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Step On A Crack
James Patterson

Step On A Crack

Quick Answer

Start with "Step On A Crack" to begin the Michael Bennett Series. It is the essential series starter and provides the necessary foundation for the rest of the books.

Quick Verdict

✅ Safe to read now (Series Entry Point)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: This is the essential series starter that introduces the James Patterson's core world and character arcs. It is required reading for all new fans.

Is this helpful?
2007400 ppSeries Starter
With the unexpected death of a beloved former first lady, the nation falls into mourning as the world's most powerful people gather in New York for her funeral. Then the inconceivable occurs. Billionaires, politicians, and superstars of every kind are suddenly trapped by one man's brilliant and ruthless scenario. Pulled into the fray, Detective Michael Bennett-father of ten-faces the most sinister challenge of his career: a criminal who kills without hesitation and counters everything the NYPD and FBI throw at him with impunity. As New York descends into chaos, Bennett learns that the great love of his life, his wife, is battling a terrible disease and he may have to raise their children alone. Now with the entire world watching and the tension reaching a boiling point, Bennett must quickly find a way out-or become responsible for the greatest debacle in history.
Next Recommended Book

Missing

Book #2 of 16 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for Michael Bennett Series conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading Step On A Crack?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read Step On A Crack before other books in the series?

Yes, Step On A Crack is the first book in the series and is the ideal starting point for new readers.

Is Step On A Crack required reading for the Michael Bennett Series?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after Step On A Crack in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Step On A Crack is Missing (Book #2).