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Michael Bennett #18
Delusional
Detective Michael Bennett and army-sniper-turned-NYPD-officer Rob Trilling travel to Montana to investigate a case that crosses state borders and family lines in this thriller from the world's bestselling author.
In New York City, a series of deadly bombs explodes. Across the river, a military base is burglarized for munitions. In Montana, violence and arson rock a small town outside of Bozeman. Are the incidents related?
Bennett, Trilling, and the ATF investigate. A single-minded group angry with the government keep turning up in unexpected places, insisting that they’re only trying to make the world a better place. To law enforcement, their claims seem delusional.
Will words or gunpowder light the next fuse?
In New York City, a series of deadly bombs explodes. Across the river, a military base is burglarized for munitions. In Montana, violence and arson rock a small town outside of Bozeman. Are the incidents related?
Bennett, Trilling, and the ATF investigate. A single-minded group angry with the government keep turning up in unexpected places, insisting that they’re only trying to make the world a better place. To law enforcement, their claims seem delusional.
Will words or gunpowder light the next fuse?
374 pages, Hardcover
First published August 18, 2026
About the author
James Patterson
962 books359k followersOfficial US Site
Official UK Site
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, Michael Crichton, and Viola Davis, 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
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, Michael Crichton, and Viola Davis, 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 57 reviews
August 22, 2026
Delusional is co-authored by James O. Born.
This is a Michael Bennett thriller.
Action packed.
Michael Bennett is NYPD, homicide.
He has 10 adopted kids with his late wife and a baby on the way with his current wife, Mary Catherine.
This is an action packed thriller that takes place in New York & briefly in Montana.
It’s a good story!
This is a Michael Bennett thriller.
Action packed.
Michael Bennett is NYPD, homicide.
He has 10 adopted kids with his late wife and a baby on the way with his current wife, Mary Catherine.
This is an action packed thriller that takes place in New York & briefly in Montana.
It’s a good story!
April 9, 2026
This is book 18 in the Michael Bennett series.. how has it been that many already!? One of my favourite James Patterson characters, Mike is one of the hardest working detectives in the NYPD as well as being a loving father to 10 adopted children, and now a baby on the way. He seems to be in the go all the time, and finds himself in dangerous situations regularly. I could read about him and his family forever… just so you know Mr Patterson.
In Delusional, Bennett and his partner Rob Trilling are hunting a serial bomber in the city. The similarities to the infamous Ted Kaczynski are scary. People are dying and there have been no demands from the bomber. Of course, things are never straightforward Ted gets a call that sends him home to Montana to help his family who are danger
We also get the point of view of the bomber which makes the story even more intriguing. As always we have short, sharp chapters and a fast paced story that is relentless in action and twists. Easy to binge read, just remember to breathe.
Thanks again to Little, Brown and Company for allowing me access to one of my all time favourite authors books so early. Such a thrill!
In Delusional, Bennett and his partner Rob Trilling are hunting a serial bomber in the city. The similarities to the infamous Ted Kaczynski are scary. People are dying and there have been no demands from the bomber. Of course, things are never straightforward Ted gets a call that sends him home to Montana to help his family who are danger
We also get the point of view of the bomber which makes the story even more intriguing. As always we have short, sharp chapters and a fast paced story that is relentless in action and twists. Easy to binge read, just remember to breathe.
Thanks again to Little, Brown and Company for allowing me access to one of my all time favourite authors books so early. Such a thrill!
November 28, 2025
Coincidentally, James Patterson’s January 2026 thriller, “The Invisible Woman” (with Susan DiLallo) has a new lead law enforcement character who reminds me so much of Michael Bennett — serious thriller case, but still a lighthearted wise-cracking personality, although it’s a woman. Not ready to replace our beloved New York detective yet. This is Michael Bennett #18, the ninth co-authored with James O. Born, and there is a seismic change in this one — it’s not entirely set in New York City. There’s still family drama, but Bennett actually gets to travel to Montana for a while where his partner's family has the drama. Partner Rob Trilling (who is also Bennett’s daughter’s boyfriend) gets called away to Bozeman, Montana, when an insidious California real estate developer is trying to pressure the family into selling their car lot dealership. When someone dies, Trilling reaches out to Bennett.
There are two plot lines: the problems in Bozeman and an unsolved case of multiple bombings in NYC. Bennett is caught between both cases, but his incredible loyalty to friends is no question when he goes to Rob’s aid. In New York, he’s paired with a smart, clever ATF agent named Maggie Chin.
If you’ve come to love this Patterson series, you won’t be disappointed. More traditional detective work goes into the bombings, and the two cases are entwined at the end. And again, I’ll recommend the latest Michael Bennett as I await #20. 4.5 stars!
Thank you to Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
There are two plot lines: the problems in Bozeman and an unsolved case of multiple bombings in NYC. Bennett is caught between both cases, but his incredible loyalty to friends is no question when he goes to Rob’s aid. In New York, he’s paired with a smart, clever ATF agent named Maggie Chin.
If you’ve come to love this Patterson series, you won’t be disappointed. More traditional detective work goes into the bombings, and the two cases are entwined at the end. And again, I’ll recommend the latest Michael Bennett as I await #20. 4.5 stars!
Thank you to Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
May 7, 2026
"You don't ever mess with family." ~ 86%
Delusional is the 18th book in the Michael Bennett series by James Patterson and James O. Born. NYPD Detective Michael Bennett and his new-ish partner Rob Trilling investigate a case that crosses state borders. In New York, there is a series of deadly bombs. In New Jersey, a military base is burglarized for explosives. In Montana, violence and arson take over a small town. There is also an anti-government group that keeps popping up in unexpected places. Oh, and Mary Catherine is expecting their 11th child! Whew—there is a lot going on in this new installment.
Why does it feel like I've read this before? I could easily guess the detectives and killers next steps. I could predict what would happen in the Bennett household, even with ten kids running around and a pregnant wife. The entire time reading Delusional felt like déjà vu. Am I over this series?
"Do you know how hard it is to get people to listen to hard truths?" ~ 91%
Maybe it is time for Patterson to wrap this series up. It is not thrilling as it used to be. Or perhaps it was too many cases to fully develop each storyline so they all lacked in interest. If you are a follower of the Michael Bennett series, then read it for continuity purposes. But if you are new to these authors and this once great character, I recommend you do not start with this one.
Happy Early Pub Day to James Patterson and James O. Born! Delusional will be available August 27, 2026.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
Delusional is the 18th book in the Michael Bennett series by James Patterson and James O. Born. NYPD Detective Michael Bennett and his new-ish partner Rob Trilling investigate a case that crosses state borders. In New York, there is a series of deadly bombs. In New Jersey, a military base is burglarized for explosives. In Montana, violence and arson take over a small town. There is also an anti-government group that keeps popping up in unexpected places. Oh, and Mary Catherine is expecting their 11th child! Whew—there is a lot going on in this new installment.
Why does it feel like I've read this before? I could easily guess the detectives and killers next steps. I could predict what would happen in the Bennett household, even with ten kids running around and a pregnant wife. The entire time reading Delusional felt like déjà vu. Am I over this series?
"Do you know how hard it is to get people to listen to hard truths?" ~ 91%
Maybe it is time for Patterson to wrap this series up. It is not thrilling as it used to be. Or perhaps it was too many cases to fully develop each storyline so they all lacked in interest. If you are a follower of the Michael Bennett series, then read it for continuity purposes. But if you are new to these authors and this once great character, I recommend you do not start with this one.
Happy Early Pub Day to James Patterson and James O. Born! Delusional will be available August 27, 2026.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
January 8, 2026
Delusional will leave you knowing that Michael Bennett is simply the best.
