What do you think?
The Edge of the Woods
The unmissable new thriller from the USA Today bestselling master of edge-of-your-seat reading and screenwriter of Netflix Original movie, The Weekend Away.
Two survivors. One killer?
After narrowly escaping a serial killer, Isla has rebuilt her life. She has a devoted husband, two beautiful children, and a career helping other women survive the kind of trauma she knows all too well. The past is a locked box – until a girl is found with eerily familiar injuries, running down the verge of the very same highway where Isla was saved.
These wounds were meant to have died with the man who gave them to her. But as Isla begins to unravel the girl’s story, the lines between memory and reality blur. Is this a copycat? A cruel coincidence? Or could the man who once hunted her still be out there?
To protect her family – and herself – Isla must confront the truth she buried. Because some monsters never really disappear…
Two survivors. One killer?
After narrowly escaping a serial killer, Isla has rebuilt her life. She has a devoted husband, two beautiful children, and a career helping other women survive the kind of trauma she knows all too well. The past is a locked box – until a girl is found with eerily familiar injuries, running down the verge of the very same highway where Isla was saved.
These wounds were meant to have died with the man who gave them to her. But as Isla begins to unravel the girl’s story, the lines between memory and reality blur. Is this a copycat? A cruel coincidence? Or could the man who once hunted her still be out there?
To protect her family – and herself – Isla must confront the truth she buried. Because some monsters never really disappear…
409 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2026
About the author
Sarah Alderson
27 books2,991 followersHaving spent most of her life in London, Sarah quit her job in the non profit sector in 2009 and took off on a round the world trip with her husband and princess-obsessed daughter on a mission to find a new place to call home. After several months in India, Singapore, Australia and the US, they settled in Bali where they lived for five years.
She finished her first novel, Hunting Lila (winner of the Kingston Book Award), just before they left the UK, wrote the sequel on the beach in India and had signed a two book deal with Simon & Schuster by the time they had reached Bali.
A third book, Fated, about a teenage demon slayer, was published in January 2012.
The Sound, a thriller romance set in Nantucket, was published in August 2013 and this was followed by the critically acclaimed Out of Control in May 2014.
Her first non-fiction book - CAN WE LIVE HERE? - based on her blog of the same name, was published in August 2015 by Blink.
She also writes New Adult romance for Pan Macmillan (UK) / Simon & Schuster (US) under the pen name Mila Gray.
You can find Sarah on facebook and at www.sarahalderson.com or follow her blog at www.canwelivhere.com
She finished her first novel, Hunting Lila (winner of the Kingston Book Award), just before they left the UK, wrote the sequel on the beach in India and had signed a two book deal with Simon & Schuster by the time they had reached Bali.
A third book, Fated, about a teenage demon slayer, was published in January 2012.
The Sound, a thriller romance set in Nantucket, was published in August 2013 and this was followed by the critically acclaimed Out of Control in May 2014.
Her first non-fiction book - CAN WE LIVE HERE? - based on her blog of the same name, was published in August 2015 by Blink.
She also writes New Adult romance for Pan Macmillan (UK) / Simon & Schuster (US) under the pen name Mila Gray.
You can find Sarah on facebook and at www.sarahalderson.com or follow her blog at www.canwelivhere.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
September 13, 2026
You know Im wondering if a memo has gone round to authors to make teenage daughters in thrillers absolutely vile? 😀 not just normal teenage angst like we all had but full on hatred mode, anyway theres one in this book and shes in full on nasty......constatntly
I digress…..this is a chilling read, Isla thinks the serial killer who she escaped from decades before is back, even though he was ‘presumed’ dead, all the signs are there when a victim is brought into the ER where she works and of course no one believes her and thinks she is having ‘an episode’
The story is split into now and Isla’s recollection of her abduction and time held and those parts are harrowing, hard to read and frighteningly realistic
Towards the end we are led to believe things are wrapping up and in my mind just a bit too convienantly when a curve ball appears from nowhere, all makes horrific sense and I expected to read the epilogue as a happy ever after again……but found probably one of the most unexpected and scary endings for a long time
Evil doesn’t strike twice, does it?….
I digress…..this is a chilling read, Isla thinks the serial killer who she escaped from decades before is back, even though he was ‘presumed’ dead, all the signs are there when a victim is brought into the ER where she works and of course no one believes her and thinks she is having ‘an episode’
The story is split into now and Isla’s recollection of her abduction and time held and those parts are harrowing, hard to read and frighteningly realistic
Towards the end we are led to believe things are wrapping up and in my mind just a bit too convienantly when a curve ball appears from nowhere, all makes horrific sense and I expected to read the epilogue as a happy ever after again……but found probably one of the most unexpected and scary endings for a long time
Evil doesn’t strike twice, does it?….
August 29, 2026
I think cinematic is the best way to describe Sarah Alderson’s writing. Her books just move. Short chapters, tension, atmosphere, twists, another reveal…and I just keep reading. She knows how to keep me invested, even when things get a little unbelievable along the way. The Edge of the Woods did exactly that. I listened to this in a little over a day!
This felt like a mix of everything I’ve loved about her other books. It had the creepy, isolated atmosphere of The Cabin in the Woods, but the faster pace and twists I loved in In Her Eyes and The Weekend Away. I loved the past and present timelines and especially watching Isla become more anxious and paranoid. I kept questioning whether she was actually uncovering something or mentally unraveling from everything she’d been through. Obviously that was the point, and it worked on me.
Were some of the twists a little contrived? Yes, most definitely. But the pacing and suspense more than made up for it. This reminded me just how much Sarah Alderson’s writing style and my reading style mesh. And of course, just when I thought I had it figured out, she threw in one more twist. Loved the ending! (Audio)
This felt like a mix of everything I’ve loved about her other books. It had the creepy, isolated atmosphere of The Cabin in the Woods, but the faster pace and twists I loved in In Her Eyes and The Weekend Away. I loved the past and present timelines and especially watching Isla become more anxious and paranoid. I kept questioning whether she was actually uncovering something or mentally unraveling from everything she’d been through. Obviously that was the point, and it worked on me.
