Her Last Kiss

Detective Josie Quinn #25

by Lisa Regan, Kate Handford (Narrator)

She lies on the bed, staring sightlessly at the ceiling. The gold cross necklace ripped from her neck and tossed onto the comforter. Around her throat is a deep red welt. But that isn’t what chills Josie’s skin. It’s the bright red lipstick smeared across the woman’s pale cheek. The mark of the Last Kiss Killer.

Racing into a burning house, Detective Josie Quinn is the only witness to Sylvia West’s body—strangled and arranged neatly on the bed—before the fire destroys the crime scene. After years in hiding, Sylvia had finally agreed to speak publicly about escaping an infamous serial killer. But catching a glimpse of a crimson kiss on Sylvia’s mouth before the flames engulf her makes Josie’s heart scream in the killer has returned to seal Sylvia’s cold lips forever.

The reappearance of the Last Kiss killer after thirteen years has the people of Denton trembling behind locked doors. How did he know Sylvia was ready to speak out? How did he find her? Josie’s only hope is trawling the victims’ case files for the missing link that eluded the very best detectives across the state for over a decade. And tracking the origins of the lipstick means she’s close…

Days later, a second new victim with the killer’s calling card surfaces, and her broken and bruised body tells Josie he’s spiraling. Forced to go deeper into the mind of a murderer than ever before, it will take everything in Josie’s power to get ahead of his next goodnight kiss. It might even cost her own life…

A totally jaw-dropping and addictive crime thriller from an Amazon, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. You will be listening long into the night and sleeping with the light on! Perfect for fans of Angela Marsons, Robert Dugoni and Melinda Leigh.

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Crime, Mystery Thriller, Procedural, Fiction, Suspense

Audible Audio

Published October 20, 2026

About the author

Lisa Regan is the USA Today & Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the Detective Josie Quinn series as well as several other crime fiction titles. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in English and Master of Education Degree from Bloomsburg University. She is a member of Sisters In Crime, Mystery Writers of America, Crime Writers’ Association, and International Thriller Writers. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband, daughter and Boston Terrier named Mr. Phillip.

Reviews

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m back in Denton, PA, with my favorite badass detective, Josie Quinn. Because, peace and quiet are overrated, and this town simply cannot go five minutes without someone ending up dead.

This time, Josie and her team are on the hunt for the Last Kiss Serial Killer. Because, you know, regular murder investigations just aren't enough excitement for these people.

After interviewing the sole survivor of the killer's crimes, things in Denton go from bad to downright disastrous. Josie and her sister discover the survivor dead and, because apparently their day wasn't stressful enough, end up trapped in a house fire.

Can this woman get one day off? Maybe a spa day? A nice cup of coffee? Anything?

Will Josie and her team catch the Last Kiss Killer, or is this finally the case that brings Josie down?

I have invested so much time in this series, and honestly, I'd happily do it all over again. Every single book has delivered, and I'm still not tired of following Josie into whatever nightmare awaits her next.

This series NEVER disappoints. The twists, the suspense, the characters... I'm completely invested, and at this point, Denton feels like a second home. A very dangerous second home, but home nonetheless.
If you're looking for a gripping crime series that keeps you guessing and has you questioning everyone's motives, look no further. I highly recommend this series!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Dorie - Cats&Books :) · Rating 5 out of 5]

***HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY***

Wow, every new book I read by Lisa Regan becomes my new favorite which is amazing since this is book #25 in the series.

The novel starts out with a bang - Josie is the first to notice a burning house and races to investigate. She finds Sylvia West in her home, strangled and staged across her bed. There is a bright red lipstick smear across her lips and cheek. Sylvia was the only known survivor of the infamous Last Kiss Killer and this was his calling card.

What has caused the killer to resurface? Was it the upcoming interview with Sylvia which Josie’s sister Trinity has been filming? Has 13 years been the right time for the killer to strike and why has he been quiet for all this time?
In this episode we see Josie dig into all of the things that they have accumulated on this serial killer - and unfortunately there isn’t much.

When another woman is killed - this time there is no doubt that the killer is again on a rampage. They have to find him before another woman is killed and Josie has herself been threatened!

While Noah and Josie are consumed with the murders there are things going on at home with Wren that are troubling. They thought that they had finally gotten her trust and love - but something has made her go quiet.

Lots to think about and puzzle over in this book. I thought I had the killer pegged several times but I couldn’t have been more wrong!

This was a great buddy read with Carolyn, Debra and DeAnn. Be sure to check out their great reviews. 5* all the way for this one - fans will not be disappointed.

