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Her Last Breath
From the bestselling author of One Small Sacrifice comes a suspenseful thriller about a dead woman who predicted her own murder―and the sister who won’t let the truth be buried. When her beloved sister Caroline dies suddenly, Deirdre is heartbroken. However, her sorrow turns to bone-chilling confusion when she receives a message Caroline sent days earlier warning that her death would be no accident. Long used to being a pariah to her family, Deirdre covers her tattoos and heads to Manhattan for her sister’s funeral. The message claimed Caroline’s husband, Theo, killed his first wife and got away with it. Reeling from the news, Deirdre confronts Theo on the way to the cemetery, and he reveals both his temper and his suspicion that Deirdre’s “perfect” sister was having an affair. Paranoid and armed with just enough information to make her dangerous, Deirdre digs into the disturbing secrets buried with Caroline. But as she gets closer to the truth, she realizes that her own life may be at risk…and that there may be more than one killer in the family.
284 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 2021
6843 people are currently reading
24132 people want to read
About the author
Hilary Davidson
66 books580 followersHilary Davidson was a journalist before she turned to the dark side and started writing crime fiction. Her novels include the award-winning Lily Moore series—The Damage Done, The Next One to Fall, and Evil in All Its Disguises—the bestselling Shadows of New York series—One Small Sacrifice and Don’t Look Down—and the standalone novels Blood Always Tells and Her Last Breath (coming in July 2021). She is also the author of some fifty short stories. Her fiction has won two Anthony Awards, a Derringer Award, and a host of other accolades. Toronto born and raised, she moved to New York City in October 2001. She is also the author of 18 nonfiction books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,020 reviews
June 23, 2021
A Messy, Mindless Read
Caroline Thraxton, a young socialite married to billionaire Theo, suddenly dies. After attending Caroline’s funeral, her younger sister Deirdre receives a mysterious email from her dearly departed sister with a jarring message: if she dies, her death would be no accident. Furthermore, she implicates Theo in her demise.
Deirdre makes it her personal mission to find out what really happened to Caroline, which involves immersing herself in the lives of the billionaire Thraxton family. At the same time, Theo is mourning Caroline. In his efforts to deal with his pain, he finds himself confronting some dark truths about his powerful family.
Her Last Breath has a decent premise. It starts off strong but quickly devolves into a state of ridiculousness that left me rolling my eyes.
Narrated by Deirdre and Theo, neither had a distinct voice. Deirdre, a delivery person for an app service, is also a trained martial artist who almost killed her abusive father. She lives in a dark and dingy basement and appears to have no life. While she remarks on the pandemic constantly, other characters don’t seem to notice that they are living in the midst of a global pandemic.
Theo is even worse than Deirdre. He was supposedly attacked by a tiger at the age of three and bears the scars. The former drug addict also used to self-harm, which plays a large role in the plot. Of course, he also has a mysterious past that the reader is not too sure about. So much isn't explained about Theo, his family, or his marriage to Caroline.
Unless one was referring to COVID and the other a tiger, I wasn’t really sure who was narrating unless I bothered to look at the chapter headings. They both constantly make ridiculous choices, which causes the plot to spin into messy territory.
My reading experience was marred by over-the-top plot, unresolved plot holes, and uneven pacing. Parts of the narrative were repetitive. If the plot had been toned down and the characters more developed, this could have been amazing.
I didn't give up on this because I wanted to see how a character was going to get taken down, but unfortunately, that moment was rushed and anticlimactic. I was intrigued, but once it became clear what was going on, I gave up on Her Last Breath.
I won a copy of this book in a GoodReads giveaway!
Caroline Thraxton, a young socialite married to billionaire Theo, suddenly dies. After attending Caroline’s funeral, her younger sister Deirdre receives a mysterious email from her dearly departed sister with a jarring message: if she dies, her death would be no accident. Furthermore, she implicates Theo in her demise.
Deirdre makes it her personal mission to find out what really happened to Caroline, which involves immersing herself in the lives of the billionaire Thraxton family. At the same time, Theo is mourning Caroline. In his efforts to deal with his pain, he finds himself confronting some dark truths about his powerful family.
Her Last Breath has a decent premise. It starts off strong but quickly devolves into a state of ridiculousness that left me rolling my eyes.
Narrated by Deirdre and Theo, neither had a distinct voice. Deirdre, a delivery person for an app service, is also a trained martial artist who almost killed her abusive father. She lives in a dark and dingy basement and appears to have no life. While she remarks on the pandemic constantly, other characters don’t seem to notice that they are living in the midst of a global pandemic.
Theo is even worse than Deirdre. He was supposedly attacked by a tiger at the age of three and bears the scars. The former drug addict also used to self-harm, which plays a large role in the plot. Of course, he also has a mysterious past that the reader is not too sure about. So much isn't explained about Theo, his family, or his marriage to Caroline.
Unless one was referring to COVID and the other a tiger, I wasn’t really sure who was narrating unless I bothered to look at the chapter headings. They both constantly make ridiculous choices, which causes the plot to spin into messy territory.
My reading experience was marred by over-the-top plot, unresolved plot holes, and uneven pacing. Parts of the narrative were repetitive. If the plot had been toned down and the characters more developed, this could have been amazing.
I didn't give up on this because I wanted to see how a character was going to get taken down, but unfortunately, that moment was rushed and anticlimactic. I was intrigued, but once it became clear what was going on, I gave up on Her Last Breath.
I won a copy of this book in a GoodReads giveaway!
April 16, 2021
When it comes down to the fundamentals of whether a thriller—regardless of subcategory (psychological thriller, espionage thriller, legal thriller, etc.)—will be commercially successful or not, I look at three criteria: pacing, plot intricacy, and emotional intensity. In the case of Davidson’s newest, Her Last Breath, the narrative receives stellar marks in all three categories. As far as pacing is concerned, it’s relentless from the first page to the last, making this one of those rare stay-up-all-night-until-your-eyes-bleed reads. Unputdownable. The plot intricacy is equally impressive—the narrative features numerous bombshell plot revelations that keep readers guessing until the novel’s last chapters. But it’s the last element where Davidson hits it out of the park. Revolving around two dysfunctional families with more than a few horrors hidden in their closets, the emotional intensity of this story is off the charts—fear, guilt, sorrow, anger, terror… it all cumulates in a powder keg conclusion that will leave readers utterly satisfied. This is page-turner of a thriller is an absolute "must read."
June 5, 2021
1.5/5 stars.
Plot
The book is told in first person with alternating views of Theo and Deirdre. I like this format because (usually) each chapter/perspective would end in suspense and a cliffhanger. This was not the case for “Her Last Breath” as each reveal didn’t wow or hook me. I actually liked the motives and plot ideas, however, it was the investigation, lead up and reveal that really didn’t create the impact it could’ve.
Deidre didn’t know Caroline as well as she thought, which was a great set up for uncovering the other side of Caroline’s life, as well as the truth about other characters and shocking reveals. However, the pace felt slow because the actual investigation into the clues and Theo’s past fell flat, especially the twist which was very anticlimactic. I found myself wanting to skim through it, especially the dialogue.
I don’t understand why Caroline would leave such little and ambiguous clues upon her death? The clues were something I'd expect from an escape room. The book mentioned that she was spooked and in a rush but couldn’t she have at least left a name in Deirdre’s message at the very least?
Characters
When the setting is based around the rich, I’m usually skeptical about the characters because sometimes they can be shallow and stereotypical. Sadly, these characters fell into this category.
Deirdre
Amongst the rich characters, there is always one upstanding poor person and in this case it was Deirdre. Except she wasn’t particularly upstanding or likeable.
The way she blurted out her thoughts and revealed her hand was too straightforward and a bit cringe worthy. If you suspected someone to have murdered your sister would you tell them your suspicions from the get go?
She was a victim of 2 major incidents which would have been nothing short of traumatizing however the way she talked about it and continues on as normal was unrealistic. Their impacts were played down to the point where it was as if she got into a small school yard fight instead.
Juliet
Juliet is the typical rich mean girl. I didn’t enjoy her scenes because they were just soapy. She was a very shallow and basic 1 dimensional character. I cringed when she said “I’m hot”.
Theo
The only character I didn’t mind was Theo. He’s a decent person that was born into a family with agendas and issues. If anything I was rooting more for Theo to find the truth than Deirdre. I wasn’t very interested in his parents and in-laws, it felt more of a distraction. Maybe because I had already lost interest and wanted to get to the end.
This is my third book from the Amazon “First Reads” program and each time, I get hooked from the blurb, however it doesn’t live up to expectations and I’m left very disappointed! Has anyone enjoyed their picks, I'd be keen to hear!
Plot
The book is told in first person with alternating views of Theo and Deirdre. I like this format because (usually) each chapter/perspective would end in suspense and a cliffhanger. This was not the case for “Her Last Breath” as each reveal didn’t wow or hook me. I actually liked the motives and plot ideas, however, it was the investigation, lead up and reveal that really didn’t create the impact it could’ve.
Deidre didn’t know Caroline as well as she thought, which was a great set up for uncovering the other side of Caroline’s life, as well as the truth about other characters and shocking reveals. However, the pace felt slow because the actual investigation into the clues and Theo’s past fell flat, especially the twist which was very anticlimactic. I found myself wanting to skim through it, especially the dialogue.
I don’t understand why Caroline would leave such little and ambiguous clues upon her death? The clues were something I'd expect from an escape room. The book mentioned that she was spooked and in a rush but couldn’t she have at least left a name in Deirdre’s message at the very least?
Characters
When the setting is based around the rich, I’m usually skeptical about the characters because sometimes they can be shallow and stereotypical. Sadly, these characters fell into this category.
Deirdre
Amongst the rich characters, there is always one upstanding poor person and in this case it was Deirdre. Except she wasn’t particularly upstanding or likeable.
The way she blurted out her thoughts and revealed her hand was too straightforward and a bit cringe worthy. If you suspected someone to have murdered your sister would you tell them your suspicions from the get go?
She was a victim of 2 major incidents which would have been nothing short of traumatizing however the way she talked about it and continues on as normal was unrealistic. Their impacts were played down to the point where it was as if she got into a small school yard fight instead.
Juliet
Juliet is the typical rich mean girl. I didn’t enjoy her scenes because they were just soapy. She was a very shallow and basic 1 dimensional character. I cringed when she said “I’m hot”.
Theo
The only character I didn’t mind was Theo. He’s a decent person that was born into a family with agendas and issues. If anything I was rooting more for Theo to find the truth than Deirdre. I wasn’t very interested in his parents and in-laws, it felt more of a distraction. Maybe because I had already lost interest and wanted to get to the end.
This is my third book from the Amazon “First Reads” program and each time, I get hooked from the blurb, however it doesn’t live up to expectations and I’m left very disappointed! Has anyone enjoyed their picks, I'd be keen to hear!
June 2, 2021
Rating: 1.2/5
A number of other early reviewers have rated this highly, having just finished it I am puzzled as to why!
The opening chapters were quite promising, but in hindsight I can see that they only lulled me into a false sense of hopefulness. By the time I was a third of the way into this book I was already tiring of it. The plot was shallow and the characterisation was ludicrously superficial. The wealthy US business family at the heart of the story put me in mind of those glossy US series of the 1980s such as "Dallas", "Dynasty" and "Falcon Crest", but if anything those programmes had more rounded characters and greater literary merit than this shambles of a novel. By the time I reached the final 25% of the book it had descended into total silliness and the final chapter couldn't come quickly enough.
This was my selection from this month's Amazon's "First Reads" and I have to say that the offerings under that banner have been increasingly underwhelming over recent months. Amazon should get its act together and include books of genuine quality as part of the "First Reads" programme rather than using it as a vehicle to peddle substandard tat.
A number of other early reviewers have rated this highly, having just finished it I am puzzled as to why!
The opening chapters were quite promising, but in hindsight I can see that they only lulled me into a false sense of hopefulness. By the time I was a third of the way into this book I was already tiring of it. The plot was shallow and the characterisation was ludicrously superficial. The wealthy US business family at the heart of the story put me in mind of those glossy US series of the 1980s such as "Dallas", "Dynasty" and "Falcon Crest", but if anything those programmes had more rounded characters and greater literary merit than this shambles of a novel. By the time I reached the final 25% of the book it had descended into total silliness and the final chapter couldn't come quickly enough.
This was my selection from this month's Amazon's "First Reads" and I have to say that the offerings under that banner have been increasingly underwhelming over recent months. Amazon should get its act together and include books of genuine quality as part of the "First Reads" programme rather than using it as a vehicle to peddle substandard tat.
June 4, 2021
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
Whilst the blurb of this novel really caught my attention, I found that it did not meet my expectations. Throughout the book, I was anticipating a ‘spark’ of excitement; instead, the narrative meandered its way to an anti-climatic conclusion, leaving me relieved that it was finished.
Whilst the blurb of this novel really caught my attention, I found that it did not meet my expectations. Throughout the book, I was anticipating a ‘spark’ of excitement; instead, the narrative meandered its way to an anti-climatic conclusion, leaving me relieved that it was finished.
June 12, 2021
Mysterious
The most I can rate this is a three. The beginning was slow and too deeply descriptive for my taste.I knew who the killer was early on, too early. The last third of the book grabbed my attention as it got thrilling with action. Thank you to Amazon Prime for this first reads book!
The most I can rate this is a three. The beginning was slow and too deeply descriptive for my taste.I knew who the killer was early on, too early. The last third of the book grabbed my attention as it got thrilling with action. Thank you to Amazon Prime for this first reads book!
August 14, 2025
Deirdre is attending her sister Caroline's funeral. Whilst there, she receives a recorded message on her phone from the same sister, telling her that her death would not have been an accident and that her husband, Theo, was to blame.
Caroline then confronts Theo. He predictably doesn't take this well. The story then follows Caroline as she attempts to investigate the circumstances surrounding her sister's death.
Some of the writing in this isn't good. It's littered with nonsensical sentences and similes. Several times, I had to pause and re-read to see if I could decipher what the Author was trying to say. It wasn't an enjoyable reading experience.
This is a below-average psychological thriller. I thought it might have some paranormal aspect to it, but it didn't. To be fair, that's probably my fault for skimming over the blurb rather than reading properly.
The concept started off interesting but wasn't particularly well executed. The plot became meandering and, in some places, drifted off into completely irrelevant nonsense. I didn't find any of the characters particularly likeable. I just couldn't gel with this book, I'm afraid.
Caroline then confronts Theo. He predictably doesn't take this well. The story then follows Caroline as she attempts to investigate the circumstances surrounding her sister's death.
