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On the Edge
A homecoming will shake this small town to its very foundations. The taut new mystery from the bestselling author of
The Inheritance
, perfect for fans of Sally Hepworth and Liane Moriarty.
Desperate people do desperate things...
Sixteen years ago, teenage Maddie Marshall's body was found on a desolate beach near her hometown, Carrinya. Vibrant, feisty Maddie was the only daughter of a high-profile politician. The case was the talk of the town but was ultimately never solved.
Nel Foley, daughter of the town doctor and Maddie's best friend, was the last known person to see her alive, and the Carrinya rumour mill was vicious. Nel fled the town and has never been back. Until now.
Now a 32-year-old city GP, Nel returns after her father's sudden death, determined to get in and out as quickly as possible. Begrudgingly, she agrees to run his clinic for a few weeks, but during that time she meets local mum Sophie Warner and that changes everything.
Sophie's husband Ryan, a prominent local real estate agent, was Maddie's boyfriend and Nel is certain he played a role in her death. When Nel discovers that Ryan is not the loving husband and father that he seems, she decides she must prove what he did all those years ago. But as she starts to unravel the past, she discovers the truth is far more complex than she could have imagined.
A twisty, suspenseful mystery about the desperate things people do when they're on the edge.
Desperate people do desperate things...
Sixteen years ago, teenage Maddie Marshall's body was found on a desolate beach near her hometown, Carrinya. Vibrant, feisty Maddie was the only daughter of a high-profile politician. The case was the talk of the town but was ultimately never solved.
Nel Foley, daughter of the town doctor and Maddie's best friend, was the last known person to see her alive, and the Carrinya rumour mill was vicious. Nel fled the town and has never been back. Until now.
Now a 32-year-old city GP, Nel returns after her father's sudden death, determined to get in and out as quickly as possible. Begrudgingly, she agrees to run his clinic for a few weeks, but during that time she meets local mum Sophie Warner and that changes everything.
Sophie's husband Ryan, a prominent local real estate agent, was Maddie's boyfriend and Nel is certain he played a role in her death. When Nel discovers that Ryan is not the loving husband and father that he seems, she decides she must prove what he did all those years ago. But as she starts to unravel the past, she discovers the truth is far more complex than she could have imagined.
A twisty, suspenseful mystery about the desperate things people do when they're on the edge.
Audible Audio
Published December 30, 2025
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About the author
Kate Horan
2 books63 followersBestselling author of crime and suspense
Kate’s debut novel, The Inheritance, was an instant Australian Bestseller, and was chosen as QBD’s Fiction Book of the Month in January 2025. Her second novel, On the Edge, will be published by HQ HarperCollins in January 2026.
When she’s not dreaming up twisty stories about people with dark secrets, she’s chauffeuring her teenage boys to and from social engagements, listening to true crime podcasts and walking her golden lab on Sydney’s beautiful Northern Beaches.
Kate’s debut novel, The Inheritance, was an instant Australian Bestseller, and was chosen as QBD’s Fiction Book of the Month in January 2025. Her second novel, On the Edge, will be published by HQ HarperCollins in January 2026.
When she’s not dreaming up twisty stories about people with dark secrets, she’s chauffeuring her teenage boys to and from social engagements, listening to true crime podcasts and walking her golden lab on Sydney’s beautiful Northern Beaches.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
December 27, 2025
Carrinya, New South, Wales. Maddie Marshall was sixteen, when she went missing and three days later her body was found on a remote beach near her hometown. Maddie was the only child of housewife Faye and Geoff a politician and they were devastated by the death.
Nel Foley was Maddie's best friend and she was the last known person to see her alive by the lighthouse, afterwards the local rumour mill was relentless, she was bullied and she left town once she completed year twelve, is now a doctor and hasn’t been back in fourteen years. Nel returns after her father Rob’s sudden death, to stay with her mum, help organize the funeral, and plans leaving as soon as she can afterwards. Rob was the towns GP, she begrudgingly agrees to run his clinic for a few weeks until her family can find a locum.
During that time Nel meets local mum Sophie Warner, she’s married to Ryan a real estate agent, and he was Maddie's boyfriend and she’s certain he played a role in her death. Nel discovers Ryan is not the loving husband and father that he seems, he’s abusive and controlling and tracks his wife’s every move and spending.
Nel starts looking for any clues she might have missed, considers Maddie’s state of mind at the time and what was happening, and asks her friend and Sergeant Dimitri “Jimmy” Galatas to re-examine the evidence from his point of view. As she starts sticking her nose in places that it's not wanted and asking questions, Nel feels like she’s being watched, and she doesn’t know who she can trust and people will do anything to stop the truth from being revealed.
I received a copy of On The Edge by Kate Horan from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. The story looks at issues such as teenagers dating, how they keep and hide things from their parents, peer pressure, gossip in a small towns, violence against women and coercive control, and was Nel being selfish by staying away from Carrinya and what happens when she returns.
I thoroughly enjoyed Ms Horan's new novel and it's a well written and thought provoking read, a narrative about secrets, lies, cover ups, with lots of twist and turns and many I didn’t see coming and kept me interested and invested.
Five stars from me, I highly recommend both On the Edge and the author’s previous book The Inheritance.
Nel Foley was Maddie's best friend and she was the last known person to see her alive by the lighthouse, afterwards the local rumour mill was relentless, she was bullied and she left town once she completed year twelve, is now a doctor and hasn’t been back in fourteen years. Nel returns after her father Rob’s sudden death, to stay with her mum, help organize the funeral, and plans leaving as soon as she can afterwards. Rob was the towns GP, she begrudgingly agrees to run his clinic for a few weeks until her family can find a locum.
During that time Nel meets local mum Sophie Warner, she’s married to Ryan a real estate agent, and he was Maddie's boyfriend and she’s certain he played a role in her death. Nel discovers Ryan is not the loving husband and father that he seems, he’s abusive and controlling and tracks his wife’s every move and spending.
Nel starts looking for any clues she might have missed, considers Maddie’s state of mind at the time and what was happening, and asks her friend and Sergeant Dimitri “Jimmy” Galatas to re-examine the evidence from his point of view. As she starts sticking her nose in places that it's not wanted and asking questions, Nel feels like she’s being watched, and she doesn’t know who she can trust and people will do anything to stop the truth from being revealed.
I received a copy of On The Edge by Kate Horan from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. The story looks at issues such as teenagers dating, how they keep and hide things from their parents, peer pressure, gossip in a small towns, violence against women and coercive control, and was Nel being selfish by staying away from Carrinya and what happens when she returns.
I thoroughly enjoyed Ms Horan's new novel and it's a well written and thought provoking read, a narrative about secrets, lies, cover ups, with lots of twist and turns and many I didn’t see coming and kept me interested and invested.
Five stars from me, I highly recommend both On the Edge and the author’s previous book The Inheritance.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I loved Kate Horan’s debut The Inheritance so I was thrilled to receive an early copy of her second novel from HQ Insiders, On The Edge. Released on December 30th, this is going to be another hit for this author. Be warned, once you pick this book up you will not want to put it down, I certainly didn’t and I finished it the same day that I started it. So addictive, so intriguing, so goodness.
I do love a story set in a small town, where everyone knows everyone’s business.. or they think they do. But how well do you really know what is going on behind closed doors? Nel has always said she will never return to Carrinya on the NSW south coast. When she was 16, her best friend’s body washed up on the beach, and she was the last known person to see Maddie Marshall. Rumours and speculation drove her to leave, and now the death of her father had brought her back. She find nothing much has changed, people still believe she had something to do with Maddie’s death. Determined to put an end to it, she starts to ask questions and stirs up trouble for herself and those around her.
This is a thought provoking read, with plenty to unpack. It would make a great book club read. With small town gossip, domestic violence, coercive behaviour and family drama, there is so much to consider in the murder mystery.
This is also the HQ Thrillerfluenester pick for January. A must read in my opinion, you can thank me later.
I do love a story set in a small town, where everyone knows everyone’s business.. or they think they do. But how well do you really know what is going on behind closed doors? Nel has always said she will never return to Carrinya on the NSW south coast. When she was 16, her best friend’s body washed up on the beach, and she was the last known person to see Maddie Marshall. Rumours and speculation drove her to leave, and now the death of her father had brought her back. She find nothing much has changed, people still believe she had something to do with Maddie’s death. Determined to put an end to it, she starts to ask questions and stirs up trouble for herself and those around her.
