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Alan Gregory #13
Missing Persons
Psychologist Alan Gregory’s friend and fellow therapist Hannah Grant has died suddenly and mysteriously. The police are baffled, leaving another unsolved homicide in Boulder, Colorado. Only Alan can decipher Hannah’s clues—a quest that will take him to Las Vegas and lead him to question the integrity of those closest to him. But while Alan tracks a missing patient of Hannah’s, the answers to both cases may be locked inside the mind of a client he has been treating for schizoid personality disorder. Running a maze of dilemmas, Alan takes a bold risk that will cost him his career—or his life.
515 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2005
74 people are currently reading
1009 people want to read
About the author
Stephen White
285 books569 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Stephen White is the author of the New York Times bestselling Alan Gregory novels. In his books, he draws upon over fifteen years of clinical practice as a psychologist to create intriguing plots and complex, believable characters.
Born on Long Island, White grew up in New York, New Jersey, and Southern California and attended the University of California campuses at Irvine (where he lasted three weeks as a creative writing major) and Los Angeles before graduating from Berkeley in 1972. Along the way he learned to fly small planes, worked as a tour guide at Universal Studios in Los Angeles, cooked and waited tables at Chez Panisse in Berkeley, and tended bar at the Red Lion Inn in Boulder. Trained as a clinical psychologist, he received his Ph.D. from the University of Colorado in 1979 and became known as an authority on the psychological effects of marital disruption, especially on men. White's research has appeared in Psychological Bulletin and other professional journals and books. After receiving his doctorate, White not only worked in private practice but also at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and later as a staff psychologist at The Children's Hospital in Denver, where he focused his attention on pediatric cancer patients. During those years he became acquainted with a colleague in Los Angeles, another pediatric psychologist named Jonathan Kellerman. At the time, Kellerman and White were two of only about a dozen psychologists in the country working in pediatric oncology.
Series:
* Alan Gregory
Stephen White is the author of the New York Times bestselling Alan Gregory novels. In his books, he draws upon over fifteen years of clinical practice as a psychologist to create intriguing plots and complex, believable characters.
Born on Long Island, White grew up in New York, New Jersey, and Southern California and attended the University of California campuses at Irvine (where he lasted three weeks as a creative writing major) and Los Angeles before graduating from Berkeley in 1972. Along the way he learned to fly small planes, worked as a tour guide at Universal Studios in Los Angeles, cooked and waited tables at Chez Panisse in Berkeley, and tended bar at the Red Lion Inn in Boulder. Trained as a clinical psychologist, he received his Ph.D. from the University of Colorado in 1979 and became known as an authority on the psychological effects of marital disruption, especially on men. White's research has appeared in Psychological Bulletin and other professional journals and books. After receiving his doctorate, White not only worked in private practice but also at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and later as a staff psychologist at The Children's Hospital in Denver, where he focused his attention on pediatric cancer patients. During those years he became acquainted with a colleague in Los Angeles, another pediatric psychologist named Jonathan Kellerman. At the time, Kellerman and White were two of only about a dozen psychologists in the country working in pediatric oncology.
Series:
* Alan Gregory
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
June 17, 2024
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 the reader hooked with another great novel, full of twists and turns throughout the story’s climactic build. Dr. Alan Gregory learns that his colleague has died under mysterious circumstances. As Alan tries to locale the truth, especially when Boulder PD stop caring, he finds that there may be a connection between one of his colleague’s patients and his own. The rest is an adventurous ride as Alan Gregory puts it all on the line. White treats the reader to another strong novel that adds depth to the series.
It is the height on concern when psychologist Alan Gregory discovers that his friend has died mysteriously. Hannah Grant was a fellow clinical therapist whose list of clients do not make her a target. When the Boulder Police turn up nothing, they are prepared to chalk it up to another cold case. Even Detective Sam Purdy, Alan’s close friend, cannot make heads or tails of anything in the case. All this leaves Alan to wonder if he will have to use some of his own skills to develop a potential explanation.
Through some joint passing knowledge, Alan his business partner, Diane Estavez, begin to piece together potential reasons Hannah might have been killed. One of Hannah’s clients is a teenaged girl who disappeared on Christmas night, leaving Alan to wonder if there is a connection. He is also concerned when one of his own patients seems to know a great deal about the missing girl before he, too, goes missing. Diane takes it upon herself to travel to Sin City, following a promising lead. She’s soon missing and her husband begins to panic. Raul is not sure that the disappearance of Diane is entirely innocent and presses for news and how the missing teen could be at the centre of it all.
