Skip to main content
PBS logo
 
 

Book Reviews of Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1)

Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1)
Along Came a Spider - Alex Cross, Bk 1
Author: James Patterson
ISBN-13: 9780446364195
ISBN-10: 0446364193
Publication Date: 12/1/1993
Pages: 528
Rating:
  • Currently 4/5 Stars.
 1063

4 stars, based on 1063 ratings
Publisher: Warner Books
Book Type: Mass Market Paperback
Reviews: Amazon | Write a Review

174 Book Reviews submitted by our Members...sorted by voted most helpful

reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 51 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6
Having read a few of James Patterson's newer works, I decided to go back to the beginning for Alex Cross. It was a thrilling and suspenseful story. I couldn't wait to see what happened next. The end of the book completely threw me for a loop, as it was a great twist and unpredictable. It also gives some nice back story on Alex Cross for those that have read later books in the series. I would definitely recommend this book, and would consider it to be "classic" James Patterson in which everything new would be compared to.
nisforneville avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 41 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6
I felt like this book was everywhere with the plot. The race issues felt overdone to me, but the book is sort of old, so it might have been appropriate for when the book first came out. Mainly, the book was so LONG, I felt like a lot of it was just filler. Hopefully the next book in the series is better. This one wasn't a page-turner, and it took me forever to finish it. I lost interest several times and read other books. I do really like James Patterson's Women's Murder Club series, so I will read the 2nd book in this series before I decide to give up on this series.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 71 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6
This is the introductory Alex Cross book. Patterson certainly knows how to write a thriller that will keep you turning the pages, perhaps even keep you up late into the night. His charactors are real people. Alex is a very well-drawn personality and tells the story in the first person.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes thrilling mysteries.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
Helpful Score: 4
My first Alex Cross book. I've read all the Women's Murder books, and enjoyed them a lot!
Alex is very different from Lindsay & her gang, --but I still enjoyed this one.
It kept me guessing who the 'bad guy' was & had a surprise about who was involved!

I'm reading the next one in the series now, Kiss the Girls, and I'm enjoying it just as much. I'll definitely keep going .. . .
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 52 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
Great series of books!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 145 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Whether a great suspense mystery or a tender love story, James Patteron never disappoints. This is a terrific nail-bitter, edge-of-your-seat read!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
Helpful Score: 2
Great suspenseful mystery thriller. Patterson has created both an intricate and interesting hero and bad guy. I couldn't put it down.
scrapbooklady avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 472 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
This novel was amazing. I could not put it down. The movie does not do this book justice! Even if you've seen the movie, the ending of this story will shock you.
kevinsbebe avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 165 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
1st book in the Alex Cross series. Wonderful book that really keeps you turning the pages and wanting more. If you have never read James Patterson you are definitely missing out! The movie is good too but as usual the book is much better!!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 63 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
An Alex Cross Mystery. This novel begins with a double kidnapping of the daugher of a famous actress and the son of the secretary of the treasury. A CIA female supervisor of the Secret Service works with Alex to solve this mystery of kidnappings and a serial kidnapper who wants to commit the crime of the century.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross)