Were some of the twists a little contrived? Yes, most definitely. But the pacing and suspense more than made up for it. This reminded me just how much Sarah Alderson’s writing style and my reading style mesh. And of course, just when I thought I had it figured out, she threw in one more twist. Loved the ending! (Audio)
June 28, 2026
I have not torn through a book this fast in a long time. This book was fast-paced, dark, and kept me on the edge of my seat. Isla’s anxiety was palpable, I felt every emotion as she revisited her time in captivity and the similarities she was drawing together with the present day case.
Isla escaped a serial killer when she was in college. Her name and story are well known. She now works in a special trauma unit in the ER when someone shows up with eerily similar injuries and circumstances to her own case.
I could not put this book down, and hope someone makes this into a Netflix limited series! Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
Isla escaped a serial killer when she was in college. Her name and story are well known. She now works in a special trauma unit in the ER when someone shows up with eerily similar injuries and circumstances to her own case.
I could not put this book down, and hope someone makes this into a Netflix limited series! Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
September 17, 2026
This was a really intriguing story. Although a slow-burner, I was fascinated by Isla’s increasing paranoia and suspicions. Is the Masked Monster still alive? And what exactly caused Jane Doe to be admitted to her ward?
Alderson grabs the reader’s attention immediately with scenes that sound like something from a horror movie. It is quickly revealed that Isla suffered at the hands of the Masked Monster when she was a teenager: abducted from her bed in the middle of the night; held hostage in a sort of underground bunker; and was one of the few, lucky ones who managed to escape. Yet, despite a conviction that lead to a man spending the rest of his life behind bars, events begin to suggest to Isla that perhaps this nightmare is not over.
As is the case with many stories, no one believes any of Isla’s suspicions. She takes matters into her own hands and starts following up clues. I felt completely invested in her actions, believing her predictions that the wrong man was convicted for her kidnapping. However, without firm evidence, it was difficult not to see Isla as paranoid and having a mental breakdown. On the other hand, the appearance of a Jane Doe at her psychiatric ward was the catalyst to Isla’s behaviour, leaving my head spinning with what to believe.
I don’t think it helps that Isla’s family appear incredibly unsupportive. The family unit is crumbling and Isla’s actions are making it worse. I think Zach was the only character I sympathised with as Isla’s husband is shifty, working long hours and spending time with his young legal associate. Furthermore, Isla’s teenage daughter, Anna, is rebellious, suffering after being brought up by a mother who is very protective (for obvious reasons). Yet, Anna’s actions are deplorable and she was a character who I felt needed some old-fashioned discipline, especially after the ice-cream parlour scenes.
I think Alderson has a created a clever narrative with surprising twists along the way. The tension slowly builds to a climax and this lead to an explosive conclusion and an additionally creepy Epilogue. Whilst I had guessed some of it by this point, it certainly didn’t lessen my enjoyment of the book.
This is a chilling read, intensified by the lack of trust in Isla’s beliefs and the scenes in the underground bunker. Isla’s emotions are so fraught that it made me even more invested to see whether she would be proven right, once and for all. She goes to any lengths to follow her instinct and this made her character admirable for her determination. The Masked Monster has haunted Isla for long enough; it’s time for her to take her life back.
With thanks to Avon and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Alderson grabs the reader’s attention immediately with scenes that sound like something from a horror movie. It is quickly revealed that Isla suffered at the hands of the Masked Monster when she was a teenager: abducted from her bed in the middle of the night; held hostage in a sort of underground bunker; and was one of the few, lucky ones who managed to escape. Yet, despite a conviction that lead to a man spending the rest of his life behind bars, events begin to suggest to Isla that perhaps this nightmare is not over.
As is the case with many stories, no one believes any of Isla’s suspicions. She takes matters into her own hands and starts following up clues. I felt completely invested in her actions, believing her predictions that the wrong man was convicted for her kidnapping. However, without firm evidence, it was difficult not to see Isla as paranoid and having a mental breakdown. On the other hand, the appearance of a Jane Doe at her psychiatric ward was the catalyst to Isla’s behaviour, leaving my head spinning with what to believe.
I don’t think it helps that Isla’s family appear incredibly unsupportive. The family unit is crumbling and Isla’s actions are making it worse. I think Zach was the only character I sympathised with as Isla’s husband is shifty, working long hours and spending time with his young legal associate. Furthermore, Isla’s teenage daughter, Anna, is rebellious, suffering after being brought up by a mother who is very protective (for obvious reasons). Yet, Anna’s actions are deplorable and she was a character who I felt needed some old-fashioned discipline, especially after the ice-cream parlour scenes.
I think Alderson has a created a clever narrative with surprising twists along the way. The tension slowly builds to a climax and this lead to an explosive conclusion and an additionally creepy Epilogue. Whilst I had guessed some of it by this point, it certainly didn’t lessen my enjoyment of the book.
This is a chilling read, intensified by the lack of trust in Isla’s beliefs and the scenes in the underground bunker. Isla’s emotions are so fraught that it made me even more invested to see whether she would be proven right, once and for all. She goes to any lengths to follow her instinct and this made her character admirable for her determination. The Masked Monster has haunted Isla for long enough; it’s time for her to take her life back.
With thanks to Avon and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2026
Excellent thriller!!! Loved. Did not see that twist coming at the end. Very well done. Fast paced, and I loved the dual timelines as well.
September 7, 2026
I am SO disappointed. I have read an earlier thriller by this author and actually enjoyed it. This book takes everything I dislike about the genre, puts in a blender and produces an unappetizing sludge. We have an earlier victim of a serial killer - Isla - who is an unreliable narrator, a killer that was caught but died, and a small cast of possible perps. The book starts with a Jane Doe appearing on the scene, with the same injuries as Isla and not talking. Everything else proceeds with endless repetitions and without a single twist that I hadn't sniffed out in advance.
At about 60% I speeded up the audio. This is never a good sign. At about 68% I started skipping and skimming through chapters until the utterly predictable ending.