This is a thought provoking read, with plenty to unpack. It would make a great book club read. With small town gossip, domestic violence, coercive behaviour and family drama, there is so much to consider in the murder mystery.
This is also the HQ Thrillerfluenester pick for January. A must read in my opinion, you can thank me later.
December 31, 2025
When I started reading this I thought it seemed a bit unoriginal, woman returns to hometown many years after the death of her friend, but something about the writing drew me in. The side story of domestic violence and coercive control was also well done. I think it dragged on too long, the ending could’ve been sharper.
December 2, 2025
4.5 stars
On the Edge by Kate Horan is a compelling mystery read that had me guessing and double guessing all the way to the end.
Nel Foley left the small coast town of Carrinya as soon as she could following the death of her best friend Maddie when they were teenagers. Nel was recorded as being the last person to see Maddie alive and her death has haunted her for the last 16 years. Now back in Carrinya following her father’s unexpected death, Nel is after answers. As she digs into Maddie’s last few months she stirs up trouble in the community and puts her own life in danger.
Horan cleverly includes a domestic violence plot around Nel’s investigations and shows how coercive control can escalate to violence when the perpetrator is under pressure.
Kate Horan’s characterisation is brilliant. I could picture each character clearly as they came to life on the page, flaws and all.
The mystery drew me in, which kept the pages turning. I like my books fast paced and On the Edge fit the bill perfectly.
On the Edge is a powerful tale of friendship, loss, long held secrets and having the courage to move on with your life.
On the Edge by Kate Horan is a compelling mystery read that had me guessing and double guessing all the way to the end.
Nel Foley left the small coast town of Carrinya as soon as she could following the death of her best friend Maddie when they were teenagers. Nel was recorded as being the last person to see Maddie alive and her death has haunted her for the last 16 years. Now back in Carrinya following her father’s unexpected death, Nel is after answers. As she digs into Maddie’s last few months she stirs up trouble in the community and puts her own life in danger.
Horan cleverly includes a domestic violence plot around Nel’s investigations and shows how coercive control can escalate to violence when the perpetrator is under pressure.
Kate Horan’s characterisation is brilliant. I could picture each character clearly as they came to life on the page, flaws and all.
The mystery drew me in, which kept the pages turning. I like my books fast paced and On the Edge fit the bill perfectly.
On the Edge is a powerful tale of friendship, loss, long held secrets and having the courage to move on with your life.
December 1, 2025
4.5⭐
On The Edge had all the ingredients that I love in a mystery/thriller read.
Seaside town setting ✅
Flashbacks to teen years ✅
Despicable characters ✅
Family tensions ✅
Secrets and lies ✅
Nel Foley has come back to Carrinya after her father passes away unexpectedly. The same town she fled from at eighteen. The town where her best friend Maddie mysteriously died sixteen years ago. The town she never planned on coming back to. Ever.
'Sometimes the truth is buried so deep it barely exists anymore'
Being back in Carrinya makes Nel realise that running from the past won't change anything, but facing it head on will. When Nel catches up with Jimmy from high school, who is now a detective, she wonders if a little bit of sleuthing may shed light on what really happened to Maddie.
I loved all the little reveals that made me rethink what I thought I knew. I thought the pacing was perfect and enjoyed the writing style.
On The Edge had all the ingredients that I love in a mystery/thriller read.
Seaside town setting ✅
Flashbacks to teen years ✅
Despicable characters ✅
Family tensions ✅
Secrets and lies ✅
Nel Foley has come back to Carrinya after her father passes away unexpectedly. The same town she fled from at eighteen. The town where her best friend Maddie mysteriously died sixteen years ago. The town she never planned on coming back to. Ever.
'Sometimes the truth is buried so deep it barely exists anymore'
Being back in Carrinya makes Nel realise that running from the past won't change anything, but facing it head on will. When Nel catches up with Jimmy from high school, who is now a detective, she wonders if a little bit of sleuthing may shed light on what really happened to Maddie.
I loved all the little reveals that made me rethink what I thought I knew. I thought the pacing was perfect and enjoyed the writing style.
December 15, 2025
This is simply a page turner from start to finish, but more so from the halfway mark in the book than the first half.
Nel (Penelope) Foley needs to return to her home town of Carrinya due to her father's passing. He was the beloved GP in this town. The return to Carrinya is not something that Nel is looking forward to as she hasn't been back there in a long time. Not since she left as a young woman after her best friend Maddie went missing and was later found dead. Nel was the last person to see Maddie and in a small town, rumours travel faster than the flies and the town very quickly turned on Nel as a suspected murderer. Nel always suspected Maddie's former boyfriend, Ryan but no one wanted to hear Nel's side of the story. It didn't fit their small town narrative.
When Nel returns to Carrinya, she finds that very little has changed, including the town's suspicion that Nel murdered Maddie. How could they think that?
Back home Nel's sister and mum ask Nel to run her dad's GP practice until a buyer can be found. Nel agrees, but for a short while. While she is home she can't get Maddie's death out of her head, neither can the town folk, including Ryan who doesn't appreciate Nel's questions into Maddie around town. Every person she talks to, appears to know something more than they are letting on and there are many with possible motives.
Nel also befriends Sophie who has suspicious bruising, which Nel believes to be harm from her husband, who happens to be Ryan. Nel gets the help of her good friend and local cop Jimmy to help her look into what might of happened to Maddie. Nel's questions seem to trigger both the town folk and Nel and she is warned to leave well enough alone, by many people, including those close to her.
Horan builds the suspense well and you simply can't put the book down as you simply need to find out what happened to Maddie and who was involved. Her questions put Nel in possible danger and will she get to the bottom of things before something happens to her.
I found this to be an absolutely gripping tale that I absolutely loved. It is set in Australia, written by an Australian author, and has suspense and a reminder that life can be very complicated and that sometimes your past simply won't go away until you face your demons.
I received an advanced reading copy from HQ Insider in return for an honest review and I am very grateful for this opportunity. My score and review of this book is not swayed by this gift, it is simply an outstanding read.
Nel (Penelope) Foley needs to return to her home town of Carrinya due to her father's passing. He was the beloved GP in this town. The return to Carrinya is not something that Nel is looking forward to as she hasn't been back there in a long time. Not since she left as a young woman after her best friend Maddie went missing and was later found dead. Nel was the last person to see Maddie and in a small town, rumours travel faster than the flies and the town very quickly turned on Nel as a suspected murderer. Nel always suspected Maddie's former boyfriend, Ryan but no one wanted to hear Nel's side of the story. It didn't fit their small town narrative.
When Nel returns to Carrinya, she finds that very little has changed, including the town's suspicion that Nel murdered Maddie. How could they think that?
Back home Nel's sister and mum ask Nel to run her dad's GP practice until a buyer can be found. Nel agrees, but for a short while. While she is home she can't get Maddie's death out of her head, neither can the town folk, including Ryan who doesn't appreciate Nel's questions into Maddie around town. Every person she talks to, appears to know something more than they are letting on and there are many with possible motives.
Nel also befriends Sophie who has suspicious bruising, which Nel believes to be harm from her husband, who happens to be Ryan. Nel gets the help of her good friend and local cop Jimmy to help her look into what might of happened to Maddie. Nel's questions seem to trigger both the town folk and Nel and she is warned to leave well enough alone, by many people, including those close to her.
Horan builds the suspense well and you simply can't put the book down as you simply need to find out what happened to Maddie and who was involved. Her questions put Nel in possible danger and will she get to the bottom of things before something happens to her.
I found this to be an absolutely gripping tale that I absolutely loved. It is set in Australia, written by an Australian author, and has suspense and a reminder that life can be very complicated and that sometimes your past simply won't go away until you face your demons.
I received an advanced reading copy from HQ Insider in return for an honest review and I am very grateful for this opportunity. My score and review of this book is not swayed by this gift, it is simply an outstanding read.
December 16, 2025
I was introduced to Kate Horans work at the beginning of the year with The Inheritance - a gripping page turner which I gave 5 stars to.
