The Perfect Ending

by Rob Kaufman

WHAT DOES A BEST-SELLING THRILLER AUTHOR DO WHEN HE RUNS OUT OF IDEAS? JUST ABOUT ANYTHING...

Paralyzed by writer’s block, Scott Atwood’s career is over, and so, he’s decided, is his life. He just has to figure out the perfect ending befitting a popular, award-winning thriller-suspense author who always gives his fans a mind-blowing finale.

But just as Scott resolves to jump in front of a train, he conceives the ideal plot for his next bestseller — a writer of psychological thrillers who decides to wreak havoc in other people’s lives in order to help him come up with ideas for his next book.

Looking for inspiration, he exposes his neighbor’s affair with devastating and far-reaching repercussions, and his plan soon begins to spiral wildly out of control. But what is fiction? And what is reality? The lines blur in this twisted and masterful Hitchcockian thriller with the perfect ending. The question is… to what?

Genres: Fiction, Audiobook, Thriller, Mystery Thriller, Ebooks, Mystery

238 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 19, 2021

About the author

Rob Kaufman is a celebrated psychological thriller author, known for crafting emotionally intense stories that delve into the human psyche. With a degree in Psychology, he weaves his deep understanding of human behavior into gripping narratives filled with relatable characters and compelling twists.

Fascinated by what drives people toward darkness while seeking love and acceptance, Rob explores the fine line between good and evil. His novels aren’t just suspenseful—they unravel everyday events that spiral into extraordinary psychological dramas.

Readers become deeply invested in his characters, experiencing a range of emotions from laughter to heartbreak. His books have earned national and international acclaim for their unique, thought-provoking storylines and masterful plotting.

Beyond writing, Rob actively engages with readers, sharing insights into his creative process and the psychological depths of his characters. His commitment to authenticity and emotional resonance continues to captivate audiences, cementing his place as a compelling voice in psychological thrillers.

Reviews

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Good!

I have tried to review this book but find it impossible! As per my rating it was interesting and I looked forward to the each page. I have never read a storyline like this so that made it that much better. The ending? Perfect. LOL

[CarolG · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a Read Now on Netgalley and sounded interesting even though the last thing I needed was another book to read. It was a good choice on my part and I really enjoyed it. I think it answers that age-old question of where authors get their ideas! Best-selling author Scott Atwood is suffering from writer's block and, after considering and rejecting plans to end his life, he decides to create some drama in his own neighbourhood to form the basis for his next book. Like dominoes, one thing leads to another and then .... well, you'll have to read it for yourself.

Very cleverly written with unusual but not very likeable characters, it was a pretty quick read. The ending surprised me but it wrapped up the book nicely. I recommend this book and I'll definitely read some of Mr. Kaufman's other novels.

Many thanks to Rob Kaufman and the Independent Book Publishers Association as well as Netgalley for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book.
Publication Date: June 16, 2021

[Linda Strong · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scott Atwood is a writer ... a writer with writer's block. His publisher has been hounding him with phone calls wanting to know where he is on his latest book. He's nowhere.

He's decided he wants to end his life, but it wants it to be a spectacular ending. Stepping in front of a train might be the way. But as he gets closer to the tracks and leans way over, he has a brilliant idea.

How about writing about a writer of psychological thrillers who decides to cause havoc in other peoples' lives in order to come up with ideas for a new book.

His first victim is a married couple who lives a couple of streets over. He knows that the wife has a secret visitor every Wednesday afternoon. What if Scott places an anonymous call to the husband and tell him he needs to go home pronto. And what will happen when the husband walks in on his wife and her friend?

The lines between fiction and reality are separated by a very fine line. Has Scott found his perfect ending?

The concept is unique, the plot is well-written, the story line unusual. The characters are deftly drawn, however, Scott was not at all likable. This is a real-turner, full of twists and turns that lead to a decidedly unexpected ending.

Many thanks to the author / Independent Book Publishers Association / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely me own.

[IsaJameela · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. Wow. That ending was unexpected. It was so good though. I can't find any fault with it. It was a really well-written story and the plot was well thought out. My favourite character was easily Joel just because he was so sweet and nice. I felt really bad for him but he wasn't this complete goody-two-shoes flawless character. All the main characters had backstories which I really liked, I felt that I wasn't really missing out on anything or the motives and deeds behind the character and why they did what they did. Overall, I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who's into murder mysteries and psychological stuff.

[Mandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A unique, twisty story that kept my attention for the most part. I found myself wondering when I was about 80% of the way through when it was going to end, but I was pleasantly surprised with how it turned out. I liked the premise of the story as it was different from other books out there. Would recommend! I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange change for my honest review.

[Lisa Konet · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me from start to finish. So many twists and turns and such empathy for the main character and his bad luck until he gets an idea for a book that is so twisted and insane. Just wow, I could not put this down! Just when I thought I had this figured out, another twist.

A highly recommended thriller!

Thanks to Netgalley, Rob Kaufman and Independent Book Publisher Association Member's Titles for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Already available: 6/15/21

[Elaine · Rating 1 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of The Perfect Ending.

This was a short read but the narrative felt twice as long because Scott Atwood was so unlikable and I didn't care for the story itself.

I also didn't like the cast of supporting characters.

I wondered why the chapters were flip flopping between perspectives.

The 'twist' at the end wasn't bad though I should have seen it coming.

Overall, the ending doesn't make up for how much I disliked Scott and the so-so plot.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it! Totally unexpected ending.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore Rob Kaufman's books so I was excited for his latest one! And it's pretty "perfect"! Scott is in a dark place, unable to come up with a plot for his next novel; in fact he's so distraught he decides to end his own life by throwing himself in front of a train. But at the last moment, he conceives a brilliant idea with well-fleshed-out characters and a solid plot that is sure to please his readers. And this one comes with an ending that will have you gasping as you didn't see that coming! This one is a must-read for sure!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!

[Vicki Wilder · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author.

The premise is delightfully disturbing and uncomfortable.
Scott Atwood has writer’s block. Insurmountable fear and anxiety lead him to the train station with a mental coin toss: come up with a story line before the 10:10 train OR jump in front of the 10:10 train.

The desperation in this choice sends Scott careening past his own moral and social boundaries and he slithers into the lives of his neighbors to provide non-fiction inspiration for his work of “fiction.”

Murder, suicide, suspicion, heartbreak, and turmoil ensue.

I read this in one evening. The anxiety Scott feels was so well written that it made my palms sweat.
The terror and dread as Tom speeds into the neighborhood made my heart race.
The angst of Joel and Brad was so vivid.
I wanted to rescue Joel.
I wanted to warn Brad.
This book left me feeling like I was shouting through a window, trying to warn those on the other side, but no one could hear me and I have to watch it play out.

Much like Scott did, but without the crumpling and mind-shattering guilt.


This is Sixth Sense-esque with Rear Window vibes and just enough darkness to make you really, really want to hate Scott.

I can’t wait to grab Rob Kaufman’s other works. Thank you!

[Carrie Shields · Rating 2 out of 5]

A book with a terrific premise but an execution that had me bored and not invested. Scott Atwood is an award-winning thriller author who has a crippling case of writer's block. His agent is breathing down his neck, and Scott has nothing. In a moment of desperation, he decides to end his life by jumping in front of a train. First mistake--this literally came out of nowhere and seemed so abrupt and disjointed.

Anyway, right before he's splattered all over commuters with their laptops and Starbucks, he happens upon a better idea...he will wreak havoc in the lives of his neighbors to generate plot twists for his non-existent book. But when his first experiment--calling a neighbor's husband to report his wife is home cheating on him--goes horribly wrong, Scott finds himself in a morally gray area...stop this charade, or push forward?

I really think the book needed about 100 more pages. None of the characters, including Scott, felt very fleshed out. While this one didn't work for me, I wouldn't say no to picking up another of this author's titles. THE PERFECT ENDING is available on Kindle Unlimited.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Perfect Ending by Rob Kaufman is a twisted and unique thriller. A dark and thoroughly gripping story with an unexpected ending.......A Perfect read with the Perfect Ending for Scott Atwood.

Thank you to Rob Kaufman, Independent Book Publisher Association, and Netgalley for the opportunity to preview the book.

[Collette Mcgaahan · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting observation on the angst of an author with writers block. I hope for the sake of Rob Kaufman’s neighbours that it’s not taken from personal experience.
Not a long book and if you don’t mind an unpleasant lead character an easy read. Good unexpected twist at the end.

[Tanisha Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping Read

This was my first read by this author and I loved it. It was a smooth read that kept my attention from beginning to end. Each of the characters was fully developed and you didn't see the ending coming until it came. Great work!

[Barbara Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Indeed a perfect ending- did not see that coming! Highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a psychological thriller-

[Jillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Skeptical the whole time but ending made it all worth it

[Maxine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scott Atwood is a writer with writer's block meaning he can't make his deadlines. After trying and repeatedly failing to come up with a good story, he decides he only has one option - he decides to throw himself in front of a subway train. But, even in that, he fails as someone pulls him out at the last minute. But the experience gives him an idea - what if, instead of waiting for inspiration, he makes something happen like, oh, letting a husband know when his wife's secret lover is with her in their house, then waiting to see what happens.

I really enjoyed The Perfect Ending by Robert Kaufman... right up until the ending. I finished this several days ago and have been mulling it over back and forth. I read other reviews to see if my opinion is the norm - it's apparently not as most reviewers seem to think it worked well with the story. So my final assessment - I'm still not satisfied with the ending but I am in a minority but I did enjoy the rest of the book so I'll leave it up to other readers to decide for themselves. I will say, though, that, overall, I enjoyed the story enough to look for more by this author in the future.

3.5

Thanks to Netgalley and Independent Book Publishers Association for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review

[Margie Shaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Perfect Ending by author Rob Kaufman is a thriller unlike any I’ve ever read before. It’s about an author, Scott Atwood, who is being pressured by his publisher to produce his next book. The problem is is that Scott has writers block. No matter how hard he tries, he just can’t seem to come up with anything. He feels that since his career as a famous author is over that he should end his life. Now he needs to figure out exactly how to go out in a way that he’ll always be remembered. This was a very twisted tale and even now that I’ve finished the book, I’m not sure I completely understand what happens. I felt like, well did it actually happen or was it all just in Scott’s imagination. I recommend you read the book and see what you come up with. This was not my first time reading this author but I did feel like this book was very different from his others. This one left me with a lot of questions at the end but maybe that’s what it was meant to do. I do know that it kept me reading and I finished it in one day which is something I’ve never done before. I’d like to thank NetGalley for the arc to read and review. After much consideration, I’ve decided to rate this book at 4 stars!

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best selling author Scott Atwood is facing the end of his career. He hasn’t written a word for months, he’s lied to his long suffering agent about his “progress” on his new novel, his problem drinking has escalated and, finally, his wife has left him. He decides that suicide is his only answer and by throwing himself under the wheels of a train, he’ll get one more publicity buzz. So he prepares. Standing on the edge of the train platform, watching the oncoming train, waiting…but stop! He has an idea and it is genius.

At home, he begins a novel, a novel about his neighborhood which would not be interesting except for some observations he has made about certain neighbors. Can he turn those observations into a thriller? How? And what could go wrong?

That’s all I’m going to say about The Perfect Ending. I could not put it down. It’s suspenseful, exciting and creative. Rob Kaufman has turned a totally unique idea into a must read. 5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley, Independent Book Publishers Association and Rob Kaufman for this ARC.

[Diane Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

A best-selling, Edgar winning thriller author named Scott has a problem. He has writer’s block and is extremely late delivering his newest book to his publisher. Eventually, Scott decides to kill himself. But he needs to find The Perfect Ending to his life first. It has to be radical enough of a conclusion that people will talk about it long after his funeral.

When his plan to die fails, he comes up with a new plan to get a plot for his book. He will create havoc in his neighbors’ lives. First up, he tells his hot-headed neighbor to go home at the same time the neighbor’s wife is having her weekly lay-in with her side piece. Unfortunately, Scott doesn’t stop there.

I enjoyed this unusual plot! I’ve read several books where the characters come to life. This is the first book I’ve read where real people become characters. The writing style was fluid and compelling. I read the entire book in one sitting. And, of course, it really had The Perfect Ending. 5 stars and a favorite!

Thanks to the author and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scott Atwood is a successful author who is dealing with a severe case of writer’s block. His career seems to be on a collision course with failure and, with that, he is sure his life is over. Suicide is the only possible remedy. However, Scott is determined that his death should be spectacular enough that people will remember it long after his funeral has concluded. Then, almost at the very moment of his planned demise, Scott has a brilliant idea for his next novel – sure to be a best seller.

