Book Review: Last Rites (Jubilee, Kentucky #2) by Sharon Sala

Last Rites by Sharon Sala book cover – family saga in Jubilee, Kentucky
Secrets buried deep don’t stay hidden forever. In Jubilee, even the dead have a story to tell.


Last Rites by Sharon Sala
Series: Jubilee, Kentucky #2
Publish Date: July 11, 2023
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Last Rites by Sharon Sala is a powerful story of grief, redemption, and long-buried secrets. As the Jubilee, Kentucky series deepens, this installment shines a spotlight on family fractures and the strength it takes to face painful truths. With emotional intensity and Sala’s signature warmth, this book is a standout for fans of heartfelt romantic suspense.

My Review

Sharon Sala is now firmly cemented on my Must Read pile. With Last Rites, she delivers a follow-up to Don’t Back Down that is every bit as emotional, engaging, and suspenseful as fans would hope. Returning to the small-town setting of Jubilee, Kentucky, this second installment continues the journey of the Pope family—this time through the lens of Aaron Pope and newcomer Dani Owens.

The story wastes no time pulling you in. Aaron has returned to law enforcement in Jubilee, where the town's familiar rhythms are a source of comfort but also a reminder of what he’s lost. Dani’s move is a reset—she's hoping for peace, but she brings her own scars, including the weight of a threatening presence that once turned her life upside down.

Their connection is natural and slow-building, built on trust, mutual respect, and an underlying tenderness that feels refreshingly genuine. Neither of them is perfect, and that’s what makes them work. I appreciated how Sharon Sala gave them both their own space to grow before letting the romance shine through.

One of the standout elements in Last Rites is the way it balances family and mystery. Dani finds herself tangled in a decades-old secret that brings subtle suspense to the story, and I loved how it was woven in without overwhelming the emotional arcs of the characters.

Favorite Quote

Quote from Last Rites by Sharon Sala
This line lingered with me—it reflects the quiet strength of both the characters and the town they’re learning to call home.

Character Spotlight

Aaron Pope is strong but quietly wounded—a man who doesn’t want to be rescued, but who is learning how to lean on others again.

Dani Owens
is a gentle soul with a deep inner strength. Her desire to find belonging will resonate with anyone who’s ever needed a new beginning.

The Pope Family returns in full force, adding warmth, texture, and the sense that love—familial or romantic—really can anchor you through the hardest times.

The Town of Jubilee 
While not a person, Jubilee itself functions like a living character. It's quiet streets, loyal residents, and deep-rooted histories add depth to every chapter, creating a cozy yet emotionally charged backdrop.

Final Thoughts

Last Rites offers heartfelt storytelling, relatable characters, and the kind of suspense that keeps you turning pages without losing the emotional pull. It’s a perfect blend of small-town charm and deeper, character-driven moments. I can’t wait to see where the series goes next.

Join the Conversation

Have you read Last Rites? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s discuss your favorite moments and characters from the book.

Want to know more?
You can find Last Rites on Goodreads or check out my full review there too:

Find the Book on Goodreads
Read My Review on Goodreads

Jubilee, Kentucky Series Reading Order

If you’re new to the series or reading out of order, here’s how I recommend diving in: 
  1. Don’t Back Down – (Optional) Introduces the Pope family and sets the tone.
  2. Last Rites – (Current Review)
  3. Heartbeat – Deepens the emotional arc of the Pope brothers.
  4. Left Behind – A small-town officer finds unexpected family and a second chance at love when a child is left in his care.

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