Jane Abbott's Laughing Last, published in 1924, is a charming and surprisingly spry novel that feels both of its time and refreshingly modern in its spirit.

The Story

Judith Randolph's world is turned upside down when her wealthy father dies, leaving her not with an inheritance, but with massive debts and a mysterious letter. The letter sends her from her comfortable life to the gritty coal town of Minerville, Pennsylvania. Her mission? To find a hidden cache of gold her father supposedly left there years ago. With little more than her wits and determination, Judith arrives posing as a secretary. She quickly realizes Minerville is a place of sharp contrasts—kindness and suspicion live side-by-side. As she gets to know the townsfolk, from the stern mine owner to his kind-hearted son and the gossipy locals, Judith must piece together cryptic clues and navigate local tensions, all while keeping her true purpose a secret. The search for the gold becomes a search for truth, friendship, and her own place in the world.

Why You Should Read It

What I loved most was Judith herself. She’s not a damsel in distress. She’s practical, observant, and has a quiet grit. You root for her as she uses her intelligence, not just luck, to make her way. Abbott also paints a vivid, unromanticized picture of 1920s small-town industrial life. The soot, the gossip, the community bonds—it all feels real. The mystery of the gold is the engine of the plot, but the heart of the book is Judith's transformation and her evolving relationships. It’s a story about starting from scratch, about judging people by their actions, not their rumors, and about discovering that what you’re looking for might not be treasure in the ground, but a home and purpose you build for yourself.

Final Verdict

Laughing Last is a perfect pick for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a strong, relatable heroine and a gentle mystery at its core. It’s for readers who like their stories with a dose of warmth and resilience, and who appreciate a setting that feels authentically lived-in. If you’re a fan of authors like L.M. Montgomery but want a story with a bit more grit and a puzzle to solve, Jane Abbott’s novel is a delightful discovery. It’s a comforting, engaging read that proves sometimes, the best treasures aren't found—they're earned.