What do you think?
Rate this book
Vail/Stampler #1
Primal Fear
Martin Vail, the brilliant "bad-boy" lawyer every prosecutor and politician love to hate, is defending Aaron Stampler, a man found holding a bloody butcher's knife near a murdered archbishop. Vail is certain to lose, but Vail uses his unorthodox ways to good advantage when choosing his legal team—a tight group of men and women who must uncover the extraordinary truth behind the archbishop's slaughter. They do, in a heart-stopping climax unparalleled for the surprise it springs on the reader...
508 pages, Paperback
First published January 26, 1992
491 people are currently reading
11290 people want to read
About the author
William Diehl
32 books174 followersWilliam Diehl was an American novelist and photojournalist.
Diehl was fifty years old and already a successful photographer and journalist when he decided to begin a writing career. His first novel, Sharky's Machine, which became a movie by the same name was directed by and starred Burt Reynolds. Diehl saw the movie shot on location in and around his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia.
Following the success of Sharky's Machine, Diehl relocated to St. Simons Island, GA in the early 80's where he lived for the next 15 years before going back to the Atlanta area. While living on St. Simons, he completed eight more novels, including Primal Fear, which also became a movie by the same name starring Richard Gere and Edward Norton. Diehl died at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta on November 24, 2006, of an aortic aneurism. He was a resident of Woodstock, Georgia at the time of his death and was working on his tenth novel.
Diehl was fifty years old and already a successful photographer and journalist when he decided to begin a writing career. His first novel, Sharky's Machine, which became a movie by the same name was directed by and starred Burt Reynolds. Diehl saw the movie shot on location in and around his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia.
Following the success of Sharky's Machine, Diehl relocated to St. Simons Island, GA in the early 80's where he lived for the next 15 years before going back to the Atlanta area. While living on St. Simons, he completed eight more novels, including Primal Fear, which also became a movie by the same name starring Richard Gere and Edward Norton. Diehl died at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta on November 24, 2006, of an aortic aneurism. He was a resident of Woodstock, Georgia at the time of his death and was working on his tenth novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 526 reviews
August 22, 2011
Like all of Diehl's books, Primal Fear is outstanding. A week after it was published I was reading it on a flight from Atlanta to San Francisco. First class was almost empty and I was the only one awake when the steward knelt down beside my seat and whispered, "I noticed the book you are reading. It's obvious you are either a psychologist or a psychiatrist." Before I could correct him, he blurted out, "I have a primal fear of flying." I listened to his entire story, carefully closing the book and sliding it under my blanket so he wouldn't discover that it was a novel. When he was done I gave him some free "professional advise" which seemed to thrill him. I slipped the book into my brief case and got back to reading it at the hotel.
April 5, 2018
A worthy read for the Goodreads Mystery and Thriller Week!!
This is my first book by the author, and I must say I did enjoy reading the novel: a psychological thriller-cum- courtroom drama.
In Chicago, an archbishop – called the “Saint of Lakeview Drive” has been brutalized and a young man, Aaron Stampler, has been arrested from the scene of crime with the murder weapon. The evidence points to Aaron’s guilt, and he is facing capital punishment.
Now we are introduced to Martin aka Marty Vail, ex-army lawyer turned defense counselor– an irreverent and a bit shabby man. But, yes of course, a brilliant and uncompromising lawyer who gets what he wants – hated by the prosecutors and judges. He has successfully sued the city, county and state for 1.6 million dollars for his low life client. In order to teach Vail a lesson and some humility, Judge Hangin’ Harry Shoats makes him take Aaron’s case.
Pitted against Vail, is prosecutor Jane Venable – as uncompromising as Vail himself. She is assisted by the efficient Lt. Stenner, nicknamed the Icicle, and his team of seasoned professionals.
What I liked about the book is that Vail is not portrayed as a “one-man-army”. Instead he is helped by a pretty great team– a highly competent secretary, an ex-boxer turned law student to help with the investigation and an ex-judge as a mentor. They would be joined by a young and attractive psychiatrist, and, you have guessed it right – something would develop between her and Vail.
I am not going into the details of the story, but would caution you that you would come across some pretty perverse and devious stuff. I enjoyed some of the dialogues and the legal skills of Counselor Vail.
Mid way or a little past the mid way, you can easily guess what is coming. But, still it is quite fun to read.
This might not be a great piece of literature, but it never claimed to be one. The book is a thriller which promised to provide thrills and suspense – and this it did quite well.
I am giving the book a rating of 3.5, which I am rounding off to 4!
This is my first book by the author, and I must say I did enjoy reading the novel: a psychological thriller-cum- courtroom drama.
In Chicago, an archbishop – called the “Saint of Lakeview Drive” has been brutalized and a young man, Aaron Stampler, has been arrested from the scene of crime with the murder weapon. The evidence points to Aaron’s guilt, and he is facing capital punishment.
Now we are introduced to Martin aka Marty Vail, ex-army lawyer turned defense counselor– an irreverent and a bit shabby man. But, yes of course, a brilliant and uncompromising lawyer who gets what he wants – hated by the prosecutors and judges. He has successfully sued the city, county and state for 1.6 million dollars for his low life client. In order to teach Vail a lesson and some humility, Judge Hangin’ Harry Shoats makes him take Aaron’s case.
