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The Last Affair
Love may be blind, but obsession’s a real killer.
Nora Holliday is not that kind of woman. Not the kind who has an illicit affair with a married man. But Josh Landon is everything Nora’s alcoholic husband isn’t. And now she and Josh are so infatuated, they can’t stay away from one another.
Abby Landon, Josh’s daughter, is home from college nursing a broken heart. She’s seeking solace, not more scandal, so when she catches her dad kissing Nora, she vows to take the homewrecker down.
And as for Abby’s mother and Josh’s wife, Gwen? To anyone on the outside looking in, the mother of two appears to be living the ideal suburban life.
Until she winds up dead.
The serene seaside town of Shoreham has always been the perfect place to raise a family—not somewhere housewives are brutally murdered. So who killed Gwen Landon, and how many twisted secrets will be exposed as the vindictive plot comes undone?
Nora Holliday is not that kind of woman. Not the kind who has an illicit affair with a married man. But Josh Landon is everything Nora’s alcoholic husband isn’t. And now she and Josh are so infatuated, they can’t stay away from one another.
Abby Landon, Josh’s daughter, is home from college nursing a broken heart. She’s seeking solace, not more scandal, so when she catches her dad kissing Nora, she vows to take the homewrecker down.
And as for Abby’s mother and Josh’s wife, Gwen? To anyone on the outside looking in, the mother of two appears to be living the ideal suburban life.
Until she winds up dead.
The serene seaside town of Shoreham has always been the perfect place to raise a family—not somewhere housewives are brutally murdered. So who killed Gwen Landon, and how many twisted secrets will be exposed as the vindictive plot comes undone?
336 pages, Paperback
First published November 26, 2019
340 people are currently reading
8256 people want to read
About the author
Margot Hunt
9 books1,294 followersMargot Hunt is the author of LOVELY GIRLS, THE LAST AFFAIR, FOR BETTER AND WORSE, and BEST FRIENDS FOREVER. She has also written the Audible Original novellas TELL HER STORY, THE HOUSE ON THE WATER and BURIED DEEP. Her next book, THE GUESTS, will be released in January 2024.
Learn more about Margot and her forthcoming books at
margothunt.com.
Learn more about Margot and her forthcoming books at
margothunt.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 592 reviews
October 1, 2024
**4.5-stars rounded up**
Suburbanite Mom, Gwen Landon, appears to have it all; a successful husband, two children and a Labrador. The Landons are the epitome of the picture perfect family.
That's how it seems anyway, until the day Gwen winds up dead, bludgeoned to death with a driveway paving stone. Apparently, Gwen has been racking up the enemies, but whodunit?!
Across town, Nora Holliday also appears to be living in suburban bliss.
Behind closed doors, however, circumstances are actually quite challenging for Nora.
Her husband, once an abusive alcoholic, is now in recovery, but he is difficult to live with and the spark is definitely gone from their marriage.
For Nora, it's hard to believe it was ever really there. She does what she can to try to keep it all together for their children, but the charade is hard.
When Gwen's husband, Josh, and Nora run into each other at an out of town hotel bar, they make an irrevocable decision that will alter all of their lives forever.
Full of the domestic drama we all love, glazed with a delightfully devious revenge plot, The Last Affair will keep you vigorously turning the pages until the very end.
Once I started down this twisted road of secrets and lies, with an entire fast of adults behaving badly, I could not put it down!
Jumping back and forth between multiple perspectives helped this one to never lose its fast pace.
There were so many secrets, so little honest communication, it was frustrating and amazing all at the same time.
If you are looking for a consistent, cleverly-plotted domestic drama to help get you through this holiday season, you should definitely consider picking this one up!
I am so happy that I had the opportunity to read this early. Thank you so much to the publisher, Harlequin -- MIRA, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I had a lot of fun with this story and am definitely looking forward to Margot Hunt's next novel.
I think her writing has grown a lot for this book compared to For Better and Worse so I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next!
Suburbanite Mom, Gwen Landon, appears to have it all; a successful husband, two children and a Labrador. The Landons are the epitome of the picture perfect family.
That's how it seems anyway, until the day Gwen winds up dead, bludgeoned to death with a driveway paving stone. Apparently, Gwen has been racking up the enemies, but whodunit?!
Across town, Nora Holliday also appears to be living in suburban bliss.
Behind closed doors, however, circumstances are actually quite challenging for Nora.
Her husband, once an abusive alcoholic, is now in recovery, but he is difficult to live with and the spark is definitely gone from their marriage.
For Nora, it's hard to believe it was ever really there. She does what she can to try to keep it all together for their children, but the charade is hard.
When Gwen's husband, Josh, and Nora run into each other at an out of town hotel bar, they make an irrevocable decision that will alter all of their lives forever.
Full of the domestic drama we all love, glazed with a delightfully devious revenge plot, The Last Affair will keep you vigorously turning the pages until the very end.
Once I started down this twisted road of secrets and lies, with an entire fast of adults behaving badly, I could not put it down!
Jumping back and forth between multiple perspectives helped this one to never lose its fast pace.
There were so many secrets, so little honest communication, it was frustrating and amazing all at the same time.
If you are looking for a consistent, cleverly-plotted domestic drama to help get you through this holiday season, you should definitely consider picking this one up!
I am so happy that I had the opportunity to read this early. Thank you so much to the publisher, Harlequin -- MIRA, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I had a lot of fun with this story and am definitely looking forward to Margot Hunt's next novel.
I think her writing has grown a lot for this book compared to For Better and Worse so I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next!
March 21, 2025
Mindless fun, juicy unlikeable characters, & wickedly entertaining!
THE LAST AFFAIR by MARGOT HUNT is an interesting, easy to read, easy-going, thrilling and fast-paced story that immediately piqued my interest and thoroughly entertained me.
THE LAST AFFAIR has an awesome opening scene! I have quite the fondness and love for when an author opens up her story to a revealing, horrific and ghastly murder scene, allowing us to be pretty much privy to who the victim is right at the very beginning. This technique definitely keeps me intrigued, my curiosity piqued, and turning those pages as fast as I possibly can right to the very end. I love being right dab in the centre of all the action as I’m trying to piece all those clues together of who those shocking and juicy suspects might be.
I wouldn’t necessarily say that there was anything new on the table here though but the character dynamics and antics had quite the unique spin to it that definitely gripped and thrilled me. I might have done some gasping and shaking my head numerous times at these characters.
This was a Traveling Sister read that I read along with Brenda and Lindsay @lindsaytravelingsister - we all thought it was a fun and enjoyable book.
Thank you so much to HarperCollins Canada for gifting me a copy of this book. It was an enjoyable reading experience that I was thoroughly entertained with.
Expected Publication Date: November 26, 2019
Norma’s Stats:
Cover: An effective and fitting representation to storyline that depicts the storyline extremely well and really allows us to experience this story as if we were sneakily peeking in just like the cover suggests.
Title: I wasn’t all that drawn to the title of this book as it just appeared to be another one of those “affair” stories. Boy was I wrong!
Writing/Prose: Easy to follow, well-written, entertaining, immersive, and gripping.
Plot: Engrossing, interesting, suspenseful, soapy, gripping, scandalous, fast-paced, and entertaining.
Ending: I wasn’t completely in the dark but let me tell you that ending was totally awesome and I loved how it all played out. I might have found it a little off-putting though - the extreme end but regardless the author did a great job wrapping this one up.
Overall: Would absolutely recommend if you are looking for an easy-going, relaxed, and mild domestic thriller to spend some time with. This was the perfect read for me while recovering from surgery. It definitely was a great escape and mellowed out some of the pain that I was feeling. Thank you so much to Margot Hunt for making me forget just a little bit!
THE LAST AFFAIR by MARGOT HUNT is an interesting, easy to read, easy-going, thrilling and fast-paced story that immediately piqued my interest and thoroughly entertained me.