Some of the writing in this isn't good. It's littered with nonsensical sentences and similes. Several times, I had to pause and re-read to see if I could decipher what the Author was trying to say. It wasn't an enjoyable reading experience.
This is a below-average psychological thriller. I thought it might have some paranormal aspect to it, but it didn't. To be fair, that's probably my fault for skimming over the blurb rather than reading properly.
The concept started off interesting but wasn't particularly well executed. The plot became meandering and, in some places, drifted off into completely irrelevant nonsense. I didn't find any of the characters particularly likeable. I just couldn't gel with this book, I'm afraid.
July 10, 2021
I had high hopes for this one, but it didn't fully deliver. It centers on the sudden death of a socialite named Caroline, who sent a note to various people warning them to look into it further if something happens to her. One of those people was her sister Deirdre, who recently rebuilt her relationship with Caroline and will stop at nothing to figure out what really happened. You also get alternating chapters told from Caroline's husband's Theo's perspective- Theo has his own skeletons which are threatened to be revealed by Deirdre's digging.
While the storyline was interesting, both Deirdre and Theo were fairly one-dimensional- we were given background that shaped them as characters, but they didn't jump off the page for me, and both made ridiculous and often unrealistic decisions. The book did pick up pace in the 2nd half as compared to plodding along a bit in the first half, but I never really connected with the characters. Though I found the ending to be satisfying, it also required me to suspend my disbelief.
Overall, this was just an OK read for me- the storyline itself was intriguing but it didn't quite live up to the hype.
While the storyline was interesting, both Deirdre and Theo were fairly one-dimensional- we were given background that shaped them as characters, but they didn't jump off the page for me, and both made ridiculous and often unrealistic decisions. The book did pick up pace in the 2nd half as compared to plodding along a bit in the first half, but I never really connected with the characters. Though I found the ending to be satisfying, it also required me to suspend my disbelief.
Overall, this was just an OK read for me- the storyline itself was intriguing but it didn't quite live up to the hype.
June 7, 2021
A fast-paced, expertly plotted mystery about the depths of the secrets we keep hidden from ourselves—and those we love. Thoughtfully plotted and skilfully told, I really enjoyed and empathized with the flawed characters, especially Theo. Addictive and emotional.
June 28, 2021
This book was so bad it caused me to go back and raise the ratings on two other books I had previously given 1-star to this year. Those two books were leaps and bounds better than this book, and I cannot in good faith award them the same rating. The writing in this book was so bad it was cringeworthy. The characters behaved so randomly. There was also no real character development. Why did Deirdre live in a “dungeon” basement? Why did she never get a real job? What were her passions, hobbies? Why did she love tattoos? I spent a month reading about her and feel like I know nothing about her. How did Caroline and Theo meet? Why did they fall in love? WERE they ever in love? Ugh. I could be here all night posing more questions about all the throwaway characters in this book (Jude, Reagan, the girl from the charity whose name I can’t remember) but I’m not going to bother. There are so many amazing books out there. Do yourself a favor and don’t waste time reading this one.
July 6, 2021
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars
The Patriarch in this story reminded me a lot of a certain someone who wouldn't hesitate to throw anyone under the bus if it means saving his own skin. I just wish the real life "certain someone" would end up suffering the same fate.
Story - 3.5 Stars
The Patriarch in this story reminded me a lot of a certain someone who wouldn't hesitate to throw anyone under the bus if it means saving his own skin. I just wish the real life "certain someone" would end up suffering the same fate.
October 23, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
Everyone in this book was incredibly stupid. Especially our FMC, she was insufferable the entire book!
My 2.5 ⭐️ rating was generous.
Everyone in this book was incredibly stupid. Especially our FMC, she was insufferable the entire book!
My 2.5 ⭐️ rating was generous.
July 27, 2021
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. I know some have not liked it as much as I did. But honestly it was a wild ride as the layers and truths were revealed. And sure even the “good” people were not completely likable but they were human with foibles and they were making improvements in the end. I enjoyed this one a lot. It sucked me in from the beginning and the only reason it took me so long to finish it was due to other commitments. I read the second half very quickly!
July 4, 2021
Sinister, twisty, and simmering!
Her Last Breath is a gripping, sophisticated, domestic thriller that delves into the dynamic and intricate bonds between family members and reminds us that everything is not always as it seems and behind all those smiling, happy faces often hides an abundance of secrets, lies, and swirling emotions.
The writing is menacing and tight. The characters are complex, secretive, and troubled. And the plot told from alternating perspectives is ominous and intense as it subtly twists, turns, and unravels all the personalities, motivations, actions, and relationships within it.
Her Last Breath, at its core, is a novel about deception, familial strife, marital discord, manipulation, jealousy, obsession, justice, and murder. It’s menacing, intense, creepy, and overall, in my opinion, a satisfying whodunit.
Thank you to Thomas Allen & Son for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Her Last Breath is a gripping, sophisticated, domestic thriller that delves into the dynamic and intricate bonds between family members and reminds us that everything is not always as it seems and behind all those smiling, happy faces often hides an abundance of secrets, lies, and swirling emotions.
The writing is menacing and tight. The characters are complex, secretive, and troubled. And the plot told from alternating perspectives is ominous and intense as it subtly twists, turns, and unravels all the personalities, motivations, actions, and relationships within it.
Her Last Breath, at its core, is a novel about deception, familial strife, marital discord, manipulation, jealousy, obsession, justice, and murder. It’s menacing, intense, creepy, and overall, in my opinion, a satisfying whodunit.
Thank you to Thomas Allen & Son for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2021
A fast-paced, expertly plotted mystery about the depths of the secrets we keep hidden from ourselves—and those we love. Thoughtfully plotted and skilfully told, I really enjoyed and empathized with the flawed characters, especially Theo. Addictive and emotional.
July 25, 2021
Fans of psychological suspense, rejoice! Hilary Davidson delivers again.
Life has been a little sketchy for Deirdre Crawley, but it has just taken a turn for the worse. Her sister, Caroline, died suddenly, leaving Deirdre more devastated than she thought possible. Compounding her grief is a strange email from Caroline, sent days after her death, that says, “No matter what it looks like, my death won’t be an accident.” And she claims that her husband, Theo, will be the one responsible. In the message, she implores Deirdre to see to it that Theo is brought to justice. While they could not have been less alike, the sisters were close, so honoring Caroline’s wishes becomes Deirdre’s new mission.
Unlike Deirdre, Caroline lived in a world of privilege, despite her humble beginnings. The family she married into is wealthy almost beyond imagination. She joined and embraced the family business, but Theo got out, wanting to put as much distance between himself and the family empire as possible. Theo and his sister, Juliet, don’t get along, to put it mildly, and Juliet plays a major role in running the company. Plus, Theo’s relationship with his father is lukewarm at best. The uniting factor between Caroline and Theo was Teddy, their well-loved little boy. Nonetheless, there seems to have been trouble in paradise. Rumor has it that Caroline was seeking a divorce and enjoying the company of another man. If true, the other man might deserve a bit of scrutiny, too.
Meanwhile, Deirdre lives in a spartan basement space, employed by a shady delivery service. She’s an outspoken loner with a bit of a chip on her shoulder and light on friends, although true to the ones she does have. She was close to her sister but estranged from their father. The funeral draws them together now, along with Theo’s side of the family. Emotions are already running high, and Deirdre has little patience for making nice with people she despises. However, she discovers that Caroline sent their father an email on the same day that she received hers. So putting aside her desire to maintain a healthy distance from him, she breaks her silence in order to find out the content of that message.
The cryptic clues disclosed in the email lead her to surprising breakthroughs. The police think that Caroline died because of heart problems, severe enough to cause a collapse during her morning jog. That means Deirdre is pretty much on her own when it comes to solving a murder that is not officially a murder. It’s tough believing who to trust. While she was once a fan of her brother-in-law, now she sees him as a killer. Questions swirl around Theo’s alibi, and she wants answers. But confronting Theo might not be the wisest course of action, considering Caroline fingered him as her murderer. Who then? Deirdre could never rely on her father, but she may need his help now. None of her choices feel like good ones. But then none of what she thought she knew feels like the truth.
Early on, we get to know Deirdre as a fierce character who never gives up, like a dog with a scent. Her loyalty to her sister keeps her on the killer’s trail, which twists and curves and switches back time and again. Through both Theo’s and Deirdre’s narratives, we build a portrait of Carolyn that morphs as the past comes into better focus. Nobody is who they appear to be, and nothing is as it seems. HER LAST BREATH is devilishly devious, delightfully scary and edge-of-your-seat thrilling.
Reviewed by Kate Ayers
Life has been a little sketchy for Deirdre Crawley, but it has just taken a turn for the worse. Her sister, Caroline, died suddenly, leaving Deirdre more devastated than she thought possible. Compounding her grief is a strange email from Caroline, sent days after her death, that says, “No matter what it looks like, my death won’t be an accident.” And she claims that her husband, Theo, will be the one responsible. In the message, she implores Deirdre to see to it that Theo is brought to justice. While they could not have been less alike, the sisters were close, so honoring Caroline’s wishes becomes Deirdre’s new mission.
Unlike Deirdre, Caroline lived in a world of privilege, despite her humble beginnings. The family she married into is wealthy almost beyond imagination. She joined and embraced the family business, but Theo got out, wanting to put as much distance between himself and the family empire as possible. Theo and his sister, Juliet, don’t get along, to put it mildly, and Juliet plays a major role in running the company. Plus, Theo’s relationship with his father is lukewarm at best. The uniting factor between Caroline and Theo was Teddy, their well-loved little boy. Nonetheless, there seems to have been trouble in paradise. Rumor has it that Caroline was seeking a divorce and enjoying the company of another man. If true, the other man might deserve a bit of scrutiny, too.
