Just when he's on the edge of ending it all, Detective Declan Shaw is called to a murder scene at the home of a true crime author and her husband. What happens in their apartment will change his career and life in the following days in ways he could never imagine.

The characters evolve throughout the story as the pages keep turning. The Writer is classic James Patterson. A fast paced read full of drama, humor and of course, the twist at the end. The Writer, however, has a major twist in the end after the big twist at the end.

I always enjoy James Patterson's work but this one was a head scratcher, whodunnit and how did they do it until the last word. I highly recommend The Writer to all mystery lovers.

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, James Patterson, J.D. Barker, and Little, Brown and Company for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Back for another great collaboration between James Patterson and J.D. Barker, I was excited to see what they created. Their masterful creations tend to pull the reader into the middle of the action and leave them to wonder what awaits around the corner. A murder that seems straightforward has NYPD detectives baffled, sending one suspect into custody and a previous case into question. Nothing adds up, but there is truth somewhere to be found. It will take dedication and determination, at some revealing truths. Patterson and Barker leave the reader energised and curious in equal measure!

When NYPD Detective Declan Shaw receives a call to attend a crime scene, he cannot help but wonder what’s going on. His lieutenant is adamant that he rush to 211 Central Park West, where a woman has been the victim of a break-in and the murder of her husband. While shooting at first responders, she refuses entry to anyone, save Detective Declan Shaw.

When Shaw gets her to open the door, Denise Morrow is covered in blood and her husband is dead on the floor. Shaw begins piecing things together, learning that Denise is a bestselling author and one of the most notable true crimes writers in America. She has an alibi and yet no clear understanding who might have been targeting her or her husband.

As Shaw and his partner investigate, they are thrust into the middle of a past case, a child abduction, which is the latest story about which Denise Morrow has been writing. Shaw begins to wonder if the case was rushed to judgment, especially as things begin to unravel and evidence is questioned anew. The Morrow killing also seems scattered, as evidence does not add up and seems jilted. Detective Shaw will have to find truth amongst all the mess and determine if Denise Morrow the writer could also be a cold-hearted killer. Patterson and Barker deliver a strong story that keeps the reader hooked with each turn of the page!

While James Patterson has made collaborative writing his go-to of late, one can never be sure of the quality it will yield. Some will prove fruitful and other times show that collaboration is less impactful. The work alongside J.D. Barker has always been superior and keeps the reader on edge. The narrative flow of this book shows great promise and keeps the reader wondering, while short chapters—a Patterson staple—creates added momentum for the reader to push forward. Great characters, developed as best they can in short order, help add depth and intrigue to the larger story. Plot points help add a sense of electricity to the piece, as is typical with this collaborative group, though I did not feel it was as edgy as some of their past work. Duplicity and twistiness are ever-present, keeping things less than predictable! I am eager to see where Patterson and Barker take things in the future.

Kudos, Messrs. Patterson and Barker, for another winning novel.

I absolutely loved this book! It’s impressive how two writers managed to create such a seamless and smooth story. I couldn’t even tell it was a collaboration because everything flowed so well.

Cordova was the quiet surprise of the book—I didn’t see his character coming, and I loved that. Then there’s Denise, who was written so expertly that I couldn’t decide whether I liked or hated her. It all depended on the moment and the events unfolding. That kind of complexity made the story even more engaging.

The little twists and surprises throughout the book were a welcome addition. After reading so many thrillers, I appreciate when an author (or in this case, two) can still catch me off guard. As for Declan, his character felt understated. Given how significant he is to the overall story, I expected to learn more about him, but his development felt a little lacking. Maybe that was intentional for the big outcome, but I still wanted more depth from him.

If you’re a fan of James Patterson, this is a must-read. The pacing, suspense, and character dynamics make it well worth it!

