A re-pub of a previous work, the adventure that Arch Carroll takes us on is thrilling and fast, but not nearly has engaging as Alex Cross's feats. I wasn't sure who I wanted to success here because I didn't have a good understanding of what motivated the characters. I attribute the lack of character development to very short chapters (some fewer than 3 pages) and the need to focus on getting everyone into the sack as soon as possible. If you are a Patterson fan, then by all means purchase this book. If not, then you would be better off choosing one of his later works.