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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
991 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 364 reviews
September 4, 2026
James Patterson has several bestselling series, each carrying different levels of readership popularity. Detective Alex Cross is his coveted franchise and most successful series, followed by the Women’s Murder Club, Detective Michael Bennett, NYPD Red, and the Private novels.
The Detective Michael Bennett series is one of Patterson’s better feel-good characters. Bennett is a successful Detective working special crimes in New York City. His home life and (very large) family are really the center of his world and provide the primary reason for the readers to cheer him on. Bennett’s first wife, Maeve, died after fighting a losing battle with cancer, leaving him with their 10 adopted children to raise, along with his sour grandfather and catholic priest, Seamus. During most of the books, Bennett has moved on by falling in love and getting married - to his wonderful housekeeper and currently pregnant with their first child, Mary Catherine - in-between solving crimes and stopping serial killers along the way.
I cannot speak for other readers, but I can say for me that I enjoy getting to see what the Bennett clan are up to each year, watching Mike’s relationship with Mary Catherine grow into a strong committed partnership, and seeing how each of the children are developing as they grow older. The strong family focus is the secret sauce that drives this series and puts a nice smile on my face and keeps me coming back for more.
For example, in this one I excited to see how Mary Catherin’s pregnancy was going, as well as how Juliana’s potential relationship with Michael’s partner, Rob Trilling, was developing. A side bar incident involving Juliana helping Rob’s Pakistani refugee roommates defend themselves was pretty memorable and ironic. These family-based activities were some of the best parts, and to be honest, there wasn’t as much of them in this book as I was hoping for.
On the flip side, I have found the primary mysteries and villains in this series to be fairly hit and miss from book to book. Some have strong protagonists that have challenged and pushed Bennett to the extreme, like the Russian assassin from several books ago; while others have been serial killers, bombers, and other psychotic fueled baddies that were superficial, weak, and even a few that came across like cliches. Once in a while Patterson and Born will create a compelling mystery that maintains my interest, but needless to say the criminal storylines have not been a consistent strength of this series.
Unfortunately, they can tend to be almost formulaic, following a structure of having a primary A storyline (mystery, investigation, etc.) and a secondary storyline (another mystery or conflict that needs to be resolved) that run parallel throughout the novel.
In “Delusional” the primary A plot involved Bennett being called in to help investigate a series of bombings in New York City. One of the bombs took the life of a NYPD patrol Sargeant in Queens when it went off. Another bomb was detonated in the Office of Technology and Innovation building. Following their analysis, the bomb investigators let Bennett know that the bomber is learning and getting better with each bomb that goes off. Michael even gets an extra partner, Special ATF Agent Margaret Chin, to work with on the investigation.
The secondary B plot involved Bennett’s young partner, Rob Trilling, being called home to Montana by his older brother seeking his help. The Trilling’s own a car lot that has been in the family for generations and has been successful enough to provide for their means. But they’re in trouble. A California developer is buying up the land in their small, incorporated town outside of Bozeman and the Trilling’s are refusing to sell the land in which their family business is located on. The developer seems to have criminal connections and when threats don’t work, Rob finds himself facing physical attacks and acts of arson intending to change his family’s minds.
Michael Bennett, Rob Trilling, and both of their families are forced to deal with adversaries that appear to be downright delusional when it comes to the law…
For me, and this is just me, the personal family related storylines overshadowed the primary bombing investigation, which came with two impossible-to-ignore weaknesses. The first was that it felt like a typical and predictable Patterson formula that didn’t provide any tension or compelling interest for the reader. At least for me, it was rather predictable in how it unfolded. The second was that the bad guys and bad lady were really weak villains, providing no sense of conflict or challenge to Bennett and Chin. For me, they were some of the poorest and uninteresting villains I have ever seen in a Patterson novel; they couldn’t even act as a unified team in any way and spent all of their time fighting. Unfortunately, it was easy to see that they were going to fall apart on their own even before law enforcement found them. Rather disappointing.
Having shared my constructive feedback, that doesn’t mean that I am saying to avoid reading this one. A lot of readers love this series, and I want them to enjoy the book more than I did, so I conclude with the following thought.
The strength of this series has always been the balance between Bennett facing down the evilness of the world (serial killers, psycho and deranged killers, bad people seeking power, etc.) and the strength of his family. The love and support of his family is his heart. They provide him with the strength, drive, and perseverance that he needs to successfully hunt down and deal with evil killers and villains. It’s a sharp two-edged sword, but Michael does a good job of shuffling between both worlds, maintaining both his core identity and humanity.
