If asked whether I was a fan of Diane Chamberlain’s books, my instant response would be yes…thinking of Necessary Lies, the first book our neighborhood read together. Looking back, I realize I have found her inconsistent (The Dream Daughter was only 2 stars, but I’m not much of a fan of time travel stories). But I loved the premise of The Last House on The Street,  and was happy to receive a copy from St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. 

The story is told in alternating time periods, both in 2010 and in 1965. In 2010, widow Kayla Carter and her husband have designed their dream house, and although Kate and their three-year-old daughter are moved in, tragedy strikes.The house is reputedly haunted, and a neighbor woman warns Kayla about the dark history of the place where the house was built. 

Back in 1965, a proper young Southern lady knew her place and her role. Ellie Hockley was is college and, although her path seems to lead straight into marriage to a “good catch” (a bank manager!), Ellie chooses to spend her summer registering black voters. What could possibly go wrong? (Lots, actually). 

I actually loved this book, perhaps primarily due to the character of Ellie. Her story was dramatic, sad, inspiring, and more. Kayla is interesting, but for me it was Ellie that made the story. Would be good for book clubs, and enjoyed by both fans of mystery/suspense and historical fiction focused on the Civil Rights Era. Four stars.