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Her Last Words
A murder. A missing manuscript. An undying love.
Thisbe Chisholm wants to be a writer. It's 2007, a time of digital revolution and skyrocketing property prices, but she's an old-fashioned girl. She doesn't even own a mobile phone. She has no stars-in-her-eyes desire for fame, to see her name on the cover of a book, either. She longs only to tell of the stories written on her heart.
While her best friends, Penny and Jane, and her darling boyfriend, John, seem set for stellar careers in their chosen fields, Thisbe works nights as a hostess at a glitzy harbourside Sydney club - a job she despises but it's paid the rent for the last three years since university graduation.
Just as she completes her novel, though, she is brutally killed at the end of John's street.
Who murdered Thisbe? What will become of her novel?
From the gritty glamour of Bondi Beach to the cold streets of London, here is a tale of tragedy and literary betrayal, of a publishing industry grappling with change and a great love drowning in guilt-wracked grief. Haunting, whimsical and sharply observed, Her Last Words lays bare the truth that, while some crimes might go unpunished among the privileged, words themselves have a way of enduring - and exacting a justice all their own.
Praise for Kim Kelly
'deeply moving...alive, full-hearted and shimmering with hope' - Belinda Castles, Bluebottle
'Kelly is a masterful creator of character and voice.' - Julian Leatherdale, Palace of Tears
'history that makes you think as well as feel' - Wendy James, The Golden Child
'an author who writes with such a striking sense of atmosphere and sublime instinct' - Theresa Smith Writes
'storytelling is clearly encoded in her DNA' - Writerful Books
'It is uplifting to know that there are people who can write like this, with clarity, a bit of devilment and a hint of a smile.' Canberra Times
'marvellous depth and authenticity based on some impressive research, and her characters, plot and fluid prose draw the reader into this world' - Daily Telegraph
'colourful, evocative and energetic' - Sydney Morning Herald
'storytelling that breaks the rules so beautifully' - Jenn J McLeod, A Place to Remember
'Kim Kelly's writing is magnificent' - With Love for Books
'told with wit, warmth and courage' - Kylie Mason, The Newtown Review of Books
'vivid and enthralling' - Lisa Walker, The Girl with the Gold Bikini
'simply superb' - Karen Brooks, The Darkest Shore
Thisbe Chisholm wants to be a writer. It's 2007, a time of digital revolution and skyrocketing property prices, but she's an old-fashioned girl. She doesn't even own a mobile phone. She has no stars-in-her-eyes desire for fame, to see her name on the cover of a book, either. She longs only to tell of the stories written on her heart.
While her best friends, Penny and Jane, and her darling boyfriend, John, seem set for stellar careers in their chosen fields, Thisbe works nights as a hostess at a glitzy harbourside Sydney club - a job she despises but it's paid the rent for the last three years since university graduation.
Just as she completes her novel, though, she is brutally killed at the end of John's street.
Who murdered Thisbe? What will become of her novel?
From the gritty glamour of Bondi Beach to the cold streets of London, here is a tale of tragedy and literary betrayal, of a publishing industry grappling with change and a great love drowning in guilt-wracked grief. Haunting, whimsical and sharply observed, Her Last Words lays bare the truth that, while some crimes might go unpunished among the privileged, words themselves have a way of enduring - and exacting a justice all their own.
Praise for Kim Kelly
'deeply moving...alive, full-hearted and shimmering with hope' - Belinda Castles, Bluebottle
'Kelly is a masterful creator of character and voice.' - Julian Leatherdale, Palace of Tears
'history that makes you think as well as feel' - Wendy James, The Golden Child
'an author who writes with such a striking sense of atmosphere and sublime instinct' - Theresa Smith Writes
'storytelling is clearly encoded in her DNA' - Writerful Books
'It is uplifting to know that there are people who can write like this, with clarity, a bit of devilment and a hint of a smile.' Canberra Times
'marvellous depth and authenticity based on some impressive research, and her characters, plot and fluid prose draw the reader into this world' - Daily Telegraph
'colourful, evocative and energetic' - Sydney Morning Herald
'storytelling that breaks the rules so beautifully' - Jenn J McLeod, A Place to Remember
'Kim Kelly's writing is magnificent' - With Love for Books
'told with wit, warmth and courage' - Kylie Mason, The Newtown Review of Books
'vivid and enthralling' - Lisa Walker, The Girl with the Gold Bikini
'simply superb' - Karen Brooks, The Darkest Shore
Paperback
First published July 7, 2020
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About the author
Kim Kelly
14 books188 followers‘Why can’t more people write like this?’ – The Age
‘colourful, evocative and energetic’ – Sydney Morning Herald
Kim Kelly is author thirteen novels. Among them are the bestselling, The Blue Mile, and critically acclaimed, Wild Chicory. Her novella, The Rat Catcher, was longlisted for the ARA Historical Novel Prize, and her latest, Ladies' Rest and Writing Room, was awarded the Finlay Lloyd 20/40 Prize.
Also a well-known book editor, Kim has a Master of Creative Writing from Macquarie University, for which she earned the Fred Rush Convocation Prize for writing. She is currently undertaking a PhD in literature at Macquarie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
January 15, 2021
Keep a box of tissues handy for this one. It is a roller coaster ride of emotions.
The blurb for Her Last Words led me to expect a mystery but that was a small part of this book. Yes someone dies and yes we have to wait until the end to find out who caused it, but the real story is the aftermath of the death and the repercussions on those left behind. Kelly writes a very good picture of depression, how it feels to the individual and how that affects those who are trying to help.
The book is not all sadness and woe though. The romances are delightful, the dialogue realistic and entertaining and there are plenty of uplifting moments. I wished I could have sat down with my box of tissues and read the whole book end to end in one go, it was so engaging. Life got in the way so I could not do that, but I grabbed the book back up every moment I got.
I must also mention this is a book for booklovers - lots of references to different titles, people employed in bookish settings, missing manuscripts and more. This is a genuinely good read and I totally recommend it.
The blurb for Her Last Words led me to expect a mystery but that was a small part of this book. Yes someone dies and yes we have to wait until the end to find out who caused it, but the real story is the aftermath of the death and the repercussions on those left behind. Kelly writes a very good picture of depression, how it feels to the individual and how that affects those who are trying to help.
The book is not all sadness and woe though. The romances are delightful, the dialogue realistic and entertaining and there are plenty of uplifting moments. I wished I could have sat down with my box of tissues and read the whole book end to end in one go, it was so engaging. Life got in the way so I could not do that, but I grabbed the book back up every moment I got.
I must also mention this is a book for booklovers - lots of references to different titles, people employed in bookish settings, missing manuscripts and more. This is a genuinely good read and I totally recommend it.
May 10, 2021
Her Last Words by Aussie author Kim Kelly was a truly delightful book to read. I wasn't sure what to expect with this one and I must say it was so good that I didn't want it to end.
This book was a bit different to what the author normally writes, but it was still a very well written story about, grief, friendship and love and one that will stay with the reader for a long time after they have read it. I have read a few books by this author and have enjoyed all of them, including this one. Highly recommended.
This book was a bit different to what the author normally writes, but it was still a very well written story about, grief, friendship and love and one that will stay with the reader for a long time after they have read it. I have read a few books by this author and have enjoyed all of them, including this one. Highly recommended.
July 3, 2020
John Jacobson was tired after a long day and with his long-time girlfriend, Thisbe Chisholm, wanting him to read her manuscript which she’d just finished, he knew he wouldn’t have the concentration levels required. Thisbe was excited, and expectant of his desire to read it – but when he wouldn’t oblige, they fought. John’s level of grief and guilt on learning of her death that very same night, wouldn’t leave him. Thisbe’s best friend Penny, while shocked and saddened, immediately decided to look after John for Thisbe…
Thisbe had always wanted to write and with Penny working for a publishing house, she’d hoped Penny would look it over for her. But the manuscript vanished when she was murdered, and for the following seven years, with no resolution to Thisbe’s murder, John and Penny muddled along, still grieving but trying to move forward. When Penny met Irish book shop owner, Rich O’Driscoll, around the corner from John’s house, Rich was instrumental in the reopening of Thisbe’s case.
