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Alexander Gregory Thrillers #1
Impostor
Win a free print copy of this book!
3 days and 16:23:17
20 copies available
U.S. only
There’s a killer inside all of us…
After an elite criminal profiling unit is shut down amidst a storm of scandal and mismanagement, only one person emerges unscathed. Forensic psychologist Doctor Alexander Gregory has a reputation for being able to step inside the darkest minds to uncover whatever secrets lie hidden there and, soon enough, he finds himself drawn into the murky world of murder investigation.
In the beautiful hills of County Mayo, Ireland, a killer is on the loose. Panic has a stranglehold on its rural community and the Garda are running out of time. Gregory has sworn to follow a quiet life but, when the call comes, can he refuse to help their desperate search for justice?
Murder and mystery are peppered with dark humour in this fast-paced thriller set amidst the spectacular Irish landscape.
After an elite criminal profiling unit is shut down amidst a storm of scandal and mismanagement, only one person emerges unscathed. Forensic psychologist Doctor Alexander Gregory has a reputation for being able to step inside the darkest minds to uncover whatever secrets lie hidden there and, soon enough, he finds himself drawn into the murky world of murder investigation.
In the beautiful hills of County Mayo, Ireland, a killer is on the loose. Panic has a stranglehold on its rural community and the Garda are running out of time. Gregory has sworn to follow a quiet life but, when the call comes, can he refuse to help their desperate search for justice?
Murder and mystery are peppered with dark humour in this fast-paced thriller set amidst the spectacular Irish landscape.
295 pages, Paperback
First published October 31, 2019
19990 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Ross
58 books3,230 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 1,115 reviews
October 25, 2019
Before we get down and dirty with this book, let's address the elephant, (or should I say 'male god') in the room; a certain Hugh Dancy - narrator. Is it fair to say that with that face he's wasted as a narrator? He should be a supermodel, or replace the Statue of Liberty, or marry me, (I prefer option 3). His voice matches his looks, smooth and sophisticated, like hot, melted chocolate. If I tell you I took LJ Ross to bed, but imagined Hugh Dancy - will you judge me? Actually, I don't care, because I did and it was the best threesome I've had, ever! Impostor is a work of art. She's a wily one that Ms Ross. I was hooked from about word 8. Alexander Gregory is a divine creation, he's sitting at my right at my next imaginary dinner party. We've only touched on his back story, I feel I know him quite well but am chomping at the bit to become better acquainted. Off he flies to County Hoo-Haw, a rural community with barely a need for a part time police officer, to help sort out a bizarre murder. And here is where Ms Ross' conniving really comes to the fore. As each new character is introduced I was sure I had solved the murder as every single person became a credible suspect. There were so many red herrings I was worried I might slip on one on my way to the fridge. When Dr Gregory had obviously figured it out and I hadn't I became frustrated that I couldn't listen quicker! What a denouement it was - I'm not saying more in case of spoilers, but I had been listening whilst on my way to a GP appointment and had to stop the nurse calling an ambulance because my pulse was racing so fast. Then just when you breath a sigh of relief at the epilogue and are thinking, "That was brilliant", in Ms Ross storms again with a contrivance of such inventiveness you may find steam escaping from your ears. So, in conclusion, 7+ hours of hot, melted chocolate poured into your ears by a male god who was supplied by a genius writer who's pen should be registered as a lethal weapon. Would I recommend Impostor? That's like asking if I recommend breathing; of course, I don't just recommend it, I'm telling you that you NEED it in your life! So quickly, buy it now. You can thank me later.
January 9, 2020
Wow, that was a fantastic start to a new series. When I first heard there was a new series by the author I first thing was does that mean no more DCI Ryan. But thankfully not the case.
Dr Alexander Gregory is an elite forensic psychologist and profiler. With a unique insight and skill set. I was hooked from page 1 and not let go until the end . Even them book 2 description has me hooked.
Not one word was wasted, in this, wonderful emotive and descriptive piece about a small Irish town and it's people with a psychopath amongst them.
I think I have my first contender for book of the year, it will be tough to beat. Deserves more than 5 Stars.
Dr Alexander Gregory is an elite forensic psychologist and profiler. With a unique insight and skill set. I was hooked from page 1 and not let go until the end . Even them book 2 description has me hooked.
Not one word was wasted, in this, wonderful emotive and descriptive piece about a small Irish town and it's people with a psychopath amongst them.
I think I have my first contender for book of the year, it will be tough to beat. Deserves more than 5 Stars.
November 25, 2020
This is a great start to a new series featuring forensic psychologist. Alexander Gregory currently works in a high security psychiatric hospital in London but was previously part of a now disbanded psychological profiling unit that worked with the police. The murder of a young woman in a small town in County Mayo has the local Gardai scratching their heads trying to find clues or motives and Alex is asked if he could provide a profile of the likely suspect.
When Alex visits the murder scene and talks to the Gardai he believes that the well planned killing and staging of the victim, a well-loved mother and wife, suggests someone local hiding in plain sight who suffered great trauma when they were young. But with no fingerprints or DNA evidence left at the scene or that of a second murder it's hard for the Gardai to narrow down who in their community might be guilty.
I don't know enough about psychology/psychiatry to know if a profiler can determine so much about a suspect from studying the crime itself but it makes an interesting premise for a crime series. As well as Alex's interactions with the police, we also see him at work in the psychiatric hospital, in particular in sessions a very difficult patient who killed two of her children through Munchausen's syndrome. He's an unassuming character, empathetic and not at all arrogant, who listens to those around him, although suffered from childhood trauma himself. I look forward to getting to know more about him as the series progresses.
