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Michael Bennett #3
Worst Case
One by one, children of New York's wealthiest are taken hostage. But the criminal doesn't crave money or power--he only wants to ask the elite if they know the price others pay for their luxurious lifestyles. And, if they don't, he corrects their ignorance--by killing them.
To Detective Michael Bennett, it becomes clear that these murders are linked and must be part of a greater, more public demonstration. With the city thrown into chaos, he is forced to team up with FBI agent Emily Parker, and the two set out to capture the killer before he begins his most public lesson yet--a deadly message for the entire city to witness.
From the bestselling author who brought you the Alex Cross novels comes James Patterson's most action-packed series yet. With the heart-pounding suspense that only Patterson delivers, Worst Casel leave you gasping for breath until the very end.
From the shocking first page to the last exhilarating scene, Worst Case is a non-stop thriller from "America's #1 storyteller" –Fǰ).
356 pages, Hardcover
First published February 1, 2010
1,870 people are currently reading
11.7k people want to read
About the author
James Patterson
1,159books352kfollowersJames Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time. He is the creator of unforgettable characters and series, including Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride, and of breathtaking true stories about the Kennedys, John Lennon, and Tiger Woods, as well as our military heroes, police officers, and ER nurses. Patterson has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton and Dolly Parton, and collaborated most recently with Michael Crichton on the blockbuster Eruption. He has told the story of his own life in James Patterson by James Patterson and received an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
This author also writes under the following name: Džejms Paterson
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,672 reviews
May 17, 2019
Another enjoyable episode in the Michael Bennett series. I think I am starting to like him even more than Alex Cross!
As usual in a Patterson book the action is continuous and frequently way over the top but it makes for a great read. There is the usual high body count, a crazy serial killer and a bomb threat all handled with style by our hero. Bennett's family of ten children have a low key role but the 'nanny' features in an interesting way. I will have to read #4 soon to find out what happens there.
is my go to when I want a fast, exciting, easy read. met all my expectations.
As usual in a Patterson book the action is continuous and frequently way over the top but it makes for a great read. There is the usual high body count, a crazy serial killer and a bomb threat all handled with style by our hero. Bennett's family of ten children have a low key role but the 'nanny' features in an interesting way. I will have to read #4 soon to find out what happens there.
is my go to when I want a fast, exciting, easy read. met all my expectations.
January 27, 2018
I seriously love this Michael Bennett series. I dare even say more than I did the Woman’s Murder Club series. Bennett is a completely likable character and is easily endearing to readers. His love life is very odd right now but that just adds to the ongoing story. The plot was so engrossing that I could not put it down. I ended up reading it in one sitting.
My quick and simple overall: a fast-paced suspense with a perp who is targeted the children of the rich.
My quick and simple overall: a fast-paced suspense with a perp who is targeted the children of the rich.
July 6, 2010
Worst Case by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge is the third book in the Michael Bennett detective series. Readers will not have to read the other two books in the series to follow along as this New York Detective takes on a child kidnapper with a social agenda. Bennett is a single father with 10 children -- not all of them biological -- whose holy grandfather Seamus and nanny Mary Catherine make his life a little less hectic and in some cases even more so.
Bennett must not only balance his fatherly duties with detective work, but also must learn to separate the cases he works on as part of major crimes. New York is an excellent location for this detective, with its high crime boroughs and its high class residents. Worst Case is narrated superbly by three narrators, Bobby Cannavale, Orlagh Cassidy, and John Glover as each voice takes on either Bennett, FBI child kidnapping expert Emily Parker, or the serial murderer.
Read the rest of the review:
Bennett must not only balance his fatherly duties with detective work, but also must learn to separate the cases he works on as part of major crimes. New York is an excellent location for this detective, with its high crime boroughs and its high class residents. Worst Case is narrated superbly by three narrators, Bobby Cannavale, Orlagh Cassidy, and John Glover as each voice takes on either Bennett, FBI child kidnapping expert Emily Parker, or the serial murderer.
Read the rest of the review:
May 24, 2023
Privilege Has a Cost
NYPD Detective Mike Bennett continues to go up against the crazies of NYC, and I love it. I also love his pseudo partner, FBI Special Agent Emily Parker, and hope this isn't the last we see of her - either in this series or another.
I always love seeing the interactions in the Bennett household, including Father Seamus Bennett and Mary Catherine "MC." They often lend some joy and general human feels, and perhaps a little fun chaos, to what would otherwise be a very heavy storyline. There's also some jealousy rearing its head. Hmm... I look forward to seeing what comes of that.
What's happening in the case Mike's pursuing is tragic, for certain. The mechanisms that a madman uses to send a message are disturbing, but it makes for a riveting, fast-paced book. I liked how it was told with victims', the killer, Mike's, and more points of view.
