The Art of Isolation in Mystery Thrillers
There’s something uniquely unsettling about a murder mystery set in an isolated location. From Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None to modern classics like Ruth Ware’s One by One, the formula works because it strips away the comfort of escape. In Karin Slaughter’s latest Will Trent novel, This Is Why We Lied, she masterfully employs this classic setup while subverting expectations at every turn.
A Honeymoon Gone Wrong
Will Trent and Sara Linton’s romantic getaway to McAlpine Lodge should have been perfect. No phones, no internet, just them and the stunning mountain views. Instead, they find themselves thrust into a murder investigation when lodge manager Mercy McAlpine is brutally stabbed to death. The isolation that was meant to foster connection becomes a trap, with a killer walking among them and a storm cutting off access to the outside world.
Character Development & Relationships
The Evolution of Will and Sara
What sets this entry apart in the Will Trent series is how Slaughter uses the honeymoon setting to deepen our understanding of Will and Sara’s relationship. Their tender moments feel earned after twelve books of development, yet there’s an underlying tension as Will’s past literally comes knocking in the form of Dave “The Jackal” McAlpine, a figure from his orphanage days.
The McAlpine Family Dynamic
The true strength of the novel lies in its portrayal of the dysfunctional McAlpine family. Slaughter crafts a fascinating web of relationships, each character carrying their own weight of secrets and lies. The victim, Mercy, emerges as a complex figure through flashbacks and others’ memories – a reformed addict trying to prove herself while surrounded by people who refused to let her forget her past.
Masterful Plot Construction
Multiple Timelines and Perspectives
Slaughter weaves between present-day investigation and revealing flashbacks with precision. The structure keeps readers guessing while gradually unveiling the layers of deception that led to Mercy’s death. The author’s experience in crafting intricate plots shows in how she plants clues that seem insignificant until they suddenly aren’t.
The Red Herrings
One of the book’s greatest strengths is how it handles its red herrings. Each suspect feels genuinely possible, their motives and opportunities carefully constructed. Dave McAlpine, the obvious choice, is dispatched as a suspect relatively early—a bold move that forces readers to look deeper at the other characters.
Themes and Social Commentary
Family Trauma and Control
The novel delves deep into how families can perpetuate cycles of abuse and control. The McAlpines represent a microcosm of generational trauma, with Cecil and Bitty’s iron grip on their children manifesting in different ways across generations.
Power and Money
The pending sale of the lodge serves as more than just a plot device—it’s a lens through which Slaughter examines how wealth and power corrupt family bonds and morality. The arrival of potential investors adds another layer of tension to an already volatile situation.
Writing Style and Atmosphere
Slaughter’s prose is characteristically sharp and unflinching. She excels at creating atmosphere, making the reader feel the oppressive mountain air and sense of being watched. The violence, when it comes, is brutal and realistic—a Slaughter trademark that serves the story rather than shock value.
Minor Criticisms
While the novel largely succeeds, there are a few minor issues:
- The pacing in the middle section occasionally slows as various suspects are interviewed
- Some readers might find the number of characters initially overwhelming
- A few subplot threads feel slightly underdeveloped
Series Context
While This Is Why We Lied works as a standalone, readers familiar with the Will Trent series will get more from certain character moments and references. The book builds on established relationships while opening new directions for future installments.
Final Verdict
This Is Why We Lied is a strong addition to the Will Trent series that showcases Karin Slaughter’s growth as a writer. It successfully combines the intimate character work she’s known for with a compelling locked-room mystery. The book is perfect for its intricate plot, complex characters, and ability to surprise even seasoned mystery readers.
For Fans Of
- Lisa Gardner’s DD Warren series
- Tana French’s Dublin Murder Squad books
- Ruth Ware’s locked-room mysteries
Reading Order Note
While newcomers can enjoy this book, starting with Blindsighted (first in the Grant County series) or Triptych (first Will Trent book) will provide the richest reading experience.
This Is Why We Lied proves that twelve books into a series, Karin Slaughter can still deliver fresh, compelling mysteries while deepening her characters’ emotional landscapes. It’s a testament to her skill that she can make a classic setup feel new again through careful character work and masterful misdirection.