Set in Sydney, Aussie author Kim Kelly’s latest release, Her Last Words, is a foray into a different genre for her. With mostly historical fiction to her name – all titles I’ve loved – this is contemporary with a little crime on the side. An excellent story, it’s one about love and grief, about publishers in the current industry, about betrayal and hope. Her Last Words made me laugh, made me sad and made me think. A thoroughly enjoyable read, Her Last Words is one I highly recommend. Oh, and I absolutely love the cover!
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Thisbe had always wanted to write and with Penny working for a publishing house, she’d hoped Penny would look it over for her. But the manuscript vanished when she was murdered, and for the following seven years, with no resolution to Thisbe’s murder, John and Penny muddled along, still grieving but trying to move forward. When Penny met Irish book shop owner, Rich O’Driscoll, around the corner from John’s house, Rich was instrumental in the reopening of Thisbe’s case.
Set in Sydney, Aussie author Kim Kelly’s latest release, Her Last Words, is a foray into a different genre for her. With mostly historical fiction to her name – all titles I’ve loved – this is contemporary with a little crime on the side. An excellent story, it’s one about love and grief, about publishers in the current industry, about betrayal and hope. Her Last Words made me laugh, made me sad and made me think. A thoroughly enjoyable read, Her Last Words is one I highly recommend. Oh, and I absolutely love the cover!
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2021
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**3.5 stars**
Her Last Words by Kim Kelly. (2020).
A murder. A missing manuscript. An undying love... It's 2007. Thisbe wants to be a writer. She doesn't long for fame, only to tell of the stories written on her heart. While her best friends, Penny and Jane, and her darling boyfriend John seem set for stellar careers in their chosen fields, Thisbe works nights as a hostess (a job she despises) to pay bills. Just as she completes her novel, she is killed at the end of John's street. Who murdered Thisbe? What will become of her novel? Here is a tale of tragedy and literary betrayal, of a publishing industry grappling with change and a great love drowning in guilt-wracked grief.
This is a review that I've found quite difficult to write, and also a book that I found quite hard to rate. While I think the author wrote beautifully and I appreciate what the novel was about, I found the majority of it fairly depressing and got me down a bit. The novel finishes in a more positive place which I liked but the journey there is hard for a lot of the characters. From the beginning, it would be hard for anyone to not feel for John: he is utterly broken by the death of his partner, with whom he argued with right before her death. When the story moves ahead seven years, John is still heartbroken and full of despair and guilt; it's painful to read but also I imagine a very realistic portrayal. The novel includes perspectives of several different characters, with some featuring more than others, but all being affected somehow by the death of Thisbe even if they did not know her.
Overall: this a story you won't forget in a hurry but I would note that I think you would need to be in the right frame of mind to read this one to fully appreciate it.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
**3.5 stars**
Her Last Words by Kim Kelly. (2020).
A murder. A missing manuscript. An undying love... It's 2007. Thisbe wants to be a writer. She doesn't long for fame, only to tell of the stories written on her heart. While her best friends, Penny and Jane, and her darling boyfriend John seem set for stellar careers in their chosen fields, Thisbe works nights as a hostess (a job she despises) to pay bills. Just as she completes her novel, she is killed at the end of John's street. Who murdered Thisbe? What will become of her novel? Here is a tale of tragedy and literary betrayal, of a publishing industry grappling with change and a great love drowning in guilt-wracked grief.
This is a review that I've found quite difficult to write, and also a book that I found quite hard to rate. While I think the author wrote beautifully and I appreciate what the novel was about, I found the majority of it fairly depressing and got me down a bit. The novel finishes in a more positive place which I liked but the journey there is hard for a lot of the characters. From the beginning, it would be hard for anyone to not feel for John: he is utterly broken by the death of his partner, with whom he argued with right before her death. When the story moves ahead seven years, John is still heartbroken and full of despair and guilt; it's painful to read but also I imagine a very realistic portrayal. The novel includes perspectives of several different characters, with some featuring more than others, but all being affected somehow by the death of Thisbe even if they did not know her.
Overall: this a story you won't forget in a hurry but I would note that I think you would need to be in the right frame of mind to read this one to fully appreciate it.
July 28, 2020
Her Last Words is the tenth novel by Australian author, Kim Kelly. On a hot summer’s evening in 2007, Thisbe Chisholm was murdered while walking home along Bondi Road. She’d left her boyfriend, John Jacobson in a huff. It looked like a robbery with assault, but it was never realised, not even by the bookseller on whose doorstep it was left, that the theft included a black leather satchel containing the first draft of her debut novel.
Seven years later, the inquest into Thisbe’s death resolves very little: it exonerates John, but provides no satisfaction to those grieving her loss. Meanwhile, in London, Thisbe’s one-time flatmate, Jane Furlow is celebrating her publishing debut. Primed by the unmissable buzz and hype surrounding the publication of the novella, Thisbe’s publisher friend, Penny Katschinski is surprised that Jane has the talent to produce a literary work, but certainly interested to read it.
In his tiny, failing bookshop on Bondi Rd, Rich O’Driscoll has an advance copy of The Wakening Maid which, on reading, immediately brings to mind the pages in the dusty black leather satchel. He needs no further encouragement to contact the attractive publisher who called in to Bookish earlier; what he’s not prepared for is her reaction to the dusty black leather backpack.
Kelly perfectly captures her setting and the era, and if some aspects of the plot are perhaps predictable, the way it unfolds makes this, nonetheless, a gripping read. Her characters are well-rounded and their dialogue, credible, exactly what is heard in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs. While those with infectious diseases knowledge may fault her medical research, this can be ignored by most readers in favour of a well told story.
As well as giving the reader an intimate look into the world of publishing and copyright, Kelly also touches on mental illness and suicide, and the plight of the small, independent bookshop. And Rich O’Driscoll’s words will resonate will any avid reader: “Not for the first time, he wished he could somehow download all the books he wouldn’t ordinarily read onto a chip in his brain”. A very enjoyable read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by The Pigeonhole and Jazz Monkey Publications.
Seven years later, the inquest into Thisbe’s death resolves very little: it exonerates John, but provides no satisfaction to those grieving her loss. Meanwhile, in London, Thisbe’s one-time flatmate, Jane Furlow is celebrating her publishing debut. Primed by the unmissable buzz and hype surrounding the publication of the novella, Thisbe’s publisher friend, Penny Katschinski is surprised that Jane has the talent to produce a literary work, but certainly interested to read it.
In his tiny, failing bookshop on Bondi Rd, Rich O’Driscoll has an advance copy of The Wakening Maid which, on reading, immediately brings to mind the pages in the dusty black leather satchel. He needs no further encouragement to contact the attractive publisher who called in to Bookish earlier; what he’s not prepared for is her reaction to the dusty black leather backpack.
Kelly perfectly captures her setting and the era, and if some aspects of the plot are perhaps predictable, the way it unfolds makes this, nonetheless, a gripping read. Her characters are well-rounded and their dialogue, credible, exactly what is heard in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs. While those with infectious diseases knowledge may fault her medical research, this can be ignored by most readers in favour of a well told story.
As well as giving the reader an intimate look into the world of publishing and copyright, Kelly also touches on mental illness and suicide, and the plight of the small, independent bookshop. And Rich O’Driscoll’s words will resonate will any avid reader: “Not for the first time, he wished he could somehow download all the books he wouldn’t ordinarily read onto a chip in his brain”. A very enjoyable read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by The Pigeonhole and Jazz Monkey Publications.
