Summary

Worst Case is the third installment in James Patterson’s Michael Bennett series. Released in 2010, this gripping thriller quickly became a #1 New York Times bestseller. Showcasing Patterson's signature fast-paced writing style and intricate plot development, Worst Case is  also one of the author’s more socially conscious works. 

Plot

In James Patterson's Worst Case, New York City is gripped by fear as the children of wealthy families are systematically kidnapped. The perpetrator, however, isn't interested in ransom money. Instead, they subject their victims to a chilling test of social awareness, questioning them about the hardships faced by the less fortunate. Those who fail to demonstrate empathy or knowledge of societal inequalities face deadly consequences.

Detective Michael Bennett finds himself at the center of this high-stakes investigation. As the kidnappings escalate and the body count rises, Bennett realizes that these crimes are part of a larger, more sinister plan. The killer seems intent on exposing the perceived ignorance and indifference of the city's elite, using their children as pawns in a twisted game of social justice.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the NYPD partners Bennett with FBI agent Emily Parker. Together, they race against time to uncover the killer's identity and prevent further abductions. The duo must navigate the complexities of interagency cooperation while piecing together clues from each crime scene, hoping to establish a pattern that will lead them to the culprit.

As the investigation intensifies, Bennett and Parker become aware that the kidnapper is building towards a grand finale—a public spectacle designed to broadcast their message to the entire city. With the clock ticking and the lives of more children hanging in the balance, the detectives must use all their skills and resources to stop the unthinkable from happening before the killer can execute their most ambitious and deadly lesson yet.

Themes

• Social inequality and wealth disparity

• Consequences of privilege and ignorance

• Justice and moral responsibility

• Crime and punishment in society

• Collaboration between law enforcement agencies

• Public demonstrations of power and control

• Suspense and action in crime solving

Setting

Set in contemporary New York City, Worst Case unfolds against the backdrop of a bustling metropolis marked by both staggering opulence and inequality. The story takes place in an era where wealth disparity has reached extreme levels, creating a stark contrast between the city's elite and its less fortunate residents.

While the broader setting encompasses the entirety of New York City, much of the action occurs in Manhattan, home to many of the city's wealthiest inhabitants. The narrative takes readers through various iconic locations, from luxurious penthouses and exclusive private schools to gritty police precincts and FBI offices.

As the plot develops, the setting expands to include the entire city, with the criminal's actions throwing New York into chaos. The urban landscape becomes a character in itself, reflecting the tension and fear gripping its inhabitants as Detective Michael Bennett and FBI agent Emily Parker race against time to prevent the killer's most public and deadly demonstration yet.

Characters

• Detective Michael Bennett: The main protagonist. An NYPD detective and a widower raising 10 adopted children, the Irish American Bennett is known for his sharp investigative skills and dedication to his family. As the lead detective on the case, he works tirelessly to stop the kidnapper and save the victims.

• FBI Agent Emily Parker: A skilled FBI agent who partners with Bennett on the case. She brings federal resources and expertise to the investigation. Parker develops a close working relationship with Bennett as they race to catch the killer.

• The Kidnapper: The antagonist who abducts children of wealthy New Yorkers. He doesn't seek ransom, but instead quizzes his victims on social issues and kills them if they answer incorrectly. His motives are rooted in exposing societal inequalities.

• Mary Catherine: Bennett’s love interest and his family’s nanny. She helps care for his 10 children and provides emotional support during the stressful case.

• Seamus: Bennett's grandfather. He assists with childcare and offers wisdom to Bennett throughout the investigation.

• The Victims: The children of New York's elite who are targeted by the kidnapper. They come from privileged backgrounds and become pawns in the killer's twisted game.

Quick facts

• Worst Case is the third book in James Patterson's Michael Bennett series.

• It was published in 2010 and quickly became a #1 New York Times bestseller.

• Worst Case was co-written with Michael Ledwidge, who has collaborated with Patterson on several other novels.

• The story features NYPD detective Michael Bennett teaming up with FBI agent Emily Parker.

• The plot revolves around a kidnapper targeting children of New York's wealthy elite.

• In Worst Case, the kidnapper doesn't demand ransom money; instead, the kidnapper tests the victims on their knowledge of social issues.

• Worst Case explores themes of social inequality and the ethical responsibilities of the wealthy, making it one of Patterson's most socially conscious thrillers.

• The audiobook version is narrated by Bobby Cannavale and John Glover.

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.