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The Final Step: Suspenseful and twisted psychological thriller that keeps you turning the pages all night long!
BOOK RELEASE 10/06/2023
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THERE’S SOMETHING NOT RIGHT WITH ELLEN BROOKS .
She’s always angry, bitter, and resentful of anyone who appears to be enjoying life. At thirty-nine years old, she seldom leaves the house, doesn’t have a friend in the world, and drinks too much... way too much.
In the dead of winter, she makes the unusual decision to visit her sister, Carrie, and her family for the weekend. An ill-fated event prolongs her stay, during which time she discovers the flaws and cracks within this “perfect” family — opening the door to getting the unwarranted revenge she’s been seeking for decades.
An engrossing story driven by emotion, psychological games, and suspense, “The Final Step” brings you on a journey that, in the end, will make you sit back and ask the question, “What just happened?”
__________________________________________________
THERE’S SOMETHING NOT RIGHT WITH ELLEN BROOKS .
She’s always angry, bitter, and resentful of anyone who appears to be enjoying life. At thirty-nine years old, she seldom leaves the house, doesn’t have a friend in the world, and drinks too much... way too much.
In the dead of winter, she makes the unusual decision to visit her sister, Carrie, and her family for the weekend. An ill-fated event prolongs her stay, during which time she discovers the flaws and cracks within this “perfect” family — opening the door to getting the unwarranted revenge she’s been seeking for decades.
An engrossing story driven by emotion, psychological games, and suspense, “The Final Step” brings you on a journey that, in the end, will make you sit back and ask the question, “What just happened?”
240 pages, Paperback
First published October 6, 2023
154 people are currently reading
188 people want to read
About the author
Rob Kaufman
25 books398 followersRob Kaufman is a celebrated psychological thriller author, known for crafting emotionally intense stories that delve into the human psyche. With a degree in Psychology, he weaves his deep understanding of human behavior into gripping narratives filled with relatable characters and compelling twists.
Fascinated by what drives people toward darkness while seeking love and acceptance, Rob explores the fine line between good and evil. His novels aren’t just suspenseful—they unravel everyday events that spiral into extraordinary psychological dramas.
Readers become deeply invested in his characters, experiencing a range of emotions from laughter to heartbreak. His books have earned national and international acclaim for their unique, thought-provoking storylines and masterful plotting.
Beyond writing, Rob actively engages with readers, sharing insights into his creative process and the psychological depths of his characters. His commitment to authenticity and emotional resonance continues to captivate audiences, cementing his place as a compelling voice in psychological thrillers.
Fascinated by what drives people toward darkness while seeking love and acceptance, Rob explores the fine line between good and evil. His novels aren’t just suspenseful—they unravel everyday events that spiral into extraordinary psychological dramas.
Readers become deeply invested in his characters, experiencing a range of emotions from laughter to heartbreak. His books have earned national and international acclaim for their unique, thought-provoking storylines and masterful plotting.
Beyond writing, Rob actively engages with readers, sharing insights into his creative process and the psychological depths of his characters. His commitment to authenticity and emotional resonance continues to captivate audiences, cementing his place as a compelling voice in psychological thrillers.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 18, 2023
At 39 years old, Ellen Brooks seldom leaves the house where she lives with her mother, doesn’t have a friend in the world, and drinks too much. She makes the unusual decision to visit her sister, Carrie, and her family for the weekend and she's not exactly welcomed with open arms.
An interesting story with some intriguing characters, one of whom is Ellen who is consumed with jealousy of her sister Carrie who appears to have the perfect life. An unfortunate accident has Ellen extending her stay with Carrie, her husband Andrew and their teenage son Jack. Ellen is always watching, listening and snooping and soon discovers cracks in the facade of this perfect household. This book is well written and fast-paced with quite a few surprises, and I'd definitely recommend it to a friend.
I wish to thank the author, Rob Kaufman, for alerting me to the fact that this book was available for pre-order from Amazon at a bargain price. It's now available free with a Kindle Unlimited membership. I'll be looking into Mr. Kaufman's back list as this is the second novel of his that I've liked.
An interesting story with some intriguing characters, one of whom is Ellen who is consumed with jealousy of her sister Carrie who appears to have the perfect life. An unfortunate accident has Ellen extending her stay with Carrie, her husband Andrew and their teenage son Jack. Ellen is always watching, listening and snooping and soon discovers cracks in the facade of this perfect household. This book is well written and fast-paced with quite a few surprises, and I'd definitely recommend it to a friend.
I wish to thank the author, Rob Kaufman, for alerting me to the fact that this book was available for pre-order from Amazon at a bargain price. It's now available free with a Kindle Unlimited membership. I'll be looking into Mr. Kaufman's back list as this is the second novel of his that I've liked.
October 20, 2023
This story was quite slow in parts. The main character, Ellen slowly got on my nerves. There was some tension.
Ellen decides to visit her sister Carrie. Carrie has a husband and a teenage son. Ellen appears to be jealous of her sister’s life. Soon, Ellen discovers the family is not as perfect as they seem.
I’d like to thank NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Now available October 6th, 2023
Ellen decides to visit her sister Carrie. Carrie has a husband and a teenage son. Ellen appears to be jealous of her sister’s life. Soon, Ellen discovers the family is not as perfect as they seem.
I’d like to thank NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Now available October 6th, 2023
April 3, 2024
First time author for me as I saw some positive feedback on Goodreads. For me, the book was good for psychological suspense but the plot just wasn't for me. The characters helped drive the story but their imperfections were a little too imperfect. I am 50/50 with liking the title and the cover was just ok.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2023
Twists and turns you don't expect!
I liked not knowing who killed Ellen. You. have to wait till the end of the book! This book kept me on the edge of my seat. If you like suspence, you will love this book!
I liked not knowing who killed Ellen. You. have to wait till the end of the book! This book kept me on the edge of my seat. If you like suspence, you will love this book!
September 25, 2023
A great BIG thank you to Rob Kaufman for giving me the opportunity to read an advance copy of The Final Step, to be published October 6, 2023. WOW! What a fantastic read! I couldn’t put it down - it was mesmerizing. 10/10 Stars for this domestic thriller that featured the interpersonal workings of an extended family, depicting how they pulled together as a unit to insure solidarity. The symbolism and metaphoric content was phenomenal. The characters were bigger than life itself and one was particularly despicable and easy to hate. Ellen, a problematic 39-year old woman who still lived at home with her mother, despised life and everything in it. Unfortunately for everyone, she made that her life’s journey. Don’t miss this great stand alone novel!
#RobKaufman #TheFinalStep
#RobKaufman #TheFinalStep
October 30, 2023
It’s a twisted thriller. The book is gripping and spine tingling. Ellen decides to visit her sister, Carrie but things take an unexpected turn and some truths gets unveiled. There are family secrets, mystery, suspense and revelations at the end. Andrew always said Ellen is a bad influence on Jack. Jack sometimes liked her and sometimes he didn’t but Ellen was harbouring a secret. Andrew was mysterious. Ellen’s mother and sister was concerned about her but the truth is horrifying. The author has shared the perspective of each character which made the book even more interesting. The ending was shocking. It’s a twisted psychological thriller. I highly recommend it. I love the book cover and loved the book as well.
October 18, 2023
Fast read and satisfying ending
Rob Kaufman has an instinctual understanding of all things under the mental health umbrella. Not only does he write a tight psycho-logical story, but he also teaches the reader about those silent imprisonments.
Rob Kaufman has an instinctual understanding of all things under the mental health umbrella. Not only does he write a tight psycho-logical story, but he also teaches the reader about those silent imprisonments.
December 19, 2023
This is a slow burn psychological suspense book centered on a dysfunctional family and the secrets they keep from each other.
I personally would not consider it a thriller, it reads more like domestic suspense. It takes until the very end of the book for the crime to happen. If you like books with flawed characters and family secrets, this could be a good choice for you.
I personally would not consider it a thriller, it reads more like domestic suspense. It takes until the very end of the book for the crime to happen. If you like books with flawed characters and family secrets, this could be a good choice for you.
October 21, 2023
Thank you, Rob, for an advanced copy of this amazing book! Reading it put me right back into Rob’s incredible way of mixing real-life emotions with family dynamics, and the horror (and happiness!) that often accompany it all.
There’s nothing like family. You take the good and you take the bad. And in this case, the worst case of “bad” you can imagine. Rob has created a vile character that will make your skin crawl and want to throw your book across the room! This character is as bad as they get and ranks up there with John Marrs’ horrid characters! In a good way!
I love reading Rob’s books because I know what I’m going to get (a great story with well-developed characters and an edgy, terrific twist). I also love it because of what I DON’T know what I’m going to get: that twist! It’s having your cake and eating it, too!
Congrats on another terrific book, Rob! Keep ‘em coming!
There’s nothing like family. You take the good and you take the bad. And in this case, the worst case of “bad” you can imagine. Rob has created a vile character that will make your skin crawl and want to throw your book across the room! This character is as bad as they get and ranks up there with John Marrs’ horrid characters! In a good way!
I love reading Rob’s books because I know what I’m going to get (a great story with well-developed characters and an edgy, terrific twist). I also love it because of what I DON’T know what I’m going to get: that twist! It’s having your cake and eating it, too!
Congrats on another terrific book, Rob! Keep ‘em coming!
July 2, 2025
Ellen was the product of her own making and she had to be one of the most despicable characters in a book I've ever read. I disliked her from the start to the end which made the book interesting.
October 9, 2023
Neat Twist
So good. Finished it in one day. It kept me guessing until the end. Can’t wait for his next book!
So good. Finished it in one day. It kept me guessing until the end. Can’t wait for his next book!
October 6, 2023
I absolutely loved Rob Kaufman, Author book. I enjoyed the plot, family secrets and revenge. What more could you ask for! The characters are well written and intriguing with a great build up of the story. The author does an amazing job of keeping you guessing til the end. I didn't see the story unfolding as it did. Definitely recommend!
October 8, 2023
final step
What a fantastic book. Read in one day. You don’t know what to expect from who. Definitely a must read if you like drama, excellent story, and some suspense!
What a fantastic book. Read in one day. You don’t know what to expect from who. Definitely a must read if you like drama, excellent story, and some suspense!
November 4, 2023
Families sometimes have a relative that can pose a problem and Carrie’s family is no exception. Carrie’s sister, Ellen, still lives with their mother, she suffers from depression, has an addictive personality, and is jealous of her sister. The relationship between the two sisters has been strained for years and it’s even worse between Ellen and her brother-in-law.
The Final Step is a slow-paced book about a woman who is unhappy and seeks revenge. Both Carrie and her mother are sympathetic characters who find it increasingly difficult to deal with Ellen as they try to understand what made her this way. This theme runs throughout the story and Carrie, in particular, rehashes her relationship with her sister and the past events that have led up to the present, more than once. Seriously, some of the issues seemed pretty obvious and I felt like the whole family should have been in therapy from the beginning.
The ending was unexpected and it just made me even more sad for this family. I have enjoyed other books by Mr Kaufman, but this one wasn’t one of my favorites. NetGalley provided an advance copy.
The Final Step is a slow-paced book about a woman who is unhappy and seeks revenge. Both Carrie and her mother are sympathetic characters who find it increasingly difficult to deal with Ellen as they try to understand what made her this way. This theme runs throughout the story and Carrie, in particular, rehashes her relationship with her sister and the past events that have led up to the present, more than once. Seriously, some of the issues seemed pretty obvious and I felt like the whole family should have been in therapy from the beginning.
The ending was unexpected and it just made me even more sad for this family. I have enjoyed other books by Mr Kaufman, but this one wasn’t one of my favorites. NetGalley provided an advance copy.