I borrowed a copy of the audio book. The narrators are Bobby Cannavale, Orlagh Cassidy, and John Glover. I love the duet narration and I really enjoyed the various actors.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4.5 stars
Listening Speed: 1.5x
NYPD Detective Mike Bennett continues to go up against the crazies of NYC, and I love it. I also love his pseudo partner, FBI Special Agent Emily Parker, and hope this isn't the last we see of her - either in this series or another.
I always love seeing the interactions in the Bennett household, including Father Seamus Bennett and Mary Catherine "MC." They often lend some joy and general human feels, and perhaps a little fun chaos, to what would otherwise be a very heavy storyline. There's also some jealousy rearing its head. Hmm... I look forward to seeing what comes of that.
What's happening in the case Mike's pursuing is tragic, for certain. The mechanisms that a madman uses to send a message are disturbing, but it makes for a riveting, fast-paced book. I liked how it was told with victims', the killer, Mike's, and more points of view.
I borrowed a copy of the audio book. The narrators are Bobby Cannavale, Orlagh Cassidy, and John Glover. I love the duet narration and I really enjoyed the various actors.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4.5 stars
Listening Speed: 1.5x
December 4, 2024
⭐️ Synopsis:
A maniac is kidnapping the children of the wealthiest people in NYC. It isn’t for money. His goal is punish those with the most for caring so little for those who have the least. Yes, a hippie has gone crazy. Will Michale Bennet be able to stop him?
⭐️ What do I think about this book:
It is a sequel, so really I am just going to tell you how it stacks up the the first book, and whether or not I think you should keep reading this series.
This book is consistent with the schmaltz. I keep seeing the home scenes (with Mary Catherine, Seamus, and the kids) in black and white, with the part of Michael Bennet is being played by Cary Grant. The action plot is, again, over the top. These things are what make these books light but enjoyable “fun reading.� So far so good.
My life is a bit stressful right now, so I have been gobbling these books up at a furious pace.
A maniac is kidnapping the children of the wealthiest people in NYC. It isn’t for money. His goal is punish those with the most for caring so little for those who have the least. Yes, a hippie has gone crazy. Will Michale Bennet be able to stop him?
⭐️ What do I think about this book:
It is a sequel, so really I am just going to tell you how it stacks up the the first book, and whether or not I think you should keep reading this series.
This book is consistent with the schmaltz. I keep seeing the home scenes (with Mary Catherine, Seamus, and the kids) in black and white, with the part of Michael Bennet is being played by Cary Grant. The action plot is, again, over the top. These things are what make these books light but enjoyable “fun reading.� So far so good.
My life is a bit stressful right now, so I have been gobbling these books up at a furious pace.
December 2, 2019
First Read: One by one, children of New York's wealthiest are taken hostage. But the criminal doesn't crave money or power--he only wants to ask the elite if they know the price others pay for their luxurious lifestyles. And, if they don't, he corrects their ignorance by killing them. To Detective Michael Bennett, it becomes clear that these murders are linked and must be part of a greater, more public demonstration. With the city thrown into chaos, he is forced to team up with FBI agent Emily Parker, and the two set out to capture the killer before he begins his most public lesson yet--a deadly message for the entire city to witness. From the best selling author who rough you the Alex Cross novels comes James Patterson's most action packed series yet. With the Heart-pounding suspense that only Patterson delivers
Patterson's and Ledwidge's Worst Case tells a tale of Michael Bennett, a veteran cop, as he pursues a serial kidnapper/murderer who targets the children of the super-rich.
The plotline of Worst Case is effectively a string of kidnappings which all follow the same format. There are the occasional deviations but nothing to get excited about, the most extreme twist being someone organizing a fake kidnapping to get some cash and put the blame on the killer (sound familiar?) I do like Olag Cassidy's narrator voice. I've heard her in several books and enjoy her a lot.
Second Read: I don't know whether this counts as a spoiler but there really is not much to this story: The good guys pursue the bad-guy until they catch him, there isn't even the uber cheesy "Now it's personal" moment that usually pops up mid novel to amp up the tension. Not my favorite!!!! This big time is my least favorite of the Michael Bennett books. They have also been some of my favorite, but this one seems to have died in the computer.
There is something about the pace set by Patterson of his books that I normally love. The only problem is that "Worse Case" doesn't cut it for me. It features NY Detective Michael Bennett who has been in two earlier books. I just haven't liked this one as much. He is a great guy, he wants to right the wrongs of society and does what he can through his police work. His wife died of cancer a couple years ago and left him with 10 kids that they had adopted. He also has the help of his grandfather Seamus (whom I love, the priest. The kids are interesting and the nanny, which could turn into a new love interest for both of them.
Patterson's and Ledwidge's Worst Case tells a tale of Michael Bennett, a veteran cop, as he pursues a serial kidnapper/murderer who targets the children of the super-rich.
