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The Beach House
Jack Mullen is a driven student of the law. His brother Peter is a servant of the rich, parking the cars of the Hamptons' elite --- and perhaps satisfying their more intimate needs as well. Then Peter's body is found on the beach. Jack knows the drowning was no accident, but someone's unlimited power and money have bought the cops, the judges, the system. Now Jack is learning a lesson in justice he never got in law school ... and his astonishing plan to beat the billionaires will have you reeling --- and cheering --- to the very last page.
358 pages, Hardcover
First published June 10, 2002
2029 people are currently reading
24667 people want to read
About the author
Peter de Jonge
15 books33 followersPeter de Jonge is an American author and journalist known for both his solo crime novels and his bestselling collaborations with James Patterson. His debut novel Shadows Still Remain (2009) was named a Washington Post Best Book of the Year and introduced NYPD Detective Darlene O’Hara, a character inspired in part by a real-life homicide detective. He followed it with Buried on Avenue B in 2012, further establishing his voice in crime fiction.
De Jonge co-authored several #1 New York Times bestsellers with Patterson, including Miracle on the 17th Green, The Beach House, and Beach Road. His later collaborations include Miracle at Augusta, Miracle at St. Andrews, and Tiger, Tiger.
Beyond fiction, de Jonge has been a longtime contributor to The New York Times Magazine since 1986, and his nonfiction has appeared in National Geographic, DETAILS, New York, Harper’s Bazaar, and Manhattan, inc. His journalism has been recognized in anthologies such as Best American Sports Writing (1996, 2004).
Born in Stamford, Connecticut, de Jonge spent part of his childhood in Switzerland. He was a nationally ranked junior tennis player and later earned a degree from Princeton University. He began his writing career at local newspapers and the Associated Press before transitioning to copywriting and magazine journalism in New York. He lives in New York City, where his novels are set.
De Jonge co-authored several #1 New York Times bestsellers with Patterson, including Miracle on the 17th Green, The Beach House, and Beach Road. His later collaborations include Miracle at Augusta, Miracle at St. Andrews, and Tiger, Tiger.
Beyond fiction, de Jonge has been a longtime contributor to The New York Times Magazine since 1986, and his nonfiction has appeared in National Geographic, DETAILS, New York, Harper’s Bazaar, and Manhattan, inc. His journalism has been recognized in anthologies such as Best American Sports Writing (1996, 2004).
Born in Stamford, Connecticut, de Jonge spent part of his childhood in Switzerland. He was a nationally ranked junior tennis player and later earned a degree from Princeton University. He began his writing career at local newspapers and the Associated Press before transitioning to copywriting and magazine journalism in New York. He lives in New York City, where his novels are set.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,512 reviews
April 25, 2007
As posted in [http://www.amazon.com]:
This is my first book that I've read of Patterson's. I saw his list of books and found it interesting that he co-writes with other authors. However, it doesn't seem to be a bad idea. With *The Beach House*, I found it to be interesting how fast you can read through a book with small chapters. It turned out not to be such a bad idea.
Peter Mullen is found dead at the beach in the Hamptons. The officials in the town are calling it a suicide. However, Jack, the older brother who is studying law, believes it was murder. One, Peter was an expert swimmer and knew the "laws" of the ocean. Two, when Jack saw Peter's body, he was covered in bruises. Three, a competent coroner who did the autopsy confirmed that Peter did not drown.
However, none of the officials agree with Jack and still claim that Peter had committed suicide. Meanwhile, Jack gradually builds up a team of people who agree with the fact that Peter was murdered. Of course, the tide turns and everyone starts to say that Peter suicided. Just who or what has made these people changed their minds?
Jack and a few people (his grandfather, his new girlfriend...) seem to be losing the battle. All seems lost when the court rules Peter's death as suicide. That is when Jack and his people become desperate. They hold their own televised court when they come across some incriminating evidence.
Do the rich really buy their way out of crime? Can they buy "facts" or have them altered and get away with it? Do the rich really control the courts? Jack and his people are rich but they aren't poor. Can they be bought out?
The question is which ruling will the general public and the courts uphold? The original court's ruling or the "kangaroo" court's ruling?
*The Beach House* is an interesting story about how the court and the rich cornering a man when he'll have no choice but to fight back like a feral animal. And when he does, all hell breaks loose.
This is my first book that I've read of Patterson's. I saw his list of books and found it interesting that he co-writes with other authors. However, it doesn't seem to be a bad idea. With *The Beach House*, I found it to be interesting how fast you can read through a book with small chapters. It turned out not to be such a bad idea.