Unlikable characters, regurgitation of well known tropes, endless repetition, predictable and NOT recommended.
At about 60% I speeded up the audio. This is never a good sign. At about 68% I started skipping and skimming through chapters until the utterly predictable ending.
Unlikable characters, regurgitation of well known tropes, endless repetition, predictable and NOT recommended.
August 9, 2026
Easy 5 stars - brilliant dark thriller reminded me of Jennifer hillier writing style!
June 25, 2026
Thank you so much to Netgalley for giving me this free advance copy, and I’m writing this review honestly and without bias.
Another masterclass in descriptive narrative from the wonderful Sarah Aldersen. The setting is perfect and the author creates a wonderful dark atmosphere, in this twisty read that keeps you guessing until the end. And. That. Ending - a fantastic curveball that was totally unexpected. Wonderfully written and flows nicely between past and present with the focus on Isla as she tries to solve the mystery of her past. A gripping read and another winner from this talented author. 4.5⭐️
September 1, 2026
Read Completed 8/29/26 | 3.25 stars | Book #172 of 2026
I wasn't nearly as impressed with this book as with Sarah Alderson's previous works. It just didn't feel nearly as strong, as intense, or as well-put together. I just felt like a lot of the moments with potential ended up being brushed away or dropped off. I had a very, very strong theory at the 25% - 30% mark and I was interested to see if that was true, and I was 50-80% right on that, but also looking back, I felt like the author really dropped the ball to place clues and let the readers in on the story... and I have complaints.
The middle of the book dragged just a little bit. The audiobook narrator didn't help me because I thought she made Isla kind of annoying. I just really wasn't super into the characters and the pacing was also just a little off.
This one just didn't hit as hard for me and I'm having a hard time finding the magic that I loved so much in THE STALKER.
I wasn't nearly as impressed with this book as with Sarah Alderson's previous works. It just didn't feel nearly as strong, as intense, or as well-put together. I just felt like a lot of the moments with potential ended up being brushed away or dropped off. I had a very, very strong theory at the 25% - 30% mark and I was interested to see if that was true, and I was 50-80% right on that, but also looking back, I felt like the author really dropped the ball to place clues and let the readers in on the story... and I have complaints.
The middle of the book dragged just a little bit. The audiobook narrator didn't help me because I thought she made Isla kind of annoying. I just really wasn't super into the characters and the pacing was also just a little off.
This one just didn't hit as hard for me and I'm having a hard time finding the magic that I loved so much in THE STALKER.
September 25, 2026
Isla was kidnapped by a serial killer but managed to escape. She has now built a new life and works with other women who have survived trauma. She has tried to move on from what happened to her but suddenly her past comes back when a young girl is found injured in a way that reminds Isla of her own kidnapping.
The girl is discovered close to the same highway where Isla was rescued from years earlier. Isla becomes convinced that the new case is connected to the man who abducted her. The problem is that her attacker was believed to be dead.
This was a good one. I love this authors books and writing style.
The girl is discovered close to the same highway where Isla was rescued from years earlier. Isla becomes convinced that the new case is connected to the man who abducted her. The problem is that her attacker was believed to be dead.
This was a good one. I love this authors books and writing style.
September 8, 2026
This was definitely a thrilling read and one I could not put down. Did not see that twist coming at the end!
September 7, 2026
Could not put it down!!
New favorite author! Riveting from start to finish. Perfect length too, it didn't drag on needlessly. Great characters. Would love to see a sequel
New favorite author! Riveting from start to finish. Perfect length too, it didn't drag on needlessly. Great characters. Would love to see a sequel
September 4, 2026
Except for the fact that mystery-thriller authors should stop themselves before writing that epilogue, I enjoyed this quite a bit. there are more than enough potential villains to keep readers guessing, enough constant plot movement, and a relatable main character.
August 31, 2026
Sarah is a very talented writer and really knows how to tell a good story. This one did not disappoint. The only thing I didn’t like about it was the epilogue about Mikey.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
After narrowly escaping a serial killer, Isla has rebuilt her life and is now a psychologist helping others in need. When a girl arrives at her workplace, sporting similar injuries and discovered down the same road Isla was found, it all feels eerily too familiar. Isla is desperate to know if it could possibly be related and as she begins to unravel, the lines between reality and memory blur. Is it a cruel coincidence or could the person who hunted her still be out there?
I have read a fair few Sarah Alderson books, especially enjoying the last one I read (The Cabin in the Woods) and have been waiting for a new one ever since. So you can imagine my excitement when I finally saw this one and after finishing, I was pleased that it definitely met up to expectation. I found I was hooked to the story almost straight away and continued to be gripped to the nail biting ending. What the author managed to do so well was create a claustrophobic, creepy atmosphere and describe the feelings and situations so vividly, building an unsettling picture, while also creating intensity and suspense. So much so that I could feel the paranoia and turmoil of the characters myself.
The author also managed to create some authentic characters, where despite their flaws, you could build a connection with them and understand them on a deeper level. I found that I doubted myself throughout the story, with reveals and twists dotted all round, and although I predicted some parts, others were surprising and fun to discover.
Now that I have finished, I feel like I need some time to recover and will definitely be recommending this one, especially to those who are looking for an addictive, fast paced, dark read. I could see this one making a great TV series and really hope there is more to come from this author soon. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
I have read a fair few Sarah Alderson books, especially enjoying the last one I read (The Cabin in the Woods) and have been waiting for a new one ever since. So you can imagine my excitement when I finally saw this one and after finishing, I was pleased that it definitely met up to expectation. I found I was hooked to the story almost straight away and continued to be gripped to the nail biting ending. What the author managed to do so well was create a claustrophobic, creepy atmosphere and describe the feelings and situations so vividly, building an unsettling picture, while also creating intensity and suspense. So much so that I could feel the paranoia and turmoil of the characters myself.
The author also managed to create some authentic characters, where despite their flaws, you could build a connection with them and understand them on a deeper level. I found that I doubted myself throughout the story, with reveals and twists dotted all round, and although I predicted some parts, others were surprising and fun to discover.
