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The Last Request
Sixty million dollars. Five potential heirs. One house in remote rural Alaska. It’s a recipe for murder . . .
Summoned by letter, Holly Shaw and five of her cousins—virtual strangers to each other—have gathered at a grand house in the rugged wilds of Alaska. Equally unfamiliar to Holly is her great aunt Lydia, the woman who has called the family together and is dangling a massive inheritance before them. Her they must remain in the house, with Lydia and her butler and caregiver, until she passes. Anyone not in residence at that time is out of the will, their share of the money split among the others. That night, everyone settles in. And the next morning, the murders begin . . .
From Mustang Award finalist and 2022 Derringer Award nominee Brandon Barrows, this is a twisting, atmospheric mystery and an utterly compelling tale of guilt, greed, and temptation.
Summoned by letter, Holly Shaw and five of her cousins—virtual strangers to each other—have gathered at a grand house in the rugged wilds of Alaska. Equally unfamiliar to Holly is her great aunt Lydia, the woman who has called the family together and is dangling a massive inheritance before them. Her they must remain in the house, with Lydia and her butler and caregiver, until she passes. Anyone not in residence at that time is out of the will, their share of the money split among the others. That night, everyone settles in. And the next morning, the murders begin . . .
From Mustang Award finalist and 2022 Derringer Award nominee Brandon Barrows, this is a twisting, atmospheric mystery and an utterly compelling tale of guilt, greed, and temptation.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 11, 2023
24 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 8, 2023
Holly Shaw receives a mysterious letter: her great-aunt Lydia Orlov is dying & wants to spend her last moments with her remaining relatives. Lydia lives out in the wilds of Alaska but curious as to what is on offer, Holly makes the trip. The last one of the cousins to arrive, Holly is taken to see Lydia who doesn't look at death's door, & their conversation leaves her convinced that there is something more at play here. When Lydia's lawyer arrives & confirms that Holly & her cousins, Marcus, Blair, & Jonathan Shaw, & Ryan & Nora Hill are the heirs to Lydia's fortune - a cool sixty million dollars. To inherit, they have to live under Lydia's roof until she dies, if they leave, they get nothing. The money is then split between the remaining heirs which gives everyone a motive to want the others to leave - by any means.
This is a nice little 'locked room' genre mystery where the main players are isolated in one location, here the Alaskan wilds. I liked the plot, it's very simple but effective. I didn't like the main character, Holly, though. She is one of those irritating MCs where any male in a 25 mile radius is in love with her after 5 minutes of interaction, & it gets tedious very quickly. She was also an odd mix of assertiveness & passiveness & her character just didn't ring true. The most interesting person is Lydia who presents as a nice older lady but with flashes of something else hidden away. Verdict: it's a decent thriller & an MC who was a little less irritating would have garnered it a slightly higher score.
My thanks to publishers, Bloodhound Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
This is a nice little 'locked room' genre mystery where the main players are isolated in one location, here the Alaskan wilds. I liked the plot, it's very simple but effective. I didn't like the main character, Holly, though. She is one of those irritating MCs where any male in a 25 mile radius is in love with her after 5 minutes of interaction, & it gets tedious very quickly. She was also an odd mix of assertiveness & passiveness & her character just didn't ring true. The most interesting person is Lydia who presents as a nice older lady but with flashes of something else hidden away. Verdict: it's a decent thriller & an MC who was a little less irritating would have garnered it a slightly higher score.
My thanks to publishers, Bloodhound Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
September 8, 2023
I'm not really sure what to make of this. The idea is a good one. Rich Aunt summons relatives on her death bed and promises them a share of $60mil if they stay until she dies. The writing however was poor, the story didn't really make any sense to me (we are having a heat wave in the UK so maybe I'm just too hot...) and the end was weak. Really sorry but I just did not enjoy this one.
September 3, 2023
This is one of those books that you can enjoy if you can suspend disbelief and tolerate the narrator, Holly.
I wouldn’t say I enjoyed it. I persevered because I wanted to see how it played out and it did get better towards the end.
I’d describe it as a mash-up of a classic closed set murder mystery and a slasher horror. I wouldn’t say it’s overly successful at either, but I think that’s mainly because I really didn’t like the narrator, Holly.
Holly is 24 and is one of those people who thinks very highly of herself: every man that looks at her is attracted to her. Her decision making is questionable - constantly finding herself alone and vulnerable with people she’s scared of. Even seeking out those situations. And always talking about being uncomfortable with men being over familiar but not being clear in setting her boundaries.
It might just be that it’s a male author trying to write from a female perspective and not doing it well. I understand the trying to get across issues of consent, from physical contact through to kissing. However, having men constantly pawing at Holly and declaring their love for her only days after meeting her was just ridiculous. I think the message was meant to be that Holly felt she couldn’t set boundaries because she was fear of reprisal, but that never came across.
All in all, Holly irritated me. It’s not a cast of characters we’re meant to like though. They’ve all been invited to their long lost Great Aunt’s home as it might be ‘beneficial’ (ie money), so you can imagine it’s brought out the greed.
In fact the only character I liked was the culprit. Even though I’d figured out who it was quite early on.
As I said above, the ending is better than the start as that’s where the action and the unravelling happens. It did keep me turning the pages & was a quick, easy read.
I wouldn’t say I enjoyed it. I persevered because I wanted to see how it played out and it did get better towards the end.
I’d describe it as a mash-up of a classic closed set murder mystery and a slasher horror. I wouldn’t say it’s overly successful at either, but I think that’s mainly because I really didn’t like the narrator, Holly.
Holly is 24 and is one of those people who thinks very highly of herself: every man that looks at her is attracted to her. Her decision making is questionable - constantly finding herself alone and vulnerable with people she’s scared of. Even seeking out those situations. And always talking about being uncomfortable with men being over familiar but not being clear in setting her boundaries.
