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The Last Stars in the Sky
From a million-copy bestselling author, comes an unforgettable and heartbreaking story about one woman’s determination to keep her family together when their world falls apart...
“Mom, why are you so mad at Dad?”
“I’m not,” I say, which isn’t exactly true. Putting on a brave face for my two young daughters—pretending everything is fine in my marriage—has been hard. That, and losing the house after Daniel lied to me.
I never expected to have to uproot my family to go live in my parents’ isolated cottage on Lost Lake. It’s twenty miles to the nearest town, an insignificant speck in endless pine forests. Nobody’s lived here for a decade.
Now, I pick up a rusty pail from its nest of autumn leaves and turn to my daughter. Suddenly, I recall how I used to help my own mother pick wild strawberries up here as a little girl. Maybe, this isn’t a punishment. Maybe this place will be the making of our family.
I’m still thinking it when my daughter rests her silky head on my shoulder that evening in the flickering firelight. And when, over a steaming cup of coffee at dawn, I watch a single loon cut a course through the mirrored surface of Lost Lake.
Later, I’ll hold on to these memories—ghostly shreds of another life. Because just eight hours after I sat on that sofa, feeling so hopeful, the world as I knew it—as anyone knew it—was gone for good.
What do you do when the worst thing in the world happens to your family? A gripping, beautiful story that will break your heart. For fans of Boo Walker, Where the Forest Meets the Stars and Julianne MacLean.
“Mom, why are you so mad at Dad?”
“I’m not,” I say, which isn’t exactly true. Putting on a brave face for my two young daughters—pretending everything is fine in my marriage—has been hard. That, and losing the house after Daniel lied to me.
I never expected to have to uproot my family to go live in my parents’ isolated cottage on Lost Lake. It’s twenty miles to the nearest town, an insignificant speck in endless pine forests. Nobody’s lived here for a decade.
Now, I pick up a rusty pail from its nest of autumn leaves and turn to my daughter. Suddenly, I recall how I used to help my own mother pick wild strawberries up here as a little girl. Maybe, this isn’t a punishment. Maybe this place will be the making of our family.
I’m still thinking it when my daughter rests her silky head on my shoulder that evening in the flickering firelight. And when, over a steaming cup of coffee at dawn, I watch a single loon cut a course through the mirrored surface of Lost Lake.
Later, I’ll hold on to these memories—ghostly shreds of another life. Because just eight hours after I sat on that sofa, feeling so hopeful, the world as I knew it—as anyone knew it—was gone for good.
What do you do when the worst thing in the world happens to your family? A gripping, beautiful story that will break your heart. For fans of Boo Walker, Where the Forest Meets the Stars and Julianne MacLean.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 4, 2024
About the author
Kate Hewitt
749 books1,381 followersKate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of both historical and contemporary fiction. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 226 reviews
January 31, 2024
EXCERPT: We drive in an increasingly taut and expectant silence down the road, the trees on either side of the narrow dirt track looming above, dark and menacing, or maybe that's just me, reading into a difficult situation. After all, none of us really want to be here.
Thanksgiving is in just over a week, and we're meant to be having turkey, watching football, relaxing - reveling in our comfortable home back in Westport, Connecticut, in front of the big screen TV, the turkey in the oven, spinach dip and pita chips on the coffee table, a bottle of red breathing on the sideboard. Except that home isn't ours anymore and we had nowhere else to go but here - my parent's ramshackle cabin in rural Ontario, Canada that hasn't had a single visitor in seven years.
This is a chance to reset, I remind myself. Reboot. Refresh. Re-something. Take deep breaths and mindfully remember what is good about life, what we're grateful for . . . or so all the glossy magazines and curated Instagram feeds tell me. All I need is a matcha iced tea and the space to recalibrate. Throw in a yoga mat and it's all good.
I close my eyes against the dark, winding road. It didn't take much to make me cynical, and yet I still want to believe in it all. I want to believe that six weeks away from reality is really what we need to restart our lives, get them back, much better than ever.
ABOUT 'THE LAST STARS IN THE SKY': “Mom, why are you so mad at Dad?”
“I’m not,” I say, which isn’t exactly true. Putting on a brave face for my two young daughters—pretending everything is fine in my marriage—has been hard. That, and losing the house after Daniel lied to me.
I never expected to have to uproot my family to go live in my parents’ isolated cottage on Lost Lake. It’s twenty miles to the nearest town, an insignificant speck in endless pine forests. Nobody’s lived here for a decade.
Now, I pick up a rusty pail from its nest of autumn leaves and turn to my daughter. Suddenly, I recall how I used to help my own mother pick wild strawberries up here as a little girl. Maybe, this isn’t a punishment. Maybe this place will be the making of our family.
I’m still thinking it when my daughter rests her silky head on my shoulder that evening in the flickering firelight. And when, over a steaming cup of coffee at dawn, I watch a single loon cut a course through the mirrored surface of Lost Lake.
Later, I’ll hold on to these memories—ghostly shreds of another life. Because just eight hours after I sat on that sofa, feeling so hopeful, the world as I knew it—as anyone knew it—was gone for good.
MY THOUGHTS: The Last Stars in the Sky was a complete surprise to me. I automatically request Kate Hewitt's books. I think that there has only ever been one that I have been a bit ho-hum about.
I was expecting a family drama and, yes, that is certainly what I got but not in the format I was expecting!
Kate Hewitt continues to amaze me with the versatility of her writing. I almost stopped reading when the 'big event' happened, but I am so glad I didn't. Kate took me on a journey is scarily realistic and quite probably going to happen at some point in the future.
She chronicles the changes to this 'entitled' family as they struggle for survival at the most basic level; how their priorities suddenly change and they hone skills they never knew they had.
The characters are complex and it was exciting watching as they adapt to their new circumstances, developed resilience and learned to think differently - in terms of survival rather than wants. Alex amazed me, as did Mattie. As they faced more difficulties, their personalities slowly grew into people I actually liked.
This is not an easy read in places. Daniel's journey to rescue their son Sam from his college is harrowing. It could have been a book all on its own. I don't know that I liked the ending - it's a cliffhanger. The jury is still out on that one. But as for the rest of the read, I unexpectedly really enjoyed it and read the whole book in just over a day.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
#TheLastStarsintheSky #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Kate likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Storm Publishing via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Last Stars in the Sky by Kate Hewitt for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Thanksgiving is in just over a week, and we're meant to be having turkey, watching football, relaxing - reveling in our comfortable home back in Westport, Connecticut, in front of the big screen TV, the turkey in the oven, spinach dip and pita chips on the coffee table, a bottle of red breathing on the sideboard. Except that home isn't ours anymore and we had nowhere else to go but here - my parent's ramshackle cabin in rural Ontario, Canada that hasn't had a single visitor in seven years.
This is a chance to reset, I remind myself. Reboot. Refresh. Re-something. Take deep breaths and mindfully remember what is good about life, what we're grateful for . . . or so all the glossy magazines and curated Instagram feeds tell me. All I need is a matcha iced tea and the space to recalibrate. Throw in a yoga mat and it's all good.
I close my eyes against the dark, winding road. It didn't take much to make me cynical, and yet I still want to believe in it all. I want to believe that six weeks away from reality is really what we need to restart our lives, get them back, much better than ever.
ABOUT 'THE LAST STARS IN THE SKY': “Mom, why are you so mad at Dad?”
“I’m not,” I say, which isn’t exactly true. Putting on a brave face for my two young daughters—pretending everything is fine in my marriage—has been hard. That, and losing the house after Daniel lied to me.
I never expected to have to uproot my family to go live in my parents’ isolated cottage on Lost Lake. It’s twenty miles to the nearest town, an insignificant speck in endless pine forests. Nobody’s lived here for a decade.
Now, I pick up a rusty pail from its nest of autumn leaves and turn to my daughter. Suddenly, I recall how I used to help my own mother pick wild strawberries up here as a little girl. Maybe, this isn’t a punishment. Maybe this place will be the making of our family.
I’m still thinking it when my daughter rests her silky head on my shoulder that evening in the flickering firelight. And when, over a steaming cup of coffee at dawn, I watch a single loon cut a course through the mirrored surface of Lost Lake.
Later, I’ll hold on to these memories—ghostly shreds of another life. Because just eight hours after I sat on that sofa, feeling so hopeful, the world as I knew it—as anyone knew it—was gone for good.
MY THOUGHTS: The Last Stars in the Sky was a complete surprise to me. I automatically request Kate Hewitt's books. I think that there has only ever been one that I have been a bit ho-hum about.
I was expecting a family drama and, yes, that is certainly what I got but not in the format I was expecting!
Kate Hewitt continues to amaze me with the versatility of her writing. I almost stopped reading when the 'big event' happened, but I am so glad I didn't. Kate took me on a journey is scarily realistic and quite probably going to happen at some point in the future.
She chronicles the changes to this 'entitled' family as they struggle for survival at the most basic level; how their priorities suddenly change and they hone skills they never knew they had.
The characters are complex and it was exciting watching as they adapt to their new circumstances, developed resilience and learned to think differently - in terms of survival rather than wants. Alex amazed me, as did Mattie. As they faced more difficulties, their personalities slowly grew into people I actually liked.
This is not an easy read in places. Daniel's journey to rescue their son Sam from his college is harrowing. It could have been a book all on its own. I don't know that I liked the ending - it's a cliffhanger. The jury is still out on that one. But as for the rest of the read, I unexpectedly really enjoyed it and read the whole book in just over a day.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
#TheLastStarsintheSky #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Kate likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Storm Publishing via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Last Stars in the Sky by Kate Hewitt for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
December 29, 2023
The Last Star In The Sky was not what I expected. The story took a hugely different direction and I was surprised. But I fell in love with the plot and characters very quickly. I read this book a few days ago and I’m still talking about it.
“This is a chance to reset, I remind myself. Reboot. Refresh, Re-something. Take deep breaths and mindfully remember what is good about life”
The Plot- With their marriage in turmoil and a daughter heading for trouble, Daniel and Alex leave their home in Connecticut with their two daughters and head for Alex’s empty family cabin in rural Ontario, Canada for a six week stay to try and work on their crumbling family. But when a nuclear attack happens across the globe, Daniel leaves the girls behind to get to their son Sam who’s in college in upstate New York. Leaving his wife with their two daughters behind alone in the cabin to survive until he come back. If he comes back.
Characters- I was captivate by the complexity of each characters. Just want to make a quick note on Alex’s character development, it was top tier. In the the beginning of the book I really could not connect to her at all. She was constantly whining and pretty much dumb to everything around her. By the end of the book I was rooting for her. She turned into such a badass.
“As I watch the sun coming over the tops of the evergreens, I wonder if that’s part of the reason I wanted to come back here- to find myself in this place again, before it - and the version of me - is lost forever”
Writing and pace- The book is extremely well-written with vivid descriptions. Alternating POVs from Alex and Daniel. The first 17% of the book is very slow and redundant. Once the author introduces the nuclear attacks the pace really picks up.
My Thoughts - I really enjoyed this book. I became so invested in these characters and their survival; I couldn't put the book down. This was such a thought- provoking read. The characters resilience and adaptability in the face of such a crisis left me questioning my own preparedness for unforeseen and life-altering events. Would I survive? What would I do to keep my family safe? I’m gettin goosebumps just thinking about it.
I only wish we could have seen more of Daniel and Sam's story and their journey. What else did Daniel experience? The book did not answer the question as to why there was a nuclear attack and who started it. I dont know that really bothers me. Like why is this happening?
Overall- I do recommend this book. This is a gripping story of survival that affected me on a visceral level. The plot is a possibility and that has me shook. This is my first book by the author and certainly not my last.
