Why Patterson is one of the most-read authors
Dear reader this is not an ordinary book review but rather a look into who James Patterson is and why we are drawn to his novels.
Patterson has built his literary empire that has transformed him into one of the most profiled and successful authors of all time.
Known for his fast-paced storytelling, Patterson penned a great range of novels for 48 years. From thrillers, and romance novels, to children’s literature, his versatility is something to be admired. Having read only three of his novels it has become apparent that I am a huge fan and willing to expand my knowledge into the different genres he has written.
But not everyone may agree with this opinion and that is okay. In every industry we find critics and in this particular case, Patterson’s critics label him as ‘fake’ based on arguments of his reliance on co-authors and high volume publishing model.
Patterson is renowned for working with co-authors to produce many of his books. While he provides the outline and creative direction, much of his writing is done by his collaborators. However, Patterson paves the way for rookie authors to debut their writing style.
During our research, we discovered that Patterson openly admitted he does not write every word of his books, viewing himself as a storyteller first and a writer second.
Despite these criticisms, Patterson’s defenders reflect on his success and ability to connect with readers.
Platforms such as Bookstagram and Booktok have made it possible for robust debates to take place where there are many voices and not just one. Some argue that James Patterson is dominating the literature world, making it nearly impossible for creative writers and smaller authors to succeed. Others believe that he is an industry himself and that his contributions have been invaluable.
Take The House of Cross – it might seem like just another crime thriller at first glance, especially since many of Patterson’s characters share similar traits – intelligent and quick under pressure. But Alex Cross is a game changer in the stories because this is built on a deeper connection. While Patterson’s other characters focus on chasing criminals, Cross has to balance his dangerous career and family.
Patterson creatively introduces the characters and their backstories, giving the reader a good idea of what they do and their personalities.
In the latest edition of The Cross series – which also premiered on Prime Video in November – Alex Cross is an intelligent and intuitive psychologist, who works with an FBI agent to uncover who is behind the murder of several Judges – all linked by a short list put forward to the President-Elect to make up the new White House Office.
The chapters are fast-paced and action-packed. While Dr Cross is working with Mahooney, an FBI agent to solve the murder of several Judges, Bree – his wife – together with his best friend Sampson, is investigating the death of Malcomb, who is the owner of a data-mining company called Paladin. They are following leads that are pointing to them investigating the same case, from different angles.
In true Patterson style, there are major twists with nail-biting scenes as they fight to survive a dangerous and powerful vigilante group known as Maestro led by “M”. In this novel, love knows no bounds, familial ties and a robbery that turned deadly 35 years ago are at the centre of the chaos that unfolded in the years that followed.
With the help of local and international law enforcement agencies, they managed to escape a deadly trap that was set with the intention to get rid of them.
However, “M” is still out there somewhere, plotting, planning, and waiting for the right moment to move in on them...
In an industry as dense as this one, with great authors to be found everywhere, Patterson has created a model that allows him to share his creativity as far as possible.
He gives back to his community of authors, readers, and even booksellers.
Since 2015, Patterson has given Holiday bonuses to independent booksellers and together with Ann Patchett, they have been named the inaugural ambassadors for the Book Industry Charitable (BINC) Foundation because of the unwavering support they have shown.
Love him or hate him, Patterson is worth every cent and every minute spent reading.
*House of cross by James Patterson is available at loot.co.za
Cape Times