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The Last Arrangement

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Shadows stretch long in small towns, and Claire can’t shake the feeling she’s being watched.

Leaving behind bruises, secrets, and shattered dreams, Claire Collins flees Nashville and lands in the dusty outskirts of Miner City, South Dakota. In the town’s quiet isolation, she tries to rebuild her life, only to learn that starting over isn’t as simple as leaving.

Whispers from the past begin to surface - quiet, familiar, and impossible to dismiss - seeping into her days and slowly eroding the life she’s trying to build.

She escaped him. Or so she believed.

This haunting blend of family saga and psychological thriller explores the scars we carry, the families we find, and the terrifying lengths some will go to reclaim what they believe belongs to them.

396 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 26, 2026

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About the author

Emersyn Park

6 books114 followers
Emersyn Park was born, raised, and still lives in the Midwest with her two sons, husband, and their spoiled dog, Bandit. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Southwest Minnesota State University.

When she grows up, she wants to be a full-time writer.

http://amazon.com/author/emersynpark

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5 stars
58 (78%)
4 stars
12 (16%)
3 stars
3 (4%)
2 stars
1 (1%)
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0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for Sarah.
483 reviews2 followers
February 28, 2026
I absolutely love to read. Books can be an escape when life is too much, a vacation when we need to relax, and a vessel for living life in another person’s shoes.

I read a variety of genres and authors. When Emersyn Park asked if I’d be a beta reader again for her newest book, of course I said yes. As I dug into The Last Arrangement, I couldn’t help but make the connections between Park’s fmc, Claire, and the author of Nobody’s Girl, Virginia Giuffre.

Victims of domestic violence and abuse endure so much pain during, and long after, the abuse has ended. With Claire, Emersyn created a strong character who had to survive so much heartache, beginning when she was still a child. That heartache stayed with her, affecting her ability to form relationships with others.

What I loved about The Last Arrangement…
1. Frank is without a doubt my favorite character Emersyn has written. I fell in love with him in Secrets Maple Keeps and was excited to see him in her newest book. The banter and wit between Frank and Claire is funny and endearing. I love to see the author’s sense of humor come alive in her characters.
2. Roger is such an adorable little boy. As a former teacher who taught for 18 years, I loved the interactions, conversations, and moments in the elementary classroom. Roger was a great addition to the story with his humor, honesty, and bravery.
3. Emersyn wrote a story that pulled me in, causing me to become deeply invested in Claire and the outcome of her story. Emersyn showed readers how a character like Claire can change so drastically from being young and naive, to jumping at loud noises, shrinking away from others, and hiding the ugly evidence of the abuse.

Emersyn’s books continue to get better. This is my favorite book of hers so far. I look forward to more of her books in the future.
Profile Image for Caramie.
27 reviews10 followers
March 6, 2026
Emersyn Park proves once again just how strong of a writer she is. She has an incredible talent for building characters that feel so real, layered, and complex that you can’t help but become invested in every single one of them. As the story unfolds, your suspicions constantly shift, making the tension sharper with every chapter.

This novel delivers serious thrills and chills. The atmosphere is filled with unease, secrets, and that creeping feeling that something isn’t quite right. Just when you think you’ve pieced everything together… the story flips everything upside down.

And that twist? Absolutely mind-blowing. The kind that makes you stop, stare at the page, and immediately want to go back and rethink everything you just read.

If you love domestic thrillers packed with suspense, unforgettable characters, and shocking reveals, The Last Arrangement is a must-read.
Profile Image for Susan Z (webreakforbooks) .
1,192 reviews126 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 21, 2026
The Last Arrangement is intense, a real nail biter. There was one scene that really had me at the edge of my seat, I even gasped. Her writing is immersive and I could easily picture the events taking place. This one would make a great movie!

