Murder Island: A Doc Savage Thriller

Doc Savage Thrillers #2

by James Patterson

Prof. Brandt Savage—grandson of the legendary hero Doc Savage—is back in a new action-adventure thriller!    

They thought they found heaven on earth. But their paradise becomes a nightmare when Professor Brandt Savage and his girlfriend Kira Sunlight stumble on a terrifying conspiracy​.

When professor turned crime-fighter Brandt "'Doc'"Savage and his girlfriend Kira Sunlight land on a desert island in the middle of the Atlantic, they think they've found a perfect utopia. An escape from their tumultuous pasts.

But they don't have long to enjoy their newfound peace before they are violently separated and dragged to opposite ends of the Earth.

Doc's search for Kira takes him from the coast of Brazil to northern Europe and the jungles of the Congo, and he discovers they are entangled in a global conspiracy that is bigger he ever could have imagined.

Genres: Thriller, Fiction, Mystery, Audiobook, Mystery Thriller, Crime, Suspense

320 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published October 8, 2024

About the author

Official 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.

Reviews

[Iain · Rating 1 out of 5]

Batsh*t crazy. Where to start with this? No structure; insane, nonsensical plot; minimal characterisation. It's a fast read, with short chapters, presumably so the reader doesn't have time to stop and think what the hell is going on. For example: our hero escapes from a castle in Belgium where he was being held by the illigetimate heir of King Leopold IV, makes his way to Doha where he lives on a small island with 20 bodybuilders and their weights and where a pimp arrives on a boat with prostitutes most nights, one of whom looks a bit like our hero's lost love, and has dyed her hair to look like a woman killing people in the Congo. So our hero decides to go and find his love in the Congo, because it must be her. So the pimp takes him to Oman, where our hero gets on a plane with a drug dealer smuggling cocaine inside live boa constrictors, only to met with gunfire on arrival - and all this takes place over about 5 chapters, no more than 25 pages. It's mad. Why is it called Murder Island? The island of the title and blurb appears for about 5 chapters within the first 80 pages and that's it - it's nothing do with the island or murder. The writing is substandard and derivative ( I don't want to accuse the author's of AI use, but it's got that feel to it). Really, without James Patterson's name slapped on it, this is the worst kind of self-published Amazon Kindle fodder that would have been left largely undiscovered and unread, and that's where it belongs. Shame on Patterson and Penguin for putting it on bookshelves and in shops. Do better. (I struggle to see how anyone can give this a positive review, apart from maybe standards are dumbing down to such an extent that people think this can be considered good).

[Bill Riggs · Rating 2 out of 5]

Fast paced adventure that is amusing to a certain extent. Feels like a YA pulp novel written by a preteen. It feels disjointed and amateurish. For Doc Savage completists only.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wild ride - like a James Bond film in print. Heavy on the action, fast paced and short chapters. Perfect book for this time of year for my thriller loving friends.

[Barb Blasch · Rating 1 out of 5]

Don't bother. Violent and no likeable characters.

[Todd · Rating 4 out of 5]

Patterson's second Doc Savage thrillride. Starts out with folks trying to kill Doc and Kira, and keeps on going in that vein for the entire book. lt's got the flavor of the old Doc pulp novels set in modern times.

[Brad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder Island is the 2nd book in the renewal of the classic Doc Savage series from James Patterson and Brian Sitts. Professor Brandt Savage is the grandson of Doc Savage and has taken over the story. There are exotic locations, gadgets and a villain that plans to take over the world. This is action and speculative fiction with a little love story. And the title has very little to do with the story. Crazy, explosive ending.

[Ethan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sometimes, a fast-paced, absorbing story is just what the doctor ordered. While I love intricate plots and well-drawn characters, every so often, I crave a book that lets me unwind and dive into pure, effortless escapism. This week, I needed that, and no one delivers on this front quite like James Patterson. His updated take on the classic hero Doc Savage in Murder Island was the perfect, easy page-turner I hoped for.

Professor Brant "Doc" Savage and his girlfriend, Kira Sunlight, think they've found paradise on a secluded island, hoping for a much-needed escape from their crime-fighting exploits. But their peace is short-lived. In a brutal ambush, the two are torn apart and transported to opposite corners of the world. Doc, determined to reunite with Kira, embarks on a relentless quest, traveling across the Brazilian coast, through northern Europe, and into the depths of the Congo jungle. He faces ruthless adversaries along the way and uncovers a sprawling global conspiracy, forcing him back into a world of danger he thought he’d left behind.

