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Rating(4 / 5.0, 99 votes)
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99 reviews
July 15,2025
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“Humans were the weakest species. Maybe that was why they could be the meanest animals.”


― James Patterson, When the Wind Blows


The James Patterson book factory is constantly churning out captivating tales, and this one is no exception. In an alternate reality, Patterson presents a Maximum Ride story that is not your typical Patterson jam. This mystery thriller has an added element of fantasy, making it truly unique. Troubled FBI agent Kit Harrison is on the case, investigating a series of deaths in The Rockies. He is joined, in a sense, by the widow of one of the murdered, a vet named Frannie. As they dig deeper, Frannie stumbles upon an amazing, mind-boggling secret that has the potential to change everyone's lives. This entertaining mystery fantasy thriller is all about a conspiracy that revolves around this amazing secret. Get ready to be swept away by the twists and turns of this thrilling story!

July 15,2025
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I absolutely fell in love with this book!

Frannie O'Neill, a small town veterinarian from Bear Bluff, Colorado, has been grappling with the loss of her husband, David, who was anonymously murdered about a year and a half ago. In the midst of her grief, she meets Kit Harrison, a former FBI agent. Since then, her town has been plagued by a series of unsolved murders. One late night, while driving home, Frannie spots an eleven-year-old girl with remarkable and seemingly inhuman features. This girl, named Max, used to live in a "school" with her younger brother but ran away due to some unknown tension. Kit, being an ex-FBI agent, decides to investigate the school. As they dig deeper, they uncover some very disturbing news. Despite the danger, Frannie begins to fall in love with her life and the people in it. She realizes that without them, she has nothing to look forward to. She is willing to risk everything to protect what she loves.

Reading this book made me realize that we often take life for granted. We should take a step back and cherish the moments and people we have, because one day, they could be gone forever. I think James Patterson did an outstanding job writing this book. It was so engaging that I couldn't put it down and finished it in no time. The author kept me on the edge of my seat, constantly curious and eager to read more. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a thrilling and captivating read. It's a great way to spend your free time.

This story has piqued my interest in reading the next book in the series, "The Lake House". I can't wait to see what else James Patterson has in store for us in the next installment.
July 15,2025
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The first book in the "When the Wind Blows" series by James Patterson is truly a captivating read.

I was thoroughly engrossed in this series, as it presents a very interesting concept that is masterfully written.

The synopsis begins with Frannie O'Neill, a kind-hearted young veterinarian residing in the beautiful Colorado Rockies. She is attempting to come to terms with the mysterious murder of her beloved husband. However, her peace is short-lived when another neighbor suddenly passes away, and FBI agent Kit Harrison shows up at her doorstep. Kit is determined to solve this heinous case, despite facing strong opposition from the FBI and grappling with his own inner demons.

Kit secretly continues the investigation, but witnesses keep dying under mysterious circumstances. Then, Frannie makes an astonishing discovery in the nearby woods, which changes their lives in ways they could never have anticipated. Merely knowing the secret of Max, the terrified 11-year-old girl with an amazing gift, could prove to be deadly.

As more and more diabolical details are uncovered, the murderer's bloody trail leads the trio to an underground lab network known as "the School." Here, scientists conduct shockingly incomprehensible experiments involving children and genetic alteration.
July 15,2025
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The only reason I read this was because I got the 2nd one from the library without realizing it was a sequel.

This is the first James Patterson novel I've ever read, and I truly don't understand the hype surrounding him.

To be frank, this book was absolute garbage. The concept for the story had the potential to be interesting enough, but Patterson seemed to barely invest any time in developing it.

The dialogue, both the external and the inner dialogue, was simply embarrassing. It was so bad that I honestly felt like I was reading Donald Trump's Twitter feed for half of the time.

I expected more from a well-known author like Patterson, but this book failed to meet any of my expectations. It was a huge disappointment and I will think twice before picking up another one of his novels in the future.

July 15,2025
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Breath of fresh air

It has been an absolute delight to read this story penned by James Patterson. Although it may not be a completely novel concept, it is most definitely a story that is well worth reading. We are introduced to main characters who find themselves falling in love amidst the backdrop of a battle against unethical doctors and scientists. The plot unfolds at precisely the right pace, neither too slow nor too rushed, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. The characters are extremely likeable, with their own unique personalities and flaws that make them relatable. It is evident that the author is a true professional, as the quality of his work is outstanding. Patterson has a way of creating a vivid and immersive world that draws the reader in and makes them feel as if they are a part of the story. Overall, this is a great read that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for an exciting and engaging story.
July 15,2025
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I've read the Maximum Ride books, and my curiosity led me to explore where the inspiration for that series originated.

"When the Wind Blows" was an interesting book, with a fast pace characteristic of all of Patterson's works. However, the romance between Kit and Frannie was extremely awkward. Maybe it was Patterson's writing style, or perhaps I just couldn't quite put my finger on it. But whenever the narrative jumped into Frannie's first-person perspective (while the rest of the book was written in the third person), it felt unbelievably fake. It was like, really, really, ridiculously, cringe-worthy fakeness. Sorry, Patterson. I think you should stick to action, sci-fi, and the bad-ass half-avian children running from the bad guys and taking a stand. But please stay away from the clumsy passion and descriptions of glistening bodies and whatever else was included in the Frannie/Kit chapters regarding the development of their steaming love.

