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Dr. Alex Gregory #2
Hysteria
In a beautiful world, murder is always ugly…
Recently returned from his last case in Ireland, elite forensic psychologist and criminal profiler Dr Alexander Gregory receives a call from the French police that he can’t ignore. It’s Paris fashion week and some of the world’s most beautiful women are turning up dead, their faces slashed in a series of frenzied attacks while the world’s press looks on.
Amidst the carnage, one victim has survived but she’s too traumatised to talk. Without her help, the police are powerless to stop the killer before he strikes again – can Gregory unlock the secrets of her mind, before it’s too late?
Murder and mystery are peppered with dark humour in this fast-paced thriller set amidst the spectacular Parisian landscape.
Recently returned from his last case in Ireland, elite forensic psychologist and criminal profiler Dr Alexander Gregory receives a call from the French police that he can’t ignore. It’s Paris fashion week and some of the world’s most beautiful women are turning up dead, their faces slashed in a series of frenzied attacks while the world’s press looks on.
Amidst the carnage, one victim has survived but she’s too traumatised to talk. Without her help, the police are powerless to stop the killer before he strikes again – can Gregory unlock the secrets of her mind, before it’s too late?
Murder and mystery are peppered with dark humour in this fast-paced thriller set amidst the spectacular Parisian landscape.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 10, 2019
4313 people are currently reading
1541 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Ross
58 books3,377 followersLJ Ross is an internationally bestselling author, whose books have sold over 7 million copies worldwide.
Her debut, Holy Island, was released in 2015 and became an instant, international bestseller. Since then, a further eighteen of her novels have gone on to take the coveted #1 spot, some even before general release and whilst only available to ‘pre-order’. The Bookseller magazine has reported on Louise having topped the ‘Most Read’ and ‘Most Sold’ fiction charts, and she has garnered an army of loyal fans who love her atmospheric and addictive storytelling.
Her eleventh novel, The Infirmary, is a prequel story to the DCI Ryan series and is available as a major Audible Originals audio-drama starring Tom Bateman, Kevin Whately, Bertie Carvel, Hermione Norris and Alun Armstrong.
The first novel in her Alexander Gregory Thrillers series, Impostor, was shortlisted in the British Book Awards 2020: Crime & Thriller Book of the Year. The audiobook of Impostor, narrated by Hugh Dancy, was also selected as a finalist in the New York Festivals Radio Awards, Best Fiction Audiobook of the Year Category.
In May 2021, Louise was shortlisted for the prestigious Crime Writers’ Association ‘Dagger in the Library’ award, which recognises an author’s entire body of work having been consistently enjoyed by library borrowers around the United Kingdom, and an author’s longstanding support of libraries.
Louise was born in Northumberland, England. She studied undergraduate and postgraduate Law at King’s College, University of London and then abroad in Paris and Florence. She spent much of her working life in London, where she was a lawyer for a number of years until taking the decision to change career and pursue her dream to write. Now, she writes full time and lives with her husband and son in Northumberland and Edinburgh. She enjoys reading all manner of books, painting, travelling and spending time with family and friends.
To find out more about the many philanthropic ventures Louise has founded and sponsored through her publishing imprint, Dark Skies Publishing, please visit ‘Philanthropy’.
If you would like to connect with LJ Ross, she would be very happy to hear from you:
https://www.facebook.com/LJRossAuthor
https://twitter.com/ljross_author
www.lovesuspense.com
lj_ross@outlook.com
Her debut, Holy Island, was released in 2015 and became an instant, international bestseller. Since then, a further eighteen of her novels have gone on to take the coveted #1 spot, some even before general release and whilst only available to ‘pre-order’. The Bookseller magazine has reported on Louise having topped the ‘Most Read’ and ‘Most Sold’ fiction charts, and she has garnered an army of loyal fans who love her atmospheric and addictive storytelling.
Her eleventh novel, The Infirmary, is a prequel story to the DCI Ryan series and is available as a major Audible Originals audio-drama starring Tom Bateman, Kevin Whately, Bertie Carvel, Hermione Norris and Alun Armstrong.
The first novel in her Alexander Gregory Thrillers series, Impostor, was shortlisted in the British Book Awards 2020: Crime & Thriller Book of the Year. The audiobook of Impostor, narrated by Hugh Dancy, was also selected as a finalist in the New York Festivals Radio Awards, Best Fiction Audiobook of the Year Category.
In May 2021, Louise was shortlisted for the prestigious Crime Writers’ Association ‘Dagger in the Library’ award, which recognises an author’s entire body of work having been consistently enjoyed by library borrowers around the United Kingdom, and an author’s longstanding support of libraries.
Louise was born in Northumberland, England. She studied undergraduate and postgraduate Law at King’s College, University of London and then abroad in Paris and Florence. She spent much of her working life in London, where she was a lawyer for a number of years until taking the decision to change career and pursue her dream to write. Now, she writes full time and lives with her husband and son in Northumberland and Edinburgh. She enjoys reading all manner of books, painting, travelling and spending time with family and friends.
