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vacantbones's review against another edition
3.0
The first half of this read was, for a lack of a better word, rough. Average writing, lackluster atmosphere building, bland characters. The crimes being investigated were appropriately gory but that just isn't enough to prop an entire book on.
And then we get to part two, where things improve dramatically. Not sure why there's such a drastic shift in quality, but I was very close to a DNF before the story picks up so it was a breath of fresh air. The mystery actually has bite.
I don't feel any urge to read the sequel, but I am glad I finished.
And then we get to part two, where things improve dramatically. Not sure why there's such a drastic shift in quality, but I was very close to a DNF before the story picks up so it was a breath of fresh air. The mystery actually has bite.
I don't feel any urge to read the sequel, but I am glad I finished.
jenlengland's review against another edition
dark
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Blood, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Emotional abuse
spiritrider1101's review against another edition
4.0
I found "Last Girl Gone" by J.G. Hetherton to be a captivating and suspenseful novel that will keep you engrossed from beginning to end. As the first installment in the Laura Chambers Mysteries series, it sets the stage for an intriguing story to unfold. The book delves into the unanswered questions from Laura's past, creating a sense of mystery and anticipation for the next installment.
Laura Chambers, originally from Hillsboro, NC, is a resilient and tenacious journalist passionate about seeking the truth. Her return to her hometown follows her dismissal from the Boston Globe. Motivated by a genuine desire to uncover the facts surrounding the vanishing of ten-year-old Patty Finch, a case that has cast a long shadow over the town, Laura sets out on a determined quest. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she grapples with the haunting question: can she unravel the secrets behind Patty's disappearance, or was Patty the unfortunate victim of a serial predator with a preference for targeting young girls?
This book is genuinely enthralling. The characters are not just well-crafted but vibrant and full of life, making it easy to connect with their journey. The plot is rife with unexpected twists. Just when you think you've solved the mystery, the story takes a surprising turn that will leave you utterly astounded. As a fan of mystery novels, I can confidently say that this book will keep you guessing until the very end.
I was blown away by Laura Jennings' phenomenal performance as the narrator. Her portrayal brought the story to life in the most captivating way. Her talent in expressing the different emotions and characters and her ability to build suspense perfectly set her apart masterfully. Her narration is not just a reading; it's an experience. Without a doubt, she deserves a solid 5-star rating from me.
I am deeply grateful to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced audiobook for an honest review and for introducing me to this author and narrator's exceptional work.
Laura Chambers, originally from Hillsboro, NC, is a resilient and tenacious journalist passionate about seeking the truth. Her return to her hometown follows her dismissal from the Boston Globe. Motivated by a genuine desire to uncover the facts surrounding the vanishing of ten-year-old Patty Finch, a case that has cast a long shadow over the town, Laura sets out on a determined quest. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she grapples with the haunting question: can she unravel the secrets behind Patty's disappearance, or was Patty the unfortunate victim of a serial predator with a preference for targeting young girls?
This book is genuinely enthralling. The characters are not just well-crafted but vibrant and full of life, making it easy to connect with their journey. The plot is rife with unexpected twists. Just when you think you've solved the mystery, the story takes a surprising turn that will leave you utterly astounded. As a fan of mystery novels, I can confidently say that this book will keep you guessing until the very end.
I was blown away by Laura Jennings' phenomenal performance as the narrator. Her portrayal brought the story to life in the most captivating way. Her talent in expressing the different emotions and characters and her ability to build suspense perfectly set her apart masterfully. Her narration is not just a reading; it's an experience. Without a doubt, she deserves a solid 5-star rating from me.
I am deeply grateful to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced audiobook for an honest review and for introducing me to this author and narrator's exceptional work.
bookhoarder76's review against another edition
3.0
This is a debut novel and a first in a series. The cover and synopsis drew me in but I found myself often bored and hoping for it to just be over. All the crazy was saved for the end that's for sure and I even had a hard time working through what exactly was happening as I was reading how things were wrapping up. I didn't love it that's for sure. I didn't really hate it either however I don't see myself reading the rest in this series.
steviespirit's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
xoxojheimxoxo's review against another edition
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
basharria's review against another edition
3.0
It was OK, at times tough to get through, at times gripping. There are a few subplots that never get adequately resolved, and a few characters who seemingly only exist to torment Laura. The denizens of Hillsborough came off as cartoonishly petty. I did enjoy the writing style and the central story was strong, however. Laura herself was believable and I enjoyed her grit and determination.
Book relied a lot on misogyny as a source of conflict, seemingly to drive home the shocker of the twist. But it makes the early goings hard to get through.
One big issue I had was the strange dissonance of the setting and the story. Hillsborough is a tiny town and would likely not have a local newspaper given the current landscape of reporting. Also, the book seemed reluctant to have to mention computers, the internet, cellphones, etc. Why not set the story in the 1970s/1980s? That would bolster the believability of the small town animosity and the decidedly non-digital slant in the proceedings.
Book relied a lot on misogyny as a source of conflict, seemingly to drive home the shocker of the twist. But it makes the early goings hard to get through.
One big issue I had was the strange dissonance of the setting and the story. Hillsborough is a tiny town and would likely not have a local newspaper given the current landscape of reporting. Also, the book seemed reluctant to have to mention computers, the internet, cellphones, etc. Why not set the story in the 1970s/1980s? That would bolster the believability of the small town animosity and the decidedly non-digital slant in the proceedings.
erinpowell2014's review against another edition
5.0
This was a GREAT read! A pretty unexpected twist at the end. Loved it!
zarlina's review against another edition
1.0
Literally nothing made sense in this book. The main character was annoying and unbelievable, making one dumb decision after another, and not a single person seemed to know how their profession worked. FBI Agent who just hand over secret information to a reporter? Ok, sure. Psychologist deciding to become buddies with their patient? Yeah, right. A reporter thinking she's some damn private investigator? Eh, could happen, I suppose, but not one as ridiculously stupid as this main character.
If I could go back in time and tell myself not to read this one, I would. But I can't, so I'm telling you instead. Don't read this one.
Spoiler
Also, the killer being the psychologist? Who would have thought? It's not like it's the twist of every other thriller out there already.If I could go back in time and tell myself not to read this one, I would. But I can't, so I'm telling you instead. Don't read this one.
megatronic's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
It was suspenseful from beginning to end. I could not stop listening to the Audible. In the shower, on my way to work. I am thoroughly satisfied. There were so many twists and turns, I was biting my nails the whole time!! Absolutely loved it.