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Detective Margot Phalen Series #5
Out of the Woods: Detective Margot Phalen, Book 5
An addictive crime thriller packed with suspense
You always check under your bed for monsters before you go to sleep. You never think to look right across the dinner table.
Detective Margot Phalen has spent over a year hunting San Francisco’s most elusive predator—the Redwood Killer, who leaves his victims alongside the scenic trails of Muir Woods. Each murdered woman connects to the city’s most powerful families—and the corruption leads straight to Margot’s own police department.
With evidence that could bring down her Chief of Police, Margot finds herself caught between justice and survival. Only her partner Wes knows everything and truly sees her, stirring feelings she can’t continue to ignore. With the FBI offering her a fresh start, Margot finally glimpses a future beyond the shadows of her past.
But her past refuses to let go. Ed Finch—her serial killer father; the monster who shaped her entire life—reels her in for one last showdown. When he offers to lead her to the grave of his final victim, she can’t say no.
Can she face a final, deadly reckoning with the legacy she’s spent her life trying to outrun?
This explosive conclusion to the Margot Phalen series will have you listening deep into the night. Fans of Robert Dugoni, Karin Slaughter and Gregg Olsen won’t want to miss this gripping crime thriller.
You always check under your bed for monsters before you go to sleep. You never think to look right across the dinner table.
Detective Margot Phalen has spent over a year hunting San Francisco’s most elusive predator—the Redwood Killer, who leaves his victims alongside the scenic trails of Muir Woods. Each murdered woman connects to the city’s most powerful families—and the corruption leads straight to Margot’s own police department.
With evidence that could bring down her Chief of Police, Margot finds herself caught between justice and survival. Only her partner Wes knows everything and truly sees her, stirring feelings she can’t continue to ignore. With the FBI offering her a fresh start, Margot finally glimpses a future beyond the shadows of her past.
But her past refuses to let go. Ed Finch—her serial killer father; the monster who shaped her entire life—reels her in for one last showdown. When he offers to lead her to the grave of his final victim, she can’t say no.
Can she face a final, deadly reckoning with the legacy she’s spent her life trying to outrun?
This explosive conclusion to the Margot Phalen series will have you listening deep into the night. Fans of Robert Dugoni, Karin Slaughter and Gregg Olsen won’t want to miss this gripping crime thriller.
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Published August 20, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
August 30, 2025
We are back with Detective Margot Phalen and she is still hunting the Redwood Killer, he is at the moment San Francisco’s most elusive killer and her and her partner Wes Fox are not giving up, too many young woman hade been murdered by his hands and what she has uncovered already leads them to some of the city’s most powerful families and the police department and they must tread carefully, but Margot will get her man and anyone involved.
And there is also the cold cases that she is working with the FBI and her notorious serial killer father Ed Finch now he is offering to lead them to his last killings but he has another proviso will Margot give in to him to find those last bodies and if she does what will happen one thing for sure she is sure that she will never visit her father in jail again.
This is a fabulous ending to this wonderful series I have really enjoyed reading it, Margot is a wonderful character that I have gotten to know, her life has been hard but her strength to go forward shows her courage and is there a chance that her relationship with Wes will finally move forward past just work partners? And what of her father Ed, how will that end? And will they as a team bring down the Red wood Killer and stop more killings? I do highly recommend this one and the series.
Good news is that we will see more from Margot in a new spin off series that I look forward to.
My thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for my copy to read and review.
And there is also the cold cases that she is working with the FBI and her notorious serial killer father Ed Finch now he is offering to lead them to his last killings but he has another proviso will Margot give in to him to find those last bodies and if she does what will happen one thing for sure she is sure that she will never visit her father in jail again.
This is a fabulous ending to this wonderful series I have really enjoyed reading it, Margot is a wonderful character that I have gotten to know, her life has been hard but her strength to go forward shows her courage and is there a chance that her relationship with Wes will finally move forward past just work partners? And what of her father Ed, how will that end? And will they as a team bring down the Red wood Killer and stop more killings? I do highly recommend this one and the series.
Good news is that we will see more from Margot in a new spin off series that I look forward to.
My thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for my copy to read and review.
August 19, 2025
I'm always happy to support Canadian authors. This series has come to a close, but - not really a spoiler alert - the main character, Detective Margot Phalen will appear in a new series - so stay tuned!
Margot is a likeable character, dedicated to doing the job right. Many heads will roll in this action-packed conclusion. Will Margot -and her career - survive the dirt that she must expose as well as the culprits who have been hiding in plain sight?