It might just be that it’s a male author trying to write from a female perspective and not doing it well. I understand the trying to get across issues of consent, from physical contact through to kissing. However, having men constantly pawing at Holly and declaring their love for her only days after meeting her was just ridiculous. I think the message was meant to be that Holly felt she couldn’t set boundaries because she was fear of reprisal, but that never came across.
All in all, Holly irritated me. It’s not a cast of characters we’re meant to like though. They’ve all been invited to their long lost Great Aunt’s home as it might be ‘beneficial’ (ie money), so you can imagine it’s brought out the greed.
In fact the only character I liked was the culprit. Even though I’d figured out who it was quite early on.
As I said above, the ending is better than the start as that’s where the action and the unravelling happens. It did keep me turning the pages & was a quick, easy read.
October 18, 2023
The story has a lot of potential, but the writing just couldn’t keep up. Lots of passive voice and cliched characters—including Holly, who every male falls in love with instantly and has a spark that makes her stand out from the crowd (and who is rescued topless on one occasion). The author tried hard to set up an atmosphere of dread, but none of it resonates.
September 11, 2023
The Last Request is a mystery with a foreboding tone. Holly Shaw is summoned to Alaska by a great-aunt she has never met. Aunt Lydia is dying and promises Holly and her cousins, who are strangers to one another, a share in her fortune after she dies. The catch is they must stay in her home with her until she passes. Holly is convinced from the beginning that generosity is not Lydia's motive, and the intimidating woman seems to have initiated a dangerous game among her potential heirs.
I didn't really care for any of the characters. Since Holly was the narrator, I did make somewhat of a connection with her and I was rooting for her. However, it became tiresome that almost every man who saw Holly immediately fell in love with her. The other characters were either unlikable or there wasn't enough information about them to form an opinion. I also felt some things didn't add up at the end of the book. In spite of this, I enjoyed the premise and the fast pace of the story and would rate the book 3.5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from Bloodhound Books. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
I didn't really care for any of the characters. Since Holly was the narrator, I did make somewhat of a connection with her and I was rooting for her. However, it became tiresome that almost every man who saw Holly immediately fell in love with her. The other characters were either unlikable or there wasn't enough information about them to form an opinion. I also felt some things didn't add up at the end of the book. In spite of this, I enjoyed the premise and the fast pace of the story and would rate the book 3.5 stars.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from Bloodhound Books. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
August 28, 2023
A very interesting plot about cousins who are invited to spend time at Aunt Lydia’s grand house in Alaska in which if they stay until she dies, they will inherit her wealth. This was interesting throughout, with lots of different characters and personalities; however, it was not difficult to follow. Full of suspicious events and strange occurrences, it makes the reader ask what are the characters’ intentions towards one another? Who is the killer? What will happen next? And, who will inherit the money that Aunt Lydia is leaving? I was eager to find out how it panned out. It also touched on the area of consent and there was a few situations that felt uncomfortable with regards to this. I enjoyed learning about the main character’s personality although at some points, her thinking and actions felt a little strange.
I received an ARC from BloodHound Books for an honest review, thank you, and all thoughts are my own.
I received an ARC from BloodHound Books for an honest review, thank you, and all thoughts are my own.
August 17, 2023
I think that too many books nowadays are given the tagline "engrossing psychological mystery".
I have to say I found this book to be neither engrossing nor psychological. It was just plain run of the mill.
Agatha Christie's classic And Then There Were None is obviously the inspiration for this tale.
Six people related to each other by family or marriage are requested to attend the final dying days of their great aunt Lydia. This will be to their advantage we're told. Of course, the rambling old pile in which she resides just happens to be on a clifftop, in a remote one horse town in Alaska without WiFi or phone signals.
Our heroine, Holly, who tells the tale in the first person, seems to have the kind of looks and personality that has grown men whom she's only just met falling head over heels in love with her.
The whole storyline from Holly's arrival at the house descends into total absurdity. The bodies falling thick and fast, I suppose, are meant to keep the reader enthralled, but having guessed the perpetrator from early on, I just wanted to get to the end to prove myself correct.
Random people are mentioned for no particular reason as far as I could see. Miriam, for instance. The mysterious lady who takes the puddle-jumper flight regularly but never talks. I felt sure she would feature in the story at one point. But sadly, it wasn't to be. She might have even added a bit of spice to the proceedings.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC.
I have to say I found this book to be neither engrossing nor psychological. It was just plain run of the mill.
Agatha Christie's classic And Then There Were None is obviously the inspiration for this tale.
Six people related to each other by family or marriage are requested to attend the final dying days of their great aunt Lydia. This will be to their advantage we're told. Of course, the rambling old pile in which she resides just happens to be on a clifftop, in a remote one horse town in Alaska without WiFi or phone signals.
Our heroine, Holly, who tells the tale in the first person, seems to have the kind of looks and personality that has grown men whom she's only just met falling head over heels in love with her.
The whole storyline from Holly's arrival at the house descends into total absurdity. The bodies falling thick and fast, I suppose, are meant to keep the reader enthralled, but having guessed the perpetrator from early on, I just wanted to get to the end to prove myself correct.
Random people are mentioned for no particular reason as far as I could see. Miriam, for instance. The mysterious lady who takes the puddle-jumper flight regularly but never talks. I felt sure she would feature in the story at one point. But sadly, it wasn't to be. She might have even added a bit of spice to the proceedings.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC.
January 21, 2024
Call me crazy, but I've never been a fan of men writing books from a woman's perspective. Some of them are great at it! Robert Dugoni's Tracy Crosswhite, John Marrs in almost every book he's ever written, but this guy... I'm sorry, Mr. Barrows. It was an entertaining read, but just not a great one. The loose ends left untied, the words left unsaid, and I can assure you that it's fair to assume that a good amount of women wouldn't allow
All in all, 2 stars. Better luck next time, big guy.
