At the conclusion of "Roses are Red", we finally uncover the identity of the Mastermind. Then, "Violets are Blue" commences in Patterson's characteristic exciting style. However, Cross still remains clueless about the true identity of the Mastermind. It is not until the very end of this book that Cross manages to figure it out. If you are reading this review and have perused the series, you too are aware of who it is. In case the books have not been read in sequence, I will refrain from revealing it here.

This crime spree incorporates elements of tigers and vampires. Yes, you read that correctly. Initially, I harbored doubts about whether I would enjoy this book as much as the preceding ones. But those doubts were swiftly dispelled. This was yet another excellent addition to the Patterson/Cross series.

It offers a unique and engaging storyline that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The combination of the mysterious Mastermind and the strange elements of tigers and vampires adds an extra layer of intrigue. Patterson's writing style, as always, is captivating and makes it difficult to put the book down. Overall, "Violets are Blue" is a must-read for fans of the series and anyone who enjoys a thrilling crime novel.

I truly relished this particular book within the Alex Cross series.

In this installment, Alex embarks on a journey to San Francisco in order to assist another detective in dealing with a string of brutal murders that bear vampiric undertones.

The way the story alternates between the perspectives of Alex and the criminals is truly captivating and engaging.

It adds an extra layer of depth and excitement to the narrative, allowing the reader to get inside the minds of both the hero and the villains.

The vivid descriptions and thrilling plot twists keep the reader on the edge of their seat from start to finish.

Overall, it is a highly enjoyable and entertaining read that fans of the series are sure to love.

This will be my last JP book.

It truly seemed like a mere recap of all the other books within the series. As I was reading, I couldn't help but constantly think to myself, "Why can't he come up with some fresh and new material??"

I have already read all the other installments, and I really didn't feel the need to spend another 8 hours going through what was essentially a recap.

To be fair, there was indeed a new story that was rather good. However, I got really hung up on the numerous references to all of the past books.

These references seemed to overshadow the new content and made it feel like the author was relying too much on the previous works rather than presenting something entirely original.

It was quite disappointing, as I had been looking forward to a completely new and engaging read.

Perhaps it's time for the author to take a break and come back with some truly innovative ideas for future books.

Hugely disappointing follow up to the amazing Roses Are Red.

The whole plot was a little far fetched to be honest. What I was most looking forward to with this book was Alex's inevitable meeting with The Mastermind - the nemesis that had been taunting him for the entire previous book. However, that too turned out to be a complete anti climax.

Alex's reaction just didn't compute with how he must have truly felt upon discovering the identity of The Mastermind. It seemed rather underwhelming and didn't do justice to the build-up.

All in all, I can't help feeling a little bit cheated with this particular instalment of Alex Cross. I can only assume that Mr Patterson was perhaps too engrossed in other projects at the time of writing this one. Maybe he didn't give this book the attention it deserved.

Who knows what the real reason is. But one thing is for sure, this book didn't live up to the expectations set by its predecessor.

Another riveting “Alex Cross” thriller!

I simply couldn't contain my excitement as I eagerly anticipated seeing how this plot would unfold after the shocking cliffhanger presented in “Roses Are Red.” And let me tell you, Patterson truly did not disappoint!

Once again, the fast pace of this series proved to be incredibly addictive. Right from the very start, this book took off like a rocket, pulling me in and not letting go.

I absolutely adored the uniqueness of the vampire crime investigation. It added a whole new and thrilling dimension to the story. And the Mastermind mystery was especially captivating, especially since the reader was privy to the identity.

I also really appreciated the references and connections to the previous storylines in the earlier books. It gave a sense of continuity and depth to the overall series.

The ending was truly awesome, leaving me on the edge of my seat and craving more. I can't wait to continue reading this great series and see what other adventures and mysteries await Alex Cross.

I truly do enjoy a really good Alex Cross book penned by Patterson.

This particular book has Cross engaged in the pursuit of "Vampires". As he delves deep into the world of "real life Vampires" who mercilessly drain their victims of blood, Cross is simultaneously tormented by a Mastermind. This Mastermind takes great pleasure in playing with Cross by callously killing those who are close to him.

Patterson, true to his established form, presents short chapters that are filled with non-stop action. The result is a book that is an absolute page-turner for me. I find myself completely engrossed in the story, unable to put the book down until I reach the very end. The combination of the thrilling plot and Patterson's unique writing style makes this Alex Cross book a must-read for any fan of the genre.

I truly believe that this particular installment of the Alex Cross series by James Patterson is among the very best he has penned since the remarkable "Kiss the Girls."

The story line in this book is refreshingly distinct from the others. It takes readers on a thrilling and unexpected journey. What's more, Alex Cross finds himself embroiled in a new and captivating love interest, adding an extra layer of complexity and intrigue to the narrative.

