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53 pages 1 hour read

1st to Die

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001

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Book Brief

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James Patterson

1st to Die

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001
Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Francisco, California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

4.3

375,028 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read 1st to Die?

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.

4.3

375,028 ratings

77%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Inspector Lindsay Boxer

A detective in the San Francisco Police Department, known for her ambition and commitment to solving homicide cases, while striving to break barriers in a male-dominated field.

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.

An ambitious reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle, eager to transition from lifestyle to crime reporting, whose persistence garners respect from the police.

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.

A Community Action liaison from the mayor’s office who works closely with Lindsay Boxer, contributing to the investigation with his experience and support.

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.

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.

The second wife of Nicholas Jenks, encapsulating charm and complexity within her relationship with Nicholas and her interactions in the investigation.

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 victims in the series of connected murders, whose affluent backgrounds and shared connections lead to critical discoveries in the case.

Book Details
Pages

432

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

San Francisco, California • Contemporary

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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