All in all, 2 stars. Better luck next time, big guy.
September 19, 2023
Brandon Barrows' gripping novel, "The Last Request," delves into the depths of classic psychological suspense, ensnaring readers in its intricate web of intrigue. Nestled within the remote confines of an Alaskan mansion, the narrative orbits around Holly Shaw and her conniving cousins, all drawn together by the magnetic allure of a staggering $60 million inheritance. The cousins themselves are not close, and this element echoes and adds a sense of remoteness to the narrative as well. However, the inheritance comes with an ominous caveat: they must remain confined within the ancestral mansion until the impending demise of their great aunt, Lydia. As a series of gruesome murders begin to unravel the serenity of their seclusion, the entire household becomes a cauldron of suspicion.
Barrows demonstrates his narrative prowess by deftly weaving a tapestry of tension, ensnaring readers in a relentless guessing game that persists until the final page. The characters are intricately nuanced, not entirely likable, with each harboring clandestine agendas, turning the narrative into a tantalizing whodunit that keeps readers on tenterhooks. The mansion's desolate locale further augments the suspense, immersing readers in the overwhelming desperation that grips the characters.
Overall, "The Last Request" offers an irresistible literary cocktail, seamlessly blending themes of guilt, greed, and temptation into a high-stakes battle for survival. A compelling read that will resonate deeply with aficionados of psychological thrillers, it offers a narrative that is as enigmatic as it is beguiling. Barrows' narrative premise, initially peculiar, grows increasingly surreal as the plot unfurls. The constant undercurrent of suspense keeps readers perpetually on their toes, thwarting their attempts to untangle the intricate web of deceit.
The numerous plot twists peppered throughout the narrative continually defy expectations, leaving readers yearning for more, page after page. While Barrows' writing is nothing short of excellent, and his storyline remains refreshingly innovative, some readers may find the denouement slightly rushed, yearning for a more languid and expansive exploration of the story's final revelations. Nevertheless, "The Last Request" stands as a testament to Barrows' mastery of the psychological thriller genre, and its labyrinthine narrative will leave an indelible mark on all who dare to embark on this chilling literary journey.
Barrows demonstrates his narrative prowess by deftly weaving a tapestry of tension, ensnaring readers in a relentless guessing game that persists until the final page. The characters are intricately nuanced, not entirely likable, with each harboring clandestine agendas, turning the narrative into a tantalizing whodunit that keeps readers on tenterhooks. The mansion's desolate locale further augments the suspense, immersing readers in the overwhelming desperation that grips the characters.
Overall, "The Last Request" offers an irresistible literary cocktail, seamlessly blending themes of guilt, greed, and temptation into a high-stakes battle for survival. A compelling read that will resonate deeply with aficionados of psychological thrillers, it offers a narrative that is as enigmatic as it is beguiling. Barrows' narrative premise, initially peculiar, grows increasingly surreal as the plot unfurls. The constant undercurrent of suspense keeps readers perpetually on their toes, thwarting their attempts to untangle the intricate web of deceit.
The numerous plot twists peppered throughout the narrative continually defy expectations, leaving readers yearning for more, page after page. While Barrows' writing is nothing short of excellent, and his storyline remains refreshingly innovative, some readers may find the denouement slightly rushed, yearning for a more languid and expansive exploration of the story's final revelations. Nevertheless, "The Last Request" stands as a testament to Barrows' mastery of the psychological thriller genre, and its labyrinthine narrative will leave an indelible mark on all who dare to embark on this chilling literary journey.
October 2, 2023
"The Last Request" is a gripping locked-room mystery where the promise of a substantial inheritance lures the main characters. It is reminiscent of a classic "whodunnit" set in a remote location, explores complex familial ties, and everyone can be the suspect. The writing is descriptive, and I loved the setting and the sense of foreboding it carried. Aunt Lydia and her mysterious presence instantly hooked me to the book. The story is full of deaths and murders, and its strength lies in its suspenseful and dramatic plot, keeping the reader engaged.
The dynamic between the characters is interesting as, despite being relatives, they meet each other for the first time, and the promise of a life-changing inheritance strains their bonds before they even have the chance to connect. Aunt Lydia's character stood out as she represented a unique blend of characteristics: her unabashed exploration of pleasures and series, her thirst for drama, and her casual approach to the death of her grandchildren. I also liked the character of Blair Shaw, one of Holly's cousins and inheritors of Lydia's fortune. He was intriguing, and his evasiveness had me questioning his motives and whether he was the culprit.
While the book is engaging, it needs improvement in some aspects. I wish Holly's character were better developed, as she is the narrator, and we witness the story from her point of view. The fact that every man who comes across Holly falls in love with her gets annoying. This selection of characters also includes Blair, who constantly pursues Holly, though they do not end up together. The book could also improve with some clarity, particularly in action-packed, info-heavy moments, as I often flipped back pages to get a clear sense of what was going on. The ending felt rushed, too, but it does not leave the book open-ended, which I appreciated.
Nonetheless, "The Last Request" is an engaging read with compelling settings and characters. It has all the ingredients needed to be a great mystery thriller, and with some development, it could quickly become one. Overall, the book was an enjoyable experience.
The dynamic between the characters is interesting as, despite being relatives, they meet each other for the first time, and the promise of a life-changing inheritance strains their bonds before they even have the chance to connect. Aunt Lydia's character stood out as she represented a unique blend of characteristics: her unabashed exploration of pleasures and series, her thirst for drama, and her casual approach to the death of her grandchildren. I also liked the character of Blair Shaw, one of Holly's cousins and inheritors of Lydia's fortune. He was intriguing, and his evasiveness had me questioning his motives and whether he was the culprit.
