Book Summary
In “The Last Thing He Told Me,” Laura Dave weaves a compelling tale of mystery, love, and the lengths we will go to protect our family. The story revolves around Hannah Hall, a woman who finds her life turned upside down when her husband, Owen Michaels, disappears, leaving behind nothing but a cryptic note saying “Protect her,” a directive aimed at his teenage daughter, Bailey, from his first marriage. The sudden disappearance and the cryptic message plunge Hannah into a web of deceit and danger. She discovers that Owen is not who she thought he was. He is implicated in a major crime at his tech company, and now both the FBI and US Marshals are involved. Hannah is left to unravel Owen’s secrets while trying to build a relationship with a resentful Bailey, who holds her at arm’s length. The narrative takes us on an engaging journey as Hannah, with Bailey in tow, dives deeper into Owen’s past. The truths she uncovers about Owen’s identity and the life he kept hidden force her to question everything she thought she knew about her husband and their life together.
Author Intro
Laura Dave
Laura Dave is a highly acclaimed American author, known for her profound, emotionally charged novels that tackle complex themes about love, relationships, and identity. Born in New York City and raised in Scarsdale, New York, Dave received her B.A. at the University of Pennsylvania and her MFA in Creative Writing from The University of Virginia. Prior to her success as a novelist, she worked in book publishing. With her work published in 25 languages, and multiple of her novels optioned for film and television, Laura Dave’s storytelling ability and depth of character development have made her a significant voice in contemporary literature. Her notable works include “Eight Hundred Grapes” and “The First Husband,” both of which received wide acclaim for their intricate character development and unique narrative styles. Laura Dave’s understanding of the human condition, her capacity to construct compelling plotlines, and her ability to examine complex relational dynamics are attributes that have come to define her as a writer.
Book Reviews
“Laura Dave has created a riveting, suspenseful narrative in ‘The Last Thing He Told Me’. She delves into the complexities of familial relationships, betrayal, and the weight of secrets. Dave skillfully portrays Hannah’s desperation and determination to understand her husband’s actions and protect Bailey. The pacing is perfectly measured, the tension palpable, and the ending satisfying. The characters are richly developed, their relationships nuanced, making this book a rewarding read.”
“‘The Last Thing He Told Me’ is a poignant and gripping story that delves into the messiness of secrets and lies within a family dynamic. Dave expertly explores the evolution of Hannah’s relationship with Bailey amidst the chaos and uncertainty, striking a balance between the thrilling quest for truth and the poignant exploration of family and identity. The plot twists are well-executed, keeping readers on edge as Hannah uncovers one shocking revelation after another.”
“In ‘The Last Thing He Told Me’, Laura Dave presents a riveting narrative filled with suspense, mystery, and unexpected revelations. The characters are thoughtfully developed, their relationships layered and believable. Dave’s masterful weaving of tension and emotional depth pulls the reader into the story and keeps them hooked till the end. This is a novel that beautifully explores the intricate and often complex dynamics of a blended family, the nature of love, and the power of truth.”
“Dave’s ‘The Last Thing He Told Me’ is a skillfully crafted thriller that keeps readers on their toes, blending a suspenseful plot with a deep emotional undercurrent. The relationship between Hannah and Bailey adds an element of heart to the story, offering a touching exploration of stepmother-stepdaughter dynamics amid the escalating tension. The suspense builds steadily as secrets are peeled back layer by layer, culminating in a dramatic, satisfying conclusion.”