Now that I have finished, I feel like I need some time to recover and will definitely be recommending this one, especially to those who are looking for an addictive, fast paced, dark read. I could see this one making a great TV series and really hope there is more to come from this author soon. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Edge of the Woods is a tense, atmospheric thriller that grips from the very first page and refuses to let go. Sarah Alderson has crafted a story that feels both deeply personal and relentlessly suspenseful, pulling you straight into Isla’s fractured world as past trauma collides with present danger.
Isla is a compelling protagonist—strong, vulnerable, and painfully human. Having rebuilt her life after surviving a serial killer, she’s finally found stability: a loving family, meaningful work, and a sense of safety she fought hard to earn. But when a young woman appears with injuries eerily identical to her own, everything Isla has locked away begins to crack open. Alderson handles this unraveling with sharp emotional insight, blurring the lines between memory, fear, and reality in a way that keeps you constantly questioning what’s true.
The pacing is fantastic: tight, dark, and full of unease. The mystery unfolds with a steady, creeping dread, and the stakes feel genuinely high—not just for Isla, but for her family and the women she’s dedicated her life to helping. Alderson excels at creating that “edge-of-your-seat” tension, the kind that makes you read just one more chapter until suddenly it’s far past bedtime.
What really stands out is how the novel explores the long shadow of trauma. Isla’s determination to confront the past, even when it threatens everything she’s built, gives the story emotional weight beyond its twists and reveals. And while the plot is undeniably chilling, it’s anchored by heart and humanity.
Dark, bingeable, and utterly gripping, The Edge of the Woods is a thriller that keeps you breathless and guessing right up to the final pages. A must-read for fans of psychological suspense with real emotional depth.
With thanks to Sarah Alderson, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Isla is a compelling protagonist—strong, vulnerable, and painfully human. Having rebuilt her life after surviving a serial killer, she’s finally found stability: a loving family, meaningful work, and a sense of safety she fought hard to earn. But when a young woman appears with injuries eerily identical to her own, everything Isla has locked away begins to crack open. Alderson handles this unraveling with sharp emotional insight, blurring the lines between memory, fear, and reality in a way that keeps you constantly questioning what’s true.
The pacing is fantastic: tight, dark, and full of unease. The mystery unfolds with a steady, creeping dread, and the stakes feel genuinely high—not just for Isla, but for her family and the women she’s dedicated her life to helping. Alderson excels at creating that “edge-of-your-seat” tension, the kind that makes you read just one more chapter until suddenly it’s far past bedtime.
What really stands out is how the novel explores the long shadow of trauma. Isla’s determination to confront the past, even when it threatens everything she’s built, gives the story emotional weight beyond its twists and reveals. And while the plot is undeniably chilling, it’s anchored by heart and humanity.
Dark, bingeable, and utterly gripping, The Edge of the Woods is a thriller that keeps you breathless and guessing right up to the final pages. A must-read for fans of psychological suspense with real emotional depth.
With thanks to Sarah Alderson, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
September 30, 2026
The first 5 star review I have given in a hot minute. Sarah’s books don’t get churned out at a fast pace, but they are worth the wait every time. This book kept me flipping pages like no tomorrow. The mystery and “detective work” of the main character had me on a wild ride and I couldn’t figure out where it was going and the relationships and character building were quality. So many intricate pieces of the story all intertwined. **SPOILERS** Isla is a grown woman, married with 2 kids who went through a traumatic experience being taken, kept in an underground bunker by a fully masked man and “hunted” like prey with a tracker on her ear when she was a teenager. She ended up getting away and it was thought that her killer was found, captured and died in jail years ago. Strange disappearances keep happening in her area and when a young woman shows up at her rehabilitation centre, found in the same condition she was near the same edge of the woods with the same ear injury from what she assumed was the same type of “tracker” she was fit with by her captor back then, she sets out on a action packed wild goose chase to try and find the real killer she believes to still be out there. I was sure it would end up being her husband who was always there for her and doted on her early on when they started dating after she was found, and was now acting distant and angry at her antics to try and rehash the case and find the killer when he believed the killer died in jail. Major plot twist in the end when she figures out it’s her husband’s father’s best friend who has been like a second father figure to her and her kids for her entire adult life. He was an ex cop retired, go figure. What a story. So many side stories and relationships that keep you off track but they were not difficult to follow which I appreciated. It was JUST SO GOOD. Bravo Sarah! I can’t WAIT for the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 rounded up
Once the name Isla Lindaloff is infamous as she’s the survivor of a serial killer, deceased James Altman. Now she’s Isla McGrane, she’s married, has two children and a good job as a clinical psychologist. She’s coping as well as she can but when a Jane Doe is brought into her hospital unit, the circumstances are startlingly similar to hers. The victim has similar injuries, is catatonic and the situation brings back horrific memories and so it all comes to the surface again. Her family believes she’s unravelling but is it a horrible coincidence, a copycat or do the police arrest the wrong man years ago? Just because Isla seems paranoid does not mean she’s wrong. Once he hunted her, could he be hunting her again? She thought she’d buried the monster but they never fully disappear.
This is an easy to read novel from Sarah Alderson with the writing flowing well, especially from past to present. The pacing is good, there’s plenty of tension and suspenseful moments with a few characters who make me grit my teeth either in frustration or some anger. The author does a very good job of conveying Isla’s understandable fragile state of mind and her desperation to find answers which makes her very determined whatever the cost.
However, there are some inserts which I don’t find
particularly authentic as they seem too reasoned, measured with not enough panic - but that’s just my opinion!!
The ending is a good one. It does come a bit out of left field but it doesn’t altogether surprise me as I figure there is a connection somewhere along the line. The ultimate ending is very chilling- now that is a shocker! Well played!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Avon Books UK for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Once the name Isla Lindaloff is infamous as she’s the survivor of a serial killer, deceased James Altman. Now she’s Isla McGrane, she’s married, has two children and a good job as a clinical psychologist. She’s coping as well as she can but when a Jane Doe is brought into her hospital unit, the circumstances are startlingly similar to hers. The victim has similar injuries, is catatonic and the situation brings back horrific memories and so it all comes to the surface again. Her family believes she’s unravelling but is it a horrible coincidence, a copycat or do the police arrest the wrong man years ago? Just because Isla seems paranoid does not mean she’s wrong. Once he hunted her, could he be hunting her again? She thought she’d buried the monster but they never fully disappear.