While Alan makes his way to Las Vegas to track down a lead, he is left to wonder if his own client, who suffers from schizoid disorder, might hold the key locked away inside his mind. Alan is in a panic, but must also realise that he is no hero that can be expected to have all the answers. He rushes to put the pieces together, but risks it all for a woman he knew well, or did he? Another great piece that shows White’s abilities and keeps the reader hooked throughout.
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 novel.
White’s writing explores his own personal situations as a clinical therapist, peppering in some strong themes and thriller ideas to keep the reader highly entertained. The narrative keeps Dr. Alan Gregory at the centre of the story while gaining needed momentum. With a number of key ingredients, there are aspects to the narrative that help engulf the willing reader, who seeks to learn as much as possible. Strong characters, both returning and new, make an impact on the story and keep things clipping along. One cannot help but see the development that Alan has made through these stories and will keep doing so, given the opportunity.
Plot points drive the story home through a number of key events, from disappearances to the possibility that a therapy patient is centrally involved. The surprises are never ending and fuels the excitement throughout the reading experience, which I will keep devouring as swiftly as possible. Stephen White has a style I enjoy, mixing mystery, therapy, and curiosity into a collection of strong novels.
Kudos Mr. White, for a great piece of writing.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
It is the height on concern when psychologist Alan Gregory discovers that his friend has died mysteriously. Hannah Grant was a fellow clinical therapist whose list of clients do not make her a target. When the Boulder Police turn up nothing, they are prepared to chalk it up to another cold case. Even Detective Sam Purdy, Alan’s close friend, cannot make heads or tails of anything in the case. All this leaves Alan to wonder if he will have to use some of his own skills to develop a potential explanation.
Through some joint passing knowledge, Alan his business partner, Diane Estavez, begin to piece together potential reasons Hannah might have been killed. One of Hannah’s clients is a teenaged girl who disappeared on Christmas night, leaving Alan to wonder if there is a connection. He is also concerned when one of his own patients seems to know a great deal about the missing girl before he, too, goes missing. Diane takes it upon herself to travel to Sin City, following a promising lead. She’s soon missing and her husband begins to panic. Raul is not sure that the disappearance of Diane is entirely innocent and presses for news and how the missing teen could be at the centre of it all.
While Alan makes his way to Las Vegas to track down a lead, he is left to wonder if his own client, who suffers from schizoid disorder, might hold the key locked away inside his mind. Alan is in a panic, but must also realise that he is no hero that can be expected to have all the answers. He rushes to put the pieces together, but risks it all for a woman he knew well, or did he? Another great piece that shows White’s abilities and keeps the reader hooked throughout.
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 novel.
White’s writing explores his own personal situations as a clinical therapist, peppering in some strong themes and thriller ideas to keep the reader highly entertained. The narrative keeps Dr. Alan Gregory at the centre of the story while gaining needed momentum. With a number of key ingredients, there are aspects to the narrative that help engulf the willing reader, who seeks to learn as much as possible. Strong characters, both returning and new, make an impact on the story and keep things clipping along. One cannot help but see the development that Alan has made through these stories and will keep doing so, given the opportunity.
Plot points drive the story home through a number of key events, from disappearances to the possibility that a therapy patient is centrally involved. The surprises are never ending and fuels the excitement throughout the reading experience, which I will keep devouring as swiftly as possible. Stephen White has a style I enjoy, mixing mystery, therapy, and curiosity into a collection of strong novels.
Kudos Mr. White, for a great piece of writing.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
May 23, 2014
I remember reading my first Stephen White book featuring psychiatrist Alan Gregory so many years ago. I thought it was excellent, so I decided to pick another of his books (now many years later) via Audiobooks.
“Missing Persons” certainly contains elements that kept me captivated, but I was rather let down by the unravelling of the plot. Such a shame. Still I think the writing is excellent. The author’s ability to give genuine and realistic voices to many protagonists was what I liked best. The plot and its denouement was a bit disappointing.
I loved Diane’s husband, Raoul. Now that guy was intriguing. When Raoul starts looking for his wife Diane (Alan’s colleague therapist) in Vegas, that’s when I got interested in the mystery.
The story itself is a bit complex and not entirely spectacular (more a 2,5 rating), but it is just one weaker episode in a good series with many instalments. So I should read some more of Stephen White books.
Audio version: I want to point out that the narration by Dick Hill was excellent.