Peter Mullen is found dead at the beach in the Hamptons. The officials in the town are calling it a suicide. However, Jack, the older brother who is studying law, believes it was murder. One, Peter was an expert swimmer and knew the "laws" of the ocean. Two, when Jack saw Peter's body, he was covered in bruises. Three, a competent coroner who did the autopsy confirmed that Peter did not drown.
However, none of the officials agree with Jack and still claim that Peter had committed suicide. Meanwhile, Jack gradually builds up a team of people who agree with the fact that Peter was murdered. Of course, the tide turns and everyone starts to say that Peter suicided. Just who or what has made these people changed their minds?
Jack and a few people (his grandfather, his new girlfriend...) seem to be losing the battle. All seems lost when the court rules Peter's death as suicide. That is when Jack and his people become desperate. They hold their own televised court when they come across some incriminating evidence.
Do the rich really buy their way out of crime? Can they buy "facts" or have them altered and get away with it? Do the rich really control the courts? Jack and his people are rich but they aren't poor. Can they be bought out?
The question is which ruling will the general public and the courts uphold? The original court's ruling or the "kangaroo" court's ruling?
*The Beach House* is an interesting story about how the court and the rich cornering a man when he'll have no choice but to fight back like a feral animal. And when he does, all hell breaks loose.
February 3, 2009
It's probably not fair for me to review this book, since I only made it 70 pages in. I just was not interested! My mind was wandering and I'd have to read the page again! I won't know if it's the author or just the book because I don't really feel like picking up another one of this guy's books. Plus, there was a lot of swearing going on too. Just didn't like it!
November 28, 2018
I love a well written mystery book! And this one was very well written!
When I first read the title of this book, the first thought that crossed my mind, was “I should have read this book next summer, not now... so near the Christmas holiday”, but now, after finishing it... I’m so happy that I didn’t wait so long. Because I really enjoyed it.
I couldn’t guess what the ending would be like and this impressed me. Usually I guess the ending when I’m done with 50% of a book. But this time I was impressed to be amazed and kept in the dark.
Good job, James! 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When I first read the title of this book, the first thought that crossed my mind, was “I should have read this book next summer, not now... so near the Christmas holiday”, but now, after finishing it... I’m so happy that I didn’t wait so long. Because I really enjoyed it.
I couldn’t guess what the ending would be like and this impressed me. Usually I guess the ending when I’m done with 50% of a book. But this time I was impressed to be amazed and kept in the dark.
Good job, James! 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 9, 2015
Another good mystery. I really enjoy Patterson's book. They keep your interest right from the beginning.
March 18, 2020
"You wouldn't think a motorcycle is a place for quiet reflection"
The Beach House by James Patterson
I do not get why I cannot get involved in any Jame s Patterson books I read. This one was no different. AND it takes place in the Hamptons..much fun!
Except not really. Way to many characters and not that interesting a story. I did not really c are to read to the end because the story never felt scary or creepy or like much of anything.
And I think that is the issue. I always know I am reading when I try Patterson. I never get lost in his books.
The only thing I liked about the book was the beach setting. But I feel there are so many better mysteries out there. I think at this point I c an say no more James Patterson for me.
The Beach House by James Patterson
I do not get why I cannot get involved in any Jame s Patterson books I read. This one was no different. AND it takes place in the Hamptons..much fun!
Except not really. Way to many characters and not that interesting a story. I did not really c are to read to the end because the story never felt scary or creepy or like much of anything.
And I think that is the issue. I always know I am reading when I try Patterson. I never get lost in his books.
The only thing I liked about the book was the beach setting. But I feel there are so many better mysteries out there. I think at this point I c an say no more James Patterson for me.
November 26, 2012
I am not a big Patterson fan, but I enjoyed this one quite a bit. I read it while stuck in a traffic jam for three hours. I don't think I have ever read a book that quickly. A page burner.
August 19, 2013
His books were better when he wrote alone...
April 4, 2019
This is 3.5 stars. We need half stars GoodReads!!!
This is my first Patterson novel and it was a nice, quick thriller about two brothers. Jack, a NYC lawyer and Peter who works in the Hamptons for the Uber wealthy parking their cars etc. Jack feels his brother could never have drowned because he was a strong swimmer and knew the Atlantic since childhood. Those of us who learned how to work against the riptides would probably agree. Yet the police rule it a suicide and there seem to be multiple lies and coverups. Jack’s mission is to right his brother’s name and legacy, get behind the police coverups, and to breakdown the barriers that millionaires and celebs seem to have in this town.