As long as you are okay with trading off the strength of those personal family storylines for weaker, less engaging and less-entertaining police investigations that disappoint more than it delivers, you will probably be better prepared for the experience.
For me, this was 2.5 out of 5 stars rating (which is rounded up on Goodreads). And I am feeling like that is rather generous, so you can thank the strong family focus and uplifting ending for that rounding up to 3-stars.
The Detective Michael Bennett series is one of Patterson’s better feel-good characters. Bennett is a successful Detective working special crimes in New York City. His home life and (very large) family are really the center of his world and provide the primary reason for the readers to cheer him on. Bennett’s first wife, Maeve, died after fighting a losing battle with cancer, leaving him with their 10 adopted children to raise, along with his sour grandfather and catholic priest, Seamus. During most of the books, Bennett has moved on by falling in love and getting married - to his wonderful housekeeper and currently pregnant with their first child, Mary Catherine - in-between solving crimes and stopping serial killers along the way.
I cannot speak for other readers, but I can say for me that I enjoy getting to see what the Bennett clan are up to each year, watching Mike’s relationship with Mary Catherine grow into a strong committed partnership, and seeing how each of the children are developing as they grow older. The strong family focus is the secret sauce that drives this series and puts a nice smile on my face and keeps me coming back for more.
For example, in this one I excited to see how Mary Catherin’s pregnancy was going, as well as how Juliana’s potential relationship with Michael’s partner, Rob Trilling, was developing. A side bar incident involving Juliana helping Rob’s Pakistani refugee roommates defend themselves was pretty memorable and ironic. These family-based activities were some of the best parts, and to be honest, there wasn’t as much of them in this book as I was hoping for.
On the flip side, I have found the primary mysteries and villains in this series to be fairly hit and miss from book to book. Some have strong protagonists that have challenged and pushed Bennett to the extreme, like the Russian assassin from several books ago; while others have been serial killers, bombers, and other psychotic fueled baddies that were superficial, weak, and even a few that came across like cliches. Once in a while Patterson and Born will create a compelling mystery that maintains my interest, but needless to say the criminal storylines have not been a consistent strength of this series.
Unfortunately, they can tend to be almost formulaic, following a structure of having a primary A storyline (mystery, investigation, etc.) and a secondary storyline (another mystery or conflict that needs to be resolved) that run parallel throughout the novel.
In “Delusional” the primary A plot involved Bennett being called in to help investigate a series of bombings in New York City. One of the bombs took the life of a NYPD patrol Sargeant in Queens when it went off. Another bomb was detonated in the Office of Technology and Innovation building. Following their analysis, the bomb investigators let Bennett know that the bomber is learning and getting better with each bomb that goes off. Michael even gets an extra partner, Special ATF Agent Margaret Chin, to work with on the investigation.
The secondary B plot involved Bennett’s young partner, Rob Trilling, being called home to Montana by his older brother seeking his help. The Trilling’s own a car lot that has been in the family for generations and has been successful enough to provide for their means. But they’re in trouble. A California developer is buying up the land in their small, incorporated town outside of Bozeman and the Trilling’s are refusing to sell the land in which their family business is located on. The developer seems to have criminal connections and when threats don’t work, Rob finds himself facing physical attacks and acts of arson intending to change his family’s minds.
Michael Bennett, Rob Trilling, and both of their families are forced to deal with adversaries that appear to be downright delusional when it comes to the law…
For me, and this is just me, the personal family related storylines overshadowed the primary bombing investigation, which came with two impossible-to-ignore weaknesses. The first was that it felt like a typical and predictable Patterson formula that didn’t provide any tension or compelling interest for the reader. At least for me, it was rather predictable in how it unfolded. The second was that the bad guys and bad lady were really weak villains, providing no sense of conflict or challenge to Bennett and Chin. For me, they were some of the poorest and uninteresting villains I have ever seen in a Patterson novel; they couldn’t even act as a unified team in any way and spent all of their time fighting. Unfortunately, it was easy to see that they were going to fall apart on their own even before law enforcement found them. Rather disappointing.
Having shared my constructive feedback, that doesn’t mean that I am saying to avoid reading this one. A lot of readers love this series, and I want them to enjoy the book more than I did, so I conclude with the following thought.