The twist was a doozy! No spoilers here! Let's just say that while a few apples, like Margot Phalen, do manage to fall far enough away from the tree, others don't!!
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel, in exchange for an honest review. 4 out of 5 well written and engrossing stars!
Margot is a likeable character, dedicated to doing the job right. Many heads will roll in this action-packed conclusion. Will Margot -and her career - survive the dirt that she must expose as well as the culprits who have been hiding in plain sight?
The twist was a doozy! No spoilers here! Let's just say that while a few apples, like Margot Phalen, do manage to fall far enough away from the tree, others don't!!
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel, in exchange for an honest review. 4 out of 5 well written and engrossing stars!
September 8, 2025
Tense, taut, and atmospheric, Out of the Woods by Kate Wiley kept me glued to the pages.
This is a mystery/thriller about one of San Francisco’s most dangerous serial murderers, The Redwood Killer. While searching for the culprit, Margot once again comes face to face with her past, and her serial killer father, Ed Finch. These two stories interweave beautifully creating a captivating thriller.
This was my first read by this author, which happened to be the 5th book in a series. To my surprise, picking up in the middle of a series had no impact on my enjoyment. Detective Margot Phalen is hard working, smart, difficult, grumpy, and sarcastic, all of which make for a great detective.
If you’re looking for a pulse pounding thriller, this is it.
Thanks to NetGalley for the arc.
This is a mystery/thriller about one of San Francisco’s most dangerous serial murderers, The Redwood Killer. While searching for the culprit, Margot once again comes face to face with her past, and her serial killer father, Ed Finch. These two stories interweave beautifully creating a captivating thriller.
This was my first read by this author, which happened to be the 5th book in a series. To my surprise, picking up in the middle of a series had no impact on my enjoyment. Detective Margot Phalen is hard working, smart, difficult, grumpy, and sarcastic, all of which make for a great detective.
If you’re looking for a pulse pounding thriller, this is it.
Thanks to NetGalley for the arc.
August 14, 2025
Detective Margot Phalen’s la(te)st case takes her deep into the woods - and even deeper into her own past.
San Francisco homicide detective Margot Phalen returns for one last case in "Out of the Woods", chasing the elusive Redwood Killer while navigating corruption inside the SFPD and the looming presence of her own father—infamous serial killer Ed Finch. It’s a high-stakes finale where personal and professional lines blur, culminating in a final reckoning with her past.
Five books in, Margot remains one of crime fiction’s more layered and driven leads, shaped as much by her resilience and wit as by her scars. Margot and her team are worth following even when the procedural itself isn't always convincing.
Series author Kate Wiley's gift for character work and knack for taut, character-driven storytelling keeps the story afloat, though the many storylines make the plotting feel uneven compared to earlier books. The timeline focusing on Ed’s past crimes remains grisly, but his present-day games verge on predictable, and the police corruption thread offers little beyond setting up Margot’s next career move. Finally, the Redwood Killer case, though chilling, resolves so abruptly, it’s hard not to question why the key lead wasn’t pursued sooner.
Still, Margot’s relationships keep the momentum alive. Her banter and loyalty with her team provide the emotional weight that carries an otherwise uneven final act. And while "Out of the Woods" may not be the series’ strongest outing, it delivers closure for long-time readers - and though billed as the series conclusion, it plants seeds for potential future appearances, suggesting Margot’s story might not be entirely done. I, for one, would happily join her on another case.
I experienced the story via audiobook, flawlessly produced and narrated by Lauryn Allman. She gives Margot’s voice a firm, measured edge, with just enough emotional undercurrent to reflect the character’s haunted history. It’s a performance that suits the novel’s blend of grit and introspection, making it a strong choice for fans of the series.
Many thanks to Dreamscape Select | Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
"Out of the Woods" is slated to be released on August 19, 2025.
San Francisco homicide detective Margot Phalen returns for one last case in "Out of the Woods", chasing the elusive Redwood Killer while navigating corruption inside the SFPD and the looming presence of her own father—infamous serial killer Ed Finch. It’s a high-stakes finale where personal and professional lines blur, culminating in a final reckoning with her past.
Five books in, Margot remains one of crime fiction’s more layered and driven leads, shaped as much by her resilience and wit as by her scars. Margot and her team are worth following even when the procedural itself isn't always convincing.
Series author Kate Wiley's gift for character work and knack for taut, character-driven storytelling keeps the story afloat, though the many storylines make the plotting feel uneven compared to earlier books. The timeline focusing on Ed’s past crimes remains grisly, but his present-day games verge on predictable, and the police corruption thread offers little beyond setting up Margot’s next career move. Finally, the Redwood Killer case, though chilling, resolves so abruptly, it’s hard not to question why the key lead wasn’t pursued sooner.