“Missing Persons” certainly contains elements that kept me captivated, but I was rather let down by the unravelling of the plot. Such a shame. Still I think the writing is excellent. The author’s ability to give genuine and realistic voices to many protagonists was what I liked best. The plot and its denouement was a bit disappointing.
I loved Diane’s husband, Raoul. Now that guy was intriguing. When Raoul starts looking for his wife Diane (Alan’s colleague therapist) in Vegas, that’s when I got interested in the mystery.
The story itself is a bit complex and not entirely spectacular (more a 2,5 rating), but it is just one weaker episode in a good series with many instalments. So I should read some more of Stephen White books.
Audio version: I want to point out that the narration by Dick Hill was excellent.
May 27, 2012
A few favorite parts:
"It's not always sunny here. But I have to admit that it feels like it's always sunny here." - Missing Persons, Chapter 16
"What about food?" Raoul asked.
"Help yourself to whatever's there," the guy had said.
The only food in the Airstream cupboards, it turned out, was a yellow box of cornstarch, a rusty can without a label, and an old margarine tub that was half full of something that resembled ground chiles.
The water from the faucet smelled like a rat had peed in it.
Raoul had decided it was a good day to start a cleansing fast.
- Missing Persons, Chapter 56
"Make My Day" - Missing Persons, Chapter 73
This isn't the best in the series, but it opens a window into my beloved town of Boulder, and in particular, in this instance, the famous case of Jon Benet Ramsey. Missing Persons also includes a life-changing event in the life of Alan Gregory's co-worker, Diane which will play a role in future installments.
"It's not always sunny here. But I have to admit that it feels like it's always sunny here." - Missing Persons, Chapter 16
"What about food?" Raoul asked.
"Help yourself to whatever's there," the guy had said.
The only food in the Airstream cupboards, it turned out, was a yellow box of cornstarch, a rusty can without a label, and an old margarine tub that was half full of something that resembled ground chiles.
The water from the faucet smelled like a rat had peed in it.
Raoul had decided it was a good day to start a cleansing fast.
- Missing Persons, Chapter 56
"Make My Day" - Missing Persons, Chapter 73
This isn't the best in the series, but it opens a window into my beloved town of Boulder, and in particular, in this instance, the famous case of Jon Benet Ramsey. Missing Persons also includes a life-changing event in the life of Alan Gregory's co-worker, Diane which will play a role in future installments.
March 9, 2022
3.89 stars?? I might have rated it a little higher but I was extremely angry at what Sam did at the restaurant. Like seriously, if I had been in Alan’s place, I would’ve wanted to say “well Sam, I hope your little stunt was worth it. Because now, I no longer trust you.” 😤😡🤬. I didn’t care for all of the references to a real past, really disturbing event. 🤢
Also, I can’t stand Diane (I’m glad we didn’t see much of her).
Honestly, I loved the amount of psychology this book had. I would’ve liked it to have had a little tiny bit more mystery or crime aspect to it, but it definitely included more psychology than another similar series I regularly read, so I definitely enjoyed that.
Also, I can’t stand Diane (I’m glad we didn’t see much of her).
Honestly, I loved the amount of psychology this book had. I would’ve liked it to have had a little tiny bit more mystery or crime aspect to it, but it definitely included more psychology than another similar series I regularly read, so I definitely enjoyed that.
July 4, 2020
Really excellent entry in the series. This mystery went everywhere and I just followed along happily. Some crazy coincidences and serendipitous moments and sadly its all over until next book. I always enjoy visiting Boulder and these characters and I did learn about schizoid personality. I think I better understand some odd work acquaintances.
July 10, 2012
If I could give a half star, this is one of the books where I would choose to do so. I'd give this 3.5 stars.
I found this book to be enjoyable. It was a good story with enough twists and turns that I didn't figure out "whodunit" or how it would all end, which made it fun. I also really enjoyed all of the insight into Dr. Alan Gregory's character, given that the author is a psychologist. Being a counsellor myself, it added to the enjoyment. The main criticism I have is that the author clearly thinks the reader will forget on each page that there is a confidentiality expectation between therapist and patient. I could have stood slightly less of that being drilled into me every time there was a thought that Dr. Gregory had about the ethics of the situation. On the whole, this was a good enough book that I think I will try to go back to the beginning of the series and follow it from there. I am curious about whether or not this is a series that got better with age, or is starting down the backside.