I would like to express my deep gratitude to Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for their generosity in allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

There were so many twists and turns, and I was actually kinda surprised, which doesn’t normally happen. However, the writing was only so-so, and the biggest problem was that I just never grew to care for the characters. I was hooked bc I wanted to know what happened but once I was done reading, I felt like I was going to forget it very quickly.

I also don’t think the ending made much sense to me. Why would she let him into her place if she knew her cat was live-streaming? Unless she knew he would attempt to kill her? In which case why wouldn’t she try to corner him in another way instead of getting herself killed?

Overall, still enjoyed and would recommend for a twisty thriller. Thanks for NetGalley and Little, Brown for the ARC!

Rating: 5 ⭐️
Pub Date: March 17, 2025
How I Read It: 📱

Synopsis
Detective Declan Shaw is sitting in a subway station contemplating jumping in front of a moving subway when he gets a call about a murder that’s just been committed and a woman, famous author Denise Morrow, who found her husband dead, had one request. She will only speak to Detective Shaw. Detective Shaw arrives to the scene and nothing makes sense. Denise Shaw is covered in blood, but it’s not her husband’s and the knife found near his body doesn’t have his blood on it. So whose blood is it? And who killed her husband?

My Thoughts
I’m a huge fan of James Patterson. I know when I pick up one of his books it’s going to be a good one, and this book was no exception. Talk about heart racing! I could not put this one down! I would have read it in one day if life didn’t get in the way. It was so good, and the twists and turns had me second guessing everything. Just when you think Patterson and Barker wouldn’t go somewhere with the storyline, they had you gasping in shock. The writing in this book is brilliant, and if you love a fast-paced thriller, you should pick this one up ASAP.

Themes
🫣 Suspense
🔪 Murder

Ratings
Characters: 5 ⭐️
Pace: 5 ⭐️
Enjoyability: 5 ⭐️

Thank you Little, Brown and Company, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book!

A psychological thriller with one twist after another to keep you guessing.
Detective Declan Shaw is reflecting on his life, contemplating ending his story, when he gets a call from his boss that a woman that called 911 is asking specifically for him. The woman called 911 to report the murder of her husband, but then she fired shots at the first responders and will only speak to Shaw. The woman is a true-crime writer, she's covered in her husband's blood, she is emotionless... did she kill her husband? As the investigation begins things quickly go sideways.

If you think you have this one figured out - you don't! The twists kept coming and nothing is as it seems. I loved the collaboration between Barker and Patterson.

My only complaint is that I wish it had more backstory on some of the main characters - Shaw, Denise Morrow, and Cordova. Overall, it fast-paced, suspenseful and entertaining to read.

Fasten your seatbelt; James Patterson and J.D. Barker have delivered another 5-star blockbuster. I wanted to devour this book in one sitting, but life got in the way. When I wasn't reading The Writer, I constantly thought about it. There are so many twists and turns that I felt like I got whiplash. I highly recommend this book to the reader who appreciates a clever plot and enjoys the element of surprise.

A twisty, clever, and enthralling read!
When NYPD Detective Declan Shaw is called to the luxurious Beresford apartment building he finds bestselling true-crime author Denise Morrow covered in blood standing next to her husband’s dead body. Morrow had called the police to report she had arrived home to find her husband dead and to alert them that she feared the murderer might still be in her apartment. Her phone call sets off an investigation more complex and compelling than anything Morrow had written in her books!
I am not familiar with J. D. Barker’s work, but James Patterson is renowned for his exciting books featuring many surprises, and the cleverness in The Writer reaches a new high point. It seemed that every time I thought I knew where things were going and had settled on a suspect, that person became the next victim! The action never slowed until we hit the surprise (of course!) ending(s). It would be unfair to say more.
The most impressive aspect of The Writer is the clever twisty plot, but there are a lot of other things to enjoy and admire. I do not remember ever reading a book where one of the chief suspects is a crime writer, someone who can be expected to be super-informed on what to do and what not to do if you are going to commit murder. There are many other small clever touches, such as the bit part played by Otto Penzler, the real-life renowned mystery editor and proprietor of The Mysterious Bookshop.
Despite my deep enjoyment of The Writer, there was one aspect that disturbed me to the extent that I feel I should warn sensitive readers about it. There is some deeply perverted violent sexual activity described in great detail in the book. Sensitive readers MIGHT be better off with a different read.
Nonetheless I will be recommending The Writer to all my friends and to whoever reads this review.
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley and Little, Brown and Company.