While the book is engaging, it needs improvement in some aspects. I wish Holly's character were better developed, as she is the narrator, and we witness the story from her point of view. The fact that every man who comes across Holly falls in love with her gets annoying. This selection of characters also includes Blair, who constantly pursues Holly, though they do not end up together. The book could also improve with some clarity, particularly in action-packed, info-heavy moments, as I often flipped back pages to get a clear sense of what was going on. The ending felt rushed, too, but it does not leave the book open-ended, which I appreciated.
Nonetheless, "The Last Request" is an engaging read with compelling settings and characters. It has all the ingredients needed to be a great mystery thriller, and with some development, it could quickly become one. Overall, the book was an enjoyable experience.
October 5, 2023
"The Last Request", by Brandon Barrows, is a classic cabin in the wood mystery that will appeal to most fans of the genre. Holly Shaw is invited by her mysterious Aunt Linda Orlov to Foster’s Peak to participate in a disturbing game. Her, along with her eccentric cousins, are offered millions if they stay with their aunt until her death. The catch is the inheritance is not fixed. Only living members of the family can accept the very generous compensation. Therefore, as a blizzard rolls into Foster’s Peak, Holly must survive or be murdered for cold hard cash.
Mysteries are entirely depended on setting and character. Setting provides a backdrop a reader gets immersed in, and character drives the narrative forward. This novel does both well. Foster’s Peak feels surreal and dangerous largely due to Holly’s descriptions. Holly’s narration, while not entirely distracting, is strong enough to immerse the reader into the environment. Brandon Barrows knows how to craft clever descriptions that impart the perfect amount of information to intrigue the reader, but not overwhelm them.
The characters are equally interesting. Blair, Aunt Linda, and Alex really stand out among the cast. They are the most scrutinized by Holly’s gaze. Each character displays niceties that are undercut by Holly’s perception. Their conversations, such as Alex in the car or Aunt Linda in her bed, feel entirely tense – even if the dialogue is harmless. Brandon Barrows expertly deploys Holly’s perception to turn rather mundane scenes into exciting narrative moments.
My one critique would be that I wasn’t a fan of the romantic elements that develop later in the novel. Without spoiling too much, it feels slightly uncomfortable it gets as far as it does. The narration seems to agree, but I am unsure what purpose that plot line plays into the narrative. Thankfully, the novel does end in a way that avoids too many issues, but it is slightly uncomfortable.
Overall, "The Last Request" isn’t a reinvention of the wheel. But, as wheels go, it is a very good one. If you are a mystery or thriller fan looking for your next fix, this book will make a great addition to your collection.
Mysteries are entirely depended on setting and character. Setting provides a backdrop a reader gets immersed in, and character drives the narrative forward. This novel does both well. Foster’s Peak feels surreal and dangerous largely due to Holly’s descriptions. Holly’s narration, while not entirely distracting, is strong enough to immerse the reader into the environment. Brandon Barrows knows how to craft clever descriptions that impart the perfect amount of information to intrigue the reader, but not overwhelm them.
The characters are equally interesting. Blair, Aunt Linda, and Alex really stand out among the cast. They are the most scrutinized by Holly’s gaze. Each character displays niceties that are undercut by Holly’s perception. Their conversations, such as Alex in the car or Aunt Linda in her bed, feel entirely tense – even if the dialogue is harmless. Brandon Barrows expertly deploys Holly’s perception to turn rather mundane scenes into exciting narrative moments.
My one critique would be that I wasn’t a fan of the romantic elements that develop later in the novel. Without spoiling too much, it feels slightly uncomfortable it gets as far as it does. The narration seems to agree, but I am unsure what purpose that plot line plays into the narrative. Thankfully, the novel does end in a way that avoids too many issues, but it is slightly uncomfortable.
Overall, "The Last Request" isn’t a reinvention of the wheel. But, as wheels go, it is a very good one. If you are a mystery or thriller fan looking for your next fix, this book will make a great addition to your collection.
October 2, 2023
The Last Request is a gripping mystery novel that revolves around a gathering of family members and their associates at a remote estate for a funeral. However, the somber occasion takes a sinister turn when a body is discovered on the property, prompting the group to join forces in pursuit of the truth behind the death. As they delve deeper into the investigation, hidden motives and dark secrets begin to surface, threatening to fracture the fragile bonds holding them together.
The author skillfully weaves a tale filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and intricate character dynamics. The Shaw family members, with their dark and brooding looks, possess a distinctive family resemblance. Their shared history and individual personalities promise to add depth and complexity to the narrative. The characters, as complex as they are conniving, keep you second-guessing their motives until the final, shocking reveal. Holly, our reluctant heroine, is a study in contradictions, a puzzle piece that never quite fits yet holds the narrative together.
What I particularly appreciate in any novel is the depth of character interactions, and the conversations between Aunt Lydia and Holly in this story exemplify it perfectly. The narrative style demonstrates a knack for creating suspenseful scenarios and maintaining reader engagement throughout. The author's ability to craft complex characters with hidden motives adds a layer of intrigue to the story.
I wouldn't label it as a completely gripping psychological mystery thriller, but it's decent. The story keeps moving consistently throughout the chapters, although it might not completely absorb you to the point of losing track of your surroundings. In some sections, there might be an influx of information, which could require careful attention from the reader to piece together various details and connections. However, the author effectively employs suspenseful elements, keeping readers guessing and eager to uncover the truth.
The author skillfully weaves a tale filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and intricate character dynamics. The Shaw family members, with their dark and brooding looks, possess a distinctive family resemblance. Their shared history and individual personalities promise to add depth and complexity to the narrative. The characters, as complex as they are conniving, keep you second-guessing their motives until the final, shocking reveal. Holly, our reluctant heroine, is a study in contradictions, a puzzle piece that never quite fits yet holds the narrative together.