This is an easy to read novel from Sarah Alderson with the writing flowing well, especially from past to present. The pacing is good, there’s plenty of tension and suspenseful moments with a few characters who make me grit my teeth either in frustration or some anger. The author does a very good job of conveying Isla’s understandable fragile state of mind and her desperation to find answers which makes her very determined whatever the cost.
However, there are some inserts which I don’t find
particularly authentic as they seem too reasoned, measured with not enough panic - but that’s just my opinion!!
The ending is a good one. It does come a bit out of left field but it doesn’t altogether surprise me as I figure there is a connection somewhere along the line. The ultimate ending is very chilling- now that is a shocker! Well played!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Avon Books UK for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
September 3, 2026
Sarah Alderson knocked it out of the park AGAIN! I read Edge of the Woods in two days. TWO DAYS. My average time to finish a book is around 4.5 days, so that should tell you just how completely hooked I was. I honestly haven't torn through a book this fast in a long time.
This book was fast-paced, dark, intense, and had me completely on edge the entire time.
Isla escaped a serial killer when she was in college, and because of that, her name and story are pretty well known. Now she works in a special trauma unit in the ER... until someone shows up with injuries and circumstances that feel way too similar to what happened to Isla all those years ago.
And from there? I was DONE. I could not stop reading.
One of my favorite things about this book was how real Isla's anxiety and trauma felt. You could feel everything she was feeling as she was forced to revisit her captivity while also trying to figure out what was happening in the present-day case. Her anxiety was absolutely palpable, and I found myself rooting for her the entire time.
The twists kept coming, and every time I thought I had something figured out, the story went in another direction. The pacing was SO good, and the tension just kept building until I was basically reading as fast as humanly possible.
And now that I'm done? Honestly, I feel like I need a minute to recover. 😂
This was an easy five-star read for me, and I will absolutely be recommending it to anyone looking for a dark, addictive, fast-paced psychological thriller.
Also... can someone please turn this into a TV series?! Because I would watch it immediately.
If you enjoyed That's Not My Name, THIS is the book for you.
Add it to your TBR! NOW!!!!!!!!
This book was fast-paced, dark, intense, and had me completely on edge the entire time.
Isla escaped a serial killer when she was in college, and because of that, her name and story are pretty well known. Now she works in a special trauma unit in the ER... until someone shows up with injuries and circumstances that feel way too similar to what happened to Isla all those years ago.
And from there? I was DONE. I could not stop reading.
One of my favorite things about this book was how real Isla's anxiety and trauma felt. You could feel everything she was feeling as she was forced to revisit her captivity while also trying to figure out what was happening in the present-day case. Her anxiety was absolutely palpable, and I found myself rooting for her the entire time.
The twists kept coming, and every time I thought I had something figured out, the story went in another direction. The pacing was SO good, and the tension just kept building until I was basically reading as fast as humanly possible.
And now that I'm done? Honestly, I feel like I need a minute to recover. 😂
This was an easy five-star read for me, and I will absolutely be recommending it to anyone looking for a dark, addictive, fast-paced psychological thriller.
Also... can someone please turn this into a TV series?! Because I would watch it immediately.
If you enjoyed That's Not My Name, THIS is the book for you.
Add it to your TBR! NOW!!!!!!!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Edge of the Woods is a gripping psychological thriller that had me hooked from the very first chapter. The story is dark and atmospheric, packed with tension, suspense, and twists that kept me questioning everything.
The novel follows Isla, a survivor of a serial killer who has spent years trying to rebuild her life. Just when she believes the past is finally behind her, another young woman is discovered with injuries that are chillingly similar to her own. As Isla searches for the truth about what really happened to her, it becomes increasingly difficult to distinguish between coincidence, memory, and the terrifying possibility that the same killer has returned.
One of my favorite aspects of this story was how realistically it portrayed Isla's anxiety and trauma. Her reactions felt authentic, making both her character and those around her far more believable. I found myself completely invested in her journey and rooting for her every step of the way as she fought to uncover the truth.
The pacing was excellent, with the tension building steadily throughout the novel and creating an unsettling atmosphere that kept me turning the pages late into the night. Every time I thought I had everything figured out, another twist completely changed the direction of the story. The ending was both satisfying and genuinely surprising.
This was an easy five-star read for me, and I highly recommend adding it to your TBR if you enjoy psychological thrillers filled with suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The novel follows Isla, a survivor of a serial killer who has spent years trying to rebuild her life. Just when she believes the past is finally behind her, another young woman is discovered with injuries that are chillingly similar to her own. As Isla searches for the truth about what really happened to her, it becomes increasingly difficult to distinguish between coincidence, memory, and the terrifying possibility that the same killer has returned.
One of my favorite aspects of this story was how realistically it portrayed Isla's anxiety and trauma. Her reactions felt authentic, making both her character and those around her far more believable. I found myself completely invested in her journey and rooting for her every step of the way as she fought to uncover the truth.
The pacing was excellent, with the tension building steadily throughout the novel and creating an unsettling atmosphere that kept me turning the pages late into the night. Every time I thought I had everything figured out, another twist completely changed the direction of the story. The ending was both satisfying and genuinely surprising.
This was an easy five-star read for me, and I highly recommend adding it to your TBR if you enjoy psychological thrillers filled with suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
When I saw that the author of The Stalker had a new book out, I knew that I had to read it right away! The Edge of the Woods by Sarah Alderson is a domestic thriller with plenty of investigative action. The story revolves around Isla, who escaped from a serial killer and now works at a psychiatry unit, helping women who have dealt with similar circumstances. One night, a victim comes in, unable to speak, and it seems like she was taken by the same man who took Isla. Could it have been the same serial killer? Could he still be out here? When no one believes her, it's up to Isla to investigate and solve the mystery!
