As I watched the eight lengthy episodes of “Cross,” Amazon’s latest adaptation from crime novels that your father might enjoy, I found myself oddly reminded of the lyrics by Chappell Roan.

You might wonder what this fresh pop star has to do with a show featuring Alex Cross, a detective, forensic psychologist, and the central character of over 30 James Patterson novels, as well as two films starring Morgan Freeman and another with Tyler Perry.

Like Roan, I have clear expectations, and Amazon is almost there; it’s frustrating that they didn’t fully capture the essence of Dr. Cross.

“Cross” (currently streaming, ★★ out of four) is the first television show inspired by the book series, with Aldis Hodge taking on the role of Cross, radiating undeniable charisma. The show ticks several boxes in adapting the character, highlighting Cross’ strong family bonds and his intelligence in understanding criminal psychology.

Sadly, the positive aspects stop here. What “Cross,” created by Ben Watkins (“Burn Notice”), fails to capture is the gripping suspense and complexity found in Patterson’s novels. The series doesn’t adapt a specific book, which might explain the lack of tension. While Hodge is perfectly cast and everyone is keen on delivering a compelling crime drama, the pacing, story structure, and major plot twists feel off-key. Ultimately, it feels more like an imitation of Alex Cross rather than the authentic character.

The plot of “Cross” centers around the detective as he delves into two investigations: the unresolved murder of his wife, Maria, from a year ago, and the suspicious death of a local Black Lives Matter activist, which the police are quick to label as an overdose despite significant public dissent and contrary evidence. Cross approaches his official case with a level-headedness that reveals its deeper complexities, even as his emotional turmoil regarding his wife’s murder often overtakes him. This causes friction with his best friend and partner, John Sampson (Isaiah Mustafa), and his grandmother Regina “Nana Mama” (Juanita Jennings), who helps care for Cross’ two young children.

With Sampson, FBI Agent Kayla Craig (Alona Tal), and a reluctant D.C. police department at his side, Cross uncovers that the activist’s murder is interconnected with a much wider scheme, putting a woman’s life in jeopardy as he races against time to find the killer. However, he struggles to concentrate as his wife’s murderer sends him flowers and communicates with his children via Wi-Fi security cameras.

Hodge’s captivating presence, showcasing deep, expressive eyes and a compelling gaze, nearly carries “Cross” on its own. Compared to Perry and Freeman, whose portrayals lacked romantic appeal, Hodge (“Black Adam,” “One Night in Miami”) brings a smoldering intensity to his character, portraying Cross as a seething cauldron of rage, teetering on the brink due to corrupt police officials, murder suspects, and personal relationships. His expressive eyes convey a spectrum of emotions, and Hodge skillfully navigates the character’s psychological depth.

Unfortunately, Hodge’s performance is anchored in a shaky narrative riddled with inconsistencies. For example, how can a grieving Cross have found a serious new girlfriend just a year after his wife passed? Why does this top detective make glaring errors, like alerting a suspected serial killer to his suspicions? Why does the investigation into the activist’s murder lose momentum halfway through the series? And why are police officers sharing sensitive details in the crowded booths of Ben’s Chili Bowl, a popular nightlife spot? (This last point might particularly irk current or former D.C. residents like myself.)

Amazon has successfully turned these ’90s-style detective dramas into a staple of its Prime Video offerings.

The streaming platform has reportedly invested over $1 billion to produce a lackluster prequel to “Lord of the Rings.” However, it’s the shows “Jack Ryan” and “Bosch” that truly capture viewers’ attention. The new series “Cross” seems to fit right in among the collection of adaptations from popular airport novels, and Amazon has already granted it a second season renewal. Although people often poke fun at these sometimes predictable books, they can also unfold into compelling and nuanced narratives that are just as captivating as top-notch TV shows and films.

Unfortunately, this version of “Cross” appears to embody all the negative clichés of its genre, resulting in a slow and drawn-out television season.

This feels like a letdown. Perhaps it’s a double cross.