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Butler & West #5
Out of the Ashes
Stalking. Arson. Murder.
Butler and West are back together… and the stakes have never been higher.
When Emily Rhodes tells her old friend DS Freya West that she’s being stalked by someone she met on a dating app, Freya promises to do everything she can. But there are no leads, and the dating site refuses to give up their data.
To make matters more complicated, DI Robin Butler is back in town, investigating a string of arson attacks that have escalated to murder. When it becomes clear that Butler and West's cases are connected, they are thrown together once more. And they’ll need their wits about them…
Because this is a killer more devious than any they’ve hunted before, and he wants to obliterate everything they hold dear.
The climatic finale of the gripping Butler & West series, perfect for fans of Cara Hunter, Jane Casey and Susie Steiner.
Butler and West are back together… and the stakes have never been higher.
When Emily Rhodes tells her old friend DS Freya West that she’s being stalked by someone she met on a dating app, Freya promises to do everything she can. But there are no leads, and the dating site refuses to give up their data.
To make matters more complicated, DI Robin Butler is back in town, investigating a string of arson attacks that have escalated to murder. When it becomes clear that Butler and West's cases are connected, they are thrown together once more. And they’ll need their wits about them…
Because this is a killer more devious than any they’ve hunted before, and he wants to obliterate everything they hold dear.
The climatic finale of the gripping Butler & West series, perfect for fans of Cara Hunter, Jane Casey and Susie Steiner.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2023
66 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
Louisa Scarr
13 books215 followersLouisa Scarr studied psychology at the University of Southampton and has lived in and around the city ever since. She is a full time writer, and when she's not at her desk, she can be found pounding the streets in running shoes or swimming in muddy lakes.
She is the author of the Butler and West crime series, published by Canelo Crime, beginning with Last Place You Look and ending with Out of the Ashes. A new series, about a police dog handler, launched in July 2024 with Gallows Wood. The second and third books, Memorial Park and Broken House, are out now.
She also writes as Sam Holland and is the author of the award-winning Major Crimes series, following detectives as they investigate murders committed by brutal serial killers in the south of England. The latest, The Countdown Killer, is out now.
Her DS Kate Munro series, Ask Me No Questions and Nowhere to be Found, have been republished by Canelo Crime and are out now. (They were originally published as Louisa de Lange, under the same name.)
You can follow her on Twitter @paperclipgirl and on Instagram @louisascarrwriter.
She is the author of the Butler and West crime series, published by Canelo Crime, beginning with Last Place You Look and ending with Out of the Ashes. A new series, about a police dog handler, launched in July 2024 with Gallows Wood. The second and third books, Memorial Park and Broken House, are out now.
She also writes as Sam Holland and is the author of the award-winning Major Crimes series, following detectives as they investigate murders committed by brutal serial killers in the south of England. The latest, The Countdown Killer, is out now.
Her DS Kate Munro series, Ask Me No Questions and Nowhere to be Found, have been republished by Canelo Crime and are out now. (They were originally published as Louisa de Lange, under the same name.)
You can follow her on Twitter @paperclipgirl and on Instagram @louisascarrwriter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
May 31, 2023
Thank you Canelo and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
3.5 rounded up
Writing: 4/5 | Plot: 3.5/5 | Ending: 3.5/5
SYNOPSIS
Butler and West are reunited for one last case... the case of WILL THEY FINALLY BANG OR NAH????
MY OPINION
Now ya'll know I'll jump around a series without a single qualm (in fact, I started this series with book #4), but I don't recommend reading this one first. The last (*kim kardashian ugly cry*) instalment is definitely for fans who have been following along and are INVESTED in Butler and West's slow-burning romance. There's a lot of time spent on feelings here, which you may not give af about if you haven't read the other books. Also, since it's the last hooray, it's good to have all the background on the MCs to see how far they've come.
I'm sad to say it but other than the resolution of Butler and West's love story, this was my least fave of the series. I found the case really... strange. I won't spoil it, but it went a little too west for me to truly buy into. I will give it to Louisa Scarr though, those red herrings were GOODT. She got my ass. And they weren't like Freida McFraudulent red herrings where she shoves the same shit down your throat a million times like a cheap magician tryna create a diversion; these were simple, subtly, and naturally woven into the story.
I will continue to scream about this series until someone finally gets me kicked off this site LOL. One of my faves of all time. Beautifully written, well-researched, and distinct characters that you can't help but root for. Although I'm sad this is the end of the road for Butler and West (for now at least), I was super excited to read a prologue of her upcoming series that drops in 2024. Keep on writing Scarr!! You've got the magic touch.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: satisfying resolution to Butler and West's story (was a lil nervous about the collateral damage but she pulled it off), well-written
Cons: some questionable police work moments, the case was a bit OTT for my tastes but I know others will appreciate it
____________________________
For some sick reason, do you want to hear more of my nonsense? Check out my podcast: Novels & Nonsense streaming everywhere.
3.5 rounded up
Writing: 4/5 | Plot: 3.5/5 | Ending: 3.5/5
SYNOPSIS
Butler and West are reunited for one last case... the case of WILL THEY FINALLY BANG OR NAH????
MY OPINION
Now ya'll know I'll jump around a series without a single qualm (in fact, I started this series with book #4), but I don't recommend reading this one first. The last (*kim kardashian ugly cry*) instalment is definitely for fans who have been following along and are INVESTED in Butler and West's slow-burning romance. There's a lot of time spent on feelings here, which you may not give af about if you haven't read the other books. Also, since it's the last hooray, it's good to have all the background on the MCs to see how far they've come.
I'm sad to say it but other than the resolution of Butler and West's love story, this was my least fave of the series. I found the case really... strange. I won't spoil it, but it went a little too west for me to truly buy into. I will give it to Louisa Scarr though, those red herrings were GOODT. She got my ass. And they weren't like Freida McFraudulent red herrings where she shoves the same shit down your throat a million times like a cheap magician tryna create a diversion; these were simple, subtly, and naturally woven into the story.