THE LAST AFFAIR has an awesome opening scene! I have quite the fondness and love for when an author opens up her story to a revealing, horrific and ghastly murder scene, allowing us to be pretty much privy to who the victim is right at the very beginning. This technique definitely keeps me intrigued, my curiosity piqued, and turning those pages as fast as I possibly can right to the very end. I love being right dab in the centre of all the action as I’m trying to piece all those clues together of who those shocking and juicy suspects might be.
I wouldn’t necessarily say that there was anything new on the table here though but the character dynamics and antics had quite the unique spin to it that definitely gripped and thrilled me. I might have done some gasping and shaking my head numerous times at these characters.
This was a Traveling Sister read that I read along with Brenda and Lindsay @lindsaytravelingsister - we all thought it was a fun and enjoyable book.
Thank you so much to HarperCollins Canada for gifting me a copy of this book. It was an enjoyable reading experience that I was thoroughly entertained with.
Expected Publication Date: November 26, 2019
Norma’s Stats:
Cover: An effective and fitting representation to storyline that depicts the storyline extremely well and really allows us to experience this story as if we were sneakily peeking in just like the cover suggests.
Title: I wasn’t all that drawn to the title of this book as it just appeared to be another one of those “affair” stories. Boy was I wrong!
Writing/Prose: Easy to follow, well-written, entertaining, immersive, and gripping.
Plot: Engrossing, interesting, suspenseful, soapy, gripping, scandalous, fast-paced, and entertaining.
Ending: I wasn’t completely in the dark but let me tell you that ending was totally awesome and I loved how it all played out. I might have found it a little off-putting though - the extreme end but regardless the author did a great job wrapping this one up.
Overall: Would absolutely recommend if you are looking for an easy-going, relaxed, and mild domestic thriller to spend some time with. This was the perfect read for me while recovering from surgery. It definitely was a great escape and mellowed out some of the pain that I was feeling. Thank you so much to Margot Hunt for making me forget just a little bit!
September 30, 2019
I was super excited to read Margot Hunt's latest because I so enjoyed her last, For Better Or Worse. BUT, this one was just okay for me.
We have some unlikeable characters and it took a while for me to really get into the story line.
There is some drama and a twisted love triangle that some may enjoy, but pretty middle of the road for me. Nothing that really shocked/surprised me or stood out as something original. Believe me, I kept waiting.....
Also, wasn't a big fan of how it ended.
I do enjoy this author and her writing style. She has a way of keeping you engaged to find out how things will end (even though I wasn't thrilled with this one.) I do look forward to her next.
Thanks to the Publisher for my early review copy. OUT November 26,2019
We have some unlikeable characters and it took a while for me to really get into the story line.
There is some drama and a twisted love triangle that some may enjoy, but pretty middle of the road for me. Nothing that really shocked/surprised me or stood out as something original. Believe me, I kept waiting.....
Also, wasn't a big fan of how it ended.
I do enjoy this author and her writing style. She has a way of keeping you engaged to find out how things will end (even though I wasn't thrilled with this one.) I do look forward to her next.
Thanks to the Publisher for my early review copy. OUT November 26,2019
November 28, 2019
3.5 Stars
The Last Affair starts off with quite the bang with that opening line and scene. I knew I was going to be entertained by Margot Hunt’s writing and I was from beginning to end.
Margot Hunt takes your typical affair and turns into a fun story here by adding some sass and spunk to the writing and the unlikeable characters you love to hate.
The pace is easy and quick, with just the right amount of drama to the story to move it forward for me. The dynamics between the characters are engaging, and I found myself drawn into the drama by silently yelling at the characters. The ending came together well for me as I started to piece together who left “the woman’s blood-covered body splayed facedown in the grass”, in this “typical upscale Floridian backyard.”
I received a copy from the publisher
The Last Affair starts off with quite the bang with that opening line and scene. I knew I was going to be entertained by Margot Hunt’s writing and I was from beginning to end.
Margot Hunt takes your typical affair and turns into a fun story here by adding some sass and spunk to the writing and the unlikeable characters you love to hate.
The pace is easy and quick, with just the right amount of drama to the story to move it forward for me. The dynamics between the characters are engaging, and I found myself drawn into the drama by silently yelling at the characters. The ending came together well for me as I started to piece together who left “the woman’s blood-covered body splayed facedown in the grass”, in this “typical upscale Floridian backyard.”
I received a copy from the publisher
November 19, 2019
Gwen Landon has it all- a beautiful family, married to husband Josh whom is a orthodontist that everyone in town adores. Gwen lives in an idealistic seaside town called Shoreham that nothing exciting ever happens in. Except for that day when Gwen was found in her backyard next to the pool with her head bashed in with a driveway paver...except for that day. That was a pretty eventful day for Shoreham....
Wow! Just wow! What a start to a book! I am not giving up any spoilers here people, this is the real deal. This actually happened in the very first chapter and then we are left the entire book to try to play detective and figure out who killed Gwen?!
Perhaps it was Nora who also has a pretty perfect life. Except for that drunk husband of hers...hmm..then there is Gwen's daughter who she forever is giving a hard time for literally everything. Or perhaps it is a husband who isn't as perfect as he seems? Or maybe, just maybe it is one of the many people that Gwen has pissed off with her I am better than you demeanor that she puts out. The suspects are endless and that is what made this so darn good.
I was totally in the dark this entire book, I must admit. I jumped at the chance to read my second Margot Hunt book. For Better or Worse was one of my very favorite books last year. Hunt can spin a twisty domestic thriller web with the best of them!
I was caught off guard with the opening chapter not only revealing that someone got murdered, but who exactly got murdered! I was wondering how is this going to pan out for the rest of the book. Yet it really worked. It had me squinting my eyes in suspicion when every character revealed a side of them that made me think, ohhh that is the killer ( thanks Margot Hunt for the adding to my squinting wrinkles).
Thanks so much to Harper Collins/ Harlequin for this ARC and inviting me on this blog tour!
Wow! Just wow! What a start to a book! I am not giving up any spoilers here people, this is the real deal. This actually happened in the very first chapter and then we are left the entire book to try to play detective and figure out who killed Gwen?!
Perhaps it was Nora who also has a pretty perfect life. Except for that drunk husband of hers...hmm..then there is Gwen's daughter who she forever is giving a hard time for literally everything. Or perhaps it is a husband who isn't as perfect as he seems? Or maybe, just maybe it is one of the many people that Gwen has pissed off with her I am better than you demeanor that she puts out. The suspects are endless and that is what made this so darn good.
I was totally in the dark this entire book, I must admit. I jumped at the chance to read my second Margot Hunt book. For Better or Worse was one of my very favorite books last year. Hunt can spin a twisty domestic thriller web with the best of them!
I was caught off guard with the opening chapter not only revealing that someone got murdered, but who exactly got murdered! I was wondering how is this going to pan out for the rest of the book. Yet it really worked. It had me squinting my eyes in suspicion when every character revealed a side of them that made me think, ohhh that is the killer ( thanks Margot Hunt for the adding to my squinting wrinkles).
Thanks so much to Harper Collins/ Harlequin for this ARC and inviting me on this blog tour!
August 14, 2022
An illicit affair…
Nora and Josh, each with families of their own. Each wanting more from their lives but with no idea how to make that happen. Until one day the stars align, bringing the two together. Now they take every chance they can to steal a private moment in each others arms.
Their clandestine rendezvous are about to be exposed – and the fallout could be deadly!
A tense, thrilling read I devoured in no time. You know full well families will be devastated, people will get crushed. You desperately want to stop them…yet you can’t. Just hold on tight, go for the ride and see who makes it out alive from this twisted affair!
I listened to the audio and Vivienne Leheny did a superb job with the characters!
Thank you to my local library 🎧
Nora and Josh, each with families of their own. Each wanting more from their lives but with no idea how to make that happen. Until one day the stars align, bringing the two together. Now they take every chance they can to steal a private moment in each others arms.
