Best James Patterson Books You Should Read Right Now…

What are the best James Patterson books you should read right now…

Are you a fan of mystery, thriller, and crime fiction? Chances are you’ve read at least one book by James Patterson. He is one of the most prolific and popular authors of all time. He has over 300 books to his name and millions of fans around the world. But with so many titles to choose from, how do you decide which ones are worth your time?

To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of james patterson best selling books. It’s based on the ratings and reviews of Goodreads members. These are the books that have captivated, entertained, and shocked readers with their twists, turns, and suspense. They are James Patterson books in order of publication date, not popularity.

[Click here to access our “James Patterson books in order printable list“. It’s an extensive list of all his work].

1. Along Came a Spider (December 1, 1993)

To begin with, this is the first of the best James Patterson books. It’s also the first book in the Alex Cross series. It starts with this enthralling novel, laying down the foundation for a succession of thrilling adventures. Enter Alex Cross. He is an astute detective with a sharp mind, who also possesses expertise in forensic psychology. He has exceptional skills and abilities. This is especially true when it comes to chasing down heinous criminals and deciphering the minds of diabolical serial killers.

In this narrative, the antagonist that Cross is pitted against is the cunning and dangerous Gary Soneji. Soneji is not just any criminal; he meticulously selects his victims, focusing particularly on the offspring of high-profile politicians. His modus operandi involves both kidnapping and cold-blooded murder. This sends shockwaves through the community and challenges Cross in ways he could never have anticipated.

The story’s gripping tension and intricate plot caught the attention of film producers. This lead to its adaptation onto the big screen in 2001. The movie version boasted a stellar cast. With the legendary Morgan Freeman stepping into the shoes of Alex Cross. The talented Monica Potter played a pivotal role, further enhancing the story’s cinematic appeal.

2. Kiss The Girls (January 11, 1995)

The second of the best James Patterson books to read is titled Kiss the Girls. In this riveting continuation of the Alex Cross saga, James Patterson delivers a suspense-packed narrative that showcases his storytelling prowess. This is the second installment in the series. Readers find Detective Cross confronted with a case of terrifying proportions. Two sinister serial killers form a lethal alliance. Operating in different parts of the country, they leave a trail of terror in their wake. They kidnap and brutally torture unsuspecting young women.

The first killer, audaciously calling himself ‘Casanova,’ operates with a chilling smoothness. The other, equally horrifying, dubs himself ‘The Gentleman Caller,’ hinting at an eerie politeness that belies his vicious intent. The two fiends become engaged in a macabre competition. As their crimes escalate, so does the urgency to apprehend them.

A glimmer of hope emerges when Kate McTiernan, a resilient doctor, narrowly escapes Casanova’s clutches and joins forces with Cross. With her firsthand experience and his deductive prowess, the duo embarks on a relentless pursuit. To bring the killers to justice. Their combined determination forms the backbone of this tense thriller.

Drawing audiences worldwide, the gripping plot of “Kiss the Girls” made its way to the cinematic world in 1997. The film adaptation brought together the formidable talents of Morgan Freeman, reprising his role as Alex Cross. Ashley Judd, delivered a powerful portrayal of Kate McTiernan. Their on-screen chemistry and the movie’s intricate plot twists further solidified the story’s enduring appeal.

3. 1st to Die (March 5, 2001)

“1st to Die” is the third of the best James Patterson books that you should read. Here, the author introduces readers to a compelling new universe. This inaugural novel in the acclaimed Women’s Murder Club series. It takes place in San Francisco. The story artfully weaves together the lives and expertise of four indomitable women. Each of them brings a unique strength to their informal partnership, making them a formidable force against crime.

At the heart of the team is Lindsay Boxer, a dedicated homicide inspector with a keen investigative eye. Claire Washburn is the medical examiner. She provides invaluable insights into the victim’s last moments. Jill Bernhardt, with her sharp legal acumen, serves as an assistant district attorney. She ensures that justice is pursued in the courtroom. Rounding out the quartet is Cindy Thomas. A tenacious crime reporter whose knack for uncovering details and getting the inside scoop is second to none.