I will continue to scream about this series until someone finally gets me kicked off this site LOL. One of my faves of all time. Beautifully written, well-researched, and distinct characters that you can't help but root for. Although I'm sad this is the end of the road for Butler and West (for now at least), I was super excited to read a prologue of her upcoming series that drops in 2024. Keep on writing Scarr!! You've got the magic touch.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: satisfying resolution to Butler and West's story (was a lil nervous about the collateral damage but she pulled it off), well-written
Cons: some questionable police work moments, the case was a bit OTT for my tastes but I know others will appreciate it
____________________________
For some sick reason, do you want to hear more of my nonsense? Check out my podcast: Novels & Nonsense streaming everywhere.
June 4, 2024
My Rating: 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ loved it…but why is it over!!!! 😭
Stalking. Arson and Murder!!!
Butler and West are back in action and the stakes have never been higher!
When Emily Rhodes tells her old friend DS Freya West shes being stalked by a man she’s been speaking to on a dating app, Freya promises to do everything she can to help her.
To complicate matters DI Robin Butler is back in town investigating a string of arson attacks that have escalated to murder.
They soon realise that their cases are linked and their old feelings are reignited … but will they ever do anything about it… or will the worst happen before they get a chance??
WHYYYYYYYYYYYY, I just hope that the authors notes where she says this is the end (for now) is true. BRING BACK BUTLER AND WEST is all I have to say.
Its going to be difficult for me to do this review without spoilers but I will try… I have never wanted fictional characters to get together more than Butler and West and this instalment is no different… I was on the edge of my seat figuratively and literally because as we crept closer and closer to the end… I as afraid for the relationship status and was it always going to say… It’s Complicated??
I am giving nothing away but eeeek!!!
I wont lie, I am never drawn to crimes that involve fire… that isn’t my bag at all and arson to me… is one of the more boring forms of murder for fictional killers - in my opinion - I realise that murder and fire is not boring but… when we are talking in the context of serial killers, and kidnappers and fictional crimes… arson is down the list for me.
BUT we had the stalking case and I didn’t know how this was going to tie in AND I was convinced i knew who the baddie was.. I was like I am so clever nah nah nah … but Nope I was wrong… nice red herrings and nice trickery Scarr… you got me good!!! I was shocked and I was delighted that you got me.
This case was wild… there wasn’t a lot of realism in it… but I liked it… I enjoyed the action packed ending even though it was a matter of chuck your disbelief right out the window.
I am not kidding when I say I wanted to kick Josh’s arse by the end of this book… he’s been annoying me the whole time and he’s not a bad dude… but get out of the way man… right out of the way!!!!
Was I happy with the ending…. Mmmm not gonna say… everyone knows how I feel about Butler and West so of course I hope that they get together… however if I say I was happy it will be ruined… so you can decide for yourself when you read it 🤣
Overall, I really liked this book I loved this series… I am currently mourning my own personal loss of these books and I wish Louisa Scarr would write another 21 more books in this series 🤣 I will continue to recommend… and also say thank you to Lit with Leigh for her recommendation to me… I loved the series and can see myself going back and reading it again… I will have missed some things because I know I read it too fast !!!
Stalking. Arson and Murder!!!
Butler and West are back in action and the stakes have never been higher!
When Emily Rhodes tells her old friend DS Freya West shes being stalked by a man she’s been speaking to on a dating app, Freya promises to do everything she can to help her.
To complicate matters DI Robin Butler is back in town investigating a string of arson attacks that have escalated to murder.
They soon realise that their cases are linked and their old feelings are reignited … but will they ever do anything about it… or will the worst happen before they get a chance??
WHYYYYYYYYYYYY, I just hope that the authors notes where she says this is the end (for now) is true. BRING BACK BUTLER AND WEST is all I have to say.
Its going to be difficult for me to do this review without spoilers but I will try… I have never wanted fictional characters to get together more than Butler and West and this instalment is no different… I was on the edge of my seat figuratively and literally because as we crept closer and closer to the end… I as afraid for the relationship status and was it always going to say… It’s Complicated??
I am giving nothing away but eeeek!!!
I wont lie, I am never drawn to crimes that involve fire… that isn’t my bag at all and arson to me… is one of the more boring forms of murder for fictional killers - in my opinion - I realise that murder and fire is not boring but… when we are talking in the context of serial killers, and kidnappers and fictional crimes… arson is down the list for me.
BUT we had the stalking case and I didn’t know how this was going to tie in AND I was convinced i knew who the baddie was.. I was like I am so clever nah nah nah … but Nope I was wrong… nice red herrings and nice trickery Scarr… you got me good!!! I was shocked and I was delighted that you got me.
This case was wild… there wasn’t a lot of realism in it… but I liked it… I enjoyed the action packed ending even though it was a matter of chuck your disbelief right out the window.
I am not kidding when I say I wanted to kick Josh’s arse by the end of this book… he’s been annoying me the whole time and he’s not a bad dude… but get out of the way man… right out of the way!!!!
Was I happy with the ending…. Mmmm not gonna say… everyone knows how I feel about Butler and West so of course I hope that they get together… however if I say I was happy it will be ruined… so you can decide for yourself when you read it 🤣
Overall, I really liked this book I loved this series… I am currently mourning my own personal loss of these books and I wish Louisa Scarr would write another 21 more books in this series 🤣 I will continue to recommend… and also say thank you to Lit with Leigh for her recommendation to me… I loved the series and can see myself going back and reading it again… I will have missed some things because I know I read it too fast !!!
August 27, 2023
4.25 / 5
I had a lot of mixed emotions reading this book, I’ve followed the Butler and West series and have been emotionally invested in these two navigate their life and careers - I’m happy that I managed to read the last book and finally get the closure but equally sad that this is the end of the series. Only wish there was more to add. But nevertheless Scarr is producing a new series- will be keeping my eyes on that one!