June 10, 2020
Her Last Words is Kim Kelly’s very first contemporary tale, a story told with fervour, insight and panache; everything I love about Kim Kelly and then some. Each new novel by Kim Kelly is a highly anticipated event, but when an author that you favour breaks ranks and changes style, in this case, moving from historical fiction to contemporary, the anticipation becomes tinged with just the smallest amount of trepidation. Oh ye of little faith! How I love this woman’s writing. She has all the words and she weaves them together with love and imagination in a way that just makes my soul sing.
‘And at that moment, into her head popped Rich O’Driscoll’s upstairs bookshelves: long, long rows of books, seven shelves high, that swept down the hall, into the lounge room and around two walls there. Books everywhere. All those Irish authors unknown to her. This last was perhaps the sexiest thought she’d ever had: that a man might take her into stories she’d never been inside before.’
Kim Kelly’s love of books and passion for the sharing of stories has never been more evident than in the pages of this novel. To be honest, I just want to be Penny’s best friend and hang out in Rich’s place drinking tea surrounded by all of his books, trading stories and sharing in the magic of creating art. And this is what we need right now, more than ever. Books that make us love literature even more, that extol the virtues of it; that make us crave it and celebrate its very existence. In a time where its worth has been so grossly commercialised, this novel gives us pause to reflect on what we want from our books; on what we value most.
‘They were almost as important as air and water, as far as she was concerned. Spoken, written or performed, stories, she saw, were the glue of our existence, the places of all our togetherness’s as humans. How else did we forge bonds with strangers we could never otherwise meet? How else did we learn, grow, heal?’
Stylistically, this novel is in a class of its own. The chapter headings are stories themselves, a candid tip-off on what is to come in the pages to follow. I had this idea that if you joined up all of the headings, you would end up with this really funky condensed version of the novel. I almost did it too, but then that would have spoiled the surprise of each new heading for you – and it is fun to discover each of them while you are reading. The tone throughout is also very fresh and conversational; observational and witty with just the right amount of snark. There really is a lot to ponder on about the publishing industry within this novel. I found myself smirking with knowing over and over, and sometimes shuddering too.
‘But this industry she had loved so much, now seemed so broken, so corrupted by dollar signs and spreadsheets and ruthless decisions that had nothing to do with art or culture or even good old-fashioned entertainment.’
As satirical as this novel is, it is also a deeply meaningful story about love and morality. There are heavy themes throughout but they are conveyed with an empathic tenderness that exposes the most vulnerable parts of a person without shame or pity. Kim Kelly has always shone her brightest when writing about humanity, and so too it is with this novel. Her heart is on her sleeve for all to bear witness to, a bravery that is quite absent in most literature but deeply craved. Bravo Kim Kelly, you got me again.
‘It would always be this way with them: this love would see them through the rest of their lives, the highs, the lows, the in-betweens. Not lovers, not siblings, and a lot more than friends. They were something else; some other kind of family.’
Thanks is extended to the author for providing me with a review copy of Her Last Words.
‘And at that moment, into her head popped Rich O’Driscoll’s upstairs bookshelves: long, long rows of books, seven shelves high, that swept down the hall, into the lounge room and around two walls there. Books everywhere. All those Irish authors unknown to her. This last was perhaps the sexiest thought she’d ever had: that a man might take her into stories she’d never been inside before.’
Kim Kelly’s love of books and passion for the sharing of stories has never been more evident than in the pages of this novel. To be honest, I just want to be Penny’s best friend and hang out in Rich’s place drinking tea surrounded by all of his books, trading stories and sharing in the magic of creating art. And this is what we need right now, more than ever. Books that make us love literature even more, that extol the virtues of it; that make us crave it and celebrate its very existence. In a time where its worth has been so grossly commercialised, this novel gives us pause to reflect on what we want from our books; on what we value most.
‘They were almost as important as air and water, as far as she was concerned. Spoken, written or performed, stories, she saw, were the glue of our existence, the places of all our togetherness’s as humans. How else did we forge bonds with strangers we could never otherwise meet? How else did we learn, grow, heal?’
Stylistically, this novel is in a class of its own. The chapter headings are stories themselves, a candid tip-off on what is to come in the pages to follow. I had this idea that if you joined up all of the headings, you would end up with this really funky condensed version of the novel. I almost did it too, but then that would have spoiled the surprise of each new heading for you – and it is fun to discover each of them while you are reading. The tone throughout is also very fresh and conversational; observational and witty with just the right amount of snark. There really is a lot to ponder on about the publishing industry within this novel. I found myself smirking with knowing over and over, and sometimes shuddering too.
‘But this industry she had loved so much, now seemed so broken, so corrupted by dollar signs and spreadsheets and ruthless decisions that had nothing to do with art or culture or even good old-fashioned entertainment.’
As satirical as this novel is, it is also a deeply meaningful story about love and morality. There are heavy themes throughout but they are conveyed with an empathic tenderness that exposes the most vulnerable parts of a person without shame or pity. Kim Kelly has always shone her brightest when writing about humanity, and so too it is with this novel. Her heart is on her sleeve for all to bear witness to, a bravery that is quite absent in most literature but deeply craved. Bravo Kim Kelly, you got me again.
‘It would always be this way with them: this love would see them through the rest of their lives, the highs, the lows, the in-betweens. Not lovers, not siblings, and a lot more than friends. They were something else; some other kind of family.’
Thanks is extended to the author for providing me with a review copy of Her Last Words.
September 10, 2020
Her Last Words is a stunning contemporary novel from author Kim Kelly, best known for her works of historical fiction.
Seven years after young aspiring writer Thisbe Chisholm stormed out of her boyfriend’s Bondi flat after a petty argument in the early hours of the morning, the coroner’s inquest into her murder decisively exonerates John, but does little else. Stuck firmly in the grip of guilt and depression, John’s bright future as an actor has long since dimmed, and even Penny, Thisbe’s best friend and his stalwart supporter, seems to have reached her limit. Perhaps it’s time to let go...
Kelly was inspired by personal events to create this literary gem. Her Last Words is a heartfelt, poignant story, which explores the themes of love, grief, release and redemption.
While unfolding from multiple perspectives, John and Penny are the central protagonists of the story. Since Thisbe’s tragic death the two have never quite been able to let go, of her, or each other. The coronial inquest serves as a catalyst as John contemplates ending everything, and Penny considers finally moving on.
Fate gives Penny, a book editor, a push when a local bookstore owner discovers Thisbe’s long missing bag and manuscript, prompting the unraveling of not one, but two crimes, and placing Penny on a deserved new path.
John comes very close to getting his wish, just as he realises it’s not really what he wants. Kelly’s insight into John’s depression is thoughtful and empathetic as he struggles both mentally and physically, haunted by his last moments with Thisbe.
With exceptional characterisation, eloquent prose, and raw emotion, Her Last Words is a compelling read this review can’t begin to do justice.
Seven years after young aspiring writer Thisbe Chisholm stormed out of her boyfriend’s Bondi flat after a petty argument in the early hours of the morning, the coroner’s inquest into her murder decisively exonerates John, but does little else. Stuck firmly in the grip of guilt and depression, John’s bright future as an actor has long since dimmed, and even Penny, Thisbe’s best friend and his stalwart supporter, seems to have reached her limit. Perhaps it’s time to let go...
Kelly was inspired by personal events to create this literary gem. Her Last Words is a heartfelt, poignant story, which explores the themes of love, grief, release and redemption.
While unfolding from multiple perspectives, John and Penny are the central protagonists of the story. Since Thisbe’s tragic death the two have never quite been able to let go, of her, or each other. The coronial inquest serves as a catalyst as John contemplates ending everything, and Penny considers finally moving on.
Fate gives Penny, a book editor, a push when a local bookstore owner discovers Thisbe’s long missing bag and manuscript, prompting the unraveling of not one, but two crimes, and placing Penny on a deserved new path.
