Southern Cross

Rating:
Summary: Cornwell's better than most, even her non-Scarpetta
Review: Perhaps some people missed the point- this is a SATIRE. Ms. Cornwell is a craftsperson, and knows the difference between a straightforward thriller and a sendup of one. This is still a masterful book by an expert in the genre.

Rating:
Summary: Grand Slam for Cornwell
Review: Cornwell has outdone herself with a rip-roarin pace. With Southern Cross you get two books in one. While Cornwell exposes two young crooks (Smoke and Weed) to the seductive life of crime and gangs, you will also laugh your gut out with humor and satire on southern living; racoon hunting, the Azalea parade and a governor's chauffeur who doesn't know right from left. This book shows Cornwell's amazing versatility and genius.

Rating:
Summary: A Wonderful read
Review: I thought _Southern Cross_ was a wonderful read. The plot moved along well while the writing was powerful, strong and at times I was laughing out loud. I want to remind you, this is not Scarpetta, and its written in a different, satirical style. The message of how young kids can be so easily sucked into the gang lifestyle isn't lost either.

Rating:
Summary: review for southern cross
Review: I managed to obtain a copy of southern cross, though it isn't officially released for another 2 weeks in the US, and even longer in Australia. If you enjoyed Hornet's Nest, I'm sure you will enjoy this also. Well written, and humourous at times, it was lots of fun reading.

Rating:
Summary: Not up to Authors usual standards
Review: Patricia Cornwell's latest book "Southern Cross" was a dissapointment, due to the fact that it seemed a "rushed to be printed" novel. The characters did not seem to have enough personality, nor "character", as her other novels have had. I found the book to flow quite nicely, but was not a book I could not put down at any time. The plot was skimpy, and even though the book flowed well, did not have enough "body" to it. Perhaps, I have been spoiled by her other novels which have been rich in thought and content. After waiting expectantly to receive this book, was not prepared mentally to be dissapointed. Will be looking forward to her next novel, however as do enjoy her writings.

Rating:
Summary: Disappointing, shallow, lacked usual finesse and style
Review: After having read every Cornwell book except one, I feel this was the most shallow and flimsy book she has written. I only finished the book because I never leave a book not finished. I was disappointed in the Brazil-West aspect, and in their previous story, they were much more viable and likable. The character development was thin, if almost nonexistent. This book left me wondering if I will read anymore of Cornwell's books.

Rating:
Summary: First time PC reader. Entertaining.
Review: Southern Cross was the first Patricia Cornwell book I have read. Having never read a KS book I can't compare styles as some reviewers have, however SC was very humorous and entertaining. The characters were interesing to me; I especially liked the Brazil/West game of pretending to have relationships going to make each other jealous. I will admit when the CAT finds a phone number for West that a "you are kidding" went through my mind. Several times the names used by PC made me laugh out loud. All in all a satisfactory read and I intend to find and read past PC books.

Rating:
Summary: I thought she knew better
Review: Being a huge fan of Mrs. Cornwell's novels, I thougth she had learned her lesson with Hornet's Nest - her readers didn't care for those characters - they're incompetent and there was no there, there. Unfortunately, she only delayed the wait for a true Cornwell novel - the one with Scarpetta, Lucy and Marino in it. Please, bring them back - I really miss them.

Rating:
Summary: a disappointing read
Review: I must confess - I have not completely read this book - I've struggled through 18 chapters and am only doing so out of loyalty to an author that I have followed since the begining of her career. This book can scarcely hold reader interest for more than 1 page at a time. The character names are annoying; I'm still waiting for something more interesting than neighborhood vandalism and petty theft; Let's make this short and sweet - I hate this book.

Rating:
Summary: Poorly done, a real step down
Review: After reading all of her previous works, I believe that this one was slapped together to meet a deadline. It lacks the characterization and thoughtful plot development Cornwall usually presents. Do yourself a favor - wait for the next Scarpetta novel and avoid this one entirely.