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The Bowers Files: The New York Years #1
Every Crooked Path
Who is the Piper? . . .
Special Agent Patrick Bowers returns in an electrifying prequel to the Bowers Chess series from critically acclaimed, national bestselling novelist Steven James.
A mysterious suicide and a series of abductions draw Patrick into a web of intrigue involving an international conspiracy where no one is who they appear to be and the stakes have never been higher.
Soon, Patrick discovers that the secret to stopping the Piper’s current crime spree lies in unlocking answers from an eight-year-old cold case—and the only way to do that is by entering the terrifying world of the conspirators himself.
Dark, probing, and chilling, Every Crooked Path takes an unflinching look at the world of today’s cybercrimes and delves into a parent’s worst nightmare as it launches a new chapter of Patrick Bowers thrillers.
Special Agent Patrick Bowers returns in an electrifying prequel to the Bowers Chess series from critically acclaimed, national bestselling novelist Steven James.
A mysterious suicide and a series of abductions draw Patrick into a web of intrigue involving an international conspiracy where no one is who they appear to be and the stakes have never been higher.
Soon, Patrick discovers that the secret to stopping the Piper’s current crime spree lies in unlocking answers from an eight-year-old cold case—and the only way to do that is by entering the terrifying world of the conspirators himself.
Dark, probing, and chilling, Every Crooked Path takes an unflinching look at the world of today’s cybercrimes and delves into a parent’s worst nightmare as it launches a new chapter of Patrick Bowers thrillers.
608 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2015
85 people are currently reading
1074 people want to read
About the author
Steven James
135 books1,753 followersSteven James is the award-winning, critically acclaimed author of twenty novels and numerous books on the craft of novel writing, including the new release, DELVE, PIVOT, PROPEL, which explores revolutionary new approaches to fiction writing. With a master's degree in storytelling, James teaches writing worldwide and has appeared on five continents telling stories and teaching storytelling at over 2000 appearances.
His latest Young Adult horror novel, RIFT, is the first in a new trilogy that takes place in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. James lives in Eastern Tennessee and loves watching sci-fi movies, playing basketball, and eating chicken fajitas—although not all at the same time.
James has been penning smart, taut thrillers that actually thrill, since 2007, when his acclaimed psychological suspense novel, THE PAWN, released.
If you love stories and storytelling, check out his podcast, The Story Blender, on which he has interviewed nearly 200 of the world's top writers and storytellers.
His latest Young Adult horror novel, RIFT, is the first in a new trilogy that takes place in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. James lives in Eastern Tennessee and loves watching sci-fi movies, playing basketball, and eating chicken fajitas—although not all at the same time.
James has been penning smart, taut thrillers that actually thrill, since 2007, when his acclaimed psychological suspense novel, THE PAWN, released.
If you love stories and storytelling, check out his podcast, The Story Blender, on which he has interviewed nearly 200 of the world's top writers and storytellers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
January 5, 2017
Although I didn't figure out who done it, the book felt total deja vu like as if I've read it before.
It was predictable but not, however, very entertaining and had me at the edge of my seat at times.
Certainly a very good read.
While I like this narrator for this series, I found in this book I got confused a few times while listening. He doesn't vary his voice a lot. So when multiple characters came in speaking and he used one voice for them in an earlier scene that matched a new character specifically a female, he would change the pitch if the prior male character and throw me off. But it wasn't too too bad.
It was predictable but not, however, very entertaining and had me at the edge of my seat at times.
Certainly a very good read.
While I like this narrator for this series, I found in this book I got confused a few times while listening. He doesn't vary his voice a lot. So when multiple characters came in speaking and he used one voice for them in an earlier scene that matched a new character specifically a female, he would change the pitch if the prior male character and throw me off. But it wasn't too too bad.
August 29, 2022
August 2022 Reread
Wow! This book was a great reread, but still a difficult storyline. I loved the twists in the story and wondering who was the "bad guy". It's crazy how I mostly forgot who were the evil characters. Super intense and a great insight to Patrick Bowers' early years.
***
Every Crooked Path is the newest addition in the Patrick Bowers Files and one of the tougher ones for me to read due to the subject matter. While it may have been hard to read, I felt like it was an important story and eye-opening.
As with all of the Bowers' books, I absolutely loved the characters. This glimpse of Tessa with her mom was great, as was seeing Tessa and Patrick connect and get to know each other better. My favorite character, as always, was Tessa. :)
The suspense was phenomenal! I had no idea who the "bad guys" were and was shocked by the ending, as I didn't guess it at all! I really liked how while things were wrapped up in the end, it also left you with a little cliffhanger and makes me anxious to read the next Bowers' book.
All in all, Every Crooked Path was a great thriller. I do recommend it, but with a warning. If you are at all sensitive, you might not want to read this story as it deals with child exploitation and things of that nature, which makes it tough to read at times.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Wow! This book was a great reread, but still a difficult storyline. I loved the twists in the story and wondering who was the "bad guy". It's crazy how I mostly forgot who were the evil characters. Super intense and a great insight to Patrick Bowers' early years.
***
Every Crooked Path is the newest addition in the Patrick Bowers Files and one of the tougher ones for me to read due to the subject matter. While it may have been hard to read, I felt like it was an important story and eye-opening.
