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The Last Post
See you on the other side.
Laya Marston’s husband, Cameron, a daredevil enthusiast, always said this before heading off on his next adventure. He was the complete opposite of her, ready and willing to dive off a cliff-face, or parachute across a canyon—and Laya loved him for it. But she was different: pragmatic, regimented, devoted to her career and to supporting Cameron from the sidelines of his death-defying feats.
Opposites attract, right?
But when Cameron dies suddenly and tragically, all the stages of grief go out the window. Laya becomes lost in denial, living in the delusion that Cameron will come back to her. She begins posting on his Facebook page, reminiscing about their life together, and imagining new adventures for the two of them.
Micah Evans, a young and handsome architect at Laya’s father’s firm, is also stuck––paralyzed by the banal details of his career, his friendships, and his love life. He doesn’t know what he’s looking for, only that there is someone out there who can bring energy and spirit to the humdrum of his life.
When Micah discovers Laya’s tragic and bizarre Facebook posts, he’s determined to show Laya her life is still worth living. Leaving her anonymous gifts and notes, trying to recreate the sense of adventure she once shared with her late husband, Micah finds a new passion watching Laya come out of the darkness. And Laya finds a new joy in the experiences Micah has created for her.
But for Laya, letting another man in still feels like a betrayal to her late husband. Even though Micah may be everything she could wish for, she wonders if she deserves to find happiness again.
Laya Marston’s husband, Cameron, a daredevil enthusiast, always said this before heading off on his next adventure. He was the complete opposite of her, ready and willing to dive off a cliff-face, or parachute across a canyon—and Laya loved him for it. But she was different: pragmatic, regimented, devoted to her career and to supporting Cameron from the sidelines of his death-defying feats.
Opposites attract, right?
But when Cameron dies suddenly and tragically, all the stages of grief go out the window. Laya becomes lost in denial, living in the delusion that Cameron will come back to her. She begins posting on his Facebook page, reminiscing about their life together, and imagining new adventures for the two of them.
Micah Evans, a young and handsome architect at Laya’s father’s firm, is also stuck––paralyzed by the banal details of his career, his friendships, and his love life. He doesn’t know what he’s looking for, only that there is someone out there who can bring energy and spirit to the humdrum of his life.
When Micah discovers Laya’s tragic and bizarre Facebook posts, he’s determined to show Laya her life is still worth living. Leaving her anonymous gifts and notes, trying to recreate the sense of adventure she once shared with her late husband, Micah finds a new passion watching Laya come out of the darkness. And Laya finds a new joy in the experiences Micah has created for her.
But for Laya, letting another man in still feels like a betrayal to her late husband. Even though Micah may be everything she could wish for, she wonders if she deserves to find happiness again.
304 pages, Paperback
First published August 20, 2019
About the author
Renee Carlino
22 books7,856 followersComing July 9th 2024'...
THIS USED TO BE US
Renée Carlino is a screenwriter and the bestselling author of Before We Were Strangers, Swear On THIS Life, Wish You Were Here, Sweet Thing, Nowhere But Here, Sweet Little Thing, Lucian Divine, After the Rain, The Last Post, Shopping For Love, Blind Kiss, and - coming July 9th - THIS USED TO BE US.
Her books have been featured in national publications, including Cosmopolitan Magazine, InStyle Magazine, USA TODAY, Huffington Post, Latina magazine, Publisher's Weekly, Redbook, Sunset Magazine, Coastal Living and the Union Tribune.
Her adaptation with Julia Stiles for “Wish You Were Here” is currently in production and scheduled to shoot in New Jersey in January 2024'.
Renée grew up in California and lives in the San Diego area with her husband, two sons and their sweet pup John Snow Cash.
Learn more at www.reneecarlino.com
THIS USED TO BE US
Renée Carlino is a screenwriter and the bestselling author of Before We Were Strangers, Swear On THIS Life, Wish You Were Here, Sweet Thing, Nowhere But Here, Sweet Little Thing, Lucian Divine, After the Rain, The Last Post, Shopping For Love, Blind Kiss, and - coming July 9th - THIS USED TO BE US.
Her books have been featured in national publications, including Cosmopolitan Magazine, InStyle Magazine, USA TODAY, Huffington Post, Latina magazine, Publisher's Weekly, Redbook, Sunset Magazine, Coastal Living and the Union Tribune.
Her adaptation with Julia Stiles for “Wish You Were Here” is currently in production and scheduled to shoot in New Jersey in January 2024'.
Renée grew up in California and lives in the San Diego area with her husband, two sons and their sweet pup John Snow Cash.
Learn more at www.reneecarlino.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 496 reviews
September 6, 2023
1.5 "utterly disappointed" stars !!!
Most(est) Disappointing Read of 2019 Award
Thank you to Netgalley, Atria Books and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for a review.
Ms. Carlino has written one of my all time favorite contemporary romances. That gem of a book was titled Before We Were Strangers and I still sweetly smile thinking of that book and what it means to me. I look forward to re-reading that and swooning all over again.
I was so excited to receive a copy of a new book thinking that this would be a book about grief and finding love again. I was anticipating some tears, some heartache and a swelling of the heart when our heroine gets a second chance at love. That was not my experience of this novel. Ms. Carlino continues to write in a very clear and accessible way. BUT and the big BUT was that the story was completely unbelievable, the characters were fairly unidimensional, the comic relief was mostly crass, the romantic elements were cliche and I was annoyed, irked and disappointed.
I know Ms. Carlino can deliver as she did in that most lovely and heartfelt book: Before We Were Strangers. I hope she goes back to that rather than this book which could be really a bad movie starring Lindsay Lohan making a comeback.
Most(est) Disappointing Read of 2019 Award
Thank you to Netgalley, Atria Books and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for a review.
Ms. Carlino has written one of my all time favorite contemporary romances. That gem of a book was titled Before We Were Strangers and I still sweetly smile thinking of that book and what it means to me. I look forward to re-reading that and swooning all over again.
I was so excited to receive a copy of a new book thinking that this would be a book about grief and finding love again. I was anticipating some tears, some heartache and a swelling of the heart when our heroine gets a second chance at love. That was not my experience of this novel. Ms. Carlino continues to write in a very clear and accessible way. BUT and the big BUT was that the story was completely unbelievable, the characters were fairly unidimensional, the comic relief was mostly crass, the romantic elements were cliche and I was annoyed, irked and disappointed.
I know Ms. Carlino can deliver as she did in that most lovely and heartfelt book: Before We Were Strangers. I hope she goes back to that rather than this book which could be really a bad movie starring Lindsay Lohan making a comeback.
June 4, 2019
3 stars
The Last Post is a story about grief, moving on, and finding a second chance at love.
Laya is a newlywed who is finishing up her fellowship to become an orthopedic surgeon. Her life is on track, even though she's married to someone who is her opposite in so many ways. Cameron is a professional daredevil and even though it terrified Laya, she supports him. They have a whirlwind romance until one stunt doesn't go right and her world is forever changed. Laya never thought she would be widowed before thirty. She doesn't know what to do with herself, so she comes home to NYC.
Micah works for Laya's dad's architectural firm and from the moment he first sees her, there is something about her that draws him in. He knows she's widowed and going through a lot, and even though they don't know each other, he feels a pull. He wants to help her, wants to know her.
I wanted to love Micah and Laya together, and maybe by the last 20% I did, but it took me quite a while to connect to the two of them and their story. There were things with the posts and the reaction to all that I didn't jive with. I don't know if it was my mood, or the book itself but this book didn't evoke the emotion or the feels I wanted it to. There were parts I really enjoyed, but overall it was just alright for me.
As always, Renee Carlino's writing is superb. This is true with every single book she writes. Although The Last Post isn't my favorite of her books (primarily because I didn't personally connect with the characters or become invested in their story) I still enjoyed parts of it, and her writing style and story-telling are two things that made this book enjoyable for me. If you're looking for a romance that focuses on overcoming loss and finding yourself and love again, give this one a go. It might just be the book for you.
The Last Post is a story about grief, moving on, and finding a second chance at love.
Laya is a newlywed who is finishing up her fellowship to become an orthopedic surgeon. Her life is on track, even though she's married to someone who is her opposite in so many ways. Cameron is a professional daredevil and even though it terrified Laya, she supports him. They have a whirlwind romance until one stunt doesn't go right and her world is forever changed. Laya never thought she would be widowed before thirty. She doesn't know what to do with herself, so she comes home to NYC.
Micah works for Laya's dad's architectural firm and from the moment he first sees her, there is something about her that draws him in. He knows she's widowed and going through a lot, and even though they don't know each other, he feels a pull. He wants to help her, wants to know her.
“There’s something about her. Something I can’t stay away from.”
I wanted to love Micah and Laya together, and maybe by the last 20% I did, but it took me quite a while to connect to the two of them and their story. There were things with the posts and the reaction to all that I didn't jive with. I don't know if it was my mood, or the book itself but this book didn't evoke the emotion or the feels I wanted it to. There were parts I really enjoyed, but overall it was just alright for me.
As always, Renee Carlino's writing is superb. This is true with every single book she writes. Although The Last Post isn't my favorite of her books (primarily because I didn't personally connect with the characters or become invested in their story) I still enjoyed parts of it, and her writing style and story-telling are two things that made this book enjoyable for me. If you're looking for a romance that focuses on overcoming loss and finding yourself and love again, give this one a go. It might just be the book for you.
July 14, 2019
*****3.5 STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
There are times in life when the pendulum swinging between happiness and sadness begins to slow. The powerful force of emotions goes dormant, we pause, look up, and realize we are finally content.
