Review of The Only One Left: A Novel by Riley Sager
As summer approaches, I found myself craving a thrilling page-turner, and Riley Sager’s latest novel, The Only One Left, did not disappoint. The moment I read the premise, a Gothic thriller steeped in mystery and the eerie atmosphere of a decaying mansion, I knew I had to dive in. With Sager’s reputation for crafting suspenseful narratives, I was eager to unravel the secrets hidden at Hope’s End alongside the characters.
Set in 1983, The Only One Left follows Kit McDeere, a young caregiver assigned to the enigmatic Lenora Hope, who has been living in the shadow of a gruesome family massacre that occurred in 1929. The tale is steeped in intrigue from the outset, as even before Kit enters the decaying mansion, we feel the weight of its dark history pressing down on us. The chilling nursery rhyme associated with Lenora’s past adds an unsettling touch, infusing the narrative with an aura of dread that kept me turning pages late into the night.
Sager masterfully weaves themes of trauma, guilt, and the search for truth as Kit helps Lenora articulate her side of the story through an old typewriter. The novel’s dual narrative format—alternating between Kit’s present-day experiences and Lenora’s past revelations—creates a tantalizing tension that captivated me. The pacing is a rollercoaster; while some parts build slowly, the ever-growing momentum shadows the reader with an impending sense of doom, compelling you to uncover the truth alongside Kit.
One of the highlights of The Only One Left is its vivid setting. Hope’s End is not just a backdrop; it feels like a character itself, with its crumbling walls and looming cliffs. The atmosphere Sager creates echoes classic Gothic literature, reminiscent of Rebecca or The Fall of the House of Usher. His keen eye for atmospheric detail envelops the reader, making us feel the chill of the fog and the weight of the secrets hidden behind those walls.
Notably, the book champions the idea that truth is often convoluted. As reviews highlight, the character development is superb, particularly Lenora, who remains an enigma throughout. I found myself grappling with the moral ambiguities surrounding her character, questioning who the real villain might be. “It wasn’t me,” Lenora insists, and yet, her silence speaks volumes. This idea of unreliable narratives intrigued me and forced me to reconsider my assumptions repeatedly.
Overall, The Only One Left is structured like a finely tuned thriller, packed with twists that will leave even seasoned readers guessing. Critics and fans alike have praised Sager’s ability to maintain suspense while revealing nuggets of truth that shift the ground beneath our feet. I must admit, the ending left my heart racing, not simply for its revelations, but for the emotional depth it carried.
This novel is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers, Gothic literature, and anyone who enjoys a haunting tale that lingers long after reading. While some might find the pacing uneven, I believe that for those who relish a slow-burn mystery with a shocking payoff, this book is a must-read. Personally, The Only One Left reignites my love for suspenseful storytelling, leaving me eagerly awaiting Sager’s next installment. So, curl up with a cozy blanket and brace yourself for a gripping ride; you’ll want to savor every twist along the way!
You can find The Only One Left: A Novel here >>