The plotline of Worst Case is effectively a string of kidnappings which all follow the same format. There are the occasional deviations but nothing to get excited about, the most extreme twist being someone organizing a fake kidnapping to get some cash and put the blame on the killer (sound familiar?) I do like Olag Cassidy's narrator voice. I've heard her in several books and enjoy her a lot.
Second Read: I don't know whether this counts as a spoiler but there really is not much to this story: The good guys pursue the bad-guy until they catch him, there isn't even the uber cheesy "Now it's personal" moment that usually pops up mid novel to amp up the tension. Not my favorite!!!! This big time is my least favorite of the Michael Bennett books. They have also been some of my favorite, but this one seems to have died in the computer.
There is something about the pace set by Patterson of his books that I normally love. The only problem is that "Worse Case" doesn't cut it for me. It features NY Detective Michael Bennett who has been in two earlier books. I just haven't liked this one as much. He is a great guy, he wants to right the wrongs of society and does what he can through his police work. His wife died of cancer a couple years ago and left him with 10 kids that they had adopted. He also has the help of his grandfather Seamus (whom I love, the priest. The kids are interesting and the nanny, which could turn into a new love interest for both of them.
November 1, 2022
Fast paced thriller
October 2, 2023
So the kidnapper in this book was absolutely brilliant! He is terrible of course in what he does. But the way he goes about it is genius. I’ve also met Emily Parker. She’s TROUBLE! Great read. Totally hooked on this series.
June 19, 2012
I have read all of James Patterson’s books and to be frank they can be hit and miss. Sometimes he can produce fantastic stories but in recent years it seems like he churns out so many books that sometimes the story doesn’t have the author’s whole focus. The Michael Bennett series is co-written with Michael Lewidge.
This particular book I really enjoyed. I have also read the two previous Michael Bennett novels so I already had some background on the characters which always helps. The second book in the Michael Bennett series (Run for your life) I rated at 4 out of 5 and to be honest this book was no different. The character himself is pretty good, he is clearly a family man but one who loves his family and that comes across well with the writing. The added bonus of this book is the angle of the love life interest. The only thing was with this angle is that it felt very rushed, almost like JP/ML felt they had to introduce somebody.
We don’t hear as much about Michael’s family which is a shame because his Grandfather Seamus was featured a little more heavily ion the previous book and he is a great character.
As for the killer himself, we see the story written from his perspective and to be honest this was the weakest are of the book. It almost felt a little rushed and there was no real depth to him. However as usual, James Patterson manages to balance out these flaws with his style of writing. His chapters are short and sharp and always paced quickly meaning they keep you a little hooked. I always find that no matter what my opinion of the story or characters I am always compelled to keep reading. Maybe this is why his books are such a success? Up until the release of ‘I Alex Cross� which was quite recent, I actually preferred the Michael Bennett series. After that recent release I again became latched with the Alex Cross character. I must say though that after reading this Michael Bennett book, he may not be my favourite of the JP characters but I definitely want to see more of him.
All in all James Patterson hasn’t failed to deliver a good book. My only concern is that I never feel like it’s a five star read lately like I have with other authors such as Dennis Lehane. I think that he produces so many books in such a short space of time that the reader never quite feels like he has immersed himself fully with one character and concentrated on that one book. Overall he is still a great author and I would recommend his books to anybody as they are an enjoyable read. JP had better watch out though, recently some great authors have been producing 5 star books which may threaten his status as the number one Crime Writer.
This particular book I really enjoyed. I have also read the two previous Michael Bennett novels so I already had some background on the characters which always helps. The second book in the Michael Bennett series (Run for your life) I rated at 4 out of 5 and to be honest this book was no different. The character himself is pretty good, he is clearly a family man but one who loves his family and that comes across well with the writing. The added bonus of this book is the angle of the love life interest. The only thing was with this angle is that it felt very rushed, almost like JP/ML felt they had to introduce somebody.
We don’t hear as much about Michael’s family which is a shame because his Grandfather Seamus was featured a little more heavily ion the previous book and he is a great character.
As for the killer himself, we see the story written from his perspective and to be honest this was the weakest are of the book. It almost felt a little rushed and there was no real depth to him. However as usual, James Patterson manages to balance out these flaws with his style of writing. His chapters are short and sharp and always paced quickly meaning they keep you a little hooked. I always find that no matter what my opinion of the story or characters I am always compelled to keep reading. Maybe this is why his books are such a success? Up until the release of ‘I Alex Cross� which was quite recent, I actually preferred the Michael Bennett series. After that recent release I again became latched with the Alex Cross character. I must say though that after reading this Michael Bennett book, he may not be my favourite of the JP characters but I definitely want to see more of him.
