Profile — C.J. Koehler

Fast-paced and convincing, Profile makes a striking debut for C.J. Koehler. Psychiatrist Lisa Robbins has come to believe that her patient Philip Schroeder is a potentially dangerous young man; his psychological profile fits that of a serial killer being hunted by county detectives. She contacts a colleague who doubles as a police-consultant in hopes of learning enough details to eliminate Schroeder as the possible killer. But the psychologist clumsily reveals her interest to Detective Ray Koepp. When Schroeder begins stalking her, Lisa's obligation to her patient conflicts with her need to protect herself and her family. Despite Lisa's refusal to violate doctor/patient confidentiality, the police soon uncover the identity of her patient. Following the fatal stabbing of a woman named Joanne Whalen, Koepp learns that Lisa's husband was involved with the murder victim. Because of the "signature" mutilation of the victim, it seems obvious to Koepp and his partner that the murder is the work of the serial killer. But is it? As the investigation unfolds, the police discover that Lisa and her mother-in-law as well as her husband had motives and opportunities to kill Whalen. Lisa's family begins to disintegrate under the pressure of Koepp's dogged investigation, the threatening presence of Schroeder, and the increasing doubt and suspicion with which the members of the Robbins household come to regard one another. When at last Koepp is shocked to discover that his profile of the killer is false, innocent people are at mortal risk. An intriguing mystery, Profile introduces a talented new writer.