The Stark Beauty of Last Things: A Novel

The Stark Beauty of Last Things is a novel set in Montauk, the Hamptons, where an outsider inherits the power to decide the fate of the last parcel of undeveloped land. The characters include an environmentalist, a bartender, and a couple struggling to hold onto their property. When a forest fire breaks out, Clancy is suspected of arson, complicating his efforts to find healing and home. The novel explores our connection to nature and what we stand to lose.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2023
Publisher: She Writes Press

The Stark Beauty of Last Things is a captivating novel set in the picturesque Montauk, the far-reaching Hamptons region, which faces the imminent threat of climate change and overdevelopment. At the center of the story is Clancy, a thirty-six-year-old claims adjuster haunted by his orphan childhood. Unexpectedly, he inherits the power to decide the fate of Montauk's last parcel of undeveloped land. This decision holds immense significance for everyone in town, including Julienne, an environmentalist and painter dedicated to preserving the landscape that inspires her art; Theresa, a bartender whose trailer park home is threatened by coastal erosion; and Molly and Billy, who are fighting against the pressure to sell their property.

As tensions rise and conflicts emerge, a forest fire breaks out, casting suspicion on Clancy for arson. This adds another layer of complexity to his already challenging task of navigating competing agendas and finding the healing and home he has always longed for. The novel is told from multiple points of view, delving into the intricate relationships between the characters and their deep connections to nature. Through their struggles and triumphs, The Stark Beauty of Last Things explores the profound impact of our relationship with the natural world and the devastating consequences of losing that connection.

The setting of Montauk, with its breathtaking beaches, serene forests, and rugged coastline, serves as a backdrop for the unfolding drama. The characters are well-developed, with their own unique motivations and struggles, making them relatable and empathetic. The plot is filled with suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists, keeping readers engaged and invested in the outcome.

Ultimately, The Stark Beauty of Last Things is a powerful meditation on the importance of preserving our natural environment and the human connections that are intertwined with it. It serves as a reminder that our actions today have the potential to shape the future for generations to come and that we must cherish and protect the world we live in.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 154 x 215 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781647425777