI at the Bluestone Group, a top private security firm, is involved in her own investigation along with Alex’s police partner and best friend, John Sampson. Ryan Malcolm, the founder of Paladin, a very successful data mining company doing work with federal security and law enforcement agencies was found dead. The man that they believed was also known as “M” the mysterious leader of Maestro, a vigilante group responsible for many murders involving criminals and members of law enforcement gone bad. Malcolm supposedly died when he crashed his van on a remote Nevada mountain road when looking over ranch land for purchase.
Bree isn’t happy about not knowing whether Malcom was “M” or not. She needs closure, and John is willing to help since he’s on forced PTO from work. While Alex is on the hunt for a killer, Bree and John’s own search for understanding leads them to the scene of the accident, the past, and puts their life in serious peril when an unknown enemy demands they must be stopped or eliminated…
For me, this was one of Patterson’s better books with a couple of caveats that I’ll address after the good stuff. Alex Cross is my favorite mystery/thriller series of his and this one delivered a page turner read. It had Patterson’s usual thriller elements, fast-paced tempo, and lots of dramatic twists and turns from beginning to end. It definitely packed a lot of punches, but what worked best was the tight and focused plotting. There were two mystery plots that moved back and forth smoothly and effortlessly due to Patterson’s crisp, focused, and tight writing style. I also appreciated the secondary storyline involving John’s new relationship and daughter, which provided that special secret sauce inherent in the Cross novels.
However, it’s also time to share a couple of constructive comments. Truth be told, the “M” and Maestro storyline is starting to drag out for me. It’s had some high points, and Patterson has done a pretty entertaining job of peeling the onion slowly and carefully, building the drama and amplifying the tension over several books. However, as much as I like the complexity and storyline development, it needs move faster to a resolution before it overstays its welcome. It’s starting to remind me of Patterson’s pervious Mastermind plotline that was started off strong, built well over several books, but then never seemed to end as the villain kept coming back over and over again like the horror movie characters Freddy and Jason. I hope that this current bad-guy storyline doesn’t fall in that trap.
Too add on that thought, I refer to two specific examples in this book that support that concern. The first is that “M” has a bad-guy underground lair that rivals those from the classic Ian Fleming James Bond novel and movies. I swear it’s so over-the-top sci-fi in design that I expected Blofeld or Dr. No to walk out in support of “M” at some point. Unfortunately, part of me found it to be kind of cheesy. The second (careful of spoilers) is the wimpy ending exchange between Cross and “M” on pages 402 – 403 that left me feeling letdown for all of the reasons listed above. It left me with a rather disappointing feeling that almost overshadowed the really good moments that I enjoyed in this one. Oh well.
Over three decades and 30 books, the character of Alex Cross has stood the test of time pretty well. He’s hunted many serial killers and life-threatening situations. His biggest strengths have been understanding the minds of others while doing his best to keep his family safe. Cross has grown and changed in many ways, but his ethical and moral compass has remained true and strong, a prime example and model for doing good, no matter what the situation is. Some of his adventures have been really good, some okay, and a few not so great, but that’s par for the course.
For me, Alex Cross still shines bright most of the time, and it looks like Patterson is moving towards a final showdown with his most popular character and his never-ending fight to bring down “M” and Maestro vigilante group…
I only hope it doesn’t jump the proverbial shark…
December 16, 2024
I really liked this, the 33rd instalment in the Alex Cross series, and I feel like Patterson has listened to what I’ve had to say lately and that’s GO BACK TO BASICS. That’s exactly what he has done with this. Familiar characters you know and love, not many side characters that make things confusing and not necessary. A big bad that has carried on for a few novels now which I love cause it sets up way better storylines when an arc is told over 3 or 4 books.
I also really enjoyed the Canadian wilderness backdrop for the lair of “M” that made for an interesting element, being Alex and crew trying to survive the outside cold Canadian winter in the middle of nowhere with nowhere to go. It made me think “that could be me” and made for a tense finish.
Overall very familiar and gave me a nostalgic feeling of Alex Cross of old. 4 stars!
I also really enjoyed the Canadian wilderness backdrop for the lair of “M” that made for an interesting element, being Alex and crew trying to survive the outside cold Canadian winter in the middle of nowhere with nowhere to go. It made me think “that could be me” and made for a tense finish.
Overall very familiar and gave me a nostalgic feeling of Alex Cross of old. 4 stars!