Together, these four women find themselves delving into a harrowing case that sends shockwaves through the city. A shadowy killer is targeting newlyweds, turning what should be the most joyous days of their lives into unspeakable tragedies. As the string of brutal honeymoon murders grows, the Women’s Murder Club unites. Their varied talents and knowledge are set to unmask the perpetrator. Patterson masterfully crafts a tale filled with suspense, camaraderie, and a race against time to prevent the next tragedy.

4. The Angel Experiment: A Maximum Ride Novel (April 1, 2005)

Fourth in line of the best James Patterson books to read is “The Angel Experiment”. Here the author takes a bold leap into the realm of science fiction, crafting a world both mesmerizing and unsettling. This marks the beginning of the enthralling Maximum Ride series. It’s an adventure that dives deep into the implications of genetic modification and the complexities of identity.

The story centers on an extraordinary group of youngsters. Each bearing wings and the power of flight. A testament to the boundaries that science can push. Our protagonists are a diverse group. Max is the determined leader. Fang is the enigmatic silent type. Iggy, who, despite being blind, possesses unique abilities. Nudge, whose incessant curiosity is both a gift and a curse. Gasman, known for his explosive personality. And Angel, the youngest, who carries secrets beyond her age.

These winged children are the result of clandestine experiments conducted by an enigmatic institution known simply as “The School.” More prison than educational facility, The School’s dark purposes become all too clear when the children decide to break free. Their escape, however, is only the beginning. They are pursued by relentless enemies. They are confronted with the challenge of surviving in an unfamiliar world as they embark on a journey of self-discovery. As they unravel the mysteries of their creation, they also grapple with larger existential questions: What is their place in the world? Why were they created?

Patterson masterfully layers the narrative with thrilling chase sequences. There are moments of introspection, and the bond of friendship that becomes the kids’ strongest weapon against the odds.

5. Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholas (July 16, 2001)

The fifth on the list of the best James Patterson books to read is titled “Suzanne’s Diary for Nicholas.” In a departure from his traditional thrillers, James Patterson delves deep into the human heart with this novel. This standalone novel is a testament to Patterson’s versatility as an author. He can craft a tale brimming with raw emotion, romance, and revelations.

Katie Wilkinson, a vibrant woman deeply in love, is left heartbroken when her boyfriend, Matt Harrison, unexpectedly ends their relationship. In a bid to provide her with closure and perhaps understanding, Matt leaves her a poignant artifact: a diary. This is no ordinary diary, but the intimate musings of Suzanne Bedford, Matt’s tragically deceased wife. It was penned with love and hope. The diary was intended as a legacy for their young son, Nicholas. Ensuring he’d know the depth of love and the story of the mother he lost.

Katie immerses herself in Suzanne’s world. She discovers a woman who lived with passion, faced challenges, and cherished every moment with her family. The diary unveils tales of romance, dreams, and the sheer force of life’s unpredictability. But as Katie delves deeper, she also unravels a web of secrets Matt has kept buried. One of which holds the power to change everything she thought she knew about him.

Through Patterson’s eloquent prose, readers are invited on a journey. The journey explores the complexities of relationships. The pain of loss, and the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds.

6. School’s Out – Forever: A Maximum Ride Novel (May 23, 2006)

“School’s Out – Forever” takes the sixth position on the best James Patterson books to read list. It serves as a compelling sequel in the Maximum Ride series, offering readers another exhilarating dive into the lives of the remarkable winged children. The stakes are raised even higher in this installment. Our young heroes find themselves entangled in a vast and intricate conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of their world.

Our familiar protagonists – Max, Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gasman, and Angel – find themselves navigating an ever-evolving terrain of challenges. From attempting to assimilate into the norms of society by attending school, to uncovering the dark machinations that loom on the horizon, their journey is anything but simple.

Throughout their adventure, they cross paths with a variety of characters, each introducing a new layer of complexity to their mission. The FBI, a formidable force with its own agenda, becomes an unexpected ally. Yet, the lines between friend and foe blur when Max starts hearing an enigmatic voice in her head, guiding and cautioning her in equal measure. This voice becomes a puzzle unto itself, its origins and intentions shrouded in mystery.