This story was equally depressing as it was bizarre. At times I wondered what path the author was trying to pave for the main characters. I struggled with my feelings for this book for almost 70% of it. I didn’t empathize or even like the heroine, Laya, and I thought Micah was a deranged stalker. The only character that I liked was Cameron, the dead husband, whom we only get to meet during the first chapter of the book. I idealized him along with Laya, and that’s because, in her point of view, he was the perfect version of himself.
I was worried that this was going to be the first book by Renee Carlino that would be a disappointment, but the writing is good. I couldn’t help but laugh at the snarky and quick-witted banter between Micah and his twin sister Melissa. Those two cracked me up more times than I could count. Somehow the author managed to turn things around but it took almost three-quarters of the story for her to pull off what I considered to be an impossible feat. I couldn’t fathom that Laya and Micah could have believable chemistry but then the author throws in a plot twist to shake things up and it was then that I felt a connection to the story and characters. I only wish it didn’t take so long to finally click. I will say that the author has a great sense of humor and it made for some terrific comedic banter and I’m happy that I got the chance to read this one.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4
Heroine: 3
Plot: 3.5
Angst: 4
Steam: 3
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 4
”THE LAST POST” releases on August 20th.
AMAZON: https://amzn.to/2MFqODQ
B&N: https://bit.ly/2TmRMTg
APPLE BOOKS: https://apple.co/2RlA2Ws
KOBO: https://bit.ly/2sTfgnb
Simon&Schuster: https://bit.ly/2S9d89j
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
There are times in life when the pendulum swinging between happiness and sadness begins to slow. The powerful force of emotions goes dormant, we pause, look up, and realize we are finally content.
This story was equally depressing as it was bizarre. At times I wondered what path the author was trying to pave for the main characters. I struggled with my feelings for this book for almost 70% of it. I didn’t empathize or even like the heroine, Laya, and I thought Micah was a deranged stalker. The only character that I liked was Cameron, the dead husband, whom we only get to meet during the first chapter of the book. I idealized him along with Laya, and that’s because, in her point of view, he was the perfect version of himself.
I was worried that this was going to be the first book by Renee Carlino that would be a disappointment, but the writing is good. I couldn’t help but laugh at the snarky and quick-witted banter between Micah and his twin sister Melissa. Those two cracked me up more times than I could count. Somehow the author managed to turn things around but it took almost three-quarters of the story for her to pull off what I considered to be an impossible feat. I couldn’t fathom that Laya and Micah could have believable chemistry but then the author throws in a plot twist to shake things up and it was then that I felt a connection to the story and characters. I only wish it didn’t take so long to finally click. I will say that the author has a great sense of humor and it made for some terrific comedic banter and I’m happy that I got the chance to read this one.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4
Heroine: 3
Plot: 3.5
Angst: 4
Steam: 3
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 4
”THE LAST POST” releases on August 20th.
AMAZON: https://amzn.to/2MFqODQ
B&N: https://bit.ly/2TmRMTg
APPLE BOOKS: https://apple.co/2RlA2Ws
KOBO: https://bit.ly/2sTfgnb
Simon&Schuster: https://bit.ly/2S9d89j
April 18, 2019
3.5 STARS
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I was excited to read and review this book as I am a fan of this author. The summary drew me in and after reading the first paragraph, I was emotional and did not want to put the book down...…..but after getting thru the halfway point, I did want to put the book down. I did finish and glad I did get to the ending as the story ended nicely.
Laya's life changes abruptly when she becomes a widow after being married for a very short time. She is stricken with grief and is not able to cope on a daily basis. She leanes on her father who also became a widower when Laya was 3 years old. The two try to cope with their new normal. Laya has taken some time off from her job as a surgeon to figure our what she wants to do next.
Micah works for Laya's father's architectural firm and has felt lost as he is not happy where he is with his life and goes to the extreme to isolate himself beginning with a full, unkept beard and staying at his parents cabin on the weekends. He notices Laya and can't stop thinking about her. There is something about her that is drawing him out of his darkness and he wants to pursue her. He knows she is grieving and wants to become friends, but he soon realizes he has strong feelings for her. Laya is not emotionally ready to be more than friends. She's still calling her husband's cell so she can leave messages and hear his voice, and she is posting messages on his Facebook page. This behavior has everyone concerned as she is writing in the present tense and her post are adding to the grief to her husband's family.
Micah is beginning to breakthrough the walls that Laya has kept up, but each time he can take a step forward, she is propelled backwards. This is the challenge in their relationship and the story can take it's time or too much time with this evolution. Micah and Laya draw from their own strength to live again and enjoy life. The story is a journey to that goal and while some times felt disconnected, the ending felt like a crescendo with the right tone. Enjoy!!!!!
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I was excited to read and review this book as I am a fan of this author. The summary drew me in and after reading the first paragraph, I was emotional and did not want to put the book down...…..but after getting thru the halfway point, I did want to put the book down. I did finish and glad I did get to the ending as the story ended nicely.
Laya's life changes abruptly when she becomes a widow after being married for a very short time. She is stricken with grief and is not able to cope on a daily basis. She leanes on her father who also became a widower when Laya was 3 years old. The two try to cope with their new normal. Laya has taken some time off from her job as a surgeon to figure our what she wants to do next.
Micah works for Laya's father's architectural firm and has felt lost as he is not happy where he is with his life and goes to the extreme to isolate himself beginning with a full, unkept beard and staying at his parents cabin on the weekends. He notices Laya and can't stop thinking about her. There is something about her that is drawing him out of his darkness and he wants to pursue her. He knows she is grieving and wants to become friends, but he soon realizes he has strong feelings for her. Laya is not emotionally ready to be more than friends. She's still calling her husband's cell so she can leave messages and hear his voice, and she is posting messages on his Facebook page. This behavior has everyone concerned as she is writing in the present tense and her post are adding to the grief to her husband's family.
Micah is beginning to breakthrough the walls that Laya has kept up, but each time he can take a step forward, she is propelled backwards. This is the challenge in their relationship and the story can take it's time or too much time with this evolution. Micah and Laya draw from their own strength to live again and enjoy life. The story is a journey to that goal and while some times felt disconnected, the ending felt like a crescendo with the right tone. Enjoy!!!!!
April 29, 2019
I think it's safe to say that I'm just not compatible with this author, and this was our last tango. I definitely would encourage other readers to pick it up and give it a try for themselves, though!
*Thank you to the publisher for providing my review copy.
*Thank you to the publisher for providing my review copy.
August 24, 2019
❤️3,5 -4 STARS❤️
This is an emotional and heartbreaking read!You need to be in mood to read it!It wasn't easy to read it, there were moments I wanted to stop, The Last Post is definitely different from her other stories.
"Scars are a testament to the love and the relationships I had for and with each person. And if the scar is deep, so was the love. So be it. Scars are a testament to life."
I had a harder time connecting with both Laya and Micah but at some point it happened!I loved the premise this one has and generally I liked it, but there were parts I didn't find good and this made me not give it 5 stars.
This is an intense read !
This is an emotional and heartbreaking read!You need to be in mood to read it!It wasn't easy to read it, there were moments I wanted to stop, The Last Post is definitely different from her other stories.
"Scars are a testament to the love and the relationships I had for and with each person. And if the scar is deep, so was the love. So be it. Scars are a testament to life."
I had a harder time connecting with both Laya and Micah but at some point it happened!I loved the premise this one has and generally I liked it, but there were parts I didn't find good and this made me not give it 5 stars.
This is an intense read !
Read
August 13, 2019~dnf @35%~
This was my first Renee Carlino book and whilst I will try reading another one of her novels in the future, this one just was NOT for me. I felt the characters to be very unrealistic and two-dimensional, it was something I just couldn't get past. The style of writing was also something that didn't bode well with me, I found it to be very narrative (instead of descriptive) and it tended to lack emotion. The romance was cringey, at best and lacked a lot of substance that I kept looking for. I was really excited for this one and unfortunately, it just didn't hit the mark.
This was my first Renee Carlino book and whilst I will try reading another one of her novels in the future, this one just was NOT for me. I felt the characters to be very unrealistic and two-dimensional, it was something I just couldn't get past. The style of writing was also something that didn't bode well with me, I found it to be very narrative (instead of descriptive) and it tended to lack emotion. The romance was cringey, at best and lacked a lot of substance that I kept looking for. I was really excited for this one and unfortunately, it just didn't hit the mark.
September 8, 2019
I seriously loved this book!
Both Laya and Micah were such unique characters and as usual, Renee Carlino's words sucked me right in.
A heartbreaking beginning with reading what Laya went through, losing her husband Cameron tragically. Her struggle to accept his death was completely understandable.
And then there's Micah. He was almost like a lost soul trying to find his way in life, and figure out what was important to him. He had quite an interesting personality. And I absolutely LOVED his twin sister, Melissa! Their relationship made me laugh!
A lot happens in this book, and it just flowed so easily for me.
Highly recommend!!!
Three, two, one.....see ya!
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley for an honest review.
Both Laya and Micah were such unique characters and as usual, Renee Carlino's words sucked me right in.
A heartbreaking beginning with reading what Laya went through, losing her husband Cameron tragically. Her struggle to accept his death was completely understandable.
And then there's Micah. He was almost like a lost soul trying to find his way in life, and figure out what was important to him. He had quite an interesting personality. And I absolutely LOVED his twin sister, Melissa! Their relationship made me laugh!
A lot happens in this book, and it just flowed so easily for me.
Highly recommend!!!
Three, two, one.....see ya!
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley for an honest review.