I loved the thriller aspect but what I loved even more were the relationships that the MC had with her found family, Frank, and a precocious boy named Roger. Roger was so special.
Profile Image for Krystle Miller.
3 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 15, 2026
All the feels with this book! And the twists that I didn't see coming!!
Profile Image for Jaime O’Dell.
15 reviews1 follower
March 6, 2026
Emersyn Park delivers a gripping domestic thriller that will have you gasping from start to finish. The tension builds with every chapter, leaving your nerves a wreck in the best way possible. Park has an incredible ability to fully immerse the reader in the main character’s point of view, pulling you so deeply into her world that you feel every moment right alongside her.

As the story unfolds, you experience exactly what the protagonist is feeling through all of her ups and downs, the fear, the uncertainty, and the determination for a fresh start. It creates a powerful emotional connection that makes it nearly impossible to put the book down. You’ll find yourself wanting to burn through the pages just to see what will happen next.

With its suspenseful pacing and emotionally engaging storytelling, this is a must-read for fans of domestic thrillers. Emersyn Park knows how to keep readers hooked until the very last page.
Profile Image for Ashley Hunt.
4 reviews
Read
March 7, 2026
The Last Arrangement by Emersyn Park is an emotional and suspenseful story that pulls readers in from the very beginning. The novel follows a female main character who has faced more than her fair share of hardship in life. Just when it seems like things might improve, she finds herself trapped in a dangerous domestic abuse situation that feels impossible to escape. Emersyn does an amazing job of showing the emotional weight of this experience while also highlighting the strength it takes to keep moving forward.

One of the most compelling parts of the book is the constant twists and turns throughout the story. Just when you think you understand where the plot is headed, something unexpected happens that makes you question everything. The suspense keeps the reader guessing at every corner, making it difficult to put the book down. If adult responsibilities didn’t get in the way, I would have read this book in one sitting! Each new development adds another layer to the story and keeps the tension high until the very end.

My favorite thing about all of Emeryn Park’s books is her character development. You will absolutely fall in love with Frank, the main character’s best friend and true saving grace. In a story filled with difficult moments, Frank provides loyalty, support, and genuine care that readers can’t help but love. He is the kind of character who reminds you that even during the darkest times, there are still people willing to stand beside you and help you find a way out.

Overall, The Last Arrangement is a gripping and emotional read that combines suspense, heartfelt relationships, and powerful character development. By the end of the book, you’re left not only satisfied with the conclusion but also deeply connected to the characters you met along the way.
Profile Image for Dezirae Emmert.
5 reviews
March 16, 2026
This book kept me on my toes. I really enjoyed the South Dakota placement! everything you want in a thriller. Unexpected twists and turns! I loved every second of it.
Profile Image for Ashley.
37 reviews3 followers
February 17, 2026
The Last Arrangement by Emersyn Parks is a fast-paced domestic thriller perfect for anyone that loves to be at the edge of their seat but ultimately wants a happy ending.

When the main character Claire Collins is thrust into adulthood she decides to leave her hometown in pursuit of her dreams in Nashville. Life isn’t exactly going her way but that doesn’t stop her from hitting the pavement (literally) in her high heels making a name for herself, even if it makes her ankles swell. Which is exactly what brought her into Frank’s orbit. Just when you think Claire has made it in life - the best friend, the job - she meets who she thinks is the guy. Unbeknownst to her, all that glitters isn’t gold.

I really liked the journey getting to know Claire, but Frank was one of my favorite characters - following Roger of course (he is the real MVP). I don’t know that I’ve laughed as much as I had during a book labeled a thriller as much as I did when I read the things Frank did or said. Hunter obviously is the worst, but he did a great job of revealing himself slowly - I felt gaslit alongside Claire.


The ending took me by surprise, I did not guess a single thing right and I pride myself on being pretty darn good at that. It’s different from any other thriller I’ve read because it ended in what I can only describe only as a “happily ever after”.

If you didn’t join the email to get the additional material STOP WHAT YOU ARE DOING RIGHT NOW and do it because I BEG YOUR FINEST PARDON?!? I need to know what happened and what will happen next - fingers crossed for another book!

