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Alex Cross #24
Cross the Line
Alex Cross chases a cold-blooded killer...with a conscience.
Shots ring out in the early morning hours in the suburbs of Washington, D.C. When the smoke clears, a prominent police official lies dead, leaving the city's police force scrambling for answers. Under pressure from the mayor, Alex Cross steps into the leadership vacuum to crack the case. But before Cross can make any headway, a brutal crime wave sweeps across the region. The deadly scenes share only one common thread--the victims are all criminals. And the only thing more dangerous than a murderer without a conscience, is a killer who thinks he has justice on his side. As Cross pursues an adversary who has appointed himself judge, jury, and executioner, he must take the law back into his own hands before the city he's sworn to protect descends into utter chaos.
Audio CD
First published November 16, 2016
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About the author
James Patterson
954 books356k followersOfficial US Site
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,550 reviews
November 10, 2016
Patterson returns with another Alex Cross thriller, leaving series fans curious what is to come, especially after the high-impact ending of the previous story, a BookShot. As if nothing had happened at all, the story opens with Cross investigating an apparent case of road rage, a man shot and killed in his car. However, just as Cross is getting a handle on the situation, a call comes in, reporting an officer has been shot. Rushing to the scene, Alex realises that this is not only his former boss, the Chief of Detectives, but the mentor of his wife, Bree. The killer is out there, but no one is at the helm to guide detectives, until Bree is chosen for this illustrious job, now boss to the famed Dr. Alex Cross. While Bree is to wear multiple hats, she makes a decision on the killing to appease the brass, ignoring the instincts of her own husband. This puts a significant strain on the relationship and tears the Homicide Division in two, just at the time when unity is essential. A drug lab is attacked and many of those inside are left for dead, an apparent act by a group of vigilantes, which has Cross on high-alert. With no firm list of suspects and fluid motives, Cross must pound pavement and ask the right questions before more acts of retribution take place, while still letting the killing of the former Chief of Ds percolate in his mind. When more apparent acts of road age occur, Cross sees a pattern; expensive vehicles and people admitting they may have been skirting traffic laws. Could these killings be fuelled by someone who wants to enforce the laws of the road when no one else will? Pulled in many directions, Cross soon learns that the vigilante movement is stronger than he first thought and that there is a plan to deliver justice on a large scale, with Metro DC in the crosshairs. With all that is going on, one would think that Cross could not focus on his family, but a few issues on the home front force him to take a closer look and reinvent the foundation of the Cross family. An interesting premise for Alex Cross, though delivery seemed slightly strained for me.
I have long been a fan of the Alex Cross series, the only one that James Patterson has kept for himself. While I lamented some of his joint writing ventures, I could always rely on this series to deliver a punch. Perhaps that time has ended, for I felt this novel did not offer the excitement I had hoped. While Cross and the strong supporting cast continue to develop with their backstories, the cases are not pulling me in. Patterson litters the plot with a few cases and has the reader juggling them to keep things straight. Perhaps the best part of the story involves the personal strains in the Cross home, though I will not speak to these, leaving the reader to discover them peppered within the pages of this story. While there was nothing wrong, per se, with Patterson's work, I could not find myself attaching or feeling any sort of compelling reason to read "just a little more", as Patterson has always been able to do. Perhaps my mindset, but also likely that Patterson churns out so much that the quality has taken second place to quantity. I must address one thing that I pointed out in the opening, something that I know many series fans have been hoping to better understand. In the BookShot released earlier this year (Cross Kill, Alex Cross #23.5), there was an ending that offered a wonderful cliffhanger. I know many people commented on various sites about how Patterson might have to get the popular character out of the predicament in order to fuel a full-length novel. Without revealing too much, it was only when I opened the first few chapters of said BookShot after completing this novel that I realised that this novel (#24) is actually supposed to PRECEDE the BookShot. Call it poor labelling by the publisher or blame Patterson for not regulating things, the reader is still left to suffer. So now, series fans must wait to see if Patterson addresses things in a timely fashion or if we are to be considered dunces and expected to forget all that happened. Much like a bad season of Dallas in the 1980s. Interesting... but unfortunately baffling all the same.
Interesting work, Mr. Patterson, though I cannot praise you. Perhaps others will and I will give this another read down the road. While your BookShots are entertaining and your countless other series seem to churn out pieces, could it be time to halt the train containing your riches and focus on well-crafted books?
