Instinct, Book 1

Synopsis: The life Dr. Dylan Reinhart saves may be his own

Dr. Dylan Reinhart wrote the book on criminal behavior. Literally–he’s a renowned, bestselling Ivy League expert on the subject. When a copy of his book turns up at a gruesome murder scene–along with a threatening message from the killer–it looks like someone has been taking notes.

Elizabeth Needham is the headstrong and brilliant NYPD Detective in charge of the case who recruits Dylan to help investigate another souvenir left at the scene–a playing card. Another murder, another card–and now Dylan suspects that the cards aren’t a signature, they’re a deadly hint–pointing directly toward the next victim.

As tabloid headlines about the killer known as “The Dealer” scream from newstands, New York City descends into panic. With the cops at a loss, it’s up to Dylan to hunt down a serial killer unlike any the city has ever seen. Only someone with Dylan’s expertise can hope to go inside the mind of a criminal and convince The Dealer to lay down his cards. But after thinking like a criminal–could Dylan become one?

Review: I haven’t read a lot of James Patterson’s novels yet, but every time I read them, I’m always pleasantly surprised and delighted. I really like his style of novels presented in the form of very short chapters, and especially the original ideas and reversals of situations that we don’t see coming.

Dylan Reinhart didn’t expect to be involved in an investigation to find a serial killer. No, he didn’t expect to team up with Inspector Elizabeth Needham to try to find out who is killing people while leaving playing cards to target the next victim.

I really had a great time with this book. I loved seeing the relationship between Dylan and Tracy and I was sad to see that it was so difficult for this gay couple to be able to adopt a baby. Something that is not easy for them either. And then there are the murders, and the investigation and I loved seeing how the author was going to take us around and I must say that I didn’t expect such revelations at all. The author has really done a very nice job with this story. Having, in addition, adored the characters, and this being a first volume, I am impatient to discover the sequel to see them again!

In addition to that, I discovered that there is also a TV show, derived from the novel and I can tell you that I will try it very quickly!

14 thoughts on “Murder Games by James Patterson

  1. Crystal @ Lost in Storyland

    I haven’t read a James Patterson book yet, but I hear good things about his writing. I’m glad you enjoyed this one. I hope you enjoy the TV show!

    1. Melliane

      yes it was a good one

  2. Greg

    I’ve never read Patterson, sadly enough, but have heard good things! And I love short, punchy chapters and great twists. Sounds like a good one.

    Happy New Year Melliane!!

    1. Melliane

      I love that as well

  3. blodeuedd

    One of the big ones I have never tried

  4. Mary Kirkland

    I’ve never read a James Patterson book yet but they do seem like good reads when I see reviews for them.

    1. Melliane

      they’re fun!

  5. Sophia Rose

    I like how you are describing the situation in this mystery and all the twists. I still need to try Patterson’s books.

    1. Melliane

      yes!

  6. Heidi

    I haven’t read a Patterson in a long time. He does write some good stuff. Your reivew reminded me that I should try more of his stuff again. Wishing you a Happy New Year!

    1. Melliane

      yes they’re good

  7. Mogsy @ BiblioSanctum

    I have still yet to read a James Patterson book, which is shameful! I must change that this year!

  8. Nadene @totallyaddictedtoreading

    I love James Patterson. I have not read any of his books in awhile though.

  9. Anne

    I’ve read some of his works but not this one. I’m glad you liked it. Anne – Books of My Heart

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