As always, it’s a must that you make the recipe in the back - as soon as I saw Oreos listed I knew what I was having for dessert - my husband and children thank you Emersyn!
5 reviews
March 20, 2026
I had both my sisters suggest I read this book as they had advanced copies. they were right in that it was such a good one! I was hooked right away and couldn't put it down. I can't say I've ever read a whole book in one day, until today!

I loved Claire from the first few pages I read and was rooting for her the whole time. I was jealous of her best friend Frank- we all need a friend like him!

I will be checking out other books by Emersyn for sure!
Profile Image for Emily.
110 reviews1 follower
March 16, 2026
Emersyn did it again with her newest novel, The Last Arrangement! I was on the edge of my seat, flying through the pages to see what would happen next. I love her attention to detail as she wraps up every single loose end by the last page and connects so many unexpected pieces.

Claire is a twenty-something year old orphan who works hard to get her life together after the tragic deaths of both her parents. With the help of a dear friend, Frank, Claire’s life is looking upwards in Nashville. That is, until she meets Hunter… Hunter is the whole package. Handsome, successful, and seemingly thoughtful. But we don’t always know what goes on behind closed doors, do we? Claire’s life goes awry until she is forced to change her life path for her own safety. Is that enough, though? Grab your copy of The Last Arrangement TODAY to find out!
70 reviews
March 22, 2026
The last arrangement by Emersyn Park
I would like to thank @emersynjulespark for the privilege of joining her team for this exceptional novel.
This book is a riveting and masterfully written read. The author's writing style is immersive, enabling readers to form detailed mental images of the scenes. The characters are skillfully developed, with Claire and Frank's dynamic being a standout. Their banter adds a touch of humor to the book's more emotional moments. The plot twists are expertly handled, maintaining a high level of reader engagement. Emersyn Park sheds light on the ease with which individuals can become entangled in difficult relationships and the challenges of escaping them. Overall, this book is an enthralling and addictive read that will captivate readers until the very end.
3 reviews
April 4, 2026
Emersyn never fails to provide unexpected twists that you didn’t see coming! I always look forward to the dark surprises and humor she manages to appropriately entwine which are guaranteed in every book she writes! Can’t wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Lindsey Bobier.
22 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 13, 2026
Claire's integrity & strength are so admirable & inspirational. She has no family left, just a small circle of friends. She doesn't cave, she doesn't give up, she's true to herself ... Even amidst the most horrid relationship, then rebuilding her life, & then re-facing the trauma/asshole! She is a wonderfully strong & beautiful main character!

I also really enjoyed her best friend Frank -- he's such a good friend & support, and always brings a little dose of humor amidst the drama!

An overall gripping story pointing out the strength, perseverance, & courage of domestic abuse survivors. I highly recommend this book!!
Profile Image for Nikki G.
72 reviews5 followers
April 2, 2026
Dare I say this has risen to the top of my Emersyn Park book rankings?!

I’m always excited when Emersyn invites me to be on her arc team again and again. The way she weaves characters in and out of her stories, and the way she builds tension is just so, so good.

The Last Arrangement follows Claire, who after a tumultuous relationship flees to small town Miner City to rebuild a life where she can be happy and feel safe again, away from the traumas of her abusive ex. But whispers of her past haunt her at every turn, and with each new reminder she is left wondering if she really, truly escaped the terror after all.

I loved this new domestic thriller, and the way Emersyn weaved the story so seamlessly from start to finish. There was definitely shock value in a twist I never saw coming, so buckle up for another wild ride.

5/5 stars for another great read
4 reviews1 follower
April 5, 2026
I absolutely devoured The Last Arrangement by Emersyn Park—finished it in just two sittings because I couldn’t put it down! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The relationship between Claire and Frank was a standout for me. Their dynamic was incredibly engaging, and I especially loved the sarcasm they shared—it felt natural, witty, and added so much personality to the story.

