Fans of Laura Dave's gripping novel The Last Thing He Told Me have been eagerly awaiting answers about the fate of its beloved characters. Now, their patience is rewarded with the release of Dave's highly anticipated sequel, The First Time I Saw Him, available now. This new chapter continues the story that captivated millions and spent an impressive 65 weeks on the New York Times Best Seller list.
A Long-Awaited Continuation
In a recent interview, Dave revealed that the demand for a follow-up was overwhelming. "After the book came out, I started getting so many questions, people saying, 'Well, what happens next?'" she shared. "I had really imagined it as a standalone book, but I was surprised that I had an answer to what happened." This organic response from readers inspired her to delve back into the world of Hannah Hall and her stepdaughter Bailey.
The original novel follows Hannah, who marries widower Owen, only for him to mysteriously disappear, leaving a note instructing her to protect his teenage daughter. The pair must unravel the truth behind his vanishing act. Its success was bolstered by selection for Reese Witherspoon's Reese's Book Club, propelling it into the literary spotlight.
Bridging Past and Present
The First Time I Saw Him picks up directly after the events of the first book while also exploring deeper layers of the past. Dave describes the thematic shift: "If the first book is asking the question, what are we willing to do for the people we love? I think the second book is asking, what are we willing to do to be forgiven? And what are we willing to do for a second chance?" She emphasises that this sequel is ultimately a journey back to the core love story between Hannah and Owen.
Dave's editor characterises her suspense novels as "rooted in hope," a departure from typical thrillers that often focus on betrayal or revenge. "I'm really interested in finding the good even underneath very dangerous behaviour," Dave explained, highlighting her unique narrative approach.
Television Adaptation and Personal Insights
The story's reach extends beyond the page, with a television adaptation streaming on Apple TV, starring Jennifer Garner and Angourie Rice. The second season is set to debut next month. Dave co-created the first season with her husband, Oscar-winning screenwriter Josh Singer, though she stepped back from writing duties for Season 2 to focus on penning the novel.
In a touching anecdote, Dave recounted an encounter that underscored the book's impact. While travelling with the show's crew, she met a mother who had named her baby boy Owen after the character. "I broke down," Dave admitted, moved by the profound connection readers formed with her creation.
Collaborative Creativity and Future Projects
Being married to another writer has its dynamics. Dave notes their contrasting processes: Singer shares work-in-progress freely, embracing collaboration, while she prefers to complete drafts before seeking feedback. "He's my best reader and my first reader," she said, praising his talent. "I don't know that I could be married to a writer if I didn't feel like they're the best writer around."
Looking ahead, Dave is already working on new material. She and her husband are writing a screenplay for Netflix titled The Night We Lost Him, and she has plans for two more books, one of which is already underway. This prolific output ensures that fans will have much to anticipate from this acclaimed author.
