Eight stars
Returning to re-read Stephen White’s great thriller collection after a number of years, I hoped this summer binge would be as exciting as it seemed when I thought it up months ago. Things are off to a great start with this opening novel, in which Dr. Alan Gregory sets the tempo and proves just how vulnerable he is when faced with the news that one of his patients has died. Things kick up a notch when more patients die and the police cannot discount Dr. Gregory might be involved. A new love interest begins brewing too in this electric series debut that has me eager to keep going through the collection.
The world of clinical psychologist Alan Gregory turns upside down when one of his patients dies under mysterious circumstances. A journal of the victim’s shows that Dr. Gregory may have been having a sexual relationship with her as part of their therapy, though the therapist vehemently denies it. Still, the police begin sniffing around and asking personal questions, though professional ethics prevent Dr. Gregory from providing any privileged information.
Facing professional chaos, Dr. Gregory watches his practice wilt as he awaits progress in the investigation. Another patient is soon found dead and odd events occur to Dr. Gregory. All the while, he begins a connection with a local Assistant District Attorney, Lauren Crowler, who appears not to be fazed by the legal and criminal drama.
Beginning to worry that one of his patients could be responsible for the deaths, Dr. Gregory has to walk a fine line. He cannot push too hard or face both personal and ethical ruin. The relationship with Lauren takes a turn when she makes a personal admission and builds a wall around herself. With so many balls to juggle, Dr. Alan Gregory will have to focus on what matters and keep his wits about him, as the threat increases exponentially. A great series debut that lays all the groundwork for what is to come!
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 series debut.
The narrative approach is clear and, at times, quite blunt. The reader is introduced to the setting of Boulder, Colorado, as well as the life of a therapist and their varied caseload. With the narrative building, the story takes on new intensity, gaining momentum until it hums along and keeps the reader wondering what awaits. Strong characters, some of whom will become key aspects to the series (from what I remember), help flavour the story and offer some insight into how the collection will likely process. With both professional and personal groundwork laid, I will have to pay close attention to ensure I have the needed foundation for these larger story arcs that will eventually emerge.
Plot points fuel this story and keep things on edge. The psychological approach is not what I might normally read, but White offers up a great means of including the reader in the experience. Surprises, unique angles, and some dangling threads keep the reader wondering as the next novel awaits, sure to pave the way for new and intriguing directions.
Kudos Mr. White, for opening with a true bang.
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