Forensic psychologist Michael Stone injected a fierce intensity into Anna Salter’s riveting novels Shiny Water and Fault Lines. Now, embroiled in an explosive sexual-harassment case, this unforgettable heroine is thrust into the murky waters of long-buried memories, where shocking accusations can have deadly consequences.
When noted anesthesiologist Reginald Larsen consults Michael Stone for therapy, Michael soon learns that Larsen, suspended from his hospital, is being investigated for claims of sexual impropriety. Although Larsen is confident and eager to fight the charges, Michael senses that disturbing truths are hidden beneath his calm exterior.
But just as the Larsen case heats up, Michael is consulted by a colleague whose client is a victim of past sexual abuse. When the client confronts her father with her shattering recollections, it is a choice with violent and lethal results. Now, with a deadly predator ensnaring her in a frightening pursuit, Michael remains determined to protect those most vulnerable—even as her walls of defense collapse around her.
Anna Salter is a forensic psychologist. Dr. Salter received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and Public Practice from Harvard University and obtained a Masters Degree in Child Study from Tufts. She lectures and consults on sex offenders and victims throughout the United States and abroad. Dr. Salter also evaluates sex offenders for civil commitment proceedings and other purposes. She testifies as an expert witness in sexual abuse civil and criminal cases.
I read Salter's non fiction book, "Predators" and was extremely impressed. When I learned she was also writing fiction, I was excited and immediately bought "White Lies." White Lies was not a horrible book by any stretch, it just, in my opinion, was not up to the caliber I was expecting. I expected more depth with regard to the characters. The lead, Michael, seemed stiff and emotionally immature. The references to mama and her bark were redundant. I couldn't decide if the scene was being set for mama to have been a benign neglect sort of parent. If you're looking for summer read that doesn't require much intellectual stretching, it's a good read. If you are expecting more grit and more passion and the ability to relate to folks in the book, I think it's got a ways to go.
The only reason I didn’t give 5 stars is because they were somewhat repetitive in describing the main character. But, I guess that’s what I get for “binge-reading!” I devoured the books. Interesting, fast-paced, complex characterization, informative.
Anna Salter does an excellent job developing the character of Michael, Throughout this series Ms. Salter so gently leads her readers through the quagmire of child sexual abuse.where seldom can one cling to a scenario that is totally right or wrong, black or white. Rather, the author lets the reader into the world of therapy/treatment for both victims, perpetrators, and family members. Her multifaceted characters demonstrate the difficulty with the roles played by all, with blending of good and evil, and an almost stark portrait of the weight of this crime on not just victims and perpetrators, but the weight carried by the mental health professional who provide treatment to all involved. Obvious Ms. Salter has been clinically active in the field of child abuse. Highly recommend this series.
A rather intriguing medical/hospital mystery, very readable and well paced. I really liked it quite a bit. The fiction is pretty good, but what sets this book apart is that the author is a forensic psychologist and sometimes the doctor she is shines through the fiction and makes a very interesting read. The story concerns a doctor brought up on sexual ethics charges and sent for an eval to Dr. Michael Stone, who like the author, is a forensic psychologist. I'd actually like to read Anna Salter's other books.
This is suspense book. I think it has good storyline. But I have to admit that I got a bit confused at beginning. I guess I wasn't really paying attention to the book. I know I like her sense of humor.
I liked the story. I was quite surprised that there were no murders but there were attempts. The main character is well developed and likable. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Interesting view of crime and punishment from a psychologist's angle, good central character, Michael Stone (female)and a page turner plot. A good holiday read. Just wish I'd been on holiday.....!
9/15 Really enjoy her books. They are the type of books I have a hard time putting down. I also really like her "mama" and wish she would write a book with her as a more central character.