Cradle and All by James Patterson (2000)

Specific Book Information

This book is based on an earlier title, "Virgin," and is probably titled to align itself with the nursery rhyme theme he has used so effectively. However, it is also misleading because it is not part of his Alex Cross series, which are the focus of many of his nursery rhyme titles. Regardless, the story is certainly pure Patterson.

“ In Boston, a young woman finds herself pregnant–even though she is still a virgin.

In Ireland, another young woman discovers she is in the same impossible condition.

And in cities all around the world, medical authorities are overwhelmed by epidemics, droughts, famines, floods, and worse. It all feels like a sign that something awful is coming.

Ann Fitzgerald, a former nun turned private investigator, is hired by the Archdiocese of Boston to investigate the immaculate conceptions. Even as she comes to care about and trust the young women, she realizes that both are in great danger. Terrifying forces of light and darkness are gathering. Stepping into uncharted territory where the unknown is just the beginning, Anne must discover the truth–to save the young women, to save herself, and to protect the future of all mankind.

Cradle and All probes our most deeply held fears and hopes in a sizzlingly fast-paced and chilling story. ”*

* From the dust jacket

Overall Patterson Info

Reading a Patterson novel is an experience in itself. When I first began reading Patterson novels, I was amazed at how easy it was to get lost in the story. I couldn't understand how I consumed, more so than simply read, page after page. Then I realized that, unlike the vast majority of authors, he controls the pace of the story with his chapter structure. It is almost as if he realizes that the short chapters are necessary to allow his readers to stop holding their breath. They also make it hard to put down, encouraging the reader to read "just one more chapter" again and again. His books should be sold with a WARNING label stating that reading his novels can be addictive.

The drama in a Patterson novel can be found in most good television and film dramas. But I have yet to see an adaptation of one of his books that meets the intensity of the written version. He never holds back in order to make the reader feel safe. On the contrary, the depth of his writing can make most readers squirm a little.

While some people may judge his use of strong language as unnecessary, I find it appropriate to his characters' personalities. The characters use of curse words is done at appropriate times; under duress, frightened, emotionally unstable, or simply angry. The villains use it without reserve, but then nothing about his villains is held back, much less their language. His descriptions of romantic sexual encounters between characters are simple and subtle, not flagrant nor filthy.

Overall I cannot provide enough encouragement to read anything by James Patterson. Even his worst work is better than most of what is available from other authors.

As a big fan of James Patterson's "Alex Cross" and "Women's Murder Club" books, I wasn't sure how I'd like this book. However, it was excellent. The story, which was about two young teenagers found to be pregnant, yet still virgins, caught my interest from the beginning. It kept me enthralled and I zipped through it rather quickly. I would highly recommend it.

DPJ

Cradle And All was only the 3rd Patterson novel Ive read. But its incredible! We have all heard of the immaculate conception of Christ, and Patterson takes it to the next level...without belittling anyones faith or spirtuality. Two virgins are pregnant...which one is really carrying the Christ child?
Patterson introduces us to a former nun who is our "storyteller". She is now a private detective and sent on a mission, by the Catholic church, to meet with both virgins and determine who is truly the virgin. She then encounters a priest from her past...one that she has always admired. Unfortunately, he is still a priest but her desires are still there. Thankfully, Patterson does not cross any lines with this priest. He does not have this priest sexually active with this woman....but he does show us that he has feelings for her.
This novel has all the twists and turns that Patterson fans love. If you have not read Cradle and All....please do!!! Whether you are a Christian or not, you will be entertained by this novel. I even found that it strengthened my faith. Enjoy!

This was my first book that I read by him and why I even bought it still escapes me. I took it home and read it in one night. The short 2 to 4 page chapters kept me going and it was just one more chapter, or it was so intense that you just couldn't stop there. It was an interesting look at the church, and supposedly thru the eyes of an exnun who is the main character. Incredible read, well done.

This book is an excellent read. I just read it a few months ago and WOW! James is so talented, I want his entire collection. I started reading his books in 6th grade (many, many years ago) and have not been able to put them down. I was a very advanced reader for my age, so please do not mistake his writing style to be for children. Most definitely not. Keeps you on the edge of your seat. My favorite author of all time!