Julia Bartz's The Last Session is a gripping exploration of the human psyche, wrapped in the taut suspense of a locked-room thriller. This novel, following the success of Bartz's The Writing Retreat, delves into the complexities of trauma, memory, and the often blurred lines between healing and manipulation. Set against the stark, isolating backdrop of the New Mexico desert, the narrative invites readers into a world where the past and present collide with chilling consequences.

The protagonist, Thea, is a social worker whose life is upended when a catatonic woman arrives at her psychiatric unit. Thea's recognition of the woman as a link to her own traumatic past sets the stage for a journey that is as much about self-discovery as it is about unraveling a mystery. Bartz skillfully crafts Thea's character, presenting her as a deeply empathetic yet flawed individual. Her determination to uncover the truth about her patient—and by extension, herself—drives the narrative forward with relentless momentum.

The setting of the novel, a remote wellness center in Southwestern New Mexico, serves as more than just a backdrop; it becomes a character in its own right. The isolation and desolation of the desert mirror Thea's internal struggle, amplifying the tension and sense of foreboding that permeates the story. Bartz's vivid descriptions of the landscape create an immersive experience, drawing readers into the eerie tranquility of the center where the boundaries between reality and illusion blur.

At the heart of The Last Session is the theme of memory and its malleability. Thea's quest to understand her past is complicated by the unreliable nature of memory, both hers and the patient's. Bartz explores how trauma can distort and fragment recollections, leaving individuals vulnerable to manipulation. This theme is particularly resonant in the context of the wellness center, where the charismatic couple leading the retreat employ controversial methods to probe the attendees' deepest fears and desires.

The exercises at the retreat, designed to uncover romantic and sexual issues, are portrayed with a mix of intrigue and discomfort. As Thea participates in these increasingly intimate activities, she is forced to confront her own vulnerabilities and the secrets she has long buried. Bartz handles these scenes with sensitivity, balancing the potential for exploitation with the genuine possibility of healing. This duality is a testament to Bartz's nuanced understanding of human psychology and the complexities of personal growth.

One of the novel's strengths is its pacing. Bartz expertly weaves together past and present, gradually revealing the layers of Thea's history and the events that led to the patient's catatonia. The suspense builds steadily, culminating in a climax that is both unexpected and satisfying. The resolution of the mystery is handled with deftness, leaving readers with a sense of closure while also prompting reflection on the broader implications of the story.

In comparison to other works in the genre, The Last Session stands out for its psychological depth and character-driven narrative. While it shares similarities with novels like The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins and Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn, Bartz's focus on the therapeutic setting and the exploration of memory set it apart. The novel's exploration of the ethics of therapy and the potential for abuse within such settings adds a layer of complexity that is both timely and thought-provoking.

Overall, The Last Session is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of psychological thrillers and character-driven mysteries. Julia Bartz has crafted a story that is as much about the journey of self-discovery as it is about solving a mystery. The novel's exploration of trauma, memory, and the human capacity for resilience makes it a standout in the genre. Readers will find themselves captivated by Thea's journey and the haunting beauty of the New Mexico desert, long after the final page is turned.

For those interested in exploring this thrilling narrative, The Last Session is available on major platforms such as Amazon and Goodreads.