Helpful Score: 7
Patterson offers a new hero in this book, Mike Bennett. Father to 10 children, all adopted, he's drawn into a kidnapping/potential disaster on Christmas Eve when St Patrick's Cathedral is seized by terrorists. Inside the Cathedral are too many movers and shakers to count. I hope this is the first in a series for a very busy author, because the family life Patterson and Ledwidge show us is delightful!
Helpful Score: 6
Another awesome novel by James Patterson. He takes on a new co-author this time and with amazing results. One of the best books in a while. Tear jerker.. have the tissues ready!!
Helpful Score: 6
I've read all Patterson's books. This was absolutely the best yet! Has a strong emotional pull, also--with a parallel story line. I listen to books on CD on my commute. Today, I cried all the way listening to this book!
Helpful Score: 6
This is the new character - detective Michael Bennett. It is a real page-turner which found suspense, laughter, and even tears, but left me wanting more of this new hero! I didn't see the end coming which, to me, is the mark of a great story! A must read!
Helpful Score: 5
Fast paced. Hostages held in New York's St. Patricks Cathedral. Surprise ending.
Helpful Score: 4
Incredible story. Patterson creates another memorable character with Michael Bennett, father of ten children. The story experly balances the action with the emotional parts of Michael's life. An original plot with well-depicted characters and a shocking ending. Highly recommended!!
Helpful Score: 3
I am a BIG FAN of James Patterson..... Sorry to say this was NOT a good book in MY opinion... The spaced out chapters, the 1/2, 3/4 empty pages, the writing is just not Patterson...
If you are used the the books such as Big Bad Wolf, Roses are red, Judge & Jury, etc., not so sure you'll like the book. One big story of a hostage situation, not a lot of twists and turns, and guessing..
As much as I paid for this book, I was not hesitant to get it on my bookshelf, and let someone else just have it, tells you something...
If you are used the the books such as Big Bad Wolf, Roses are red, Judge & Jury, etc., not so sure you'll like the book. One big story of a hostage situation, not a lot of twists and turns, and guessing..
As much as I paid for this book, I was not hesitant to get it on my bookshelf, and let someone else just have it, tells you something...
Helpful Score: 3
I am typically a big fan of James Patterson, but I had a hard time getting into this book. It seems as though "Step On A Crack" was mostly written by the other author listed with very little, if any contribution from James Patterson.
Helpful Score: 3
excellent!
Helpful Score: 2
New series from Pattewrson. Shows promise
Helpful Score: 2
Patterson fans are in for a treat with this new character. Good thriller, fast read, you won't be disappointed!
Helpful Score: 2
Awesome!
Helpful Score: 1
This is a good read!
Helpful Score: 1
Once again, James Patterson writes a great book. Fast read. Have some tissues handy...sad parts. GREAT book. I highly recommend it.
Helpful Score: 1
This is a super book!
Helpful Score: 1
Another great one by Patterson! A very quick read, short chapters and introducing a new character.
Helpful Score: 1
Excellent!
Helpful Score: 1
Brand New Book!
Was a great read as always by James Patterson
Was a great read as always by James Patterson
Helpful Score: 1
Again, bravo to James Patterson....it will be a hard book to put down!
Helpful Score: 1
WOW! Ok, you know those movies that you keep to watch when you just want a good cry? Well, this book will do it. OMG, what a tear jerker. There are kind of like two story lines going on here and, thankfully, he switches over to the criminal story so that you can have time to dry your eyes and blow your nose! Excellent James Patterson novel with that little twist at the end that you just didn't see coming! Read it in one day - Loved it!
Helpful Score: 1
Action packed! If you like action you will love this series of books.
Helpful Score: 1
This book kept me turning pages at a rapid speed to see what was going to happen, it wraps up a little too quickly and neatly but ifyou can get past that it is a good thriller
Janis K. (scrapbooklady) reviewed Step on a Crack (Michael Bennett, Bk 1) on + 472 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book has everything we look for in popular fiction ... good story, compelling characters, believable action, and a sincere appeal to the emotions. Patterson turns what could be yet another story set in New York City into a special New York City story.
Jennifer W. (GeniusJen) reviewed Step on a Crack (Michael Bennett, Bk 1) on + 5322 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
James Patterson introduces us to a new character with STEP ON A CRACK, NYPD Homicide Detective Michael Bennett. A former hostage negotiator, Bennett finds himself once again dealing with psychopaths when the celebrities attending former First Lady Caroline Hopkins' funeral are held hostage.
I have to say that the actual meat of the story, the hijacking of St. Patrick's church and its funeral-attending creme de la creme of society, was an intriguing storyline. What weighed the story down, at least for me, was that fact that Michael Bennett wasn't a character I could easily relate to.