August 20, 2019
29 year old surgeon Laya has only been married to professional stunt-daredevil Cameron for a year, when he suddenly died doing a flying-stunt in France.
Now, almost a year later, Laya is back in New York to be near her dad .. but she's not living. She's just barely existing. She even stopped working as a doctor.
The only thing that seems to help her is writing little messages on Cameron's Facebook page.
But her dad and Cameron's family want her to stop. She can't go on pretending that he'll read those messages and come back...
Enter Micah. He's also stuck in his life. He loves his job as an architect at Laya's dad's company. But he doesn't love-love it anymore. He doesn't love New York anymore. He hates the dating, one-night stand, clubbing life. He's too old for that sh*t!
That's when he sees Laya for the first time and he's blown away by her beauty and her sadness.
He tries to get to know her, to help her. But can she love again?
Micah is not giving up easily! But is there really a chance???
What will happen with Laya & Micah?
Will there be a HEA?
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺
══════════════════
Well, that was a Renee Carlino book. And I started crying and feeling while reading the first pages. Well, to be honest, I kinda already cried reading the blurb!
Ugh, I hate it when people die in books. Ok, in real life too obviously. But in books - we don't want people dying too!
At least we only got one chapter with Cameron - we couldn't fall in mega love with him before he died.
And then there's Micah. And he's soo adorable. He's not the perfect billionaire CEO we so often get these days. He's a bit broken too. He's in therapy for some things ...
I just loved him!
And I loved Laya too.
They would be soo perfect for each other! But of course Laya's husband just died. She can't immediately fall in love with Micah. And lots of things happen before we can even think about that happy end!
I really adored this book. I cried a lot. But it was also so very adorable and sweet and New Yorkish and so full of love and family and hope.
Great book!
♡
♡
August 20, 2019
Reviewed on: Ashes Books & Bobs.
I was extremely excited to read this book based on the blurb and author. It seemed like the perfect book to tug on my heartstrings and allow me to get lost in a beautiful love story.
Unfortunately, this book didn't tick the boxes I needed it to. Granted, it was not a horrible read. I really enjoyed certain parts and some of the humor, especially between Melissa and Micah. However, much of this book seemed downright weird to me. Many readers, myself included, thought Micah came across as a strange stalker, but that wasn't the biggest issue for me. Much of the dialogue in this book was odd. The characters would go off on unrelated tangents about the banalest topics, while being happy in one moment and in the very next sentence angry and depressed. Trying to keep up with the characters' moods was enough to give me whiplash. Not only that, but all of the relationships, with the exception of Micah and Mel seemed incredibly surface-level.
One would think, based on the subject matter this novel covers, it would be a tearjerker of a story. Regrettably, I didn't feel an emotional pull toward any of the characters. Further, I didn't believe the connections between the characters themselves, which created a disconnect for me as a reader. Instead I was wondering, "do they even like each other?" The words said so, but the feelings indicted otherwise. I do think Renee did a fine job of capturing the grief Laya was going through, but it still wasn't enough to make me feel it along with her.
Like all of Renee's books, this was a fairly quick read, but overall it was a miss for me. I feel a bit confused and disappointed with the story.
I was extremely excited to read this book based on the blurb and author. It seemed like the perfect book to tug on my heartstrings and allow me to get lost in a beautiful love story.
Unfortunately, this book didn't tick the boxes I needed it to. Granted, it was not a horrible read. I really enjoyed certain parts and some of the humor, especially between Melissa and Micah. However, much of this book seemed downright weird to me. Many readers, myself included, thought Micah came across as a strange stalker, but that wasn't the biggest issue for me. Much of the dialogue in this book was odd. The characters would go off on unrelated tangents about the banalest topics, while being happy in one moment and in the very next sentence angry and depressed. Trying to keep up with the characters' moods was enough to give me whiplash. Not only that, but all of the relationships, with the exception of Micah and Mel seemed incredibly surface-level.
One would think, based on the subject matter this novel covers, it would be a tearjerker of a story. Regrettably, I didn't feel an emotional pull toward any of the characters. Further, I didn't believe the connections between the characters themselves, which created a disconnect for me as a reader. Instead I was wondering, "do they even like each other?" The words said so, but the feelings indicted otherwise. I do think Renee did a fine job of capturing the grief Laya was going through, but it still wasn't enough to make me feel it along with her.
Like all of Renee's books, this was a fairly quick read, but overall it was a miss for me. I feel a bit confused and disappointed with the story.
August 20, 2019
**The Last Post generously provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
4 "Isn't it beautiful?" Stars
Renee Carlino's vivid, descriptive prose never fails to draw me into her stories. Having read this book pretty quickly, unable to tear myself away from the tortured and tragic yet hopeful and full of love pages, I found myself enamored with the story telling chops of Carlino. Her style of writing just always manages to find some long buried emotion or reveals a new vulnerability in life. It's a sort of magic ingredient that makes her stories so compelling and captivating.
While I didn't connect wholly to these characters I understood them in a myriad of ways. Grappling with their grief and existential issues right along with them helped me to absorb and really feel the story that much more. There were certain actions that I struggled with because I didn't understand it and some I thought I did understand but still didn't agree with. But that's okay for me and didn't detract from the emotional depth of the story.
The Last Post was more than a romance to me. It was realistic piece of contemporary Women's fiction with very complex, layered romance and interpersonal relationships. The romance of the story was juxtaposing the hope with the despair, the light with the dark. The story was as welcoming as it was standoffish making for a really intriguing reading experience. Taking this unique journey with these fascinatingly complex characters told with rich and brilliantly executed writing is definitely recommended by me.
4 "Isn't it beautiful?" Stars
Renee Carlino's vivid, descriptive prose never fails to draw me into her stories. Having read this book pretty quickly, unable to tear myself away from the tortured and tragic yet hopeful and full of love pages, I found myself enamored with the story telling chops of Carlino. Her style of writing just always manages to find some long buried emotion or reveals a new vulnerability in life. It's a sort of magic ingredient that makes her stories so compelling and captivating.
While I didn't connect wholly to these characters I understood them in a myriad of ways. Grappling with their grief and existential issues right along with them helped me to absorb and really feel the story that much more. There were certain actions that I struggled with because I didn't understand it and some I thought I did understand but still didn't agree with. But that's okay for me and didn't detract from the emotional depth of the story.
The Last Post was more than a romance to me. It was realistic piece of contemporary Women's fiction with very complex, layered romance and interpersonal relationships. The romance of the story was juxtaposing the hope with the despair, the light with the dark. The story was as welcoming as it was standoffish making for a really intriguing reading experience. Taking this unique journey with these fascinatingly complex characters told with rich and brilliantly executed writing is definitely recommended by me.
July 30, 2019
Laya had a whirlwind courtship and marriage to her husband Cameron after meeting at the emergency room she worked at with an injury from his job as a stuntman. It was one of those moments in time where they both knew there was something there between them that they couldn't ignore. Life has been crazy ever since.
‘Are you trying to wink at me?’ I asked. ‘No. I just want to make sure what I’m seeing is real.’ ‘What are you seeing?’ ‘The love of my life.’
Cameron travels all over the world chasing the next thrill and when she can, Laya goes along too. There is huge risk involved in this career choice and although Laya supports him, she has no appetite for the thrill seeing things Cameron does. Her biggest fear becomes a reality when Cameron is tragically killed on the job leaving her a young widow. Devastated at losing him, Laya leaves her job at the hospital and returns back to New York to be closer to her father and figure out how she can live without her beloved Cameron.
‘I just want to know when I’ll stop feeling like a broken tooth walking around with exposed nerves constantly hitting the freezing air. I feel like my skin has been peeled off.’
One thing that helps Laya deal with her loss is to post messages on Cam’s Facebook page. Messages from Laya to Cameron about memories that pop into her head of things they experienced together. Some of them are about things she wished they did and some are just random thoughts. Laya’s father and Cam’s family are not happy about these posts but how can anyone tell someone how to grieve. If this is what Laya needs to do to get through this awful part of her life then so be it.
When Micah first meets Laya he pretty much forgets how to breath, let alone talk. She is the most stunning woman he has ever seen but her evident grief overshadows her beauty. He wants to know everything there is to know about her and he soon finds her posts online to Cameron. He decides to use these as his guide to occasionally be in the same place as Laya and in some instances to make some of her wishes come true. The last thing he wants to do is hurt her or scare her off. He just wants to make her smile and bring some light to her darkness.
‘It was in that moment I understood what falling for someone meant. It had nothing to do with sex, or wanting to feel good. I had already been there. Falling for someone is when you can’t look away. When you know you would never forget what a person looks like. You would never mistake her for someone else.’
Laya genuinely likes Micah’s presence in her life but she struggles with the guilt that comes along with that, like she is betraying Cameron by even having a friendship with him. She knows that she is not ready for anything more right now and she may not be for a long time. However, Micah makes her feel less alone and just knowing that he is there when she needs him gives her comfort.
I love that Micah was a mostly, quiet, keep to himself sort of guy. He didn’t look at Laya as a conquest or someone he could seduce. He saw the pain and anguish in her eyes and just wanted to help make it go away. His intentions were very sweet and although he may not have expressed himself in quite the way he wanted to, I found his honest ramblings so endearing. He definitely felt out of his depth and potentially felt like Laya was out of his league at times but his patient persistence was exactly what she needed.
‘Why are you staring at me?’ I said. ‘It’s hard to look away,’ he replied.
I’ve always believed that you can have more than one great love in a lifetime and Renee does a wonderful job showing this in this heartfelt story. I have loved every book I have read from this talented author and this story was yet another fabulous 5 star read.