Pitted against Vail, is prosecutor Jane Venable – as uncompromising as Vail himself. She is assisted by the efficient Lt. Stenner, nicknamed the Icicle, and his team of seasoned professionals.
What I liked about the book is that Vail is not portrayed as a “one-man-army”. Instead he is helped by a pretty great team– a highly competent secretary, an ex-boxer turned law student to help with the investigation and an ex-judge as a mentor. They would be joined by a young and attractive psychiatrist, and, you have guessed it right – something would develop between her and Vail.
I am not going into the details of the story, but would caution you that you would come across some pretty perverse and devious stuff. I enjoyed some of the dialogues and the legal skills of Counselor Vail.
Mid way or a little past the mid way, you can easily guess what is coming. But, still it is quite fun to read.
This might not be a great piece of literature, but it never claimed to be one. The book is a thriller which promised to provide thrills and suspense – and this it did quite well.
I am giving the book a rating of 3.5, which I am rounding off to 4!
February 24, 2024
Aaron Stampler is a bad boy to rival the worst in literature - Hannibal Lecter, Temple Brooks Gault, Lord Walder Frey, Nils Bjurman ... you get the idea! And that ending just has to qualify as the most heart-stopping twist in the history of the thriller genre. Unquestionably a candidate for the rarefied atmosphere of my lifetime favourites list!
November 11, 2025
Ако не бях гледал много пъти страховития филм направен по този роман, вероятно щеше да ми е по-интересен. Въпреки тромавия и некадърен превод - типичен за мърлявото издателство Бард.
Малко претрупан и дълъг ми се видя разказа, завършвайки с рязка кулминация и чутовен обрат.
Ричърд Гиър в ролята на адвокат Марти Вейл е топ, но шоуто е открадното от напълно неизвестен тогава младеж - Едуард Нортън!
Продължавам с втората книга от поредицата.
Малко претрупан и дълъг ми се видя разказа, завършвайки с рязка кулминация и чутовен обрат.
Ричърд Гиър в ролята на адвокат Марти Вейл е топ, но шоуто е открадното от напълно неизвестен тогава младеж - Едуард Нортън!
Продължавам с втората книга от поредицата.
June 13, 2014
Those of you who have seen the excellent movie made from this book will have a pretty good idea where it winds up. I saw the movie long before getting the book, so the ending wasn’t a huge surprise, and I found the book to be quite interesting with intriguing characters:
-Vail, the successful lawyer dragged into a case he didn't want because the judge wants to hand him a sure loss as punishment for Vails successful suit against the city ;
- Mollie, the young psychologist who wanted to be a biologist until her brother returned from Vietnam slowly entering a state of catatonia;
-Rebecca, Stempler’s former teacher who taught in a one-room schoolhouse and saw him as one of her few success stories, the boy who didn’t go down in the hole;
-the brilliant prosecutor who didn’t want the case either but was dragged into it as her last case before she left the D.A.’s office;
-Goodman, the sensitive P.I. working on his law degree, a former boxer whose career disintegrated when he smashed his hand;
and Aaron Stempler, genius IQ who could read Latin and devoured every book he could get his hands on who is accused of the brutal murder of Catholic Archbishop Rushmon who had befriended him. The evidence against Aaron is overwhelming.
-And then there’s Roy.
First rate legal novel. The courtroom scenes are magnificent.
-Vail, the successful lawyer dragged into a case he didn't want because the judge wants to hand him a sure loss as punishment for Vails successful suit against the city ;
- Mollie, the young psychologist who wanted to be a biologist until her brother returned from Vietnam slowly entering a state of catatonia;
-Rebecca, Stempler’s former teacher who taught in a one-room schoolhouse and saw him as one of her few success stories, the boy who didn’t go down in the hole;
-the brilliant prosecutor who didn’t want the case either but was dragged into it as her last case before she left the D.A.’s office;
-Goodman, the sensitive P.I. working on his law degree, a former boxer whose career disintegrated when he smashed his hand;
and Aaron Stempler, genius IQ who could read Latin and devoured every book he could get his hands on who is accused of the brutal murder of Catholic Archbishop Rushmon who had befriended him. The evidence against Aaron is overwhelming.
-And then there’s Roy.
First rate legal novel. The courtroom scenes are magnificent.
April 22, 2010
I will never forget when I was finishing this book. I was relaxing after a day at work with the last 50 pages, enjoying the way Diehl was wrapping up the story. I got to the last few pages and was so completely surprised by the twist Diehl put into the story that I sat bolt upright, said basically what the heck (and no, not I didn't actually use that mild of an explicative) and instantly turned back those pages to make sure I wasn't hallucinating what I had just read. I don't get a lot of what the heck just happened moments when I read books these days, but this one supplied one of the best I've ever had. Kudos to Diehl for baiting a good hook.
December 28, 2010
Although I saw the movie adaptation with Richard Gere and Edward Norton, I wanted to read this book because I was curious how the author would present his story on paper. It turned out that William Diehl did a great job at mixing psychological suspense with legal coutroom drama.