The strength of this series has always been the balance between Bennett facing down the evilness of the world (serial killers, psycho and deranged killers, bad people seeking power, etc.) and the strength of his family. The love and support of his family is his heart. They provide him with the strength, drive, and perseverance that he needs to successfully hunt down and deal with evil killers and villains. It’s a sharp two-edged sword, but Michael does a good job of shuffling between both worlds, maintaining both his core identity and humanity.
As long as you are okay with trading off the strength of those personal family storylines for weaker, less engaging and less-entertaining police investigations that disappoint more than it delivers, you will probably be better prepared for the experience.
For me, this was 2.5 out of 5 stars rating (which is rounded up on Goodreads). And I am feeling like that is rather generous, so you can thank the strong family focus and uplifting ending for that rounding up to 3-stars.
September 3, 2026
I am a dedicated Michael Bennett fangirl and read everything put out on the series. This was another action-packed, fast-paced story of Michael and his law enforcement friends and coworkers saving the day and making the world a better place.
The book summary introduces the two different storylines of Michael’s partner, Rob, getting called back to his hometown in MT because of some Albanian gangster trying to pass himself off as an LA real estate developer that is harassing his family into selling their family car lot that has been in the family for decades. This has Michael partnering up with ATF Agent, Maggie Chin in the investigation of the bombings. While investigating the bombings, Michael gets a call from Rob for help, which sends Michael out to MT to help Rob and his family get rid of Arnold Marks (the Albanian gangster/LA developer), who has now become violent.
Most of the story flips back and forth between MT and NYC, where the bombings continue. It’s deep into the second half that it gets pretty scary and intense in both MT and NYC that has Michael dealing with criminals and kind of making things worse. LOVED the ending!!! Whoo hoo!!!
The continuing character development of Michael, Rob and one of the bombers, Owens was well done. Additionally, the addition of Maggie made for some entertaining passages. The charaOnce again, the pacing was paced and action-packed, which is par for the series. I really enjoyed the storyline of Rob going back home to help his family, which was all part of the continuing character development of Rob. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.1 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #LittleBrownandCompany #Delusional
The book summary introduces the two different storylines of Michael’s partner, Rob, getting called back to his hometown in MT because of some Albanian gangster trying to pass himself off as an LA real estate developer that is harassing his family into selling their family car lot that has been in the family for decades. This has Michael partnering up with ATF Agent, Maggie Chin in the investigation of the bombings. While investigating the bombings, Michael gets a call from Rob for help, which sends Michael out to MT to help Rob and his family get rid of Arnold Marks (the Albanian gangster/LA developer), who has now become violent.
Most of the story flips back and forth between MT and NYC, where the bombings continue. It’s deep into the second half that it gets pretty scary and intense in both MT and NYC that has Michael dealing with criminals and kind of making things worse. LOVED the ending!!! Whoo hoo!!!
The continuing character development of Michael, Rob and one of the bombers, Owens was well done. Additionally, the addition of Maggie made for some entertaining passages. The charaOnce again, the pacing was paced and action-packed, which is par for the series. I really enjoyed the storyline of Rob going back home to help his family, which was all part of the continuing character development of Rob. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.1 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #LittleBrownandCompany #Delusional
September 28, 2026
Detective Michael Bennett approved his partner, Rob Trilling's request to travel to Montana to help sort some problems for his family. Bennett was entangled in finding who was bombing the city, killing indiscriminately. It reminded them of the Unabomber many years prior. The ATF, in the form of Maggie Chin, worked alongside the NYPD, and it wasn't long before small pieces of information came to light. But it was when Trilling contacted Bennett and asked for his help in Montana, that the fireworks started. Someone was determined to buy the family car business, and they didn't want to sell. All the other folks in Bozeman had take the high offer, but the Trillings were positive. Trouble came knocking on their door...
Delusional is the 18th in the Michael Bennett series, and once again James Patterson has nailed it. I'm loving this series, and this one was no different. Action packed (in a nutshell), tense, chilling and fast paced, I flew through the pages. Patterson's short, choppy chapters definitely help; makes it easy to read just one more chapter! Highly recommended.
Delusional is the 18th in the Michael Bennett series, and once again James Patterson has nailed it. I'm loving this series, and this one was no different. Action packed (in a nutshell), tense, chilling and fast paced, I flew through the pages. Patterson's short, choppy chapters definitely help; makes it easy to read just one more chapter! Highly recommended.
