Karin Slaughter Should Add Will Trent Season 3’s Most Complex Character to Her Next Book

Karin Slaughter may not require assistance with her “Will Trent” novels, but she could potentially gain additional depth by incorporating a character from the series. It’s captivating to delve into the distinctions between the “Will Trent” television show and literature, and such exploration is truly rewarding. Engaging with the “Will Trent” characters in two distinct mediums adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.

Since one of the most beloved characters in ABC’s Will Trent has been removed from the show to an extent that they won’t be returning for season 4, it might be intriguing to explore how Slaughter’s books could reimagine a character from the series instead of the other way around. There are certainly many opportunities for these books to take advantage of this.

Karin Slaughter’s Will Trent Books Haven’t Been Concluded Yet

Will Trent #12 Leaves The Story Open To Continue

In the fervor of Karin Slaughter’s dedicated readership, whispers have been circulating that her upcoming Will Trent novel might be her final installment. One reason for this speculation is that Will and Sara Linton, after a long journey together, recently tied the knot and might choose to embark on a more tranquil, less perilous path in life. It seems like the perfect moment for them to enjoy a well-deserved happy ending. Furthermore, Slaughter has just unveiled her remarkable debut in the North Falls series, which could be another compelling direction for her creative endeavors.

As a passionate reader and cinephile, I’ve recently found myself engrossed in the pages of “This Is Why We Lied,” a captivating novel by Karin Slaughter. Despite my occasional dips into the “Will Trent” series, this latest work doesn’t seem to indicate that it will be Will’s final murder mystery adventure. Spoiler-free, I can assure you that there’s no foreshadowing in “This Is Why We Lied” suggesting an end to our beloved detective’s tale.

In the latest installment of the Will Trent series, some critics have commended it as a potential standalone read for newcomers. However, it’s important to note that This Is Why We Lied occurs during Will and Sara Linton’s honeymoon. Given that they find a body even under such romantic circumstances, there are still plenty of books featuring these characters if you wish to continue following them. If not, the series offers ample opportunity to introduce new characters as well.

Rafael Wexford Is Will Trent Season 3’s Most Complicated New Character

His History With Will Contains Layers Upon Layers

Readers might find themselves yearning for the inclusion of Rafael Wexford, a character, in the novels, much like how viewers anticipate Sara Linton’s appearance in Will Trent. Rafael is an intriguing figure due to his dual role as a ruthless gang leader and an old friend of Wilbur. This complex relationship creates tension since it’s essentially Will’s duty to apprehend Rafael.

Rafael’s grandmother, Ms. Pearl (portrayed by Marla Gibbs), welcomed Will into their home when he was still young. Despite Rafael’s initial reservations due to Will being unemployed and lacking education, they eventually developed a strong bond. An extraordinary event occurred where Rafael sacrificed his life to protect Will after they were caught in the act of selling stolen rugs. This unexpected turn of events added depth to their relationship, making it intriguing to follow.

In season 3, Will and Rafael face challenges as they rekindle their friendship despite being on opposing legal sides. However, they manage to lighten the atmosphere by engaging in lengthy discussions about watching General Hospital together with Ms. Pearl, which adds an amusing touch to their interactions. This dynamic between them is quite intriguing.

How Karin Slaughter’s Will Trent Books Can Improve On Rafael’s Story

ABC Only Had So Much Time To Develop The Character

Due to the limited screen time he has in the six-episode series of ABC’s Will Trent, Rafael Wexford doesn’t receive as much character development as one might expect. In contrast to Angie’s complex storyline that unfolded over multiple episodes in season 3 of Will Trent, we are left knowing relatively little about the background of this vibrant gay character and his seemingly biologically-related daughter.

In some aspects, it’s refreshing to see Will accepting Rafael and Sunny’s relationship without needing an explanation. Yet, Sunny’s significant role in Rafael’s narrative feels less satisfying without delving deeper into her background. A novel could offer the opportunity to flesh out that aspect more thoroughly.

As a passionate movie enthusiast, introducing Rafael to the Will Trent books isn’t just about delving into another gripping storyline; it’s an opportunity to delve deeper into Will’s past with Rafael. The intriguing aspect here is that Rafael initially misunderstood Will due to his dyslexia, a fact that could make their relationship all the more compelling. This misjudgment could explain why he still carries the weight of shame from those years, despite Angie’s repeated efforts to comfort him.

Exploring the depth of Rafael’s relationship with Will, who was often criticized by him despite his support, helps us understand why these friendships hold such significance for Will. This character development, in essence, serves to enrich our understanding of Will as a character, making it an important endeavor.

There’s Still One Potential Drawback To Rafael Appearing In The Will Trent Books

His Ending Can’t Be As Neatly Wrapped Up As In The Show

It could be entertaining for fans of the ABC series to see Will and Rafael discussing major plotlines from General Hospital during Pearl’s funeral plans, but that wouldn’t align with the more somber tone of the Will Trent books. In reality, the cheerful conclusion for Rafael on the show seems quite unlike something Karin Slaughter would write.

In the ABC series, there’s been a slight increase in darkness as it seems two characters from Will Trent’s storyline might meet their end in season 4. On the other hand, the book series has always been quite dark since its inception. The television plot, where Rafael successfully enters witness protection with his daughter after revealing gang members who betrayed him, appears a bit too neat when compared to the grittier narrative found in the books.

It’s intriguing to think about Rafael being in the novels, but given the storyline, he probably won’t get a positive outcome. Instead, it seems more plausible that he’ll meet a tragic end, face imprisonment, or encounter even grimmer fates. Since the books have already portrayed Ormewood as a murderer, one can speculate that they might handle a character leading an entire gang in a similarly grim light.

Instead of discarding Ormewood in the Will Trent series by Slaughter, there’s a possibility that Rafael might get a chance at redemption. It would be intriguing to imagine how Karin Slaughter might pen this story herself, as it could create an exciting reading experience for both TV and book enthusiasts.

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2025-07-04 23:19