This is my first Patterson novel and it was a nice, quick thriller about two brothers. Jack, a NYC lawyer and Peter who works in the Hamptons for the Uber wealthy parking their cars etc. Jack feels his brother could never have drowned because he was a strong swimmer and knew the Atlantic since childhood. Those of us who learned how to work against the riptides would probably agree. Yet the police rule it a suicide and there seem to be multiple lies and coverups. Jack’s mission is to right his brother’s name and legacy, get behind the police coverups, and to breakdown the barriers that millionaires and celebs seem to have in this town.
September 8, 2015
This is my first James Patterson novel. This is my last James Patterson novel, unless someone can convince me to give him another shot.
This book was T-E-R-R-I-B-L-E!!
I downloaded the audiobook from my library and I'm having trouble returning it; computer glitch or my library doesn't want it back? I'm guessing the latter.
This was the first audiobook that I've read (and I've read a lot) that has musical sound effects to compliment the narrator. You know that "dum dum" sound on Law & Order that plays between scene changes? Yeah, well this book had it's own "dum dum" (eye roll).
The story itself was disturbing and so unbelievable --
"DUMB DUMB"
This book was T-E-R-R-I-B-L-E!!
I downloaded the audiobook from my library and I'm having trouble returning it; computer glitch or my library doesn't want it back? I'm guessing the latter.
This was the first audiobook that I've read (and I've read a lot) that has musical sound effects to compliment the narrator. You know that "dum dum" sound on Law & Order that plays between scene changes? Yeah, well this book had it's own "dum dum" (eye roll).
The story itself was disturbing and so unbelievable --
"DUMB DUMB"
June 3, 2012
Maybe it's because I haven't read a James Patterson book in a while, or maybe it's Peter De Jonge's influence (I haven't read anything by him before), but this story didn't impress me the way most of Patterson's novels -- especially the Alex Cross stories -- have.
The story seems rushed, a feeling that's aided by the extremely short chapters. To my knowledge, Patterson has never written Mitchner-length chapters, but he at least used them to build suspense. For instance, you would get to a particularly interesting part in the story, something shocking would happen, and then the chapter would end -- the break in text worked as a tension builder. But the majority of chapters in this story are no more than a page long, and there aren't that many suspenseful parts.
Again, I'm not sure whether this is something about Patterson's writing that I failed to notice before or can be chalked up to De Jonge's influence, but either way, I think I'll stick with the Alex Cross novels.
The story seems rushed, a feeling that's aided by the extremely short chapters. To my knowledge, Patterson has never written Mitchner-length chapters, but he at least used them to build suspense. For instance, you would get to a particularly interesting part in the story, something shocking would happen, and then the chapter would end -- the break in text worked as a tension builder. But the majority of chapters in this story are no more than a page long, and there aren't that many suspenseful parts.
Again, I'm not sure whether this is something about Patterson's writing that I failed to notice before or can be chalked up to De Jonge's influence, but either way, I think I'll stick with the Alex Cross novels.
May 26, 2020
Patterson thriller from over 10 years ago… and it's of his notable page turning variety, a law graduate's brother is killed on a beach and then there's a massive cover up by the social elite and the cops. When the graduate and his friends try to fight back the conspirators really up the ante. Some solid Patterson fare, hard to put down, despite stretching the realms of reality. 5 out of 12.
October 12, 2015
Loved it!
August 11, 2020
Peter Mullen body was washed a shore on the beach outside the home of business tycoon Barry and Campion Neubauer, Memorial Day Weekend, in the Hamptons. Local law enforcement and the wealthy wants everyone to believe it was an accident or suicide. Jack and Macklin Mullen, Peter's bother and grandfather respectively, know differently. One look at his body tells you Peter was beaten to death and thrown into the ocean.
What will Jack do to get the to truth? Everything and Anything. Read how Jack and his crew of friends, the average working class, confront the wealthy and uncover secrets that will shock you and leave you perplex. Kidnapping a billionaire, his wife, and a well revered New York attorney is part of the suspense and excitement. Enjoy Reading, 📗
Quotes:
"The goddamned system is a clever old whore, Jack. I'm afraid all we did was piss it off."
That's the kind of serenely magical night it was, when friendship feels as solid as family, and family as light and untroubled as friendship.
"In the words of that old Irishman Benjamin Franklin, 'We must all hang together, or most assuredly, we will hang separately. "
What will Jack do to get the to truth? Everything and Anything. Read how Jack and his crew of friends, the average working class, confront the wealthy and uncover secrets that will shock you and leave you perplex. Kidnapping a billionaire, his wife, and a well revered New York attorney is part of the suspense and excitement. Enjoy Reading, 📗
Quotes:
"The goddamned system is a clever old whore, Jack. I'm afraid all we did was piss it off."