Trigger Warnings:
🔅SA
🔅Violence
Potential TW? Fear & the impending reality of a nuclear holocaust.
✨Thank you to NetGalley, the Author and Storm Publishing for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review✨
Playlist
🎶The Lakes- Taylor Swift
🎶You’re losing me- Taylor Swift
🎶The Scientists- Coldplay
🎶If It Makes You Happy- Sheryl Crow
🎶Only One (acoustic)- Yellowcard
🎶Zombie- The Cranberries
🎶Wish You Were Here- Pink Floyd
🎶Don’t Know Why - Norah Jones
🎶Jungle- Emma Louise
🎶Would That I- Hozier
🎶Where Is My Mind- Pixies
🎶Into The Ocean- Blue October
🎶Sign Of The Times- Harry Style
🎶Chamber Of Reflection-Mac Demarco
🎶Mount Everest- Labrinth
🎶River- Leon Bridges
🎶Sail- AWOLNATION
🎶In The End- Linkin Park
🎶Work Song- Hozier
🎶It’s The End Of The World- R.E.M
“This is a chance to reset, I remind myself. Reboot. Refresh, Re-something. Take deep breaths and mindfully remember what is good about life”
The Plot- With their marriage in turmoil and a daughter heading for trouble, Daniel and Alex leave their home in Connecticut with their two daughters and head for Alex’s empty family cabin in rural Ontario, Canada for a six week stay to try and work on their crumbling family. But when a nuclear attack happens across the globe, Daniel leaves the girls behind to get to their son Sam who’s in college in upstate New York. Leaving his wife with their two daughters behind alone in the cabin to survive until he come back. If he comes back.
Characters- I was captivate by the complexity of each characters. Just want to make a quick note on Alex’s character development, it was top tier. In the the beginning of the book I really could not connect to her at all. She was constantly whining and pretty much dumb to everything around her. By the end of the book I was rooting for her. She turned into such a badass.
“As I watch the sun coming over the tops of the evergreens, I wonder if that’s part of the reason I wanted to come back here- to find myself in this place again, before it - and the version of me - is lost forever”
Writing and pace- The book is extremely well-written with vivid descriptions. Alternating POVs from Alex and Daniel. The first 17% of the book is very slow and redundant. Once the author introduces the nuclear attacks the pace really picks up.
My Thoughts - I really enjoyed this book. I became so invested in these characters and their survival; I couldn't put the book down. This was such a thought- provoking read. The characters resilience and adaptability in the face of such a crisis left me questioning my own preparedness for unforeseen and life-altering events. Would I survive? What would I do to keep my family safe? I’m gettin goosebumps just thinking about it.
I only wish we could have seen more of Daniel and Sam's story and their journey. What else did Daniel experience? The book did not answer the question as to why there was a nuclear attack and who started it. I dont know that really bothers me. Like why is this happening?
Overall- I do recommend this book. This is a gripping story of survival that affected me on a visceral level. The plot is a possibility and that has me shook. This is my first book by the author and certainly not my last.
Trigger Warnings:
🔅SA
🔅Violence
Potential TW? Fear & the impending reality of a nuclear holocaust.
✨Thank you to NetGalley, the Author and Storm Publishing for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review✨
Playlist
🎶The Lakes- Taylor Swift
🎶You’re losing me- Taylor Swift
🎶The Scientists- Coldplay
🎶If It Makes You Happy- Sheryl Crow
🎶Only One (acoustic)- Yellowcard
🎶Zombie- The Cranberries
🎶Wish You Were Here- Pink Floyd
🎶Don’t Know Why - Norah Jones
🎶Jungle- Emma Louise
🎶Would That I- Hozier
🎶Where Is My Mind- Pixies
🎶Into The Ocean- Blue October
🎶Sign Of The Times- Harry Style
🎶Chamber Of Reflection-Mac Demarco
🎶Mount Everest- Labrinth
🎶River- Leon Bridges
🎶Sail- AWOLNATION
🎶In The End- Linkin Park
🎶Work Song- Hozier
🎶It’s The End Of The World- R.E.M
February 9, 2024
The Last Stats in the Sky by Kate Hewitt was was a very gripping book. What occurred in The Last Stars in the Sky was most definitely every living person’s worst nightmare! Could what happened in The Last Stars in the Sky really happen? Unfortunately, it was a possibility. I hope I do not live long enough to see it happen.
The Last Stars in the Sky was about the evolution and transformation of a family that had had it all until they didn’t. They were tasked with learning how to survive above all else. Nothing could ever be taken for granted ever again. Their main goal was to keep the members of their family safe and intact. They all had to learn how to do things that they never would have had to otherwise. What was once important to each member of the family no longer mattered. Each one of them had to learn skills that they never would have imagined themselves doing beforehand. They were living through the scariest times they could have ever imagined. Inner strength, determination and resilience were the key ingredients to their existence and survival.
Kate Hewitt developed very complex characters that grew, changed and evolved over time. Each one had to adapt to their new world they found themselves in. Each member of the family had to learn to overcome their constant state of fear, the adversity they experienced, doing things they never would have imagined doing in their prior life and how to think and live in survival mode constantly. I admired how Alex, the mother, always put her daughters’ safety first and foremost. Her bravery and resilience was commendable. Kerry also became one of my favorite characters. I did not like Kerry very much initially. Kerry’s character grew on me as she evolved and became more devoted, dependable and supportive toward Alex and her daughters. I enjoyed the friendship and trust Alex and Kerry developed over time. Then there was Daniel, Alex’s husband and father to their three children. Daniel went in search of their oldest child, Sam, when this catastrophe occurred. Sam was at college. Alex implored Daniel to find their son and bring him home to her safely. Daniel’s journey to find Sam was as harrowing as Alex’s existence at the cabin in Canada if not more so.
