Audible Book Review: The Summer House by James Patterson, Brendan DuBois

I was totally drawn in by this crime/police procedural!

The Summer House
By: James Patterson, Brendan DuBois
Narrated by: Ari Fliakos

Length: 10 hrs and 19 mins
Release date: 06-08-20
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Genre: Crime Thriller, Military, Police Procedural, Suspense
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.75; Narration 5.0.

Publisher's summary
When seven murder victims are found in a small town, the homicide investigation shakes a small-town sheriff to her core in James Patterson's tense thriller.
Once a luxurious Southern getaway on a rustic lake, then reduced to a dilapidated crash pad, the Summer House is now the grisly scene of a nighttime mass murder. Eyewitnesses point to four Army Rangers - known as the Night Ninjas - recently returned from Afghanistan.
To ensure that justice is done, the Army sends Major Jeremiah Cook, a veteran and former NYPD cop, to investigate. But the major and his elite team arrive in sweltering Georgia with no idea their grim jobs will be made exponentially more challenging by local law enforcement, who resists the Army's intrusion and stonewall them at every turn.
As Cook and his squad struggle to uncover the truth behind the condemning evidence, the pieces just won't fit - and forces are rallying to make certain damning secrets die alongside the victims in the murder house. With his own people in the cross-hairs, Cook takes a desperate gamble to find answers - even if it means returning to a hell of his own worst nightmares....
©2020 James Patterson and Brendan DuBois (P)2020 Hachette Audio

Review:
A horrendous mass murder occurred in a rundown country house known as the Summer House located in a small town in Georgia. Witnesses direct the local sheriff, Emma Williams, to four Army Rangers who are an elite team known as the Night Ninjas. As soon as Army members are identified, a unique military investigative team is called in to insure justice – to the men and to the community – wherever the facts lead.

Major Jeremiah Cook, a wounded veteran and former NYPD cop, is assigned with his five diverse teammates including a JAG lawyer, an Asian psychologist, a female CID officer, and a Hispanic investigator. Although the facts seem to be packaged and handed to them, the team is quick to see inconsistencies and misdirection. They learn that the four accused were recently returned from Afghanistan after being accused of a similar crime. As the investigation digs deeper and witnesses and evidence begin to disappear, Cook determines he needs to check into the Afghanistan event. He sets off to the place he said he would never return to.

I was immediately drawn to the story and quickly came to like the well-developed investigative team. I was horrified by the corruption that fills the story and the bigotry was obvious too. I feel bad the southerners were stereotyped with these elements, but it fit the story. The story is steady suspense with a few very tense moments.

I do like the direct tone and shorter chapters used by Patterson. I also liked the POV mix with part told from Cook’s first person and the other told third person. The full package makes this a very worthwhile read/listen and reminds me why I used to regularly read Patterson. I plan to get more. I recommend this to fans of good police procedure and crime fiction.

Audio Notes: Ari Fliakos does a wonderful job with the narration. He provides distinct voices and spot on energy. I thought the audio performance enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 12/21/2020 Audible Daily Deal $3.95. This qualifies for 2023TBR, 2023Audiobook and my Season goals.

Audible Book Review: 10th Anniversary: The Women's Murder Club by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

I was quickly re-engaged after not listening to a book in this series for several years.

10th Anniversary: The Women's Murder Club

Written by: James Patterson, Maxine Paetro

Narrated by: Carolyn McCormick

Length: 7 hrs and 35 mins 

Series: Women's Murder Club, Book 10

Release Date:05-02-11

Publisher: Hachette Audio

Genre: Mystery, Crime Thriller

My Rating 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
For every secret....
Detective Lindsay Boxer's long-awaited wedding celebration becomes a distant memory when she is called to investigate a horrendous crime: a badly injured teenage girl is left for dead, and her newborn baby is nowhere to be found. Lindsay discovers that not only is there no trace of the criminals - but that the victim may be keeping secrets as well.
For every lie....
At the same time, Assistant District Attorney Yuki Castellano is prosecuting the biggest case of her life - a woman who has been accused of murdering her husband in front of her two young children. Yuki's career rests on a guilty verdict, so when Lindsay finds evidence that could save the defendant, she is forced to choose. Should she trust her best friend or follow her instinct?
There's a different way to die....
Lindsay's every move is watched by her new boss, Lieutenant Jackson Brady, and when the pressure to find the baby begins interfering with her new marriage to Joe, she wonders if she'll ever be able to start a family.
With James Patterson's white-hot speed and unquenchable action, 10th Anniversary is the most deliciously chilling Women's Murder Club book ever.
Crack another case with the Women's Murder Club.
©2011 James Patterson, Maxine Paetro (P)2011 Hachette