I found this book to be enjoyable. It was a good story with enough twists and turns that I didn't figure out "whodunit" or how it would all end, which made it fun. I also really enjoyed all of the insight into Dr. Alan Gregory's character, given that the author is a psychologist. Being a counsellor myself, it added to the enjoyment. The main criticism I have is that the author clearly thinks the reader will forget on each page that there is a confidentiality expectation between therapist and patient. I could have stood slightly less of that being drilled into me every time there was a thought that Dr. Gregory had about the ethics of the situation. On the whole, this was a good enough book that I think I will try to go back to the beginning of the series and follow it from there. I am curious about whether or not this is a series that got better with age, or is starting down the backside.
May 7, 2017
When Alan and his work partner Diane discover a fellow therapist dead in her office, they get pulled into the mystery, as one of the dead woman's patients is missing. That Alan has a patient that ties in with this missing teen comes as no surprise. The issue of therapist-patient confidentiality is hammered into the reader, and Alan goes against his own code of ethics to help solve the case. Alan's wife makes her usual condescending and wenchy remarks, and is an altogether horrible woman.
May 20, 2019
Great book about a missing person. But as others go missing we are left wondering how these are linked. A real attention getter! My 1st book by this author, but I was thoroughly entertained.
October 31, 2023
I didn’t care for this book. I thought there was too much extra ‘fluff.’ A couple of examples, two pages were devoted to the fact that people from Boulder Colorado do not like it when the sun does not shine and a page and a half talking about a couple that had zero to do with the story and were never mentioned again. I found the whole, “I’m a therapist, it’s confidential “ got to be very tedious, and really?? The ending, meh……not for me.
May 23, 2012
I really liked the first half to 75% of this book. But I don't know ... something happened at the end.
As other reviewers have noted, characters were introduced without too much development and showing where they were going.
A lot of this is built on the Jon Benet Ramsey case - a Boulder case - but her name is never mentioned.
As other reviewers have noted, characters were introduced without too much development and showing where they were going.
A lot of this is built on the Jon Benet Ramsey case - a Boulder case - but her name is never mentioned.
May 8, 2017
Missing Persons had so much back drop that it made what could have been a good story boring. Dick Hill’s story telling could not move this story from the bottom of the book stand to the middle.
April 8, 2020
I had read one other book by Stephen White and was not impressed. I really enjoyed this book, much better than the first. Probably will go back and catch up on the rest of the series.
May 11, 2020
b>This Summary/Review was copied from other sources and is used only as a reminder of what the book was about for my personal interest. Any Personal Notations are for my recollection only.
**
Dr. Alan Gregory gets mixed up in some crime and mayhem for the thirteen time in author Stephen White's, "Missing Persons". Published in 2006, this suspense thriller delves into the world of schizophrenia.
Two seeming separate story lines feature characters who show signs of schizophrenic behavior. Taking place as Christmas day is ending, teenager Mallory Miller turns up missing from her home.
Mallory's father Bill works along side with the Boulder P.D. to get the word out on his missing daughter. The curious thing is if someone kidnapped her why is the snow around the Miller house untouched by foot prints ?
Meanwhile Alan and his practice partner Diane Estevez go to visit Psychologist Hannah Grant. Arriving at Hannah's office Alan and Diane find her dead.
Hannah was also the shrink treating Mallory Miller before she disappeared. Alan and Diane have problems and a confrontation with detectives Janis Sclocum and Darrell Olson who want to initially pin the death on Diane.
One of Alan's regular patients Bob Brandt who has a schizoid personality seemingly wants to insert himself in the Mallory Miller case.
Meanwhile Diane heads off to Las Vegas in search of Mallory's schizophrenic mother Rachel who has a wedding obsession.
Mom Rachel goes to dozens of wedding weekly in Las Vegas.
Alan must but heads with Bill Miller who was briefly a patient years ago.
It appears that the Miller's next door neighbors seem to be involved in Mallory's disappearance.
Alan turns up at the next door neighbor's house several times enraging Bill Miller.
Before long, Bill, Bob, Diane, and some wannabe gangster from Vegas have this story topsy turvy.
With a lively plot that moves quickly through some emotionally tough situations this is an engaging read. Just missing 500 pages paperback, "Missing Persons", may be one of the top five books in author Stephen White's Alan Gregory series.
Along with a reluctant sidekick Detective Sam Purdy, and wife ADA Lauren Crowder the gangs all here in this psychological yarn.
****
This one opens with Alan and his fellow psychiatrist Diane on their way to a business conference, stopping by the office of Hannah, who will be covering for both of them while they are out of town.
