The Last

by Hanna Jameson
The Last cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
Technical:
  • ID: 1153
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2025-09-27
  • ISBN: 9781501198823
  • Publisher: Atria Books
  • Published: 2019-04-09
  • Formats: 15
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

In the chilling dystopian thriller 'The Last,' an American academic finds himself trapped in a Swiss hotel as nuclear war devastates the world. Among the twenty survivors, tensions rise as resources dwindle and a mysterious death occurs. The protagonist becomes obsessed with solving the murder of a young girl found in the hotel's water tank, grappling with his own sanity and the harsh realities of their new world. /n/nAs the group struggles to maintain order, the hotel's dark history and the harsh outside world loom large. The academic must decide whether to continue his investigation, clinging to his humanity, or risk venturing into the unknown. This gripping tale explores the lengths people go to survive and the fragile nature of civilization in the face of catastrophe.

Reviews
The Skinny · 2025-09-22
mixed 3.00

The reviewer finds the novel's combination of genres interesting but feels it fails to fully deliver on its potential. They appreciate the ambitious premise but find the execution lacking.

The reviewer acknowledges that The Last offers an intriguing mix of murder mystery, apocalyptic dystopian, and psychological thriller elements. However, they feel that the novel struggles to fully capitalize on its promising premise. While the setting and concept are compelling, the reviewer finds that the execution falls short, leaving them somewhat disappointed with the overall experience.

Quick quotes

    The Last provides an interesting combination of genres.

    It fails to really follow through on its potential.

    The setting and concept are compelling.

FT Lighthouse · 2025-07-06
intriguing 4.00

The reviewer appreciates the novel's unique blend of genres and the protagonist's journey. They highlight the author's skill in creating a suspenseful and thought-provoking narrative.

The reviewer finds The Last to be a compelling read that skillfully merges elements of murder mystery, apocalyptic dystopian, and psychological thriller. They are particularly impressed by the protagonist's search for truth amidst the chaos, which adds depth and intrigue to the story. The reviewer also notes that the novel's setting and pacing contribute to a sense of dread and suspense, making it a gripping tale that keeps readers engaged.

Quick quotes

    The Last is an ambitious and intriguing novel.

    The premise is that nuclear war has broken out.

    Jameson creates her characters well.

Damp Pebbles · 2020-12-03
delighted 4.50

The reviewer is delighted with the book's superior quality compared to another recent read. They praise the author's focus on character development and their experiences.

The reviewer is pleased to report that The Last surpasses another book they read earlier in the year. They are particularly impressed with Hanna Jameson's ability to craft well-developed characters and delve deeply into their experiences. The reviewer finds the novel to be a standout in its genre, highlighting the author's skill in creating a rich and engaging narrative that resonates with readers.

Quick quotes

    I'm delighted to confirm that The Last is far superior to the book I read earlier this year.

    Jameson puts her characters, their experience and ...

    The Last is a standout in its genre.

Appears in Lists