Still, Margot’s relationships keep the momentum alive. Her banter and loyalty with her team provide the emotional weight that carries an otherwise uneven final act. And while "Out of the Woods" may not be the series’ strongest outing, it delivers closure for long-time readers - and though billed as the series conclusion, it plants seeds for potential future appearances, suggesting Margot’s story might not be entirely done. I, for one, would happily join her on another case.
I experienced the story via audiobook, flawlessly produced and narrated by Lauryn Allman. She gives Margot’s voice a firm, measured edge, with just enough emotional undercurrent to reflect the character’s haunted history. It’s a performance that suits the novel’s blend of grit and introspection, making it a strong choice for fans of the series.
Many thanks to Dreamscape Select | Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
"Out of the Woods" is slated to be released on August 19, 2025.
June 29, 2025
* thanks so much to Storm Publishing for the NetGalley review copy (pub date: August 20, 2025)
!!!! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH !!!! This was a perfect conclusion to one of my favorite series! All of the loose ends were satisfyingly tied up, and (even more exciting) Margot will be back (!!!!!) in a new series!
!!!! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH !!!! This was a perfect conclusion to one of my favorite series! All of the loose ends were satisfyingly tied up, and (even more exciting) Margot will be back (!!!!!) in a new series!
September 4, 2025
OUT OF THE WOODS by Kate Wiley
“Out of the Woods” is book five in the Detective Margot Phalen series, and yep, I started with the last one. Classic move for me! Turns out, it didn’t matter. This book stands on its own, but I'm tempted to binge the first four just to see what kind of chaos I missed. The silver lining? Sounds like Wiley’s planning a spinoff, so maybe I’ll actually get in on the ground floor like a normal person!
Detective Margot Phalen has been chasing the Redwood Killer for over a year. Think San Francisco, bodies in the middle of Muir Woods, and a police department that’s not exactly squeaky clean. And because Margot’s life isn’t complicated enough, her very own dad, Ed Finch, is a convicted killer who just won’t let go.
Margot and her partner, Wes, have this spark that keeps things interesting. I was actually rooting for them, and I don’t even like romance. When Margot tries to cut ties with her dad, things get messy fast. This is the kind of thriller that’ll have you double-checking your locks at night.
If you like detective series, serial killer mind games, or characters who juggle brains, grit, and messy emotions, you’ll want this series on your radar.
Thanks to the author and Storm Publishing for providing this ARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#OutOfTheWoods #KateWiley #NetGalley #StormPublishing #CapCut
Margot Phalen Series - Serial Killer Thriller - Detective Read - Book Review Thriller Series - Dark And Twisty - Corruption - Trauma
“Out of the Woods” is book five in the Detective Margot Phalen series, and yep, I started with the last one. Classic move for me! Turns out, it didn’t matter. This book stands on its own, but I'm tempted to binge the first four just to see what kind of chaos I missed. The silver lining? Sounds like Wiley’s planning a spinoff, so maybe I’ll actually get in on the ground floor like a normal person!
Detective Margot Phalen has been chasing the Redwood Killer for over a year. Think San Francisco, bodies in the middle of Muir Woods, and a police department that’s not exactly squeaky clean. And because Margot’s life isn’t complicated enough, her very own dad, Ed Finch, is a convicted killer who just won’t let go.
Margot and her partner, Wes, have this spark that keeps things interesting. I was actually rooting for them, and I don’t even like romance. When Margot tries to cut ties with her dad, things get messy fast. This is the kind of thriller that’ll have you double-checking your locks at night.
If you like detective series, serial killer mind games, or characters who juggle brains, grit, and messy emotions, you’ll want this series on your radar.
Thanks to the author and Storm Publishing for providing this ARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#OutOfTheWoods #KateWiley #NetGalley #StormPublishing #CapCut
Margot Phalen Series - Serial Killer Thriller - Detective Read - Book Review Thriller Series - Dark And Twisty - Corruption - Trauma
June 30, 2025
This is the conclusion of the 5 book series and the Author
did a wonderful job in wrapping everything up. Margot
will be missed !
did a wonderful job in wrapping everything up. Margot
will be missed !
September 9, 2025
Love this series! Always one of my favorites! Excited to see where Margot and Wes go from here.