As with all of the Bowers' books, I absolutely loved the characters. This glimpse of Tessa with her mom was great, as was seeing Tessa and Patrick connect and get to know each other better. My favorite character, as always, was Tessa. :)
The suspense was phenomenal! I had no idea who the "bad guys" were and was shocked by the ending, as I didn't guess it at all! I really liked how while things were wrapped up in the end, it also left you with a little cliffhanger and makes me anxious to read the next Bowers' book.
All in all, Every Crooked Path was a great thriller. I do recommend it, but with a warning. If you are at all sensitive, you might not want to read this story as it deals with child exploitation and things of that nature, which makes it tough to read at times.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
November 5, 2024
Some major trigger warnings for this one!
September 28, 2019
This is my first book by Steven James and I tried it out because the third book in this series is nominated for a Christy Award.
I was initially nervous about reading this book due to the author's note at the beginning warning about the subject matter (missing and exploited children). While it was still difficult at times, the author does a good job of keeping the explicit details sparse.
Every Crooked Path is an engaging suspense novel and pages were flying at the end because I had to know how things would turn out. Two of the secondary characters were especially well written...15 year old Tessa who is the daughter of main character Patrick's girlfriend and Francis an employee that uses technology to find missing children and their abductors.
Well done suspense novel about a difficult subject matter.
I was initially nervous about reading this book due to the author's note at the beginning warning about the subject matter (missing and exploited children). While it was still difficult at times, the author does a good job of keeping the explicit details sparse.
Every Crooked Path is an engaging suspense novel and pages were flying at the end because I had to know how things would turn out. Two of the secondary characters were especially well written...15 year old Tessa who is the daughter of main character Patrick's girlfriend and Francis an employee that uses technology to find missing children and their abductors.
Well done suspense novel about a difficult subject matter.
December 9, 2015
Gripping but hard subject matter
In classic Agent Bowers style, the plot races with twists and runs. I loved the introduction to Bowers earlier in his story. Be warned though that the subject matter is hard. Diving into the world of child molesters and pornographers is not an easy one.
In classic Agent Bowers style, the plot races with twists and runs. I loved the introduction to Bowers earlier in his story. Be warned though that the subject matter is hard. Diving into the world of child molesters and pornographers is not an easy one.
February 1, 2021
Another great Steven James book continuing the prequel series of the Bowers File. In this one he hunts down a porn ring that would kidnap children, use them for porn videos, then kill them. As usual there is action all the way through. Anxious to begin the next book in the series that just came in the mail today.
December 14, 2022
gritty as usual. The subject matter was difficult being a parent but James writing style is up to par as usual. He is a fantastic author!!!
December 7, 2022
Spoiler alert 🚨
I normally can’t handle books about kids being harmed, but I had to know how this ended. The narrator is awesome!!! Best I’ve ever heard on audio.
I normally can’t handle books about kids being harmed, but I had to know how this ended. The narrator is awesome!!! Best I’ve ever heard on audio.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2024
Hard subject, but written well nonetheless.
October 26, 2017
This book was a tough book to read but a very important topic to touch on. While the story was fiction, the issue was not. This issue has become rampant in the America, and I applaud the author in delicately approaching this topic. Was also a good book that delve into the Patrick Bowers developing relationship with Christine and her daughter Tess.
February 29, 2024
Oh my goodness! Such mixed feelings about this book. Gonna have to sort through this for a bit...
2024 Re-read: Tough subject matter to stomach. Not for young readers or the faint of heart. Not crazy about the timeline inconsistencies this book introduces into the "Bowersverse" either. Still a well-written and intricate plot as I've come to expect from James though.
2024 Re-read: Tough subject matter to stomach. Not for young readers or the faint of heart. Not crazy about the timeline inconsistencies this book introduces into the "Bowersverse" either. Still a well-written and intricate plot as I've come to expect from James though.
October 24, 2017
In this prequel to the Bowers Chess series, pub 2015, Special Agent Patrick Bowers takes down an International Child Abduction Ring.
October 9, 2020
The book I read for this quarter was “Every Crooked Path” by Steven James. This book to me started off great but slowly started to confuse me. As the story progressed it started to get off the main case of the story. But since it’s a crime book I would understand that there are many ways to find the murderer of the main case. I would recommend this book to people who like crimes, but just a warning it kinda gets very confusing after a while with all the different types of cases. It’s a good book that makes you wonder what will happen next for the different characters and if they will ever solve the main murder case.
In this book there are many different characters with many different stories to progress the story. The book starts off as a crime that happened and we are introduced to a character named Pat. As the story progresses and you will meet more characters and their stories while helping Pat solve the crime. Two other characters you will meet are named “Lily” and Francis. Francis helps Pat with information on the case and you will also learn very secretive facts about him. Lily is a victim that is kidnapped and throughout the story you will find out if she gets help and escapes or not. Read the story to find out what happens to these different characters and how they will solve the problems that occur to them throughout the story.
In this book there are many different characters with many different stories to progress the story. The book starts off as a crime that happened and we are introduced to a character named Pat. As the story progresses and you will meet more characters and their stories while helping Pat solve the crime. Two other characters you will meet are named “Lily” and Francis. Francis helps Pat with information on the case and you will also learn very secretive facts about him. Lily is a victim that is kidnapped and throughout the story you will find out if she gets help and escapes or not. Read the story to find out what happens to these different characters and how they will solve the problems that occur to them throughout the story.
