Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for sharing this book with me. Carolyn Arnold's books are always a pleasure to read. The plot of this one was fun, I enjoyed that the murders were actually based on Felicity’s book. It made it just a different type of case to solve and to figure out why someone would use the victims’ own story to conduct their killings. Of course, there was a possible connection to a cold case that the victim was not killed in the same way. However, you learn that this is what Felicity’s next book was going to be about and maybe she was just a little too good at her research. There were a lot of people who you are introduced to that you think could this be the murderer? I know that I guessed on a few different people before finding out who it was and I did not guess correctly. I like it when I am surprised at who the murderer is because I feel a lot of times you are able to figure it out.

Kim Kelly presents us with beautifully drawn characters and emotional experiences from the highs and lows of life, and love in its many forms. Kim is such a thoughtful storyteller. I can tell by the way she took several complex threads and multiple points of view and gave us an easy-to-read novel that is beautiful in both prose and appearance. I fell in love with Penny, adored Viv, and I may have found a little bit of Kim amongst the themes of love and hope, self-sacrifice, and never giving up. This was a true breakout book for Kim Kelly in so many ways. Kim Kelly’s latest literary triumph is a book that will resonate deeply with wordsmiths. Defined by perfectly defined and stunning prose, thoughtful characterisation and multilayered plotline, Her Last Words is a novel that holds strong meaning. It was truly wonderful to see a well-regarded Australian historical fiction novelist branch out and dabble in the world of contemporary fiction. I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.In Her Last Words, book nine in the Detective Amanda Steele series, Amanda finds herself exploring the publishing world while trying to find the person behind the murder of bestselling crime author, Felicity Kelley. Whilst this is the ninth book in the series, it works well as a stand-alone read. Read on and learn the reason Her Last Words would make a great addition to the reading list of mystery fans.And because Penny is a commissioning editor for fiction and there is a bookshop involved, not to mention a missing manuscript, the power of narrative shines throughout the discourse and is the vehicle by which both John and Penny forge a new beginning, not with each other, but with characters that are perfect soulmates. On the surface, the case appears open and shut. However, when Amanda dug below the surface, she found a possible connection to a fifteen-year-old murder case. Amanda along with Trent finds themselves in a race against time to find the killer before they decide to strike again. But this industry she had loved so much, now seemed so broken, so corrupted by dollar signs and spreadsheets and ruthless decisions that had nothing to do with art or culture or even good old-fashioned entertainment.’ Her Last Words is a more than tempting title, brilliant in execution and ultimately seducing. It represents a wonderful entry for Kim Kelly in the field of Australian contemporary fiction. It is uplifting to know that there are people who can write like this, with clarity, a bit of devilment and a hint of a smile.' Canberra Times

Digging deep, as we've come to expect with this team, they uncover a cold case from 15 years ago that bares resemblance, are they connected? Can they find a motive to get to the killer?To bring us this story, Kim has sidestepped traditional publishing, and I’m so glad. A traditional publisher would likely have changed this story to make it fit the market. Editorial interference would, I fear, have destroyed the essence of this story. By not ‘following the rules’ Kim has created a true gem. There are so many layers to this book—from the way the story is structured, to the multifaceted storyline and cast of characters. As I read Her Last Words, I actually pictured this story on the big screen; one of those movies with wonderfully quirky ensembles of Hollywood A-Listers. This novel consists of a prologue, 47 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case! Her Last Words” has had a profound impact on listeners, touching the hearts of many who can relate to the themes explored in the song. The raw vulnerability and powerful lyrics have resonated with individuals, providing solace and understanding in their own personal battles. 5. What resources are available for individuals struggling with mental health? This was a wonderful novel that brought out many emotions and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Full disclosure - I was provided an advanced reader’s copy of this book by the author or their representative but have voluntarily provided a review. All opinions are my own.