August 20, 2025
The final book in this 5 book series where we get a peak into the mind of a serial killer and his daughter who becomes a cop. I’ve loved this series and you can see my reviews for the previous 4 titles here. This book was the perfect way to end the series by giving us closure in a few key cases and giving Margot a new beginning with a new career choice and recognizing her feelings for her partner, Wes. I look forward to future books with Margot as FBI agent. Highly recommended!
August 30, 2025
4.5 stars
Out of the Woods by Kate Wiley is the fifth and final book in the Detective Margot Phalen series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Storm Publishing, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This was a great ending to the series. Everything got tied up...even her father.
Margot is a great character, who finally realized her strengths. I even liked the relationship between her and Wes, probably because it was one that built slowly, and neither jumped in until the other was ready.
Needless to say, the books must be read in order, but because there are only five, it should not be an issue.
Now the part I'm not particularly fond of. Yes, the series is over. But....there will be a new series with Margot in it, so I assume this will be with her career change. I'm not really sure how I feel about that, because as far as I'm concerned, it will just seem like a continuation of this one, but just with a different plot-line.
Anyway, this whole series, but in particular this book...was really good.
For a more thorough review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, my own synopsis of the book, its author information and a favorite quotation from this book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
July 8, 2025
A Gripping and Emotional Conclusion.
Out of the Woods by Kate Wiley delivers a compelling and emotionally charged conclusion to the Detective Margot Phalen series. With sharp pacing and masterful plotting, Wiley draws readers into a final case that tests Margot professionally and personally. The emotional weight of her father’s crimes continues to cast a long shadow, but Margot’s resilience and determination shine through as she faces the truth head-on.
Wiley weaves a powerful narrative, blending intricate police work with deep psychological insight. Long-time readers will appreciate the evolution of Margot’s character, the resolution of long-running threads, and the sense of closure that this final instalment provides. A powerful and satisfying end to a standout crime series. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Out of the Woods by Kate Wiley delivers a compelling and emotionally charged conclusion to the Detective Margot Phalen series. With sharp pacing and masterful plotting, Wiley draws readers into a final case that tests Margot professionally and personally. The emotional weight of her father’s crimes continues to cast a long shadow, but Margot’s resilience and determination shine through as she faces the truth head-on.
Wiley weaves a powerful narrative, blending intricate police work with deep psychological insight. Long-time readers will appreciate the evolution of Margot’s character, the resolution of long-running threads, and the sense of closure that this final instalment provides. A powerful and satisfying end to a standout crime series. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 18, 2025
I love a Detective Margot Phelan novel! This one has topped all the other ones I've read.
Margot is back with her crew, trying to solve multiple murders and put a serial killer behind bars. As usual, it hits close to home for Margot, with her father being the infamous Ed Finch. Ed is also present in this book, and his presence always adds something extra to these stories. However, in this installment, things take quite the turn, and I was completely here for it! By the end, all I was able to say was, "It's about time" (in regards to both Ed and Wes!) 4.5 stars, rounded up!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and the incredible Kate Wiley for this one!
Margot is back with her crew, trying to solve multiple murders and put a serial killer behind bars. As usual, it hits close to home for Margot, with her father being the infamous Ed Finch. Ed is also present in this book, and his presence always adds something extra to these stories. However, in this installment, things take quite the turn, and I was completely here for it! By the end, all I was able to say was, "It's about time" (in regards to both Ed and Wes!) 4.5 stars, rounded up!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and the incredible Kate Wiley for this one!
August 16, 2025
So sad this series is over!!!!
Margot has been such an interesting character to read and learn about. I loved seeing things tie up with the Redwood Killer. It was such a good twist. The twists didn’t end there.
Wed and Margot finally making moves.
This series definitely didn’t disappoint!!!!!
Margot has been such an interesting character to read and learn about. I loved seeing things tie up with the Redwood Killer. It was such a good twist. The twists didn’t end there.
Wed and Margot finally making moves.
This series definitely didn’t disappoint!!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2025
~thank you to NetGalley, the author & Storm publishing for giving me a chance to read and review this book ~
I didn’t even realize this was part of a series when I requested it. Oops. Oh well. 3 stars. Hooked me in right away from the beginning but by the middle I was slowly losing interest. Not sure why, as this is right up my alley. Book about a serial killer? Love it. Not sure why I lost interest. Still stuck through it all though.
I didn’t even realize this was part of a series when I requested it. Oops. Oh well. 3 stars. Hooked me in right away from the beginning but by the middle I was slowly losing interest. Not sure why, as this is right up my alley. Book about a serial killer? Love it. Not sure why I lost interest. Still stuck through it all though.