Aaaron Stampler is accused of murdering Archbishop Richard Rushman - in fact police find him near the scene of the murder - hiding in a confessional, soaked with blood and gripping the murder weapon. Defense attorney Martin Vail is forced to take Stampler's case pro-bono - Vail has recently won a case against the city, county and the state police, which all hope that this case will humiliate and destroy him.
I'm not a big mystery or thriller reader - In fact I tend to avoid them. Novels in these genres usually run in series, with the same protagonist - usually a detective or a lawyer. However, I was impressed by the film which was made from this novel and I'm glad I decided to give it a go.
Martin Vail's characters is rich and vivid - if Gordon Gekko went to law school he'll be him. His supporting team is not shabby either - the private investigator Tommy Goodman, an ex-boxer who digs nasty details about the case and the murdered Bishop.Psychologist Molly Arrington analyses Aaron and is instrumental in bringing facts that Vail can use in court.
However, the real diamond here is the character of Aaron Stampler, an angelic faced, mild boy. A complex character, Aaron is seemingly inscrutable and denies comitting the murder. As Vail races against time to form a defense for his client, the novel drastically increases the level of suspense which literally explodes in the final coutroom scene, and - what's incredible - offers a conclusion that imprints itself in the mind of the reader and makes him think about what he has just read.
A classic novel in the genre, Primal Fear offers much more than the rest of the lot and is a great fun to read. Recommended.
Aaaron Stampler is accused of murdering Archbishop Richard Rushman - in fact police find him near the scene of the murder - hiding in a confessional, soaked with blood and gripping the murder weapon. Defense attorney Martin Vail is forced to take Stampler's case pro-bono - Vail has recently won a case against the city, county and the state police, which all hope that this case will humiliate and destroy him.
I'm not a big mystery or thriller reader - In fact I tend to avoid them. Novels in these genres usually run in series, with the same protagonist - usually a detective or a lawyer. However, I was impressed by the film which was made from this novel and I'm glad I decided to give it a go.
Martin Vail's characters is rich and vivid - if Gordon Gekko went to law school he'll be him. His supporting team is not shabby either - the private investigator Tommy Goodman, an ex-boxer who digs nasty details about the case and the murdered Bishop.Psychologist Molly Arrington analyses Aaron and is instrumental in bringing facts that Vail can use in court.
However, the real diamond here is the character of Aaron Stampler, an angelic faced, mild boy. A complex character, Aaron is seemingly inscrutable and denies comitting the murder. As Vail races against time to form a defense for his client, the novel drastically increases the level of suspense which literally explodes in the final coutroom scene, and - what's incredible - offers a conclusion that imprints itself in the mind of the reader and makes him think about what he has just read.
A classic novel in the genre, Primal Fear offers much more than the rest of the lot and is a great fun to read. Recommended.
February 27, 2020
"He's probably thinking that when the jury returns he'll own a small piece of the real Estate he's looking down at, a hunk of the city which for a year now he has casually stomped into dust".
Primal Fear (Vail/Stampler, #1)
by William Diehl
It doesn't really get any better then this for thrillers.
So if you don't know this book was also a movie and it is the movie that made Edward Norton a star. And no wonder! I still am electrified by that last scene in the film.
The book and the movie are really pretty much the same. No major changes here. Although I preferred the movie, the book is still great and can make it's own intense impact.
END SPOILERS:
One of the best twists in History! It gets five stars for that alone!
Primal Fear (Vail/Stampler, #1)
by William Diehl
It doesn't really get any better then this for thrillers.
So if you don't know this book was also a movie and it is the movie that made Edward Norton a star. And no wonder! I still am electrified by that last scene in the film.
The book and the movie are really pretty much the same. No major changes here. Although I preferred the movie, the book is still great and can make it's own intense impact.
END SPOILERS:
One of the best twists in History! It gets five stars for that alone!
February 18, 2016
Aaron Stampler is found in a confessional booth holding a knife, proclaiming his innocence, after someone killed the revered Bishop of the city. Martin Vail, a quick-witted lawyer who isn't afraid to leap before he looks, is basically coerced into defending the young man who appears guilty in every sense of the word. Every politician in the city seems to have a vendetta against Vail and looks foward to seeing him lose the case.
Liked the movie. Loved the book. As with most book-to-movie adaptations, the book was better. Unlike his movie persona, Vail isn't cool, well-dressed sauveness that Richard Gere presented. The Vail in the book is a man who isn't overly concerned about his personal appearance, and he isn't afraid to grab at straws, and he makes lawyers tremble just at the mention of his name.
The book also provided more insight on Aaron. You get a taste of his childhood and find out more about what molded him. In the book, Aaron is a genius, despite the accent and his angelic appearance. His childhood wasn't the best thing, and he's even described as being able to detach himself from tragedies. Is that enough to make him a killer? Is he mentally stable?
I'm sure by now, most people have heard about the twist, but that doesn't take the impact away from reading it for yourself. I read the "twist" over and over again, even though I've seen the movie and knew what to expect. A first-rate legal thriller. I can't wait to read the sequel.
Liked the movie. Loved the book. As with most book-to-movie adaptations, the book was better. Unlike his movie persona, Vail isn't cool, well-dressed sauveness that Richard Gere presented. The Vail in the book is a man who isn't overly concerned about his personal appearance, and he isn't afraid to grab at straws, and he makes lawyers tremble just at the mention of his name.
