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Last Girl Ghosted
Secrets, obsession and vengeance converge in this riveting thriller about an online dating match turned deadly cat-and-mouse game, from the New York Times bestselling author of Confessions on the 7:45.
Think twice before you swipe.
She met him through a dating app. An intriguing picture on a screen, a date at a downtown bar. What she thought might be just a quick hookup quickly became much more. She fell for him—hard. It happens sometimes, a powerful connection with a perfect stranger takes you by surprise. Could it be love?
But then, just as things were getting real, he stood her up. Then he disappeared—profiles deleted, phone disconnected. She was ghosted.
Maybe it was her fault. She shared too much, too fast. But isn't that always what women think—that they're the ones to blame? Soon she learns there were others. Girls who thought they were in love. Girls who later went missing. She had been looking for a connection, but now she's looking for answers. Chasing a digital trail into his dark past—and hers—she finds herself on a dangerous hunt. And she's not sure whether she's the predator—or the prey.
Think twice before you swipe.
She met him through a dating app. An intriguing picture on a screen, a date at a downtown bar. What she thought might be just a quick hookup quickly became much more. She fell for him—hard. It happens sometimes, a powerful connection with a perfect stranger takes you by surprise. Could it be love?
But then, just as things were getting real, he stood her up. Then he disappeared—profiles deleted, phone disconnected. She was ghosted.
Maybe it was her fault. She shared too much, too fast. But isn't that always what women think—that they're the ones to blame? Soon she learns there were others. Girls who thought they were in love. Girls who later went missing. She had been looking for a connection, but now she's looking for answers. Chasing a digital trail into his dark past—and hers—she finds herself on a dangerous hunt. And she's not sure whether she's the predator—or the prey.
434 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 5, 2021
1832 people are currently reading
60843 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Unger
51 books10.9k followersLisa Unger is the New York Times and internationally bestselling author of twenty-three novels, including her upcoming release SERVED HIM RIGHT (March, 2026). With books published in thirty-three languages and millions of copies sold worldwide, she is regarded as a master of suspense.
Unger’s critically acclaimed novels have been featured on “Best Book” lists from the Today show, Good Morning America, Entertainment Weekly, People, Amazon, Goodreads, L.A. Times, The Boston Globe, Sun Sentinel, Tampa Bay Times, and many others. She has been nominated for, or won, numerous awards including the Strand Critics, Audie, Hammett, Macavity, ITW Thriller, and Goodreads Choice. In 2019, she received two Edgar Award nominations in the same year, an honor held by only a few authors including Agatha Christie. Her short fiction has been anthologized in The Best American Mystery and Suspense, and her non-fiction has appeared in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, NPR, and Travel+Leisure. Lisa is the current co-President of the International Thriller Writers organization. She lives on the west coast of Florida with her family.
Unger’s critically acclaimed novels have been featured on “Best Book” lists from the Today show, Good Morning America, Entertainment Weekly, People, Amazon, Goodreads, L.A. Times, The Boston Globe, Sun Sentinel, Tampa Bay Times, and many others. She has been nominated for, or won, numerous awards including the Strand Critics, Audie, Hammett, Macavity, ITW Thriller, and Goodreads Choice. In 2019, she received two Edgar Award nominations in the same year, an honor held by only a few authors including Agatha Christie. Her short fiction has been anthologized in The Best American Mystery and Suspense, and her non-fiction has appeared in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, NPR, and Travel+Leisure. Lisa is the current co-President of the International Thriller Writers organization. She lives on the west coast of Florida with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,834 reviews
October 5, 2021
It started out as a 5⭐️…..so what went wrong?
Wren Greenwood is better at giving advice than she is at following it.
In fact, she is secretly, “Dear Birdie” a popular advice columnist, who dishes out words of wisdom on a regular basis, encouraging others to take chances and search for love, even though she isn’t good about seeking it for herself.
Her best friend, Jax, encourages her to try a dating APP, TORCH, and she is surprised when after a couple of MISSES, she meets Adam, and begins to fall in love.
A lot of Wren’s inner monologue resonated with me, as Lisa Unger has a way of articulating her thoughts, which often has me nodding my head in agreement, and highlighting certain passages.
One night, in her lover Adam’s arms, she tells him something that she has never told anyone. In the light of morning, she feels regretful and exposed. But, Adam seems unperturbed as he leaves.
AND THEN HE GHOSTS HER.
At this point I am completely engaged, and feeling 5⭐️
Convinced I will enjoy it more than my friends.
This is around the 50% point, and the book now shifts to the PAST. NOTHING about these chapters resonated with me and this is where I began to lose interest.
And, there is DEER HUNTING! 😩 ICK!!
Dropping quickly to 4⭐️ territory.
As the narrative continues what happens does not seems probable AT ALL.
In addition, the prose becomes SAPPY. And, maybe even a bit PREACHY.
And, now I am at a 3⭐️ rating.
Sigh.
Still, I really LOVED the first half, and although this isn’t MY favorite by the author, I will be eagerly watching for her next book. Despite the fact that this didn’t quite work for ME a couple of friends loved it-which is what is great about books-we all feel things differently!
It may turn out to be a favorite for YOU!
AVAILABLE NOW
Thank you to Park Row for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
Wren Greenwood is better at giving advice than she is at following it.
In fact, she is secretly, “Dear Birdie” a popular advice columnist, who dishes out words of wisdom on a regular basis, encouraging others to take chances and search for love, even though she isn’t good about seeking it for herself.
Her best friend, Jax, encourages her to try a dating APP, TORCH, and she is surprised when after a couple of MISSES, she meets Adam, and begins to fall in love.
A lot of Wren’s inner monologue resonated with me, as Lisa Unger has a way of articulating her thoughts, which often has me nodding my head in agreement, and highlighting certain passages.
One night, in her lover Adam’s arms, she tells him something that she has never told anyone. In the light of morning, she feels regretful and exposed. But, Adam seems unperturbed as he leaves.
AND THEN HE GHOSTS HER.
At this point I am completely engaged, and feeling 5⭐️
Convinced I will enjoy it more than my friends.
This is around the 50% point, and the book now shifts to the PAST. NOTHING about these chapters resonated with me and this is where I began to lose interest.
And, there is DEER HUNTING! 😩 ICK!!
Dropping quickly to 4⭐️ territory.
As the narrative continues what happens does not seems probable AT ALL.
In addition, the prose becomes SAPPY. And, maybe even a bit PREACHY.
And, now I am at a 3⭐️ rating.
Sigh.
Still, I really LOVED the first half, and although this isn’t MY favorite by the author, I will be eagerly watching for her next book. Despite the fact that this didn’t quite work for ME a couple of friends loved it-which is what is great about books-we all feel things differently!
It may turn out to be a favorite for YOU!
AVAILABLE NOW
Thank you to Park Row for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
October 18, 2021
I should have ghosted this book!
This author is a hit or miss with me, but I decided to give this one a try. After waiting months for my library hold, I wanted to finish it even though the second half was a real struggle.
The protag, Wren falls for questionable guy on dating app. I was expecting a suspenseful think twice before you swipe thriller, but it veered off into a "what happened to me growing up" strange, kooky type narrative. We are also treated with Covid mentions (ugh). Totally irrelevant to the story and reading is my escape, I don't want to be repeatedly reminded of the pandemic.
I struggled to finish, the conclusion was disappointing and unbelievable, and I was just glad to be finished.
Others have enjoyed it, just wasn't my cup of cocoa.
Library loan/ Read in Oct 2021
This author is a hit or miss with me, but I decided to give this one a try. After waiting months for my library hold, I wanted to finish it even though the second half was a real struggle.
The protag, Wren falls for questionable guy on dating app. I was expecting a suspenseful think twice before you swipe thriller, but it veered off into a "what happened to me growing up" strange, kooky type narrative. We are also treated with Covid mentions (ugh). Totally irrelevant to the story and reading is my escape, I don't want to be repeatedly reminded of the pandemic.
I struggled to finish, the conclusion was disappointing and unbelievable, and I was just glad to be finished.
Others have enjoyed it, just wasn't my cup of cocoa.
Library loan/ Read in Oct 2021
March 3, 2022
So dark... so bleak...so disturbing!
Brrr! Blood freezing, soul shaking, nerve bending thriller will shake you to the core!
Ms. Unger knows how to go dark places and take you there if you’re bold enough not to escape and go with her till finding the light at the end of the tunnel.
This book has overwhelming complex story focusing on so many heavy stuffs, past traumas, loss, grief, guilt feelings, mental illness, PTSD, psychopathy, drug addiction, self destruction, pyromania, school shooting.
Reminding you Rosie Walsh’s Ghosted meets Kristin Hannah’s Great Alone storylines.
Main narrator of the story is Wren Greenwood who is successful column writer/ podcaster with her pseudonym “Dear Birdie”, still healing her wounds of her tragic past, involving into online dating world with her best friend Jax’s suggestion for quick hook up.
But as soon as she meets with Adam, a cool, smart, IT guy, something clicks with him. They get attached so fast and a few dates later Wren finally comes clean and tells him her dark secret she’s been hiding from everyone but the very next day he stands her up at the restaurant they planned to meet with a text telling something came up and he gotta disappear. He just vanished into thin air by disconnecting his phone, dating and social media accounts.
Gwen cannot absorb to be ghosted. As she tries to gather her wits to find some sense about his disappearance, detective Bailey Kirk knocks her door to talk about a missing young woman case. He thinks Wren could help him to identify the man: That woman is also user of Torch dating services just like her. Her name is Mia Thorpe who was recovering drug addict, suffering from psychological problems because of her childhood trauma: not being able to save her mother. And her father is really worried her daughter’s condition. She’s last seen with the man she met throughout Torch. The man she’s dated named Raife looks like exactly like Adam, her Adam who just left her without a clue!
And there are other girls who are missing who met with the same Adam under different false names and never being heard as soon as they started dating.
Bonnie Cartwright was from Chicago: survivor of school shooting as Melissa Farrow is from upstate New York town called Hollow, the very same place Wren spent her nightmarish childhood with her alcoholic, veteran father who is suffering from PTSD dragged the entire family to live at the place where is out of nowhere.
Melissa is also orphaned after fire killed both of her parents. Unfortunately she’s the reason of the fire.
Both of the women’s common traits: suffering from tragic traumas, being survivors, being loaded which attract internet predators’ attentions!
Wren has to find who the real Adam is and what happened to those girls because just she’s been doing for years at her Dear Birdie column she likes to heal the broken souls and now it’s time for her to heal her own invisible scars even that means she has to visit her own tragic past and their family house to confront the secrets she hides from everyone.
It was one of the great and the darkest work of the author with fantastic, deeply layered character driven story telling.
The conclusion was sad, heartbreaking and intense. A great and vulnerable approach to the unique traumatic experiences and a tribute to people who find a way to survive!
Special thanks to NetGalley and HARLEQUIN/ Park Row for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
Brrr! Blood freezing, soul shaking, nerve bending thriller will shake you to the core!
Ms. Unger knows how to go dark places and take you there if you’re bold enough not to escape and go with her till finding the light at the end of the tunnel.
This book has overwhelming complex story focusing on so many heavy stuffs, past traumas, loss, grief, guilt feelings, mental illness, PTSD, psychopathy, drug addiction, self destruction, pyromania, school shooting.
Reminding you Rosie Walsh’s Ghosted meets Kristin Hannah’s Great Alone storylines.
Main narrator of the story is Wren Greenwood who is successful column writer/ podcaster with her pseudonym “Dear Birdie”, still healing her wounds of her tragic past, involving into online dating world with her best friend Jax’s suggestion for quick hook up.
But as soon as she meets with Adam, a cool, smart, IT guy, something clicks with him. They get attached so fast and a few dates later Wren finally comes clean and tells him her dark secret she’s been hiding from everyone but the very next day he stands her up at the restaurant they planned to meet with a text telling something came up and he gotta disappear. He just vanished into thin air by disconnecting his phone, dating and social media accounts.
Gwen cannot absorb to be ghosted. As she tries to gather her wits to find some sense about his disappearance, detective Bailey Kirk knocks her door to talk about a missing young woman case. He thinks Wren could help him to identify the man: That woman is also user of Torch dating services just like her. Her name is Mia Thorpe who was recovering drug addict, suffering from psychological problems because of her childhood trauma: not being able to save her mother. And her father is really worried her daughter’s condition. She’s last seen with the man she met throughout Torch. The man she’s dated named Raife looks like exactly like Adam, her Adam who just left her without a clue!
And there are other girls who are missing who met with the same Adam under different false names and never being heard as soon as they started dating.
Bonnie Cartwright was from Chicago: survivor of school shooting as Melissa Farrow is from upstate New York town called Hollow, the very same place Wren spent her nightmarish childhood with her alcoholic, veteran father who is suffering from PTSD dragged the entire family to live at the place where is out of nowhere.
Melissa is also orphaned after fire killed both of her parents. Unfortunately she’s the reason of the fire.
Both of the women’s common traits: suffering from tragic traumas, being survivors, being loaded which attract internet predators’ attentions!
Wren has to find who the real Adam is and what happened to those girls because just she’s been doing for years at her Dear Birdie column she likes to heal the broken souls and now it’s time for her to heal her own invisible scars even that means she has to visit her own tragic past and their family house to confront the secrets she hides from everyone.
It was one of the great and the darkest work of the author with fantastic, deeply layered character driven story telling.
The conclusion was sad, heartbreaking and intense. A great and vulnerable approach to the unique traumatic experiences and a tribute to people who find a way to survive!
Special thanks to NetGalley and HARLEQUIN/ Park Row for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
September 6, 2022
*****JUST RELEASED IN PAPERBACK*****
This book is dark and disturbing, not only because of the subjects that this book touches on, but also because of the timeline in which she places the story!!!
When the main character Wren talks about not being able to read the news because it’s so disturbing, it took me back to that terrible time at the onset of the pandemic.
None of us will forget “a virus in China had spread, several countries in Europe going on lockdown, borders closing, . . Cratering of the stock market”. This set the mood and my feelings on edge immediately, the novel just kept building up that tension!!
Wren was not always Wren. Long ago she was someone else, someone who suffered a great trauma that rocked her world.. Now she is a successful writer with an advice column for those who have nowhere else to turn for advice, DEAR BIRDIE has been very successful!!
Her best friend Jax thinks she needs to get out, enjoy life more!! She sets up a profile for Wren on a dating app called “Torch”. Wren doesn’t take it seriously . . . .UNTIL SHE MEETS ADAM.
He is everything she has always wanted in a man, funny, caring, loving, UNTIL ONE DAY HE DISAPPEARS COMPLETELY!!! Social media accounts closed, phone disconnected, Wren should have known better. She has been GHOSTED!!
Into her life comes detective Bailey Kirk. He’s not only here because of what happened to Wren, he is here because he is tracing the last actions of Mia Thorpe. Mia also used this dating app and SHE HAS DISAPPEARED, her father frantic to find her. Turns out there are other women, the same man with different names, enticed by him to join him, then they disappear.
Wren is a survivor and decides to join Bailey in his search for this man. Adam, as she still thinks of him, has taken her love and trust and even more from the other women.
Trying to find the others also uncovers her own painful memories, taking her back to a fateful night that changed her life forever. THIS TIME SHE IS READY TO DO WHAT SHE HAS TO DO TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT!!!!!!
The novel is told mainly from Wren’s POV but sometimes from Bailey’s. A few times I felt that the story was repetitive as I read it from each of their different POV’s. This didn’t really take away from my enjoyment of the novel.
I felt that this book was more a dark and disturbing drama rather than a thriller, but I liked this story that didn’t just depend on a “thrill” but on the characters and what drives them to do what they do.
I can highly recommend this novel to Ms. Unger’s fans and others who enjoy a well written mystery/thriller with well developed characters and a believable, twisty plot.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
This book is dark and disturbing, not only because of the subjects that this book touches on, but also because of the timeline in which she places the story!!!
When the main character Wren talks about not being able to read the news because it’s so disturbing, it took me back to that terrible time at the onset of the pandemic.
None of us will forget “a virus in China had spread, several countries in Europe going on lockdown, borders closing, . . Cratering of the stock market”. This set the mood and my feelings on edge immediately, the novel just kept building up that tension!!
Wren was not always Wren. Long ago she was someone else, someone who suffered a great trauma that rocked her world.. Now she is a successful writer with an advice column for those who have nowhere else to turn for advice, DEAR BIRDIE has been very successful!!
Her best friend Jax thinks she needs to get out, enjoy life more!! She sets up a profile for Wren on a dating app called “Torch”. Wren doesn’t take it seriously . . . .UNTIL SHE MEETS ADAM.
He is everything she has always wanted in a man, funny, caring, loving, UNTIL ONE DAY HE DISAPPEARS COMPLETELY!!! Social media accounts closed, phone disconnected, Wren should have known better. She has been GHOSTED!!
Into her life comes detective Bailey Kirk. He’s not only here because of what happened to Wren, he is here because he is tracing the last actions of Mia Thorpe. Mia also used this dating app and SHE HAS DISAPPEARED, her father frantic to find her. Turns out there are other women, the same man with different names, enticed by him to join him, then they disappear.
Wren is a survivor and decides to join Bailey in his search for this man. Adam, as she still thinks of him, has taken her love and trust and even more from the other women.
Trying to find the others also uncovers her own painful memories, taking her back to a fateful night that changed her life forever. THIS TIME SHE IS READY TO DO WHAT SHE HAS TO DO TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT!!!!!!
The novel is told mainly from Wren’s POV but sometimes from Bailey’s. A few times I felt that the story was repetitive as I read it from each of their different POV’s. This didn’t really take away from my enjoyment of the novel.
I felt that this book was more a dark and disturbing drama rather than a thriller, but I liked this story that didn’t just depend on a “thrill” but on the characters and what drives them to do what they do.
I can highly recommend this novel to Ms. Unger’s fans and others who enjoy a well written mystery/thriller with well developed characters and a believable, twisty plot.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
July 11, 2021
In the world of online dating, ghosting someone isn’t the worst thing that could happen.
Wren is a very successful advice columnist who has everything she needs in life: money, a gorgeous house, amazing friends. The only thing that eludes her is love. So when her best friend, Jax, makes a profile for her on the hot new app, Torch (think Tinder), she grudgingly starts swiping.
Soon, she meets Adam. His profile stands out because he’s not a tanned jock flexing his muscles and showing his bare chest. She meets him and feels an instant connection...one that is mutual...or is it?
All of a sudden, Adam has disappeared after leaving her a cryptic goodbye message. Wren has been ghosted.
Wren isn’t going to let him go just like that. She decides to take matters into her own hands to find him, and quickly learns that he isn’t who he seemed. In fact, there were other women before her who might’ve dated him...and they were never seen again. Wren, along with a PI, are determined to get answers, but…
She’s not sure whether she’s the predator - or the prey.
This book starts out strong, and I was immediately sucked into Wren’s world. Lisa Unger is a fantastic author whose way with words could make a squirrel stop and pay attention. I was eager to find out why Adam ghosted Wren, and what their backstories were.
🚧OUTLIER ALERT🚧
However, I just didn’t love this one like I’d hoped. My interest started dwindling about halfway through the story, and I didn’t find the direction it went in to be particularly compelling. The suspense started to ramp up again towards the end, but I’ll be honest...I thought everything about the conclusion was corny (dialogue, the characters and their actions, the climax, and especially the epilogue). 🙄
Although I won’t actively recommend this particular book, I do recommend Lisa Unger as an author and look forward to her future releases. Also, I am in the minority here, so please make sure to read the other reviews with many stellar ratings.
2.5 stars
My sincere thanks to Park Row for providing me with a widget through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Expected Publication Date: 10/5/21.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
Wren is a very successful advice columnist who has everything she needs in life: money, a gorgeous house, amazing friends. The only thing that eludes her is love. So when her best friend, Jax, makes a profile for her on the hot new app, Torch (think Tinder), she grudgingly starts swiping.
Soon, she meets Adam. His profile stands out because he’s not a tanned jock flexing his muscles and showing his bare chest. She meets him and feels an instant connection...one that is mutual...or is it?
All of a sudden, Adam has disappeared after leaving her a cryptic goodbye message. Wren has been ghosted.
Wren isn’t going to let him go just like that. She decides to take matters into her own hands to find him, and quickly learns that he isn’t who he seemed. In fact, there were other women before her who might’ve dated him...and they were never seen again. Wren, along with a PI, are determined to get answers, but…
She’s not sure whether she’s the predator - or the prey.
This book starts out strong, and I was immediately sucked into Wren’s world. Lisa Unger is a fantastic author whose way with words could make a squirrel stop and pay attention. I was eager to find out why Adam ghosted Wren, and what their backstories were.
🚧OUTLIER ALERT🚧
However, I just didn’t love this one like I’d hoped. My interest started dwindling about halfway through the story, and I didn’t find the direction it went in to be particularly compelling. The suspense started to ramp up again towards the end, but I’ll be honest...I thought everything about the conclusion was corny (dialogue, the characters and their actions, the climax, and especially the epilogue). 🙄
Although I won’t actively recommend this particular book, I do recommend Lisa Unger as an author and look forward to her future releases. Also, I am in the minority here, so please make sure to read the other reviews with many stellar ratings.
2.5 stars
My sincere thanks to Park Row for providing me with a widget through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Expected Publication Date: 10/5/21.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
September 29, 2021
This book started off so strongly with a gripping premise: Wren's best friend talks her into trying to meet guys via the dating app Torch. Wren goes for the brooding type, and is intrigued by Adam's profile--he isn't the typical shallow vain guy she usually sees, so she agrees to meet him. The two connect right away and soon are spending very little time apart. Wren knows that to advance their relationship, she needs to tell him about the things she is hiding in her past and her present. After she tells him about the past she is keeping hidden, he doesn't show up for their date the next day and texts her that he's sorry. His number is disconnected and his social media profiles disappear. He ghosts her. A private detective shows up stating that he is investigating the disappearance of three women, all connected to the man she knows as Adam.
Then the book just gets weird. It's almost like the author came up with a great hook for the beginning, and then didn't know where to go with it. We delve back into Wren's past and she turns into a bit of an armchair detective alongside the actual private investigator, Bailey. Clues start to be revealed.
Then it gets even stranger and I thought the ending resolution was confusing and just plain strange.
The use of second person--basically Wren talking to Adam and telling the story to Adam throughout--was offputting for me and I had to continually remind myself who the "you" referred to. I just don't feel like the use of second person was the right thing for this story.
After really loving Unger's previous book Confessions on the 7:45, this one just didn't do it for me overall. Her books are often hit or miss for me: I loved the Ridley Jones series, but really didn't like Crazy Love You. I'll just count this one as a slight miss and hope I like the next one better. In general, I love the twists this author comes up with, but this one just fell a bit flat in its execution. It's not a horrible book, and many people may really like it, but it's not the best book by this author.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Then the book just gets weird. It's almost like the author came up with a great hook for the beginning, and then didn't know where to go with it. We delve back into Wren's past and she turns into a bit of an armchair detective alongside the actual private investigator, Bailey. Clues start to be revealed.
Then it gets even stranger and I thought the ending resolution was confusing and just plain strange.
The use of second person--basically Wren talking to Adam and telling the story to Adam throughout--was offputting for me and I had to continually remind myself who the "you" referred to. I just don't feel like the use of second person was the right thing for this story.
After really loving Unger's previous book Confessions on the 7:45, this one just didn't do it for me overall. Her books are often hit or miss for me: I loved the Ridley Jones series, but really didn't like Crazy Love You. I'll just count this one as a slight miss and hope I like the next one better. In general, I love the twists this author comes up with, but this one just fell a bit flat in its execution. It's not a horrible book, and many people may really like it, but it's not the best book by this author.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
October 5, 2021
Writer Wren Greenwood is persuaded by best friend Jax to sign up on the online dating site Torch and through this she meets Adam Harper. She falls for him and they begin an intense relationship and she shares aspects of her life with him she’s told few others. Then he ghosts her, every digital trace gone. When PI Bailey Kirk contacts her she realises that she’s the ‘last girl ghosted’ and that others before her are missing. Wren is determined that’s she will indeed be the last girl he ghosts and this begins a hunt that takes a deep dive into Wren’s past.
Lisa Unger writes so well and what I especially like is that all her books are different and you never know what you’re going to get!! I think this one is possibly one of the most complex plots she’s created which I find to be utterly absorbing. The cat and mouse ‘ghost’ storyline is extremely believable, making valid points about our radar being blunted by social media so we don’t pick up the scents we should. However, it goes much deeper than digital ghosting. It includes all kinds of issues, some of them are very dark such as trauma, PTSD and the heavy burden of guilt and loss. What makes it still darker but also feel more authentic is the dystopian background of the unrelenting tide of Covid (at the start its a ‘far off disease’) and climate issues such as the devastating wildfires in Australia. The characterisation is a stand out feature, they’re all convincing and many are multi layered especially Wren and Adam and at times it’s hard to figure out who is the hunter and who the prey because it chops and changes. The characters of Jax and Bailey are very good too and provide a counterbalance to the complexity of enigmatic Wren. It’s emotionally charged in places, terrifying and dangerous at others and incredibly tense with frequent moments of prickling unease as it builds to a very good conclusion.
Overall, this is a clever novel which has me in its clutches from start to finish and I have no clue where it’s going to go next. Just the way I like it!!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Lisa Unger writes so well and what I especially like is that all her books are different and you never know what you’re going to get!! I think this one is possibly one of the most complex plots she’s created which I find to be utterly absorbing. The cat and mouse ‘ghost’ storyline is extremely believable, making valid points about our radar being blunted by social media so we don’t pick up the scents we should. However, it goes much deeper than digital ghosting. It includes all kinds of issues, some of them are very dark such as trauma, PTSD and the heavy burden of guilt and loss. What makes it still darker but also feel more authentic is the dystopian background of the unrelenting tide of Covid (at the start its a ‘far off disease’) and climate issues such as the devastating wildfires in Australia. The characterisation is a stand out feature, they’re all convincing and many are multi layered especially Wren and Adam and at times it’s hard to figure out who is the hunter and who the prey because it chops and changes. The characters of Jax and Bailey are very good too and provide a counterbalance to the complexity of enigmatic Wren. It’s emotionally charged in places, terrifying and dangerous at others and incredibly tense with frequent moments of prickling unease as it builds to a very good conclusion.
Overall, this is a clever novel which has me in its clutches from start to finish and I have no clue where it’s going to go next. Just the way I like it!!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
October 22, 2021
5 stars!
Thank you Lisa Unger! This was the book I needed to get me out of my reading slump! A gripping and unputdownable psychological thriller.
A popular advice columnist with a dark history.
I was engrossed by this fast-paced, unique, thrilling and suspenseful story from start to finish - it hooked me right away and didn’t let up! I loved the main character, Wren. There were so many unique and fascinating layers to her backstory that kept me curious and fully invested throughout.
Flashbacks were a brilliant addition and highly intriguing piece to this storyline. They kept the pace quick and added an intense amount of suspense and tension to the plot. I couldn’t read this fast enough!
I am a huge fan of this author and this has now moved its way up to the top of my list of her novels. I highly recommend and can’t wait to see what she comes out with next!
Thank you Park Row for my review copy!
Thank you Lisa Unger! This was the book I needed to get me out of my reading slump! A gripping and unputdownable psychological thriller.
A popular advice columnist with a dark history.
I was engrossed by this fast-paced, unique, thrilling and suspenseful story from start to finish - it hooked me right away and didn’t let up! I loved the main character, Wren. There were so many unique and fascinating layers to her backstory that kept me curious and fully invested throughout.
Flashbacks were a brilliant addition and highly intriguing piece to this storyline. They kept the pace quick and added an intense amount of suspense and tension to the plot. I couldn’t read this fast enough!
I am a huge fan of this author and this has now moved its way up to the top of my list of her novels. I highly recommend and can’t wait to see what she comes out with next!
Thank you Park Row for my review copy!
September 24, 2021
Rating: 2.5 or 3/5
As a mystery thriller this did not hit the mark for me. If this was more about Wren’s journey and growth with mystery on the side, then my expectation of the reveals would have been different. I feel “the last girl ghosted” tried to focus on both but it didn’t work for me.
What I enjoyed
• I enjoyed the first third, I was hooked, curious and it was hard to put down!
What I didn’t enjoy
• Although it set itself up well, it dragged on and I lost interest. There was just enough bread crumbs to keep me curious but not substantial enough to really wow me.
• All the reveals were anticlimactic. There wasn’t enough build up of clues and connection to then create a shocking revelation, it was all very straight forward.
There was so much mystery around Wren’s past. They were digging around because they had nowhere else to look. It felt really directionless and more like a general exploration of Wren’s past. After the reveal I thought ok so what. I didn’t expect to have all the answers but I definitely didn’t feel enlightened at all.
• The reveal of who Adam was and the connection (well lack thereof) between the missing girls and Wren did not wow me whatsoever. The ending was so so so cliche.
Other things I didn't enjoy with spoilers:
Many thanks to NetGalley and HQStories for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As a mystery thriller this did not hit the mark for me. If this was more about Wren’s journey and growth with mystery on the side, then my expectation of the reveals would have been different. I feel “the last girl ghosted” tried to focus on both but it didn’t work for me.
What I enjoyed
• I enjoyed the first third, I was hooked, curious and it was hard to put down!
What I didn’t enjoy
• Although it set itself up well, it dragged on and I lost interest. There was just enough bread crumbs to keep me curious but not substantial enough to really wow me.
• All the reveals were anticlimactic. There wasn’t enough build up of clues and connection to then create a shocking revelation, it was all very straight forward.
There was so much mystery around Wren’s past. They were digging around because they had nowhere else to look. It felt really directionless and more like a general exploration of Wren’s past. After the reveal I thought ok so what. I didn’t expect to have all the answers but I definitely didn’t feel enlightened at all.
• The reveal of who Adam was and the connection (well lack thereof) between the missing girls and Wren did not wow me whatsoever. The ending was so so so cliche.
Other things I didn't enjoy with spoilers:
Many thanks to NetGalley and HQStories for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2021
EXCERPT: You shift, close your arms around me, and whisper, 'Tell me something you've never told anyone else.'
Up to this moment, I've measured everything I've shared with you. I've given myself over in pieces, slivers of truth, layers of self, curated memories, only the most banal likes and dislikes. But there are things I've hidden. It hasn't been necessary to bare all; relationships these days rarely last. I can't afford to give all of myself away to someone who may ghost me without a moment's notice.
Does he know? Jax asked when I confessed how much I liked you.
No, I told her.
When will you tell him?
Now, I think. This is the moment. Tell now or it becomes a lie, something I've hidden. So, in the warmth of your embrace, in the dark of the hours after midnight, I tell you something I've never told anyone else.
ABOUT 'LAST GIRL GHOSTED': Think twice before you swipe.
She met him through a dating app. An intriguing picture on a screen, a date at a downtown bar. What she thought might be just a quick hookup quickly became much more. She fell for him—hard. It happens sometimes, a powerful connection with a perfect stranger takes you by surprise. Could it be love?
But then, just as things were getting real, he stood her up. Then he disappeared—profiles deleted, phone disconnected. She was ghosted.
Maybe it was her fault. She shared too much, too fast. But isn't that always what women think—that they're the ones to blame? Soon she learns there were others. Girls who thought they were in love. Girls who later went missing. She had been looking for a connection, but now she's looking for answers. Chasing a digital trail into his dark past—and hers—she finds herself on a dangerous hunt. And she's not sure whether she's the predator—or the prey.
MY THOUGHTS: Last Girl Ghosted is disturbing on many levels. It is dark and gritty and so very plausible. Set in the world of online dating and at the time where there are media rumblings of a pandemic virus emerging in China, Unger takes the reader on a journey involving PTSD, familial abuse, missing women, and so much more.
I am usually the first person to criticise an author for trying to cram multiple 'themes' into one novel, but Unger makes it work and work brilliantly. The threads are tightly woven together to form a richly coloured tapestry, a compelling read that kept me enthralled from beginning to end.
I loved Wren's character - strong yet vulnerable. She wasn't always Wren. She was once Robin, a child who suffered an unimaginable trauma, who has emerged intent on helping others, albeit anonymously through her advice column Dear Birdie. She worries about these people and their problems. Sometimes she dreams about them. But ultimately she believes that by helping them, she is helping herself to become stronger.
And Adam. Hell, I fell for Adam. He's very good at what he does. And I loved that he's not smooth and handsome.
Bailey Kirk is a PI, hired by one of the missing women's fathers to find his daughter. But it has become something of a personal crusade for him. It's a case that has gotten under his skin. All the missing women have a similar background: they have suffered a great tragedy and are wealthy. All have dated Adam through dating apps. Wren is the latest. But Wren is still here. She is not missing, but Adam is. Bailey believes that Wren is his best chance of catching Adam. He doesn't believe that Adam will walk away from Wren. But if Adam contacts her again, will Wren tell him? It's a cat and mouse situation.
The story is told mainly from Wren's perspective over two timelines; the current day and her traumatic childhood. We occasionally get the story told from Bailey's perspective.
There is nothing banal or mundane in Last Girl Ghosted. I loved it from beginning to end. I was rooting for Wren the whole way through. And yes, for Adam too. I wanted him to be redeemed. Was he? Not telling. You'll have to read Last Girl Ghosted to find out.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#LastGirlGhosted #NetGalley
I: @launger @hqstories
T: @lisaunger @HQstories
#contemporaryfiction #crime #mystery #privateinvestigator #psychologicalthriller #suspense
THE AUTHOR: Lisa Unger is a New York Times and internationally bestselling author. With books published in thirty languages and millions of copies sold worldwide, she is widely regarded as a master of suspense. She lives on the west coast of Florida with her family.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to HQ Digital for providing a digital ARC of Last Girl Ghosted by Lisa Unger 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 review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Up to this moment, I've measured everything I've shared with you. I've given myself over in pieces, slivers of truth, layers of self, curated memories, only the most banal likes and dislikes. But there are things I've hidden. It hasn't been necessary to bare all; relationships these days rarely last. I can't afford to give all of myself away to someone who may ghost me without a moment's notice.
Does he know? Jax asked when I confessed how much I liked you.
No, I told her.
When will you tell him?
Now, I think. This is the moment. Tell now or it becomes a lie, something I've hidden. So, in the warmth of your embrace, in the dark of the hours after midnight, I tell you something I've never told anyone else.
ABOUT 'LAST GIRL GHOSTED': Think twice before you swipe.
She met him through a dating app. An intriguing picture on a screen, a date at a downtown bar. What she thought might be just a quick hookup quickly became much more. She fell for him—hard. It happens sometimes, a powerful connection with a perfect stranger takes you by surprise. Could it be love?
But then, just as things were getting real, he stood her up. Then he disappeared—profiles deleted, phone disconnected. She was ghosted.
Maybe it was her fault. She shared too much, too fast. But isn't that always what women think—that they're the ones to blame? Soon she learns there were others. Girls who thought they were in love. Girls who later went missing. She had been looking for a connection, but now she's looking for answers. Chasing a digital trail into his dark past—and hers—she finds herself on a dangerous hunt. And she's not sure whether she's the predator—or the prey.
MY THOUGHTS: Last Girl Ghosted is disturbing on many levels. It is dark and gritty and so very plausible. Set in the world of online dating and at the time where there are media rumblings of a pandemic virus emerging in China, Unger takes the reader on a journey involving PTSD, familial abuse, missing women, and so much more.
I am usually the first person to criticise an author for trying to cram multiple 'themes' into one novel, but Unger makes it work and work brilliantly. The threads are tightly woven together to form a richly coloured tapestry, a compelling read that kept me enthralled from beginning to end.
I loved Wren's character - strong yet vulnerable. She wasn't always Wren. She was once Robin, a child who suffered an unimaginable trauma, who has emerged intent on helping others, albeit anonymously through her advice column Dear Birdie. She worries about these people and their problems. Sometimes she dreams about them. But ultimately she believes that by helping them, she is helping herself to become stronger.
And Adam. Hell, I fell for Adam. He's very good at what he does. And I loved that he's not smooth and handsome.
Bailey Kirk is a PI, hired by one of the missing women's fathers to find his daughter. But it has become something of a personal crusade for him. It's a case that has gotten under his skin. All the missing women have a similar background: they have suffered a great tragedy and are wealthy. All have dated Adam through dating apps. Wren is the latest. But Wren is still here. She is not missing, but Adam is. Bailey believes that Wren is his best chance of catching Adam. He doesn't believe that Adam will walk away from Wren. But if Adam contacts her again, will Wren tell him? It's a cat and mouse situation.
The story is told mainly from Wren's perspective over two timelines; the current day and her traumatic childhood. We occasionally get the story told from Bailey's perspective.
There is nothing banal or mundane in Last Girl Ghosted. I loved it from beginning to end. I was rooting for Wren the whole way through. And yes, for Adam too. I wanted him to be redeemed. Was he? Not telling. You'll have to read Last Girl Ghosted to find out.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#LastGirlGhosted #NetGalley
I: @launger @hqstories
T: @lisaunger @HQstories
#contemporaryfiction #crime #mystery #privateinvestigator #psychologicalthriller #suspense
THE AUTHOR: Lisa Unger is a New York Times and internationally bestselling author. With books published in thirty languages and millions of copies sold worldwide, she is widely regarded as a master of suspense. She lives on the west coast of Florida with her family.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to HQ Digital for providing a digital ARC of Last Girl Ghosted by Lisa Unger 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 review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
October 13, 2021
Started out strong but got worse and worse to the point of being painfully bad by the end. The main character was intolerable. She comes across as hopelessly naive in a lot of ways and yet has somehow become a renowned advice columnist making enough $$ to afford a brooklyn brownstone.
Also, way way too far into the book, she continues to be obsessed w/this guy she only knew for 3 mos, long after it has become apparent that he’s likely a serial killer. She even willingly has sex with him, even when it’s obvious he has lured her into a trap.
Another very dumb part was that “Adam,” the ghost, who is a master of hiding his true identity, (which was pretty easy to infer not too far in,) apparently had told Wren the actual name of his business and what type of business it is. Despite that, it still takes the 2-3 detectives trying to find her several weeks to make the connection the connection and follow up on it.
There were endless facepalm moments like this throughout the book.
The worst part, however, was the very end, where the only way she manages to escape from the “bad guy” is that he apparently just… forgets to finish murdering her? Like he’s thought of every tiny piece of this plan in depth, but when push comes to shove, he doesn’t bother taking a few mins to make sure she’s actually dead before putting her in a body bag… this one will definitely be a contender for my least favorite book of the year.
Also, way way too far into the book, she continues to be obsessed w/this guy she only knew for 3 mos, long after it has become apparent that he’s likely a serial killer. She even willingly has sex with him, even when it’s obvious he has lured her into a trap.
Another very dumb part was that “Adam,” the ghost, who is a master of hiding his true identity, (which was pretty easy to infer not too far in,) apparently had told Wren the actual name of his business and what type of business it is. Despite that, it still takes the 2-3 detectives trying to find her several weeks to make the connection the connection and follow up on it.
There were endless facepalm moments like this throughout the book.
The worst part, however, was the very end, where the only way she manages to escape from the “bad guy” is that he apparently just… forgets to finish murdering her? Like he’s thought of every tiny piece of this plan in depth, but when push comes to shove, he doesn’t bother taking a few mins to make sure she’s actually dead before putting her in a body bag… this one will definitely be a contender for my least favorite book of the year.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2021
The Unfriendly Ghost.
Unfriend, block, and delete all contacts, connections severed.
Disappearing from a person’s life has its own moniker: Ghosting, and it’s not so nice when it’s done to you. Especially when a developing relationship has taken a turn into ‘getting serious’ territory.
Wren Greenwood has joined digital dating at the urging of her best friend and posts a profile on a lighthearted hookup site. However, she chooses anti-hero Adam instead of the normally listed beefcakes - to her friend's chagrin.
For the next three months she and Adam see each other continually as they become more involved. So, when he doesn’t show up for their special dinner and cuts all contact, she’s stymied and hurt.
Wren becomes determined to uncover the truth but hits several dead ends. Until a knock at her door one day reveals that there are other women in Adam’s life that have disappeared along with him. What happened to them and is Wren in danger herself?
Our Wren seems like a peaceful type, but she has her own secrets and Adam may have chosen the wrong women to play victim. Unfolding her story is as equally intriguing as investigating mysterious ghost Adam. I was totally invested!
I appreciate an author who takes chances and doesn’t fall into a pattern. I loved Lisa Unger’s previous novel Confessions on the 7:45 for its many components, but I love this one for different reasons.
I felt Last Girl Ghosted read more like a dark drama with undercurrents of unease, danger, and foreboding infusing the story as I learned more.
Insightful comments compelled me to provide a few favorite quotes, but I omitted them in case of changes before publication. Other readers will no doubt have their own preferences - there are plenty to choose from!
Trigger warnings for hunting, which is handled in an empathetic manner, but a wild animal is killed.
I was excited to receive this as an Advance Reader Copy and thank Park Row, Lisa Unger, and Edelweiss for my electronic galley.
Unfriend, block, and delete all contacts, connections severed.
Disappearing from a person’s life has its own moniker: Ghosting, and it’s not so nice when it’s done to you. Especially when a developing relationship has taken a turn into ‘getting serious’ territory.
Wren Greenwood has joined digital dating at the urging of her best friend and posts a profile on a lighthearted hookup site. However, she chooses anti-hero Adam instead of the normally listed beefcakes - to her friend's chagrin.
For the next three months she and Adam see each other continually as they become more involved. So, when he doesn’t show up for their special dinner and cuts all contact, she’s stymied and hurt.
Wren becomes determined to uncover the truth but hits several dead ends. Until a knock at her door one day reveals that there are other women in Adam’s life that have disappeared along with him. What happened to them and is Wren in danger herself?
Our Wren seems like a peaceful type, but she has her own secrets and Adam may have chosen the wrong women to play victim. Unfolding her story is as equally intriguing as investigating mysterious ghost Adam. I was totally invested!
I appreciate an author who takes chances and doesn’t fall into a pattern. I loved Lisa Unger’s previous novel Confessions on the 7:45 for its many components, but I love this one for different reasons.
I felt Last Girl Ghosted read more like a dark drama with undercurrents of unease, danger, and foreboding infusing the story as I learned more.
Insightful comments compelled me to provide a few favorite quotes, but I omitted them in case of changes before publication. Other readers will no doubt have their own preferences - there are plenty to choose from!
Trigger warnings for hunting, which is handled in an empathetic manner, but a wild animal is killed.
I was excited to receive this as an Advance Reader Copy and thank Park Row, Lisa Unger, and Edelweiss for my electronic galley.
February 5, 2022
This is the second book I have tried by this author and unfortunately, another one I have not finished. The first disc was slow to catch my interest but by the end of the second disc I was interested enough to continue. Surprisingly, by the end of the third disc I was looking at how many discs were left and wondering what could possibly happen to fill another 8 discs. I persevered through disc 8 and then finally gave up after realizing I had just tuned out an entire disc.
The summary was so interesting and makes it sound like this is a very contemporary and perhaps even cautionary tale about the potential dangers and pitfalls of online dating. Sadly, I didn't find this to be a "riveting thriller" or "a deadly cat-and-mouse game," rather it was a laggard tale that failed to captivate me. It wasn't hard to guess where the story would ultimately go, but I couldn't connect with or even really like any of the characters or the story itself to actually see it through to the end and I wasn't even sure if it really mattered. Had anything exciting or eventful happened? If it was like the previous discs, I knew the answer was no.
I think Lisa Unger's writing style is not for me. She seems to write drawn out stories with descriptions and details that may be relevant in the end, or just might be an extraneous digression. I can't tell, as I haven't made it to the end of either of the two books I've tried. I prefer a more compact style and one where I can make connections and inferences steadily throughout instead of starting with a bang, slogging through a dull middle, and ending (hopefully?) with another bang.
The summary was so interesting and makes it sound like this is a very contemporary and perhaps even cautionary tale about the potential dangers and pitfalls of online dating. Sadly, I didn't find this to be a "riveting thriller" or "a deadly cat-and-mouse game," rather it was a laggard tale that failed to captivate me. It wasn't hard to guess where the story would ultimately go, but I couldn't connect with or even really like any of the characters or the story itself to actually see it through to the end and I wasn't even sure if it really mattered. Had anything exciting or eventful happened? If it was like the previous discs, I knew the answer was no.
I think Lisa Unger's writing style is not for me. She seems to write drawn out stories with descriptions and details that may be relevant in the end, or just might be an extraneous digression. I can't tell, as I haven't made it to the end of either of the two books I've tried. I prefer a more compact style and one where I can make connections and inferences steadily throughout instead of starting with a bang, slogging through a dull middle, and ending (hopefully?) with another bang.
August 23, 2022
Another Lisa Unger book bites the dust for me you either love it or hate it for me it’s the latter, just not my thing.
May 29, 2021
What happens when you look for true love in this cold, tech-obsessed world? What happens when you think you’ve found it and fall hard? And then — he’s gone. The guy you thought was THE ONE — well, he’s disappeared. Do you just let him go? Or do you follow a winding digital trail into his very dark past — and yours? And what will you do when you realize that you’re just another broken heart in his wake. That you’re just the … LAST GIRL GHOSTED.
I’m thrilled to share my new novel with you on October 5, 2021. Hope you love it!
I’m thrilled to share my new novel with you on October 5, 2021. Hope you love it!
November 22, 2021
In honor of the holiday season, allow me to channel my inner Kevin McAlister and simply offer up this for my reaction . . . .
I looooooooooove Lisa Unger, but holy mackerel talk about a swing and a miss.
“Ghosting” stories seem to be on trend lately and I have to admit that I am here for it. And the first 30% of this was so strong and really had my tail wagging. And then???? Well, I’m just going to do a flat out copy and paste of one of my pal’s reviews . . . .
I’m already put off by every single book written in the last year somehow revolving around COVID when most of us are reading books to escape thinking about fucking COVID, but this train really flew off the tracks with super coincidental co-inky-dinks and ripped from the headlines blasts from the past and looking for love in all the wrong places and shit the bed endings and . . . .
Yeah. That totally sums it up.
My real-life friend recommended this to me and I hate that I kind of hated it : (
I looooooooooove Lisa Unger, but holy mackerel talk about a swing and a miss.
“Ghosting” stories seem to be on trend lately and I have to admit that I am here for it. And the first 30% of this was so strong and really had my tail wagging. And then???? Well, I’m just going to do a flat out copy and paste of one of my pal’s reviews . . . .
I’m already put off by every single book written in the last year somehow revolving around COVID when most of us are reading books to escape thinking about fucking COVID, but this train really flew off the tracks with super coincidental co-inky-dinks and ripped from the headlines blasts from the past and looking for love in all the wrong places and shit the bed endings and . . . .
Yeah. That totally sums it up.
My real-life friend recommended this to me and I hate that I kind of hated it : (
November 11, 2021
Loved everything except the very last chapter. I wish I could erase it.
Full review to come.
1st book we read in November, in my reading club.
8 chapters in:
Written in 2nd person so it took some time to get used to it, but so far it's ok. Just setting the story really.
Full review to come.
1st book we read in November, in my reading club.
8 chapters in:
Written in 2nd person so it took some time to get used to it, but so far it's ok. Just setting the story really.
February 9, 2022
Ugh. No, just no.
Okay, I have a lot of problems with this book, some of which I'll describe below. But first, be warned: MANY SPOILERS AHEAD.
The first problem is our heroine, Wren, a twentysomething woman living in Brooklyn. Pardon my language, but Wren is such a dingaling. She goes on a Tinder (sorry, "Torch") date with a dude named Adam. He quotes Rilke and loves pizza as much as she does, so of course it's true love. They date for a whopping 3 months before he texts her that he has to leave town and won't be coming back. He can't say why. She won't accept that, naturally, but when she goes to his house it turns out he doesn't live there anymore! Crazy. She's devastated, but she still loves him.
Soon a private investigator turns up and tells Wren that Adam's last three Torch dates (Mia, Melissa, and Bonnie) all vanished without a trace, and it looks like Adam is to blame. Wren is shocked to learn of Adam's potentially murderous past. She still loves him, though. (Wow, was Adam really great in bed or something? Who knows. Just kidding, I totally know. Wren tells us 50,000 times how great he was in bed.)
Despite her love, Wren agrees to help the PI find Adam. As part of this process, she has to go on the dark web. Never heard of the dark web? No problem, Wren will explain it to you. The dark web is so different from the regular internet. Never heard of the internet? No problem, Wren will explain it to you. I wish I were joking. We're treated to a long description of the various kinds of content to be found on the internet (did you know there are recipes on there?), and this is an example of my second problem with this book: how wordy it is.
It is SO wordy. There is no chase scene whose pacing is left undestroyed by paragraphs of description, no conversation left uncluttered by Wren's repetitive and inane internal monologues. As a bonus, we're also treated to multiple complaints from Wren about how isolated we are from each other because we spend too much time on our phones. A truly original lament that I've definitely not heard 1,000,000 times before.
On to my third problem. (Again, SPOILERS.) Wren eventually disappears, and the PI and Wren's friends hatch a plan (using Torch) to lure Adam to a bar in the city so they can . . . well, I'm not sure. In one of the most painful scenes in the book, the PI watches from a parked car as Adam enters the bar, and it becomes clear that the PI has NO PLAN for what to do next. Cool. Adam gets away after seriously wounding one of the PI's colleagues. Great job, everyone.
Fourth problem: Meanwhile, Wren is waking up in a body bag on a forest floor. Adam strangled her, but I guess he didn't bother to make sure she was dead before he zipped her up and tossed her into the woods. Beside her are the graves of Mia, Melissa, and Bonnie, Adam's previous Torch dates. Wren knows this because all of their graves are marked. Makes sense, all murderers mark the graves of their victims. In case you're wondering, WREN STILL LOVES HIM.
To fast forward a bit (SPOILER), Wren lives and Adam dies. But Adam lives on, because Wren is pregnant with his spawn! (Fifth problem.) She's very happy about it. As she tells us wisely, "Love wins. Life wins. Life and love always win." I guess nobody told Mia, Melissa, and Bonnie that.
Love may always win, but this book is a loser. Having spent so much time on it, I am too.
Okay, I have a lot of problems with this book, some of which I'll describe below. But first, be warned: MANY SPOILERS AHEAD.
The first problem is our heroine, Wren, a twentysomething woman living in Brooklyn. Pardon my language, but Wren is such a dingaling. She goes on a Tinder (sorry, "Torch") date with a dude named Adam. He quotes Rilke and loves pizza as much as she does, so of course it's true love. They date for a whopping 3 months before he texts her that he has to leave town and won't be coming back. He can't say why. She won't accept that, naturally, but when she goes to his house it turns out he doesn't live there anymore! Crazy. She's devastated, but she still loves him.
Soon a private investigator turns up and tells Wren that Adam's last three Torch dates (Mia, Melissa, and Bonnie) all vanished without a trace, and it looks like Adam is to blame. Wren is shocked to learn of Adam's potentially murderous past. She still loves him, though. (Wow, was Adam really great in bed or something? Who knows. Just kidding, I totally know. Wren tells us 50,000 times how great he was in bed.)
Despite her love, Wren agrees to help the PI find Adam. As part of this process, she has to go on the dark web. Never heard of the dark web? No problem, Wren will explain it to you. The dark web is so different from the regular internet. Never heard of the internet? No problem, Wren will explain it to you. I wish I were joking. We're treated to a long description of the various kinds of content to be found on the internet (did you know there are recipes on there?), and this is an example of my second problem with this book: how wordy it is.
It is SO wordy. There is no chase scene whose pacing is left undestroyed by paragraphs of description, no conversation left uncluttered by Wren's repetitive and inane internal monologues. As a bonus, we're also treated to multiple complaints from Wren about how isolated we are from each other because we spend too much time on our phones. A truly original lament that I've definitely not heard 1,000,000 times before.
On to my third problem. (Again, SPOILERS.) Wren eventually disappears, and the PI and Wren's friends hatch a plan (using Torch) to lure Adam to a bar in the city so they can . . . well, I'm not sure. In one of the most painful scenes in the book, the PI watches from a parked car as Adam enters the bar, and it becomes clear that the PI has NO PLAN for what to do next. Cool. Adam gets away after seriously wounding one of the PI's colleagues. Great job, everyone.
Fourth problem: Meanwhile, Wren is waking up in a body bag on a forest floor. Adam strangled her, but I guess he didn't bother to make sure she was dead before he zipped her up and tossed her into the woods. Beside her are the graves of Mia, Melissa, and Bonnie, Adam's previous Torch dates. Wren knows this because all of their graves are marked. Makes sense, all murderers mark the graves of their victims. In case you're wondering, WREN STILL LOVES HIM.
To fast forward a bit (SPOILER), Wren lives and Adam dies. But Adam lives on, because Wren is pregnant with his spawn! (Fifth problem.) She's very happy about it. As she tells us wisely, "Love wins. Life wins. Life and love always win." I guess nobody told Mia, Melissa, and Bonnie that.
Love may always win, but this book is a loser. Having spent so much time on it, I am too.
December 6, 2021
I usually love this authors books but this one fell short for me.
The first half held my attention and I felt it was going to be a 5* for sure, but, then the second half happened and it all went down hill from there……which was a crying shame.
The secret or big reveal wasn’t as shocking as I thought it would be. Or is it that I’m I shockable!
No, reflection was that the build up was awesome and the “shock” factor didn’t happen because the big reveal just wasn’t substantial enough to merit a gasp.
After that I sort of muddled along within the confines of the story.
Lisa Unger has a lovely way of writing and I’ve put it down to we have had our minds all over the place the last couple of years (and still have) because of the pandemic. So hopefully things will improve.
The first half held my attention and I felt it was going to be a 5* for sure, but, then the second half happened and it all went down hill from there……which was a crying shame.
The secret or big reveal wasn’t as shocking as I thought it would be. Or is it that I’m I shockable!
No, reflection was that the build up was awesome and the “shock” factor didn’t happen because the big reveal just wasn’t substantial enough to merit a gasp.
After that I sort of muddled along within the confines of the story.
Lisa Unger has a lovely way of writing and I’ve put it down to we have had our minds all over the place the last couple of years (and still have) because of the pandemic. So hopefully things will improve.
March 1, 2024
Is dating by app a safe experience?
For Wren, our first-person narrator, who speaks of Adam Harper, the antagonist, in second person, we are not sure what is in store for these two people who meet this way.
As readers, we feel like we are inside Wren’s head as she carries on a conversation with him.
This exchange feels compelling. And suddenly, there is a sense of danger – physically, emotionally and psychologically.
Why?
And when Adam ghosts Wren, after she falls for him, why is she so intent on finding him?
And for readers the questions become…
What is really going on here?
Who do we trust? Believe?
This becomes the true mystery – Wren’s past, and why she is obsessed with Adam.
The problem is that the book, although starting off solidly, slipped in credibility as it went on. Did I need to suspend disbelief?
And when I think that, I wonder if I am truly enjoying the story anymore.
Maybe you will feel differently.
Still, this story is dark, spine-tingling, and very, very uncomfortable. Enter at your own risk.
For Wren, our first-person narrator, who speaks of Adam Harper, the antagonist, in second person, we are not sure what is in store for these two people who meet this way.
As readers, we feel like we are inside Wren’s head as she carries on a conversation with him.
This exchange feels compelling. And suddenly, there is a sense of danger – physically, emotionally and psychologically.
Why?
And when Adam ghosts Wren, after she falls for him, why is she so intent on finding him?
And for readers the questions become…
What is really going on here?
Who do we trust? Believe?
This becomes the true mystery – Wren’s past, and why she is obsessed with Adam.
The problem is that the book, although starting off solidly, slipped in credibility as it went on. Did I need to suspend disbelief?
And when I think that, I wonder if I am truly enjoying the story anymore.
Maybe you will feel differently.
Still, this story is dark, spine-tingling, and very, very uncomfortable. Enter at your own risk.
November 3, 2021
After hooking up with Adam using an online dating app, Wren believes she has made a meaningful, powerful connection with him. Three months later, Adam vanishes, ghosting Wren and deleting all his contact information, his Torch profile, and disconnecting his cell phone. Secrets, buried pasts, identity, and vengeance are explored as Wren tries to figure out who Adam is. The search for Adam forces Wren to confront her childhood and her father, who insisted his family live off the grid.
Things I liked
I liked Wren, she is engaging, intelligent, and witty, and I was drawn into her life and wanted to know about her buried past. Her actions and motivation were convincing enough to root for her.
“But the truth is, you can’t hide from yourself. No matter how hard you try.” ~Wren
Second-person narration is used as Wren talks to Adam. While this can be off-putting for some readers, I like the use of it.
Things I didn’t like as much.
The story’s climax was too drawn out, and it lost some tension and suspense to the story, and I started to lose patience with it. The ending is rewarding, and I am glad I held in there for it.
I received a copy from the publisher through Edelweiss
Things I liked
I liked Wren, she is engaging, intelligent, and witty, and I was drawn into her life and wanted to know about her buried past. Her actions and motivation were convincing enough to root for her.
“But the truth is, you can’t hide from yourself. No matter how hard you try.” ~Wren
Second-person narration is used as Wren talks to Adam. While this can be off-putting for some readers, I like the use of it.
Things I didn’t like as much.
The story’s climax was too drawn out, and it lost some tension and suspense to the story, and I started to lose patience with it. The ending is rewarding, and I am glad I held in there for it.
I received a copy from the publisher through Edelweiss
October 19, 2021
I honestly don’t know what to say, but not because it was really good, but just because it wasn’t really interesting enough for me. It did have me in the beginning, but I’m not exactly sure where it lost me. I did like the use of second person in some areas. I don’t read a lot of books with second person.
3.5⭐️
3.5⭐️
May 20, 2023
When Wren Greenwood saw Adam Parker’s dating profile on Torch, there was just something about him that drew her in. That interest ignited for real when they met for the first time at a bar in New York City. And with the passing months, their seemingly mutual attraction merely grew stronger.
Until one night when he stands her up. Sure that there’s a good explanation, Wren walks the short distance to Adam’s apartment. But when she gets there, the confusing truth before her threatens to overwhelm Wren. Only hours later it goes from bad to worse when his phone is disconnected and his social media profiles are deleted. She’s been ghosted by the one man Wren thought she could trust with her heart.
Trying to work out what happened, Wren wonders if maybe she shared too much too fast. But she is soon shocked to learn that she is not the first woman who may have been targeted by Adam. Far from it. No, when private investigator Bailey Kirk comes calling, she is horrified to find out that Adam may be tied to a the disappearances of several young women.
Determined to find out the truth, Wren begins to follow a seedy trail that takes her into the dark side of the internet. The more she learns, the less she’s sure of. But one thing is certain, the mysterious man she fell for just may be connected to her own past. And the more she hunts for answers, the more Wren realizes that, in this game of cat-and-mouse, she is destined to either be the hunter or the prey. Will she be able to find her answers before it’s too late? Or is she taking her life in her hands simply by giving pursuit?
Only the second book by Lisa Unger that I’ve read, I was uncertain of what kind of ride Last Girl Ghosted would provide. What I found was both addictive and thrilling in a slow building suspense sort of way that grabbed me from page one and didn’t let go. Truly spine-tingling, this even-paced, gritty, surprise-filled cat-and-mouse mystery is not for the faint of heart. Don’t worry, though, nothing turned my stomach particularly (this is no Karin Slaughter book), although there was one rather bothersome deer hunting scene. Not that it unsettled me particularly.
So what drew me in so immediately? Well to start off with, the foundation of heartrending and emotional trauma was both true-to-life and wholly believable. This extended not just through the plot, but to the core of each of the characters as well. It was so well done, in fact, that they each felt as if they’d been ripped straight from the real world. I can only guess this isn’t an easy feat for a writer, so roaring applause for that one, Ms. Unger!
What else? Well, let’s touch on the plot, shall we? Told via two timelines that focused almost exclusively on Wren’s POV, they intertwined beautifully. Even more surprising, neither timeline seemed to drag or cause my attention to wander, which is unusual to say the least. No, instead I was riveted by what the past could impart about the woman Wren had become. Piece by piece she was revealed as someone damaged extensively by trauma, but ultimately stronger than even she might have known. Three cheers for this clever character development.
So, if you are looking for a dark and disturbing tale filled with foreboding and suspense, this book is definitely for you. Just don’t expect it to be fast-paced or plot-driven. No, in this one the characters are the star of the show, which is a nice change of pace from my thriller dominated TBR. Magically, however, it somehow didn’t wander into women’s lit territory, so have no fear. In my opinion, Last Girl Ghosted reminded me of some of B.A. Paris’s more successful novels, so if you’re a fan of hers, I definitely recommend checking this one out. Now for a hard choice: which Unger book to read next. For those in the know, any suggestions? Rating of 5+ stars.
Trigger warning: death of a parent as a child, child and spousal abuse, attempted sexual assault, school shooting, mention of: fatal house fire, drug addiction
Until one night when he stands her up. Sure that there’s a good explanation, Wren walks the short distance to Adam’s apartment. But when she gets there, the confusing truth before her threatens to overwhelm Wren. Only hours later it goes from bad to worse when his phone is disconnected and his social media profiles are deleted. She’s been ghosted by the one man Wren thought she could trust with her heart.
Trying to work out what happened, Wren wonders if maybe she shared too much too fast. But she is soon shocked to learn that she is not the first woman who may have been targeted by Adam. Far from it. No, when private investigator Bailey Kirk comes calling, she is horrified to find out that Adam may be tied to a the disappearances of several young women.
Determined to find out the truth, Wren begins to follow a seedy trail that takes her into the dark side of the internet. The more she learns, the less she’s sure of. But one thing is certain, the mysterious man she fell for just may be connected to her own past. And the more she hunts for answers, the more Wren realizes that, in this game of cat-and-mouse, she is destined to either be the hunter or the prey. Will she be able to find her answers before it’s too late? Or is she taking her life in her hands simply by giving pursuit?
Only the second book by Lisa Unger that I’ve read, I was uncertain of what kind of ride Last Girl Ghosted would provide. What I found was both addictive and thrilling in a slow building suspense sort of way that grabbed me from page one and didn’t let go. Truly spine-tingling, this even-paced, gritty, surprise-filled cat-and-mouse mystery is not for the faint of heart. Don’t worry, though, nothing turned my stomach particularly (this is no Karin Slaughter book), although there was one rather bothersome deer hunting scene. Not that it unsettled me particularly.
So what drew me in so immediately? Well to start off with, the foundation of heartrending and emotional trauma was both true-to-life and wholly believable. This extended not just through the plot, but to the core of each of the characters as well. It was so well done, in fact, that they each felt as if they’d been ripped straight from the real world. I can only guess this isn’t an easy feat for a writer, so roaring applause for that one, Ms. Unger!
What else? Well, let’s touch on the plot, shall we? Told via two timelines that focused almost exclusively on Wren’s POV, they intertwined beautifully. Even more surprising, neither timeline seemed to drag or cause my attention to wander, which is unusual to say the least. No, instead I was riveted by what the past could impart about the woman Wren had become. Piece by piece she was revealed as someone damaged extensively by trauma, but ultimately stronger than even she might have known. Three cheers for this clever character development.
So, if you are looking for a dark and disturbing tale filled with foreboding and suspense, this book is definitely for you. Just don’t expect it to be fast-paced or plot-driven. No, in this one the characters are the star of the show, which is a nice change of pace from my thriller dominated TBR. Magically, however, it somehow didn’t wander into women’s lit territory, so have no fear. In my opinion, Last Girl Ghosted reminded me of some of B.A. Paris’s more successful novels, so if you’re a fan of hers, I definitely recommend checking this one out. Now for a hard choice: which Unger book to read next. For those in the know, any suggestions? Rating of 5+ stars.
Trigger warning: death of a parent as a child, child and spousal abuse, attempted sexual assault, school shooting, mention of: fatal house fire, drug addiction
November 22, 2021
This is definitely not my most favorite read by Unger, just middle of road for me. I was all in at the beginning and then things sort of stalled out. It seemed like there was two plotlines/stories wove in and in my opinion would have been better sticking to one or the other.
We start out with Wren being ghosted and there is some mystery surrounding why( besides the obvious). Then it flips gears and explores Wrens tragic past, but it’s only revealed in snippets….the reveal seems to take forever to get there and you can pretty much see it coming form a mile away. Ending does circle back and tie things together.
Each part opens with a reveal from a few other characters but we never really get much of a feel for their POV and would have liked a little more from that aspect and cut down a bit of Wrens backstory.
all in all an ok read but not there are better ones out there by this author. I did enjoy the tie in to the hollows !
We start out with Wren being ghosted and there is some mystery surrounding why( besides the obvious). Then it flips gears and explores Wrens tragic past, but it’s only revealed in snippets….the reveal seems to take forever to get there and you can pretty much see it coming form a mile away. Ending does circle back and tie things together.
Each part opens with a reveal from a few other characters but we never really get much of a feel for their POV and would have liked a little more from that aspect and cut down a bit of Wrens backstory.
all in all an ok read but not there are better ones out there by this author. I did enjoy the tie in to the hollows !
October 19, 2021
I am always intrigued by books that have anything to do with social media and lately I have had plenty to choose from. I'm a fan of Lisa Unger so deciding to read this was a no brainer for me.
The beginning of the story was gripping but I found that it slowed down a little for me as the story went on. However, I'm glad I stuck with it. I liked how it all came together in the end.
Overall, an enjoyable story. I look forward to reading more from the very talented Lisa Unger.
The beginning of the story was gripping but I found that it slowed down a little for me as the story went on. However, I'm glad I stuck with it. I liked how it all came together in the end.
Overall, an enjoyable story. I look forward to reading more from the very talented Lisa Unger.
November 3, 2024
I have such a weakness for new releases specially with beautiful covers.
I should have learned by now to wait for the hype to die before picking up a copy.
Fortunately I have The Toronto Public Library to thank for providing me with a free copy.
Anyways…
This was my first time listening to an audiobook completely without simultaneously reading the book. The audiobook was narrated by Vivienne Leheny, who did a good job, but after awhile I had to increase the speed to 1.50x, otherwise I would have fallen asleep.
This book started very well and kept a good pace.
I did enjoy the writing but I did not find the storyline that gripping or original. The development was interesting, but sometime repetitive (how many times the mysterious man was mentioned as being a terrific lover?). Also, the main character was extremely naive and obsessed by this man, who she dated for only 3 months. And she has an extremely successful carrier, given people advices such as which is the best way to approach or solve a situation, especially relationships. So unbelievable.
The timeline structure (Now and Then) was good, but I do think that the author lost some direction after 50%, I’m not sure.
The conclusion wasn’t very clever and some questions were left unanswered.
I’m not a fan of books that portrays women as being desperate, weak and gullible, especially if the events occurs in the 21st century, but I know that they exist (men as well).
Although this is a work of fiction, the “on line dating” scams do exist and lots of people fall for it every minute.
I hope that this book will serve as an eye opener to some readers.
Unfortunately I cannot recommend this book.
Only curiosity kept me going.
PS. This is my fourth book by this author. And again she barely reached 3 stars. I do own 3 more hardcovers, sitting on my shelves, unopened.
I should have learned by now to wait for the hype to die before picking up a copy.
Fortunately I have The Toronto Public Library to thank for providing me with a free copy.
Anyways…
This was my first time listening to an audiobook completely without simultaneously reading the book. The audiobook was narrated by Vivienne Leheny, who did a good job, but after awhile I had to increase the speed to 1.50x, otherwise I would have fallen asleep.
This book started very well and kept a good pace.
I did enjoy the writing but I did not find the storyline that gripping or original. The development was interesting, but sometime repetitive (how many times the mysterious man was mentioned as being a terrific lover?). Also, the main character was extremely naive and obsessed by this man, who she dated for only 3 months. And she has an extremely successful carrier, given people advices such as which is the best way to approach or solve a situation, especially relationships. So unbelievable.
The timeline structure (Now and Then) was good, but I do think that the author lost some direction after 50%, I’m not sure.
The conclusion wasn’t very clever and some questions were left unanswered.
I’m not a fan of books that portrays women as being desperate, weak and gullible, especially if the events occurs in the 21st century, but I know that they exist (men as well).
Although this is a work of fiction, the “on line dating” scams do exist and lots of people fall for it every minute.
I hope that this book will serve as an eye opener to some readers.
Unfortunately I cannot recommend this book.
Only curiosity kept me going.
PS. This is my fourth book by this author. And again she barely reached 3 stars. I do own 3 more hardcovers, sitting on my shelves, unopened.
October 9, 2021
I fell out of love with this book because I was frustrated by Wren’s actions. As a successful agony-aunt, she is very good at giving out advice but rubbish at following her own common sense! This dating thriller fell flat about half-way through the story as it became a game of cat and mouse with no real sense of danger or threat.
Unger’s story is definitely reflective of the times with using apps to find your true love. Wren has not gone on many dates but it would seem her connection with Adam is genuine. Consumed by her feelings for him, it doesn’t take long for the couple to call in to the honeymoon stage of their relationship: they cannot spend enough time together and isolate themselves from their friends. Although Wren’s close friend, Jax, voices concerns, this does not step Wren from falling deeper in love with Adam. Convinced that this is a secure relationship, Wren opens up to him in a way that she hasn’t ever before. However, the following day, Adam abruptly disappears. No responses to her texts, a phone that goes to voicemail, and uncertainty over where he actually lives, Wren comes to the realisation that she has been ghosted.
Yet, this is just the beginning. Although Wren advises people of New York city about how to handle relationships, she seems a fool when it comes to her own. There is even an acceptance from the character herself that she cannot follow her own advice. Rather than letting this relationship pass her by, Wren’s obsession with wanting to know more leads her back to her home town. It is at this point that the novel takes a different turn and rather than just being about an obnoxious man who suddenly dumps women, there is a focus on Wren’s family and her childhood. It all gets a bit sinister.
I was intrigued by Wren’s past and could not foresee how the plot would develop. This was definitely an important element as I struggled to sympathise with Wren’s circumstances. Even when a Private Investigator calls at Wren’s house, also searching for Adam, does she not take this as a warning to back off and move on with life. It’s a grim portrayal from Unger about how people can be fully invested in a relationship but this is not always returned.
About half way through the novel, I decided that I could not feel sorry for Wren because she was behaving so erratically. Despite being respected for her sound advice to others, she sure made some foolish decisions and could not see how ill-thought her actions were. I couldn’t understand the appeal to Adam because he behaves like a jerk but, I guess Wren was reflecting the known proverb of love being blind.
Although my attention in this story did wander, I found myself being gripped again in the last few chapters. I was curious to see how the plot would conclude and Unger does the story justice. Therefore, I think the best parts of the book were the first and final quarters, with the rest a bit slow and lacking tension. It was a good concept for a story but, because I was so annoyed with Wren, this impacted how much I enjoyed it.
I know that this writer is well-celebrated for their thrilling books but this one did not deliver. It’s my first read by this author and I will certainly not be put-off with this taster! This read is a decent enough thriller that explores the emotions of developing relationships. The hidden past adds a different dimension to the story but I think a bit more tension and excitement would have been well-received.
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Unger’s story is definitely reflective of the times with using apps to find your true love. Wren has not gone on many dates but it would seem her connection with Adam is genuine. Consumed by her feelings for him, it doesn’t take long for the couple to call in to the honeymoon stage of their relationship: they cannot spend enough time together and isolate themselves from their friends. Although Wren’s close friend, Jax, voices concerns, this does not step Wren from falling deeper in love with Adam. Convinced that this is a secure relationship, Wren opens up to him in a way that she hasn’t ever before. However, the following day, Adam abruptly disappears. No responses to her texts, a phone that goes to voicemail, and uncertainty over where he actually lives, Wren comes to the realisation that she has been ghosted.
Yet, this is just the beginning. Although Wren advises people of New York city about how to handle relationships, she seems a fool when it comes to her own. There is even an acceptance from the character herself that she cannot follow her own advice. Rather than letting this relationship pass her by, Wren’s obsession with wanting to know more leads her back to her home town. It is at this point that the novel takes a different turn and rather than just being about an obnoxious man who suddenly dumps women, there is a focus on Wren’s family and her childhood. It all gets a bit sinister.
I was intrigued by Wren’s past and could not foresee how the plot would develop. This was definitely an important element as I struggled to sympathise with Wren’s circumstances. Even when a Private Investigator calls at Wren’s house, also searching for Adam, does she not take this as a warning to back off and move on with life. It’s a grim portrayal from Unger about how people can be fully invested in a relationship but this is not always returned.
About half way through the novel, I decided that I could not feel sorry for Wren because she was behaving so erratically. Despite being respected for her sound advice to others, she sure made some foolish decisions and could not see how ill-thought her actions were. I couldn’t understand the appeal to Adam because he behaves like a jerk but, I guess Wren was reflecting the known proverb of love being blind.
Although my attention in this story did wander, I found myself being gripped again in the last few chapters. I was curious to see how the plot would conclude and Unger does the story justice. Therefore, I think the best parts of the book were the first and final quarters, with the rest a bit slow and lacking tension. It was a good concept for a story but, because I was so annoyed with Wren, this impacted how much I enjoyed it.
I know that this writer is well-celebrated for their thrilling books but this one did not deliver. It’s my first read by this author and I will certainly not be put-off with this taster! This read is a decent enough thriller that explores the emotions of developing relationships. The hidden past adds a different dimension to the story but I think a bit more tension and excitement would have been well-received.
With thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This was a good contemporary mystery/thriller about a woman that joined a dating app, met a boy, fell in love, trusted the boy, was ghosted by the boy, then discovered the boy's dark secrets.
Wren had a troubled childhood but came out stronger. She anonymously writes an advice column for people with serious problems, and also has a companion podcast where she discusses the letters she answers. She has a safe and comfortable life.
Wren hasn't had a serious relationship in a long time and her best friend convinces her to try a dating app. After a couple of meaningless nights with dates, she matches with Adam. He is serious and intense and Wren's connection with him is instantaneous. The pair see each other almost every night and Wren sees a future with him. One night Wren shares her dark past with Adam and she feels even closer to him. The next day, however, Adam tells her that something has happened and he has to leave. Now. Before she knows what's happened, Adam disappears from her life as quickly as he dropped into it.
As Wren tries to reconnect with Adam, she is approached by a private investigator who is also looking for Adam, but for very different reasons. Other girls are missing that were connected to him. Wren is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery surrounding Adam - or whatever his name is - and find out what happened to the missing girls. But will she end up missing herself?
The book started out really well and had me hooked. Once the book changed to a cat and mouse game between Wren, the private investigator and Adam, however, I think it lost a bit of focus. The book deals with some heavy subjects, including physical and mental abuse. There were times when the book was down right creepy, and that is a good thing. It's also set at the very beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, so that added to the scary atmosphere of the book.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and recommend you read it. I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Park Row. All opinions are my own.
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This was a good contemporary mystery/thriller about a woman that joined a dating app, met a boy, fell in love, trusted the boy, was ghosted by the boy, then discovered the boy's dark secrets.
Wren had a troubled childhood but came out stronger. She anonymously writes an advice column for people with serious problems, and also has a companion podcast where she discusses the letters she answers. She has a safe and comfortable life.
Wren hasn't had a serious relationship in a long time and her best friend convinces her to try a dating app. After a couple of meaningless nights with dates, she matches with Adam. He is serious and intense and Wren's connection with him is instantaneous. The pair see each other almost every night and Wren sees a future with him. One night Wren shares her dark past with Adam and she feels even closer to him. The next day, however, Adam tells her that something has happened and he has to leave. Now. Before she knows what's happened, Adam disappears from her life as quickly as he dropped into it.
As Wren tries to reconnect with Adam, she is approached by a private investigator who is also looking for Adam, but for very different reasons. Other girls are missing that were connected to him. Wren is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery surrounding Adam - or whatever his name is - and find out what happened to the missing girls. But will she end up missing herself?
The book started out really well and had me hooked. Once the book changed to a cat and mouse game between Wren, the private investigator and Adam, however, I think it lost a bit of focus. The book deals with some heavy subjects, including physical and mental abuse. There were times when the book was down right creepy, and that is a good thing. It's also set at the very beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, so that added to the scary atmosphere of the book.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and recommend you read it. I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Park Row. All opinions are my own.
October 4, 2021
Lisa Unger is an author that you can rely on a twisty tale. Last Girl Ghosted is a dark and unsettling story of betrayal, secrets, family and so much more. I flew through this in a day, needing to know what was going to happen next. It will keep you guessing and needing more.
Wren Greenwood is convinced by her bestie Jax to find love online. She is skeptical but then she meets Adam and falls hard. They are happy and life is good. And then Adam disappears, he doesn't answer any calls or texts, his online presence is wiped - completely ghosted. Wren soon learns that she is not the first girl that "Adam" has done this to and her curiosity gets the better of her and she sets out to find him. Little does she know where it will take her. She will have to confront a past that she would rather forget to get answers.
Really well done and highly addictive. Thanks to HQ and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read.
Wren Greenwood is convinced by her bestie Jax to find love online. She is skeptical but then she meets Adam and falls hard. They are happy and life is good. And then Adam disappears, he doesn't answer any calls or texts, his online presence is wiped - completely ghosted. Wren soon learns that she is not the first girl that "Adam" has done this to and her curiosity gets the better of her and she sets out to find him. Little does she know where it will take her. She will have to confront a past that she would rather forget to get answers.
Really well done and highly addictive. Thanks to HQ and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read.
December 19, 2021
LAST GIRL GHOSTED is a dark mystery/thriller by international bestseller author Lisa Unger. It is a dark and disturbing story of secrets, obsession, betrayal, and vengeance. This exciting thriller about an online dating match turned deadly cat-and-mouse game, from the New York Times bestselling author of Confessions on the 7:45. This novel will keep you guessing in order to know what was going to happen next.
Wren Greenwood a successful columnist and blogger, but a loner with a secret past, is convinced by her best friend to sign up for an online dating app and see who she can meet. When she does, she finds an intriguing picture of a guy named Adam; they meet at a downtown bar, and for the first time in her life, there was a powerful connection with a perfect stranger and Wren thinks she's in love. She had fallen for him hard.
Wren and Adam are happy but soon after, at their most recent arranged meeting, he stood her up! He didn’t answer any calls or texts His phone had been disconnected and all his online profiles were gone. She had been ghosted!
What had she done wrong? Maybe it was her fault. She shared too much, too fast. But she soon learns that she is not the first girl that Adam did this to. Wren is visited by a private detective Bailey Kirk; representing the father of another young woman who went missing after hooking up with a guy online who looks just like Adam. Or, when a couple of other women met up with him turn out to be missing as well.
Now she wanted answers. She had to find him! Chasing a digital trail into his dark past—and hers—she finds herself on a dangerous hunt. And she's not sure whether she's the predator—or the prey.
Now what follows is a fast paced, thrilling game of cat and mouse.
Most of the story is told by Wren POV and sometimes Bailey; with flashbacks to scenes from Wren's frantic childhood.
Last Girl Ghosted is a well-written fast-paced mystery/thriller with well-developed characters and a believable, twisty plot leading up to an unexpected conclusion.
Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for my digital copy.
Wren Greenwood a successful columnist and blogger, but a loner with a secret past, is convinced by her best friend to sign up for an online dating app and see who she can meet. When she does, she finds an intriguing picture of a guy named Adam; they meet at a downtown bar, and for the first time in her life, there was a powerful connection with a perfect stranger and Wren thinks she's in love. She had fallen for him hard.
Wren and Adam are happy but soon after, at their most recent arranged meeting, he stood her up! He didn’t answer any calls or texts His phone had been disconnected and all his online profiles were gone. She had been ghosted!
What had she done wrong? Maybe it was her fault. She shared too much, too fast. But she soon learns that she is not the first girl that Adam did this to. Wren is visited by a private detective Bailey Kirk; representing the father of another young woman who went missing after hooking up with a guy online who looks just like Adam. Or, when a couple of other women met up with him turn out to be missing as well.
Now she wanted answers. She had to find him! Chasing a digital trail into his dark past—and hers—she finds herself on a dangerous hunt. And she's not sure whether she's the predator—or the prey.
Now what follows is a fast paced, thrilling game of cat and mouse.
Most of the story is told by Wren POV and sometimes Bailey; with flashbacks to scenes from Wren's frantic childhood.
Last Girl Ghosted is a well-written fast-paced mystery/thriller with well-developed characters and a believable, twisty plot leading up to an unexpected conclusion.
Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for my digital copy.
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