The Last Stars in the Sky by Kate Hewitt was suspenseful and scary. I could not turn the pages fast enough to find out what was going to happen next. The ending left me wondering and hopeful that there might be a second book in the future. I would welcome it. So many parts of The Last Stars in the Sky were so realistic and frightening. It was sad to see that corruption, violence and greed emerged in some of the worst ways. Sometimes disasters bring out the worst in some people and others are left to suffer the consequences they inflict. This was a book that left a lasting impression on me. I recommend it highly.
Thank you to Storm Publishing for allowing me to read The Last Stats in the Sky by Kate Hewitt through Netgalley in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
The Last Stars in the Sky was about the evolution and transformation of a family that had had it all until they didn’t. They were tasked with learning how to survive above all else. Nothing could ever be taken for granted ever again. Their main goal was to keep the members of their family safe and intact. They all had to learn how to do things that they never would have had to otherwise. What was once important to each member of the family no longer mattered. Each one of them had to learn skills that they never would have imagined themselves doing beforehand. They were living through the scariest times they could have ever imagined. Inner strength, determination and resilience were the key ingredients to their existence and survival.
Kate Hewitt developed very complex characters that grew, changed and evolved over time. Each one had to adapt to their new world they found themselves in. Each member of the family had to learn to overcome their constant state of fear, the adversity they experienced, doing things they never would have imagined doing in their prior life and how to think and live in survival mode constantly. I admired how Alex, the mother, always put her daughters’ safety first and foremost. Her bravery and resilience was commendable. Kerry also became one of my favorite characters. I did not like Kerry very much initially. Kerry’s character grew on me as she evolved and became more devoted, dependable and supportive toward Alex and her daughters. I enjoyed the friendship and trust Alex and Kerry developed over time. Then there was Daniel, Alex’s husband and father to their three children. Daniel went in search of their oldest child, Sam, when this catastrophe occurred. Sam was at college. Alex implored Daniel to find their son and bring him home to her safely. Daniel’s journey to find Sam was as harrowing as Alex’s existence at the cabin in Canada if not more so.
The Last Stars in the Sky by Kate Hewitt was suspenseful and scary. I could not turn the pages fast enough to find out what was going to happen next. The ending left me wondering and hopeful that there might be a second book in the future. I would welcome it. So many parts of The Last Stars in the Sky were so realistic and frightening. It was sad to see that corruption, violence and greed emerged in some of the worst ways. Sometimes disasters bring out the worst in some people and others are left to suffer the consequences they inflict. This was a book that left a lasting impression on me. I recommend it highly.
Thank you to Storm Publishing for allowing me to read The Last Stats in the Sky by Kate Hewitt through Netgalley in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
December 14, 2023
I’ll be honest with you, I saw the author’s name and didn’t read the synopsis. I knew I’d enjoy the story regardless of the topic because I’ve loved all 9 previous books I’ve read by this author. When I began reading and discovered that it was speculative fiction, I almost stopped reading and I had to remind myself why I chose this book. Full disclosure: I LOVED it. This goes to show you that an author with amazing skills can make you appreciate a different genre in ways you hadn’t considered before! WTG, Kate Hewitt!
What you are going to get: a story about a family’s survival in the wilderness after a nuclear holocaust.
Daniel and Alex, their 11-year-old daughter, Ruby, and their 14-year-old daughter, Mattie - an ordinary family from Westport, Connecticut - are in desperate need of a reset, so they head to Alex’s parents’ ramshackle cabin in rural Ontario, Canada for six weeks. Knowing that the cabin at Lost Lake has been uninhabited for 7 years, they realize that they have their work cut out for them. It’s nothing, they presume, compared to the challenges they’ve faced this past year; the losses of Daniel’s jobs, the negative pull of social media, their toxic friends, the lies, shame and the desperate attempts at getting their teenage daughter’s life back on track after she was suspended from school.
Not long after arriving at the cabin, they discover that while they’ve been isolated and without wifi, the world has experienced a nuclear disaster and that martial law is in full effect. Worried about their son enrolled in Clarkson, College in upstate New York, the unanimous decision is made for Daniel to bring him home. What follows is a harrowing and traumatic experience for both Daniel and the family he left behind.
I appreciated seeing how the experience changed everyone and how priorities changed and the superfluous ‘stuff’ fell aside allowing them to focus on what really mattered. Desperate and dangerous circumstances reveal what we are made of - and in Daniel and Alex’s case, it showed the extent of their love for their children.
This is one of those books that I’ll be recommending to everyone I meet! I cherished the opportunity to read something outside of my comfort zone and came away with the desire to value (1) the little things and (2) the extent of my parent’s love.
I was gifted this copy by Storm Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
What you are going to get: a story about a family’s survival in the wilderness after a nuclear holocaust.
Daniel and Alex, their 11-year-old daughter, Ruby, and their 14-year-old daughter, Mattie - an ordinary family from Westport, Connecticut - are in desperate need of a reset, so they head to Alex’s parents’ ramshackle cabin in rural Ontario, Canada for six weeks. Knowing that the cabin at Lost Lake has been uninhabited for 7 years, they realize that they have their work cut out for them. It’s nothing, they presume, compared to the challenges they’ve faced this past year; the losses of Daniel’s jobs, the negative pull of social media, their toxic friends, the lies, shame and the desperate attempts at getting their teenage daughter’s life back on track after she was suspended from school.
Not long after arriving at the cabin, they discover that while they’ve been isolated and without wifi, the world has experienced a nuclear disaster and that martial law is in full effect. Worried about their son enrolled in Clarkson, College in upstate New York, the unanimous decision is made for Daniel to bring him home. What follows is a harrowing and traumatic experience for both Daniel and the family he left behind.
I appreciated seeing how the experience changed everyone and how priorities changed and the superfluous ‘stuff’ fell aside allowing them to focus on what really mattered. Desperate and dangerous circumstances reveal what we are made of - and in Daniel and Alex’s case, it showed the extent of their love for their children.
This is one of those books that I’ll be recommending to everyone I meet! I cherished the opportunity to read something outside of my comfort zone and came away with the desire to value (1) the little things and (2) the extent of my parent’s love.