When Alex visits the murder scene and talks to the Gardai he believes that the well planned killing and staging of the victim, a well-loved mother and wife, suggests someone local hiding in plain sight who suffered great trauma when they were young. But with no fingerprints or DNA evidence left at the scene or that of a second murder it's hard for the Gardai to narrow down who in their community might be guilty.
I don't know enough about psychology/psychiatry to know if a profiler can determine so much about a suspect from studying the crime itself but it makes an interesting premise for a crime series. As well as Alex's interactions with the police, we also see him at work in the psychiatric hospital, in particular in sessions a very difficult patient who killed two of her children through Munchausen's syndrome. He's an unassuming character, empathetic and not at all arrogant, who listens to those around him, although suffered from childhood trauma himself. I look forward to getting to know more about him as the series progresses.
March 1, 2025
**Read 4.25 STARS!**
This remarkable crime story is the 1st volume of a new series called the "Alexander Gregory" thriller series.
At the beginning of the book you'll find a very appropriate phrase taken from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Boscombe Valley Mystery", along with excellent storytelling by the author, and which includes also a cast of very lifelike characters, these important ingredients make this book about a psychopathic murder committed by a person who's living in a fantasy world and carrying burdens throughout his/her life, a great read.
The book starts off with a prologue set in 1987, and events which will occur then with his mother and younger brother Christopher will concern our main protagonist Dr Alexander Gregory, forensic pathologist and occasional profiler, and will shape him as a person and a specialist in the future, especially when he has a patient called Cathy Jones and his relationship to her will be known at the end of the book.
In the main story set in 2017, Dr Alexander Gregory, forensic psychologist at the Southmoor Hospital in London, is called in to act as a criminal profiler for a murder committed in Ballyfinny, County Mayo, Ireland, and so assist the local Garda, brothers Niall and Connor Byrne in particular, in an attempt to find the killer of this murder.
Along the way one more killing will follow, and Dr Alex Gregory is able to find a kind of pattern and the reason of these killings, until in the end Alex and Niall Byrne will be to apprehend the surprising impostor killer, who's an organised but unstable kind of person at the same time, while Alexander Gregory will be confronted with some sad home truths of his own at the Southmoor Hospital, a home of the mentally very sick.
What is to follow is a well researched and action-packed psychological thriller, with a wonderful storyline and ending with a well executed plot, and where some home truths will be revealed in the end, both in Ireland and England.
Highly recommended, for this is an exciting begin of this new series, and that's why I like to call this first episode: "An Engrossing Psycho Killer"!
This remarkable crime story is the 1st volume of a new series called the "Alexander Gregory" thriller series.
At the beginning of the book you'll find a very appropriate phrase taken from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Boscombe Valley Mystery", along with excellent storytelling by the author, and which includes also a cast of very lifelike characters, these important ingredients make this book about a psychopathic murder committed by a person who's living in a fantasy world and carrying burdens throughout his/her life, a great read.
The book starts off with a prologue set in 1987, and events which will occur then with his mother and younger brother Christopher will concern our main protagonist Dr Alexander Gregory, forensic pathologist and occasional profiler, and will shape him as a person and a specialist in the future, especially when he has a patient called Cathy Jones and his relationship to her will be known at the end of the book.
In the main story set in 2017, Dr Alexander Gregory, forensic psychologist at the Southmoor Hospital in London, is called in to act as a criminal profiler for a murder committed in Ballyfinny, County Mayo, Ireland, and so assist the local Garda, brothers Niall and Connor Byrne in particular, in an attempt to find the killer of this murder.
Along the way one more killing will follow, and Dr Alex Gregory is able to find a kind of pattern and the reason of these killings, until in the end Alex and Niall Byrne will be to apprehend the surprising impostor killer, who's an organised but unstable kind of person at the same time, while Alexander Gregory will be confronted with some sad home truths of his own at the Southmoor Hospital, a home of the mentally very sick.
What is to follow is a well researched and action-packed psychological thriller, with a wonderful storyline and ending with a well executed plot, and where some home truths will be revealed in the end, both in Ireland and England.
Highly recommended, for this is an exciting begin of this new series, and that's why I like to call this first episode: "An Engrossing Psycho Killer"!
October 6, 2020
Imposter is one of the more aptly named books I have ever read.
Alexander Gregory was once, supposedly, a member of an elite psychological profiling group but is now serving as a psychologist in a hospital for the criminally insane, to use an old moniker. The author, however, appears to know nothing about psychology or psychologists. I feel comfortable in saying this because I spent my career working in applied psychology having received my doctorate from a quite well known university.
I read about 60% of the book and was determined to complete it but, it was so badly done that I was unable to push myself to do so. L.J. Ross' failings included, but were not limited to the following. He seemed not to understand the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist and sometimes used the terms almost interchangeably. His protagonist, Gregory, operated as an investigator and did not, in the portion of the book that I read, use any psychological or profiling principles with which I am familiar. He did, unfortunately, use only the most simplistic forms of "pop" psychology of the type found in the many so-called self-help books written by charlatans and TV show hosts.
The "therapeutic" approach used by Gregory in working with his patients was, at best, comical and at worst, ridiculous. In fact, the so-called therapist was downright hostile at times and at others, was just inappropriate. All in all, the portrayal could best be as wretched.
Having said all of that, I will admit that the story was interesting and I really did want to stick with it long enough to find out who the murderer was but I lacked the tolerance.
Over and Out
Alexander Gregory was once, supposedly, a member of an elite psychological profiling group but is now serving as a psychologist in a hospital for the criminally insane, to use an old moniker. The author, however, appears to know nothing about psychology or psychologists. I feel comfortable in saying this because I spent my career working in applied psychology having received my doctorate from a quite well known university.