This was the first time I've read a James Patterson novel. After reading everything I could find on Nelson Demille I was looking for something new to read and decided to try this one. I am now a James Patterson fan for sure. This is a true tale of good versus evil, pitting a Washington detective (Cross) against an abused and inteligent psychopath (Soneji). However, this story is not nearly as straight forward as one might expects, as it is filled with plot twists. Many of these revelations left me in complete shock only as James Patterson can. It is a must read for anyone who enjoys the suspense/mystery genre of writing, and a high recommendation for anyone else. I watch the movie after reading the book and as usual the movie was no way near as good as the book.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
Helpful Score: 1
A real page-turner, and not much like the movie. If you want a riveting story, pick up this book and enjoy!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I really like the Alex Cross Series, but I thought that is book was a little hard to follow. To me it changes to much. The story line is fabulous.
my-3-girls avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 28 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Very interesting book. Kept you guessing the entire story. Can't wait to read the sequels.
teachmor avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Well James Patterson is a sick individual but it makes for one fantastic read!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 80 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
What a long, dark, dreary novel. It was less of a page-turner than well-written true crime, not as well-written as either of the last two books I've finished, and I never felt as if I got to know Alex Cross, despite the first-person narration. I won't continue with this series, though the back-of-the-book excerpt from Patterson's 1st to Die was intriguing.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book was a page turner. I couldn't put it down. James Patterson gets you interested in the book on the first page and continues until the end.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
The book makes the movie look ridiculous! I've seen the movie, but it just can't compare to the detail of the book.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 12 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
The start of a great series about Alex Cross. This one got me started on the series and then James Patterson in general.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
Helpful Score: 1
great book loved it!!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 7 more book reviews
Another Great James Patterson Book!!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
A quick, entertaining read.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
James Patterson keeps you guessing during the entire book! Great read !
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 9 more book reviews
This is the first Alex Cross novel, and one of my favorites. James Patterson creates a terrific thriller.
bibliocat avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 76 more book reviews
First book in the Alex Cross series....if you love the movie...read the book...always better
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 95 more book reviews
This is another great thriller bt James Patterson, another page turner, and the characters are just great!!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 12 more book reviews
LOVED THIS BOOK! A must read for sure!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
James Patterson is one of the best suspence/mystery writers in this country.
pilgrim avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 67 more book reviews
One of Patterson's finest. First in the ALex Cross Series. Fast paced and thrilling!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 57 more book reviews
Along Came a spider begins with the double kidnappingof thedaughter of a famous Hollywood actress and the young son of the Secretary of the Treasury. And that's only the beginning! Gary Soneji is a murderous serial kidnapper who wants to commit the crime of the century. Alex Cross is the brilliant homicide detective pitted against him. Jezzie flanagan is the female supervisor of the Secret Service who completes on of the most unusual suspence triangles in any thriller you have ever read.
darkcoffeeclouds avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 114 more book reviews
Alex Cross is a detective and a psychologist and he and his partner are investigating a triple homicide on Southside when they are pulled off the case to help locate two missing children. Alex and his partner are furious that the death of a black family is so easily disregarded and the kidnapping of 2 wealthy white children made the priority. The children were kidnapped from a private school for high profile families who had secret service protection. Alex Cross wants those children found safely but he can't get the image of the little black child that had been murdered out of his mind.

This book is fast-paced and has a lot of twists and turns. It is a great read.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 101 more book reviews
A serial killer and a female Secret Service superwoman tangle with Alex Cross thrown in the triangle. Lots of suspense and twists.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 21 more book reviews
I love the entire Alex Cross series. It's a fun and easy read that keeps you entertained. After reading the first book I ran out and bought every book available in the series at the time and read them back to back.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 80 more book reviews
Pretty good suspense novel. As always, better than the film.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 46 more book reviews
One of the most unusual suspense triangles in any thriller you have ever read.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
Fast, spell-binding read. Patterson is always a good read.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 683 more book reviews
A first rate thriller- impossible to put down- a psychological suspense that is inpossible to put down.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 13 more book reviews
A gripping retelling of one man's struggle to unlock the secrets of a murderer's mind, while keeping his own life together.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
Great read! Scary!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 46 more book reviews
A first rate thriller--fasten your seat belts and keep the lights on!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
second of the Alex Cross series
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 158 more book reviews
Gary Soneji is a beloved teacher at an elite Washington private school. Soneji is also the murderous serial kidnapper who calls himself Son of Lindbergh, a human monster of such cunning that all of Washington's law enforcement armies can't outsmart him - even after he's been captured. Alex Cross is a black D.C. homicide detective with a Ph.D. in psychology. He has one obsession - a forbidden love affair with the white female supervisor of Washington's Secret Service. And he has one mission - find what powers Gary Soneji's madness before the elusive terror strikes all too close to home.
hillcoker avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 18 more book reviews
First book in the Alex Cross series. Very excited, twist and turns right up to the end.
FamFatale avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 369 more book reviews
This was the first I've read of James Patterson's books. It will be the first of many, rest assured. I thought this book was great!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
As usual his books are outstanding. He is one of my favorite authors and this is another book to confirm my conviction. Always has me by the seat of my pants...very good reading!!! If you like mysteries, you'll love this one.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 22 more book reviews
It begins with the double kidnapping of the daughter of a famous Hollywood actress and the young son of the secretary of the treasury. Gary Soneji is a murderous serial kidnapper who wants to commit the crime of the century. Alex Cross is the brilliant homicide detective pitted against him. Jezzi Flanagan is the female supervisor of the Secret Service who completes one of the most unusual suspense triangles in any thiller you have ever read. It is a must read.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 459 more book reviews
The first of Patterson's now famous Alex Cross series. A good read!

