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Private #18
Private Rome
A priest is murdered and a private agent is the number one suspect.
Jack Morgan is in Rome celebrating the opening of a new local Private office, when the party takes a deadly turn.
Private agent Matteo Ricci is found at the party standing over the body of a dead priest with a gun in hand, swearing he did not kill the man. As Jack tries to prove Matteo's innocence, he uncovers a much deadlier conspiracy - which leads him straight to the heart of the Vatican. With corruption closing in on all sides, Jack must decide who he can trust before the city falls.
Jack Morgan is in Rome celebrating the opening of a new local Private office, when the party takes a deadly turn.
Private agent Matteo Ricci is found at the party standing over the body of a dead priest with a gun in hand, swearing he did not kill the man. As Jack tries to prove Matteo's innocence, he uncovers a much deadlier conspiracy - which leads him straight to the heart of the Vatican. With corruption closing in on all sides, Jack must decide who he can trust before the city falls.
396 pages, Paperback
First published August 31, 2023
1061 people are currently reading
2343 people want to read
About the author
James Patterson
958 books356k followersOfficial US Site
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time and the creator of such unforgettable characters and series as Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride. He has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Michael Crichton, as well as collaborated on #1 bestselling nonfiction, including The Idaho Four, Walk in My Combat Boots, and Filthy Rich. Patterson has told the story of his own life in the #1 bestselling autobiography James Patterson by James Patterson. He is the recipient of an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
June 3, 2024
I am a huge James Patterson fan. I enjoy both his fiction and nonfiction books. Some of my favorite James Patterson nonfiction books include: The Stories of My Life, Against Medical Advice, Home Sweet Murder, The Last Days of John Lennon, The House of Kennedy, Walk in My Combat Boots, and All American Murder.
I love his fiction books, such as Kiss The Girls, The Black Book, and The Store.
However, I found Private Rome ho-hum. Very limited character development. Flat dialogue. The altercations felt like they were from a James Bond movie. Adam Hamby is the co-author and I am not familiar with his work.
Some of it might be because I had just finished reading two incredible books that grabbed me and wouldn’t let go. Jodi Picoult’s The Book of Two Ways and Karen Slaughter’s After That Night are captivating, action packed and I couldn’t put them down.
I struggled to keep reading Private Rome.
I love his fiction books, such as Kiss The Girls, The Black Book, and The Store.
However, I found Private Rome ho-hum. Very limited character development. Flat dialogue. The altercations felt like they were from a James Bond movie. Adam Hamby is the co-author and I am not familiar with his work.
Some of it might be because I had just finished reading two incredible books that grabbed me and wouldn’t let go. Jodi Picoult’s The Book of Two Ways and Karen Slaughter’s After That Night are captivating, action packed and I couldn’t put them down.
I struggled to keep reading Private Rome.
February 8, 2026
I am a reader of most the books written (at least co-written to some degree) by James Patterson. I would not necessarily call myself a huge fan because I consider his plots to be a bit formula driven, predictable, and not necessarily challenging to read. However, I tend to find him to be a quick and easy read with some of the books and series better than others. He is my escape author that provides a nice two to three-day distraction.
His "Private" series used to be one of my favorite series of his, but he hasn’t written as many in the last several years in North America. “Private Moscow” back in 2022 and “Missing Persons” in 2024 were the last “Private” series novels. As a side note, I thought it was interesting that “Missing Persons” was previously published as “Private Rogue” in the UK back in 2021. Maybe the sales for this series are better in Europe. Who knows…
Anyway, now with the start of 2026, “Private” is back Patterson and Hardy together again with “Private Rome” – a guilty pleasure, fun-filled, escapist read with Patterson’s most underrated series and compelling characters. This one is set against the historical background of Rome and the political power of the Catholic Church and delivers an enjoyable reading experience. It’s always a joy to see Jack Morgan and his crack team of investigators taking on new international challenges.
“Private Rome” starts off with founder and owner of the Private International Investigation firm, Jack Morgan, visiting Rome to open up his new office that will be run by Matteo Ricci, a decorated Rome police inspector. But just as you would expect in a Patterson novel, bad things happen. During the firm’s opening party with the local business and community leaders, not only is a priest murdered, it is Private’s new leader, Ricci, who is found standing over the victim with the gun that committed the murder in his hand. Even though that he can’t remember what happened, doesn’t stop Ricci from being arrested and putting Morgan at the center of trying to discover whether his new hire is really a killer or being sat up to take a big fall.