The book also provided more insight on Aaron. You get a taste of his childhood and find out more about what molded him. In the book, Aaron is a genius, despite the accent and his angelic appearance. His childhood wasn't the best thing, and he's even described as being able to detach himself from tragedies. Is that enough to make him a killer? Is he mentally stable?
I'm sure by now, most people have heard about the twist, but that doesn't take the impact away from reading it for yourself. I read the "twist" over and over again, even though I've seen the movie and knew what to expect. A first-rate legal thriller. I can't wait to read the sequel.
February 5, 2012
WOW! Very intriguing!
'Primal Fear' has all the elements I always craved for in a book. I can say that by the way it gripped me altogether.
This books, surely deserved a 4 star rating until the last 10-12 pages just made it so damn interesting.
And this is one of the books, where the last line reveals the suspense. So I suggest, not to, even accidentally read the last line. And if you do, be naive, like me. I read the last line, and thankfully it didn't spoil the brunch for me.
I truly admire the author of this book for presenting such an awesome page-turner. And also the characters of Martin Vail and Aaron Stampler.
Superb and do read it! Its a gooooood read! :)
'Primal Fear' has all the elements I always craved for in a book. I can say that by the way it gripped me altogether.
This books, surely deserved a 4 star rating until the last 10-12 pages just made it so damn interesting.
And this is one of the books, where the last line reveals the suspense. So I suggest, not to, even accidentally read the last line. And if you do, be naive, like me. I read the last line, and thankfully it didn't spoil the brunch for me.
I truly admire the author of this book for presenting such an awesome page-turner. And also the characters of Martin Vail and Aaron Stampler.
Superb and do read it! Its a gooooood read! :)
July 25, 2017
A masterfully crafted novel. The writing is superb, the attention to detail magnificent and the story itself is particularly thrilling and interesting. I watched the movie a few years back, so I knew the ending. Even with a huge spoiler like that, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it was as gripping and suspenseful as it would be if I had no clue about the resolution of the story. I really enjoyed Diehl's writing style, and I can't wait to get my hands on some of the other books he wrote.
January 11, 2025
One of my all time favorites! I was shocked to the core! And the movie with Richard Gere and a young Ed Norton is also fantastic!
August 2, 2014
Unlike Sharky’s Machine (also by William Diehl) in which the good guys obviously wore the white hats, and the bad guys obviously wore the black hats, this novel, Primal Fear, is all shades of gray…and blood red.
A high profile defense attorney who has never lost a case is assigned to defend, pro bono, the altar boy accused of butchering the city’s most popular archbishop. The bishop was found in pieces, literally, in his residence and the accused was found covered in the bishop’s blood, hiding in a confessional in the adjacent church, holding the murder weapon. It’s considered a slam dunk for the prosecution. Movers and shakers want to see this kid ride the electric chair.
The defense attorney, Martin Vail, is assigned this case by the sitting judge as payback. Vail recently won a settlement from the city and state for several million dollars on behalf of a client. The powers that be think this new case will be a major loss for Vail. The prosecutor, Jane Venable, and Vail have a history. She was about to leave the prosecutor’s office for private practice, and was “persuaded” to stay long enough to handle the “slam dunk” case.
Watching Vail and his team prepare for trial is fascinating. Each step along the way is professional and painstaking. One hopes real life legal defense teams are this good (Sharky's Machine was also about a good team working well together). Additional bodies are found, and secret messages are found on the bodies. More evidence and witnesses are found. A defense strategy begins to come together.
As the trial starts, Vail begins to chip away at the prosecution’s case…and maybe it’s not such a “slam dunk” after all.
This novel raises a number of questions about the way the justice system works. Actual innocence or guilt is sometimes lost in the process of winning or losing. People are used as chess pieces in a game of life or death. Each character is well drawn and fully developed. Martin Vail is largely a very likable person, but has ruthless qualities. Just as with Michael Connelly’s The Fifth Witness, I find the most frightening thing is the thought of being an innocent person accused in the justice system. Most of us would not have the financial resources to mount a successful defense, or hire the very best attorneys.
I have to tell you, I saw two major plot twists in this novel coming from early on in the book; and though they were handled extremely well by the author, I was disappointed as they seemed obvious to me. Make no mistake, this is still a thumping good read, difficult to put down, and very entertaining. If you might like a legal thriller combined with psychological horror, this could be the book for you.
A high profile defense attorney who has never lost a case is assigned to defend, pro bono, the altar boy accused of butchering the city’s most popular archbishop. The bishop was found in pieces, literally, in his residence and the accused was found covered in the bishop’s blood, hiding in a confessional in the adjacent church, holding the murder weapon. It’s considered a slam dunk for the prosecution. Movers and shakers want to see this kid ride the electric chair.
The defense attorney, Martin Vail, is assigned this case by the sitting judge as payback. Vail recently won a settlement from the city and state for several million dollars on behalf of a client. The powers that be think this new case will be a major loss for Vail. The prosecutor, Jane Venable, and Vail have a history. She was about to leave the prosecutor’s office for private practice, and was “persuaded” to stay long enough to handle the “slam dunk” case.