November 20, 2024
Some of the best legal minds are being assassinated. They had the potential of going even higher in their careers. Alex Cross will go to any lengths to stop the killer, but, as always, continues to strive to be a balanced family man. As Alex begins working alongside Ned Mahoney of the FBI, they realize they are both in a race against time. Meanwhile, Alex’s wife Bree Stone and his former partner John Sampson are after an elusive criminal known as “Maestro “.
Both Alex and Bree are determined in their searches, and it is also the Christmas season. Neither wants to miss their long-held Christmas traditions with their family, and this includes Sampson and his young daughter Willow.
Although traveling from here and there while searching for answers, Alex and Bree always manage to find their way back to one another. However, when their cases converge, and Bree and Sampson suddenly disappear, Alex hopes and prays he will see his beautiful wife and best friend again.
With its exceptional pacing, thrilling scenes, and near-constant danger, this 33rd installment in the Alex Cross series is an irresistible read. Not only does this long-running series deliver the action that fans have come to expect, but it also features heartwarming family moments that provide a poignant balance to the narrative. Nana Mama, a one of my favorite fictional character known for her strength and vitality, plays a central role in these moments. The rest of the family also appears in warm and affectionate scenes.
Then, the injustice. Read this book and you will see how both Alex and Bree do their best to balance the scales. While these Alex Cross novels could likely be read as standalone novels, reading this series in order will help readers to see the intricate dynamic between the characters and the seamless integration of recurring events into the contemporary narratives. I’m totally hooked on this series and can’t wait for the next book!
Many thanks to Little, Brown and Company and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Both Alex and Bree are determined in their searches, and it is also the Christmas season. Neither wants to miss their long-held Christmas traditions with their family, and this includes Sampson and his young daughter Willow.
Although traveling from here and there while searching for answers, Alex and Bree always manage to find their way back to one another. However, when their cases converge, and Bree and Sampson suddenly disappear, Alex hopes and prays he will see his beautiful wife and best friend again.
With its exceptional pacing, thrilling scenes, and near-constant danger, this 33rd installment in the Alex Cross series is an irresistible read. Not only does this long-running series deliver the action that fans have come to expect, but it also features heartwarming family moments that provide a poignant balance to the narrative. Nana Mama, a one of my favorite fictional character known for her strength and vitality, plays a central role in these moments. The rest of the family also appears in warm and affectionate scenes.
Then, the injustice. Read this book and you will see how both Alex and Bree do their best to balance the scales. While these Alex Cross novels could likely be read as standalone novels, reading this series in order will help readers to see the intricate dynamic between the characters and the seamless integration of recurring events into the contemporary narratives. I’m totally hooked on this series and can’t wait for the next book!
Many thanks to Little, Brown and Company and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
March 14, 2025
All I can say about this story is that I could not engage.
January 12, 2025
Ah ha ha ha this was the book equivalent of a chocolate fondue fountain dinner.
You know it’s not good for you and halfway through you know that continuing to persevere is a questionable life choice. But you throw caution to the wind because once you start something, you ain’t a quitter!
This will make a great TV episode, but a work of art it is not. Silly and blandly entertaining.
You know it’s not good for you and halfway through you know that continuing to persevere is a questionable life choice. But you throw caution to the wind because once you start something, you ain’t a quitter!
This will make a great TV episode, but a work of art it is not. Silly and blandly entertaining.
February 5, 2025
My only complaint is the slow start. Till about 50% the book struggles to pick up speed. However it more than makes up for it towards the end. The climax is well visualised, though a few elements might be predictable.
October 30, 2024
Another wild Alex Cross thriller
September 23, 2024
⭐️⭐️ 2 average stars.
The more recent Cross books have been very disappointing and sadly this is the last one I will read.
A thin plot line about Maestro and yet again a cross over of Bree and Alex’s cases. I just never took to Bree as a character. It was hard to get engaged with the story or the characters.
I think it’s time the author retires Alex Cross - leave him to grow old with Bree, Nana Mama, his high performing kids and Sampson.
The more recent Cross books have been very disappointing and sadly this is the last one I will read.
A thin plot line about Maestro and yet again a cross over of Bree and Alex’s cases. I just never took to Bree as a character. It was hard to get engaged with the story or the characters.
I think it’s time the author retires Alex Cross - leave him to grow old with Bree, Nana Mama, his high performing kids and Sampson.
October 6, 2024
The next instalment in the Alex Cross series and it's just as fast-paced and riveting as the last one.