I read about 60% of the book and was determined to complete it but, it was so badly done that I was unable to push myself to do so. L.J. Ross' failings included, but were not limited to the following. He seemed not to understand the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist and sometimes used the terms almost interchangeably. His protagonist, Gregory, operated as an investigator and did not, in the portion of the book that I read, use any psychological or profiling principles with which I am familiar. He did, unfortunately, use only the most simplistic forms of "pop" psychology of the type found in the many so-called self-help books written by charlatans and TV show hosts.
The "therapeutic" approach used by Gregory in working with his patients was, at best, comical and at worst, ridiculous. In fact, the so-called therapist was downright hostile at times and at others, was just inappropriate. All in all, the portrayal could best be as wretched.
Having said all of that, I will admit that the story was interesting and I really did want to stick with it long enough to find out who the murderer was but I lacked the tolerance.
Over and Out
November 13, 2023
Again for a great audiobook, I sometimes wonder if the story was so good or the narrator!
Please do read more books Mr. Dancy.
Good suspense from a psychological point of view.
Please do read more books Mr. Dancy.
Good suspense from a psychological point of view.
November 17, 2019
Oh my days! From the opening pages of this book, I was well and truly hooked.
I don’t want to say to much to spoil it for others but I was very much intrigued with the thread to do with Cathy Jones. The whole thing to do with her fascinated me and could understand to a certain extent why Alex seemed to be almost obsessed with her.
Now I don’t know about you, but I am as intrigued as to the why’s, than just the who. Why do people kill? So for me, having a main character who is a forensic psychologist couldn’t have sold this book to me more. Whilst you feel the urgency of stopping a killer and finding out who is behind it. I knew that through Alex, we would also spend time on the why’s. Saying that though, when we find out who the killer is, wow I was blown away. Literally!
Impostor is an absolutely fabulous start to a new crime series. I loved it, loved it, loved it! It started brilliant and the ending totally messed with my mind. The journey in between just made for a compulsive read. Omg I am so excited for book two!
My thanks to the author for a readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
I don’t want to say to much to spoil it for others but I was very much intrigued with the thread to do with Cathy Jones. The whole thing to do with her fascinated me and could understand to a certain extent why Alex seemed to be almost obsessed with her.
Now I don’t know about you, but I am as intrigued as to the why’s, than just the who. Why do people kill? So for me, having a main character who is a forensic psychologist couldn’t have sold this book to me more. Whilst you feel the urgency of stopping a killer and finding out who is behind it. I knew that through Alex, we would also spend time on the why’s. Saying that though, when we find out who the killer is, wow I was blown away. Literally!
Impostor is an absolutely fabulous start to a new crime series. I loved it, loved it, loved it! It started brilliant and the ending totally messed with my mind. The journey in between just made for a compulsive read. Omg I am so excited for book two!
My thanks to the author for a readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
November 27, 2025
I love police procedurals if they are written well. I especially enjoyed this one as the profiler is the leading character, and we start to get to know him along with the case he is working to solve.
The author created a fabulous twisty small-town murder mystery that is tough to put down. The main character is complex and reluctant with his gift. From psych hospitals to crime scenes, this is a compelling and suspenseful read.
The setting is perfect and pulls the reader in along with the secondary characters. Ross developed this story with precision and enough psychological suspense to keep the tension at the perfect pitch.
Imposter is a compelling and twisty read not to be missed. I cannot wait for more from this author. Plus, I need to go back and read her other works, too! Adding to my Best Of list!
~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/impostor-by-...
The author created a fabulous twisty small-town murder mystery that is tough to put down. The main character is complex and reluctant with his gift. From psych hospitals to crime scenes, this is a compelling and suspenseful read.
The setting is perfect and pulls the reader in along with the secondary characters. Ross developed this story with precision and enough psychological suspense to keep the tension at the perfect pitch.
Imposter is a compelling and twisty read not to be missed. I cannot wait for more from this author. Plus, I need to go back and read her other works, too! Adding to my Best Of list!
~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/impostor-by-...
November 28, 2025
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, L.J. Ross, and Poisoned Penny Press for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
L. J. Ross is an author new to me, but whose writing has long been entertaining readers. After an elite British profiling unit is closed down, a number of highly-skilled individuals scatter across the United Kingdom. Back in academics and private practice, Dr. Alexander Gregory is free when the Garda need assistance with a murder in County Mayo. Dr. Gregory is one of the UK’s most talented psychologist who is often able to assess the minds of the most intense killers. While Dr. Gregory is hesitant, wanting to focus on a quiet life, he agrees to take a crack at things, if only to provide needed guidance. As the investigation gains intensity, Dr. Gregory will have to stave off suspicions that he only wants to be in the spotlight and show his abilities, as the body count increases. L.J. Ross delivers a strong series debut.
I am always eager to discover new thriller authors, particularly those who can hold my attention with a strong crime element. L.J. Ross delivers a strong story that keeps the reader focused on the crimes at hand while using an Irish setting as a stunning backdrop. The story builds with a variety of narrative techniques, each of which enriches the larger story. Momentum pushes things along as the mystery envelops the reader, with chapters providing an edgy spin. This series debut keeps the reader curious and eager to read on.
Characters are impactful as their backstories connect well with ongoing development. Readers are presented varied personalities,
allowing them to see all moving parts while trying to solve the case at hand. Many characters are able to push the plot along while flavouring the piece with their respective layers. Ross did well with her character development and has me eager to see where Dr. Alexander Gregory is headed with the next novel.
Surprises are core in a police procedural or thriller, as it creates an entertaining foundation. Balancing twists and surprises adds something more to the reading experience. The reader may ponder the unpredictable while trying to solve things in short order, alongside Dr. Gregory. Ross keeps story on edge and drops some crumbs to keep the reader wondering, while they eye the second novel in this series. I cannot wait to see what Ross has in store for Dr. Gregory and everyone involved.