Thank you for the opportunity to preview The Writer. This collaboration with Patterson and Barker is truly a fantastic project. This is not a typical police procedural novel. This book centers on Declan Shaw a flawed and often misunderstood police officer.
His life changes when he is called to a penthouse apartment in New York where a famous author lives and calls 911. She asks for Shaw when she calls. Police find her with her dead husband and her response is barely understood. Open and shut case - not hardly.
With a cast of interesting characters and a plot with more twists than a roller coaster I could not put this book down.
Excellent writing and superb writing. 5 stars!!!

Writing and Pacing

Patterson and Barker employ their characteristic fast pace, which blends seamlessly with intricate detail. Every chapter leaves you hanging in suspense, pushing you to turn “just one more page.” The brisk pacing is complemented expertly by moments of poignant reflection, fleshing out the emotional toll on the characters involved—especially Shaw and Cordova. These human moments balance out the action, presenting a multidimensional view of the detectives who, frankly, remain morally ambiguous throughout.

For anyone familiar with Patterson’s work, the concise chapters are no surprise. But Barker’s influence is clear in the story’s underlying psychological tension. Together, they create a rhythm that works like clockwork—quick bursts of adrenaline cushioned by reflective revelations that lead the reader deeper into the conspiracy’s core.

Themes and Messages

At its core, The Writer presents more than a mystery—it’s a moral exploration of trust, betrayal, and justice. The initial crime committed by Shaw and Cordova acts as a ticking time bomb, setting off a chain reaction of consequences neither could foresee.

One of the central themes is power—who wields it, who manipulates it, and who becomes its casualty. Denise, despite being a civilian writer, holds the power of truth. Yet that same power becomes her downfall when she is cast in the role of villain through accusations of murder. The question looms throughout the story—is she being framed as part of a broader cover-up? Or has her moral compass shattered amid the chaos of her findings?

Conspiracy is undeniably the beating heart of the narrative. Patterson and Barker scrutinize human nature and institutions, particularly the justice system. Shaw and Cordova’s willingness to plant evidence to secure a conviction—for reasons they justify as moral—juxtaposes the apparent injustice of Denise’s current predicament. This complex dance between right and wrong is woven intricately into every character’s arc, asking readers to reevaluate the murky spaces between good and bad intent.

Finally, the concept of guilt—both individual and collective—grounds the story in emotional depth. Each character wrestles with their own form of guilt, whether from mistakes, moral compromise, or personal loss. This adds an undertone that lingers long after the final page.

Characters

The complex characters are what set this book apart from many thrillers. Shaw and Cordova are painted not as righteous heroes but as flawed humans driven by desperation. Their camaraderie feels genuine, even as it’s tested by their tarnished history. Denise Morrow, however, is the true enigma of this tale. With her razor-sharp intellect, she remains an intriguing mix of victim and manipulator. The ambiguity surrounding her motives and actions keeps readers guessing.

Even the secondary characters feel purposeful—David, whose murder triggers the novel’s present timeline, is brought to life posthumously through the eyes of others. His role is more than that of a victim; he influences the plot in ways that stretch beyond the grave, adding another layer of intrigue.

Strengths of the Novel
What truly elevates The Writer is its layered storytelling. The alternating timeline, combined with shifting points of view, lets readers piece the puzzle together bit by bit. Patterson and Barker avoid spoon-feeding the narrative, instead giving readers enough room to form their own opinions and theories.