The story begins with a judge suffering from a strange attack, the death of a man named Malcomb (who Bree suspects is the serial killer M) and another judge's murder. And the murders don't stop there but if M is dead then who is killing them? Bree isn't convinced that Malcomb is really dead so she and Sampson go in search of the truth. It leads them into terrible danger while Alex is drawn in by the connection to Malcomb's mother. The question is, will they be able to solve the mystery before President Elect, Sue Winter, takes office and why are potential Supreme Court judges being targeted?
The book has a few twists and turns that will keep you guessing as to what is really going on. It's immensely readable as usual and I whizzed through it within a couple of days. My only criticism is that towards the end of the book the plot does become a little fantastical but I can forgive that for the sheer enjoyment of reading a thriller by a writer who rarely fails to delight and surprise.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Random House for the advance review copy.
The story begins with a judge suffering from a strange attack, the death of a man named Malcomb (who Bree suspects is the serial killer M) and another judge's murder. And the murders don't stop there but if M is dead then who is killing them? Bree isn't convinced that Malcomb is really dead so she and Sampson go in search of the truth. It leads them into terrible danger while Alex is drawn in by the connection to Malcomb's mother. The question is, will they be able to solve the mystery before President Elect, Sue Winter, takes office and why are potential Supreme Court judges being targeted?
The book has a few twists and turns that will keep you guessing as to what is really going on. It's immensely readable as usual and I whizzed through it within a couple of days. My only criticism is that towards the end of the book the plot does become a little fantastical but I can forgive that for the sheer enjoyment of reading a thriller by a writer who rarely fails to delight and surprise.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Random House for the advance review copy.
November 13, 2024
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, James Patterson, and Little, Brown, and Company for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
James Patterson delivers one of his stellar series with the latest addition. In a series that has mastered the art of always keeping things moving, Patterson provides fans with something well worth their time. When a number of high-ranking judicial minds are murdered across the country, Dr. Alex Cross and FBI Special Agent Ned Mahoney, begin their investigation. Meanwhile, a familiar billionaire dies in an odd manner and Bree Stone stays as busy as her husband, Dr. Cross, with her own investigation. Could they be tied together in some way? A great series addition by Patterson.
After the bodies of two prominent judges on opposite sides of the country are found, it becomes apparent that someone is trying to assassinate strong legal minds in America. Dr. Alex Cross is called upon to help investigate, sending him and Special Agent Ned Mahoney across the country to put the pieces together. They have the killer’s silhouette in video recordings, but have yet to piece it all together.
Meanwhile, in Nevada, a billionaire succumbs to an odd vehicular accident and is dead, his body identified by the medical examiner. He left a message for Alex Cross, but all for naught. What reason did he have to be killed and how light it tie in with the other case at hand?
While Bree Stone, wife to Dr. Cross, works with Metro PD Detective John Sampson, they uncover a plot that could shake things to the core and reveals a potential to the murdered judges. However, they will have to make it out alive to share this news. On the eve of the presidential inauguration, Cross, Stone, Maloney, and Sampson all work their own angles to bring down a plot that could have dire consequences for all involved. A stunning story that keeps the reader hooked until all comes together. Some of Patterson’s better work!
There is something about James Patterson that makes me enjoy his earlier series work. While he has inundated the world with publications, I can usually rely on some strong writing when Patterson does his own work and remembers his roots. The narrative flows well in this piece, alternating between the two investigations as things heat up. The shift in momentum is subtle, but noticeable for the dedicated reader. Strong themes emerge alongside great characters, building on their backstories and series-long growth. Mixing mystery with politics, the plot emerges successfully and pieces things together with ease, while also never giving up too much. Surprises abound and keep the reader on edge as Patterson delivers another strong novel in this series.
Kudos, Mr. Patterson, for another great addition to this long series!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
James Patterson delivers one of his stellar series with the latest addition. In a series that has mastered the art of always keeping things moving, Patterson provides fans with something well worth their time. When a number of high-ranking judicial minds are murdered across the country, Dr. Alex Cross and FBI Special Agent Ned Mahoney, begin their investigation. Meanwhile, a familiar billionaire dies in an odd manner and Bree Stone stays as busy as her husband, Dr. Cross, with her own investigation. Could they be tied together in some way? A great series addition by Patterson.
After the bodies of two prominent judges on opposite sides of the country are found, it becomes apparent that someone is trying to assassinate strong legal minds in America. Dr. Alex Cross is called upon to help investigate, sending him and Special Agent Ned Mahoney across the country to put the pieces together. They have the killer’s silhouette in video recordings, but have yet to piece it all together.