Their clandestine rendezvous are about to be exposed – and the fallout could be deadly!
A tense, thrilling read I devoured in no time. You know full well families will be devastated, people will get crushed. You desperately want to stop them…yet you can’t. Just hold on tight, go for the ride and see who makes it out alive from this twisted affair!
I listened to the audio and Vivienne Leheny did a superb job with the characters!
Thank you to my local library 🎧
October 30, 2019
“Other than the woman’s blood-covered body splayed facedown in the grass, it could have been any typical upscale Floridian backyard.”
That is the opening sentence of Margot Hunt’s soon to be released third novel, “The Last Affair” available on Nov. 26, 2019.
Josh and Gwen’s daughter Abby, left college when she discovered her boyfriend cheating on her, with her best friend.
She comes home to discover that her Dad, is cheating on her mother, with Nora.
Already feeling irrational, she vows to take the home wrecker down!
But public personas don’t always match private ones, and she has no idea what she is about to unleash..
Because that dead body on the grass...that’s her mother, Gwen...and you won’t know who is responsible till the last few pages...
“That’s the thing about love. It’s not rational.” ❤️
Margot Hunt writes riveting DOMESTIC SUSPENSE!
Just like Best Friends Forever, and For Better Or Worse, I could not put this one down!
Her characters are so real that I recognized myself, or someone I knew in each of them, despite the fact that their thoughts and actions are not always those that you would be proud of.
As ALWAYS with her books, I was completely engaged from start to finish-she is an author whose writing consistently works for me. I enjoyed all three of the narratives in this one: Nora’s, Gwen’s and Abby’s...
Now that ending that has been alluded to...🤔
Yes, it may have been a bit of a stretch...but then again...sometimes life is stranger than fiction, so maybe not??
Thank you to Edelweiss, Mira books and Margot Hunt for the digital ARC that I received in exchange for a candid review!
If you enjoyed the author’s previous work, pre-order now! I don’t think you will be disappointed!
That is the opening sentence of Margot Hunt’s soon to be released third novel, “The Last Affair” available on Nov. 26, 2019.
Josh and Gwen’s daughter Abby, left college when she discovered her boyfriend cheating on her, with her best friend.
She comes home to discover that her Dad, is cheating on her mother, with Nora.
Already feeling irrational, she vows to take the home wrecker down!
But public personas don’t always match private ones, and she has no idea what she is about to unleash..
Because that dead body on the grass...that’s her mother, Gwen...and you won’t know who is responsible till the last few pages...
“That’s the thing about love. It’s not rational.” ❤️
Margot Hunt writes riveting DOMESTIC SUSPENSE!
Just like Best Friends Forever, and For Better Or Worse, I could not put this one down!
Her characters are so real that I recognized myself, or someone I knew in each of them, despite the fact that their thoughts and actions are not always those that you would be proud of.
As ALWAYS with her books, I was completely engaged from start to finish-she is an author whose writing consistently works for me. I enjoyed all three of the narratives in this one: Nora’s, Gwen’s and Abby’s...
Now that ending that has been alluded to...🤔
Yes, it may have been a bit of a stretch...but then again...sometimes life is stranger than fiction, so maybe not??
Thank you to Edelweiss, Mira books and Margot Hunt for the digital ARC that I received in exchange for a candid review!
If you enjoyed the author’s previous work, pre-order now! I don’t think you will be disappointed!
October 17, 2019
You know the type of book that holds your attention, yet brings nothing new to the table from the previous 97 domestic suspense novels you've read before it? Yea, that was this one. Don't get me wrong, it has soapy drama and a love triangle and enough unlikable characters to put a Real Housewives round table to shame, but I feel like I've read this exact book so many times that it may be time to put the genre behind me. If you enjoy middle of the road characters and are looking for an easy, entertaining read to pass the time, give this one a try.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy via NetGalley.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy via NetGalley.
November 25, 2019
3.5 stars.
A fast-paced, easy and thrilling read!
This is one of those books that you can fly through without having put much effort in. The pages and chapters quickly coast by as the storyline keeps you guessing. It was exactly what I was in the mood for. It kept me intrigued and entertained from start to finish. There were a few dramatic scenes, but nothing that overshadowed my enjoyment. The characters and their relationship dynamics were unique and interesting and the suspense kept me curious until the very end. This was my first book by this author and I look forward to reading more from her.
This was a Traveling Sister read with Brenda and Norma - one that we all enjoyed!
Thank you to HarperCollins for sending me a physical copy to read and review!
Expected date of publication: November 26, 2019.
A fast-paced, easy and thrilling read!
This is one of those books that you can fly through without having put much effort in. The pages and chapters quickly coast by as the storyline keeps you guessing. It was exactly what I was in the mood for. It kept me intrigued and entertained from start to finish. There were a few dramatic scenes, but nothing that overshadowed my enjoyment. The characters and their relationship dynamics were unique and interesting and the suspense kept me curious until the very end. This was my first book by this author and I look forward to reading more from her.
This was a Traveling Sister read with Brenda and Norma - one that we all enjoyed!
Thank you to HarperCollins for sending me a physical copy to read and review!
Expected date of publication: November 26, 2019.
March 2, 2020
I had fun reading this one. It was bit of a mindless read but that's perfect because I need that in my life right now. I enjoyed sitting back and reading about other people's crazy shenanigans. I came in wanting to be entertained and the author delivered.
So the book starts off in somewhat trendy fashion in which we find out a character is dead and then we go back in time to find out what got us to this point. Nora Holliday is married with kids and she does something totally out of character. She sleeps with Josh Landon, who also is married with kids. And thus begins an affair between the two cheaters. And remember that dead character I mentioned? Well I am referring to Gwen Landon, aka Josh's wife. Uh oh. So who killed her?
Maybe some readers will be turned off by the whole adultery storyline but I thought it provided a lot of good drama. The story follows Nora, Gwen, and Josh and Gwen's college age daughter, Abby, and it was an effective storytelling method. In terms of the mystery elements of the story, the author came up with a pretty decent ending. It might not be a 5 star ending but comparing it to other books I have read recently in the genre, it ranks among the better ones.
The mother-daughter dynamics between Gwen and Abby was a highlight for me. While Nora was your average, ho hum character, Gwen was someone that was a bit unusual. There's a certain character from a very popular book that she reminded me of but I'll leave it at that so I don't give anything away. Gwen was an out there character and I found her fascinating. When it comes to reading, I do appreciate getting into the minds of a wide variety of characters even if they are completely different from myself.
I do recommend this as a good vacation read as it was a quick and fun read.
So the book starts off in somewhat trendy fashion in which we find out a character is dead and then we go back in time to find out what got us to this point. Nora Holliday is married with kids and she does something totally out of character. She sleeps with Josh Landon, who also is married with kids. And thus begins an affair between the two cheaters. And remember that dead character I mentioned? Well I am referring to Gwen Landon, aka Josh's wife. Uh oh. So who killed her?
Maybe some readers will be turned off by the whole adultery storyline but I thought it provided a lot of good drama. The story follows Nora, Gwen, and Josh and Gwen's college age daughter, Abby, and it was an effective storytelling method. In terms of the mystery elements of the story, the author came up with a pretty decent ending. It might not be a 5 star ending but comparing it to other books I have read recently in the genre, it ranks among the better ones.
The mother-daughter dynamics between Gwen and Abby was a highlight for me. While Nora was your average, ho hum character, Gwen was someone that was a bit unusual. There's a certain character from a very popular book that she reminded me of but I'll leave it at that so I don't give anything away. Gwen was an out there character and I found her fascinating. When it comes to reading, I do appreciate getting into the minds of a wide variety of characters even if they are completely different from myself.
I do recommend this as a good vacation read as it was a quick and fun read.
