Game of Nines - shelf-to-table.org

Game of Nines by James Patterson

4 Stars

The Book At A Glance

FBI agent Sarah Cole is stunned to receive an invitation to the Game of Nines—a secretive murder puzzle that’s baffled investigators for decades. As she dives into the deadly mystery, Sarah proves to be a fierce player who just might end the game for good. From James Patterson, and featuring Shailene Woodley and Morena Baccarin, Game of Nines is a gripping thriller full of twists that will keep you guessing until the final move.

Bookish Thoughts

This book popped up on my Audible library for free, so I decided to give it a try. I’ve enjoyed James Patterson’s other novels before, and I was curious to hear Shailene Woodley as the narrator — her voice brought a unique tone to the story that immediately caught my attention. When you’re in the mood for a dramatic audiobook packed with crime, serial killers, and a case that keeps you guessing until the end, this one is the perfect pick.

Genre

Thriller

Serial Killer

Tropes

Cat & Mouse

Serial Killer

Isolated Island

My Review

Game of Nines by James Patterson is a thrilling and compelling listen that completely pulled me in. The story follows a chilling serial killer who strikes every nine years—and challenges three of the best detectives to solve the case. If they succeed, the murders will stop. If they fail, another killing will happen in nine years.

I listened to the audiobook version, and it was absolutely fantastic. Shailene Woodley, who narrated the main character, was outstanding—I would happily listen to her narrate any book. Her performance brought the story to life and made the suspense even more gripping. The supporting voice actors were just as strong, creating a truly immersive experience.

The mystery itself was fascinating and had me constantly guessing and trying to piece everything together alongside the detectives. I did end up taking off one star because I figured out who the killer was near the end, but that didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the journey. Between the stellar narration and the clever, tension-filled plot, Game of Nines definitely stands out as one of my favorite recent thrillers.

Sarah Cole is the granddaughter of the original Nines serial killer—and she’s secretly carrying on his deadly legacy. As an FBI agent assigned to the case, she hunts for the Nines killer to conceal the chilling truth: she’s the one behind the murders.

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Audio Time: 3 Hours 27 Minutes

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Narrator Spotlight: Shailene Woodley

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Listen or Skip: Listen to this dramatized audiobook

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Other Books by the Author

Some of the author’s other beloved titles include The Alex Cross Series, Bill Harney Series, Jane Smith Series, and many more.

Literary Pairing

Sadie by Courtney Summers follows a young woman on a relentless quest to find her sister’s killer. Much like The Games of Nines, it immerses readers in a gripping mystery filled with tension and emotional depth. Both stories center on solving a complex puzzle, blending suspense, determination, and the search for the truth.

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Shelf To Table

Popcorn: A light, airy snack made from kernels of corn that puff up when heated. Crisp and slightly chewy, it’s delicious on its own with a touch of salt or dressed up with butter, caramel, cheese, or sweet seasonings

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“I have just committed the perfect murder. You have one week to catch me, or I will vanish…and strike again, nine years from today.”

James Patterson

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