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
I have long been a fan of the Alex Cross series, the only one that James Patterson has kept for himself. While I lamented some of his joint writing ventures, I could always rely on this series to deliver a punch. Perhaps that time has ended, for I felt this novel did not offer the excitement I had hoped. While Cross and the strong supporting cast continue to develop with their backstories, the cases are not pulling me in. Patterson litters the plot with a few cases and has the reader juggling them to keep things straight. Perhaps the best part of the story involves the personal strains in the Cross home, though I will not speak to these, leaving the reader to discover them peppered within the pages of this story. While there was nothing wrong, per se, with Patterson's work, I could not find myself attaching or feeling any sort of compelling reason to read "just a little more", as Patterson has always been able to do. Perhaps my mindset, but also likely that Patterson churns out so much that the quality has taken second place to quantity. I must address one thing that I pointed out in the opening, something that I know many series fans have been hoping to better understand. In the BookShot released earlier this year (Cross Kill, Alex Cross #23.5), there was an ending that offered a wonderful cliffhanger. I know many people commented on various sites about how Patterson might have to get the popular character out of the predicament in order to fuel a full-length novel. Without revealing too much, it was only when I opened the first few chapters of said BookShot after completing this novel that I realised that this novel (#24) is actually supposed to PRECEDE the BookShot. Call it poor labelling by the publisher or blame Patterson for not regulating things, the reader is still left to suffer. So now, series fans must wait to see if Patterson addresses things in a timely fashion or if we are to be considered dunces and expected to forget all that happened. Much like a bad season of Dallas in the 1980s. Interesting... but unfortunately baffling all the same.
Interesting work, Mr. Patterson, though I cannot praise you. Perhaps others will and I will give this another read down the road. While your BookShots are entertaining and your countless other series seem to churn out pieces, could it be time to halt the train containing your riches and focus on well-crafted books?
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
December 14, 2016
Either I've read too many JP books that I'm losing focus on them or he's spewing out lemons. Maybe he should focus back on quality not quantity of books.
June 19, 2017
The motorbike hit top speed as he chased the offender – he knew the Maserati was no match for his bike and his skills, even in the dark hours of early morning. Across town two people were shopping in an upmarket organic supermarket after having been to an early yoga class – the gun fire was unexpected and brutal as they made their way to the car – they didn’t make it…
Detective Alex Cross was on the scene of an early morning crash with his partner, John Sampson when he received the call to head for the supermarket shooting. It was one of their own and the shock and devastation which rippled through the force had them determined to leave no stone unturned to find the killer.
But suddenly, the brutal massacres of known criminals – drug dealers, corrupt politicians – were sweeping across the city. Alex and Sampson, with Detective Bree Stone and the rest of the team were struggling for answers. Was it a vigilante killer? Was it revenge? What was going on?
Cross the Line is another brilliant Alex Cross thriller by James Patterson. I thoroughly enjoy this series, especially the interaction with Alex’s family and the demonstration of how important they are to him. The pace is electric and although there are a lot of characters it’s very easy to keep up with them all. Highly recommended.
Detective Alex Cross was on the scene of an early morning crash with his partner, John Sampson when he received the call to head for the supermarket shooting. It was one of their own and the shock and devastation which rippled through the force had them determined to leave no stone unturned to find the killer.
But suddenly, the brutal massacres of known criminals – drug dealers, corrupt politicians – were sweeping across the city. Alex and Sampson, with Detective Bree Stone and the rest of the team were struggling for answers. Was it a vigilante killer? Was it revenge? What was going on?
Cross the Line is another brilliant Alex Cross thriller by James Patterson. I thoroughly enjoy this series, especially the interaction with Alex’s family and the demonstration of how important they are to him. The pace is electric and although there are a lot of characters it’s very easy to keep up with them all. Highly recommended.
June 10, 2018
In this installment we have people trying to release a dangerous agent on DC. I have to be honest that when I read the description I thought it would be much more interesting than it was. I was actually a bit bored during a lot of this installment. It just didn’t capture my attention. I think some will find it to be way more intriguing than I did though because the premise is great. I just found the execution of the premise a bit lacking.
My quick and simple overall: time for the People vs Alex Cross.
My quick and simple overall: time for the People vs Alex Cross.
December 24, 2023
Started reading this thinking I had read others about a detective with photographic memory. All through the story I was wondering why his great memory skills were not being utilised. Of course it transpires that I had mixed up Alex Cross with Amos Decker from the David Baldacci books🤦♂️
Good romping along story. A number of related murders solved by both Alex and his wife - who gets the promotion he turned down. A quick read before Xmas when TV, Grandchildren and drink - not necessarily in that order get in the way of reading.