Unfortunately, they end up discovering Hannah dead in the office of her business partner, with her purse sitting in the middle of her own office, and her blouse tucked up under her bra, both atypical behaviors for Hannah, who is known to have OCD.
Concurrently, a teenager who Hannah once saw for psychotherapy goes missing, and the circumstances of her disappearance, combined with what Gregory knows about her parents, who he once saw for therapy, lead him to question whether Hannah was killed for perhaps knowing more than she should.
Without Hannah to answer any questions, all Gregory and Diane know about the session she had with this girl is what they can glean from her written records and a discussion Hannah had with Diane over lunch one day.
Hannah's death seems to take a back seat in this book, as White focuses on the missing girl, Mallory, and Gregory and Diane's attempts to find her without violating the promise that nothing a patient tells their therapist leaves the confidence of the office. Gregory's interest in Mallory is minimal until one of his other patients seems to know more than he should about Mallory and her life.
For Diane, she expects that finding Mallory may also lead to finding out what happened to Hannah, a close friend both professionally and personally.
****
**
Dr. Alan Gregory gets mixed up in some crime and mayhem for the thirteen time in author Stephen White's, "Missing Persons". Published in 2006, this suspense thriller delves into the world of schizophrenia.
Two seeming separate story lines feature characters who show signs of schizophrenic behavior. Taking place as Christmas day is ending, teenager Mallory Miller turns up missing from her home.
Mallory's father Bill works along side with the Boulder P.D. to get the word out on his missing daughter. The curious thing is if someone kidnapped her why is the snow around the Miller house untouched by foot prints ?
Meanwhile Alan and his practice partner Diane Estevez go to visit Psychologist Hannah Grant. Arriving at Hannah's office Alan and Diane find her dead.
Hannah was also the shrink treating Mallory Miller before she disappeared. Alan and Diane have problems and a confrontation with detectives Janis Sclocum and Darrell Olson who want to initially pin the death on Diane.
One of Alan's regular patients Bob Brandt who has a schizoid personality seemingly wants to insert himself in the Mallory Miller case.
Meanwhile Diane heads off to Las Vegas in search of Mallory's schizophrenic mother Rachel who has a wedding obsession.
Mom Rachel goes to dozens of wedding weekly in Las Vegas.
Alan must but heads with Bill Miller who was briefly a patient years ago.
It appears that the Miller's next door neighbors seem to be involved in Mallory's disappearance.
Alan turns up at the next door neighbor's house several times enraging Bill Miller.
Before long, Bill, Bob, Diane, and some wannabe gangster from Vegas have this story topsy turvy.
With a lively plot that moves quickly through some emotionally tough situations this is an engaging read. Just missing 500 pages paperback, "Missing Persons", may be one of the top five books in author Stephen White's Alan Gregory series.
Along with a reluctant sidekick Detective Sam Purdy, and wife ADA Lauren Crowder the gangs all here in this psychological yarn.
****
This one opens with Alan and his fellow psychiatrist Diane on their way to a business conference, stopping by the office of Hannah, who will be covering for both of them while they are out of town.
Unfortunately, they end up discovering Hannah dead in the office of her business partner, with her purse sitting in the middle of her own office, and her blouse tucked up under her bra, both atypical behaviors for Hannah, who is known to have OCD.
Concurrently, a teenager who Hannah once saw for psychotherapy goes missing, and the circumstances of her disappearance, combined with what Gregory knows about her parents, who he once saw for therapy, lead him to question whether Hannah was killed for perhaps knowing more than she should.
Without Hannah to answer any questions, all Gregory and Diane know about the session she had with this girl is what they can glean from her written records and a discussion Hannah had with Diane over lunch one day.
Hannah's death seems to take a back seat in this book, as White focuses on the missing girl, Mallory, and Gregory and Diane's attempts to find her without violating the promise that nothing a patient tells their therapist leaves the confidence of the office. Gregory's interest in Mallory is minimal until one of his other patients seems to know more than he should about Mallory and her life.
For Diane, she expects that finding Mallory may also lead to finding out what happened to Hannah, a close friend both professionally and personally.
****
July 5, 2021
One of the best installments of the series. As a prior psych major and fan of the series, I appreciated the deep dives into schizophrenia, schizoid personality disorder, and the differences between them; other than briefly mentioning some specific psychopathic behaviors during Alan's internship in a previous book (Manner of Death, I think), the extent of the psychoses of Alan's patients are usually not a focus, vs. generally anxious coming to see him to talk through issues that end up somehow relating to the crime in that book, so this was a refreshing new take on Alan's practice.