Additionally, the exploration of justice and morality feels timely and relatable. It’s hard not to draw parallels with real-world issues in law enforcement and public trust, which makes the story all the more compelling. We know that the corruption is deep and endless and the book purveys the feeling of when will it ever stop.

The writing is supported by a constant undercurrent of suspense—a testament to both authors’ mastery. Whether it’s fast-paced interrogations or moments of slow introspection, The Writer holds your attention from start to finish.

I loved the character of Declan and was rooting for him. He was so hopeful in a way.

Areas That Could Have Been Stronger
While the novel thrives on tension, a few plot points teeter on being overly convoluted. There are moments when the web of deception feels stretched thin, and certain twists edge close to implausibility. Readers seeking complete realism might find this detracts from their immersion.

Additionally, Denise Morrow’s character, while compelling, could have benefited from more backstory in the earlier sections to deepen the emotional stakes surrounding her accusations. Although the ambiguity serves a purpose, a bit more context would have enhanced her motivation. She was power unchecked and grandiose. How did she get that way?

Who Should Read This Book?
Given its themes of justice and deception, The Writer will resonate most with fans of suspense and crime thrillers with layered, morally intricate plots. Fans of works like The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo or anything by Harlan Coben will likely find themselves at home with this novel. If you enjoy tales that leave you questioning the truth up until the closing chapters—and pondering them long after—this book is the perfect pick.

Final Thoughts
Patterson and Barker deliver a compelling story in The Writer that challenges readers to think deeply about morality, trust, and the ripple effects of our choices. At its heart, it’s a tangled web of conspiracy, where every character fights to uncover—or conceal—the truth. While not flawless, its relentless pace, intriguing characters, and thought-provoking themes make it an undeniably gripping read.

Looking for a page-turner to keep you up at night? The Writer might just be the twisty, morally complex crime thriller you’ve been waiting for.

Wow! This book was such a twisty, suspenseful, dramatic roller coaster! It was fast paced and had me on the edge of my seat with my jaw on the floor at times. The characters were a surprise and they helped pull me into the story. I really liked this one! I'm familiar with James Patterson books, and am always excited to start a new book by him. Now I am intrigued by JD Barker and am excited to read one of Barker's books - including other collaborations between Patterson and Barker. Thank you NetGalley and Little, Brown & Company for a digital arc of this title.

This is a well-written, suspenseful, complex, edge-of-your-seat thriller that will leave you breathless at times in anticipation of the next twist in the plot. The characters are well-developed though not necessarily likeable. None of them are whom they appear to be. This provocative, somewhat dark and twisted story grabs you from the first page and keeps you guessing until the very end where the authors insert a deliciously wicked twist. The end had a satisfying, realistic conclusion; but enough justice for everyone.

Thank you to NetGalley and Little Brown and Company who provided me with a copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

Stunned!

My heart has been racing throughout this one. 🏃‍➡️❤️ A dark, shocking story that had my anxiety building as I tried to connect the dots. You may find yourself second guessing everything! James Patterson and J.D. Barker give us a suspenseful, bumpy ride.

Just when you think you can't be more shocked, you get the rug pulled out once again!

Denise Morrow is a bestselling true-crime author, she is familiar with the deets on crime scenes, has studied some of the world's most infamous killers, those who were wrongly accused, and has studied them all. She finds herself right smack in the middle of her own murder mystery!

Twisty, hard to put down and a killer cat and mouse chase!

Did someone just pull off the perfect murder??!!

Absolutely loved this... it was well-written with some great twists that occasionally needed some explanation. The characters were well-drawn and the story was very engaging. I couldn't wait to get back to it every time I put it down. Not sure if JP or JD Barker is the main write.. not sure how that works but the is a must read for Thriller fans. The fact of crimes are mentioned but there's no gratuitous descriptions of the crimes & crime scenes.

#TheWriter #NetGalley.