No delusions there.
A serail boomer who is emulating Ted Kaczynski is creating havoc in NYC, bodies are piling up and the city is on edge.
Michael Bennett along with his partner Rob Trilling are working hard along with Maggie to stop this kililng spree.
We know who the bomber is but he is one step ahead of him.
Adding to the tension Rob has to head home for a family emergency and Michael is right at his side.
Delusional is gripping from start to finish complete with jaw dropping twists and action that will have you in a chokehold.
Jamed Patterson and James O. Born have once again teamed up as a formidable team that will keep the midnight oil burning.
Thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for the privilege of reading and reviewing Delusional.
No delusions there.
A serail boomer who is emulating Ted Kaczynski is creating havoc in NYC, bodies are piling up and the city is on edge.
Michael Bennett along with his partner Rob Trilling are working hard along with Maggie to stop this kililng spree.
We know who the bomber is but he is one step ahead of him.
Adding to the tension Rob has to head home for a family emergency and Michael is right at his side.
Delusional is gripping from start to finish complete with jaw dropping twists and action that will have you in a chokehold.
Jamed Patterson and James O. Born have once again teamed up as a formidable team that will keep the midnight oil burning.
Thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for the privilege of reading and reviewing Delusional.
April 10, 2026
Couple of stories going on. Gets all tied up at the end. but I must say it was not his best. Still will keep you interested
Thanks NetGally for the advance copy. 3.5 stars
Thanks NetGally for the advance copy. 3.5 stars
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Michael Bennett has ten adopted kids, a pregnant wife, a serial bomber in New York, and somehow still finds time to fly to Montana because his partner’s family car dealership is being terrorized. Sir, I need you to discover the phrase “I have enough going on.”
I accidentally wandered into book EIGHTEEN of the Michael Bennett series with Delusional, which feels less like starting a series late and more like showing up to someone’s family reunion, grabbing a plate, and hoping nobody asks how I know Uncle Mike. Fortunately, Michael Bennett is pretty easy to figure out. He’s an NYPD detective, his home life has enough people to qualify for group rates, and he has the exact personality type that hears “this is extremely dangerous and possibly not your jurisdiction” as “sounds like I should grab my coat.”
Back in New York, somebody is setting off bombs, people are dying, explosives have gone missing from a military facility in New Jersey, and Bennett is working with ATF agent Maggie Chin, whom I immediately liked because she walks into all this testosterone and conspiracy nonsense with the energy of a woman who has actual work to do. The bomber situation has serious Unabomber echoes, except now there’s an entire collection of people who have convinced themselves that violence is simply community outreach with explosives. They keep insisting they’re trying to make the world better, and meanwhile everyone else is like, could we maybe workshop your methods?
Then Bennett’s partner Rob Trilling gets called home to Bozeman because his family’s car dealership is being targeted by a developer who wants their property and apparently heard “no” as the opening offer in a negotiation conducted through intimidation and arson. Rob is former Army, former sniper, current cop, and also dating Bennett’s daughter, because apparently Michael’s personal and professional lives looked at boundaries and said absolutely not. Rob heads west to help his family, things get ugly, and naturally Michael eventually joins him because this man cannot watch someone he cares about walk toward trouble without immediately putting on shoes.
And I actually really liked Rob. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching a guy with his particular résumé go home and become somebody’s brother again. He can handle himself, but this is his family, which means all that professional distance goes straight out the window. Michael showing up for him also tells you basically everything you need to know about Bennett without requiring seventeen previous books. I may have arrived ridiculously late to this relationship, but I understood it.
Meanwhile the book keeps bouncing us between New York and Montana, cops and bombers, family problems and people whose personal manifestos desperately need an editor. We know more about the people behind the bombings before Bennett does, so I wasn’t sitting there playing traditional whodunit. I was watching law enforcement slowly close the distance while the people responsible became increasingly convinced that their horrifying decisions were actually very reasonable. Nothing makes me nervous quite like a person committing atrocities while believing they are the only adult in the room.
Also, Michael’s family life kept cracking me up simply because of the scale. Ten adopted children. Mary Catherine is pregnant with number eleven. Rob is dating one of the daughters. Grandpa is a priest. Michael is chasing bombers across state lines. I came into Delusional knowing NONE of these people, and every little family detail felt like someone casually mentioning another season of a show I apparently missed. “Oh, that’s his daughter’s boyfriend.” EXCUSE ME? “They already have ten children.” I’m sorry, TEN? At some point the serial bomber became the easiest part of Michael Bennett’s calendar to understand.
Under all the explosions, though, the part that landed for me was the loyalty. Rob goes home because family needs him. Michael follows because Rob needs him. And for a guy surrounded by actual violent extremists, Bennett never gets confused about what matters. There’s something comforting about a character whose entire operating system appears to be cops, kids, family, repeat. I didn’t need seventeen books of history to feel that.
By the time everything started converging, I was fully in popcorn-thriller mode. Short chapters kept convincing me that one more was a completely reasonable life choice, the two cases finally started looking less like separate tabs I had accidentally left open, and I had stopped worrying about being the new girl at the Michael Bennett family reunion. Delusional gets 4 stars from me. Apparently book eighteen is a perfectly acceptable place to begin if you enjoy making irresponsible literary decisions and then refusing to apologize for them.
Whodunity Award: For Making a Serial Bomber, a Montana Car Dealership, Ten Children, One Pregnancy, the ATF, and Your Daughter’s Boyfriend Somehow Feel Like a Manageable Tuesday
Huge thanks to Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for the ARC. You handed me book eighteen with absolutely no adult supervision, and I responded by walking directly into the Bennett family like I’d been invited years ago. At this point somebody give me a folding chair and tell me which kid I’m supposed to pick up from practice.
I accidentally wandered into book EIGHTEEN of the Michael Bennett series with Delusional, which feels less like starting a series late and more like showing up to someone’s family reunion, grabbing a plate, and hoping nobody asks how I know Uncle Mike. Fortunately, Michael Bennett is pretty easy to figure out. He’s an NYPD detective, his home life has enough people to qualify for group rates, and he has the exact personality type that hears “this is extremely dangerous and possibly not your jurisdiction” as “sounds like I should grab my coat.”
Back in New York, somebody is setting off bombs, people are dying, explosives have gone missing from a military facility in New Jersey, and Bennett is working with ATF agent Maggie Chin, whom I immediately liked because she walks into all this testosterone and conspiracy nonsense with the energy of a woman who has actual work to do. The bomber situation has serious Unabomber echoes, except now there’s an entire collection of people who have convinced themselves that violence is simply community outreach with explosives. They keep insisting they’re trying to make the world better, and meanwhile everyone else is like, could we maybe workshop your methods?
Then Bennett’s partner Rob Trilling gets called home to Bozeman because his family’s car dealership is being targeted by a developer who wants their property and apparently heard “no” as the opening offer in a negotiation conducted through intimidation and arson. Rob is former Army, former sniper, current cop, and also dating Bennett’s daughter, because apparently Michael’s personal and professional lives looked at boundaries and said absolutely not. Rob heads west to help his family, things get ugly, and naturally Michael eventually joins him because this man cannot watch someone he cares about walk toward trouble without immediately putting on shoes.
And I actually really liked Rob. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching a guy with his particular résumé go home and become somebody’s brother again. He can handle himself, but this is his family, which means all that professional distance goes straight out the window. Michael showing up for him also tells you basically everything you need to know about Bennett without requiring seventeen previous books. I may have arrived ridiculously late to this relationship, but I understood it.
