The Final Dose: A Novel of Marriage, Poison, and Ruin

by Victor Peter

276 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication May 26, 2026

Reviews

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this ARC from Book sirens. I was excited to be given the chance to read this story marked as a psychological thriller which is typically right up my alley. The first 50% of the book has a very slow pace. I found it difficult to really get into the plot and the motivations of the characters. Usually by the half way point, I’m connecting or loathing some characters and I’m feeling invested in what is going to happen to them. At this point in the story, I was merely mildly curious where the story was headed. I am glad that I stuck with it and finished because the writer did add in some fun twists. Overall the pacing was just too slow for me to get wrapped up in it like a typical book advertised this was. Maybe mystery or family drama would be a better category?

[Tanya Kolb · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was so much tension in this book! These characters all had ulterior motives. It was like a Mexican stand off. I wasn't sure which one to keep my focus on, in a good way! I kept saying "one more chapter" after every chapter".

My only issue was the ending. I knew where it was headed, but I was hoping for something else. It was every man for himself in that house. The sister was a fun character, but I still can't figure out exactly why she was invited! He was crazy! There were no winners here. It seemed like they brought about their own downfalls.

I always enjoy a Victor Peter story! This one was not my favorite.

[Rachel Browning · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some thrillers hit you over the head with danger. The Final Dose lets it creep up on you instead, which makes it very unsettling.
This one is a slow burn through and through. The story is drowning in secrets, lies, and control. By the time things really unravel, you realize you’ve been tense for chapters without even noticing. This is the kind of story where you start side-eyeing everyone, which is exactly the point.
If you’re okay with a story that simmers before it boils, The Final Dose is absolutely worth your time. Just don’t expect to trust anyone by the end.

[Michelle Mann · Rating 1 out of 5]

Reviewed this as an ARC reader

I have never given a book a 1 star. I feel awful about doing this but this book was NOT for me. It started off like you were thrown into the middle of a half told story. The characters weren't developed. The writing was not for me. I wanted to DNF, but I had to stick it out in hopes for a major twist or ending, but I was thoroughly let down.

[Philippa Fisher · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those book that slowly sucks you in and you have to keep reading because you need to know what happens in the end. I love Victor’s book they always have me guessing and questioning everything

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