In Murder Island, James Patterson and Brian Sitts set out to revitalize the classic action hero Doc Savage, giving him a new series for modern readers. As the second installment, diving in without reading the first book is easy. The story stands well on its own. Doc Savage himself isn’t exactly a nuanced character—he’s the archetype of every action hero rolled into one, with flawless looks, a razor-sharp mind, and an unwavering moral compass. As for the plot, it’s a whirlwind, taking readers to far-flung locations and into over-the-top scenarios. I found myself eagerly flipping pages, hooked by the sheer energy of it all. It’s unapologetically pulp thriller fare, perfect for those looking to escape into fast-paced action. While it’s not the most memorable read, Murder Island never pretends to be anything more than escapist fun—and it delivers precisely that.

[Michael crage · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like lots of action, and I do, this is a good book for you. The main characters are Professor Brandt Savage, who is a great-grandson of the original Doc Savage, and has been turned into Doc Savage in appearance and abilities by Kira Sunlight, a decendent of John Sunlight, the original Doc Savage's greatest enemy. The two have been working together and have fallen in love. They have tried to excape the world and their enemies on a remote island that the original Doc Savage had visited once and left several things hidden there. Unfortunately their enemy finds them there, kidnaps Kira and leaves Doc there with several murdered children, murdered by Doc's weapon and he is the only one on the island. Of course he is blamed for the murders. He gets away and goes searching for Kira, who is have adventures of her own, while he has plenty also.

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, wow, wow! To say I’m mesmerized by this book is an understatement. James Patterson's writing is so captivating that I’m literally kept on the edge of my seat the entire time. My heart’s pounding so fast as the story unfolds and it’s getting more and more exciting with each chapter.

I really appreciate the short chapters (there are over 100 chapters in this book but each one is only 2-3 pages long) as they make it easier to read and it feels like playing virtual reality (VR) video games. That is, finishing every chapter is like unlocking another level of said game.

The most enticing part of this book is undoubtedly the characters. Both Professor Brandt Savage (Doc Savage) and Kira Sunlight are thrown into a r(z)e(o)a(m)l(b)i(i)t(e)y-inspired apocalypse where the deadliest weapons are THE masterminds themselves.

Needless to say, I’m completely blown away by the challenges they’re forced to face but at the same time, beyond impressed by how much Doc Savage and Kira are willing to sacrifice just to get back to each other.

All in all, Murder Island is a never-miss for thriller/mystery fans and a good start for those who’re not. It pulls me in from the very beginning and I simply cannot put it down! Happy mystery solving & surviving!

***Thanks to the author and the publisher for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.***

[Lisa Bomgaars · Rating 1 out of 5]

Ugh. Predictable - bought as a best choice in an airport and finished because I started it, but would have rather used my time reading something else

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Professor Brandt Savage, the great-grandson of the legendary Doc Savage, has adopted the moniker “Doc Savage.” Doc Savage, a fictional polymath or polyhistor, is renowned for his extensive knowledge across various fields. Although I had to resort to Google to grasp the concept of polymath and polyhistor, this search ultimately illuminated the connection between Doc’s new life and the skills he has acquired. The original Doc Savage was indeed a highly educated individual, possessing a broad range of knowledge and abilities.

These are the skills our present-day Doc has acquired. In this second installment of an exciting series, the book begins at breakneck speed as Doc and Kira Sunlight are forced to abruptly flee Chicago and find themselves in the middle of nowhere. Doc is not the only one with a past. Kira shares his history as the great-granddaughter of John Sunlight, the mortal adversary of the original Doc’s savage. Consequently, it’s understandable that Kira and Doc might be enemies. Initially, Doc’s teacher is now his lover, envisioning a long and fulfilling future with him.

Kira is aware that killers are hot on their trail, so the pursuit intensifies. This is the setting for an utterly thrilling book by James Patterson and Brian Sitts. The action never ceases, as danger relentlessly pursues Kira and Doc at every turn. Their current enemies are no mere coincidence of their shared pasts. Highly recommended.

Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[⋆✧Maddie My Crushes Version ✧⋆]

When I found the first book in this series at a yard sale, and read it I think I fell in love with Doc Savage and Meed, and ever since I read the first book I've been waiting for a new one to come. Finally the day has come!

I can't wait to read this book

[Jeanette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not my typical book but entertaining and a good read.

[Baxter Drury · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great holiday reading. Fast paced and pretty engaging. Red head baddie as the protagonist. W James Patterson

[Cheryl White · Rating 3 out of 5]

An easy read with just enough action to keep you reading till the end.

[Ava · Rating 3 out of 5]

Action👏Action👏Action👏 This book had me hookeddd. I have such a deep connection with Doc and Kira, they can do no wrong in my eyes. This book is veryyyy heavy on the violence so if that’s not your jazz SKIP🚨But, this was right up my alley, I love anything war/ fighting/ action-packed, so I ate this up. I loved the large expanse, and how the book never slowed down, like one minute their happy together then BAM lost at sea. What I didn’t love about this book was how long Kira and Doc were apart, their banter really made the first book for me (and the school environment I mean come on an assassin school), but I did appreciate having double the plot and action.