‘Are you trying to wink at me?’ I asked. ‘No. I just want to make sure what I’m seeing is real.’ ‘What are you seeing?’ ‘The love of my life.’
Cameron travels all over the world chasing the next thrill and when she can, Laya goes along too. There is huge risk involved in this career choice and although Laya supports him, she has no appetite for the thrill seeing things Cameron does. Her biggest fear becomes a reality when Cameron is tragically killed on the job leaving her a young widow. Devastated at losing him, Laya leaves her job at the hospital and returns back to New York to be closer to her father and figure out how she can live without her beloved Cameron.
‘I just want to know when I’ll stop feeling like a broken tooth walking around with exposed nerves constantly hitting the freezing air. I feel like my skin has been peeled off.’
One thing that helps Laya deal with her loss is to post messages on Cam’s Facebook page. Messages from Laya to Cameron about memories that pop into her head of things they experienced together. Some of them are about things she wished they did and some are just random thoughts. Laya’s father and Cam’s family are not happy about these posts but how can anyone tell someone how to grieve. If this is what Laya needs to do to get through this awful part of her life then so be it.
When Micah first meets Laya he pretty much forgets how to breath, let alone talk. She is the most stunning woman he has ever seen but her evident grief overshadows her beauty. He wants to know everything there is to know about her and he soon finds her posts online to Cameron. He decides to use these as his guide to occasionally be in the same place as Laya and in some instances to make some of her wishes come true. The last thing he wants to do is hurt her or scare her off. He just wants to make her smile and bring some light to her darkness.
‘It was in that moment I understood what falling for someone meant. It had nothing to do with sex, or wanting to feel good. I had already been there. Falling for someone is when you can’t look away. When you know you would never forget what a person looks like. You would never mistake her for someone else.’
Laya genuinely likes Micah’s presence in her life but she struggles with the guilt that comes along with that, like she is betraying Cameron by even having a friendship with him. She knows that she is not ready for anything more right now and she may not be for a long time. However, Micah makes her feel less alone and just knowing that he is there when she needs him gives her comfort.
I love that Micah was a mostly, quiet, keep to himself sort of guy. He didn’t look at Laya as a conquest or someone he could seduce. He saw the pain and anguish in her eyes and just wanted to help make it go away. His intentions were very sweet and although he may not have expressed himself in quite the way he wanted to, I found his honest ramblings so endearing. He definitely felt out of his depth and potentially felt like Laya was out of his league at times but his patient persistence was exactly what she needed.
‘Why are you staring at me?’ I said. ‘It’s hard to look away,’ he replied.
I’ve always believed that you can have more than one great love in a lifetime and Renee does a wonderful job showing this in this heartfelt story. I have loved every book I have read from this talented author and this story was yet another fabulous 5 star read.
August 5, 2019
3.5 STARS
I ADORE Renee Carlino's books and will read anything she writes. ('Swear on This Life' is a must-read, by the way.) With that said, I found 'The Last Post' to be a little confusing in its tone and characterizations. Although I was drawn into the story of Laya and Micah and their modern romance, I did not feel that this book reached its potential. Laya is recently widowed and cannot move on from her beloved husband Cameron's tragic death. She leaves public posts on his Facebook page which are tender, sweet and very sad. Once a medical resident with a promising career, she is too grief-stricken to move on with her life.
Micah is an architect at Laya's father's firm. Both Micah and Laya are very vulnerable but Micah pursues Laya intensely. I often didn't feel much of a difference in their POV's but yet I did like the story enough to finish.
The writing is solid but the endless grief was somewhat exhausting. I did love the New York City setting and description of the perils of modern dating. If you are a fan of Renee Carlino's writing, then definitely give this book a try! Michah was a sweet and soulful hero that many will connect with. And the conclusion was a beautiful, hopeful end to this story.
I ADORE Renee Carlino's books and will read anything she writes. ('Swear on This Life' is a must-read, by the way.) With that said, I found 'The Last Post' to be a little confusing in its tone and characterizations. Although I was drawn into the story of Laya and Micah and their modern romance, I did not feel that this book reached its potential. Laya is recently widowed and cannot move on from her beloved husband Cameron's tragic death. She leaves public posts on his Facebook page which are tender, sweet and very sad. Once a medical resident with a promising career, she is too grief-stricken to move on with her life.
Micah is an architect at Laya's father's firm. Both Micah and Laya are very vulnerable but Micah pursues Laya intensely. I often didn't feel much of a difference in their POV's but yet I did like the story enough to finish.
The writing is solid but the endless grief was somewhat exhausting. I did love the New York City setting and description of the perils of modern dating. If you are a fan of Renee Carlino's writing, then definitely give this book a try! Michah was a sweet and soulful hero that many will connect with. And the conclusion was a beautiful, hopeful end to this story.
September 3, 2019
Exactly what I needed to read today. All the feels.
August 20, 2019
Renee Carlino has written some of my favorite books (Before We Were Strangers, Wish You Were Here, Swear on This Life) and some that were more "meh" for me (Blind Kiss). The Last Post falls somewhere closer to middle of the road this time for me.
What I Liked:
- Story about moving on after terrible loss at a young age
- Learning if it's possible to make room again in your heart without dishonoring a spouse who has died
- Fun family dynamics (bantering siblings always make me laugh, especially when it's a brother and sister - probably because this is very true to my own life)
What Didn't Work For Me:
- Micah is utterly relentless in his pursuit of Laya who repeatedly tells him she is not done grieving her dead husband, Cameron. This was to the point of stalkerish tendencies to me (sending her a concert ticket anonymously because he read on facebook she liked the band with her husband and then showing up with a beard and sitting next to her?) this is really not okay in real life and shouldn't be romanticized in literature
- we get it, you had a character go to Harvard. If I had to read the word Harvard more than one time, this book was going sailing across the room at warp speed
All in all: this ended up somewhere around a 3.5 for me. I really don't want to round up or down because 3.5 just feels so accurate - but of course, Goodreads/Amazon don't offer that option. So, for those purposes, 4 it is. But it's a 3.5!!!
Thank you to Atria for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
What I Liked:
- Story about moving on after terrible loss at a young age
- Learning if it's possible to make room again in your heart without dishonoring a spouse who has died
- Fun family dynamics (bantering siblings always make me laugh, especially when it's a brother and sister - probably because this is very true to my own life)
What Didn't Work For Me:
- Micah is utterly relentless in his pursuit of Laya who repeatedly tells him she is not done grieving her dead husband, Cameron. This was to the point of stalkerish tendencies to me (sending her a concert ticket anonymously because he read on facebook she liked the band with her husband and then showing up with a beard and sitting next to her?) this is really not okay in real life and shouldn't be romanticized in literature
- we get it, you had a character go to Harvard. If I had to read the word Harvard more than one time, this book was going sailing across the room at warp speed
All in all: this ended up somewhere around a 3.5 for me. I really don't want to round up or down because 3.5 just feels so accurate - but of course, Goodreads/Amazon don't offer that option. So, for those purposes, 4 it is. But it's a 3.5!!!
Thank you to Atria for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
June 23, 2019
THE LAST POST is a story about a woman drowned in the grief of the loss of her husband and the man who was determined to save her.
Micha wanted to be the reason Laya smiled, he wanted to be the one she thought about and loved, and he wanted her in his life.
Micah started as a stalker. There really isn't any other way for me to describe his character. It was difficult for me to like him or view him as a love interest. He was oddly obsessed with his boss's daughter, Laya (who is deep in grief over the death of her husband -- the death which she witnessed). He had a strange need to try and make her feel better. He would read her posts on Facebook she made to her dead husband, and then try to recreate for her those experiences she wrote about, in the hope that it will make her feel better …
For the most part, I liked Layla. I was glad we were able to watch her work her way through the grieving process and come out at the end, a stronger person. There were times, however, when she would lash out at people, that I found it difficult to like her. But everyone grieves differently, so I had to accept her angry and often nasty behavior as a result of her grief.
I loved the first 30% and thought for sure this was going to be another winner for me by this author. But, sadly, by 53% I contemplated not finishing. I put the story away and went on with my day. The next morning, I picked it back up again and decided to give it another try. I am glad that I did. The last 20% or so of the book, the story turned around for me. And, therein lies the problem. The middle of the book was slow. It was heavy. The focus became on Laya's loss and her anguish, and on Micah's odd, obsessive tendencies toward her, rather than focusing on the characters themselves. And those things made me not interested in the characters or their story.
While this may not have been a winner for me, I have loved every other book I've read from this author. Her writing is emotional, and her characters are intriguing. I look forward to reading more from her.
I was provided a review copy by the publisher; this did not influence my opinion of the book nor my review.
Micha wanted to be the reason Laya smiled, he wanted to be the one she thought about and loved, and he wanted her in his life.
Micah started as a stalker. There really isn't any other way for me to describe his character. It was difficult for me to like him or view him as a love interest. He was oddly obsessed with his boss's daughter, Laya (who is deep in grief over the death of her husband -- the death which she witnessed). He had a strange need to try and make her feel better. He would read her posts on Facebook she made to her dead husband, and then try to recreate for her those experiences she wrote about, in the hope that it will make her feel better …
"I looked at Laya's last post from six weeks ago about the movie. I wanted to have that moment with her. Instead of creeping her out by hiding tickets under her mat, I decided to ask her properly."
For the most part, I liked Layla. I was glad we were able to watch her work her way through the grieving process and come out at the end, a stronger person. There were times, however, when she would lash out at people, that I found it difficult to like her. But everyone grieves differently, so I had to accept her angry and often nasty behavior as a result of her grief.
