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Alex Cross #24.4
Cross Kill
"Alex Cross, I'm coming for you--even from the grave if I have to. "
"
Along Came a Spider "killer Gary Soneji has been dead for over ten years. Alex Cross watched him die. But today, Cross saw him gun down his partner. Is Soneji alive? A ghost? Or something even more sinister?
Nothing will prepare you for the wicked truth. BookShots
LIGHTNING-FAST STORIES BY JAMES PATTERSON
Novels you can devour in a few hours Impossible to stop reading All original content from James Patterson
"
Along Came a Spider "killer Gary Soneji has been dead for over ten years. Alex Cross watched him die. But today, Cross saw him gun down his partner. Is Soneji alive? A ghost? Or something even more sinister?
Nothing will prepare you for the wicked truth. BookShots
LIGHTNING-FAST STORIES BY JAMES PATTERSON
Novels you can devour in a few hours Impossible to stop reading All original content from James Patterson
113 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2016
1914 people are currently reading
10469 people want to read
About the author
James Patterson
955 books355k followersOfficial US Site
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,054 reviews
November 25, 2017
For such a short little book, it really packed a punch. I didn't even know this book existed until after I had already ordered The People vs. Alex Cross. Good thing my library had a copy I could pick up because I needed to read Cross Kill before I could start that book. Cross Kill was a fast and fun read and it was a great way to get reacquainted with Alex Cross and Co.
I'll probably start The People vs. Alex Cross next weekend.
I'll probably start The People vs. Alex Cross next weekend.
November 8, 2025
One of James Patterson's novellas from his Alex Cross series and exactly what I needed on a Saturday afternoon when it is too hot to do anything much but read.
Alex is in real trouble this time when someone from the past comes gunning for him and shoots Samson instead. The action starts on the very first page and continues to the end. All just pure entertainment value, no thinking necessary on the part of the reader.
The ending was a jaw dropping cliff hanger. Now I just have to read the next book!
Alex is in real trouble this time when someone from the past comes gunning for him and shoots Samson instead. The action starts on the very first page and continues to the end. All just pure entertainment value, no thinking necessary on the part of the reader.
The ending was a jaw dropping cliff hanger. Now I just have to read the next book!
April 1, 2017
It doesn't really matter what Alex Cross & John Sampson are doing, I want to read all about it.
January 15, 2019
I'm surprised Patterson released this as a novella. It ends on a cliffhanger and feels like the first 100 pages of a full novel (especially given the subject matter) instead of a stand alone novella. The writing is fine but I'm giving this only 2 stars for putting out an unfinished book as a novella. Certainly this is the beginning of the next Cross novel.
The continuity seems off to since the novella Detective Cross released after this one makes no mention of this book even though it clearly impacts Alex Cross's future. Clearly putting out 10 books a year has affected Patterson's ability to maintain a coherent timeline.
The continuity seems off to since the novella Detective Cross released after this one makes no mention of this book even though it clearly impacts Alex Cross's future. Clearly putting out 10 books a year has affected Patterson's ability to maintain a coherent timeline.
August 5, 2023
This is a great little book. It is fast paced, but easy to follow. The lead charictor is tracking a dead man who shot at him and enjured his partner.
February 13, 2017
Oh James, you sly dog!
That ending though. JP did what he's famous for doing - keeping the reader wondering what's going to happen next, even after the book is done.
Great little read. Fast-paced (obviously). And genuinely had me guessing if Gary Soneji was still alive or not...
That ending though. JP did what he's famous for doing - keeping the reader wondering what's going to happen next, even after the book is done.
Great little read. Fast-paced (obviously). And genuinely had me guessing if Gary Soneji was still alive or not...
June 27, 2016
Detective Alex Cross was working in the soup kitchen alongside his partner Detective John Sampson when they heard gunshots from behind them in the kitchen. Their immediate response saw two injured kitchen workers, one seriously – but the shock Cross felt when the culprit opened fire once again, downing Sampson and hitting Cross in the chest, was immense. Because the person shooting at them was Gary Soneji who had been dead for ten years!