Happy Xmas and New year to you all.👍
Good romping along story. A number of related murders solved by both Alex and his wife - who gets the promotion he turned down. A quick read before Xmas when TV, Grandchildren and drink - not necessarily in that order get in the way of reading.
Happy Xmas and New year to you all.👍
January 7, 2017
Book #24 in the Alex Cross series. Following probably his best one in a decade (Cross Justice), this one returns to the mundane, same old tired scripts: a daring, vigilante road rage killer on a powerful motorcycle, the D.C. chief of detective's and his girlfriend's drive-by murders, and a military-style terrorist group killing drug and human smugglers, but leaving the spoils behind. There is some interesting stuff about the Cross family, but I think Bree's insecurities about being the new chief were silly. We need more John Sampson in the next book.
February 4, 2017
This entire story is not believable. I reckon that's why it's fiction. 4 of 10 stars
November 27, 2016
Woo hoo - another winner in the series featuring police psychologist Dr. Alex Cross! It's the 24th, for the record, and it carries on the series tradition in fine style with almost nonstop action and a plot that touches on issues in today's news.
At the outset, readers learn that a psycho on a fast motorcycle is getting his (or her) kicks out of gunning down drivers on secluded highways near Washington, D.C. Then comes the unthinkable: The department's chief of detectives - Alex's friend and mentor of his wife, Bree - is shot and killed on the streets of town. Both Alex and Bree are called in to investigate, and almost in a flash comes another puzzling case; this time, it's the mass murder of workers in a clandestine meth lab located in an abandoned factory building. Nothing's been taken, and zero clues are left at the scene; clearly, this is the work of professionals.
But professional what? Could they be from the ranks of organized crime who are trying to get rid of the competition? Are they mercenaries hired to do the job for some other unknown purpose? Could the killings here be in any way related to the motorcycle drive-by and murder of one of the department's own? As the investigation gets going, it's clear that someone needs to take charge, replacing the murdered chief of detectives. Alex gets tapped but isn't interested - and the job goes to his capable wife, Bree. Now, she's technically Alex's boss, and it's going to be tough to keep public and private lives separate, especially when they don't see eye to eye on what direction to take next.
Meantime, all the other usual suspects - meaning lovable family members like the indefatigable, live-in Nana Mama (Alex's grandmother) and three uber-talented, almost-grown kids - are woven into chapters here and there with the effect of lightening the mood. There's a surprise ending that comes against all odds, but it should make for an interesting next go-round. Bring it on!
At the outset, readers learn that a psycho on a fast motorcycle is getting his (or her) kicks out of gunning down drivers on secluded highways near Washington, D.C. Then comes the unthinkable: The department's chief of detectives - Alex's friend and mentor of his wife, Bree - is shot and killed on the streets of town. Both Alex and Bree are called in to investigate, and almost in a flash comes another puzzling case; this time, it's the mass murder of workers in a clandestine meth lab located in an abandoned factory building. Nothing's been taken, and zero clues are left at the scene; clearly, this is the work of professionals.
But professional what? Could they be from the ranks of organized crime who are trying to get rid of the competition? Are they mercenaries hired to do the job for some other unknown purpose? Could the killings here be in any way related to the motorcycle drive-by and murder of one of the department's own? As the investigation gets going, it's clear that someone needs to take charge, replacing the murdered chief of detectives. Alex gets tapped but isn't interested - and the job goes to his capable wife, Bree. Now, she's technically Alex's boss, and it's going to be tough to keep public and private lives separate, especially when they don't see eye to eye on what direction to take next.
Meantime, all the other usual suspects - meaning lovable family members like the indefatigable, live-in Nana Mama (Alex's grandmother) and three uber-talented, almost-grown kids - are woven into chapters here and there with the effect of lightening the mood. There's a surprise ending that comes against all odds, but it should make for an interesting next go-round. Bring it on!
February 7, 2017
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
I always look forward to a new Alex Cross book, this is the twenty fourth book in the series, yes the twenty fourth! Amazing, and I’ve read every single one but this is the first time I listened to one and I have to say, it was an awesome one to listen to. My husband and I went to Vegas last week and listened to this on the way there and back and it was perfect to occupy us and keep us entertained. I love that my husband, who is a total non reader, will always listen to a Patterson book with me, that speaks volumes!