I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to read and review this title.

[Carolyn · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Sylvia West was the only victim of the serial killer nicknamed the ‘Last Kiss Killer’ to have survived. Now, thirteen years after his last victim was found murdered with his signature lipstick smeared on her lips, Sylvia has agreed to be interviewed for a podcast by Trinity, Detective Josie Quinn’s journalist sister. The morning following the interview, Trinity visits her for a few follow up questions, only to find her dead in her bedroom and the house on fire.

Josie, Noah and their team are determined to find out who killed Sylvia. Was it the ‘Last Kiss Killer’ back after all these years or a copycat killer? They have a few suspects but frustratingly little evidence to point them in the right direction.

Meanwhile Josie and Noah are having problems with Wren, the teenage girl they are fostering who is struggling with her new life and family. One of the reasons I love Lisa Regan’s books is the way she can mix in a fresh and interesting mystery with the ongoing development of her characters and their lives and relationships. This is one of the best yet! 4.5★

This was an enjoyable buddy read with Dorie, DeAnn and Debra of Witches Words

With thanks to Bookouture via Netgalley for a copy to read

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Last Kissis gripping, addictive, shocking, mysterious and hard to put down! Lisa Regan has yet again written another thrilling and riveting book in her amazing Josie Quinn Series! This is the 25th book in the series and it was just as amazing and captivating as the previous books. I have loved seeing the character development, the addition of new characters, and seeing both Josie's professional and personal life grow and expand as this series has progressed.

In Her Last Kiss, a woman has been found dead in her bed, red lipstick smeared across her check with a red deep welt around her throat. Josie and her team rush to find the Last Kiss Killer who has resurfaced after being dormant for some time. Days later another woman is found murdered and while the stakes are high and the killer appears to be escalating, Josie must pull out all the stops to catch the killer! The suspense ramps, tensions rise, danger brews, and I could not get enough of it!

I loved the shocking scenes and the mystery in this case. I also loved the banter Josie and Gretchen have with Turner. But the main attraction in this book continues to be Josie's relationship with Noah and their foster daughter, Wren. I love how Lisa Regan has created characters who feel real and face real life issues in very realistic and believable ways. Her characters experience a myriad of emotions and face challenges in each and every book. I love the way she effortlessly blends their professional and personal lives. The mystery in this book had me doing my best to determine whodunit. I love how Lisa Regan was able to shock me while keeping me on my toes the entire time.

If you have not read this series, I highly recommend it!

4.5 stars

*Witches Words buddy read with DeAnn, Carolyn, and Dorie- Cats&Books :). Please read their reviews as well to get their thoughts on Her Last Kiss!

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Last Kiss killer was back. Josie was horrified - for thirteen years there'd been no more murders, but he hadn't been caught either. Now, with Sylvia West, the only survivor of the killer, finally doing an interview with Trinity Payne, Josie's twin sister, they had hoped for more information that would point them in the direction of the killer. But the morning after the interview, when Trinity and Josie were popping in to see her at 8am, to ask her a couple more questions, they found her body, arranged neatly on her bed with a lipstick slash across her mouth - and then the house was in flames with Josie and Trinity only just making it out.

The hunt was on - old files from the earlier murders were re-read; people were questioned, interrogations happened. Sylvia's two sons were distraught, their families including two gorgeous granddaughters, Molly & Piper, also unable to believe what had happened. Suddenly another woman was murdered in the same way. But she was beaten as well - the killer was losing control. Would they catch him before someone else died?

Wooeee!!! Her Last Kiss was an intense, gritty and fast paced thriller, #25 in the Detective Josie Quinn series, and equally as thrilling as the first 24, if not better! It feels like catching up with old friends, Noah, Josie, Gretchen, even Turner. A fabulous addition to the series, and one I recommend highly.

With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.

[DeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Wowza Stars for #25 - now available!

I’m not sure how she does it, but Lisa Regan seems to make each book better than the last. This one totally drew me in! I dropped everything and read it in almost one sitting. Sorry house chores!

Josie and team are on the case of the Last Kiss Killer. Josie’s sister, Trinity, has just interviewed the woman who got away from the killer more than 15 years ago. Now, that woman, Sylvia West, has just been killed by the Last Kiss Killer.

Josie, Noah, Turner, and Gretchen rush to find clues. They interview everyone in Sylvia’s life and dig through old files. How many victims have fallen to this serial killer? And why does he pose them, put lipstick on them, and then smear it off? And why did he stop killing for a dozen years? I thought he was likely in jail during that time.