Heartbroken at Sampson’s injuries, nonetheless Cross was determined to find Soneji – or whoever it was. The search was on and the hunt was wide. His police team were sceptical but respected Cross’ knowledge – but the words of a killer, echoing from a long ago past - I’m coming for you – even from the grave if I have to… had Cross on edge. What was happening? The situation was escalating and Cross felt he was wading in sludge…
Cross Kill by James Patterson is #23.5 in the Detective Alex Cross series, and one of the author’s new BookShots novellas. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and can’t wait for the next in the series; Cross the Line, out later this year. Mystery, intrigue and heartbreak fill this novella – I couldn’t put it down. A great addition to the series which I recommend highly.
Heartbroken at Sampson’s injuries, nonetheless Cross was determined to find Soneji – or whoever it was. The search was on and the hunt was wide. His police team were sceptical but respected Cross’ knowledge – but the words of a killer, echoing from a long ago past - I’m coming for you – even from the grave if I have to… had Cross on edge. What was happening? The situation was escalating and Cross felt he was wading in sludge…
Cross Kill by James Patterson is #23.5 in the Detective Alex Cross series, and one of the author’s new BookShots novellas. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and can’t wait for the next in the series; Cross the Line, out later this year. Mystery, intrigue and heartbreak fill this novella – I couldn’t put it down. A great addition to the series which I recommend highly.
March 29, 2024
I was expecting to dislike this since I didn't like the first Patterson I tried (2nd Chance), but this was actually pretty intense. Maybe when it comes to James Patterson, the shorter the better.
July 7, 2016
A great short story and a cliffhanger ending. Love this series and the audio version is awesome.
June 10, 2018
Hold up. This was good until the end then it was a cliffhanger... a cliffhanger in a BookShots. I thought these were quick novels that could be read in a couple hours not novels that leave you with a cliffhanging. And I’m pretty sure I read this out of order which just makes me annoyed with myself on top of being left with a cliffhanger lol.
My quick and simple overall: great little read with a big plot but what the heck is wrong with that ending. Guess I’ll find out in the next few books.
My quick and simple overall: great little read with a big plot but what the heck is wrong with that ending. Guess I’ll find out in the next few books.
August 15, 2016
Cross Kill is a novella in the popular Alex Cross series by prolific American author, James Patterson. It is released under the BookShots: stories at the speed of life banner, and at a mere 113 pages, it is intended to be a one-sitting read. Alex and his best friend and colleague, John Sampson are working the free Cafeteria at St Anthony of Padua Catholic School when shots ring out. There are two victims in the kitchen, and soon, a third: Sampson has a bullet in his skull. Alex sees the shooter. It’s a man whom he watched die ten years earlier: Garry Soneji. He could never forget this man: he’s sure it is Soneji he has seen.
Amid scepticism from colleagues, Alex tries to track down the killer. Several tantalising appearances, messages and even a film clip drive Alex on. Visits to Soneji’s family, an exhumation and some cyber-detection all form part of the investigation. Some of Alex’s decisions are less than prudent, coloured, perhaps, by his concern for his best friend, or perhaps by a drug that is inserted rather clumsily into the plot. There’s a slight continuity problem with the mention of Alex’s father that contradicts the conclusion of the previous novel, Cross Justice. And yet another cliff hanger ending that might annoy even die-hard Alex Cross fans. A fast-paced, full of action, quick read.
Amid scepticism from colleagues, Alex tries to track down the killer. Several tantalising appearances, messages and even a film clip drive Alex on. Visits to Soneji’s family, an exhumation and some cyber-detection all form part of the investigation. Some of Alex’s decisions are less than prudent, coloured, perhaps, by his concern for his best friend, or perhaps by a drug that is inserted rather clumsily into the plot. There’s a slight continuity problem with the mention of Alex’s father that contradicts the conclusion of the previous novel, Cross Justice. And yet another cliff hanger ending that might annoy even die-hard Alex Cross fans. A fast-paced, full of action, quick read.
March 10, 2017
James Patterson does it again! It was non-stop action from the beginning to the end and a cliffhanger ending. A must read for all JP fans. Checkout all of his BookShot books and enjoy the ride (read).....guaranteed!!!