To find out more about the many philanthropic ventures Louise has founded and sponsored through her publishing imprint, Dark Skies Publishing, please visit ‘Philanthropy’.
If you would like to connect with LJ Ross, she would be very happy to hear from you:
https://www.facebook.com/LJRossAuthor
https://twitter.com/ljross_author
www.lovesuspense.com
lj_ross@outlook.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 450 reviews
January 15, 2020
Book 1 was a fantastic book, but Book 2 was okay, but lacked a few things, the character development and depth of storyline that the first book had. You definitely need to read book 1, first to understand and fully appreciate the deep psychological issues that trouble Dr Gregory.
The first half of was a lot slower than the second half. Overall this felt a bit rushed. Hopefully book 3 will be back up to the usual very high standard.
The first half of was a lot slower than the second half. Overall this felt a bit rushed. Hopefully book 3 will be back up to the usual very high standard.
April 19, 2024
Starting the second psychological suspense story of my new favorite series, Dr.Alexander Gregory while continuing an October 1st alphabet challenge and seems I am not going to finish it soon...
Ajax
the Banshees of inisherin
Catfish rolling
the Dogs of Athens (Goddess War, #0.1)
Elder Race
the Fire Next Time
Geneva
Hysteria (Alexander Gregory Thrillers, #2)
Instructions by Neil Gaiman
Judge Dee and the Poisoner of Montmartre (Judge Dee, #3)
the Kidnapped Prime Minister (Hercule Poirot Short Story)
the Love by Stendhal
Ajax
the Banshees of inisherin
Catfish rolling
the Dogs of Athens (Goddess War, #0.1)
Elder Race
the Fire Next Time
Geneva
Hysteria (Alexander Gregory Thrillers, #2)
Instructions by Neil Gaiman
Judge Dee and the Poisoner of Montmartre (Judge Dee, #3)
the Kidnapped Prime Minister (Hercule Poirot Short Story)
the Love by Stendhal
October 12, 2021
Following the Irish trip of the first in the series, Alex is invited to a conference in Paris , which is taking place at the same time as a fashion show. Suddenly one of the models is attacked and the psychologist cum profiler is in great demand. The second in the Alex Gregory series is one that entertains but lacks the plot development or characterization of the first in the series. For that reason, it remains just a mildly entertaining mystery thriller. I still can’t warm to the man and as there are no other characters that transcend their cardboard descriptions, I doubt I will continue with the series.
March 19, 2025
**Read 4.25 STARS!**
This psychological crime story is the 2nd volume of the "Alexander Gregory" thriller series.
At the beginning of the book you'll find an appropriate phrase from Sigmund Freud's Dora: "An Analysis of a Case of Hysteria".
Storytelling is excellent, the psychological aspects within this story are truly well analysed and explained, while all characters are very believable and lifelike.
The book starts off with a prologue set in Paris, September 2019, with movements made by Eva Bisset, who will play a significant act later on in this crime novel.
The main story starts during the Paris Fashion Week with an attack on a young model called, Camille Duquette, in Hôtel Violette, and the Police and Justice Department are called in to investigate this horrendous act of violence, while later on another young model called, Juliette Deschamps, is found murdered at her home, and so for Dr Alexander Gregory as criminal profiler to find the answer of the first case and the dark forces behind the atrocious treatment of these vulnerable women, and to find and catch the perpetrator of the murder of Juliette, and both crimes will come to a satisfied conclusion at the end, after a superbly worked out plot in both cases.
What is to follow is an eventful and well researched psychological thriller, which contains a moving storyline accompanied with a very intriguing ending, and this is brought to us in a most wonderful fashion by the author.
Very much recommended, for this is a very likeable second addition to this new series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Thrilling Psychotic Mind"!
This psychological crime story is the 2nd volume of the "Alexander Gregory" thriller series.
At the beginning of the book you'll find an appropriate phrase from Sigmund Freud's Dora: "An Analysis of a Case of Hysteria".
Storytelling is excellent, the psychological aspects within this story are truly well analysed and explained, while all characters are very believable and lifelike.
The book starts off with a prologue set in Paris, September 2019, with movements made by Eva Bisset, who will play a significant act later on in this crime novel.
The main story starts during the Paris Fashion Week with an attack on a young model called, Camille Duquette, in Hôtel Violette, and the Police and Justice Department are called in to investigate this horrendous act of violence, while later on another young model called, Juliette Deschamps, is found murdered at her home, and so for Dr Alexander Gregory as criminal profiler to find the answer of the first case and the dark forces behind the atrocious treatment of these vulnerable women, and to find and catch the perpetrator of the murder of Juliette, and both crimes will come to a satisfied conclusion at the end, after a superbly worked out plot in both cases.
What is to follow is an eventful and well researched psychological thriller, which contains a moving storyline accompanied with a very intriguing ending, and this is brought to us in a most wonderful fashion by the author.