That's the kind of serenely magical night it was, when friendship feels as solid as family, and family as light and untroubled as friendship.
"In the words of that old Irishman Benjamin Franklin, 'We must all hang together, or most assuredly, we will hang separately. "
December 17, 2020
Another Patterson crime mystery that didn't disappoint. When I want to just be totally engaged and need to escape, I choose a James Patterson book. Short chapters combined with the ability to start off with a bang and keep the action coming make for a great read.
May 2, 2018
Ripping tale, pumped out at huge speed. Loved the characters. What more do you need in a good read?
December 15, 2016
“As I get closer to the beach, I think for the first time about who might be waiting for me. It wouldn't have been hard to figure out whose voice was on the car phone. All I had to do was open the glove compartment and look at the registration, but that would have spoiled the surprise.”
This book was a pleasant surprise. I didn’t like it as much as I wanted due to some strenuous plot points, but it still was a satisfying read. Thriller elements are exciting, the protagonist is likeable and it is so easy to hate antagonists. Basically, Paterson has done everything right considering the plot and the pace.
Peter is found dead at the beach in the Hamptons and the officials are calling it a suicide. Nonetheless, his older brother Jack, the law student, believes it was murder. He has numerous arguments for this belief - Peter was an excellent swimmer, his corpse was covered in bruises, which were unlikely caused by the ocean waves and a competent coroner who did the autopsy confirmed that Peter didn’t drown. Unfortunately, the police doesn’t agree with Jack and still calls his brother’s death a suicide. Jack has no other option than to build up a team of people who agree with him and try to solve the crime. The question is which ruling will the general public and the court support?
This is my first book from Patterson and a great first impression is present. With an amazing start, Mr. Peterson without a doubt knows how to evoke emotion. Sadly, great first impression is ruined by insta-love. To be fair, all women in the book were bleakly portrayed. I hated Dana especially. The lighter point was the trial, that was intense and kept me on my toes. Eagerly, I wanted for Jack to have his justice. The plot keeps your interest right from the beginning and from that moment the book is a true page burner. Though, there is a simple story line consisted of showing money as an instrument of power and the ease that rich have in covering up their horrible acts, in the end, it's a straight-forward detective book for major part of the novel and a few plot twists only heightened the intensity. I love a good revenge story line, and it is present here.
“Spend your money thoughtfully & secretly, you walk free. That was the way it was in america these days. Who knows? Maybe it had always been that way”
As you read about narrator’s struggles, it’s impossible not to feel those difficulties yourself. They feel genuine and realistic, and you almost instantly fear like the similar kind of injustice can happen to you. You feel Jack’s helplessness, bitterness against the law system and you just can’t wait for him to teach the bad guys a lesson.
I'm pretty sure not even Jack understands himself. While I did like him, he kept contradicting himself to often. Not that I mind that he couldn’t gather his emotions, he had a right to be a mess, since his most important person in the world died, but I was really annoyed by some of his actions. That made me realise that I only like this book because it’s plot driven. If the characters were in the centre of story, I would probably throw this book in the trash, since they weren’t very well developed.
"Carmina was a great woman," the Mudman told me the first time I interviewed him. "One of my best friends in this miserable world. But I was never in love with her. So why would I kill her?"
Jack worked on an interesting case before his brother’s death took its toll. I really wanted to be more included in Madman’s case. It’s hard for me to admit, but in the start, I was more invested in his destiny, than finding Peter’s killer. Even subplots were remarkable, so you can see why I was so amazed from the start.
Jack forms a bond with the private eye Pauline with who helps him in his mission. While their relationship was supposed to be low-key and serve as a romantic relief from the complex plot lines, I found it extremely forced and platonic. They kept going on my nerves that much, that at some point I started skipping pages whenever they shared a scene.
“Now I appreciate that for those of you who have stayed with me this far, there's nothing too surprising about this romantic development. You probably saw it coming. But I didn't.”
On one hand, Peter had quotes like this where he’s so surprised by this relationship development, and on the other side, he often forgets about his brother, because his focus is on Pauline and that didn’t sit well with me. I’m sure it wasn’t intentional, but that relationship undermined his pain, which was outrageous.
This book was a pleasant surprise. I didn’t like it as much as I wanted due to some strenuous plot points, but it still was a satisfying read. Thriller elements are exciting, the protagonist is likeable and it is so easy to hate antagonists. Basically, Paterson has done everything right considering the plot and the pace.