Alex Cross -- a black Washington, D.C., police detective with a solid background in psychology -- finds love and a whole heap of trouble as a deadly psychopath holds two kidnapped children under his razor-sharp blade.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 33 more book reviews
I couldn't put it down! So much better than the movie!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
I always enjoy the Alex Cross books. Sometimes they are a little graphic, but James Patterson knows how the grab you from the first paragraph!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 13 more book reviews
Good book and great introduction to Alex Cross. It was a quick read and loved it and made me want to read the next book in the series
darthfoley avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
I read this *after* seeing the movie. Quite amusing to see Morgan Freeman cast as Alex Cross after reading the book. Overall the book is good, and easy to read. However, the constant 'stupid white people' references really distract from the overall flow of the story.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
Great book, a real page turner with lots of twists and turns. Could not put it down until finished.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Awesome book with an unexpected twist at the end.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 144 more book reviews
Fantastic!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 46 more book reviews
Very good book full of surprises
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 117 more book reviews
Really good book. Almost as good as the movie.
bludiamond avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 44 more book reviews
Another GREAT Alex Cross novel. Gary Sonejii is a murderous serial kidnapper who wants to commit the crime of the century and he wants Alex Cross to be his opponent.
nccorthu avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 569 more book reviews
Yes a great James Patterson novel.. No ending given here. Read the next
nrezac avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 160 more book reviews
Another excellent book by James Patterson! :)
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 12 more book reviews
Like all of James Patterson's Alex Cross stories this one kept turning the pages. Cross is a very likeable down to earth hero...you can't help but like him.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
James Patterson is always a page turner and this one didn't miss either.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 9 more book reviews
begins with the double kidnapping of the daughter of a famous Hollywood actress and the young son of the Secretary of the Treasury. And that's only the beginning! Gary Soneji is a murderous serial kidnapper who wants to commit the crime of the century. Alex Cross is the brilliant homicide detective pitted against him. Jezzie Flanagan is the female supervisor of the Secret Service who completes one of the most unusual suspense triangles in any thriller you have ever read.
thetabird avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Very enjoyable read
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 204 more book reviews
This book a an extremely fast read even though it is 500+ pages. I found myself, along with Cross, trying to understand how a serial murderer ticks???
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 9 more book reviews
I found this book rather one dimensional... I didn't like any of the characters- at all. I found myself getting tired of the shallow police banter, and the cheesy psychopath. I didn't feel like the antagonist lived up to the fear and trepidation that was struck in the protagonist character.