I was gifted this copy by Storm Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
December 12, 2023
5 stars!
This is the second time that I am reading a book by Kate Hewitt (previously, I have read The Girl from Berlin), and once again this author did not disappoint!
It is such a gripping plot, as we root for the well-being of Alex's family.
The way the author makes us feel all the emotions is superb, I did cry during this very emotional read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC!
This is the second time that I am reading a book by Kate Hewitt (previously, I have read The Girl from Berlin), and once again this author did not disappoint!
It is such a gripping plot, as we root for the well-being of Alex's family.
The way the author makes us feel all the emotions is superb, I did cry during this very emotional read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC!
January 18, 2024
Alex has problems. Her husband Daniel was fired from his job. He neglected to tell her and instead pretended to go to work until missed mortgage payments caused them to lose the house. Fourteen year old Mattie kept her boyfriend’s drugs in her locker and now is suspended from school. Younger daughter Ruby has quirky behavior but no diagnosis. Problems. Now, with nowhere else to go, they’ve traveled to her parent’s remote summer cabin on a lake in rural Canada. Problems. This is what Mattie thinks about as she falls asleep on the first night in their new setting.
The morning brings a different set and definition of problems. Major cities of United States have been destroyed by nuclear attack. No one knows who is responsible. Millions are dead. There is no internet and very little communication. The food they brought with them will have to last until…when?
The Last Stars in the Sky is a novel about family, about survival, love and fellowship. It’s about what happens when society is broken apart, about when the only moral compass is yours alone. Without spoilers, it is impossible to tell you how compulsively readable this thriller is, how much you’ll care about the characters, especially Alex, and how strongly you’ll wish for a happy ending. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and Kate Hewitt for this ARC.
The morning brings a different set and definition of problems. Major cities of United States have been destroyed by nuclear attack. No one knows who is responsible. Millions are dead. There is no internet and very little communication. The food they brought with them will have to last until…when?
The Last Stars in the Sky is a novel about family, about survival, love and fellowship. It’s about what happens when society is broken apart, about when the only moral compass is yours alone. Without spoilers, it is impossible to tell you how compulsively readable this thriller is, how much you’ll care about the characters, especially Alex, and how strongly you’ll wish for a happy ending. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and Kate Hewitt for this ARC.
January 15, 2024
4.5 STARS!
This was not what I expected at all!
I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of "The Last Stars in the Sky" through NetGalley.
Kate Hewitt's The Last Stars in the Sky is an emotionally charged page-turner that I could not put down! From the beginning, the author's rich vocabulary and vivid descriptions create an immersive experience, setting the stage for a narrative that takes unexpected and heart-wrenching turns.
The story unfolds as a powerful exploration of family and individual strength, amidst shocking events. The characters beautifully showcase the importance of leaning on others in times of need, facing your fears, and navigating the unexpected.
While the last few chapters felt a bit rushed, skipping through the timeline and flashing back to what was missed, the overall impact of the book is undeniable. I highly recommend The Last Stars in the Sky to anyone seeking a gripping tale that resonates long after the final page. The book urges readers to find beauty in the mundanity and to not take a second of life for granted.
This was not what I expected at all!
I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of "The Last Stars in the Sky" through NetGalley.
Kate Hewitt's The Last Stars in the Sky is an emotionally charged page-turner that I could not put down! From the beginning, the author's rich vocabulary and vivid descriptions create an immersive experience, setting the stage for a narrative that takes unexpected and heart-wrenching turns.
The story unfolds as a powerful exploration of family and individual strength, amidst shocking events. The characters beautifully showcase the importance of leaning on others in times of need, facing your fears, and navigating the unexpected.
While the last few chapters felt a bit rushed, skipping through the timeline and flashing back to what was missed, the overall impact of the book is undeniable. I highly recommend The Last Stars in the Sky to anyone seeking a gripping tale that resonates long after the final page. The book urges readers to find beauty in the mundanity and to not take a second of life for granted.
January 19, 2024
I truly enjoyed this emotionally charged novel!
Author Kate Hewitt took me on emotional rollercoaster ride with this story about how a family is faced with life after a nuclear attack.
Each character in her story is faced with so many challenges and in the end they learn to adapt and appreciate the things they once took for granted.
One of my favorite quotes from the book is when Alex questions her ill neighbor about how she can have faith when the world has been destroyed. Her neighbor said, “ Sweetheart, that’s when you’ve got to have faith most of all” .
This book has you thinking about what really matters in life.
Could not put this book down!
Thanks to Netgalley for the eArc for my honest review.
Author Kate Hewitt took me on emotional rollercoaster ride with this story about how a family is faced with life after a nuclear attack.
Each character in her story is faced with so many challenges and in the end they learn to adapt and appreciate the things they once took for granted.
One of my favorite quotes from the book is when Alex questions her ill neighbor about how she can have faith when the world has been destroyed. Her neighbor said, “ Sweetheart, that’s when you’ve got to have faith most of all” .
This book has you thinking about what really matters in life.
Could not put this book down!
Thanks to Netgalley for the eArc for my honest review.
January 16, 2024
Omg I didn't expect this! I'm not going to say anything about the plot because I don't want to lessen the shock you'll feel. But I will tell you that it's heartbreaking, raw, powerful and tense. I was invested in the characters right away and couldn't turn the pages fast enough. When you finally reach the action-packed end it will leave you asking yourself just how far you would go for you and your family to survive.
January 1, 2024
Whoa. This book was not at all what I expected, but in the best way.
Daniel and Alex’s life in suburban Connecticut is imploding after Daniel loses his job and hides it from Alex for months. This betrayal cuts deep and Alex isn’t sure her marriage can survive. When their eldest daughter is expelled from school and the bank calls to foreclose on their home, Alex decides the family needs a reset. With her older son away at college, Alex pulls her younger daughter from school and takes the family to her parents’ cabin in rural Ontario in hopes of a do-over.