December 19, 2019
Margot Hunt has done it again! A book full of twisted unlikable characters behaving badly? Yes please! I was completely invested, intrigued, and entertain from first page to last. The book starts with a bang, the murder of Gwen a housewife living in an upscale Florida neighborhood. The story is then told from the perspectives of Gwen, her daughter Abby, and the woman her husband is having an affair with Nora. None of these women were tremendously likable, but I glimpsed a piece of myself in each of them. Such a wild and addictive ride, I was all in trying to figure out who killed Gwen, and why?
As I mentioned none of these characters were tremendously likable, but Gwen? Wow! What a piece of work! Seriously by the end of this book I could’ve killed her myself, and I certainly didn’t blame anyone for doing it! Nora was probably the character I related to the most, I do understand what it’s like to have an alcoholic husband, but that doesn’t give you permission to cheat. Just could not understand why she just had not left him, because clearly she was not happy in her marriage. Then there was daughter Abby. Abby was heartbroken, her boyfriend cheated on her with her best friend, and she has now returned home and dropped out of college because of it. I think I would have lost it completely if my daughter came home having dropped out of college because of a boy! Abby definitely embraced her new role as the woman scorned, she was out for revenge in whatever form that might take. There were so many other possible suspects including Gwen’s husband Josh, can anyone possibly be that good? The ending was surprising and I’m still not sure if I liked it or not? Another absorbing domestic thriller from one of my favorite authors!
🎧🎧🎧 The audiobook is narrated by Vivienne Lehany. She did an amazing job of giving each of the narrators in this book their own unique voice. I was never lost and I always knew who is narrating the story.
This book in emojis. 💣 🎢 🏖 🏩 😰 😯
*** Big thanks to Harlequin/Mira for my copy of this book ***
As I mentioned none of these characters were tremendously likable, but Gwen? Wow! What a piece of work! Seriously by the end of this book I could’ve killed her myself, and I certainly didn’t blame anyone for doing it! Nora was probably the character I related to the most, I do understand what it’s like to have an alcoholic husband, but that doesn’t give you permission to cheat. Just could not understand why she just had not left him, because clearly she was not happy in her marriage. Then there was daughter Abby. Abby was heartbroken, her boyfriend cheated on her with her best friend, and she has now returned home and dropped out of college because of it. I think I would have lost it completely if my daughter came home having dropped out of college because of a boy! Abby definitely embraced her new role as the woman scorned, she was out for revenge in whatever form that might take. There were so many other possible suspects including Gwen’s husband Josh, can anyone possibly be that good? The ending was surprising and I’m still not sure if I liked it or not? Another absorbing domestic thriller from one of my favorite authors!
🎧🎧🎧 The audiobook is narrated by Vivienne Lehany. She did an amazing job of giving each of the narrators in this book their own unique voice. I was never lost and I always knew who is narrating the story.
This book in emojis. 💣 🎢 🏖 🏩 😰 😯
*** Big thanks to Harlequin/Mira for my copy of this book ***
December 5, 2019
Nora Holliday is married to an alcoholic when she has an affair with Josh, who is also married. None of this is what Nora normally “does.”
Abby is Josh’s daughter. She comes home from college with a broken heart only to find her father cheating, so she vows to turn him in to her mother.
But Gwen? Abby’s mom and Josh’s wife? She is found murdered. Who killed her?
The tension in The Last Affair was present from page one. Margot Hunt excels with writing about marriage dynamics in a suspenseful way. The characters aren’t super likable here, but they are definitely fallibly human. I was always hoping for more and better for them!
Overall, I had fun with The Last Affair. It kept my attention and was filled with drama. It was easy to read, and I flew through the pages!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
Abby is Josh’s daughter. She comes home from college with a broken heart only to find her father cheating, so she vows to turn him in to her mother.
But Gwen? Abby’s mom and Josh’s wife? She is found murdered. Who killed her?
The tension in The Last Affair was present from page one. Margot Hunt excels with writing about marriage dynamics in a suspenseful way. The characters aren’t super likable here, but they are definitely fallibly human. I was always hoping for more and better for them!
Overall, I had fun with The Last Affair. It kept my attention and was filled with drama. It was easy to read, and I flew through the pages!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
February 18, 2020
Audiobook
Read by Vivienne Leheny...
Trashy-easy audio-listening...
Held my attention - (grabbed my attention with an opening bang) - kept me company while doing mundane tasks.
I never saw the ending coming... so that was a plus.
None of the characters were happy campers....
or likable....
or were master problem solvers...
Instead they were spiteful...
addicted...and strung out.
There was nothing in this book I haven’t read or seen on screen -
It’s ‘not’ a self help book...
It’s not going to fill our brains with quantum physics....
However....
In a whacko way... it was listening entertaining!!
Don’t get me wrong... I can understand selective readers, thinking this book would be a total waste of time...( many readers whom I respect and adore tremendously... would toss it)....
but my elementary brain - was feed guilty-pleasure candy.
My more intellectual brain simply got to ‘rest’.
I already knew that no book was going to be an up-stat after having read Wallace Stegner, recently...
so some easy listening trash was just perfect for the moment.
It’s a family suspense thriller/saga....
....filled with plenty of juicy drama ...(family domestic uninspiring craziness)/ and a murder mystery to solve.
Affairs - secrets - discovery of secrets - vindictive behaviors- and mystery....
Great beginning
Great ending...
A little napping-type-flow- in the middle ....but not fully asleep.
I got what I expected from this book!
About a 3.5 - 3.8 rating!
Read by Vivienne Leheny...
Trashy-easy audio-listening...
Held my attention - (grabbed my attention with an opening bang) - kept me company while doing mundane tasks.
I never saw the ending coming... so that was a plus.
None of the characters were happy campers....
or likable....
or were master problem solvers...
Instead they were spiteful...
addicted...and strung out.
There was nothing in this book I haven’t read or seen on screen -
It’s ‘not’ a self help book...
It’s not going to fill our brains with quantum physics....
However....
In a whacko way... it was listening entertaining!!
Don’t get me wrong... I can understand selective readers, thinking this book would be a total waste of time...( many readers whom I respect and adore tremendously... would toss it)....
but my elementary brain - was feed guilty-pleasure candy.
My more intellectual brain simply got to ‘rest’.
I already knew that no book was going to be an up-stat after having read Wallace Stegner, recently...
so some easy listening trash was just perfect for the moment.
It’s a family suspense thriller/saga....
....filled with plenty of juicy drama ...(family domestic uninspiring craziness)/ and a murder mystery to solve.
Affairs - secrets - discovery of secrets - vindictive behaviors- and mystery....
Great beginning
Great ending...
A little napping-type-flow- in the middle ....but not fully asleep.
I got what I expected from this book!
About a 3.5 - 3.8 rating!
December 4, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
It was the very picture of suburban domestic bliss. It could have been the set for a commercial advertising anything from laundry detergent to allergy medicine… except for the dead body.
Even though Josh didn’t touch her or make a single inappropriate comment, there was an energy between them. It shimmered there, almost like a separate entity, a third party sitting at the table with them.
They’re very sporty. In fact, they own one of those CrossFit places where people go and torture themselves flipping tractor tires and whatnot, and the women all end up looking like linebackers.
She’s as deep as a puddle and about as interesting. She’s not the kind of person you ruin your life over.
Nora is the kind of person who always does the right thing. It’s deeply important to her. It’s like she wants to live in a world of straight lines and squared corners.
I thought his crippling shyness was adorable, and evidence that he was so in love with me, it rendered him speechless. It was only later I realized that he simply didn’t have anything to say.
My Review:
This marks my third time enjoying the nimbly written works of Margot Hunt, who appears to possess quite a clever and impressive toolkit of words and perceptive observational skills, as well as a big honking brain. The story begins with a dead body, and we aren’t informed of the culprit of the deadly deed until the last few pages. I had spun and discarded various theories while I made my way through this slowly building and deftly penned tale of betrayal, family tension, addiction, personality disorders, and spiteful vengeance; with characters that became incrementally darker and increasingly twisted as the storylines and threads unfurled in all directions. Despite my best efforts, I did not foresee this ending in my calculations and I found the last few pages to be the most chilling of all. Margot Hunt has more than earned my undying respect for her wordcraft, as well as a bit of fear.