I jumped at the opportunity to read her new novel On The Edge and I was not disappointed! Neil returns home after a long absence as her father has unexpectedly passed away. She has not been home for years because her best friend Maddie was found dead and Nel was the last person to see her, so suspicion that she had something to do with her death was rife.
All these years on, Nel is a doctor and steps in the keep her father’s practice going until they find a buyer. She befriends the local policeman who she remembers from school and starts to look into Maddies case. Maddies boyfriend Ryan still lives in town and has married Sophie who has 3 children by him but is not in control of her life. Suspicions are rife and Nel finds herself determined to find out what happened to Maddie as information comes up contrary to what was reported.
There are themes of domestic abuse and coercive control in this novel so a trigger warning there. I absolutely devoured this book in a couple of days and could not put it down,
Thank you to HQ insiders for a copy in exchange for an honest review - I loved it! 5 well earned stars!
I jumped at the opportunity to read her new novel On The Edge and I was not disappointed! Neil returns home after a long absence as her father has unexpectedly passed away. She has not been home for years because her best friend Maddie was found dead and Nel was the last person to see her, so suspicion that she had something to do with her death was rife.
All these years on, Nel is a doctor and steps in the keep her father’s practice going until they find a buyer. She befriends the local policeman who she remembers from school and starts to look into Maddies case. Maddies boyfriend Ryan still lives in town and has married Sophie who has 3 children by him but is not in control of her life. Suspicions are rife and Nel finds herself determined to find out what happened to Maddie as information comes up contrary to what was reported.
There are themes of domestic abuse and coercive control in this novel so a trigger warning there. I absolutely devoured this book in a couple of days and could not put it down,
Thank you to HQ insiders for a copy in exchange for an honest review - I loved it! 5 well earned stars!
December 18, 2025
A small town filled with drama and gossip and friendships easily made and just as easily broken, On The Edge captured my interest from the very first sentence. By the end of the first chapter I was telling people how much they were going to love it just I as much I have which has lead to some very impatient people keen to borrow my copy!!
On The Edge explores an abundance of subjects such as family tension and family expectations, teen pressure and teen pregnancy, and distrust at so many levels in this small NSW town that are beautifully woven into the storyline.
However, On The Edge also explores some very heavy, but also very delicate, topical subjects, like family violence and coercive control and this where the book loses a star from my rating. The author may or may be a victim-survivor of family abuse and coercive control but I felt her grip on the subject matter rather weak or perhaps she had a reluctance to explore it too deeply and refocus the main storyline.
Unlike so many books I could actually see the characters and their surroundings described in On The Edge and it was that kept me engaged. I was tethered to this book until the climactic end.
Teenager Nel is the last person to see her best friend Maddie alive before her lifeless body washes up on the beach sparking a mystery that would go unsolved for sixteen years. What happened to Maddie all those years ago and why is the whole town convinced Nel knew more than she was saying??
Fast forward to the present day and Nel, now a successful doctor, returns home for the first time in fourteen years following the death of her father, who was also a doctor and owner of the town’s sole GP clinic. Intending to stay just long enough for the funeral, Nel gives into her mother’s pleas to stay and keep his GP practice running while a buyer is sought. But not everyone is happy she has returned.
A prominent line in the book reads ‘sixteen years was both a lifetime and a heart beat’ and as Nel spends more time in her home town and old feelings are stirred up, she becomes determined to solve the mystery of her best friend’s death so many years ago.
*Thank you to HQ Insiders for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
On The Edge explores an abundance of subjects such as family tension and family expectations, teen pressure and teen pregnancy, and distrust at so many levels in this small NSW town that are beautifully woven into the storyline.
However, On The Edge also explores some very heavy, but also very delicate, topical subjects, like family violence and coercive control and this where the book loses a star from my rating. The author may or may be a victim-survivor of family abuse and coercive control but I felt her grip on the subject matter rather weak or perhaps she had a reluctance to explore it too deeply and refocus the main storyline.
Unlike so many books I could actually see the characters and their surroundings described in On The Edge and it was that kept me engaged. I was tethered to this book until the climactic end.
Teenager Nel is the last person to see her best friend Maddie alive before her lifeless body washes up on the beach sparking a mystery that would go unsolved for sixteen years. What happened to Maddie all those years ago and why is the whole town convinced Nel knew more than she was saying??
Fast forward to the present day and Nel, now a successful doctor, returns home for the first time in fourteen years following the death of her father, who was also a doctor and owner of the town’s sole GP clinic. Intending to stay just long enough for the funeral, Nel gives into her mother’s pleas to stay and keep his GP practice running while a buyer is sought. But not everyone is happy she has returned.
A prominent line in the book reads ‘sixteen years was both a lifetime and a heart beat’ and as Nel spends more time in her home town and old feelings are stirred up, she becomes determined to solve the mystery of her best friend’s death so many years ago.
*Thank you to HQ Insiders for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
January 5, 2026
It’s been sixteen years since doctor Nell Foley has been home to her small town in Carrinya
Having felt ostracised by the community when her best friends body is found near a beach, the police never solved the case, but all eyes were on Nell as she was the last person who had seen Maddie alive
She returns after the sudden passing of her father who was the town GP. Planning to only stay a few days for the funeral and formalities, her mother pleads she stays longer to support the doctors practise until she finds another doctor to take over
While already feeling watched she begrudgingly agrees. As she spends more and more time around town she see starts to remember more details from the fatal night, and decides she needs to find the answers no one else seemed to want to find sixteen years ago
I really enjoyed Kate’s debut novel ‘The Inheritance’ and ‘On The Edge’ took it up a level! I devoured this in 2 sittings!
Weaving the story between past and present I was turning page after page needing to know everything. Filled with drama, secrets and mystery I was on the edge (literally) until the final chapter!
Thank you HQ for my gifted copy to review
Having felt ostracised by the community when her best friends body is found near a beach, the police never solved the case, but all eyes were on Nell as she was the last person who had seen Maddie alive
She returns after the sudden passing of her father who was the town GP. Planning to only stay a few days for the funeral and formalities, her mother pleads she stays longer to support the doctors practise until she finds another doctor to take over
While already feeling watched she begrudgingly agrees. As she spends more and more time around town she see starts to remember more details from the fatal night, and decides she needs to find the answers no one else seemed to want to find sixteen years ago
I really enjoyed Kate’s debut novel ‘The Inheritance’ and ‘On The Edge’ took it up a level! I devoured this in 2 sittings!
Weaving the story between past and present I was turning page after page needing to know everything. Filled with drama, secrets and mystery I was on the edge (literally) until the final chapter!
Thank you HQ for my gifted copy to review
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
This book will keep you on the edge, guessing until the end.
It covers a very serious issue in our society that needs to change.
A teenage friendship is tested, and there is a big loss to the small town of Carrinya. Years later, on the return of the best friend, things start to surface, leading to the mystery of who killed Maddie Marshall.
I couldn't put this book down and didn't want it to end.
I really enjoyed this book 📖 ❤️
It covers a very serious issue in our society that needs to change.
A teenage friendship is tested, and there is a big loss to the small town of Carrinya. Years later, on the return of the best friend, things start to surface, leading to the mystery of who killed Maddie Marshall.
I couldn't put this book down and didn't want it to end.
I really enjoyed this book 📖 ❤️
December 8, 2025
On the Edge is a gripping, twist-filled mystery that hooked me from the very first chapter. Kate Horan has created a tension-soaked small town in Carrinya, where everyone remembers the unsolved death of Maddie Marshall—and where no one wants old secrets dragged back into the light.
Following Nel Foley as she reluctantly returns home after sixteen years was incredibly compelling. Her mix of grief, guilt, and determination felt so real, and every interaction added another layer to the story. I loved how the past and present tangle together, and how suspicion shifts from one character to another until you’re not sure who to trust.
I found myself constantly guessing and then second-guessing what really happened the night Maddie died. The final reveal isn’t what you expect, and that made the journey even more satisfying. It’s the kind of book you keep thinking about afterwards because of the way it explores loyalty, fear, and what desperate people do when pushed too far.
A fabulous and utterly absorbing read. I couldn’t put it down.
Following Nel Foley as she reluctantly returns home after sixteen years was incredibly compelling. Her mix of grief, guilt, and determination felt so real, and every interaction added another layer to the story. I loved how the past and present tangle together, and how suspicion shifts from one character to another until you’re not sure who to trust.
