When I was first looking for a book to read over winter break, I had a few criteria.
- Strong characters
- Suspense and intrigue
- The ability to feel like I’m in a different world
The Last One by Rachel Howzell Hall is a twisty, suspenseful thriller that had me hooked from the very first page. The story centers around a woman named Quinn, who finds herself stranded in the wilds of a survivalist competition gone wrong. The competition, which is supposed to be a reality TV show, turns into something far darker when the contestants start disappearing, one by one.
What I really loved about this book was the pacing. It keeps you on the edge of your seat—each chapter ratchets up the tension and makes you question who you can trust. The isolation and psychological tension are palpable, and Hall does a great job of blending a gripping mystery with deeper themes about human nature, survival, and trust.
Quinn, the main character, is a compelling mix of resourceful and vulnerable, which makes her relatable and authentic. I found myself rooting for her as she tried to figure out what was happening while dealing with her own personal demons. The mix of survivalist drama with an eerie sense of paranoia is just the right kind of suspense for anyone who loves psychological thrillers with a bit of a survivalist edge.
If you’re into thrillers that take unexpected turns, keep you guessing, and make you think about how far humans will go to survive. The Last One is definitely worth a read! It’s smart, gripping, and filled with surprises that will leave you thinking long after you’ve turned the final page.
*Rating: 4.5/5* – Highly recommended for fans of tense, twisty thrillers!
Featured image via Marcos Gabarda on Unsplash