It was the very picture of suburban domestic bliss. It could have been the set for a commercial advertising anything from laundry detergent to allergy medicine… except for the dead body.
Even though Josh didn’t touch her or make a single inappropriate comment, there was an energy between them. It shimmered there, almost like a separate entity, a third party sitting at the table with them.
They’re very sporty. In fact, they own one of those CrossFit places where people go and torture themselves flipping tractor tires and whatnot, and the women all end up looking like linebackers.
She’s as deep as a puddle and about as interesting. She’s not the kind of person you ruin your life over.
Nora is the kind of person who always does the right thing. It’s deeply important to her. It’s like she wants to live in a world of straight lines and squared corners.
I thought his crippling shyness was adorable, and evidence that he was so in love with me, it rendered him speechless. It was only later I realized that he simply didn’t have anything to say.
My Review:
This marks my third time enjoying the nimbly written works of Margot Hunt, who appears to possess quite a clever and impressive toolkit of words and perceptive observational skills, as well as a big honking brain. The story begins with a dead body, and we aren’t informed of the culprit of the deadly deed until the last few pages. I had spun and discarded various theories while I made my way through this slowly building and deftly penned tale of betrayal, family tension, addiction, personality disorders, and spiteful vengeance; with characters that became incrementally darker and increasingly twisted as the storylines and threads unfurled in all directions. Despite my best efforts, I did not foresee this ending in my calculations and I found the last few pages to be the most chilling of all. Margot Hunt has more than earned my undying respect for her wordcraft, as well as a bit of fear.
April 10, 2020
'Other than the woman’s blood-covered body splayed facedown in the grass, it could have been any typical upscale Floridian backyard.'
And so begins Margot Hunt's latest novel, The Last Affair. I mean, come on...could there be a more enticing, macabre first sentence? Although I own two other Hunt books, this was the first I've actually read, and let me tell you, I was in it, friends. This book was my worst kind of addiction. I didn't want to stop reading. I can't resist a good domestic suspense, and something about Hunt's writing was so utterly absorbing.
All three points of view, those of Nora, Gwen, and Abby, were intriguing. I particularly enjoyed Gwen because she was just so damn diabolical. It's not often I find characters I simply love to hate.
So why my 3 star rating?
Three reasons:
1. The killer was beyond obvious. Like, so obvious it's almost insulting to the reader.
2. The entire conclusion--the timeline was wonky; the reasons behind the killing didn't work; and the epilogue was just silly.
3. This book brought absolutely nothing new to the table.
Final thoughts: Despite a few issues, this was a fun, easy read...perfect for the beach.
December 31, 2019
Freaking solid!! Especially the last quarter of the book, totally rocked my world! Last time around hunts novel called for better or worse didn't impress me as much as her debut novel did, this one completely redeemed her. The only complaint I would make about this one is that it was mostly a family drama and dealt with the affair itself, logistics, how the affair effects the family members on both sides, etc, rather then the murder and the mystery surrounding it. I feel like if the murder had happened sooner, and this novel was more of a thriller it might have been closer to a 5-star rating for me. Regardless I would definitely recommend this to everyone, I especially enjoyed it on audiobook!
December 16, 2019
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
If you are looking for a really good, slow-burn of a domestic drama then look no further because Margot Hunt has got you with her new book The Last Affair.
I wouldn't say that any of the characters are likable in this book, but Nora came close for me, even if she does have an affair with a married man. I really like that The Last Affair starts out with the murder of Josh's wife Gwen, and then switches back into the past to tell the reader how Nora and Josh started the affair and all of the events leading up to the murder. This is a book with multiple viewpoints, and even though the majority of the time it is Gwen, Nora, and Abby (Gwen and Josh's daughter), eventually we also get the viewpoints of Josh and Nora's husband Carter as well. I really liked this choice because you get to see what is running through everyone's heads and their personalities, even though at times I was ready to smack most of them.
I would consider The Last Affair to be a slow burn, but I ended up being fine with the pacing and had a hard time putting it down. This book was so addictive that I read it in just over 4 hours so it would probably be a one sitting read for a lot of people. I loved all the drama that this book had to offer, and a couple of these characters were just downright evil so prepare yourself!
Song/s the book brought to mind: Then What? by Clay Walker
Final Thought: The Last Affair does have a mystery aspect but overall I would consider it mostly a straight up domestic drama. This was my first time reading a book by Hunt and I can see why people like her writing, it really sucked me in, and everything flowed very well. The ending left a bit of a sour taste in my mouth and I can see why everyone wouldn't love it, but it also really makes you wonder! Book 2 anyone?
If you are looking for a really good, slow-burn of a domestic drama then look no further because Margot Hunt has got you with her new book The Last Affair.
I wouldn't say that any of the characters are likable in this book, but Nora came close for me, even if she does have an affair with a married man. I really like that The Last Affair starts out with the murder of Josh's wife Gwen, and then switches back into the past to tell the reader how Nora and Josh started the affair and all of the events leading up to the murder. This is a book with multiple viewpoints, and even though the majority of the time it is Gwen, Nora, and Abby (Gwen and Josh's daughter), eventually we also get the viewpoints of Josh and Nora's husband Carter as well. I really liked this choice because you get to see what is running through everyone's heads and their personalities, even though at times I was ready to smack most of them.
I would consider The Last Affair to be a slow burn, but I ended up being fine with the pacing and had a hard time putting it down. This book was so addictive that I read it in just over 4 hours so it would probably be a one sitting read for a lot of people. I loved all the drama that this book had to offer, and a couple of these characters were just downright evil so prepare yourself!
Song/s the book brought to mind: Then What? by Clay Walker
Final Thought: The Last Affair does have a mystery aspect but overall I would consider it mostly a straight up domestic drama. This was my first time reading a book by Hunt and I can see why people like her writing, it really sucked me in, and everything flowed very well. The ending left a bit of a sour taste in my mouth and I can see why everyone wouldn't love it, but it also really makes you wonder! Book 2 anyone?
December 10, 2019
EXCERPT: 'Do we have an ID on the victim?' Reddick asked.
'It's her house,' Monroe grunted.
'Yeah, but I like doing things the official way, you know?'
'I's dotted, t's crossed, all of that. Building a case, basic detective work.'
Despite the chilling scene in front of them - the woman's body still sprawled on the grass, the back of her head a pulpy, bloody mess - the corner of Monroe's mouth quirked up in a half smile. 'Sure kid, tell me all about basic detective work. I've only been doing this for, what...thirty-two years now? The husband ID'd her. Victim is Gwen Landon, age forty-nine. Married, mother of two. Husband said she hasn't had any recent conflict with anyone.'
'Other than the person who caved in the back of her head with a paving stone,' Reddick pointed out.
'Wouldn't be the first time a husband didn't know his wife as well as he thought he did.'
'Possible. But there's another possibility, too.'
'What's that?'
Reddick turned to look at his partner. His eyes were small and dark, and he had a habit of squinting when he concentrated intently on something.
'The husband is a liar.'
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Nora Holliday is not that kind of woman. Not the kind who has an illicit affair with a married man. But Josh Landon is everything Nora’s alcoholic husband isn’t. And now she and Josh are so infatuated, they can’t stay away from one another.
Abby Landon, Josh’s daughter, is home from college nursing a broken heart. She’s seeking solace, not more scandal, so when she catches her dad kissing Nora, she vows to take the homewrecker down.
And as for Abby’s mother and Josh’s wife, Gwen? To anyone on the outside looking in, the mother of two appears to be living the ideal suburban life.
Until she winds up dead.
The serene seaside town of Shoreham has always been the perfect place to raise a family—not somewhere housewives are brutally murdered. So who killed Gwen Landon, and how many twisted secrets will be exposed as the vindictive plot comes undone?