At the apply named Lost Lake, where they get few TV channels and the internet is intermittent at best, Alex is hoping to mend her marriage, get her younger daughter out of her shell, and get her eldest daughter away from the bad influences taking over her life. One day in, boredom and whining reign, until the world hands them an even bigger problem than their own relationship woes.
I cannot possibly say more without ruining the book for those who haven’t read it, but this one was absolutely impossible to put down. I cannot believe I started the year with this book; it will be a hard one to follow.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and of course the author Kate Hewitt for the advanced copy of the book. The Last Stars in the Sky is out on January 24th. Do yourself a favor and pick this one up. All opinions are my own.
Http://www.instagram.com/passionforprose
Daniel and Alex’s life in suburban Connecticut is imploding after Daniel loses his job and hides it from Alex for months. This betrayal cuts deep and Alex isn’t sure her marriage can survive. When their eldest daughter is expelled from school and the bank calls to foreclose on their home, Alex decides the family needs a reset. With her older son away at college, Alex pulls her younger daughter from school and takes the family to her parents’ cabin in rural Ontario in hopes of a do-over.
At the apply named Lost Lake, where they get few TV channels and the internet is intermittent at best, Alex is hoping to mend her marriage, get her younger daughter out of her shell, and get her eldest daughter away from the bad influences taking over her life. One day in, boredom and whining reign, until the world hands them an even bigger problem than their own relationship woes.
I cannot possibly say more without ruining the book for those who haven’t read it, but this one was absolutely impossible to put down. I cannot believe I started the year with this book; it will be a hard one to follow.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and of course the author Kate Hewitt for the advanced copy of the book. The Last Stars in the Sky is out on January 24th. Do yourself a favor and pick this one up. All opinions are my own.
Http://www.instagram.com/passionforprose
December 31, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One of the best books I’ve read this year. Alex & her family decide to go up to Canada and live in her parents’ old rustic cabin for 6 weeks. Her husband has recently lost his job, her daughter is suspended from school, and she wants them to spend time as a family to reconnect with each other. After being out in the cabin for a little while, they receive news that nuclear attacks have taken place on multiple large cities in the US & around the world. What started out as a family get away is now turned into a fight for survival. I couldn’t put this one down and was so bummed when it was finished. I have read other books by Kate Hewitt but this is so different than her other books. Highly recommend! Thanks to NetGalley & the publishers for this ARC for my honest review. This book comes out in January 2024.
One of the best books I’ve read this year. Alex & her family decide to go up to Canada and live in her parents’ old rustic cabin for 6 weeks. Her husband has recently lost his job, her daughter is suspended from school, and she wants them to spend time as a family to reconnect with each other. After being out in the cabin for a little while, they receive news that nuclear attacks have taken place on multiple large cities in the US & around the world. What started out as a family get away is now turned into a fight for survival. I couldn’t put this one down and was so bummed when it was finished. I have read other books by Kate Hewitt but this is so different than her other books. Highly recommend! Thanks to NetGalley & the publishers for this ARC for my honest review. This book comes out in January 2024.
Read
February 3, 2024Wow. How is this not getting more attention? This was absolutely fantastic.
Don’t let the beautiful but serene cover fool you- this story is beautiful, yes, but it’s far from serene.
When a struggling family is forced to temporarily relocate to an isolated cabin in a remote part of Canada, they fear the worst has happened. However, shortly after their arrival, they wake up to a world where the actual worst HAS happened. This story follows their often-dark journey from that devastation forward.
I’m always a fan of a realistic survival tale, but too often, they seem to fail in the realistic part of that equation. This one does not. In fact, it exceeds my expectations. Frightening and fascinating in equal measure. I loved it. I would jump at the chance to read a second installment, should the author choose to give us such a gift. Either way, this is definitely one I’ll re-read in the future.
Thank you Kate Hewitt, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.
Don’t let the beautiful but serene cover fool you- this story is beautiful, yes, but it’s far from serene.
When a struggling family is forced to temporarily relocate to an isolated cabin in a remote part of Canada, they fear the worst has happened. However, shortly after their arrival, they wake up to a world where the actual worst HAS happened. This story follows their often-dark journey from that devastation forward.
I’m always a fan of a realistic survival tale, but too often, they seem to fail in the realistic part of that equation. This one does not. In fact, it exceeds my expectations. Frightening and fascinating in equal measure. I loved it. I would jump at the chance to read a second installment, should the author choose to give us such a gift. Either way, this is definitely one I’ll re-read in the future.
Thank you Kate Hewitt, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 24, 2024
This book was absolutely amazing and I can’t write a review that will do it justice. The storyline is wonderfully unique (and is it really that far from reality?), but the characters themselves, and the emotions I felt because I was so drawn to them, made it even better somehow. I am a huge fan of Kate Hewitt and will choose her books without even reading the summary because I know that I will love it hands down. She has an immense talent for drawing out such strong emotions and connections to her characters, and her writing style is so comfortable and easy. I put myself in Alex’ and Daniel’s shoes many times and my heart ached right along with theirs. Though I did not agree with some choices that both of them made, overall I think that all parents would feel emotional when reading this one. Several times throughout the book I wondered what I would do and it made me really take a step back and ponder my own life and family and future. Gripping, emotional, life-changing.
#thelaststarsinthesky #netgalley #bookreview
#thelaststarsinthesky #netgalley #bookreview
December 17, 2023
Thank you so much Storm Publishing and NetGalley.
Alex and Daniel are trying to save their marriage and take their two kids to a home that has been in their family. It's on a lake in the middle of nowhere and quiet. One morning she wakes up and sees on the news that something terrible has happened.
This was not all what I had expected. Holy $%@. I don't want to give any of it away, but I was shocked at the turn of events. This was written so well and I was clinging to each word trying to figure out what was going to happen. I really hope there is another!
Alex and Daniel are trying to save their marriage and take their two kids to a home that has been in their family. It's on a lake in the middle of nowhere and quiet. One morning she wakes up and sees on the news that something terrible has happened.
This was not all what I had expected. Holy $%@. I don't want to give any of it away, but I was shocked at the turn of events. This was written so well and I was clinging to each word trying to figure out what was going to happen. I really hope there is another!
December 18, 2023
Such a good book with a storyline I just wasn’t expecting. This is a story of disaster, family, survival and trust. Excellent read
July 18, 2024
I had no idea what I was getting myself into when I started this book and that’s part of what made me love it so much. I don’t want to say too much about the plot because I don’t want to give anything away!
It is a story of survival and the lengths we will go to protect our loved ones. We see the full range of humanity in this novel: the very best of it and the most depraved. I thought the author did such a fantastic job at writing how an event of this nature would realistically play out in the world and in the hearts of humans. It’s hard to read at times, but I felt so connected to the characters and was desperate to find out what happened to them, hence why I finished this thing in just over 24 hours!
Such a thought provoking book and I’m interested to see where she takes the story in the sequel coming out next year!
It is a story of survival and the lengths we will go to protect our loved ones. We see the full range of humanity in this novel: the very best of it and the most depraved. I thought the author did such a fantastic job at writing how an event of this nature would realistically play out in the world and in the hearts of humans. It’s hard to read at times, but I felt so connected to the characters and was desperate to find out what happened to them, hence why I finished this thing in just over 24 hours!
Such a thought provoking book and I’m interested to see where she takes the story in the sequel coming out next year!
January 16, 2024
Kate Hewitt's story are always a treat as they are emotionally charged and compelling. This one is heartbreaking and life affirming.
Well plotted, great characters
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Well plotted, great characters
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
December 21, 2023
When hope is all but gone, how much can one family bear?
Alex and her family had no choice but to settle in her parents' tumbledown cabin in rural Ontario for six weeks. Everything in her life has been thrown into disarray after her husband lost his job, which meant losing their home. Plunged into a sudden downturn - to somehow survive in an old cabin without a Wi-Fi connection, saving on electricity that runs on a generator, and the next neighbor miles away - life couldn't get much bleaker than it is. But just as Alex and her family barely settle into their new routine, they face a new challenge again. This time, the challenge looms larger - one altered by a nation's collapse where chances of survival appear grim.
One thing about survival stories is that the readers know what to expect because they typically follow the same familiar structure. There were instances when I wavered between reading on and pausing to think about how horrible the characters' circumstances would end up. Survival stories like this will always have different versions of grief - one I wanted to avoid but knew I had to absorb because that's what this particular genre hopes to convey.
In terms of writing, the author wrote in such vivid detail that some readers would find it hard to "unsee" the level of authenticity conveyed by the plot. The dual narrative structure also allowed for more emotional connection, and I appreciate how the alternating perspectives also built suspense and tension. Ending each character's perspective with a cliffhanger made this book even more compelling.
While 'The Last Stars in the Sky' might seem like another gripping and poignant tale of survival, I can assure you it's anything but that. Connecting with the characters becomes hard to refuse as they reveal vulnerabilities that reflect our own. My only misgiving is that the narrative could have been more extended. Emotions are abundant from this aching piece of speculative fiction - one that will surely haunt its readers for a very long time and one that may come in handy, too. After all, a dystopian future is no longer a fictional concept - it is a reality that currently exists in nations where oppression and inequality persist.
Thank you #NetGalley and #StormPublishing for the opportunity to read this book in advance in exchange for an unbiased opinion. Although I received this book for review, the opinions shared are purely my own.
Alex and her family had no choice but to settle in her parents' tumbledown cabin in rural Ontario for six weeks. Everything in her life has been thrown into disarray after her husband lost his job, which meant losing their home. Plunged into a sudden downturn - to somehow survive in an old cabin without a Wi-Fi connection, saving on electricity that runs on a generator, and the next neighbor miles away - life couldn't get much bleaker than it is. But just as Alex and her family barely settle into their new routine, they face a new challenge again. This time, the challenge looms larger - one altered by a nation's collapse where chances of survival appear grim.
One thing about survival stories is that the readers know what to expect because they typically follow the same familiar structure. There were instances when I wavered between reading on and pausing to think about how horrible the characters' circumstances would end up. Survival stories like this will always have different versions of grief - one I wanted to avoid but knew I had to absorb because that's what this particular genre hopes to convey.
In terms of writing, the author wrote in such vivid detail that some readers would find it hard to "unsee" the level of authenticity conveyed by the plot. The dual narrative structure also allowed for more emotional connection, and I appreciate how the alternating perspectives also built suspense and tension. Ending each character's perspective with a cliffhanger made this book even more compelling.
While 'The Last Stars in the Sky' might seem like another gripping and poignant tale of survival, I can assure you it's anything but that. Connecting with the characters becomes hard to refuse as they reveal vulnerabilities that reflect our own. My only misgiving is that the narrative could have been more extended. Emotions are abundant from this aching piece of speculative fiction - one that will surely haunt its readers for a very long time and one that may come in handy, too. After all, a dystopian future is no longer a fictional concept - it is a reality that currently exists in nations where oppression and inequality persist.
Thank you #NetGalley and #StormPublishing for the opportunity to read this book in advance in exchange for an unbiased opinion. Although I received this book for review, the opinions shared are purely my own.
February 18, 2024
Loved the book, but disappointed with the ending
May 11, 2024
This book wasn't what I was expecting but was well written and makes you think what you would do in a similar situation and I admired the characters' determination. Also what a beautiful cover and I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narrator. I will have to check out more of this author's books because this was my first one.
December 13, 2023
This book captivated me right away. I love getting a look at the lives of husbands and wives and their children. Hewitt did a fabulous job creating a book that I quickly became invested in. I needed to know what happened to these characters amongst the crazy scenario Hewitt made up for them. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. Five stars.
December 13, 2023
Wow! This author does such an amazing job telling a story that the reader thinks they are living with Alex and her family. I was rooting for so many of the characters. This book will remain in my thoughts for quite some time.
