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432
Novel • Fiction
San Francisco, California • Contemporary
2001
Adult
18+ years
In 1st to Die, San Francisco homicide detective Lindsay Boxer, medical examiner Claire Washburn, crime reporter Cindy Thomas, and assistant district attorney Jill Bernhardt form the Women’s Murder Club to solve the Honeymoon Murders, a series of killings targeting newlywed couples. As Lindsay navigates personal challenges, including a serious medical diagnosis, she and her team work together to uncover the truth behind the vicious crimes. This novel features descriptions of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and other forms of violence.
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Dark
Emotional
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James Patterson's 1st to Die offers a gripping start to the Women's Murder Club series, praised for its fast-paced, engaging plot and well-drawn characters. However, some critics note formulaic elements and predictability. The novel's intricate murder mystery and strong female leads make it a popular read despite occasional clichéd moments.
Readers who thrive on fast-paced crime thrillers featuring strong female protagonists will enjoy James Patterson's 1st to Die. Fans of the intricate plotting in Michael Connelly's The Lincoln Lawyer or the gripping suspense in Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl will find this book particularly captivating.
375,028 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Medical Examiner Claire Washburn
An intelligent and organized medical examiner who plays a key role in homicide investigations with her forensic skills and is a close friend of Lindsay Boxer.
Reporter Cindy Thomas
An ambitious reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle, eager to transition from lifestyle to crime reporting, whose persistence garners respect from the police.
Assistant District Attorney Jill Bernhardt
A logical and firm assistant district attorney, who becomes involved in the case by evaluating the evidence and aligning with the Women’s Murder Club.
Captain Chris Raleigh
A Community Action liaison from the mayor’s office who works closely with Lindsay Boxer, contributing to the investigation with his experience and support.
Phillip Campbell
The alias adopted by a mysterious killer targeting newlywed couples, a character whose actions are linked to a fictional character in Nicholas Jenks's novel.
Nicholas Jenks
A prominent thriller novelist whose connections to the crimes and past are central to the investigation, portraying a complex blend of fiction and reality in his life.
Chessy Jenks
The second wife of Nicholas Jenks, encapsulating charm and complexity within her relationship with Nicholas and her interactions in the investigation.
Joanna Wade
Nicholas Jenks's first wife, entangled in the complexities of her tumultuous past with Nicholas, yet separate from the core events of the murders.
The Brandts, The DeGeorges, and The Voskuhls
The victims in the series of connected murders, whose affluent backgrounds and shared connections lead to critical discoveries in the case.
432
Novel • Fiction
San Francisco, California • Contemporary
2001
Adult
18+ years
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