Summary
Cross Country is the 14th installment in James Patterson's popular Alex Cross series. Published in 2008, this crime thriller follows Detective Alex Cross as he pursues a ruthless African warlord known as the Tiger, taking readers from Washington, DC, to Nigeria and Sierra Leone. The novel became a #1 New York Times bestseller and was the second most borrowed fiction book in US libraries in 2009.
Plot
In James Patterson's Cross Country, Detective Alex Cross faces one of his most harrowing cases yet. The story begins with the brutal murder of Cross's old friend Ellie Cox and her family. The crime scene is so horrific that Cross believes he's dealing with a new type of killer. As he and his girlfriend, Brianna Stone, investigate, they uncover a connection to the Nigerian underworld in Washington, DC.
Their pursuit leads them to the shocking discovery of a highly organized gang of lethal teenagers led by an African warlord known as the Tiger. Just as Cross and Stone think they're closing in on the elusive murderer, the Tiger vanishes. Determined to get justice for his friend, Cross decides to track the Tiger to Africa, knowing he must make this dangerous journey alone.
In Africa, Cross faces numerous challenges and life-threatening ordeals. He's kidnapped and imprisoned, and he witnesses unimaginable violence. The detective's investigation takes him from Nigeria to Sierra Leone, where he encounters various characters who both help and hinder his quest. As Cross gets closer to the truth, he uncovers a web of corruption involving not only the Tiger but also unexpected players from his own country. Cross Country culminates in a high-stakes confrontation that puts Cross and his family in grave danger.
Themes
• Impact of violent crime on personal relationships
• Challenges of confronting organized criminal networks
• Psychological toll of investigating brutal murders
• Conflict between personal and professional responsibilities
• Perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds
• Exploration of African political and social issues
• Pursuit of justice across international borders
Setting
Set in the late 2000s, Cross Country primarily takes place in Washington, DC, and various locations across Africa. The story begins in the bustling US Capitol, where Detective Alex Cross investigates a series of brutal murders that shake his community to its core.
As the investigation unfolds, the story shifts to the African continent. Cross travels to Nigeria, immersing readers in the chaotic streets of Lagos and the country's complex socio-political landscape. The stark contrast between the familiar streets of DC and the unfamiliar terrain of West Africa adds layers of tension and intrigue to the story.
The novel also takes readers to Sierra Leone, providing a glimpse into the aftermath of the civil war and the ongoing struggles faced by its people. James Patterson's vivid descriptions of these diverse settings—from urban centers to refugee camps—create a rich backdrop for the unfolding mystery, highlighting the global reach of crime and the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate worlds.
Characters
• Alex Cross: The protagonist, a detective and forensic psychologist investigating a series of brutal murders.
• Brianna “Bree” Stone: Alex's girlfriend and fellow detective.
• The Tiger (Abidemi Sowande): The main antagonist, an African warlord leading a gang of teenage killers.
• Ellie Cox: Alex's old friend and former girlfriend, who is murdered at the start of the novel.
• John Sampson: Alex's best friend and partner in the police force.
Addane Tansi: A Nigerian reporter who helps Alex in his investigation.
Ian Flaherty: An American operative in Nigeria, who is later revealed to be working with the Tiger.
• Father Bombata: A priest Alex meets on his flight to Nigeria.
• Moses: A veteran and amputee who helps Alex in Sierra Leone.
• Merrill Snyder and Steven Millard: CIA agents involved in the conspiracy with the Tiger.
• Kyle Craig: A former FBI agent turned criminal, mentioned as having escaped prison.
Quick facts
• Cross Country is the 14th novel in the Alex Cross series of crime, mystery, and thriller novels by James Patterson.
• Published on November 17, 2008, it was the second most borrowed fiction book in US libraries in 2009.
• Cross Country became a #1 New York Times bestseller.
• The main villain is an African warlord known as “the Tiger."
• Much of the story takes place in Nigeria and Sierra Leone.
• Cross Country introduces the character of Brianna “Bree” Stone, Alex Cross's girlfriend and fellow detective.
• The novel ends with escaped villain Kyle Craig vowing revenge on Alex Cross.
• The Alex Cross series has inspired several films, including 2012's Alex Cross starring Tyler Perry.
About the author
James Patterson is one of the most prolific and successful authors in the world. With a career spanning several decades, he has created numerous beloved fictional characters and bestselling thriller series, including Alex Cross, Michael Bennett, Doc Savage, the Women's Murder Club, and Maximum Ride. He is also known for his collaborations with other authors and high-profile figures, most notably co-authoring The President Is Missing with former President Bill Clinton and Run, Rose, Run with country music icon Dolly Parton.
Patterson has shown a deep commitment to promoting literacy and education, donating more than $100 million to libraries, the arts, and various educational initiatives. This philanthropic effort underscores his dedication to fostering a love of reading among children and supporting the broader cultural landscape. Throughout his career, Patterson has received numerous accolades, including an Edgar Award, 10 Emmy Awards, and the National Humanities Medal. He is also the author of an autobiography, James Patterson by James Patterson.