Review:
This installment covers three separate subplots. Lindsey is assigned to try to find the missing baby of a mixed-up, rebellious fifteen year old girl. Lindsey doesn’t have time for the teen’s careless attitude and changing story if she wants to find the baby alive.

Meanwhile Yuki is facing another major criminal case as she tries to prove a well-respected doctor of murdering her openly, philandering husband. All the evidence seems to be in order until the defense attorney pulls Lindsey into a meeting with the accused who insists on her innocence. There are a few investigative details to raise reasonable doubt in Lindsey’s mind and have her looking at the case in spite of her new boss’s orders to leave it alone.

The third story plot involves Cindy as she pushes to keep on top of the crime beat while another journalist and cut backs threaten her position. Cindy has stumbled upon a story of a woman who has awakened after losing a night of memory. Then two more women come to the hospital with similar stories. It appears the women have been snatched from their lives, drugged, raped, and then dumped back near their homes or nearby alleyways. Cindy has followed the one clue to make inquiries for a particular marked taxi-cab. Late and caught in the rain a few days later she doesn’t think of the danger when she calls that cab company for help.

It has been a couple of years since I last read or listened to a book in this series. This was like coming back to old friends. There was an easier tone in this story than some of the more suspenseful ones but it was good. I liked the three different plotlines that kept interest and connection between the women. I won’t let so much time pass before listening to the next in line as I enjoyed the easy camaraderie of the ladies and their love interests as well as the mysteries that were pursued.

Audio Notes: The narration by Carolyn McCormick was familiar, comfortable and engaging. I enjoying listening to this series on audio as the books flow well and the characters are easy to distinguish.

I selected this from my Audible Library as my TBR book for October.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: The Christmas Wedding

This is an easy read with lots of Christmas cheer and love, with the fun of a little mystery.

The Christmas Wedding

by James Patterson and Richard DiLallo

• Hardcover: 288 pages
• Publisher: Little, Brown and Company (October 17, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 031609739X
• ISBN-13: 978-0316097390

     Genre: Fiction
     My Rating:  4.5 of 5.0

Product Description:
The tree is decorated, the cookies are baked, and the packages are wrapped, but the biggest celebration this Christmas is Gaby Summerhill's wedding. Since her husband died three years ago, Gaby's four children have drifted apart, each consumed by the turbulence of their own lives. They haven't celebrated Christmas together since their father's death, but when Gaby announces that she's getting married--and that the groom will remain a secret until the wedding day--she may finally be able to bring them home for the holidays.

But the wedding isn't Gaby's only surprise--she has one more gift for her children, and it could change all their lives forever. With deeply affecting characters and the emotional twists of a James Patterson thriller, The Christmas Wedding is a fresh look at family and the magic of the season.

Review: This is an absolutely delightful read!

I know we usually think of James Patterson as an author of mystery/thrillers.  This story may not be exactly a thriller but it does have a mystery. And it has warm family and friend relationships.

Gaby is an exuberant widow with four adult children. Her husband died three years ago and the family hasn’t celebrated Christmas together since his death.  Gaby communicates to her children through video and the opening video tells everyone that they must come home to Vermont to celebrate not only Christmas but a wedding - Gaby’s wedding! The kink is she doesn’t identify the groom!

The chapters reveal each of the children, their spouses and family circumstances and struggles - highs and lows.  You get a sense that each child has inherited some of Gaby’s joie de vivre, strength and generosity.

Through subsequent videos to the children the reader also learns of the three main candidates for the position of the groom. There is Tom, the handsome former hockey player who grew up with Gaby; the quiet yet impassioned local Rabbi, Jacob; and Gaby’s brother-in-law, (her husband’s younger brother), Marty, who has always had a crush on Gaby.  All of the men work with Gaby and her best friend to serve breakfast to the poor each morning.

