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Alan Gregory #18
The Last Lie
Alan Gregory, a pszichiáter, odaadó családapa és lelkes kutyabarát békés hétköznapjait egy nap új szomszédok költözése zavarja meg. A sztárügyvéd és felesége házavató partit tart, amelyre Alant ugyan nem hívják meg, az összejövetel mégis végzetes hatással lesz az életére. Az egyik vendég, egy fiatal özvegyasszony ugyanis azzal vádolja a háziakat, hogy az este folyamán elkábították és megerőszakolták.
Alan váratlanul a hazugság és igazmondás szövevényes hálójában találja magát. Pszichiáterként tanácsadást tart fiatal kolléganőjének, és apránként rádöbben, hogy a valódi vagy vélt erőszak áldozata egyben az a páciens, akinek esetét hétről hétre boncolgatják. Felesége, aki ügyészhelyettesként kapcsolódik be az ügybe, és barátja, Sam Purdy nyomozó semmit sem hajlandóak elárulni a vizsgálat menetéről. Amikor egy fontos tanú gyilkosság áldozata lesz, Alan mindenre elszántan nyomozni kezd az igazság után, mert már saját családját sem érzi biztonságban.
Miért hallgat mindenki az ügyről? Ki mond igazat és ki hazudik? Miért tehetetlen a jog, ha a hírességek és a rafinált ügyvédek összefognak? Kié lesz az utolsó hazugság ebben a rejtélyes ügyben?
Alan váratlanul a hazugság és igazmondás szövevényes hálójában találja magát. Pszichiáterként tanácsadást tart fiatal kolléganőjének, és apránként rádöbben, hogy a valódi vagy vélt erőszak áldozata egyben az a páciens, akinek esetét hétről hétre boncolgatják. Felesége, aki ügyészhelyettesként kapcsolódik be az ügybe, és barátja, Sam Purdy nyomozó semmit sem hajlandóak elárulni a vizsgálat menetéről. Amikor egy fontos tanú gyilkosság áldozata lesz, Alan mindenre elszántan nyomozni kezd az igazság után, mert már saját családját sem érzi biztonságban.
Miért hallgat mindenki az ügyről? Ki mond igazat és ki hazudik? Miért tehetetlen a jog, ha a hírességek és a rafinált ügyvédek összefognak? Kié lesz az utolsó hazugság ebben a rejtélyes ügyben?
400 pages, Hardcover
First published August 17, 2010
166 people are currently reading
807 people want to read
About the author
Stephen White
286 books569 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Stephen White is the author of the New York Times bestselling Alan Gregory novels. In his books, he draws upon over fifteen years of clinical practice as a psychologist to create intriguing plots and complex, believable characters.
Born on Long Island, White grew up in New York, New Jersey, and Southern California and attended the University of California campuses at Irvine (where he lasted three weeks as a creative writing major) and Los Angeles before graduating from Berkeley in 1972. Along the way he learned to fly small planes, worked as a tour guide at Universal Studios in Los Angeles, cooked and waited tables at Chez Panisse in Berkeley, and tended bar at the Red Lion Inn in Boulder. Trained as a clinical psychologist, he received his Ph.D. from the University of Colorado in 1979 and became known as an authority on the psychological effects of marital disruption, especially on men. White's research has appeared in Psychological Bulletin and other professional journals and books. After receiving his doctorate, White not only worked in private practice but also at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and later as a staff psychologist at The Children's Hospital in Denver, where he focused his attention on pediatric cancer patients. During those years he became acquainted with a colleague in Los Angeles, another pediatric psychologist named Jonathan Kellerman. At the time, Kellerman and White were two of only about a dozen psychologists in the country working in pediatric oncology.
Series:
* Alan Gregory
Stephen White is the author of the New York Times bestselling Alan Gregory novels. In his books, he draws upon over fifteen years of clinical practice as a psychologist to create intriguing plots and complex, believable characters.
Born on Long Island, White grew up in New York, New Jersey, and Southern California and attended the University of California campuses at Irvine (where he lasted three weeks as a creative writing major) and Los Angeles before graduating from Berkeley in 1972. Along the way he learned to fly small planes, worked as a tour guide at Universal Studios in Los Angeles, cooked and waited tables at Chez Panisse in Berkeley, and tended bar at the Red Lion Inn in Boulder. Trained as a clinical psychologist, he received his Ph.D. from the University of Colorado in 1979 and became known as an authority on the psychological effects of marital disruption, especially on men. White's research has appeared in Psychological Bulletin and other professional journals and books. After receiving his doctorate, White not only worked in private practice but also at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and later as a staff psychologist at The Children's Hospital in Denver, where he focused his attention on pediatric cancer patients. During those years he became acquainted with a colleague in Los Angeles, another pediatric psychologist named Jonathan Kellerman. At the time, Kellerman and White were two of only about a dozen psychologists in the country working in pediatric oncology.
Series:
* Alan Gregory
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 252 reviews
June 23, 2024
Returning to re-read Stephen White’s great thriller collection after a number of years, this summer binge should be a great adventure. White keeps the reader hooked with another great novel, where another aspect of Dr. Alan Gregory’s practice is highlighted. Alan is supervising a new therapist, whose latest client has some troubling admissions. A new neighbour for Alan and his family brings the spotlight on their Boulder community, though things are soon heightened by something that took place at the house warming. With Alan trying to help his supervisee and keep one step ahead of everything that is going on, he discovers that he is torn between confidentiality ad helping the authorities. A gripping story that is sure to pique the series fan’s interest.
After a number of whirlwind years for Dr. Alan Gregory and his neighbours, a new homeowner creates a buzz when they purchase the home just up the lane from Alan and his wife, Lauren. A celebrity in Boulder is sure to being some spotlight to the community, which has Alan less than impressed. A gala housewarming is sure to add some craziness to the community, though Alan and Lauren are not on the guest list, allowing them to seclude themselves and soak up all the action.