All in all James Patterson hasn’t failed to deliver a good book. My only concern is that I never feel like it’s a five star read lately like I have with other authors such as Dennis Lehane. I think that he produces so many books in such a short space of time that the reader never quite feels like he has immersed himself fully with one character and concentrated on that one book. Overall he is still a great author and I would recommend his books to anybody as they are an enjoyable read. JP had better watch out though, recently some great authors have been producing 5 star books which may threaten his status as the number one Crime Writer.
October 30, 2013
Worst Case written by James Patterson is based in various places through out New York. Detective Bennett, a loving father with 10 adopted children with a deceased wife along with Emily Parker, the FBI agent out of Washington just getting out of a marriage are puzzled to see New York's wealthiest peoples children being abducted by a man who then gives the children a test to see if they live or die, they pass, they live. But if they fail, they pay the ultimate price, their lives.
This book is written in a series of Detective Bennett stories of killers, but in my opinion, this was one of the best. I love how the story changes perspective from 3rd person to talking as Bennett then to switching to the killers point of view. Also, it was fun to see sparks fly between Agent Parker and Detective Bennett and see Bennett's nanny start to become some what jealous. I also liked how this story was one of those "keep you on the edge of your seat kind of stories." Patterson created a lot of twists and turns throughout the story as well! (You'll have to read it to find out what they are!)
I recommended this book to anyone who likes a nice, suspenseful novel and doesn't mind reading some extra pages. (It was about 300 pages.) If you like short, romantic stories, then this is not the book for you! This book does have a little of everything in it though, from solving the case to catching the killer to romantic talks with a fellow agent (Emily Parker) this book really says it all and I can't wait to read the next one!
This book is written in a series of Detective Bennett stories of killers, but in my opinion, this was one of the best. I love how the story changes perspective from 3rd person to talking as Bennett then to switching to the killers point of view. Also, it was fun to see sparks fly between Agent Parker and Detective Bennett and see Bennett's nanny start to become some what jealous. I also liked how this story was one of those "keep you on the edge of your seat kind of stories." Patterson created a lot of twists and turns throughout the story as well! (You'll have to read it to find out what they are!)
I recommended this book to anyone who likes a nice, suspenseful novel and doesn't mind reading some extra pages. (It was about 300 pages.) If you like short, romantic stories, then this is not the book for you! This book does have a little of everything in it though, from solving the case to catching the killer to romantic talks with a fellow agent (Emily Parker) this book really says it all and I can't wait to read the next one!
March 16, 2010
I am slightly embarrassed to admit every time I read a James Patterson novel. I don't have any delusions that he's that great of a writer... or, for that matter, that he's even writing this stuff anymore. In fact, when I say I'm a fan of Patterson's Michael Bennett series, I should just edit that to say I"m a fan of Michael Ledwidge's writing. In any case, while most people probably count Alex Cross as their favorite Patterson-created character, I love Michael Bennett. I love his family, his nanny, and his father-in-law. I love his version of New York City and I love the outlandish bad guys he goes after. The Michael Bennett books are like pixie sticks and Red Bull for my brain -- not much substance and way too much sugar and caffeine to be healthy, but a wicked fun ride. My only complaint about this installment was, at one point, a character described the villain as looking a little like Dennis Quaid. This totally threw me off, because I'd spent the whole book picturing Michael Emerson (Ben from "Lost") as the bad guy... it totally threw off my groove for half a second. Otherwise, I love love loved this book and can't wait for the next one!
December 15, 2017
Mind turning and full of religion. This story pulls Ash Wednesday into the plot and it’s an adventurous ride from start to finish. Detective Bennett never quits and uses all his skills to resolve the case.
Francis Mooney is determined to alert the public about how the world is going to the garbage because of selfish, undeserving and bad ideas. No one listening and so he decides to take matters into his own hands and they are deadly. He doesn’t care who he hurts.
This story was riveting and mesmerizing. It causes you to think from all perspectives; the killer, the victim and the police.
Francis Mooney is determined to alert the public about how the world is going to the garbage because of selfish, undeserving and bad ideas. No one listening and so he decides to take matters into his own hands and they are deadly. He doesn’t care who he hurts.
This story was riveting and mesmerizing. It causes you to think from all perspectives; the killer, the victim and the police.
March 9, 2010
James Patterson is one of my favorite authors, particularly when it comes to mystery & crime books. I am somewhat opposed to the whole "co-writing with other authors". I decided to research the reason for "co-writing" - I found this:
"In September 2009, Patterson signed a book deal to write or co-write 11 books for adults and six for young adults by the end of 2012. Forbes reported the deal was worth at least $150 million..."
()
The reason I am not a big fan of the "co-writing", each books becomes so unpredictable when it comes to the writing style. I heard that the ideas are his but the add authors are actually writing them. So, each time I pick up a new book of Patterson, I worry if I will like it or not.