The book followed after the events of book four, so if you haven’t read it - read from the start and get invested. Anything I do say is a spoiler technically: so Butler returns back to his old stomping ground after a series of arsons down in Devon has creeped up in Southampton (he had transferred away due to his circumstances (fourth book explains this), leaving his dectectice partner Freya west. He’s leading the team, whilst DS Freya west is investigating a stalker. Although this is a big stretch, West and Butler connect the two dots, where the stalker is linked to the arsons. I have to admit if you were to read this book as the first book, you’ll definitely cringe and think it’s abit extreme- but if you’ve read the series the ending and the events make sense.
I feel quite mixed about it, because In all honesty I didn’t care about the main plot I wanted to find out how the series ended. I did drop this lower because I found it too predictable lol, it was screaming rooftops predictable. But it has everything else, solid police procedures, intense scenes that at points seemed unpredictable. The level of quality across the series has not faltered. I have to give major credit to Scarr for the detailed research- like you can tell when the author has gone to lengths to get everything right. But my ratings are for the relationship between Butler and west- and let me tell you Scarr knows how to add to that tension. I have to applaud Scarr for creating such a wonderful gripping series that is equally relatable - this is one of those rare series where the relationship presented seem real- not some outlandish take. Felt like we’re third wheeling, watching it all go down. Can’t recommend this series enough- get yourself a copy and get started on it!
I had a lot of mixed emotions reading this book, I’ve followed the Butler and West series and have been emotionally invested in these two navigate their life and careers - I’m happy that I managed to read the last book and finally get the closure but equally sad that this is the end of the series. Only wish there was more to add. But nevertheless Scarr is producing a new series- will be keeping my eyes on that one!
The book followed after the events of book four, so if you haven’t read it - read from the start and get invested. Anything I do say is a spoiler technically: so Butler returns back to his old stomping ground after a series of arsons down in Devon has creeped up in Southampton (he had transferred away due to his circumstances (fourth book explains this), leaving his dectectice partner Freya west. He’s leading the team, whilst DS Freya west is investigating a stalker. Although this is a big stretch, West and Butler connect the two dots, where the stalker is linked to the arsons. I have to admit if you were to read this book as the first book, you’ll definitely cringe and think it’s abit extreme- but if you’ve read the series the ending and the events make sense.
I feel quite mixed about it, because In all honesty I didn’t care about the main plot I wanted to find out how the series ended. I did drop this lower because I found it too predictable lol, it was screaming rooftops predictable. But it has everything else, solid police procedures, intense scenes that at points seemed unpredictable. The level of quality across the series has not faltered. I have to give major credit to Scarr for the detailed research- like you can tell when the author has gone to lengths to get everything right. But my ratings are for the relationship between Butler and west- and let me tell you Scarr knows how to add to that tension. I have to applaud Scarr for creating such a wonderful gripping series that is equally relatable - this is one of those rare series where the relationship presented seem real- not some outlandish take. Felt like we’re third wheeling, watching it all go down. Can’t recommend this series enough- get yourself a copy and get started on it!
June 22, 2023
Many thanks to both Canelo and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Out of the Ashes, by Louisa Scarr. It's the fifth (and possibly the last) book in the Butler & West series.
Expected publication July 6, 2023
3.5 Stars, rounded up
Out of the Ashes has it all! Mystery, suspense, arson, stalking, and romance all wrapped up in a whodunit!! This book finds DS Freya West investigating a stalker, and DI Robin Butler investigating a string of arson attacks that have escalated to murder. The cases seemed to be connected somehow and it kept me guessing until the end.
Although I enjoyed reading most of Out of the Ashes, toward the end the plots started feeling less believable to me, and parts felt too over the top. Still, I enjoyed this page-turner, and absolutely loved Robin!
Expected publication July 6, 2023
3.5 Stars, rounded up
Out of the Ashes has it all! Mystery, suspense, arson, stalking, and romance all wrapped up in a whodunit!! This book finds DS Freya West investigating a stalker, and DI Robin Butler investigating a string of arson attacks that have escalated to murder. The cases seemed to be connected somehow and it kept me guessing until the end.
Although I enjoyed reading most of Out of the Ashes, toward the end the plots started feeling less believable to me, and parts felt too over the top. Still, I enjoyed this page-turner, and absolutely loved Robin!
June 12, 2023
I absolutely loved this series and while I'm utterly depressed that it's over, I feel mildly satisfied by this final installment (I only say "mildly" because I'm still not happy it's over). If you've read the first four books in this series and are invested in one of my personal favorite crime fighting duos, you should pre-order Out of the Ashes asap. If you've yet to experience the joy of Butler & West please start book one (Last Place You Look) immediately.
Out of the Ashes was just as twisty and entertaining as the previous books in the series and I am a huge fan of Scarr's writing. This series is definitely a hidden gem and I won't stop talking about it until more readers get their hands on Scarr's books!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book; all opinions are my own. Thank you to the publisher and net galley for allowing me to be an early reader.
Out of the Ashes was just as twisty and entertaining as the previous books in the series and I am a huge fan of Scarr's writing. This series is definitely a hidden gem and I won't stop talking about it until more readers get their hands on Scarr's books!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book; all opinions are my own. Thank you to the publisher and net galley for allowing me to be an early reader.