James Patterson's skill with imagery is truly outstanding. After finishing reading this book, it gives me an eerie feeling to descend the stairs in my dark house. As strange as it may sound, that's the power of his writing.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to those who are already invested in the Alex Cross series. With each successive book, the series just seems to get better and better, captivating readers and keeping them on the edge of their seats.

Violets are blue,

Roses are red.

Cross swords with Alex,

And you'll end up dead.

This little rhyme seems to tell a rather menacing story. Imagine a world where there is a person named Alex who is so skilled with a sword that if you dare to cross swords with him, the outcome is almost certain death. The contrast between the beautiful and delicate violets and roses and the harsh reality of what happens when you face Alex adds an interesting layer to the narrative. It makes you wonder who Alex is and why he is so fearsome. Maybe he is a warrior with a reputation that precedes him, or perhaps he has some sort of special power or training that makes him unbeatable. Whatever the case may be, this rhyme serves as a warning to those who might be tempted to take on Alex in a fight.

Wow.

This remarkable book has managed to bring the first six installments together in a truly captivating way. It neatly wraps up all the loose ends and ties them together in a nice, tidy bow.

The moment when “The Mastermind” is finally caught is both thrilling and satisfying. It gives readers a sense of justice being served and closure to a long-running mystery.

Moreover, the fact that the book revisits characters from previous books adds an extra layer of depth and familiarity. It allows readers to reconnect with their favorite characters and see how they have evolved over time.

In the never-ending world of Alex Cross, this book creates a wonderful sense of completion. It ties together the different storylines and characters in a seamless manner, making it a must-read for fans of the series.

Overall, this book is a great addition to the Alex Cross franchise and a testament to the author's skill and creativity.

Another outstanding book within this extensive Cross series.

A significant mystery is ultimately uncovered. The greatest mastermind to date!

It's not surprising that Patterson is so widely renowned. This book is truly spine-chilling.

You absolutely MUST commence with Along Came A Spider. Although theoretically you could read it independently, you would forfeit an enormous amount that gains greater significance with each successive book.

As you embark on this book, it commences in a forest above the Golden Gate Bridge.

Coincidentally, I was reading this very same book in that exact forest!

The events that unfold in the book, within that forest, gave me goosebumps and nearly made me a firm believer in the terrors that haunt our dreams at night!

It's an experience that blurs the line between fiction and reality, leaving the reader on the edge of their seat and completely engrossed in the captivating world Patterson has created.

Whether you're a die-hard fan of the series or a newcomer, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Alex Cross - Book No. 7
Alex Cross finds himself collaborating with the FBI in the investigation of a series of heinous murders. These murders are not only brutal but also involve disturbing elements such as blood draining and hanging the victims by their feet. Adding to the horror, there are reports of both man and tiger bites. It seems that this is just the beginning of what could potentially be a vampire cult.
Amidst all this chaos, The Mastermind persists in haranguing and harassing Cross. This ongoing torment only adds to the intensity of the situation.
This story is likely the most gripping one I've read so far from the best-selling Cross series. As the entire Mastermind issue finally reaches some sort of conclusion, it keeps the readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. With its combination of mystery, thriller, and a touch of the supernatural, it truly lives up to the expectations set by the previous books in the series. I would rate it a 7 out of 12.

A few years ago, I devoured the books of James Patterson and really liked them. So I thought this one would also be a sure thing - but it then disappointed me greatly.

To start with the positive: The writing style is as usual very流畅 and I love the short chapters with the perspective changes that build tension and encourage further reading. But that was almost it.

The story really couldn't convince me. One brutal murder follows another, without going into the details of each one. On the contrary: Alex Cross races from crime scene to crime scene across the USA, without the reader really being taken along. The murders themselves are rather bestial and it quickly becomes clear: There are vampires at work. Sometimes I really had the feeling that I had landed in a fantasy novel and not in a thriller. Very可惜!

What also got on my nerves was that the private life of Detective Cross takes up a lot of space, but it always revolves around the same thing: He works too much and hardly sees his family. Oh no - that's also untypical for such detectives :D I didn't read the books in order - you don't have to either, as the cases are self-contained. And a lot is taken up from what has happened so far. Maybe even a bit too much. Because here too I had the feeling that more is reported about the past than about the current cases.

And then there's also "Superbrain", who keeps calling Alex Cross and seems to know everything about him. Including threats. This also distracted the focus very much.可惜!

The end is not even surprising, but it drags on for quite a while. To be honest, I was glad when it was over and can conscientiously discard the book because I'm sure I won't pick it up again. From me, it only gets 2 stars!