August 21, 2026
James Patterson’s Delusional is co-authored by James O. Born.
This is a Michael Bennett thriller, lucky number 18.
It’s action packed and fast paced.
Michael Bennett is a NYPD homicide detective.
He has 10 adopted kids with his late wife and a baby on the way with his current wife, Mary Catherine.
This book takes place in New York & briefly in Montana.
It’s a good story!
This is a Michael Bennett thriller, lucky number 18.
It’s action packed and fast paced.
Michael Bennett is a NYPD homicide detective.
He has 10 adopted kids with his late wife and a baby on the way with his current wife, Mary Catherine.
This book takes place in New York & briefly in Montana.
It’s a good story!
October 3, 2026
This book features two interconnected storylines. Michael Bennett investigates two explosions occurring in New York, while his young partner Rob Trilling travels to Montana to assist his brother, who faces pressure from an aggressive businessman refusing to accept rejection. The antagonist demands that Bob's brother surrender the family's car dealership.
Meanwhile, the narrative shifts to Thomas Wayne Owens, an individual obsessed with explosives who idolizes Ted Kaczynski, the Unabomber, and embraces similar ideologies. Like his inspiration, Owens resides in an isolated cabin far removed from civilization and has taken credit for two previous bombings.
When a group of two men and a woman approaches Owens seeking his participation, he accepts their proposition as an opportunity to advance his beliefs. However, he quickly discovers they don't genuinely share his convictions, leaving him regretful about his involvement with them.
Michael Bennett is one of my favorites and it seems like James O Born has helped make the books even better! I am looking forward to the next book!
Meanwhile, the narrative shifts to Thomas Wayne Owens, an individual obsessed with explosives who idolizes Ted Kaczynski, the Unabomber, and embraces similar ideologies. Like his inspiration, Owens resides in an isolated cabin far removed from civilization and has taken credit for two previous bombings.
When a group of two men and a woman approaches Owens seeking his participation, he accepts their proposition as an opportunity to advance his beliefs. However, he quickly discovers they don't genuinely share his convictions, leaving him regretful about his involvement with them.
Michael Bennett is one of my favorites and it seems like James O Born has helped make the books even better! I am looking forward to the next book!
September 15, 2026
I just LOVE the Michael Bennett series! His humor, his wonderful family, and the way he approaches each case make these books so much fun to read. You’re often sitting on the edge of your seat, but somehow there’s always enough humor to keep things entertaining.
As always with this series, you have to suspend reality a little (okay, sometimes a lot 😂), but honestly, that’s part of the fun. These books are pure entertainment, and I’m here for it!
I definitely think reading the whole series adds to the experience, especially because you get to know Bennett and his family along the way. That said, this one could still work as a standalone if you’re jumping in here.
Fast-paced, entertaining, funny, and exactly the kind of book I needed!
Thank you to Net Galley and Little, Brown and Company for gifting me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
As always with this series, you have to suspend reality a little (okay, sometimes a lot 😂), but honestly, that’s part of the fun. These books are pure entertainment, and I’m here for it!
I definitely think reading the whole series adds to the experience, especially because you get to know Bennett and his family along the way. That said, this one could still work as a standalone if you’re jumping in here.
Fast-paced, entertaining, funny, and exactly the kind of book I needed!
Thank you to Net Galley and Little, Brown and Company for gifting me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 26, 2026
Less family interference makes for a better story.
April 8, 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!
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
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!
September 16, 2026
Apt title!
The Micheal Bennett series is usually pretty good but this one felt so watered down there was little to it. At times it felt like a jumble of short stories and none of them developed into very much.
Book 18 could easily be skipped!
The Micheal Bennett series is usually pretty good but this one felt so watered down there was little to it. At times it felt like a jumble of short stories and none of them developed into very much.
Book 18 could easily be skipped!
May 4, 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
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!
October 6, 2026
The narration was great (even though Bobby Cannavale is who sticks in my head as the voice of Michael Bennett) The book was just okay for me for this series. I had been hoping Trilling would be more involved in the New York case and I found the Montana case to be a little on the meh side of things.
It’s been about a week since I finished the book and my memory bank is already overdrawn, but something about the ending either didn’t make sense to me or confused me or something like that. I can’t recall exactly what it was, but remember feeling not exactly satisfied, for lack of a better word at the moment, with it.