Very much recommended, for this is a very likeable second addition to this new series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Thrilling Psychotic Mind"!
January 17, 2020
3.5 stars
December 14, 2019
Having read and loved Imposter I was SO excited to read Hysteria and I don’t know how LJ Ross does it, but each book is as awesome as, if not better, than the last!
It was great to catch up with Dr Alexander Gregory again. I do have a bit of a soft spot for him (don’t tell DCI Ryan!), he is a fascinating character.
In Hysteria Alex finds himself assisting on a case involving the murder of a fashion model and the attempted murder of another. Set in Paris during fashion week, Alex is called in as a profiler initially, but soon finds himself working with the surviving victim as her psychologist. Her story is absolutely fascinating. I was totally captivated and couldn’t wait to find out where her story might lead. What transpires is so sad, but also heart-warming and quite inspirational. The human mind is so complicated and totally fascinating! (I know I’ve used that word three times already, but I can’t think of a better one.)
Again, we saw another, more vulnerable, side to Alex in his relationship with a certain lady, who is another brilliant character.
That ending!! I totally did not see that coming! Genius writing, once again, by one of my most favourite authors ever. I SO wish I had your talent for storytelling, Louise.
I can’t wait for book 3!
Many thanks to LJ Ross for my review copy. I highly recommend!
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2019/12/1...
It was great to catch up with Dr Alexander Gregory again. I do have a bit of a soft spot for him (don’t tell DCI Ryan!), he is a fascinating character.
In Hysteria Alex finds himself assisting on a case involving the murder of a fashion model and the attempted murder of another. Set in Paris during fashion week, Alex is called in as a profiler initially, but soon finds himself working with the surviving victim as her psychologist. Her story is absolutely fascinating. I was totally captivated and couldn’t wait to find out where her story might lead. What transpires is so sad, but also heart-warming and quite inspirational. The human mind is so complicated and totally fascinating! (I know I’ve used that word three times already, but I can’t think of a better one.)
Again, we saw another, more vulnerable, side to Alex in his relationship with a certain lady, who is another brilliant character.
That ending!! I totally did not see that coming! Genius writing, once again, by one of my most favourite authors ever. I SO wish I had your talent for storytelling, Louise.
I can’t wait for book 3!
Many thanks to LJ Ross for my review copy. I highly recommend!
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2019/12/1...
December 19, 2019
Hmm
I've read the previous Ryan books which are a good read . But I have to admit I'm struggling with this new character. He tends to blow hot and cold one minute he's telling Madeline that he's going to be honest about their affair even if it may cost him his job then the next minute he's leaving. As for the French text with no English explanation what was that all about come on not everyone speaks French . The first book was a good start this one not so much
I've read the previous Ryan books which are a good read . But I have to admit I'm struggling with this new character. He tends to blow hot and cold one minute he's telling Madeline that he's going to be honest about their affair even if it may cost him his job then the next minute he's leaving. As for the French text with no English explanation what was that all about come on not everyone speaks French . The first book was a good start this one not so much
November 28, 2025
L. J. Ross is an author new to me, but whose writing has long been entertaining readers. Having recently returned from a case in Ireland, Dr. Alexander Gregory is again called out of the country, this time by the French Police. Paris is hosting Fashion Week and some of the beautiful models are turning up dead with their faces slashed in a frenzy. While Dr. Gregory cannot easily determine what’s going on, he agrees to come consult. One of the victims has survived, but her trauma makes her unable to share much, which some believe to be a form of amnesia. Dr. Gregory is asked to try sifting through the shards of her memory. What he discovers will guide the investigation, but also turn things on their head. Is the victim actually innocent or is there more to the story than meets the eye? Ross delivers another addictive thriller with this second novel of the series.
I enjoyed the series debut and was eager to see what else L.J. Ross had in store for this collection. She once more offers up a story that keeps the reader focused, with a great crime and strong setting description, this time within the confines of Paris. The story offers keen narrative techniques and a build towards an ultimate reveal, while also balancing some mental health themes that explore something on which the reader can focus. Momentum pushes things along as the mystery envelops the reader, with chapters flowing by with ease, without doing too much at any single point. Ross has me hooked and this series is sure to be a great adventure.
Characters are well-placed and keep the reader guessing where things are headed. Dr. Alexander Gregory is back with his own spin on things, but it is the dual-personality issue that becomes one of the core aspects of the piece. Then reader is able to learn so much, while also serving as a conduit towards the murder investigation. Ross does well to present things in a serious and yet entertaining way, providing key development and backstory as needed to keep things on point. I am still trying to learn how Dr. Gregory’s life plays into the stories, as I want to know more about the protgonist as the novels progress. There is something here and I am still trying to put my finger on it.