Meanwhile, in Nevada, a billionaire succumbs to an odd vehicular accident and is dead, his body identified by the medical examiner. He left a message for Alex Cross, but all for naught. What reason did he have to be killed and how light it tie in with the other case at hand?
While Bree Stone, wife to Dr. Cross, works with Metro PD Detective John Sampson, they uncover a plot that could shake things to the core and reveals a potential to the murdered judges. However, they will have to make it out alive to share this news. On the eve of the presidential inauguration, Cross, Stone, Maloney, and Sampson all work their own angles to bring down a plot that could have dire consequences for all involved. A stunning story that keeps the reader hooked until all comes together. Some of Patterson’s better work!
There is something about James Patterson that makes me enjoy his earlier series work. While he has inundated the world with publications, I can usually rely on some strong writing when Patterson does his own work and remembers his roots. The narrative flows well in this piece, alternating between the two investigations as things heat up. The shift in momentum is subtle, but noticeable for the dedicated reader. Strong themes emerge alongside great characters, building on their backstories and series-long growth. Mixing mystery with politics, the plot emerges successfully and pieces things together with ease, while also never giving up too much. Surprises abound and keep the reader on edge as Patterson delivers another strong novel in this series.
Kudos, Mr. Patterson, for another great addition to this long series!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
October 24, 2024
Another brilliant book in the Alex Cross series.
I can’t believe there’s been over 30 books in this series, and I’ve enjoyed every one of them.
In this book key members of the political arena in America are being assassinated and Alex and Ned are tasked with finding the killer.
Bree is still determined to find ‘M’ and Sampson comes on board to help her.
Bree and Sampson are then kidnapped with Alex beside himself with worry. He’s determined to find them and he ends up in freezing cold conditions on a snowmobile searching for them.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Random House UK for the opportunity to read this book.
I can’t believe there’s been over 30 books in this series, and I’ve enjoyed every one of them.
In this book key members of the political arena in America are being assassinated and Alex and Ned are tasked with finding the killer.
Bree is still determined to find ‘M’ and Sampson comes on board to help her.
Bree and Sampson are then kidnapped with Alex beside himself with worry. He’s determined to find them and he ends up in freezing cold conditions on a snowmobile searching for them.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Random House UK for the opportunity to read this book.
December 15, 2024
#33 Alex Cross book - yay and I have reached my goal of reading 100 books this year and there is still 2 weeks left of 2024📚
November 17, 2024
3.5 / 5.0
Honestly, after the disaster of the previous book I think this has improved abit. Long gone are the ridiculous seperate plots between Alex, Bree and Sampson which destroyed the plot and took away from the quality. Surprisingly, Patterson actually included Bree in the plot this time instead of throwing her to the side in the previous book like a backup dancer. Tbf this feels like a long drag of a book- it feels like this plot has been extending over the last few books and it’s low-key frankly getting boring? I don’t know, but even though this time we have more insight on who ‘M’ is and what he stands for, how he operates - I feel like that’s where the plot is always going towards… it feels bland- having the same thing again but rebranded differently and getting an equivalent of a starter of information to this never ending repetitive plot. I sometimes ask myself why I continue to read this series, where I always hope that it’s something different other than trying to figure out M and what his next ‘stick’ is. I also found Patterson making this ‘different’ was to throw in the twin theory which I actually found even more confusing and convoluting. I hate how authors do that just to throw the scent of the trail, only for it to backfire and make everything even more confusing??
Is this the route we are heading towards, a never ending plot that will help Patterson churn out more book under this series?? How many more of the same plot are we going to get with M or Mastero? It just feels like we are being baby fed a never ending book that will only help Patterson extend the series longer? It’s incredibly frustrating when before all this unknown vigilante group the book was churning out bangers- now it feels like no effort almost?? It feels like a disservice to the previous other books in the series? Why has it gone down this route? To all the new readers, it probably makes no sense whatsoever- but for all the readers who have invested in the series - do they feel the same or is it just me???