Peter is found dead at the beach in the Hamptons and the officials are calling it a suicide. Nonetheless, his older brother Jack, the law student, believes it was murder. He has numerous arguments for this belief - Peter was an excellent swimmer, his corpse was covered in bruises, which were unlikely caused by the ocean waves and a competent coroner who did the autopsy confirmed that Peter didn’t drown. Unfortunately, the police doesn’t agree with Jack and still calls his brother’s death a suicide. Jack has no other option than to build up a team of people who agree with him and try to solve the crime. The question is which ruling will the general public and the court support?
This is my first book from Patterson and a great first impression is present. With an amazing start, Mr. Peterson without a doubt knows how to evoke emotion. Sadly, great first impression is ruined by insta-love. To be fair, all women in the book were bleakly portrayed. I hated Dana especially. The lighter point was the trial, that was intense and kept me on my toes. Eagerly, I wanted for Jack to have his justice. The plot keeps your interest right from the beginning and from that moment the book is a true page burner. Though, there is a simple story line consisted of showing money as an instrument of power and the ease that rich have in covering up their horrible acts, in the end, it's a straight-forward detective book for major part of the novel and a few plot twists only heightened the intensity. I love a good revenge story line, and it is present here.
“Spend your money thoughtfully & secretly, you walk free. That was the way it was in america these days. Who knows? Maybe it had always been that way”
As you read about narrator’s struggles, it’s impossible not to feel those difficulties yourself. They feel genuine and realistic, and you almost instantly fear like the similar kind of injustice can happen to you. You feel Jack’s helplessness, bitterness against the law system and you just can’t wait for him to teach the bad guys a lesson.
I'm pretty sure not even Jack understands himself. While I did like him, he kept contradicting himself to often. Not that I mind that he couldn’t gather his emotions, he had a right to be a mess, since his most important person in the world died, but I was really annoyed by some of his actions. That made me realise that I only like this book because it’s plot driven. If the characters were in the centre of story, I would probably throw this book in the trash, since they weren’t very well developed.
"Carmina was a great woman," the Mudman told me the first time I interviewed him. "One of my best friends in this miserable world. But I was never in love with her. So why would I kill her?"
Jack worked on an interesting case before his brother’s death took its toll. I really wanted to be more included in Madman’s case. It’s hard for me to admit, but in the start, I was more invested in his destiny, than finding Peter’s killer. Even subplots were remarkable, so you can see why I was so amazed from the start.
Jack forms a bond with the private eye Pauline with who helps him in his mission. While their relationship was supposed to be low-key and serve as a romantic relief from the complex plot lines, I found it extremely forced and platonic. They kept going on my nerves that much, that at some point I started skipping pages whenever they shared a scene.
“Now I appreciate that for those of you who have stayed with me this far, there's nothing too surprising about this romantic development. You probably saw it coming. But I didn't.”
On one hand, Peter had quotes like this where he’s so surprised by this relationship development, and on the other side, he often forgets about his brother, because his focus is on Pauline and that didn’t sit well with me. I’m sure it wasn’t intentional, but that relationship undermined his pain, which was outrageous.
September 18, 2008
When his brother Peter turns up dead with a strong suspicion of suicide, law student, Jack Mullen decides that it is time to figure out what really happened. His brother would never have committed suicide, particularly since the body looks like Peter was beaten to death.
On the night in question, Peter had been hired to work as a valet at a huge Memorial Day bash on the Long Island estate of the extremely wealthy and influential Barry Neubauer and family.
Jack brings int he help of his grandfather, a private eye with who he starts to build a relationship, and a small group of locals to try and prove that Peter was in fact murdered and that there is a major cover-up with a surprising and disturbing sexual twist.
Jack and his cohorts are forced to take extreme measures when the official inquest turns up a confirmation that Peter died either by suicide or accident. While this brings the novel into the area of outlandishness, it is exciting and interesting. I know it left me cheering along as Jack stuck it to those who had caused him and his family (among others) so much harm.
I could feel de Jong's influence a bit on this one as some sections had rambling characters and a feeling of just running on, which is rare for Patterson in his short and concise sentences and chapters. It did not make the book one that I would rather have passed up, but at times, it left me wanting to scream, "All right, already! I get it!"
On the night in question, Peter had been hired to work as a valet at a huge Memorial Day bash on the Long Island estate of the extremely wealthy and influential Barry Neubauer and family.