John comes very close to getting his wish, just as he realises it’s not really what he wants. Kelly’s insight into John’s depression is thoughtful and empathetic as he struggles both mentally and physically, haunted by his last moments with Thisbe.
With exceptional characterisation, eloquent prose, and raw emotion, Her Last Words is a compelling read this review can’t begin to do justice.
September 28, 2020
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
4.5 stars
‘Thizz loved words, all right, and doing original things with them.’
Kim Kelly’s latest literary triumph is a book that will resonate deeply with wordsmiths. Defined by perfectly defined and stunning prose, thoughtful characterisation and multilayered plotline, Her Last Words is a novel that holds strong meaning. It was truly wonderful to see a well-regarded Australian historical fiction novelist branch out and dabble in the world of contemporary fiction.
Her Last Words tracks a murder, a keynote manuscript, love and grief. We meet aspiring writer Thisbe Chisholm in the year 2007. This is a time of great change especially in the media, publishing and technology industries. But Thisbe is wholesome woman, who is determined not to let these new influences dictate her life. Thisbe is a literary soul at heart, with a mission to spread her joy of words to others via her writing, which has not yet been released to the publishing world. With her friends by her side, all inciting success in their selected job paths, Thisbe continues to toil on in her job as a hostess for a Sydney Club. Thisbe’s life is tragically cut short when she is killed, before she is able to see her manuscript published. Her Last Words charts the time during and after Thisbe’s death revealing plenty of hard truths, shock, betrayals, immense grief, surprises, and sharp observations. Will Thisbe’s life simply be forgotten and will her manuscript be buried with her?
Her Last Words is 2020 contemporary fiction title, published by Jazz Monkey Publications. Over the course of the ten novels she has written, Kim Kelly has quietly cemented a spot as one of Australia’s foremost storytellers in the field of historical fiction. Kim Kelly returns with a new title that breaks away from her beautiful historical fiction titles. Her Last Words is Kelly’s first foray in the field of Australian contemporary fiction and it is a wonderful addition to the genre.
I really loved the format of Her Last Words, it was creative, intriguing and structurally sound. I appreciated the way in which Kim Kelly managed to take on quite an ambitious feat with this novel, as she does with every single novel she has produced. Her Last Words was creative in approach, intricately layered and well voiced, drawing in the various viewpoints of the key players of this thought provoking contemporary novel. I found my interest level was consistently maintained through my reading of this book, it never dipped and I was keen to see how the Her Last Words would evolve as a whole.
As with every Kim Kelly production I have encountered, her characterisation is spot on. This was very much the case with Her Last Words. I was deeply intrigued and connected to Thisbe. John and Penny, along with the support staff truly bring out the best in this novel. With keenly observed, realistic and interesting characters, Kelly’s novel seems to hit the write note on all fronts. The background and setting base was carefully produced on the pages of Her Last Words. I was able to imagine the world inhabited by Thisbe in the recent past and that of the other characters in the more present day sequences. Drawing on moments of reflection, wit, insight, deep emotion, love, friendship, mental illness, grief, justice, redemption and resolve, Kim Kelly has without a doubt produced a novel that gleams.
What I loved the most about Her Last Words and I’m sure this will sit well with other book lovers is how the mystery aspect of this novel is tied up to the world of writing, publishing and independent bookshops. I valued the insight, research approach and presentation of this area of the novel. This umbrella focus of the book seemed to sing, extending the interest level of this reader. The conclusion to Kim Kelly’s latest literary offering was just and ultimately hopeful in its intent. Before closing this review I urge any reader of Her Last Words to take the time to peruse the Author Note section located at the back of the book. Kim Kelly offers up her heart and soul, revealing a very personal motivation for penning this novel.
Her Last Words is a more than tempting title, brilliant in execution and ultimately seducing. It represents a wonderful entry for Kim Kelly in the field of Australian contemporary fiction.
*I wish to thank the author, Kim Kelly, for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Her Last Words is book #106 of the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
4.5 stars
‘Thizz loved words, all right, and doing original things with them.’
Kim Kelly’s latest literary triumph is a book that will resonate deeply with wordsmiths. Defined by perfectly defined and stunning prose, thoughtful characterisation and multilayered plotline, Her Last Words is a novel that holds strong meaning. It was truly wonderful to see a well-regarded Australian historical fiction novelist branch out and dabble in the world of contemporary fiction.
Her Last Words tracks a murder, a keynote manuscript, love and grief. We meet aspiring writer Thisbe Chisholm in the year 2007. This is a time of great change especially in the media, publishing and technology industries. But Thisbe is wholesome woman, who is determined not to let these new influences dictate her life. Thisbe is a literary soul at heart, with a mission to spread her joy of words to others via her writing, which has not yet been released to the publishing world. With her friends by her side, all inciting success in their selected job paths, Thisbe continues to toil on in her job as a hostess for a Sydney Club. Thisbe’s life is tragically cut short when she is killed, before she is able to see her manuscript published. Her Last Words charts the time during and after Thisbe’s death revealing plenty of hard truths, shock, betrayals, immense grief, surprises, and sharp observations. Will Thisbe’s life simply be forgotten and will her manuscript be buried with her?
Her Last Words is 2020 contemporary fiction title, published by Jazz Monkey Publications. Over the course of the ten novels she has written, Kim Kelly has quietly cemented a spot as one of Australia’s foremost storytellers in the field of historical fiction. Kim Kelly returns with a new title that breaks away from her beautiful historical fiction titles. Her Last Words is Kelly’s first foray in the field of Australian contemporary fiction and it is a wonderful addition to the genre.
I really loved the format of Her Last Words, it was creative, intriguing and structurally sound. I appreciated the way in which Kim Kelly managed to take on quite an ambitious feat with this novel, as she does with every single novel she has produced. Her Last Words was creative in approach, intricately layered and well voiced, drawing in the various viewpoints of the key players of this thought provoking contemporary novel. I found my interest level was consistently maintained through my reading of this book, it never dipped and I was keen to see how the Her Last Words would evolve as a whole.
As with every Kim Kelly production I have encountered, her characterisation is spot on. This was very much the case with Her Last Words. I was deeply intrigued and connected to Thisbe. John and Penny, along with the support staff truly bring out the best in this novel. With keenly observed, realistic and interesting characters, Kelly’s novel seems to hit the write note on all fronts. The background and setting base was carefully produced on the pages of Her Last Words. I was able to imagine the world inhabited by Thisbe in the recent past and that of the other characters in the more present day sequences. Drawing on moments of reflection, wit, insight, deep emotion, love, friendship, mental illness, grief, justice, redemption and resolve, Kim Kelly has without a doubt produced a novel that gleams.
What I loved the most about Her Last Words and I’m sure this will sit well with other book lovers is how the mystery aspect of this novel is tied up to the world of writing, publishing and independent bookshops. I valued the insight, research approach and presentation of this area of the novel. This umbrella focus of the book seemed to sing, extending the interest level of this reader. The conclusion to Kim Kelly’s latest literary offering was just and ultimately hopeful in its intent. Before closing this review I urge any reader of Her Last Words to take the time to peruse the Author Note section located at the back of the book. Kim Kelly offers up her heart and soul, revealing a very personal motivation for penning this novel.
Her Last Words is a more than tempting title, brilliant in execution and ultimately seducing. It represents a wonderful entry for Kim Kelly in the field of Australian contemporary fiction.
*I wish to thank the author, Kim Kelly, for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Her Last Words is book #106 of the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
June 25, 2020
Two things:
Firstly, I was provided with an advance copy of Her Last Words. When Kim emailed and asked if I’d like to read a story that was—in her words: “a little bit different, a lot cheeky and with publishing bits you’ll love”, I could not refuse. Plus, it is a Kim Kelly novel and Kim’s earlier works made me fall in love with historical fiction.
Secondly, I am a novelist of contemporary fiction. So, what an absolute bonus when I learned Her Last Words was Kim’s foray into the genre I love writing and reading.
Did I have a chuckle or two over the references to the publishing biz? You bet! Even more joyful was discovering a cast of characters, magnificently constructed and not a cut-out or cliché in sight.
To bring us this story, Kim has sidestepped traditional publishing, and I’m so glad. A traditional publisher would likely have changed this story to make it fit the market. Editorial interference would, I fear, have destroyed the essence of this story. By not ‘following the rules’ Kim has created a true gem. There are so many layers to this book—from the way the story is structured, to the multifaceted storyline and cast of characters. As I read Her Last Words, I actually pictured this story on the big screen; one of those movies with wonderfully quirky ensembles of Hollywood A-Listers.
Kim is such a thoughtful storyteller. I can tell by the way she took several complex threads and multiple points of view and gave us an easy-to-read novel that is beautiful in both prose and appearance. I fell in love with Penny, adored Viv, and I may have found a little bit of Kim amongst the themes of love and hope, self-sacrifice, and never giving up. This was a true breakout book for Kim Kelly in so many ways.
I loved it.
July 29, 2020
Kim Kelly has become one of my favourite authors. Her Last Words is a story of grief, love and friendship. Wonderful, real characters who you will be rooting for or hoping for a big dose of Karma. I will be recommending this book to all and look forward to reading more by this author.
Thanks to Pigeonhole and Kim Kelly for this great read.
Thanks to Pigeonhole and Kim Kelly for this great read.
July 28, 2020
I read this with Pigeonhole over several days. What a moving ending! I loved the raw emotion throughout this book and I am so glad that they found their “Happy ever after”! I must admit I had to wipe away tears at the end...a big thank you to Pigeon and Kim!
February 14, 2025
Highly recommend this book. A beautiful written, beautifully told story of Life … “Beautiful Life, my darling boy”.
This book is two fold in its exploration between the mind, of choice and morality; and the heart, of loss and love.
It’s writing seams almost jovial at times but not in a “ha-ha in your face” laugh at those suffering. Rather in a plastered-on smile people give in an attempt to hide their pain that only reveals the depths of it instead.
It explore the effects of trauma and how the loss of love can take us into the deepest darkest pits of despair within ourselves. A broken heart can really kill you if you let it.
However, love and forgiveness can bring healing and open up our lives if we let them. Most of all it’s the forgiveness and love we choice to give ourselves that makes all the difference in healing the deepest wounds of all.
On the other hand, the mind can often conflict with the heart. We shut down one in order to get thought the day, months, years - even life itself. Kelly explores the ‘heart’ of, or lack of, the publishing business. The cut throat desire to have the next best seller. What does it take? What would you do? Is it really theft or plagiarism if the original author of a manuscript is dead? Who owns the copyrights to a dead author’s draft? Their editor, their family? Thus is the mind at work, justify actions, seeking their truth above all. Moral dilemmas and narcissistic view points aside “when karma comes to town, ain’t no bitch like her, unless you’re a sociopath”.
Lastly I think it’s also about time. That old saying ‘Time heals all wounds’ does not always apply. Like the book, time doesn’t stop with loss, it presses on ever moving us forward. Healing may take seven years, one hour, 10 minutes or a life time. Her Last Words affirms that grief has no boundaries, Justice is not always found, tragedy is forever, guilt is subjective and, most of all love is for the taking.
This book is two fold in its exploration between the mind, of choice and morality; and the heart, of loss and love.
It’s writing seams almost jovial at times but not in a “ha-ha in your face” laugh at those suffering. Rather in a plastered-on smile people give in an attempt to hide their pain that only reveals the depths of it instead.
It explore the effects of trauma and how the loss of love can take us into the deepest darkest pits of despair within ourselves. A broken heart can really kill you if you let it.
However, love and forgiveness can bring healing and open up our lives if we let them. Most of all it’s the forgiveness and love we choice to give ourselves that makes all the difference in healing the deepest wounds of all.
On the other hand, the mind can often conflict with the heart. We shut down one in order to get thought the day, months, years - even life itself. Kelly explores the ‘heart’ of, or lack of, the publishing business. The cut throat desire to have the next best seller. What does it take? What would you do? Is it really theft or plagiarism if the original author of a manuscript is dead? Who owns the copyrights to a dead author’s draft? Their editor, their family? Thus is the mind at work, justify actions, seeking their truth above all. Moral dilemmas and narcissistic view points aside “when karma comes to town, ain’t no bitch like her, unless you’re a sociopath”.
Lastly I think it’s also about time. That old saying ‘Time heals all wounds’ does not always apply. Like the book, time doesn’t stop with loss, it presses on ever moving us forward. Healing may take seven years, one hour, 10 minutes or a life time. Her Last Words affirms that grief has no boundaries, Justice is not always found, tragedy is forever, guilt is subjective and, most of all love is for the taking.
July 6, 2020
'Her Last Words' is a deeply personal book , one that bravely resists all pigeonholes and beautifully traverses them all. It is that rare beast - a literary page-turner, filled with big-hearted empathy, sharply observed humour and delicately wrought insight into the complexities of love and grief. Kim Kelly is a talented and courageous story-teller.
July 13, 2020
I have sat with this review for a week because I just didn't know what to write about this wonderful new novel by Kim Kelly. Every novel she writes is so distinct from the previous ones, it is always a delight to open up her book and see the words she has written transform into something wonderful. Once again this novel is entirely different, both in the way the story is told and the story itself. It is many things, a crime novel, a love story, an insight into the publishing world, a search for redemption, a story of grief.
The inspiration for this novel came from a very sad and personal experience of the authors. Also, knowing some of the author's background as a writer and book editor working in the publishing industry for over 20 years, Penny's journey as a commissioning editor deciding if she wants to remain in an industry, such as the big publishing world has become, has a definite personal feel to it.
Throughout the story, there are many serendipitous moments that are seemingly unconnected to each other but show the 'small world effect' where things are interconnected in ways we may never fully be aware of. Though some of these moments seem most unlikely or too serendipitous, I loved them all the more for this reason and I loved how they were woven into the story.
There are 6 main characters in this novel, though one, Thisbe, who is murdered at the start of the novel, is the catalyst for the things that transpire for the other characters. I loved all the characters, except Jane, I hoped with everything I had that she would get what she deserved by the end of the story. I was easily able to understand or empathise with the rest of the characters and loved being part of their journey, I wanted to be there for them for the ups and the downs, the triumphs and the defeats.
There were many moments in this story that spoke to me and many lines I highlighted to read again.
"He’d always thought the idea of sticks and stones breaking bones but names never hurting was stupid, especially after he’d banjaxed his ankle at eighteen playing football, and three months later his very first girlfriend was telling him,‘ I do like you, but I don’t want to go out with you anymore. You’re too weird.’ He could say then, definitively, that words hurt worse. Bones heal, don’t they, and a bit of physical incapacitation is always a good excuse for more reading; good for reassessing that career as a world-famous midfielder you were never going to have, too. But words hang in the air forever; they write themselves onto your soul so that when you least expect it, they return, their power undiminished."
I could empathise completely with John's struggle with depression and the description the author uses to describe depression was so apt for me personally.
"Depression is an eel that slips between the ribs unnoticed until it's feeding on your heart. It darts between circumstantial sense – the relationship between bad things happening and bad feelings had – and the shark shadows of every nightmarish dream, every unnameable, aching need."
And lastly, Penny and I are on the same wavelength with this quote.
‘If I’ve enjoyed a book, the last thing I want to do is see the movie. Breach of copyright on the one I’ve already made on my own – always a poor ripoff.’
This was a wonderful novel that brought out many emotions and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Thanks to the author for providing me with a copy in return for an honest review.
The inspiration for this novel came from a very sad and personal experience of the authors. Also, knowing some of the author's background as a writer and book editor working in the publishing industry for over 20 years, Penny's journey as a commissioning editor deciding if she wants to remain in an industry, such as the big publishing world has become, has a definite personal feel to it.
Throughout the story, there are many serendipitous moments that are seemingly unconnected to each other but show the 'small world effect' where things are interconnected in ways we may never fully be aware of. Though some of these moments seem most unlikely or too serendipitous, I loved them all the more for this reason and I loved how they were woven into the story.
There are 6 main characters in this novel, though one, Thisbe, who is murdered at the start of the novel, is the catalyst for the things that transpire for the other characters. I loved all the characters, except Jane, I hoped with everything I had that she would get what she deserved by the end of the story. I was easily able to understand or empathise with the rest of the characters and loved being part of their journey, I wanted to be there for them for the ups and the downs, the triumphs and the defeats.
There were many moments in this story that spoke to me and many lines I highlighted to read again.
"He’d always thought the idea of sticks and stones breaking bones but names never hurting was stupid, especially after he’d banjaxed his ankle at eighteen playing football, and three months later his very first girlfriend was telling him,‘ I do like you, but I don’t want to go out with you anymore. You’re too weird.’ He could say then, definitively, that words hurt worse. Bones heal, don’t they, and a bit of physical incapacitation is always a good excuse for more reading; good for reassessing that career as a world-famous midfielder you were never going to have, too. But words hang in the air forever; they write themselves onto your soul so that when you least expect it, they return, their power undiminished."
I could empathise completely with John's struggle with depression and the description the author uses to describe depression was so apt for me personally.
"Depression is an eel that slips between the ribs unnoticed until it's feeding on your heart. It darts between circumstantial sense – the relationship between bad things happening and bad feelings had – and the shark shadows of every nightmarish dream, every unnameable, aching need."
And lastly, Penny and I are on the same wavelength with this quote.
‘If I’ve enjoyed a book, the last thing I want to do is see the movie. Breach of copyright on the one I’ve already made on my own – always a poor ripoff.’
This was a wonderful novel that brought out many emotions and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Thanks to the author for providing me with a copy in return for an honest review.
August 5, 2020
Her Last Words is my first novel by Australian author, Kim Kelly.
When John Jacobson's long-term girlfriend, Thisbe Chisholm, asks him to read the newly completed manuscript of her début novel, he declines. The couple fight and Thisbe storms off, intending to sulk in her own flat for the night. But she never makes it as she is attacked and her rucksack containing the manuscript is stolen. Her best friend and publisher, Penny Katschinski, does her utmost to support a devastated John who falls to pieces as he bitterly regrets not reading the novel's first draft as Thisbe had wished. Penny and John form their own kind of bond to see them through, guided by Thisbe from the grave.
Set in Sydney, Her Last Words is contemporary with an complementary dash of crime. An incredibly engaging story, it’s all about love, grief, betrayal and hope. Kim Kelly's characterisation was second to none and every cast member, whether primary or secondary, good or bad, was expertly created and developed. A deep and meaningful story about love and morality that I heartily recommend.
Thank you to Kim Kelly and Pigeonhole for the opportunity to read this book. This review is my unbiased opinion.
When John Jacobson's long-term girlfriend, Thisbe Chisholm, asks him to read the newly completed manuscript of her début novel, he declines. The couple fight and Thisbe storms off, intending to sulk in her own flat for the night. But she never makes it as she is attacked and her rucksack containing the manuscript is stolen. Her best friend and publisher, Penny Katschinski, does her utmost to support a devastated John who falls to pieces as he bitterly regrets not reading the novel's first draft as Thisbe had wished. Penny and John form their own kind of bond to see them through, guided by Thisbe from the grave.
Set in Sydney, Her Last Words is contemporary with an complementary dash of crime. An incredibly engaging story, it’s all about love, grief, betrayal and hope. Kim Kelly's characterisation was second to none and every cast member, whether primary or secondary, good or bad, was expertly created and developed. A deep and meaningful story about love and morality that I heartily recommend.
Thank you to Kim Kelly and Pigeonhole for the opportunity to read this book. This review is my unbiased opinion.
July 28, 2020
Powerful, real and moving. This is a story to touch the heart.
How do we deal with death? Is it OK to love again? Will the darkness ever leave?
The characters are so beautifully drawn, and the situations so real, that I was really drawn into this saga. I felt their pain, and cried their tears, and hoped for a happy ever after.
So pleased that Thisbe got the last word of this magical book.
Thank you to Kim and Pigeonhole.
How do we deal with death? Is it OK to love again? Will the darkness ever leave?
The characters are so beautifully drawn, and the situations so real, that I was really drawn into this saga. I felt their pain, and cried their tears, and hoped for a happy ever after.
So pleased that Thisbe got the last word of this magical book.
Thank you to Kim and Pigeonhole.
December 22, 2021
I can’t understand how this book has such a high score. The plot itself its interesting but the story is so dragging...full of unnecessary details with absolutely no relevance to the storyline.
I kept waiting for it to get more and more interesting but to be honest it was quite boring
Definitely wouldn’t recommend
I kept waiting for it to get more and more interesting but to be honest it was quite boring
Definitely wouldn’t recommend
July 29, 2020
This book was not at all what I expected!
I think, from the synopsis and cover, I assumed it was a murder mystery but it was so much more. The book is beautiful and explores the characters, their relationships, and themes such as betrayal, mental health, friendship, ambition, and so much more.
After Thisbe is murdered at the start, you can feel the pain her friends, family, and boyfriend John experience. The emotions are so well written that you can practically feel them coming off the page. There are so many heartbreaking moments throughout this book. You really become invested in the characters and their journey with their grief.
I really loved all of the characters (except Jane!) and felt myself rooting for them to be happy. To wish for this book to have a happily ever after did not feel cheesy or cliche in any way - you want the characters to come out the other side of this journey in a better state than they went in. I think this is something we are all hoping for at the moment.
I read this via Pigeonhole and one of my comments was that this is a balm for tumultuous times. Right now the world is very tumultuous so this book is the perfect antidote to all of that!
I’ll definitely be reading more Kim Kelly. Thanks to her, her publishers and Pigeonhole for letting us lucky readers enjoy this book.
I think, from the synopsis and cover, I assumed it was a murder mystery but it was so much more. The book is beautiful and explores the characters, their relationships, and themes such as betrayal, mental health, friendship, ambition, and so much more.
After Thisbe is murdered at the start, you can feel the pain her friends, family, and boyfriend John experience. The emotions are so well written that you can practically feel them coming off the page. There are so many heartbreaking moments throughout this book. You really become invested in the characters and their journey with their grief.
I really loved all of the characters (except Jane!) and felt myself rooting for them to be happy. To wish for this book to have a happily ever after did not feel cheesy or cliche in any way - you want the characters to come out the other side of this journey in a better state than they went in. I think this is something we are all hoping for at the moment.
I read this via Pigeonhole and one of my comments was that this is a balm for tumultuous times. Right now the world is very tumultuous so this book is the perfect antidote to all of that!
I’ll definitely be reading more Kim Kelly. Thanks to her, her publishers and Pigeonhole for letting us lucky readers enjoy this book.
July 28, 2020
I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this as it is the author’s first contemporary novel after writing many historical fiction genre books of which I am definitely not a fan. However this grabbed and engrossed me in a way that is very rare. Unexpected plot paths, incredibly well developed characters, a great dry humour and a fabulous way with words. Adore that has bookworm characters and the author expresses so well the joy of reading and books. A little schmaltzy at the end but it is good to be reminded that good things can happen when our real world is quite dark at the moment. Thank you to Pigeonhole and the author for the opportunity to read this.
August 1, 2020
Reading this book was a wonderful and emotionally powerful experience. It is extremely well written with a fantastic cast of characters that leapt from the page and with whom I loved spending my time with.I cannot recommend this book highly enough!
March 25, 2021
This is a must-read!!!