"Worst case" - a dark, twisted, shockingly repellent, but so suspenseful - just like what you would expect when picking up a Patterson book. I read this book within 1 1/2 days and loved the storyline. Good old Patterson style!
"In September 2009, Patterson signed a book deal to write or co-write 11 books for adults and six for young adults by the end of 2012. Forbes reported the deal was worth at least $150 million..."
()
The reason I am not a big fan of the "co-writing", each books becomes so unpredictable when it comes to the writing style. I heard that the ideas are his but the add authors are actually writing them. So, each time I pick up a new book of Patterson, I worry if I will like it or not.
"Worst case" - a dark, twisted, shockingly repellent, but so suspenseful - just like what you would expect when picking up a Patterson book. I read this book within 1 1/2 days and loved the storyline. Good old Patterson style!
May 12, 2020
Michael Bennett book No. 3� sees the kidnapping of ultra wealthy heirs; only to see them murdered even before any talk of a ransom. Even in James Patterson terms, this one's a real page turner, as the seemingly irrational and very ruthless killer confounds Michael Bennett and his FBI liaison Agent Emily Parker. 7 out of 12.
October 30, 2021
Definitely an easy read that gets your attention immediately, but I found the characters and interactions to be very cheesy. It reminded me of a Lifetime movie where you get hooked in the story and can’t turn it off, but the plot and acting is not good.
November 15, 2010
The only good thing about this book is the font size.
April 2, 2010
Patterson's and Ledwidge's Worst Case tells a tale of Michael Bennett, a veteran cop, as he pursues a serial kidnapper/murderer who targets the children of the super-rich.
And to be perfectly honest I the best way to describe Worst Case: Along Came a Spider, without the good bits. The plotline of Worst Case is effectively a string of kidnappings which all follow the same format. 1. Child disapears 2. Phone call 3. Find child dead.
There are the occasional deviations but nothing to get excited about, the most extreme twist being someone organising a fake kidnapping to get some cash and put the blame on the killer (sound familiar?)
I don't know whether this counts as a spoiler but there really is nothing to this story: The good guys pursue the bad-guy until they catch him, there isn't even the uber cheesy "Now it's personal" moment that usually pops up mid novel to amp up the tension.
And don't even get me started on the characters. I never thought I would prefer things more conformist, but the lack of any grit in Bennett's character is gag-worthy. He's an ultra-polite and well behaved cop, who uses lines like "Totally uncalled for and innapropriate" For a moment I thought Super-Nanny was the main character.
Although Bennett does come out with this bad-ass line "No, you're more like an insult to handicapped people." When speaking to a student in a wheelchair.
Bennett also has more adopted children than Maddonna and Brad n Angie combined, is a widower (leaving him free for all the ladies) which all leaves me with the feeling that the authors forgot to give this guy that 'one flaw' that readers crave.
Considering the protaginist, obviously the antagonist is going to have to be a literary mess also. Our bad guy real barrel of problems: Ultra left-wing rich hating, intelligent, mentally unstable and terminally ill. One feels like instead of giving the bad-guy one overarching well-developed motivation for their actions the authors just threw together a bunch of issues and hoped it would work. The only thing missing was Mummy issues.
There is little else to redeem this novel, there is illogical science (Upon an ash cross placed on a victims forehead the lab finds: cigarette ash, cancer medicine and traces of C4 explosive) Now maybe I get the cigarette ash mixing with medicine, that might happen right? BUT HOW THE HECK DID EXPLOSIVES GET INTO HIS CIGARETTES?
Ok breath in, breath out. Inbetween the questionable racial stereotypes thrown throughout the investiagtion there are a few decent jokes, (if you like Dad-humour) and a little bit of flirting, but really, one of those things wasn't good and the other only half good, so just two stars for this one.
And to be perfectly honest I the best way to describe Worst Case: Along Came a Spider, without the good bits. The plotline of Worst Case is effectively a string of kidnappings which all follow the same format. 1. Child disapears 2. Phone call 3. Find child dead.
There are the occasional deviations but nothing to get excited about, the most extreme twist being someone organising a fake kidnapping to get some cash and put the blame on the killer (sound familiar?)
I don't know whether this counts as a spoiler but there really is nothing to this story: The good guys pursue the bad-guy until they catch him, there isn't even the uber cheesy "Now it's personal" moment that usually pops up mid novel to amp up the tension.
And don't even get me started on the characters. I never thought I would prefer things more conformist, but the lack of any grit in Bennett's character is gag-worthy. He's an ultra-polite and well behaved cop, who uses lines like "Totally uncalled for and innapropriate" For a moment I thought Super-Nanny was the main character.
Although Bennett does come out with this bad-ass line "No, you're more like an insult to handicapped people." When speaking to a student in a wheelchair.
Bennett also has more adopted children than Maddonna and Brad n Angie combined, is a widower (leaving him free for all the ladies) which all leaves me with the feeling that the authors forgot to give this guy that 'one flaw' that readers crave.