Jack brings int he help of his grandfather, a private eye with who he starts to build a relationship, and a small group of locals to try and prove that Peter was in fact murdered and that there is a major cover-up with a surprising and disturbing sexual twist.
Jack and his cohorts are forced to take extreme measures when the official inquest turns up a confirmation that Peter died either by suicide or accident. While this brings the novel into the area of outlandishness, it is exciting and interesting. I know it left me cheering along as Jack stuck it to those who had caused him and his family (among others) so much harm.
I could feel de Jong's influence a bit on this one as some sections had rambling characters and a feeling of just running on, which is rare for Patterson in his short and concise sentences and chapters. It did not make the book one that I would rather have passed up, but at times, it left me wanting to scream, "All right, already! I get it!"
June 18, 2016
Just. Such. Awful. Crap.
Why did I finish? I'll admit that at first I was drawn in by the lure of handsome young brothers in the Hamptons; one murdered, one seeking justice. But it quickly became entirely ridiculous. Still, I kept telling myself that it couldn't get worse. Or more puerile. Or hackneyed. But it was a bottomless drop. And then that became a kind of fascination. A hideous, grimace-making fascination. Which might be a reason to pick this up. If you have superfluous brain cells to kill.
Why did I finish? I'll admit that at first I was drawn in by the lure of handsome young brothers in the Hamptons; one murdered, one seeking justice. But it quickly became entirely ridiculous. Still, I kept telling myself that it couldn't get worse. Or more puerile. Or hackneyed. But it was a bottomless drop. And then that became a kind of fascination. A hideous, grimace-making fascination. Which might be a reason to pick this up. If you have superfluous brain cells to kill.
July 28, 2021
Good from beginning to end.
The story hooked me from the beginning and I looked forward to each character’s introduction. The story was well developed with interesting characters. There was nothing earth shattering in the story, but it was a crime thriller that had an unusual resolution to the crime.
The story hooked me from the beginning and I looked forward to each character’s introduction. The story was well developed with interesting characters. There was nothing earth shattering in the story, but it was a crime thriller that had an unusual resolution to the crime.
October 26, 2011
Huh!! I wasted almost a week for this book!! I could not switch to other book and at the same time this was not very interesting!!
If u want to waste some time read this book
If u want to waste some time read this book
September 3, 2024
3.75/5 ⭐. Right from the start this book is fast paced and full of action. If you like murder mysteries/legal thrillers then you should read this book.
June 26, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Book Review - The Beach House by James Patterson & Peter De Jonge
The Beach House
I'm going to get right into it, without any skirting around - if you've never read a James Patterson novel, here's a great place to start. I've only read one other book by him, but The Beach House impressed me so much that it gets an ultimate recommendation.
It's not that Patterson's thriller breaks a lot of ground in the suspense/thriller literary genre, in fact opting for a simple storyline touching on themes of money as power and the ease the rich have in covering up their dirty deeds. After his brother is murdered by a rich and powerful family, main character James sets out to get revenge and uncover the truth after the family is able to convince the police that the death was a suicide. It's a fairly straight-forward detective case for most of the novel, until a few twists in the plot push the intensity and mystery higher.
But what stands out as a great achievement, and factors into an extremely pleasurable read, is the voice of James. As he narrates, the reader grows closer and closer to him, almost to the point where we're so associated with James that we are as hard-pressed to uncover the truth as the characters in the story are. Patterson paints a vivid picture of each character, especially the rich family's history that leads to the reader's constant emotional attachment to James and his brother. Effectively moving and comedic at the same time, Patterson's main character gives The Beach House a much more invigorating tale.
And as we work our way into James' revenge, the plot escalates so well that it's a relief when we finally learn how James will uncover what he knows is true. It's not much of a surprise, but the elaborate and believable setup that Patterson stages is suspenseful enough to keep the reader flipping every page until they finally get to the inevitable conclusion.
Patterson does sometimes switch from James' narration to a third-person perspective, though, and it diverts our attention from James enough to be a bit bothersome. Towards the end, we find that the character that we follow in these third-person parts is actually a pretty minor character, adding a bit of frustration to those of us who want to read more of James' thoughts (or was I the only one in love with his personality?)
But that's only a minor quibble. The fact of the matter is, The Beach House is an excellent novel full of intrigue, emotion, and mystery. It may be formulaic, but the perspective from which it's told held my attention so raptly that I couldn't put the book down. And even though the "whodunnit" part of the novel is solved early on, James' solution is much more entertaining. A great book for those of you with an insatiable appetite for crime drama, with a good, if a bit trite, critique on the power of the rich.