Alan has also taken on a therapist-in-training, which has him supervising her casework and offering assistance. Alan learns from his supervisee that she is seeing a young woman who has a secret. This patient’s feels that she may have been raped at a recent party, based on how she woke up and all the evidence around her. Unsure of the situation or whether the patient wants to press changes, Alan must listen to the story and offer whatever sage advice he can. It is only when he listens further that Alan discovers that the rape occurred at the housewarming of his new neighbour, which brings things closer to home than he might like.
Struggling to counsel his supervisee and yet also ensure that if a crime has been committed, it cannot be swept under the rug by those who have piles of money, Alan tries to quell his inner demon. With Lauren offering up some ADA advice, Alan will have to weigh what he knew and how he can also counsel his supervisee without breaching any rules. With everything spinning out of control, Alan will confide in Lauren, as well as his best friend, Boulder PD Detective Sam Purdy, to see how the alleged rape comes to fruition and whether the bright lights of celebrity can help diminish any legal hurdles. White delves into some great topics and keeps the series fan hooked.
I remember discovering this series years ago, devouring many of the books in short order. When I chose to return, I decided that I would try a complete series binge, getting the full Alan Gregory experience. Stephen White uses many of his personal experiences as a clinical psychologist to pull on ideas and character aspects, which becomes apparent in this strong novel. Never repetitive or offering the same story in each book, White provides yet another stellar reading experience.
White’s writing usually explores his own personal situations as a clinical therapist, but this book sought to add the layer o a supervisor/supervisee relationship. Alan Gregory pushes things along well, offering up some of his own views against the backdrop of a crime that could have taken place steps from his front door. The narrative is developed early and gains momentum with each passing chapter. White provides the reader with something exciting, covering some strong ideas about therapy, criminal investigations, and the role that celebrity plays in determining guilt. White injects new death into the series regulars, while also offering new faces to keep the story new and fresh. I liked the approach and am eager to see what will come, as Alan’s family continue to morph, as well as the situation around Boulder.
Plot points drive the story in ways series fans have come to love. Great surprises emerge in the storytelling, as well as the character banter, where much is revealed through simple dialogue. The twists occur and keep piling on, while the reader can only hope to process them before something new emerge. White knows how to write and keeps the reader on the edge of their seats, pushing things towards some conclusion, though nothing is entirely settled. As the series is soon to come to its close, I can only wonder where White will take it.
Kudos Mr. White, for another strong effort!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
After a number of whirlwind years for Dr. Alan Gregory and his neighbours, a new homeowner creates a buzz when they purchase the home just up the lane from Alan and his wife, Lauren. A celebrity in Boulder is sure to being some spotlight to the community, which has Alan less than impressed. A gala housewarming is sure to add some craziness to the community, though Alan and Lauren are not on the guest list, allowing them to seclude themselves and soak up all the action.
Alan has also taken on a therapist-in-training, which has him supervising her casework and offering assistance. Alan learns from his supervisee that she is seeing a young woman who has a secret. This patient’s feels that she may have been raped at a recent party, based on how she woke up and all the evidence around her. Unsure of the situation or whether the patient wants to press changes, Alan must listen to the story and offer whatever sage advice he can. It is only when he listens further that Alan discovers that the rape occurred at the housewarming of his new neighbour, which brings things closer to home than he might like.
Struggling to counsel his supervisee and yet also ensure that if a crime has been committed, it cannot be swept under the rug by those who have piles of money, Alan tries to quell his inner demon. With Lauren offering up some ADA advice, Alan will have to weigh what he knew and how he can also counsel his supervisee without breaching any rules. With everything spinning out of control, Alan will confide in Lauren, as well as his best friend, Boulder PD Detective Sam Purdy, to see how the alleged rape comes to fruition and whether the bright lights of celebrity can help diminish any legal hurdles. White delves into some great topics and keeps the series fan hooked.
I remember discovering this series years ago, devouring many of the books in short order. When I chose to return, I decided that I would try a complete series binge, getting the full Alan Gregory experience. Stephen White uses many of his personal experiences as a clinical psychologist to pull on ideas and character aspects, which becomes apparent in this strong novel. Never repetitive or offering the same story in each book, White provides yet another stellar reading experience.
White’s writing usually explores his own personal situations as a clinical therapist, but this book sought to add the layer o a supervisor/supervisee relationship. Alan Gregory pushes things along well, offering up some of his own views against the backdrop of a crime that could have taken place steps from his front door. The narrative is developed early and gains momentum with each passing chapter. White provides the reader with something exciting, covering some strong ideas about therapy, criminal investigations, and the role that celebrity plays in determining guilt. White injects new death into the series regulars, while also offering new faces to keep the story new and fresh. I liked the approach and am eager to see what will come, as Alan’s family continue to morph, as well as the situation around Boulder.
Plot points drive the story in ways series fans have come to love. Great surprises emerge in the storytelling, as well as the character banter, where much is revealed through simple dialogue. The twists occur and keep piling on, while the reader can only hope to process them before something new emerge. White knows how to write and keeps the reader on the edge of their seats, pushing things towards some conclusion, though nothing is entirely settled. As the series is soon to come to its close, I can only wonder where White will take it.
Kudos Mr. White, for another strong effort!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
June 26, 2012
This book has three distinct parts. There's the beginning, which is slow, boring and verbose. There is the middle which is exactly like the beginning only it comes after you've had to read the crap that came before it too. And finally there's the end which is more of the same. It's like having your Bouvier dog take a crap, on top of a crap on top of a crap.
To say this was my least favorite book by this author is an understatement. He's one of the most frustratingly inconsistent authors I've ever come across. Sometimes his books are sharp, well-paced and brilliant. Then there are ones like this one which is just horrible.
It has zero redeeming qualities. Zero.