The team searches for commonalities among the victims but can’t seem to catch a break. Then, there’s another murder! The killer seems to be getting out of control.

Who will be his next victim?

And while all this mayhem is happening, Noah and Josie are dealing with Wren, a teenager that they are now parenting. Wren is having a hard time with how much danger Noah and Josie are in all the time. Will they abandon her as well?

Kudos to Lisa Regan; I’ve read every one of your Josie books. You have never disappointed me!

Another great buddy read with Carolyn, Dorie, and Debra.

My thanks to Bookoutre for the opportunity to read and honestly review this one.

[Bec (becbingesbooks) - sorry, behind with lots of catching up to do · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another like D.K. Hood and really all my Bookouture reads where I just love the series so much, so engrossed in the characters, their relationships and the fast paced plots with mystery. This one was also a little more horror(?) than normal and I think Regan did it will. Enjoying some new characters, and huge development from our main characters. Can't wait for the next release. Always recommending this series. I started at the start and flew through to catch up.

Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to follow.

Another amazing book in the Detective Josie Quinn series. It’s a very tense read and I was holding my breath at the finish. This time I suspected correctly who the killer was about halfway through.
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Monnie · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

I’ve been a fan of Denton, Pennsylvania, police detective Josie Quinn from the beginning, and 24 books later, I’m still eagerly awaiting the next one. But until the author finishes it, I’ll have to “settle” for this, the 25th – which, like the others, I enjoyed it very much. Part of the attraction for me, admittedly, is that the Keystone State is about a 15-minute drive from my across-the-border Ohio home, so some of the settings ring familiar bells.

This time out, the past returns with a murder reminiscent of a years-ago serial killer. The victim? Sylvia West - the only one who got away from the so-called Last Kiss Killer after he had her in his clutches. That was 13 years ago, but just recently, the long-silent and reclusive Sylvia agreed to tell her story. Now, her silence will be forever. But despite a near-identical crime scene – including the tell-tale lipstick smear on the victims’ mouths - was she a victim of the same person? And if so, how did he know she was about to spill the beans?

Josie’s personal life has changed considerably over the years, of course; she and husband Noan Fraley, a lieutenant on Josie’s investigative team, are guardians of 14-year-old Wrenn McMann. Josie’s twin sister Trinity Payne is still a hot-shot TV journalist in New York, and she and her husband-to-be, Drake Nally, visit Denton whenever they get the chance. In fact, Trinity is here now because she’s the one who convinced Sylvia to speak up in an exclusive up-close-and-personal interview.

Sylvia’s two sons are around as well, though not so happy that mom is about to talk to the press. They’re even less happy – as is Josie – to learn that the killer (or perhaps a copycat) is at it again; at least three more bodies have turned up. Still more questions hasten the need to bring the investigation to an end – and things pick up steam when an injured Josie mysteriously gets the lipstick treatment while in the hospital and Wrenn goes missing.

Clearly, time is of the essence – but sorry, I’m not going to save any of it for other readers by revealing anything more. Bottom line? Another action-packed adventure you won’t want to miss. Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for allowing me to get in on it by way of a pre-release copy. Good job!

[Barbara Schultz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Her Last Kiss
Author: Lisa Regan
Series: Detective Josie Quinn Book #25
Publisher: Bookouture
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: October 20, 2026
My Rating: 4.2 Stars
Pages: 374
If you are new to Josie Quinn, you will miss a lot of back information but I believe you will still enjoy it. Author, Lisa Regan does try to review Josie’s childhood so that hew readers are not completely lost. Here’s some background ~ skip if already a Josie fan!

When Josie and her twin sister Trinity were three weeks old, they had a nanny, but Josie was kidnapped by Lila Jensen the woman who cleaned their parents’ home. She set the house on fire; which had the authorities believe Josie died in the fire. The nanny was able to save baby Trinity.
Josie didn’t die and Lila took her to Eli Matson in Denton and told him he was the baby’s father. He believed her and ending up loving little Josie - love is something Lila never experienced. Eventually Josie was finally away from Lila and raised and loved by Eli’s mother Lisette Matson the woman whom Josie thought was her real grandmother.
When Josie is an adult, she finds her twin Trinity as well as her biological
parents- Christian and Shannon Paynes. Trinity is a television journalist and engaged to FBI agent Drake Nally.

Additionally, we follow Josie and her husband Noah who have been wanting to start a family and finally decided to adopt. They were in the final stages of the process when the agency pulled their application and said their lives were so dangerous they felt it would be difficult for Josie and Noah to keep the baby safe 24/7.
So when fourteen year old Wren McMann mother’s died and then while still getting to know her real father, he died. True there are some struggles but their relationship is making progress
I look forward to more family interaction.

