The Last Girl (Michael Adams, A&U)

Everyone thought Danby was going mad at first, even Danby. It wasn’t possible that she was hearing other people’s thoughts. Except it was, and Danby was just one of the first. An internet-obsessed world was about to discover what ‘connection’ really means. Suddenly, on Christmas Day, everyone can hear everyone else’s thoughts, and all hell breaks loose. Danby discovers she is indeed special, as she can hear others’ thoughts without projecting her own. Soon her entire neighbourhood, and possibly all of the world, descends into chaos, madness, murder and finally catatonia, leaving only Danby conscious. She decides to flee Sydney, carrying her unconscious little brother Evan, striking out for her mother’s house in the Blue Mountains. She crosses the silent, ruined city, past the dead, the dying and the eerie living statues. But is she truly alone? The Last Girl is the first novel of a planned trilogy from Michael Adams, a well-known movie reviewer, whose love of the cinematic shows. The book is gripping and fast-paced, with exciting action scenes. Danby is a strong and resourceful character. This is a dark book with several violent and uncomfortable scenes, and as such is suited for older readers seeking an exciting read.

Heath Graham is a teacher and former bookseller

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Category: Reviews