May 28, 2023
With many thanks to Netgalley and Canelo books for this free ARC - I am leaving this unbiased review voluntarily
Although I was super excited to read this book it was tinged with a little sadness as this is the last in this series of books. And oh my Louisa Scarr you have saved the best for last. An absolute cracker of a book and I got the ending I had hoped for! This author has the wonderful ability to run two storylines side by side without compromising either. The tension is unbelievable and latter part of this book is gripping - the world could have stopped and I would not have noticed. Robin firmly planted himself as one of my all time favourite detectives in book one and there he will stay as a little part of me is hoping it’s au revoir and not goodbye. So take a bow Ms Scarr -a hell of a book to end a hell of a series. Thank you 💕
Although I was super excited to read this book it was tinged with a little sadness as this is the last in this series of books. And oh my Louisa Scarr you have saved the best for last. An absolute cracker of a book and I got the ending I had hoped for! This author has the wonderful ability to run two storylines side by side without compromising either. The tension is unbelievable and latter part of this book is gripping - the world could have stopped and I would not have noticed. Robin firmly planted himself as one of my all time favourite detectives in book one and there he will stay as a little part of me is hoping it’s au revoir and not goodbye. So take a bow Ms Scarr -a hell of a book to end a hell of a series. Thank you 💕
June 5, 2024
i read all 5 books in this series over a couple of days, i couldn’t get enough
usually i’m not a fan of the romantic side of a crime series as it’s all about the police finding the suspect etc however i loved butler and west, really enjoyed their relationship over the 5 books also every crime was unique
i would recommend this series
usually i’m not a fan of the romantic side of a crime series as it’s all about the police finding the suspect etc however i loved butler and west, really enjoyed their relationship over the 5 books also every crime was unique
i would recommend this series
June 29, 2024
2.5 Stars
February 25, 2025
Fifth book in the West and Butler series and its as good as the previous four
June 21, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. I didn't realize at first, that this is what I think is the final book in a series featuring the same two main characters. There's Freya West, a detective and her partner Robin Butler (in this book he's her former partner that moved away and has come back to work a case), It doesn't take long for the author to hint at a history between the two main characters. Robin is back in town because of a serial arsonist case that he thinks may be connected to fires set in Freya's (and formerly Robin's) town. Robin comes back with his girlfriend Jo and their baby Tom. Freya, is surprised to see Robin back at their "Nick" (British slang for police station). Freya's fiance Josh isn't too happy to see him back. Freya is working on a stalking case and Josh gets put on Robin's team to investigate the arsons. Before long, Freya, Robin and Josh end up on the same team investigating the fires and the stalker since they are trying to see if/how the two are linked. The mystery deepens as they try to stop the person responsible for the escalating fires (that have killed two people). The pace of the book is good and it kept me guessing until the end. I had no clue who the culprit was until it was finally revealed. I love a book that can keep me guessing. Some of the romance vibe interlaced into the story was a bit overdone and had a couple of odd moments of popping up near the end. But, that being said, it wasn't too much and clearly, if I'd read the books in this series that came before this one, I'm sure it would seem quite a natural evolution and resolution to what appeared to be an ongoing "undercurrent". I won't say much more as I don't want to give any spoilers. I liked this book and I think I'll go back and read the ones that came before this one so I can get some of the main character's backstory and get a better sense of them as characters.
June 4, 2023
Out of the Ashes starts slowly. Emily Rhodes asks for DS Freya West, her friend from university, when she reports a stalker whose behavior has become threatening and dangerous. Freya had hoped to work on an escalating arson case, especially since it is headed by DCI Robin Butler, her former partner with whom she has an involved relationship. Instead, she is given the stalker case and her fiancé Josh begins work on Robin’s team. Obviously, there will be problems. Soon the cases overlap and the detectives are working desperately to save one of their own.
This cannot be the last in the Butler & West series! Louisa Scarr, are you reading this? These police procedurals quickly became one of my favorites. There are so many strong, well described characters. Will Josh call Lucy? What will happen to Mina? To Jess? Jo? And I want to hear more about Robin and Freya. Please! Of course, this is a 5 star read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Canelo and Louisa Scarr for this ARC.
This cannot be the last in the Butler & West series! Louisa Scarr, are you reading this? These police procedurals quickly became one of my favorites. There are so many strong, well described characters. Will Josh call Lucy? What will happen to Mina? To Jess? Jo? And I want to hear more about Robin and Freya. Please! Of course, this is a 5 star read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Canelo and Louisa Scarr for this ARC.
June 11, 2023
A satisfying conclusion to the Butler & West series! I was getting a little wound up about the Freya and Robin situation at the end of book four and wasn’t sure how it was going to resolve itself, but I like how Scarr handled everything.
I will say I didn’t love-love where the crime story went in this one - it was a bit out there for me - but I still enjoyed every second and love Louisa Scarr and *cannot wait* to start reading her new series (the prologue of which was included at the end of Out of the Ashes and includes some familiar characters!)
This series should be wildly popular and I’d love more people to read it!
* thanks to Canelo for the NetGalley review copy. Out of the Ashes publishes July 6, 2023.
I will say I didn’t love-love where the crime story went in this one - it was a bit out there for me - but I still enjoyed every second and love Louisa Scarr and *cannot wait* to start reading her new series (the prologue of which was included at the end of Out of the Ashes and includes some familiar characters!)
This series should be wildly popular and I’d love more people to read it!
* thanks to Canelo for the NetGalley review copy. Out of the Ashes publishes July 6, 2023.
June 14, 2023
This is the first book i have read from louise scarr so the first time i have been introduced too freya and robin it was really loveley and heart warming too read and see the relationship between them. I didnt guess who the killer was either i suspected someone else which i think was the point. I was gripped and stayed up all noght reading because i just didnt want too put it down..
April 28, 2024
I'm very glad I'm not of a sensitive disposition after finishing this as it was so incredibly TENSE!
The B&W series tends to be quite slow-burn - which is fine as they are all amazing regardless - but this was a very different and welcomed change of pace.
The absolute BEST in the series. She really went out with a bang. I can only hope that we will eventually get more from this series as I truly fell in love with these characters, more than I think I ever have before with any other novels.
I don't want to spoil it so all I will say is: Louisa Scarr, you are a genius.
The B&W series tends to be quite slow-burn - which is fine as they are all amazing regardless - but this was a very different and welcomed change of pace.
The absolute BEST in the series. She really went out with a bang. I can only hope that we will eventually get more from this series as I truly fell in love with these characters, more than I think I ever have before with any other novels.
I don't want to spoil it so all I will say is: Louisa Scarr, you are a genius.
March 1, 2025
What a great series!
February 11, 2024
About: Robins a new father to little Tom, and couldn’t be happier about it. However when a series of fires, accumulate in a murder, he finds himself transferring temporarily back home, back to Freya…
Thoughts: What a wonderful end to the Butler & West crimes. I can’t believe this is the end for them, they have been on a fabulous journey and I’ve enjoyed every one of the books. It’s been a turbulent and exciting journey. Hopefully we get to see more from these characters in the future.