I have been following this series for many years so know it will be action packed, as well as emotional.

In Book #24 “The Stolen family” we got a better understanding of arrogant Detective Kyle Turner. However, in this story Detective Turner continues to be exasperating and as you know earned the nicknamed “Douchbag” by Josie. In this story reveals even more of his history and might be coming through some valid insight.

This story features the return of “The Last Kiss” serial killer.
It has been thirteen years since Sylvia West was the sole survivor of this serial killer. She has finally agreed to an interview with Detective Josie Quinn’s journalistic twin sister, Tiffany. When Josie drives Tiffany to a follow-up interview with the survivor, she finds the house in flames and Sylvia’s strangled body with the killer’s signature lipstick mark.

Over the years, the killer has struck throughout the state of Pennsylvania, and when another victim is found in Josie’s hometown of Denton, she must delve into those other cases to uncover clues as to the motivation and identity of the culprit.
Story is disturbing but also emotional, which I did expect.

As always, I loved reading Ms. Regan’s Author’s Note as well as the Acknowledgements. In this case in “A Letter from Lisa” she tells us about the amount of research that goes into a book. I did laugh when she said all the research she did on the forensic analysis of lipsticks didn’t make it into this story. Hmm wonder if it might pop up later. Also tells us she has dozens of videos on shoulder dislocation and the treatment (you will remember that Josie dislocated shoulder.)
In her Acknowledgement she, of course has many people to than including us readers. I got a greater appreciation of the story line when she mention her thanks to the experts in law enforcement who are always willing to help you. This gave me an understanding as to why her stories are so real!

I want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for this eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for October 20, 2026.

[Lori L (She Treads Softly) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Last Kiss by Lisa Regan is another exceptional, very highly recommended crime thriller/procedural and is the 25th book in the Detective Josie Quinn series. As with the previous book in the series, Stolen Family, I again stayed up late to finish it because at a certain point in the gripping plot it becomes impossible to not continue reading as fast as you can while your heart is pounding. This time the investigation follows a serial killer. Although this is the 25th book in the series, Her Last Kiss can be read as a standalone novel.

Trinity, Josie's twin sister and a journalist, is set to interview Sylvia West who was the sole survivor of an encounter with “The Last Kiss” serial killer thirteen years. Only Sylvia is discovered murdered on her bed, strangled, with the trademark lipstick smear on her mouth left by The Last Kiss killer. The house has also been set on fire and Josie manages to witness the crime scene and get Trinity out safely. The serial killer has been on the loose for fifteen years in various locations across the state of Pennsylvania and now he is in Denton. Now the team is taking a deep dive looking into previous cases to try to uncover the killer's identity... and then another victim is found.

The writing is excellent. The lightning-fast pace is propelled forward by the complicated, compelling, and intriguing plot that will hold your complete attention throughout. The procedural part of the narrative is excellent with all the clues logically followed and leads investigated. The narrative includes chapters from the killers point-of-view as the investigation unfolds which serves to increase the tension. This is seriously a riveting, un-put-downable thriller and the danger keeps accelerating with each page right up to the seriously action-packed conclusion.

The focus is always on the tense investigation while the personal interaction between the characters continues to be realistic. All of the characters are portrayed as fully realized individuals with strengths and weaknesses. Josie's and Noah's personal life is going well. Their relationship with Wren, the teenager they are custodial parents too, hits some tough struggles, but is making progress. Expect an emotional scene involving the three. Detective Kyle Turner continues to be exasperating with bursts of extreme competence and insight.There is enough of the backstory covered within the plot that new readers can easily follow the characters, however knowing their history will make it a richer reading experience.

Her Last Kiss is a exceptional crime thriller/procedural and is a perfect choice for everyone following the series. Now I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in the series! Thanks to Bookouture for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

https://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/...

