Book Review: The Only One Left: A Novel by Riley Sager
As a long-time fan of mysteries that blend history with psychological depth, I was immediately drawn to Riley Sager’s latest novel, The Only One Left. The eerie premise of a caregiver unraveling a decades-old mystery in a dilapidated mansion felt like a spellbinding throwback to the Gothic tales I loved as a child. Plus, having previously devoured Sager’s gripping narratives, I was eager to see how he would weave suspense into the story of Lenora Hope—a name that instantly conjures gothic images of tragedy and suspense.
Set against the chilling backdrop of Hope’s End, the decaying cliffside mansion where a shocking family massacre took place in 1929, the novel captures readers from the first page. The story unfolds in 1983, focusing on Kit McDeere, a young home-health aide tasked with caring for Lenora, the woman long accused of her family’s brutal murder. What makes this tale all the more riveting is that Lenora, now in her seventies and rendered mute, communicates through an old typewriter, offering hints that keep Kit—and the reader—on the edge of their seats.
Sager crafts a narrative steeped in atmosphere and tension, skillfully blending themes of trust, betrayal, and the haunting shadows of the past. The layers he builds around Lenora’s character are wonderfully rich; while she appears frail and defenseless, her history looms large. I found myself questioning every statement Kit received from her, contemplating what truths lay hidden beneath her uncommunicative exterior. It’s a bit like peeling an onion—each layer reveals more, drawing you deeper into a web of suspicion and intrigue.
Sager’s writing is as engaging as always, characterized by a propulsive pace and rhythmic dialogue. I particularly appreciated how the author used Kit’s perspective to craft a series of reveal after reveal, elegantly maintaining suspense. There were moments where I felt my heart race, as Kit uncovered clues that made me rethink everything I thought I understood about Lenora and the infamous night that defined her existence. One quote that lingered with me was Lenora’s statement on the typewriter: “I want to tell you everything.” It fills you with anticipation, yet underscores the ominous uncertainty of what “everything” might entail.
In this novel, Sager achieves the perfect blend of classic Gothic horror with modern suspense, creating a narrative that feels both timeless and urgent. If you enjoyed twisty thrillers that keep you guessing until the very last page—as Sager’s prior works certainly did—you’ll find this latest offering to be an irresistible page-turner.
In conclusion, The Only One Left is not just for fans of Gothic fiction but for anyone who relishes a good mystery steeped in emotional depth and psychological intrigue. It’s a haunting read that kept me mesmerized, and I found myself reflecting on the darker facets of human nature long after I turned the final page. So grab a cozy blanket and prepare to be captivated by Sager’s storytelling prowess—I assure you, it’s a ride you won’t want to miss!