Watching Vail and his team prepare for trial is fascinating. Each step along the way is professional and painstaking. One hopes real life legal defense teams are this good (Sharky's Machine was also about a good team working well together). Additional bodies are found, and secret messages are found on the bodies. More evidence and witnesses are found. A defense strategy begins to come together.
As the trial starts, Vail begins to chip away at the prosecution’s case…and maybe it’s not such a “slam dunk” after all.
This novel raises a number of questions about the way the justice system works. Actual innocence or guilt is sometimes lost in the process of winning or losing. People are used as chess pieces in a game of life or death. Each character is well drawn and fully developed. Martin Vail is largely a very likable person, but has ruthless qualities. Just as with Michael Connelly’s The Fifth Witness, I find the most frightening thing is the thought of being an innocent person accused in the justice system. Most of us would not have the financial resources to mount a successful defense, or hire the very best attorneys.
I have to tell you, I saw two major plot twists in this novel coming from early on in the book; and though they were handled extremely well by the author, I was disappointed as they seemed obvious to me. Make no mistake, this is still a thumping good read, difficult to put down, and very entertaining. If you might like a legal thriller combined with psychological horror, this could be the book for you.
July 8, 2025
«ترس کهن» اثری است که در لایههای پیچیدهاش، پروندهای جنایی را بهانهای میکند برای کاوشی ژرف در اعماق روان انسان و بازیهای هویت و حقیقت. ویلیام دیل با مهارت داستانی خود، خواننده را وارد دنیایی میکند که در آن مرزهای واقعیت و دروغ بهطرز ماهرانهای محو میشوند و هیچ چیز آنگونه که به نظر میرسد نیست.
کتاب روایتگر ماجرای وکیلی برجسته است که مأمور دفاع از کشیشی جوان و متهم به قتل میشود؛ شخصیتی که در ظاهر ساده و بیگناه، رازهایی تاریک و چندوجهی دارد. این پرونده نه تنها جنبهای قضایی دارد، بلکه صحنهای است برای رویارویی با پرسشهای بنیادین درباره هویت، وجدان، و بازیهای روانی که هر انسان ممکن است گرفتار آن شود.
در «ترس کهن»، دیل با بهرهگیری از ساختاری دقیق و کشش روایی قوی، شخصیتها را نه به صورت کاریکاتوری، بلکه به عنوان موجوداتی پیچیده و چندبُعدی تصویر میکند. این پرداخت به شخصیتها، به ویژه شخصیت کشیش متهم، به روایت عمق میبخشد و خواننده را به تردید دربارۀ حقیقت وامیدارد. به همین دلیل، کتاب از جنبههای صرفاً جنایی فراتر میرود و به متنی روانشناسانه و فلسفی تبدیل میشود.
ویژگی برجسته اثر، تمرکز بر بازیهای ذهنی و تاکتیکهای فریب است که در روند داستان به شکل هنرمندانهای به نمایش گذاشته شدهاند. این بازیها نه تنها میان شخصیتها، بلکه بین نویسنده و خواننده نیز برقرار است؛ خواننده تا پایان در تعلیق نگاه داشته میشود و با هر صفحه، بازتعریفی تازه از حقیقت به دست میآورد.
کتاب در عین حال که اثری پرتعلیق و هیجانانگیز است، پرسشهای اخلاقی عمیقی نیز مطرح میکند. چه کسی واقعا قربانی است؟ چه کسی حق دارد قضاوت کند؟ و چگونه میتوان در دنیایی که حقیقت در پردههای پیچیدهای پوشیده شده، عدالت را یافت؟
«ترس کهن» نه تنها اثری موفق در ژانر تریلر حقوقی است، بلکه مطالعهای ژرف درباره ساختار هویت انسانی، پیچیدگیهای روانی، و ماهیت حقیقت به شمار میآید؛ اثری که پس از خواندن آن، ذهن همچنان به بازی پیچیده میان واقعیت و وهم ادامه میدهد. این کتاب از آن دست آثاری است که خواننده را دعوت میکند فراتر از سطرهای نوشته شده، به عمق سوالات انسانی سفر کند.
کتاب روایتگر ماجرای وکیلی برجسته است که مأمور دفاع از کشیشی جوان و متهم به قتل میشود؛ شخصیتی که در ظاهر ساده و بیگناه، رازهایی تاریک و چندوجهی دارد. این پرونده نه تنها جنبهای قضایی دارد، بلکه صحنهای است برای رویارویی با پرسشهای بنیادین درباره هویت، وجدان، و بازیهای روانی که هر انسان ممکن است گرفتار آن شود.
در «ترس کهن»، دیل با بهرهگیری از ساختاری دقیق و کشش روایی قوی، شخصیتها را نه به صورت کاریکاتوری، بلکه به عنوان موجوداتی پیچیده و چندبُعدی تصویر میکند. این پرداخت به شخصیتها، به ویژه شخصیت کشیش متهم، به روایت عمق میبخشد و خواننده را به تردید دربارۀ حقیقت وامیدارد. به همین دلیل، کتاب از جنبههای صرفاً جنایی فراتر میرود و به متنی روانشناسانه و فلسفی تبدیل میشود.
ویژگی برجسته اثر، تمرکز بر بازیهای ذهنی و تاکتیکهای فریب است که در روند داستان به شکل هنرمندانهای به نمایش گذاشته شدهاند. این بازیها نه تنها میان شخصیتها، بلکه بین نویسنده و خواننده نیز برقرار است؛ خواننده تا پایان در تعلیق نگاه داشته میشود و با هر صفحه، بازتعریفی تازه از حقیقت به دست میآورد.
کتاب در عین حال که اثری پرتعلیق و هیجانانگیز است، پرسشهای اخلاقی عمیقی نیز مطرح میکند. چه کسی واقعا قربانی است؟ چه کسی حق دارد قضاوت کند؟ و چگونه میتوان در دنیایی که حقیقت در پردههای پیچیدهای پوشیده شده، عدالت را یافت؟
«ترس کهن» نه تنها اثری موفق در ژانر تریلر حقوقی است، بلکه مطالعهای ژرف درباره ساختار هویت انسانی، پیچیدگیهای روانی، و ماهیت حقیقت به شمار میآید؛ اثری که پس از خواندن آن، ذهن همچنان به بازی پیچیده میان واقعیت و وهم ادامه میدهد. این کتاب از آن دست آثاری است که خواننده را دعوت میکند فراتر از سطرهای نوشته شده، به عمق سوالات انسانی سفر کند.
August 2, 2023
I watched the movie based on this book recently and had a feeling that the book would be great. It was better than I thought it would be. William Diehl is very very good. His writing reminds me of John Grisham. We have the interesting characters and the big trial scenes. This story keeps you locked in for the entire book and gives the big payoff at the end.
If I had not watched the movie first the book would of been even a better read, as I would not known the ending. So hopefully you read the book first, but actually the movie as usual cut a lot of interesting scenes out making the book still a great read either way.
If I had not watched the movie first the book would of been even a better read, as I would not known the ending. So hopefully you read the book first, but actually the movie as usual cut a lot of interesting scenes out making the book still a great read either way.
December 25, 2022
This was even better than the movie, I loved this book so much
March 28, 2021
my aunt recommended this book to me saying it had one of the best plot twists. she wasn't wrong! would recommend to thriller lovers who want to read something a bit retro.
March 31, 2022
I thought the 1996 movie version was better than the book.
September 18, 2025
I did not think I would like this! 👀🔪 - August Book Club pick!
February 23, 2022
Това ми беше първата книга от този автор , но сигурност няма да е последната..Реалната ми оценка за тази книга е около 4,5 звезди, като наистина много малко не достига за максимална..
Историята започва с бруталното убийство на архиепископ Рашмън, когото цял Чикаво познава като светеца от Лейквю Драйв..На местопрестъплението полицията арестува младият помощник на епископа – Аарон Стемплър, като младежа е целият окъпан с кръвта на светеца и държи ножа, с който е извършено садистичното убийство. Доказателствата за вината на Аарон са неоспорими, а цял Чикаго иска бързо да го линчува и прати на електрическият стол.
Аарон е интелигентен и възпитан тийнейджър с ангелски вид, който твърди, че е невинен и не си спомня почти нищо от нощта на убийството..
На сцената се появява брилянтният, но безкомпромисен адвокат Мартин Вейл, който е нарочен да поеме защитата на Аарон и да понесе съкрушителна загуба защитавайки убиеца на един от най-почитаните и влиятелни хора в Чикаго. Вейл е абсолютен хегемон в съдебната зала, всеки прокурор в града го мрази, а съдиите са му вдигнали мерника, след като в предишния си случай успява да осъди града и щата..Взет на мушка този път за Вейл прошка няма да има и всичко сочи, че той няма как да спечели. Само че супер-адвоката няма да се даде без бой и ще рови толкова надълбоко, колкото е необходимо за да спаси своя клиент от смъртната присъда.
Разбира се той не може да се справи сам с непосилната задача и сформира свой собствен екип от професионалисти-напориста секретарка, бивш боксьор, пенсиониран съдия и находчива психиатърка, които да му помагат и да го напътват в това иначе обречено дело..
Когато неговите помощници започват да ровят около смъртта на епископа и около животът на Аарон те се натъкват на толкова перверзни и брутални неща, които могат да навредят, както на тях самите, така и на целия град..
Въпреки, че в книгата има доста герои това по абсолютно никакъв начин не разваля кефа на читателя!
Автора е успял да създаде пълнокръвни, интересни и запомнящи се образи, стилът му на писане е лесен и увлекателен, сюжета е динамичен и непредвидим, макар че някъде към средата вече доста успешно бях прогнозирал какъв ще бъде краят..Да си призная краят леко ме разочарова, очаквах повече, имаше всички пре��поставки че нещо голямо предстой, но да кажем че и това развитие не ми развали кефа по никой начин..
Абсолютна класика в жанра, определено е книга, която всеки истински фен на трилъра(не само съдебният трилър)трябва да прочете!
Историята започва с бруталното убийство на архиепископ Рашмън, когото цял Чикаво познава като светеца от Лейквю Драйв..На местопрестъплението полицията арестува младият помощник на епископа – Аарон Стемплър, като младежа е целият окъпан с кръвта на светеца и държи ножа, с който е извършено садистичното убийство. Доказателствата за вината на Аарон са неоспорими, а цял Чикаго иска бързо да го линчува и прати на електрическият стол.
Аарон е интелигентен и възпитан тийнейджър с ангелски вид, който твърди, че е невинен и не си спомня почти нищо от нощта на убийството..
На сцената се появява брилянтният, но безкомпромисен адвокат Мартин Вейл, който е нарочен да поеме защитата на Аарон и да понесе съкрушителна загуба защитавайки убиеца на един от най-почитаните и влиятелни хора в Чикаго. Вейл е абсолютен хегемон в съдебната зала, всеки прокурор в града го мрази, а съдиите са му вдигнали мерника, след като в предишния си случай успява да осъди града и щата..Взет на мушка този път за Вейл прошка няма да има и всичко сочи, че той няма как да спечели. Само че супер-адвоката няма да се даде без бой и ще рови толкова надълбоко, колкото е необходимо за да спаси своя клиент от смъртната присъда.
Разбира се той не може да се справи сам с непосилната задача и сформира свой собствен екип от професионалисти-напориста секретарка, бивш боксьор, пенсиониран съдия и находчива психиатърка, които да му помагат и да го напътват в това иначе обречено дело..
Когато неговите помощници започват да ровят около смъртта на епископа и около животът на Аарон те се натъкват на толкова перверзни и брутални неща, които могат да навредят, както на тях самите, така и на целия град..
Въпреки, че в книгата има доста герои това по абсолютно никакъв начин не разваля кефа на читателя!
Автора е успял да създаде пълнокръвни, интересни и запомнящи се образи, стилът му на писане е лесен и увлекателен, сюжета е динамичен и непредвидим, макар че някъде към средата вече доста успешно бях прогнозирал какъв ще бъде краят..Да си призная краят леко ме разочарова, очаквах повече, имаше всички пре��поставки че нещо голямо предстой, но да кажем че и това развитие не ми развали кефа по никой начин..
Абсолютна класика в жанра, определено е книга, която всеки истински фен на трилъра(не само съдебният трилър)трябва да прочете!
February 18, 2018
Excellent writing and some of the best characters I've met.
I've seen the movie years ago but didn't expect the book to be as good, if not better. Usually that is the case but something at the back of my mind told me not to get my hopes up. I was proven wrong, the book revealed to me one of my new favourite genres of writing: courtroom thriller.
The text is easy to read, the jargon isn't too difficult and the switch between past and present events, or descriptions of characters backrounds, works well.
I liked Vail and Naomi. Also, Aaron's character was excellent.
By the way, it suddenly strikes me odd how much sex there was in this book in relation to how needless it was. I mean, it could have easily been left out.
Anyway, the plot is great and I liked how Diehl worked his way to the end. Also, the fact that there were so many characters didn't bother me at all, when it usually does. I often find it hard to keep up and forget who was who but Diehl is just so good, it was easy to follow. I guess it is> alot to do with the talent of the author.
Overall a very enjoyable experience, Diehl is good!
I've seen the movie years ago but didn't expect the book to be as good, if not better. Usually that is the case but something at the back of my mind told me not to get my hopes up. I was proven wrong, the book revealed to me one of my new favourite genres of writing: courtroom thriller.
The text is easy to read, the jargon isn't too difficult and the switch between past and present events, or descriptions of characters backrounds, works well.
I liked Vail and Naomi. Also, Aaron's character was excellent.
By the way, it suddenly strikes me odd how much sex there was in this book in relation to how needless it was. I mean, it could have easily been left out.
Anyway, the plot is great and I liked how Diehl worked his way to the end. Also, the fact that there were so many characters didn't bother me at all, when it usually does. I often find it hard to keep up and forget who was who but Diehl is just so good, it was easy to follow. I guess it is> alot to do with the talent of the author.
Overall a very enjoyable experience, Diehl is good!
January 21, 2019
Definitely worth reading.
Highly enjoyable throwback thriller
January 14, 2023
3.5
literally whattt was the reason for the random sex scenes😭😭 like i was here for the investigation and trial smh
literally whattt was the reason for the random sex scenes😭😭 like i was here for the investigation and trial smh
August 11, 2024
AMAZING SHOWSTOPPING INCREDIBLE BOOK. i loved picturing edward norton and richard gere and peter strahm from saw as lietenant stenner.
this book was so good it was so different from the movie but like i dont like either of them less than the other. writing was crazy and awesome.
need to bring aaron stampler a coke and a slice of coconut cream pie. my beautiful perfect innocent southern belle who can do no wrong
this book was so good it was so different from the movie but like i dont like either of them less than the other. writing was crazy and awesome.
need to bring aaron stampler a coke and a slice of coconut cream pie. my beautiful perfect innocent southern belle who can do no wrong
May 21, 2014
Thought provoking
A Bishop with an eminent standing in the local community is sadistically murdered by a teenager who was under his care, to the point that beyond the large amount of mortal wounds inflicted all over his body, his genital organs end up stuffed in his mouth .The potential perpetrator is a teenager suffering from a multiple personality disorder. Was he or his alter ego ?, is he accountable if his alter ego has done it ?, is multiple personality disorder a recognized mental disease ?, is the physical evidence found in the room where the crime took place good enough beyond reasonable doubt to nail the accused and punish him with the electric chair ?..., Is this situation real or is the accused actually faking the disorder? Was the murder premeditated ? Who is the Bishop indeed ?