Surprises are central to a story of this nature, particularly with an intriguing secondary character whose mental health issues provide a subplot. There is certainly a central push with these surprises, but Ross is also able to balance twists and surprises to add flavour to the reading experience. The reader may watch things alongside Dr. Gregory, who is never sure what he is facing. Ross keeps story on edge and makes sure there is little time to waste, as the case takes on some great turns before the final page revelation. I am looking for the next book to keep the series momentum going.
Kudos, Madam Ross, for tackling some great aspects in this piece.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
I enjoyed the series debut and was eager to see what else L.J. Ross had in store for this collection. She once more offers up a story that keeps the reader focused, with a great crime and strong setting description, this time within the confines of Paris. The story offers keen narrative techniques and a build towards an ultimate reveal, while also balancing some mental health themes that explore something on which the reader can focus. Momentum pushes things along as the mystery envelops the reader, with chapters flowing by with ease, without doing too much at any single point. Ross has me hooked and this series is sure to be a great adventure.
Characters are well-placed and keep the reader guessing where things are headed. Dr. Alexander Gregory is back with his own spin on things, but it is the dual-personality issue that becomes one of the core aspects of the piece. Then reader is able to learn so much, while also serving as a conduit towards the murder investigation. Ross does well to present things in a serious and yet entertaining way, providing key development and backstory as needed to keep things on point. I am still trying to learn how Dr. Gregory’s life plays into the stories, as I want to know more about the protgonist as the novels progress. There is something here and I am still trying to put my finger on it.
Surprises are central to a story of this nature, particularly with an intriguing secondary character whose mental health issues provide a subplot. There is certainly a central push with these surprises, but Ross is also able to balance twists and surprises to add flavour to the reading experience. The reader may watch things alongside Dr. Gregory, who is never sure what he is facing. Ross keeps story on edge and makes sure there is little time to waste, as the case takes on some great turns before the final page revelation. I am looking for the next book to keep the series momentum going.
Kudos, Madam Ross, for tackling some great aspects in this piece.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
December 4, 2019
Having been blown away by the first book in the Alexander Gregory series, I couldn’t wait to jump into this one.
This time the author transports us to Paris. A wonderful city which is even more alive with it being fashion week. It was great to be introduced into a world I know nothing about even if it is due to horrific attacks but then it is a crime novel after all.
My heart went out to the victim that survives an horrific attack. You don’t have to be a model to know the impact having your face disfigured would cause. I was intrigued to see how Alex was going to get to the bottom of this case.
What was really interesting, was not only to see Alex in work mode but we get to see more of how events from the previous book have affected him. This being said, I would highly recommend reading that one before this one. There is no wonder he is fighting his own demons and it adds a little something to the story, making it darker and deeper.
Hysteria is an enthralling read filled full of mystery and suspense. I’m enjoying the different settings that the author takes her readers to as well as the tangled web she weaves, ensuring we are kept on our toes, not knowing how things are going to conclude.
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
This time the author transports us to Paris. A wonderful city which is even more alive with it being fashion week. It was great to be introduced into a world I know nothing about even if it is due to horrific attacks but then it is a crime novel after all.
My heart went out to the victim that survives an horrific attack. You don’t have to be a model to know the impact having your face disfigured would cause. I was intrigued to see how Alex was going to get to the bottom of this case.
What was really interesting, was not only to see Alex in work mode but we get to see more of how events from the previous book have affected him. This being said, I would highly recommend reading that one before this one. There is no wonder he is fighting his own demons and it adds a little something to the story, making it darker and deeper.
Hysteria is an enthralling read filled full of mystery and suspense. I’m enjoying the different settings that the author takes her readers to as well as the tangled web she weaves, ensuring we are kept on our toes, not knowing how things are going to conclude.
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
July 18, 2024
Simply stunning! This book just dispelled my thought that I was plugging my way through a painful book slump. I just needed the right book!! I literally read this in one go with just a small break for my daughter's birthday dinner.
Supremely enjoyable page turner that was as fascinating as it was entertaining.
Supremely enjoyable page turner that was as fascinating as it was entertaining.
June 10, 2023
I really wanted to like this book. I enjoyed the first book in this series, but I just couldn’t connect with this new cast of characters and Parisian background. As silly as it sounds, stopping every few pages to translate the French dialogue into English definitely affected this.
What ultimately threw me off was the plot and the pace, though.
***** SPOILERS AHEAD *****
*** END OF SPOILERS ***
At the end of this, I’ve decided to pause on the Gregory series for now. All in all I have faith book 3 will call back to its Irish book one roots.
What ultimately threw me off was the plot and the pace, though.
***** SPOILERS AHEAD *****
*** END OF SPOILERS ***
At the end of this, I’ve decided to pause on the Gregory series for now. All in all I have faith book 3 will call back to its Irish book one roots.
December 16, 2019
Disappointed in the generalisations and fantasies about mental illness
I'm finding the Alex Gregory novels difficult to read. As a mental health professional I find some of the assumptions in this book difficult to stomach. I understand that this book is a work of fiction, but some of the underlying ideas behind Alex's history are too farcical to believe. The astounding lack of self care, and non adherence to the ethics of his profession make for stomach churning reading. It took the shine off what could be a good series. I enjoy all the DCI Ryan novels, but these thrillers just don't come up to the same standard.