August 16, 2025
So let me start by saying this is book #5 in the series… and the finale. I’m not sure I knew that going in, and since I have not read any of the others, I think I might be missing out a bit…
For some reason I did not connect with this one. Don’t get me wrong, the story was really good, and just when I thought we were wrapping up there was a whole other story to be finished! And it was really good too!
But, I didn’t connect…with the book or the characters. 😕
In a nutshell: Margot is a detective in San Francisco. She’s following a serial killer… and doing her best to put them behind bars…. But she’s also a bit jaded… as she grew up with one IN her own house…
We go through some gruesome findings of young women and their murders… and follow Margot and all the clues to get to the bottom of the case… But the more she finds out, the less sure she is! Until finally, something gives!!!
3 1/2 🌟🌟🌟💫 for me, rounded up to 4!
#OutOfTheWoods by @KateWiley and narrated nicely by @LaurynAllman.
***** THIS HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!!! LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON SHELVES STARTING 8/20/25!!! *****
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, #DreamscapeSelect and #StormPublishing for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
For some reason I did not connect with this one. Don’t get me wrong, the story was really good, and just when I thought we were wrapping up there was a whole other story to be finished! And it was really good too!
But, I didn’t connect…with the book or the characters. 😕
In a nutshell: Margot is a detective in San Francisco. She’s following a serial killer… and doing her best to put them behind bars…. But she’s also a bit jaded… as she grew up with one IN her own house…
We go through some gruesome findings of young women and their murders… and follow Margot and all the clues to get to the bottom of the case… But the more she finds out, the less sure she is! Until finally, something gives!!!
3 1/2 🌟🌟🌟💫 for me, rounded up to 4!
#OutOfTheWoods by @KateWiley and narrated nicely by @LaurynAllman.
***** THIS HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED YET!!! LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON SHELVES STARTING 8/20/25!!! *****
Thanks so much to #NetGalley, #DreamscapeSelect and #StormPublishing for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
July 3, 2025
Detective Margot Phalen is back - Out of The Woods is the fifth instalment in this series and it’s safe to say it absolutely did not disappoint, what a way to end it!
Margot continues her visits to her father, Ed Finch, who is serving time in prison for committing many murders throughout her childhood. The trauma Margot is living with can be seen through her relationships, work, and general life, but the way this book unravels really shows the progression Margot has made, and I found myself smiling to myself as I read some parts.
There’s absolutely nothing negative that I can say about this book, it was an exceptional read from start to finish and a real page turner. Every chapter ended leaving me desperate to read on, and any moment that I wasn’t reading, I wished that I was. Kate Wiley tied up all of the loose ends perfectly and left no questions unanswered - I’m so glad Margot got the closure she needed and deserved, and I can’t wait to experience what is to come for her!
I really am so glad that I came across these books on NetGalley because they quickly became my favourite detective series. The excitement I feel when I see a new one announced is unmatched and I would highly recommend them to anyone! Is it time for Margot and Wes to be back yet?!
Margot continues her visits to her father, Ed Finch, who is serving time in prison for committing many murders throughout her childhood. The trauma Margot is living with can be seen through her relationships, work, and general life, but the way this book unravels really shows the progression Margot has made, and I found myself smiling to myself as I read some parts.
There’s absolutely nothing negative that I can say about this book, it was an exceptional read from start to finish and a real page turner. Every chapter ended leaving me desperate to read on, and any moment that I wasn’t reading, I wished that I was. Kate Wiley tied up all of the loose ends perfectly and left no questions unanswered - I’m so glad Margot got the closure she needed and deserved, and I can’t wait to experience what is to come for her!
I really am so glad that I came across these books on NetGalley because they quickly became my favourite detective series. The excitement I feel when I see a new one announced is unmatched and I would highly recommend them to anyone! Is it time for Margot and Wes to be back yet?!
July 8, 2025
Out of the Woods is the fifth, and final, book in the Detective Margot Phalen series. Admittedly, I haven't read the first three, and I might not have read the fourth had I not received an invitation to do so, from the publisher. I gleaned enough of Margot's back story in that one, to keep me in the loop. 🗡
And so, to the final book. Margot and Wes are still on the hunt for the Redwood Killer, with two new murders credited to him. Alongside that, notorious serial killer Ed Finch requests an interview with Margot. He wants to tell her the location of two more bodies, hinting that this is the last of them. 🗡
The action is non-stop with this one, as we hurtle to the possible conclusion of a maddening investigation. The pace is fast, and there's not a red herring in sight. Wiley brings the series to a conclusion in a most satisfying way. Best of all, this not the last we will see of Margot Phalen. I for one, look forward to catching up with her when her new series comes out. 🗡
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the digital ARC.