Considering the protaginist, obviously the antagonist is going to have to be a literary mess also. Our bad guy real barrel of problems: Ultra left-wing rich hating, intelligent, mentally unstable and terminally ill. One feels like instead of giving the bad-guy one overarching well-developed motivation for their actions the authors just threw together a bunch of issues and hoped it would work. The only thing missing was Mummy issues.
There is little else to redeem this novel, there is illogical science (Upon an ash cross placed on a victims forehead the lab finds: cigarette ash, cancer medicine and traces of C4 explosive) Now maybe I get the cigarette ash mixing with medicine, that might happen right? BUT HOW THE HECK DID EXPLOSIVES GET INTO HIS CIGARETTES?
Ok breath in, breath out. Inbetween the questionable racial stereotypes thrown throughout the investiagtion there are a few decent jokes, (if you like Dad-humour) and a little bit of flirting, but really, one of those things wasn't good and the other only half good, so just two stars for this one.
December 16, 2014
I relistened to this novel and liked it much better the second time than the first. 5 of 10 stars
July 21, 2024
much better than private imo!! didnt LOVE the ending with one of the kidnappings but very interesting and a good read thx aunt jenn for loving james patterson like me
August 12, 2021
I really loved "Worst Case". It is a great thriller.
May 21, 2011
(3.5)
I will have to review this book as a stand alone since I have not read the first two in the series. In my defense, there was nothing in the case of this audio indicating that this was an installment (the only reason I found out was when I plugged it in at ŷ as read). But now I finally figured out that Mr. Patterson is notorious for series so I'll have to keep that in mind when I come across his books. Though, that probably won't stop me from reading his books out of order. :)
This Michael Bennett character was alright. He's a family man ... super dad of ten children and a cat! Apparently, he and his late wife had adopted. Now as a single parent, he manages with the help of his grandfather and nanny. Also, he seems to be a decent detective. No outrageous quirky traits ...maybe Mr. Patterson could develop something in the next installments to shake things up.
This particular installment dealt with the case of Francis Mooney, a terminal homicidal loon, targeting the rich. His craze to ensure social equality was noble, but of course his tactics was insanely criminal! He figures he would abduct children of the elite rich and give them a test ... where failing meant death. So the cat and mouse began with Bennett heading the investigation along with the abduction profile specialist, FBI agent Emily Parker. Together they hunt down Mooney before the death toll piles up.
This was entertaining like that of an episode of Law & Order: Criminal Intent, though Vincent D'Onofrio's character was far more intriguing than Michael Bennett (maybe this is what I mean about shaking up Bennett's character ... give him a trait of edginess/peculiarity). So, if you like Law & Order kind of stories, this might be for you.
By the way, looks like things are beginning to heat up between Bennett and his nanny, Mary Catherine. Yet, Emily Parker wasn't completely out of the picture either. I'm glad this book didn't get heavy on the romance. Call me weird, but I don't seem to like weighty romance in thriller books.
**Find this review and more at
I will have to review this book as a stand alone since I have not read the first two in the series. In my defense, there was nothing in the case of this audio indicating that this was an installment (the only reason I found out was when I plugged it in at ŷ as read). But now I finally figured out that Mr. Patterson is notorious for series so I'll have to keep that in mind when I come across his books. Though, that probably won't stop me from reading his books out of order. :)
This Michael Bennett character was alright. He's a family man ... super dad of ten children and a cat! Apparently, he and his late wife had adopted. Now as a single parent, he manages with the help of his grandfather and nanny. Also, he seems to be a decent detective. No outrageous quirky traits ...maybe Mr. Patterson could develop something in the next installments to shake things up.
This particular installment dealt with the case of Francis Mooney, a terminal homicidal loon, targeting the rich. His craze to ensure social equality was noble, but of course his tactics was insanely criminal! He figures he would abduct children of the elite rich and give them a test ... where failing meant death. So the cat and mouse began with Bennett heading the investigation along with the abduction profile specialist, FBI agent Emily Parker. Together they hunt down Mooney before the death toll piles up.
This was entertaining like that of an episode of Law & Order: Criminal Intent, though Vincent D'Onofrio's character was far more intriguing than Michael Bennett (maybe this is what I mean about shaking up Bennett's character ... give him a trait of edginess/peculiarity). So, if you like Law & Order kind of stories, this might be for you.
By the way, looks like things are beginning to heat up between Bennett and his nanny, Mary Catherine. Yet, Emily Parker wasn't completely out of the picture either. I'm glad this book didn't get heavy on the romance. Call me weird, but I don't seem to like weighty romance in thriller books.
**Find this review and more at
August 31, 2014
There are times when I need to switch my brain off and read something really easy. Something that I can burn through in a day or so. When that happens, I reach for a James Patterson book. Or a book that he at least came up with the idea behind.
The Mike Bennett series is in my opinion better than the Womens Murder Club - those books have become a real struggle to read - especially where more than one storyline is included. Of course the idea of a NYPD detective with 10 kids is way out there, even more so when you throw in the fact that he's a widower, with an Irish vicar grandfather and a nanny (which we know he'll end up with). But the storylines themselves aren't that bad.
This story involves someone who is kidnapping teenagers from very wealthy families. The kidnapper gives them a test - if they pass the test, they live - if not, well you know what happens. The test they are given isn't multiple choice and concerns the sorry state of the world. Mike is teamed up with a very attractive FBI agent (which Mary Catherine - the nanny, doesn't react well to).
It was fine for a quick read, didn't tax the brain cells too much. Mike was charging around all over the place and did a huge amount of shouting, when he wasn't being cutesy with his kids.
The Mike Bennett series is in my opinion better than the Womens Murder Club - those books have become a real struggle to read - especially where more than one storyline is included. Of course the idea of a NYPD detective with 10 kids is way out there, even more so when you throw in the fact that he's a widower, with an Irish vicar grandfather and a nanny (which we know he'll end up with). But the storylines themselves aren't that bad.
This story involves someone who is kidnapping teenagers from very wealthy families. The kidnapper gives them a test - if they pass the test, they live - if not, well you know what happens. The test they are given isn't multiple choice and concerns the sorry state of the world. Mike is teamed up with a very attractive FBI agent (which Mary Catherine - the nanny, doesn't react well to).
It was fine for a quick read, didn't tax the brain cells too much. Mike was charging around all over the place and did a huge amount of shouting, when he wasn't being cutesy with his kids.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2018
I like a rollicking, grab-you-right-away kind of story. Grisham does that. With Patterson this summer, I've tried to re-create the happy memories of reading an absorbing crime book (that's not too gross) from my days as a teenager reading Lawrence Sanders (Edward X. Delaney) and then my young adult days reading the Alphabet books of Sue Grafton (Kinsey Millhone). Of late though, I've been spoiled by the intricate and well-written crime-detective stories on PBS of Broadchurch and Line of Duty.
I've read two of Patterson's books recently ('Sail' and this one) and I've found them wanting. The crime solving aspect isn't very detailed or even believable. Patterson's writing is surface for both character development and the crime. It sure is an easy read, I read it all in one day. Grisham is an easy read, too, but his books are atmospheric and they draw you in to the story to emerge on the other side feeling like you've either enjoyed the time spent or learned something. With Patterson, sadly, neither happened. It was like reading a coloring book. Also: lots of f-bombs. No need for that.
I've read two of Patterson's books recently ('Sail' and this one) and I've found them wanting. The crime solving aspect isn't very detailed or even believable. Patterson's writing is surface for both character development and the crime. It sure is an easy read, I read it all in one day. Grisham is an easy read, too, but his books are atmospheric and they draw you in to the story to emerge on the other side feeling like you've either enjoyed the time spent or learned something. With Patterson, sadly, neither happened. It was like reading a coloring book. Also: lots of f-bombs. No need for that.
April 4, 2013
This was the first book in the Bennett series that I've read, I enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to reading the rest in the series.
March 23, 2018
I absolutely love the Michael Bennett series. The audible version was awesome as well!
May 18, 2019
Michael Bennett and his ridiculously large family are back. The tribe of ten adopted kids, live in nanny/love interest, and bitingly sarcastic father (twice over, since he's a priest) provide a hectic homelife for the lead in this series about yet another big city detective. Patterson is good at what he does, and if you've followed his books at all, you know roughly what you're getting ahead of time.
The villain this go around has an ambitious social/environmental message he's determined to deliver in his own sociopathic way. It's sort of an action movie in book form, which there's nothing wrong with. Hell, I wrote one like that myself.
I find the situation with Mary Catherine, the nanny, a bit annoying in the utter lack of progression. The kids... well, they are such a mob it's hard to get a bead on who any of them actually are. The priest, Seamus if I recall correctly, can be a bit of a moralizing pain in the ass.
The main story is decent, a fine adventure read. Good crime drama in modern New York.
The villain this go around has an ambitious social/environmental message he's determined to deliver in his own sociopathic way. It's sort of an action movie in book form, which there's nothing wrong with. Hell, I wrote one like that myself.
I find the situation with Mary Catherine, the nanny, a bit annoying in the utter lack of progression. The kids... well, they are such a mob it's hard to get a bead on who any of them actually are. The priest, Seamus if I recall correctly, can be a bit of a moralizing pain in the ass.
The main story is decent, a fine adventure read. Good crime drama in modern New York.
September 21, 2019
Really good fast paced as ever
January 31, 2024
Page turner till the end!
October 26, 2020
Sandra review
This was a very good book to read, thank God they caught the bad guy and put him in jail
This was a very good book to read, thank God they caught the bad guy and put him in jail
April 19, 2011
I think that if I did not promise the grandparents I would read this I would not. I groan at the other three they handed me. When it comes to book recommendations I will have to stop being polite.
(SPOILER ALERT)
The book went something like:
Open with how the killer snaps. Aw- look he was human once too. He wanted to balance the world with love- on the streets of NYC. Look at the evils of society he will try to balance with blood.
Rich kid kidnapped.
Call cops. Get quirky Bennett with 10 kids. His personal interest story will add some warmth to the book. Add sexy FBI agent.
Kid dead. Ashes on forehead. Ash Wednesday connection mapped out for the readers, so we can feel smart when we figure it out before the cops say it out loud. Thanks.
Repeat.
Rich kid kidnapped. Rich kid not found. Pattern does not fit. Dad wants cops out. Someone gets away with money.
Sporadic sparks between FBI and Bennett. Bennett's nanny kisses him- I bang my head against the wall.
Repeat...Until, gasp!, one rich kid is released because she passed "the test" of the killer. She is worthy to inherit her parent's money.
Cops have leads- follow them (duh). Track killer. Kill killer.
Turns out rich kid not found kidnapped himself to get dad's money. He wanted to leave, but not be poor. Oh and Bennett and the Nanny may have a love interest in the next book, as I am sure that was a surprise. Try to find moral somewhere.
__________________________________________________________
Mix in short chapters and short, predictable sentences and I wonder at the hour and a half of my life gone. Is it better? No. Was some truth or beauty given to me? No. Was I entertained? No. The plot predictable. I wondered at even having to write "spoiler alert" above. Is it REALLY a spoiler? EVER? I had to begin to laugh at the writing to keep from crying that this man makes money. Are these books the Law and Order equivalent? At least Law and Order has Vincent D'Onofrio.
Maybe his earlier books are better. Not like early Austen better, but maybe like early Soap Operas better- when the story lines were still newish. I do like Doyle's Sherlock, and Christie's Poirot. They weave character development and plot subtlety. They trust the reader to pick up on it. This felt like getting beat over the head with a club.
I am not sure about this dual writing thing. Who writes what? How does that work? With Will Grayson, Will Grayson, the two authors voices were clearly different as well as being delineated by chapters and font.Here I could not detect two authors, though in faith, I did not attempt to analyze the subtle difference in paragraphing that would come from two different authors.
In short- you want to zone out for a few hours, this is better than reality TV. I think.
(SPOILER ALERT)
The book went something like:
Open with how the killer snaps. Aw- look he was human once too. He wanted to balance the world with love- on the streets of NYC. Look at the evils of society he will try to balance with blood.
Rich kid kidnapped.
Call cops. Get quirky Bennett with 10 kids. His personal interest story will add some warmth to the book. Add sexy FBI agent.
Kid dead. Ashes on forehead. Ash Wednesday connection mapped out for the readers, so we can feel smart when we figure it out before the cops say it out loud. Thanks.
Repeat.
Rich kid kidnapped. Rich kid not found. Pattern does not fit. Dad wants cops out. Someone gets away with money.
Sporadic sparks between FBI and Bennett. Bennett's nanny kisses him- I bang my head against the wall.
Repeat...Until, gasp!, one rich kid is released because she passed "the test" of the killer. She is worthy to inherit her parent's money.
Cops have leads- follow them (duh). Track killer. Kill killer.
Turns out rich kid not found kidnapped himself to get dad's money. He wanted to leave, but not be poor. Oh and Bennett and the Nanny may have a love interest in the next book, as I am sure that was a surprise. Try to find moral somewhere.
__________________________________________________________
Mix in short chapters and short, predictable sentences and I wonder at the hour and a half of my life gone. Is it better? No. Was some truth or beauty given to me? No. Was I entertained? No. The plot predictable. I wondered at even having to write "spoiler alert" above. Is it REALLY a spoiler? EVER? I had to begin to laugh at the writing to keep from crying that this man makes money. Are these books the Law and Order equivalent? At least Law and Order has Vincent D'Onofrio.
Maybe his earlier books are better. Not like early Austen better, but maybe like early Soap Operas better- when the story lines were still newish. I do like Doyle's Sherlock, and Christie's Poirot. They weave character development and plot subtlety. They trust the reader to pick up on it. This felt like getting beat over the head with a club.
I am not sure about this dual writing thing. Who writes what? How does that work? With Will Grayson, Will Grayson, the two authors voices were clearly different as well as being delineated by chapters and font.Here I could not detect two authors, though in faith, I did not attempt to analyze the subtle difference in paragraphing that would come from two different authors.
In short- you want to zone out for a few hours, this is better than reality TV. I think.
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