As usual the book has the short chapters that I really like in Patterson’s books. The characters are developed sufficiently so that you can relate to some or be angry at others.  The mystery is just plain fun. The love between mother and children is warm and cozy and the warmth extends to the friends and the groom. I found this to be a quick and delightful read. If you are looking for a quick “feel good” family story, this fits the bill!

Thank you to Little Brown and Company for providing this book for review.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the book copy:
1. We've visited this author's website before so I will give you a choice: visit the author's website and tell me something of interest you found there; OR share a Christmas story that you recommend! One or the other is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3.  For two entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

* Open to the US & Canada only.

* No PO boxes, please.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on November 4, 2011.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on November 5. 
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: Step on A Crack by James Patterson

I really like this new detective character.
Step on a Crack [STEP ON A CRACK 5D] by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge.

• Audio CD
• Publisher: Hachette Audio; Abridged edition (June 3, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1600242790
• ISBN-13: 978-1600242793

Print Pages:  400
Genre: Detective Thriller
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

First there was Alex Cross.
Then there was the Women's Murder Club.
Now meet Detective Michael Bennett, NYPD.
Detective Michael Bennett is about to face the greatest challenge of his career. After the death of a beloved former first lady, the most powerful people in the world gather in New York for her funeral. Then the inconceivable occurs. Billionaires, politicians, and superstars of every kind are suddenly trapped within one man's brilliant and ruthless scenario.

Ten adopted kids.
Bennett–father of ten–is pulled into the fray but is then hit with devastating news: his wife is battling a terrible disease. As New York descends into chaos, he faces the prospect of losing the great love of his life and having to raise his children alone.

The crime of the century to solve.
Day after day, Bennett confronts the most ruthless man he has ever encountered, a man who kills without hesitation. As the entire world watches, Bennett has to find a way out–or face responsibility for the greatest debacle in history.

Review: This is another solid Patterson audiobook.
Michael Bennett is an Irishman Detective. In this story his wife Maeve is dying of cancer so there is great emotional pull for the family of ten adopted children who have all been brought together by the great warmth, love and strength of their laughing and joy-filled Irish mother.  Now they are facing losing her at Christmas time.  It is hard enough that the kids have to deal with a father who works many hours hunting down criminals but now they have to learn to cooperate with a new nanny as well.

The first death that occurs as this story opens is the supposedly accidental death of the President’s wife from peanut allergies. The reader knows right away that it is no accident as we get the view and thought process of the cold-blooded conspirator.  Then at the lavish state funeral at St. Patrick's Cathedral there is an attack and thirty or so rich and famous attendees are taken hostage.  Mike is called in to negotiate with the hostage takers.  He has to control his own anger as he juggles the fine line of cooperating to get what the hostage takers want so they will release the hostages safely and alternately planning ways to rescue them from the killers. Because killers they do become.  Unfortunately it seems that the killers are always one step ahead of the police.  When the demanded ransom monies are finally gathered a grand escape chase begins.

I had somewhat guessed the occupation of the hostage takers although not quite as there was a twist there. Also I had the master mind behind the plan down to one of two characters but was leaning to the wrong one. I enjoyed the mystery and I also enjoyed the pathos of the family situation even though there was sadness with Maeve’s illness. I thought the narration was an asset with good voice nuances adding warmth or cold to the personalities.  I look forward to reading more in the Michael Bennett series....especially since I seemed to have gotten a bit burned out on Alex Cross.

xxx

This was an Audio book I picked up and has been selected as a win choice by Ricki. I am confident it will be enjoyed!

Audio Book Review and Giveaway: Don't Blink by James Patterson and Howard Roughan

Another entertaining mystery from James Patterson and co-author, Howard Roughan.
Don't Blink by James Patterson and Howard Roughan

• Audio CD
• Publisher: Hachette Audio; Unabridged edition (September 27, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1607882345
• ISBN-13: 978-1607882343

     Genre: Mystery Thriller
     My Rating:  3.75

Product Description
New York's Lombardo's Steak House is famous for three reasons--the menu, the clientele, and now, the gruesome murder of an infamous mob lawyer. Effortlessly, the assassin slips through the police's fingers, and his absence sparks a blaze of accusations about who ordered the hit.