Thoughts: What a wonderful end to the Butler & West crimes. I can’t believe this is the end for them, they have been on a fabulous journey and I’ve enjoyed every one of the books. It’s been a turbulent and exciting journey. Hopefully we get to see more from these characters in the future.
July 10, 2023
This is the first book by Louisa Scarr I've read but it won't be my last. I've truly enjoyed this thriller a lot. It came out last week and I got it from Canelo via Netgalley.
An old friend of DS Freya West asks for her help. She is being obsessively stalked after befriending someone online. West wants to help but it's all dead ends. Her old colleague, DI Robin Butler, is also back in town for an arson case. There have been some arson attacks which ultimately led to a murder. To top it all off, the cases seem to be linked...
This is book 5 in the series but you can easily read it as a separate book. You don't need to know the history between the main characters to understand them and to know their motives. Because it's book 5, the characters are well worked out and the dialogue between them feels natural. You get to know them more from this book and that makes things a bit more obvious at points.
The story is a good one. You see some things coming from a mile away, but it's still a great read - exciting, tense and fast paced - perfect combination.
4,5/5⭐
An old friend of DS Freya West asks for her help. She is being obsessively stalked after befriending someone online. West wants to help but it's all dead ends. Her old colleague, DI Robin Butler, is also back in town for an arson case. There have been some arson attacks which ultimately led to a murder. To top it all off, the cases seem to be linked...
This is book 5 in the series but you can easily read it as a separate book. You don't need to know the history between the main characters to understand them and to know their motives. Because it's book 5, the characters are well worked out and the dialogue between them feels natural. You get to know them more from this book and that makes things a bit more obvious at points.
The story is a good one. You see some things coming from a mile away, but it's still a great read - exciting, tense and fast paced - perfect combination.
4,5/5⭐
August 6, 2023
Loved this book as much as the others I’ve read in the series. It’s not vital but if you can I would recommend reading the five books in order. It just means you feel more connected. The characters are all great especially Freya and Butler but Mina is one of my background favourites with potential as well.
The plot if I’m honest isn’t the best in the series but I’ve only come to this conclusion after more objective considerations than I first had when I first finished what looks like being the last in the series. I think the Louisa Scarr was more intent on the ending than on the whole. Nevertheless it’s a fabulous read.
The plot if I’m honest isn’t the best in the series but I’ve only come to this conclusion after more objective considerations than I first had when I first finished what looks like being the last in the series. I think the Louisa Scarr was more intent on the ending than on the whole. Nevertheless it’s a fabulous read.
June 16, 2024
It's been a few months since I've finished with Freya and Robin and every detective series I start or try to start is just dull in comparison
May 29, 2023
Out of the Ashes by Louisa Scarr is a great addition to this series. I really enjoy this series and getting to know the characters even more.
There is stalking, arson, and murder in Out of the Ashes, and Butler and West are back together!!
When Emily Rhodes tells her old friend DS Freya West that she’s being stalked by someone she met on a dating app, Freya promises to do everything she can. But there are no leads, and the dating site refuses to give up its data.
To complicate matters, DI Robin Butler is back in town, investigating a string of arson attacks that have escalated to murder. When it becomes clear that Butler and West's cases are connected, they are thrown together again.
The relationships between Butler and West and their colleagues are just as much a part of the mystery as the arsons and stalking. The stalking aspect of the story is scary, nerve-wracking, and unsettling. It's a very good story and plot.
The author has an uncanny way in her writing that reveals very small details and unravels the mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat and guessing until the explosive ending. And the ending: What!? You could have knocked me over with a feather on who was involved. It was shocking.
The descriptions were done well and provided both visual and sensory senses that had you right inside the action and fires (i.e., the smoke was forming a dark cotton-wool coating across the ceiling).
The ending was quite satisfying. Fingers crossed that there are more in this series. I feel sad when I come to the end of a Butler and West book; it's like having to say goodbye to dear friends. But there is a new first book in a PC Halliday series coming out in May 2024 that I am looking forward to.
I would highly recommend this series and starting from book 1. An exciting read with believable characters, a solid plot, and page-turning action. Five out of 5 stars.
#OutoftheAshes #NetGalley @paperclipgirl
There is stalking, arson, and murder in Out of the Ashes, and Butler and West are back together!!
When Emily Rhodes tells her old friend DS Freya West that she’s being stalked by someone she met on a dating app, Freya promises to do everything she can. But there are no leads, and the dating site refuses to give up its data.
To complicate matters, DI Robin Butler is back in town, investigating a string of arson attacks that have escalated to murder. When it becomes clear that Butler and West's cases are connected, they are thrown together again.
The relationships between Butler and West and their colleagues are just as much a part of the mystery as the arsons and stalking. The stalking aspect of the story is scary, nerve-wracking, and unsettling. It's a very good story and plot.
The author has an uncanny way in her writing that reveals very small details and unravels the mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat and guessing until the explosive ending. And the ending: What!? You could have knocked me over with a feather on who was involved. It was shocking.
The descriptions were done well and provided both visual and sensory senses that had you right inside the action and fires (i.e., the smoke was forming a dark cotton-wool coating across the ceiling).
The ending was quite satisfying. Fingers crossed that there are more in this series. I feel sad when I come to the end of a Butler and West book; it's like having to say goodbye to dear friends. But there is a new first book in a PC Halliday series coming out in May 2024 that I am looking forward to.
I would highly recommend this series and starting from book 1. An exciting read with believable characters, a solid plot, and page-turning action. Five out of 5 stars.
#OutoftheAshes #NetGalley @paperclipgirl
June 25, 2023
'Out of the Ashes' is the compelling fifth book of the DI Robin Butler and DS Freya West.
Set over a year after the previous book, Butler and West are reunited after a series of fires in Devon, where Butler is now living with his detective partner Jo and their baby son Tom, are connected to ones back in Southampton. Meanwhile West is dealing with a persistent stalker of an old law school classmate.
