Thriller novels are the perfect escape from everyday life. With their intricate plots, suspenseful twists and adrenaline-pumping action, these books have become increasingly popular in recent years. One of the most popular thriller authors of our time is James Patterson, but he’s not the only one. Lars Emmerich is another author who has made a name for himself in the thriller genre. In this article, we will be comparing two of their more recent works; Criss Cross by James Patterson and “Monarch” by Lars Emmerich. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these novels so thrilling and how they compare to each other.
The Rise of Thriller Novels: A Brief Overview
Thriller novels have been around for centuries, but in recent years, they’ve seen a surge in popularity. These books are now some of the most-read genres in the world. Thriller novels are loved because they offer a blend of suspense, action, and emotion. They keep readers on the edge of their seats and constantly guessing what might happen next.
The Evolution of the Thriller Novel Genre
Thriller novels have evolved a lot over the years. They began with simple whodunits, but as readers’ tastes changed, so did the genre. Now, you’re just as likely to see spy thrillers, legal thrillers, and psychological thrillers. With each sub-genre come new opportunities for character development and plot twists.
One of the most significant changes in the thriller genre is the shift towards more complex and flawed protagonists. In the past, thriller novels often featured heroic and flawless characters who always saved the day. However, modern readers crave more realistic and relatable characters. As a result, many thriller novels now feature flawed and morally ambiguous protagonists who struggle with their own demons while trying to solve the mystery or save the world.
Meet the Authors: James Patterson and Lars Emmerich
James Patterson is one of the most successful authors in the world. He is known for his prolific output and ability to craft suspenseful and thrilling novels. Lars Emmerich is another up-and-coming author in the thriller genre, and his works have quickly become fan favorites. Both authors have a distinct writing style that sets them apart from other authors in the genre.
Despite their different backgrounds and writing styles, James Patterson and Lars Emmerich share a passion for storytelling that has led them both to great success. Patterson, a former advertising executive, has written over 200 books and sold over 300 million copies worldwide. Emmerich, on the other hand, is a former lawyer and political consultant who turned to writing after the 9/11 attacks. His debut novel, “The Tesla Secret,” was a bestseller and launched his career as a thriller writer.
A Synopsis of Criss Cross by James Patterson
Criss Cross is a novel that follows the lives of four friends in their early twenties. In this thrilling tale, these friends find themselves unwittingly caught up in a dangerous criminal conspiracy. Detective Alex Cross, the protagonist in many of James Patterson’s novels, is also a central character in this one. He sets out to unravel the mystery and save his friends before it’s too late.
As the story progresses, the friends begin to realize that their involvement in the conspiracy runs deeper than they initially thought. They must navigate a web of lies and deceit to uncover the truth and clear their names. Along the way, they face numerous obstacles and challenges that test their loyalty and friendship. Will they be able to overcome these obstacles and emerge victorious, or will they fall victim to the dangerous forces at play?
A Synopsis of “Monarch” by Lars Emmerich
Monarch is a political thriller that revolves around Alex Hawke, a spy who is on a top-secret mission to track down a terrorist group known as the “711.” Hawke is tasked with stopping the group before they can carry out their plan to destroy America, but his mission is complicated by several other factors, including a love interest and betrayal from within his own organization.
As the story progresses, Hawke discovers that the “711” is not just any terrorist group, but a highly organized and well-funded organization with connections to powerful people in the government. He must navigate through a web of lies and deceit to uncover the truth and stop the group from carrying out their deadly plan.
The novel is filled with action-packed scenes, intense suspense, and unexpected twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Emmerich’s writing style is engaging and descriptive, making it easy for readers to visualize the scenes and feel the emotions of the characters. Overall, Monarch is a thrilling read that will leave readers wanting more.
Character Development in Criss Cross and “Monarch”
Character development is a crucial element in any novel, and both Criss Cross and “Monarch” do an excellent job of fleshing out their casts. In Criss Cross, the four friends are given distinct personalities that endear them to readers, making it all the more heartbreaking as they become entangled in the conspiracy. In “Monarch,” Alex Hawke is a complex character who is given a choice between his duty and the people he cares about most, which adds tension to the novel.
In addition to the well-developed characters, both novels also explore important themes. Criss Cross delves into the idea of trust and how it can be easily broken, while “Monarch” tackles the concept of sacrifice and the difficult decisions that come with it. These themes add depth to the stories and give readers something to think about long after finishing the books.
Furthermore, the settings in both novels are vividly described, transporting readers to different worlds. Criss Cross takes place in a small town in the 1960s, and the descriptions of the era and location create a nostalgic atmosphere. “Monarch,” on the other hand, takes readers on a thrilling journey across the globe, from the streets of London to the deserts of Saudi Arabia. The detailed settings make the stories feel more real and immersive.
Plot Twists and Suspense in Criss Cross and “Monarch”
Suspense is a key component in any thriller novel, and both Criss Cross and “Monarch” are no exception. The novels are packed with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Criss Cross has a particularly ingenious plot twist that caught many readers off guard, while “Monarch” manages to maintain a tense, nail-biting atmosphere throughout the entire novel.
Writing Style Comparison: James Patterson vs Lars Emmerich
James Patterson and Lars Emmerich have distinct writing styles that appeal to different readers. Patterson’s writing is fast-paced and digestible, making his novels ideal for those who love to read but don’t have a lot of free time. Emmerich’s writing is more introspective and character-driven, and while it can be a slower read, it’s no less thrilling.
The Role of Setting in Thriller Novels
Setting is another important element in any novel, but in thriller novels, it can be especially crucial. The setting can help create the tension and atmosphere of the novel. For instance, in Criss Cross, the novel is set in the bustling city of Washington, D.C., which adds to the tension of the conspiracy that is unfolding. In “Monarch,” the novel includes several scenes set in Russia, which adds to the intrigue and uncertainty of the story.
Themes Explored in Criss Cross and “Monarch”
Thriller novels often explore themes that are relevant to modern society. In Criss Cross, the theme of loyalty is explored, as the friends find themselves caught between protecting each other and protecting themselves. In “Monarch,” the theme of the vulnerability of global superpowers is explored, as Alex Hawke tries to stop a terrorist plot that could destabilize America.
Reception and Criticism: What the critics say about these two novels
Both Criss Cross and “Monarch” have received a lot of praise from both fans and critics alike. Criss Cross has been praised for its twisty plot and distinct characters, while “Monarch” has been lauded for its intricate plot and attention to detail. There have been some criticisms of both novels- some believe that Criss Cross relies too heavily on the Alex Cross character, while others have criticized the pacing of “Monarch.” However, for the most part, both novels have been well-received.
Conclusion: Which is the Better Thriller Novel?
Comparing these two novels is tricky- they both have their strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, which novel you prefer will depend on your personal taste. If you prefer a fast-paced, twisty ride, then Criss Cross might be the novel for you. If you’re more interested in a character-driven story with intricate world-building, “Monarch” might be the better choice. However, both novels are excellent examples of modern thriller novels, and they’re well worth the read.