In typical Patterson fashion there are multiple cases, one where he loses a fellow officer which is always a huge blow, then another where a team of vigilantes are taking justice into their own hands by targeting individuals who they perceive to be doing wrong. Alex gets offered a new position as chief of detectives, but declines, then his wife Bree takes the job, putting some strain on their marriage.
One of my favorite things about this series is the way Patterson always breaks the tension occasionally by checking in on Alex and his family. This was no exception and I loved seeing what Damon, Jannie, little Ali and Nana Mama were up to, she is just the best character, I think everyone would love a grandma like her. By now, I feel like I’ve really been able to truly know these people and the characterization of Alex is deep and strong.
This series always entertains, there were plenty of red herrings along the way to throw you off and the narration was excellent. Two narrators, one for the bulk and then one for the “bad guy” was fantastic and both did an amazing job portraying their parts. I don’t think fans of this series will be disappointed, and even if you’ve not read any of these books it works well as a standalone.
I always look forward to a new Alex Cross book, this is the twenty fourth book in the series, yes the twenty fourth! Amazing, and I’ve read every single one but this is the first time I listened to one and I have to say, it was an awesome one to listen to. My husband and I went to Vegas last week and listened to this on the way there and back and it was perfect to occupy us and keep us entertained. I love that my husband, who is a total non reader, will always listen to a Patterson book with me, that speaks volumes!
In typical Patterson fashion there are multiple cases, one where he loses a fellow officer which is always a huge blow, then another where a team of vigilantes are taking justice into their own hands by targeting individuals who they perceive to be doing wrong. Alex gets offered a new position as chief of detectives, but declines, then his wife Bree takes the job, putting some strain on their marriage.
One of my favorite things about this series is the way Patterson always breaks the tension occasionally by checking in on Alex and his family. This was no exception and I loved seeing what Damon, Jannie, little Ali and Nana Mama were up to, she is just the best character, I think everyone would love a grandma like her. By now, I feel like I’ve really been able to truly know these people and the characterization of Alex is deep and strong.
This series always entertains, there were plenty of red herrings along the way to throw you off and the narration was excellent. Two narrators, one for the bulk and then one for the “bad guy” was fantastic and both did an amazing job portraying their parts. I don’t think fans of this series will be disappointed, and even if you’ve not read any of these books it works well as a standalone.
September 16, 2024
I LOVED this one! The suspense and thrills were almost constant.
Excellent vigilante villains and a wonderful way to tie together both main crime paths.
I love that Bree is now Alex's boss!
A great time, with excellent pacing.
5 Stars.
Excellent vigilante villains and a wonderful way to tie together both main crime paths.
I love that Bree is now Alex's boss!
A great time, with excellent pacing.
5 Stars.
February 26, 2017
One of the few books I have read through and can't even remember what the book is about each time I pick it up. Not super gravitating not horrible. Just ok
December 3, 2017
This was a difficult one, not in terms of reading it, that was quite easy and also quite enjoyable, no the difficulty is in how many stars to give it.
Well I shall come to that in a minute. The book itself, given to me along with about 60 others by a good friend, is fast flowing and enjoyable. I have not read any Alex Cross before so maybe I missed something by coming in at number 24, but I didn't seem to.
As I said I quite enjoyed it as a US modern detective book, but it wasn't Agatha Christie, nor was it Jack Kerouac (not that it pretends to be either) so I have given it 3.5 stars rounded down to 3, it could not be a 4. Still I DID enjoy it.
Well I shall come to that in a minute. The book itself, given to me along with about 60 others by a good friend, is fast flowing and enjoyable. I have not read any Alex Cross before so maybe I missed something by coming in at number 24, but I didn't seem to.
As I said I quite enjoyed it as a US modern detective book, but it wasn't Agatha Christie, nor was it Jack Kerouac (not that it pretends to be either) so I have given it 3.5 stars rounded down to 3, it could not be a 4. Still I DID enjoy it.
April 1, 2017
A GREAT addition to my favorite series(Alex Cross) from of my favorite authors(James Patterson! I read this book in one day,because it impossible for me to put it down!
December 20, 2023
The Alex Cross series is nothing if not intense, and Cross The Line is right up there with its predecessors! There's a serial killer/s on a rampage murdering the bad guys - a vigilante stalking the country, wiping out drug cartels, doling out justice their own way. Is there anything more dangerous? Alex and his team are once again in a race against time. Another intriguing, dark, high octane Alex Cross story. My journey through the series continues.