May 31, 2020
Better than average read. One of my top 5 reads from this author. I usually don't like to go for prequels however this one held my interest throughout. Coming in a just under 600 pages paperback, the length really didn't bother me at all. It's fast paced and simple to read. There are two other books in this prequel series. which I'm likely to read at this point. A solid four stars out of five possible. May be a good idea to check out before reading the Patrick Bowers "Chess" series.
April 26, 2021
This book was extremely difficult to read because of the subject matter - the author did a great job though, being sensitive and only giving enough information to know what is being done to the children is horrific, but not too much that images is stuck in your mind. After this book I want to keep my boys close and behind safe locked doors! I think this is definitely an important book for awareness.
I LOVED Tessa and Patrick’s building relationship! And loving Christie as well.
The twists and turns were great and the cliffhanger at the end makes me very glad that I already have the next book available.
Francis was also a very well written supporting character! His internal struggle was really well written.
If you enjoy thrilling suspense with lots of twists and turns, you should give this author a try.
I LOVED Tessa and Patrick’s building relationship! And loving Christie as well.
The twists and turns were great and the cliffhanger at the end makes me very glad that I already have the next book available.
Francis was also a very well written supporting character! His internal struggle was really well written.
If you enjoy thrilling suspense with lots of twists and turns, you should give this author a try.
Read
January 6, 2021I could not handle the subject matter: child porn and molestation
February 3, 2016
Book Review: A brilliantly written thriller that haunts your mind forever! A message every parent should read.
Every Crooked Path
The Bowers Files
By Steven James
Author Steven James is more than a master of the craft of writing. He is a true virtuoso of storytelling. He mesmerizes and twists the reader’s heart strings that you have to keep turning the page to find relief. In Every Crooked Path he brings to light a subject so dark and gruesome, yet he handles it with the utmost care and delicacy.
The reader has no control once they read the opening pages and are pulled into the story world of FBI agent Patrick Bowers. Investigating a murder, Bowers ends up trying to stop a suicide that leads him down a very dark rabbit hole.
The chase begins as the string of criminals widen into the dark recesses of the World Wide Web. Shadowed Corners where only the adept at computers and those trying to hide their nefarious actions congregate to scheme.
This particular plan involves abducting children, sexually exploiting them then murdering them when they are no longer of use to their captors.
An organization called The International Child Safety Consortium ICSC tries to stop child pornography, child molestation and human trafficking across international borders by scouring the web via algorithms in order to categorize their findings. Everything is turned over to the FBI and other authorities to locate and save the children and bring to justice the perpetrators that harmed them.
Agent Bowers finds himself chasing an organization with secret identity members that are so well connected, he fears who he can trust even in his own agency. He and his partner, Jodie Fleming work with Detective Tobin Cavanaugh of the NYPD Special Victims Unit. He formerly worked for the Vice Enforcement Sexual Exploitation of Children Unit making him an invaluable expert. Even his own personal search for justice brings the 8 year old case when his daughter was abducted and murdered comes full circle into the current case.
They find they are up against adversaries that will kill their own to retain their secrecy. It all wraps into a figurative ticking time bomb, as they rush to save the missing children and prevent a catastrophic computer virus that would forever alter the effectiveness of the ICSC’s work.
Bowers has to make detrimental decisions that may harm someone close to him, in order to save many. When he tries to infiltrate the organization by going undercover, he finds he has to go against his moral values to get close enough to solve the case.
Author Steven James knows precisely how to manipulate the pacing that the reader isn’t aware of the extra adrenaline pumping as they follow along the harrowing investigation. The reader can’t help but become emotionally involved in the outcome as James deftly leaves the reader clues to figure out as Bowers does. Brilliantly crafted!
Every Crooked Path is so much more than a typical police procedural suspense thriller. Yes, it has all if those descriptions but it goes beyond their limitations with a social message that is the nightmare of every caring parent and caregiver.
Author Steven James prefaces his novel with a message of how difficult it was to research and write about the atrocities against children. However, it is through his writing that he can reach out to make readers aware and what can be done to stop the violence against our young. This story is a notice waving in front of the reader’s face to let them know there are predators lurking online waiting for the opportunity to pounce.
During his research, James came across an organization called the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children http://www.missingkids.com
It is dedicated in rescuing children and bringing to justice those who harm them.
NCMEC is a non profit organization dependent on private donations. Read Every Crooked Path and consider giving a donation to help our young keep their innocence.
Be sure to check out the series The Bower Files with Opening Moves which takes place before Every Crooked Path which leads to The Pawn and other Steven James fiction and non fiction by visiting http://www.stevenjames.net
FTC Disclaimer: I was given an ARC of this title by Penguin Random House and Steven James for review purposes only, no other compensation was awarded.
Every Crooked Path
The Bowers Files
By Steven James
Author Steven James is more than a master of the craft of writing. He is a true virtuoso of storytelling. He mesmerizes and twists the reader’s heart strings that you have to keep turning the page to find relief. In Every Crooked Path he brings to light a subject so dark and gruesome, yet he handles it with the utmost care and delicacy.
The reader has no control once they read the opening pages and are pulled into the story world of FBI agent Patrick Bowers. Investigating a murder, Bowers ends up trying to stop a suicide that leads him down a very dark rabbit hole.
The chase begins as the string of criminals widen into the dark recesses of the World Wide Web. Shadowed Corners where only the adept at computers and those trying to hide their nefarious actions congregate to scheme.