Rating and brief thoughts posted: 10/6/26
It’s been about a week since I finished the book and my memory bank is already overdrawn, but something about the ending either didn’t make sense to me or confused me or something like that. I can’t recall exactly what it was, but remember feeling not exactly satisfied, for lack of a better word at the moment, with it.
Rating and brief thoughts posted: 10/6/26
August 28, 2026
This is my first in the Michael Bennett series and I loved it
I have a great streak of picking 5 star thrillers to read and this didn't disappoint
I have a great streak of picking 5 star thrillers to read and this didn't disappoint
September 2, 2026
Michael Bennet is one of my favorite James Patterson series. I enjoy catching up with his family and him and seeing what adventure he is up to next. This book did not disappoint for fans of the series. While reading the book, I was hooked, and wanted to find out what happened. Despite my there being two main settings/plot lines, I did NOT get confused. I hope there will be more in the series!
September 16, 2026
Michael Bennett doing what he does best - protecting the people he cares about most.
This novel had 3 or 4 storylines running that all somehow beautifully converged in the last 20 pages to close the loop on everything that was troubling Michael Bennett in Delusional. The only open connections are the personal ones - relationships, expecting mothers and a potential new ally at the ATF. These are the binds that tie us to the next book.
The characters are like family at this point and the development is really put into the villains of these stories, which helps to build the story up for the reader. The pace of storytelling is genius level. You can't put these books down.
I'm a sucker for a new JP book in one of my favorite series. 4.5⭐ rounded up to 5⭐ for Goodreads.
This novel had 3 or 4 storylines running that all somehow beautifully converged in the last 20 pages to close the loop on everything that was troubling Michael Bennett in Delusional. The only open connections are the personal ones - relationships, expecting mothers and a potential new ally at the ATF. These are the binds that tie us to the next book.
The characters are like family at this point and the development is really put into the villains of these stories, which helps to build the story up for the reader. The pace of storytelling is genius level. You can't put these books down.
I'm a sucker for a new JP book in one of my favorite series. 4.5⭐ rounded up to 5⭐ for Goodreads.
September 6, 2026
Michael Bennett is one of my favorite Patterson characters. I couldn't wait to get to this book. Sadly, it was very disappointing. As one other reviewer stated, it might be time to end this series. I found myself wanting it to be over. I felt the Montana part was very clumsy and unnecessary. It didn't work. I also missed the family time parts. So little family in this story.
September 6, 2026
Is James Patterson’s 'Delusional' worth adding to your TBR list? I take a close look into the plot twists, character dynamics, and final verdict in my latest review, and without divulging any spoilers! Read it here ⤵️
https://www.aniblogshere.com/delusion...
#BookReview #CrimeFiction #MustRead #jamespatterson
https://www.aniblogshere.com/delusion...
#BookReview #CrimeFiction #MustRead #jamespatterson
December 10, 2025
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.
August 20, 2026
James Patterson may have made a name for himself with his legendary series featuring Alex Cross but, in my opinion, a close second to that series is the one featuring NYPD Detective Michael Bennett.
This gritty series, which has been co-written with Florida writer James O. Born for the past several years, welcomes its’ latest release DELUSIONAL. In this fast-paced novel, Bennett teams up with former army sniper turned NYPD Officer Rob Trilling to investigate a series of deadly explosions that will find them investigating in both NYC and all the way out to Montana in pursuit of an anti-government group of domestic terrorists.
At the start of the novel, Bennett and Trilling are working with the NYPD bomb squad to investigate a series of bomb attacks around the New York City area. The most recent in Queens claimed the life of a fellow officer, Patrol Sergeant Rose Vega. There is not much evidence except for the fingerprint smudge that tells them the person who physically set the device was missing the middle and index fingers on their left hand.
Not long after this event, Trilling tells Bennett he needs to take a bit of personal time to head back to his home in Montana where his family is going through a crisis. His brother Gary, who runs the family business --- a car lot outside of Bozeman, is dealing with a wealthy outsider who is buying up a lot of property in the area. While Gary has no intention of selling, persuasion has come in the form of violent attacks and burnings that have influenced local business owners to sell. Trilling wants to not only support his brother but also take a peek into who might be behind these attacks and threats.
Meanwhile, a madman in the making in the form of a man named Tom Owens is introduced to the plot. He has come into the possession of a good deal of explosive equipment and is so intrigued by the bombings in NYC that he feels compelled to get involved and possibly do it better. His network is part of the wider threat of domestic terrorism that seems to be growing across the U.S.