It isn't the fact that his wife, Maeve, is dying of cancer, or even that they have ten adopted children. It's not Maeve's seemingly long-lost cousin, Mary Catherine, who shows up out of the blue to serve as the couple's au pair. It's not even Michael's grandfather, the crusty yet heart-of-gold Irish priest. No, the problem is that all of these characters, who could have made the story emotional and heartbreaking, seem to do nothing more than serve as filler.
The ten children are interchangeable. Mary Catherine could be nominated for the sainthood. And Seamus, the grandfather, could be any number of wise-cracking old codgers from one of today's sitcoms.
I'll read the next Bennett book when it comes out, mostly out of the hope that the secondary storyline will be as compelling as the main plot. We'll have to see. For fans of Patterson, this is one you'll want to read, but I'd advise checking it out from the library before plunking down the cold hard cash to purchase it in hardcover.
I have to say that the actual meat of the story, the hijacking of St. Patrick's church and its funeral-attending creme de la creme of society, was an intriguing storyline. What weighed the story down, at least for me, was that fact that Michael Bennett wasn't a character I could easily relate to.
It isn't the fact that his wife, Maeve, is dying of cancer, or even that they have ten adopted children. It's not Maeve's seemingly long-lost cousin, Mary Catherine, who shows up out of the blue to serve as the couple's au pair. It's not even Michael's grandfather, the crusty yet heart-of-gold Irish priest. No, the problem is that all of these characters, who could have made the story emotional and heartbreaking, seem to do nothing more than serve as filler.
The ten children are interchangeable. Mary Catherine could be nominated for the sainthood. And Seamus, the grandfather, could be any number of wise-cracking old codgers from one of today's sitcoms.
I'll read the next Bennett book when it comes out, mostly out of the hope that the secondary storyline will be as compelling as the main plot. We'll have to see. For fans of Patterson, this is one you'll want to read, but I'd advise checking it out from the library before plunking down the cold hard cash to purchase it in hardcover.
Helpful Score: 1
a truly fiendishly terrifying thriller set in new york with nypd detective michael bennet and his 10 adopted kids. a great mystery which kept me on edge as well as a hart touching family story. any fan of james patterson will enjoy this book. i enjoyed reading this book very much and didn't want to put it down.
Julie G. (LivingInPurple) reviewed Step on a Crack (Michael Bennett, Bk 1) on + 43 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Made me laugh, cry and go huh? That is how I define a great read. I hope we see more of this new character.
Helpful Score: 1
This is the first James Patterson book I have read, and will not be my last. Great book.
Helpful Score: 1
This was a fast paced thriller, yet it also tugs at your heartstrings.....Can't wait to read the next...which I just got in the mail two days ago...Run For Your Life....Kudos to the new NYPD cop Michael Bennet....
Helpful Score: 1
As always, James Patterson leaves you wanting more.
Helpful Score: 1
After getting a little weary of Alex Cross, I laid off of James Patterson books for a while then decided to try this one of his with his new co-author Michael Ledwidge, featuring Michael Bennet.
OMG! I haven't read a book this fast in a LONG time! Between the suspense of the hostage situation that Bennet is negotiating I was biting my nails and then his personal life had me crying like a baby!
A Must read! I'd give it 10 stars if I could!
OMG! I haven't read a book this fast in a LONG time! Between the suspense of the hostage situation that Bennet is negotiating I was biting my nails and then his personal life had me crying like a baby!
A Must read! I'd give it 10 stars if I could!
Helpful Score: 1
A very fast-paced read about a hostage situation inside New York City's famous St. Patrick's Cathedral. Michael, the main character, is very likeable as the hostage negotiator and the plot moves very quickly.
Stephanie T. (dastephan6) -
Helpful Score: 1
a very moving book. will bring tears to your eyes.
Helpful Score: 1
Fantastic new detective! Twists and turns all the way.
Helpful Score: 1
Another great book by Patterson. Short chapters make it a very fast read. Lots of twists and turns, with a surprise at the end.
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoyed this book. The kidnapping plot was very unique and interesting and the main police character, Mike Bennett, was very engaging. I've read every single James Patterson book out there and enjoy them all. This was one of his best.
Helpful Score: 1
I like this new character, I did not expect the ending. A good read.
Helpful Score: 1
Fabulous read--could not put it down. Suspense to the very end.
Angela C. (rolltide1al) -
Helpful Score: 1
Loved this book! Another wonderful book by Patterson.
Helpful Score: 1
This new character Mike Bennett is wonderful..read this in one day...Another Patterson miracle.
Helpful Score: 1
Another great James Patterson book....could not put it down....would recomend it to anyone who likes this genre.
Helpful Score: 1
Well, this was my first book by James Patterson and it will be my last. I'm sure someone will like it, but not me!
Helpful Score: 1
This was one of my least favorite Patterson novels. I just couldn't get hooked on the storyline at all. I really didn't feel for any of the supporting characters.
E.D. C. (Farscapegirl) -
Helpful Score: 1
Excellent - Very quick read.