[Sue Plant · Rating 5 out of 5]

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book

when Sylvia West’s body had been found, josie was stunned..... sylvia had previously survived an attack by a serial killer and now it seemed the serial killer had finally caught up with her

that was the impression josie had before the fire engulfed the scene and she had to run for her life alongside of her sister trinity

the scene got more chaotic as sylvia son were trying to enter the scene shouting out my mom could be inside.... yeah she was but even if the fire got to her she had been murdered

and now josie had to start an investigation on a serial killer that hadnt been caught all those years ago

could josie and her team plus douche bag catch the perp..... time would tell

ohhhh man this one was a tough one to read and there is a particular scene that had tears running down my face but this one is so addictive i coudnt put it down

cant wait to catch up with this gang again

[Lori Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Last Kiss is book 25 in the awesome Josie Quinn series by Lisa Regan. I look forward to each new entry to the series and Her Last Kiss may be the best one yet! I've never been so glued to a book as I was to this one. Josie is the last to see a victim as the house she enters to find her sister is on fire. Trinity, Josie's twin sister, was going back to ask a couple of questions she forgot to ask for an interview. Josie drove her to the woman's house and waited in the car. The woman was a victim who survived the Last Kiss Killer years ago. She's been in hiding ever since and hasn't wanted to do any public interviews until now. Josie had to rush into the house when she saw black smoke coming from it. She arrived just in time to see th woman laid out on her bed with that familiar lipstick smear that is the calling card of the Last Kiss Killer. Josie got Trinity out of the house, as it was filled with smoke and flames, just in time.

The Last Kiss killer hasn't killed in 13 years. Trinity feels like it's her fault that he's back. How did he know that she was doing the interview? How did he find the survivor after she was so careful to stay hidden? Does this mean the killings will start again? As Josie and her team begin to look at the victims from years ago will they be able to find anything to help them solve the case? As another victim is found a few days later, Josie knows there will be more. They've woken up the killer and there's no telling how many victims there will be. When Josie gets too close to the killer, she is in real danger, and doesn't even realize it. Can Josie stay safe and keep her family and team safe? This book will be impossible to put down, so be warned! You will need to set hours aside to read this one because as the suspense build and builds you will reach a point where you can't stop! I love this series and it continues to get better and better. I rate Her Lass Kiss 5 stars and give it my very highest recommendation. If you've never read a book in the series, this can be read as a standalone, and thoroughly enjoyed! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy of Her Last Kiss in exchange for a fair review.

[Christine · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

Detective Josie Quinn is the first on the scene of a raging fire. She finds the owner dead in her bedroom, but it's not from the fire. Sylvia West is the latest victim of a serial killer nicknamed the Last Kiss Killer. The killer is known for leaving a smeared lipstick across the mouth of victims. Sylvia was attacked years ago, but she survived. Then right after she grants her first interview on her ordeal, the killer strikes again but this time Sylvia doesn't survive. Another of his victims is found just days later, so now Josie and her team need to catch a killer before there are any further deaths.

The books in this series all have intriguing, often intense plots, with a mostly likable team of detectives investigating. (The newest member of the team, Detective Kyle Turner, is an acquired taste and I'm not fully there yet.) The book includes the details of the investigation as well as a suspenseful serial killer plot. The killer in this case is creepy and my theories on who the killer was kept changing, and were wrong. The final confrontation with the killer is intense and shows why Josie is such a great detective.

The Josie Quinn books also include many scenes related to Josie's personal life. Josie and her husband, Lt. Noah Fraley, have had a huge change in their personal life which plays a large role in the book. Josie and Noah are now the guardians of a teenage girl who is having trouble adjusting and they don't know how to reach her. I think I'm in the minority, and I've had trouble adjusting to Wren being added to the mix of this series. However, just as Josie and Noah make some progress with Wren in this book in a very touching scene, I started to relate to her a little more, too. Overall, this is another winner in this excellent series.

I received an advance copy of this ebook from Bookouture and NetGalley. My review is voluntary and unbiased.

[Julie Lacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another brilliant crime thriller in one of my favourite series.
The Last Kiss Killer has taken the life of a woman who he attacked many years before, but she survived back then.
She’d recently been talking to Trinity about her experience and this seems to have reignited the killer’s passion for murder.
Another woman is soon found dead and Josie and the team are determined to find this killer.
Josie and Noah are still juggling their work with trying to be there for Wren, and there’s a few difficulties to get past in this book.
This is a gripping crime thriller, that I’d highly recommend.
Thanks to Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.

[Yvonne (It's All About Books) · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Finished reading: October 15th 2026

"Sometimes just one person or one act changed everything. Not just for worse, but for better, too."

*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***

REVIEW

I’ve been following the Detective Josie Quinn series ever since the very first book came out back in 2018, and it is without doubt one of my favorite detective thriller series out there. I’m always looking forward to spend more time with its characters, so it’s a treat whenever a new sequel finds its way to my kindle. Her Last Kiss follows the same formula that I’ve become used to with this series, and it is without doubt another suspenseful and engaging detective slash serial killer thriller sequel. This series hasn't failed me yet!