Kudos, Madam Ross, for a great series debut thriller.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
L. J. Ross is an author new to me, but whose writing has long been entertaining readers. After an elite British profiling unit is closed down, a number of highly-skilled individuals scatter across the United Kingdom. Back in academics and private practice, Dr. Alexander Gregory is free when the Garda need assistance with a murder in County Mayo. Dr. Gregory is one of the UK’s most talented psychologist who is often able to assess the minds of the most intense killers. While Dr. Gregory is hesitant, wanting to focus on a quiet life, he agrees to take a crack at things, if only to provide needed guidance. As the investigation gains intensity, Dr. Gregory will have to stave off suspicions that he only wants to be in the spotlight and show his abilities, as the body count increases. L.J. Ross delivers a strong series debut.
I am always eager to discover new thriller authors, particularly those who can hold my attention with a strong crime element. L.J. Ross delivers a strong story that keeps the reader focused on the crimes at hand while using an Irish setting as a stunning backdrop. The story builds with a variety of narrative techniques, each of which enriches the larger story. Momentum pushes things along as the mystery envelops the reader, with chapters providing an edgy spin. This series debut keeps the reader curious and eager to read on.
Characters are impactful as their backstories connect well with ongoing development. Readers are presented varied personalities,
allowing them to see all moving parts while trying to solve the case at hand. Many characters are able to push the plot along while flavouring the piece with their respective layers. Ross did well with her character development and has me eager to see where Dr. Alexander Gregory is headed with the next novel.
Surprises are core in a police procedural or thriller, as it creates an entertaining foundation. Balancing twists and surprises adds something more to the reading experience. The reader may ponder the unpredictable while trying to solve things in short order, alongside Dr. Gregory. Ross keeps story on edge and drops some crumbs to keep the reader wondering, while they eye the second novel in this series. I cannot wait to see what Ross has in store for Dr. Gregory and everyone involved.
Kudos, Madam Ross, for a great series debut thriller.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
December 15, 2025
Hawt diggity dawg, this book was such a BANGER! I mean, impossible to put down! I got this at the Bouchercon Conference in September, and boy, it’s been one of my favorite finds from there! 🤩
Dr. Alex Gregory is a psychologist and a phenomenal profiler who works in a hospital for the criminally insane. He gets called to Ireland for a murder case where a mother is meticulously staged.
As more bodies start to pile up, Alex works hard to catch a ki.ller with the Ireland Garda. The hunt is on ….. and man, is it ever!
Alex Gregory is such a fascinating character! My favorite thrillers are ones that feature psychologists and psychiatrists. He has the ability to step inside your mind.
This story kept me guessing NONSTOP! I kept changing my mind. There’s nothing like a thriller that holds you hostage and this is the one!
Perfect for fans of Michael Robotham and Helen Fields! Don’t miss out on this stellar psychological thriller!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pub date 2/3/26 in the US
Dr. Alex Gregory is a psychologist and a phenomenal profiler who works in a hospital for the criminally insane. He gets called to Ireland for a murder case where a mother is meticulously staged.
As more bodies start to pile up, Alex works hard to catch a ki.ller with the Ireland Garda. The hunt is on ….. and man, is it ever!
Alex Gregory is such a fascinating character! My favorite thrillers are ones that feature psychologists and psychiatrists. He has the ability to step inside your mind.
This story kept me guessing NONSTOP! I kept changing my mind. There’s nothing like a thriller that holds you hostage and this is the one!
Perfect for fans of Michael Robotham and Helen Fields! Don’t miss out on this stellar psychological thriller!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pub date 2/3/26 in the US
January 6, 2020
La sugestia unei prietene am încercat ceva scris de L.J. Ross, o scriitoare populară în UK și nu regret deloc alegerea. Am ales o serie, cum alta, în care personaj principal este dr. Alex Gregory, psihiatru de meserie, cu un trecut într-o ramură a criminalisticii care încă stârnește controverse: profilul criminalist. Deducem că a colaborat în trecut cu poliția ca profiler și cazul a eșuat, iar el și echipa lui au devenit țapi ispășitori. Alex Gregory este un personaj destul de complex, cu propriile schelete în dulap, iar printre detaliile din anchetă vedem și câte ceva din ce se întâmplă la locul său de muncă, un spital de psihiatrie. Când o tânără mamă, iubită și respectată de întreaga comunitate din micul oraș Ballyfinny, County Mayo, Irlanda, este ucisă într-un mod brutal, cu totul atipic, primarul orașului, mama a doi dintre investigatorii orașului, îl cheamă pe dr Alex Gregory în ajutor (nu știu cât de credibil este acest lucru, dar neavând tangențe în acea zonă, mi se pare un mic, mic detaliu). Și când dr. Alex Gregory intră în scenă, ai impresia că nu s-au schimbat prea multe în cei 100 de ani dintre acțiunea din Alienistul lui Caleb Carr și prezentul lui L. J. Ross în privința atitudinii anchetatorilor față de spijinul primit de la psihiatrii.
Cartea are acțiune, are consistență (deși este destul de scurtă pentru un thriller), are personaje frumos construite. Și are un sfârșit bun și surprinzător, chiar și după câteva sute de thrillere citite. Cu siguranță este o serie la care voi fi atentă în continuare.
Pentru această carte am ales varianta audiobook și vocea naratorului este pur și simplu magnifică. Apoi cauți și tu pe google, să vezi cine poate avea așa o voce și îl vezi. Păi să te mai concetrezi pe acțiune?? Și accentul irlandez...
Cartea are acțiune, are consistență (deși este destul de scurtă pentru un thriller), are personaje frumos construite. Și are un sfârșit bun și surprinzător, chiar și după câteva sute de thrillere citite. Cu siguranță este o serie la care voi fi atentă în continuare.