October 29, 2025
FIRST READ (01/2018) Alex Cross has been working with John Sampson and they have been friends since they were kids and grew up in the same neighborhood. They now work together in the Washington DC Police Department. That morning, they were eating Breakfast and suddenly there were shots fired, and Sampson was hit severely in the head and a minimal chance for living. The emergency team do amazing things to John, and he holds. "Alex Cross, I'm coming for you--even from the grave if I have to. "Along Came a Spider" killer Gary Soneji has been dead for over 10 years. Alex watched him die. Today Cross saw him gun down his partner. Is Soneji alive? Is it a ghost? The bookshots are novels that can be devoured in quick time and pretty well impossible to stop listening to. The story is very gripping, and the plot is very well written. Highly Recommend. Can be a little rough. Rate 4 stars.
SECOND READ (10/2025) I suddenly remember why I have such disdain for Gary Soneji. Even from the grave it appears that he is back in town. With all the goings on mentioned above, was a good refresher, as I am in anticipation of a couple new reads of this series.
SECOND READ (10/2025) I suddenly remember why I have such disdain for Gary Soneji. Even from the grave it appears that he is back in town. With all the goings on mentioned above, was a good refresher, as I am in anticipation of a couple new reads of this series.
April 14, 2018
You can never go wrong with a James Patterson book, with Alex Cross being the most famous series he has written to date. This book shot is a quick, powerful and entertaining read with a cliffhanger ending that leaves you wanting more. Only taking a couple of hours to read it is a great fill in between bigger books and I highly recommend.
Thank you to friend and fellow reader Rachel Hall for my copy of the book.
Thank you to friend and fellow reader Rachel Hall for my copy of the book.
June 23, 2016
Patterson takes the reins in this BookShot that tells a great story from the author's longest-running series. While working at a local church to bring hot breakfasts to those in need, Alex Cross is confronted by a man firing a gun. When Cross and his partner, John Sampson, try to corner the man, Sampson is shot in the head and left for dead as Cross tries to pursue. Failing to do so, Cross cannot help but realise that his old nemesis, Gary Soneji, is the man doing the firing. Problem is, Soneji has been dead for over a decade and Cross saw him die. With Sampson clinging to life in the ICU, Cross must determine if it was Soneji he saw and where the criminal mastermind might be hiding. Working some leads puts Cross in the crosshairs and has him shot at on a few other occasions, with Soneji taunting from the shadows. When he eventually trips upon a sadistic Soneji fan club, Cross wonders if the group is idolising a dead man or harbouring a fugitive. Torn between sitting with Sampson as things take a turn for the worse and finding Soneji, Cross must make the ultimate sacrifice to save himself and those he loves. With an explosive ending that will leave the reader slack jawed, Patterson delivers something reminiscent of his writing of old.
I have devoured the six BookShots on which I have been able to put my hands, finding each one a unique journey into stories that stir the mind and keep the heart pumping. This is the first BookShot of Patterson's core series and he does not disappoint. Using the central Cross characters effectively, he is also able to instil a wonderful sense of dread with the reemergence of Soneji and how that is processed. The story flows effectively and Alex Cross is at his best, struggling between his job and those he loves in a way only he has mastered. If other BookShots fit as nicely into the Patterson series, readers are in for a wonderful treat over the next year or two.
Kudos, Mr. Patterson for rediscovering your niche and writing effective and superior pieces. I can only hope that this will continue, both in BookShots and full-length novels.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
I have devoured the six BookShots on which I have been able to put my hands, finding each one a unique journey into stories that stir the mind and keep the heart pumping. This is the first BookShot of Patterson's core series and he does not disappoint. Using the central Cross characters effectively, he is also able to instil a wonderful sense of dread with the reemergence of Soneji and how that is processed. The story flows effectively and Alex Cross is at his best, struggling between his job and those he loves in a way only he has mastered. If other BookShots fit as nicely into the Patterson series, readers are in for a wonderful treat over the next year or two.