And so, to the final book. Margot and Wes are still on the hunt for the Redwood Killer, with two new murders credited to him. Alongside that, notorious serial killer Ed Finch requests an interview with Margot. He wants to tell her the location of two more bodies, hinting that this is the last of them. 🗡
The action is non-stop with this one, as we hurtle to the possible conclusion of a maddening investigation. The pace is fast, and there's not a red herring in sight. Wiley brings the series to a conclusion in a most satisfying way. Best of all, this not the last we will see of Margot Phalen. I for one, look forward to catching up with her when her new series comes out. 🗡
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the digital ARC.
August 15, 2025
Sadly this is the last book in the Detective Margot Phalen series. Margot is a homicide detective in San Francisco who also happens to be the daughter of one of America’s most prolific serial killers. Over the years the FBI has leaned on her to get information out of her father about his crimes and victims while she continues solving murders around the Bay Area.
The writing is excellent and the characters at both the police force and the FBI are done really well. Margot herself feels like a real person. You can see the pain she carries from being Ed Finch’s daughter but also her drive to help victims. She is a great detective in this one and I honestly wanted more of her story, which makes it a bummer that this is where it ends.
I haven’t read the other four books in the series, so I think this conclusion might feel even more satisfying if I had. Still, I enjoyed it a lot. I do not want to give too much away since this closes out the series, but if you like gritty crime thrillers with strong characters, this is a series worth checking out.
The writing is excellent and the characters at both the police force and the FBI are done really well. Margot herself feels like a real person. You can see the pain she carries from being Ed Finch’s daughter but also her drive to help victims. She is a great detective in this one and I honestly wanted more of her story, which makes it a bummer that this is where it ends.
I haven’t read the other four books in the series, so I think this conclusion might feel even more satisfying if I had. Still, I enjoyed it a lot. I do not want to give too much away since this closes out the series, but if you like gritty crime thrillers with strong characters, this is a series worth checking out.
August 22, 2025
Let me start by saying, I have not read any books in this series. This is book 5. After reading this book…I want to go read the rest of the series!! Margot has an interesting back ground and I want to know more of it!
Detective Margot Phalen has spent over a year hunting San Francisco’s most elusive predator—the Redwood Killer, who leaves his victims alongside the scenic trails of Muir Woods. Each murdered woman connects to the city’s most powerful families—and the corruption leads straight to Margot’s own police department.
I enjoyed the intensity and the dynamics of the characters. Margot is definitely a fascinating woman and her interactions just made her so much more intriguing.
And the hunt for this killer!! It leaves the reader with questions at every turn.
The narrator, Lauryn Allman, is very good! She added to the intensity of the story and that is always a plus in my book.
Need a good hunt for a killer…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!
I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.
Detective Margot Phalen has spent over a year hunting San Francisco’s most elusive predator—the Redwood Killer, who leaves his victims alongside the scenic trails of Muir Woods. Each murdered woman connects to the city’s most powerful families—and the corruption leads straight to Margot’s own police department.
I enjoyed the intensity and the dynamics of the characters. Margot is definitely a fascinating woman and her interactions just made her so much more intriguing.
And the hunt for this killer!! It leaves the reader with questions at every turn.
The narrator, Lauryn Allman, is very good! She added to the intensity of the story and that is always a plus in my book.
Need a good hunt for a killer…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!
I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.
July 10, 2025
This crime thriller delivers on all fronts, a truly excellent read!
Although part of a series, this is easily read as a standalone.
We have Detective Margot and her partner Wes relentlessly pursuing a serial killer targeting young female escorts from the same company.
Margot's gutsy, gritty determination leads her to do everything she can to bring the killer to justice.
The story is peppered by a simmering romantic tension with Wes that adds another layer to their partnership.
The ingenious twist of Margot's father, Ed, a jailed serial killer, has her assisting the FBI in locating his victims, providing a unique and gripping dimension.
The narrative builds to an explosive and utterly amazing climax that took my breath away.
A must-read for fans of high-stakes police procedurals full of drama and suspense. I can't wait for the next instalment!
My thanks to NetGalley and Storm publishing for the ARC. This is my honest review.
Although part of a series, this is easily read as a standalone.
We have Detective Margot and her partner Wes relentlessly pursuing a serial killer targeting young female escorts from the same company.
Margot's gutsy, gritty determination leads her to do everything she can to bring the killer to justice.
The story is peppered by a simmering romantic tension with Wes that adds another layer to their partnership.