Honestly, after the disaster of the previous book I think this has improved abit. Long gone are the ridiculous seperate plots between Alex, Bree and Sampson which destroyed the plot and took away from the quality. Surprisingly, Patterson actually included Bree in the plot this time instead of throwing her to the side in the previous book like a backup dancer. Tbf this feels like a long drag of a book- it feels like this plot has been extending over the last few books and it’s low-key frankly getting boring? I don’t know, but even though this time we have more insight on who ‘M’ is and what he stands for, how he operates - I feel like that’s where the plot is always going towards… it feels bland- having the same thing again but rebranded differently and getting an equivalent of a starter of information to this never ending repetitive plot. I sometimes ask myself why I continue to read this series, where I always hope that it’s something different other than trying to figure out M and what his next ‘stick’ is. I also found Patterson making this ‘different’ was to throw in the twin theory which I actually found even more confusing and convoluting. I hate how authors do that just to throw the scent of the trail, only for it to backfire and make everything even more confusing??
Is this the route we are heading towards, a never ending plot that will help Patterson churn out more book under this series?? How many more of the same plot are we going to get with M or Mastero? It just feels like we are being baby fed a never ending book that will only help Patterson extend the series longer? It’s incredibly frustrating when before all this unknown vigilante group the book was churning out bangers- now it feels like no effort almost?? It feels like a disservice to the previous other books in the series? Why has it gone down this route? To all the new readers, it probably makes no sense whatsoever- but for all the readers who have invested in the series - do they feel the same or is it just me???
October 29, 2024
This was a tricky review. Let me try to explain. The characters are all high calibre. The plot was intricate and creative. However, I found that having finished the book I was unsure if I really enjoyed it or not.
This forced me to think deeply to try and work out why it was not a more straightforward 5 out of 5. My ultimate reflection was that this series of books has slowly evolved into being a kind of Marvel Comic and I am not that fond of them. Alex Cross and his team are now the multi-talented team of "super-heroes" that take on dark forces to save humanity.
I would have preferred if the series had been more realistic. It didn't come close to reflecting my understanding of the difficulties faced by law enforcement in running down "the baddies".
I guess that is all a matter of personal taste, though.
This forced me to think deeply to try and work out why it was not a more straightforward 5 out of 5. My ultimate reflection was that this series of books has slowly evolved into being a kind of Marvel Comic and I am not that fond of them. Alex Cross and his team are now the multi-talented team of "super-heroes" that take on dark forces to save humanity.
I would have preferred if the series had been more realistic. It didn't come close to reflecting my understanding of the difficulties faced by law enforcement in running down "the baddies".
I guess that is all a matter of personal taste, though.
January 13, 2025
The 33rd book of this series introduces a new character, a vigilante going after what he considers bad people on a short list of Supreme Court nominees. And killing a couple sitting justices will allow for a reshaping of the court. But Alex Cross and his group are on the case. Well written and it appears the next book will be a follow-up. Interestingly, the short list is compiled by a small group of American billionaires that donate heavily to the newly elected female president… an oligarchy.
January 11, 2025
One of the best of the series! Explosive action, high stakes, twisted plot line! It's got it all!! Highly recommended!
June 8, 2025
An absolutely amazing read! Full of action and a well woven narrative.
October 24, 2025
This one was really great! The true definition of a mystery, suspense, and thriller book. It was definitely a page turner for me.
December 12, 2024
Another great Alex Cross adventure!
February 18, 2025
As Malcomb navigates the snowy roads of the mountains of Nevada, he finds a car behind him gaining, a helicopter chasing him, and a snowplow cutting off his escape. Just before he plunges over the railing to his fiery death, he tries to contact Alex Cross. Bree Stone and John Sampson have been seeking Malcomb for a long time, suspecting him of being "M," the head of the mysterious and powerful terrorist group, Maestro. A consultant to the FBI, Bree's husband and Sampson's best friend, Alex Cross is too busy trying to track down murderers of potential Supreme Court justices before the new president is sworn in. When the cases intersect, Alex is almost too late to recognize the signs of Maestro's still being active.
This is another of James Patterson's Alex Cross series. It is fast paced with short chapters and plenty of action and surprising twists as the story advances. I don't remember any bad language, though there may have been a little. I think I enjoy this series so much because I saw the movies with Morgan Freeman and Cross is such an avid family man. Nana Mama, Cross's feisty grandmother who raised him, and John Sampson are my favorite characters. I would have given this five stars, but the opening chapter with Malcomb left me with questions about his trying to reach Cross, and the questions never get answered. The attempted contact seems out of character.
