False Faces: Book 1

by Rob Kaufman

Bestselling author, Daniel J. Wright, has built his career on fear—both his own and the kind he weaves into his novels. But when a stalker fixates on his agoraphobia, convinced his terror fuels his creativity, fiction and reality blur in the most chilling way.

Still reeling from his grandfather’s murder and the ghosts of past trauma, Daniel is thrust into a waking nightmare. Anonymous messages praise his fear-driven writing. His medication vanishes. A bouquet of flowers—an eerie echo of a recent homicide—appears at his door.

As he fights to maintain his fragile sense of control, Daniel unravels a tangled web of deception, obsession, and betrayal. But the closer he gets to the truth, the more he realizes the danger isn’t just outside his door—it’s much closer than he ever imagined.

For fans of psychological thrillers brimming with tension, chilling mind games, and shocking twists, this gripping tale will keep you on edge until the final, shattering revelation.

Genres: Suspense

268 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 13, 2025

About the author

Rob 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.

Reviews

[Ciclochick · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can write a review of Kaufman's books before you've even read them because of the inevitability: it will be excellent, gripping and flippin' brilliant.

This is, obviously, all of the above. One of Kaufman's (many) talents seems to be managing to make you think you are reading a very long book when in fact, it isn't. Inside 260 perfectly constructed pages, there's War-and-Peace-length tome busting to get out. Carefully chosen words masterfully put together give you an enthralling plot full of suspense and captivating from start to finish.

This is the first in a new series (Edge of Fear): an agoraphobic author is put through a reign of terror by a stalker. I'll be honest, I did suss out the perpetrator fairly early on, and the ending wasn't a total surprise: as I neared the finale, a (correct) possibility did cross my mind. But, but, but, this didn't spoil my enjoyment one jot, not a one. The journey was just as thrilling, exciting and satisfying.

[VDKeck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daniel J. Wright writes fear for a living—but when a stalker uses his agoraphobia as creative inspiration, things get real dark, real fast. This is not your average “author in danger” thriller—it’s layered, twisted, and absolutely messes with your head.

Rob Kaufman’s writing is sleek and tense, with a slow-burn suspense that tightens like a noose. Daniel is flawed, vulnerable, and so well-developed you’ll want to wrap him in a blanket—and maybe install some security cameras. The pacing keeps you teetering between dread and obsession, and just when you think you’ve figured it out… bam—nope.

It’s creepy, clever, and so full of twists I might need a chiropractor.

4.5 stars – because fear has never felt so personal.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

False Faces is a psychological thriller that had me hooked from the very first page. Rob Kaufman masterfully blurs the line between fear and reality, immersing readers in a chilling and claustrophobic world where danger feels inescapably close.

The tension builds steadily as a stalker zeroes in, using fear as a twisted form of inspiration. With clever twists, relentless suspense, and a deep emotional undercurrent, the story grips tightly and never lets go. Each disturbing detail—from vanishing medication to cryptic messages and haunting deliveries—adds another layer of unease.

If you’re a fan of thrillers filled with mind games, creeping dread, and shocking revelations, False Faces is an absolute must-read. A gripping, five-star experience from beginning to end!

[Rachel Browning · Rating 5 out of 5]

“False Faces” by Rob Kaufman (Edge of Fear, Book 1)

What a gripping start to the Edge of Fear series! False Faces follows a successful author who thrives creatively under intense stress and fear, and Rob Kaufman uses that premise to build a dark, suspenseful, twist-filled story. He masterfully weaves in just enough backstory from the Justin Wright Suspense Series for new readers to jump right in without feeling lost. This isn’t just a mystery—it’s a deep dive into mental health, past trauma, and the resilience it takes to survive both the mind and the unknown. A chilling who-dunit that kept me guessing until the very end.

[Susan Ney friedlander · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good. I loved the “Justin Wright” series and this was a spin off with Daniel Wright as the main character. I loved getting inside Daniel’s head and feeling everything he felt. This book had the same suspense and thrills as his previous series. I really can’t wait for the next book!!

[Rogère Buivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating : 4🎭

Publication date : 05/13/25

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

False Faces is a really nice book that deals with a main character who as agoraphobia.

So in the book we see Daniel struggling with his own demons and still trying his best to do what he did the best : writing.

No need to say it won’t be as easy as it seems since his life literally turns upside down in so many ways !!

Will he get out of his problems or will he give up?

The story is very well written and the twists are well thought !
That said I just found the pace a little too slow but I guess it is done that way to emphasize the emotions of Daniel.