As experienced and worldly as Jack Morgan is, nothing has prepared him for the political power of the Swiss Guard, the Vatican Police, the world’s most powerful church, and a secret cabal that carries with it a history of international influence and crime. This time, even with the help of Private’s criminal experts with some of the most advanced forensic skills and tools, Morgan and Private may not only be out of their league on this one, it may take all that they have to just find a way to stay alive…
As I have noted many times in previous reviews of mine, I can be fairly critical of Patterson’s books since his extremely high-volume of output and large stable of co-writers brings some inconsistencies and repetitive plotting at times. However, for me, this was one of Patterson’s solid entertaining thrillers. The plotlines were tight. Layered, and put the location and history to good use. There was enough going on to keep your interest throughout, several interconnect plotlines that were complex enough to provide enjoyment.
The characters also had enough authenticity and multi-dimensional quality to them. I am biased to the Private team members who carried their weight in this one, as well as having fairly formidable and sneaky villains who stayed one step ahead of them throughout most of the book, keeping our protagonists on their heels in a defensive state all the way up to the end. Setting, cultural, and history also played a key role, adding helpful nuances and depth.
As I have said in many of my Patterson authored reviews, as long as you suspend your disbelief of some situations of reality, this was a captivating read. Just ignore things like Jack surviving multiple attacks and attempts on his life, as well as taking the law into his hands without having to be held accountable, and you’re in for a suspenseful and fun ride.
Overall, this was another fun and enjoyable “Private” novel that provided some a nice sense of drama and tension for Jack and his team. It is rare when I have less than a 100-pages left in a Patterson novel and I am still feeling confident in how things will come together and Jack is going to get out of his dire situation, but this was one of them. It drew me in and was definitely worth the two-to-three-day distraction.
For me, this was a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars read.
Also, so I don’t forget, I appreciate Patterson publishing “Private” novels on an annual basis again. In addition, I have really enjoyed the last three “Private” novels, and I think that Patterson’s co-author – Adam Hamdy – has been a been big part of that, contributing strong storylines and improved character development. Both of those elements are a key strength to this series. I seriously hope they continue this “Private” resurgence because Hamdy (as a worthy co-author) truly understands each of the “Private” investigators in a way that brings life into their characters, strengths, and outcomes.
His "Private" series used to be one of my favorite series of his, but he hasn’t written as many in the last several years in North America. “Private Moscow” back in 2022 and “Missing Persons” in 2024 were the last “Private” series novels. As a side note, I thought it was interesting that “Missing Persons” was previously published as “Private Rogue” in the UK back in 2021. Maybe the sales for this series are better in Europe. Who knows…
Anyway, now with the start of 2026, “Private” is back Patterson and Hardy together again with “Private Rome” – a guilty pleasure, fun-filled, escapist read with Patterson’s most underrated series and compelling characters. This one is set against the historical background of Rome and the political power of the Catholic Church and delivers an enjoyable reading experience. It’s always a joy to see Jack Morgan and his crack team of investigators taking on new international challenges.
“Private Rome” starts off with founder and owner of the Private International Investigation firm, Jack Morgan, visiting Rome to open up his new office that will be run by Matteo Ricci, a decorated Rome police inspector. But just as you would expect in a Patterson novel, bad things happen. During the firm’s opening party with the local business and community leaders, not only is a priest murdered, it is Private’s new leader, Ricci, who is found standing over the victim with the gun that committed the murder in his hand. Even though that he can’t remember what happened, doesn’t stop Ricci from being arrested and putting Morgan at the center of trying to discover whether his new hire is really a killer or being sat up to take a big fall.
As experienced and worldly as Jack Morgan is, nothing has prepared him for the political power of the Swiss Guard, the Vatican Police, the world’s most powerful church, and a secret cabal that carries with it a history of international influence and crime. This time, even with the help of Private’s criminal experts with some of the most advanced forensic skills and tools, Morgan and Private may not only be out of their league on this one, it may take all that they have to just find a way to stay alive…
As I have noted many times in previous reviews of mine, I can be fairly critical of Patterson’s books since his extremely high-volume of output and large stable of co-writers brings some inconsistencies and repetitive plotting at times. However, for me, this was one of Patterson’s solid entertaining thrillers. The plotlines were tight. Layered, and put the location and history to good use. There was enough going on to keep your interest throughout, several interconnect plotlines that were complex enough to provide enjoyment.
The characters also had enough authenticity and multi-dimensional quality to them. I am biased to the Private team members who carried their weight in this one, as well as having fairly formidable and sneaky villains who stayed one step ahead of them throughout most of the book, keeping our protagonists on their heels in a defensive state all the way up to the end. Setting, cultural, and history also played a key role, adding helpful nuances and depth.