While the book carries some heavier themes, the moments of humor were perfectly timed and provided just the right amount of relief without taking away from the depth of the story. I also really appreciated the portrayal of Claire’s relationship with her students. It felt genuine and true to life, capturing those meaningful connections teachers build in such an authentic way.

And I always love a good twist—this one completely caught me off guard in the best way!

Highly recommend to anyone looking for a compelling, emotional read with heart, humor, and surprises along the way.
Profile Image for Alicia.
1,032 reviews
March 22, 2026
Thank you @emersynjulespark for letting me be on your team for this beauty ~ and for keeping me up to date on the delivery chaos.
✨out now ✨

This story was beautifully written and was quite heavy.

I absolutely loved the FMC and her bestie. Their relationship was so fun. I was truly hooked from the start in this book.

There was a point when the momentum felt like it had slowed a bit but it wasn’t for long and then I had to pick my jaw up off the floor from a twist I never saw coming.

Emersyn did an amazing job capturing how quickly one can slip into a difficult situation such as this as well as the paranoia that accompanies it.

⚠️ please check trigger warnings ⚠️
Profile Image for Makenna Schuelke.
79 reviews
April 19, 2026
Overall, this domestic thriller was pretty good. I found a few parts to be a bit cheesy, but I enjoyed reading about areas of Nashville, as we recently visited. Loved the floral ties and learning the little secret meanings as the story kept progressing.
Profile Image for Cristy Krause.
4 reviews
April 26, 2026
Oh my gosh! So good! I read it in 1 day and couldn't put it down. I even cooked supper with my kindle in 1 hand!
8 reviews
April 26, 2026
Oh how quickly my emotions went from “Hubba hubba” to hatred!
9 reviews1 follower
March 29, 2026
Couldn't put down! Sooooooo good! Highly recommended!
1 review1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 11, 2026
BUen libro,te metia de todo menos miedo cachorrita
Profile Image for Jen Peterson.
92 reviews4 followers
April 11, 2026
The Last Arrangement by Emersyn Park

I was fortunate enough to be part of the ARC team on Emersyn’s latest release and I am so glad for it! Her books always hit so when she said she was releasing a new domestic thriller, I was here for it!

The Last Arrangement is raw, scary, and emotional. Centered on Claire’s new life as she escaped a dangerous DV environment, we see her grapple with the fear of is she ever really safe. I loved that her bestie was Frank! It always tickles a part of my brain to have characters overlap in her stories and Frank is a favorite.

The story and characters are so layered, with a twist that had my jaw on the floor! Please do yourself a favor and pick this one up! It gets all the stars. All of them. How our funny, silly author friend keeps writing such twisty thrillers, I’ll never know!

Congrats on yet another amazing release!
58 reviews
April 14, 2026
I highly recommend reading this one!
When Claire loses her family, she sets off to pursue her dream life in Nashville. Frank hires her and becomes her best friend and her world. The music industry is booming and Claire loves her new life! It tops it off when she meets the guy of her dreams. Despite Frank & Hunter not liking each other, Claire is falling hard. As time goes on, Claire realizes that Hunter is not the person that she thought he was. Will she leave everything she has built to end her relationship with Hunter, or is it too late to escape?
Profile Image for Kari Spitler.
14 reviews
March 24, 2026
This is now one of my favorites! Emersyn did a great job of making us feel everything Claire has going on. The twists are a secret surprise and “oh my” moments!
2 reviews
April 12, 2026
This is my favorite book thus far that I have read by Emersyn. The twist and turns kept me on my toes and guessing. I think this could be made into a move. A+!
Profile Image for Katie Holnbeck.
134 reviews12 followers
April 11, 2026
Once again, Emersyn (hi Julie😉) has knocked it out of the park (no pun intended) with her character development, page turning plot twists, and tension that makes you bite your fingernails.

The Last Arrangement is a psychological thriller that follows Claire Collins who becomes a victim of abuse by her boyfriend, Hunter, and later on starts her journey to escape the wrath of his anger as she tries to find a way to rebuild herself.