I'm finding the Alex Gregory novels difficult to read. As a mental health professional I find some of the assumptions in this book difficult to stomach. I understand that this book is a work of fiction, but some of the underlying ideas behind Alex's history are too farcical to believe. The astounding lack of self care, and non adherence to the ethics of his profession make for stomach churning reading. It took the shine off what could be a good series. I enjoy all the DCI Ryan novels, but these thrillers just don't come up to the same standard.
January 31, 2020
Eva Bisset’s life was a world away from the glitz and glamour of those involved in the world of fashion. Eva’s father had run a successful restaurant, and since his death her husband had taken over. Eva was never sure what kind of mood he would be in and if she would be sporting more bruises.
Dr Alexander Gregory is in Paris with his mentor Professor William Douglas, giving a speech about criminal profiling at the request of La Police Judiciaire, during what happened to be fashion week. A killer is targeting the models, and after the attempted murder of one of them he is called in by The Brigade Criminelle, an elite squad dealing with the most serious offences. Alex is tasked with working with the traumatised victim as her psychologist. Camille hasn’t spoken since she was attacked, which means the police are unable to get a handle on her attacker or understand the motive. Alex is asked to try and gain Camille’s trust and see if he can break through her silence.
"Gregory’s lips twisted into a reluctant smile. He couldn’t deny his interest had been piqued by the case, as well as his compassion. For any person to be rendered mute by such severe trauma was a cause of great sadness, and he yearned to help her—not merely so she could confirm her identity to the police and help to find the person responsible, but before any temporary damage became permanent and she was consigned to a life of silence."
Alex is still dealing with events from the previous book through the nightmares he suffers. Although there’s a barrier around his emotions, he is opening himself up a little more and showing his vulnerability. It’s not a natural inclination however, he is still challenged by internal struggles and his self control is still very much in evidence. It was good to get to know more of the man as well as the professional.
This series differs in that the storyline isn’t just written as a straight forward police procedural, but also through Alex’s perspective—so we are privy to the profiler/pyscologist insights into the impact on the victim and the lasting effects of trauma. The story also encompasses relevant issues concerning women in the working environment where men are in positions of power. Judging by revelations over the last few years and beyond, it’s an entirely plausible scenario.
Hugh Dancy’s narration was excellent again. I love the characterisation he gives to Alex, and although I enjoyed it, I didn’t find the story quite as engaging as Imposter.
Dr Alexander Gregory is in Paris with his mentor Professor William Douglas, giving a speech about criminal profiling at the request of La Police Judiciaire, during what happened to be fashion week. A killer is targeting the models, and after the attempted murder of one of them he is called in by The Brigade Criminelle, an elite squad dealing with the most serious offences. Alex is tasked with working with the traumatised victim as her psychologist. Camille hasn’t spoken since she was attacked, which means the police are unable to get a handle on her attacker or understand the motive. Alex is asked to try and gain Camille’s trust and see if he can break through her silence.
"Gregory’s lips twisted into a reluctant smile. He couldn’t deny his interest had been piqued by the case, as well as his compassion. For any person to be rendered mute by such severe trauma was a cause of great sadness, and he yearned to help her—not merely so she could confirm her identity to the police and help to find the person responsible, but before any temporary damage became permanent and she was consigned to a life of silence."
Alex is still dealing with events from the previous book through the nightmares he suffers. Although there’s a barrier around his emotions, he is opening himself up a little more and showing his vulnerability. It’s not a natural inclination however, he is still challenged by internal struggles and his self control is still very much in evidence. It was good to get to know more of the man as well as the professional.
This series differs in that the storyline isn’t just written as a straight forward police procedural, but also through Alex’s perspective—so we are privy to the profiler/pyscologist insights into the impact on the victim and the lasting effects of trauma. The story also encompasses relevant issues concerning women in the working environment where men are in positions of power. Judging by revelations over the last few years and beyond, it’s an entirely plausible scenario.
Hugh Dancy’s narration was excellent again. I love the characterisation he gives to Alex, and although I enjoyed it, I didn’t find the story quite as engaging as Imposter.
December 13, 2019
I enjoyed the story (although had to suspend reality for some of it) but my enjoyment was spoiled slightly by segments of untranslated French in the text. Maybe the author thought that everyone has a basic understanding of French, but I don't and pausing to use Google translate every couple of pages ruined it for me slightly. I will still read the next one as it looks like it is set in New York so hopefully all the characters will be speaking english!
December 23, 2024
Not as good as the first..
December 22, 2019
Good Escape Read for a Fast Break!
Book 2 of the series was okay but lacked the character development and storyline depth of the first volume. Be sure to read Book 1 first to fully understand and appreciate Dr Alex Gregory and the deep psychological issues troubling him.
