The Last House Guest by Megan Miranda

Rating: ★★★★☆

Dates Read: 9/25/23 - 9/26/23 

    In Littleport, Maine, there are rich summer visitors and locals living simple lives. Despite the divide, Sadie, a visitor, and Avery, a local, become close friends for years. Their friendship ends tragically when Sadie dies under suspicious circumstances, deemed a suicide by the police. Avery is convinced someone knows more, and she's determined to clear her name despite accusations from locals. She embarks on a mission to uncover the truth about Sadie's death and prove her innocence.

    Megan Miranda once again showcases her talent for crafting suspenseful atmospheres in this slow-burning thriller. The story, although gradual, is filled with secrets and tension that keep you hooked. The main character, Avery, is complex and intriguing, even with her questionable past. The unexpected reveals kept me guessing, and the satisfying ending tied up the loose ends nicely.

    While I didn't love every twist and found some characters a bit underdeveloped, the unreliable narrator aspect added an interesting layer. Miranda's vivid descriptions create a captivating setting, although a few unnecessary scenes could have been omitted. Overall, it's a solid choice for a quick popcorn thriller, leaving me eager to explore more of Megan Miranda's work in the future.