I loved the first 30% and thought for sure this was going to be another winner for me by this author. But, sadly, by 53% I contemplated not finishing. I put the story away and went on with my day. The next morning, I picked it back up again and decided to give it another try. I am glad that I did. The last 20% or so of the book, the story turned around for me. And, therein lies the problem. The middle of the book was slow. It was heavy. The focus became on Laya's loss and her anguish, and on Micah's odd, obsessive tendencies toward her, rather than focusing on the characters themselves. And those things made me not interested in the characters or their story.
While this may not have been a winner for me, I have loved every other book I've read from this author. Her writing is emotional, and her characters are intriguing. I look forward to reading more from her.
I was provided a review copy by the publisher; this did not influence my opinion of the book nor my review.
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August 21, 2019REVIEW: DNF at 66%
"Scars are a testament to life."
My thoughts upon immediately starting this book: I feel like the voice in this book was one of ease, but with a quiet power behind it. You and Me, we are chatting. We are having a conversation and the prose is lighthearted, even though the subject matter has some heavy moments.
My thoughts just barely in the book: I feel like something is missing. The things that should have broken me - subject matter alone, read like I was removed from the pain and the turmoil that I should have felt while I was reading the book. Their interactions felt very clipped and robotic. There wasn't any emotion, any inflection in the voice, and there wasn't any feeling in their reactions.
My thoughts towards the end of the book: I liked it enough to try and finish it - but that clearly failed. I don't think I am hating on it - but the writing style seriously lacked in this one for me. Not exactly well written, grammatically or perfectly spelled out, but Renee's voice kinda worked for me....until it didn't. The execution lacked terribly.
This book should have been a lesson in living and letting go of a past that cannot be changed, putting a lot into perspective - love those you love, and love them often for you don't know when that will be the last time you kiss them....love them.....hug them....say goodbye to them. Or even hear their voice. But, the sad reality is who really wants to let go of their one true love? Their soulmate? The one they married, in sickness and in health, until death do they part? I did get teary-eyed a time or two, because I put myself in Laya's shoes, but it took me putting myself in her shoes, not because I was gathering that from the writing itself. I thought about what it meant to lose a love that meant everything to me. It could have been eye-opening and heartbreaking in some points, but for some reason, that wasn't expressed very well and it fell short.
Micah was a different.....breed. Sure, I can joke, but he had his hangups and his own set of issues to contend with. His overall personality made me smile, though, and that gave me pause for a few chapters. He had a heart of gold, wanted 'real' things, and made for a character that had me rooting for him in all the ways possible, but he certainly came across as if he had "problems." I'm not a huge fan of softer men in general. I like a man that is confident and strong, one that goes with purpose and determination. Micah was so different from my norm that I had to ask myself how I truly felt. Honestly, the farther I got in, it got more difficult. I was trying to reconcile his issues with the way he was written, and it came across that he was slow - but he wasn't. A Harvard educated architect should have had more depth, more gumption, more meat to his thought processes. I'm going to blame the writing style on that. He was very one-dimensional when it was all said and done.
But, then again, maybe that's why the attraction to Laya was there because she, too, was very one dimensional. No real inflection in her voice or her character's actions, yet she had this broken heart to contend with. I wish I felt the pain that she was going through. The heartbreak that she supposedly felt. The grieving she did was very out of the ordinary, and I am not entirely sure I was able to go along with it or understand it. Believe me when I say I like different, something to make me think - something out of the box. But, it was just....awkward.
I did love how two souls were blindly feeling their way through new pathways and trying to be respectful of each other, but also pursuing what they felt in their hearts to be something that needed exploring. I enjoyed the tip-toeing around the obvious emotions, but also the calming nature of Micah holding Laya and rubbing her back. This book, it was all about the little things making up the big picture and that was my favorite part. That was all very sweet and relatable, and that was nice to read. As weird as it sounds, I think it's safe to say that I got caught up in the weirdness. The awkwardness between the characters was really endearing, if I can say that as an outsider looking in.
But, when Laya started to turn down a dark road, I didn't much care for the 'demonization' of a certain character. It felt out of place given what I had already read....how I had already fallen in love with them, and now I'm feeling like it was all a ruse. I just didn't care for it and the book took a very downhill turn after this, and it continued down a very slippery slope. That kind of took me out of the book and I started to skim after that. I knew I needed to call it at that point. I don't like skimming and I don't generally finished a skimmed book.
I honestly feel like there were some transitional issues, but the storyline was great. I think Carlino missed out on the ability to embellish with feelings/adjectives because some of her points just.....stop. But having said that, I also know this is how Carlino writes - or maybe it's how she's edited, I don't know. Some parts of it leave me wanting more well-rounded, better thought out phrasing, while other parts made me really feel the storyline and the characters' actions and feelings. The staccato rhythm that came with her storytelling could really go either way. The story itself could have been a 4 for me, easily and happily - but the writing could have been cleaned up quite a bit, expounded upon, so that sits at a 2, barely. I just feel like there are missed opportunities with her ability to flesh out scenes. Instead of cluing us in on some of the characters' feelings - she let them hang and I wanted to see that play out - to give it a more rounded reading experience. She had so many opportunities to build around some scenes that could have been 'felt' more, but they kind of went stagnant and fell flat.
Overall, the writing left something to be desired, but knowing she can write a story that moves me (Before We Were Strangers, Blind Kiss) I may have given it more time, resulting in a relaxed rating in my expectations, because I knew what she was trying to say, and how she was trying to articulate it. But, I was looking for more emotion and feeling being written in and shown throughout some of the scenes. I loved and appreciated what little of Laya's pain I read, and her fear of starting over. I felt some of Micah's desires and worries about stepping on toes, or saying the wrong thing - but it really was over the top and unnecessary. I struggled more with the fact that he talked about seeing a therapist about his "thoughts" and yet, none of that was really discussed or explained through 2/3 of the book so I question if it was really necessary. It added more of an annoyance than a story arc.
Was some of it predictable? Ehh...maybe. I could see things a mile away, but they played out easily and timeline appropriate, and I was thankful for that. Overall, I liked the story, but the writing lacked emotional connectivity and embellishment. I think this was a lesson for me, knowing some of her books work for me and others just have not - I need to read before I get excited about her books from now on. I feel like this was yet another letdown for a book that commanded emotions and feelings and didn't give me any of it.
~BEE
No giveaway for DNF reviews
"Scars are a testament to life."
My thoughts upon immediately starting this book: I feel like the voice in this book was one of ease, but with a quiet power behind it. You and Me, we are chatting. We are having a conversation and the prose is lighthearted, even though the subject matter has some heavy moments.
My thoughts just barely in the book: I feel like something is missing. The things that should have broken me - subject matter alone, read like I was removed from the pain and the turmoil that I should have felt while I was reading the book. Their interactions felt very clipped and robotic. There wasn't any emotion, any inflection in the voice, and there wasn't any feeling in their reactions.
My thoughts towards the end of the book: I liked it enough to try and finish it - but that clearly failed. I don't think I am hating on it - but the writing style seriously lacked in this one for me. Not exactly well written, grammatically or perfectly spelled out, but Renee's voice kinda worked for me....until it didn't. The execution lacked terribly.
This book should have been a lesson in living and letting go of a past that cannot be changed, putting a lot into perspective - love those you love, and love them often for you don't know when that will be the last time you kiss them....love them.....hug them....say goodbye to them. Or even hear their voice. But, the sad reality is who really wants to let go of their one true love? Their soulmate? The one they married, in sickness and in health, until death do they part? I did get teary-eyed a time or two, because I put myself in Laya's shoes, but it took me putting myself in her shoes, not because I was gathering that from the writing itself. I thought about what it meant to lose a love that meant everything to me. It could have been eye-opening and heartbreaking in some points, but for some reason, that wasn't expressed very well and it fell short.
Micah was a different.....breed. Sure, I can joke, but he had his hangups and his own set of issues to contend with. His overall personality made me smile, though, and that gave me pause for a few chapters. He had a heart of gold, wanted 'real' things, and made for a character that had me rooting for him in all the ways possible, but he certainly came across as if he had "problems." I'm not a huge fan of softer men in general. I like a man that is confident and strong, one that goes with purpose and determination. Micah was so different from my norm that I had to ask myself how I truly felt. Honestly, the farther I got in, it got more difficult. I was trying to reconcile his issues with the way he was written, and it came across that he was slow - but he wasn't. A Harvard educated architect should have had more depth, more gumption, more meat to his thought processes. I'm going to blame the writing style on that. He was very one-dimensional when it was all said and done.
But, then again, maybe that's why the attraction to Laya was there because she, too, was very one dimensional. No real inflection in her voice or her character's actions, yet she had this broken heart to contend with. I wish I felt the pain that she was going through. The heartbreak that she supposedly felt. The grieving she did was very out of the ordinary, and I am not entirely sure I was able to go along with it or understand it. Believe me when I say I like different, something to make me think - something out of the box. But, it was just....awkward.
I did love how two souls were blindly feeling their way through new pathways and trying to be respectful of each other, but also pursuing what they felt in their hearts to be something that needed exploring. I enjoyed the tip-toeing around the obvious emotions, but also the calming nature of Micah holding Laya and rubbing her back. This book, it was all about the little things making up the big picture and that was my favorite part. That was all very sweet and relatable, and that was nice to read. As weird as it sounds, I think it's safe to say that I got caught up in the weirdness. The awkwardness between the characters was really endearing, if I can say that as an outsider looking in.