The author's diversion to Paris as a setting was distracting, especially with French comments that added little to the characters or the storyline. As such, the first half of the book was slower but did contain most of the forensic, criminal profiling, while the last part of the book was more interesting.
After reading two books by LJ Ross, I find both endings abrupt and somewhat incomplete, wishing the author provided more satisfying and developed conclusions. One of the book's strengths was the lack of explicit profanity, sexuality, and violence, thereby allowing the story to stay focused.
I did enjoy how Dr. Gregory's internal conflicts and interpersonal relationship challenges directly influenced the storyline, especially how they linked back to Book 1. However, this could put readers at a disadvantage who started with Book 2.
Overall, I don't regret reading this second installment but felt the author missed an opportunity by not including more substance and engaging storyline depth to this book. I needed to learn more about the primary character to motivate my interest in the next installment.
The Audible narration was effective, overcoming some of the possible weaknesses of the incomplete story. I do plan to give the author another chance on the next volume.
Book 2 of the series was okay but lacked the character development and storyline depth of the first volume. Be sure to read Book 1 first to fully understand and appreciate Dr Alex Gregory and the deep psychological issues troubling him.
The author's diversion to Paris as a setting was distracting, especially with French comments that added little to the characters or the storyline. As such, the first half of the book was slower but did contain most of the forensic, criminal profiling, while the last part of the book was more interesting.
After reading two books by LJ Ross, I find both endings abrupt and somewhat incomplete, wishing the author provided more satisfying and developed conclusions. One of the book's strengths was the lack of explicit profanity, sexuality, and violence, thereby allowing the story to stay focused.
I did enjoy how Dr. Gregory's internal conflicts and interpersonal relationship challenges directly influenced the storyline, especially how they linked back to Book 1. However, this could put readers at a disadvantage who started with Book 2.
Overall, I don't regret reading this second installment but felt the author missed an opportunity by not including more substance and engaging storyline depth to this book. I needed to learn more about the primary character to motivate my interest in the next installment.
The Audible narration was effective, overcoming some of the possible weaknesses of the incomplete story. I do plan to give the author another chance on the next volume.
January 24, 2021
I'm finding the Alexander Gregory books a little harder to get into, probably because he's pretty much the only character that's in all of them. I struggled with some of the French language in this one too as I failed my French 'O' level 45 years ago and have barely touched it since! I thought I'd got a couple of the bad'uns sussed out part way through but nope! And the one who got collared right at the end was a real surprise! I guess that's why I don't write crime thrillers. Thoroughly enjoyed it though and just downloaded the next one x
October 8, 2022
Another great read in this series.
Alex is in Paris for a conference when he is pulled into an investigation as a young woman has been brutally attacked and left for dead in a hotel room.
With it being Fashion week in Paris there’s lots of models in the city and the victim was one of them.
She’s recovering well in hospital but it takes a few days for her to speak, although she seems to have lost her memory.
The Police and Alex work together to try and find her attacker but soon another model is attacked, and this time she is killed.
This was a clever thriller with an ending I didn’t see coming.
A great book.
Alex is in Paris for a conference when he is pulled into an investigation as a young woman has been brutally attacked and left for dead in a hotel room.
With it being Fashion week in Paris there’s lots of models in the city and the victim was one of them.
She’s recovering well in hospital but it takes a few days for her to speak, although she seems to have lost her memory.
The Police and Alex work together to try and find her attacker but soon another model is attacked, and this time she is killed.
This was a clever thriller with an ending I didn’t see coming.
A great book.
January 4, 2020
Hysteria este volumul doi al seriei Alexander Gegory Thrillers, primul fiind ImpostorImpostor. Dr ALex Gregory este psihiatru, lucrează la un spital de psihiatrie din Londra. Dacă în primul volum el este chemat în Mayo County, Irlanda, de data aceasta va fi invitat să asiste un caz din Paris, chiar în timpul săptămânii modei, când modelul unei cunoscute case de modă este găsită grav rănită în camera unui hotel.
Acțiunea este la fel de alertă ca în primul volum, doar că acum aflăm și mai multe detalii despre Alex Gregory și motivul pentru care acesta are coșmaruri cutremurătoare și de ce preferă celibatul. Însă pentru un celibatar convins, i se aprind călcâiele cam repede. Dacă ați avut impresia asta în primul volum, acum doar vi se confirmă bănuielile. Însă cazul are originalitate, are intrigă și are un sfârșit neașteptat. Adică tot ce îi trebuie pentru un thiller pe care să îl citești cu plăcere.
Acțiunea este la fel de alertă ca în primul volum, doar că acum aflăm și mai multe detalii despre Alex Gregory și motivul pentru care acesta are coșmaruri cutremurătoare și de ce preferă celibatul. Însă pentru un celibatar convins, i se aprind călcâiele cam repede. Dacă ați avut impresia asta în primul volum, acum doar vi se confirmă bănuielile. Însă cazul are originalitate, are intrigă și are un sfârșit neașteptat. Adică tot ce îi trebuie pentru un thiller pe care să îl citești cu plăcere.
no-dull-mwh-dmh-tstl-unsafe
January 14, 2020ETA 1.14.20: Went back to read a chapter or two, but the verdict is the same.