As I have said in many of my Patterson authored reviews, as long as you suspend your disbelief of some situations of reality, this was a captivating read. Just ignore things like Jack surviving multiple attacks and attempts on his life, as well as taking the law into his hands without having to be held accountable, and you’re in for a suspenseful and fun ride.
Overall, this was another fun and enjoyable “Private” novel that provided some a nice sense of drama and tension for Jack and his team. It is rare when I have less than a 100-pages left in a Patterson novel and I am still feeling confident in how things will come together and Jack is going to get out of his dire situation, but this was one of them. It drew me in and was definitely worth the two-to-three-day distraction.
For me, this was a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars read.
Also, so I don’t forget, I appreciate Patterson publishing “Private” novels on an annual basis again. In addition, I have really enjoyed the last three “Private” novels, and I think that Patterson’s co-author – Adam Hamdy – has been a been big part of that, contributing strong storylines and improved character development. Both of those elements are a key strength to this series. I seriously hope they continue this “Private” resurgence because Hamdy (as a worthy co-author) truly understands each of the “Private” investigators in a way that brings life into their characters, strengths, and outcomes.
June 26, 2024
Another instalment of the Private series kept me on my toes, with another collaborative work that James Patterson and Adam Hamdy present. They toss Jack Morgan into the heart of Rome, where nothing is as it seems. Attending the busy city to open another Private office, Jack is excited to enjoy the festivities. However, things soon turn sour for his new local station chief, pushing Jack into the middle of a crime scene. He’s trying to work the case and dodge the Italian police, who are tight-lipped with their own findings. As Jack tries to solve the case and protect a colleague, he discovers that he is the target of a larger plot. Patterson and Hamdy deliver a great story that has all the elements for a superior thriller.
The celebrations are on as Jack Morgan arrives in Rome. He’s here to help open the newest Private office, where a friend and fellow surveillance specialist is at the helm. However, the party atmosphere is dampened when the party takes a deadly turn. Matteo Ricci, the new head of Private Rome, is found standing over a dead priest with a gun in hand.
Ricci vows that nothing is as it seems and that he did not kill the priest, though no one is ready to believe it. Jack is pushed to help Ricci, if only to save the Private name. The local authorities are sure they have their man and begin closing the investigation, ignoring Jack’s pleas for help. This could be the end of Private in the Italian capital before things get started.
Jack soon finds himself ensconced in a larger conspiracy, one in which Ricci was but a pawn. The heart of the matter lies within the Vatican, where power and control are protected by a religious veil. Jack will have to uncover it all in time, proving that Matteo Ricci is innocent of the crime, as more priests turn up dead. A story that does not slow things down at any point, Patterson and Hamdy spin a tale like no other in this Private story.
I have followed the Private series from its inception, primarily due to its worldwide thrillers. Patterson has engaged with numerous collaborators to bring these to life, Adam Hamdy has been the latest co-author and shows his mettle once more. They develop a solid story with a narrative foundation that is able to withstand the various twists on offer. As with most Private novels, the action prevents any rest for the attentive reader, filling short chapters with development and many twists. The characters are flavoured with local perspectives and keep the reader feeling as though they are in the middle of it all. The story offers so many moments of uncertainty that the reader dare not blink or risk losing key elements.
Plot points in a Private novel tend to keep things moving without regard for common expectations. With an international setting, there is more of a chance for surprise, as nothing is predictable outside the reader’s comfort zone. Readers are faced with twists at every turn and provide a stellar pathway towards a curious ending that many likely would not expect. Patterson and Hamdy shed light on something well worth the reader’s time and effort.
Kudos, Messrs. Patterson and Hamdy, for a story rich in history and thrilling drama.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
The celebrations are on as Jack Morgan arrives in Rome. He’s here to help open the newest Private office, where a friend and fellow surveillance specialist is at the helm. However, the party atmosphere is dampened when the party takes a deadly turn. Matteo Ricci, the new head of Private Rome, is found standing over a dead priest with a gun in hand.
Ricci vows that nothing is as it seems and that he did not kill the priest, though no one is ready to believe it. Jack is pushed to help Ricci, if only to save the Private name. The local authorities are sure they have their man and begin closing the investigation, ignoring Jack’s pleas for help. This could be the end of Private in the Italian capital before things get started.