Pentru această carte am ales varianta audiobook și vocea naratorului este pur și simplu magnifică. Apoi cauți și tu pe google, să vezi cine poate avea așa o voce și îl vezi. Păi să te mai concetrezi pe acțiune?? Și accentul irlandez...
Read
October 29, 2019Unfortunately it was not a book for me.
I read Impostor to completion but, being Irish myself, I was a bit surprised at some of the inaccuracies about Ireland within the text and the story line.
The plot line was interesting but I just could not get beyond some glaring errors, in particular the continued reference to the Garda, used as the plural. It should read An Garda Síochána or the Gardaí. Also the Catholic church does not have Sunday School and the likelihood of a mayor of a small town in Mayo contacting a profiler in the UK for assistance in a murder inquiry over the heads of the local Gardaí just did not sit well with me.
Not for me I'm afraid.....
I read Impostor to completion but, being Irish myself, I was a bit surprised at some of the inaccuracies about Ireland within the text and the story line.
The plot line was interesting but I just could not get beyond some glaring errors, in particular the continued reference to the Garda, used as the plural. It should read An Garda Síochána or the Gardaí. Also the Catholic church does not have Sunday School and the likelihood of a mayor of a small town in Mayo contacting a profiler in the UK for assistance in a murder inquiry over the heads of the local Gardaí just did not sit well with me.
Not for me I'm afraid.....
December 26, 2019
LJ Ross new series (a departure from DCI Ryan), the Impostor introduces forensic psychologist Doctor Alexander Gregory. Gregory’s day job is looking after patients at Southmoor Hospital in London but, he is called to assist the County Mayo police by profiling a killer. His last case did not go so well therefore. Gregory applies himself with increased determination to see this one through.
Gregory is a complex character and will butt heads with other people, the town mayor and the head the Garda make a difficult start to his investigation. There is a sense of a typical small town where everyone knows each other, but maybe not as well as they think. Easy flowing story with surprises along the way and the standard unexpected twist at the end.
Gregory is a complex character and will butt heads with other people, the town mayor and the head the Garda make a difficult start to his investigation. There is a sense of a typical small town where everyone knows each other, but maybe not as well as they think. Easy flowing story with surprises along the way and the standard unexpected twist at the end.
September 24, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ Review to come. 🫶
October 23, 2019
WOW! What a start to a new series!!
Those who know me well will know I’m a massive fan of LJ Ross and her DCI Ryan Mysteries. I was SO excited when I discovered there was going to be a new series featuring forensic psychologist Alexander Gregory and I couldn’t wait to read it. It will be released on 31st October and you are in for a real treat!
A quiet town, with a close-knit community, in Ireland is shocked by the devastating death of a young mother. She has lost her life at the hands of another and it’s clear her murder has been planned and meticulously executed. This was no random act of violence.
Alexander Gregory’s help is requested as a profiler and although reluctant he decides to assist in any way he can. Nothing could prepare him for what he was about to become involved in, but his expertise proves to be crucial in finding this killer.
Nothing could prepare me for that ending! SO clever!
I loved the characters in this book, some very complex. I loved learning more about Gregory. I loved the setting, the whole everyone knowing everyone’s business (or thinking they do) aspect of a small town. The disbelief that one of their own could be capable of such horrific crimes is very believable. There is such depth to the characters that LJ Ross writes so they very easily seem like real people to me. The plot and twists throughout the story are genius, but the characters really make it for me. Once again, I was instantly drawn in and invested in their stories.
This is another book which commanded my attention from the very first to the very last page and I will have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone. I can’t wait for book 2!
A big thank you to LJ Ross for my review copy.
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2019/10/2...
Those who know me well will know I’m a massive fan of LJ Ross and her DCI Ryan Mysteries. I was SO excited when I discovered there was going to be a new series featuring forensic psychologist Alexander Gregory and I couldn’t wait to read it. It will be released on 31st October and you are in for a real treat!
A quiet town, with a close-knit community, in Ireland is shocked by the devastating death of a young mother. She has lost her life at the hands of another and it’s clear her murder has been planned and meticulously executed. This was no random act of violence.
Alexander Gregory’s help is requested as a profiler and although reluctant he decides to assist in any way he can. Nothing could prepare him for what he was about to become involved in, but his expertise proves to be crucial in finding this killer.
Nothing could prepare me for that ending! SO clever!
I loved the characters in this book, some very complex. I loved learning more about Gregory. I loved the setting, the whole everyone knowing everyone’s business (or thinking they do) aspect of a small town. The disbelief that one of their own could be capable of such horrific crimes is very believable. There is such depth to the characters that LJ Ross writes so they very easily seem like real people to me. The plot and twists throughout the story are genius, but the characters really make it for me. Once again, I was instantly drawn in and invested in their stories.
This is another book which commanded my attention from the very first to the very last page and I will have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone. I can’t wait for book 2!
A big thank you to LJ Ross for my review copy.
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2019/10/2...
August 21, 2022
Simply superb!
October 11, 2025
I received a free copy of, Impostor, by LJ. Ross, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book one of the Alexander Gregory Thrillers series. Dr. Alexander Gregory is a forensic psychologist. There is a killer in County Mayo, Ireland, can Dr. Gregory help catch them? This was a good thriller, perfect for a Halloween read.
October 25, 2019
VISIT THE LOCATIONS IN THE NEW L J ROSS NOVEL
You know when a top author writes a new series with a new characters and a totally new setting (where setting has in the past been key) and you wonder if this new series is going to have that same charm and interest?
Well you will not be disappointed. L J Ross has moved to County Mayo (well not really but the first in the new series is set here)
It's gripping, it's exciting with a fresh premise and a great lead character. LOTS to like here. The writing is as effortless as ever and the characters are those you immediately care about and invest in.
Out in October but put this cracking new series on your wish list!