This particular plan involves abducting children, sexually exploiting them then murdering them when they are no longer of use to their captors.
An organization called The International Child Safety Consortium ICSC tries to stop child pornography, child molestation and human trafficking across international borders by scouring the web via algorithms in order to categorize their findings. Everything is turned over to the FBI and other authorities to locate and save the children and bring to justice the perpetrators that harmed them.
Agent Bowers finds himself chasing an organization with secret identity members that are so well connected, he fears who he can trust even in his own agency. He and his partner, Jodie Fleming work with Detective Tobin Cavanaugh of the NYPD Special Victims Unit. He formerly worked for the Vice Enforcement Sexual Exploitation of Children Unit making him an invaluable expert. Even his own personal search for justice brings the 8 year old case when his daughter was abducted and murdered comes full circle into the current case.
They find they are up against adversaries that will kill their own to retain their secrecy. It all wraps into a figurative ticking time bomb, as they rush to save the missing children and prevent a catastrophic computer virus that would forever alter the effectiveness of the ICSC’s work.
Bowers has to make detrimental decisions that may harm someone close to him, in order to save many. When he tries to infiltrate the organization by going undercover, he finds he has to go against his moral values to get close enough to solve the case.
Author Steven James knows precisely how to manipulate the pacing that the reader isn’t aware of the extra adrenaline pumping as they follow along the harrowing investigation. The reader can’t help but become emotionally involved in the outcome as James deftly leaves the reader clues to figure out as Bowers does. Brilliantly crafted!
Every Crooked Path is so much more than a typical police procedural suspense thriller. Yes, it has all if those descriptions but it goes beyond their limitations with a social message that is the nightmare of every caring parent and caregiver.
Author Steven James prefaces his novel with a message of how difficult it was to research and write about the atrocities against children. However, it is through his writing that he can reach out to make readers aware and what can be done to stop the violence against our young. This story is a notice waving in front of the reader’s face to let them know there are predators lurking online waiting for the opportunity to pounce.
During his research, James came across an organization called the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children http://www.missingkids.com
It is dedicated in rescuing children and bringing to justice those who harm them.
NCMEC is a non profit organization dependent on private donations. Read Every Crooked Path and consider giving a donation to help our young keep their innocence.
Be sure to check out the series The Bower Files with Opening Moves which takes place before Every Crooked Path which leads to The Pawn and other Steven James fiction and non fiction by visiting http://www.stevenjames.net
FTC Disclaimer: I was given an ARC of this title by Penguin Random House and Steven James for review purposes only, no other compensation was awarded.
June 10, 2017
Obviously, this was a fast read for me. It had a good flow to it; the character development was decent; it held my interest throughout the whole book. It was a crazy book; it involves the "darker" side of the Internet and apparently the steps somebody needs to take to access it. Some of the characters introduced in this story had good development over the course of the story. The story also had some twists in it that threw me off; I figured out some of it [when the "clues"/hints were pretty much "in your face" in terms of 'the reveal' hahahah] before the end, but there were a couple of parts that did throw me for a loop.
I do not know if I would say the character development for Bowers, Christine, or Tessa was "good" [considering they "first" appear in The Pawn, and this is a "prequel" to The Pawn]; "stuff" happens in this story that should have influenced their interactions in later novels but doesn't. So, to me, that would be a "weakness" in an otherwise solid story.
This novel has several discussions involving "pros" and "cons" of different situations [as it were; I should have jotted them down for future reference] - I always enjoy the discussions between Tessa and Patrick. Their conversations are always smart, witty, and Tessa always makes excellent points in her discussions. I also enjoyed their "logic problems" for each other; those were fun to read and to try to figure out.
It is a dark book, that is for sure. It looks at "the Dark Web" and how this underbelly of the Internet is used to protect pedophiles, molesters, rapists, pornographers, and murderers, among other scum on the planet. It describes how predators prey upon children and the lengths to which they go to earn a child's trust. While dark, it is not as "spiritually sickening" as some of his other books; I am not quite sure why. Perhaps it has to do with how he does not have "graphic descriptions" of the crime [either being enacted or the aftermath, where they are discussing the acts that took place] like he does in his other books [which is fine with me]. Despite its darkness, it does have elements of light in it, as well.
It also talks about good and evil. It talks about how some of the characters hope there is justice after death and an "eternity" so that those who perpetrate evil against the weak, the helpless, and the innocent, can suffer for their crimes against humanity. It has some good philosophical discussion in the book, that is for sure. It also has some good philosophical discussions about various means by which crimes are investigated as well as why the "age of consent" should not be dropped to age twelve [as some groups apparently advocate].
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was gripping and held my attention all the way through. It had fairly decent character development all the way through. It had some crazy twists and turns over the course of the novel, some which threw me for a loop as I did not see them coming. It also serves as a "warning"/"wake-up call" about the dangers of cyberspace and how vigilant parents need to be in order to protect their children for as long as possible, as much as possible.
I do not know if I would say the character development for Bowers, Christine, or Tessa was "good" [considering they "first" appear in The Pawn, and this is a "prequel" to The Pawn]; "stuff" happens in this story that should have influenced their interactions in later novels but doesn't. So, to me, that would be a "weakness" in an otherwise solid story.
This novel has several discussions involving "pros" and "cons" of different situations [as it were; I should have jotted them down for future reference] - I always enjoy the discussions between Tessa and Patrick. Their conversations are always smart, witty, and Tessa always makes excellent points in her discussions. I also enjoyed their "logic problems" for each other; those were fun to read and to try to figure out.