Kudos, Mr. Patterson for rediscovering your niche and writing effective and superior pieces. I can only hope that this will continue, both in BookShots and full-length novels.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
May 19, 2016
The new Bookshots format is quick and convenient for readers on the go. I read this in less than two hours and felt like I was on a roller coaster all the way to the end. Witty and smart--to be expected--but how could Patterson pull out such an array of emotions in just 113 pages? Psychological thriller holds hands with Gospel vignette, or something like that; the point is, I liked it and wanted more. The cliffhanger ending left me wishing I could read Bree's eyes.
January 8, 2024
Short. Fast paced, as always. Intense to the extreme. One has to wonder what more can happen to Alex Cross & those he loves.
September 24, 2016
Thanks to Matt for the book and recommendation!!
This novella and his last novel remind readers how James Patterson established himself as such a popular writer. In this short book, Alex and John Sampson are attacked by a man with two handguns while serving hot breakfasts, paid for by Nana Mama's lottery winnings. Sampson is air evacuated, and Alex goes on the hunt for the shooter, who is an archenemy from his past, but whom Alex killed. The novella follows Alex's investigation as John fights for his life. Alex and the FBI's top cyberexpert find a website dedicated to the monster, and Alex is drawn into the action. Beware the cliffhanger.
This novella and his last novel remind readers how James Patterson established himself as such a popular writer. In this short book, Alex and John Sampson are attacked by a man with two handguns while serving hot breakfasts, paid for by Nana Mama's lottery winnings. Sampson is air evacuated, and Alex goes on the hunt for the shooter, who is an archenemy from his past, but whom Alex killed. The novella follows Alex's investigation as John fights for his life. Alex and the FBI's top cyberexpert find a website dedicated to the monster, and Alex is drawn into the action. Beware the cliffhanger.
May 24, 2016
5/5 stars!
I received an ARC from Little, Brown and Company of Cross Kill by James Patterson in the new "Bookshots" format. Like the book says on the back, I did read this at the "speed of life" and within about 2 hours. I really enjoyed the format, size and plot of this story. Another job well-done by the amazing James Patterson. This new Alex Cross story from Patterson does not disappoint in any aspect. Every single chapter left me hanging on the edge of my seat and wanting to know what was going to happen next. Cross's character is extremely well developed and well-rounded and the other characters within this story add a great dynamic that's very enjoyable to read. What I love so much about Patterson's writing is that there is no "fluff" and "nonsense" that makes the story confusing. Having said that, the story doesn't leave out anything either. The only way I can explain it is excellent writing that gives the reader all the facts, plot and realities of the story without giving too much or too little. No other author writes quite like Patterson. I feel like anybody can pick up one of James Patterson's books and get sucked into the story, he's just THAT good.
I want to say a HUGE, "thank you so much" to Little, Brown and Company for this opportunity to read an advanced copy of Cross Kill by James Patterson. And thank you to James Patterson for continuing to write books that never leave the reader disappointed. I most definitely look forward to further titles from James Patterson and I'm excited to see more stories in the "Bookshots" format.
I would be happy to read and review any of James Patterson's new titles coming out in the future, as well. Thank you!
-Rach
I received an ARC from Little, Brown and Company of Cross Kill by James Patterson in the new "Bookshots" format. Like the book says on the back, I did read this at the "speed of life" and within about 2 hours. I really enjoyed the format, size and plot of this story. Another job well-done by the amazing James Patterson. This new Alex Cross story from Patterson does not disappoint in any aspect. Every single chapter left me hanging on the edge of my seat and wanting to know what was going to happen next. Cross's character is extremely well developed and well-rounded and the other characters within this story add a great dynamic that's very enjoyable to read. What I love so much about Patterson's writing is that there is no "fluff" and "nonsense" that makes the story confusing. Having said that, the story doesn't leave out anything either. The only way I can explain it is excellent writing that gives the reader all the facts, plot and realities of the story without giving too much or too little. No other author writes quite like Patterson. I feel like anybody can pick up one of James Patterson's books and get sucked into the story, he's just THAT good.
I want to say a HUGE, "thank you so much" to Little, Brown and Company for this opportunity to read an advanced copy of Cross Kill by James Patterson. And thank you to James Patterson for continuing to write books that never leave the reader disappointed. I most definitely look forward to further titles from James Patterson and I'm excited to see more stories in the "Bookshots" format.
I would be happy to read and review any of James Patterson's new titles coming out in the future, as well. Thank you!
-Rach
September 30, 2023
This one was intense!!!!
I wish that it was longer, because there was a lot that could have been done with The Sonejis idea.
Luckily based on current novels,
Overall, a great addition to the series.
4 Stars
I wish that it was longer, because there was a lot that could have been done with The Sonejis idea.
Luckily based on current novels,
Overall, a great addition to the series.
4 Stars
June 22, 2016
Cross Kill
I liked this short book a whole lot more than I have liked any of James Patterson's recent novels. This seemed more like his older writings. The only downside was how short it was, his novels have always been fast reads but this way really fast considering how short it was. All and all it was a welcome change with the writing. I hope all of these new BookShots are as good as this one.
I liked this short book a whole lot more than I have liked any of James Patterson's recent novels. This seemed more like his older writings. The only downside was how short it was, his novels have always been fast reads but this way really fast considering how short it was. All and all it was a welcome change with the writing. I hope all of these new BookShots are as good as this one.
June 6, 2020
This was a 4-star read until the ending, which was a total cliffhanger. That made it feel more like an advertisement for the next book than a novella. If your tolerance for cliffhangers is higher, you may like it more!
January 14, 2024
Alex Cross is a great fictional character. In this one he's being hunted down by a man he watched die a decade ago. Now he shoots three who dressed up as the dead man. ... and he gets arrested for murder. What is going on?
July 3, 2023
Okay. I sometimes wish authors would stop inserting between-the-installments novellas into a series. This set up the whole scenario for #25. I suggest reading this first!
June 7, 2016
Cross Kill is the newest adventure in the Alex Cross series, and one of the first Bookshots to come out. While, being a Bookshot, it was quite short; I found that it was still packed with the charm and action that the series is known for.
We begin with Alex and his best friend Sampson serving in Nana Mama’s hot breakfast kitchen (after winning the lotto, Nana opened up a soup kitchen to feed the needy. Oh, and bought a 3D TV). The two are serving people and talking, Alex explaining that he is wearing Kevlar because he has to get used to the weight, going up for a PT test soon.
Shots are fired. Alex gets hit in the vest and is fine, but the nuns working with him were hit; as well as Sampson. What really floors Alex, though, is the shooter. He is a dead ringer for a madman that had Cross in his sights for a very long time. This is impossible; of course, Soneji has been dead for a decade.
As Sampson’s wife, Billie, and Alex’s family wait to see if Sampson will make it Alex tries to figure everything out. The problem, though, is that it makes no sense and Alex may be too close to the case to keep a keen perspective. He is tired, confused, angry and worried. Plus, Billie has made up her mind- should Sampson make it, he will not be a cop anymore. He can’t be Alex’s partner.
Alex goes back, talks to people and finds on line sites that adore Soneji. There’s chatter that he is alive, which while it doesn’t make sense, does explain why Alex could swear he was the shooter. Delving deeper into the mystery of the shooter, Alex gets caught up in a trap where he must shoot his way out. This happens in the line of duty, except that there are people saying it didn’t go down the way he says it does. When two of the combatants die, it is up for investigation and Alex has the right to remain silent. What happens when Cross is on this side of the interrogation table? A cliffhanger! Mr. Patterson, we had better get answers- maybe in the next Cross book in November?
I loved this book- five stars all the way! I was worried, as this would be a short novel, that it would lack something- character development, family time, action… something the series is known for. But was all there!
As far as adult content, there is a large amount of violence. I would say a six.
We begin with Alex and his best friend Sampson serving in Nana Mama’s hot breakfast kitchen (after winning the lotto, Nana opened up a soup kitchen to feed the needy. Oh, and bought a 3D TV). The two are serving people and talking, Alex explaining that he is wearing Kevlar because he has to get used to the weight, going up for a PT test soon.
Shots are fired. Alex gets hit in the vest and is fine, but the nuns working with him were hit; as well as Sampson. What really floors Alex, though, is the shooter. He is a dead ringer for a madman that had Cross in his sights for a very long time. This is impossible; of course, Soneji has been dead for a decade.