But, when Laya started to turn down a dark road, I didn't much care for the 'demonization' of a certain character. It felt out of place given what I had already read....how I had already fallen in love with them, and now I'm feeling like it was all a ruse. I just didn't care for it and the book took a very downhill turn after this, and it continued down a very slippery slope. That kind of took me out of the book and I started to skim after that. I knew I needed to call it at that point. I don't like skimming and I don't generally finished a skimmed book.
I honestly feel like there were some transitional issues, but the storyline was great. I think Carlino missed out on the ability to embellish with feelings/adjectives because some of her points just.....stop. But having said that, I also know this is how Carlino writes - or maybe it's how she's edited, I don't know. Some parts of it leave me wanting more well-rounded, better thought out phrasing, while other parts made me really feel the storyline and the characters' actions and feelings. The staccato rhythm that came with her storytelling could really go either way. The story itself could have been a 4 for me, easily and happily - but the writing could have been cleaned up quite a bit, expounded upon, so that sits at a 2, barely. I just feel like there are missed opportunities with her ability to flesh out scenes. Instead of cluing us in on some of the characters' feelings - she let them hang and I wanted to see that play out - to give it a more rounded reading experience. She had so many opportunities to build around some scenes that could have been 'felt' more, but they kind of went stagnant and fell flat.
Overall, the writing left something to be desired, but knowing she can write a story that moves me (Before We Were Strangers, Blind Kiss) I may have given it more time, resulting in a relaxed rating in my expectations, because I knew what she was trying to say, and how she was trying to articulate it. But, I was looking for more emotion and feeling being written in and shown throughout some of the scenes. I loved and appreciated what little of Laya's pain I read, and her fear of starting over. I felt some of Micah's desires and worries about stepping on toes, or saying the wrong thing - but it really was over the top and unnecessary. I struggled more with the fact that he talked about seeing a therapist about his "thoughts" and yet, none of that was really discussed or explained through 2/3 of the book so I question if it was really necessary. It added more of an annoyance than a story arc.
Was some of it predictable? Ehh...maybe. I could see things a mile away, but they played out easily and timeline appropriate, and I was thankful for that. Overall, I liked the story, but the writing lacked emotional connectivity and embellishment. I think this was a lesson for me, knowing some of her books work for me and others just have not - I need to read before I get excited about her books from now on. I feel like this was yet another letdown for a book that commanded emotions and feelings and didn't give me any of it.
~BEE
No giveaway for DNF reviews
August 20, 2019
This was my first read by Renee Carlino and have to say I was a. tad bit disappointed :(.
The Last Post was a strange and sad romance to say the least. It definitely had me emotional in this tale but felt the romance was just all over the place and did things backwards. The majority of the story was about the grief and loss which was the ENTIRE book. This was a tad bit too heavy for my liking and just felt a bit more depressing then I wanted it too.
The characterization was weak which I struggled with completely. One of the main characters was borderline stalkerish and lacked boundaries in the entire story. I had a hard time believing the romance between the two and just was disappointing to me.
I can't say that I would read something again by this author.
Thank you to Atria for the arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date: 8/20/19
Published to GR: 8/19/19
2.5 stars for me on this one.
The Last Post was a strange and sad romance to say the least. It definitely had me emotional in this tale but felt the romance was just all over the place and did things backwards. The majority of the story was about the grief and loss which was the ENTIRE book. This was a tad bit too heavy for my liking and just felt a bit more depressing then I wanted it too.
The characterization was weak which I struggled with completely. One of the main characters was borderline stalkerish and lacked boundaries in the entire story. I had a hard time believing the romance between the two and just was disappointing to me.
I can't say that I would read something again by this author.
Thank you to Atria for the arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date: 8/20/19
Published to GR: 8/19/19
2.5 stars for me on this one.
August 14, 2019
3 1/2 "3...2..1...See Ya" Stars
I'm not exactly sure how to approach this review. I am a long-time fan of Renee Carlino's books. Truly, I have loved them all. That said, The Last Post was a more challenging read for me than the ones I've previously read. You're going to think I didn't like this book at all, but I did. I just didn't like it as much as I anticipated. I typically LOVE and want to shout from the rooftops about Ms. Carlino's books. This time, something was missing for me. I found that I had a harder time connecting with both Laya and Micah. I understand that Laya was grieving her husband and probably had some PTSD because she was present when he died. However, even taking that into consideration, I still found that I couldn't make myself relate to her the way I wanted to. Then there was Micah, who was a mess all on his own. I never understood what was behind his mid-life crisis - - the one where he'd grown the beard and retreated to the woods for a time period. Did he go through a depression of his own? What was his trigger? I feel like there was more to him that went unexplained. I did like him though and appreciated that he was trying to reach Laya and soothe her the only way he knew. It just so happened that it was a bit creepy, awkward and somewhat stalkerish. He was sincerely trying though and I can give brownie points for true effort. I was very hot and cold on Micah's relationship with his twin sister. She was much too abrasive for me at times and treated him a little too callously. However, I guess that she redeemed herself at the end but midway through I was definitely not a member of her fan club.
Now let's talk about Cameron, the dead husband. I know he didn't intend to be one but he was such a selfish man. It was evident he loved Laya, but apparently not enough to be around for her for the long haul. I think he already loved thrill-seeking too much by the time he met her. It was in his blood and he couldn't have ever given it up. With such a risky career, he should have had more frank discussions with her regarding what he'd want her to do in the event that he died. That is where he truly failed her because when it happened, she was left spinning with no direction and unclear of how to move forward without him. Given her family history, she needed that direction. I think all the accumulated loss is one reason she had so much difficulty moving forward.
I really felt like this book had so much potential. I liked the premise but sadly, it just fell short for me. However, when I say it fell short, I am rating it on a Renee Carlino scale. This is to say that it is still a good book. I think sometimes my expectations are set too high. There were still many things I enjoyed about the book.
"Scars are a testament to the love and the relationships I had for and with each person. And if the scar is deep, so was the love. So be it. Scars are a testament to life."
(Disclosure: The quote above is subject to change as it is from an ARC but I had to share it because I found it to be absolutely beautiful.)
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not exactly sure how to approach this review. I am a long-time fan of Renee Carlino's books. Truly, I have loved them all. That said, The Last Post was a more challenging read for me than the ones I've previously read. You're going to think I didn't like this book at all, but I did. I just didn't like it as much as I anticipated. I typically LOVE and want to shout from the rooftops about Ms. Carlino's books. This time, something was missing for me. I found that I had a harder time connecting with both Laya and Micah. I understand that Laya was grieving her husband and probably had some PTSD because she was present when he died. However, even taking that into consideration, I still found that I couldn't make myself relate to her the way I wanted to. Then there was Micah, who was a mess all on his own. I never understood what was behind his mid-life crisis - - the one where he'd grown the beard and retreated to the woods for a time period. Did he go through a depression of his own? What was his trigger? I feel like there was more to him that went unexplained. I did like him though and appreciated that he was trying to reach Laya and soothe her the only way he knew. It just so happened that it was a bit creepy, awkward and somewhat stalkerish. He was sincerely trying though and I can give brownie points for true effort. I was very hot and cold on Micah's relationship with his twin sister. She was much too abrasive for me at times and treated him a little too callously. However, I guess that she redeemed herself at the end but midway through I was definitely not a member of her fan club.
Now let's talk about Cameron, the dead husband. I know he didn't intend to be one but he was such a selfish man. It was evident he loved Laya, but apparently not enough to be around for her for the long haul. I think he already loved thrill-seeking too much by the time he met her. It was in his blood and he couldn't have ever given it up. With such a risky career, he should have had more frank discussions with her regarding what he'd want her to do in the event that he died. That is where he truly failed her because when it happened, she was left spinning with no direction and unclear of how to move forward without him. Given her family history, she needed that direction. I think all the accumulated loss is one reason she had so much difficulty moving forward.
I really felt like this book had so much potential. I liked the premise but sadly, it just fell short for me. However, when I say it fell short, I am rating it on a Renee Carlino scale. This is to say that it is still a good book. I think sometimes my expectations are set too high. There were still many things I enjoyed about the book.
"Scars are a testament to the love and the relationships I had for and with each person. And if the scar is deep, so was the love. So be it. Scars are a testament to life."
(Disclosure: The quote above is subject to change as it is from an ARC but I had to share it because I found it to be absolutely beautiful.)
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2021
♦ find MORE reviews on my blog ♦
This book is supposed to be a story about a woman encompassing grief and finding a second chance at love. Sound wonderful, doesn't it?
Well, it was basically a ripoff. First off, it feels like a betrayal, in all honesty. Why? Because I love Renee Carlino with all my heart, and her books Swear on This Life & Before We Were Strangers are two of my all-time favorite novels. So I felt incredibly hurt when I realized 60% through this novel that I did not love. I did not love it all.
The writing is simple and clear, as is Carlin's style, but the characters were generally unidimensional, the comedy was mostly crass, and the "romantic" elements were cringy and disappointing.
I didn’t sympathize with or even like the heroine, Laya, and to be honest, I thought Micah was a deranged stalker. The storyline is completely unrealistic and unbelievable. Did I already say that? Whatever. For most of the novel, I couldn't pinpoint what the author's point in writing this book was. I had mixed feeling throughout this entire reading experience, and that by itself is usually a bad sign.
Bottom line: Don't waste your money on this book. If you want to read your first Renee Carlino book, do not make it this one. In fact, don't read this one at all.
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finished-reading
I have this disease called adding a book to my TBR if the cover is gorgeous or I love the author. This is one of those moments I hate this disease.
2.5 stars // review to come.
---
pre-reading updates:
How did I not know this book existed I love Renee Carlino so much okay that is all goodbye.
This book is supposed to be a story about a woman encompassing grief and finding a second chance at love. Sound wonderful, doesn't it?