What I particularly appreciate in any novel is the depth of character interactions, and the conversations between Aunt Lydia and Holly in this story exemplify it perfectly. The narrative style demonstrates a knack for creating suspenseful scenarios and maintaining reader engagement throughout. The author's ability to craft complex characters with hidden motives adds a layer of intrigue to the story.
I wouldn't label it as a completely gripping psychological mystery thriller, but it's decent. The story keeps moving consistently throughout the chapters, although it might not completely absorb you to the point of losing track of your surroundings. In some sections, there might be an influx of information, which could require careful attention from the reader to piece together various details and connections. However, the author effectively employs suspenseful elements, keeping readers guessing and eager to uncover the truth.
September 28, 2023
This short, fast-paced thriller is very much of the "locked room mystery" sub-genre, and while it is neither the best nor most unique representative, still hits enough of the right beats that it should please any reader seeking an isolated mansion in the Alaskan wilderness, full of secretive characters who keep getting murdered. A young woman named Holly travels to this location at the invitation of a great-aunt whom she has never met, along with several other estranged relatives. The great-aunt (and the novel's most memorable character) claims to be dying, and each of her guests will inherit a piece of her considerable fortune--provided they remain with her until the time of her death. Unsurprisingly, the guests start dropping like flies within the first twenty-four hours after this announcement. With no cell service and a blizzard preventing travel to the nearest town, events rapidly escalate to a state of peak paranoia.
As previously mentioned, there is nothing particularly special about any one element of the story. Contrary to the compliments on her spunk and intelligence other characters keep throwing her way, Holly is a rather bland character and exists primarily because the novel requires a narrator. The other characters (by which I mean the guests, by which I mean the suspects) could also have been more well-developed. Still, the well-evoked sense of isolation inherent in the setting and the build-up of suspense earn the novel a solid place among And Then There Were None's myriad descendants.
As previously mentioned, there is nothing particularly special about any one element of the story. Contrary to the compliments on her spunk and intelligence other characters keep throwing her way, Holly is a rather bland character and exists primarily because the novel requires a narrator. The other characters (by which I mean the guests, by which I mean the suspects) could also have been more well-developed. Still, the well-evoked sense of isolation inherent in the setting and the build-up of suspense earn the novel a solid place among And Then There Were None's myriad descendants.
October 27, 2023
The Last Request by Brandon Barrows
Murder Mystery — would you kill your family for money?
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 8 September 2023
The Last Request by Brandon Barrows is a fast paced psychological mystery thriller. A good page turner that had me guessing who the killer was till close to the end. I was instantly intrigued with this storyline — the thought of a rich family member on their deathbed pulled me in instantly. Overall an interesting plot with good strong dialogue.
Holly Shaw is a strong character, her directive attitude may be off putting to some, but I quite liked it. Same goes with Great Aunt Lydia, I found her appealing. All of the characters have their own unique flaws that makes them stand out from each other.
The storyline is gripping. Holly receives a letter requesting her to visit her Great Aunt Lydia, who is on her death bed — ‘she will make it worth her while’.
Holly travels to a grand house in remote rural Alaska — perfect setting for the story. Once there she meets her family. She barely knows them.
Great Aunt Lydia explains her plans to Holly and her cousins. Lydia is dying. There are Millions of Dollars in inheritance to share amongst them, but there’s a catch — they must remain in the house with Lydia until she passes.
The following day there is a murder. Everyone is a suspect. Everyone has a motive.
I enjoyed reading this — I’m positive other mystery lovers will love it too.
I’d like to thank Bloodhound Books for the chance to review this ARC
Murder Mystery — would you kill your family for money?
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 8 September 2023
The Last Request by Brandon Barrows is a fast paced psychological mystery thriller. A good page turner that had me guessing who the killer was till close to the end. I was instantly intrigued with this storyline — the thought of a rich family member on their deathbed pulled me in instantly. Overall an interesting plot with good strong dialogue.
Holly Shaw is a strong character, her directive attitude may be off putting to some, but I quite liked it. Same goes with Great Aunt Lydia, I found her appealing. All of the characters have their own unique flaws that makes them stand out from each other.
The storyline is gripping. Holly receives a letter requesting her to visit her Great Aunt Lydia, who is on her death bed — ‘she will make it worth her while’.
Holly travels to a grand house in remote rural Alaska — perfect setting for the story. Once there she meets her family. She barely knows them.
Great Aunt Lydia explains her plans to Holly and her cousins. Lydia is dying. There are Millions of Dollars in inheritance to share amongst them, but there’s a catch — they must remain in the house with Lydia until she passes.
The following day there is a murder. Everyone is a suspect. Everyone has a motive.
I enjoyed reading this — I’m positive other mystery lovers will love it too.
I’d like to thank Bloodhound Books for the chance to review this ARC
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2023
What would you do for ten million dollars? What about twelve, fifteen, twenty or even thirty million?
This is the question the Shaw/Hill/Orlov family heirs must consider when they travel to Dacha Orlov, the mansion home of their estranged great aunt, to fulfil her dying request. When it turns out that she simply wants them to remain in her house until she dies (and if they do so, they will inherit a fortune), they are thrilled. But then they start dying one by one, those remaining being able to split more and more of the money each time. The survivors must question what wealth means to them and how far they're willing to go for a higher share.
I really enjoyed the high-stakes whodunnit aspects of this story. Like all murder mysteries with multiple suspects, nobody knows who to trust and blame is tossed around haphazardly, often with damaging results. Each of the characters reacts differently under pressure and it's easy to develop theories about who might have committed the crimes, only to have them dashed by new discoveries.
Although I admire her bravery, I found it hard to connect with the main character, Holly. She apparently has a 'spark' that makes all around her swoon, but that doesn’t come across in anything she does. I’m also not a fan of her two admirers – they both feel too forceful and really creepy, which I'm sure is the point, but (as with any book) the premature declarations of love and undue jealousy don’t sit right with me or feel realistic.