As Sampson’s wife, Billie, and Alex’s family wait to see if Sampson will make it Alex tries to figure everything out. The problem, though, is that it makes no sense and Alex may be too close to the case to keep a keen perspective. He is tired, confused, angry and worried. Plus, Billie has made up her mind- should Sampson make it, he will not be a cop anymore. He can’t be Alex’s partner.
Alex goes back, talks to people and finds on line sites that adore Soneji. There’s chatter that he is alive, which while it doesn’t make sense, does explain why Alex could swear he was the shooter. Delving deeper into the mystery of the shooter, Alex gets caught up in a trap where he must shoot his way out. This happens in the line of duty, except that there are people saying it didn’t go down the way he says it does. When two of the combatants die, it is up for investigation and Alex has the right to remain silent. What happens when Cross is on this side of the interrogation table? A cliffhanger! Mr. Patterson, we had better get answers- maybe in the next Cross book in November?
I loved this book- five stars all the way! I was worried, as this would be a short novel, that it would lack something- character development, family time, action… something the series is known for. But was all there!
As far as adult content, there is a large amount of violence. I would say a six.
June 13, 2016
This bite-sized Alex Cross thriller sees the return of his long-thought-dead nemesis first introduced in Along Came a Spider, Gary Soneji.
Stories at the speed of life. All killer, no filler. The ultimate form of storytelling. These are just some of the taglines associated with James Patterson’s line of Bookshots titles. And while the latter instigates an irrepressible eyelid twitch, I’ll admit, there’s something to be said for the sheer pace of Cross Kill. As a lapsed Patterson reader, and a one-time big fan of his Alex Cross series, Cross Kill served as a nice reminder of what I enjoyed about his particular brand of storytelling all those years ago. It annihilated two hours of my evening like the snap of a finger, and so, I suppose I got what I paid for, and what was promised on the blurb.
It helps that Cross Kill flashes back to Patterson’s early Cross novels, when I was devouring them one-by-one from my father’s bookcase. Gary Soneji was Cross’s first epic villain – but he was seemingly killed more than a dozen novels ago, or more than ten years ago according to Patterson’s continuity. His return is impossible, but Cross is adamant it was Soneji who took a shot at him – and put a bullet in his partner’s head.
Unfolding at a wicked pace, there’s little meat on the bones of Cross Kill, but its events should have huge repercussions for the Alex Cross series moving forward; assuming everything’s not just swept under the rug for the next full-length novel. If you’re already a valiant Patterson reader, you’ll no doubt dig this, and it’ll sate your cravings until later in the year. If you’re not a fan, this won’t do much to persuade you to switch sides: it’s chock-full of his stylistic trappings, just thoroughly condensed, with all the nuance of a semi-trailer careening through a brick wall. But when you’re been gargantuan literary novels, this served as effective relief. And I’ll admit, I’m interested in picking up the next Cross novel to see how Patterson confronts this story’s dramatic moments.
Stories at the speed of life. All killer, no filler. The ultimate form of storytelling. These are just some of the taglines associated with James Patterson’s line of Bookshots titles. And while the latter instigates an irrepressible eyelid twitch, I’ll admit, there’s something to be said for the sheer pace of Cross Kill. As a lapsed Patterson reader, and a one-time big fan of his Alex Cross series, Cross Kill served as a nice reminder of what I enjoyed about his particular brand of storytelling all those years ago. It annihilated two hours of my evening like the snap of a finger, and so, I suppose I got what I paid for, and what was promised on the blurb.
It helps that Cross Kill flashes back to Patterson’s early Cross novels, when I was devouring them one-by-one from my father’s bookcase. Gary Soneji was Cross’s first epic villain – but he was seemingly killed more than a dozen novels ago, or more than ten years ago according to Patterson’s continuity. His return is impossible, but Cross is adamant it was Soneji who took a shot at him – and put a bullet in his partner’s head.