I found myself constantly guessing and then second-guessing what really happened the night Maddie died. The final reveal isn’t what you expect, and that made the journey even more satisfying. It’s the kind of book you keep thinking about afterwards because of the way it explores loyalty, fear, and what desperate people do when pushed too far.
A fabulous and utterly absorbing read. I couldn’t put it down.
November 2, 2025
"It had been fourteen years since she'd left, and in all that time she hadn't once made the five-hour journey south." On The Edge has a good story at its base, and a likeable protagonist in Nel Foley. Nel, like her father, is a GP. She left her home town after her best friend washed up on a beach and she was tarred with suspicion after being the last one to see her. Nel returns home when her father dies, and it brings up all the old memories, and she sets out to solve her former bestie's murder: "When she left at eighteen, escaping the whispers and rumours that followed her wherever she went, she'd never intended to stay away for so long, but the anonymity of life in Sydney had been such a relief."
Influenced by See What You Made Me Do: Power, Control and Domestic Violence, Kate Horan has a decent but heavy-handed attempt at describing coercive control in this multilayered story. You can see the research, like football games driving domestic and family violence when teams lose: "The Raiders must have scored a try. Hopefully they would win. Things were better when they won." I think it could have been integrated into the story better, it feels preachy as it is: "Some of these bastards spend years smashing plates and breaking furniture before it escalates into physical abuse." Horan is also influenced by Justin Hemmes buying up half of Narooma, which is also kind of laboured in the book: "The pub baron owned half the waterfront pubs in Sydney."
The writer’s pet expression is glassy eyes: "her eyes glassy" or "Leo looked up at her, glassy-eyed". I found it irritating by the fifth time. By the tenth I was laughing. A simple dive into a thesaurus would offer blank, teary, dazed, vacant, or expressionless. I reckon this one should have been picked up in the edit...
With thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for sending me a copy to read.
Influenced by See What You Made Me Do: Power, Control and Domestic Violence, Kate Horan has a decent but heavy-handed attempt at describing coercive control in this multilayered story. You can see the research, like football games driving domestic and family violence when teams lose: "The Raiders must have scored a try. Hopefully they would win. Things were better when they won." I think it could have been integrated into the story better, it feels preachy as it is: "Some of these bastards spend years smashing plates and breaking furniture before it escalates into physical abuse." Horan is also influenced by Justin Hemmes buying up half of Narooma, which is also kind of laboured in the book: "The pub baron owned half the waterfront pubs in Sydney."
The writer’s pet expression is glassy eyes: "her eyes glassy" or "Leo looked up at her, glassy-eyed". I found it irritating by the fifth time. By the tenth I was laughing. A simple dive into a thesaurus would offer blank, teary, dazed, vacant, or expressionless. I reckon this one should have been picked up in the edit...
With thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for sending me a copy to read.
December 15, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed reading On the Edge. What started out with Neil returning to her family home for a funeral turned into a much longer stay to overturn lies and accusations against her. Lots of twists and turns right up until the end of the book which I love. It also brought up many important issues that are relevant to women today. Thank you HQ for giving me the opportunity to read and review this awe-inspiring book.
January 2, 2026
After loving Kate’s debut The Inheritance and reading the synopsis for this latest book I could tell it would be one that I wouldn’t want to put down and my prediction was right. I listened to this on audio narrated beautifully by Heather Ward and finished it in a day. It was a tension-filled mystery that compelled me to ignore all responsibility to find out how it would end.
When 32 year old GP Nel Foley receives the call telling her of her father’s sudden death, she begrudgingly returns home to Carrinya for the funeral. The problem is she fled the small town as a teenager and had vowed never to go back. Sixteen years ago her best friend Maddie Marshall died and although the case was never solved, many blamed Nel as the last known person to see her. Hoping to leave town again as soon as possible, instead Nel feels obliged to run her father’s clinic for a few weeks until they can find a buyer. Once back in this community, she sees that very little has changed and she is still copping stares and mistrust, so Nel decides to dig into Maddie’s death and follow up on her suspicions about what really happened that night.
I love books where a character returns to their hometown and this one was made all the more captivating with the cold case hanging over the main character’s head. As well as the mystery which was twisty and suspenseful, I enjoyed the family dynamics and seeing how Nel’s leaving had affected her mother and sister. Watching her reconnect with family made for a more emotional read as there was so much going on below the surface.
Nel was a fabulous main character with her dogged determination to not only clear her name but to get justice for her friend. Seeing her following leads and pivoting as new information surfaced made for a captivating mystery.
On the Edge was a read that certainly kept me on the edge as I tried to puzzle out what had happened to Maddie and how this mystery was going to be resolved. It’s one I would recommend to all lovers of small town cold-case crime and wonderfully written family dynamics.
When 32 year old GP Nel Foley receives the call telling her of her father’s sudden death, she begrudgingly returns home to Carrinya for the funeral. The problem is she fled the small town as a teenager and had vowed never to go back. Sixteen years ago her best friend Maddie Marshall died and although the case was never solved, many blamed Nel as the last known person to see her. Hoping to leave town again as soon as possible, instead Nel feels obliged to run her father’s clinic for a few weeks until they can find a buyer. Once back in this community, she sees that very little has changed and she is still copping stares and mistrust, so Nel decides to dig into Maddie’s death and follow up on her suspicions about what really happened that night.
I love books where a character returns to their hometown and this one was made all the more captivating with the cold case hanging over the main character’s head. As well as the mystery which was twisty and suspenseful, I enjoyed the family dynamics and seeing how Nel’s leaving had affected her mother and sister. Watching her reconnect with family made for a more emotional read as there was so much going on below the surface.
Nel was a fabulous main character with her dogged determination to not only clear her name but to get justice for her friend. Seeing her following leads and pivoting as new information surfaced made for a captivating mystery.
On the Edge was a read that certainly kept me on the edge as I tried to puzzle out what had happened to Maddie and how this mystery was going to be resolved. It’s one I would recommend to all lovers of small town cold-case crime and wonderfully written family dynamics.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Before picking up this book, be warned - be prepared to not put it down. This is definitely not the kind of novel to start if you’ve got an early morning ahead!
On the Edge is a gripping small-town crime mystery, and Kate Horan executes it superbly.
When Nel left her hometown of Carrinya, she vowed never to return. But after her father’s sudden passing, she finds herself back—determined to stay only as long as necessary. Carrinya holds ghosts for Nel: she was the last person to see her best friend alive before her tragic death, and ever since, she has lived under the town’s whispers and suspicion.
Now 32 and working as a GP, Nel reluctantly takes over her father’s clinic at her Mother’s request. It’s there she meets Sophie Warner, and everything begins to change. As Nel uncovers new information that may shed light on her friend’s death, she realizes that nothing in Carrinya is quite as it seems.
On the Edge is a story with many layers. Beyond the central mystery, Kate Horan weaves in family dynamics, the complexities of relationships, and the fragile bonds of friendship. What I particularly appreciated was her willingness to tackle difficult societal issues such as domestic violence and coercive control—topics that are not easy to confront, yet are handled with sensitivity and depth.
Nel is such a strong, formidable main character and I really enjoyed getting to know her and following her story throughout the pages of this book. She was unrelenting and so determined in her search for the truth while also working through her own personal trauma from this event that changed her life.
A big thank you to @kate_horan_author and @harlequinaus for the ARC of this book!
On the Edge is a gripping small-town crime mystery, and Kate Horan executes it superbly.
When Nel left her hometown of Carrinya, she vowed never to return. But after her father’s sudden passing, she finds herself back—determined to stay only as long as necessary. Carrinya holds ghosts for Nel: she was the last person to see her best friend alive before her tragic death, and ever since, she has lived under the town’s whispers and suspicion.
Now 32 and working as a GP, Nel reluctantly takes over her father’s clinic at her Mother’s request. It’s there she meets Sophie Warner, and everything begins to change. As Nel uncovers new information that may shed light on her friend’s death, she realizes that nothing in Carrinya is quite as it seems.
On the Edge is a story with many layers. Beyond the central mystery, Kate Horan weaves in family dynamics, the complexities of relationships, and the fragile bonds of friendship. What I particularly appreciated was her willingness to tackle difficult societal issues such as domestic violence and coercive control—topics that are not easy to confront, yet are handled with sensitivity and depth.
Nel is such a strong, formidable main character and I really enjoyed getting to know her and following her story throughout the pages of this book. She was unrelenting and so determined in her search for the truth while also working through her own personal trauma from this event that changed her life.
A big thank you to @kate_horan_author and @harlequinaus for the ARC of this book!
December 21, 2025
Set in a small coastal town, On The Edge follows a community where everyone knows each other… or thinks they do. Teenager Maddie disappears and her body turns up three days later in a remote beach. Her best friend Nel is the last to see her alive and is soon the brunt of rumours and bullying, making her leave town after high school. Fourteen years later, Nel, now a GP, returns for her father’s funeral. When unsettling events begin to surface, long-buried secrets are dragged into the light, forcing the town to confront truths some would do anything to keep hidden.
This was an absolute page-turner. Once I started, it quickly turned into binge reading, with that just one more chapter feeling that makes it impossible to put down. The tension builds steadily, and the small-town setting adds an eerie, claustrophobic edge where suspicion falls on almost everyone.
What really stood out was the character development. Even the unlikeable and deeply suspicious characters are richly drawn, layered, and believable. No one feels flat or unnecessary, and you’re constantly questioning motives and second-guessing who can be trusted.
The story is packed with long-buried secrets, and just when you think you have things figured out, Kate Horan delivers a surprising, unexpected twist that completely shifts the ground beneath you. It’s smart, unsettling, and incredibly satisfying.
If you love small-town thrillers full of secrets, morally complex characters, and twists you won’t see coming, On The Edge is well worth the read.
I’m going back to read Kate’s first book, The Inheritance.
Thank you to the wonderful team at Harlequin Australia for the #gifted copy.
This was an absolute page-turner. Once I started, it quickly turned into binge reading, with that just one more chapter feeling that makes it impossible to put down. The tension builds steadily, and the small-town setting adds an eerie, claustrophobic edge where suspicion falls on almost everyone.
What really stood out was the character development. Even the unlikeable and deeply suspicious characters are richly drawn, layered, and believable. No one feels flat or unnecessary, and you’re constantly questioning motives and second-guessing who can be trusted.
The story is packed with long-buried secrets, and just when you think you have things figured out, Kate Horan delivers a surprising, unexpected twist that completely shifts the ground beneath you. It’s smart, unsettling, and incredibly satisfying.
If you love small-town thrillers full of secrets, morally complex characters, and twists you won’t see coming, On The Edge is well worth the read.
I’m going back to read Kate’s first book, The Inheritance.
Thank you to the wonderful team at Harlequin Australia for the #gifted copy.
January 3, 2026
Who killed Maddie Marshall? Kate Horan has us begging for the answers and dreading them at the same time!
This story focuses on the story of Nel and how her life was irrevocably changed when her best friend went missing and turned up dead 3 days later, when they were both teens.
Nel having fled her home town is forced as an adult many years later to return. And when she does, she is determined to get answers for herself and for Maddie.
What is so great about Horan’s book is the way you are always questioning every character and their motives. Her red herrings are perfection because they are realistic and resolve in a pleasing way. I did clue on to the culprit about halfway through but not in the way I suspected.
It’s a very fast paced read and it will be hard to put down late at night as every chapter is small so you get easily tricked into just another chapter. Next thing you know you finish the book at 1:40am.
The focus of this book more than the mystery surrounding Maddie’s death is domestic violence. It is dealt with very well in this story but I imagine for some people it may be triggering. Please know this before you begin your read of this phenomenal Aussie thriller!
Ps - bonus points for shouting out The Gong!
“That was all that was left once you were gone. The relationships you had with the people you loved.”
This story focuses on the story of Nel and how her life was irrevocably changed when her best friend went missing and turned up dead 3 days later, when they were both teens.
Nel having fled her home town is forced as an adult many years later to return. And when she does, she is determined to get answers for herself and for Maddie.
What is so great about Horan’s book is the way you are always questioning every character and their motives. Her red herrings are perfection because they are realistic and resolve in a pleasing way. I did clue on to the culprit about halfway through but not in the way I suspected.
It’s a very fast paced read and it will be hard to put down late at night as every chapter is small so you get easily tricked into just another chapter. Next thing you know you finish the book at 1:40am.
The focus of this book more than the mystery surrounding Maddie’s death is domestic violence. It is dealt with very well in this story but I imagine for some people it may be triggering. Please know this before you begin your read of this phenomenal Aussie thriller!
Ps - bonus points for shouting out The Gong!
“That was all that was left once you were gone. The relationships you had with the people you loved.”
December 30, 2025
4.5⭐️
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced reader copy of this book and wow did it have me clenching my teeth and on the edge of my seat!! I did not want to put it down, I needed to know what had happened!
After a family loss, Nell Foley returns to her hometown of Carrinya 16 years after the disappearance and death of her best friend Maddie Marshall. Rumours continue to fly upon her return and Nell is more motivated than ever to find out the truth surrounding her death, and finding herself interacting with local mother Sophie Warner who is married to Maddies ex boyfriend Ryan.
This book really had my mind ticking trying to figure out what happened to Maddie, and I definitely didn’t guess this ending!! I also really appreciated the depth to the characters in this book with Nell so headstrong but traumatised by her last interaction with Maddie, and Sophie seemingly submissive and meek, but there is more layers to her which were so interesting to unravel.
I’d definitely recommend this to people looking for a suspenseful mystery showing how desperation can impact people’s actions. It’s also based in Australia which I always love!!
Thank you to Harlequin Aus for an early copy in return for an honest review.
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced reader copy of this book and wow did it have me clenching my teeth and on the edge of my seat!! I did not want to put it down, I needed to know what had happened!
After a family loss, Nell Foley returns to her hometown of Carrinya 16 years after the disappearance and death of her best friend Maddie Marshall. Rumours continue to fly upon her return and Nell is more motivated than ever to find out the truth surrounding her death, and finding herself interacting with local mother Sophie Warner who is married to Maddies ex boyfriend Ryan.
This book really had my mind ticking trying to figure out what happened to Maddie, and I definitely didn’t guess this ending!! I also really appreciated the depth to the characters in this book with Nell so headstrong but traumatised by her last interaction with Maddie, and Sophie seemingly submissive and meek, but there is more layers to her which were so interesting to unravel.
I’d definitely recommend this to people looking for a suspenseful mystery showing how desperation can impact people’s actions. It’s also based in Australia which I always love!!
Thank you to Harlequin Aus for an early copy in return for an honest review.
Read
December 20, 2025We learn that doctor Nel left her hometown of Carrinya 14 years earlier following the death of her best friend Maddie and fingers pointing in Nel's direction. Her father's death means she's forced to return and reluctantly agrees to run his clinic until her mother can find a buyer.
When looking through old files she finds her friend's and learns that Maddie was pregnant when she died... something that wasn't revealed at the time and Nel discovers is not in the police reports. It makes her even more suspicious of Maddie's former boyfriend Ryan.
Ryan's now a successful realtor and Maddie discovers is controlling and abusive to his wife and feels compelled to intervene.
There's a smidge of romance for Nel with the local police chief (and former school friend), and Horan gives us several likeable and complex characters. Ultimately this is a tragedy but Horan takes the opportunity to reflect on grief and loss and on friendship.
When looking through old files she finds her friend's and learns that Maddie was pregnant when she died... something that wasn't revealed at the time and Nel discovers is not in the police reports. It makes her even more suspicious of Maddie's former boyfriend Ryan.
Ryan's now a successful realtor and Maddie discovers is controlling and abusive to his wife and feels compelled to intervene.
There's a smidge of romance for Nel with the local police chief (and former school friend), and Horan gives us several likeable and complex characters. Ultimately this is a tragedy but Horan takes the opportunity to reflect on grief and loss and on friendship.
January 12, 2026
3.75
Ostracised best friend suspected of murder, POS characters that you just want to hate, secrets and anger, small beach town vibes & a the love plot taking a back seat - this book ticks those vibes off well.
This book is a book that you start reading and don’t want to put down. A murder mystery that keeps you guessing on who done it right until the end. I think I threw theories out every few minutes while I was reading this book. While this book keeps you guessing it’s also not a hard read - it’s easily absorbed and followed, and the ending had me yelling I knew it (but not entirely as I was so convinced it was someone else).