The ingenious twist of Margot's father, Ed, a jailed serial killer, has her assisting the FBI in locating his victims, providing a unique and gripping dimension.
The narrative builds to an explosive and utterly amazing climax that took my breath away.
A must-read for fans of high-stakes police procedurals full of drama and suspense. I can't wait for the next instalment!
My thanks to NetGalley and Storm publishing for the ARC. This is my honest review.
August 10, 2025
4.25
Firstly, I want to thank @@stormbooks_co and @netgalley for allowing me access to this e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
This is book 5 of the Margot Phalen series, and it is the final book in the series! I have followed this series from the beginning as an ARC reader and I have loved every second of this series 🥰
This book is no different, as it follows Margot as she continues to work through living her life as a serial killers daughter, whilst working as a homicide detective! I have to say, this was a quick and easy read and I feel that the series was wrapped up well, with potential to branch off into a new series! It was twisty and fast paced with a satisfying few plot twists thrown in there too!
If you haven't read this series, then this is your sign! All of the series are on KU and this book (book 5) releases TODAY, August 20th!
Well done Kate on a fantastic series! I cannot wait to see the comeback of Margot Phalen in another capacity! ❤️
Firstly, I want to thank @@stormbooks_co and @netgalley for allowing me access to this e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
This is book 5 of the Margot Phalen series, and it is the final book in the series! I have followed this series from the beginning as an ARC reader and I have loved every second of this series 🥰
This book is no different, as it follows Margot as she continues to work through living her life as a serial killers daughter, whilst working as a homicide detective! I have to say, this was a quick and easy read and I feel that the series was wrapped up well, with potential to branch off into a new series! It was twisty and fast paced with a satisfying few plot twists thrown in there too!
If you haven't read this series, then this is your sign! All of the series are on KU and this book (book 5) releases TODAY, August 20th!
Well done Kate on a fantastic series! I cannot wait to see the comeback of Margot Phalen in another capacity! ❤️
August 21, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this awesome book
its the finale of the series and this author hasnt let us down....
theres another serial killer in town.... hes not leaving anything at the scene so margot and wes really need a break for them to crack on with the case
also margots father is the infamous serial killer and he has one last request and its a doozy....can margot put behind her everything she holds to bring two more bodies home to their families....
and if thats not enough theres also the court case that margot has been called to testify in... can she be less aggressive and more likeable... only time will tell
man this book had it all... kept me reading till very late just to see how it ends...and i wasnt disappointed at all....
cant wait to see whats next from this author
its the finale of the series and this author hasnt let us down....
theres another serial killer in town.... hes not leaving anything at the scene so margot and wes really need a break for them to crack on with the case
also margots father is the infamous serial killer and he has one last request and its a doozy....can margot put behind her everything she holds to bring two more bodies home to their families....
and if thats not enough theres also the court case that margot has been called to testify in... can she be less aggressive and more likeable... only time will tell
man this book had it all... kept me reading till very late just to see how it ends...and i wasnt disappointed at all....
cant wait to see whats next from this author
July 2, 2025
Oh my god, I don’t know if I want to cry and scream or just celebrate. This was such an epic conclusion to one of my favorite crime thrillers.
I can’t help but squeal in excitement for Margot and Wes and them finally getting their chance, but more than that, the mystery we’ve been following for so many books finally got its conclusion and if it wasn’t the best mic drop moment for Margot I don’t know what is.
This is such a page turner of a series and once it’s released I’ll need to binge read the entire series again because it’s just SO good!
I’m so grateful to Storm publishing and Kate Wiley for giving me the chance to ARC read this! I cannot wait for what’s next for Margot with the new series!!!
I can’t help but squeal in excitement for Margot and Wes and them finally getting their chance, but more than that, the mystery we’ve been following for so many books finally got its conclusion and if it wasn’t the best mic drop moment for Margot I don’t know what is.
This is such a page turner of a series and once it’s released I’ll need to binge read the entire series again because it’s just SO good!
I’m so grateful to Storm publishing and Kate Wiley for giving me the chance to ARC read this! I cannot wait for what’s next for Margot with the new series!!!
August 19, 2025
4⭐️ Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an advanced copy of Out Of The Woods.
Detective Margot Phalen and her partner Wes have been on the hunt for the Redwood Killer. Two bodies are found in a very short time frame and Margot believes this is when the killer will make a mistake. They start taking a look at the other cases to see if there is anything they missed. On top of this case Margot is taking one last meeting with her imprisoned serial killer father to find more of his victims. Can she lay both of the cases to rest?