To say this was my least favorite book by this author is an understatement. He's one of the most frustratingly inconsistent authors I've ever come across. Sometimes his books are sharp, well-paced and brilliant. Then there are ones like this one which is just horrible.
It has zero redeeming qualities. Zero.
February 18, 2016
While I am still a big fan of this series, methinks White must have some kind of hold over his publisher to get this horse out of stable in this hobbled state. This book is in need of both a good story editor and good copy editor. Has he just gotten so popular that they'll let him do anything he wants? The three-chapter "background" on the Kobe Bryant story was more like a rant than a contextualization. I might agree with most of what is discussed, but it felt way too drawn out and irrelevant. When Sam asks Alan, who is listening to his Kobe Bryant diatribe, if he is boring Alan, I want to yell, "Screw Alan, you're boring the reader!" Some of the chapters where Alan conducts clinical supervision also suffer from the same type of thing - isn't part of being a good writer understanding that you don't have to write down every literal sentence, facial expression, teardrop, and leg crossing that such a conversation might entail to get the conversation's jist across? Honestly, Stephen, get a grip, hire a good editor, and tighten things up next time!
February 18, 2021
Ridiculously verbose, should have been 250 pages shorter. One-third of the book is discussions of, or details regarding, Boulder, Colorado real estate (commercial AND residential). If this topic interests you, by all means grab the book. There's also a 32 page discussion of the Kobe Bryant rape case. Was the author being paid by the word?
This is book #18 of the series and I haven't read any others, and won't be. The protagonist, Alan Gregory, is a clinical psychologist (as is the author) and is annoying in every way. He gets wind of an allegation of acquaintance rape at a housewarming party across the street, in his exclusive, remote, mountainous neighborhood. His wife is a deputy D.A. and so knows details about the case, but can't talk about it. Serendipitously, Gregory is "supervising" another psychologist, a woman named Hella, who confides certain details of her treatment of a female patient who just happens to be the alleged rape victim at the party, without identifying her client. But with his separate sources of information about the case, Gregory figures out who Hella is talking about and milks Hella, his wife, his two good friends who were guests at the party, and a law enforcement contact, for details, never letting anyone on about how much he knows. With respect to his professional supervision of Hella, this clearly seems to be bordering on unethical, and when he finally reveals it to her, she understandably thinks so and is hella-outraged. Gregory rationalizes away her concerns and insists it's all completely ethical, and also reminds Hella that she has unresolved personal/psychological/professional issues of her own that she needs to work out with him. Hella refuses to work with him anymore, like a normal person would.
Gregory seems a bit sleazy, and there is a snide undercurrent to his interminable interior monologues, but the many scenes of him massaging his multiple sclerosis-afflicted wife's legs, and the fact that they adopted the orphaned son of good friends who used to live in the house across the street, are intended to reassure us that he's a very good person.
In a book about rape, you might entertain the hope that the author's/protagonist's standpoint wouldn't include slut shaming. But there it was: "...the pair of running shoes I'd bought on sale at Gart Brothers when Bill Clinton was still president, and when Monica was still an acceptable name for a female infant." From a clinical psychologist.
He spends the whole novel paranoid and terrified that his family is in danger because his next door neighbor (a high profile, Mehmet Oz type TV celebrity) is thought to be the attacker (though he hasn't been identified publicly). He thinks this neighbor is now going to come over and rape his wife and, to his kids....do what exactly? Rape his kids? Even Bill Cosby wasn't going to rape your kids. But he makes sure his wife is armed with a Glock, just in case the neighbor, whose M.O. involves Rohypnol, stops by. There's also a scene where he and a friend are worried about Mehmet Oz's wife, that perhaps she has come to harm, but instead of calling the police to do a wellness check they find a spare key and slowly search the entire enormous house, room by room - although he's apparently petrified of Mehmet Oz.
Certainly the most unbelievable plot point is how the only concrete evidence that Dr. Oz has raped the woman comes from
The author has a lot of annoying writerly tics, too many to mention; one is non-questions with question marks. Instead of Gregory stating "The deputy DA is not welcome in this conversation" he says, "The deputy DA? She's not welcome in this conversation." "I handed her a pillow. 'To cover your breasts? I find them kind of distracting.'" 500 pages of this.
Concerns for the English language: the author uses "swatch" when he means "swath," and doesn't know the difference between lay and lie.
October 2, 2010
It all started with that damn housewarming.
This latest Alan Gregory novel is about a partially-remembered rape, about the new dog-hating neighbors (I tend not to trust people who don't like animals, but that's just me), and about justice. Especially about how justice is sometimes hijacked by lawyer wizards. The mystery was entertaining and I liked the book for the quick read that it is. I had read only a couple of this series before I read this one, so I occasionally lost a bit of the back-story, but it didn't seem significant to me.
Alan Gregory is practicing psychology in Boulder, Colorado, is married to the Deputy DA, and professional ethics once again come into play.
Aside from the basic story, I had some issues that demoted this mystery from 4 stars to 3. Alan's wife, Lauren, has never been someone I can really relate to in the books I've read. I don't feel like I know her. Alan frustrates me because he uses so much of his psychologist persona that it seems he doesn't react in a very real way. I understand needing to hide some of his reactions, but I don't understand not having them. He seems like a nice guy, sometimes too nice. But the biggest drawback to me...I got really tired of hearing about Boulder.
Don't get me wrong, I like Boulder. I live in Colorado and reading about an area I know is usually a plus. But how many times can I read about the colors of the sunset, the view of the Flatirons, which building had what view.? Apparently, fewer times than were in this book. It got not only boring, but downright annoying to me.
I did find it very interesting to read about some of the factual alleged crimes and their outcomes. Despite the shortcomings for me, I did enjoy the book and will read more of Mr. White's writing.
This latest Alan Gregory novel is about a partially-remembered rape, about the new dog-hating neighbors (I tend not to trust people who don't like animals, but that's just me), and about justice. Especially about how justice is sometimes hijacked by lawyer wizards. The mystery was entertaining and I liked the book for the quick read that it is. I had read only a couple of this series before I read this one, so I occasionally lost a bit of the back-story, but it didn't seem significant to me.
Alan Gregory is practicing psychology in Boulder, Colorado, is married to the Deputy DA, and professional ethics once again come into play.
Aside from the basic story, I had some issues that demoted this mystery from 4 stars to 3. Alan's wife, Lauren, has never been someone I can really relate to in the books I've read. I don't feel like I know her. Alan frustrates me because he uses so much of his psychologist persona that it seems he doesn't react in a very real way. I understand needing to hide some of his reactions, but I don't understand not having them. He seems like a nice guy, sometimes too nice. But the biggest drawback to me...I got really tired of hearing about Boulder.
Don't get me wrong, I like Boulder. I live in Colorado and reading about an area I know is usually a plus. But how many times can I read about the colors of the sunset, the view of the Flatirons, which building had what view.? Apparently, fewer times than were in this book. It got not only boring, but downright annoying to me.
I did find it very interesting to read about some of the factual alleged crimes and their outcomes. Despite the shortcomings for me, I did enjoy the book and will read more of Mr. White's writing.
February 15, 2012
This is in the series of Alan Gregory, the psychologist, living in the hills above Boulder, Colorado. I spend a lot of time, there so I could track all the locations, the restaurants, trails. His plots are somewhat obvious, you know who the perpetrator is at the beginning, in this case there is an acquaintance rape by Alan’s extremely wealthy neighbor who is an attorney TV personality focusing on women’s rights. Alan’s adopted son figures in, and there are many red herrings. Alan’s wife who has MS and a district attorney enters in the sub plot, her infidelity and their marriage. But I didn’t care about her. And Alan’s best friend detective Sam, has little to do in this novel. The crime turns out to be sick, and the fact a boy would record a rape on his phone is unbelievable. A mediocre read.
October 2, 2010
Alan Gregory has frequently struggled with some ethical boundaries in this series, and in this book he really gets into some muddy waters: he is right in the middle of a possible crime, and receiving information from a law enforcement perspective through his friend Sam Purdy, from a prosecutorial perspective from his wife Lauren, and from a professional and clinical perspective from his supervisee, who it the therapist for the victim of the alleged crime. Alan ends up with more information than anyone, from all three of these sources, but unable for ethical reasons to share any of his information. What a dilemma. And Sam becomes pretty disgruntled with the whole process, when it appears that once again justice will be circumvented through deals and exchanges of money that occur outside the courtroom. Another good read from Stephen White.
August 29, 2010
3 1/2 stars
I always enjoy the books in this series, some more than others. In comparison with the earlier Alan Gregory novels, I found this one too cerebral, wordy, and dense with descriptions of the architecture, layout, and history of Boulder. I kept thinking White made too many trips to the thesaurus while writing this. Big words where simpler ones would have served just as well or better. It was also heavy on discussions of domestic complications.
He tried to give me an earworm on page 29, but HA! it didn't work because I already had "Kodachrome" stuck in my head.
I always enjoy the books in this series, some more than others. In comparison with the earlier Alan Gregory novels, I found this one too cerebral, wordy, and dense with descriptions of the architecture, layout, and history of Boulder. I kept thinking White made too many trips to the thesaurus while writing this. Big words where simpler ones would have served just as well or better. It was also heavy on discussions of domestic complications.
He tried to give me an earworm on page 29, but HA! it didn't work because I already had "Kodachrome" stuck in my head.
May 5, 2015
I didn't realize that this was book 18 of a series when I started it. Relevant backstory? I have no idea. Regardless of that, I enjoyed the book. It kept me guessing and delved into ethical issues in a way that coincided with the plot.
February 26, 2018
(3.5 stars)
This book was a bit too slow in some parts than I would have liked, especially in the beginning. However, I do think that the overall plot and the way everything comes together really makes up for all the faults in pace.
This book was a bit too slow in some parts than I would have liked, especially in the beginning. However, I do think that the overall plot and the way everything comes together really makes up for all the faults in pace.
March 2, 2012
This book was okay. I originally started reading Stephen White's books because they were set in Boulder, CO. I lived in Boulder for several years and enjoyed the familiarity with many of the places that appeared in his books. This book is the 18th Alan Gregory novel. I think it is time to "retire" the Alan Gregory character. Alan is starting to get annoying and I he's getting boring. The books starring Alan haven't been especially great either. White's last book, The Siege, that starred Alan's friend Sam Purdy as the main character was good. Recently, most of White's books that have starred side or new characters and placed Alan as a background or subordinate character have been better than the ones with Alan in the lead. The book starts with a prologue that provides a hint as to what the main crime and focus of the novel will be, then doesn't address it again for over 100 pages. Everything in between is just filler. Second, Alan rarely accomplishes anything on his own and for the majority of this book, he does nothing except sit around and learn about the alleged crime from other people who are directly involved. Alan eventually becomes directly involved towards the last 100 pages and somehow becomes in control of the events because everyone else has been telling him the full story which no one else has.
Another way in that Alan is getting annoying is demonstrated by a conversation with his cop friend Sam. Sam has knowledge of the case while Alan has even more knowledge from separate sources. They are having dinner and Alan is trying to get Sam to divulge information about the case, which Sam will not do directly. Instead, Sam tells Alan a parable of a similar (real life) case as a way to tell Alan what is going on, without actually talking about the investigation. Alan is either too stupid to get the comparison, or is really good at acting stupid. Its as if Alan cannot figure out that Sam is quietly telling him what Alan needs to know without violating the investigation. Alan instead pushes Sam to tell him blantantly what is going on because Alan can't take a hint. It is really annoying.
I never like books where the main character is not an active participant in the story instead hearing everything second hand from the actual participants (or third hand in some cases). I think Alan Gregory has ran his course and White needs to develop a new primary protagonist. White can create engaging characters and develop page-turning stories, I just think Gregory shouldn't be in the lead anymore.
Another way in that Alan is getting annoying is demonstrated by a conversation with his cop friend Sam. Sam has knowledge of the case while Alan has even more knowledge from separate sources. They are having dinner and Alan is trying to get Sam to divulge information about the case, which Sam will not do directly. Instead, Sam tells Alan a parable of a similar (real life) case as a way to tell Alan what is going on, without actually talking about the investigation. Alan is either too stupid to get the comparison, or is really good at acting stupid. Its as if Alan cannot figure out that Sam is quietly telling him what Alan needs to know without violating the investigation. Alan instead pushes Sam to tell him blantantly what is going on because Alan can't take a hint. It is really annoying.
I never like books where the main character is not an active participant in the story instead hearing everything second hand from the actual participants (or third hand in some cases). I think Alan Gregory has ran his course and White needs to develop a new primary protagonist. White can create engaging characters and develop page-turning stories, I just think Gregory shouldn't be in the lead anymore.
August 27, 2020
These books are all so well written. Easy five stars for me.
November 12, 2020
Although I've read many of the books in this series, including the ones immediately preceding 'The Last Lie', I feel like I missed a crucial event in the death of one of the minor, but regular, characters, which sets the stage for what happened in the book. New neighbors move onto Dr. Alan Gregory's street, and things get off on the wrong foot when the male half of the couple chastises Gregory for allowing his well-trained Bouvier des Flandres off leash during her nightly walk. His opinion of this man is further tarnished when the psychologist-in-training who Alan is supervising discusses one of her patients, who attended the lavish open house the neighbors hosted and left the next morning believing something had happened to her at the end of the night. As usual, Alan knows he cannot disclose his knowledge of events due to patient confidentiality, but as the father of 2 young children, he feels obligated to press the police for any information related to a potential crime in order to protect his family.
Conceptually, the book was good, as the title could apply to many facets of the story, but I felt like something was missing. The neighbor is made out to be this famous guy, yet his backstory is poorly developed. I presumed he was a TV personality, but eventually it turns out he's a lawyer specializing in women's rights, so I felt White could have done better with that. The secondary story involving the newest member of Alan's family was enjoyable and what White lacked in developing the neighbor, he made up for in allowing readers to get to know this one.
More and more, I feel like I should have read these books in order because not remembering details from earlier ones in the series (or even later ones, as there was a discussion about a potential future event that I can't recall if it actually happened) impacts my enjoyment of them.
Conceptually, the book was good, as the title could apply to many facets of the story, but I felt like something was missing. The neighbor is made out to be this famous guy, yet his backstory is poorly developed. I presumed he was a TV personality, but eventually it turns out he's a lawyer specializing in women's rights, so I felt White could have done better with that. The secondary story involving the newest member of Alan's family was enjoyable and what White lacked in developing the neighbor, he made up for in allowing readers to get to know this one.
More and more, I feel like I should have read these books in order because not remembering details from earlier ones in the series (or even later ones, as there was a discussion about a potential future event that I can't recall if it actually happened) impacts my enjoyment of them.
December 7, 2012
This author's novels are wearing thin on me. I've previously reviewed the disturbing glibness of White's recurring main character, Clinical Psychologist Alan Gregory, PhD; sadly, his glibness prevails even more substantially throughout "The Last Lie." Typically, there is enough substance and suspense in White's stories to override my annoyance with Dr. Gregory, but I can't say that was the case this time. I found the novel extremely slow-moving and wasn't really drawn into the plot until the final third of the book.
In "The Last Lie," Alan becomes immersed in a crime that occurs at the home of his neighbors, prominent attorney Mattin Snow and his wife, Mimi. Alan's connections to the alleged crime, a rape, are numerous. He initially learns of the crime from his supervisee, Hella, when she confides to him the information given to her by her patient, the apparent victim. Then there's the slight bit of information imparted by Alan's friend, Detective Sam Purdy, and some additional, though scant, input from Alan's wife, Lauren, Assistant District Attorney. All in all, Alan knows quite a bit about the proceedings of the entire night, but has to keep most of it to himself because of doctor-patient-supervisee-husband-friend confidentiality.
Alan's family dynamics become very relevant in this novel, due to the fact that his "adopted son," Jonas, had lived with his birth parents, before they'd died, in the home where the crime occurred. As is likely evident, just in my limited synopsis, the story is somewhat convoluted and relatively shallow. It becomes a page-turner as it reaches its climax, but for the most part, is barely an average read.
In "The Last Lie," Alan becomes immersed in a crime that occurs at the home of his neighbors, prominent attorney Mattin Snow and his wife, Mimi. Alan's connections to the alleged crime, a rape, are numerous. He initially learns of the crime from his supervisee, Hella, when she confides to him the information given to her by her patient, the apparent victim. Then there's the slight bit of information imparted by Alan's friend, Detective Sam Purdy, and some additional, though scant, input from Alan's wife, Lauren, Assistant District Attorney. All in all, Alan knows quite a bit about the proceedings of the entire night, but has to keep most of it to himself because of doctor-patient-supervisee-husband-friend confidentiality.
Alan's family dynamics become very relevant in this novel, due to the fact that his "adopted son," Jonas, had lived with his birth parents, before they'd died, in the home where the crime occurred. As is likely evident, just in my limited synopsis, the story is somewhat convoluted and relatively shallow. It becomes a page-turner as it reaches its climax, but for the most part, is barely an average read.
March 23, 2013
Психолог разследва престъпления в “Последната лъжа” на Стивън Уайт: http://knigolandia.info/book-review/p...
Миналата седмица младият блогър Жоро написа интригуващо ревю за книгата, а когато отидох на голям купон в петък, тя ме чакаше с името ми, надраскано на залепено върху яката корица листче. Няма как, взех я (че и един луксозен том на Борхес забърсах пътем) и още в лежерната слънчева събота я отнесох с удоволствие. “Последната лъжа” ма Стивън Уайт е чудесно написана и завъртяна психологическа кримка, която не те кара да изтръпваш от ужас, а по-скоро предлага префиненото удоволствие на чисто интелектуалните възможности да бъде разплетена загадката.
Главен герой в романа е психологът Алън, през чиято гледна точка тече и разказът и чиято професия обагря случващото се – всяка дума, всеки жест, всяко премълчаване за него е знак за нещо и той просторно в мислите си гради теории и предположения, които напасва към новите факти, които научава. Той има проблем с новите си съседи – арогантен адвокат с широка медийна известност и неговата съпруга, – а точно в тяхната къща става и белята, около която се завърта интригата: след голямо парти една жена твърди, че е изнасилена, но вместо шумен скандал нещата са светкавично прикрити и всеки, който знае нещо, има мотив да мълчи. Алън знае, че при съседите му се е случило нещо, но му трябва време и много разговори, докато открие какво е станало, кои са участвали и защо е цялата тази тайнственост.
http://knigolandia.info/book-review/p...
Миналата седмица младият блогър Жоро написа интригуващо ревю за книгата, а когато отидох на голям купон в петък, тя ме чакаше с името ми, надраскано на залепено върху яката корица листче. Няма как, взех я (че и един луксозен том на Борхес забърсах пътем) и още в лежерната слънчева събота я отнесох с удоволствие. “Последната лъжа” ма Стивън Уайт е чудесно написана и завъртяна психологическа кримка, която не те кара да изтръпваш от ужас, а по-скоро предлага префиненото удоволствие на чисто интелектуалните възможности да бъде разплетена загадката.
Главен герой в романа е психологът Алън, през чиято гледна точка тече и разказът и чиято професия обагря случващото се – всяка дума, всеки жест, всяко премълчаване за него е знак за нещо и той просторно в мислите си гради теории и предположения, които напасва към новите факти, които научава. Той има проблем с новите си съседи – арогантен адвокат с широка медийна известност и неговата съпруга, – а точно в тяхната къща става и белята, около която се завърта интригата: след голямо парти една жена твърди, че е изнасилена, но вместо шумен скандал нещата са светкавично прикрити и всеки, който знае нещо, има мотив да мълчи. Алън знае, че при съседите му се е случило нещо, но му трябва време и много разговори, докато открие какво е станало, кои са участвали и защо е цялата тази тайнственост.
http://knigolandia.info/book-review/p...
May 18, 2011
I really, really like Stephen White's writing. He writes intelligently and I have to really concentrate to understand what is going on. The Last Lie focuses on Alan Gregory and his work as a clinical therapist, this time in a supervisory capacity with a newer therapist. I am fascinated with the inner workings of how a therapist keeps himself out of the "work" of helping a client learn about him/herself through questions and insights. The person being analysed is a rape victim and the rape supposedly happened after a housewarming for Dr. Gregory's new neighbors. He is starting to get threads of information from his wife in the DA's office, the therapist working with the rape victim, his co-worker who was at the housewarming and is friends with the owners, and his cop buddy--not to mention his own observations as a neighbor. He's wearing all kinds of hats and holding all kinds of secrets. As always, the pace is slow and almost laid-back as information is gathered; the focus is almost more on Dr. Gregory's family relationships and problems. And then, wham!, the pace races off, my heartbeat starts thumping, and my guesses and deductions about what is going on and how the story will end are flipped end-to-end. Maybe not a five because there is perhaps too much soap-box thumping from the cop friend about how wizard lawyers are high-jacking justice by circumnavigating the system with out-of-court negotiations and deals.
March 26, 2012
This is the latest of Stephen White's "Alan Gregory" novels I picked up in a long time and like any good author of a series he managed to pull me right back in.
Dr. Alan Gregory seems to stumble upon crime -or it on him- in most of the books in the series and this one is no exception. After the death of his previous neighbour and dear friend, Adrienne, a new couple moves in after purchasing her house next door. The new neighbours hold a housewarming party during which events occure that catch the reader in a tangled web of crimes committed, accusations made, memories retold during therapy and people pulling from all sides to untie the knots, which -as we all know- only results in tightening them and entangles some of the main characters unwittingly in it.
White in his typical fashion shares tidbits of very intelligent psychology and insight into the multi layerdness of relationships all the while setting a very realistic background to a storyline that moves rapidly forward.
I agree with previous reviewees that the part about Kobe Bryant is a little extended, however I find it is crucial to the plot and explains why Alan's friend Sam is upset about the case. And somehow the way it is written and the way Alan expresses his desinterest bring the "boring-factor" across beautifully. It's great writing and White's style is as always convincing, smart and fun to read.
I love this series and this book does not disappoint.
Dr. Alan Gregory seems to stumble upon crime -or it on him- in most of the books in the series and this one is no exception. After the death of his previous neighbour and dear friend, Adrienne, a new couple moves in after purchasing her house next door. The new neighbours hold a housewarming party during which events occure that catch the reader in a tangled web of crimes committed, accusations made, memories retold during therapy and people pulling from all sides to untie the knots, which -as we all know- only results in tightening them and entangles some of the main characters unwittingly in it.
White in his typical fashion shares tidbits of very intelligent psychology and insight into the multi layerdness of relationships all the while setting a very realistic background to a storyline that moves rapidly forward.
I agree with previous reviewees that the part about Kobe Bryant is a little extended, however I find it is crucial to the plot and explains why Alan's friend Sam is upset about the case. And somehow the way it is written and the way Alan expresses his desinterest bring the "boring-factor" across beautifully. It's great writing and White's style is as always convincing, smart and fun to read.