While the characters are meant to feel almost superhuman, the ease at which Doc escaped by just cutting g out that force field tracker thing was kind of annoying.

All in all was a fun time, and the epilogue sat right with me so love that🫶

[Aaron · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very difficult to read, very confusing cast.

[Phillip Knox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good, easy read.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

James Patterson is definitely one of our most prolific writers. I recently read and thoroughly enjoyed "Eruption," which was the result of a partial manuscript and copious notes left by the late Michael Crichton, king of the science thriller and one of my favorite writers. Crichton's widow contracted with Patterson to finish the book, which is a current best-seller.

I saw "Murder Island" on NetGalley and was intrigued, so I requested it. It is non-stop action (the second in a series) with a bit of plot and character development, but to me, it was formulaic, had way too much violence, and an evil adversary with world-conquering ambitions that seem a bit too implausible. The novel's hero, "Doc" Savage, is a former professor turned vigilante with Adonis-like looks, smarts and prowess. His "teacher," Kira Sunlight, was trained in a Russian prison to be a ruthless killer; she escaped and made her way to Chicago, where she taught Savage everything she knows. Of course, they make the perfect couple, but the nefarious wannabe king of the world is out to kill them. I don't want to give too much away, but Doc and Kira get separated, both have adventures in the Bahamas and the Congo, and constantly fight off very well-trained adversaries.

I'm sure this will be a best-seller, and it will appeal to readers who enjoy this genre. I also am a fan of this type of novel (I've read lots of books by Brad Thor, Daniel Silva, Kyle Mills, James Rollins, etc.); "Murder Island" is good escapist/thriller fare, although the plot is a bit farfetched.

Thanks to NetGalley, and Hatchette/Grand Central Publishing for the ARC and the opportunity to review this book.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was different from Patterson’s usual writing. Brandt “Doc” Savage used to be a university professor before Kira Sunlight found him. Their safe house has been blown to bits and they are on the run.

Their great-grandfathers were mortal enemies but they band together to fight who is trying to kill them. It seems Doc has a relative he never knew about and he has plans to take over the world but Doc and Kira are in his way. Captain Cal Savage IV is determined to get his way and if Doc and Kira won’t join him, he will kill them. Or so he thinks. They get the last laugh and finally find peace together.

[Farnham68 · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 out of 5 stars because the author kept my interest from the very start and if I didn’t have to work I would have never put it down. There was so much action in this book and I felt like I was actually there. Many times I caught my fists and jaw clenched and had to stop and take deep breaths just to remember I wasn’t actually in the middle of all of it. This was a great story that pits good vs evil and begs the question of “is blood really thicker than water?”, “is our chosen family more important than our born into one?”. This book will answer that question for you. If you’re a woman, you’ll love how this man will fight and do anything just to be with the woman he loves.

I thank the publishers for giving me an ARC in exchange for my honest review. I promise that my review was not influenced in any way by that fact.

[Dee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Got this book as a Christmas present. I found it to be okay, but I do wish the chapters had been longer and there had been more meat to it, so I could find myself a little more immersed.

I also probably should have read the first book to understand the characters a little more. But, like I said—this was a gift, and the person who gifted it to me obviously didn't know this was a series of books.

[Alexa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was close to giving it a 2-3*. I'm still considering it just because it didn't stick with me that much, I feel like it might had been a little dragged out but overall it was a quick read and could of had finished it quicker than I did. It had me intrigued from the very beginning however as the story went on things were changing a bit.

[Lea Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this New Doc Savage series! The authors have done a great job bridging the original Doc Savage to his ancestor.

My only suggestion for the next book is that the new Doc Savage should find ancestors of the original’s helpers. There were five companions that dedicated their lives helping him. I think it be intriguing to find those ancestors of the companions and see if their progeny is friend or foe to our new Doc Savage and Kiera Sunlight.

Thank you NetGalley for letting me read this ARC. All opinions of this book are my own.

[Dash Hooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s not the Doc Savage I grew up with but a nice reboot nonetheless. Fast paced action and enough intrigue to keep the book moving along. I look forward to more if they continue as any Doc is better than none.

[Emily Levendosky · Rating 4 out of 5]

A real adventure. I felt like I was in an Indiana Jones movie.

[Connie Stein · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 but not a 4. #2 is better then #1 just a little draggy

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent thriller!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book pulled me in from the start. I couldn't put it down.
Now to go backwards and read the first one.

[Klare · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick read