I always enjoy Alex Cross novels, and this one did not disappoint. It shares some to the backstory of one of Alex's most formidable opponents. While reading this story, I felt almost every emotion. My heart raced, I was fearful of turning the page, I cheered, I gasped, and then it ended . . . but not quite how I hoped, hence the three stars.

Thank you for the opportunity to preview The House of Cross. It’s been quite some time since I read an Alex Cross book. Patterson is truly a genius writer. How he can keep this series from becoming stale or boring is beyond my comprehension. But he does and I am so grateful to be back in the Alex Cross universe.
Alex Cross is a great example of how a character can be so real and as a reader you become almost a part of his life. That’s what Patterson is able to do so well.
This is a great addition to his universe and I realize I missed reading this series
Another reason to read this book is because it’s not average. It’s very good and Alex Cross is a definable character.
4 stars

Rewriting History

Alex Cross is back, in his biggest and most complex case to date, crossing International borders to find an arch criminal. Although replete with up to the minute cyber technologies, a few of which may not yet have been invented (but will be), the whole was somewhat reminiscent of the Cold War saga of James Bond. Of course James was decidedly a bachelor and Alex is most definitely a loving family man. If you have been following the progress of Alex Cross, you will be up-to-date on a number of other continuing characters as well, but if you've never read any of these, I suspect you'll catch on quite quickly to the Who, What, When, and Where, and rapidly become engrossed in the drama. Five patriotic stars!

This was one of my favorite Alex Cross stories. The suspense was outstanding. It was a nice change having Bree team up with John while Alex was teaming up with Ned. The settings outside of DC were also a nice plus. Looking forward to more in Alex's investigations.

As much as I love James Patterson and the Alex Cross series, I unfortunately didnt love this book. I liked it and kept me entertained for the most part but it dragged a lot. It wasn't as gripping and action packed as the other books. The story line was good, but I didn't feel the normal Alex Cross vibes and thye had Bree acting like a rookie. Overall, it's a decent read and I'll recommend it.

Alex Cross thriller #32. Alex Cross is one of the most memorable protagonists in the mystery genre with many followers. With a new president elect a serial killer is assassinating legal leaders who are being considered for the new administration. Cross and his team suspect the criminal known as Maestro who has eluded law enforcement for years. When his wife Bree and his best friend John Sampson go missing while following a lead Cross enters a wilderness area searching for them . He must not only survive the deadly killers on his trail but perilous winter weather conditions. I have been following Alex Cross since his first appearance in "Along Came A Spider" with eager anticipation for each new adventure. James Patterson is legendary for penning compelling action driven narratives and this entry was no exception. It introduces some interesting plot twists on the ongoing Maestro thread and was fast paced and engaging. Character development has always been one of Patterson's strengths as an author and a sa reader I am always ready to revisit the clever and courageous Detective Cross and his team. Glimpses of his family life always add a touch of the human element to a dark and gritty story.

This is our 33rd, hard to believe it's been that many, Alex Cross book. They just keep getting better and better. Alex is tasked with saving the country once again. In this case someone is killing judges on a possible Supreme Court replacement list. This list is not public but these judges are turning up dead. The evidence leads Alex, Bree and John to the snowy tundra in Canada. They go up against some of the toughest bad guys they have ever fought. Will they survive this last battle. This is one of the best Cross books yet.

As we enter 2025, with a promising lineup of exciting new book releases on the horizon, I’m kicking off my reading year with a title from last year. Since high school, my mom has gifted me the latest installment in James Patterson's Alex Cross series each Christmas. It’s a beloved holiday tradition that I look forward to every year. Even though Patterson’s publisher generously provides me with an early ebook copy for review, I always wait until Christmas morning to unwrap the hardcover—it’s become part of the magic. This year was no different. As the decorations came down and the holiday haze faded, I started the new year with a familiar friend, diving into another thrilling adventure with The House of Cross.

The FBI is on edge as some of the nation’s most prominent legal minds are being systematically assassinated. Each murder takes place in a public setting, with the female assassin showing no hesitation in being caught on camera. Criminal psychologist Alex Cross, who has been consulting with the FBI for years, is called in to investigate. Partnering with his longtime friend Ned Mahoney, Alex begins piecing together the clues, but progress is slow. With the inauguration of a new president just weeks away and the interim FBI director desperate to secure her role permanently, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

While Alex focuses on unraveling this deadly conspiracy, his wife, Bree Stone, and best friend, John Sampson, are deep in an equally perilous investigation. The CEO of tech giant Paladin has reportedly died in a mysterious car crash in a remote location. But Bree and Sampson suspect the supposedly deceased CEO is none other than “M,” the elusive mastermind behind Maestro—a shadowy vigilante organization that has haunted the series’ recent installments.

Determined to uncover the truth, Bree and Sampson venture into treacherous terrain to investigate. If their suspicions are correct, Maestro's reign of terror may not be over, and they may be facing the deadliest threat yet. With two high-stakes cases unfolding simultaneously, Alex Cross and his team are about to be tested like never before.

There’s a certain comfort in diving into the next installment of a long-running series, and The House of Cross delivers everything I’ve come to expect from James Patterson. The plot is as gripping as ever, with relentless pacing that keeps you hooked from start to finish. But what really makes these books stand out is the chance to revisit characters I’ve grown to care about over the years.

Patterson has always had a knack for balancing edge-of-your-seat thrills with meaningful character development. This dual focus deepens our connection to the characters and raises the stakes of the dangers they face. The enigmatic “M” has been a shadowy presence in the Alex Cross series since 2019’s Criss Cross, so seeing this storyline finally reach its climax was satisfying.

Admittedly, the narrative leans into the over-the-top territory reminiscent of a James Bond adventure, but that’s part of the charm. I didn’t pick up this book for gritty realism—I wanted a pulse-pounding thrill ride, and Patterson delivered. The House of Cross was the perfect way to kick off a new year of reading.

The best Alex Cross book I've read in a while. It's nice to see the series get back on track. Someone's murdering federal judges with a presidential inauguration on the horizon. Meanwhile Bree and John investigate Maestro, the big, bad, secret organization of the last several books. It's all very exciting and fast paced but that's all you're getting from me. Go read it yourself.

James Patterson never disappoints and is a comfort author for me (especially the Alex Cross series).

Cross books always keep you on your toes and have unexpected twists, this one being no different. Pick this one up if you’re looking for a quick paced read, full of action, family, and mystery.

I won’t lie—I picked this up because of the TV show announcement (which, by the way, is fantastic). The show only made me more excited to dive into Patterson’s work. My intrigue was always there, especially since he’s one of my dad’s favorite authors. However, my previous attempts with his collaborative novels didn’t resonate with me, so I wanted to ensure I read a book solely written by him.

I decided to explore the Alex Cross series, but unfortunately, I feel like I should have started from the beginning since this is, I believe, the 33rd installment. While the story was easy to follow, it was clear that these characters had a lot of history I wasn’t familiar with, which likely made the pacing and momentum feel off to me as a new reader.

For Patterson fans and longtime followers of the Cross family storyline, this will likely be another enjoyable installment. Personally, I found it a bit boring. It reminded me of a Mission Impossible movie—except instead of just following Tom Cruise, you’re also following all the supporting characters. There’s a superhero-like energy to it, with the world on the brink of collapse and a select team of individuals tasked with saving it.

I think this book might translate better as a movie or TV show, which is why I enjoyed the Cross television series so much. I’ll definitely go back and read the first Alex Cross novel, as I suspect that starting at the beginning will help me better appreciate the pace and storylines Patterson has developed.

I am a huge fan of Patterson’s Alex Cross series. This latest installment did not disappoint. Alex’s wife, Bree, and his best friend, John, play more prominent roles in the story. They team up to find their nemesis, M, and his vigilante group Maestro. In the meantime, Alex is busy trying to find the killer of several Supreme Court candidates.

Action-packed and full of twists and turns, this novel kept me at the edge of my seat. I highly recommend it.

Thank you to Netgalley and to the publisher for providing me with an advanced review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Bree for the win. This had so many twists and turns.. Bree and John were on one mission while Ned and Alex were on another as their cases became one... I really have so much to say and don't want to give anything away.. This is a must read. Loved it

I had stopped reading this author as the books became quantity over quality, but I have a soft spot for Detective Cross and his family so i picked this one up. I’m glad I did. This one reminded me a bit more of the old James Patterson. It had a good plot and the great characters I remember. It moved at a good pace and had some well done twists and turns.
A great read

The House of Cross by James Patterson – Action-packed Thriller

The House of Cross by James Patteson is the first book that I have read by this author. I did not know what to expect, but it really lived up to its description, An Alex Cross Thriller.

Following the election, the people in Washington, D.C. are getting ready for the Inauguration of the President-Elect Jackie Johnson. After the murder of three prospective judicial candidates for the Supreme Court, law enforcement is on high alert. Security of the existing Supreme Court Justices is of grave concern. Who is murdering these people and for what purpose? Could it be the work of Maestro? Time to call in the finest FBI investigators and consultant Alex Cross.

Alex Cross will be working on this case with his wife Bree Stone and friend John Sampson. They will be traveling across the country and into Canada to pursue their suspects. Will they be able find and stop them on time?

The House of Cross is filled with non-stop action from beginning to end. Alex’s family and friendships were my favorite part. I especially like his grandmother Nana Mama. Alex is a family man and good friend. Another character that I liked was Canadian Mounted Police officer Molly Fagan. She is the kind of gal you want by your side when trouble hits. She is prepared and ready for a fight.

The House of Cross is an action pack thriller. While action takes up most of the story, there is also some character and relationship development. I liked the characters. The plot did stretch the imagination, but I liked the story.

There is some profanity in the book, less than I expect. Also, violence due to the nature of the story. Thankfully, the author did not go into detail on the violence that movies often show.

If you like an action-packed thriller and intrigue, I recommend The House of Cross by James Patterson. It will keep you on the edge of your seat until you get to the last page.

I would like to thank publisher Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of The House of Cross by James Patterson. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.

The house of cross was a good story but, I feel that it had a little to much police, Canadian police , FBI and more. I know that this the usual writing still for this author and in his other books it has worked. This book I felt it just went on and on. The book did flow and I like that and the short chapter allows me to fly through the book!

Published by ‎ Little, Brown and Company on November 25, 2024

I’m not a huge fan of Alex Cross, in part because I can’t take FBI profilers seriously. Fortunately, Cross (who left the FBI but still works for the agency as a contractor) does no profiling in The House of Cross. The novel is essentially an action thriller with little crime detection but lots of gunfire.

Series fans might be pleased to note that recurring supervillain M, who leads a vigilante organization called Maestro, returns in The House of Cross. His identity and origin occupy a good chunk of the story. The mystery begins when Ryan Malcolm’s car crashes on a mountain road as he’s being pursued by killers. Malcolm founded a data-mining company that contracts with American intelligence agencies. Poor cell service prevents him from calling Cross during the car chase, but he leaves a Tor message to explain the “things I want to tell you so that you may bring to justice those responsible for my death.” He should have skipped the preamble and spit out the facts because the message ends when his vehicle goes off a cliff.

Who is M? The story delves into his background. All I’ll say is that thriller writers too often rely on evil twin brothers to explain criminal behavior. The mildly refreshing twist here is that both brothers are evil, even if one is worse than the other.

The main plot, in keeping with the modern thriller custom, is outlandish. A newly elected but not yet inaugurated president is making a list of potential Supreme Court appointments so she will be prepared if a position becomes vacant. Before the inauguration can occur, one of the candidates near the top of the list is shot between the eyes, another is stabbed in the kidneys, and a third (because the assassin apparently ran out of ideas despite testing a new superweapon) is shot to death. The killings are orchestrated by Maestro with the intention of changing the balance on the Supreme Court. That plan will require multiple vacancies on the Court, so the final chapters follow Cross, his buddy John Samson, and his wife Bree Stone as they try to thwart assassinations.