Meanwhile the book keeps bouncing us between New York and Montana, cops and bombers, family problems and people whose personal manifestos desperately need an editor. We know more about the people behind the bombings before Bennett does, so I wasn’t sitting there playing traditional whodunit. I was watching law enforcement slowly close the distance while the people responsible became increasingly convinced that their horrifying decisions were actually very reasonable. Nothing makes me nervous quite like a person committing atrocities while believing they are the only adult in the room.
Also, Michael’s family life kept cracking me up simply because of the scale. Ten adopted children. Mary Catherine is pregnant with number eleven. Rob is dating one of the daughters. Grandpa is a priest. Michael is chasing bombers across state lines. I came into Delusional knowing NONE of these people, and every little family detail felt like someone casually mentioning another season of a show I apparently missed. “Oh, that’s his daughter’s boyfriend.” EXCUSE ME? “They already have ten children.” I’m sorry, TEN? At some point the serial bomber became the easiest part of Michael Bennett’s calendar to understand.
Under all the explosions, though, the part that landed for me was the loyalty. Rob goes home because family needs him. Michael follows because Rob needs him. And for a guy surrounded by actual violent extremists, Bennett never gets confused about what matters. There’s something comforting about a character whose entire operating system appears to be cops, kids, family, repeat. I didn’t need seventeen books of history to feel that.
By the time everything started converging, I was fully in popcorn-thriller mode. Short chapters kept convincing me that one more was a completely reasonable life choice, the two cases finally started looking less like separate tabs I had accidentally left open, and I had stopped worrying about being the new girl at the Michael Bennett family reunion. Delusional gets 4 stars from me. Apparently book eighteen is a perfectly acceptable place to begin if you enjoy making irresponsible literary decisions and then refusing to apologize for them.
Whodunity Award: For Making a Serial Bomber, a Montana Car Dealership, Ten Children, One Pregnancy, the ATF, and Your Daughter’s Boyfriend Somehow Feel Like a Manageable Tuesday
Huge thanks to Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for the ARC. You handed me book eighteen with absolutely no adult supervision, and I responded by walking directly into the Bennett family like I’d been invited years ago. At this point somebody give me a folding chair and tell me which kid I’m supposed to pick up from practice.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Delusional by James Patterson and James O. Born (2026)
Michael Bennett #18
366-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Mystery Thriller, Crime Thriller, Police Procedural
Movie Rating Equivalent: R for adult content including violence
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½💣👮♂️🚓🗽
Featuring: Series Bibliography, Millwood, New York; Violence, Bombs, FBI, Terrorists, Unabomber - Ted Kaczynski, NYPD, Police Homicide Detective, Bozeman, Montana; ATF, New York City, New York; Detective, Large Family, Adoption, Pregnancy, Adult Children, Summer, Law Enforcement Politics
Live Status Updates: 📓 - I had months to give this book a deep dive so of course after I get it is when I look it up and discover it's book 18 in a series.
🔖36% 116 of 320 Chapter 35 - This feel very generic but it is interesting. I want to know why but I'm not interested in most of the characters.
Final Thoughts: I was very excited to read Delusional, as James Patterson was the first adult novel I read as a teenager for leisure, and he has a pretty good track record with me. I was not familiar with James O. Born or the Michael Bennett series. I did not know this was Book 18 in a series, so I think I would have had a different experience if I had been more familiar with the characters.
The story was okay. It was no different than turning on an episode of a police procedural and not being as familiar with the characters, but being given enough information that you can thoroughly enjoy the show. And that was my problem with this story: it really did feel like I was watching an episode of some TV show. It was a lot of copy-paste. The action was great, and it pretty much felt like a movie, but I wasn't really emotionally connected to the characters. It was just a lot of action happening throughout the story, which kept it interesting, but I wasn't dying to know what was happening. I was just waiting for things to get connected, and it was a bit predictable because I knew exactly how it was going to go after the climax of the secondary storyline.
Recommend to others: I definitely recommend this story if you're a fan of the series or if you like popcorn action movies.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Little, Brown and Company via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Michael Bennett
1 Step on a Crack (2007) (with Michael Ledwidge)
2 Run for Your Life (2009) (with Michael Ledwidge)
3 Worst Case (2010) (with Michael Ledwidge)
4 Tick Tock (2011) (with Michael Ledwidge)
5 I, Michael Bennett (2012) (with Michael Ledwidge)
6 Gone (2011) (with Michael Ledwidge)
7 Burn (2014) (with Michael Ledwidge)
8 Alert (2015) (with Michael Ledwidge)
9 Bullseye (2016) (with Michael Ledwidge)
9.5 Chase (2016) (with Michael Ledwidge)
10 Haunted (2017) (with James O Born)
10.5 Manhunt (2017) (with James O Born)
11 Ambush (2018) (with James O Born)
12 Blindside (2020) (with James O Born)
13 The Russian (2021) (with James O Born)
14 Shattered (2022) (with James O Born)
15 Obsessed (2023) (with James O Born)
16 Crosshairs (2024) (with James O Born)
17 Paranoia (2025) (with James O Born)
18 Delusional (2026) (with James O Born)
Songs for the Soundtrack: "Green Acres Theme" by Vic Mizzy
Books and Authors Mentioned: Green Acres by Jay Sommers and Dick Chevillat, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams, Rain Man by Barry Morrow and Ronald Bass, Michael Connelly, The Mummy by John L. Balderston, Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
Michael Bennett #18
366-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Mystery Thriller, Crime Thriller, Police Procedural
Movie Rating Equivalent: R for adult content including violence
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½💣👮♂️🚓🗽
Featuring: Series Bibliography, Millwood, New York; Violence, Bombs, FBI, Terrorists, Unabomber - Ted Kaczynski, NYPD, Police Homicide Detective, Bozeman, Montana; ATF, New York City, New York; Detective, Large Family, Adoption, Pregnancy, Adult Children, Summer, Law Enforcement Politics
Live Status Updates: 📓 - I had months to give this book a deep dive so of course after I get it is when I look it up and discover it's book 18 in a series.
🔖36% 116 of 320 Chapter 35 - This feel very generic but it is interesting. I want to know why but I'm not interested in most of the characters.
Final Thoughts: I was very excited to read Delusional, as James Patterson was the first adult novel I read as a teenager for leisure, and he has a pretty good track record with me. I was not familiar with James O. Born or the Michael Bennett series. I did not know this was Book 18 in a series, so I think I would have had a different experience if I had been more familiar with the characters.
The story was okay. It was no different than turning on an episode of a police procedural and not being as familiar with the characters, but being given enough information that you can thoroughly enjoy the show. And that was my problem with this story: it really did feel like I was watching an episode of some TV show. It was a lot of copy-paste. The action was great, and it pretty much felt like a movie, but I wasn't really emotionally connected to the characters. It was just a lot of action happening throughout the story, which kept it interesting, but I wasn't dying to know what was happening. I was just waiting for things to get connected, and it was a bit predictable because I knew exactly how it was going to go after the climax of the secondary storyline.