MY THOUGHTS: I liked, but didn't love The Last Affair by Margot Hunt. It's a domestic drama that kept me guessing, though it does take a long time to get to the point.
We start with the death of Gwen, (nasty woman, every town has one), then go back to the events leading up to her murder. There are plenty of suspects.
Hunt's characterisation is, as always, excellent, particularly with Gwen, the woman who has a wonderful public facade behind which she is toxic.
While there is nothing startling in the plot, it is well crafted and kept my attention. 🙂🙂🙂.5
# TheLastAffair #NetGalley
My favourite quote: We make these huge decisions when we're in our twenties - who we're going to marry, what we're going to be, how we're going to spend the rest of our lives. And yet....we have no real perspective.
THE AUTHOR: Margot Hunt is the pseudonym of a bestselling writer of twelve previous novels.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin-MIRA for providing a digital ARC of The Last Affair by Margot Hunt for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This and other reviews are also published on Twitter, Amazon and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'It's her house,' Monroe grunted.
'Yeah, but I like doing things the official way, you know?'
'I's dotted, t's crossed, all of that. Building a case, basic detective work.'
Despite the chilling scene in front of them - the woman's body still sprawled on the grass, the back of her head a pulpy, bloody mess - the corner of Monroe's mouth quirked up in a half smile. 'Sure kid, tell me all about basic detective work. I've only been doing this for, what...thirty-two years now? The husband ID'd her. Victim is Gwen Landon, age forty-nine. Married, mother of two. Husband said she hasn't had any recent conflict with anyone.'
'Other than the person who caved in the back of her head with a paving stone,' Reddick pointed out.
'Wouldn't be the first time a husband didn't know his wife as well as he thought he did.'
'Possible. But there's another possibility, too.'
'What's that?'
Reddick turned to look at his partner. His eyes were small and dark, and he had a habit of squinting when he concentrated intently on something.
'The husband is a liar.'
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Nora Holliday is not that kind of woman. Not the kind who has an illicit affair with a married man. But Josh Landon is everything Nora’s alcoholic husband isn’t. And now she and Josh are so infatuated, they can’t stay away from one another.
Abby Landon, Josh’s daughter, is home from college nursing a broken heart. She’s seeking solace, not more scandal, so when she catches her dad kissing Nora, she vows to take the homewrecker down.
And as for Abby’s mother and Josh’s wife, Gwen? To anyone on the outside looking in, the mother of two appears to be living the ideal suburban life.
Until she winds up dead.
The serene seaside town of Shoreham has always been the perfect place to raise a family—not somewhere housewives are brutally murdered. So who killed Gwen Landon, and how many twisted secrets will be exposed as the vindictive plot comes undone?
MY THOUGHTS: I liked, but didn't love The Last Affair by Margot Hunt. It's a domestic drama that kept me guessing, though it does take a long time to get to the point.
We start with the death of Gwen, (nasty woman, every town has one), then go back to the events leading up to her murder. There are plenty of suspects.
Hunt's characterisation is, as always, excellent, particularly with Gwen, the woman who has a wonderful public facade behind which she is toxic.
While there is nothing startling in the plot, it is well crafted and kept my attention. 🙂🙂🙂.5
# TheLastAffair #NetGalley
My favourite quote: We make these huge decisions when we're in our twenties - who we're going to marry, what we're going to be, how we're going to spend the rest of our lives. And yet....we have no real perspective.
THE AUTHOR: Margot Hunt is the pseudonym of a bestselling writer of twelve previous novels.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin-MIRA for providing a digital ARC of The Last Affair by Margot Hunt for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This and other reviews are also published on Twitter, Amazon and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
February 5, 2020
2.5 stars, rounded down because of the ending....
I have loved Margot Hunt's previous books and could not wait to read The Last Affair. Sadly, this one was not a favorite of mine. It is the story of a love triangle - plus one. The plus one is the couple's daughter who is home from university with some secrets of her own. I will not deny that this was a fast paced, thrill to the end read, but after reading it, I sat there thinking: what did I get out of this? Not a lot. Now, not every book has to be stellar and not every one has to be thought provoking. If you follow my blog or reviews then you know that I love a good cozy mystery and even some silly hilarious books. The Last Affair simply brought nothing to the table in originality, character development, or even a decent ending.
Because I have thoroughly enjoyed Hunt's previous novels, I am going to assume that this was a one off and we'll be back on the same page with her next read. Fingers Crossed.
I have loved Margot Hunt's previous books and could not wait to read The Last Affair. Sadly, this one was not a favorite of mine. It is the story of a love triangle - plus one. The plus one is the couple's daughter who is home from university with some secrets of her own. I will not deny that this was a fast paced, thrill to the end read, but after reading it, I sat there thinking: what did I get out of this? Not a lot. Now, not every book has to be stellar and not every one has to be thought provoking. If you follow my blog or reviews then you know that I love a good cozy mystery and even some silly hilarious books. The Last Affair simply brought nothing to the table in originality, character development, or even a decent ending.
Because I have thoroughly enjoyed Hunt's previous novels, I am going to assume that this was a one off and we'll be back on the same page with her next read. Fingers Crossed.
December 4, 2019
Josh and Nora are having an affair. Josh’s daughter is home from college, and she discovers her father’s secret. Josh’s wife Gwen is living what appears an ideal life, but she is not a happy woman. Family drama and suspense combine to make for a gripping read.
Told with alternating points of view of the women – Nora, Abby, and Gwen. Each woman is behaving differently than her usual self. The characters are well-developed and add a different and intriguing layer to the novel.
A fantastic book for fans of domestic suspense. This is my third novel to read by Margot Hunt, and each one has delivered an addictive story. The Last Affair combines my favorite elements found in domestic suspense – unlikable characters, family drama, and a twisted plot.
I received a free digital copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Told with alternating points of view of the women – Nora, Abby, and Gwen. Each woman is behaving differently than her usual self. The characters are well-developed and add a different and intriguing layer to the novel.
A fantastic book for fans of domestic suspense. This is my third novel to read by Margot Hunt, and each one has delivered an addictive story. The Last Affair combines my favorite elements found in domestic suspense – unlikable characters, family drama, and a twisted plot.
I received a free digital copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2021
Audio - 5 Stars
story - 4 Stars
story - 4 Stars
January 18, 2020
I really enjoyed this book! Except for the fact that I HATED 1 of the characters! I can’t remember the last time a character rubbed me as wrong as this person did! Still, I was so in to the story I just kept reading (& hoping they would get theirs!) It was interesting because a lot of times in books there are the “good” people who do the right thing, & the “bad” people who do the wrong things. Definitely not the case here.. Just a handful of people acting like.. people! The good, the bad, & the ugly! (Except for that 1- ughhhh- that I mentioned before!😡😡) Plus I was afraid it was going to turn into a typical dragged out whodunnit, but not at all! It was original & alot better then the description makes it sound, so if you’re on the fence I totally say go for it!
December 20, 2019
Playing a dangerous game...
What is the one thing you must not do when you are married that's worse than any other offense...aka leaving the toilet seat up or giving the silent treatment? It's having an affair!!! Or was it murder?
I don't know...but in the case of Margot Hunt's novel, she makes it pretty convincing that either could be justified...fictionally speaking, of course ;)
So, here is a quick synopsis of what's going down in The Last Affair. Two married couples, Nora, a prominent food blogger, mother of two teenagers is married to a recovered alcoholic husband and they have had their rough patches over the years due to drinking, some violence, and gambling. Gwen, a fitness fanatic and mother of two, is the wife to an orthodontist who is liked just a bit too much by the ladies all over town. Abby, their daughter, has just returned from college after a break-up, throwing the semester to the wind and sulking in PJ's all day in her room.
It's at a convention that the two of them meet. Nora is enjoying the weekend away from home, meeting with other bloggers and looking for a peaceful little retreat alone, in quiet, in a fancy hotel room.
