Reader Review of "7th Heaven" by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

[John Masse]

I finally finished getting caught up on the Maximum Ride series, and am now back to my bread and butter. That being murder mystery novels. And there's no better at solving crimes than the four pugnacious ladies of the Women's Murder Club. And nobody can argue that their adventures in 7th Heaven is jam packed with all the goods.

Michael Campion, the son of California's ex-governor, is beloved by the nation. Known as the “Boy with the Broken Heart” because of his incurable heart defect, he grew up in the most sheltered of environments, surrounded by cameras as strangers prayed that he’d get better. One night, he dissapears, and the country is thrown into turmoil. The pressure from both the higher ups and the public is coming fast and furious at Detective Lindsay Boxer. But when a credible lead comes in months later, it may mean the worst for the city of San Francisco. Meanwhile, a series of arsons has been destroying some of the cities most beautiful homes, as well as killing the owners in the blaze. But when the fires hit too close to home, it’s almost too much for Lindsay to handle. Can she and the rest of the Women’s Murder Club: Cindy Thomas (star crime reporter), Claire Washburn (chief medical examiner) and Yuki Castellano (the attorney) close these two heinous crimes? And can Lindsay keep everything together as the attraction between her and her partner, Rich Conklin, grows stronger?

I have been a fan of the Murder Club since I picked up the first book in the series almost a year ago. And I can proudly say that 7th Heaven was one of their best books. While towards the end, one cases outcome may seem predictable, it still comes as a shock to readers.

But the book has all the classic workings of a James Patterson novel. Quick, brisk chapters. A story with sharp twists and turns. And moments that will make you smile, cheer, cry, and be horrified. Because if there is one thing James Patterson does well, it’s the emotional thrill ride. 7th Heaven is a book I'd strongly suggest to all.