Recommend to others: I definitely recommend this story if you're a fan of the series or if you like popcorn action movies.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Little, Brown and Company via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Michael Bennett
1 Step on a Crack (2007) (with Michael Ledwidge)
2 Run for Your Life (2009) (with Michael Ledwidge)
3 Worst Case (2010) (with Michael Ledwidge)
4 Tick Tock (2011) (with Michael Ledwidge)
5 I, Michael Bennett (2012) (with Michael Ledwidge)
6 Gone (2011) (with Michael Ledwidge)
7 Burn (2014) (with Michael Ledwidge)
8 Alert (2015) (with Michael Ledwidge)
9 Bullseye (2016) (with Michael Ledwidge)
9.5 Chase (2016) (with Michael Ledwidge)
10 Haunted (2017) (with James O Born)
10.5 Manhunt (2017) (with James O Born)
11 Ambush (2018) (with James O Born)
12 Blindside (2020) (with James O Born)
13 The Russian (2021) (with James O Born)
14 Shattered (2022) (with James O Born)
15 Obsessed (2023) (with James O Born)
16 Crosshairs (2024) (with James O Born)
17 Paranoia (2025) (with James O Born)
18 Delusional (2026) (with James O Born)
Songs for the Soundtrack: "Green Acres Theme" by Vic Mizzy
Books and Authors Mentioned: Green Acres by Jay Sommers and Dick Chevillat, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams, Rain Man by Barry Morrow and Ronald Bass, Michael Connelly, The Mummy by John L. Balderston, Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, James Patterson, James O. Born, and Little, Brown, and Company for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Eighteen books into the Michael Bennett series, it would be easy for things to feel stale. Instead, James Patterson and James O. Born prove once again that this partnership remains one of Patterson's strongest collaborative ventures. Born brings a steady hand to the procedural elements while Patterson injects the trademark pace and urgency that have made his thrillers global bestsellers. The result is another gripping Bennett adventure that balances action, character growth, and timely themes.
What begins with a string of deadly bombings in New York quickly expands into something much larger. As Michael Bennett juggles multiple investigations, he heads to Montana to help his partner, Rob Trilling, whose family is being targeted by a series of violent attacks. The shift between New York and Montana keeps the narrative fresh, while seemingly unrelated criminal enterprises gradually reveal deeper connections. Patterson and Born expertly manage the dual storylines, creating a sense of momentum that never lets up.
Bennett has long been a cog in the wheel of this series. Nearly two decades into his journey, he continues to evolve without losing the qualities that made readers invest in him from the start. His dedication to family, loyalty to his colleagues, and willingness to place himself in danger remain compelling. The supporting cast—from his chaotic household to his trusted confidants—continues to add warmth and personality amid the violence and suspense.
The short chapters keep the pages turning at breakneck speed, but it is the plotting that truly shines here. Twists emerge organically, tensions escalate steadily, and the authors keep readers guessing about how the various threads will collide. The villainy feels especially unsettling, grounded in motivations that are both disturbing and believable.
This novel serves as a reminder that Patterson's best work often comes when paired with the right collaborator, and James O. Born continues to be exactly that. Together they have kept Michael Bennett relevant, engaging, and consistently entertaining. After eighteen installments, that is no small achievement. Series fans will find plenty to enjoy here, while newcomers will see why Bennett remains one of Patterson's most enduring creations.
Kudos, Messrs. Patterson and Born, for ensuring this series remains fresh for all involved.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Eighteen books into the Michael Bennett series, it would be easy for things to feel stale. Instead, James Patterson and James O. Born prove once again that this partnership remains one of Patterson's strongest collaborative ventures. Born brings a steady hand to the procedural elements while Patterson injects the trademark pace and urgency that have made his thrillers global bestsellers. The result is another gripping Bennett adventure that balances action, character growth, and timely themes.
What begins with a string of deadly bombings in New York quickly expands into something much larger. As Michael Bennett juggles multiple investigations, he heads to Montana to help his partner, Rob Trilling, whose family is being targeted by a series of violent attacks. The shift between New York and Montana keeps the narrative fresh, while seemingly unrelated criminal enterprises gradually reveal deeper connections. Patterson and Born expertly manage the dual storylines, creating a sense of momentum that never lets up.
Bennett has long been a cog in the wheel of this series. Nearly two decades into his journey, he continues to evolve without losing the qualities that made readers invest in him from the start. His dedication to family, loyalty to his colleagues, and willingness to place himself in danger remain compelling. The supporting cast—from his chaotic household to his trusted confidants—continues to add warmth and personality amid the violence and suspense.
The short chapters keep the pages turning at breakneck speed, but it is the plotting that truly shines here. Twists emerge organically, tensions escalate steadily, and the authors keep readers guessing about how the various threads will collide. The villainy feels especially unsettling, grounded in motivations that are both disturbing and believable.
This novel serves as a reminder that Patterson's best work often comes when paired with the right collaborator, and James O. Born continues to be exactly that. Together they have kept Michael Bennett relevant, engaging, and consistently entertaining. After eighteen installments, that is no small achievement. Series fans will find plenty to enjoy here, while newcomers will see why Bennett remains one of Patterson's most enduring creations.
Kudos, Messrs. Patterson and Born, for ensuring this series remains fresh for all involved.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Little Brown & Company and Netgalley for this eARC.
Delusional takes Michael Bennett into one of the most expansive investigations of the series, stretching from New York City to rural Montana and threading together crimes that initially seem unrelated: coordinated bombings, a military burglary, and a small-town arson case. That geographic sprawl isn’t just a backdrop—it’s the engine of the novel’s tension. Bennett is forced to navigate unfamiliar terrain, both literally and psychologically, as the case widens into something far more ideological and personal than he expects.
The partnership with Rob Trilling, an army‑sniper‑turned‑NYPD officer, adds a fresh dynamic. Trilling’s tactical instincts and Bennett’s methodical empathy create a compelling contrast, and the authors use that friction to keep the investigation sharp. Their interactions give the book a grounded, procedural texture even as the plot escalates toward national‑level stakes.
The antagonists—two brothers who believe they’re “making the world a better place”—are written with a chilling blend of conviction and instability. Patterson and Born avoid caricature; instead, they explore how delusion can masquerade as purpose. The result is a villain profile that feels unsettlingly plausible, especially as the brothers’ actions ripple across state lines and pull Bennett deeper into their worldview.
Patterson’s trademark pacing is fully intact: short chapters, quick pivots, and a steady drip of reveals. But what elevates Delusional is the way the authors use that momentum to explore the fragility of certainty—how easily a belief can harden into something dangerous. The Montana sequences, in particular, give the novel a stark, almost cinematic isolation that contrasts with Bennett’s usual urban environment.
If there’s a trade-off, it’s that the emotional beats sometimes move as quickly as the action. But the propulsive structure suits the story’s theme: delusion doesn’t pause, and neither does the investigation.
Delusional is a taut, cross‑country thriller that expands the Michael Bennett universe with fresh stakes, a compelling investigative partnership, and villains whose misguided idealism makes them all the more dangerous. It’s brisk, tense, and surprisingly thoughtful beneath the action.
Delusional takes Michael Bennett into one of the most expansive investigations of the series, stretching from New York City to rural Montana and threading together crimes that initially seem unrelated: coordinated bombings, a military burglary, and a small-town arson case. That geographic sprawl isn’t just a backdrop—it’s the engine of the novel’s tension. Bennett is forced to navigate unfamiliar terrain, both literally and psychologically, as the case widens into something far more ideological and personal than he expects.
The partnership with Rob Trilling, an army‑sniper‑turned‑NYPD officer, adds a fresh dynamic. Trilling’s tactical instincts and Bennett’s methodical empathy create a compelling contrast, and the authors use that friction to keep the investigation sharp. Their interactions give the book a grounded, procedural texture even as the plot escalates toward national‑level stakes.
The antagonists—two brothers who believe they’re “making the world a better place”—are written with a chilling blend of conviction and instability. Patterson and Born avoid caricature; instead, they explore how delusion can masquerade as purpose. The result is a villain profile that feels unsettlingly plausible, especially as the brothers’ actions ripple across state lines and pull Bennett deeper into their worldview.
Patterson’s trademark pacing is fully intact: short chapters, quick pivots, and a steady drip of reveals. But what elevates Delusional is the way the authors use that momentum to explore the fragility of certainty—how easily a belief can harden into something dangerous. The Montana sequences, in particular, give the novel a stark, almost cinematic isolation that contrasts with Bennett’s usual urban environment.