January 23, 2024
THERE’S SOMETHING NOT RIGHT WITH ELLEN BROOKS . She’s always angry, bitter, and resentful of anyone who appears to be enjoying life. At thirty-nine years old, she seldom leaves the house, doesn’t have a friend in the world, and drinks too much... way too much. In the dead of winter, she makes the unusual decision to visit her sister, Carrie, and her family for the weekend. An ill-fated event prolongs her stay, during which time she discovers the flaws and cracks within this “perfect” family — opening the door to getting the unwarranted revenge she’s been seeking for decades. An engrossing story driven by emotion, psychological games, and suspense, “The Final Step” brings you on a journey that, in the end, will make you lean back and ask the question, “What just happened?”
Oh my gawd, this was an amazing read. Characters are easy to relate to, plot was easy to follow. If you love thrillers that have a psychological edge to them, then this book is for you.
Oh my gawd, this was an amazing read. Characters are easy to relate to, plot was easy to follow. If you love thrillers that have a psychological edge to them, then this book is for you.
December 6, 2023
This was the first book I have read by Rob Kaufman and it won't be the last. This was a twisted thriller! You will be at the edge of you seat in some of the chapters. This is a great story with well-developed characters and an edgy, terrific twist. I also loved it because I DIDN’T know what I was going to get with that twist! I highly recommend this psychological thriller!
Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
November 6, 2023
Families sometimes have a relative that can pose a problem and Carrie’s family is no exception. Carrie’s sister, Ellen, still lives with their mother, she suffers from depression, has an addictive personality, and is jealous of her sister. The relationship between the two sisters has been strained for years and it’s even worse between Ellen and her brother-in-law.
The Final Step is a slow-paced book about a woman who is unhappy and seeks revenge. Both Carrie and her mother are sympathetic characters who find it increasingly difficult to deal with Ellen as they try to understand what made her this way. This theme runs throughout the story and Carrie, in particular, rehashes her relationship with her sister and the past events that have led up to the present, more than once. Seriously, some of the issues seemed pretty obvious and I felt like the whole family should have been in therapy from the beginning.
The ending was unexpected and it just made me even more sad for this family. I have enjoyed other books by Mr Kaufman, but this one wasn’t one of my favorites. NetGalley provided an advance copy.
The Final Step is a slow-paced book about a woman who is unhappy and seeks revenge. Both Carrie and her mother are sympathetic characters who find it increasingly difficult to deal with Ellen as they try to understand what made her this way. This theme runs throughout the story and Carrie, in particular, rehashes her relationship with her sister and the past events that have led up to the present, more than once. Seriously, some of the issues seemed pretty obvious and I felt like the whole family should have been in therapy from the beginning.
The ending was unexpected and it just made me even more sad for this family. I have enjoyed other books by Mr Kaufman, but this one wasn’t one of my favorites. NetGalley provided an advance copy.
October 9, 2023
This book tried very hard to portray mental illness but ended up being a caricature of itself. There was no subtlety and no nuance to any of the portrayals.
Ellen suffers from depression and there are demons in her past. However, they are not revealed in much needed detail. She comes off as insecure and jealous. She has been in therapy all her life with little to show for it. Ellen's motivations seem very off, and it is very hard to sympathize with her actions. The author fails to distinguish between mental illness and pure evil.
In my opinion, the only saving grace of the book is the sharp dialog and a fast pace. I truly sympathize with Ellen's mother and her sister. They probably saved this book, however, to a limited extent.
In the end, the book leaves much to be desired. A good plot line hunkered down by its shoddy execution.
A huge thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Ellen suffers from depression and there are demons in her past. However, they are not revealed in much needed detail. She comes off as insecure and jealous. She has been in therapy all her life with little to show for it. Ellen's motivations seem very off, and it is very hard to sympathize with her actions. The author fails to distinguish between mental illness and pure evil.
In my opinion, the only saving grace of the book is the sharp dialog and a fast pace. I truly sympathize with Ellen's mother and her sister. They probably saved this book, however, to a limited extent.
In the end, the book leaves much to be desired. A good plot line hunkered down by its shoddy execution.