Arguably the most menacing of their adversaries are the Erasers: terrifying mutant hybrids of wolf and human. Engineered with lethal abilities, these creatures relentlessly pursue the winged kids, serving as chilling reminders of the unnatural world from which they hail.

As the plot unfolds, Patterson seamlessly combines adrenaline-pumping action with deep emotional moments, further endearing the Maximum Ride characters to the readers and ensuring they remain invested in the fate of these extraordinary youths.

7. 2nd Chance (March 4, 2002)

“2nd Chance” takes the seventh spot on the list. This is a riveting continuation of the Women’s Murder Club series penned by James Patterson. Delving deeper into the lives and relationships of the formidable foursome—Lindsay Boxer, Claire Washburn, Jill Bernhardt, and Cindy Thomas—this installment intertwines personal narratives with an intense criminal investigation, offering a multi-layered reading experience.

As the story unfolds, San Francisco becomes a backdrop to a sinister pattern of killings. The murders, at first glance, might seem unrelated, but as the Club delves deeper, a chilling link emerges. The shadowy organization known as The Patriots appears to be at the heart of this malevolence. Their motives are rooted in deep-seated prejudice and hate.

The external threat posed by The Patriots is palpable. However, a more insidious danger looms closer than the women could ever have imagined. In their quest for justice, they stumble upon betrayals from within. This forces them to confront the fact that trust, once broken, can have deadly consequences. This unforeseen internal treachery adds another dimension to their challenge, pushing their friendship and professional collaboration to its limits.

In “2nd Chance,” Patterson masterfully blends fast-paced investigative sequences with intimate moments. This approack explore the dynamics of friendship, trust, and loyalty. It’s a tale that seeks to uncover the mystery behind the murders. It also delves deep into the bonds that tie the protagonists together. This is a classic example of yet another James Patterson best selling book.

8. Sam’s Letters to Jennifer (June 28, 2004)

“Sam’s Letters to Jennifer” comes in at number eight. Here, James Patterson elegantly weaves a tapestry of romance, nostalgia, and whispered secrets. This standalone novel marks a departure from Patterson’s trademark thrillers. It offers readers a soul-stirring journey into the recesses of the heart.

The story pivots around Jennifer Parker. She is a journalist who has climbed the ladder of success, yet finds herself drawn back to the comforting embrace of her roots when tragedy strikes. Her beloved grandmother, Sam, succumbs to a stroke, pulling Jennifer back to the town where memories linger on every corner.

Within the confines of Sam’s home, Jennifer stumbles upon a trove of deeply personal letters addressed to her. Through these heartfelt notes, Sam unfurls the tapestry of her own life, revealing the passions that burned brightly, the heartaches that tested her, and the undying love she held for Jennifer. Each letter peels back layers of Sam’s history, gifting Jennifer with insights into her family’s past and the unspoken truths that shaped their lives.

As Jennifer grapples with the revelations from the letters, she also encounters a blast from her own past: Brendan Collins. Once a cherished childhood companion, Brendan has since transformed into a captivating doctor whose presence reignites feelings long buried. Their rekindled bond, interspersed with the wisdom imparted through Sam’s letters, challenges Jennifer to reevaluate her own choices and the paths she’s taken.

Through evocative storytelling, Patterson crafts a narrative that celebrates love in its myriad forms, emphasizing the ties that bind generations and the redemptive power of reconnection.

9. Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports: A Maximum Ride Novel (May 29, 2007)

This novel is ninth on the best James Patterson books to read list. This is the third captivating installment of the Maximum Ride series. It’s titled “Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports”. Here James Patterson raises the stakes to an unparalleled height. He thrusts our beloved winged protagonists into a battle. A battle for their survival, and for the very fate of humanity.

The story evolves as Max, Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gasman, and Angel uncover a nefarious plot that threatens to cast the world into irreparable chaos. The clandestine organization. The School, once the tormentors of their past, is revealed to be orchestrating an apocalyptic scheme: the release of a potent virus with the power to decimate 99% of the global population. The gravity of the situation is unparalleled, and the kids, with their unique abilities, find themselves as the last line of defense against this impending global catastrophe.

However, the external threats are only a part of their challenge. Beneath the high-octane action and the fight against time, the narrative delves into the emotional turmoil and complexities of growing up. Max grapples with burgeoning feelings for Fang, adding layers of vulnerability to her typically stalwart demeanor. Meanwhile, the group is rocked by a shocking act of betrayal from within, with Angel at its epicenter. The dynamics of trust, loyalty, and burgeoning love are intricately interwoven, providing a rich tapestry against the backdrop of their world-saving mission.

In “Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports,” Patterson seamlessly combines heart-pounding action sequences with poignant moments of introspection, offering readers an exhilarating roller-coaster of emotions and events.

10. The Postcard Killers (August 16, 2010)

“The Postcard Killers” stands out as a gripping and chilling thriller, the result of a unique collaboration between the masterful James Patterson and renowned Swedish author Liza Marklund. This novel occupies the tenth spot on the best James Patterson books to read list. The authors weave a tale that spans the vast landscapes of Europe, pulling readers into a dark world of intrigue, suspense, and chilling motivations.

The novel plunges deep into the minds of two sinister serial killers. These perpetrators are not merely content with their heinous acts; they elevate their cruelty to a perverse art form. As they journey across Europe’s iconic cities, they prey upon young, unsuspecting couples, staging their victims in grotesque, tableau-like scenes reminiscent of a morbid gallery display. But their sadistic tendencies don’t stop there. They engage in a twisted game,. They dispatch postcards to local journalists. The postcards include chilling messages and cryptic clues. They effectively taunt those who might seek to unravel their intentions and put an end to their spree.

Enter Jacob Kanon, a tenacious NYPD detective. But for Jacob, this case is deeply personal. The heart-wrenching loss of his own daughter to these killers propels him into the chase with an intensity that’s both relentless and fraught with emotion. Every city, every postcard, and every macabre crime scene draws him one step closer to confronting the murderers, as he grapples with his grief and the overwhelming desire for retribution.

In “The Postcard Killers,” Patterson and Marklund craft an intricate dance of cat and mouse, blending rich European settings with a suspense-filled narrative. The novel serves as a stark reminder of the lengths one will go to for vengeance, and the dark corners of the human psyche that can push individuals beyond the brink.

11. The Black Book (March 27, 2017)

The eleventh of the best James Patterson books to read is titled “The Black Book”. It emerges as a riveting, multi-layered mystery, crafted meticulously through the combined literary prowess of James Patterson and David Ellis. Set against the gritty backdrop of Chicago’s urban tapestry, the narrative unfolds, revealing a tale of suspense, power, and the insatiable quest for the truth.

Central to the tale is Billy Harney, a seasoned Chicago detective, whose life takes a harrowing turn after a sinister shooting incident. In a moment of calamity, he loses not just his partner but also his girlfriend, both of whom meet their untimely end. But the trauma doesn’t stop there. Billy survived the assault, but then suffered from amnesia. This left a void in his memories surrounding the crucial events of that fateful night.

As Billy grapples with the loss and attempts to stitch together the fragments of his shattered recollections, whispers of a clandestine “black book” begin to emerge. This elusive book, believed to hold the damning secrets and indiscretions of Chicago’s most influential elite, becomes the crux of the mystery. It’s possible that the very existence of this book, with its explosive revelations, might have been the catalyst for the tragic events that altered Billy’s life.

Determined to unearth the truth and ensnared in a web of intrigue and danger, Billy embarks on a perilous journey. He realizes that every step he takes brings him closer to the book’s dark secrets, but also puts him squarely in the crosshairs of those who will go to great lengths to ensure that certain truths remain buried.

With “The Black Book,” Patterson and Ellis deftly navigate the labyrinthine alleys of power, corruption, and personal vendettas, delivering a pulse-pounding thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

12. The President Is Missing (June 4, 2018)

“The President Is Missing” is the twelfth of the best James Patterson books. Here, James Patterson and former US president Bill Clinton come together to craft a suspense-filled political thriller that resonates with authenticity and intricate knowledge of the highest corridors of power. Drawing from Clinton’s unique perspective and Patterson’s unparalleled storytelling abilities, they produce a tale that seamlessly blends the real-world stakes of political maneuvering with the gripping tension of a high-octane thriller.

At the heart of the story is President Jonathan Duncan. He is a fictional leader who finds himself ensnared in a web of crises that could potentially spell doom for the nation he’s sworn to protect. A menacing cyberattack looms large, threatening not only to compromise national security but also to deliver a crippling blow to the American economy. Time running out. The stakes sky-high. President Duncan grapples with the complexities of modern-day warfare. There, battles are waged in the intricate tunnels of cyberspace.

Yet, the cyberthreat isn’t the only storm on Duncan’s horizon. A betrayal from within, from someone he’s supposed to trust implicitly—a member of his own cabinet—adds another layer of peril. This internal treachery is compounded by an impending impeachment that casts a shadow over his presidency.

But just when the world is closely watching, waiting for him to make his move, President Duncan does the unthinkable: he disappears from the public gaze. His sudden absence sends shockwaves globally, stirring a maelstrom of speculation, anxiety, and chaos. The world, both allies and adversaries, watches with bated breath, wondering where the leader of the free world has gone and what his absence might mean for global stability.

“The President Is Missing” serves as a testament to Patterson and Clinton’s ability to create a narrative that is both deeply engrossing and reflective of the nuanced challenges faced by world leaders in our complex geopolitical landscape.

13. The 18th Abduction (April 29, 2019)

The saga of the Women’s Murder Club continues with James Patterson’s gripping “The 18th Abduction,” the eighteenth installment of this beloved series. It is thirteenth on the list of the best James Patterson books to read. Once again, readers are invited into the intricate lives and challenges of the four intrepid friends as they navigate a world fraught with peril and unexpected twists.

Detective Lindsay Boxer finds herself plunged into the heart of a deeply unsettling case. Three teachers, whose ordinary evening takes a nightmarish turn, vanish without a trace after a sinister abduction from their vehicle. As Lindsay delves into the case, she’s met with a labyrinth of clues and dark intentions, each revelation more chilling than the last.

Yet, the teacher’s abduction isn’t the only storm Lindsay has to weather. Personal and professional lines blur when her husband, Joe, becomes entangled in a high-stakes international investigation. As the implications of his involvement unfold, Lindsay confronts the possibility that the very foundations of their marriage could be shaken to the core.

In “The 18th Abduction,” Patterson masterfully interweaves a tapestry of suspense, loyalty, and the enduring bonds of friendship. With every turn of the page, readers will find themselves deeply invested in the destinies of these characters they’ve come to know and love.

14. The Warning (August 13, 2019)

“The Warning” is the fourteenth on the list. Here, James Patterson delves into the realms of science fiction, crafting a taut thriller set against the backdrop of an idyllic small town in West Virginia. A cataclysmic explosion rips through a local chemical plant. This shatters the serenity of this close-knit community. Moreover, the town is plunged into chaos and despair.

Fast forward two years post the tragic event, and an eerie shadow looms over the town’s survivors. They are plagued by a series of unsettling visions, uncanny occurrences, and phenomena that defy logical explanation. It’s as if the very fabric of reality has been altered, hinting at a more malevolent force at play.

A sense of urgency takes hold as a group of determined residents, bound by their shared trauma and the mysteries that now envelop their lives, band together. They embark on a quest for answers, diving deep into the unknown to uncover the sinister threads linking their present-day anomalies to that fateful day at the chemical plant.

With “The Warning,” Patterson deftly combines the eerie atmosphere of speculative fiction with the pulse-pounding suspense of a thriller, inviting readers to step into a world where the line between reality and nightmare blurs, and where the search for the truth becomes a race against time.

15. The Coast to Coast Murders (September 21, 2020)

In “The Coast to Coast Murders,” the combined storytelling prowess of James Patterson and J.D. Barker comes to the fore, delivering a riveting thriller that spans the vast expanse of America’s interstate highways. A mysterious serial killer, as elusive as they are deadly, embarks on a chilling journey across the nation, leaving behind a trail of victims in their wake. This brutal game of cat and mouse unfolds on the open road, making every mile marker a potential crime scene. Number 15. Yet another James Patterson best selling book.

Leading the desperate pursuit is FBI agent Megan Fitzgerald. Determined and tenacious, she dives headfirst into the investigation, hoping to apprehend this predator before another life is lost. But as she delves deeper, the layers of the case begin to peel back, revealing a chilling tapestry of crime that’s more complex than she initially imagined. Megan’s analytical skills are put to the test as evidence hints at the horrifying possibility: this may not be the work of a lone killer, but rather a collaboration of twisted minds.

Further complicating matters is an unsettling discovery that threatens to turn Megan’s world upside down. The case begins to hit closer to home than she ever anticipated, suggesting a deeply personal connection that challenges her objectivity and might even place her in the crosshairs.

“The Coast to Coast Murders” beckons readers into a high-stakes chase across the vast American landscape, blending Patterson’s signature suspense with Barker’s intricate plotting. The result is a novel that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages as they journey alongside Megan Fitzgerald in her relentless pursuit of justice.

16. 23 1/2 Lies (September 12, 2023)

Set to captivate readers in September 2023 is James Patterson’s latest offering, “23 1/2 Lies.” This spellbinding mystery is sure to enthrall fans and newcomers alike, showcasing Patterson’s mastery in creating intricate, character-driven narratives. It finalizes the list of best James Patterson books to read.

At the heart of the tale is the formidable FBI agent Emily Dockery. With an almost preternatural ability to discern deception, Emily has become a legend within the Bureau for her unparalleled skill in detecting lies. This unique talent not only aids her in untangling the web of deceit that often surrounds criminal investigations but also serves as a tool in her personal quest to unearth the enigmatic mysteries of her own past.

However, her skills face their ultimate test when a meticulous serial killer emerges on the scene. This murderer, rather than concealing his actions, leaves a trail of half-truths in his wake—riddles designed to taunt and challenge their pursuers. Each clue is a game, a blend of fact and fiction, that only someone of Emily’s unique abilities might hope to decipher.

The body count rises. The stakes escalate. Emily is drawn into a high-intensity game of cat and mouse. She is compelled to delve deeper into the mind of a killer who seems to know her every move, all the while wrestling with shadows from her own history that threaten to consume her.

In “23 1/2 Lies,” Patterson expertly weaves a gripping tale of suspense, introspection, and psychological intrigue. Readers will be drawn into Emily Dockery’s world. It is like riding a roller coaster of emotions as they eagerly await the resolution of this electrifying chase.

Concluding – The best James Patterson Books to Read

So there you have it. Some of the best James Patterson books you should read right now.

James Patterson’s extensive bibliography is truly a testament to his storytelling prowess, with each title offering a unique blend of intrigue and excitement. The few we’ve discussed are but a mere glimpse into his literary world, representing just the tip of the iceberg in a sea of captivating tales. Yet, regardless of which book you pick up, you’re bound to dive into a narrative that’s both engaging and expertly crafted.

[Click here to access our “James Patterson books in order printable list“. It’s an extensive list of all his work].

He is renowned for his thrilling mysteries and suspenseful crime dramas. In truth, his versatility extends far beyond these genres. He has effortlessly ventured into the realms of science fiction, romantic tales, and even introspective literary fiction, showcasing an ability to resonate with a broad spectrum of readers. Moreover, his forays into non-fiction further underscore his range, offering thought-provoking insights and explorations into various subjects.

Patterson’s undeniable talent lies not only in his capacity to craft compelling plots but also in his keen understanding of human emotions, relationships, and the complexities of the world we inhabit. His books, regardless of their genre, often touch upon universal themes, making them relatable and timeless.

To label James Patterson as just another writer would be a significant understatement. He is, in essence, a literary maestro, whose works span decades and genres, consistently leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of readers. As you delve into his collection, be it a gritty crime novel or a heartwarming romance, you’ll quickly realize that Patterson’s storytelling magic knows no bounds. So, whether you’re a seasoned fan or a curious newcomer, there’s a James Patterson book waiting to transport you into its enthralling world.

If you’re looking for something from a different author, click on the following link and read the “In The Woods by Tana French: Book Review.