Jack soon finds himself ensconced in a larger conspiracy, one in which Ricci was but a pawn. The heart of the matter lies within the Vatican, where power and control are protected by a religious veil. Jack will have to uncover it all in time, proving that Matteo Ricci is innocent of the crime, as more priests turn up dead. A story that does not slow things down at any point, Patterson and Hamdy spin a tale like no other in this Private story.
I have followed the Private series from its inception, primarily due to its worldwide thrillers. Patterson has engaged with numerous collaborators to bring these to life, Adam Hamdy has been the latest co-author and shows his mettle once more. They develop a solid story with a narrative foundation that is able to withstand the various twists on offer. As with most Private novels, the action prevents any rest for the attentive reader, filling short chapters with development and many twists. The characters are flavoured with local perspectives and keep the reader feeling as though they are in the middle of it all. The story offers so many moments of uncertainty that the reader dare not blink or risk losing key elements.
Plot points in a Private novel tend to keep things moving without regard for common expectations. With an international setting, there is more of a chance for surprise, as nothing is predictable outside the reader’s comfort zone. Readers are faced with twists at every turn and provide a stellar pathway towards a curious ending that many likely would not expect. Patterson and Hamdy shed light on something well worth the reader’s time and effort.
Kudos, Messrs. Patterson and Hamdy, for a story rich in history and thrilling drama.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
February 11, 2026
Trigger Alerts:
– Violence
– Murder
– Crime-related content
Private Rome by James Patterson is a crime thriller set in Rome, Italy, in modern day, following the familiar fast-paced style of the Private series. The Roman setting adds some atmosphere and intrigue, especially with famous landmarks woven into the investigation, but the story itself didn’t fully pull me in. It was fine, readable, and moved quickly, but it felt more like a filler installment than a standout. Overall, it didn’t rise above others I’ve read in the genre. 3 stars.
– Violence
– Murder
– Crime-related content
Private Rome by James Patterson is a crime thriller set in Rome, Italy, in modern day, following the familiar fast-paced style of the Private series. The Roman setting adds some atmosphere and intrigue, especially with famous landmarks woven into the investigation, but the story itself didn’t fully pull me in. It was fine, readable, and moved quickly, but it felt more like a filler installment than a standout. Overall, it didn’t rise above others I’ve read in the genre. 3 stars.
November 27, 2024
*Havoc in Rome*
This is book 18 in the Private series. A series that centres around Jack Morgan. He is the head of the world famous Private Detective Agency that he took over once his father passed. He turned a failing business into what it is today with branches across the globe. He is a former marine and pilot and served in Afghanistan. Little does he know he will definitely need his special set of skills.
For me this series started really well but, it lost its way in the middle but this collaboration with Adam Handy also in the previous few books brought it back on track.
This instalment sees Jack in Rome to celebrate the opening of a new branch. As usual with Jack nothing is straightforward. His new head of Private Rome is ex police officer Matteo Ricci. A priest asks to have a confidential word with Matteo and as they leave to go into a room, the next thing is there are shots fired.
Jack as usual rushes headlong into what could be danger. What he finds is a dazed Matteo standing over the body of the priest holding the murder weapon.
Jack is shocked to think he may have had poor judgement appointing Matteo. But, Jack smells a rat. He then finds himself in a city that he does not know the language well and having to work out who he can trust. All hell lets loose as Jack is like a dog with a bone in search of the truth
A lot of action, near misses and his team in the USA will take no for an answer as they fly out to help him. Thrilling to say the least.
This is book 18 in the Private series. A series that centres around Jack Morgan. He is the head of the world famous Private Detective Agency that he took over once his father passed. He turned a failing business into what it is today with branches across the globe. He is a former marine and pilot and served in Afghanistan. Little does he know he will definitely need his special set of skills.
For me this series started really well but, it lost its way in the middle but this collaboration with Adam Handy also in the previous few books brought it back on track.
This instalment sees Jack in Rome to celebrate the opening of a new branch. As usual with Jack nothing is straightforward. His new head of Private Rome is ex police officer Matteo Ricci. A priest asks to have a confidential word with Matteo and as they leave to go into a room, the next thing is there are shots fired.
Jack as usual rushes headlong into what could be danger. What he finds is a dazed Matteo standing over the body of the priest holding the murder weapon.
Jack is shocked to think he may have had poor judgement appointing Matteo. But, Jack smells a rat. He then finds himself in a city that he does not know the language well and having to work out who he can trust. All hell lets loose as Jack is like a dog with a bone in search of the truth
A lot of action, near misses and his team in the USA will take no for an answer as they fly out to help him. Thrilling to say the least.