I found it boring and have no desire to read any more of the series.
LilMomof2 avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 23 more book reviews
This is the first James Patterson book I ever read, it had me hooked!
LoBri avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 41 more book reviews
This book was by far one of my favorite James Patterson books with Alex Cross as the hero.
If you love suspense and plot twists, do not miss this one.
designasaurus avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 21 more book reviews
I think I'm hooked, I liked it so much, I ordered book #2.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 92 more book reviews
Patterson in his early days is Patterson at his best. I've been reading again some of hi early books and once again become entranced. Sonji is a perfect bad guy causing terror. I could read this book again and again.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 28 more book reviews
A great Alex Cross thriller.
poohbritt avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 37 more book reviews
It was a decent thriller. I wasn't a big fan of the main character, Alex Cross, but it was a good page turner.
Angeleyes avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 217 more book reviews
This book flies. Along Came A Spider is a perfect "fun" read. It moves at a very rapid pace. It has pretty well developed characters considering its quick pace and more plot twists than you'll ever anticipate. Just when you think you know how the story is going to go Patterson turns it on its ear. Another thing that makes this book so good is that despite the surprising plot twists everything is fairly believable within the context of the story. It's consistent, quick and exciting! Read it!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 108 more book reviews
First Alex Cross Series Book
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 24 more book reviews
A terrific mystery with plenty of twists, turns and surprises
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 60 more book reviews
An Alex Cross Novel, the first and one of the best
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 57 more book reviews
The first book in the series featuring Alex Cross, a psychiatrist and homicide cop, in Washington, D.C.
Chilypepah avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
The first Alex Cross Novel!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 119 more book reviews
Good Read
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
GREAT BOOK. FIRST BOOK I READ IN THIS SERIES. WILL DEFINATLY BE READING THE OTHERS.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 29 more book reviews
Extremely good read - one of the best . . .
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 82 more book reviews
Great book! I love everything the author has written. The movie was terrible in comparison.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 18 more book reviews
1st Book in the Alex Cross series. Wonderful mystery/suspense series.
lynxxmarie avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 165 more book reviews
This is the first Alex Cross novel. Wonderful thriller....
begins with a double kidnapping of famous people. Gary Soneji is a murderous serial kidnapper who wants to commit the crime of the century. Unusual suspense triangles of any thriller you have ever read.
nascargal avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 352 more book reviews
This is another great thriller from James Patterson...you must read this book if you like suspense!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 131 more book reviews
A bestselling thriller and movie, this begins with the double kidnapping of the daughter of a famous actress and the young son of the secretary of the treasury. Gary Soneji is a murderous serial kidnapper who wants to commit the crime of the century. Alex Cross is the brilliant homicide detective pitted against him. Jezzie Flanagan is the female supervisor of the Secret Service who completes one of the most unusual suspense triangles in any thriller you have ever read. As always, James Patterson delivers!
deenie1979 avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 15 more book reviews
I read it a while ago, but I know I liked it, because I have yet to read a Patterson book that I do NOT like.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 102 more book reviews
I think this is the first book about Cross. It is a very good start
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 14 more book reviews
The very first Alex Cross novel
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 579 more book reviews
the crimes of the century, the manhunt of the century, the trail of the century. this is a psychological thriller that truly breaks new ground.
vmachapy avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 215 more book reviews
This book was so good I had to see the movie. But the book was 100% better. I recommend it highly.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 22 more book reviews
The first in the Alex Cross series. Very good thriller!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
James Patterson at his best! I couldn't put this one down!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 119 more book reviews
I love the Alex Cross books. I especially like this story because of the reaction my father had during the movie. It's a great series.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 48 more book reviews
From the back of the book: Along Came a Spider begins with the double kidnapping of the daughter of a famous Hollywood actress and the young son of the Secretary of the Treasury. And that's only the beginning! Gary Soneji is a murderous serial kidnapper who wants to commit the crime of the century. Alex Cross is the brilliant homicide detective pitted against him. Jezzie Flanagan is the female supervisor of the Secret Service who completes one of the most unusual suspense triangles in any thriller you have ever read.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 30 more book reviews
Book Description
A missing little girl named Maggie Rose. A family of three brutally murdered in the projects of Washington, D.C. The thrill-killing of a beautiful elementary school teacher. A psychopathic serial kidnapper/murderer who calls himself the Son of Lindbergh. He is so terrifying that the FBI, the Secret Service, and the police cannot outsmart him-even after he's been captured.
Gary Soneji is a mild-mannered mathematics teacher at a Washington, D.C., private school for the children of the political and social elite. He's so popular that the kids all call him "Mr. Chips." And he's very, very smart. Growing up, he always knew he was smarter than the rest of them-he knew that the Great Ones always fooled everybody. He kidnaps Maggie Rose, the golden-haired daughter of a famous movie actress, and her best friend, Shrimpie Goldberg, the son of the secretary of the treasury, right out from under the noses of their two Secret Service agents. But Gary Soneji is not surprised at his skill. He's done it before. Hundreds of times before.

Alex Cross must face the ultimate test as a psychologist: how do you outmaneuver a brilliant psychopath? Especially one who appears to have a split personality-one who won't let the other half remember those horrific acts?
icesk8tr avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 363 more book reviews
Story begins with a double kidnapping of the daughter of a famous hollywood actress and the son of the secretary of the treasury. The kidnapper wants to be well known and to perform the kidnapping of the century.

