I just started reading again for the first time since who knows when. Probably have not read a book since college actually, until about 2 years ago. My wife has always enjoyed reading and for whatever reason, I just decided I would give it a try.
I recently started the Jack the Ripper books by Cornwell, but quite honestly, I have better stuff to do than read it. Boring. I will probably try to finish it, but Cornwell has slipped way down my list.
Tried to start reading the Harry Potter series, but didn't make it through the first book.
Currently reading the Hunt for Red October, and probably going to follow with some more Clancy stuff. Pretty good so far, but kind of a tough read.
Just finished reading all the Alex Cross books in order by Patterson, and I would highly recommend them to anyone who like Crime noir stuff from any genre. Easy read, fast moving and highly entertaining.
I also have been reading alot of Grisham lately. Have read the Firm (movie was better), Pelican Brief (pretty good), Runaway Jury (very good), and a Time to Kill (best Grisham of the 4 I have read so far). Grisham tends to bog down in details sometimes, but not so much you want to quit reading, just have to fight the urge to skim sometimes.
Nothing I have read so far compares in the slightest to Patterson though.
If you like Clancy at all try a Clive Cussler book. If you like Grisham at all try a Michael Connely book. I think both are more engaging. Last I would recommend reading the Tourist. The movie was a total adaptation of the book and did not even follow it. It is a great Spy novel. If you like crime, read the Stieg Larson and Jo Nesbo books. Those are really good.