Time apart has left both Butler and West floundering and pining for each other, but neither have stayed in contact apart from superficial text messages.
The cases are interesting, with red herrings (one I fell for because I guessed the wrong person) and all the solid plotting and tension that makes this book a delight to read.
However the most compelling mystery of the book that I was glued to was 'will Butler and West FINALLY declare themselves to each other?!'
While this is the first book I've read of the series I found it easy to pick up a number of threads, particularly the palpable chemistry between Butler and West. I'm glad I started the series with this book as I'd have been devastated by the events that transpired in book four leading to their separation.
It's not easy to write series fiction, knowing readers will come in at any point of the series, along with balancing crime, character development and a bit of romance on the side, but Scarr does this with aplomb. 'Out of the Ashes' had the perfect balance of a compelling mystery, with characters that I became heavily invested in, along with a very satisfying resolution.
Scarr has said this is the final book for now, so while I eagerly await her next series (a preview was added at the end), I hope down the track we get a chance to return to Butler and West, perhaps set a few years in the future to see where everything has landed. Meanwhile I have since bought the previous four books so I am looking forward to gorging on this series for just a little bit longer.
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the ARC.
Set over a year after the previous book, Butler and West are reunited after a series of fires in Devon, where Butler is now living with his detective partner Jo and their baby son Tom, are connected to ones back in Southampton. Meanwhile West is dealing with a persistent stalker of an old law school classmate.
Time apart has left both Butler and West floundering and pining for each other, but neither have stayed in contact apart from superficial text messages.
The cases are interesting, with red herrings (one I fell for because I guessed the wrong person) and all the solid plotting and tension that makes this book a delight to read.
However the most compelling mystery of the book that I was glued to was 'will Butler and West FINALLY declare themselves to each other?!'
While this is the first book I've read of the series I found it easy to pick up a number of threads, particularly the palpable chemistry between Butler and West. I'm glad I started the series with this book as I'd have been devastated by the events that transpired in book four leading to their separation.
It's not easy to write series fiction, knowing readers will come in at any point of the series, along with balancing crime, character development and a bit of romance on the side, but Scarr does this with aplomb. 'Out of the Ashes' had the perfect balance of a compelling mystery, with characters that I became heavily invested in, along with a very satisfying resolution.
Scarr has said this is the final book for now, so while I eagerly await her next series (a preview was added at the end), I hope down the track we get a chance to return to Butler and West, perhaps set a few years in the future to see where everything has landed. Meanwhile I have since bought the previous four books so I am looking forward to gorging on this series for just a little bit longer.
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the ARC.
July 4, 2023
This is the fifth book in this brilliant series and so, obviously, usual series rules apply if you want to get the very best from the characters' back stories and development. I would also recommend you do just that as they are also all cracking books.
So... DC Freya West is contacted by an old friend who is worried about a stalker she has appeared to have picked up from a dating site she belongs to. Freya assures her she will do her best but is shut off by the dating site refusing to assist.
Meanwhile DI Robin Butler (Freya's old partner in more ways that one!) is back from the sticks as there seems to be overlap of a case he is investigating. One of arson which appears to have escalated to murder. This reappearance really puts the cats amongst the pigeons for both Freya & Robin as well as their new respective partners. This is escalated as their two cases - stalking and arson start to look like they are connected and they are forced to work together once again...
This is the end of the series. And, although it ends well, it still makes me sad. I have gone through a lot with the two main characters. This being a bit of a romantic police procedural with plenty of requited and unrequited moments! As well as being witness to some cracking crimes too, let's not forget! But I guess all things must come to an end, especially given the romantic side of things - some books do drag this out over many many, too many books and it all feels false. Here it all comes to a natural end... but I will leave you to see if it's the one you want!
So we bid a find farewell to Butler and West but I have hears whispers of her new series coming next year and I will definitely be first in the queue to snaffle that one up...
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So... DC Freya West is contacted by an old friend who is worried about a stalker she has appeared to have picked up from a dating site she belongs to. Freya assures her she will do her best but is shut off by the dating site refusing to assist.
Meanwhile DI Robin Butler (Freya's old partner in more ways that one!) is back from the sticks as there seems to be overlap of a case he is investigating. One of arson which appears to have escalated to murder. This reappearance really puts the cats amongst the pigeons for both Freya & Robin as well as their new respective partners. This is escalated as their two cases - stalking and arson start to look like they are connected and they are forced to work together once again...
This is the end of the series. And, although it ends well, it still makes me sad. I have gone through a lot with the two main characters. This being a bit of a romantic police procedural with plenty of requited and unrequited moments! As well as being witness to some cracking crimes too, let's not forget! But I guess all things must come to an end, especially given the romantic side of things - some books do drag this out over many many, too many books and it all feels false. Here it all comes to a natural end... but I will leave you to see if it's the one you want!
So we bid a find farewell to Butler and West but I have hears whispers of her new series coming next year and I will definitely be first in the queue to snaffle that one up...
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
July 6, 2023
I really enjoyed reading out of the ashes, when I first downloaded this book I had no idea it was the 5th one in a series, however I was able to read it as a stand alone and was able to fill in the gaps where more information would have been provided in previous books. I’m also now looking forward to reading the rest of the Butler and West series.
There’s a dangerous killer on the loose one who likes to play with fire. Butler has returned to his old station to work a case which is consistent to the same one he is working on in Exeter, and boy is it complicates he has a serial arsonist on his hands, one who is clever enough not to leave a trail.
At the same time Freya is investigating a stalking case after her friend Emily comes up to the station following some concerning messages she’s been receiving from someone she’s met on an online dating app.
Soon it is discovered that Butler and Wests cases are linked and it becomes possible they are looking for the same person. With the complexity of this case and one dead end leading to another Freya takes drastic actions to work out who is behind this hideous crimes once and for all, however their killer is a clever man one who clearly knows how to cover his own tracks.
