Eight stars
Returning to re-read Stephen White's great thriller collection after a number of years, this summer binge should be a great adventure. White keeps a quick pace once more with Dr. Alan Gregory in the spotlight. Alan's neighbour, Peter, has been found murdered. While Alan tries to console Peter's family, he is called to help create a profile of the killer. However, the larger issue remains about who might have wanted to kill. Kill Peter, as well las others who appear to be linked to the case. A great thriller with all the impact I expect from White and his writing.
It was the news that Peter Arvin had been found dead that shook Dr. Alan Gregory most. A friend and neighbour, Peter was loved by many, especially his wife, Adrienne, and their young son. Found bloodied on stage at a Colorado theatre, the presentation of Peter's body makes it seem as though he might have been the second victim of a killer who first struck in a similar fashion in Denver. While the crime scene re similar, the rationale remains elusive.
Alan is soon called to help with two significant requests: a psychological profile of the killer for the local police, and a discovery of Peter's secrets by Adrienne. Both are daunting, but might help reveal why Peter was targeted and what the killer might have wanted from the man many knew as a peaceful carpenter. What Alan discovers shakes him and sends the clinical psychologist into a tailspin. He teams up with his friend, Detective Sam Purdy, as they try to trace the secrets that Peter left to linger. From casinos to various trails, everything points towards Wyoming, where Peter spent his formative years.
As Alan struggles with the changes with the complexities of his new marriage, he must try to find a place for Lauren, both literally and figuratively. Alan juggles the home stresses that pile up next to his latest case, all of which creates a great deal of tension. Still, as he is wont to do, Alan will have to piece together the truths he learns about Peter's youth and hw this might relate to the murders. It is only after piecing some ragged parts together that the truth emerges from the smoke and a traumatising past that could make sense of it all. A chilling story that will keep the reader hooked until the final reveal.
I remember discovering this series years ago, devouring many of the books in short order. When I chose to return, I decided that I would try a complete series binge, getting the full Alan Gregory experience. Stephen White uses many of his personal experiences as a clinical psychologist to pull on ideas and character aspects, which becomes apparent in this early novel.
White creates a narrative approach that can be clear and yet meandering, serving to pull the reader in and leave them cemented in place. The reader learns more about those who live and work around Dr. Alan Gregory, adding a new depth to the series. The story clips along at a pace Stephen White usually offers readers, which leaves little time to rest. Tackling this serial murderer, White pulls no punches, nor should he, as he educated the reader. Great character development and banter keep the reader attuned to all that is going on, forcing the reader to live an adventure like no other. Great banter between Alan and Detective Sam Purdy help make the book even better!
Plot points keep the reader wondering and on edge while the killer lurks in the shadows. Once more, White is effective in his delivery and spins surprises for all to enjoy, flirting with psychological profiles in this latest novel. The twists and threatening storylines provide a smorgasbord for the reader to dine upon as the truth simmers on the back burner for a time. There is a great deal left to go in this series and I am eager to see where things are headed.
Kudos Mr. White, for a great piece that pulls the past into the present.
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