If there’s a trade-off, it’s that the emotional beats sometimes move as quickly as the action. But the propulsive structure suits the story’s theme: delusion doesn’t pause, and neither does the investigation.
Delusional is a taut, cross‑country thriller that expands the Michael Bennett universe with fresh stakes, a compelling investigative partnership, and villains whose misguided idealism makes them all the more dangerous. It’s brisk, tense, and surprisingly thoughtful beneath the action.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I read most of the books in this series for quite some time (this is the 18th), but somewhere around a decade ago I gave up. Truth? At that point, NYPD detective Michael Bennett was a widower with 10 adopted kids. He and his uber-competent nanny, Mary Catherine, were fighting the urge to get it on, hesitating mostly for religious (Catholic) reasons. And at that point not-so-religious me had enough of the “will they or won’t they” nonsense got turned off.
Still, I loved the stories, so when I had the opportunity to request a pre-release copy from NetGalley, I went for it. And now that Michael and Mary Catherine are legally wed (and I assume blissfully so, since she’s pregnant with their first child), and from my perspective, all’s right with the world once again.
This one begins as Michael and his partner, Rob Trilling, are at the scene of a bombing. It’s the second such event recently – the other involving the death of a fellow police officer - so concern is high that a serial bomber may be on the loose similar to the real-life Ted Kacznski (a.k.a. Unibomber of the 1990s). The only real clues are that the bomber apparently had two missing fingers and the recent theft of explosives at a New Jersey arsenal.
As the investigation gets under way, partner Rob has to deal with a potentially serious family matter; his brother, who owns a car dealership in Bozeman, Montana, is facing threats because he refuses to sell the property to a developer who won’t take no for an answer. Michael tells Rob to go West; when that situation takes a turn for the worse, Michael heads that direction as well to lend a helping hand.
Essentially, the story moves between the two cases, with suspension building over which will result in the greatest tragedy. The Montana developer, it seems, will stop at nothing even murder - to get what he wants; the bomb crew, who will stop at nothing to make the world a better place (not even mass murder). Caught in between are two partners who are doing their best to make sure none of those murders actually happen – especially their own.
All told, it’s another riveting adventure and one that held my attention throughout. Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to get in on the action once again by way of a pre-release copy. Good job!
Still, I loved the stories, so when I had the opportunity to request a pre-release copy from NetGalley, I went for it. And now that Michael and Mary Catherine are legally wed (and I assume blissfully so, since she’s pregnant with their first child), and from my perspective, all’s right with the world once again.
This one begins as Michael and his partner, Rob Trilling, are at the scene of a bombing. It’s the second such event recently – the other involving the death of a fellow police officer - so concern is high that a serial bomber may be on the loose similar to the real-life Ted Kacznski (a.k.a. Unibomber of the 1990s). The only real clues are that the bomber apparently had two missing fingers and the recent theft of explosives at a New Jersey arsenal.
As the investigation gets under way, partner Rob has to deal with a potentially serious family matter; his brother, who owns a car dealership in Bozeman, Montana, is facing threats because he refuses to sell the property to a developer who won’t take no for an answer. Michael tells Rob to go West; when that situation takes a turn for the worse, Michael heads that direction as well to lend a helping hand.
Essentially, the story moves between the two cases, with suspension building over which will result in the greatest tragedy. The Montana developer, it seems, will stop at nothing even murder - to get what he wants; the bomb crew, who will stop at nothing to make the world a better place (not even mass murder). Caught in between are two partners who are doing their best to make sure none of those murders actually happen – especially their own.
All told, it’s another riveting adventure and one that held my attention throughout. Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to get in on the action once again by way of a pre-release copy. Good job!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is book #18 of the Michael Bennett series, and for that reason alone, this will likely be a huge selling thriller for Patterson and Born. Bennett has always been a beloved character for his strong catholic faith, large family of 10 (soon to be 11) children, and his beloved irascible priest/grandfather. In this iteration Bennett is involved in two investigations. One involving the family of his partner, Rob Trilling in Colorado, and the other in NYC involving theft at an armory that is connected to two bombings. A special addition to this storyline is Michael’s bad ass temporary partner, Special Agent Margaret (Maggie) Chin of the ATF.
But James and James … I couldn’t help but feel a wee bit disappointed in this particular novel. In typical form, the chapters were short, the text was fast paced, but I felt the meat was missing. I appreciate that the story demonstrated how difficult it must be to work a crime scene involving many different law enforcement agencies and bureaucracies. I also enjoyed the peek into the mindset of delusional characters who set out to ‘change the world’ – though it was a bit obvious that one meanie likely suffered from autism. And I loved Agent Chin’s strong intelligence and physical capabilities, but ….. something was lacking. I expected filet and got canapes.
First – the cover. I was confused by the fleeing woman. I felt the illustration did not complement/correspond with the content. Yes, there is a minor fleeing female character in the mix however, does she warrant a cover? (This is indeed different on GoodReads.com) Speaking of minor characters… there is a plethora, mainly law enforcement, making it difficult to tease out which of said characters would play an important role in the totality of the novel. Finally, the story itself seemed a bit formulaic and straight-forward. The crimes were too easily solved. Where was the mystery we’ve come to expect … the grit? Granted, this is a review of an ARC, so some of these issues may be resolved in final edits. And needless to say, this review won’t prevent me from buying more Patterson books, and I’m sure it won’t keep Delusional from becoming another million seller.
Many thanks to @NetGalley, @LittleBrownandCompany, and authors @JamesPatterson and @JamesOBorn for the opportunity to read and review the digital ARC of Delusional. All opinions are mine alone.
But James and James … I couldn’t help but feel a wee bit disappointed in this particular novel. In typical form, the chapters were short, the text was fast paced, but I felt the meat was missing. I appreciate that the story demonstrated how difficult it must be to work a crime scene involving many different law enforcement agencies and bureaucracies. I also enjoyed the peek into the mindset of delusional characters who set out to ‘change the world’ – though it was a bit obvious that one meanie likely suffered from autism. And I loved Agent Chin’s strong intelligence and physical capabilities, but ….. something was lacking. I expected filet and got canapes.
First – the cover. I was confused by the fleeing woman. I felt the illustration did not complement/correspond with the content. Yes, there is a minor fleeing female character in the mix however, does she warrant a cover? (This is indeed different on GoodReads.com) Speaking of minor characters… there is a plethora, mainly law enforcement, making it difficult to tease out which of said characters would play an important role in the totality of the novel. Finally, the story itself seemed a bit formulaic and straight-forward. The crimes were too easily solved. Where was the mystery we’ve come to expect … the grit? Granted, this is a review of an ARC, so some of these issues may be resolved in final edits. And needless to say, this review won’t prevent me from buying more Patterson books, and I’m sure it won’t keep Delusional from becoming another million seller.
Many thanks to @NetGalley, @LittleBrownandCompany, and authors @JamesPatterson and @JamesOBorn for the opportunity to read and review the digital ARC of Delusional. All opinions are mine alone.
August 20, 2026
Delusional is Book 18 in James Patterson’s Michael Bennett series, and somehow, this series is still going strong. Michael Bennett remains an NYPD homicide detective, while his children have continued to grow and age throughout the series. That ongoing character development is one of the things I enjoy most about the Bennett books. Watching the characters change over time makes the series feel more believable and keeps me invested in what happens to them.
The story begins in New York City with a series of deadly bombings. At the same time, a military base is burglarized for munitions, while violence and arson begin to plague a small Montana town outside of Bozeman. What initially appear to be separate incidents slowly begin to reveal deeper connections.