The full review on The BookTrail
September 25, 2025
This was an ARC read for me.
The Imposter was good and I enjoyed the read for the most part. I wasn't turning pages like a fiend to get to the end, but I did wonder who the killer was and how things would weave together. My struggle was with the interchangeable use of Alex and Gregory. It felt extremely inconsistent to me that in the course of a page the main character could be referred to as Doc, Doctor, Alex, or Gregory. Add to the fact that it is two FIRST names and it just got aggravating. In the first few chapters I had to keep reminding myself it wasn't two separate characters.
The Imposter was good and I enjoyed the read for the most part. I wasn't turning pages like a fiend to get to the end, but I did wonder who the killer was and how things would weave together. My struggle was with the interchangeable use of Alex and Gregory. It felt extremely inconsistent to me that in the course of a page the main character could be referred to as Doc, Doctor, Alex, or Gregory. Add to the fact that it is two FIRST names and it just got aggravating. In the first few chapters I had to keep reminding myself it wasn't two separate characters.
December 22, 2025
I really enjoyed this thriller!! I really hope it's a start to a series, as I feel it could absolutely grow into something great. It's a story of a psychologist that has done some profiling in his spare time, and he is asked to consult on a case. There are so many suspects, and trust me, you won't figure it out. And, there's an extra twist at the end you definitely don't see coming!
Thank you to Net Galley and Poisoned Pen Press for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Net Galley and Poisoned Pen Press for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 21, 2025
4.5 stars. Loved it. Can't wait to read the rest.
November 8, 2019
Forensic psychologist Dr Alexander Gregory’s assistance has been requested, in his capacity as a profiler, from the mayor of Ballyfinny, County Mayo.
Liam Kelly had arrived home with his daughter after her swimming class to find his pregnant wife murdered in their home. Meticulously planned and executed, Claire Kelly’s murder begs the question would an outsider be able to plan and carry out an attack of this nature, as the Gardaí believed. Alex wasn’t so sure. That such a thing could happen in the small, close knit community has shocked and saddened the residents of Ballyfinny beyond measure.
Initially reluctant to accept the request after a profiling unit he was a member of previously became the scapegoat when a case went awry. His life revolves around his work with people legally detained by the courts for their own safety and that of others, but some soul searching and a conversation with his friend and mentor changes his mind and Alex agrees to travel to Ireland.
The flight to Ireland in the small plane was a white knuckle ride and Alex was thankful to touch down, although the sight of green hills and glistening lakes that greeted him once they were through the layers of cloud almost made it all worthwhile. Mayor Margaret Byrne was there to meet him. Her sons, Niall and Connor, are the two main officers heading the investigation and she makes it plain there’s opposition to bringing in an outsider. The introduction of a profiler, especially one who doesn’t ‘belong’, adds a different angle, one that I enjoyed very much.
Alex is a deep, complex character who is deeply affected by those he deals with, which causes him to be tormented by nightmares. He tends to be guarded and, although we do get to know him up to a point, I think this introduction only really scratches the surface leaving much to be explored in future books. I look forward to seeing how his character develops. He has an instinct for understanding criminals and the way their minds work which is put to good use in this story, despite the initial local scepticism. It’s a moving story given the murderer’s methods and the closeness of the community. The characters are all well drawn and diverse, not at all prepared for the events that develop.
The small, typically Irish town and surrounding scenery is vividly portrayed, as are the feelings of fearfulness and suspicion where before there was only a sense of community and ease. Impostor is a very well written, steadily evolving plot with a strong opening, an ending that came as a complete surprise and several potential suspects popping up throughout. Hugh Dancy’s narration is wonderful, achieving the perfect combination of tone, seriousness, and realistic accents.
Liam Kelly had arrived home with his daughter after her swimming class to find his pregnant wife murdered in their home. Meticulously planned and executed, Claire Kelly’s murder begs the question would an outsider be able to plan and carry out an attack of this nature, as the Gardaí believed. Alex wasn’t so sure. That such a thing could happen in the small, close knit community has shocked and saddened the residents of Ballyfinny beyond measure.
Initially reluctant to accept the request after a profiling unit he was a member of previously became the scapegoat when a case went awry. His life revolves around his work with people legally detained by the courts for their own safety and that of others, but some soul searching and a conversation with his friend and mentor changes his mind and Alex agrees to travel to Ireland.
The flight to Ireland in the small plane was a white knuckle ride and Alex was thankful to touch down, although the sight of green hills and glistening lakes that greeted him once they were through the layers of cloud almost made it all worthwhile. Mayor Margaret Byrne was there to meet him. Her sons, Niall and Connor, are the two main officers heading the investigation and she makes it plain there’s opposition to bringing in an outsider. The introduction of a profiler, especially one who doesn’t ‘belong’, adds a different angle, one that I enjoyed very much.
Alex is a deep, complex character who is deeply affected by those he deals with, which causes him to be tormented by nightmares. He tends to be guarded and, although we do get to know him up to a point, I think this introduction only really scratches the surface leaving much to be explored in future books. I look forward to seeing how his character develops. He has an instinct for understanding criminals and the way their minds work which is put to good use in this story, despite the initial local scepticism. It’s a moving story given the murderer’s methods and the closeness of the community. The characters are all well drawn and diverse, not at all prepared for the events that develop.
The small, typically Irish town and surrounding scenery is vividly portrayed, as are the feelings of fearfulness and suspicion where before there was only a sense of community and ease. Impostor is a very well written, steadily evolving plot with a strong opening, an ending that came as a complete surprise and several potential suspects popping up throughout. Hugh Dancy’s narration is wonderful, achieving the perfect combination of tone, seriousness, and realistic accents.