Thanks so much to netgalley and Storm Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own
Thanks so much to netgalley and Storm Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own
December 12, 2023
What a read ! It was a rollercoaster of emotion. I was sad, happy, terrified, angry. It felt as if I was living with Alex and her family and I wanted to protect them, to survive with them. I really hope there will be a sequel to this book !
Thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review.
January 23, 2024
Unique, powerful, and frightening with its possibility. Alex does what she must to hold her family together after nuclear blasts decimate the largest cities in the US. this story of survival, family, and relationships is unlike anything I’ve read.
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
January 16, 2024
Wow this was much different than I anticipated but an amazing account of something nobody wants to encounter.. Alex and her family had no choice but to settle in her parents' tumbledown cabin in rural Ontario for six weeks. Everything in her life has been thrown into disarray after her husband lost his job, which meant losing their home. Plunged into a sudden downturn - to somehow survive in an old cabin without a Wi-Fi connection, saving on electricity that runs on a generator, and the next neighbor miles away - life couldn't get much bleaker than it is. Just as Alex and her family barely settle into their new routine, they face a new challenge again. This time, the challenge looms larger - one altered by a nation's collapse where chances of survival appear grim. Trying to pull your family together with the hopes of surviving but what will that survival look like and what about the children what is the future hold for them. The idea to hold on to hope, positive thoughts of things righting themselves and the lengths you go to pulling the family together and what happens with humanity and morals. In the face of utter chaos how will you act, will you lose hope, lose morals, lose humanity - one will never know unless you are plunged into the situation without planning. This book will have you thinking about the lengths you will go to in the face of devastation. Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley.
January 12, 2024
Daniel and Alex are heading to Canada to live at Alex's family cabin. Daniel lost his job, then their house. From American big city living to Canadian backwoods country living. Just when they think their lives couldn't be any different, something happens that would change their lives forever.
This is my first book by Kate Hewitt. This book was completely different than I thought it would be. I thought it would be about a woman who rediscovers herself and becomes a better version of herself through reflection. Boy, wasn't I in for a surprise.
The first 17% of the book was slow, and I thought I had the plot figured out, then BANG!! everything I thought was going to happen changed. I couldn't put this book down. I still feel that Alex and every character in the book rediscover themselves and become a better version, but not in the way I initially thought.
If I had to criticize anything, it would be that I wish we had read more about Daniel and Sam's journey. The ending left me wanting more, and not because it wasn't good, but because I was so wrapped up in the story, and I didn't want it to end.
Thank you to Netgalley, Kare Hewitt, and the publishers for this free ebook. This review is 100% my own and honest review.
This is my first book by Kate Hewitt. This book was completely different than I thought it would be. I thought it would be about a woman who rediscovers herself and becomes a better version of herself through reflection. Boy, wasn't I in for a surprise.
The first 17% of the book was slow, and I thought I had the plot figured out, then BANG!! everything I thought was going to happen changed. I couldn't put this book down. I still feel that Alex and every character in the book rediscover themselves and become a better version, but not in the way I initially thought.
If I had to criticize anything, it would be that I wish we had read more about Daniel and Sam's journey. The ending left me wanting more, and not because it wasn't good, but because I was so wrapped up in the story, and I didn't want it to end.
Thank you to Netgalley, Kare Hewitt, and the publishers for this free ebook. This review is 100% my own and honest review.
December 29, 2023
This story wasn't quite what I was expecting and, at first, I was irritated with the twist of the
plot, thinking it a bit farcical. However as i read on I became drawn in, gunning for each of the characters as they encountered new challenges.
An intense book following a city family trying to survive a new life in the wilderness of Canada as their world collapases around them.
Despite my initial scepticism I was quickly invested in the story. I only wish we could find out what happens next for the family!
plot, thinking it a bit farcical. However as i read on I became drawn in, gunning for each of the characters as they encountered new challenges.
An intense book following a city family trying to survive a new life in the wilderness of Canada as their world collapases around them.
Despite my initial scepticism I was quickly invested in the story. I only wish we could find out what happens next for the family!
January 4, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for granting me the opportunity to read, 'The Last Stars in the Sky' by Kate Hewitt. I have never read one of Kate Hewitt's books before, so when I read the synopsis of the book, I was intrigued. I have always loved a good survivalist book and this certainly was just that. The storyline and characters kept me turning the pages and waiting to see how the next obstacle would be faced and I was gunning for each of the characters as they encountered each new challenge. If you're a fan of survivalist type books this is definitely worth a read, the only downfall for me was the ending; I was hoping for something more succinct rather than open ended.
February 6, 2024
Yikes! Talk about unsettling! This book took an unexpected turn after a rather ordinary, relatable beginning. It certainly wasn’t my usual go-to genre, but I was surprised, not necessarily in a pleasant, but intriguing way. If you’re looking for a ‘hold your breath’ page turner, potentially anxiety-inducing, the kind that may just keep you up at night and look at the world slightly differently… you found it. Fascinating read!
March 16, 2024
I am not sure what I was expecting from the synopsis of this book, but it threw me for a loop.
A mother is trying to keep her family together after her husband loses his job and they lose everything. They decide to take a trip to her parents' old cabin in Canada and spend six weeks from Thanksgiving through Christmas to get their life together and have some family time free from the distractions of everyday city life.
Out in the wooded areas of Quebec away from major cities, the world changes for everyone.. Survival is the key in a world completely different. Can they rise to the task?
Kate Hewitt brings the story alive in the first few pages and doesn't disappoint.
A mother is trying to keep her family together after her husband loses his job and they lose everything. They decide to take a trip to her parents' old cabin in Canada and spend six weeks from Thanksgiving through Christmas to get their life together and have some family time free from the distractions of everyday city life.
Out in the wooded areas of Quebec away from major cities, the world changes for everyone.. Survival is the key in a world completely different. Can they rise to the task?
Kate Hewitt brings the story alive in the first few pages and doesn't disappoint.
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