I have enjoyed two previous works by this author so I was excited to see he had a new one coming out. This is the story of Lloyd McNeil, a police officer in Atlanta that receives a terminal diagnosis. Faced with the reality of leaving his young son fatherless, he decides to try to die in the line of duty, ensuring his son will be provided for financially at least, but his efforts don’t go according to plan. I have some quibbles with the plot of the book, but they were overridden by how much I enjoyed the tone of this book. My favorite type of book is one that handles a heavy topic with a light hand and despite this book starting out as bleak as possible with Lloyd’s diagnosis coming right at the start, the book was still frequently funny and infused with so much warmth and heart. Lloyd’s love for his son is the heartbeat of every page, including some wonderful sections where he writes down advice that he wants to leave for his son (“10 gentle edicts”.) Heartwarming without being schmaltzy, as much as a book about dying can be a feel good book, this is it.

I received an ARC of this ebook from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review. I am torn on this one. I wouldn’t say I disliked it. It was a heartwarming story and managed to make me laugh a few times despite the macabre theme. I just found some elements disappointing and the ending felt rushed and fell flat for me. I am giving it 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.

It's been my experience that when authors attempt the "sad but also funny" book, they usually achieve the sad part, but the humor is pretty lame. Will Leitch, however, has pulled it off. A police officer with a 13-year-old son learns he has a couple months to live. Definitely heartbreaking, but there are a lot of legitimately funny moments in this book.

Leitch's level of insight and empathy are off the charts. The moments between the father and son are incredible. It's amazing that he turned a book about a guy facing certain death into a page turner.

I honestly don't even know why you need a review from me when there's already a rave review from Richard Russo. Listen to Russo, read this book! Read this book and try to incorporate its message about appreciating your life and those around you.

Thanks to Netgalley, which provided me with a free e-galley in return for an honest review.

This book was both heartbreaking due to circumstances but also hilarious. You'll want to hug Lloyd the whole way through!

Lloyd McNeil, a second generation Atlanta police officer, is diagnosed with a brain tumor and given a few months to live. He decides it is best to keep the diagnosis from his ex-wife, thirteen year old son, and his supervisor. McNeil devises a plan to die in the line of duty so his son receives the maximum cash benefit allowed. Highly recommended for discussion groups because of the two-fold themes involving parenting and terminal illness.

I just finished the funniest book. Lloyd McNeil’s Last Ride by Will Leicht kept me chuckling page after page.