Eight stars
Reading the latest novel in the Women’s Murder Club series, I was able to determine that James Patterson and Maxine Paetro are still at the top of their game. Chilling and intense, Sergeant Lindsay Boxer and her crew tackle a few cases, all of which require their undivided attention. Never one to keep things predictable, the authors tap into their creative sides and present another stellar read. This is one series that bears the Patterson name I cannot dismiss as stale!
The Women’s Murder Coub have gathered for an informal event. Sergeant Lindsay Boxer, Medical Examiner Claire Washburn, Assistant District Attorney Yuki Castellano, and crime writer Cindy Thomas find themselves gathering together for a birthday celebration. Things go awry when screams fill the restaurant and a violent assault is discovered, the victim presenting in a very odd manner.
While each of the Club members kick into action, the case will need more than their prowess to ensure a conviction. The suspect has a story that is contradicted by the victim, but soon the story changes significantly. It will be the victim’s memory that guides the case in many directions. However, there is a psychological aspect to the victim that could derail things for everyone!
While Yuki argues the most complex case of her career, the memory and personality changes of the victim add a new layer of difficulty to the courtroom presentation. Yuki will have to wrest control of the psychiatric and psychological aspects of the case or the accused could go free.
All the while, Lindsay is thrust into the middle of a case where a killer is working their way through San Francisco’s high-society members. The pressure Lindsay puts on the hunt could put herself, as well as her Club members, in the crosshairs. It will be a true test of wills, even with matrimonial bells lightly ringing for various Club members. Patterson and Paetro serve up another hit thriller that series fans can enjoy with ease.
There is something about this series that has always impressed me. Great narrative foundations help keep the story strong and provides a clear pathway to success. Great development, both in plot and characters, provides the reader with something they can enjoy. Characters have found a way to grow over time and their personal foibles help add flavouring to the larger story. The authors have a firm grip on their characters and have found ways to add great intrigue with the one-off people as well.
Plot is key to keeping these stories strong. The authors find new ways to tackle crimes and legal situations throughout the series, keeping the reader keenly aware of all that is going on. There are surprises, both with cases and the characters, which add depth to the stories and provides a fresh approach. I am eager to see how a Patterson and Paetro will keep the momentum going, and I am still hoping for some crossover work with some of the other strong protagonist Patterson novels have developed!
Kudos Mr. Patterson and Madame Paetro, for another stunning addition to the series.
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