This book has me guessing right until the very end, and all the way through I had no idea who could have been behind these crimes, which for me made it an all the more exciting read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review. I cannot wait to go back and read the previous books on this series.
There’s a dangerous killer on the loose one who likes to play with fire. Butler has returned to his old station to work a case which is consistent to the same one he is working on in Exeter, and boy is it complicates he has a serial arsonist on his hands, one who is clever enough not to leave a trail.
At the same time Freya is investigating a stalking case after her friend Emily comes up to the station following some concerning messages she’s been receiving from someone she’s met on an online dating app.
Soon it is discovered that Butler and Wests cases are linked and it becomes possible they are looking for the same person. With the complexity of this case and one dead end leading to another Freya takes drastic actions to work out who is behind this hideous crimes once and for all, however their killer is a clever man one who clearly knows how to cover his own tracks.
This book has me guessing right until the very end, and all the way through I had no idea who could have been behind these crimes, which for me made it an all the more exciting read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review. I cannot wait to go back and read the previous books on this series.
July 14, 2023
‘Out of the Ashes’ is a fast-paced thriller, packed full of tension with a great cast of characters. This is the first book I have read by this author and I wasn't aware that this was the concluding (for now!) book to the series. But I think it can be read as a standalone, as I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I can see how it would be a great ending for the fans of this series. There were mentions to past storylines but not knowing didn't take away from this plot so even if you are new to this series get it a bash!
Stalking. Arson. Murder. When Emily tells her old friend DS Freya West that she is being stalked by someone she met on a dating app, Freya promises to do everything she can. But there are no leads and the dating app is refusing to release any information about the stalker's profile. DI Robin Butler is back in town investigating a string of arson cases that has crossed boundaries from Southampton to Devon. They have now escalated to murder. Butler and West soon realised that the cases might be connected and that the person they are hunting is very dangerous indeed…
I really liked the main characters of Freya and Robin. They worked well together and of course, there were their feelings for one another. I could see that they made a great team. The plot keeps the reader guessing for quite awhile and I totally had it wrong as I thought the killer was someone else completely! Some aspects of the plot were far-fetched but then this is entertainment rather than reality! I will be keeping an eye out for Louisa’s new series as I enjoyed reading this book!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
Stalking. Arson. Murder. When Emily tells her old friend DS Freya West that she is being stalked by someone she met on a dating app, Freya promises to do everything she can. But there are no leads and the dating app is refusing to release any information about the stalker's profile. DI Robin Butler is back in town investigating a string of arson cases that has crossed boundaries from Southampton to Devon. They have now escalated to murder. Butler and West soon realised that the cases might be connected and that the person they are hunting is very dangerous indeed…
I really liked the main characters of Freya and Robin. They worked well together and of course, there were their feelings for one another. I could see that they made a great team. The plot keeps the reader guessing for quite awhile and I totally had it wrong as I thought the killer was someone else completely! Some aspects of the plot were far-fetched but then this is entertainment rather than reality! I will be keeping an eye out for Louisa’s new series as I enjoyed reading this book!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
November 2, 2023
Louisa scarr/Sam Holland books are now and forever will be automatic purchases for me. Not one of her books so far has been disapointing, with constant twists and turns, exciting cases and psychologically interesting criminals and not to mention an incredible dynamic duo Robin and Freya (yes, I do love that I share a name with this character) their working relationship going through all the motions adds a brilliant depth to the books that I find a lot of crime novels skip out on as they're mainly only ever focused on solving the crime that there isn't any time to get to know the characters but, not these books, she manages to find a perfect balance.
Scarr's books are incredibly researched in every field or topic she goes on to cover, and as a forensics student I really appreciate that as it makes it more believable and less likely for me to go "ah! but that doesn't happen like that 🤓" and while I get books aren't supposed to be incredibly realistic, In my opinion, the research makes her books that much more immersive and gripping!
On multiple occasions throughout all her books, I've found myself audibly gasping or slapping my hand over my mouth and my heart rate increasing. If someone says they find reading relaxing, they've never read a good book (okay maybe not literally but when it comes to crime/thriller I want to be on the edge of my seat with anticipation not just casually flicking through the pages).
The echo man was my first step into this authors genius writing world, and I'm never leaving.
So thank you, Sam holland/Louisa scarr, for writing such phenomenal books and keeping me occupied for numerous hours❤️
Scarr's books are incredibly researched in every field or topic she goes on to cover, and as a forensics student I really appreciate that as it makes it more believable and less likely for me to go "ah! but that doesn't happen like that 🤓" and while I get books aren't supposed to be incredibly realistic, In my opinion, the research makes her books that much more immersive and gripping!
On multiple occasions throughout all her books, I've found myself audibly gasping or slapping my hand over my mouth and my heart rate increasing. If someone says they find reading relaxing, they've never read a good book (okay maybe not literally but when it comes to crime/thriller I want to be on the edge of my seat with anticipation not just casually flicking through the pages).
The echo man was my first step into this authors genius writing world, and I'm never leaving.
So thank you, Sam holland/Louisa scarr, for writing such phenomenal books and keeping me occupied for numerous hours❤️
July 11, 2023
I’m a voracious reader of crime, but this is my first outing with the Butler & West series. If you too haven’t come across Robin Butler & Freya West, then don’t think you’ve got to start at the beginning – this novel absolutely stands up in its own right as a great read, and while there’s plenty of inferences to events which have gone before, these are cleverly woven in to the degree that the lack of prior knowledge doesn’t impact in any way on the enjoyment of the story at hand.
It's an exciting crime novel with benefits which sits firmly in place in its surroundings. The characterisation is excellent – you’re immediately and authentically drawn into the friendships, work politics and procedural aspects of the story. Perhaps a few more clues laid (or misdirection) regarding the perpetrator of the crimes would have worked well to draw in the reader accordingly.
However, it’s not JUST a police thriller. A burgeoning romance storyline sits alongside the main well-drawn and well-plotted crime plot. Confession time – I don’t read romances, so I did find this slightly off-putting at first, and at times it felt that the balance shifted slightly too far towards the romance aspect. Perhaps that’s just my preference, and if you come to this book knowing there’s a romantic subplot, you’ll be well invested in the angles up front.