Well, it was basically a ripoff. First off, it feels like a betrayal, in all honesty. Why? Because I love Renee Carlino with all my heart, and her books Swear on This Life & Before We Were Strangers are two of my all-time favorite novels. So I felt incredibly hurt when I realized 60% through this novel that I did not love. I did not love it all.
The writing is simple and clear, as is Carlin's style, but the characters were generally unidimensional, the comedy was mostly crass, and the "romantic" elements were cringy and disappointing.
I didn’t sympathize with or even like the heroine, Laya, and to be honest, I thought Micah was a deranged stalker. The storyline is completely unrealistic and unbelievable. Did I already say that? Whatever. For most of the novel, I couldn't pinpoint what the author's point in writing this book was. I had mixed feeling throughout this entire reading experience, and that by itself is usually a bad sign.
Bottom line: Don't waste your money on this book. If you want to read your first Renee Carlino book, do not make it this one. In fact, don't read this one at all.
---
finished-reading
I have this disease called adding a book to my TBR if the cover is gorgeous or I love the author. This is one of those moments I hate this disease.
2.5 stars // review to come.
---
pre-reading updates:
How did I not know this book existed I love Renee Carlino so much okay that is all goodbye.
December 7, 2019
This is my second book by Renee Carlino, and while I didn't like it nearly as much as her first, I did find it entertaining.
Poor Laya. She's a well-rounded individual and has survived the rigors of medical school; yet, she has found herself married to that most irresponsible of creatures - the thrill seeker. You know, those idiots that jump off buildings and mountains and cliffs. Like there aren't perfectly reasonable hobbies and/or jobs out there.
So, back to Laya. She loves this idiot and then he goes and kills himself. Well, it had to happen. And she mourns and mourns and mourns... Luckily, Micah shows up and shows her what a responsible person is like.
Poor Laya. She's a well-rounded individual and has survived the rigors of medical school; yet, she has found herself married to that most irresponsible of creatures - the thrill seeker. You know, those idiots that jump off buildings and mountains and cliffs. Like there aren't perfectly reasonable hobbies and/or jobs out there.
So, back to Laya. She loves this idiot and then he goes and kills himself. Well, it had to happen. And she mourns and mourns and mourns... Luckily, Micah shows up and shows her what a responsible person is like.
August 20, 2019
3.5 stars
Laya becomes a young widow when her husband’s daredevil career leads to a tragic accident. She becomes mired in her grief, unable to move through the stages of grief at a pace those around her deem acceptable. Micah works for Laya’s father and finds himself floating through the motions. He has entered a sort of crisis of self as he loses sight of what he wants out of his life and career. A brief meeting with Laya has Micah intrigued and he begins to come back into himself as he pursues her. But she isn’t ready for a relationship, she hasn’t moved on from her last. Micah agrees to a friendship, but can’t help wish he could help her process her grief faster.
Laya’s love for Cameron was all consuming. She doesn’t know how to move on when he’s gone and finds herself using present tense still to describe him. She is fragile and the people around her aren’t sure how to help her grieve.
I struggled with parts of this story. I loved the premise, but there were aspects of Micah’s actions that felt overbearing and as if he was taking advantage of the situation (though he means well in everything he does). I kept reading despite my misgivings, and am glad I did as enjoyed the conclusion.
This was a story full of grief and the consequences of staying in one place for too long. I was prepared for an emotional drain, but I guess I was hoping to feel more of a connection building between the two main characters. They finally hit a point where their chemistry was believable, but I felt like I had to hang on to the story longer than usual to get there.
Laya becomes a young widow when her husband’s daredevil career leads to a tragic accident. She becomes mired in her grief, unable to move through the stages of grief at a pace those around her deem acceptable. Micah works for Laya’s father and finds himself floating through the motions. He has entered a sort of crisis of self as he loses sight of what he wants out of his life and career. A brief meeting with Laya has Micah intrigued and he begins to come back into himself as he pursues her. But she isn’t ready for a relationship, she hasn’t moved on from her last. Micah agrees to a friendship, but can’t help wish he could help her process her grief faster.
Laya’s love for Cameron was all consuming. She doesn’t know how to move on when he’s gone and finds herself using present tense still to describe him. She is fragile and the people around her aren’t sure how to help her grieve.
I struggled with parts of this story. I loved the premise, but there were aspects of Micah’s actions that felt overbearing and as if he was taking advantage of the situation (though he means well in everything he does). I kept reading despite my misgivings, and am glad I did as enjoyed the conclusion.
This was a story full of grief and the consequences of staying in one place for too long. I was prepared for an emotional drain, but I guess I was hoping to feel more of a connection building between the two main characters. They finally hit a point where their chemistry was believable, but I felt like I had to hang on to the story longer than usual to get there.
September 3, 2019
4.5 Stars!
In full disclosure, I went into this book with lowered expectations based on some low ratings. As I was reading, I found myself trying to predict where the story was going, because there had to be a major jump-the-shark moment where this story derailed. I'm thrilled to report that it never happened. After some big smiles and a few tears, I ended up loving this story.
This is only the third book I've read by this author, but I enjoy this author's writing style with a passion. Personally, I found the story highly compelling, heartbreaking, witty, and for the most part, realistic. Although told in dual POV, I found that Laya had a more developed characterization. It was largely her story of dealing with self-isolated grief and healing. I did love Micah, though, and his own steady transformation after meeting Laya. He also had a very fun relationship with his sister that stood out in moments of witty banter and sibling tenderness.
I think Carlino did a fantastic job with Laya's character and her process through grief. Micah might not have been as developed as Laya's character, but I understood his existential crisis explanations and his draw to her, as well as his use by the author to give Laya an even stronger reason to recover. Their slow-burn romance was pretty swoon-worthy, too.
In the end, I simply enjoy Carlino's writing. I really believe she has a pulse on authentic emotions and behavior.
August 21, 2019
3.5 stars
Laya never thought that she would be able to move on after the death of her husband, but maybe Micah can change her mind and get her to see there is love after loss.
I found the premise of this story to be good, the emotions Laya went through after losing her husband was gut wrenching. There’s not much to say about Micah. I just did not connect with him at all and I think that’s where I struggled with the story. I did find his and his sister’s relationship to be hilarious, more so her to be hilarious.
There were things I liked about the book and things that bothered me. I’ve read this author before and absolutely loved the books I have read, but this one was not my favorite.
*an arc was provided in exchange for an honest review* ~Alison
Laya never thought that she would be able to move on after the death of her husband, but maybe Micah can change her mind and get her to see there is love after loss.
I found the premise of this story to be good, the emotions Laya went through after losing her husband was gut wrenching. There’s not much to say about Micah. I just did not connect with him at all and I think that’s where I struggled with the story. I did find his and his sister’s relationship to be hilarious, more so her to be hilarious.
There were things I liked about the book and things that bothered me. I’ve read this author before and absolutely loved the books I have read, but this one was not my favorite.
*an arc was provided in exchange for an honest review* ~Alison
May 13, 2023
This isn’t my usual type of read but I decided to branch out a bit. Unfortunately, this book just didn’t do it for me!
2.5 stars
2.5 stars
July 10, 2019
3.5 stars
When I pick up a Renee Carlino book, I know that it's going to be an emotional ride. One that will pull on my heartstrings and make me examine my own life and experiences. The Last Post was no different.
Laya's journey after the sudden death of her husband was painful, poignant, and sometimes frustrating. There was a lot of hot and cold and erratic behavior, but I think it was the author's way of showing how disjointed and broken Laya felt. People cope and handle grief in so many different ways. I'm hesitant to call this book a romance because even though there were romantic elements, I felt the story was more about healing, forgiveness, and self discovery. My favorite chapter in the book was actually one where Laya and her father speak about grief and loss. It was such a heartbreaking and uplifting chapter. One that gave me a different perspective and had me reframing my own experiences and feelings.
I liked both Laya and Micah, but I can't say that I loved them. Micah was a creepy stalker and did some really questionable things in his attempts to get to know Laya. I just didn't feel the spark and connection that they supposedly shared. They were both emotionally stunted and the back and forth dance between them with Laya pulling away and Micah coming on way too strong or constantly apologizing got old pretty quickly. Micah just felt too desperate for most of the book, taking any scrap Laya would grant him. The first part of the book was a bit confusing and slow for me, but the ending and epilogue were very sweet and tied the story together really well. Overall, The Last Post is a thoughtful read that will have you holding your loved ones next time a little longer and tighter.
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
When I pick up a Renee Carlino book, I know that it's going to be an emotional ride. One that will pull on my heartstrings and make me examine my own life and experiences. The Last Post was no different.
Laya's journey after the sudden death of her husband was painful, poignant, and sometimes frustrating. There was a lot of hot and cold and erratic behavior, but I think it was the author's way of showing how disjointed and broken Laya felt. People cope and handle grief in so many different ways. I'm hesitant to call this book a romance because even though there were romantic elements, I felt the story was more about healing, forgiveness, and self discovery. My favorite chapter in the book was actually one where Laya and her father speak about grief and loss. It was such a heartbreaking and uplifting chapter. One that gave me a different perspective and had me reframing my own experiences and feelings.
I liked both Laya and Micah, but I can't say that I loved them. Micah was a creepy stalker and did some really questionable things in his attempts to get to know Laya. I just didn't feel the spark and connection that they supposedly shared. They were both emotionally stunted and the back and forth dance between them with Laya pulling away and Micah coming on way too strong or constantly apologizing got old pretty quickly. Micah just felt too desperate for most of the book, taking any scrap Laya would grant him. The first part of the book was a bit confusing and slow for me, but the ending and epilogue were very sweet and tied the story together really well. Overall, The Last Post is a thoughtful read that will have you holding your loved ones next time a little longer and tighter.