It is a dark book, that is for sure. It looks at "the Dark Web" and how this underbelly of the Internet is used to protect pedophiles, molesters, rapists, pornographers, and murderers, among other scum on the planet. It describes how predators prey upon children and the lengths to which they go to earn a child's trust. While dark, it is not as "spiritually sickening" as some of his other books; I am not quite sure why. Perhaps it has to do with how he does not have "graphic descriptions" of the crime [either being enacted or the aftermath, where they are discussing the acts that took place] like he does in his other books [which is fine with me]. Despite its darkness, it does have elements of light in it, as well.
It also talks about good and evil. It talks about how some of the characters hope there is justice after death and an "eternity" so that those who perpetrate evil against the weak, the helpless, and the innocent, can suffer for their crimes against humanity. It has some good philosophical discussion in the book, that is for sure. It also has some good philosophical discussions about various means by which crimes are investigated as well as why the "age of consent" should not be dropped to age twelve [as some groups apparently advocate].
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was gripping and held my attention all the way through. It had fairly decent character development all the way through. It had some crazy twists and turns over the course of the novel, some which threw me for a loop as I did not see them coming. It also serves as a "warning"/"wake-up call" about the dangers of cyberspace and how vigilant parents need to be in order to protect their children for as long as possible, as much as possible.
May 4, 2019
This is book 1 in the New York Years of Patrick Bowers career. He and Christie aren't married, just dating, and he's just forming his relationship with Tessa Christie's 15 year old daughter.
Patrick is working for the FBI on a case of missing children in a child pornography ring. The case takes many twists and turns and Patrick learns that he can't trust everyone. The child porn industry is very lucrative and the people exploiting and kidnapping children will stop at nothing to remain anonymous.
I have to say, this was a hard one for me to get through. I still love this author's writing and love Patrick Bowers character, but the subject matter in this book was disturbing to say the least. I hate when crimes involve children. The author did a good job of showing how disturbing and proliferate this industry is. Not over-the-top graphic, but close enough to cause discomfort for the reader while bringing awareness to this disgusting crime against children. I'm glad I finished it, but like I said, this was a hard one to get through. If you are a suspense/thriller fan then Steven James is the writer for you and Patrick Bowers is the prefect fictional FBI good-guy!
Patrick is working for the FBI on a case of missing children in a child pornography ring. The case takes many twists and turns and Patrick learns that he can't trust everyone. The child porn industry is very lucrative and the people exploiting and kidnapping children will stop at nothing to remain anonymous.
I have to say, this was a hard one for me to get through. I still love this author's writing and love Patrick Bowers character, but the subject matter in this book was disturbing to say the least. I hate when crimes involve children. The author did a good job of showing how disturbing and proliferate this industry is. Not over-the-top graphic, but close enough to cause discomfort for the reader while bringing awareness to this disgusting crime against children. I'm glad I finished it, but like I said, this was a hard one to get through. If you are a suspense/thriller fan then Steven James is the writer for you and Patrick Bowers is the prefect fictional FBI good-guy!
January 20, 2016
I hate to be the naysayer, but here it goes...
I read, love, and own the original Bowers files. I love creepy suspense and Steven James fulfills it 100%.
However, I struggled with this book. The suspense was there and I didn't guess the plot twists but I didn't believe the timing. This book is supposed to be before Pawn but it's written like it's set in 2015. Everyone had a cell phone, recorded cops, twitter, tweeting, etc like it's 2015 with all the media interest in police. But Pawn was written years ago before twitter and the crazy attachment to cell phones. Also, it weird to see Bowers in a relationship with someone who is dead in the series.
Maybe it would've worked better with a different main character and Steven James starting a new series. But this continuation of the Bowers files did not work for me.
I read, love, and own the original Bowers files. I love creepy suspense and Steven James fulfills it 100%.
However, I struggled with this book. The suspense was there and I didn't guess the plot twists but I didn't believe the timing. This book is supposed to be before Pawn but it's written like it's set in 2015. Everyone had a cell phone, recorded cops, twitter, tweeting, etc like it's 2015 with all the media interest in police. But Pawn was written years ago before twitter and the crazy attachment to cell phones. Also, it weird to see Bowers in a relationship with someone who is dead in the series.
Maybe it would've worked better with a different main character and Steven James starting a new series. But this continuation of the Bowers files did not work for me.
December 23, 2019
Steven James never ceases to amaze me with his writing and story-telling abilities. The Bowers Files continues to be one of my most loved & most highly recommended series. However, this book is a darker, more difficult one to read. While nothing is super graphic, as the beginning disclaimer claims "You get the picture..." & it's a difficult picture to deal with if you have a heart.
All in all though, the story is still GREAT! I am humbled to say that I was not able to figure out the who's involved in this particular crime, which made me love it all the more. I also love watching the development of Patrick & Christie & Tessa's relationships. The tongue twisters & logic problems are also a nice, comedic break to all the difficult information. I am excited about the "cliffhanger" & I'm excited to see what adventure we go on next!
All in all though, the story is still GREAT! I am humbled to say that I was not able to figure out the who's involved in this particular crime, which made me love it all the more. I also love watching the development of Patrick & Christie & Tessa's relationships. The tongue twisters & logic problems are also a nice, comedic break to all the difficult information. I am excited about the "cliffhanger" & I'm excited to see what adventure we go on next!
