#2 Book Review: I, Alex Cross - James Patterson

#2 James Patterson's Alex Cross Series: Another Stunner

ⓒ Lee Robert Bouzida, 2018

James Patterson has become probably the biggest thriller writer of the past twenty plus years (Lee Child might have something to say about it, but sales win, sorry Jack Reacher) and his style has become almost a staple for writing a fast-paced crime novel.

It works, undoubtably. Short chapters, crossed story lines both personal and business, and a lead character so familiar and relatable our hearts often bleed. 

When I first got back into reading in my teenage years, JP, and in particular Alex Cross, came to be a huge part of that. Such easy, yet brilliant reads. That's why I chose to review one of Patterson's Cross series first. 

Whilst the title may not seem clear throughout, this is certainly full of the staple Patterson diet. A very delicious appetiser of brutal murder, followed by the personal link to Alex Cross' life. A tragedy to arrange even the coolest of heads, Dr Cross immediately takes to the case. 

What unfolds is a constant mystery that keeps you guessing and changing your mind about 'whodunnit?' throughout, right until the last. I'll try and not give away too many plot points, by the way, but there's some staples. 

Prostitution for the rich and powerful. Terrified young girls trafficked and brutally murdered. All the while Cross faces a family crisis from inside his own four walls, as the case becomes even bigger the further he dives in. 

The ending will shock.

Throughout, however, Patterson constantly entertains at pace, and changes focus cinematically. There's no one point perspective here. 

What I love about a REALLY good thriller is that you are kept alongside the lead character's story, with little more knowledge than him throughout. The positive of that is unlike Alex, you're not being shot at. You most likely are in bed with a cuppa. 

The only criticisms that come through JP's novels is often his writing of women (as maddeningly found throughout literature) is objectifying. But it could be argued that this be the doing of the characters, and most likely not Patterson's own feelings. However, it does have to be rung up. Again.

Other than that, and the relatively mundane title, this is a really staple diet of Patterson's writing, and an important chapter in Alex Cross' story. 

I already can't wait to pick up another instalment. 

LB x

Do you have any thoughts on this book, or it's subsequent review? Let me know what you think in the comment section! Subscribe for more reviews.

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