However, I loved the atmosphere of the whole narrative. The fact that the mansion is so high up in the mountains that rescue is not easy, phone signal is patchy and the onslaught of a snow storm traps them inside makes everything tense and claustrophobic, which is just how a thriller like this should be.
If you're looking for a quick thriller read for spooky season and this sounds like something you'd enjoy, why not give it a try?
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the question the Shaw/Hill/Orlov family heirs must consider when they travel to Dacha Orlov, the mansion home of their estranged great aunt, to fulfil her dying request. When it turns out that she simply wants them to remain in her house until she dies (and if they do so, they will inherit a fortune), they are thrilled. But then they start dying one by one, those remaining being able to split more and more of the money each time. The survivors must question what wealth means to them and how far they're willing to go for a higher share.
I really enjoyed the high-stakes whodunnit aspects of this story. Like all murder mysteries with multiple suspects, nobody knows who to trust and blame is tossed around haphazardly, often with damaging results. Each of the characters reacts differently under pressure and it's easy to develop theories about who might have committed the crimes, only to have them dashed by new discoveries.
Although I admire her bravery, I found it hard to connect with the main character, Holly. She apparently has a 'spark' that makes all around her swoon, but that doesn’t come across in anything she does. I’m also not a fan of her two admirers – they both feel too forceful and really creepy, which I'm sure is the point, but (as with any book) the premature declarations of love and undue jealousy don’t sit right with me or feel realistic.
However, I loved the atmosphere of the whole narrative. The fact that the mansion is so high up in the mountains that rescue is not easy, phone signal is patchy and the onslaught of a snow storm traps them inside makes everything tense and claustrophobic, which is just how a thriller like this should be.
If you're looking for a quick thriller read for spooky season and this sounds like something you'd enjoy, why not give it a try?
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2023
I wish I had an aunt give me $10 million just for hanging out with her, but let's skip the murder drama, okay? Jokes aside, this murder mystery is about Aunt Lydia offering money to her niece Holly and five cousins to stay with her in a remote part of Alaska until she passes away. When there's a ton of money on the line, people's greed goes crazy, leading to family members getting killed. As things get crazier, the ones still alive end up with more money, turning the situation into a dangerous game.
The author did a great job with the characters, especially Aunt Lydia and Holly. Other characters, like Blair and Chelsea, are also intriguing. The characters' inner chaos and confusion are depicted beautifully, keeping the suspense high. You'll be guessing who's up to no good, and just when you think you've figured it out, another twist comes in. I faced problems while connecting with the narration of Holly because I think male authors couldn't get into the skin of female protagonists. If mood swings were included in the portrayal, it would have been amazing. There are only two famous butlers in the world: Batman's Alfred and Lydia's Elijah. Both are super talented and jacks of all trades. The author also nailed describing Alaska's icy wilderness, adding a cool layer of suspense.
This is a quick and easy read, with well-connected chapters that transition smoothly. If you're into something light but exciting, this book is definitely for you.
The author did a great job with the characters, especially Aunt Lydia and Holly. Other characters, like Blair and Chelsea, are also intriguing. The characters' inner chaos and confusion are depicted beautifully, keeping the suspense high. You'll be guessing who's up to no good, and just when you think you've figured it out, another twist comes in. I faced problems while connecting with the narration of Holly because I think male authors couldn't get into the skin of female protagonists. If mood swings were included in the portrayal, it would have been amazing. There are only two famous butlers in the world: Batman's Alfred and Lydia's Elijah. Both are super talented and jacks of all trades. The author also nailed describing Alaska's icy wilderness, adding a cool layer of suspense.
This is a quick and easy read, with well-connected chapters that transition smoothly. If you're into something light but exciting, this book is definitely for you.
October 11, 2023
Brandon Barrows’ “The Last Request” is a classic mystery, a variation on the traditional set-up that made Agatha Christie a household name. Instead of verdant England, we are in a remote mansion in Alaska where a group of relatives have been invited by their ailing, and very rich, great-aunt. Greed is the engine that propels the narrative. Sixty million dollars are to be divided between six cousins, but there’s a catch. The beneficiaries must remain in the house till the matriarch dies. You leave, you lose, and the pot of gold goes to those that remain. Obviously there’s a strong incentive to reduce the pool of beneficiaries. By whatever means.
Barrows tells the story from the perspective of one of the cousins, the adopted girl, the semi-outsider. He builds tension deftly, using the harsh climate of Alaska in the winter, and the long stretches of darkness. Characters are finely drawn: the conniving great-aunt (is she really dying?), the hulking creepy butler, the too charming cousin with dangerous intentions, among others. An attractive ensemble cast and a plot that plays with the tropes of the genre, with enough acidity and bite (Holly, the main character is as prickly as the plant she shares a name with) to avoid the traps of being too “cozy.”
“The Last Request” is an enjoyable read from an author who knows his crime stuff. Well done.
Barrows tells the story from the perspective of one of the cousins, the adopted girl, the semi-outsider. He builds tension deftly, using the harsh climate of Alaska in the winter, and the long stretches of darkness. Characters are finely drawn: the conniving great-aunt (is she really dying?), the hulking creepy butler, the too charming cousin with dangerous intentions, among others. An attractive ensemble cast and a plot that plays with the tropes of the genre, with enough acidity and bite (Holly, the main character is as prickly as the plant she shares a name with) to avoid the traps of being too “cozy.”
“The Last Request” is an enjoyable read from an author who knows his crime stuff. Well done.
August 26, 2023
This was a good read. It's a locked room type of mystery. Holly and 5 of her cousins who she's never met before, all arrive at a remote Alaskan location after receiving an invite from a great-aunt. It turns out the aunt is dying and is willing to provide lots of money to them, on the proviso that they will only inherit if they are still living with her at the time of her death.