December 26, 2018
First Read: Patterson returns with another Alex Cross thriller, leaving series fans curious what is to come, especially after the high-impact ending of the previous story. As if nothing had happened at all, the story opens with Cross investigating an apparent case of road rage, a man shot and killed in his car. However, just as Cross is getting a handle on the situation, a call comes in, reporting an officer has been shot. Rushing to the scene, Alex realises that this is not only his former boss, the Chief of Detectives, but the mentor of his wife, Bree. The killer is out there, but no one is at the helm to guide detectives, until Bree is chosen for this illustrious job, now boss to the famed Dr. Alex Cross. While Bree is to wear multiple hats, she makes a decision on the killing to appease the brass, ignoring the instincts of her own husband. This puts a significant strain on the relationship and tears the Homicide Division in two, just at the time when unity is essential. A drug lab is attacked and many of those inside are left for dead, an apparent act by a group of vigilantes, which has Cross on high-alert. With no firm list of suspects and fluid motives, Cross must pound pavement and ask the right questions before more acts of retribution take place, while still letting the killing of the former Chief of Ds percolate in his mind. When more apparent acts of road rage occur, Cross sees a pattern; expensive vehicles and people admitting they may have been skirting traffic laws. Could these killings be fueled by someone who wants to enforce the laws of the road when no one else will? Pulled in many directions, Cross soon learns that the vigilante movement is stronger than he first thought and that there is a plan to deliver justice on a large scale, with Metro DC in the crosshairs. With all that is going on, one would think that Cross could not focus on his family, but a few issues on the home front force him to take a closer look and reinvent the foundation of the Cross family. An interesting premise for Alex Cross, though delivery seemed slightly strained for me.
Second Read: I have long been a fan of the Alex Cross series, the only one that James Patterson has kept for himself. While I lamented on some of his joint writing ventures, I could always rely on this series to deliver a punch. Perhaps the best part of the story involves the personal strains in the Cross home, though I will not speak to these, leaving the reader to discover them peppered within the pages of this story. While there was nothing wrong, per se, with Patterson's work, I could not find myself attaching or feeling any sort of compelling reason to read "just a little more", as Patterson has always been able to do. Perhaps my mindset, but also likely that Patterson churns out so much that the quality has taken second place to quantity. I must address one thing that I pointed out in the opening, something that I know many series fans have been hoping to better understand. In the BookShot released earlier this year (Cross Kill, Alex Cross #23.5), there was an ending that offered a wonderful cliffhanger. I know many people commented on various sites about how Patterson might have to get the popular character out of the predicament in order to fuel a full-length novel. I got a tickle when Jennie did so well on her race, sorry she broke her foot, and wasn't it a hoot when Nanna Mama won the lottery. That made my day!!! Highly Recommend!!!
Second Read: I have long been a fan of the Alex Cross series, the only one that James Patterson has kept for himself. While I lamented on some of his joint writing ventures, I could always rely on this series to deliver a punch. Perhaps the best part of the story involves the personal strains in the Cross home, though I will not speak to these, leaving the reader to discover them peppered within the pages of this story. While there was nothing wrong, per se, with Patterson's work, I could not find myself attaching or feeling any sort of compelling reason to read "just a little more", as Patterson has always been able to do. Perhaps my mindset, but also likely that Patterson churns out so much that the quality has taken second place to quantity. I must address one thing that I pointed out in the opening, something that I know many series fans have been hoping to better understand. In the BookShot released earlier this year (Cross Kill, Alex Cross #23.5), there was an ending that offered a wonderful cliffhanger. I know many people commented on various sites about how Patterson might have to get the popular character out of the predicament in order to fuel a full-length novel. I got a tickle when Jennie did so well on her race, sorry she broke her foot, and wasn't it a hoot when Nanna Mama won the lottery. That made my day!!! Highly Recommend!!!
December 10, 2019
Another of my walk-the-dog audio books. A very well written and plotted story that I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters are fun and believable. Aside from Alex Cross (the protagonist), my favorite was nana-moma. I really am beginning to enjoy Patterson as an author and check out a few of his other books on CD from the library. I can understand why he is such as successful author.