A huge thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
October 7, 2023
I'm a huge fan of Kaufman's books as they are always psychologically themed and completely mess with my mind until I fear I may need counseling! Of course I always seem to recover and crave another of his books! In this one a very dysfunctional family "reunites" with some horrifying consequences. Thirty-nine-year-old Ellen never leaves her home and drinks a lot until one day she suddenly decides it's time to leave her mother visit her extended family: sister Carrie and her husband Andrew, their son Jack (who has his own issues). All goes well until a long-buried urge for revenge surfaces and...things will never be the same for this family again!
Thanks to the author for this ARC!
Thanks to the author for this ARC!
February 16, 2024
Brilliant!!
Wow! So many twists and turns, I never imagined it ending the way it did! This book was so beautifully written with so much suspense that it made it almost impossible to put down. Rob Kaufman has a way of drawing the reader so far into the story line that you’ll feel as if you are right there with the characters. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, you’ll definitely want to read this one. Kudos to Rob for writing another exceptional book!
Wow! So many twists and turns, I never imagined it ending the way it did! This book was so beautifully written with so much suspense that it made it almost impossible to put down. Rob Kaufman has a way of drawing the reader so far into the story line that you’ll feel as if you are right there with the characters. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, you’ll definitely want to read this one. Kudos to Rob for writing another exceptional book!
March 24, 2024
Another great book by Rob Kaufman!
I am a big fan of Rob Kaufman's books. I get very excited when I see that he has a new one coming out. This book was very good! It was a quick read that kept me intrigued and waiting for what was going to happen next. Every time I thought that nothing else could possibly happen, it did. Definitely recommend this book and all of his others. It will keep you guessing right up until the end.
I am a big fan of Rob Kaufman's books. I get very excited when I see that he has a new one coming out. This book was very good! It was a quick read that kept me intrigued and waiting for what was going to happen next. Every time I thought that nothing else could possibly happen, it did. Definitely recommend this book and all of his others. It will keep you guessing right up until the end.
April 1, 2024
I've read most of Rob Kaufman's work and I must say, this is his best so far. It's an intriguing story, with well developed characters. I loved Carrie and Jack, her son, Andrew the husband and father of Jack, not a nice guy. Ellen the drunken sister of Carrie is a messed up woman, The Mother of the sisters is an enigma, a sweet old lady. The family is in for a ride, one that left me shaking my head. Loved this story!
September 17, 2025
I love a book that has lots of good twists you never saw coming and this just didn’t hit the mark for me. There were no twists, just a few things that were revealed that kind of just made me go “oh, ok”. It was a bit slow in places. I wasn’t at all shocked by the epilogue.
Overall, rather disappointing for me unfortunately. 2.5 stars rounded up.
Overall, rather disappointing for me unfortunately. 2.5 stars rounded up.
November 4, 2023
Great Read
This is so well written. I got so involved with the characters that I found myself so angry at Ellen! I feel bad for feeling that way, but with all of Ellen’s actions I could reach only one conclusion. You won’t regret reading this.
This is so well written. I got so involved with the characters that I found myself so angry at Ellen! I feel bad for feeling that way, but with all of Ellen’s actions I could reach only one conclusion. You won’t regret reading this.
November 17, 2023
Wonderful
Finally a book I didn't have to speed read to get through it! I loved everything about this book! The characters as well as the story were excellently written.
Finally a book I didn't have to speed read to get through it! I loved everything about this book! The characters as well as the story were excellently written.
November 24, 2023
Average
This wasn't the worst book I've read but it wasn't the best. With that said the ending was a surprise I wasn't quite expecting.
This wasn't the worst book I've read but it wasn't the best. With that said the ending was a surprise I wasn't quite expecting.
February 1, 2024
Far from my favorite Rob Kaufman book.
November 15, 2023
The thriller genre is greatly enhanced by Rob Kaufman's distinctive writing style, which sets him apart from other authors. The captivating cover of this book piqued my curiosity and I was thoroughly impressed by its content. I extend my gratitude to NetGalley for providing me with an advance reader copy of this exceptional novel. 4.5 star ⭐
October 20, 2023
This is not really a thriller or mystery, and some of the story is really slow, so I was going to stop reading. But then it got a little interesting, and even very amusing, so it's an entertaining story with a wrong label.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews