The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave

 In this sequel to The Last Thing He Told Me, Dave delves into the background and motivations behind Owen's sudden disappearance in the first book. There were some loose ends at the end of that book, and this sequel, while not tying them up in a neat bow, did offer some explanations.

It has been five years since Hannah's husband, Owen, went into hiding. Hannah and her stepdaughter, Bailey, have relocated to Southern California when a disguised Owen briefly appears to warn Hannah that they are again in danger. Knowing this day would come, Hannah is prepared and immediately gathers up Bailey and begins their escape. At the same time, Bailey's grandfather, a former lawyer and secret-keeper for a group known as the organization, dies. News of his death devastates them both, and Hannah can't shake the feeling that the threat to their lives and his death are connected. Hannah's goal is to keep Bailey safe and to reunite with Owen by whatever means necessary.

Although engaging, the flashbacks, mainly dealing with the grandfather, made for choppy reading. That, plus the improbability of Hannah's escape plan, made me suspend disbelief at times. The main themes of friendship bonds and forgiveness drove the story. I was expecting a thriller similar to the first book, but this was more background material for that book. Dave did a good job of detailing the relationship between the crime boss and the grandfather, which was pertinent to the plot. Still, despite her efforts, neither character came across as particularly likable, and neither of their past actions seemed forgivable. 

3/5 stars.

Thank you, NetGalley and Scribner, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The publication date is January 6, 2026.

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