The characters are not likeable and the story is told from the perspective of Holly so I felt I was rooting for her. The aunt herself is a nasty piece of work and takes perverse pleasure in unleashing the maximum greed from all her relations. I did find it riveting when people start dropping off and I was never sure what was really going on or who was responsible. The final reveal was a bit of a surprise although the clues were there when I thought back afterwards. Overall it's a solid read and I would definitely read more by this author.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this, and this is my honest review.
The characters are not likeable and the story is told from the perspective of Holly so I felt I was rooting for her. The aunt herself is a nasty piece of work and takes perverse pleasure in unleashing the maximum greed from all her relations. I did find it riveting when people start dropping off and I was never sure what was really going on or who was responsible. The final reveal was a bit of a surprise although the clues were there when I thought back afterwards. Overall it's a solid read and I would definitely read more by this author.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this, and this is my honest review.
September 12, 2023
Six cousins get summoned to a remote house in Alaska by a great aunt, whom none of them have ever met, with the promise of inheriting her fortune after she dies, but there is a condition to this promise, they have to be present in the house in order for them to get the money, whomever is not there his or her part gets divided by the other cousins.
Does this sound like a crazy plan, because it sure is, it plants doubts in the minds of the cousins, especially when one of the cousins get killed, and another one disappears and is presumed dead. Is the great aunt even sick and dying, and how long do they have to stay in the house until she dies?
Most of the characters in the book are not likable but this doesn't deterred the reader from enjoying the story.
The ending is quite unexpected, although there are hints of it all over the book, you just have to look for them, of course this comment is written after finishing reading the book and knowing what happens at the end.
I enjoyed this book and will read more from this author.
Does this sound like a crazy plan, because it sure is, it plants doubts in the minds of the cousins, especially when one of the cousins get killed, and another one disappears and is presumed dead. Is the great aunt even sick and dying, and how long do they have to stay in the house until she dies?
Most of the characters in the book are not likable but this doesn't deterred the reader from enjoying the story.
The ending is quite unexpected, although there are hints of it all over the book, you just have to look for them, of course this comment is written after finishing reading the book and knowing what happens at the end.
I enjoyed this book and will read more from this author.
September 24, 2023
The Last Request by Brandon Barrows is a psychological mystery thriller. It starts with Holly, a young woman in her mid-20s, arriving in a remote town in Alaska. Her elderly great-aunt has summoned her and her cousins. If they stay at her house until she passes away, they will each inherit many millions of dollars. But soon, events take a dark turn, and each heir has to decide whether they will return to safety or stay and risk everything.
I don't usually read thrillers, so this was a unique experience for me. I really enjoyed Barrows' great storytelling, which kept me hooked from page one. The book is well-written and keeps you guessing until the last page. I would have liked to have more variety in terms of the supporting characters. Many of the men were borderline abusive as they touched Holly against her will, and they seemed to fall in love with her without her giving them much encouragement. Despite this, the story is an excellent read, and I would recommend The Last Request to anyone who enjoys a mystery that isn't easy to unravel.
I don't usually read thrillers, so this was a unique experience for me. I really enjoyed Barrows' great storytelling, which kept me hooked from page one. The book is well-written and keeps you guessing until the last page. I would have liked to have more variety in terms of the supporting characters. Many of the men were borderline abusive as they touched Holly against her will, and they seemed to fall in love with her without her giving them much encouragement. Despite this, the story is an excellent read, and I would recommend The Last Request to anyone who enjoys a mystery that isn't easy to unravel.
September 25, 2023
Brandon Barrows' masterwork " The Last Request" takes readers on a gripping journey into the heart of rural Alaska. When Holly Shaw and her distant cousins are summoned by their enigmatic great aunt Lydia, they are thrust into a high-stakes battle over a huge sixty-million-dollar fortune.
The catch- they must remain at Lydia's remote mansion until she dies, or they will lose their share. The body count grows as emotions surge, sparking a devastating chain of events that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The writer's dramatic narration and thorough representation of Alaska's rough surroundings add a special depth to this compelling tale. The blend of temptation, greed and guilt makes this book a standout mystery ,compelling the reader to turn each page eagerly, in order to uncover the truth. If you are looking for an exciting and thrilling story ,then this one is a must-read for you.
The catch- they must remain at Lydia's remote mansion until she dies, or they will lose their share. The body count grows as emotions surge, sparking a devastating chain of events that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The writer's dramatic narration and thorough representation of Alaska's rough surroundings add a special depth to this compelling tale. The blend of temptation, greed and guilt makes this book a standout mystery ,compelling the reader to turn each page eagerly, in order to uncover the truth. If you are looking for an exciting and thrilling story ,then this one is a must-read for you.
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November 13, 2023If, on a fast scan of the description of the plot of this mystery/murder novel, you decided it’s a rehash of Agatha Christie’s famous story, “And then there were none”, you’d be wrong. Yes, there’s a similarity in that a small group of people are invited to spend time in a magnificent, but unusual location by someone none of them have met, but the similarity stops there. Their hostess is a filthy rich dying relative. One, or perhaps more of those invited could inherit a huge chunk of her estate but the condition under which they would inherit will demand both tenacity and greed. That greed, of course, gives each if them a motive for murder. As the visitors begin disappearing, just when readers think they’ve narrowed down who is getting rid of the others, they find out they haven’t. We keep turning pages and when that final twist comes, it’s a beauty! Great plotting, absorbing characters and a fantastic setting make this one enthralling read. Enjoy!
September 17, 2023
Brandon Barrows' "The Last Request" is a psychological thriller that's impossible to put down. Set in a remote Alaskan mansion, the story revolves around Holly Shaw and her cousins, all vying for a $60 million inheritance. The catch? They must stay in the house until their great-aunt Lydia passes away. When murders start happening, everyone becomes a suspect.
