Reviews of Ashley Winstead's The Last Housewife reveal a gripping, dark thriller that delves into complex themes of female empowerment and trauma. Positive feedback highlights its intense, thought-provoking narrative and well-developed characters. However, some criticize it for graphic content and a slow start. Overall, it's recommended for those seeking a compelling yet challenging read.

Readers who relish dark psychological thrillers with feminist themes and a gripping narrative will enjoy Ashley Winstead's The Last Housewife. Fans of Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl and Tarryn Fisher’s The Wives will find similar allure in its intense suspense and complex characters.

In Ashley Winstead's 2023 psychological thriller The Last Housewife, Shay Deroy investigates the death of her college best friend, Laurel Hargrove, with childhood friend Jamie Knight. The quest forces Shay to confront past traumas and reject her suburban life. Sensitive topics in the book include death by suicide, sexual violence, manipulation, and cult activity.

Dark / Mysterious / Unnerving / Suspenseful / Gritty

**Shay Evans (Deroy)**  
A writer and the protagonist of the novel who grapples with her past experiences and relationships, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

**Jamie Knight**  
Shay's childhood friend and the host of a true crime podcast, who aids Shay in exploring the truth about her past while often demonstrating a limited understanding of gender dynamics.

**Laurel Hargrove**  
One of Shay's close friends from college with a quiet and reserved demeanor, whose life choices contrast deeply with Shay's assertiveness.

**Don Rockwell**  
A charismatic and controlling figure who uses his wealth and influence to impose patriarchal ideals on the women around him, masking his dangerous nature behind a charming facade.

Ashley Winstead

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Novel

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Before You Read

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Overview

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The Last Housewife Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Last Housewife Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Scheherazade, You Careful Actress”

Part 1, Prologue-Chapter 8

The Last Housewife Part 1, Prologue-Chapter 8 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 9-17

The Last Housewife Part 1, Chapters 9-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Scheherazade, You Cunning Bitch”

Part 2, Prologue-Chapter 28

The Last Housewife Part 2, Prologue-Chapter 28 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Scheherazade, You Upstart King”

Part 3, Prologue-Chapter 36

The Last Housewife Part 3, Prologue-Chapter 36 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapter 37-Part 4

The Last Housewife Part 3, Chapter 37-Part 4 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Last Housewife Character Analysis

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Themes

The Last Housewife Themes

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The Last Housewife Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Last Housewife Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Last Housewife Essay Topics

The Last Housewife

Before You Read

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