December 15, 2019
4.5 Stars! What a great book, so glad to have seen a few very positive Goodreader review's on this. This was just the well-written style mystery that I have been looking for these past few weeks. L.J. Ross writes all characters well but Cathy Jones is an extremely interesting one. Almost grabs you as Hannibal Lecture did. Alexander Gregory is also very well written and believable. All characters are believable, something I've been missing in the last half-dozen books.
Well done L.J. Ross! Can't wait for #2 to be released.
Well done L.J. Ross! Can't wait for #2 to be released.
August 29, 2020
I'm really not sure what the positive reviews are all about. Perhaps they are related to the fact that the book is available for free via Kindle Unlimited but if I had paid for this book I would be deeply unhappy. Cumbersome writing, clunky dialog, poorly written characters. The plot is twisty and quite compelling - with both Alex Gregory's 'home' life and the plot in Ireland providing some satisfaction -but a plot alone does not a satisfactory read make. I can't recommend using your time on this book with so many better-written crime novels and series available in the world.
July 11, 2020
Yet another of those heroes with a traumatic past who solves a mystery. It’s one that could have been very ordinary , but turned out to be quite entertaining . It’s low on suspense, but has a well-constructed plot, and has a mystery that unravels nicely. I thought the frequent dream sequences were a little overdone, and didn’t much care for the profiler as a character, but it was a positive read and I will get around to the second in the series in the coming months.
September 2, 2020
I am sick of reading crime novels where the perpetrator is the person you least suspect just to provide a twist. The main character should be ashamed of how badly wrong his profile was! I cannot believe this book was nominated for an award.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2025
Enjoyable though fairly formulaic, but maybe I've just watched too much Criminal Minds
May 5, 2022
I was fascinated and utterly hooked on the story. The plot is engrossing. The writing is easy to get into. The pacing is smooth. The characters were great, very likable and relatable. The mystery surrounding the plot is thrilling and excited and gets more intensed as the story progresses, it plays out in the minds and actions of the key characters, as the serial killer leaves a trail of death, fear, and suspicion where everyone is a potential suspect or possible next victim.
The author gave us more than enough information for the story to be compelling and entertaining but careful as to not overwhelm us by it. We also had a compelling narration and Magnificent Landscape.
]|I{•-----⋘⋙--------•⪼⦕࿅⦖⪻•--------⋘⋙-----•}I|[
Gregory is such a multi dimensional character, we get to see the way he deciphers everything around him (𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆, 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆𝒔, 𝒐𝒃𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒔...) in such an impressive manner, but also the way he connects not just with the killer or victim but their lives, death and the aftermath of those tragedy. And we get to see the effect that comes with treating the criminally insane. To step so deep into theirs minds that those shadows starts to rub on his heart and soul.
I loved reading about his working theories every time we got some new info or evidence and i found myself agreeing or arguing with him out loud many times. The second i got a theory of my own i started 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒎𝒂𝒅 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒐𝒏 𝒂 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 to see if i was right or not. And i was. Like 60% of the time and I gotta to say Idk when I was more excited, when proven right or proven wrong. Because the actual truth was not something 𝐈 𝐍𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐈𝐍 𝐀 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐘𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐒 saw coming. But hell i was very, very happy about it, that's for sure.
I very much loved the moments and conversations he shared with Bill Douglas. If anyone deserve some fatherly love is our Alex. And also his interactions with our mama bear Maggie, that hug she gave him after his nightmare was sucha powerful moment in it's simplicity. Not to forget pretty much everyone else he came across with too, like those little talks with Padraig. Priceless.
]|I{•-----⋘⋙--------•⪼⦕࿅⦖⪻•--------⋘⋙-----•}I|[
Now this might be me being biased but I don't think i ever 𝐇𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 any 'barely there characters' as much as I hated Father Walsh, not so much as the man himself but as what he represents. It doesn't reflect on the book and It was just a short scene but the moment stayed with me. And It's in these moments I remember why I'm an Atheist. I get that you have your beliefs and abide to the rules of said religion but to believe that you would suffer eternal damnation if you 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐏𝐏𝐄𝐃 one of your fellow human from 𝐌𝐔𝐑𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆 someone by reporting it, is what's wrong with religion. That threat or punishment (if you'd prefer) should not exist. Because letting that crime happened is what's going to 𝐃𝐀𝐌𝐍 𝐘𝐎𝐔 not the other way around. Knowing that you could have stopped something that horrible from happening (𝑴𝒖𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒓. 𝑹𝒂𝒑𝒆. 𝑨𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒖𝒍𝒕. 𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒔 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈...) but didn't, is just 𝐖𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐆. Priests like doctors should be able to stop evil from happening if given the power without having the risk of impending doom on them.
I'm ranting i know. . . I'm Sorry. I got carried away for a second there. Don't mind me. Seriously. Just Don't.
. . .
The author gave us more than enough information for the story to be compelling and entertaining but careful as to not overwhelm us by it. We also had a compelling narration and Magnificent Landscape.
]|I{•-----⋘⋙--------•⪼⦕࿅⦖⪻•--------⋘⋙-----•}I|[
Gregory is such a multi dimensional character, we get to see the way he deciphers everything around him (𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆, 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆𝒔, 𝒐𝒃𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒔...) in such an impressive manner, but also the way he connects not just with the killer or victim but their lives, death and the aftermath of those tragedy. And we get to see the effect that comes with treating the criminally insane. To step so deep into theirs minds that those shadows starts to rub on his heart and soul.
I loved reading about his working theories every time we got some new info or evidence and i found myself agreeing or arguing with him out loud many times. The second i got a theory of my own i started 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒎𝒂𝒅 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒐𝒏 𝒂 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 to see if i was right or not. And i was. Like 60% of the time and I gotta to say Idk when I was more excited, when proven right or proven wrong. Because the actual truth was not something 𝐈 𝐍𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐈𝐍 𝐀 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐘𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐒 saw coming. But hell i was very, very happy about it, that's for sure.