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
July 6, 2019
Laya never planned to get married, never planned on falling in love. But life had other plans for her. Well on her way to becoming an orthopedic surgeon, Laya met Cameron, a fearless stuntman who got his thrills from extreme sports. They had a whirlwind romance and were married within a year. But only a year after they tied the knot, Cameron unexpectedly dies during one of his stunts and Laya is left trying to pick up the pieces of her life. She moved back to New York to be closer to her dad and puts her career—and everything else—on hold during her grieving process.
Micah has been working at the same architecture firm for years and doesn’t feel his career is progressing in any sense of the word. His friends are content partying every weekend, sharing their bed with a new woman every night. But Micah’s over that lifestyle. He’s ready to move forward, settle down and leave the party days behind him. Micah feels he’s in a midlife crisis, even though he’s barely even 30-years old. But when he meets his boss’ daughter, Laya, he snaps out of his funk and has a reason to move forward.
Laya’s family is worried for her—she isn’t coping with Cameron’s death in the healthiest way. She’s been sending Cameron Facebook messages, updating him on her life and reminiscing about all their good memories together. But while doing so, she isn’t able to move on. Little does she know, Micah has been reading her posts and sending her anonymous gifts that remind her of Cameron.
Micah and Laya enter each other’s lives at the most inconvenient of times, but for some reason they just work, even if it takes months to get to their destination.
The Last Post is Renee Carlino’s latest contemporary romance publication. The premise of this story was intriguing—a hard-hitting story about grief, love and moving forward. Previously I read Blind Is and Swear on This Life by Renee Carlino an loved both, but unfortunately there was a disconnect with The Last Post. What I loved about this story: Micah’s relationship with his twin sister, Melissa. Their banter was witty and funny and their connection I feel was awesome. For some reason I couldn’t connect with Laya and Micah. I thought Micah’s interest in Laya was a little odd and he came off too strong for no reason. I sympathized with Laya’s grief but didn’t buy her romance with Micah. I wanted so badly to love this one, but it just wasn’t for me. I think it was well-written and I will continue to read more by this wonderful author. 3/5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Atria Books and Renee Carlino for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Micah has been working at the same architecture firm for years and doesn’t feel his career is progressing in any sense of the word. His friends are content partying every weekend, sharing their bed with a new woman every night. But Micah’s over that lifestyle. He’s ready to move forward, settle down and leave the party days behind him. Micah feels he’s in a midlife crisis, even though he’s barely even 30-years old. But when he meets his boss’ daughter, Laya, he snaps out of his funk and has a reason to move forward.
Laya’s family is worried for her—she isn’t coping with Cameron’s death in the healthiest way. She’s been sending Cameron Facebook messages, updating him on her life and reminiscing about all their good memories together. But while doing so, she isn’t able to move on. Little does she know, Micah has been reading her posts and sending her anonymous gifts that remind her of Cameron.
Micah and Laya enter each other’s lives at the most inconvenient of times, but for some reason they just work, even if it takes months to get to their destination.
The Last Post is Renee Carlino’s latest contemporary romance publication. The premise of this story was intriguing—a hard-hitting story about grief, love and moving forward. Previously I read Blind Is and Swear on This Life by Renee Carlino an loved both, but unfortunately there was a disconnect with The Last Post. What I loved about this story: Micah’s relationship with his twin sister, Melissa. Their banter was witty and funny and their connection I feel was awesome. For some reason I couldn’t connect with Laya and Micah. I thought Micah’s interest in Laya was a little odd and he came off too strong for no reason. I sympathized with Laya’s grief but didn’t buy her romance with Micah. I wanted so badly to love this one, but it just wasn’t for me. I think it was well-written and I will continue to read more by this wonderful author. 3/5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Atria Books and Renee Carlino for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2019
3.5 STARS
After a whirlwind first year of marriage, Laya is suddenly and tragically a widow. Retreating from work, family and friends, Laya is mired in grief and finds solace in leaving messages for Cameron, her deceased husband, on his phone and his Facebook page. Despite pleas from his family to stop the posts, which they consider hurtful, Laya can’t seem to stop.
Micah works for Laya’s father’s architectural firm and seems to be at a crossroads himself. He feels a disconnect with his friends and a sense of pointlessness to his work and his everyday life. When he meets Laya he’s immediately drawn to her. He knows she is a widow and, when he comes across her posts to her deceased husband, he feels compelled to somehow help her. Taking cues from her posts, he begins to slowly get to know Laya and a relationship (of sorts) forms.
I was excited to dive into The Last Post because I have loved several of Carlino’s books in the past. She has such a gift for emotional storytelling. Unfortunately, it was the emotion that was missing from this one for me. I didn’t feel a connection with either Laya or Micah, and at times I wasn’t even sure I felt a real connection between the two of them. In the beginning I wasn’t sure what to make of Micah or what his motivations were. It wasn’t clear to me whether he was altruistic or was trying to fulfill some need in himself.
Both Laya and Micah were living very small, insular lives – disconnected from the world and the people around them. I liked how together they both started to rejoin the world. Laya was finally able to start moving past her grief and Micah was coming out of… whatever it was he was going through. Honestly, I never did really understand what his issues were or what was troubling him. Laya struggled to come to terms with Cameron’s failings and recognize that neither he, nor their marriage, had been perfect. It was satisfying to see her come out of her shell and be willing to move forward.
While I didn’t feel emotionally invested in Laya and Micah’s story, and I missed that emotional punch that I’ve come to count on from Carlino, there’s no denying that she is a gifted storyteller. I love her writing style and I love her ability to tell a story about real people facing real challenges. Her stories always feel authentic and never gimmicky. If you enjoy stories that focus on overcoming loss, second chances and moving on, give The Last Post a chance.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. This does not impact my opinion of the book or the content of this review. I received no compensation and my review is voluntary.
After a whirlwind first year of marriage, Laya is suddenly and tragically a widow. Retreating from work, family and friends, Laya is mired in grief and finds solace in leaving messages for Cameron, her deceased husband, on his phone and his Facebook page. Despite pleas from his family to stop the posts, which they consider hurtful, Laya can’t seem to stop.
Micah works for Laya’s father’s architectural firm and seems to be at a crossroads himself. He feels a disconnect with his friends and a sense of pointlessness to his work and his everyday life. When he meets Laya he’s immediately drawn to her. He knows she is a widow and, when he comes across her posts to her deceased husband, he feels compelled to somehow help her. Taking cues from her posts, he begins to slowly get to know Laya and a relationship (of sorts) forms.
I was excited to dive into The Last Post because I have loved several of Carlino’s books in the past. She has such a gift for emotional storytelling. Unfortunately, it was the emotion that was missing from this one for me. I didn’t feel a connection with either Laya or Micah, and at times I wasn’t even sure I felt a real connection between the two of them. In the beginning I wasn’t sure what to make of Micah or what his motivations were. It wasn’t clear to me whether he was altruistic or was trying to fulfill some need in himself.
Both Laya and Micah were living very small, insular lives – disconnected from the world and the people around them. I liked how together they both started to rejoin the world. Laya was finally able to start moving past her grief and Micah was coming out of… whatever it was he was going through. Honestly, I never did really understand what his issues were or what was troubling him. Laya struggled to come to terms with Cameron’s failings and recognize that neither he, nor their marriage, had been perfect. It was satisfying to see her come out of her shell and be willing to move forward.
While I didn’t feel emotionally invested in Laya and Micah’s story, and I missed that emotional punch that I’ve come to count on from Carlino, there’s no denying that she is a gifted storyteller. I love her writing style and I love her ability to tell a story about real people facing real challenges. Her stories always feel authentic and never gimmicky. If you enjoy stories that focus on overcoming loss, second chances and moving on, give The Last Post a chance.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. This does not impact my opinion of the book or the content of this review. I received no compensation and my review is voluntary.
September 17, 2019
not quite renee carlinos strongest story, nor is it my favourite by any means, but i am incapable of giving her books anything less than 5 stars.
i think she has a really remarkable way of capturing human emotions within her characters, and making the reader relate to those emotions, even if they havent experienced that kind of feeling before. particularly with this story, i think grief is explored and handled very well. i couldnt help but feel so heartbroken over the loss of cameron and emphathise with layas struggle to move on.
i do think this story has some issues (mainly with the absurdity of the plot and insanity of the characters), but i still think RC is a wonderful author and really knows how to write about love and romance and all the emotions that go with it.
↠ 4.5 stars
i think she has a really remarkable way of capturing human emotions within her characters, and making the reader relate to those emotions, even if they havent experienced that kind of feeling before. particularly with this story, i think grief is explored and handled very well. i couldnt help but feel so heartbroken over the loss of cameron and emphathise with layas struggle to move on.
i do think this story has some issues (mainly with the absurdity of the plot and insanity of the characters), but i still think RC is a wonderful author and really knows how to write about love and romance and all the emotions that go with it.
↠ 4.5 stars
August 20, 2019
Tragic. Hopeful. Beautiful.
How does one put themselves back together after a life altering tragedy? How far will you go to fix someone? Laya is drowning in grief when Micah comes along and inserts himself into her life in the hopes of helping to pull her from heartache. Loss and love and an ocean of obstacles stand between these two. Carlino delivers a story equally heartbreaking and heartening. I was able to slide into the story, feel the emotions of the characters, and get lost in their journey. The beauty of her writing and the depth of her storyline made it impossible for me to put this book down.
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