Seated at a nearby table, reporter Nick Daniels is conducting a once-in-a-lifetime interview with a legendary baseball bad-boy. Shocked and shaken, he doesn't realize that he's accidentally captured a key piece of evidence. Ensnared in the city's most sensational crime in years, Nick investigates for a story of his own. Back off--or die--is the clear message as he closes in on the facts. Heedless, and perhaps in love, Nick endures humiliation, threats, violence, and worse in a thriller that overturns every expectation and finishes with the kind of flourish only James Patterson knows.

Review: This is a humorous and action packed mystery thriller.

The book jumps into action from the get go, introducing the likable reporter hero, Nick Daniels. You meet Nick as he races away from African gorillas shooting at the American humanitarian doctor who Nick is interviewing. After surviving his tuck and roll escape, Nick is called home to New York for a once in a lifetime interview with a baseball legend.

Nick and his hermit interview subject are at the next table during the gruesome attack and murder of a mob lawyer. Now Nick is a key witness caught in the middle of the police investigation. The police are quick to pick their suspect and aren’t interested in Nick’s “frame-up” theories.  As Nick investigates on his own he gets caught between two different mob families; he is beaten and threatened by known and unknown persons.  Add a third mob family and some corrupt officials to make for more suspense.

Meanwhile, Nick is in love with his editor boss and that adds another angle to the story.  It does present a problem that Courtney is already engaged to another man - a very wealthy and powerful man. But Nick is convinced that the fiancé is not faithful and Nick is determined to convince her to end the engagement.

The narrator did a fine job capturing Nick’s somewhat irreverent attitude even if the mob guys sound rather alike. Nick’s character also has a rather corny sense of humor that makes this fun. For example, as Nick is in a high speed chase with a mob boss and an enforcer, he describes the experience saying roughly: “We were tossed back and forth in the backseat like tossed salad.”

Some of the scenes, and Nick’s nine lives surviving threats, are a bit unbelievable but they make for a good story.  I am actually glad that not all of Patterson’s books stick with a set format, as I enjoy the variety.  I found this audio book to be fast paced and good entertainment.  My husband, who doesn’t usually like to listen to audio books, enjoyed this and thought it would make a good movie. He is even willing to listen to this a second time on our cross country drive. This is not a literary classic but if you like crime action stories, you should like this for its twisting mystery, humor, touch of romance and lots of action.

THANKS TO HACHETTE FOR PROVIDING THREE AUDIO CD BOOKS FOR GIVEAWAY.
TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY:

1. Comment on either a) OR b) to enter; good for TWO entries. Please leave your email!

a) Watch the Video or Listen to an Excerpt and leave a comment about that; OR
b) Visit the Author Website and tell me something you found there of interest.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For three entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

4. For two more entries, leave a meaningful comment about this review.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Eight total entries possible.) MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL!

THERE WILL BE THREE WINNERS!

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.

* Limit one win per household.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on November 21, 2010.
The winners will be randomly selected from all entries.

Giveaway - Three Copies The Postcard Killers Audio Book by James Patterson and Liza Marklund

A fast paced thriller.

The Postcard Killers by James Patterson and Liza Marklund

Read by Katherine Kellgren, Eric Singer and Reg Rogersy

 

Start Reading Online

Watch the Video or listen to an excerpt. 

THANKS TO HACHETTE FOR PROVIDING THREE AUDIO CD BOOKS FOR GIVEAWAY.
TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY:

1. I'll give you a choice for the entry Comment: you can do any ONE or all if you wish -comment on any single a) - d) = ONE entry; comment on any one of a) - c) PLUS comment on d) = TWO entries.

a) Listen to an Excerpt  and leave a comment about that; OR
b) Visit Patterson's website and tell me something you found there of interest. OR
c) Check out information on author Liza Markland and tell me something about her. 
d) Tell me an artwork you think the killers might imitate for their photo art. ( I know it's macabre but I thought it would be interesting to see if anyone would be brave to answer this one.)

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For another entry, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

4. For two extra entries comment on my review.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Six total entries possible.) MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL!
 

THERE WILL BE THREE WINNERS!

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on October 15, 2010. The winners will be randomly selected from all entries.

