The Last Session

A Novel

By: Julia Bartz

Narrated by: Hillary Huber, Allyson Ryan

The instant New York Times bestselling author of The Writing Retreat “weaves psychology and mysticism into this strikingly original” (Ana Reyes, New York Times bestselling author) thriller about a social worker who, after coming face-to-face with her dark past, must infiltrate a mysterious wellness center in the deserts of New Mexico.

When a catatonic woman shows up at her psychiatric unit, social worker Thea swears that she knows her from somewhere. She’s shocked to discover the patient holds a link to a traumatic time in her own past. Upon regaining lucidity, the patient claims she can’t remember the horrific recent events that caused her brain to shut down. Thea’s at a loss—especially when the patient is ripped away from her as suddenly as she appeared.

Determined to find her, Thea follows a trail of clues to a remote center in southwestern New Mexico, where a charismatic couple holds a controversial monthly retreat to uncover attendees’ romantic and sexual issues. Forced to participate in increasingly intimate exercises, Thea finds herself inching closer not only to her missing patient, but also to tantalizing answers about her own harrowing past. However, time is running out, and if she stays for the last session, she too might lose her sanity…and maybe even her life in this “hypnotic fever dream of a book” (Jennifer Fawcett, author of Keep This for Me).

Critic reviews

"Narrators Hillary Huber and Allyson Ryan deliver captivating performances of Bartz’s second novel...Huber provides the main narration as Thea. Her handling of multiple characters and multiple accents is excellent. Ryan takes a memorable turn as Catherine. Huber and Ryan’s voices are similar in tone and pace, making the illusion of Catherine and Thea’s resemblance that much more believable in this slow-burn thriller."

hard pass

I couldn’t get past 17th chapter. there are 12948587 chapters. i have no idea what the story was about.

‘Sconie Pride

I love everything the Bart’s sisters put out into this world. I enjoy how they always find a way to work in little bits of home (WI) back into the work. Most of all, the great twist, you expect it to come. However, I always love the unexpected last minute turn.

So fun!

I loved the amount of time that was dedicated to the possibilities of.. ok no spoilers. Not a typical thriller but gripping and twisty.