I read the first couple of chapters, but this series is just too dark, and the H is a wee bit depressing. I’m sure it’s well written, but it’s just not for me.
I read the first couple of chapters, but this series is just too dark, and the H is a wee bit depressing. I’m sure it’s well written, but it’s just not for me.
January 17, 2020
Not enjoying these as much as the Ryan books, this one was very slow to develop and I wasnt keen on the setting. The French sentences needed a translation. Hope I will enjoy the next one more.
December 10, 2019
I have to say, I'm loving this new series and it's protagonist, Dr Alexander Gregory. After the big revelations about his past in book one, you'd think there was little left to learn about him as a person, and yet LJ Ross still manages to drip feed new tidbits into the story all along the way, and the more I know, the more I warm to him and understand what drives who, and how, he is.
This time around the action moves from Ireland to France, with Gregory and his mentor, Bill, speaking at a conference in Paris. At the end of gregory's lecture, they are summoned by the Brigade Criminelle, the French equivalent of a Major Investigation Team, to attend the main Police Headquarters where they are asked to consult on the case of a vicious attack. The victim, a Paris fashion week model called Camille, has not spoken since the attack. With the police struggling to understand a motive, or to obtain any information about the victim, and turn to Gregory for his help in breaking through the wall of silence.
What I love about this series is that it takes us beyond the normal everyday process of a police investigation and allows us more of a glimpse into the minds of both the victim and the perpetrator. With Gregory being a clinical psychologist, his focus is every bit as much about the ongoing impacts of the event as it is simply finding out who is responsible. The way in which the human psyche is opened up to readers in a clear and accessible way, means that rather than being pushed out of the story by a lot of psycho-babble, you actually find yourself empathising with the victim even more than you may imagine, even though the victim in this case is a very unique and yet complicated soul.
The characterisation in the story is, as usual, spot on, with a wide variety of different personalities being brought to life before your eyes. As well as the largely controlled and stoic Gregory, you also see the darker side of his existence, and by that I mean the nightmares that plague him. He is a very troubled soul - understandably so - and it takes a lot to penetrate that hard protective shell he has built up. Someone in this story makes a good go of it, but you'll need to read the book to see if they succeed.
Beyond Gregory's inner turmoil, we meet a number of troubled souls, all caught up in the fashion world. Each character we meet has their own demons to battle, their own secrets that they are reluctant to share, each one of them drip fed to readers building tension and expectation perfectly. There is a thread which feeds through the story that kept me completely intrigued, wondering how it tied in with what was happening. Needless to say it did, with the author using her skill to pull all loose ends together in a very satisfying way.
How much the story reflects what really happens behind the scenes in the fashion world I don't want to guess. Certainly the storyline reflects a number of revelations that have come out about the entertainment industry as a whole in recent years - the whole 'Me Too' movement being reflected in the women's rights protests which take place in the story. It made the story very plausible, gave the reader a number of potential suspects to mull over, but left me with a conclusion which was still a complete surprise.
I'm really looking forward to seeing what comes in book three, and hoping that this series will continue on as Gregory is a character who has a lot to give. Don't get me wrong - I love Ryan and co and want to keep seeing them too, but Gregory is slowing worming his way into my heart and it is a series that has a lot to offer. (Sorry - I'm being a terribly demanding reader ...)
December 10, 2019
Alex goes to france
Brilliant plot never saw the twist at the end comming looking forward to the next book well done lj Ross
Brilliant plot never saw the twist at the end comming looking forward to the next book well done lj Ross
October 18, 2022
This has been sat on my shelf for some while since I finished the first of the series.
It was alright but I didnt find any connection with the characters and even the Parisian location of the story didnt really make it any better for me. I feel that I should have cared more about who the attacker was but somehow I was just reading it.
I dont know if it made it worse but I had my strong suspicions about the 'baddie' for a while even before the final report was received.
Sorry, but rather like the other series which I gave up after a couple of books, I dont think that i will be going any further with this one either.
It was alright but I didnt find any connection with the characters and even the Parisian location of the story didnt really make it any better for me. I feel that I should have cared more about who the attacker was but somehow I was just reading it.
I dont know if it made it worse but I had my strong suspicions about the 'baddie' for a while even before the final report was received.
Sorry, but rather like the other series which I gave up after a couple of books, I dont think that i will be going any further with this one either.
June 3, 2022
“When women are dying or being driven to extreme mental health conditions at the hands of powerful men in this community and around the world, I hope that we can learn one thing and remember it in times of sadness such as this. Whether you happen to be a man or a woman, or identify as neither, I am she, and she is me.
February 17, 2025
Dr Alex Gregory is helping the detectives look for the attacker of a model. We're not even quite sure what her name is. She was unconscious in a coma and , when she wakes up, she remembers nothing - not even who she is. Dr Gregory is brought in to try and work out the profile of the character who is likely to have committed such a crime.
April 16, 2021
The location is Paris, it's Fashion Week & Alexander receives a call from the Parisian police force who require his assistance when a model is left for dead in her hotel room & another is found murdered. I'm completely blown away by the ending 😱
April 28, 2023
The book was entertaining and full of surprises, I didn’t see the plot twists coming at all. The ending was a bit rushed though, but nevertheless I enjoyed the read.
January 18, 2020
The more books by L.J. Ross I read, the more impressed I become. The author has a knack for building such strong worlds inhabited by more real than real characters, rich of diverse backgrounds and unique paths. The Alexander Gregory series is becoming a lovely favourite of mine.
I couldn’t wait to meet our famous doctor again in Hysteria. Because I had agreed to read the book without reading the blurb (yes, I trust Louise this much) I had no idea I was embarking for a trip to my home country. A dear character walking near the Seine and eating baguettes? What a lovely cocktail of my old and new lives.
Paris’ Fashion Week. The usual frenzy that accompanies it. L.J. Ross depicts a dreamy Paris, with its crows, its wealth, but she doesn’t sell postcard cities. She takes your hand and shows you the other Paris. The everyday not-so-glamorous side of France’s capital. And dead bodies with mutilated faces. The contrasts between the city’s different sides associated by the differences between the French police and the UK system played a part in this story, at times reinforcing the parallels, at times widening the gaps.
Dr Gregory is proving to be more fascinating with each book. His expertise, although essential, never cuts him from the world and his peers. He finds himself spiraling with everyone else in a mysterious and somehow tragic investigation.
Intriguing doesn’t really describe the plot. Models have it all, don’t they? It turns out they don’t. Working with the only survivor of the mutilation attacks, our main character treads on difficult waters, and I was completely gripped on the model’s story. You don’t get to be able to work with survivors much in murder cases! How to get to the bottom of such a case with a traumatised model and no concrete leads? The impact of those attacks on women was real and deeper than physical.
L.J. Ross peels our skins to reveal the vulnerable and fragile parts of ourselves. Gregory doesn’t escape this. Throughout the book, everyone is scrutinized, and truths appear.
This series is rendered even more captivating as results of previous events and how they affect Dr Gregory spice up the stories. I can’t wait to know where we’ll be heading next!
Hysteria is a strong second installment in a delicious and clever series!
I couldn’t wait to meet our famous doctor again in Hysteria. Because I had agreed to read the book without reading the blurb (yes, I trust Louise this much) I had no idea I was embarking for a trip to my home country. A dear character walking near the Seine and eating baguettes? What a lovely cocktail of my old and new lives.
Paris’ Fashion Week. The usual frenzy that accompanies it. L.J. Ross depicts a dreamy Paris, with its crows, its wealth, but she doesn’t sell postcard cities. She takes your hand and shows you the other Paris. The everyday not-so-glamorous side of France’s capital. And dead bodies with mutilated faces. The contrasts between the city’s different sides associated by the differences between the French police and the UK system played a part in this story, at times reinforcing the parallels, at times widening the gaps.
Dr Gregory is proving to be more fascinating with each book. His expertise, although essential, never cuts him from the world and his peers. He finds himself spiraling with everyone else in a mysterious and somehow tragic investigation.
Intriguing doesn’t really describe the plot. Models have it all, don’t they? It turns out they don’t. Working with the only survivor of the mutilation attacks, our main character treads on difficult waters, and I was completely gripped on the model’s story. You don’t get to be able to work with survivors much in murder cases! How to get to the bottom of such a case with a traumatised model and no concrete leads? The impact of those attacks on women was real and deeper than physical.
L.J. Ross peels our skins to reveal the vulnerable and fragile parts of ourselves. Gregory doesn’t escape this. Throughout the book, everyone is scrutinized, and truths appear.
This series is rendered even more captivating as results of previous events and how they affect Dr Gregory spice up the stories. I can’t wait to know where we’ll be heading next!
Hysteria is a strong second installment in a delicious and clever series!
December 30, 2019
Great book! Alex Gregory was in Paris to give a speech when he was asked to help solve an attempted murder, and then a murder.
He did meet a girl that he got involved with, but his guilt is so strong he refused to let it go anywhere. And speaking of guilt, I’m getting tired of this guilt-trip he’s been on in the beginning of this new series. If this continues, I will definitely quit reading the Alex Gregory books. I’ve listened to all the DCI Ryan stories, all 14 of them, and never had to suffer through Ryan suffering through all kinds of guilt and I don’t want to do it in this series.
There was no romance or sex and no swearing.
As to the narration: Hugh Dancy is a good narrator, both his voices and his reading emotions.
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