October 10, 2023
Plot, story, character, fast paced action, Private Rome has it all
I love James Pattersons books, a born storyteller and when you have a collaboration with a thriller writer of the quality of Adam Hamdy you can be certain of only thing, you are in for an explosive, adrenaline fuelled full on action thriller.
Private Rome for me does not disappoint on any level, I read for entertainment to be taken away from the everyday stresses, this book just transported me to that place of pure escapism.
From the opening pages, you are on a journey, a journey that will take Jack Morgan to some dark and dangerous places, in someways it becomes a story of trust, there is doubt with some of the characters as to which side they are on.
Here Jack is mostly alone in a foreign country with his colleagues back in the states, and you get that sense of lonliness within the writing, you also go on trip around Rome, not only the glamorous tourist areas, but also the seedier side where the gangs rule, giving a terrific sense of place
The book is wonderfully plotted and written in a way that keeps you guessing as you read, the pace is full on with little time to pause, the action moves seamlessly around, building in suspense and intensity as it does so, there are moments when you fear for the characters. I also found the use of technology interesting adding another dimension to the story
Twists and turns abound all to heighten the reading enjoyment.
You are also treated to a cast of characters written in a way that makes them believeable, they fit seamlessly into the story
The ending is sublime not only in creating a real sense of tension, but in its reveal
Murder an intrigue abound, loyalties are tested
With any story by James Patterson the chapters are kept short and pithy with that way of forcing to turn the page, moves along at breakneck speed
5* this is a more than welcome addition to a standout series, one which I can’t recomend enough
I love James Pattersons books, a born storyteller and when you have a collaboration with a thriller writer of the quality of Adam Hamdy you can be certain of only thing, you are in for an explosive, adrenaline fuelled full on action thriller.
Private Rome for me does not disappoint on any level, I read for entertainment to be taken away from the everyday stresses, this book just transported me to that place of pure escapism.
From the opening pages, you are on a journey, a journey that will take Jack Morgan to some dark and dangerous places, in someways it becomes a story of trust, there is doubt with some of the characters as to which side they are on.
Here Jack is mostly alone in a foreign country with his colleagues back in the states, and you get that sense of lonliness within the writing, you also go on trip around Rome, not only the glamorous tourist areas, but also the seedier side where the gangs rule, giving a terrific sense of place
The book is wonderfully plotted and written in a way that keeps you guessing as you read, the pace is full on with little time to pause, the action moves seamlessly around, building in suspense and intensity as it does so, there are moments when you fear for the characters. I also found the use of technology interesting adding another dimension to the story
Twists and turns abound all to heighten the reading enjoyment.
You are also treated to a cast of characters written in a way that makes them believeable, they fit seamlessly into the story
The ending is sublime not only in creating a real sense of tension, but in its reveal
Murder an intrigue abound, loyalties are tested
With any story by James Patterson the chapters are kept short and pithy with that way of forcing to turn the page, moves along at breakneck speed
5* this is a more than welcome addition to a standout series, one which I can’t recomend enough
December 31, 2023
What a huge disappointment. I swear to god if I had to read about one more time of Jack being chased and getting away and dead bodies, I would’ve gave up on this book. How do you crash a vehicle into a tree and still drive it away? This book was over the top. Maybe a little more investigative work and you’re seriously going to open an office in Rome after all of that?
May 26, 2024
I don’t normally write reviews but I feel the need here. This book is nearly 400 pages. I would estimate that 250 of these pages are irrelevant. The 150 pages that are relevant represent what could be the bones to a good story. This is my first delve into a JP book for a long time. I grew weary of his older Alex Cross books and was given this on holiday. If I wasn’t on holiday I think I would have given up early doors.
It really does seem like a book that was written with the main action written out and then a load of AI information put in about Rome. And then there were the, what seemed like, 20 escape scenes that were just terrible.
I have given it an extra star due to it having a decent base story. Also it was an extremely easy read with the chapters being no more than 4 pages.
It really does seem like a book that was written with the main action written out and then a load of AI information put in about Rome. And then there were the, what seemed like, 20 escape scenes that were just terrible.
I have given it an extra star due to it having a decent base story. Also it was an extremely easy read with the chapters being no more than 4 pages.
October 1, 2023
An imagination-defying thriller in which the hero vanquishes dozens of foes, makes miraculous escapes from many deadly confrontations and emerges victorious in the end. Not great prose but easy to read and so repetetive that it starts to become boring after a while. Dozens of street names in Rome are inserted into the story, meaningless and entirely superfluous to most readers but supposedly provided to demonstrate the authors' ability to read a map or to provide some authenticity to an otherwise unbelieveable story.
