The Last Act

Publisher: Faber and Faber

Date Published: 2020

Format: Paperback I purchased myself

Star Rating: 4/5  I liked it a lot, and recommend

About Book: Actor Tommy Jump isn't getting the roles he once did. But as he prepares to give up the stage he gets a call from the FBI, with an offer too lucrative to refuse. For $300,000 all Tommy has to do is spend six months in prison, acting as a failed bank robber and befriend a fellow inmate who has information which could take down a Mexican drug cartel. But when the stakes are this high, does Tommy have what it takes to get away with this audacious last act?

My thoughts: The Last Act by Brad Parks felt a little slow to start with. Although, in my head I kept saying to the main protagonist, noooo don’t do it. So, right from the beginning I was expecting predictability. However, I do love a good thriller and this one did have a different twist, so I continued on.

As the book progressed at speed there were many twists and turns that kept me enthralled. Each chapter was filled with suspense constantly pushing the plot forward. One of the strongest aspects of the book is Park’s ability to create complex, believable characters.

Within the mix the story also explored love and loyalty and how far someone would go to protect their family, this emotional depth added an interesting layer elevating the book beyond a simple crime thriller.

In conclusion, there are well thought out characters, continuing suspense and thought provoking themes, and I think this book will keep fans of mystery thrillers engrossed.