Publication Date June 2, 2025

I was happy to have the opportunity to read The First Gentleman by James Patterson (really? When does he have time?) and Bill Clinton, thanks to Little, Brown and NetGalley. I admit I am a bit of a skeptic about James Patterson…sort of like he is the Thomas Kinkade of fiction or something. Really, how could one guy write so many bestsellers? But this one sounded fun…a female president, married to a former NFL star (the “first gentleman” of the title), and a pair of investigative reporters who dive in when to find out whether the first gent really committed the murder he is accused of…sign me up!

There are a ton of dead bodies, lots of inside stories (I imagine this is Clinton’s area of expertise), and some twisty plot points. It is well written and way better than I expected. I was prepared to give it a bit of grudging praise, but it really is an enjoyable read. If there is a series, I will happily read the next one! Four stars.