November 12, 2021
This was so creepy (pedophilic) and depressing that I DNF.
I think we can do without all the detailed info on child porn and how child molesters operate .
Find a better subject to write on.
i quit thsi to read "Grateful American: A Journey from Self to Service." the autobiography of Gary Sinise (who played Forrest Gump's wheel chair bound platoon leader in the 1994 movie)
I think we can do without all the detailed info on child porn and how child molesters operate .
Find a better subject to write on.
i quit thsi to read "Grateful American: A Journey from Self to Service." the autobiography of Gary Sinise (who played Forrest Gump's wheel chair bound platoon leader in the 1994 movie)
November 23, 2015
Special Agent Patrick Bowers takes down an International Child Abduction Ring!!
December 5, 2021
Confession. Every Crooked Path is the first Bowers book that I’ve not read in one sitting. With his other books, lengthy though they may be, I knew enough to carve out an entire day to immerse myself in the world of Patrick Bowers. I had intended to do that with Every Crooked Path. I just couldn’t. It had nothing to do with James’s writing, which was as on point as ever. In fact, that just exacerbated it.
Steven James has gone to some pretty dark places in his “Chess Piece” series, but nothing like this disturbingly realistic storyline of cybercrimes, child pornography, and sex trafficking. James traverses the razor thin line between saccharine sweet and sickeningly exploitative in a seriously impressive way. He doesn’t use the shock value of the subject material to create the story’s tension and is never graphic in his descriptions. Every Crooked Path is a story to shake you, to wake you into action against an ever growing problem.
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month and I had the privilege the very week I spent reading Every Crooked Path to write a church curriculum for another story of human trafficking called Caged No More. Perhaps it was because of that, because of all the data I’d researched and all the non-fiction stories I’d read, that Every Crooked Path seemed more than just a story to me.
Bowers is tasked with untangling a web of international conspiracy, a mysterious suicide, a series of abductions, and, perhaps the key to it all, an eight-year-old cold case. Behind it all, they hope to find the man responsible, known only as the Piper.
Ever since the close of the “official” Bowers Files series with The King, Steven James has continued to flesh out Bowers’ storyline with other incredible stories. Opening Moves took us back to Bowers first case, alluded to through the series, and Checkmate closed that recurring storyline once and for all.
As the second prequel Every Crooked Path is free to be its own thing, beholden to the future in some areas, but with very little past to guide its way. As such, you see Bowers at a different part of his personal life than ever before and young Bowers may handle things somewhat differently than the Bowers of earlier books set at a later time period would.
If I could venture one tiny criticism, and it’s more of an observation, because it’s a possible anachronism for the sake of a great story, but given that Every Crooked Path is a prequel, I’m wondering if the technology used the book actually meets up with the general time setting this is supposed to be set in. But that niggling thought soon goes away as you get immersed into the storyline.
It seems like Steven James’s storytelling gets better with every book and, I feel like I say that in every review, but it’s true. I’ve tried to pick a favorite of his books, but I just can’t. They all feel like they tell one giant story amid each of these just-as-important smaller stories. It’s not one book, I like; it’s the character. I hope Steven is willing to write Patrick’s adventures for a long time to come because I’ll always be up for reading them.
Steven James has gone to some pretty dark places in his “Chess Piece” series, but nothing like this disturbingly realistic storyline of cybercrimes, child pornography, and sex trafficking. James traverses the razor thin line between saccharine sweet and sickeningly exploitative in a seriously impressive way. He doesn’t use the shock value of the subject material to create the story’s tension and is never graphic in his descriptions. Every Crooked Path is a story to shake you, to wake you into action against an ever growing problem.
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month and I had the privilege the very week I spent reading Every Crooked Path to write a church curriculum for another story of human trafficking called Caged No More. Perhaps it was because of that, because of all the data I’d researched and all the non-fiction stories I’d read, that Every Crooked Path seemed more than just a story to me.
Bowers is tasked with untangling a web of international conspiracy, a mysterious suicide, a series of abductions, and, perhaps the key to it all, an eight-year-old cold case. Behind it all, they hope to find the man responsible, known only as the Piper.
Ever since the close of the “official” Bowers Files series with The King, Steven James has continued to flesh out Bowers’ storyline with other incredible stories. Opening Moves took us back to Bowers first case, alluded to through the series, and Checkmate closed that recurring storyline once and for all.
As the second prequel Every Crooked Path is free to be its own thing, beholden to the future in some areas, but with very little past to guide its way. As such, you see Bowers at a different part of his personal life than ever before and young Bowers may handle things somewhat differently than the Bowers of earlier books set at a later time period would.
If I could venture one tiny criticism, and it’s more of an observation, because it’s a possible anachronism for the sake of a great story, but given that Every Crooked Path is a prequel, I’m wondering if the technology used the book actually meets up with the general time setting this is supposed to be set in. But that niggling thought soon goes away as you get immersed into the storyline.
It seems like Steven James’s storytelling gets better with every book and, I feel like I say that in every review, but it’s true. I’ve tried to pick a favorite of his books, but I just can’t. They all feel like they tell one giant story amid each of these just-as-important smaller stories. It’s not one book, I like; it’s the character. I hope Steven is willing to write Patrick’s adventures for a long time to come because I’ll always be up for reading them.
