Max is an eleven year-old girl who is desperately trying to escape from a secret genetic research laboratory in Bear Bluff, Colorado.
Kit Harrison is a haunted FBI agent on leave. He's conducting an unauthorized investigation into the murder of a Boulder doctor.
Frannie O'Neill is a dedicated Colorado veterinarian mourning the loss of her husband. She befriends Kit when he rents her cabin.
Frannie and Kit make friends with the frightened Max. In turn, she reveals her part in the dark side of medical science. Those running the secret center search the dense forest for any sign of Max. They can't afford to have any witnesses to their experiments.
The trio could very well lose their lives while uncovering the horrifying truth in James Patterson's When the Wind Blows.
The author is careful not to give away the most surprising details of his plot in the introduction and cover notes. This review will mirror that intention.
This fast-paced novel moves along nicely thanks to Patterson's trademark short chapters. The story revolves around Max, Kit and Frannie with little involvement from outside law enforcement agencies.
Specific details about medical research are kept to a minimum. Patterson instead opts to gain readers' attention with the shocking accomplishments contained in the center.
When the Wind Blows doesn't stand out from the scientific thriller path, but loyal Patterson fans should be pleased with this installment. It's a fast, exciting escape that would make a good read between more complex novels. Those who enjoy the story should check out its sequel, The Lake House.