Legal psycho thriller, with two great caracter developments, Vail,the flamboyant fiery defense attorney who is defending the teenager pro bono, and Aaron the defendant, who acts as an individual with two turning personalities, Aaron the gifted innocent hilbilly boy, and Roy the mean sadistic beast who cannot tell good from evil.
Then second half of the book where the ardent criminal trial unfolds, featuring lost of interesting questioning, is far more interesting and better writtten that the first half of the book which encompasses the heinous criminal act and ensuing investigation, the ending holds a great surprise, making the whole book worth reading.
A Bishop with an eminent standing in the local community is sadistically murdered by a teenager who was under his care, to the point that beyond the large amount of mortal wounds inflicted all over his body, his genital organs end up stuffed in his mouth .The potential perpetrator is a teenager suffering from a multiple personality disorder. Was he or his alter ego ?, is he accountable if his alter ego has done it ?, is multiple personality disorder a recognized mental disease ?, is the physical evidence found in the room where the crime took place good enough beyond reasonable doubt to nail the accused and punish him with the electric chair ?..., Is this situation real or is the accused actually faking the disorder? Was the murder premeditated ? Who is the Bishop indeed ?
Legal psycho thriller, with two great caracter developments, Vail,the flamboyant fiery defense attorney who is defending the teenager pro bono, and Aaron the defendant, who acts as an individual with two turning personalities, Aaron the gifted innocent hilbilly boy, and Roy the mean sadistic beast who cannot tell good from evil.
Then second half of the book where the ardent criminal trial unfolds, featuring lost of interesting questioning, is far more interesting and better writtten that the first half of the book which encompasses the heinous criminal act and ensuing investigation, the ending holds a great surprise, making the whole book worth reading.
July 25, 2011
First and best in a series, followed by "Show Of Evil" and "Reign In Hell."
Also a great film starring Richard Gere and Edward Norton in his debut role.
The city of Chicago is shocked when their "saint of Lakeview Drive," Archbishop Richard Bernard Rushman, is brutally murdered in his own rectory. Nineteen year old Aaron Stampler is found crouched in a church confessional, covered in the bishop's blood, mumbling, "Didn't do it, Mama."
Attorney Martin Vail is known for his rough tactics as well as his brilliant performances in the courtroom. He is hated by every prosecutor in the city. Vail loves and lives the law. Vail is forced to defend Aaron Stampler as sort of a "slap on the wrist." Aaron's Appalachian mountain accent and angelic appearance is only the beginning to a great defense.
Author William Diehl hits the jackpot with this tale of murder and suspense. His characters are so real in their descriptions and dialog, it's easy to love and/or hate them. Great book to recommend (if you haven't already seen the movie).
Also a great film starring Richard Gere and Edward Norton in his debut role.
The city of Chicago is shocked when their "saint of Lakeview Drive," Archbishop Richard Bernard Rushman, is brutally murdered in his own rectory. Nineteen year old Aaron Stampler is found crouched in a church confessional, covered in the bishop's blood, mumbling, "Didn't do it, Mama."
Attorney Martin Vail is known for his rough tactics as well as his brilliant performances in the courtroom. He is hated by every prosecutor in the city. Vail loves and lives the law. Vail is forced to defend Aaron Stampler as sort of a "slap on the wrist." Aaron's Appalachian mountain accent and angelic appearance is only the beginning to a great defense.
Author William Diehl hits the jackpot with this tale of murder and suspense. His characters are so real in their descriptions and dialog, it's easy to love and/or hate them. Great book to recommend (if you haven't already seen the movie).
July 14, 2023
4.5 so why not round on up, right?!
Okay, full disclosure- I read the book after watching the movie. Typical of the book-movie fashion, my interpretation was inhibited but also surprisingly enhanced. The personalities of Vail and Stampler were wonderfully captured in the film and allowed me to easily pick up on their tones. On the flip side, I was plagued with my movie-plot comparison and knowledge of most twists. All previous perceptions considered, I loved the character development and (accurate) psycho-legal discussions.
Recommend to any reader who enjoys psychological reads, legal casework, and/or suspense.
Okay, full disclosure- I read the book after watching the movie. Typical of the book-movie fashion, my interpretation was inhibited but also surprisingly enhanced. The personalities of Vail and Stampler were wonderfully captured in the film and allowed me to easily pick up on their tones. On the flip side, I was plagued with my movie-plot comparison and knowledge of most twists. All previous perceptions considered, I loved the character development and (accurate) psycho-legal discussions.
Recommend to any reader who enjoys psychological reads, legal casework, and/or suspense.
October 16, 2022
Brilliant. A couple of moments where I was like 'ah yes, the 90s, what a time to be alive (spoiler alert: almost every woman must be hot and must be seduced lol), but I loved the pace, the twists, the investigation. Loved it.
February 4, 2008
Excellent. I don't want to give one word away...buy the book, don't even read the back of it. Just dive in.
I won't watch the movie because seeing Richard Gere as Martin Vial will ruin my life.
I won't watch the movie because seeing Richard Gere as Martin Vial will ruin my life.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 526 reviews