Book Review - The Beach House by James Patterson & Peter De Jonge
The Beach House
I'm going to get right into it, without any skirting around - if you've never read a James Patterson novel, here's a great place to start. I've only read one other book by him, but The Beach House impressed me so much that it gets an ultimate recommendation.
It's not that Patterson's thriller breaks a lot of ground in the suspense/thriller literary genre, in fact opting for a simple storyline touching on themes of money as power and the ease the rich have in covering up their dirty deeds. After his brother is murdered by a rich and powerful family, main character James sets out to get revenge and uncover the truth after the family is able to convince the police that the death was a suicide. It's a fairly straight-forward detective case for most of the novel, until a few twists in the plot push the intensity and mystery higher.
But what stands out as a great achievement, and factors into an extremely pleasurable read, is the voice of James. As he narrates, the reader grows closer and closer to him, almost to the point where we're so associated with James that we are as hard-pressed to uncover the truth as the characters in the story are. Patterson paints a vivid picture of each character, especially the rich family's history that leads to the reader's constant emotional attachment to James and his brother. Effectively moving and comedic at the same time, Patterson's main character gives The Beach House a much more invigorating tale.
And as we work our way into James' revenge, the plot escalates so well that it's a relief when we finally learn how James will uncover what he knows is true. It's not much of a surprise, but the elaborate and believable setup that Patterson stages is suspenseful enough to keep the reader flipping every page until they finally get to the inevitable conclusion.
Patterson does sometimes switch from James' narration to a third-person perspective, though, and it diverts our attention from James enough to be a bit bothersome. Towards the end, we find that the character that we follow in these third-person parts is actually a pretty minor character, adding a bit of frustration to those of us who want to read more of James' thoughts (or was I the only one in love with his personality?)
But that's only a minor quibble. The fact of the matter is, The Beach House is an excellent novel full of intrigue, emotion, and mystery. It may be formulaic, but the perspective from which it's told held my attention so raptly that I couldn't put the book down. And even though the "whodunnit" part of the novel is solved early on, James' solution is much more entertaining. A great book for those of you with an insatiable appetite for crime drama, with a good, if a bit trite, critique on the power of the rich.
March 3, 2013
It is after such a long time that I take a book in my hand, so long really. A really terrific narrative...
I like books which can be completed reading within a single sitting, so I give 100% to this story. I can't give a straightforward single reason on why I like this. There are those who like murder mysteries and detective fiction because of the thrilling narrative, and there are those who consider them as third-rate comparing to the 'intellectual writers'( sincerely, I don't know who are they). These people may say, there is no value to popular fiction other than reading and then throwing it.
However, I consider popular fiction especially the current one, really thought-provoking; it is not just a story of revenge of the hero for his brother’s death, rather, the author painstakingly narrates the decay in the society, child abuse, pornography, drug abuse, the illicit relationship between the authorities (including judiciary and police) and the bourgeoisie. These are given not as a casual happening but a characteristic feature of the capitalist society.
The only idea which I had some objection is the way the narrator treated the HIV/ AIDS issue. He could have well given another climax or feature for the antagonist’s characterization instead of saying he spreads HIV virus though it is required for the successful ending of the story. Why I have this opinion is because the society already has a stigmatized view that having a close acquaintance with the patients may result in becoming a patient ourselves. This will be crucial in societies where there is no great knowledge about the disease and often HIV patients are treated as outcastes.
Apart from this social concern, I am completely for the book.
I like books which can be completed reading within a single sitting, so I give 100% to this story. I can't give a straightforward single reason on why I like this. There are those who like murder mysteries and detective fiction because of the thrilling narrative, and there are those who consider them as third-rate comparing to the 'intellectual writers'( sincerely, I don't know who are they). These people may say, there is no value to popular fiction other than reading and then throwing it.
However, I consider popular fiction especially the current one, really thought-provoking; it is not just a story of revenge of the hero for his brother’s death, rather, the author painstakingly narrates the decay in the society, child abuse, pornography, drug abuse, the illicit relationship between the authorities (including judiciary and police) and the bourgeoisie. These are given not as a casual happening but a characteristic feature of the capitalist society.
The only idea which I had some objection is the way the narrator treated the HIV/ AIDS issue. He could have well given another climax or feature for the antagonist’s characterization instead of saying he spreads HIV virus though it is required for the successful ending of the story. Why I have this opinion is because the society already has a stigmatized view that having a close acquaintance with the patients may result in becoming a patient ourselves. This will be crucial in societies where there is no great knowledge about the disease and often HIV patients are treated as outcastes.
