Lily Harford’s Last Request by Joanna Buckley is a deeply thought‑provoking novel that explores the quiet heartbreak and moral complexity of a life nearing its end. Lily Harford, once vibrant and full of joy, now faces the slow unravelling of herself after a diagnosis of dementia. As her condition worsens and she moves into a nursing home, Lily feels her life has run its natural course and considers it complete. She pleads with those with whom she has an intimate relationship to help her die. This book forces the reader to confront the boundaries of compassion, autonomy, love and the law.