Kim KELLY has woven a wonderful story, and her talent for writing is up amongst the best.
It is a down-to-earth novel without excessive use of foul language, (for which I am grateful) and one that uses every part of diction and expression, one that is highly believable.
I will not describe the book here, except to say it is written in an Australian setting, but could be anywhere in the world.
I listened to this novel and could hardly wait for the next chapter. Towards the end, I was able to glimpse what the ending would be, but it did not take away from wanting to finish. KELLY had a wonderful way of drawing the reader in, her use of words was wonderful.
I see she has written others, so they will be on my list.
Highly recommended.
Kim KELLY has woven a wonderful story, and her talent for writing is up amongst the best.
It is a down-to-earth novel without excessive use of foul language, (for which I am grateful) and one that uses every part of diction and expression, one that is highly believable.
I will not describe the book here, except to say it is written in an Australian setting, but could be anywhere in the world.
I listened to this novel and could hardly wait for the next chapter. Towards the end, I was able to glimpse what the ending would be, but it did not take away from wanting to finish. KELLY had a wonderful way of drawing the reader in, her use of words was wonderful.
I see she has written others, so they will be on my list.
Highly recommended.
July 28, 2020
This was my first time reading a book by Kim Kelly and I can't say it will be my last!
Thoroughly enjoyable read, with authentically pleasing characters, with very likeable personalities (apart from Jane!). The realness of the characters struggles with grief, loss, guilt and sadness made it easy to empathise with them and take an instant liking to them.
The book was beautifully written, allowing you to share the characters' emotions from their happiness, to their heartbreak. Feeling their pain and grief, you really find yourself rooting for them and hoping for them to get their happy endings.
The characters became like friends and I'm really sad to say goodbye to them! I especially loved Dr Vivienne Yu, with her funny, eccentric ways! She really was hilarious.
Thank you to Pigeonhole and Kim Kelly for the chance to read this book and to my fellow Pigeonholers for once again making it a wonderful reading experience!
This book is amazing and I would highly recommend it!
Thoroughly enjoyable read, with authentically pleasing characters, with very likeable personalities (apart from Jane!). The realness of the characters struggles with grief, loss, guilt and sadness made it easy to empathise with them and take an instant liking to them.
The book was beautifully written, allowing you to share the characters' emotions from their happiness, to their heartbreak. Feeling their pain and grief, you really find yourself rooting for them and hoping for them to get their happy endings.
The characters became like friends and I'm really sad to say goodbye to them! I especially loved Dr Vivienne Yu, with her funny, eccentric ways! She really was hilarious.
Thank you to Pigeonhole and Kim Kelly for the chance to read this book and to my fellow Pigeonholers for once again making it a wonderful reading experience!
This book is amazing and I would highly recommend it!
July 28, 2020
Wow this book was not at all what I expected it would be from the blurb, and from reading the first couple of chapters - it was so much more than I thought. It was a multi-layered heartwarming, emotional and powerful love story that took my breath away from the beauty of parts of the prose. It was also very apparent that this was a very personal book for the author too.
I had the opportunity to read this book via Pigeonhole for free in return for an honest review - I’m so glad I did as I probably wouldn’t have chosen this book just from the blurb, and I’d have definitely missed out.
I had the opportunity to read this book via Pigeonhole for free in return for an honest review - I’m so glad I did as I probably wouldn’t have chosen this book just from the blurb, and I’d have definitely missed out.
January 18, 2022
Every Kim Kelly novel is a treat to be savoured and celebrated.
And each one a fresh and delightful story populated with quirky characters we can't help but invest in within the first few pages.
I've read every one of Kelly's novels, and each one becomes my favourite for a time. Really, though, they're all superb.
As is Her Last Words.
I marvel at the extent of Kim's imagination and creativity, and have pondered for several years how she achieves the uniqueness of each story.
Are there any common threads? Deep, thorough research, definitely. Gripping storytelling every time.
Finally, as I finished Her Last Words, it came to me: every Kim Kelly novel is an exploration of love in all its complexity, messiness, joy and beauty.
Thank you, Kim Kelly, for enriching my inner life.
No pressure - but when's the next one?
And each one a fresh and delightful story populated with quirky characters we can't help but invest in within the first few pages.
I've read every one of Kelly's novels, and each one becomes my favourite for a time. Really, though, they're all superb.
As is Her Last Words.
I marvel at the extent of Kim's imagination and creativity, and have pondered for several years how she achieves the uniqueness of each story.
Are there any common threads? Deep, thorough research, definitely. Gripping storytelling every time.
Finally, as I finished Her Last Words, it came to me: every Kim Kelly novel is an exploration of love in all its complexity, messiness, joy and beauty.
Thank you, Kim Kelly, for enriching my inner life.
No pressure - but when's the next one?
March 15, 2021
I am not saying it's a bad book, but it is not a mystery, it is not a thriller.
It is a book about life, grief, acceptance, moving on, friendship, love.
It is a book about life, grief, acceptance, moving on, friendship, love.
July 28, 2020
There is something very personal about Her Last Words. It feels as though the author has lived it and suffered it in some shape or form. Penny Katchinski, for instance is a Catholic Jew (as am I), and I don’t believe it’s incidental. I can’t imagine your hero would have that background unless you had a reason. I may be wrong of course, but it resonated with me in such a personal way.
Penny and Thisbe’s former partner – soap star actor John Jacobson – are inextricably linked, but John is still in love with Thisbe and cannot move on, and by default neither can Penny. They are trapped in a relationship that was never meant to be. Their love is based on a promise to take care of each other and neither can let go. John has spiralled into depression and cannot lift himself out. Something I am lucky enough never to have experienced, I initially missed how personal this part was to the author and will no doubt resonate with many of this beautiful book’s readers.
Over in the Bookish bookshop, Rich O’Driscoll finds a bag which contains a manuscript called Darling Boy together with other personal items, but he has no idea who any of it belongs to. He puts it away and forgets about it for seven years. We know whose bag it is of course, but that’s part of the unfolding story. The first time Rich meets Penny, she is distraught and hysterical but he falls in love with her there and then.
Back in Bondi John has had enough. Miserable and stuck in a rut, his acting career totally down the pan, he wants a way out. Thanks to a series of accidents he meets Dr Viviane Yu but is it all too late? I adore Viviane. She is clever and funny and eccentric but all in a good way.
In addition to our four main protagonists, we have a side plot. Aspiring author Jane Furlow first read Darling Boy when Thisbe was alive. She had an electronic copy. She said it was a ‘bit shit’ but then once Thisbe was out of the way she decided to publish it as her own work under the name of The Wakening Maid. Asking for trouble? Dear God Jane, your attempts at plagiarism are a ‘bit shit’ aren’t they? Did it never occur to you that there might be another copy floating around somewhere.
This book is so beautifully written and poetic and full of emotion, sadness, happiness, laughter and tears. I didn’t want it to end. The characters are wonderful (apart from Jane) though there are times you will want to scream at them and times you will want to lie next to them and offer comfort. They are so real. They have become like old friends and I shall miss them dreadfully.
Many thanks to The Pigeonhole and my fellow Pigeons for making this such an enjoyable read.
Penny and Thisbe’s former partner – soap star actor John Jacobson – are inextricably linked, but John is still in love with Thisbe and cannot move on, and by default neither can Penny. They are trapped in a relationship that was never meant to be. Their love is based on a promise to take care of each other and neither can let go. John has spiralled into depression and cannot lift himself out. Something I am lucky enough never to have experienced, I initially missed how personal this part was to the author and will no doubt resonate with many of this beautiful book’s readers.
Over in the Bookish bookshop, Rich O’Driscoll finds a bag which contains a manuscript called Darling Boy together with other personal items, but he has no idea who any of it belongs to. He puts it away and forgets about it for seven years. We know whose bag it is of course, but that’s part of the unfolding story. The first time Rich meets Penny, she is distraught and hysterical but he falls in love with her there and then.