Helpful Score: 1
I think this is the beginning of a new seris for James Patterson. I like the characters and the story was great.
Helpful Score: 1
Why is James Patterson co-authoring books now? This one has an intriguing premise but the writing style is not what I'm used to for this author. A kidnapping of a multitude of celebrities attending a funeral for the former first lady...good plot...
Helpful Score: 1
Another fast paced action mystery from James Patterson.
Excellent and well-written! Bit of a tear-jerker with a good mystery too.
Very good book! Of course its a James Patterson book. But have lots of tissue available!
From the first few pages, I was hooked. This is one of the best books I've read in a long time - it is suspenseful and gripping, and I loved it!
I read 165 pages and never could get into the book
Super fast read and hooks you from the start. Could have done without all the family sentiment though.
Very suspenseful, and yet a tear-jerker too! You won't be able to put this book down!
Another great Patterson book. Read it in one day.
liked this stand alone
Enjoyable thriller. Well worth reading!
Good Read
liked this book
I liked the main character of this book much better than the Alex Cross series. I was hooked by the end of the first page and couldn't wait to finish it.
This is a very good Patterson book, with an surprise turn of events at the end. I stayed up til the wee hours of the morning 'til it was finished.
New character from James Patterson a a great one. I really liked this book, read it in one day. It was one of those "can't put down books:.
Shirley (mockingbird25) -
My first James Patterson novel and I was pleasantly surprised! The book was highly entertaining and a good intro to his Michael Bennett character - a detective with 10 children and a sick wife. Unusual circumstances for a detective yet it doesn't distract from the main story line of home grown terrorists taking over St. Patrick's Cathedral on Christmas Eve. I'm definitely a fan and can't wait to read more of his work!
A hostage situation in NYC in a Church; Tense drama, very well written.
I tried to read this book & only got about 40 pages in. I used to be a huge James Patterson fan but the more & more reading I do the more I realize his books are all the same. However, I have in the past really loved the WMC series & I will give the 8th Confession a try when it comes out.
Michelle K. (kevinsbebe) -
Wonderful story, interesting and sad. James Patterson never disappoints!
Love Patterson...exciting, hard to put down
Crystal S. (crystal-short) reviewed Step on a Crack (Michael Bennett, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
Fabulous Book! I read it in two days, only because I was on vacation and could not stay on the airplane where I started reading it. I was disappointed when the plane ride was over! Great suspense, I had no idea who the "neat man" was. I laughed and cried during this book, lucky for me the plane ride had a movie and people did not think I was crazy!
Arlene L. (poolmysteryreader) reviewed Step on a Crack (Michael Bennett, Bk 1) on + 63 more book reviews
Patterson's latest.Different characters but normal style
the cover has a different picture on it. Quick easy read that will keep you guessing the outcome till the end as Patterson's books usually do. Worth the read.
I found it difficult to put down this book as I wanted to find out what would happen next. Super good reading!
Tense, suspenseful, heartwarming, intimate introduction to Michael Bennett.
Good Patterson Book, Fast moving.
This was a pretty good nice easy read. I would recommend it for someone on vacation!
I have read this book....and it was awesome......good read, twists and turns, and final twist at the end was a prelude to this good detective...led me to read his next book right away....
Great book. Kept you into it all the way Cried in many areas, very emotional. Would recommend this to anyone that likes to read. Thanks.
Pamela C. (pj-s-bookcorner) reviewed Step on a Crack (Michael Bennett, Bk 1) on + 857 more book reviews
This is a good read; however, not one of Patterson's best. I especially liked the relationship between the main character, Det. Mike Bennett, and his wife & family. Good ending!
This book just did not do it for me. The action was predictable, the plot twists were unbelievable and the characters were poorly developed. To top it off the quick ending was like Patterson needed to finish the book the quickest way he know how. This was just a poor showing by Patterson.
It's James Patterson! What more can I say.
Another great book from Janes Patterson. His character Michael comes to life.
This was a riveting and exciting tale that moved along and kept me turning pages! I am hooked on Patterson's series of Michael Bennet books and I cannot wait to get ahold of book 2.
Loved it. Very exciting.
I enjoyed the series of books Patterson
wrote with Cross as the hero. This series
with Michael Bennett is even better. After reading this one I immediately ordered the
other two about this New York detective with
the bushel of kids.
wrote with Cross as the hero. This series
with Michael Bennett is even better. After reading this one I immediately ordered the
other two about this New York detective with
the bushel of kids.
loved it cant wait to read book 2
I decided to try this new (for me) series, and was not disappointed. Lots of suspense and surprising twists kept me on my toes. Bennett is a family man with 10 adopted kids and his life with them is mingled seamlessly with the action of the main book plot. I couldn't put the book down till I had read it cover to cover.
This was an ok book.
hb/mb read
Same ISBN, hardcover, different cover pic.
