I prefer Tom Clancy to James Patterson when I am looking for a thrill through espionage, and I would rather see the movie than read the book – “Hunt for Red October” leading the list. James Patterson’s prolific turnout leaves me cold, despite the heroic Alex Cross, so my expectations were low for his collaboration with a former President.
But then I saw the tantalizing interview with Bill Clinton exonerating himself from the MeToo movement, and then I read Anthony Lane’s sarcastic take on “Bill Cinton and James Patterson’s Concussive Collaboration” in the New Yorker. Although the book is a thriller, Lane offers excerpts guaranteed to provoke laughter in the context of his analysis.
Has any of this convinced me to read the Patterson/Clinton book? No, but I am more determined than ever to read Curtis Sittenfeld’s book imagining how Hillary’s life would have been like if she had not married Bill, planned for publication in 2019. There’s a thriller worth anticipating.
In the meantime, I am desperately looking for a good book to read – any ideas?
The No Charge Book Bunch 
I was able to borrow The President is missing, from my Library on pub day! But reading the review from Anthony Lane in the New Yorker first, readied me for an unintentionally funny book, which the first chapter has been. So what should you read? Well I don’t have your list but I have just finished Kristin Hannah’s, “The Great Alone” which is a well crafted story with moving descriptions of Alaska. She is not an author I would normally choose but I’m glad I did. Also just read Sittingfeld’s, “Eligible”, which was a good take on P and P.
Yes, reading the Patterson as a funny book might be right. I have read The Great Alone – enjoyed it and I am a fan of Hannah. Might look for Eligible – thanks.
I love the title of this post so much.
Thrillers aren’t typically my jam, but the best book I’ve read lately is This Is Just My Face Try Not to Stare by Gabourey Sidibe. It’s not my usual book type either. My book club is reading Look Alive Out There by Sloane Crosley. I haven’t started yet, but the others have reported laughing hysterically through it. I think either are lighter summer reads.
https://bigandpinkytoes.wordpress.com/2018/04/24/book-reviews-thru-hiking-will-break-your-heart-this-is-just-my-face-try-not-to-stare-ready-player-one/
I had not heard of This is Just My Face – thanks. I will look for it.
I had heard a glowing review for it on NPR and then saw it for download for like 2 bucks.
Little Fires Everywhere
Patterson’s, “Zoo” ?
Educated
Thanks for the suggestions. Read Little Fires – great book.
The problem with recommending a good book for you is that you’ve read everything!!! Nevertheless, you could peruse my blog for titles – there may be something you haven’t read – will really surprise me!
Will do – thanks