The investigation brings Bennett together with Maggie Chin, an ATF agent who is eager to prove herself. Bennett's usual partner, Rob Trilling, is dealing with a family emergency in Montana, leaving Michael to work with Maggie while trying to unravel the bombing case. The investigation becomes even more personal when the death of an NYPD sergeant appears to be connected to the bombings, hitting much closer to home for Bennett than the other cases.
Eventually, Michael travels to Montana to help Rob and begins uncovering possible connections between the events in New York and the violence there. The story has several different plots happening at once, but Patterson does a good job weaving them together without making the story confusing or difficult to follow.
One of my favorite aspects of this series continues to be the characters. After 18 books, there is a real sense that we know these people, and their continued growth makes it easy to become attached to them. Michael Bennett isn't simply solving another case; we're also seeing how the events around him affect his family, his partnerships, and his personal life.
Overall, Delusional was another great addition to the Michael Bennett series. Even after 18 books, the series doesn't feel like it is simply repeating the same story over and over. The characters continue to develop, the plots remain engaging, and there are enough twists and connections to keep you turning the pages. For longtime fans of Michael Bennett, this is another solid installment that shows the series still has plenty of life left in it.
The story begins in New York City with a series of deadly bombings. At the same time, a military base is burglarized for munitions, while violence and arson begin to plague a small Montana town outside of Bozeman. What initially appear to be separate incidents slowly begin to reveal deeper connections.
The investigation brings Bennett together with Maggie Chin, an ATF agent who is eager to prove herself. Bennett's usual partner, Rob Trilling, is dealing with a family emergency in Montana, leaving Michael to work with Maggie while trying to unravel the bombing case. The investigation becomes even more personal when the death of an NYPD sergeant appears to be connected to the bombings, hitting much closer to home for Bennett than the other cases.
Eventually, Michael travels to Montana to help Rob and begins uncovering possible connections between the events in New York and the violence there. The story has several different plots happening at once, but Patterson does a good job weaving them together without making the story confusing or difficult to follow.
One of my favorite aspects of this series continues to be the characters. After 18 books, there is a real sense that we know these people, and their continued growth makes it easy to become attached to them. Michael Bennett isn't simply solving another case; we're also seeing how the events around him affect his family, his partnerships, and his personal life.
Overall, Delusional was another great addition to the Michael Bennett series. Even after 18 books, the series doesn't feel like it is simply repeating the same story over and over. The characters continue to develop, the plots remain engaging, and there are enough twists and connections to keep you turning the pages. For longtime fans of Michael Bennett, this is another solid installment that shows the series still has plenty of life left in it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the 18th book in the Micheal Bennet series, co-authored by James O. Born, and it’s my first time reading a book in the series. I usually don’t like picking up a book this late in the series, but I found it easy to do because of the book’s short chapters and fast pace, and has a good plot.
Michael Bennet and his partner, Rob Trilling, get involved with a cross-country conspiracy that starts with a bomb blast in an office in downtown New York, then stolen munitions from a military base in New Jersey and moves to Montana where violence and arson in a small town outside Bozeman are linked. In conjunction with the ATF, Bennet and Trilling pick up the trail of two anti-government faction and two enigmatic brothers (Ellis and Pry Warrenton) who believe they are making the world a better place. Trilling takes the lead in Montana, where he grew up, while Bennet is leading the case in New York.
The book alternates between Bennet, Trilling and Tom Owens, one of the members of the anti-government group. I liked the chapters with Rob Trilling as these dig more into his Montana family - this isn’t a character-driven book and since I didn’t know much this character I appreciated these chapters. Bennet teams up with Maggie Chin who is a likable character. Eventually the case ends up being solved in New York and in between you get a suspenseful story of anti-government conspiracy theorists- think Ruby Ridge and the Unabomber - who are thoughtless, self-centered and basically unreasonable. Glad they are caught.
I’ve read few other James Patterson books where he’s teamed up with other authors (Judge Stone with Viola Davis remains my favorite). These have all been good - maybe a bit formulaic in some cases. And they are great reads for anyone interested in a fast, suspenseful read. Readers invested in the Michael Bennet series should definitely be excited by this one.
My thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for granting me access to this book.
Michael Bennet and his partner, Rob Trilling, get involved with a cross-country conspiracy that starts with a bomb blast in an office in downtown New York, then stolen munitions from a military base in New Jersey and moves to Montana where violence and arson in a small town outside Bozeman are linked. In conjunction with the ATF, Bennet and Trilling pick up the trail of two anti-government faction and two enigmatic brothers (Ellis and Pry Warrenton) who believe they are making the world a better place. Trilling takes the lead in Montana, where he grew up, while Bennet is leading the case in New York.
The book alternates between Bennet, Trilling and Tom Owens, one of the members of the anti-government group. I liked the chapters with Rob Trilling as these dig more into his Montana family - this isn’t a character-driven book and since I didn’t know much this character I appreciated these chapters. Bennet teams up with Maggie Chin who is a likable character. Eventually the case ends up being solved in New York and in between you get a suspenseful story of anti-government conspiracy theorists- think Ruby Ridge and the Unabomber - who are thoughtless, self-centered and basically unreasonable. Glad they are caught.
I’ve read few other James Patterson books where he’s teamed up with other authors (Judge Stone with Viola Davis remains my favorite). These have all been good - maybe a bit formulaic in some cases. And they are great reads for anyone interested in a fast, suspenseful read. Readers invested in the Michael Bennet series should definitely be excited by this one.
My thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for granting me access to this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Author: James Patterson| James O. Born
Series: Michael Bennett #18
Publisher: Little Brown and Company
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: August 18, 2026
My Rating: 3.6 Stars!
Pages: 374
NYPD Detective Michael Bennett and his partner- army-sniper-turned-NYPD-officer Rob Trilling who is from Montana are investigating a case that crosses state borders. In New York, there is a series of deadly bombs. In New Jersey, a military base is burglarized for explosives. In Montana, violence and arson take over a small town. There is also an anti-government group that keeps popping up in unexpected places.
I always love when Michael’s stories include his family. In this case Mary Catherine is expecting her first baby and their eleventh child. This might be new to you, if you have not read Michael before but and he and his first wife Maeve adopted ten children and when she died Mary Catherine took over caring for the children. Michael and Mary Catherine married and now are expecting their first child together.
I have read ALL the novels in the Michael Bennett series. Yep! I have had a “Book Crush” on loveable, a bit rough but certainly great guy Michael.
I was a bit worried that Michael I knew (and loved) had changed and not in a good way in #12. His language was much too nasty for me. There is still foul language (I guess it is what many readers expect)
I am pleased that Michael’s foul language is not all that bad.
Another action-packed thriller with a few new twists.
Now looking forward to book #19 and baby Bennett’s arrival!
Want to thank NetGalley and Little Brown and Company for this uncorrected proof.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for August 18, 2026.
Series: Michael Bennett #18
Publisher: Little Brown and Company
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: August 18, 2026
My Rating: 3.6 Stars!
Pages: 374
NYPD Detective Michael Bennett and his partner- army-sniper-turned-NYPD-officer Rob Trilling who is from Montana are investigating a case that crosses state borders. In New York, there is a series of deadly bombs. In New Jersey, a military base is burglarized for explosives. In Montana, violence and arson take over a small town. There is also an anti-government group that keeps popping up in unexpected places.
I always love when Michael’s stories include his family. In this case Mary Catherine is expecting her first baby and their eleventh child. This might be new to you, if you have not read Michael before but and he and his first wife Maeve adopted ten children and when she died Mary Catherine took over caring for the children. Michael and Mary Catherine married and now are expecting their first child together.