The Perfect Ending is a story of a writer and how he concocts the plot for a new book. The writing is clever and the characters are well-drawn. Some you will like and sympathize with, and other characters not so much. And, the ending can only be described as…well…perfect! This is a quick read that will entertain as well as confound. I enjoyed The Perfect Ending and recommend it.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book for review.

[Jodi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a quick but great read. I could tell very early on that this book would keep my attention. This book is dark, twisty and well written. It's written in way that made it easy to imagine it as a film - - though with the current plot it would be a short one. I was actually questioning the believability of the story as it progressed but it all makes sense by the end. And even though I was fairly confident I knew how this story would wrap up there were some aspects of the ending that caught me by surprise. I actually wish this book was a bit longer, the ARC I received has 175 pages and could have used another 30 or so of additional development and complexity. With that I definitely think this could move to 5 stars.


Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Lamis · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

This would have been a solid 4 stars if it wasn’t for the ending. But I am choosing 4 instead of 3 because the idea is really cool and because the author kept it short and intense. I read it in less than a day!

Scott is having a writer’s block, so he decides to create a mess in real people’s lives to see if he can get some inspiration for his new book.

So, I’ve already mentioned that the idea is original, that the book was short is a major plus, no stalling, no dragging, it’s intense and dramatic and the characters are interesting, I hated Scott and wasn’t a fan of Mia, but thought they were written very well.

The ending is cliché though, and is my least favourite part, but I’ll be exploring more of Rob Kaufman books for sure

[Jimmie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the ebook version of The Perfect Ending. I will submit my review without giving away spoilers, which will be difficult to accomplish. This is a rather quick book to read as the book is under 300 pages and the book flows really well. There is a bit of suspense, a little detective angle and a great book that discusses how an author comes up with a plot for a book. Without giving away the plot of this book, I will state this is a great book that covers an authors writer block scenario. I found the characters compelling, the plot interesting and the ending outstanding. I highly recommend the book The Perfect Ending.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

I’m gobsmacked. This is Hitchcock and Twilight Zone rolled into one fast moving, almost insane, journey. I read nothing but mysteries and suspense, and sometimes base my judgment of the book on how quickly I figure it out. You got me. All hail the chief!

[Amanda L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book. It was an easy relaxing read and I like the author's style. The book is not very long, so perfect for a weekend read or a beach read. I almost wish the author would have fleshed out the main character's background just a bit more. I think I would have appreciated a longer book that delved into his situation and mindset prior to the main plot beginning. I wanna know what made him tick, why did he make the choice he did beyond the obvious of he needed an idea for a book. Maybe I feel like this because unfortunately I figured out the ending of the book early on so none of it was a surprise or twist for me. I think the author has a bright career ahead and his writing will only get better. I look forward to reading his future works.

[Sea Caummisar · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like reading books about authors experiencing writer's block. This isn't the first book I read about the author manipulating people to get 'ideas' and 'inspiration' for their work. Still, I find that kind of plot interesting.
I can't say that I cared for any of the characters, which is a no-no for me when it comes to my reading because I should like or 'love to hate' the main character. I felt neutral towards the main character. He was spineless and even hated himself.
The bulk of the book was centered around quirky characters, most that I found unbelievable.
With all that being said, the ending redeemed this story. I did guess it 3/4s of the way through, but it was still a great ending

[Marisol Luna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listened to "The Perfect Ending", on audiobook and it was soooo good, loved it. It was a book within a book, which I love.
The protagonist Scott Atwood is a author who has a book due but has writers block and thinking of ending his life, but than suddenly ideas start to flow when he uses the people in his neighborhood to write his new book about. Each character is so well developed by Scott it is amazing, I couldn't stop listening. So many shocks, twist and turns. I was disappointed when the book ended.
I will look for more books by Rob Kaufman.

[Leah Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

The ratings and reviews seem to be all over the place for this one, but I loved it! Scott was definitely annoying and gross at times but it worked for the story. And for the first time in a while, I really liked all the characters! The heartbroken Mia, the kind shut-in Joel, the beautiful and haunted Brad, the empathetic Darryl...I liked them all!

The epilogue made me go back and re-read some parts because I was sure I missed something, but it was just well done. There were some clues I missed, but that just helped to make the ending...well...perfect