Review: The Postcard Killers by Paterson and Marklund

Scenic Postcards announce the killers in the community but the gruesome murders seem to be unstoppable.
The Postcard Killers by James Patterson and Liza Marklund

• Audio CD
• Publisher: Hachette Audio; Unabridged edition (August 16, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1607883821
• ISBN-13: 978-1607883821

Genre: Crime Thriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Product Description
NYPD detective Jack Kanon is on a tour of Europe's most gorgeous cities. But the sights aren't what draw him--he sees each museum, each cathedral, and each restaurant through a killer's eyes.

Kanon's daughter, Kimmy, and her boyfriend were murdered while on vacation in Rome. Since then, young couples in Paris, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, and Stockholm have become victims of the same sadistic killers. Now Kanon teams up with the Swedish reporter, Dessie Larsson. Every killing is preceded by a postcard to the local newspaper--and Kanon and Larsson think they know where the next victims will be. With relentless logic and unstoppable action, THE POSTCARD KILLERS may be James Patterson's most vivid and compelling thriller yet. 

Review: This was a really good audio mystery with grim, scarey villains, hapless guardia, a drunken NY detective and a pensive, clever reporter. I don't think the first part of the "product description" is accurate until halfway through the book but when Dessie, not Jacob, puts together the connection between the postcards and the locations. 

The serial murders are gruesome and staged by the twisted killers who are smart, creative, and precise so that they leave no evidence. Detective Jacob Kanon is determined to hunt them down since they killed his own daughter. He has good instincts but would do a better job investigating and analyzing the few clues that exist if he could keep his head out of the bottle.  He is pretty much of a drunk when he first meets Dessie and it is convenient that he manages to clean up pretty fast  ... at least his drinking if not his rumpled, appearance.

Dessie became the real investigative force using her journalistic skills as well as basic common sense to uncover clues piece by piece. She is the person to study the postcards and crime scene photos - the ones sent by the killers - till she sees a pattern connected to famous art works in each city. She is an interesting character with some surprisingly helpful family members.

I felt bad for the portrayal of the Stockholm Guardia (police) as petty and inept. Since the co-author is a Swedish crime writer I hope this isn’t an accurate representation.  There seemed to be no thought to looking for the trail of stolen goods and credit cards, nor checking the backgrounds of the suspects like Jacob did.

I liked the narration done in alternating voices of male and female. Although there were a few slow areas, for the most part the story moved with good intensity.  The climax was very intense and heightened by audio sounds of cars honking, people knocking on windows and gun shots. The problem was I was driving and I had to pause the disc due to the tension created which was distracting in traffic!

If you look with a critical eye you could probably find lots of weak and contrived plot and character issues in this story:  the ineffective police, the quick sobering of Jacob, a few characters (other reporters) uselessly cluttering the story without really getting their comeuppance, and the convenient help from Dessie’s family to catch the killers before they cross the border.  But I was listening for entertainment and not for great literary value or deep crime procedures. I found I could easily follow along and catch the clues while driving and I enjoyed the audio, flaws and all.

 xxx

Thank you to Anna at Hachette for the opportunity to listen to this audio book and for providing three copies for Giveaway.

If you want to listen to this one yourself, enter the Giveaway for a chance to win!

Giveaway - Three Copies of Audio Book Private by James Patterson

Once again a big THANK YOU to Hachette and Anna for providing the Audio CDs for this giveaway.
Private by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the AUDIO CD:

1. I'll give you a choice for the entry Comment: you can do any ONE or all if you wish - it will only count as ONE entry.

a) Check out the Author's Website and tell me something you found interesting there;  OR
b) Watch the trailer or listen to an excerpt and leave a comment about that; OR
c) Tell me who is your favorite Private Investigator character.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For another entry, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

4. For one more entry, comment on my review.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.) MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL!

THERE WILL BE THREE WINNERS!

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on August 18, 2010. The winners will be randomly selected from all entries.

Review - Private (Audio CD) by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

Three mysteries at once keep this moving along at a very fast clip.
Private by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

• Audio CD
• Publisher: Hachette Audio; Unabridged edition (February 22, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1607886901
• ISBN-13: 978-1607886907

Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Product Description
The police can't help you

Former CIA agent Jack Morgan runs Private, a renowned investigation company with branches around the globe. It is where you go when you need maximum force and maximum discretion. The secrets of the most influential men and women on the planet come to Jack daily--and his staff of investigators uses the world's most advanced forensic tools to make and break their cases.

The press will destroy you

Jack is already deep into the investigation of a multi-million dollar NFL gambling scandal and the unsolved slayings of 18 schoolgirls when he learns of a horrific murder close to home: his best friend's wife, Jack's former lover, has been killed. It nearly pushes him over the edge. Instead, Jack pushes back and devotes all of Private's resources to tracking down her killer.

Only one place to turn: Private

But Jack doesn't have to play by the rules. As he closes in on the killer and chooses between revenge and justice, Morgan has to navigate a workplace love affair that threatens to blow the roof off his plans. With a plot that moves at death-defying speeds, Private is James Patterson sleekest, most exciting thriller ever. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Review:  This is fast paced and entertaining.  I really enjoyed the three mysteries winding in and out amidst some personal storylines.

Jack Morgan, the intense head of Private, is focused on his work. Jack isn’t one to reflect on or express his emotions and although he has a personal relationship it seems something of convenience instead of commitment.  There is an interesting line of background history woven into the story.that explains Jack's character.  We learn about Jack’s relationship with his criminal father, his jealous twin brother, his suppressed memories from the war and his rather shallow love affair.

Each Private team member has their own skills and quirks: The tough guy, short tempered interrogator, the geeky computer guy, the driven and beautiful profiler and others. Breaking rules and doing things not quite by the book may work for Private’s team, but at least one hot temper gets them into a major scuffle with mob thugs - not a good idea. Another comes close to making key evidence inadmissible and risking law suits for brutality and wrongful arrest.  The multi-million dollar lab and equipment go a long way to helping solve these cases more easily than normal police procedures would.  I thought the three mysteries each had interesting elements and some good twists even if they were not completely unique.

The narrator did a good job with voice changes and keeping the pace moving. I also liked that this was a quick audio book with only 6 discs instead of 18. I recommend this as a quick, easy read for mystery fans.

Thank you to Hachette for providing the audio book for review and giveaway of three copies.

Three Winners of The 9th Judgment Audio Book!

CONGRATULATIONS

to three winners of The 9th Judgment by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

and



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Thank you everyone who entered.

I will send the form to the winners to complete.

Giveaway - Three Audio Books of The 9th Judgment by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

Another THANK YOU to Hachette and Anna for providing the Audio CDs for this giveaway.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the AUDIO CD:

1. I'll give you a choice for the entry Comment: you can do any ONE or all if you wish - it will only count as ONE entry.

a) Check out the Author's Website and tell me something you found interesting there;
b) You can comment on my Review; OR
c) You can tell me what is your favorite Patterson book.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For another entry, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Three total entries possible.) MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL!

THERE WILL BE THREE WINNERS!

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on July 14, 2010. The winners will be randomly selected from all entries.

Review - The 9th Judgment by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

Title: The 9th Judgment
Author: James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

• Audio CD
• Publisher: Hachette Audio; Abridged edition (April 26, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1607881772
• ISBN-13: 978-1607881773

Author web site.

Rating: 4.0 

Product Description
During an intimate dinner party, a cat burglar breaks into the home of A-list actor Marcus Dowling. When his wife walks in on the thief, the situation quickly teeters out of control, leaving an empty safe and a lifeless body.

The same night, a woman and her infant child are ruthlessly gunned down in an abandoned garage. The killer hasn't left a shred of evidence, except for a foreboding and cryptic message: WCF, the letters written in blood-red letters.

With two elusive criminals on the loose, Detective Lindsay Boxer calls on the Women's Murder Club to help her stop them before they continue their spree. But before they can break either case, the Lipstick Killer changes his act and demands a ransom--not for a single victim, but for all of San Francisco. Lindsay puts her own life on the line--but will it be enough to save the city from this deranged killer?

(This description applies to the Audio Cd Version.)

Review: This is an entertaining battle against a horrendous crime. There are a few controversial issues and a few loose ends but I found this abridged version to be a reasonably satisfying audio book.

The “Hello Kitty” cat burglaries are described from the view of the cat burglar herself who provides enough detail to give a sense of adrenaline and tension.  What bothers the burglar, Sara, is that she is falsely accused of murder at one of the jobs.  There is no evidence to link the crimes to her but she doesn’t want the murderer to get away with it.  The burglar is actually presented as a likeable character.  She does slip up on a later job and that part of the police hunt is left incomplete. The police have evidence but there is never an arrest or an explanation why they don’t tie the evidence to a perpetrator so that part of the story seems abandoned in this audio version.