If you love psychological thriller with twist out of nowhere, read this book !!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story and exploring some of the psychological issues Daniel was dealing with. I will definitely read more books from this author.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another five star read from Rob Kaufman. Daniel has the attention of someone who wants him to be crippled by his agoraphobia and taunts him with psychological actions that make Daniel more afraid. This book is everything a psychological thriller should be. A must read!!!

[Kari Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by a wonderful author. While this book starts off a new series related to the Justin Wright series, there is enough background information that if you haven't read the series yet or if it's been a while, you will be fine, but you are definitely missing out if you haven't read it.

This is a fast-paced, enjoyable book with relatable characters that will keep you guessing until the end. Give it a read.

[Amethyst Maxey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you for the ARC. I was going to give this book 3 stars but the ending pushed it to 4. The book started out great. I thought it would tell more about the gramps psych patients but it didn’t. It was definitely a very slow burn for me. There wasn’t that much action overall. However, the ending made me want to read the next book which is why I upgraded my star rating.

[Alove1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucky to have read an advance copy. With rich character development the story immediately engaged me in this first person glimpse into Daniel’s personal challenges as he navigates a situation that triggered all of his fears. Great storytelling!! A compelling fast moving page turner. Loved it and look forward to more of this series.

[Iain Batten · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book by Rob Kaufman that I have had the pleasure of reading. My literary inclinations typically include works by authors such as Harlan Coben, Stephen King, Lee Child, Tom Clancy, Patricia Cornwell, James Patterson, Karin Slaughter, Tess Gerritsen, Clive Cussler, Preston W. Child, C.L. Sutton, KB Fisher, Joe Talon, and Judah Lamb—the latter five of whom I recently discovered. I am particularly drawn to narratives that quickly captivate my attention and tend to avoid those with slow beginnings. As a Christian life coach, pastor, cancer motivational speaker, and forensic psychologist, I have a keen interest in genres that explore themes of serial killers and dark psychological thrillers.

"False Faces" is a psychological thriller that captivates readers from the very first page. Rob Kaufman masterfully blurs the lines between fear and reality, enveloping the audience in a chilling, claustrophobic atmosphere where danger is ever-present. His writing is sleek and taut, characterized by a slow-burning suspense that constricts like a noose. The protagonist, Daniel, is deeply flawed and vulnerable, drawn with such depth that readers may find themselves compelled to offer him solace. The pacing skillfully balances themes of dread and obsession, and just when one believes they have unraveled the mystery, a surprising twist leaves them reeling. I thoroughly enjoyed this exploration of the psychological issues Daniel faces and will certainly seek out more works by this author.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Avidreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐ 4.5 / 5

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
False Faces is an intense, mind-twisting psychological thriller that pulls you directly into Daniel Wright’s fractured world. Rob Kaufman builds suspense not through jump-scares, but through emotional tension and claustrophobic fear.

Daniel’s agoraphobia, his unresolved trauma, and his unraveling sense of safety form the backbone of the story. The threat that enters his life — through a chilling anonymous note — creates a slow-building dread that feels incredibly real.

What worked brilliantly:
✔️ Deep psychological insight
✔️ Beautiful, vulnerable narration
✔️ A growing sense of paranoia
✔️ Strong emotional resonance
✔️ A twisty escalation of fear and uncertainty

This isn’t a fast-paced, action-heavy thriller — it’s a psychological descent, rich in emotion and tension. Fans of character-driven suspense, unreliable perspectives, and atmospheric drama will love this.

Highly recommended for readers who enjoy:
• psychological thrillers
• introspective narrators
• dark emotional journeys
• stories that blur reality and paranoia

A powerful, unsettling start to a new series.

[Lucy Appadoo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story about Daniel Wright, a best-selling author who has had his fair share of trauma and is agoraphobic.

When Daniel gets a suspicious note in his letterbox, he realises he has a stalker keeping a watchful eye on him. A series of incidences occur as he attempts to investigate the identity of the culprit invading his life. Is it someone from his book group, online world, or a friend?

There is a tad of romance that is short-lived and offers a twist.

I enjoyed the suspense and was curious as to the identity of the stalker. I would have liked a bit more action in the story as I felt the inner narrative got a bit too much for me (in my opinion), particularly when you're reading mainly about one character most of the time. Despite that, it was an enjoyable read and an interesting spin-off from the Justin Wright Series. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Lori Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as a review copy from Booksirens, this is and honest review. False Faces is truly a poignant, immersive and harrowingly realistic story that any reader can connect to right from the first page.