Many plot twists that keep you guessing till the end. I thought I had it figured out, but I was wrong!!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
great LONG book
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
I have found that James Patterson is one of the best. This a real page turner.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
GOOD BOOK, BUT I LIKE OTHERS OF THIS AUTHOR BETTER.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 85 more book reviews
The 1st book of the Alex Cross Series...It is a most for Thriller-Supense readers...........Patterson has written 11 books in this series......
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 52 more book reviews
Really liked it....not the ending that I thought I would be!
Tribefan avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 56 more book reviews
I really enjoy the fast pace of James Patterson books! This one did not disappoint!
Owl avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
Excellent - I want to read all the Alex Cross novels after this one.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
I became determined to read the book after seeing the movie, and I was not disappointed! This is a great story line that keeps you reading until the end.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
This one will keep you guessing all the way 'til the end!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 49 more book reviews
A psychological thriller - a tough read because it is about kidnapped children - but a strong book
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 612 more book reviews
I really enjoyed this book.
DsuzieC avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 159 more book reviews
Unique and interesting.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 18 more book reviews
I read the book and also seen the movie--the book is best
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
First book of the Alex Cross series. Seriously disturbed person kidnaps two kids of high-standing people from their school and Alex has to figure out where both the kids and kidnapper are.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 111 more book reviews
it is about a serial killer and how he wants everyone to know that he is the one doing the murders. he wants his day.
Alex Cross is the dectective assigned to the case and he thinks that Gary might have a split personality. So he is out to find out what happened to the little girl.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
Great book, good movie followed this book
vwbernie avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 157 more book reviews
Great read!! I couldn't put it down and it was full of twists and turns that were unexpected.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 142 more book reviews
The first in the Alex Cross series, also my first Cross book. I was impressed. I'd seen the movie a while ago, but felt it really lacked depth in the Cross, Jezzie and Soneji characters. The book brought them out beautifully. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Irisheyes70 avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 23 more book reviews
Read the book, forget the movie. :)
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 22 more book reviews
four stars
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 98 more book reviews
FANTASTIC. BETTER THEN THE MOVIE.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 588 more book reviews
excellent
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
A first rate triller--fasten your seat belts and keep the lights on! says Sidney Sheldon. This reader lost a good night's sleep. Cross is the fictional detective of the 90's. says Ann Rule
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
better than the movie
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 77 more book reviews
really good - Alex Cross must face the ultimate test as a psychologist: how do you outmaneuver a brilliant psychopath? Especially one who appears to have a split personality-one who won't let the other half remember those horrific acts?
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 60 more book reviews
What an EXCELLENT book! I simply couldn't put this book down, and I don't usually care that much for mysteries.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 23 more book reviews
A very good book from James Patterson. I love Alex Cross as a character and he shines in this book!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
Great read with twists 'til the end!
busyboy avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 46 more book reviews
When i first seen this book about 23 years ago,as an avid reader and book collector,i found the title a little odd.Little did i know that this writer and this book would become my favorite writer and this book was the first book of my favorite book series .Twenty books later i have read and own the entire ALEX CROSS SERIES.This book is a first rate thriller.Once you start the book and meet ALEX CROSS,his family and friends you will become hooked on the series.I will also promise you that the books just keep getting better and better.The bad guys just get insaner and insaner , as the series progresses you will meet a lot of character that i promise you ,you will never forget.KYLE Craig is one example of the many characters that will make this series an unforgettable ride.TWENTY books later and i still can't get enough of this book series .I am waiting for the next book that is out soon.
dtchs avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 59 more book reviews
Excellent
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
Good book. I have found it better to start from the first book and go into the 2nd and then 3rd and so forth. That way u understand the characters much better....
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
Great writer and will keep u on your toes!
seusslover avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
Very good book but suprised me in the end.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Another James Patterson that won't disappoint! Loved it!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
A good read!
chucker2010 avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 21 more book reviews
I have read more than a dozen books about Alex Cross and searched for Volume 1 to see how it all started.

Found it and invite you to see how Patterson has developed him over the years. Start the journey here and meet his endangered family.