The Lipstick Killer, on the other hand, is a despicable monster. He kills mothers and their small children in cold blood. As awful as this is I don’t feel it was exploitation but rather a story of a twisted killer.  This psycho uses Lindsay in a humiliating, not to mention life-threatening, way in trying to get a ransom delivered. The crime spree comes to a head more by accident than hard detective work.

I know some readers were offended and refused to read the book because the murders included the innocent babies.  There might be other readers who get upset by the love affair between the married Sara and her married female friend. In the audio book there is clearly a relationship but there are no explicit details.

I noted the Product Description for the book format referred to a love conflict between Detective Lindsay and her partner Rich Conklin.  Frankly, I am glad that the abridged audio does not include this as I would have really disliked it considering that Lindsay is living with her fiancé, Joe and Rich is in a relationship with Cindy, another member of the Women’s Murder Club.  So perhaps in this instance the abridged audio is safer than reading the full book or listening to the unabridged audio.

Review and Giveaway - Three Copies of ALEX CROSS'S TRIAL

Title: ALEX CROSS'S TRIAL

Author: James Patterson, Richard Dilallo

• Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing; Reprint edition (April 6, 2010)
• ISBN-10: 0446561800
• ISBN-13: 978-0446561808

Rating: 5.0

Description from Author's site:
Alex Cross tells the incredible story—passed down through the generations—of an ancestor's courageous fight for freedom.

SEPARATED BY TIME
From his grandmother, Alex Cross heard the story of his great-uncle Abraham and his struggles for survival in the era of the Ku Klux Klan. Now, Alex passes the family tale along to his own children in a book he's written—a novel called Trial.

CONNECTED BY BLOOD
A lawyer in early-1900s Washington, D.C., Ben Corbett fights against oppression and racism—and risks his family and his life in the process. When President Theodore Roosevelt asks Ben to return to his hometown to investigate rumors of the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan there, he cannot refuse.

UNITED BY BRAVERY
In Eudora, Mississippi, Ben meets the wise Abraham Cross and his beautiful daughter, Moody. With their help, Ben discovers that lynchings have become commonplace. Ben vows to break the reign of terror—but the truth of who is really behind it may break his heart. Written in the fearless voice of Detective Alex Cross, ALEX CROSS'S TRIAL is a gripping story of murder, love, and unparalleled bravery.

REVIEW: This was an awesome story depicting Ku Klux Klan brutality, racial hatred and the atmosphere of fear that reigned in southern communities in the early 1900s. 

Do not be misled by the average rating at Amazon. Apparently a lot of Alex Cross fans were outraged that the book was not about Alex Cross but used his name in the title.  I agree that the title “Alex Cross’s” Trial was strange, but the book description indicates that it is not an Alex Cross mystery. Rather it is presented as a book written by Alex Cross.

Ben Corbitt is sent by Presidential order to investigate the truth of lynching activities in his home town of Eudora, Mississippi.  Ben is a sensitive Washington, D.C. lawyer who has bypassed legal fame and fortune to devote himself to helping the poor and oppressed. There is an interesting side story dealing with Ben’s martial trouble as his wife objects to his failure to seek monetary success instead of the path he has chosen. But duty calls and Ben heads off not realizing the terror he will face.

Abraham Cross has been directed to assist Ben and he shows Ben around the “Quarters” where the blacks live in dilapidated shacks. Then Abraham takes him to the stately homes of the wealthy whites with the nearby lynching trees that are set up for “entertainment” during the brutal punishment and murders. Abraham’s young granddaughter, Moody, is stubborn, resentful and belligerent.  These three characters exhibit extreme bravery facing a hostile community.

Ben knew he would not have a warm welcome from his estranged father.  Unfortunately, Ben  slowly discovers that he may not be able to trust any of his old childhood friends as he finds them
deceiving him and in cahoots with the very men who threaten to kill the “upstart” blacks and Ben.

Several incidents of beatings and murder go unheeded. Finally three white men are arrested and charged with murder when they are caught red handed during an attack against Abraham and his family in his own home.  I was distressed by the complete injustices during the ensuing trial and not real thrilled with the Presidential response. On the other hand, it all fit with the times and the story.

I was fascinated and horrified by this descriptive, up close and personal, account of beatings and lynchings. The story gives insight into possible fears of the white men and women that resulted in their horrible treatment of black people during this turbulent time. It opened my eyes and made me think more about the injustices suffered by the blacks and the white people who were willing to try to help them. "Gripping" is an apt description for this story.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY - THREE WINNERS:

1.a) Tell me if you know of another book that you would recommend that depicts these racial struggles. Or
b) Check out the video of the author on this book and comment on it.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For another entry, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Three total entries possible.)  MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL!

THERE WILL BE THREE WINNERS!

THANK YOU AGAIN TO HACHETTE AND VALERIE for providing the book for me to read and providing the books for Giveaway!

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons
* This contest will close Midnight (Central) on June 11, 2010. The winners will be randomly selected from all entries.

Review and Giveaway - The 8th Confession by James Patterson

The 8th Confession (The Women's Murder Club)

Author: James Patterson, Maxine Paetro
• Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing; 1 edition (February 23, 2010)
• ISBN-10: 0446561339
• ISBN-13: 978-0446561334

Rating: 4.0

Description from Author's site:
It's the only Murder Club episode this year, and Lindsay, Cindy, Yuki, and Claire are overwhelmed. A killer picks off San Francisco's super-rich one by one–without a leaving so much as shred of evidence behind. And a street preacher and patron saint to the homeless is brutally beaten and left to die. What secrets lurk behind his mantle of holiness? Meanwhile, danger strikes close to home when an unexpected romance threatens to tear the girls apart. In the 8th Women's Murder Club, the stakes are high, but the truth is shrouded. Who will confess?

REVIEW: I enjoyed this fast pace addition to the Women’s Murder Club series.  There is a lot of action and a lot going on with the characters.

This eighth book in the series starts off with a bang - in the nature of a bus explosion. It all gets tied in later. Lindsay, the tough San Francisco homicide detective, is busy searching for clues to find an elusive killer of the rich and famous. Cindy, the reporter, is like a dog with a bone as she takes up the cry to investigate the brutal killing of a homeless man whose murder would otherwise fall through the cracks. Yuki, the passionate District Attorney, is busy trying to convict a killer in court and save her job in while coping with lots of emotional stress. Claire, the medical examiner, is not as out front in this book but she is still a source of support and strength for Lindsay and the other women.

There are emotional stories intertwined with the four women as the two crimes are being solved. Yuki becomes romantically involved only to discover a major impediment to her relationship. Cindy also becomes involved (not sure how romantic the relationship is) but her lover has ties to Lindsay that make this a source of friction that has to be resolved.  Lindsay herself has to come to terms with some of her emotional walls.

The book moves at a good clip, bouncing in quick chapters (yes - I really do like short chapters!) from criminal elements to emotional scenes.  I definitely liked this book better than book #7 which I found to be disjointed and not satisfying at the end. The 8th confession kept my attention so I was eager to find out what would happen. I found it to be a solid and satisfactory contribution to the series.

If you are not familiar with the series I would recommend starting at the beginning so you have the full background and nuances of the relationships between the characters.  I have to say too that I do appreciate reading a cop/crime series with minimal bad language.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the Book:

1.a) If you are familiar with this series, tell me who is your favorite character and briefly why? Or
b) Check out the Author's Website and tell me something about the Women's Murder Club series or the characters that you learn there.OR
c) Check out the video interview on The James Patterson Community and comment on that.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For another entry, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Three total entries possible.)  MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL!

THERE WILL BE THREE WINNERS!

THANK YOU AGAIN TO HACHETTE AND VALERIE for providing the book for me to read and providing the books for Giveaway!

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons
* This contest will close Midnight (Central) on May 12, 2010. The winners will be randomly selected from all entries.

Who Wants to Read Along ??

I noticed several other book bloggers are reading 8th Confession or have it TBR.  I just started and I'd love to do a Twitter read along if anyone wants to join.  Have you ever done a read along?  It's easy.

Note comments with #8thConfession and look for my Twitter account as MSEREADS. 

If you see other books on my What are you Reading Monday or Monday Mailbox lists that you want to do as a read along just make a comment on the post or e-mail me. It's fun to share comments, without sharing spoilers, as you read along.