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Jennifer Garner's Latest Book Recommendation Has an Interesting Connection to Reese Witherspoon

this is a thriller you won't want to miss

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jennifer garner book recommendation
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Jennifer Garner and Reese Witherspoon are two of Hollywood's (and PureWow's) most beloved stars. Another thing they have in common? They're both huge fans of author Laura Dave, whose latest book, The Night We Lost Him, Garner, 52, just recommended on her Instagram story.

jennifer garner the night we lost him
jennifer garner/instagram

Over a screenshot of the novel's Goodreads page, Garner wrote, "Please read The Night We Lost Him by my friend @lauradaveauthor. I'm confident you will find it to be the best mystery of the year—and while you're at it, please take a moment to vote for @goodreads Mystery of the Year!" She added, "Hint, The Night We Lost Him has been nominated," alongside a winky face emoji and a heart emoji.

Garner is certainly no stranger to Dave's work. In addition to having recommended The Night We Lost Him back in September, she starred in the AppleTV+ adaptation of Dave's best-selling thriller, The Last Thing He Told Me. Not only was The Last Thing He Told Me selected for Reese's Book Club, but Witherspoon actually executive produced the series (alongside Garner).

But back to this latest recommendation. Dave is back and better than ever with another propulsive thriller—this time with the story of estranged siblings and the secret their father has been keeping for over 50 years. Liam was a self-made hotel magnate fleeing his past; a loving, albeit distant, family man; and, to Nora, a father who loved her from afar—often from a cliffside cottage in California coast from which he fell to his death. The authorities rule the death accidental, but Nora and her estranged brother Sam aren’t convinced. But as Nora and Sam join forces to unravel the mystery, they uncover a family secret that changes everything…

the night we lost him laura dave

Garner is far from its only fan. One Goodreads reviewer raves, "Overall, this heart-wrenching romance and family drama blended with mystery is a book I devoured in one sitting. It’s easy to read and surely makes you cry. The conclusion of each storyline is satisfyingly wrapped up. I absolutely recommend it to readers who are looking for a great historical fiction book, emblazoned with heartbreaking romance and mystery. Keep your napkins close because you’re gonna need them!"

Can we count on another TV adaptation, Jen?



sarah stiefvater

Wellness Director

  • Oversees wellness content
  • PureWow's resident book reviewer
  • Has worked in lifestyle media for 11 years