I very much loved the moments and conversations he shared with Bill Douglas. If anyone deserve some fatherly love is our Alex. And also his interactions with our mama bear Maggie, that hug she gave him after his nightmare was sucha powerful moment in it's simplicity. Not to forget pretty much everyone else he came across with too, like those little talks with Padraig. Priceless.
]|I{•-----⋘⋙--------•⪼⦕࿅⦖⪻•--------⋘⋙-----•}I|[
Now this might be me being biased but I don't think i ever 𝐇𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 any 'barely there characters' as much as I hated Father Walsh, not so much as the man himself but as what he represents. It doesn't reflect on the book and It was just a short scene but the moment stayed with me. And It's in these moments I remember why I'm an Atheist. I get that you have your beliefs and abide to the rules of said religion but to believe that you would suffer eternal damnation if you 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐏𝐏𝐄𝐃 one of your fellow human from 𝐌𝐔𝐑𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆 someone by reporting it, is what's wrong with religion. That threat or punishment (if you'd prefer) should not exist. Because letting that crime happened is what's going to 𝐃𝐀𝐌𝐍 𝐘𝐎𝐔 not the other way around. Knowing that you could have stopped something that horrible from happening (𝑴𝒖𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒓. 𝑹𝒂𝒑𝒆. 𝑨𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒖𝒍𝒕. 𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒔 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈...) but didn't, is just 𝐖𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐆. Priests like doctors should be able to stop evil from happening if given the power without having the risk of impending doom on them.
I'm ranting i know. . . I'm Sorry. I got carried away for a second there. Don't mind me. Seriously. Just Don't.
. . .
February 15, 2020
Thriller set mainly in COUNTY MAYO
Meet L J Ross’s new protagonist, Dr Alexander Gregory, who is a forensic psychologist working in South London. This is the start of a new series featuring the good doctor and make a change in scenery and character from the author’s hugely popular DCI Ryan series set around the North East (but expect more DCI Ryan in the coming months, he has not gone AWOL!).
Dr Gregory is in his London office, working in the unit with a woman who has killed 2 of her 3 children and he spends time with her, trying to unravel her psyche and reasoning. The call comes in for him to attend a murder investigation in County Mayo, where Claire Kelly, a young mother, has been murdered by a stab wound straight to the heart. She has then been laid out in her young daughter’s bed, cuddling a toy. Dr Gregory has been invited in but he not only has to work out the MO of the perpetrator but also has to carefully negotiate hostility amongst the locals, as of course he is an incomer. Two stepbrothers are the police offers running the case. What are the chances of that? But the questions remains, what can he possibly do that they cannot do themselves? He is a skilled and experienced profiler, that’s what.
Claire Kelly’s funeral comes and goes and as he makes his way around the locality we get a peek at this slightly tortured man who, it seems, suffers from impostor syndrome. Is he good enough, really, to be called in as an expert in the case, when those around him have failed? Nightmares and torments plague him but these all build up the flawed, (and needless to say, good looking, with green eyes) character who is quietly being introduced to his readers. He is “a healer first and foremost… not a red blooded man like any other”. But he does have some rather inappropriate secrets!
He returns from his first stint in fictional Ballyfilly, only to be notified of a second killing and it is more than clear that he has a serial killer on his hands. He now has to work against time as he just knows that another murder is likely to happen soon.
This is a nicely plotted thriller that smoothly transports the reader through to the concluding scenes.
Meet L J Ross’s new protagonist, Dr Alexander Gregory, who is a forensic psychologist working in South London. This is the start of a new series featuring the good doctor and make a change in scenery and character from the author’s hugely popular DCI Ryan series set around the North East (but expect more DCI Ryan in the coming months, he has not gone AWOL!).
Dr Gregory is in his London office, working in the unit with a woman who has killed 2 of her 3 children and he spends time with her, trying to unravel her psyche and reasoning. The call comes in for him to attend a murder investigation in County Mayo, where Claire Kelly, a young mother, has been murdered by a stab wound straight to the heart. She has then been laid out in her young daughter’s bed, cuddling a toy. Dr Gregory has been invited in but he not only has to work out the MO of the perpetrator but also has to carefully negotiate hostility amongst the locals, as of course he is an incomer. Two stepbrothers are the police offers running the case. What are the chances of that? But the questions remains, what can he possibly do that they cannot do themselves? He is a skilled and experienced profiler, that’s what.
Claire Kelly’s funeral comes and goes and as he makes his way around the locality we get a peek at this slightly tortured man who, it seems, suffers from impostor syndrome. Is he good enough, really, to be called in as an expert in the case, when those around him have failed? Nightmares and torments plague him but these all build up the flawed, (and needless to say, good looking, with green eyes) character who is quietly being introduced to his readers. He is “a healer first and foremost… not a red blooded man like any other”. But he does have some rather inappropriate secrets!
He returns from his first stint in fictional Ballyfilly, only to be notified of a second killing and it is more than clear that he has a serial killer on his hands. He now has to work against time as he just knows that another murder is likely to happen soon.
This is a nicely plotted thriller that smoothly transports the reader through to the concluding scenes.
October 1, 2020
A fairly middle of the road murder mystery.
We follow the story through the eyes of a profiler called in to help catch a killer in a small Irish community. There is nothing really new or surprising going on here but if murder mysteries are your jam it's another series to get your fix from. A nice short shot of murder...
We did get some interesting background info in our profiler at the end so I hope to see this series develop in a positive way in the future.
We follow the story through the eyes of a profiler called in to help catch a killer in a small Irish community. There is nothing really new or surprising going on here but if murder mysteries are your jam it's another series to get your fix from. A nice short shot of murder...
We did get some interesting background info in our profiler at the end so I hope to see this series develop in a positive way in the future.
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