April 19, 2024
First time reading a James Patterson book. The book was ok but I was expecting a bit criminal thriller themes in the book but it was more of a gangster vibes. Overall it’s a decent a book and a good read.
December 7, 2023
Love #Rome , having loved there, but this was a boring novel.
February 12, 2026
This was my second book in the Private series, and at this point I’m fully on board. The pacing is relentless in the best way—short chapters, constant movement, and enough twists to keep me guessing all the way through.
I’m not someone who figures out the mystery early, so these books genuinely take me on an emotional rollercoaster. Every turn feels like it raises the stakes just enough to keep the adrenaline high without becoming overwhelming.
The Rome setting was another highlight. The backdrop adds atmosphere and energy, and it absolutely made me want to go back and revisit the city. If the rest of the series maintains this speed and global scope, I’ll gladly keep adding them to my reading lineup.
I’m not someone who figures out the mystery early, so these books genuinely take me on an emotional rollercoaster. Every turn feels like it raises the stakes just enough to keep the adrenaline high without becoming overwhelming.
The Rome setting was another highlight. The backdrop adds atmosphere and energy, and it absolutely made me want to go back and revisit the city. If the rest of the series maintains this speed and global scope, I’ll gladly keep adding them to my reading lineup.
May 2, 2024
I think a few of the reviews are slightly harsher in terms of the car crash, tree etc
Where I agree you’ll need some degree of realism it is a story. Who knows? Maybe it had a protective roll bar….
I think overall it was good, enjoyed the description of Italy and the book overall spun on what seems to be from the outside an innocent place and shows a dark undertone of Italy which was fun to read.
Interactions on the phone with the wife did cringe me out a bit, but overall did enjoy the read!
Where I agree you’ll need some degree of realism it is a story. Who knows? Maybe it had a protective roll bar….
I think overall it was good, enjoyed the description of Italy and the book overall spun on what seems to be from the outside an innocent place and shows a dark undertone of Italy which was fun to read.
Interactions on the phone with the wife did cringe me out a bit, but overall did enjoy the read!
February 13, 2026
Jack Morgan is in Rome to celebrate the opening of his newest office when a shot is heard. His new director Matteo Ricci is found standing over the body of Father Brambilla. He has been shot and Matteo is holding the gun. He tells Jack he didn’t do it and is quickly arrested. Now it’s up to Jack to find the truth.
He goes up against corruption at the highest level and is betrayed by those he considers friends. His team from LA soon joins him as they work together to find the leader of Propaganda Tre and the person who is responsible for all the murders.
He goes up against corruption at the highest level and is betrayed by those he considers friends. His team from LA soon joins him as they work together to find the leader of Propaganda Tre and the person who is responsible for all the murders.
November 18, 2025
The story was a very familiar one for the Private series, so not a lot of surprises in the eventual twists but still entertaining to read.
The familiarity of walking the streets of Rome, as it was explained throughout the book, was a highlight. Made me feel like I was right there with him.
The familiarity of walking the streets of Rome, as it was explained throughout the book, was a highlight. Made me feel like I was right there with him.
July 15, 2025
An easy to read story for my train rides. Predictable though.
June 18, 2024
I enjoyed this from the ‘Private’ series as it’s been a while since I read one. This has Jack Morgan in and I think it’s better for it. Decent story, plenty of action as usual and an interesting setting in Rome.
January 6, 2025
2.5/5 - maybe it's because I've read so many of these now but I found the plot very predictable and this book was a bit boring/dull in places. There were too many different little groups involved, but still not that interesting. Like any James Patterson book though it was a quick, easy read.
September 26, 2023
This was very underwhelming, not impressed at all, the series isn't going where I want it to. For the past four books or so, I've been waiting for more to be written about Jack's rivalry with his twin brother, Tommy, and I'm not getting it, so frustrating.
I found this one to be just...dull. With Patterson, it's very much being about quantity rather than quality. It was a very formulaic format, more so than usual and Jack Morgan just isn't as impressive as he used to be - let's hope the next one is better...
I found this one to be just...dull. With Patterson, it's very much being about quantity rather than quality. It was a very formulaic format, more so than usual and Jack Morgan just isn't as impressive as he used to be - let's hope the next one is better...
April 18, 2024
I was attracted by the Rome setting of this would-be thriller though it didn’t seem to count for much other than showing off copious use the Rome A-Z for street name dropping. I have not read any others in the series but I’m not minded to after this dull affair. It’s serviceable as a by-the-numbers actioner but it is hardly imaginative or inspiring and sadly lacks tension or even thrills.
