I suggested The Presidents Daughter by President Bill Clinton and James Patterson to my book group as our next read. It is another Sunday Times bestseller.
The Plot
ALL PRESIDENTS HAVE NIGHTMARES. THIS ONE IS ABOUT TO COME TRUE.
Matthew Keating, a one-time Navy SEAL and a former US President, has always defended his family as fiercely as he has his country.
Now these defences are under attack. And it’s personal.
Keating’s teenage daughter, Melanie, has been abducted, turning every parent’s deepest fear into a matter of national security.
As the world watches, Keating embarks on a one-man special-ops mission that tests his strengths: as a leader, a warrior, and a father.
Because Keating knows that in order to save Melanie’s life he will have to put his own on the line . . .
Review
Although President Bill Clinton and James Patterson have written a political thriller together before (The President is Missing! – which I loved) this is a stand-alone thriller.
The book is divided into five parts plus an epilogue. As with other Patterson books the chapters are pretty short, making the book fast paced and seem quick to read. I certainly zipped through the chapters quickly. However, a few of the book club found it hard to get into.
The book begins with a Special Operations Mission being carried out under the orders of President Matthew Keating. The outcome of the mission will have repercussions in the future……
Just like President Clinton’s daughter did, President Keating’s daughter attends Sidwell Friends School. Which leads you to wonder how much of their experiences at the White House are shared. Can’t say more because of spoilers.
While Part One introduces the characters, Part Two begins with Keating being succeeded by his Vice President. There is no love lost between the new President Pamela Barnes, and her predecessor.
For his part, ex-President Keating is keeping a low profile. “Retiring” to New Hampshire, while his wife returns to her career. And while he still retains security protection, his daughter comes of age (16 years old Mel) and does not. Hence she is able to be kidnapped.
What follows is gripping, with lots of twists and turns, including some shocking moments. Well, it is a thriller.
I enjoyed it – Recommended
Available from City Adventurers Solve The Murder
and from Amazon
