A review by vanislandcircus
Play the Last Card by Olivia Fenwick

challenging emotional funny inspiring lighthearted reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Play the Last Card is Olivia Fenwick’s debut novel, and it was an emotional roller coaster!

While I did struggle a couple of times with Ivy and her finality of blame on football as a whole, I know that grief and anxiety can be different for every person, and this was how Ivy was living both those feelings. I think that Olivia did a terrific job of navigating emotions that can be all-consuming and that the struggle and acceptance to move on was well written throughout the course of the story.

I appreciate the care with which the MMC, Scott, approached all of Ivy’s insecurities and constantly reassured and was there for her on so many levels. I also loved that Ivy’s best friend, Katie, would call her out on some of her points. We all need a Katie in our lives to point out when we are being irriational, but can’t see it, without hearing it.

Pops was a show stealer in all his scenes, and we all need a Pop in our lives.

Overall, I enjoyed this story and can’t wait to see what Olivia writes next.

Thanks to @bookishbubbly.pr and @oliviafenwickauthor for an eARC of this book.