This is another of James Patterson's Alex Cross series. It is fast paced with short chapters and plenty of action and surprising twists as the story advances. I don't remember any bad language, though there may have been a little. I think I enjoy this series so much because I saw the movies with Morgan Freeman and Cross is such an avid family man. Nana Mama, Cross's feisty grandmother who raised him, and John Sampson are my favorite characters. I would have given this five stars, but the opening chapter with Malcomb left me with questions about his trying to reach Cross, and the questions never get answered. The attempted contact seems out of character.
December 20, 2024
Another thrilling book by James Patterson (himself).
The plot was great.
Alex Cross, his family and friends were included.
Well written.
Flowed well.
Kept me turning the pages.
A few parts were a bit over the top, but that didn’t bother me.
Extremely entertaining!
The plot was great.
Alex Cross, his family and friends were included.
Well written.
Flowed well.
Kept me turning the pages.
A few parts were a bit over the top, but that didn’t bother me.
Extremely entertaining!
November 29, 2024
It was so good to spend some time with Alex Cross. I know he will never have an uneventful time, and The House of Cross was another page turner. This time, someone is targeting Supreme Court candidates, and Alex and Sampson must figure out the who and why.
Reading this series is like spending time with old friends. I always worry that Nana Mama, who is quite elderly, might not survive. 🥲 No spoilers, but Alex travels across the country to save his friends, family, and the country. Another book that kept me reading way too late and I do not regret the lack of sleep one bit. James Patterson is a master at thinking up the most diabolical plots (and villains) that Alex must solve.
Reading this series is like spending time with old friends. I always worry that Nana Mama, who is quite elderly, might not survive. 🥲 No spoilers, but Alex travels across the country to save his friends, family, and the country. Another book that kept me reading way too late and I do not regret the lack of sleep one bit. James Patterson is a master at thinking up the most diabolical plots (and villains) that Alex must solve.
December 12, 2024
The juggernaut that is James Patterson returns with the latest novel in the life of his longest-running character Alex Cross. This one opens with a murder made to look an accident in the snowy wastelands before moving onto the murders of prominent figures in American legal life. How they are connected sees Patterson returning to the mystery of M/Maestro, which has been running for some novels now. It all leads to some dramatic action in northern Canada, and prominent roles for Bree, Alex's wife, and John Sampson, his long term friend and partner.
If you're not up to speed with the last few novels this might not be the best place to start, though Patterson does explain everything so no new readers would be entirely lost. However, if you love this series, then The House of Cross is another thrilling novel in the series and recommended.
If you're not up to speed with the last few novels this might not be the best place to start, though Patterson does explain everything so no new readers would be entirely lost. However, if you love this series, then The House of Cross is another thrilling novel in the series and recommended.
December 9, 2024
Disappointing. I didn’t care for the obvious political correctness and pandering, that was ultra prevalent throughout the book. It’s so disappointing that the world has gotten so far away from balanced depictions of characters. I’ve enjoyed all of the other books in this series but didn’t care for this one so much.
March 22, 2025
I totally enjoyed another adventure of the Alex Cross series. You will always get a good mix of family love and dangerous work on the job with Alex Cross and his wife Bree.
This adventure had the FBI and Dr. Cross trying to solve the mystery of who was behind the killing of prominent judges and why were they being targeted.
They soon discovered "Maestro", a brilliant but disturbed mind, was the key to these murders and he had to be stopped. He was trying to reset the balance of power by targeting potential future Supreme Court judges and nominees. "M" was extremely rich and had procured all of the means by which to spy and kill his predators. It took the full weight of the FBI and US Government and of course Alex Cross to finally find a way to bring this organization to a standstill.
This adventure had the FBI and Dr. Cross trying to solve the mystery of who was behind the killing of prominent judges and why were they being targeted.
They soon discovered "Maestro", a brilliant but disturbed mind, was the key to these murders and he had to be stopped. He was trying to reset the balance of power by targeting potential future Supreme Court judges and nominees. "M" was extremely rich and had procured all of the means by which to spy and kill his predators. It took the full weight of the FBI and US Government and of course Alex Cross to finally find a way to bring this organization to a standstill.
November 15, 2024
Another great addition to the Cross series! Multi-faceted and thrilling! I never tire of this series or these characters. Many thanks to the publisher and netgalley for this early copy for read and review
December 30, 2024
Fast paced. I love this series of books. I hope it never ends though imagine that it will break my heart one day. The characters are so real in my mind. Well developed, relatable. I even felt sorry for one of the bad characters. It's disturbing how a charismatic individual can keep others under their spell. Does the end justify the means? No matter the cost?
January 1, 2025
Great story, one of my all-time favourite characters
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