This biographical novel portrays the professional and personal lives of neuroscientists David Joule and Marie Wilson. The narrative traces the development of their relationship and the achievement of their scientific goals. Everything happens within the context of a "feel good" love story. Along the way, there are real life descriptions of how science is conducted, a strong case is made for understanding why drug addiction is a chronic brain disease, and the mechanism underlying the discovery of a novel treatment for addictive disorders is explained. Although the story is fictional, much of the science is true, particularly as it pertains to addiction. The storyline embodies the message that people suffering from addiction need to be treated and need to be treated well, without the stigma and shame that is still prevalent today. Next to Last Chapter is both entertaining and informative. Much of the information is based on the author's personal experience in neuroscience and addiction medicine. Some of the life experiences described resemble real events. Descriptions of the scientific process and of academic life are mostly true. Many will find the love story endearing if not too good to be true. Perhaps in different ways, Next to Last Chapter will be interesting and enjoyable to both scientists and non-scientists.