I also appreciated someone other than Sam finally confronting Alan with harsh truths about himself that have driven me crazy throughout this series. Diane that he is condescending (she doesn't say it the words exactly but when Alan describes her reaction he got the message she was sending him about his attitude towards others), and Lauren that Alan ahides behind privilege/confidentiality with his patients when serious crimes are involved and his "pussyfooting", as Lauren calls it, results in delays that in this book, could mean it would be too late to save Diane, and in prior books have definitely meant it was too late to save others.
It'll be nice when Alan's narration includes less about Sam's weight. Sam had a heart attack in the last book and has been making every effort to get healthy, including a strict diet and lots of exercise; Alan estimates Sam has lost 30 lbs but still feels the need to mention how fat Sam's face is, how his running gear is too tight on his big frame, and even says Sam's calves are as big as a pork loin. Maybe in the next book someone will confront Alan with his condescending habits in his personal life too. That would make a nice change and would make me like Alan a lot more. I can never tell if the reader is supposed to like Alan or if the reader is supposed to be constantly exasperated with him.
I also appreciated someone other than Sam finally confronting Alan with harsh truths about himself that have driven me crazy throughout this series. Diane that he is condescending (she doesn't say it the words exactly but when Alan describes her reaction he got the message she was sending him about his attitude towards others), and Lauren that Alan ahides behind privilege/confidentiality with his patients when serious crimes are involved and his "pussyfooting", as Lauren calls it, results in delays that in this book, could mean it would be too late to save Diane, and in prior books have definitely meant it was too late to save others.
It'll be nice when Alan's narration includes less about Sam's weight. Sam had a heart attack in the last book and has been making every effort to get healthy, including a strict diet and lots of exercise; Alan estimates Sam has lost 30 lbs but still feels the need to mention how fat Sam's face is, how his running gear is too tight on his big frame, and even says Sam's calves are as big as a pork loin. Maybe in the next book someone will confront Alan with his condescending habits in his personal life too. That would make a nice change and would make me like Alan a lot more. I can never tell if the reader is supposed to like Alan or if the reader is supposed to be constantly exasperated with him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2022
This is the first of this series that I have read. I thought it might be kind of lame because it featured a therapist acting as a detective. However, I was pleasantly surprised to see this mental health professional RELUCTANTLY and GRADUALLY involve himself in this investigation. This gave the story credibility. Watching this therapist weave together a number of mysterious circumstances while balancing ethical/confidentiality concerns was interesting.
The author does a good job of developing characters and exploring their thought processes. He builds suspense as he deals with the growing mystery of disappearing people. He uses interesting similes and metaphors. His style is crisp and paced carefully. He manages to slip in some very creative insights into things like fashion and parenthood. He educates the reader about several types of mental illness. He paint vivid images (a lady with orange hair and cheese puff stained fingers was among the best). He utilizes clever similes and metaphors. He makes his hero human (by describing the heated seats of his Audi-- important since the novel is set in the winter in Boulder, Colorado).
Some portions of the plot were a bit contrived-- but he provided a quality conclusion and the pieces were all wrapped up in a nice bundle that provided satisfaction.
I'm not excited about reading more in this series. This was quality reading-- but this is # 13 of a series and as much as I appreciated his being drawn in to a mystery rather than taking it upon himself to investigate-- I just can't see this happening 12 times prior to this.
The author does a good job of developing characters and exploring their thought processes. He builds suspense as he deals with the growing mystery of disappearing people. He uses interesting similes and metaphors. His style is crisp and paced carefully. He manages to slip in some very creative insights into things like fashion and parenthood. He educates the reader about several types of mental illness. He paint vivid images (a lady with orange hair and cheese puff stained fingers was among the best). He utilizes clever similes and metaphors. He makes his hero human (by describing the heated seats of his Audi-- important since the novel is set in the winter in Boulder, Colorado).
Some portions of the plot were a bit contrived-- but he provided a quality conclusion and the pieces were all wrapped up in a nice bundle that provided satisfaction.
I'm not excited about reading more in this series. This was quality reading-- but this is # 13 of a series and as much as I appreciated his being drawn in to a mystery rather than taking it upon himself to investigate-- I just can't see this happening 12 times prior to this.