January 30, 2018
Cross The Line is the twenty-fourth book in the popular Alex Cross series by prolific American author, James Patterson. Detectives Alex Cross, Bree Stone and John Sampson are being kept busy: there’s a fatal car crash that turns out to be neither an accident, nor a singular event; a fatal drive-by shooting takes out their Chief of Detectives and his latest squeeze; and a multiple homicide at an illicit drug lab that smacks of vigilantism. The same type of weapon, a Remington 1911 .45 pistol, is common to at least two of these attacks.
In typical Patterson fashion, there’s action aplenty in this page-turner: quite a lot of gunplay, some knives wielded, car chases and a hostage situation where the SWAT team gets gun-happy. Drugs, lots of dirty money, nerve gas and people smugglers also feature. Clues for the astute reader and a red herring or two lead to some dramatic climaxes.
The blurb says “Alex Cross chases a cold-blooded killer with a conscience” but “ruthless vigilante with an agenda” is a better precis. “Alex Cross steps into the leadership vacuum’ from the back cover is also inaccurate. Ignoring those, this is one of the better Alex Cross novels, a vast improvement on #21 and #22: fast-paced and exciting.
In typical Patterson fashion, there’s action aplenty in this page-turner: quite a lot of gunplay, some knives wielded, car chases and a hostage situation where the SWAT team gets gun-happy. Drugs, lots of dirty money, nerve gas and people smugglers also feature. Clues for the astute reader and a red herring or two lead to some dramatic climaxes.
The blurb says “Alex Cross chases a cold-blooded killer with a conscience” but “ruthless vigilante with an agenda” is a better precis. “Alex Cross steps into the leadership vacuum’ from the back cover is also inaccurate. Ignoring those, this is one of the better Alex Cross novels, a vast improvement on #21 and #22: fast-paced and exciting.
March 7, 2017
James Patterson is one of those authors everyone knows. I wait impatiently for my other favorite authors to churn out a book every year or sometimes two years lol Patterson with other co-authors, has several a year and at times I find it hard to keep up. But he has proven to me, time and time again his books are worth the read!! Cross the Line got my attention right off the bat! He's a master at weaving several exciting storylines, which eventually culminates into an Aha! moment. With this book I had several of those moments. Whatever formula Patterson has come up with, works great for me as a reader. The Alex Cross series is one of my favorites and I am yet to feel disappointed when I finish a book!!
April 24, 2017
honestly , what the hell was this?! it's an ok book, but it really needs a little bit more "show" , little less "tell" .... it read like: "this happened, then this happened, then this happened... etc... the end"
January 12, 2017
A favorite series, Alex Cross is fast paced fun. Audio book for this is awesome.
June 29, 2019
I’m pretty sure this is my first Alex Cross thriller to read. It’s definitely my first audio book from this series. I needed a new audio book to listen to and this one was available at the library without any holds on it so I grabbed it. What I found was that this series is quite thrilling.
Audio Book Review:
I’ve listened to many audio books. Some have mood music at the beginning like Ruth Ware’s The Death of Mrs. Westaway. Some have music in-between chapters, such as Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow. This one, however, had music and sound effects scattered through-out the entire story.
First, I should say I have listened to one other book that had some music and sound effects. But it soon became apparent as I was listening that I didn’t like the story or maybe it was the audio production/quality itself. Nevertheless, I stopped listening to it somewhere around chapter 2. So, I don’t really know in this unnamed book if it had sound effects through-out the entire reading.
When I first started listening to Cross the Line, I’ll admit I was a little wary and skeptical of the music/sound effects. In the opening scene, we are exposed to background music plus motorcycle and gunshot sound effects. And as I listened, I thought “I’m not really sure I want to listen to this through-out the entire book. That’s a lot for my ears to take in.” Mainly because when the sound effects and music entered the picture it began to drown out the narration some and distracted my listening. Thankfully, I soon learned that these music moments and sound effects are only for tense times or action scenes – to help build the suspense and drama. So that as soon as the opening action scene was over, the narration and voice acting was all that remained and no sounds other than the voice actor were competing for my ear’s attention. Later on, I came to really appreciate all this ambience. More than once when the mood music started playing, my ears perked up knowing that something dramatic was about to happen.
In listening to this book I found that I am now an Alex Cross fan. With multiple investigative cases all going on at the same time, there was no down time or lull in the action or story. But, what surprised me most was how much I enjoyed spending time with Alex Cross and his family. I liked Nana Mama, his children, his wife and their relationship. They were all so supportive of each other. I became so engaged with his family that as the end of the book started winding down and they still hadn’t give me an update on his daughter’s situation that I found I was getting pretty upset with not knowing where everything stood with her. Thankfully, an update was provided.