Daniel J. Wright, a bestselling thriller author has gone through most of his life enduring trauma and tragedy that had left him isolated from everything and everyone... finding any sense of sanity from medication, therapy and a home that should be sanctuary to craft books his of fans adore. What it becomes is a prison a an unknown stalker is consuming every piece of himself as Daniel is desperate to figure out is the person threatening him- claiming he writes his best when he's forced to feel an intense level of fear. Daniel is forced to wonder if the limited circle of people he can trust could be behind such a psychological torture. When the disastrous truth finally comes to light, shocks everyone and further upends the world Daniel thought he knew.

Highly recommended.

[Gail Clouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew! False Faces follows Daniel Wright, the grandson of Justin Wright, a renowned and respected psychiatrist. Daniel was kidnapped at the age of 2, by his grandmother's twin sister. On her deathbed, she admits to Daniel the truth. He is reunited with his family. Then his grandfather us murdered in front of him. He finds his grandfather's journals and writes a series. In the meantime, he becomes agoraphobic. Then he starts getting weird notes, someone is stalking him, wanting him to stay inside, to keep writing. He does his best work when he's on the edge of fear and afraid to leave his home.
False Faces gripped me in its pages from the beginning. Daniel doesn't know who he can trust and struggles throughout with trusting anyone to help him figure out who is stalking him.

[Irene · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.8* almost a 4* ... Just one more chapter please...

Rob Kaufman takes the reader to a psychological infirmary seldom felt through written words. Even though I guessed the ' who' early, I wanted to follow the clues. This is like the present in a box , within another box. It isn't until the last words, that the reader sees the gift in the innermost box. Years ago, I would have read this in one day, but I decided to read this as a Sherlock Holmes & Watson story. It took 2 sessions. Thanks to SKing (I think) who introduced me to this author's first book. Requesting one more chapter next book.

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I found out after reading that the books referenced by the chatacter in the book is an actual series available to read so I will definitely be checking those out. I found this to be an engrossing story and really liked the premise that it was told from the viewpoint of an agaraphobic writer. I will admit I caught on to the identity of the stalker pretty early on, but that didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book. I will definitely be reading more from this author.

I received an advanced copy of this book for free via booksirens and I am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Tia G · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first read by Rob Kaufman. I wasn't sure what to expect but I knew the reviews on this book were great. I have to be honest, I really struggled through the first half of the book. It was slow and I do feel that there was way too much time spent talking about the anxiety and fear of the main character. Once the plot picked up, things just kept happening and it definitely kept you on your toes! The plot twisted at every corner and it was like whiplash in the best way.

The ending was one of the biggest cliffhangers ever and I will definitely be reading the next book in the series!

Is received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to BookSirens for this ARC.

I really like the way this author writes, and this book was super clever. It follows on tangentially from another series, for which I have only read book one, but that didn't affect how much I was able to follow and enjoy this book. It was quite meta, which made it very fun! I predicted whodunnit because to me, it was logical - but in many ways, it's nice to see a rational storyline that makes sense throughout. I really must read more books by this author!

[Mary Angel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daniel Wright is a successful writer who's battling agoraphobia, and then a stalker enters the mix and makes things even creepier. I found the writing style a bit dramatic, and I vacillated between three or four stars because of that.

But ultimately, this is a gripping suspense novel with some good twists.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Natasha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the story but for me there was a ton of buildup for a let down in the ending. The story itself had a lot of potential though. And I love the cover.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

love it!

I loved the Justin Wright series and this book does not disappoint, I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series. Rob Kaufman is one of my favorite authors.

[Clarkfamilybooks]

False Faces is a great psychological thriller with plenty of suspense and twists. I was hooked from the very first page. This is the first in a new series and I will be reading book two.

[Johvon Jester · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was good, easy to read. However, I figured out who the suspect was about halfway through.

[Jolene Gelderblom · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was a good book nice quick read a bit slow at the beginning but it does pick up I had an idea of who the stalker was, I was right but it still had some twists.

[ChristyReadsDaily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! Another great storyline by Rob Kaufman! Strong characters really enhance my investment in the story & twists! Can’t wait for part 2

[Cheryl Stevens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining read but, very predictable.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book by Mr. Kaufman. Sometimes drawn out but not enough that it loses your interest.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book! I love that this one features the main character who is Justin Wright's grandson. The Justin Wright books were my favorite though. This is another chilling book that kept me reading.