This is the fifth and final book in the series. I have really enjoyed this series and I loved how everything was wrapped up in this one!
Detective Margot Phalen and her partner Wes have been on the hunt for the Redwood Killer. Two bodies are found in a very short time frame and Margot believes this is when the killer will make a mistake. They start taking a look at the other cases to see if there is anything they missed. On top of this case Margot is taking one last meeting with her imprisoned serial killer father to find more of his victims. Can she lay both of the cases to rest?
This is the fifth and final book in the series. I have really enjoyed this series and I loved how everything was wrapped up in this one!
August 21, 2025
Out of the Woods, the final installment in the Margot Phalen series.
I've come to really like and enjoy Margot ( Megan) as a strong character with a dark sense of humor and smart wit. I am happy how things ended. The Redwood Killer caught, her father Ed Finch got what he had coming, she got to really enjoy how she ended the Chief of police. But my ultimate favorite was her joining the FBI and how things ended or are starting with Wes. Overall, I am so happy for her, and I am excited because, in the end, the author hinted that she will be bringing Margot back but in another series.
Thank you, Netgalley and Storm Publishing, for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
I've come to really like and enjoy Margot ( Megan) as a strong character with a dark sense of humor and smart wit. I am happy how things ended. The Redwood Killer caught, her father Ed Finch got what he had coming, she got to really enjoy how she ended the Chief of police. But my ultimate favorite was her joining the FBI and how things ended or are starting with Wes. Overall, I am so happy for her, and I am excited because, in the end, the author hinted that she will be bringing Margot back but in another series.
Thank you, Netgalley and Storm Publishing, for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2025
I hadn't read the other books in the series but this didn't take away the enjoyment of reading this final novel. Actively investigating the Redwood killer while also assisting the FBI with the Ed Finch killings, and a court case looming Margot is feeling exhausted. After the recent documentary everyone knows she's Ed Finch's daughter, which could lead to complications and a conflict of interest.
This is a strong police procedural novel, I liked the main characters. The setting added to the mysterious aspect.
This is a strong police procedural novel, I liked the main characters. The setting added to the mysterious aspect.
July 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Out of the Woods was the perfect ending to one of my favorite thriller series. It was intense, emotional, and had me hooked from the first page.
I loved how Margot faced both the killer she’s been chasing and the monster from her past. The tension was nonstop and the stakes felt higher than ever. That final showdown with her father was chilling and so well done.
I’m sad the series is over but excited that Kate Wiley is continuing Margot’s story in a new series. I’m not ready to let her go and I can’t wait to see what comes next 😍
Out of the Woods was the perfect ending to one of my favorite thriller series. It was intense, emotional, and had me hooked from the first page.
I loved how Margot faced both the killer she’s been chasing and the monster from her past. The tension was nonstop and the stakes felt higher than ever. That final showdown with her father was chilling and so well done.
I’m sad the series is over but excited that Kate Wiley is continuing Margot’s story in a new series. I’m not ready to let her go and I can’t wait to see what comes next 😍
August 20, 2025
Thanks so much to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC audiobook.
What a great book!
When I requested this book, I did not notice that it was the last installment in a five book series.
I didn't have time to listen to the previous four books so I just went for it.
Never once did I feel lost.
But I have decided to read the previous books because this one was so very good!
Narration was excellent.
I was totally invested in the two days I listened to this book.
A new series and author for me!
What a great book!
When I requested this book, I did not notice that it was the last installment in a five book series.
I didn't have time to listen to the previous four books so I just went for it.
Never once did I feel lost.
But I have decided to read the previous books because this one was so very good!
Narration was excellent.
I was totally invested in the two days I listened to this book.
A new series and author for me!
August 24, 2025
Thanks to #NetGalley and #StormPublishing for the book #OutOfTheWoods by #KateWiley. This is the fifth of the Margot Phalen series and it’s absolutely amazing. This book wrapped up a chapter in Margot’s life but I am hoping there will be another chapter soon. Margot is dealing with the Redwood killer, a corrupt police chief and of course her serial killer father, Ed Finch. Everything is overwhelming and she is dealing with other feelings. Can she wrap up all the destruction going on?
June 29, 2025
This book features two storylines that are fast-paced. One storyline is engaging though somewhat exaggerated, while the other seems implausible and lacks thorough research.
The series concludes with a dramatic ending.
Thank you to the publisher/author for the opportunity to read this complimentary advanced copy. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The series concludes with a dramatic ending.
Thank you to the publisher/author for the opportunity to read this complimentary advanced copy. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
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