Overall, this was a fun audio book to listen to. Was all the action and crime realistic? Maybe. Maybe not. I didn’t care. The story was engaging as well as the characters, so in the end that’s all that was important to me.
Audio Book Review:
I’ve listened to many audio books. Some have mood music at the beginning like Ruth Ware’s The Death of Mrs. Westaway. Some have music in-between chapters, such as Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow. This one, however, had music and sound effects scattered through-out the entire story.
First, I should say I have listened to one other book that had some music and sound effects. But it soon became apparent as I was listening that I didn’t like the story or maybe it was the audio production/quality itself. Nevertheless, I stopped listening to it somewhere around chapter 2. So, I don’t really know in this unnamed book if it had sound effects through-out the entire reading.
When I first started listening to Cross the Line, I’ll admit I was a little wary and skeptical of the music/sound effects. In the opening scene, we are exposed to background music plus motorcycle and gunshot sound effects. And as I listened, I thought “I’m not really sure I want to listen to this through-out the entire book. That’s a lot for my ears to take in.” Mainly because when the sound effects and music entered the picture it began to drown out the narration some and distracted my listening. Thankfully, I soon learned that these music moments and sound effects are only for tense times or action scenes – to help build the suspense and drama. So that as soon as the opening action scene was over, the narration and voice acting was all that remained and no sounds other than the voice actor were competing for my ear’s attention. Later on, I came to really appreciate all this ambience. More than once when the mood music started playing, my ears perked up knowing that something dramatic was about to happen.
In listening to this book I found that I am now an Alex Cross fan. With multiple investigative cases all going on at the same time, there was no down time or lull in the action or story. But, what surprised me most was how much I enjoyed spending time with Alex Cross and his family. I liked Nana Mama, his children, his wife and their relationship. They were all so supportive of each other. I became so engaged with his family that as the end of the book started winding down and they still hadn’t give me an update on his daughter’s situation that I found I was getting pretty upset with not knowing where everything stood with her. Thankfully, an update was provided.
Overall, this was a fun audio book to listen to. Was all the action and crime realistic? Maybe. Maybe not. I didn’t care. The story was engaging as well as the characters, so in the end that’s all that was important to me.
February 6, 2017
First off I do have to confess, I am a James Patterson fan and love his books. Some I can get into, and others tend to fail by not capturing my attention. One of the series I have always seemed to enjoy is the Alex Cross books. However, after the amazing one Cross Justice, I wasn't sure how this would compare. One of the things that I don't really like about mystery and crime books is that sometimes the plot can become quite busy which leaves the reader feeling like they are wading through muddy waters trying to connect all the dots and for me. Cross the Line was a very busy book as we had three different crime angles going from the first people breaking road rules being shot by a motorcycle driver, a cop and his girlfriend are killed in a shop. Then we have several drug house massacres, a hostage situation with a paranoid meth-head who is also a gangster and then to add it up we have someone trying to set up an ex-military. Everything just felt all over the place for me to enjoy. The things I did love about this book though was that we were reunited with Alex Cross's old FBI partner Ned Mahoney.Nana finally won her lotto after all these years and the fact that we got to spend some time with the Cross Kid's as I love seeing their stories as much or even more so than Alex Cross's murder investigations. If you love James Patterson's series of Alex Cross than this is the read for you. If you are only starting out on Alex Cross, then I would suggest going back to where it all began instead of picking up Book #24.
February 11, 2017
I liked this book, which is twenty fourth in the series. In usual Patterson form, Alex is faced with multiple murders. One is of a close friend, and cop that leaves a job opening, that Alex refuses. His wife took the job instead. This causes problems between Alex, and his wife. There is also other murders, by some who feel the that certain people, have escaped the law, and should be punished. I liked it , and I love his family, but felt that his wife showed in a bad light, and should have had more respect for Alex, since he usually always gets his man. I did miss his best friend though. I feel John, and Alex make a great team.
November 12, 2016
Year after year Patterson book after Patterson book I still get excited when an Alex cross is released.. This was pretty darned good..
November 15, 2016
Alex Cross novels never fail to entertain, and Cross the Line is no different. I've read several other books and series that Patterson has written, but I don't enjoy any of them as much as Cross novels.