Meanwhile, Deirdre lives in a spartan basement space, employed by a shady delivery service. She’s an outspoken loner with a bit of a chip on her shoulder and light on friends, although true to the ones she does have. She was close to her sister but estranged from their father. The funeral draws them together now, along with Theo’s side of the family. Emotions are already running high, and Deirdre has little patience for making nice with people she despises. However, she discovers that Caroline sent their father an email on the same day that she received hers. So putting aside her desire to maintain a healthy distance from him, she breaks her silence in order to find out the content of that message.
The cryptic clues disclosed in the email lead her to surprising breakthroughs. The police think that Caroline died because of heart problems, severe enough to cause a collapse during her morning jog. That means Deirdre is pretty much on her own when it comes to solving a murder that is not officially a murder. It’s tough believing who to trust. While she was once a fan of her brother-in-law, now she sees him as a killer. Questions swirl around Theo’s alibi, and she wants answers. But confronting Theo might not be the wisest course of action, considering Caroline fingered him as her murderer. Who then? Deirdre could never rely on her father, but she may need his help now. None of her choices feel like good ones. But then none of what she thought she knew feels like the truth.
Early on, we get to know Deirdre as a fierce character who never gives up, like a dog with a scent. Her loyalty to her sister keeps her on the killer’s trail, which twists and curves and switches back time and again. Through both Theo’s and Deirdre’s narratives, we build a portrait of Carolyn that morphs as the past comes into better focus. Nobody is who they appear to be, and nothing is as it seems. HER LAST BREATH is devilishly devious, delightfully scary and edge-of-your-seat thrilling.
Reviewed by Kate Ayers
September 27, 2021
“Her Last Breath” is a modern-day thriller, told in the voices of two survivors of a high society woman’s untimely demise. The main voice is that of her sister Diedre, who works for a instacart-type company where they not only shop for their clients, but refill soap dishes and take out the trash and organize the fridge, sometimes for creepy pervy clients. The secondary voice is Theo, Caroline’s husband who Diedre suspect’s of killing Caroline. Theo is from an ultra wealthy family who owns and operates a major chain of hotels.
The family has been at odds and Diedre knows little about her sister’s life except that she gets a post-death email stating that if Diedre gets the email Caroline is dead and it’s no accident. From there, Caroline finds corporate secrets, hidden affairs, and a secret prior spouse of her brother in law.
Unfortunately, this thriller failed to deliver for this reader, lacking believability from the start, lacking depth in the characters, and simply was not compelling.
The family has been at odds and Diedre knows little about her sister’s life except that she gets a post-death email stating that if Diedre gets the email Caroline is dead and it’s no accident. From there, Caroline finds corporate secrets, hidden affairs, and a secret prior spouse of her brother in law.
Unfortunately, this thriller failed to deliver for this reader, lacking believability from the start, lacking depth in the characters, and simply was not compelling.
July 1, 2021
2.5 stars. This book is really slow and had me rolling my eyes for most of the story. It starts off strong and then the cheesiness starts rolling in. Basically everyone in this story has issues and are all screwed up in one way or another. 🙄 I ended up skimming the last few chapters just so I could read how it ends.
June 21, 2021
This had everything I don't like in a book:
- alternating points of view
- unreliable narrators
- dysfunctional family
- the black-sheep child to save the day
- boring
DNF
- alternating points of view
- unreliable narrators
- dysfunctional family
- the black-sheep child to save the day
- boring
DNF
April 22, 2021
This book was amazing and full of suspense. The diverse and wonderful characters were great and the action was full on. I love these old time crime stories.
October 5, 2021
5 stars audio
3.5 stars story
3.5 stars story
June 1, 2021
Fast Pacing, Plot Surprises, Unreliable Narrators… Oh, My!
I love a good domestic thriller that grabs from the first page and doesn’t let go. This is one of those. I also love books that have well-done unreliable narrators… and this one has two! Unreliable narrators are hard to write well, but when it is done right, few other literary devices get you questioning what is real and what isn’t in a novel… and keep you turning the pages as you try to figure it all out. Both perspective characters keep you guessing, and the author throws in some excellent unexpected plot twists (though they completely make sense when you think about it afterward). The female MC gets a shocking email days after her beloved sister’s death—she knows she will die and who her killer will be… her husband, whom she also states killed his first wife. The sister confronts the husband on the way to the cemetery… and the gloves are off. Not only were the characters and plot strong, but the author knows how to ratchet up the emotions… all those buttons you want pressed for a satisfying thriller. If you enjoy well-written domestic thrillers, you will most likely enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
I love a good domestic thriller that grabs from the first page and doesn’t let go. This is one of those. I also love books that have well-done unreliable narrators… and this one has two! Unreliable narrators are hard to write well, but when it is done right, few other literary devices get you questioning what is real and what isn’t in a novel… and keep you turning the pages as you try to figure it all out. Both perspective characters keep you guessing, and the author throws in some excellent unexpected plot twists (though they completely make sense when you think about it afterward). The female MC gets a shocking email days after her beloved sister’s death—she knows she will die and who her killer will be… her husband, whom she also states killed his first wife. The sister confronts the husband on the way to the cemetery… and the gloves are off. Not only were the characters and plot strong, but the author knows how to ratchet up the emotions… all those buttons you want pressed for a satisfying thriller. If you enjoy well-written domestic thrillers, you will most likely enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
June 30, 2021
Deirdre receives a message from her deceased sister, Caroline, on the day of her funeral stating that her death was not by accident and that her husband Theo is responsible and that he also killed his first wife. An autopsy was never performed, but it was believed that Caroline's death was due to a heart condition. After receiving this message, Deirdre clearly has to see who is responsible for her sister's death. Will she find out who is responsible? Was it really a heart issue?
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. From the beginning it piqued my curiosity. I like that it was told in alternating points of view between Deirdre and Theo, which kept it very interesting. If you’re looking for a quick and fast paced read, definitely give this one a try.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) on June 30, 2021.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. From the beginning it piqued my curiosity. I like that it was told in alternating points of view between Deirdre and Theo, which kept it very interesting. If you’re looking for a quick and fast paced read, definitely give this one a try.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) on June 30, 2021.
May 19, 2021
I was approached by the writer to read this book and I'm glad she did, thank you Hilary.
On the day that Deirdre buries her big sister Caroline she receives a cryptic email from her claiming that her death wouldn't have been an accident and her husband Theo Thraxton has got something to do with it.
Caroline's death was believed to be an accident, an underlying heart condition but this email changes everything and Deirdre sets about to uncover the truth discovering hidden family secrets putting herself in danger.
The story is told from Deirdre and Theo's perspective.
The book grips you from the start and takes you on a fast paced adventure with lots of twists and turns. It's a delicious dark, psychological thriller.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
On the day that Deirdre buries her big sister Caroline she receives a cryptic email from her claiming that her death wouldn't have been an accident and her husband Theo Thraxton has got something to do with it.
Caroline's death was believed to be an accident, an underlying heart condition but this email changes everything and Deirdre sets about to uncover the truth discovering hidden family secrets putting herself in danger.
The story is told from Deirdre and Theo's perspective.
The book grips you from the start and takes you on a fast paced adventure with lots of twists and turns. It's a delicious dark, psychological thriller.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
September 29, 2021
I wanted to love this - I think the cover is haunting and the blurb made it sound so good. But I felt like this read much more like a cheesy movie on tv than a mystery I was absorbed in. I didn't like either character and I wasn't invested to know more about the family or the hidden life of the sister.
I wish I'd loved this one, but it just wasn't for me.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
I wish I'd loved this one, but it just wasn't for me.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
August 15, 2021
Her Last Breath is a book that moves fast. It gets into the crux of the story in the first chapter and goes quickly from there. There's a lot of twists and turns and I must admit, I didn't see the end coming. I thought the end of the story was a little quick and it ended suddenly, I felt, but that was just the style of this book... move quickly.
This book keeps you hooked and is quite the page turner. It's told from the perspective of Deirdre, a woman who is trying to find out how her sister died, and Theo, the husband of Deirdre's sister. I do like it when stories are told from different character's perspective. You get a more rounded view of events. I just wish there was more of Juliet, Theo's sister. She was my favourite character. I love a bit of sass, sarcasm and bitchiness. My problem is, her character seemed t have a really different tone by the end of the book. Character's can change their views and grow, but it felt like Juliet had a personality transplant. That was a little disappointing to me.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. Not perfect, but that's ok.
This book keeps you hooked and is quite the page turner. It's told from the perspective of Deirdre, a woman who is trying to find out how her sister died, and Theo, the husband of Deirdre's sister. I do like it when stories are told from different character's perspective. You get a more rounded view of events. I just wish there was more of Juliet, Theo's sister. She was my favourite character. I love a bit of sass, sarcasm and bitchiness. My problem is, her character seemed t have a really different tone by the end of the book. Character's can change their views and grow, but it felt like Juliet had a personality transplant. That was a little disappointing to me.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. Not perfect, but that's ok.
May 25, 2021
Deirdre is devastated by the sudden death of her sister Caroline. Hauntingly, days after her death, she receives a message from her sister saying that her death was no accident and that her husband, Theo, was responsible, as he had also murdered his first wife. In her blind anger, Deirdre confronts Theo on the way to the cemetery, only to find out Caroline was allegedly having an affair. Unsure who to trust and desperate to find out what really happened to her sister, Deirdre quickly bites off more than she can chew.
It was October of 2020, and I was perusing my local library when I stumbled upon Don't Look Down, also by Hilary Davidson. Imagine my surprise (and delight!) when Hilary engaged with my Bookstagram stories and posts about her book! Fast forward to May 2021, and Hilary approached me to see whether I'd be interested in reading her newest book, Her Last Breath. I was only too delighted.