Josh just spent the day at his dental conference and runs into Nora at the hotel bar. They vaguely know each other, just from her kids needing braces, and they immediately hit it off talking, casually, relaxed. So, the conversation leads to dinner, the laughter leads to wine, and the atmosphere turns flirty into the elevator.
Let's just say the sheets needed changing and both of them had an unforgettable night...so much so, that they can't stop thinking of each other in the next days and weeks.
This isn't something we haven't all read or heard of, but it's here at this point in the novel, where Margot Hunt's talent comes in. The story is told from each protagonist's view, including Josh and Gwen's daughter, so the reader gets a feel for what any and all the players are thinking or where they are coming from in their argumentations. Because you know...they will get caught!!! To make the whole thing more interesting, Hunt adds in several other narrative trails to figure out and casts a foreshadowing campaign to throw the reader of the course (I love when that happens and works out), so the players don't always act as we anticipate after all.
Though we are all on the moral high ground of course (right?), reading in the pov of the adulterers, one might come to find sympathy for these characters perhaps when learning what goes on behind closed doors in their homes and marriages. A justification that makes sense can be found for either of them if you spin it right! Well, either way, Hunt seems to have the upper hand and understanding of what goes in the minds of everyone. It stays relatable and plausible, written with insight into the human psyche and behavior of American suburbia, it's housewives and the domino effect of rumors...until everyone is going down and someone has to die!
So, what happens to the bad apples in the end? Is it a Happy Ever After?
Well, let's just say it gets messed up good! A train wreck in slow motion. You don't want to look, but you can't stop looking either. Hmm....would that not be the affair itself???? You don't want to have one but you can't stop it..... Never mind, not where I was going.
The cringe and thrill turn way up when other secrets come forth and everything becomes a gritty and sticky territory. Easily readable, fast-paced and entertaining, this is a great little thriller dish best paired perhaps with a vacation ;)
Enjoy
More of my reviews here:
Through Novel Time & Distance
What is the one thing you must not do when you are married that's worse than any other offense...aka leaving the toilet seat up or giving the silent treatment? It's having an affair!!! Or was it murder?
I don't know...but in the case of Margot Hunt's novel, she makes it pretty convincing that either could be justified...fictionally speaking, of course ;)
So, here is a quick synopsis of what's going down in The Last Affair. Two married couples, Nora, a prominent food blogger, mother of two teenagers is married to a recovered alcoholic husband and they have had their rough patches over the years due to drinking, some violence, and gambling. Gwen, a fitness fanatic and mother of two, is the wife to an orthodontist who is liked just a bit too much by the ladies all over town. Abby, their daughter, has just returned from college after a break-up, throwing the semester to the wind and sulking in PJ's all day in her room.
It's at a convention that the two of them meet. Nora is enjoying the weekend away from home, meeting with other bloggers and looking for a peaceful little retreat alone, in quiet, in a fancy hotel room.
Josh just spent the day at his dental conference and runs into Nora at the hotel bar. They vaguely know each other, just from her kids needing braces, and they immediately hit it off talking, casually, relaxed. So, the conversation leads to dinner, the laughter leads to wine, and the atmosphere turns flirty into the elevator.
Let's just say the sheets needed changing and both of them had an unforgettable night...so much so, that they can't stop thinking of each other in the next days and weeks.
This isn't something we haven't all read or heard of, but it's here at this point in the novel, where Margot Hunt's talent comes in. The story is told from each protagonist's view, including Josh and Gwen's daughter, so the reader gets a feel for what any and all the players are thinking or where they are coming from in their argumentations. Because you know...they will get caught!!! To make the whole thing more interesting, Hunt adds in several other narrative trails to figure out and casts a foreshadowing campaign to throw the reader of the course (I love when that happens and works out), so the players don't always act as we anticipate after all.
Though we are all on the moral high ground of course (right?), reading in the pov of the adulterers, one might come to find sympathy for these characters perhaps when learning what goes on behind closed doors in their homes and marriages. A justification that makes sense can be found for either of them if you spin it right! Well, either way, Hunt seems to have the upper hand and understanding of what goes in the minds of everyone. It stays relatable and plausible, written with insight into the human psyche and behavior of American suburbia, it's housewives and the domino effect of rumors...until everyone is going down and someone has to die!
So, what happens to the bad apples in the end? Is it a Happy Ever After?
Well, let's just say it gets messed up good! A train wreck in slow motion. You don't want to look, but you can't stop looking either. Hmm....would that not be the affair itself???? You don't want to have one but you can't stop it..... Never mind, not where I was going.
The cringe and thrill turn way up when other secrets come forth and everything becomes a gritty and sticky territory. Easily readable, fast-paced and entertaining, this is a great little thriller dish best paired perhaps with a vacation ;)
Enjoy
More of my reviews here:
Through Novel Time & Distance
November 19, 2019
My third Margot Hunt book and let me tell ya - her writing is addictive. She captivates you from the beginning and it really doesn't let up throughout the entire read. Also, I'm a BIG fan of domestic thrillers. They do tend to run the same gambit though - illicit affairs, families in disarray, unlikable characters, obsession and murder. This one is no different but honestly, I love them so what can ya do? You like what you like!
I tore through this one on my commutes - was looking forward to opening it up when I had a moment to see just how crazy it all got. I love to not like characters and there's one in particular in here that I absolutely loved to despise. We get a little hints here and there of some other crazies that tickle your "I'm figuring this out" bone. Unfortunately for me, what was going so great went a little kaput in the ending. I actually sighed and went, "No. Whyyyyyyy?" There needed to be a bit more about a certain character to make it worth it, in my opinion and really it was unnecessary. Was the twist supposed to rock your world? Maybe but it didn't even give mine a shake.
Out of the three I've read, I'd recommend Best Friends Forever by this author the most. If you like domestic thrillers, this is still a fun read and I'm curious to see what YOU would think of the ending. While this one didn't *quite* work for me like I wished it had, I absolutely look forward to anything Hunt brings us in the future.
I tore through this one on my commutes - was looking forward to opening it up when I had a moment to see just how crazy it all got. I love to not like characters and there's one in particular in here that I absolutely loved to despise. We get a little hints here and there of some other crazies that tickle your "I'm figuring this out" bone. Unfortunately for me, what was going so great went a little kaput in the ending. I actually sighed and went, "No. Whyyyyyyy?" There needed to be a bit more about a certain character to make it worth it, in my opinion and really it was unnecessary. Was the twist supposed to rock your world? Maybe but it didn't even give mine a shake.
Out of the three I've read, I'd recommend Best Friends Forever by this author the most. If you like domestic thrillers, this is still a fun read and I'm curious to see what YOU would think of the ending. While this one didn't *quite* work for me like I wished it had, I absolutely look forward to anything Hunt brings us in the future.
December 11, 2019
Gwen Landon is tired of being a homemaker and wishes that she could rewrite her past. Planning for the day that her youngest attends college, she will embark on the life she has only dreamed about. Although her marriage to Josh has become stale, she is biding her time in it due to social status and appearances. She is a narcissist, who calls the shots in her home, community, and in her marriage. Gwen’s plans take a hit when she suspects that her husband is having an affair and she becomes emotionally unhinged.
Nora Holliday was not looking to have an affair, just the courage to leave her unhappy marriage. She waits in fear of a relapse of her husband’s addiction to drinking and gambling. Nora never expected her initial contact with a married man would lead to heartfelt communications and secret rendezvous.
When Gwen is found dead in her backyard many suspects are revealed as the story goes back in time. The Last Affair by Margot Hunt focuses on murder but also touches on midlife crisis and stale marriages. This book reflects the saying, “ You never know what is going on behind closed doors.''
Nora Holliday was not looking to have an affair, just the courage to leave her unhappy marriage. She waits in fear of a relapse of her husband’s addiction to drinking and gambling. Nora never expected her initial contact with a married man would lead to heartfelt communications and secret rendezvous.