While technically you could read Her Last Kiss as a stand-alone, I personally wouldn't recommend it. The main case does stand on its own, but this series also focuses a lot on the personal development of the main characters. This means that it is best to read the series in order both for that key character background and to avoid major spoilers for the previous books. Especially since there are so many references to past events incorporated related to both their personal lives and past cases along the way... The case itself isn't as intimately connected to the main characters this time around, although one of them has direct contact with one of the victims shortly before she dies.

I always enjoy meeting up with Josie Quinn and the rest of the cast, and I’ve been looking forward to this sequel after the changing dynamics in Josie’s personal life. The fact the private lives of the main characters usually play a big role in the plot really adds something extra to the series, and I really like what Wren adds to the dynamics. I admit that I'm still not a fan of Turner (and probably never will), but at least he isn't as bad as some of the previous books. I do prefer the sequels before his appearance though!

Her Last Kiss is another serial killer case, and it is without doubt an intriguing one. It's actually the reappearance of a killer that hadn't been active in thirteen years, and this added a refreshing angle to the whole investigation. I do like a cold case element in my thrillers! There are plenty of suspects, twists and turns along the way, and while you do have to suspend your disbelief at times (especially near the ending when the killer and his motivations revealed), I personally didn't mind as it was without doubt an entertaining ride.

All in all, if you are looking for an engaging, fast-paced and suspenseful detective thriller, I can highly recommend this series in general. Things can be said about the credibility of so much crime happening in one location, but the entertainment factor is sky high!

[Bella Crooke Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

SO GOOD SO GOOD SO GOOD!!!!!!!
QUEEN LISA REGAN HAS DONE IT AGAIN!!!!!!!!
I won’t go into spoilers but this case was THE MOST FUN JOSIE QUINN HAS EVER HAD!!!!!

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s not just a house fire - as devastating as that is - but there’s a woman who’s been murdered. The killer has left behind a signature that Detective Josie Quinn and her team can clearly identify. The victim is someone Josie knows, because she almost lost her life to a serial killer years ago. When the victim agrees to come forward and provide any information that might help the police, she’s strangled and her house set ablaze. This is shocking to Josie. The killer has been dormant for years, and now Josie must gather as many clues as possible to find and stop the killer before another woman loses her life.

The killer is being called the Last Kiss Killer, and Josie is working alongside partner Detective Kyle Turner, who joined the team in the nineteenth book in this series, Face Her Fear, Josie often finds herself annoyed with him. So much so that Josie finds herself wanting to throat-punch him on a regular basis.

Meanwhile, Josie’s lieutenant and husband, Noah Fraley are facing some changes to their home life. Always sharp as a tack when it comes to their caseload, Josie and Noah work together to navigate what’s happening both at home and on the job. This is when this twenty-fifth installment in the series takes on an emotional edge adding another layer to this well-written and compelling story.

As another victim falls prey to the killer, Josie finds herself dangerously close to danger making it imperative that the case finally come to a close. Having been a longtime and devoted fan of this series, this book is another reminder of just how wonderful Lisa Regan is at drawing readers into Josie’s world. Suspense, emotional depth and well-developed characters that shine throughout the series continue to captivate me. Her Last Kiss is a compelling addition to an exceptional series.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Sarah · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved getting to spend more time with Josie Quinn! 💜 Every time I pick up another book in this series, I’m reminded of just how much I love these characters, and I honestly cannot get enough. Lisa Regan has created a series that keeps pulling me back in, and Her Last Kiss was another fantastic addition that had me hooked from the very beginning.

This time, Josie is faced with a terrifying case when a serial killer known as the Last Kiss Killer resurfaces after thirteen years. With victims being murdered and left with the killer’s chilling signature of bright red lipstick, Josie must dig into old case files and uncover the connection that has kept this killer hidden for so long. The deeper she goes, the more dangerous the investigation becomes, and the stakes feel higher with every turn of the page.

One of my favorite things about Lisa Regan’s writing is how effortlessly she pulls you into a story. Her books are so easy to read, with a natural flow and a fast-paced style that makes it nearly impossible to put them down. She has a way of keeping the suspense building while giving you just enough information to keep you guessing. I always tell myself I’ll read just one more chapter, and before I know it, I’ve flown through a huge chunk of the book! Her writing makes even the most complicated investigations feel engaging, and she knows exactly how to keep readers invested until the very end.

I especially loved getting more of Josie in this installment. She is one of those characters I never seem to get tired of reading about, and I love following her as she tackles each new case. There’s something so satisfying about returning to a familiar character while still getting a fresh, suspenseful mystery to unravel. The Last Kiss Killer storyline was creepy, intriguing, and full of tension, keeping me curious about what would happen next.