August 31, 2023
Another great instalment of the Private series. This one had it all. Religion, criminal organisations, murder, deception and above all else loyalty and the drive to find the truth no matter what. A great read, I look forward to the next Private book.
November 22, 2023
terrible
Why a man with Patterson’s talent would put his name to such rubbish baffles me , just pure greed I guess
Why a man with Patterson’s talent would put his name to such rubbish baffles me , just pure greed I guess
December 18, 2023
I finished it.
Not much else to say.
Entirely forgettable.
Not much else to say.
Entirely forgettable.
July 4, 2024
WOW! Not since The Davinci Code have I been so distracted by the child like formulation of thoughts into sentences. It is boring and formulaic.
May 14, 2025
Jack Morgan is in Rome celebrating another addition to his private investigation business. But the party for the opening of a new Private office, takes a deadly turn, when a priest runs into the he room in fear for his life, He is subsequently found shot dead, with Private agent Matteo Ricci standing over the body, gun in hand, Matteo swears that he did not kill the man. Jack sets out to prove his innocence, in the process uncovering a deadly conspiracy which reaches to the heart of the Vatican.
His investigation leads him on a journey around Rome, including the tourist areas and the seedier parts. He calls in his close team of colleagues and together they try to unpick the threads of the conspiracy and identify the people involved. Powerful individuals are at work and they are prepared to do whatever it takes to defeat his inquiries. But who is to be trusted?
This is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller, with short chapters, high-stress chases and some interesting technological toys maintaining the tension. The descriptions of Rome provide a good sense of place. The recent focus on the Vatican City and the Catholic Church (following the death of the Pope and the election of his successor) has provided an interesting and colourful backdrop to the fictional events.
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Reviewer: Jo Hesslewood
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
His investigation leads him on a journey around Rome, including the tourist areas and the seedier parts. He calls in his close team of colleagues and together they try to unpick the threads of the conspiracy and identify the people involved. Powerful individuals are at work and they are prepared to do whatever it takes to defeat his inquiries. But who is to be trusted?
This is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller, with short chapters, high-stress chases and some interesting technological toys maintaining the tension. The descriptions of Rome provide a good sense of place. The recent focus on the Vatican City and the Catholic Church (following the death of the Pope and the election of his successor) has provided an interesting and colourful backdrop to the fictional events.
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Reviewer: Jo Hesslewood
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
February 4, 2026
Private Rome follows the script of previous in the series. Owner of Private, Jack Morgan is in Rome finalizing the opening of a new branch. He's with the newly hired head of this office Matteo Ricci, former Italian police inspector at a launch party. Although the office hasn't been fully staffed and Jack feels the party is premature, he's there to meet the movers/shakers of Rome who might use his services.
While meeting a line of people, Jack/Matteo are interrupted by a priest, ranting/raving about dying. Matteo takes him away to speak privately when a gunshot is heard. Jack enters to find Matteo over the priests body holding a gun without any memory of the event.
Jack, of course feels there's something off and needs to investigate just to assure himself that his instincts about hiring Matteo aren't wrong. As he follows leads, he's helped by a journalist and his staff in LA (Justine/Sci/Mo-bot). There are a lot of car chases/crashes, gun battles and Jack being ninja like in holding off thugs and a few too many descriptions of street names during the chases Suspects are many but it all comes down to money and power.
It seems repetitive with a lot of the chases & ambushes so just average for me. Plus, really not enamored of the Jack/Justine relationship- she comes across as way too needy.
While meeting a line of people, Jack/Matteo are interrupted by a priest, ranting/raving about dying. Matteo takes him away to speak privately when a gunshot is heard. Jack enters to find Matteo over the priests body holding a gun without any memory of the event.
Jack, of course feels there's something off and needs to investigate just to assure himself that his instincts about hiring Matteo aren't wrong. As he follows leads, he's helped by a journalist and his staff in LA (Justine/Sci/Mo-bot). There are a lot of car chases/crashes, gun battles and Jack being ninja like in holding off thugs and a few too many descriptions of street names during the chases Suspects are many but it all comes down to money and power.
It seems repetitive with a lot of the chases & ambushes so just average for me. Plus, really not enamored of the Jack/Justine relationship- she comes across as way too needy.
February 7, 2026
James Patterson is one of my favorite writers. I didn't really like this book though!
I've read most of the previous books in the series and this is the first one that took me a week to get through!