When Gwen is found dead in her backyard many suspects are revealed as the story goes back in time. The Last Affair by Margot Hunt focuses on murder but also touches on midlife crisis and stale marriages. This book reflects the saying, “ You never know what is going on behind closed doors.''
April 13, 2021
Most books end with someone being murdered. This book begins with it. Right from the beginning, we know that Gwen has been brutally murdered. What we don't know is who did it.
The story recounts the events leading up to the murder in which we get to know Gwen in more depth. We also get to know her daughter Abby, who has just dropped out of college, and Nora, who is having an affair with Gwen's husband. The more that's revealed, the more it's clear that Gwen is not a very nice person, and there's a lot of people who would want her dead.
This isn't just a salacious tale of a steamy affair turned deadly. This story has a great deal of depth. It highlights the secret dysfunction of marriage, and it's lingering effects on the children involved. It delves into the psychological damage of unhappiness, abuse and living a life that feels unfulfilled. And it did so with so much realness.
This is probably the best domestic thriller I've read, and I look forward to reading more books by Margot Hunt.
The story recounts the events leading up to the murder in which we get to know Gwen in more depth. We also get to know her daughter Abby, who has just dropped out of college, and Nora, who is having an affair with Gwen's husband. The more that's revealed, the more it's clear that Gwen is not a very nice person, and there's a lot of people who would want her dead.
This isn't just a salacious tale of a steamy affair turned deadly. This story has a great deal of depth. It highlights the secret dysfunction of marriage, and it's lingering effects on the children involved. It delves into the psychological damage of unhappiness, abuse and living a life that feels unfulfilled. And it did so with so much realness.
This is probably the best domestic thriller I've read, and I look forward to reading more books by Margot Hunt.
November 24, 2019
I absolutely devoured Margot Hunt's debut novel!! I was super excited to get my hands on another one of her books!
But, this one was just ok for me. It took me awhile to get into the storyline and we have some unlikeable characters in this one. We have a nicely laid out love triangle here with a mix of drama but it was missing that extra cherry on top for me. I was waiting for something to knock my socks off and it just wasn't happening!
I do love how Hunt writes... she definitely keeps you on your toes with her stories. I definitely will be watching for what she comes out with next.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Harlequin/Mira for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
3 stars
But, this one was just ok for me. It took me awhile to get into the storyline and we have some unlikeable characters in this one. We have a nicely laid out love triangle here with a mix of drama but it was missing that extra cherry on top for me. I was waiting for something to knock my socks off and it just wasn't happening!
I do love how Hunt writes... she definitely keeps you on your toes with her stories. I definitely will be watching for what she comes out with next.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Harlequin/Mira for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
3 stars
December 8, 2020
Two married couples. One-broken hearted young adult. And six months of secrets. Gwen and Josh aren't happy in their magic, or rather, Gwen is just not happy with anything and Josh is unhappy with her. Nora and Carter are a picture of bliss to the outside, but Nora can't keep up with the faking much longer and Carter, well he's hanging on by a thread. Abby is a mess, returning home early from university to hide away from the faces of her ex-boyfriend and her ex-best friend. When Abby stumbles upon her father's affair she sets out to take Nora down. The town gossip is all alight with rumors of scandal and affair, but no one could've predicted it would be Gwen found dead.
I so wish I hadn't guessed this one within the first 25%, but I did and it really made the rest of the book a bore to get through. Far more love triangle, suburban drama than suspense, The Last Affair just didn't thrill me in the way I expected it to. I really liked Nora, but Gwen is definitely the narcissist she's described to be, Josh is such a wet blanket, and well, Carter, we really should've seen more of that downfall. I felt disconnected from this family, entertained more by the town gossip that Gwen started and the outcome of it.
While this was not a winner for me, I can see it working for others.
ARC provided.
I so wish I hadn't guessed this one within the first 25%, but I did and it really made the rest of the book a bore to get through. Far more love triangle, suburban drama than suspense, The Last Affair just didn't thrill me in the way I expected it to. I really liked Nora, but Gwen is definitely the narcissist she's described to be, Josh is such a wet blanket, and well, Carter, we really should've seen more of that downfall. I felt disconnected from this family, entertained more by the town gossip that Gwen started and the outcome of it.
While this was not a winner for me, I can see it working for others.
ARC provided.
August 2, 2020
This was a book I had been wanting to read for a while. My best friend sent it to me. I had it read in a few hours I had to find out what was going to happen next and who was at the root of it all.
If you like books where you are on the edge of your seat then you need to read this one.
If you like books where you are on the edge of your seat then you need to read this one.
December 1, 2019
As many of us know, domestic thrillers are quite the rage right now. I’ve read some that were outstanding and others that were just ok, but I’ll be completely honest…..even the just ok ones fascinate me!
There is something about taking a peak into the lives of your neighbors and coworkers that just never gets old. You know the whole, the grass is greener situation never ceases to disappoint me.
This book of course is a domestic thriller, but I thought it sounded promising. Torrid affair, perfect suburban family, secrets, lies, and of course murder. I couldn’t wait to start turning the pages of this one!
When I started this book, I tried to keep my expectations within reason. As I said, there are so many domestic thrillers out there and not all of them are 5 stars but that doesn’t make them any less enjoyable for me. But I still wanted to go into this one with an open mind so I didn’t read any reviews of it before I started.
It was fairly quickly and there were enough plot twists to keep me reading and wondering what the hell was going on with this family. But I also felt like a lot of what I was reading wasn’t anything ground breaking and new. But that was ok with me. I mean there were plenty of unlikeable characters with questionable morals and motives and there was enough drama to keep me glued to the pages, but if you are picking this one up thinking it’s going to be the next ‘Gone Girl’ or something of the like, then you might be disappointed.
I started this one on a weekend night and was so mad because I had to get to sleep somewhat early and after the first couple of chapters I was not ready to just put it down. I wanted to keep reading all the drama and get to know the characters and their intentions. But sadly I did have to book mark it but as soon as I got up in the morning it was the first thing that I thought about and immediately dove back into it over my morning coffee. I really enjoyed this one more than I had anticipated. It wasn’t earth shatteringly different but it was engaging and interesting with enough drama to hold my attention any time I picked it up!
I am looking forward to there being a sequel as I think there is enough left untied to justify another installment.
See my full review here
There is something about taking a peak into the lives of your neighbors and coworkers that just never gets old. You know the whole, the grass is greener situation never ceases to disappoint me.
This book of course is a domestic thriller, but I thought it sounded promising. Torrid affair, perfect suburban family, secrets, lies, and of course murder. I couldn’t wait to start turning the pages of this one!
When I started this book, I tried to keep my expectations within reason. As I said, there are so many domestic thrillers out there and not all of them are 5 stars but that doesn’t make them any less enjoyable for me. But I still wanted to go into this one with an open mind so I didn’t read any reviews of it before I started.
It was fairly quickly and there were enough plot twists to keep me reading and wondering what the hell was going on with this family. But I also felt like a lot of what I was reading wasn’t anything ground breaking and new. But that was ok with me. I mean there were plenty of unlikeable characters with questionable morals and motives and there was enough drama to keep me glued to the pages, but if you are picking this one up thinking it’s going to be the next ‘Gone Girl’ or something of the like, then you might be disappointed.
I started this one on a weekend night and was so mad because I had to get to sleep somewhat early and after the first couple of chapters I was not ready to just put it down. I wanted to keep reading all the drama and get to know the characters and their intentions. But sadly I did have to book mark it but as soon as I got up in the morning it was the first thing that I thought about and immediately dove back into it over my morning coffee. I really enjoyed this one more than I had anticipated. It wasn’t earth shatteringly different but it was engaging and interesting with enough drama to hold my attention any time I picked it up!
I am looking forward to there being a sequel as I think there is enough left untied to justify another installment.
See my full review here
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