The plot details probably aren't important. If you like these novels, then you'll like this one. But here's a bit about it anyway:
A few things going on. A road rage vigilante killer, who preys on those that drive expensive, fancy cars. And another killer has killed a police officer. Then there's the terrorist group killing large numbers of people involved in drug manufacturing and trafficking.
So, Alex (and his wife, Bree) are working on all of these cases. Are they connected? I'm not going to say, but you can probably guess.
The investigating is always action packed, and the path to the answers is interesting and exciting. I love how fast moving and easy Cross the Line is to read. Patterson is just really good at weaving a plot together and keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Are these books a bit formulaic? Of course. But it's not like I read them every day. I love the relationship that Alex has with his family. After so many books, you feel like you know these good people. And, yes, they are too good to be true. But I can overlook these deficiencies. If you can too, you will love Cross the Line.
The plot details probably aren't important. If you like these novels, then you'll like this one. But here's a bit about it anyway:
A few things going on. A road rage vigilante killer, who preys on those that drive expensive, fancy cars. And another killer has killed a police officer. Then there's the terrorist group killing large numbers of people involved in drug manufacturing and trafficking.
So, Alex (and his wife, Bree) are working on all of these cases. Are they connected? I'm not going to say, but you can probably guess.
The investigating is always action packed, and the path to the answers is interesting and exciting. I love how fast moving and easy Cross the Line is to read. Patterson is just really good at weaving a plot together and keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Are these books a bit formulaic? Of course. But it's not like I read them every day. I love the relationship that Alex has with his family. After so many books, you feel like you know these good people. And, yes, they are too good to be true. But I can overlook these deficiencies. If you can too, you will love Cross the Line.
August 22, 2017
Same old, Same old
I am sitting in front of the television as the news is reporting the shooting at the Ft. Lauderdale Airport and wondering why I and others read books about killers, etc. You would think we would have enough from watching the news or reading the papers.
Finished Cross the Line by James Patterson last night and thought the names were changed but not much else. This was,after all, Patterson's 24th book featuring the detective Alex Cross and since I began this series years ago with the first book, Along Came a Spider, I may have had enough. I must admit that the plot, multiple murders and whose causing them is nothing new as Alex and various teams of law enforcement try to capture those who are doing this. If I am to be hones, though, I much more enjoy the story of Cross' family more than ten gun play action.
I would suggest this book if you like murders and plots to take over the century otherwise find a different book, series and author. I was generous and gave this book a 3 rating but it really deserved a 2.
I am sitting in front of the television as the news is reporting the shooting at the Ft. Lauderdale Airport and wondering why I and others read books about killers, etc. You would think we would have enough from watching the news or reading the papers.
Finished Cross the Line by James Patterson last night and thought the names were changed but not much else. This was,after all, Patterson's 24th book featuring the detective Alex Cross and since I began this series years ago with the first book, Along Came a Spider, I may have had enough. I must admit that the plot, multiple murders and whose causing them is nothing new as Alex and various teams of law enforcement try to capture those who are doing this. If I am to be hones, though, I much more enjoy the story of Cross' family more than ten gun play action.
I would suggest this book if you like murders and plots to take over the century otherwise find a different book, series and author. I was generous and gave this book a 3 rating but it really deserved a 2.
February 6, 2017
I've already been a big fan of James Patterson's books and writing style, and for me this book also did not disappoint! This book was full of so many surprises with the various separate storylines coming together nice and neatly to tie together. Alex Cross is definitely one of my favorite characters of all time, and now I'm a big fan of the Sampson and Bree Stone characters too. In my reviews, I don't give away any spoilers but I'll just say that I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves mysteries and just good storytelling no matter the general genre! Enjoy reading the book, you'll love it!
August 30, 2016
I read this series periodically and this was certainly a good one. Alex is settled in Washington DC and is asked to help the police when the chief is murdered. The search includes the team with the FBI, the Navy and US Marshals office. There is a gang of serial killers knocking off the bad guys and they aren't about to let Alex stop them. Tons of action and updates from previous stories.
November 23, 2018
The usual good continuation of the Alex Cross story...I am, being a library guy, reading the series in disarray...in this one Alex & Bree are hunting vigilantes targeting highway scofflaws & the deepest and darkest evils in the DC metro area...Good Stuff!!!
November 23, 2021
As you’ve hear me say countless times, “I love this series.” Yet, this one - not so much. I was excited to find out Nana Mama finally won the Powerball. Other than that, we’ll - it’s 3.25 stars.❤️
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