If you love crime thrillers with gripping investigations, chilling killers, plenty of suspense, and a detective you can’t help but root for, this series is an absolute must-read. Lisa Regan continues to deliver the kind of stories that make you lose track of time because you simply have to know what happens next.

Final Rating: 4.5 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Another addictive read from Lisa Regan! I loved being back with Josie Quinn, and I’m already looking forward to the next book. This series just keeps getting its hooks into me, and I have no intention of letting go anytime soon! 💜📚

[Zoé-Lee O'Farrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I have been in a bit of a reading slump lately, and I signed up for the tour for Lisa Regan, and I began to panic because I thought, "Well, I'm not reading. What happens if I don't enjoy it? What am I going to do?" I always love Lisa's books, and panic just set in. I had been reading the book, as I wanted to read it for a change. But instead, I waited for the audiobook to come out, and I listened to it like I always do. Because, to be honest, I love this series, and I have to listen to it. I can't read it. I don't know why. I think I just love the narrator. I love everything about it.

Well, it's safe to say that this book had me hooked; it was tense and emotional. I flew through the audiobook. I had to know what was going to happen, and it was quite an intense case. It was actually quite sad when you found out who was behind it all and what was going on with the lipstick. I was particularly worried when Josie was in hospital, and someone came along and smeared lipstick on her face. I must admit that was intense!! You knew something was going to happen. Josie wasn't quite right, and I didn't want to be right, but I was!

I love the new way of the dynamic with Josie, Wren and Noah. It shows that families aren't perfect and light; Wren is still dealing with the loss of her dad and adjusting to her new normal. I love that we saw the rawness in Josie and Noah as they work hard to bring Wren into their home, so she feels loved. But I also really appreciated that it showed Josie as flawed, and how she realised her own failings. That got me; that made it real. I just hope Wren realises soon how much she is loved.

Overall, I loved it; it was intense, and the series as a whole is just one big evolving family dynamic, and I love what each new book brings.

[Shereadbookblog · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been thirteen years since Sylvia West was the sole survivor of “The Last Kiss” serial killer. She has finally agreed to an interview with Detective Josie Quinn’s journalistic twin sister, Tiffany. When Josie drives Tiffany to a follow-up interview with the survivor, she finds Sylvia’s strangled body with the killer’s signature lipstick mark and the house in flames.

Over the years, the killer has struck throughout the state of Pennsylvania, and when another victim is found in Josie’s hometown of Denton, she must delve into those other cases to uncover clues as to the motivation and identity of the culprit.

This is the twenty-fifth in the Detective Josie Quinn series, and I have read many of them. This can work as a standalone, however, as author Lisa Regan does an excellent job of filling in background information on the main players. In fact, each installment offers deeper insights into their histories and personalities.

This is yet another page-turner from Regan. It is difficult not to repeat the same accolades for this narrative as given to the prior ones, yet each story is unique and compelling. Well written, the suspense and suspicions mount as the plot progresses. And, oh, those twists!

I like how the repeating characters show growth and change with time and experience. Josie, despite all the travails she has met with in her life, is a strong, intelligent, though vulnerable woman. The introduction of Wren, a teenager Josie and her husband Noah are guardians of, provides opportunities for them to strengthen their relationship, grow as parents, and explore the impact of their backgrounds on their personalities.
Detective Turner, a relatively new and annoying character nicknamed “Douchbag” by Josie, reveals even more of his history and abilities and perhaps even some chance to redeem himself with the team.

If you’re a fan of well-written, character-driven, fast-paced police procedurals and thrillers, and you’re not familiar with author Lisa Regan, I highly recommend this book and series. I eagerly anticipate the next installment!


Thanks to @NetGalley and @BookOuture for the DRC.

[An Introvert Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I seriously love this series! At this point Lisa Regan is an automatic 5-star author for me. I’ve been following Josie Quinn for so long, and I love how much these characters have grown and changed throughout the series. Even after this many books, I’m still completely invested in their lives and always excited to see what happens next.

Her Last Kiss had me hooked from the beginning. The pacing was great, and once the investigation really got going, I flew through this one. There were so many twists and turns that kept me guessing, and I definitely didn’t figure out the ending of this one. The serial killer storyline was creepy and really pulled me in. There were several moments where I thought I had things figured out, only to realize I was completely wrong.