Thank you to @netgalley, @JamesPatterson and @LittleBrownandCompany for this ARC. Cordova calls Declan to assist in a murder investigation because the wife of the deceased is asking specifically for him. When he arrives, Denise is almost comatose sitting over her husband's body and covered in his blood. When investigation actually points fingers at Declan, he has to clear his name.
Most know I am a big fan of James Patterson. His books are so easy to read BUT I think most the books he writes are mysteries, not necessarily thrillers. THIS one is a thriller (also says on the cover 😀) The twist halfway through had me saying out loud "NO WAY"! The ending was brilliantly written. #TheWriter #JamesPatterson #JDParker #LittleBrownandCompany #March2025

3

It’s hard for me to review Patterson at this point as he is very well known and loved already. But this book was great. Fast paced and on edge as one would expect and great storyline and characters to boot. I highly recommend this one.

The Writer
James Patterson
JD Barker
Little, Brown and Company
03/17/2025

James Patterson and JD Barker as a team? 100% yes please!

NYPD Declan Shaw is contemplating his life and his choices. Going forward no longer seems possible. His phone rings and it is his partner. A high-profile murder has occurred in a very upscale neighborhood and the wife of the victim is asking specifically for him. When Detective Shaw arrives at the scene, he finds best-selling, true crime author Denise Morrow hovering over her husbands body covered in blood.

As Shaw and his partner, Cordova, start breaking down the scene - things look pretty simple. A scorned wife kills her husband. However, Denise Morrow has a lot of money and a relentless attorney to do her bidding. More clues come to light, additional bodies add to the mess and suddenly it is anyone’s guess as to the truth. Red herrings galore that are placed perfectly making no one trustworthy.

This book is interlaced with transcription from previous crime scenes that were worked by Shaw and Cordova and chapters from a book in progress from suspect, Denise Morrow. This is a relentless high-octane cat and mouse thriller with the kind of twists that you will leave you breathless. The ending – holy smokes – if you saw that coming go ahead and play the lottery. Impossible.

Clear your calendar, because once you start this, you will not stop!

Well that certainly didn't go like I had expected, but that's a good thing, and this book is a good one, there are so many twists you don't know where it's going to end up. True crime writer Denise Morrow, has called the police to her swanky apartment after she came home and found her husband dead. Detective Declan Shaw and his partner Jarod Cordova, respond and find Denise covered in blood and her husband dead from stab wounds. Denise had in her 911 call requested that Declan show up, Denise is writing a new book based on a crime that Declan and his partner had worked several years ago, Denise is known for finding out facts and embarrassing police by writing of them in her books. Things really start to take twists soon after, the case that Denise is writing her book about figures prominently in the story, that and several other twists will make your head spin trying to keep up. Mentioning any would be a spoiler, I would highly recommend this book, you will zip right through it. Thanks to #Netgalley and #Little Brown and Co for the ARC.

Wow, this book packs so many twists and turns! A murder in a secure building, plenty of clues that don’t add up, more murders, and an ending I did not see coming.

An edge-of-your seat thriller I absolutely loved!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Well – Once again a book that I just could not put down!

The Writer by the Co-Authors James Patterson and J.D. Barker, who are one of, if not my favourite wring teams.

You are going to want to settle in, clear your schedules and jump right in. Once you begin this book nothing else around you will matter.

A real cat and mouse story, full of twists and turns that just does not let up.

These two authors really know how to tell a story.

The ending is dynamic and worth every word.

Staged in NY, with the main characters being a true crime author with more tricks up her sleeve than one could imagine, and a NYPD Detective that is on edge, and complex and interesting.

I look forward to more great books by this pair of fine authors in the future.

Thank you to NetGalley, Authors James Patterson and J.D. Barker, and Little Brown and Company for my advanced copy to read and review.

# Netgalley #jdbarker_author #jamespattersonbooks #littlebrown