Overall, The Edge of the Woods is an unputdownable domestic thriller that will satisfy readers who also want a mystery. One highlight of the book is the main character, Isla, who reminded me of a grown-up Nancy Drew. When her husband doesn't believe her suspicions, she decides to go off on her own and investigate who the serial killer could be. So many domestic thrillers have wimpy heroines who wouldn't dare take the risks that Isla does. This made the book so entertaining for me, personally.
Another highlight of this book is the non-stop action and twists. I never felt bored, and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. I ended up finishing the book in one day! One final highlight of the book is the final reveal. It was a jaw-dropping ending, and I couldn't have asked for anything more. If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're a fan of domestic thrillers in general, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in August!
When I saw that the author of The Stalker had a new book out, I knew that I had to read it right away! The Edge of the Woods by Sarah Alderson is a domestic thriller with plenty of investigative action. The story revolves around Isla, who escaped from a serial killer and now works at a psychiatry unit, helping women who have dealt with similar circumstances. One night, a victim comes in, unable to speak, and it seems like she was taken by the same man who took Isla. Could it have been the same serial killer? Could he still be out here? When no one believes her, it's up to Isla to investigate and solve the mystery!
Overall, The Edge of the Woods is an unputdownable domestic thriller that will satisfy readers who also want a mystery. One highlight of the book is the main character, Isla, who reminded me of a grown-up Nancy Drew. When her husband doesn't believe her suspicions, she decides to go off on her own and investigate who the serial killer could be. So many domestic thrillers have wimpy heroines who wouldn't dare take the risks that Isla does. This made the book so entertaining for me, personally.
Another highlight of this book is the non-stop action and twists. I never felt bored, and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. I ended up finishing the book in one day! One final highlight of the book is the final reveal. It was a jaw-dropping ending, and I couldn't have asked for anything more. If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're a fan of domestic thrillers in general, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in August!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Isla escaped from a serial killer as a teenager and now works to help women with similar trauma. So who better to help the young woman found wandering on the same highway, bleeding and injured? Like Isla, she’s unable to communicate what happened to her when she’s brought to the hospital. Isla wants to treat her in the special unit she runs, fearing she’s too vulnerable to be institutionalized or released. But the more she learns, the more she’s reminded of her own experience that doesn’t seem to be left in the past at all. Everyone else thinks this case is just a coincidence, but Isla fears the worst. And we all know the saying that the worst is yet to come…
There was a great twist that got me towards the end. I should not have underestimated this author, but I’m glad I did because I love being surprised! Especially because I was thinking it was one of those stories that doesn’t pay off in the end. But it really does. There’s quite a lot of Isla doubting herself and going back and forth about whether she’s right or everyone else is right, because, of course, no one else believes her. There was just a little too much contrived timing at the end for me to accept it completely. VAGUE SPOILER IN PARENTHESES TO SKIP IF YOU DON'T WANT TO RISK IT: (That trip was never discussed before? That thing just happened to be placed where it was?)
Otherwise, I’m glad it didn’t end where it looked like it might, and I hope this author keeps the surprises coming!
My thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the free advanced reading copy of this book.
There was a great twist that got me towards the end. I should not have underestimated this author, but I’m glad I did because I love being surprised! Especially because I was thinking it was one of those stories that doesn’t pay off in the end. But it really does. There’s quite a lot of Isla doubting herself and going back and forth about whether she’s right or everyone else is right, because, of course, no one else believes her. There was just a little too much contrived timing at the end for me to accept it completely. VAGUE SPOILER IN PARENTHESES TO SKIP IF YOU DON'T WANT TO RISK IT: (That trip was never discussed before? That thing just happened to be placed where it was?)
Otherwise, I’m glad it didn’t end where it looked like it might, and I hope this author keeps the surprises coming!
My thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the free advanced reading copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Release: August 27, 2026
Author: Sarah Alderson
Publisher: Avon Books
Rating: 4★
This was a tense, emotionally charged thriller that explored the lingering effects of trauma alongside a chilling new mystery. The story steadily built unease as the protagonist was forced to question whether her past was truly over, or if something far more sinister was resurfacing. The psychological tension and blurred lines between memory and reality made it an absorbing, unsettling read.
This book suits someone in the mood for something: dark, tense, mysterious, emotional
Pace: fast
Mainly plot or character driven? a mix
Is there strong character development? yes
Do you find the characters loveable? it’s complicated
Is the cast of characters diverse? it’s complicated
Are character flaws a main focus? yes
Main themes, topics, tropes: survivor trauma, serial killer aftermath, copycat crimes, unreliable memory, psychological suspense
After surviving a brutal encounter with a serial killer, Isla built a new life centered on stability, family, and helping others recover from trauma. Years later, her carefully constructed peace was shattered when a young woman appeared with injuries eerily similar to those Isla once endured at the hands of her attacker. As Isla investigated the connection, she was forced to confront the possibility that her past was not as buried as she believed, and that the danger she escaped might still be lurking in the shadows.
Favorite Quote:
“The past is a locked box – until a girl is found with eerily familiar injuries.”
Author: Sarah Alderson
Publisher: Avon Books
Rating: 4★
This was a tense, emotionally charged thriller that explored the lingering effects of trauma alongside a chilling new mystery. The story steadily built unease as the protagonist was forced to question whether her past was truly over, or if something far more sinister was resurfacing. The psychological tension and blurred lines between memory and reality made it an absorbing, unsettling read.
This book suits someone in the mood for something: dark, tense, mysterious, emotional
Pace: fast
Mainly plot or character driven? a mix
Is there strong character development? yes
Do you find the characters loveable? it’s complicated
Is the cast of characters diverse? it’s complicated
Are character flaws a main focus? yes
Main themes, topics, tropes: survivor trauma, serial killer aftermath, copycat crimes, unreliable memory, psychological suspense
After surviving a brutal encounter with a serial killer, Isla built a new life centered on stability, family, and helping others recover from trauma. Years later, her carefully constructed peace was shattered when a young woman appeared with injuries eerily similar to those Isla once endured at the hands of her attacker. As Isla investigated the connection, she was forced to confront the possibility that her past was not as buried as she believed, and that the danger she escaped might still be lurking in the shadows.