Barrows masterfully builds tension, keeping you guessing until the very end. The characters are complex, each with hidden motives, making it a real whodunit. The isolated setting adds an extra layer of suspense, making you feel the characters' desperation.
In short, "The Last Request" is a compelling read combining guilt, greed, and temptation into a high-stakes survival game. It's a must-read for any fan of psychological thrillers.
Barrows masterfully builds tension, keeping you guessing until the very end. The characters are complex, each with hidden motives, making it a real whodunit. The isolated setting adds an extra layer of suspense, making you feel the characters' desperation.
In short, "The Last Request" is a compelling read combining guilt, greed, and temptation into a high-stakes survival game. It's a must-read for any fan of psychological thrillers.
August 24, 2023
I read this psychological mystery thriller courtesy of Bloodhound Books ARC group and as I started this novel I was instantly intrigued. I liked Alaska as a location for this story, for me it seems so remote and exotic. Perfect setting for a mystery story such as this in my opinion.
I also loved the gripping storyline. What an unusual collection of characters this novel had. All linked by family ties and a will. I really liked the characters and how the story unfolded.
It is the first novel that I’ve read by the author and I hope I can read more in the future as I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. I’m giving this novel 4 stars as I’m sure other readers will enjoy this novel too.
I also loved the gripping storyline. What an unusual collection of characters this novel had. All linked by family ties and a will. I really liked the characters and how the story unfolded.
It is the first novel that I’ve read by the author and I hope I can read more in the future as I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. I’m giving this novel 4 stars as I’m sure other readers will enjoy this novel too.
January 19, 2025
The Last Request is a fast-paced mystery read, the pace of which I appreciate. I grow weary very quickly of novels that dwell and dwell within the character's heads endlessly. The Last Request begins with six cousins who have not seen each other since they were young children all receiving an identical letter. The letter is from their Great Aunt Lydia inviting them to her home in Alaska, and their visit will be worth their while. We then follow Cousin Holly Shaw to Alaska, meeting her five cousins, and ultimately, confronting her Great Aunt Lydia after learning this is Aunt Lydia's revenge for the way their parents treated her. Brandon Barrows weaves an interesting plot where the reader cannot figure out who can be trusted and who cannot. The ending was satisfying for sure.
September 11, 2023
Brandon Barrows knows a thing or two about writing novels that are likely to give one a few sleepless nights.
From the opening pages there is a real sense of personal danger. A plot full of claustrophobic intensity and dark foreboding fear.
When the author introduced Dacha Orlov, I would have been quite willing to accept the Count himself at the top of the stairs, or the now adult Baby Jane inflicting some new mental torture on her sister, but instead there is dying Great Aunt Lydia embarking on a bizarre last request.
There are monsters aplenty in this book and a grand finale like something out of The Shining or Shirley Jackson at her best.
From the opening pages there is a real sense of personal danger. A plot full of claustrophobic intensity and dark foreboding fear.
When the author introduced Dacha Orlov, I would have been quite willing to accept the Count himself at the top of the stairs, or the now adult Baby Jane inflicting some new mental torture on her sister, but instead there is dying Great Aunt Lydia embarking on a bizarre last request.
There are monsters aplenty in this book and a grand finale like something out of The Shining or Shirley Jackson at her best.
September 13, 2023
This is a new author for me which I enjoyed reading. I found this book to well written and full of suspense. It is a story of greed, guilt and temptation. A story that is fast paced and hard to put down. A story where the author used details to make the story realistic. The characters are connectable and had me coming back for more. I enjoyed watching their growth as well as the growth of the plot. The twists and turns are like no other. They had me sitting on the edge of my seat just waiting to see what would happen next. I enjoyed reading this suspenseful, engaging story. I highly recommend it.
August 18, 2023
Holly and her cousins all receive a letter from their Great Aunt requesting their presence at her luxury home in Alaska. She offers them a share of her estate when she loses her fight against an illness, the only catch is that they have to stay there until her demise. Before they’ve even had a chance to make a decision one of them is found murdered on the patio. Nobody can foresee the events of the coming days or the the impact it will have on Hollys life. A very haunting story of one woman’s revenge on life, a real page turner.
September 19, 2023
The last request by Brandon Barrows.
In a remote house in rural Alaska, six potential heirs gather with the promise of inheriting a huge sum of money. But how far will they go to get their hands on a fortune?
With 6 people it's the next day and there is a murder already. Jonathan. Who is it? And will there be another murder?
Really good read. I did like Holly. I didn't like Lydia at all. Wasn't sure about Blair Marcus his wife Chelsea Jonathan or Ryan and Nora. I didn't trust them. What a twist I certainly didn't see that coming. 5*.
In a remote house in rural Alaska, six potential heirs gather with the promise of inheriting a huge sum of money. But how far will they go to get their hands on a fortune?
With 6 people it's the next day and there is a murder already. Jonathan. Who is it? And will there be another murder?
Really good read. I did like Holly. I didn't like Lydia at all. Wasn't sure about Blair Marcus his wife Chelsea Jonathan or Ryan and Nora. I didn't trust them. What a twist I certainly didn't see that coming. 5*.
September 22, 2023
Full of intrigue
I read this book within 24 hours because I had a hard time putting it down.
The Last Request calls to mind Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None or Hercule Poirot's Christmas. However, this book is told from the perspective of one of the family members rather than from the detective or an a third person narrative, making you feel the suspense even more.
I enjoyed it so much, I was sad to see it end. But I look forward to seeing what else this author produces. Hitchcock fans, as well as Christie fans, will love this.
I read this book within 24 hours because I had a hard time putting it down.
The Last Request calls to mind Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None or Hercule Poirot's Christmas. However, this book is told from the perspective of one of the family members rather than from the detective or an a third person narrative, making you feel the suspense even more.
I enjoyed it so much, I was sad to see it end. But I look forward to seeing what else this author produces. Hitchcock fans, as well as Christie fans, will love this.
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