Bennett is introduced to the best new character in the novel, Maggie Chin who is an ATF special agent and will prove to be a great colleague in his on-going investigation. In Montana, things have taken a dangerous and deadly turn with the Trilling family situation when Gary’s business office is fire-bombed, and the body of a young woman is found in the wreckage by Rob. It is at this point that Trilling realizes he is out of his element taking this one solo and places a call to Bennett, asking him to fly out to Montana and provide some support and expertise in the situation. It will not be long before the two partners, working together again, begin to piece together the threat that may be tied to a much larger problem involving everything they have been investigating.
The plot moves quickly as different characters and events begin to string together. The trouble is that the alleged group behind all of this is not being taken seriously by law enforcement or the government and Bennet, Trilling, and Maggie Chin are all soon caught in the middle of a situation where they seem to be crying wolf about a villainous enterprise that only they seem to be able to recognize as a group that needs to be taken very seriously or thousands of people could die.
DELUSIONAL is an exciting read and one that forces the reader to feel for the efforts being made by the protagonists who are fighting both evil enemies with a deadly agenda but also public and social sentiment that dares them to break away from the restrictions of their roles to do the right thing, or else.
Reviewed by Ray Palen for Book Reporter
This gritty series, which has been co-written with Florida writer James O. Born for the past several years, welcomes its’ latest release DELUSIONAL. In this fast-paced novel, Bennett teams up with former army sniper turned NYPD Officer Rob Trilling to investigate a series of deadly explosions that will find them investigating in both NYC and all the way out to Montana in pursuit of an anti-government group of domestic terrorists.
At the start of the novel, Bennett and Trilling are working with the NYPD bomb squad to investigate a series of bomb attacks around the New York City area. The most recent in Queens claimed the life of a fellow officer, Patrol Sergeant Rose Vega. There is not much evidence except for the fingerprint smudge that tells them the person who physically set the device was missing the middle and index fingers on their left hand.
Not long after this event, Trilling tells Bennett he needs to take a bit of personal time to head back to his home in Montana where his family is going through a crisis. His brother Gary, who runs the family business --- a car lot outside of Bozeman, is dealing with a wealthy outsider who is buying up a lot of property in the area. While Gary has no intention of selling, persuasion has come in the form of violent attacks and burnings that have influenced local business owners to sell. Trilling wants to not only support his brother but also take a peek into who might be behind these attacks and threats.
Meanwhile, a madman in the making in the form of a man named Tom Owens is introduced to the plot. He has come into the possession of a good deal of explosive equipment and is so intrigued by the bombings in NYC that he feels compelled to get involved and possibly do it better. His network is part of the wider threat of domestic terrorism that seems to be growing across the U.S.
Bennett is introduced to the best new character in the novel, Maggie Chin who is an ATF special agent and will prove to be a great colleague in his on-going investigation. In Montana, things have taken a dangerous and deadly turn with the Trilling family situation when Gary’s business office is fire-bombed, and the body of a young woman is found in the wreckage by Rob. It is at this point that Trilling realizes he is out of his element taking this one solo and places a call to Bennett, asking him to fly out to Montana and provide some support and expertise in the situation. It will not be long before the two partners, working together again, begin to piece together the threat that may be tied to a much larger problem involving everything they have been investigating.
The plot moves quickly as different characters and events begin to string together. The trouble is that the alleged group behind all of this is not being taken seriously by law enforcement or the government and Bennet, Trilling, and Maggie Chin are all soon caught in the middle of a situation where they seem to be crying wolf about a villainous enterprise that only they seem to be able to recognize as a group that needs to be taken very seriously or thousands of people could die.
DELUSIONAL is an exciting read and one that forces the reader to feel for the efforts being made by the protagonists who are fighting both evil enemies with a deadly agenda but also public and social sentiment that dares them to break away from the restrictions of their roles to do the right thing, or else.
Reviewed by Ray Palen for Book Reporter
August 23, 2026
What starts as a series of deadly bombings in New York quickly escalates into a much larger conflict. As Michael Bennett juggles multiple investigations, he travels to Montana to assist his partner, Rob Trilling, whose family is being targeted by a series of violent attacks. The transition between New York and Montana keeps the narrative fresh, while seemingly unrelated criminal enterprises gradually reveal deeper connections. Patterson and Born masterfully manage the dual storylines, creating a sense of momentum that never falters.
