The Only One Left by Riley Sager is a gripping psychological thriller that combines suspense, mystery, and a chilling atmosphere. Published in 2023, this novel takes readers into the dark, eerie world of an isolated mansion, where long-buried secrets and a decades-old murder unravel in spine-tingling fashion.
Plot Overview:
Set in 1983, The Only One Left follows Kit McDeere, a young woman who has recently been hired as a caregiver for Lenora Hope, a reclusive elderly woman who has been mute and paralyzed for decades. Lenora was once the subject of a highly publicized murder case in which her family was killed in their luxurious estate. Lenora, the only survivor, was accused of the crime but was never convicted due to a lack of evidence.
Lenora has lived in her mansion on the cliffs ever since, silent and unable to speak, and largely ignored by the outside world. But when Kit arrives to care for Lenora, she quickly realizes that something is off about the house and the woman she's been hired to care for. As Kit begins to take care of Lenora, she uncovers clues that suggest the truth of the crime may still be hidden, and Lenora knows more than she’s letting on. Is Lenora guilty? Or is there something darker at play?
As Kit digs deeper, the layers of mystery unravel, and she finds herself caught in a dangerous game of manipulation, deceit, and secrets that have been buried for decades. The story builds to an edge-of-your-seat climax as the truth behind the murder and Lenora’s silence is finally revealed.
Why The Only One Left is a Must-Read:
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Atmospheric Setting: One of the standout features of The Only One Left is its eerie, gothic setting. The mansion perched on the cliffs provides the perfect backdrop for a mystery, with its dark, labyrinthine hallways, hidden rooms, and sense of isolation. The setting adds to the tension and suspense, creating an almost claustrophobic atmosphere that enhances the psychological thriller elements of the story.
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Twists and Turns: Riley Sager is known for his ability to craft twisty, unpredictable plots, and The Only One Left is no exception. The novel is filled with red herrings, misdirections, and shocking revelations that will keep you guessing until the very end. Just when you think you’ve figured out the mystery, Sager throws in another twist to keep the suspense high.
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Engaging, Complex Characters: Kit is a compelling protagonist, and her growing sense of unease and curiosity makes her easy to root for. Lenora, on the other hand, is a mysterious and almost ghostly presence, her silence adding to the air of intrigue. The dynamic between Kit and Lenora is both captivating and unsettling, as Kit attempts to unravel the truth while also questioning her own safety.
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Psychological Suspense: Sager excels at building psychological tension, and in The Only One Left, the sense of paranoia and uncertainty is palpable. The slow revelation of the truth, along with the ever-present question of Lenora’s innocence or guilt, keeps the reader on edge. The psychological battle between Kit and Lenora forms the backbone of the novel, with each new piece of information adding to the mystery.
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Gothic Thriller Elements: For fans of gothic fiction, The Only One Left offers a modern twist on the genre. The combination of the secluded mansion, the mysterious character, and the long-forgotten crime evokes the feel of classic gothic tales while delivering a fresh, thrilling take on the genre.
Memorable Quotes from The Only One Left:
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“She’s the only one left. But I don’t think she’s innocent.”
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“Some secrets are too dangerous to be spoken aloud.”
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“In this house, nothing is what it seems.”
Book Details:
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ISBN: 9780593183195
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Publisher: Dutton
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Published Year: 2023
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Number of Pages: 384
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Binding: Paperback
Physical Store Location:
Visit us at our physical store in Colombo 6, Wellawatte – 180 W.A. Silva Mawatha, to pick up your copy of The Only One Left and experience this chilling, suspenseful thriller by Riley Sager.
The Only One Left is a must-read for fans of suspense, thrillers, and psychological mysteries. With its atmospheric setting, complex characters, and unpredictable twists, this novel will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Riley Sager once again delivers a twisty, heart-pounding ride that will have you hooked from start to finish.