Private is setting up a new security office in Rome. Jack has only hired one person so far. Matteo is a former police officer.
Jack flies to Rome to be at the party to meet people who are interested in his company. Matteo Ricci is introducing Jack to a lot of potential customers. Joseph Stadler is Chief Operating Officer of the Vatican Bank.
Father Brambilla crashes the party and Matteo leads him away to see what he is so worried about.
Jack hears a gunshot and sees Matteo being arrested for killing Brambilla!
What had really happened!?
So far so good...
Then Jack is chased by both bad guys and the police and liked Super man he gets away from everyone! After him getting away a few times it just got boring!
Three others from Private come to Rome to help him but they don't use their tools to check out the places where Jack is going! They have ways to make sure that Jack doesn't walk into an other trap but do nothing!
I'm glad I'm done with this book!
I've read most of the previous books in the series and this is the first one that took me a week to get through!
Private is setting up a new security office in Rome. Jack has only hired one person so far. Matteo is a former police officer.
Jack flies to Rome to be at the party to meet people who are interested in his company. Matteo Ricci is introducing Jack to a lot of potential customers. Joseph Stadler is Chief Operating Officer of the Vatican Bank.
Father Brambilla crashes the party and Matteo leads him away to see what he is so worried about.
Jack hears a gunshot and sees Matteo being arrested for killing Brambilla!
What had really happened!?
So far so good...
Then Jack is chased by both bad guys and the police and liked Super man he gets away from everyone! After him getting away a few times it just got boring!
Three others from Private come to Rome to help him but they don't use their tools to check out the places where Jack is going! They have ways to make sure that Jack doesn't walk into an other trap but do nothing!
I'm glad I'm done with this book!
December 27, 2024
Private is one of James Patterson's series that has held my interest. This instalment is still as thrilling as the first, and I always look forward to reading it. Apart from the thrill, I like following the characters' lives, and in this series, Jack Morgan has me going back.
In this instalment, a priest is murdered, and a private agent is the number one suspect. Jack Morgan is in Rome celebrating the opening of a new local Private office when the party takes a deadly turn.
Private agent Matteo Ricci is found at the party standing over the body of a dead priest with a gun in hand, swearing he did not kill the man. As Jack tries to prove Matteo's innocence, he uncovers a much deadlier conspiracy - which leads him straight to the heart of the Vatican. With corruption closing in on all sides, Jack must decide who he can trust before the city falls.
Grab a copy and read for yourself.
In this instalment, a priest is murdered, and a private agent is the number one suspect. Jack Morgan is in Rome celebrating the opening of a new local Private office when the party takes a deadly turn.
Private agent Matteo Ricci is found at the party standing over the body of a dead priest with a gun in hand, swearing he did not kill the man. As Jack tries to prove Matteo's innocence, he uncovers a much deadlier conspiracy - which leads him straight to the heart of the Vatican. With corruption closing in on all sides, Jack must decide who he can trust before the city falls.
Grab a copy and read for yourself.
January 16, 2026
This book is not bad, but obviously neither one of its authors thought enough of the readers to do their research. One of the characters of the book does not disclose information trying to cover the possibility of a suicide because the victim would not be given the funeral rites of the Roman Catholic church. A simple internet search would have taught the authors and editors that since 1983 the "prohibition" of beign buried in consecrated ground, etc. has been struck from cannon law. Even prior to 1983 a lot of said rites were left to the parish/diocese's discretion. It is very sad when misinformation is published, but it is worse when it is included in a book by someone like James Patterson. Although I understand that he now "writes" wih other authors, his name is still on the cover. He should be more careful with what is published under his name... I know I will be more careful when choosing to buy or not to buy his books in the future
September 18, 2023
Another city, another new branch of Private for Jack Morgan to establish. As is traditional fashion, it doesn’t go according to plan and Jack, and the Company are involved in a conspiracy involving the Vatican banks and a number of recent deaths amongst Priests. So when the future head of Private Rome is found in a room with a dead and the gun in his hand, Jack is needed to find out the truth.
There is the usual swashbuckling, adrenaline filled action ride to contend with but as is expected in this series, the best characters are around. The writing keeps the pace alive even if again the frequent four page characters stunts momentum more often than I’d helpful, whenever Morgan, Sci and Mo-bot are on hand, all will be always be well!
There is the usual swashbuckling, adrenaline filled action ride to contend with but as is expected in this series, the best characters are around. The writing keeps the pace alive even if again the frequent four page characters stunts momentum more often than I’d helpful, whenever Morgan, Sci and Mo-bot are on hand, all will be always be well!
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