If you’re looking for something to read, you don’t want to read a book that requires a notepad to keep track of plot choices, then I do recommend reading this book.
Thank you to the publisher for a review copy of this book. All. Opinions are my own.
Ostracised best friend suspected of murder, POS characters that you just want to hate, secrets and anger, small beach town vibes & a the love plot taking a back seat - this book ticks those vibes off well.
This book is a book that you start reading and don’t want to put down. A murder mystery that keeps you guessing on who done it right until the end. I think I threw theories out every few minutes while I was reading this book. While this book keeps you guessing it’s also not a hard read - it’s easily absorbed and followed, and the ending had me yelling I knew it (but not entirely as I was so convinced it was someone else).
If you’re looking for something to read, you don’t want to read a book that requires a notepad to keep track of plot choices, then I do recommend reading this book.
Thank you to the publisher for a review copy of this book. All. Opinions are my own.
December 15, 2025
A tense murder mystery, On the Edge is the sophomore novel from Australian author Kate Horan.
After the sudden death of her father, Sydney GP Nel Foley is drawn back to her hometown after a fourteen year absence. Nel plans to stay only long enough to attend the funeral, unwilling to subject herself to the whispers about her best friend’s tragic death that drove her from the town in the first place, but when her mother asks her to take over her father’s practice until it can be sold she reluctantly agrees.
Though Maddie’s death was ruled an accident, Nel always believed that her best friend’s older ex-boyfriend had something to do with her death, and when she encounters his now wife as a patient, she grows even more convinced. Horan offers lots of twists and turns as Nel with the help of an old friend who is a local policeman, sets out to prove his guilt. The suspense builds nicely as Nel uncovers some shocking secrets and faces danger from those desperate to protect themselves.
I liked Nel, it wasn’t easy for her to return to Carrinya. Having fought with Maddie the same night she went missing, Nel has carried a misplaced sense of guilt and shame ever since. I appreciated the character growth as Nel is forced to confront several issues, including the impact of her absence on her family.
Horan thoughtfully explores several themes among them friendship, trauma, coercive control, and grief. There is also a touch of romance as Nel reconnects with her old friend.
With its atmospheric setting and strong characterisation, I enjoyed On the Edge.
After the sudden death of her father, Sydney GP Nel Foley is drawn back to her hometown after a fourteen year absence. Nel plans to stay only long enough to attend the funeral, unwilling to subject herself to the whispers about her best friend’s tragic death that drove her from the town in the first place, but when her mother asks her to take over her father’s practice until it can be sold she reluctantly agrees.
Though Maddie’s death was ruled an accident, Nel always believed that her best friend’s older ex-boyfriend had something to do with her death, and when she encounters his now wife as a patient, she grows even more convinced. Horan offers lots of twists and turns as Nel with the help of an old friend who is a local policeman, sets out to prove his guilt. The suspense builds nicely as Nel uncovers some shocking secrets and faces danger from those desperate to protect themselves.
I liked Nel, it wasn’t easy for her to return to Carrinya. Having fought with Maddie the same night she went missing, Nel has carried a misplaced sense of guilt and shame ever since. I appreciated the character growth as Nel is forced to confront several issues, including the impact of her absence on her family.
Horan thoughtfully explores several themes among them friendship, trauma, coercive control, and grief. There is also a touch of romance as Nel reconnects with her old friend.
With its atmospheric setting and strong characterisation, I enjoyed On the Edge.
December 21, 2025
‘On the Edge’ is page-turnery and has a great mystery at its heart as well as taking a good look at family and friendship and community relationships. I also appreciated the way Kate dealt with the domestic violence and coercive control that is sensitively woven through part of the story.
December 6, 2025
My favourite genre!
I love books set in small Australian towns. I have not read Kate Horan’s first book but it’s on my Wishlist.
I didn’t guess the twist in this book. I thought I had it figured out but I was wrong.
Some good twists and turns, interesting characters and great setting made this a very good read.
Thanks #hqinsiders for this ARC.
I love books set in small Australian towns. I have not read Kate Horan’s first book but it’s on my Wishlist.
I didn’t guess the twist in this book. I thought I had it figured out but I was wrong.
Some good twists and turns, interesting characters and great setting made this a very good read.
Thanks #hqinsiders for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
EXCERPT: As she turned the corner where the road met the windswept beach, her eyes were drawn to the vivid white lighthouse on the headland in the distance. An image of Maddie in the moonlight flashed in her mind, her cheeks shiny and wet. Nel shuddered and looked away, but then her eyes landed on the cemetery out the driver's window and she remembered cutting through there with Maddie to get to the beach, treading carefully between the headstones so they didn't step on the bodies. That was bad luck, according to Maddie.
Now she was buried there. Nel shuddered again. This was what she was worried about. Everything here led back to Maddie.
ABOUT 'ON THE EDGE':Desperate people do desperate things...
Sixteen years ago, teenage Maddie Marshall's body was found on a desolate beach near her hometown, Carrinya. Vibrant, feisty Maddie was the only daughter of a high-profile politician. The case was the talk of the town but was ultimately never solved.
Nel Foley, daughter of the town doctor and Maddie's best friend, was the last known person to see her alive, and the Carrinya rumour mill was vicious. Nel fled the town and has never been back. Until now.
Now a 32-year-old city GP, Nel returns after her father's sudden death, determined to get in and out as quickly as possible. Begrudgingly, she agrees to run his clinic for a few weeks, but during that time she meets local mum Sophie Warner and that changes everything.
Sophie's husband Ryan, a prominent local real estate agent, was Maddie's boyfriend and Nel is certain he played a role in her death. When Nel discovers that Ryan is not the loving husband and father that he seems, she decides she must prove what he did all those years ago. But as she starts to unravel the past, she discovers the truth is far more complex than she could have imagined.
MY THOUGHTS: A twisty, suspenseful mystery about the desperate things people do when they're on the edge.
Family drama, small town gossip, and domestic violence all feature in On the Edge, a compelling read about a woman reluctantly returning to her home town and having to face the ghosts and suspicions from her past.
Families and strong women are central to the theme of On the Edge. The tragedy of Maddie's death has impacted more than her own family. The Marshall's weren't the only one to lose a daughter that night. The Foley's also lost Nel. But now she is back and determined to clear her own name and expose the person who really caused Maddie's death that night. Only, is she looking in the right place?
On the Edge is a strong mystery with overtones of psychological drama. There is suspense as Nel feels she is being watched, and as her niece receives vaguely threatening texts. There are numerous twists and turns which kept me both glued to the page and wondering just where it was all going to end.
I loved Nel's character. She is strong and perceptive but is still holding onto the theory she has had for years which may blind her to other possibilities.
Kate Horan has written a clever story, a compelling read featuring realistic characters and situations. I look forward to reding more from this author.
On the Edge by Kate Horan publishes December 30, 2025.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#OntheEdge #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: KATE HORAN - When she’s not dreaming up twisty stories about people with dark secrets, she’s chauffeuring her teenage boys to and from social engagements, listening to true crime podcasts and walking her golden lab on Sydney’s beautiful Northern Beaches.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of On the Edge by Kate Horan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Now she was buried there. Nel shuddered again. This was what she was worried about. Everything here led back to Maddie.
ABOUT 'ON THE EDGE':Desperate people do desperate things...
Sixteen years ago, teenage Maddie Marshall's body was found on a desolate beach near her hometown, Carrinya. Vibrant, feisty Maddie was the only daughter of a high-profile politician. The case was the talk of the town but was ultimately never solved.
Nel Foley, daughter of the town doctor and Maddie's best friend, was the last known person to see her alive, and the Carrinya rumour mill was vicious. Nel fled the town and has never been back. Until now.
Now a 32-year-old city GP, Nel returns after her father's sudden death, determined to get in and out as quickly as possible. Begrudgingly, she agrees to run his clinic for a few weeks, but during that time she meets local mum Sophie Warner and that changes everything.
Sophie's husband Ryan, a prominent local real estate agent, was Maddie's boyfriend and Nel is certain he played a role in her death. When Nel discovers that Ryan is not the loving husband and father that he seems, she decides she must prove what he did all those years ago. But as she starts to unravel the past, she discovers the truth is far more complex than she could have imagined.