July 29, 2019
Dr. Alan Gregory gets mixed up in some crime and mayhem for the thirteen time in author Stephen White's, "Missing Persons". Published in 2006, this suspense thriller delves into the world of schizophrenia. Two seeming separate story lines feature characters who show signs of schizophrenic behavior. Taking place as Christmas day is ending, teenager Mallory Miller turns up missing from her home. Mallory's father Bill works along side with the Boulder P.D. to get the word out on his missing daughter. The curious thing is if someone kidnapped her why is the snow around the Miller house untouched by foot prints ? Meanwhile Alan and his practice partner Diane Estevez go to visit Psychologist Hannah Grant. Arriving at Hannah's office Alan and Diane find her dead. Hannah was also the shrink treating Mallory Miller before she disappeared. Alan and Diane have problems and a confrontation with detectives Janis Sclocum and Darrell Olson who want to initially pin the death on Diane. One of Alan's regular patients Bob Brandt who has a schizoid personality seemingly wants to insert himself in the Mallory Miller case. Meanwhile Diane heads off to Las Vegas in search of Mallory's schizophrenic mother Rachel who has a wedding obsession. Mom Rachel goes to dozens of wedding weekly in Las Vegas. Alan must but heads with Bill Miller who was briefly a patient years ago. It appears that the Miller's next door neighbors seem to be involved in Mallory's disappearance. Alan turns up at the next door neighbor's house several times enraging Bill Miller. Before long, Bill, Bob, Diane, and some wannabe gangster from Vegas have this story topsy turvy. With a lively plot that moves quickly through some emotionally tough situations this is an engaging read. Just missing 500 pages paperback, "Missing Persons", may be one of the top five books in author Stephen White's Alan Gregory series. Along with a reluctant sidekick Detective Sam Purdy, and wife ADA Lauren Crowder the gangs all here in this psychological yarn. Three stars out of a possible five stars for, "Missing Persons". (3.50 Stars !). This one did need some serious editing. 500 pages was easily 100-125 pages toooooo long. Overall a good read in a pretty good series. check it out.
August 3, 2024
🧠🧠🧠🧠🧠
If mental health diagnoses and behavior interests you, this is a fun one. I was wrapped up in the perspective of people with different psychological disorders and the way they behave. Someone that doesn’t find that interesting might become lost in the “facts” and lose the story line. About the time that I was becoming lost, the story really kicked in. It got to a point where I was having trouble not skipping lines becuase I just couldn’t read it fast enough. I didn’t expect the ending; that was fun. I’m stuck between ooo love the ending because everyone loves a good ending and it really brought home the behaviors of people trying to outrun the cards they were dealt and wanting more for the ending. It seemed such an abrupt end after the crazy “chase”. All in all, I was pleased and I can’t wait to give this author another read! I recommend for those that find this interesting, along with a mystery chase kind of read. If not, this one might not be for you and that’s okay!
If mental health diagnoses and behavior interests you, this is a fun one. I was wrapped up in the perspective of people with different psychological disorders and the way they behave. Someone that doesn’t find that interesting might become lost in the “facts” and lose the story line. About the time that I was becoming lost, the story really kicked in. It got to a point where I was having trouble not skipping lines becuase I just couldn’t read it fast enough. I didn’t expect the ending; that was fun. I’m stuck between ooo love the ending because everyone loves a good ending and it really brought home the behaviors of people trying to outrun the cards they were dealt and wanting more for the ending. It seemed such an abrupt end after the crazy “chase”. All in all, I was pleased and I can’t wait to give this author another read! I recommend for those that find this interesting, along with a mystery chase kind of read. If not, this one might not be for you and that’s okay!
May 26, 2021
While this book was difficult to get through for the first half of the story, I enjoyed the overall story and twists and turns. Once I was around Chapter 30, things started to get more interesting for me and I was more captivated by the mystery of Mallory's disappearance and the unknown whereabouts of other characters. I enjoyed the ending for the most part, even though it fell a little flat for me. I was expecting a little bit more bravado and was left wondering, "Is that really it? That's the ending?" I had a hard time at first with White's writing style but after a few chapters I got used to it. At this point in time, I'm not sure if I would read another one of White's books.
September 24, 2022
I will not be reading an Alan Gregory story for a long while. I think the author is using this character to showcase his beloved psychology skills. And ethics? Where would this book be without ethics? Sam (the cop) sums this up very well in the beginning of Chapter 43 when he says to Alan, "Your cherished position in life-you know, psych-o-therapist, guardian of all the world's secrets-it's not as special as you think is it. You're just a damn guy doing a damn job. You have trusts to keep. Well surprise, surprise, other people do, too. Other people take their responsibilities as seriously as you do."
