MacKenzie Scott’s first novel in 13 years is being called ‘baffling’—and critics are left asking what message she’s trying to send

MacKenzie Scott, the ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and one of the world's wealthiest philanthropists, has published her first novel in 13 years titled "Last Days in Two Nations (A History in Eighteen Minds)." Critics have been left baffled by the book, which appears to lack clarity in its message. The novel, set in a near-future America split into two distinct regions, was released chapter by chapter on Substack, bypassing traditional publishing routes.

Readers have found the lack of conventional structure and the presence of typos confusing, with some comparing the characters to Bezos and the second Trump administration. Despite the mixed reception, some critics believe that the ambiguity in the book's framing sections is intentional, allowing for a deeper exploration of the story's themes.