I have read ALL the novels in the Michael Bennett series. Yep! I have had a “Book Crush” on loveable, a bit rough but certainly great guy Michael.
I was a bit worried that Michael I knew (and loved) had changed and not in a good way in #12. His language was much too nasty for me. There is still foul language (I guess it is what many readers expect)
I am pleased that Michael’s foul language is not all that bad.
Another action-packed thriller with a few new twists.
Now looking forward to book #19 and baby Bennett’s arrival!
Want to thank NetGalley and Little Brown and Company for this uncorrected proof.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for August 18, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The high octane plot in this Detective Michael Bennett novel could have been ripped from today's headlines. It is in fact reminiscent of Ted Kaczynski, whose name is brought up more than once in this story. What makes this Bennett thriller even more appetizing this time around is the fact that the authors transport us from the hot, loud streets of New York to a much quieter community in Bozeman, Montana, where Bennett's partner, Detective Rob Trilling, is fighting an enemy with his family. I loved that there were two cases going on at the same time, and the tie together at the end was priceless.
In NYC someone is setting off deadly bombs and the death toll continues to rise. The ATF gets involved and Detective Bennett gets paired with an ATF agent, who I must say I loved. She was the epitome of dynamite comes in small packages.
This was so many levels of crazy, but in all the ways that readers like myself love. I knew things were going to come to blows, literally, at some point. After all you had a house full of people who thought blowing things up was the answer to all of the world's problems, but the way the authors brought the reader to the conclusion was brilliant.
The short, snappy chapters and the great plotline, along with the fact that I love anything starring Detective Michael Bennett, made this police procedural/thriller a winner in every category that I look for in this genre. All I can say is that these two authors need to keep the books coming in this series. They never get old. The stories are fresh every single time.
Thank you to Little Brown and Company and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In NYC someone is setting off deadly bombs and the death toll continues to rise. The ATF gets involved and Detective Bennett gets paired with an ATF agent, who I must say I loved. She was the epitome of dynamite comes in small packages.
This was so many levels of crazy, but in all the ways that readers like myself love. I knew things were going to come to blows, literally, at some point. After all you had a house full of people who thought blowing things up was the answer to all of the world's problems, but the way the authors brought the reader to the conclusion was brilliant.
The short, snappy chapters and the great plotline, along with the fact that I love anything starring Detective Michael Bennett, made this police procedural/thriller a winner in every category that I look for in this genre. All I can say is that these two authors need to keep the books coming in this series. They never get old. The stories are fresh every single time.
Thank you to Little Brown and Company and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5⭐ The Michael Bennett series is my favorite of all James Patterson’s books. Book 18 of the Michael Bennett series is just as heart stopping as the first 17. This is the 9th written by James Patterson and James O Born. I don’t know how much is written by each author, but the O Born books are definitely my favorite of the series.
As per all James Patterson books, it has non stop thought provoking short chapters. The build up was typical of O Born, he feeds tidbits of information, just enough to keep me on the edge of my seat. I felt like I was on one of those roller coasters where you slowly ratchet up and up and up. There's a heart stopping pause, then after the crest, you're speeding around the tracks with no hope of slowing down.
I love how Michael Bennett is always so reasonable, keeps his head on his shoulders, and mind on the task, despite everything happening around him. With 10 kids and another on the way, as well as a grandfather who follows his own path, he already has his hands full. Add in the responsibility of being one of NYPD'S finest, he's getting pulled in all kinds of directions. And somehow he has the gumption to always stay on the side of right.
I really enjoyed this read and if you're already a fan of the Michael Bennett series, you will not be disappointed.
Thank you James Patterson, James O. Born, Little, Brown and Company, and NetGalley for this e-ARC. The above is my own and personal opinion.
As per all James Patterson books, it has non stop thought provoking short chapters. The build up was typical of O Born, he feeds tidbits of information, just enough to keep me on the edge of my seat. I felt like I was on one of those roller coasters where you slowly ratchet up and up and up. There's a heart stopping pause, then after the crest, you're speeding around the tracks with no hope of slowing down.
I love how Michael Bennett is always so reasonable, keeps his head on his shoulders, and mind on the task, despite everything happening around him. With 10 kids and another on the way, as well as a grandfather who follows his own path, he already has his hands full. Add in the responsibility of being one of NYPD'S finest, he's getting pulled in all kinds of directions. And somehow he has the gumption to always stay on the side of right.
I really enjoyed this read and if you're already a fan of the Michael Bennett series, you will not be disappointed.
Thank you James Patterson, James O. Born, Little, Brown and Company, and NetGalley for this e-ARC. The above is my own and personal opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In Delusional, Detective Michael Bennett’s latest case revolves around investigating a series of deadly bombings. It appears that they have a highly sophisticated bomber on their hands, one who seems to have little regard for human life. Simultaneously, Mike’s new partner, Rob Trilling, is tasked with handling a family matter in Montana. This unexpected situation ultimately pulls Mike away from the bombing case to assist Trilling.
Although his visit to Montana is brief, it appears that Mike has made yet another enemy - something he has dealt with many times in his career. Meanwhile, Mike is juggling the responsibilities of husband and father. This dynamic adds a refreshing balance to this fast-paced installment in the exciting series. The situation is precarious as the bombings initially seem random. Regardless of whether Mike is excelling as a brilliant detective, a loving husband and father, or navigating a new partnership on the job, this series continues to improve and captivate readers.
Many thanks to Little, Brown and Company and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Although his visit to Montana is brief, it appears that Mike has made yet another enemy - something he has dealt with many times in his career. Meanwhile, Mike is juggling the responsibilities of husband and father. This dynamic adds a refreshing balance to this fast-paced installment in the exciting series. The situation is precarious as the bombings initially seem random. Regardless of whether Mike is excelling as a brilliant detective, a loving husband and father, or navigating a new partnership on the job, this series continues to improve and captivate readers.
Many thanks to Little, Brown and Company and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Delusional: A Michael Bennett Thriller is classic James Patterson along with James O. Born. The authors have crafted a story full of suspense, unexpected twists, and well-developed characters. Detective Michael Bennett and Rob Trilling’s dynamic partnership is a highlight, combining Bennett’s seasoned detective work with Trilling's unique background as a former army sniper. The plot is intricately woven, starting with a series of bombings in New York City that set the stage for a web of crime spanning multiple states. For me, there were some gasp-out-loud moments.
Overall, Delusional is a thrilling read, and the authors have delivered a rollercoaster of a book that is impossible to put down. I'm looking forward to the next installment in the Michael Bennett series. I would recommend this book for fans of suspense and crime thrillers.
#NetGalley @littlebrown
Overall, Delusional is a thrilling read, and the authors have delivered a rollercoaster of a book that is impossible to put down. I'm looking forward to the next installment in the Michael Bennett series. I would recommend this book for fans of suspense and crime thrillers.
#NetGalley @littlebrown
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Two storylines, two locations - there's a series of bombings in New York City and in Montana there is violence and arson being committed against Rob Trilling's family and their business.
While Rob is back home in Montana, ATF Agent Maggie Chin is working with Michael Benning to investigate the bombings. As a reader, we learn the identity of the bombers early on, but as the story unfolds we discover how they became a team, the reason for the bombings, and how law enforcement is able to determine who they are.
At the same time, there is a brief period where Michael gets called to come to Montana to help out Rob and his family with the "investor" who is relentless in his pursuit to purchase the lot the car dealership is on.
I loved the interesting mix of characters, the sarcasm, the pacing of the story, and twists along the way.