Unfolding at a wicked pace, there’s little meat on the bones of Cross Kill, but its events should have huge repercussions for the Alex Cross series moving forward; assuming everything’s not just swept under the rug for the next full-length novel. If you’re already a valiant Patterson reader, you’ll no doubt dig this, and it’ll sate your cravings until later in the year. If you’re not a fan, this won’t do much to persuade you to switch sides: it’s chock-full of his stylistic trappings, just thoroughly condensed, with all the nuance of a semi-trailer careening through a brick wall. But when you’re been gargantuan literary novels, this served as effective relief. And I’ll admit, I’m interested in picking up the next Cross novel to see how Patterson confronts this story’s dramatic moments.
September 4, 2016
Patterson has apparently coined a term for his .5 additions to his long-running Cross series - Bookshot. Nice term for these little novellas that mystery writers are putting out between the next full book in a series. This one, however, annoyingly is a cliffhanger rather than a self-contained story. Had I know, I would not have purchased it, but waited until the full book came out.
Long dead, sadistic, brilliant killer Gary Soneji from Along Came a Spider and Cat and Mouse, the first and fourth books in the Alex Cross series, reemerges. Alex saw Soneji kill himself, but is now having second thoughts about what he saw. "Soneji" tries to kill Alex and shoots his partner John Sampson in the head.
I don't consider it a healthy signal for a series when an author returns to and/or resurrects past evil characters, particular ones used more than once from early books in a series. Also not a positive trend is when a series starts navel-gazing - excessive focus on the protagonist and their family. Rather than solving crimes, the criminals are focused on, attacking, and trying to kill the central characters. Patricia Cornwell's Kay Scarpetta series has been guilty of this for a while in recent books.
Long dead, sadistic, brilliant killer Gary Soneji from Along Came a Spider and Cat and Mouse, the first and fourth books in the Alex Cross series, reemerges. Alex saw Soneji kill himself, but is now having second thoughts about what he saw. "Soneji" tries to kill Alex and shoots his partner John Sampson in the head.
I don't consider it a healthy signal for a series when an author returns to and/or resurrects past evil characters, particular ones used more than once from early books in a series. Also not a positive trend is when a series starts navel-gazing - excessive focus on the protagonist and their family. Rather than solving crimes, the criminals are focused on, attacking, and trying to kill the central characters. Patricia Cornwell's Kay Scarpetta series has been guilty of this for a while in recent books.
June 15, 2018
There's no denying the mixed quality of James Patterson's massive output. I've always maintained that his best books continue to be those that he authors on his own. The Alex Cross series, in particular, has been his most consistent in terms of both quality and originality. But now Patterson has found a way to get even more work published in the novellas that he calls BookShots.
I'm of the opinion that this constant flow of content, often created with a co-author, only dilutes Patterson's brand. When I learned that he had a BookShot featuring Alex Cross, I almost lost my cool. How could he mess with the only thing that has continued to be quality?! Because the novella Cross Kill has a plot that rolls into the next Cross novel, I begrudgingly picked up a copy to read for myself.
Cross Kill reads like the opening portion of a fully formed novel. The opening starts with a bang as Alex and his partner are ambushed by a shooter while serving meals at a local shelter. In the chaos, his partner takes a bullet and is left fighting for his life. Alex thinks he knows the identity of the shooter, but can't see how the identity could be correct. How could a man who Alex watched die come back to shoot at him?
Like most Patterson novels, Cross Kill burns through plot at a rapid pace that makes for an extremely quick read. I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy reading one of my favorite characters again. My only complaint is that the novella feels like a first go at the opening of a fully formed novel. It would almost work as the first act of a story but fails when presented as a complete novella. Luckily, the short work took little time to read, so I don't feel like I wasted my time. I probably won't be reading another one of these BookShots any time soon, but you can bet I'll be reading the next Alex Cross novel when I get a chance.
I'm of the opinion that this constant flow of content, often created with a co-author, only dilutes Patterson's brand. When I learned that he had a BookShot featuring Alex Cross, I almost lost my cool. How could he mess with the only thing that has continued to be quality?! Because the novella Cross Kill has a plot that rolls into the next Cross novel, I begrudgingly picked up a copy to read for myself.
Cross Kill reads like the opening portion of a fully formed novel. The opening starts with a bang as Alex and his partner are ambushed by a shooter while serving meals at a local shelter. In the chaos, his partner takes a bullet and is left fighting for his life. Alex thinks he knows the identity of the shooter, but can't see how the identity could be correct. How could a man who Alex watched die come back to shoot at him?