Favorite Quote:
“The past is a locked box – until a girl is found with eerily familiar injuries.”
September 25, 2026
An “edge”-of-your-seat thriller!
Thanks NetGalley Avon Books for the ARC!
Synopsis -
Isla doesn’t take her second chance at life lightly. After narrowly escaping a serial killer, she has painstakingly rebuilt her world- a family with 2 kids, a career as a psychologist helping trauma victims and a life that finally feels safe. But when a girl is found near the highway at the edge of the woods, exactly where Isla was found and with injuries eerily similar to hers, the past she thought was safely locked away comes crashing back.
But the killer is dead. So who could have done this?
Review -
What a fascinating serial killer premise! Isla’s POV instantly drew me in. What struck me most was watching her build a stable, seemingly normal life after surviving something simply unthinkable. She has fought hard for this life and you can feel just how much she has to lose.
Then the girl appears.
Certain she has been a victim of the same monster who took her, Isla’s carefully constructed world begins to crumble. @sarahalderson cleverly introduces a second POV in the past timeline, gradually revealing a series of chilling events while keeping the questions coming.
The short chapters kept me hooked as Isla becomes increasingly desperate to protect her kids and family. As her sense of safety disappears, so does her certainty about what she knows, who she can trust and what might actually be happening.
The suspense steadily intensifies as self-doubt, deep trauma and unanswered questions push Isla towards increasingly extreme measures. And with her own understanding of trauma playing such an important role, I loved how her work as a psychologist added another layer to the story.
The ending was nerve-wracking, unsettling and genuinely chilling, with revelations that had me questioning everything I thought I knew.
But perhaps the most unsettling question this thriller leaves behind is-
Do monsters ever go away?
This one definitely made me think about the people we surround ourselves with and how much we can really know about those hiding behind pleasant demeanours and loving personas.
September 15, 2026
I've been a fan of Sarah Alderson since I read The Weekend Away a few years ago, so I was thrilled to receive an invite from Avon Books to read an ARC of her newest novel, The Edge of the Woods.
And what a read it is! Some thrillers unsettle you from the first page; The Edge of the Woods pulls you into the darkness and refuses to let you go. This is a dark, twisty thriller packed with an atmosphere of mounting dread.
The setting feels claustrophobic, every silence seems loaded with danger, and the story kept me guessing as I raced through the pages. It's addictive, unnerving and impossible to put down. It's the kind of book that makes you feeling uneasy reading it, yet you can't look away, desperately turning the pages to find out what happens next.
The characters are brilliantly drawn, with believable reactions and hidden depths that make the tension feel all the more immediate. The pacing is razor-sharp, steadily tightening the suspense without ever losing momentum. Just when I thought I had a handle on the story, another turn sent me questioning everything.
And that ending? It was jaw-dropping in the most satisfying way. I genuinely didn't see it coming, and it landed with exactly the impact a thriller finale should have.
Another brilliant read from Sarah Alderson. If you enjoy twisty, atmospheric thrillers that keep you guessing right to the final page, this one deserves a place on your TBR.
And what a read it is! Some thrillers unsettle you from the first page; The Edge of the Woods pulls you into the darkness and refuses to let you go. This is a dark, twisty thriller packed with an atmosphere of mounting dread.
The setting feels claustrophobic, every silence seems loaded with danger, and the story kept me guessing as I raced through the pages. It's addictive, unnerving and impossible to put down. It's the kind of book that makes you feeling uneasy reading it, yet you can't look away, desperately turning the pages to find out what happens next.
The characters are brilliantly drawn, with believable reactions and hidden depths that make the tension feel all the more immediate. The pacing is razor-sharp, steadily tightening the suspense without ever losing momentum. Just when I thought I had a handle on the story, another turn sent me questioning everything.
And that ending? It was jaw-dropping in the most satisfying way. I genuinely didn't see it coming, and it landed with exactly the impact a thriller finale should have.
Another brilliant read from Sarah Alderson. If you enjoy twisty, atmospheric thrillers that keep you guessing right to the final page, this one deserves a place on your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 stars
Wow! What a ride this book was!
I have to start this review by saying that everything that I have read by this author so far has either been a 4 star or a 5 star read for me, and this was another hit!
This book had me invested right from the very first page.
I connected to our main character Isla straight away and I was fully on her side throughout.
Once again with this author, her plot lines and writing had me utterly gripped.
I liked the characters (apart from her husband, and I definitely could have done without the gas lighting that was in here)
This book is set in Boston, one of my favourite settings for a book, so I ate that right up.
At times this book had me holding my breath and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
I found the whole thing to be incredibly tense and that never once dipped from the first page to the last.
The pacing was great and I absolutely flew though it, as I couldn't put it down.
If you are looking for a tense, gripping thriller that will keep you up all night, check this out.
I really enjoyed this and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thanks to Avon Books for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review
Wow! What a ride this book was!
I have to start this review by saying that everything that I have read by this author so far has either been a 4 star or a 5 star read for me, and this was another hit!
This book had me invested right from the very first page.
I connected to our main character Isla straight away and I was fully on her side throughout.
Once again with this author, her plot lines and writing had me utterly gripped.
I liked the characters (apart from her husband, and I definitely could have done without the gas lighting that was in here)
This book is set in Boston, one of my favourite settings for a book, so I ate that right up.
At times this book had me holding my breath and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
I found the whole thing to be incredibly tense and that never once dipped from the first page to the last.
The pacing was great and I absolutely flew though it, as I couldn't put it down.
If you are looking for a tense, gripping thriller that will keep you up all night, check this out.
I really enjoyed this and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thanks to Avon Books for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review
September 6, 2026
𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑬𝑫𝑮𝑬 𝑶𝑭 𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑾𝑶𝑶𝑫𝑺 𝒃𝒚 𝑺𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒉 𝑨𝒍𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏, graciously #gifted to me by @avonbooks via @netgalley out 8/25!