I love this series and this book does not disappoint.
July 25, 2010
Shutting the final page of White’s newest installment to the popular Alan Gregory series, “The Last Lie” was akin to saying goodbye to a friend before a long journey. Realistic vibrations surge through the pages with an electric tempo, making it effortless to become acquainted or reacquainted with the Gregory family and other assorted cast members.
The situation is not a simple one. A crime has been committed mere feet from Alan Gregory’s front door and the sanctity of his family’s home and close-knit neighborhood has been violated. It quickly becomes clear that obvious fact-finding routes are shut down as his wife—an assistant district attorney—and his closest friend, detective Sam Purdy refuse to speak. Gregory, feeling as if the integral facts of the case are being spoon fed to him refuses to allow a cover-up when the corpse of a potential witness is discovered.
Moving quickly to uncover the truth, Gregory is willing to damage his career or at the very least, his reputation to keep his family safe from a possible murderer and rapist. The search behind this shocking crime moves into overdrive when he realizes that his son has become the target of a madman.
With faultless pace, White excels at constructing tension infused situations and multilayered, believable characters in this intricate narrative.
Reviewed by Suspense Magazine
www.suspensemagazine.com
The situation is not a simple one. A crime has been committed mere feet from Alan Gregory’s front door and the sanctity of his family’s home and close-knit neighborhood has been violated. It quickly becomes clear that obvious fact-finding routes are shut down as his wife—an assistant district attorney—and his closest friend, detective Sam Purdy refuse to speak. Gregory, feeling as if the integral facts of the case are being spoon fed to him refuses to allow a cover-up when the corpse of a potential witness is discovered.
Moving quickly to uncover the truth, Gregory is willing to damage his career or at the very least, his reputation to keep his family safe from a possible murderer and rapist. The search behind this shocking crime moves into overdrive when he realizes that his son has become the target of a madman.
With faultless pace, White excels at constructing tension infused situations and multilayered, believable characters in this intricate narrative.
Reviewed by Suspense Magazine
www.suspensemagazine.com
August 4, 2012
One of the more engrossing books in the Alan Gregory canon.
In #18, Psychologist Alan, ADA wife Lauren, precocious daughter Grace, and adopted son Jason have new neighbors. The former home of son Jason (whose father Peter was murdered in #4 and Mother Adrienne was blown up by terrorists in #16) has been purchased by a media darling lawyer who immediately raises Alan's hackles by complaining about large dog Emily running loose.
After a housewarming party, a sleepover guest goes to the police and complains of rape.
Usually, Alan knows things from his practice but can't divulge them because of patient confidentiality. This time out, everything is under wraps. Lawyers for the accused rapist and his accusor cite client confidentiality. Partner Diane was a guest at the party but if a long time friend of the hostess and uncharacteristically won't gossip. Boulder cop Sam Purdy pleads ignorance, but gives a big hint with a Kobe Bryant rant. Wife Lauren is involved with a related murder, but can't say anything about a case under investigation. Alan is supervising the psychologist treating the rape victim, but must guard against tainting his counsel with information gained from knowing some of the participants in the case.
A convoluted case but White keeps it comprehensible and enjoyable.
In #18, Psychologist Alan, ADA wife Lauren, precocious daughter Grace, and adopted son Jason have new neighbors. The former home of son Jason (whose father Peter was murdered in #4 and Mother Adrienne was blown up by terrorists in #16) has been purchased by a media darling lawyer who immediately raises Alan's hackles by complaining about large dog Emily running loose.
After a housewarming party, a sleepover guest goes to the police and complains of rape.
Usually, Alan knows things from his practice but can't divulge them because of patient confidentiality. This time out, everything is under wraps. Lawyers for the accused rapist and his accusor cite client confidentiality. Partner Diane was a guest at the party but if a long time friend of the hostess and uncharacteristically won't gossip. Boulder cop Sam Purdy pleads ignorance, but gives a big hint with a Kobe Bryant rant. Wife Lauren is involved with a related murder, but can't say anything about a case under investigation. Alan is supervising the psychologist treating the rape victim, but must guard against tainting his counsel with information gained from knowing some of the participants in the case.
A convoluted case but White keeps it comprehensible and enjoyable.
December 30, 2010
This is another of my favorite authors. Stephen White is a psychologist who writes about a psychologist in Boulder, CO. His cast of characters is similar to those of Jonathan Kellerman, but that's where the similarity ends. His main character is on occasion consulted by his Boulder police officer friend, but often gets involved with criminal cases through his innate curiosity. All of the characters have a lot of depth with good and bad things happening in their lives. Boulder is a small city with all of its leanings, but is rapidly becoming more cosmopolitan as it gains favor from the moneyed folks, causing a chism in live styles of its citizenry. Stephen incorporates this changing culture into his plots and character angst. He also changes his venue and writes from different perspectives, One book was written in the first person,causing some real confusion about the story line from the start. It was awhile before the reader got the true picture of what was going on - kind of mystery within a mystery. I do highly recommend this writer for anyone who likes mysteries and serial characters.
August 30, 2010
I have read all 18 (so far) of the books in this series and liked them all. In fact, it has been a favorite since the first book. White is one of the writers whose new books I always pre-order.
Dr. Alan Gregory is not tough, troubled, or prone to violence. He is just the opposite. It is a good thing for him that he is surrounded by much stronger people, including his wife Lauren, his cop pal Sam, and his friends.
The mystery is well plotted and manages to become clear only near the end although one might suspect who the bad guy is.
I have to admit that the loss of a couple of characters in an earlier book remains a sore spot with me. To me these were important characters, whose absence has left a hole in the series. I read once that White considered "killing off" Sam, but fortunately, he changed his mind. If Sam is gone, the only character left that I care about would be Alan Gregory, and although I adore Alan, he probably couldn't keep me coming back all by himself.