Family is a familiar touchstone for Patterson - and Alex Cross.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Great suspense
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 51 more book reviews
[from Clive Cussler:]
"As engrossing as it is graphic...'Along Came a Spider' is an incredibly suspenseful read with a one-of-a-kind villain who is as terrifying as he is intriguing. Has to be one of the best thrillers of the year."
--One of the early installments in the Alex Cross series. I agree completely with Cussler's remarks. (-Jim)
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
Way better than the movie!
CraftyTJ avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 381 more book reviews
Alex Cross, a black Washington, D.C., police detective with a Ph.D. in psychology, and Jezzie Flanagan, a white motorcycling Secret Service agent, become lovers as they work together to apprehend a chilling psychopath who has kidnapped two children from a posh private school. The psychotic villain, who aspires to become more notorious than Lindbergh baby kidnapper Bruno Hauptmann, is effectively nightmarish. Atypical characters, sex, sometimes shocking violence, and several surprising plot twists are all attention-grabbing, while short chapters with a shifting viewpoint add brisk pacing and genuine suspense. Patterson's storytelling talent is in top form in this grisly escapist yarn.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
good book. i like this author
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 9 more book reviews
I am not a fan of the Alex Cross books, so my review is not favorable.
freejewelry avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
Very good read.
Cheese avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 324 more book reviews
I love the Alex Cross novels. Some people claim the chapters are too short, but with my fast-paced lifestyle, sometimes that is good. This way I won't be in a middle of a chapter when I have to put my book down. This story is one of my favorite storylines. It pits Alex Cross against his nemesis Gary Soneji. They also made a movie on the book. They did a good job but it wasn't nearly as good as the book.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 22 more book reviews
I have read a lot of Patterson's books, except the Alex Cross series, so I decided to start at #1....I was NOT disappointed!! This was a great read (like most of his books) and I am looking forward to all of the rest. THIS BOOK IS HARD TO PUT DOWN!!!!!!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 63 more book reviews
Along came a spider...A lead character rich in dimension...written simply. powerfully, the book will satisfy mystery and thriller fans as well as students of the human condition.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 36 more book reviews
This was a good Alex Cross book, but not quite as good as Kiss the Girls.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 14 more book reviews
It held my interest from cover to cover. Great!!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Excellent read! Very fast-paced, with lots of twists and turns. Made me want to read the rest of the Alex Cross novels.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 15 more book reviews
Great book. The First in the Dectective Cross series. Great read, fast and keeps you very interested!!
dastephan6 avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 132 more book reviews
an excellent beginning to the alex cross series.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 109 more book reviews
Great book. Nothing like the movie.
coqui498 avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
Great book...love the Alex Cross series!
OmahaJohn avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 54 more book reviews
I enjoy all of this series of books.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 13 more book reviews
Decent commercial type mystery series.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
Excellent book!! Thrilling, makes you want to read more!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
This is one of the good Alex Cross novels. It won't matter if you have read any before. The plot is quick and the book is a fast read.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
typical Patterson
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 15 more book reviews
Anything by Patterson is good
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 711 more book reviews
Begins with the double kidnapping of the daughter of a famous Hollywood actree and the young son of the Secretary of the Treasury. And that's only the beginning.
pottergal avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 91 more book reviews
Never saw the movie and that is fine - the book pulled me into its spell completely
BooksForever avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 37 more book reviews
Great book!!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
James Patterson is just about the only non fiction writer whose books I read. I read mostly non fiction. The first book of his that I read was Kiss The Girls because it reminded me of some of the true crime books I read. Once I read it, I was hooked! I love the Alex Cross novels. They are my favorite of his works.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
Loved this book...now a movie
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 460 more book reviews
This is the beginning of the Alex Cross Series and it is an excellent mystery/thriller. I would recommend it to anyone who likes this genre. If you haven't read it you are missing an excellent book.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
It was an excellent book I bought it after I saw the movie. The book is so much better
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
One of the great early Alex Cross books.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
Awesome! I can't wait to see the movie again to compare! Just wish I had more time to read the rest of the series faster!
robinmy avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 2115 more book reviews
First Alex Cross Novel and one of the best. Great Villian.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 14 more book reviews
Another James Patterson good read; I could imagine Morgan Freeman playing Alex Cross. If you like Patterson, you'll love this one.
Abbey avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 31 more book reviews
awesome book! I'm just starting the Alex Cross series and I love it. This book really gave me the creeps. I knew in the end he would catch the bad guy, but I just had to find out how. This book kept me turning pages to the very end!
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 11 more book reviews
Psychological suspense.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
A little gory, but a great book.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 23 more book reviews
My mom loved this book. Suspense scary book.
MichaelS avatar reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 50 more book reviews
Excellent story, first in the series.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 58 more book reviews
Great story, DJ missing.
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on
**Please note this hardcover is in great condition but it is missing the dustjacket. Thank you.**
reviewed Along Came a Spider (Alex Cross, Bk 1) on + 32 more book reviews
Would like to read before mailing. (within 2 weeks of acceptance)