Apart from this social concern, I am completely for the book.
August 21, 2013
I can't believe it took me so long to read this book, I started loving to read late in life only about 2 years ago so I am very behind! Anyway I was going to the beach so I thought it appropriate to take this book Beach House with me and I absolutely love James P and murder mystery books. The Mullen family has had a very bad week by the beginning of the book, the mother passed away years ago, and by the first half of the book 2 more family members are gone. Didn't want to give away spoilers! But it is very descriptive, great plot, characters, everything is in its place basically and makes for a great fast read as I read it in 3 days on vacation! I absolutely loved the ending lets just say what goes around comes around. if you have not read it, read it!!! 5* all the way, another great one by one of the best!!!!!
February 1, 2019
Patterson is not necessarily one of my favorite authors, but I decided to give one of his books a go again, as I had nothing else to read in the house.
The story moved along really well up until the last 50 pages or so. The characters are well defined, and you really felt like you were part of this book. The story line is great, and is action packed.
For me, if there are small chapters, I feel like I am moving along quicker. With over 90 chapters in this book, that may be what made us feel like nonstop action. It took me a few days to pick the book back up as my interest was lost....but at least i finished it.
If you are a Patterson fan, this is a great book for you! However, this just was not the book for me.
The story moved along really well up until the last 50 pages or so. The characters are well defined, and you really felt like you were part of this book. The story line is great, and is action packed.
For me, if there are small chapters, I feel like I am moving along quicker. With over 90 chapters in this book, that may be what made us feel like nonstop action. It took me a few days to pick the book back up as my interest was lost....but at least i finished it.
If you are a Patterson fan, this is a great book for you! However, this just was not the book for me.
May 14, 2018
This was riveting as an audio "read"!!!
Pulled this from the "beach reads" book display at my library, thinking it might be a summer fling Patterson. I was wrong - and, I'm glad I was wrong! I love the thrillers!
This is an older Patterson; however, the style is the same. Rich families on Montauk getting away with murder, sadistic pleasures among the rich and famous, and all at the expense of a young boy make this story...that is until the brother gets revenge after finishing law school...using means that may not ever allow him to practice law again. In the court of public opinion, unjustified deaths are reconciled and the rich guys are found guilty as sin.
Pulled this from the "beach reads" book display at my library, thinking it might be a summer fling Patterson. I was wrong - and, I'm glad I was wrong! I love the thrillers!
This is an older Patterson; however, the style is the same. Rich families on Montauk getting away with murder, sadistic pleasures among the rich and famous, and all at the expense of a young boy make this story...that is until the brother gets revenge after finishing law school...using means that may not ever allow him to practice law again. In the court of public opinion, unjustified deaths are reconciled and the rich guys are found guilty as sin.
April 7, 2022
super interesting and a perfect ending for once. love it when i finish a book and im actually happy. and the short chapters cause for much celebration! thanks brady🤞🏼
March 1, 2021
The book was a fantastic read about a death, a cover up, and vigilante justice. Peter was the darling of the townies in the Hamptons and also of the super wealthy summer time residents. Peter was murdered, but the state said it was death by drowning. Peter's brother, Jack, a brilliant law student and later a lawyer, goes about to prove that Peter was murdered. How Jack makes his case is not standard jurisprudence or even legaI, but the storyline is strong enough to carry the action. You will want to know the whole truth and nothing but the truth as this mystery unfolds.
The author's writing mechanics were good. I do not think the book was the author's best book, but it was certainly good. I started reading it yesterday, took time to sleep, and finished it today.
I read this book for free on Open Library. Readers, I urge you to make use of this service.
Thank you, Mr. Patterson, for a good read.
The author's writing mechanics were good. I do not think the book was the author's best book, but it was certainly good. I started reading it yesterday, took time to sleep, and finished it today.
I read this book for free on Open Library. Readers, I urge you to make use of this service.
Thank you, Mr. Patterson, for a good read.
April 29, 2023
2 stars is generous. this book could've been good, but instead it was bad. a common issue i have with books is that they are too slow. that was not the case with this book, it was simply badly written and felt like they were trying to piece together 4 different books and just built a mess of a book. it was confusing and the dark subject matter that i had no idea was even involved, was kinda just thrown in your face like its a joke. Jack is supposed to be funny and likeable, but i thought he was a mess. Him and his whole friend group behave like 30 yr old children and his grandpas a pervert. don't recommend.
November 23, 2022
Another one of those stories that feels like it's more of the author whose name is at the bottom of the book than the author whose name is at the top of the book.
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