Book #60 - Private by James Patterson

I'm not really sure where to start with this book. I read it very quickly, and it was very captivating, however, I felt like it really fell short in the end. This is the story of a high-end Private Investigation company that works for the rich and famous. The story opens up with 3 high priority cases that are on the docket, and we are in on the investigation. I found that though there should have been a high level of suspense, it was really lacking. It took 250 pages to paint the picture, and within paragraphs, each of the stories ended in an anti-climatic way. I guess I should say it was disappointing, and definitely was not as good as some of Patterson's others. I feel like it lacked his inventiveness and really fell short of his usual high-octane thrillers. When I was on Amazon yesterday, I noticed it only received 3 stars (out of 5), and now I see why.

Book #33 - Miracle on the 17th Green by James Patterson and Peter de Jonge

Like I just told my husband, "If I had 4 thumbs, they would all be up." Not since Bagger Vance have I read a golf book to match. Actually, I don't think any sporting book can match a golf book. Why do I say this? Well, if you have ever played even one round of golf, you know it is the hardest, most frustrating, and yet the most exhilarating and addicting game you can ever play. Golf is just like life. There are ups, there are downs. The worst shots can be followed by the best shots. I really think my brother, when he turns 50 and if he stays physically fit, he should go to Q-School. I think he could be a sleeper and play his way in. He's definitely competitive enough. But until that time, he needs to follow Pop's advice, "No gimmes. No mulligans. No bullshit. Let's play golf." I recommend this book to anyone. It is so uplifting and just makes me want to get a tee time tomorrow! And, we all walk away dreaming of the just ONE perfect round (much less at Pebble Beach).

Book #8 - I, Alex Cross by James Patterson

I wonder if James Patterson's mind ever slows down long enough to sleep. Think about it. To put out a new book every couple of months the way he does, he must have ideas running through his mind constantly. And while we are on the subject of ideas, this books' premise was fantastic. I didn't have any idea who the bad guy was until Patterson told me. I was throwing shots in the dark trying to guess who it could be. Another great book by Patterson (and yes, there are a few of his I didn't like...Lake House for one) staring Detective Cross. I feel sorry for Cross because he has a family member die or get kidnapped in every book. I feel like I've read so many book in this series that I am a part of the family, and I'm just waiting for one of my family members to die. We are up to at least 3 dead members of the Cross family: his first wife (killed by a serial murderer), the niece who played the violin in Kiss the Girls (guess she didn't actually die), and now another long-lost niece in this one. Excellent, quick read that will keep your heart rate high until the last page.