#OutOfTheAshes is an engaging, pacey and exciting thriller read, which plenty of surprises along the way. It has a warmth to it that not many thrillers manage to cultivate, which makes it the ideal summer read for holidays.
It's an exciting crime novel with benefits which sits firmly in place in its surroundings. The characterisation is excellent – you’re immediately and authentically drawn into the friendships, work politics and procedural aspects of the story. Perhaps a few more clues laid (or misdirection) regarding the perpetrator of the crimes would have worked well to draw in the reader accordingly.
However, it’s not JUST a police thriller. A burgeoning romance storyline sits alongside the main well-drawn and well-plotted crime plot. Confession time – I don’t read romances, so I did find this slightly off-putting at first, and at times it felt that the balance shifted slightly too far towards the romance aspect. Perhaps that’s just my preference, and if you come to this book knowing there’s a romantic subplot, you’ll be well invested in the angles up front.
#OutOfTheAshes is an engaging, pacey and exciting thriller read, which plenty of surprises along the way. It has a warmth to it that not many thrillers manage to cultivate, which makes it the ideal summer read for holidays.
July 6, 2023
“If you play with fire, you’re going to get burned”
Prologue gave a little creepy and suspenseful vibe. A woman who is being stalked and Freya, a recently promoted DS has been assigned the case of Emily. Emily and the stranger get to know each other through MeetM8 App and later things go from casual to a bit more personal. And the second mystery is about Fire Victims who were burned to death. There is an unusual connection between the victims death and there are suspects but it is becoming more complex to get to the bottom of mystery and find out the person behind misery and tragic deaths.
The character development throughout the book is good. The setting and the description is gripping. The author takes us deep into the personal and professional life of each character. Every detail has a purpose. There are inbuilt mysteries in the plot. And the book keeps you guessing till the end. It’s a brilliant whodunnit and police procedurals/ Detective investigation will keep you on the edge of your seat.
•Stalker
•Killer on loose
•Police/Detective Investigation
•Brilliant Whodunnit
•Suspense and Mystery
•Intrigue and Threat
•Crime Thriller
Prologue gave a little creepy and suspenseful vibe. A woman who is being stalked and Freya, a recently promoted DS has been assigned the case of Emily. Emily and the stranger get to know each other through MeetM8 App and later things go from casual to a bit more personal. And the second mystery is about Fire Victims who were burned to death. There is an unusual connection between the victims death and there are suspects but it is becoming more complex to get to the bottom of mystery and find out the person behind misery and tragic deaths.
The character development throughout the book is good. The setting and the description is gripping. The author takes us deep into the personal and professional life of each character. Every detail has a purpose. There are inbuilt mysteries in the plot. And the book keeps you guessing till the end. It’s a brilliant whodunnit and police procedurals/ Detective investigation will keep you on the edge of your seat.
•Stalker
•Killer on loose
•Police/Detective Investigation
•Brilliant Whodunnit
•Suspense and Mystery
•Intrigue and Threat
•Crime Thriller
July 6, 2023
This is my first book in the Butler and West series and I wouldn’t normally recommend jumping into a series right at the end but I did really enjoy ‘Out of the Ashes’. I felt like there was a lot of back story to Robin Butler and Freya West’s friendship that I was missing just reading book 5 but I was still able to really enjoy the story and the characters. I think this is mainly down to Louisa Scarr’s fantastic writing. By the halfway stage I was completely invested in the will they, won’t they saga.
The crime itself was interesting and very creepy in places. Butler is investigating an arsonist and West is investigating a stalker but the cases cross over at many points and the story builds to the explosive finale. I would definitely recommend this book to fans of crime thrillers and in the workplace romances.
I received a gifted copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and written voluntarily.
The crime itself was interesting and very creepy in places. Butler is investigating an arsonist and West is investigating a stalker but the cases cross over at many points and the story builds to the explosive finale. I would definitely recommend this book to fans of crime thrillers and in the workplace romances.
I received a gifted copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and written voluntarily.
November 14, 2025
Out of the Ashes is my first read by Louisa Scarr, and it certainly won’t be my last. Although it’s clear there’s a rich backstory from earlier books, I never felt lost—Scarr writes her characters with such depth and clarity that I connected with them immediately.
The crossover between the cases Butler and West investigate is handled brilliantly, with a level of attention to detail that makes the narrative feel both authentic and compelling. The storyline is gripping, weaving together murder, arson, stalking, and moments of genuine love and friendship. It’s an addictive read that keeps you constantly guessing. I was sure I had solved the mystery… but I was wrong.
The characters are believable and engaging, and based on what I’ve read, this series would translate wonderfully to television. I’m excited to go back to the beginning with Book 1 and see where it all started.
The crossover between the cases Butler and West investigate is handled brilliantly, with a level of attention to detail that makes the narrative feel both authentic and compelling. The storyline is gripping, weaving together murder, arson, stalking, and moments of genuine love and friendship. It’s an addictive read that keeps you constantly guessing. I was sure I had solved the mystery… but I was wrong.
The characters are believable and engaging, and based on what I’ve read, this series would translate wonderfully to television. I’m excited to go back to the beginning with Book 1 and see where it all started.
July 5, 2023
Louisa Scarr never fails to provide gripping books, but what a way to bring the Robin Butler and Freya West series to a climax. Robin returns to help on an arson case that links his area and his old area. Meanwhile, Freya is on stalking case that is becoming more volatile. Soon they realise a connection between the arson and Emily replying harsh messages to the stalker. The severity soon escalates and they need to stop this person before anyone else gets harmed. Meanwhile, Robin and Freya are battling their personal lives and their feelings for each other, suppressed for so long.
A corker of a read, and Out of the Ashes is the perfect finale and a fantastic series. Highly recommended.
A corker of a read, and Out of the Ashes is the perfect finale and a fantastic series. Highly recommended.
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