Dr. Alan Gregory is not tough, troubled, or prone to violence. He is just the opposite. It is a good thing for him that he is surrounded by much stronger people, including his wife Lauren, his cop pal Sam, and his friends.
The mystery is well plotted and manages to become clear only near the end although one might suspect who the bad guy is.
I have to admit that the loss of a couple of characters in an earlier book remains a sore spot with me. To me these were important characters, whose absence has left a hole in the series. I read once that White considered "killing off" Sam, but fortunately, he changed his mind. If Sam is gone, the only character left that I care about would be Alan Gregory, and although I adore Alan, he probably couldn't keep me coming back all by himself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2022
I love Stephen White (except for Kill Me, which I couldn't finish) and Alan Gregory. This one moved right along. I particularly liked Fiji, the Destroyer of Prairie Dogs. A convoluted plot as per usual, with interesting reflections (both literal and as part of the plot structure) on the ethics of patient confidentiality. It is good to find a "read in a day" book that has some substance in larger terms. Sorry to hear Gregory is coming to the end of his run--I hope in a "just decided to retire" sort of way. But I agree with other reviewers that the Kobe Bryant bit was too emphasized and the "lawyers are taking over the legal system" part seems to me misguided: settlement is ALWAYS better for the parties involved and the pain of the full bore litigation process in a case of "acquaintance rape" is not, for the victim, worth the salutary effect on society that an (unlikely) conviction might bring. I know this from first hand observation of the experience of someone dear to me.
June 6, 2017
Another great read by Stephen White. I've been reading this series for a number of years. A good friend of mine recommended his books to me, and she has passed on, but I think of her when I read one of White's books. It is like catching up with an old friend and learning what is happening. Alan Gregory is a psychologist practicing in Boulder, CO. He and his wife and children live up in the foothills in a rather remote area. When their new neighbors have a big housewarming, several strange things happen. There is suspense as events unfold, and I feared for Alex's safety and that of his family. I fear now that this is near the end of this series, because I read that there is just two more books. I will enjoy those and hope that White finds some other characters to unfold to those of us who enjoy his writing.
September 19, 2010
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.
September 14, 2013
This book had a hook from the beginning that that captured me and reeled me in. Alan was asked to supervise a therapy case of a woman accusing a man of rape. The man happens to be Alan's new neighbor. They didn't get off to a good start. Meanwhile, Alan's son is showing some off tendencies even while he seems to be doing well. Lauren is not doing so well. Her MS is debilitating her and she doesn't like it. But she seems to like their new neighbor just fine. He's a high profile attorney who has done lots for women's rights. Ironic. Meanwhile Sam is being very close-mouthed and Alan is getting more unnerved by the day. Everyone is hiding something and none of it means anything good. Whether he can figure out before someone dies remains to be seen.
May 27, 2011
I enjoy the series of mysteries which involves Psychologist Alan Gregory who practices in Boulder Colorado, where he lives with his family. This time out I found that the story was hijacked a couple of times by a favorite character, Alan's friend Sam, who gave "authorial" diatribes on the state of the justice system.
I continue to enjoy this series and the characters but prefer the story come through the characters more naturally. The characters are interesting and the plots are good throughout the series.
In this case the situation was a case of possible acquaintance rape. What happened at the housewarming party. Who was there. Many questions with complicated answers. And Alan Gregory ... and his family right in the middle.
Probably a 3.5.
I continue to enjoy this series and the characters but prefer the story come through the characters more naturally. The characters are interesting and the plots are good throughout the series.
In this case the situation was a case of possible acquaintance rape. What happened at the housewarming party. Who was there. Many questions with complicated answers. And Alan Gregory ... and his family right in the middle.
Probably a 3.5.
August 29, 2010
Wow, this is #18 in the series? I remember learning about this series in New Orleans at an ALA conference back in the 90s. I love it...wish I could remember who told me about it...in any case, I feel like I know these people. The story kept my interest, and I cared what happened to Alan and Lauren and (especially) Emily...but the bit about the secrets in the house next door that made the ending possible, and the ending itself, just were a tad off for me. Not enough WSOD on my part, I guess. But the experience or reading it was just fine, even though the references to Diane being such a Luddite for not knowing how to do everything on her phone hit a bit close to home...
September 21, 2010
This book was one I ended up staying up half the night to finish.
July 8, 2011
Very nice to reconnect with an old favorite author. Good story. Lots of twists. Loved the conundrums.
October 17, 2019
Oh, Alan, you've gone way deep into the deep and dark state of psychoanalysis in this one. Why should your long ruminations on what constitutes a conflict of interest between a psychiatrist and her supervisor matter at all to me? Why do I feel like the long dissertation on Kobe Bryant reads like cornmeal filler in a crab cake without any relevance to the story?
Alan Gregory and his wife, Lauren, the district attorney with MS, have new - rich and unfriendly - neighbors in their Boulder, CO community, and at their housewarming mysterious and nefarious events, most likely including a rape, take place. The Gregorys are not invited and even Alan's partner, Diane, who was, will not reveal any details.
Stealing another reviewer's thoughts on this one: "This book has three distinct parts. There's the beginning, which is slow, boring and verbose. There is the middle which is exactly like the beginning only it comes after you've had to read the crap that came before it too. And finally there's the end which is more of the same. "
Alan Gregory and his wife, Lauren, the district attorney with MS, have new - rich and unfriendly - neighbors in their Boulder, CO community, and at their housewarming mysterious and nefarious events, most likely including a rape, take place. The Gregorys are not invited and even Alan's partner, Diane, who was, will not reveal any details.
Stealing another reviewer's thoughts on this one: "This book has three distinct parts. There's the beginning, which is slow, boring and verbose. There is the middle which is exactly like the beginning only it comes after you've had to read the crap that came before it too. And finally there's the end which is more of the same. "
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