Double Cross
by James Patterson
Little, Brown 2007
Book 4 of Noughts & Crosses
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 5.4 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Book 4 in a series — earlier books first
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Genre
Themes
- obsession with fame and spectacle
- good vs. evil
- revenge
- psychological manipulation
- media influence and sensationalism
- justice and morality
- trust and betrayal
- family and personal sacrifice
About this book
In Washington, D.C., a theatrical serial killer who craves the spotlight stages gruesome, public murders that send the media into a frenzy. Detective Alex Cross and his partner—and new girlfriend—Detective Brianna Stone, hunt the so‑called "Audience Killer" even as Cross’s old nemesis, the Mastermind Kyle Craig, resurfaces with a chilling plan for revenge. As the body count rises and the murders grow more brazen, Cross is drawn into a deadly cat‑and‑mouse game that threatens his career, his relationships, and his life.
Setting: Contemporary Washington, D.C., with high-profile public crime scenes and law-enforcement offices
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Double Cross right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Double Cross. The reading level is AR 5.4, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include obsession with fame and spectacle, good vs. evil, revenge. Note: this is book 4 in a series — your child should read the earlier books first.
How long does it take to read Double Cross?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Double Cross takes around 10h to finish. The book has 100,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Double Cross have an AR quiz?
Yes — Double Cross has an AR quiz available, worth 15 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Double Cross?
Double Cross has an AR reading level of 5.4, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.