The story begins with Michael and his partner, Rob Trilling, responding to a bombing scene. This is the second such incident recently, the other involving the death of a fellow police officer. The only concrete clues are that the bomber apparently had two missing fingers and the recent theft of explosives at a New Jersey arsenal.
As the investigation unfolds, Rob faces a potentially serious family matter. His brother, who owns a car dealership in Bozeman, Montana, is being threatened because he refuses to sell the property to a developer who is relentless in his pursuit. Michael advises Rob to go West, and when the situation takes a turn for the worse, Michael decides to join him in Montana to help.
My many thanks to NetGalley, the Publisher, Little, Brown and Company for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Delusional.
The story begins with Michael and his partner, Rob Trilling, responding to a bombing scene. This is the second such incident recently, the other involving the death of a fellow police officer. The only concrete clues are that the bomber apparently had two missing fingers and the recent theft of explosives at a New Jersey arsenal.
As the investigation unfolds, Rob faces a potentially serious family matter. His brother, who owns a car dealership in Bozeman, Montana, is being threatened because he refuses to sell the property to a developer who is relentless in his pursuit. Michael advises Rob to go West, and when the situation takes a turn for the worse, Michael decides to join him in Montana to help.
My many thanks to NetGalley, the Publisher, Little, Brown and Company for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Delusional.
September 22, 2026
I’ve always had a soft spot for the Michael Bennett thrillers, and "Delusional" reminds me why. Patterson delivers another fast-moving police procedural anchored by the warmth of Bennett’s big, loving Catholic family, a dynamic I’ve always connected with deeply...This eighteenth installment will pull you in immediately. The dual storyline works well. Bennett and his partners hunt a serial bombing group with unmistakable Ted Kaczynski vibes, while Rob Trilling is drawn back to Montana to confront threats against his family. The contrast between the high-stakes investigation in New York and the tense, personal drama out West keeps the pace brisk and the tension high...It’s everything I come to this series for, sharp investigative momentum, heartfelt family moments, and characters who feel lived-in. After eighteen books, Patterson can still make it feel fresh.
September 7, 2026
James Patterson and James O. Born absolutely knocked Delusional out of the park.
I’m a big Michael Bennett fan, and this was one of the stronger books in the series for me. The story moves fast, the twists kept me guessing, and there really wasn’t a point where I felt like it slowed down. The case takes Bennett from the bombings in New York to the violence in Montana, which gave this one a different feel from some of the other Bennett books.
But what really sealed the five stars for me was the ending. I loved the way everything came together. It was exciting, satisfying, and actually delivered after all the buildup—which isn’t always the case with thrillers.
I tore through this book and enjoyed pretty much everything about it. Patterson and Born gave me exactly what I want from a Michael Bennett novel: a great case, plenty of twists, nonstop pacing, and an ending that made the whole ride worthwhile.
October 7, 2026
Another Michael Bennett thriller! NYPD Detective Michael Bennett and officer Rob Trilling travel to Montana to investigate a case that crosses state borders and family lines.
In New York City, a series of deadly bombs explodes. In Montana, violence and arson ro k a small town outside Bozeman. Are the incidents related?
In New York City, a series of deadly bombs explodes. In Montana, violence and arson ro k a small town outside Bozeman. Are the incidents related?
October 30, 2026
The storyline was basically good. There were two unrelated stories that bothered me. One storyline had Det. Bennett running to Montana to help his partner whose brother had trouble with his car lot. And then Det. Bennett finding a bomber of several buildings. Do better with one story and develop it.
August 30, 2026
Book factory
It seems Patterson name is just a book factory. No originality! Two plots to make it a book rather than a magazine.
Do not waste you money on this "book". Unfortunately I already did.
It seems Patterson name is just a book factory. No originality! Two plots to make it a book rather than a magazine.
Do not waste you money on this "book". Unfortunately I already did.
September 6, 2026
The 18th Michael Bennett book, and it kept up the reputation of a fabulous series. Bombings in Manhattan and Michael goes to Montana to help out his partner, then returns to New York to help solve the bombers.
September 27, 2026
Mike Bennett and Rob Trilling make great NYPD homicide partners - both on and off the job. This follows the series formula and is an enjoyable read. The setting, for part of the story, in Rob’s hometown in Montana adds to the overall interest.
October 5, 2026
I enjoy the Michael Bennett books but I would have given this a 3.5. I rounded down due to the predictability of the story lines. It just seems like there could have been more to this story. It won’t stop me from reading the next one, though.
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