This was the fast-paced page turner I was hoping for when I began this book! I flew through this thinking it must have been only a couple hundred pages, but apparently, it has quite a few more! I truly couldn't wait to pick this up and read.
Isla is a survivor of a serial killer who has made a new life for herself with a husband, 2 kids, and a job helping others come out of trauma. When a woman is found in the same scenario that she was, 20 years ago, the past & present collide making for wrenching questions about who was sent to prison then, and what is really going on now.
This was a tense story that called out the way we question those with trauma, how we support those we love in crisis, and how eaily we are lulled into a sense of safety. It is not for the faint of heart, as the situation at the center is Tarantino-esque, so be prepared. It was not graphic in that slasher way, but the darkness was more in the unwritten knowledge. The final pages made me quite unsettled!!
Like I said before, this was a very quick read that I could not put down. I definitely recommend it to readers who like thrillers with a darker edge.
This was the fast-paced page turner I was hoping for when I began this book! I flew through this thinking it must have been only a couple hundred pages, but apparently, it has quite a few more! I truly couldn't wait to pick this up and read.
Isla is a survivor of a serial killer who has made a new life for herself with a husband, 2 kids, and a job helping others come out of trauma. When a woman is found in the same scenario that she was, 20 years ago, the past & present collide making for wrenching questions about who was sent to prison then, and what is really going on now.
This was a tense story that called out the way we question those with trauma, how we support those we love in crisis, and how eaily we are lulled into a sense of safety. It is not for the faint of heart, as the situation at the center is Tarantino-esque, so be prepared. It was not graphic in that slasher way, but the darkness was more in the unwritten knowledge. The final pages made me quite unsettled!!
Like I said before, this was a very quick read that I could not put down. I definitely recommend it to readers who like thrillers with a darker edge.
Read
September 23, 2026Here’s a five-star Goodreads-style review:
*The Edge of the Woods* is an atmospheric and captivating read that pulled me in from the very beginning. There is something wonderfully unsettling about the setting, and the sense of mystery keeps the story moving while creating an ever-growing feeling of tension. I loved the way the woods almost seemed to become a character of their own, full of secrets, uncertainty, and possibilities.
The characters are compelling and easy to become invested in, and I found myself genuinely wanting to uncover the truth alongside them. The pacing keeps the suspense alive without sacrificing the emotional side of the story, giving the novel a satisfying balance of mystery, atmosphere, and character development.
What stayed with me most was the feeling the book creates—the sense that something is always just beyond sight, waiting to be discovered. The writing made it easy to picture the setting and become completely immersed in the story.
A beautifully atmospheric, intriguing, and emotionally engaging novel that kept me turning the pages. Five stars for the suspense, setting, and unforgettable mood. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy stories filled with mystery, tension, and a touch of darkness.
*The Edge of the Woods* is an atmospheric and captivating read that pulled me in from the very beginning. There is something wonderfully unsettling about the setting, and the sense of mystery keeps the story moving while creating an ever-growing feeling of tension. I loved the way the woods almost seemed to become a character of their own, full of secrets, uncertainty, and possibilities.
The characters are compelling and easy to become invested in, and I found myself genuinely wanting to uncover the truth alongside them. The pacing keeps the suspense alive without sacrificing the emotional side of the story, giving the novel a satisfying balance of mystery, atmosphere, and character development.
What stayed with me most was the feeling the book creates—the sense that something is always just beyond sight, waiting to be discovered. The writing made it easy to picture the setting and become completely immersed in the story.
A beautifully atmospheric, intriguing, and emotionally engaging novel that kept me turning the pages. Five stars for the suspense, setting, and unforgettable mood. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy stories filled with mystery, tension, and a touch of darkness.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4. 5 stars which I will gladly round up to 5.
The Edge of the Woods is a dark and gripping read from start to finish and you will be turning those pages as quickly as you can.
The book is terrifying at times and you will be holdiing your breath and hoping for the best for the girls.
When a Jane Doe who is badly injured is found running along the side of the road , memories for Isla come back with a vengenace.
She starts seeing the monster that did the same to her but is it her memories resurfacing or can he really be alive.
The pace is relentless, the tension is palpable as Isla tries desperatley to search for answers.
Sarah Alderson leads the reader down that twisted path that has your heart racing and you gasping at the jaw dropping twist.
The Edge of the Woods is totall bingeable and one book you wont soon forget.
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK/Avon the privilege of reading and reviewing The Edge of the Woods.
The Edge of the Woods is a dark and gripping read from start to finish and you will be turning those pages as quickly as you can.
The book is terrifying at times and you will be holdiing your breath and hoping for the best for the girls.
When a Jane Doe who is badly injured is found running along the side of the road , memories for Isla come back with a vengenace.
She starts seeing the monster that did the same to her but is it her memories resurfacing or can he really be alive.
The pace is relentless, the tension is palpable as Isla tries desperatley to search for answers.
Sarah Alderson leads the reader down that twisted path that has your heart racing and you gasping at the jaw dropping twist.
The Edge of the Woods is totall bingeable and one book you wont soon forget.
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK/Avon the privilege of reading and reviewing The Edge of the Woods.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having survived the machinations of a predatory and violent man, Isla appears to have taken to heart the maxim that the best revenge is to live a good life. In addition to building a well-adjusted family and a lovely home for herself since then, she also has chosen to devote her life to helping others who have been through similar traumas at the hands of murderers like the one who took and injured her.
But when a young girl is found with similar wounds to the ones inflicted on Isla by the serial killer who took her, it raises questions about the narrative that Isla has been telling herself - and others - all these years.
Did that evil man really die? Is this a copycat killer, or is there something even more sinister going on here?
Alderson tells a compelling story, and one that is worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
But when a young girl is found with similar wounds to the ones inflicted on Isla by the serial killer who took her, it raises questions about the narrative that Isla has been telling herself - and others - all these years.
Did that evil man really die? Is this a copycat killer, or is there something even more sinister going on here?
Alderson tells a compelling story, and one that is worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
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