Like most Patterson novels, Cross Kill burns through plot at a rapid pace that makes for an extremely quick read. I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy reading one of my favorite characters again. My only complaint is that the novella feels like a first go at the opening of a fully formed novel. It would almost work as the first act of a story but fails when presented as a complete novella. Luckily, the short work took little time to read, so I don't feel like I wasted my time. I probably won't be reading another one of these BookShots any time soon, but you can bet I'll be reading the next Alex Cross novel when I get a chance.
July 15, 2016
I really enjoy James Patterson's books. Pure James Patterson, not the co-written ones. I found that out early on. Believe me, I tried to like the others. But when he has someone else contribute to his outline and/or write the majority of the novel, I feel the quality diminishes greatly.
That being said, I couldn't wait for his BookShots to be published! I thought they would be a wonderful idea, perfect for a quick read on a trip, at the beach, whenever. One hundred and fifty pages of excitement that I just knew I'd love! When I saw an Alex Cross title, I was even more pleased - one of my favorites of Patterson's series.
I bought the book and read it on a long day of travel. It's a great story line, filled with action and excitement! Then - NOTHING! I hit page 113 and actually paged to and fro looking for the rest of the story. It just ends! Not only does it just end, it ends right in the middle of a major development! And what happened to the 150 pages?! I didn't expect all of the title pages and previews of his next book to take up 37 pages of this book!
I truly feel as if this is just a preview for an upcoming novel. Who knows when there will be resolution to this story line? You know how some books have the first 2-3 chapters of an upcoming book at the end of a novel - using them as a preview and enticement to buy the next book? I think Patterson figured out how to charge $4.99 for his previously free preview pages! I won't be purchasing any additional BookShots. And I am truly disappointed.
That being said, I couldn't wait for his BookShots to be published! I thought they would be a wonderful idea, perfect for a quick read on a trip, at the beach, whenever. One hundred and fifty pages of excitement that I just knew I'd love! When I saw an Alex Cross title, I was even more pleased - one of my favorites of Patterson's series.
I bought the book and read it on a long day of travel. It's a great story line, filled with action and excitement! Then - NOTHING! I hit page 113 and actually paged to and fro looking for the rest of the story. It just ends! Not only does it just end, it ends right in the middle of a major development! And what happened to the 150 pages?! I didn't expect all of the title pages and previews of his next book to take up 37 pages of this book!
I truly feel as if this is just a preview for an upcoming novel. Who knows when there will be resolution to this story line? You know how some books have the first 2-3 chapters of an upcoming book at the end of a novel - using them as a preview and enticement to buy the next book? I think Patterson figured out how to charge $4.99 for his previously free preview pages! I won't be purchasing any additional BookShots. And I am truly disappointed.
June 13, 2016
I have to admit I was not excited about the idea of trying for mini-novellas but having enjoyed the first 6-7 Alex Cross books I figured I'd give it a shot.
It started out with a literal bang. I was curious... The plot moved fairly quickly... Then it ended with a case of main character taking dumb pills, a underwhelming final scene and to top it all off the Bol didn't even conclude... Nothing felt resolved... The twist in book 2 I felt was telegraphed... It was like part 1 of a 2 part season finale for a cop show without knowing when part 2 would come and without knowing it would end so unresolved. A disappointing 2.5 stars for me... If it's truly a novella this should have resolution and if it's a serial it should be labeled as such... .99-1.99 for a digital book serial maybe... 4.99... Not so much!
It started out with a literal bang. I was curious... The plot moved fairly quickly... Then it ended with a case of main character taking dumb pills, a underwhelming final scene and to top it all off the Bol didn't even conclude... Nothing felt resolved... The twist in book 2 I felt was telegraphed... It was like part 1 of a 2 part season finale for a cop show without knowing when part 2 would come and without knowing it would end so unresolved. A disappointing 2.5 stars for me... If it's truly a novella this should have resolution and if it's a serial it should be labeled as such... .99-1.99 for a digital book serial maybe... 4.99... Not so much!
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