Now, the idea that an appointment to the Supreme Court can be influenced by killing all the potential nominees who don’t satisfy M, in anticipation that the president will appoint the three he doesn’t kill, is just nonsensical. The list of potential justices is always fluid. Hell, George Bush wanted to nominate his personal lawyer before senators quietly told him she wasn’t remotely qualified for the job. When candidates are scrubbed from the list, more candidates are added. Will Maestro just keep killing them until he approves of all the survivors? And since all the potential nominees are likely to share roughly the same ideology, it's unclear why Maestro views some as better than others (apart from some silliness about one candidate being insufficiently supportive of Indian treaties, as if treaty law issues are a burning issue in the Supreme Court).

The assassin keeps the aforementioned weapon (something about sonic waves) in reserve until the novel’s end, but by that point everyone (including the new president) understands what’s happening, so you’d think the Supreme Court Police, the US Marshals, and the FBI would manage to protect Supreme Court justices until the assassin is caught. Of course they don’t. Naturally, it all comes down to Cross in the end, because that’s how thrillers work.

So the plot makes no sense, but how often do plots in modern thrillers make sense? For the sake of enjoying the story, it’s best to ignore the plot’s foundation and view the book as an action novel. From that perspective, James Patterson succeeds in delivering some exciting chase scenes and gunfights. The snowmobile chases made me feel cold (not necessarily a plus since I hate being cold, but my point is that Patterson creates a vivid albeit chilly atmosphere). Naturally, being a supervillain, M finds a need to gloat before giving Cross and company a chance to escape. That’s a standard Bond movie formula and is routinely mocked, but readers don’t want the supervillain to win, so the formula is one way to assure the heroes’ victory. If there is a better way, Patterson didn’t find it. Still, readers expect a thriller to deliver thrills and this one does, ridiculous plot notwithstanding.

RECOMMENDED

“The House of Cross” is a thrilling addition to the Alex Cross series by James Patterson. In fact, it is the 30th book in the series! In this latest installment, Alex Cross, the renowned detective, faces a dangerous threat. This threat could shake the very foundation of the American justice system.

About The Book
High-profile murders targeting Supreme Court justices, two brilliant detectives, and a group called Maestro makes this a fast-paced book. You learn a lot more about “M” and the group Maestro. This will please you if you have read other books in this series.

In this book, you get to see Alex Cross as a caring husband and father. It was nice to see him shown as more human in his everyday life. I also loved having Bree, his wife, make a much larger appearance in the story.

Will they be able to save more supreme court justices from being killed?

My Thoughts:
This was one of my favorite books in the Alex Cross series. I feel like it answered a lot of my questions from the previous books. It seemed to sum up so much of the series.

Patterson does a great job of developing his characters. It’s been fun to see Alex Cross, Bree, and his partner, John Sampson, working together throughout this book. The family dynamics of each character truly added to the story this time.

Thank you to NetGalley, Little, Brown & Company, and James Patterson for my free copy of this book. This is my honest review.

Thank you NetGalley, Little, Brown and Company and James Patterson for allowing me to read this book ahead of the publishing date. There are no many, if any, books of James Patterson's that I have not liked and this one lives up to his standards!

Someone is targeting Supreme Court short-listed nominees and current Supreme Court judges, This book is certainly based on how the United States is now, with those trying to push their agenda by using guns to remove those that don't agree with them. Sadly, the premise of this book may be acted out in real life at some point based on the recent healthcare murder.

Dr Cross and his police colleagues are working to try and determine who is targeting these high profile people and of course the answer is something that no one wants to admit, an old foe is possibly back doing some shenanigans. As they track these murders, it becomes something out of a sy fy movie on what has been done to allow these murders to go almost undetected but of course Dr Cross is not to be deterred and will at some point figure out the why's and who's.

This is another fast paced, updated to modern times adventure that no one can do better than James Patterson!

This book is wonderfully entertaining and the writer never disappoints. I was no able to put the book down and would recommend to anyone.