While Rob is back home in Montana, ATF Agent Maggie Chin is working with Michael Benning to investigate the bombings. As a reader, we learn the identity of the bombers early on, but as the story unfolds we discover how they became a team, the reason for the bombings, and how law enforcement is able to determine who they are.
At the same time, there is a brief period where Michael gets called to come to Montana to help out Rob and his family with the "investor" who is relentless in his pursuit to purchase the lot the car dealership is on.
I loved the interesting mix of characters, the sarcasm, the pacing of the story, and twists along the way.
August 22, 2026
Michael Bennett is Da Bomb
When you read the beginning of the book you'll understand my title.
I can't help it, I love Michael Bennett books. Love the whole family, especially Seamus. Having added Rob Trilling as Bennett's partner was a stroke of genius.
This book moved so fast I read 81% of it in a blur. Wish it had been longer. Folks like me have characters we know and love: Lucas Davenport, Virgil Effing Flowers, Alex Delaware, Milo Sturgis, Alex Cross, the Memory Man. We love the main characters AND the supporting cast also. So, if you're a Bennett fan you won't be disappointed at all. You'll probably be like me, wishing James Patterson and his collaborators would push out these books faster!!
When you read the beginning of the book you'll understand my title.
I can't help it, I love Michael Bennett books. Love the whole family, especially Seamus. Having added Rob Trilling as Bennett's partner was a stroke of genius.
This book moved so fast I read 81% of it in a blur. Wish it had been longer. Folks like me have characters we know and love: Lucas Davenport, Virgil Effing Flowers, Alex Delaware, Milo Sturgis, Alex Cross, the Memory Man. We love the main characters AND the supporting cast also. So, if you're a Bennett fan you won't be disappointed at all. You'll probably be like me, wishing James Patterson and his collaborators would push out these books faster!!
November 27, 2025
This 18th in the Michael Bennett series is typical Michael Bennet drama. NYC has a serial bomber who is now killing people, a case that has Michael's full attention, until his partner, and daughter's paramour, Rob Trilling returns home to Bozeman, Montana, to help his brother and ends up calling Michael for help. The two cases bring about lots of action and trouble for both men at both locations. I always enjoy reading these stories, that also include family stories. Here Michael's wife Mary Catherine is carrying their first baby, and 11th child. This is still a winning series! Thanks to NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for providing an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A serial bombing in New York City and a family emergency in Montana have partners Detective Michael Bennett and NYPD Officer Rob Trilling stretched to their limits. ATF Agent Maggie Chin temporarily partners with Bennett to track down the bombers when Trilling heads to Montana to help his family. Bennett makes a brief trip to Montana to assist before returning to NYC.
An edge-of-your-seat thriller with danger hitting too close to Bennett and his family. We get a small glimpse into the budding relationship between Bennett’s daughter and Rob.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
An edge-of-your-seat thriller with danger hitting too close to Bennett and his family. We get a small glimpse into the budding relationship between Bennett’s daughter and Rob.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“At the root of things, that was what guys like this really were: anarchists. People who didn’t understand or respect the functions of the government. People who didn’t appreciate how difficult it was to govern a country that covered so much land and had such a diverse population.”
Delusional is a fast paced Michael Bennett thriller about a small group of people who think chaos and destruction is a way to get people’s attention.
I am a Michael Bennett fan and did enjoy this book. It’s sad how it is so relatable to our current society.
Thank you to NetGalley, Little, Brown and Company and the author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Delusional is a fast paced Michael Bennett thriller about a small group of people who think chaos and destruction is a way to get people’s attention.
I am a Michael Bennett fan and did enjoy this book. It’s sad how it is so relatable to our current society.
Thank you to NetGalley, Little, Brown and Company and the author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
August 18, 2026
Thee’s a serial bomber in New York. His targets began with a police car and have escalated. There are multiple victims and Michael Bennett is on the case. However, his partner Rob Trilling is called back to his home in Montana to help with threats from a real estate developer who wants to buy the family car dealership. Mike now has to juggle two cases at once. I’ve read all eighteen Michael Bennett thrillers - this series just keeps getting better. Delusional has the usual multiple plots, short chapters with cliffhanger endings and the fast paced plot that Patterson is noted for. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Little, Brown and Company, James Patterson and James O. Born for this ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley, Little, Brown and Company, James Patterson and James O. Born for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley Little, Brown and Company and James Patterson for this ARC. Round #18 for Michael Bennett and crew. This time there is a bomber in town who have the same thoughts as the Unabomber in the 90's. Just when things are getting crazy, Michael's partner Rob needs to run home to Montana to deal with a family matter and Michael wants to help with both issues. Another fast paced read from James Patterson that never fails! #Delusional #MichaelBennett #JamesPatterson #JamesOBorn #LittleBrownandCompany #Aug2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In New York City, a series of deadly bombs explodes. Will Michael Bennett and his partner find the person or persons in time?
This is book #18 of the Michael Bennett series – one of my favorites! I love the fast pacing, short chapters, and the intermingling with Michael Bennett’s wonderful family whom we have known for 17 previous book and his relationship with his new partner, Rob Trilling. This book kept me guessing – moving between Montana, New York, and other locations, but still had the satisfying ending of all the books in this series. I can’t wait for the next one!
This is book #18 of the Michael Bennett series – one of my favorites! I love the fast pacing, short chapters, and the intermingling with Michael Bennett’s wonderful family whom we have known for 17 previous book and his relationship with his new partner, Rob Trilling. This book kept me guessing – moving between Montana, New York, and other locations, but still had the satisfying ending of all the books in this series. I can’t wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Delusional is the 18th novel in the Michael Bennett series by James Patterson and it doesn’t disappoint.
We start off with bombings in NYC. A brilliant Kaczynski wannabe joins forces with a group who has a “cause” of their own.
Then, we have Rob Trilling, Bennett’s partner trying to help his family in Montana fend off a crazy Albanian criminal who’s buying everyone’s businesses to build a resort.
Thank you to James Patterson for another outstanding, page turner, the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced copy. I loved it! This is one series I hope never ends.
We start off with bombings in NYC. A brilliant Kaczynski wannabe joins forces with a group who has a “cause” of their own.
Then, we have Rob Trilling, Bennett’s partner trying to help his family in Montana fend off a crazy Albanian criminal who’s buying everyone’s businesses to build a resort.
Thank you to James Patterson for another outstanding, page turner, the publisher and NetGalley for this advanced copy. I loved it! This is one series I hope never ends.
August 20, 2026
My thoughts:
This was another riveting Michael Bennett thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Michael Bennett and his partner Rob are just beginning to investigate a bombing in NYC. Rob gets a phone call from his younger brother asking him to come home…..they need his help.
The story revolves around the bombing and Robs family’s car dealership.
The llama aspect had me laughing out loud.
I love the Bennett family ♥️
Though the pacing of the story seemed slow at times….it didn’t stop me from reading on and on.
Another great book that I enjoyed reading.
This was another riveting Michael Bennett thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Michael Bennett and his partner Rob are just beginning to investigate a bombing in NYC. Rob gets a phone call from his younger brother asking him to come home…..they need his help.
The story revolves around the bombing and Robs family’s car dealership.
The llama aspect had me laughing out loud.
I love the Bennett family ♥️
Though the pacing of the story seemed slow at times….it didn’t stop me from reading on and on.
Another great book that I enjoyed reading.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Standard Michael Bennett plot - several cases going on at the same time. The usual bad guys and a few Bennett family issues. I felt like this one was just okay. I did like the ATF Agent Chin female character. She was a badass. The Grandpa priest was pretty quiet this book. I'd recommend this book if you read the series just to move it forward. Thanks NetGalley for the advanced copy.
#Delusional #NetGalley
#Delusional #NetGalley
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