One of my favourite parts of this series is that it’s so much more than just the cases. I really love Josie, Noah, Trinity, Turner, Wren and all the other characters, and I love seeing their relationships and personal lives develop alongside the investigations.

I especially loved seeing the progress with Wren in this book. Her character has come such a long way, and I’m really enjoying watching her become more confident and find her place. I also loved the continued development with Turner. These characters feel like real people at this point, and I honestly care about what happens to them just as much as I care about solving the mystery.

Another 5 stars from me. I love this series, I love these characters, and I will happily read every single book Lisa Regan writes.

Thank you to Bookouture for providing me with an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley. As usual, my reviews are my honest and unbiased opinions.

[Sherry · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

A resurfaced serial killer or is it a copycat? It’s been 13 years since their last kill, and the team works tirelessly to prevent more carnage. The case itself is a little gruesome. Once killed the victim is staged with red lipstick smeared across their lips. But don’t let that scare you off. I read this late at night and was still able to sleep.

I am still not over Mettner, but I like how Turner is becoming a reliable member of the team while also still remaining his obnoxious self. The process of the team working the clue and tag teaming to run down everything is always interesting to me. And while I might not have admitted it before, I like how Turner does his own thing and sometimes puts a wrinkle in the process.

And to balance out the case, Josie and Noah are having issues with Wren. Integrating a teenager might not have worked as well as they thought. They are dealing with her pulling away and not communicating to know why. Such a humbling experience for them and a real life issue with families. Not the reason but the discourse with a teenager.

I am not sure how the author keeps the characters consistent and feeling like old friends and also making the cases fresh and shocking. After 25 books, that is a feat. I am always gripped and engrossed in not only the case but lives of the characters. I highly recommend the series. And while you can read any of the books as a stand alone, I think you’ll get the most out of it reading the series. The characters have grown so much.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I think this author cannot outdo herself in this fantastic series, she surprises me once again. This gritty, edge of your seat mystery starring one of my favorite fictional characters, Detective Josie Quinn, starts out with a chilling story of a killer known as the Last Kiss Killer. The killer is known for the bright red lipstick left on the victims. One survivor has lived to tell her story, and now she is dead. The elusive killer has struck again.

This story was diabolically brilliant on so many different levels. It was eerie, unpredictable and intense. I was completely flabbergasted at the haunting, and unexpected, conclusion.

On another note, I love how this author builds her characters. We get to see more of Wren in this book and unpack what makes her tick, while also seeing the softer side of Josie and Noah. Turner still gets on my nerves, but he is slowly winning me over. I still stand by the fact that there is much more to this character than first appears, as we have already learned. He definitely knows how to push buttons and get on everyone's nerves, but he is a great detective.

I would suggest you find a comfy place to relax once you start this train derailment because you will not want to get up until you read the conclusion.

Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Carly Howe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Last Kiss by Lisa Regan is #25 in her Josie Quinn series. I have read all of the books in this series and I continue to enjoy them.
The plot of Her Last Kiss is particularly intriguing. Quinn and her colleague Turner are on the hunt to find a serial killer- The Last Kiss Killer. The hunt leads us all over Denton, trying to figure out the identity of the killer.
Additionally, we continue to learn more about Quinn’s personal life with her husband Noah and their recently adopted daughter Wren.
I continue to be a huge fan of this series and can’t wait to read the next one!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Another great book by Lisa Regan! I couldn’t put this one down! It had me hooked from the beginning, and I just had to keep reading to see what was going to happen next. So many twists and turns that kept me guessing! I love this series, and this book definitely did not disappoint! Can’t wait for the next one!

[Julia Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A solid, engaging thriller, Her Last Kiss will keep you on the edge of your seat! I didn’t guess who the villain was, and the author’s writing kept me turning pages! I love the dynamics of Detective Josie Quinn’s family! This book is all I can ever ask for in a twisty mystery!

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 5 out of 5]

✅My thoughts:
What does lipstick smeared on victims lips represent? That’s what Josie and her team have to figure out before things get too out of hand.
Her Last Kiss is another gripping suspense crime thriller in the Detective Josie Quinn series.
Can Josie and her team catch the killer before he strikes again????
Side note: Turner continues to get on my last nerve and my jar would be full of $1 every day I worked with him. I am trying to figure out where the author is taking us with Turner….he’s such a d-bag!!!
Definitely read the complete series in order. There is so much backstory to each character you really need to know.

[Lynn Mullan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent read. I love this series. I am completely addicted to these books. Roll on the next one! I highly recommend.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Classic Josie Quinn. Love this series. And if you see my note at 55%, I was right!!!