The Last Lie

How much we like a book depends much on our expectations: if you wanted a lot of action and a mystery hard to solve, this is a one star book. If you can take a meditation on good and evil, the justice system and the beauty of Boulder, this is a good book. I did like the contrast between the psychiatrist, Alan, presenting himself as the good guy, and the bad world outside. Alan has a new neighbor who is accused of being a rapist. He tries to know more about the case and ultimately, to find some justice. He has a wife who betrayed him; she has MS and he shows her love and consideration. He adopted the son of his neighbors. It is a real relief for the reader to find a good guy in a book. Nowadays, it is only too common to deal with a hero show more almost as bad as the worst guys. It is why I give it 4 stars: for the relief.
When you think about the book later, Alan is not such a good guy. He manipulates a patient to get information (it is necessary for the story, but it is unprofessional and unpleasant), he does not try to understand his wife, and he does not help his patient. On top of this, the author does not understand the American justice system. Our justice system has been built up by merchants: it is about being practical and making deals, even if there was no lawyer involved. It is the reason why sometimes a little crook is more punished than a wild criminal. But in countries like France, where dealing is much less common, I am not sure that justice is much better served: the system is just more clear. show less

This ranks up there with my all-time favorite Stephen White stories. He has taken breaks to feature other characters in the prime role. While I understand that as a chance to flesh out the other characters, I prefer Alan Gregory in the lead. I liked the many twists and turns the plot takes. When I think I have it figured out, something else happens to make me think otherwise. I am of the opinion this story may arise from some of Mr. White's personal beliefs, but he never becomes preachy through the characters. As always Mr. White shows how actions have consequences that affect people psychologically and emotionally I enjoyed the fact that some issues from past stories are beginning to resolve.

I rather enjoyed this book and rank it among my favorites of White's Alan Gregory series. I think the reviews have bee so-so, but don't let that stop you from reading it. The viewpoint it expresses on celebrity legal cases will give you much food for thought, and it is expounded in an entertaining fashion, while advancing the stories of the lives of the characters in this series. Also an interesting sub-plot about dogs off-leash.

I live a half an hour from Boulder which is probably, in part, why I love this series: it's just fun to read about where you live. At times I wondered about all the detail put in about Boulder and if to someone living 100's of miles away if it was over the top. But enough about Boulder, I love the Alan Gregory series and this book continues to feed that affection. With major players, positioned in all the right areas: legal, law enforcement, and Dr. Gregory, the area pscyhologist, that holds everyones secrets - this book, like the ones before it, spin a fantastically entertaining thriller. I highly recommend this series - you can jump in anywhere, but to really follow the characters and backstories it's best to start at the beginining. show more You won't be disappointed. show less

I'll start by saying I love Stephen White and this series, but honestly, the character's wife BUGS me to death....I get so sick of her MS,which is horrible to say, but she just gets on my nerves. Ok...that being said..I like the plots, the characters and I like that he's suspenseful, without being violent. He has a few twists in this one that I caught only right at the end. Good job as usual

A long novel (approx imately 400 pages) in the Alan Gregory series with an original and suspenseful story. It's long-winded at times which means it could have been about a 100 pages shorter. Despite that its a good addition to the series.

Alan Gregory has a new neighbor Maten Snow. Maten and his wife Mimi have a housewarming party and afterward Maten is accused of raping a houseguest. Alan and his prosecutor wife Lauren become involved in the investigation. The book got too long and preachy in parts with not enough action.