MY THOUGHTS: A twisty, suspenseful mystery about the desperate things people do when they're on the edge.
Family drama, small town gossip, and domestic violence all feature in On the Edge, a compelling read about a woman reluctantly returning to her home town and having to face the ghosts and suspicions from her past.
Families and strong women are central to the theme of On the Edge. The tragedy of Maddie's death has impacted more than her own family. The Marshall's weren't the only one to lose a daughter that night. The Foley's also lost Nel. But now she is back and determined to clear her own name and expose the person who really caused Maddie's death that night. Only, is she looking in the right place?
On the Edge is a strong mystery with overtones of psychological drama. There is suspense as Nel feels she is being watched, and as her niece receives vaguely threatening texts. There are numerous twists and turns which kept me both glued to the page and wondering just where it was all going to end.
I loved Nel's character. She is strong and perceptive but is still holding onto the theory she has had for years which may blind her to other possibilities.
Kate Horan has written a clever story, a compelling read featuring realistic characters and situations. I look forward to reding more from this author.
On the Edge by Kate Horan publishes December 30, 2025.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#OntheEdge #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: KATE HORAN - When she’s not dreaming up twisty stories about people with dark secrets, she’s chauffeuring her teenage boys to and from social engagements, listening to true crime podcasts and walking her golden lab on Sydney’s beautiful Northern Beaches.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of On the Edge by Kate Horan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
On the Edge
✍️ @kate_horan_author
📚 @harlequinaus @harpercollinsaustralia
📅 Jan 2026
5 🌟
If you're looking for a great summer holiday read. Then you will be sorted with this!
I was up till the wee hours of the morning flipping the pages as l just could not put down. Highly addictive read!
Thank you so much @harlequinaus
@harpercollinsaustralia for this early copy in exchange for an honest review. Totally captivating!
It's:
Crime fiction,
Mystery,
Small town gossip,
Set in Australia - Seaside town,
Personal growth,
Lies,
Betrayal,
Secrets,
Twists and turns,
Suspense,
Grief & loss,
Complex family drama,
Friendship,
Complex relationships,
Coercive control/Domestic Violence (TW),
Guilt,
Peer Pressure,
Teenage dating,
Ending broke my heart ( l didn't expect it at all),
Keeps you guessing right up to the end,
one wild read,
The perfect way to start your holiday reading.
Desperate people do desperate things...
Sixteen years ago, teenage Maddie Marshall's body was found on a desolate beach near her hometown, Carrinya. Vibrant, feisty Maddie was the only daughter of a high-profile politician. The case was the talk of the town but was ultimately never solved.
Nel Foley, daughter of the town doctor and Maddie's best friend, was the last known person to see her alive, and the Carrinya rumour mill was vicious. Nel fled the town and has never been back. Until now.
Now a 32-year-old city GP, Nel returns after her father's sudden death, determined to get in and out as quickly as possible. Begrudgingly, she agrees to run his clinic for a few weeks, but during that time she meets local mum Sophie Warner and that changes everything.
Sophie's husband Ryan, a prominent local real estate agent, was Maddie's boyfriend and Nel is certain he played a role in her death. When Nel discovers that Ryan is not the loving husband and father that he seems, she decides she must prove what he did all those years ago. But as she starts to unravel the past, she discovers the truth is far more complex than she could have imagined.
It really does, as the title suggests, have you on the edge while you read from start to finish!
✍️ @kate_horan_author
📚 @harlequinaus @harpercollinsaustralia
📅 Jan 2026
5 🌟
If you're looking for a great summer holiday read. Then you will be sorted with this!
I was up till the wee hours of the morning flipping the pages as l just could not put down. Highly addictive read!
Thank you so much @harlequinaus
@harpercollinsaustralia for this early copy in exchange for an honest review. Totally captivating!
It's:
Crime fiction,
Mystery,
Small town gossip,
Set in Australia - Seaside town,
Personal growth,
Lies,
Betrayal,
Secrets,
Twists and turns,
Suspense,
Grief & loss,
Complex family drama,
Friendship,
Complex relationships,
Coercive control/Domestic Violence (TW),
Guilt,
Peer Pressure,
Teenage dating,
Ending broke my heart ( l didn't expect it at all),
Keeps you guessing right up to the end,
one wild read,
The perfect way to start your holiday reading.
Desperate people do desperate things...
Sixteen years ago, teenage Maddie Marshall's body was found on a desolate beach near her hometown, Carrinya. Vibrant, feisty Maddie was the only daughter of a high-profile politician. The case was the talk of the town but was ultimately never solved.
Nel Foley, daughter of the town doctor and Maddie's best friend, was the last known person to see her alive, and the Carrinya rumour mill was vicious. Nel fled the town and has never been back. Until now.
Now a 32-year-old city GP, Nel returns after her father's sudden death, determined to get in and out as quickly as possible. Begrudgingly, she agrees to run his clinic for a few weeks, but during that time she meets local mum Sophie Warner and that changes everything.
Sophie's husband Ryan, a prominent local real estate agent, was Maddie's boyfriend and Nel is certain he played a role in her death. When Nel discovers that Ryan is not the loving husband and father that he seems, she decides she must prove what he did all those years ago. But as she starts to unravel the past, she discovers the truth is far more complex than she could have imagined.
It really does, as the title suggests, have you on the edge while you read from start to finish!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
On The Edge, epitomises life in a small town. Everyone knows everyone and their business, there are no secrets and any scandal isn't forgotten. Ever.
The coastal town of Carrinya, is written so well, we are given so many descriptions that we can see ourselves there. In the beaches, the bush walks and the coffee shops, even the local police station.
There is something to be said about books set in Australia. To combine Aussie culture and language patterns and beliefs into crime fiction, makes it feel more real, as though we know all of the characters set out in the pages.
I have struggled with Nel, throughout this novel. From the onset, she does come across, quite naive and a little selfish. As we progress through, it is easy to see why she is that way. But it doesn't take away the fact that she isn't very likeable, which makes the novel difficult to read, at times.
I struggled with a lot of the characters in this book, their stubborn attitudes, how their heads were buried in the sand. How some of them played on the 'small town's mentality. Kate Horan has done a fantastic job of making the characters feel real enough to evoke emotion from the reader.
Horan has also written the heavy theme of domestic violence with truth and authenticity. It is one of the constant touch stones of this novel and if this has affected any aspect of your life, please go gently with this novel.
On The Edge is an easy to read novel, filled with Australiana and scenery to make you long for a summer by the beach. Short chapters and fast pacing keep the pages turning and before you know it, you're deep in Carrinya rumours and assumptions. This was a great crime fiction read, for those of you who are avid crime fiction readers, you may see the twist coming, but that doesn't make it any less enjoyable.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending a review copy of this title. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The coastal town of Carrinya, is written so well, we are given so many descriptions that we can see ourselves there. In the beaches, the bush walks and the coffee shops, even the local police station.
There is something to be said about books set in Australia. To combine Aussie culture and language patterns and beliefs into crime fiction, makes it feel more real, as though we know all of the characters set out in the pages.
I have struggled with Nel, throughout this novel. From the onset, she does come across, quite naive and a little selfish. As we progress through, it is easy to see why she is that way. But it doesn't take away the fact that she isn't very likeable, which makes the novel difficult to read, at times.
I struggled with a lot of the characters in this book, their stubborn attitudes, how their heads were buried in the sand. How some of them played on the 'small town's mentality. Kate Horan has done a fantastic job of making the characters feel real enough to evoke emotion from the reader.
Horan has also written the heavy theme of domestic violence with truth and authenticity. It is one of the constant touch stones of this novel and if this has affected any aspect of your life, please go gently with this novel.
On The Edge is an easy to read novel, filled with Australiana and scenery to make you long for a summer by the beach. Short chapters and fast pacing keep the pages turning and before you know it, you're deep in Carrinya rumours and assumptions. This was a great crime fiction read, for those of you who are avid crime fiction readers, you may see the twist coming, but that doesn't make it any less enjoyable.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending a review copy of this title. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 31, 2025
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
One The Edge by Kate Horan pulled me in from page one and didn’t let go. It blends the best parts of a small-town mystery; simmering tension, layered relationships, old grudges, and buried truths, with twists that keep the momentum cracking along. The result is a story that feels actually impossible to step away from.