June 6, 2023
What can an author do when he or she has declared the latest novel in a successful series as the finale? Well, since you've made clear that you do not intend to go forward...you go backward. Instead of a sequel...you write a prequel. This is what Steven James has done with his hero Patrick Bowers. We're back to the beginning, when Bowers was a police detective, he was merely dating Christina, and did not yet consider himself responsible for Christina's daughter, Tessa.
As a reader, I have long suspected that mystery writers have run out of fresh ideas for whodunnits and for capers, so they have turned to the unspeakable: child pornography. Anyone who has not encountered this Bowers adventure need not recoil; there is nothing salacious or exploitative in the content. But there is definitely the commission of the crime, both the "manufacture" and the distribution of what is euphemistically known as "kiddie porn." The suspects are capable of misusing the segment of the internet known as the dark web for viewing and distributing their nefarious product. Bowers and his partner must rely on a comparatively small band of law enforcement officers to combat a vast and wealthy network of perpetrators. To any conscientious reader, the material is sickening, even without divulging any details. But there's no denying that the crime exists, and there's a hungry market ever in demand of greater quantities.
Like every Patrick Bowers mystery, Every Crooked Path is gripping. Readers have plenty of characters to cheer for, and some nail-biting situations involving the kidnapped would-be subjects of the pornographic productions. Bowers' accomplishments by the end of the book are dimmed somewhat by the knowledge that while certain perpetrators are foiled, the market for their "services" has not diminished whatsoever.
As a reader, I have long suspected that mystery writers have run out of fresh ideas for whodunnits and for capers, so they have turned to the unspeakable: child pornography. Anyone who has not encountered this Bowers adventure need not recoil; there is nothing salacious or exploitative in the content. But there is definitely the commission of the crime, both the "manufacture" and the distribution of what is euphemistically known as "kiddie porn." The suspects are capable of misusing the segment of the internet known as the dark web for viewing and distributing their nefarious product. Bowers and his partner must rely on a comparatively small band of law enforcement officers to combat a vast and wealthy network of perpetrators. To any conscientious reader, the material is sickening, even without divulging any details. But there's no denying that the crime exists, and there's a hungry market ever in demand of greater quantities.
Like every Patrick Bowers mystery, Every Crooked Path is gripping. Readers have plenty of characters to cheer for, and some nail-biting situations involving the kidnapped would-be subjects of the pornographic productions. Bowers' accomplishments by the end of the book are dimmed somewhat by the knowledge that while certain perpetrators are foiled, the market for their "services" has not diminished whatsoever.
April 15, 2019
This is a twisty crime drama that makes you think and even with a dark subject can skim on those details while still giving you the horror of the crime. The characters are well written and even if you hate some of them you are still interested in what is happening with/to them. The pace is steady and keeps you reading while the action is realistic. It doesn't feel as long as it is because you can get absorbed in reading following the various characters as the constantly cross paths and work together. The multiple POVs are easy to keep track of and follow and flow together giving you new information and depth to the story. There are a few side stories but they tie back into the main case and don't detract or distract from the case or flow of the overall story. Lots of twists and turns keep you guessing until the end.
Patrick Bower is an FBI agent who floats around the different local law enforcement agencies in New York helping out where ever he can. On a call back to the scene of a murder he is shocked when the man they confront kills himself after warning them something big and bad is about to happen. Patrick and his sometimes partner begin to dig. Along the way they are helped by a computer tech with troubling romantic issues, a cop with a tragic past and person link to the case, and a host of smart female techs and officers. Patrick is also juggling his feelings for a girlfriend who is asking a life-changing decision of him.
Patrick Bower is an FBI agent who floats around the different local law enforcement agencies in New York helping out where ever he can. On a call back to the scene of a murder he is shocked when the man they confront kills himself after warning them something big and bad is about to happen. Patrick and his sometimes partner begin to dig. Along the way they are helped by a computer tech with troubling romantic issues, a cop with a tragic past and person link to the case, and a host of smart female techs and officers. Patrick is also juggling his feelings for a girlfriend who is asking a life-changing decision of him.
January 28, 2021
I'm afraid this one was rather a mixed bag for me. James, as always, excels in plotting, pacing, and the authenticity of an FBI agent. He knows how to write suspense, and writers can learn so much just by studying his pacing and style. I typically love his novels, but a plot centered on tracking down those guilty of crimes against children, particularly through child porn, was already pushing the line. I thought James did a decent job in being cautious due to the subject matter, but the content was still disturbing in places and just not fun reading.
For the first time I can recall, James introduced the d-word. He began his career writing Christian suspense, so it's disappointing to see his work becoming more secular in flavor and content. In one place, two characters engage in French kissing. Later, they wake in bed together after sex. Nothing explicit is described, but still, this isn't what I expect from a James novel (and it was frankly so unnecessary).
The novel's strength is that he had me glued, particularly in the last quarter of the book. But I'm afraid I became lost in too many characters for the twist and reveal to be much of a surprise. At one point, Bowers makes a crucial mistake that should have closed the door on any future with his girlfriend and her daughter, but they were so forgiving in ways that didn't ring true for me. I wish I could be more glowing in my review of this one. Perhaps I should stick to his Chess series.
For the first time I can recall, James introduced the d-word. He began his career writing Christian suspense, so it's disappointing to see his work becoming more secular in flavor and content. In one place, two characters engage in French kissing. Later, they wake in bed together after sex. Nothing explicit is described, but still, this isn't what I expect from a James novel (and it was frankly so unnecessary).
The novel's strength is that he had me glued, particularly in the last quarter of the book. But I'm afraid I became lost in too many characters for the twist and reveal to be much of a surprise. At one point, Bowers makes a crucial mistake that should have closed the door on any future with his girlfriend and her daughter, but they were so forgiving in ways that didn't ring true for me. I wish I could be more glowing in my review of this one. Perhaps I should stick to his Chess series.
March 12, 2025
Every Crooked Path by Steven James follows FBI Special Agent Patrick Bowers as he delves into the dark and disturbing world of online predators. As always, James delivers a gripping plot. The investigation is intense and layered, keeping you on edge until the end.
However, I gave this one three stars because it didn’t quite meet the standard of his earlier works. A few curse words were included, which was surprising since they haven’t appeared in his other books. There’s also a minor character who is a lesbian, and at one point it seemed like James may have introduced that element to comment on issues surrounding the LGBTQ community and pedophilia. Perhaps it’s laying the foundation for redemption in later books? But it didn’t seem to be pointing that way.
There was a lot going on, and at some points it was hard to follow. The subject matter was very difficult, but it does shed light on a real and troubling issue that lurks beneath the surface. Additionally, as other readers have mentioned, there seem to be some inconsistencies with the timeline and available technology.
While the story itself is compelling and well-paced, these elements took away from my overall enjoyment. That said, James’s writing remains strong, and fans of the Patrick Bowers series will likely appreciate the continuation of his character’s journey.
However, I gave this one three stars because it didn’t quite meet the standard of his earlier works. A few curse words were included, which was surprising since they haven’t appeared in his other books. There’s also a minor character who is a lesbian, and at one point it seemed like James may have introduced that element to comment on issues surrounding the LGBTQ community and pedophilia. Perhaps it’s laying the foundation for redemption in later books? But it didn’t seem to be pointing that way.
There was a lot going on, and at some points it was hard to follow. The subject matter was very difficult, but it does shed light on a real and troubling issue that lurks beneath the surface. Additionally, as other readers have mentioned, there seem to be some inconsistencies with the timeline and available technology.
While the story itself is compelling and well-paced, these elements took away from my overall enjoyment. That said, James’s writing remains strong, and fans of the Patrick Bowers series will likely appreciate the continuation of his character’s journey.
February 14, 2017
FBI Special Agent Patrick Bowers was introduced to the world via the "Chess" series of books, which are terrific. This is a prequel to that series. Bowers is present when a man commits suicide, and this event is linked to a series of child abductions and murders. Bowers also finds himself debating whether or not to settle down with Christie and her teenage daughter, Tessa, in NYC or to move to Omaha, where Christie's been offered a job.
This book shows the early years of Patrick Bowers, and how he started with the FBI and his relationship with Christie and Tessa. While Tessa's character can be grating at times, she becomes a key character in later books and the dynamic between her and Patrick is fun to read.
The plot deals with child abductions and murders, and while James doesn't wallow in the subject, it does get very intense. It's very hard to read about the depravity of child pornography. One of the main characters, an FBI analyst, seems to be sliding towards this world himself.
By all means, find Steven James and the Patrick Bowers series. Excellent storytelling and action, and some good character development are in every volume.
This book shows the early years of Patrick Bowers, and how he started with the FBI and his relationship with Christie and Tessa. While Tessa's character can be grating at times, she becomes a key character in later books and the dynamic between her and Patrick is fun to read.
The plot deals with child abductions and murders, and while James doesn't wallow in the subject, it does get very intense. It's very hard to read about the depravity of child pornography. One of the main characters, an FBI analyst, seems to be sliding towards this world himself.
By all means, find Steven James and the Patrick Bowers series. Excellent storytelling and action, and some good character development are in every volume.
February 19, 2018
On a scale of cotton candy to Brussels sprouts, Every Crooked Path by Steven James is homemade garlic bread. This hearty side dish fights for center stage and often wins it with the trifecta of flavor: crusty bread, garlic butter, and crisped cheese. Never underestimate the complexity of simple.
Agent Patrick Bowers witnesses a suicide, and as the clues begin to line up, he suspects that the suicide may have to do with a series of child abductions. The dark web holds all the clues. But, Patrick Bowers will stop at nothing to find and save the missing children. Can Patrick solve the puzzle before it's too late?
Steven James threads together another thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. As each character within Patrick Bowers' community comes under scrutiny, I didn't know where to look. Having read Every Deadly Kiss this year, I enjoyed seeing characters at an earlier stage of life. The characters and story were believable and intriguing.
If you enjoy thrillers, this is for you. But, it's a dark book about child porn and abductions so that was difficult to read about.
Agent Patrick Bowers witnesses a suicide, and as the clues begin to line up, he suspects that the suicide may have to do with a series of child abductions. The dark web holds all the clues. But, Patrick Bowers will stop at nothing to find and save the missing children. Can Patrick solve the puzzle before it's too late?
Steven James threads together another thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. As each character within Patrick Bowers' community comes under scrutiny, I didn't know where to look. Having read Every Deadly Kiss this year, I enjoyed seeing characters at an earlier stage of life. The characters and story were believable and intriguing.
If you enjoy thrillers, this is for you. But, it's a dark book about child porn and abductions so that was difficult to read about.
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