Books
American mystery, thriller, and criminal fiction writer James Patterson has sold millions of copies of his books.
In 2010, he became the first author to sell one million eBooks, has the most New York Times bestsellers, and is considered one of the highest-paid writers ever.
A self-glorified philanthropist, he has bestowed millions of dollars into school libraries nationwide.
Our friends at Goodreads helped us determine which James Patterson titles are the most beloved. More than 125 million people use Goodreads to discuss and share books they’ve read.
So, if you’re a fan of James Patterson’s work and are seeking a new, exciting mystery or thriller, here are the 21 books that readers have voted the most popular by the author.
Who is James Patterson?
James Patterson entered this world in Newburg, New York, on March 22, 1947. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in English from Manhattan College.
Afterward, he continued his education at Vanderbilt University, where he earned a Master of Arts degree and was named Summa Cum Laude.
He has authored several suspense books and is now a best-selling American novelist. He is undeniably a prolific author, with 425 million books sold in 38 languages and counting. His devoted followers can’t get enough of his thought-provoking, popular genre trends and entertaining tales.
Patterson has been penning internationally acclaimed, riveting crime series since 1976, including Alex Cross and Women’s Murder Club. In addition to fiction, he writes non-fiction and romantic novels.
List of James Patterson’s Books to Read:
From his renowned Alex Cross series to his captivating, stand-alone novels, James Patterson’s stories encompass various genres, allowing readers to explore mysteries, thrillers, science fiction, and more.
Whether you prefer heart-pounding suspense, intricate murder mysteries, thought-provoking science fiction, or heartwarming love stories, there is something for everyone among these handpicked recommendations of Book Writing Founders:
“Along Came a Spider” (1993):
It is the first novel in Patterson’s Alex Cross series and is widely considered one of his best works. In this suspenseful thriller, Detective Alex Cross goes on the trail of a kidnapper and a serial killer.
This novel introduces readers to the protagonist, Detective Alex Cross, a detective with a talent for criminal profiling. “Along Came a Spider” follows Cross as he works to solve two complex cases: the kidnapping of the young daughter of a powerful senator and a series of violent murders committed by a serial killer calling himself “Gary Soneji.”
This gripping thriller introduces the Alex Cross series and combines breakneck pacing with intense psychological suspense.
“Kiss the Girls” (1995):
In this second book in the Alex Cross series, Cross is still reeling from the events of “Along Came a Spider” when he’s called to investigate a series of abductions and murders taking place across the country.
As he begins to unravel a web of clues linking the cases, he discovers that the killer is targeting attractive and intelligent young women. “Kiss the Girls” is a page-turner with plenty of surprising twists and a masterfully crafted plot.
“When the Wind Blows” (1998):
Patterson’s first foray into science fiction, “When the Wind Blows,” tells the story of a veterinarian named Frannie O’Neill who takes in two young patients with extraordinary abilities.
The children are part of a government experiment, and as Frannie works to protect them from the authorities, she discovers that their powers have the potential to change the world.
“When the Wind Blows” is a fast-paced, thrilling sci-fi adventure combining high stakes and heartwarming characterization.
“Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholas” (2001):
In this evocative love story, a successful New York City editor named Katie finds a diary that reveals the intimate feelings of a woman named Suzanne.
Katie read the journal and learned that Suzanne had a hidden crush on a guy called Matt, but that secret threatened to ruin their relationship. To discover happiness in the future, Katie will need to face her history as she starts to see similarities between Suzanne’s narrative and her own.
A poignant tale of loss, second chances, and love’s transformative power, “Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholas” moves readers deeply.
James Patterson’s “Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholas” is a love story about a woman named Katie Wilkinson who finds the one person who fulfills all of her dreams.
His abrupt and unexplained departure leaves her with a bizarre journal that, in this emotionally taxing and mind-blowing book, discloses devastating truths.
