The Last One by Rachell Howzell Hall
If you enjoy first-person narration, this may be a great fit for you. I ultimately decided to DNF this book at chapter 16, but that choice comes down more to personal preference than the quality of the story itself.
To be clear, I don’t dislike this book. The plot is genuinely compelling, and the action scenes are immersive. I often felt pulled directly into what was happening alongside the characters. However, the narrative style leans heavily into a rambling, stream-of-consciousness approach that I personally found difficult to stay engaged with over time.
Kai, the main character, is established early on as impulsive and stubborn, so her decisions are consistent with her characterization. While that trait can be frustrating at times, it also adds a certain charm and authenticity to her personality that I can appreciate.
The romance is decent, though not a standout element for me. I don’t dislike Jadon, but the timing of some of the flirtation feels misplaced. In high-stakes situations especially given Kai’s circumstances (memory loss, being in an unfamiliar place, legal trouble) the focus on attraction felt unrealistic. That said, in calmer, more appropriate moments, the romantic interactions are enjoyable.
A quick spoiler-related note: the story does touch on racism, including slurs directed at Kai, a Black protagonist, and there are underlying tensions even among those who are meant to be her allies. This is an important aspect of the narrative that readers should be aware of going in.
Honestly, I wish I had made it further into the book because where I stopped, the story was becoming especially interesting. The world-building is strong and clearly has a lot of depth. Unfortunately, the narrative style made it difficult for me to continue.
I may revisit this book after a break, but for now, I’m stepping away.
Having read 'The Last One' by Rachell Howzell Hall, I found that the book offers a uniquely immersive experience largely due to its first-person narration and strong world-building. Readers who enjoy getting inside a character's head will appreciate the detailed stream-of-consciousness style, although it can be dense and challenging for some. Kai, the protagonist, is a memorable character — impulsive and stubborn — traits that sometimes tested my patience but ultimately added authenticity and depth. One aspect that stood out to me was how the story doesn't shy away from complex social issues, including racism experienced by Kai. This inclusion adds realism and weight to the narrative, making it more than just an action or romance story. I found these elements important for understanding the tensions Kai faces beyond her personal struggles. The romance between Kai and Jadon felt somewhat out of sync with the high-tension scenarios they faced, but the quieter moments of connection brought genuine warmth to the story. For those who prioritize romance in their reading, this might feel secondary, but it still plays a significant role in Kai's emotional journey. From a personal perspective, I think the narrative style requires patience and a willingness to engage with the protagonist’s internal monologue deeply. If you enjoy exploring characters’ thoughts in detail and immersing yourself in a richly built fictional world, this book could be a rewarding read. While I chose to pause reading at chapter 16, I believe the story gains momentum beyond that point. I recommend giving 'The Last One' a try, especially if you appreciate strong female leads, layered storytelling, and narratives that tackle real-world issues. Taking breaks can help manage the dense narrative style, enhancing overall enjoyment. For future readers, knowing what to expect in terms of pacing and thematic content might enrich the experience considerably.
