The Good Lie

Consider Gwen’s interactions with Detective Saxe and compare these scenes to her internal thoughts about him. Is Saxe truly suspicious of her, or is Gwen’s narration inherently unreliable? Use specific textual examples to assess the degree to which Gwen projects her own fears and insecurities onto the situation.

Although The Good Lie is a psychological thriller, many of Alessandra Torre’s novels fall into the contemporary romance genre. How does her background as a romance author manifest in The Good Lie and supplement this darker narrative?

Consider Torre’s use of both third-person and first-person perspectives. What effect does this stylistic choice have on the story’s tone and structure? How would the narrative change if it were told entirely from Gwen’s perspective?

The Good Lie is fraught with morally ambiguous characters who often take a questionable stance and then seek to rationalize their choices. Compare and contrast the actions of at least two such characters. Does the narrative’s tone pass implicit judgment on them for their actions? Why or why not?

How do certain characters’ professions influence their personalities, preconceptions, and speech patterns? Consider Gwen as a psychiatrist, Robert as a defense attorney, Meredith as a sex therapist, and other characters whose professions are mentioned.

Out of concern for Scott’s safety, Nita begins monitoring her son’s movements and phone activity, while Gwen actively resists telling the police the details of John Abbott’s treatment. What underlying messages does Torre deliver about the dilemma of maintaining privacy while ensuring others’ safety?

How does Gwen subvert or conform to stereotypical depictions of psychiatrists and other mental health professionals in popular media?

Analyze Gwen’s personal vulnerabilities. How does she attempt to maintain her boundaries, and how does she allow herself to become compromised in this regard?