This book is perfectly paced, deliciously dark, and unputdownable to boot! Hilary Davidson deserves to have her name listed among the best of thriller writers, and I suspect it's only a matter of time before she does. If you love alternating narrators, untrustworthy characters, and whodunnits--look no further than Her Last Breath, on sale July 1, 2021!
Endless thank you to Hilary Davidson for providing me with the advanced digital copy on NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
It was October of 2020, and I was perusing my local library when I stumbled upon Don't Look Down, also by Hilary Davidson. Imagine my surprise (and delight!) when Hilary engaged with my Bookstagram stories and posts about her book! Fast forward to May 2021, and Hilary approached me to see whether I'd be interested in reading her newest book, Her Last Breath. I was only too delighted.
This book is perfectly paced, deliciously dark, and unputdownable to boot! Hilary Davidson deserves to have her name listed among the best of thriller writers, and I suspect it's only a matter of time before she does. If you love alternating narrators, untrustworthy characters, and whodunnits--look no further than Her Last Breath, on sale July 1, 2021!
Endless thank you to Hilary Davidson for providing me with the advanced digital copy on NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
June 13, 2021
Her last breath by Hilary Davidson is one of my favourite books of the year so far.
I was lucky enough to read an arc back in February and just reread it again this weekend. I loved it.
From the first chapter to the last, I couldn’t stop reading, I’ve held my breath so many times and now I know for sure that this book is going to my all-time favourites thrillers.
Gripping, addictive and so suspenseful, so challenging and lots of unexpected twists ( especially the last vampire bite) so many emotions and heart. Loved the closure with the family members and how much Deidre won’t give up to her beliefs.
There are so many elements that go hand in hand in here, from psycho to police procedural and criminal investigation. Just perfectly done. I can’t recommend it enough!
I was lucky enough to read an arc back in February and just reread it again this weekend. I loved it.
From the first chapter to the last, I couldn’t stop reading, I’ve held my breath so many times and now I know for sure that this book is going to my all-time favourites thrillers.
Gripping, addictive and so suspenseful, so challenging and lots of unexpected twists ( especially the last vampire bite) so many emotions and heart. Loved the closure with the family members and how much Deidre won’t give up to her beliefs.
There are so many elements that go hand in hand in here, from psycho to police procedural and criminal investigation. Just perfectly done. I can’t recommend it enough!
August 12, 2021
Hilary Davidson brings her A game in her latest stand-alone thriller about a woman’s search to find her sister’s killer. With a twisty Agatha Christie plot, complex psychological threads and deep, dark family secrets, Her Last Breath is a genre-bending page-turner!
June 11, 2022
Caroline Thraxton was a socialite married to Theo Thraxton the son of Theodore Thraxton Sr. the owner of a billion dollar global hotel chain.
One morning, Caroline suddenly fell down during her daily run and died.
A medical examiner determined that her death was due to natural causes.
Caroline and her sister, Deirdre, had been estranged for some time in the past but they had recently mended their relationship. After her death, Deirdre, received a shocking email from Caroline informing her that she feared she would die, who her killer would be and that her husband, Theo, killed his first wife.
Determined to find out what really happened to Caroline, Deirdre confronts Theo on their way to the cemetery. Theo is enraged when she questions him about the well kept secret concerning his first wife whom he supposedly murdered. Early on, it became evident that Theo had his own skeletons which he feared would be revealed if Deirdre kept searching for answers.
This fast-paced, expertly plotted, and skillfully told twisty mystery delves into how far are we willing to keep secrets from ourselves and those we love?
Alternating chapters are told from the perspectives of Deirdre and Theo, two well developed and unreliable narrators. The author cleverly added other untrustworthy characters and unexpected plot twists that ratcheted up a slew of emotions that kept me turning pages. The steady reveal about what was true and what wasn’t in this emotional and gripping thriller captivated me all the way to the intense and shocking conclusion.
One morning, Caroline suddenly fell down during her daily run and died.
A medical examiner determined that her death was due to natural causes.
Caroline and her sister, Deirdre, had been estranged for some time in the past but they had recently mended their relationship. After her death, Deirdre, received a shocking email from Caroline informing her that she feared she would die, who her killer would be and that her husband, Theo, killed his first wife.
Determined to find out what really happened to Caroline, Deirdre confronts Theo on their way to the cemetery. Theo is enraged when she questions him about the well kept secret concerning his first wife whom he supposedly murdered. Early on, it became evident that Theo had his own skeletons which he feared would be revealed if Deirdre kept searching for answers.
This fast-paced, expertly plotted, and skillfully told twisty mystery delves into how far are we willing to keep secrets from ourselves and those we love?
Alternating chapters are told from the perspectives of Deirdre and Theo, two well developed and unreliable narrators. The author cleverly added other untrustworthy characters and unexpected plot twists that ratcheted up a slew of emotions that kept me turning pages. The steady reveal about what was true and what wasn’t in this emotional and gripping thriller captivated me all the way to the intense and shocking conclusion.
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