Other than that awkward bump in the road, it was a pretty decent read. I could identify aspects of the new pack in the brief descriptions of the old pack. The only thing that slightly bothered me was the super casual way that Patterson described the death of a certain character at the end. I won't say anymore, but it kind of put me off, and I couldn't fully enjoy the conclusion to the novel.
July 15,2025
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I am not entirely certain about my thoughts regarding this book.

It was truly distinct from any other James Patterson book that I have perused.

I already possess the subsequent book in the series and am currently grappling with the decision of whether or not to read it.

The plot, in certain aspects, was extremely far-fetched.

It might hold an allure for those individuals who have a penchant for books centered around government conspiracies.

However, for me, it was a bit of a mixed bag.

On one hand, the unique premise was somewhat intriguing, but on the other hand, the far-fetched nature made it a bit difficult to fully immerse myself in the story.

I am still on the fence about whether I will proceed with reading the next installment in the series.

Perhaps a closer examination of the first book might help me make a more informed decision.
July 15,2025
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Illegal genetic manipulation experiments: this is the topic dealt with in the novel. Chilling. Atrocities that make the blood freeze in the veins. The scenes of the School are the most shocking.


For the rest, the story, told with an almost elementary writing (perhaps due to the translation?), if we remove some almost obligatory medical/scientific terms, seemed to me very imaginative, indeed science-fictional. On the other hand, the dream of flying is inherent in each of us...


But are we really sure that it is just fantasy? Are we sure that, deep down, there is not a bit of crazy truth? I don't want to think about it... I want to drive away this bug and see this novel only as pure entertainment.


Not really a thriller, in any case, even if there are crimes and the investigations lead back to the facts mentioned above.


However - I repeat - it gave me a slight shiver...


And - among such dark tints - there could not be lacking a bit of "pink", naturally, with a story (it seems serious) between the two main characters. Just to lighten the atmosphere and make all types of readers happy. But it's okay like this.


Epilogue full of adrenaline, exciting and far-fetched, and then flowing into a gigantic "... and they all lived happily ever after".


July 15,2025
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I am always filled with excitement whenever I embark on the journey of delving into a new book penned by James Patterson. Over the years, I have developed a deep appreciation for his writing style. Whether it is a hard-hitting and gritty suspense novel that keeps me on the edge of my seat or a tender and heartfelt romance that tugs at my heartstrings, Patterson has always managed to captivate my attention.

Recently, a story centered around genetic engineering gone wrong piqued my interest. Medical thrillers have long been one of my favorite themes, as they combine elements of science, mystery, and danger. However, to my disappointment, this particular book failed to truly grab me. The plot seemed to lack the necessary depth and complexity to hold my attention throughout.

As the story came to an end, I found myself ready to move on. I don't think I'll be pursuing anything else in this particular series. While I still have high regard for Patterson's work in general, this particular installment just didn't live up to my expectations. I'll continue to look forward to his future releases, hoping that he'll once again deliver a story that will leave me spellbound.
July 15,2025
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This is quite a different book indeed. It's not the kind that I would have initially imagined Patterson writing, but then again, I'm not overly familiar with Patterson's works.

First and foremost, I have a deep love for short chapters. I absolutely adore them. They are like little stepping stones that keep my reading pace perfectly in line. And I must admit, I'm a fast reader :).

This book features a great cast of characters. In fact, I truly wish that it had been an entire story centered around Kit and Frannie's romance. That aspect really intrigued me. However, the part about the bird part human experimental kids was a bit on the wild side. It was still a decent story though.

I firmly believe that this book has the potential to be an excellent Netflix mini series or movie. The unique combination of elements and the engaging characters would surely translate well onto the screen. It could吸引 a wide audience and become a hit.

Overall, despite its quirks, this book has its charm and I'm glad I gave it a read.
July 15,2025
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I have an intense love for this book.

In fact, I have lost count of the number of times I have read it.

Every time I pick it up and start reading, it has an irresistible charm.

If by page 5, you can manage to put it down, then perhaps you can stop reading.

But let me tell you, this book truly rocks!

And the author, Max, also rocks!

The story is so engaging, the characters are vividly portrayed, and the plot is full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.

It's a book that you won't be able to put down easily once you start.

Whether you're a fan of fiction or just looking for a good read, this book is definitely worth checking out.

Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
July 15,2025
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This is by far one of my FAVORITE James Patterson novels.

It truly stands out from the Cross series and the co-written beach reads.

The story is a captivating mix of mystery and fantasy, with just a hint of romance thrown in.

It's the kind of book that immediately draws you in and keeps you hooked from start to finish.

For anyone who reads to escape the real world and immerse themselves in a thrilling adventure, this is an absolute must-read.

The characters are well-developed and the plot is full of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Whether you're a die-hard James Patterson fan or just looking for a great book to get lost in, this one is sure to satisfy.

So don't hesitate, pick up this novel and prepare to be taken on an unforgettable journey.

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