Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite

Andrei Chetan’s The Last Greenhouse brings readers into a haunting, post-apocalyptic setting where survival is limited to the inside of a greenhouse after Earth has been subjected to devastation. Emma is the last caretaker who tends to the fragile remains of life under the close supervision of the facility’s AI known as EVE. Earth is nothing but a barren wasteland filled with toxic air and lifeless ruins. Emma has to learn how to adjust to this new existence while dealing with the physical and emotional toll of isolation. This is her new life in a nutshell where she finds herself holding on to memories of her lost colleagues and the remains of a world that used to teem with life. Emma begins to hear the voices of her long-gone friends and comrades, including Dr. Brooks who was her mentor, and Isaac who was an Engineer. These supernatural encounters seem to blur the line between reality and hallucination, forcing Emma to question her sanity and the intentions of the mysterious EVE.

There is much to admire about The Last Greenhouse, especially for fans of psychological and speculative fiction. Andrei Chetan is great at building a world that showcases a desolate Earth. This part of the world contrasts very sharply with the inside of the greenhouse, which is a lush and artificial sanctuary. The character development is another great highlight of the story. For example, Emma has internal struggles and memories of connection that make her story and experiences relatable, even in an alien setting. The narrative delves into survival, loneliness, and how humanity’s actions can impact a planet, in such a profound way that challenges readers to think about these factors. There is a suspenseful interaction between Emma and EVE and the lingering mystery of the voices from the past that makes this story intriguing. The Last Greenhouse will resonate with readers who enjoy dystopian fiction that is reflective and character-driven.