Back in Bondi John has had enough. Miserable and stuck in a rut, his acting career totally down the pan, he wants a way out. Thanks to a series of accidents he meets Dr Viviane Yu but is it all too late? I adore Viviane. She is clever and funny and eccentric but all in a good way.
In addition to our four main protagonists, we have a side plot. Aspiring author Jane Furlow first read Darling Boy when Thisbe was alive. She had an electronic copy. She said it was a ‘bit shit’ but then once Thisbe was out of the way she decided to publish it as her own work under the name of The Wakening Maid. Asking for trouble? Dear God Jane, your attempts at plagiarism are a ‘bit shit’ aren’t they? Did it never occur to you that there might be another copy floating around somewhere.
This book is so beautifully written and poetic and full of emotion, sadness, happiness, laughter and tears. I didn’t want it to end. The characters are wonderful (apart from Jane) though there are times you will want to scream at them and times you will want to lie next to them and offer comfort. They are so real. They have become like old friends and I shall miss them dreadfully.
Many thanks to The Pigeonhole and my fellow Pigeons for making this such an enjoyable read.
July 28, 2020
This book is extremely hard to categorise and in some ways this makes it a more unique and stay-with-you read.
Thisbe Chisolm wants to write and at long last she has her manuscript complete. Actor boyfriend John Jacobsen doesn't have time to read it though and they part on less than favourable terms with consequences that will be far reaching and alter John's life, attitude and health for years to come.
Set in Australia, near Bondi Beach, we meet characters who are either in love with each other or themselves and definitely in love with what they do, whether it is writing, publishing books or acting.
But one moment will change everything and Penny is left with the unenviably and distinctly difficult job of trying to heal John. John is shattered into a million pieces, bereft, and full of remorse. In the meantime Jane, Thisbe's flatmate makes dishonourable decisions that have the reader spitting feathers and Penny, much later, on the warpath for literary justice.
The book tackles the unfashionable condition that is depression and how, being full of guilt and sadness, you can even become physically unwell in a way that defies doctors' understanding.
This book is also a love story - one between John and Thisbe, and Penny and John - and how out of the darkness of losing one's way, a path to recovery can emerge, always there but not in sight until hope illuminates its existence.
This book is about romance blossoming in new places, not quickly, not neatly, but after long periods of self-doubt and survival, to produce a beautiful, poetic and unvarnished tale of love and loss.
And because Penny is a commissioning editor for fiction and there is a bookshop involved, not to mention a missing manuscript, the power of narrative shines throughout the discourse and is the vehicle by which both John and Penny forge a new beginning, not with each other, but with characters that are perfect soulmates.
I found the ending touching and tender. It left me feeling tearful but happy and serves as an exquisite reminder to us all that even when it is touch and go, change does occur and there are good reasons to carry on.
The Author's note was particularly compelling and made the book even more special for the personal anecdotes shared.
A powerful and emotionally intelligent read, Kim Kelly is a talented writer whose books are well worth your reading time.
Thisbe Chisolm wants to write and at long last she has her manuscript complete. Actor boyfriend John Jacobsen doesn't have time to read it though and they part on less than favourable terms with consequences that will be far reaching and alter John's life, attitude and health for years to come.
Set in Australia, near Bondi Beach, we meet characters who are either in love with each other or themselves and definitely in love with what they do, whether it is writing, publishing books or acting.
But one moment will change everything and Penny is left with the unenviably and distinctly difficult job of trying to heal John. John is shattered into a million pieces, bereft, and full of remorse. In the meantime Jane, Thisbe's flatmate makes dishonourable decisions that have the reader spitting feathers and Penny, much later, on the warpath for literary justice.
The book tackles the unfashionable condition that is depression and how, being full of guilt and sadness, you can even become physically unwell in a way that defies doctors' understanding.
This book is also a love story - one between John and Thisbe, and Penny and John - and how out of the darkness of losing one's way, a path to recovery can emerge, always there but not in sight until hope illuminates its existence.
This book is about romance blossoming in new places, not quickly, not neatly, but after long periods of self-doubt and survival, to produce a beautiful, poetic and unvarnished tale of love and loss.
And because Penny is a commissioning editor for fiction and there is a bookshop involved, not to mention a missing manuscript, the power of narrative shines throughout the discourse and is the vehicle by which both John and Penny forge a new beginning, not with each other, but with characters that are perfect soulmates.
I found the ending touching and tender. It left me feeling tearful but happy and serves as an exquisite reminder to us all that even when it is touch and go, change does occur and there are good reasons to carry on.
The Author's note was particularly compelling and made the book even more special for the personal anecdotes shared.
A powerful and emotionally intelligent read, Kim Kelly is a talented writer whose books are well worth your reading time.
April 20, 2022
Not the murder mystery that I was expecting - though indeed the murder and solution is included.
This novel focuses more on the impact of Thisbe's death on those who loved her.
Kim Kelly presents us with beautifully drawn characters and emotional experiences from the highs and lows of life, and love in its many forms.
A murder. A missing manuscript. An undying love. Thisbe Chisholm wants to be a writer. It's 2007, a time of digital revolution and skyrocketing property prices, but she's an old-fashioned girl. She doesn't even own a mobile phone. She has no stars-in-her-eyes desire for fame, to see her name on the cover of a book, either. She longs only to tell of the stories written on her heart. While her best friends, Penny and Jane, and her darling boyfriend, John, seem set for stellar careers in their chosen fields, Thisbe works nights as a hostess at a glitzy harbourside Sydney club - a job she despises but it's paid the rent for the last three years since university graduation. Just as she completes her novel, though, she is brutally killed at the end of John's street. Who murdered Thisbe? What will become of her novel? From the gritty glamour of Bondi Beach to the cold streets of London, here is a tale of tragedy and literary betrayal, of a publishing industry grappling with change and a great love drowning in guilt-wracked grief. Haunting, whimsical and sharply observed, Her Last Words lays bare the truth that, while some crimes might go unpunished among the privileged, words themselves have a way of enduring - and exacting a justice all their own.
This novel focuses more on the impact of Thisbe's death on those who loved her.
Kim Kelly presents us with beautifully drawn characters and emotional experiences from the highs and lows of life, and love in its many forms.
A murder. A missing manuscript. An undying love. Thisbe Chisholm wants to be a writer. It's 2007, a time of digital revolution and skyrocketing property prices, but she's an old-fashioned girl. She doesn't even own a mobile phone. She has no stars-in-her-eyes desire for fame, to see her name on the cover of a book, either. She longs only to tell of the stories written on her heart. While her best friends, Penny and Jane, and her darling boyfriend, John, seem set for stellar careers in their chosen fields, Thisbe works nights as a hostess at a glitzy harbourside Sydney club - a job she despises but it's paid the rent for the last three years since university graduation. Just as she completes her novel, though, she is brutally killed at the end of John's street. Who murdered Thisbe? What will become of her novel? From the gritty glamour of Bondi Beach to the cold streets of London, here is a tale of tragedy and literary betrayal, of a publishing industry grappling with change and a great love drowning in guilt-wracked grief. Haunting, whimsical and sharply observed, Her Last Words lays bare the truth that, while some crimes might go unpunished among the privileged, words themselves have a way of enduring - and exacting a justice all their own.
October 27, 2023
I did not like this book but it’s not a bad book. If you are into that style of literature, I’m sure it would be better. I felt nothing exciting happened and it dragged on and had some romance thrown in.
July 22, 2021
I’m not really sure how this book has such great reviews!
I listened to this as an audiobook and got to a point in the story when events came to a head and some questions were answered and I thought it might be nearing the end but there was still 5 hrs to go!! I gave up, I was bored.
I listened to this as an audiobook and got to a point in the story when events came to a head and some questions were answered and I thought it might be nearing the end but there was still 5 hrs to go!! I gave up, I was bored.
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