James Patterson may not be as well known as J.K. Rowling or John Grisham, but this best-selling author is king of the “beach read,” with his highly popular Alex Cross thriller series and, in total, more than 220 million books sold worldwide. But what books might you find inside Patterson’s beach bag? Here, the author recommends five great summer reads.
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
“A great, great read. Hillenbrand (Seabiscuit) recreates the true story of ex-Olympic runner Louie Zamperini’s time during World War II. I had to keep reminding myself that this was non-fiction.”
The Informant by Thomas Perry
“I loved the Butcher’s Boy series and I’m glad he’s back. Who knew a hit man could be so irresistible?”
The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman
“The employees at this newspaper in Rome seem to bungle everything, both at home and at work. I look forward to a second book from Rachman, I only hope it’s as funny as this one.”
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain
“‘I wished I had died before I ever loved anyone but her.’ That’s what Hemingway said of his wife Hadley, and it’s the line that inspired this brilliant take on the literary fixture’s first marriage.”
The 5th Witness by Michael Connelly
“Michael and I are Facebook friends – take that as you will, but I couldn’t be more honest when I tell people how much I love his crime fiction.”
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