The emotions and content in the beginning of the story are dark and intense dark, but then the emotions shift to ones of relief and triumph as Claire fights for herself and her safety.

Overall, the twists were satisfying along the way, and the ending left me relieved and hopeful for Claire's new future.

I loved how strong and heartwarming the relationship between Claire and Frank! My heart broke for Claire and I was rooting for her the entire time, so for her to have such a strong support in Frank brought happy tears to my eyes. Everyone deserves to have a Frank in their life, but especially when they are weathering through the storms of life.

I will say the trigger warnings for this story can be intense and include physical and emotional abuse, murder, and trauma.
Profile Image for Rachel.
76 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 8, 2026
ARC review - The Last Arrangement by Emersyn Park.
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Release date - 16th March 2026

I'm still in the overwhelming throes of being invited to read The Last Arrangement, the latest novel by @emersynjulespark, before it's release date, after being absent from social media for what feels like an eternity. Thank you to this lovely author for her trust in me, boosting my confidence and opening the door to this world once again for me. I don't think there is quite such a buzzy feeling when you see your name listed on the acknowledgements page 😘

We are introduced to Claire, a terrified woman in hiding from a brutal and violent past with her ex-partner Hunter. Claire is determined to turn her life around, to forget about Hunter and start her life anew. I was instantly taken in by Claire - girl power vibes with a fragility that will touch the reader.

We re-meet the witty and loveable, Frank, who was first introduced to us in Emersyn's book Secrets Maple Keeps (a book I still talk about and go back to today). Having Frank in this book was one of my favourite parts of this story. I loved him in SMK and just as much now. Frank is a father figure to Claire (after losing her own father), her bestie, boss, mentor and saviour. He is her constant and an integral part for Claire turning her life around.

Our third main character is Hunter - described as gorgeous, charming and sweet, yet he is anything but! We learn a lot about Hunter's motives and why he is out to punish Claire.

I was on a knifes-edge throughout this book waiting for Hunter's return while Claire tries to get her life back on track. Full of satisfying twists and turns, The Last Arrangement is a must read for all fans of domestic thrillers.

Flowers play an important role in this book. You may question ever receiving a bunch of flowers again! 🌼

Thank you Emersyn, for another heart-pounding read! I'm fulfilled, satisfied and excited for what the future holds for you in your world of writing.

Rach x
Profile Image for Ryan P Hoffman .
88 reviews2 followers
April 2, 2026
Dusty Trails and Deadly Echoes
In The Last Arrangement, Emersyn Park weaves a tense, atmospheric tale of survival that proves you can change your zip code, but you can’t always outrun your shadow. Claire Collins’ flight from a fractured life in Nashville to the isolated quiet of Miner City, South Dakota, is more than just a move; it’s a desperate attempt at reinvention.
Park excels at building a sense of creeping dread. The "dusty outskirts" of the setting feel as suffocating as they are expansive, mirroring Claire’s internal struggle as her hard-won peace begins to fray. The transition from a slow-burn family saga into a chilling psychological thriller is handled with precision, capturing the terrifying reality of being hunted by someone who views people as property.
This is a haunting exploration of the scars that remain long after the physical wounds have healed. It’s a gripping read for anyone who appreciates a story about the resilience of the human spirit—and the dark persistence of the past.
Profile Image for Tara Engel.
503 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 6, 2026
*I received an ARC from the author for my honest review.
Wow, what a roller-coaster ride this book was. It had my heart racing with anxiety, had me wanting to yell at my screen during situations that the MFC was entangled in. It feels like a manual to all women who begin the dating process. It definitely should come with some trigger warnings. This book kept my interest the whole time and had impeccable writing keeping me on the edge of my seat and added some surprising twists towards the end. I want more! I hope we see more of Claire, Frank and Logan. The title was perfect and I love that the author taught us something we may not have known before about the language of flowers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews