Book Review: The 9th Judgment by James Patterson

  

Jacque's Review:

I really enjoy the Women's Murder Club books. The camaraderie between the women and the unique skill set each brings to the table definitely keeps me coming back for more. This is a lengthy series with 22 books currently published, so it is a major undertaking if you plan on reading this series straight through. I have been reading a book or so a year and am not sure if I will ever catch up with the pace Patterson puts out books, but I am still enjoying them none the less.

This time around Claire, the medical examiner, and Lindsay, the detective, are busy trying to tackle the murders of several mothers and small children that have been taking place around the city. The perpetrator is extremely good and doesn't leave any clues behind that he doesn't want to leave. He is toying with them by leaving clues written in lipstick or blood. 

At the same time Cindy, the newspaper reporter, has been writing about a series of burglaries that have been taking place at some of San Francisco's wealthiest homes. When one of the burglaries results in the murder of an A-list celebrity's wife, the chief puts Lindsay on that case as well. Lindsay and her partner Rich are working long hours trying to unravel the cases, but things get a little too close to home when the perpetrators in both cases reach out to Lindsay and she has to put her life on the line to protect the lives of others.

Yuki, the prosecutor, didn't have as instrumental of a part in the book, but she does make several appearances and contributes in her usual way within the legal system. She does seem to make a connection with the bartender at their favorite meeting spot when she needs someone to lean on. Hopefully this budding relationship doesn't crash and burn like her last one.

Overall, this was one of the best books in the series yet. It kept me engaged and sitting on the edge of my seat. Once the mystery was unraveled, everything made sense and you could see how all of the pieces fit together, which is an important characteristic to a mystery for me. I don't really enjoy when elements come out of nowhere just to tidy up the conclusion. This was a very well thought out and action packed story and I can't wait to see what is in store for these ladies in the next installment. Somehow I don't think they will every have any rest and relaxation in their future.