March 15, 2018
Story line good, book a bit slow.
Alan Gregory is at it again in a familiar story of a missing girl in Boulder Colorado. A girl goes missing from her house, a mother left years earlier, a father trying to hold things together. Add a dead colleague, a missing friend and a police detective and you have Missing Persons. Stephen White puts together an interesting story but this one jumps around a lot and keeps important facts from you throughout the book. I love the series and I will finish it but this one was not my favorite of the series.
Alan Gregory is at it again in a familiar story of a missing girl in Boulder Colorado. A girl goes missing from her house, a mother left years earlier, a father trying to hold things together. Add a dead colleague, a missing friend and a police detective and you have Missing Persons. Stephen White puts together an interesting story but this one jumps around a lot and keeps important facts from you throughout the book. I love the series and I will finish it but this one was not my favorite of the series.
November 7, 2018
We picked this book up second-hand plus in paperback while traveling. I remember reading reading White's first book years ago before the trend of professionals writing fiction starring people in said profession. In White's case the profession is psychologist. His protagonist, Dr. Alan Gregory assists the police solve one crime after another but his psychologist code of conduct/ethics always complicates matters. A pretty good series for fans of the genre.
July 28, 2024
One thing bothered me, but only one.
What the public didn't know would have made it very much a media frenzy. Many layers, much going on, but secrets only a handful knew.
But what the public did know does not warrant it being the frenzy echoing JonBenet, that the story made it abundantly clear it was meant to be. All they knew was teenager missing, probably a runaway.
Not to nitpick a good story, thank you for listening, please know I will listen if you similarly ever need to vent. :)
What the public didn't know would have made it very much a media frenzy. Many layers, much going on, but secrets only a handful knew.
But what the public did know does not warrant it being the frenzy echoing JonBenet, that the story made it abundantly clear it was meant to be. All they knew was teenager missing, probably a runaway.
Not to nitpick a good story, thank you for listening, please know I will listen if you similarly ever need to vent. :)
June 15, 2025
Soon after I started reading, I had to convince myself to keep going. I should've listened to my gut and stopped. The mystery itself was interesting but the book felt drawn out. There was a lot of filler and a love for obscure/advanced words that were unnecessary. Like another review mentioned, the psychologist's confidentiality bit quickly became boring. I also found Diane to be really annoying. Not for me, won't be seeking out any others in this series.
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March 16, 2022Truthfully, I was not expecting this book to be this good. I am not a big mystery fan, but after reading another book that had garnered my interest in psychoanalysis and therapy, I was more interested in this book for a different reason. Even when I am usually able to determine what happens next in the story, the writing left me in shock.
November 17, 2022
So at first, I liked this mystery. I liked the idea of a Psychologist trying to solve this crime. But it’s really slow and the ending is disappointing
It also plays off the other famous unsolved homicide in Boulder, Colorado.
But once the story pops to Las Vegas it falls apart.
https://theworldisabookandiamitsreade...
It also plays off the other famous unsolved homicide in Boulder, Colorado.
But once the story pops to Las Vegas it falls apart.
https://theworldisabookandiamitsreade...
July 29, 2017
Missing Persons grabs you with several mysteries at once, and though at times chapters seem to be out of place it is a good read. It however has an ending that ties everything together nicely, which doesn’t seem to follow the rest of the flow of the book.
October 17, 2017
This book was amazing. My only "complaint" is the plot takes too long to take off. The story line is amazing and it was written nicely. I definitely recommend this book. I'm not good at writing reviews:)
October 22, 2019
Alan Gregory and his cop buddy, Sam once again butt heads. There is a fine line between doing the acceptable and doing what is considered 'right'.
Stephen White once again takes us on a very interesting journey fraught with ethical dilemma.
Stephen White once again takes us on a very interesting journey fraught with ethical dilemma.
March 7, 2020
This was right up my alley. Psychology and a tangle of suspenseful “whodunit” mysteries? Yes, please! This is the first Alan Gregory book I’ve read, which means that now I have to start from #1 and work my way through the series. It must be done.
August 8, 2020
Didn’t know what to expect when I picked this book up. My first foray into the series. Pleasantly surprised. Lots of twists and turns with the added complexity of doctor patient privilege. Fun, suspenseful, page turning read
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