“1st to Die” (2001):
Patterson’s Women’s Murder Club series introduces readers to a group of four female friends who share their self-help writing path together to solve homicides. In “1st to Die,” a serial killer known as the “Honeymoon Killer” begins targeting newlywed couples, and the Murder Club must work to uncover the killer’s identity.
As always, Patterson’s pacing and plotting are top-notch, and the novel’s emphasis on female characters adds a fresh perspective to the police procedural genre.
“The Beach House” (2002):
When young lawyer Jack Mullen learns that his brother has died in a mysterious accident at a beach house in East Hampton, he travels to the exclusive community to investigate.
But as he digs deeper, he discovers that the death may not have been an accident and that long-buried family secrets are threatening to tear the community apart. “The Beach House” is a fascinating blend of mystery, family drama, and romance that will keep readers hooked until the final page.
“The Jester” (2003):
Set in medieval Europe, “The Jester” tells the tale of a loyal squire named Hugh De Luc who sets out to avenge the death of his family by killing a corrupt and bloodthirsty nobleman.
Along the way, he becomes known as the “Blackhearted Jester” and must outwit the nobleman’s minions and survive thrilling battles. “The Jester” is a historical coup de maître, packed with action, suspense, and vivid medieval atmosphere.
“Maximum Ride” (2005):
In this action-packed young adult novel, sci-fi-superhero teenagers band together to defeat a sinister organization that wants to use their special abilities for evil.
Maximum, the teenage heroine, has wings, and her gang of genetically enhanced “flock” siblings have various abilities, from super strength to telekinesis. “Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment” is a thrilling adventure that doesn’t skimp on the heart or the humor.
Cross (2006):
In “Cross,” James Patterson continues to weave the gripping narrative of Detective Alex Cross, a skilled investigator whose personal and professional life intertwines in the most intricate ways.
The novel takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of his book writing journey through a series of crimes that challenge Cross’s intellect and test the limits of his emotional resilience.
Alex Cross finds himself entangled in a web of personal challenges. Patterson skillfully explores Cross’s relationships with his family, adding layers of depth to the character.
The balance between his demanding career and his commitment to his loved ones becomes a central theme, resonating with readers on a human level.
What’s Different About James Patterson
Patterson’s style and illustrations in writing are notable for its fast-paced narratives and short chapters, creating a sense of intense momentum that keeps readers hooked.
James Patterson stands out among authors for several reasons:
Prolific Output:
One of the most distinctive aspects of James Patterson’s career is his prodigious writing output. He has written or co-written over 150 books, making him one of the most commercially successful authors of all time. He produces books across multiple genres: mystery, thrillers, young adult, and romance.
Fast-paced, Short Chapters:
Patterson’s writing style is characterized by fast-paced narratives that keep readers engaged. He often divides his books into short chapters, creating a sense of rapid momentum and making his stories easy to read.
Collaborative Writing:
Patterson frequently collaborates with other authors, sometimes co-writing books with them. This collaboration allows him to publish many books annually, emphasizing book writing scope and exploring different writing styles and genres.
Multiple Series and Characters:
Patterson is known for creating multiple series with recurring characters. The most notable is the Alex Cross series, which follows the adventures of detective and psychologist Alex Cross. Patterson also introduced other popular series, such as the Women’s Murder Club, Michael Bennett, and Maximum Ride.
Cross-genre Appeal:
James Patterson’s books often blur the lines between different genres, including mystery, suspense, romance, and science fiction. This crossover appeal attracts many readers and allows him to explore different storytelling elements.
Philanthropy and Literacy:
Patterson is committed to promoting literacy and has donated millions to support reading initiatives. He launched programs like “ReadKiddoRead,” which encourage children to develop a love for reading.
Conclusion
James Patterson is an iconic author known for his impressive storytelling prowess across multiple genres. With over 150 books written or co-written by him, Patterson has captivated readers worldwide with his gripping narratives, compelling characters, and breakneck pacing.
Each work is unique, showcasing his versatility as an author across multiple genres and presenting unforgettable characters and situations that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