The chapters are short and addictive, delivering that “just one more” hit over and over… until suddenly you realise hours have passed and you’re still glued to the pages. It’s the kind of pacing that makes a mystery not just intriguing, but utterly bingeable.
Nel Foley fled Carrinya, NSW at 18, desperate to leave behind the town that had turned on her. Two years earlier, her best friend Maddie died under strange circumstances and Nel was blamed before anyone cared about finding out the truth. Now, after her father’s death, she returns home, only to find that Maddie’s ghost still haunts the town, and its people still haven’t forgiven Nel for surviving the story they wrote about her.
Nel ends up having to stick around town longer than she anticipated, but she won’t lay down and let the truth get away from her. She’s always believed Ryan, Maddie’s boyfriend at the time, was involved. When she crosses paths with his wife, Sophie, the pieces begin to fall into place, offering Nel the chance to dig where no one else has.
Horan writes characters that feel real, to the point where I’m convinced I’ve met a few of these characters in small towns near me. You don’t just follow the mystery, you get up close and personal with the small town drama, the complexity of family ties, and the uncomfortable pull of the past.
I spent the entire book trying to crack the truth, only to have it keep slipping through my fingers right until the final pages. This one has an excellent payoff!
I highly recommend this as to kick off your 2026 reading, it’ll be worth it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
One The Edge by Kate Horan pulled me in from page one and didn’t let go. It blends the best parts of a small-town mystery; simmering tension, layered relationships, old grudges, and buried truths, with twists that keep the momentum cracking along. The result is a story that feels actually impossible to step away from.
The chapters are short and addictive, delivering that “just one more” hit over and over… until suddenly you realise hours have passed and you’re still glued to the pages. It’s the kind of pacing that makes a mystery not just intriguing, but utterly bingeable.
Nel Foley fled Carrinya, NSW at 18, desperate to leave behind the town that had turned on her. Two years earlier, her best friend Maddie died under strange circumstances and Nel was blamed before anyone cared about finding out the truth. Now, after her father’s death, she returns home, only to find that Maddie’s ghost still haunts the town, and its people still haven’t forgiven Nel for surviving the story they wrote about her.
Nel ends up having to stick around town longer than she anticipated, but she won’t lay down and let the truth get away from her. She’s always believed Ryan, Maddie’s boyfriend at the time, was involved. When she crosses paths with his wife, Sophie, the pieces begin to fall into place, offering Nel the chance to dig where no one else has.
Horan writes characters that feel real, to the point where I’m convinced I’ve met a few of these characters in small towns near me. You don’t just follow the mystery, you get up close and personal with the small town drama, the complexity of family ties, and the uncomfortable pull of the past.
I spent the entire book trying to crack the truth, only to have it keep slipping through my fingers right until the final pages. This one has an excellent payoff!
I highly recommend this as to kick off your 2026 reading, it’ll be worth it!
January 7, 2026
Now that’s how you write a thriller!!! It had me in its grip from the starting to ending and even after finishing the book. The raw emotions and the massive twists which you would not guess are coming were incredibly written. I kinda was feeling like I know what’s coming but then the author went and twisted the story and I was led astray and then it happened! Like that sentence would only make sense if you’re a thriller reader haha. And at one point of time I was suspecting everyone! The Australian small town setting made this book all the more compelling.
Nel returns home sixteen years later for her father’s death and funeral. Sixteen years has passed since she ran away from her home town, since she ran away from the rumours surrounding her. Sixteen years since her best friend Maddie’s death. She was the last person to see her. And even though she did not kill her and was not charged, people found her guilty in their eyes. Her return has sparked those rumours back. But this time she’s stronger and she is adamant to bring the truth out. But the truth, that she believes of what happened to Maddie, is not as black and white as she thinks. In her quest for justice, will she actually be able to find what actually happened to her best friend?
There’s the obvious murder mystery in this book, but what gripped me is that it’s more than just a thriller. It’s a story about friendship, trauma, violence, patriarchy and the injustice that still happens in this world today against women. I think this is first thriller where one moment my jaw is on the floor and the next moment I’m sobbing. Kate Horan is now an autobuy author for me! A brilliant book!
Thank you so much HarperCollins Aus and Harlequin for sending me this book as part of your Book of the Month Thriller bookclub pick! Enjoyed it so much!
Nel returns home sixteen years later for her father’s death and funeral. Sixteen years has passed since she ran away from her home town, since she ran away from the rumours surrounding her. Sixteen years since her best friend Maddie’s death. She was the last person to see her. And even though she did not kill her and was not charged, people found her guilty in their eyes. Her return has sparked those rumours back. But this time she’s stronger and she is adamant to bring the truth out. But the truth, that she believes of what happened to Maddie, is not as black and white as she thinks. In her quest for justice, will she actually be able to find what actually happened to her best friend?
There’s the obvious murder mystery in this book, but what gripped me is that it’s more than just a thriller. It’s a story about friendship, trauma, violence, patriarchy and the injustice that still happens in this world today against women. I think this is first thriller where one moment my jaw is on the floor and the next moment I’m sobbing. Kate Horan is now an autobuy author for me! A brilliant book!
Thank you so much HarperCollins Aus and Harlequin for sending me this book as part of your Book of the Month Thriller bookclub pick! Enjoyed it so much!
January 12, 2026
On the Edge by Kate Horan completely hooked me so much so that I read the majority of it on an 11-hour plane flight and genuinely forgot I was in the air.
Set in the small coastal town of Carrinya, this is one of those mysteries that pulls you in quietly… and then refuses to let go. Nel Foley fled Carrinya at eighteen after the death of her best friend Maddie, a death that went unsolved and left Nel recorded as the last person to see her alive. Sixteen years later, following her father’s sudden death, Nel is forced back into the town she swore she’d never return to. And with her return comes old suspicions, long-held secrets, and a truth that the town clearly doesn’t want uncovered.
What I loved most was the constant sense of unease, the seaside setting, the flashbacks to their teenage years, the family tensions, the gossip, the lies, and the characters you absolutely love to side-eye. Every reveal made me rethink what I thought I knew, and the pacing was spot on. I like my mysteries fast-paced and compelling, and On the Edge delivered exactly that.
Kate Horan’s characterisation is a real strength. I could picture every character clearly, flaws and all, and the small-town dynamics felt incredibly real. The story also weaves in heavier themes such as coercive control and family violence, handled delicately within the broader mystery, adding emotional depth without overshadowing the main storyline.
By the end, I was fully invested, hooked to the pages right through to the climactic finish.
On the Edge is ultimately a powerful story about friendship, loss, buried truths, and finding the courage to finally face the past.
If you love small-town mysteries, dual timelines, secrets that refuse to stay buried, and books that make long flights disappear then this one is absolutely worth picking up. ✈️📖
Set in the small coastal town of Carrinya, this is one of those mysteries that pulls you in quietly… and then refuses to let go. Nel Foley fled Carrinya at eighteen after the death of her best friend Maddie, a death that went unsolved and left Nel recorded as the last person to see her alive. Sixteen years later, following her father’s sudden death, Nel is forced back into the town she swore she’d never return to. And with her return comes old suspicions, long-held secrets, and a truth that the town clearly doesn’t want uncovered.
What I loved most was the constant sense of unease, the seaside setting, the flashbacks to their teenage years, the family tensions, the gossip, the lies, and the characters you absolutely love to side-eye. Every reveal made me rethink what I thought I knew, and the pacing was spot on. I like my mysteries fast-paced and compelling, and On the Edge delivered exactly that.
Kate Horan’s characterisation is a real strength. I could picture every character clearly, flaws and all, and the small-town dynamics felt incredibly real. The story also weaves in heavier themes such as coercive control and family violence, handled delicately within the broader mystery, adding emotional depth without overshadowing the main storyline.
By the end, I was fully invested, hooked to the pages right through to the climactic finish.
On the Edge is ultimately a powerful story about friendship, loss, buried truths, and finding the courage to finally face the past.
If you love small-town mysteries, dual timelines, secrets that refuse to stay buried, and books that make long flights disappear then this one is absolutely worth picking up. ✈️📖
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